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13Hata-Maou Vol 14
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15Illustration Short Story: After the Business Networking Event
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17“So? Why are you here?”
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19“Oh my, do you want to chase me out then suspend business so that you can reflect on that? It’s hard to work in a company with so little annual leave.”
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21Sunday morning, only one minute after opening time. For unknown reasons, the store was covered in cold air.
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23“L-Let me check the condition of the air-conditioning……”
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25Seized with fear, Maou planned to sneak away from the scene, but the source of the snowstorm did not allow him to do so.
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27“A superior who uses an old friend as an excuse to slack off is irritating, isn’t that right, Maou?”
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29“Maa-kun, I was the one who set the temperature of the air-conditioning today. So there are no problems.”
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31Having been named, Maou had no choice but to freeze on the spot in a strange position to retract his stretched out foot.
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33In the place where he returned to, the area manager of the Sentucky Fried Chicken West Shibuya Region, Tanaka Himeko, was showing a sharp smile resembling that of an ancient dragon which was looking forward to conquering the land, while the shop manager of the MgRonalds in front of Hatagaya Station, Kisaki Mayumi, had a stern expression on her face, just like the Great Spirit born from the snowstorms, according to the legends told by the people from the polar regions.
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35One week had passed since the night when Maou was thrown in between the meeting of the two people who could not get along at all because of their history and a lady who controlled the two of them from the shadows.
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37Just as Kisaki returned to the frontlines after her reflection period and everyone thought that this period of memory could be relegated to the past, the disaster descended once more.
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39“Maou, didn’t the conversation from earlier end when we were just having fun? In truth, how is it like working under Mayumi?”
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41“H-How is it like, erhm……”
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43“Maa-kun, if there is something you’re unhappy about, just say it directly. This is also for the sake of the store.”
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45“Ah, uh, erhm……”
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47Just as Maou was troubled on how to answer such a vague question, Kisaki said this with a smile.
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49Maou felt that he finally knew what a forced interview meant.
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51“Actually, I am looking for subordinates who have a strong strength of character. I heard that there is someone in this store who wants to become a permanent employee?”
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53Feeling the existence of an absolute god controlling the ancient dragon and the Great Spirit from the polar region with lines of destiny on some far side of the morning light, Maou was starting to get a headache.
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55“Hey, Mayumi. Do you know anyone who is still actively trying to become a permanent employee in the food and beverage industry in this day and age, and also has a strong strength of character?”
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57“Uh, do you know this kind of person, Maa-kun? It seems like I have no one I can use in my circle of friends.”
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59“Sigh~ if I am able to find such talent right now, I would definitely train him well so he would become a permanent employee immediately.”
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61“Oh my, your responsibilities have become really heavy after becoming area manager. I only have people I trust around me, so I unfortunately cannot empathise with you at all.”
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63Someone come quickly, it doesn’t matter if it’s other customers, anyone will do! Within his rapidly weakening heart, Maou prayed to the absolute god.
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65However, perhaps they were intimidated by the fighting spirits of the ancient deities which could be felt even from outside the store, there were no signs of customers entering the store.
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67Discovering that fate was not on his side, Maou could only rely on his pride as the Demon King.
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69“Erhm, Manager Tanaka. If the two of you do not mind, can I be allowed to attend the networking event?”
70
71““Hmm?””
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73The two of them frowned at the frail voice which the King of Demons had squeezed out with all his might.
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75“As someone who wishes to become a permanent employee in this world, I have learned many things from Manager Tanaka in the earlier gathering. If I can receive guidance from the two of you, please allow me to attend!”
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77While emphasizing the term ‘two of you’, he finished this sentence with gusto.
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79After that, Himeko intentionally hummed in approval, and Kisaki showed a rather calm smile.
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81“Hmm, that is true, we have a duty to guide the lagging people in this industry.”
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83“Yeah, probably. Sigh, we shouldn’t say such unnecessary things.”
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85Between Kisaki and Himeko, there were child-like feelings of resistance because of their absolute incompatibility with each other.
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87Therefore, as long as the two of them attended together, Kisaki would have no scruples about taking action as Maou’s superior, and Himeko would be unable to use overly forceful methods as well.
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89“Mayumi, you have to cherish this guy well. Sigh, such a waste. This kind of person is actually staying under Mayumi!”
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91“You don’t have to remind me. I consider myself very lucky that Sentucky opened in this area only after Maa-kun came to this store.”
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93This should be considered a draw.
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95After Maou made this judgement, the automatic door opened. The long awaited second group of customers for today finally arrived.
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97Maou took the chance to step forward to serve the customer, Kisaki and Himeko also watched him leave without saying anything.
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99After that, the two of them seemed to have spoken a bit and Kisaki left Himeko’s table in a peaceful manner to return to work.
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101An hour passed by.
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103“Morning everyone!”
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105Chiho, who came to work at eight am––
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107“My heart which had turned chaotic because of my deep longing for you, after the purification of dawn, my love for you has deepened ehhhh?”
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109And Sariel, who came to find Kisaki to buy breakfast while reciting a poem, froze after seeing Himeko sitting at a table near the entrance.
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111“Hello, sorry for disturbing.”
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113Himeko, who seemed to remember Chiho, waved at her with a smile, then immediately looked at Sariel.
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115“Sarue, it seems like you really love MgRonalds huh.”
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117“Eh, Ma-Manager Tanaka…… why……”
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119“Am I not allowed to eat breakfast here?”
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121Himeko stood up while smiling, and after returning the tray properly, she grabbed the neck of the frozen Sariel.
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123“This is irritating. Why is Mayumi like this, and I only have this kind of guy?”
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125After Himeko turned towards the frozen Sariel and Maou behind the counter in turn, she sighed deeply.
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127“Sorry for the disturbance. Help me tell the shop manager that I will re-educate this guy properly.”
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129“A-Alright……”
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131“Ah, how can this be!? At least allow me to lay my eyes on the new figure of my goddess today…… ugh!”
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133As both Kisaki and Maou were not nearby, after Himeko asked Chiho to pass the message, she dragged Sariel, who was crying manly tears, out of the store, and as the two of them left the store, Chiho could only stare after them, feeling stunned.
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141Short Story 1: The Hero and the High School Girl, Becoming Friends
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143Inside the MgRonalds in front of Hatagaya Station, which did not have many customers, Sasaki Chiho had a gloomy expression on her face.
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145Even so, shop manager Kisaki Mayumi did not chide her, because not knowing why business had become so poor, Kisaki’s expression was equally gloomy.
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147Yes. Kisaki did not know what had just happened in the place just a few minutes walk from this store. “Hey, Chi-chan.”
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149At this moment, Maou Sadao, Chiho’s senior at work, spoke to her, and the latter jumped a little, instantly worrying if her thoughts were seen through.
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151She looked towards Maou’s face nervously, but Maou did not seem to notice this, and displaying more anxiety than Chiho, he asked,
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153“If I use my power, erhm, I can erase those unhappy memo…..”
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155When she heard this, Chiho suddenly felt a flare of anger.
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157She felt her face and ears burn, and her feelings boiled.
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159These seemed to show on her face, and because Maou also felt this dangerous aura–– “...ries……?”
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161His tone weakened gradually.
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163The corners of Chiho’s mouth were shaking.
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165Having experienced a very special day, Chiho’s heart was in chaos too.
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167What did Maou-san mean by unhappy memories?
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169Is it my misunderstanding of the relationship between Maou-san and that older girl?
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171Maou-san and Ashiya-san are actually monsters?
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173Or is it……
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175“I don’t want that!”
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177“Eh?”
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179When she came to her senses, she had answered thus.
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181Thinking about it rationally, the amount of unhappy memories was too numerous to count.
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183Encountering scary things. Experiencing bitter things.
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185Many irrational things happened one after another, causing the number of things she wanted to ask and wanted to know to pile up like a mountain.
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187Even so.
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189“Maou-san, you idiot!”
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191Chiho shouted angrily, something which she did very rarely in her life.
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193“Ehhhhh?”
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195Maou looked truly confused, but this only frustrated Chiho even more.
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197The calm portion of Chiho’s mind knew it very well.
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199Maou was worried about Chiho’s mental state being negatively affected because she had been dragged into a supernatural incident.
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201Because he was concerned about Chiho – who had witnessed demonic magic, intense battles to the death, and demons – Maou suggested erasing her memory.
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203However, only one thought occupied Chiho’s mind.
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205And with regards to this, Maou had not showed any reaction to it at all. After that, until Chiho got off work, Maou and Chiho did not talk at all. “Thanks for your work today, then, see you next shift.”
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207When Chiho left, she intentionally said this in a business-like manner, and left before Maou could reply.
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209Maou had looked confused until the end.
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211He probably did not know why Chiho was angry.
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213“Maou-san…… that idiot.”
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215Walking on Koshu Kaido illuminated by the street lights, Chiho mumbled softly to herself, “I…… had wanted to say it myself.”
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217Covering her face which had turned red because of anger and her feelings that had leaked out, Chiho walked forward with huge steps.
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219Perhaps it was unreasonable to scold Maou only.
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221In fact, he had not said anything to Chiho, the ones who had let it slip were those two people from the foreign world.
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223However, he should have shown some reaction to it.
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225“The criteria we used was ‘people who thought about the Demon King 24 hours a day’.”
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227“Oh~~ You can’t make light of the Demon King after all~~”
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229The words said by the two people from the foreign world echoed in her mind.
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231What Chiho wanted erased was not the memories, amongst those unreal incidents which had occurred since morning, Chiho only wanted to erase one fact.
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233“I…… had wanted to express it personally, no matter what……”
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237People flying in the air, battling with swords and magic, she had thought such a world only existed in storybooks.
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239Going to school, working, harbouring faint feelings of love for her senior at work, the normal daily life of high school student Sasaki Chiho which could be found anywhere broke down in an instant.
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241The senior at work who Chiho liked the most had said that he was living in a six tatami wooden apartment room in Tokyo, Sasazuka with a friend, however, her senior and that friend were demons from a foreign world.
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243The older salarywoman whom she knew was a Hero from a foreign world. Not only could she pull a sword out of thin air, but she could also fly in the air.
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245It would be fine if it was a battle between demons and the Hero – however – not only did these two work together to fight against other scary people, after the battle ended, they returned to being a MgRonalds employee and a salarywoman like it was a natural thing to do.
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247And they interacted with her in the same way as they did in the past.
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249Chiho did not dislike it. She honestly felt a little afraid when they were fighting, but after the battle ended, she also felt excited about encountering a truth she had not known about before.
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251Even if she did not know why everyone else besides her had no impression of what had happened at that time, after knowing the truth about these people, Chiho was unable to act like it had never happened.
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253She had no idea how to get along with them, and was unable to freely interact with them like how she did before this.
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255Because she was unable to do this, the distance between them grew. She started to grow distant from the other party.
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257But––
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263––As the distance grew, it still felt painful after all.
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265※
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267“……I can’t do it after all.”
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269Turning around before reaching the destination, how many times has it been today?
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271A five minutes’ walk away from the Keio line, Sasazuka Station, Chiho turned back when she was in front of the wooden apartment Villa Rosa Sasazuka and planned to walk on the path she had come from.
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273The young girl stopped before taking a step, and sighed deeply.
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275No matter what, she could not muster up her courage to go up the stairs of the apartment.
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277“Maou-san is resting today, suddenly coming over and disturbing him, I’ll really feel bad about it.”
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279Since the day of the battle, the number of times she met up with Maou had decreased greatly.
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281According to the original work shift schedule, the two of them would not meet each other much within a single week, but this unavoidable reason was only half of the issue.
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283The remaining half was because Chiho was avoiding Maou.
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285It was not as if she really had no time at all, but Chiho still used guiding the new members of her club and midterms as reasons to take one whole week of leave during the preferential work shift selection stage which happened twice a month.
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287For the remaining shifts, to decrease the chances of meeting up with Maou as much as possible, she chose Saturday, which Maou rarely chose. In addition, on the days Maou started work at opening time and ended at eight pm, she had chosen the seven pm to ten pm shift.
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289Once she heard that it had something to do with school, shop manager Kisaki approved of the leave without any fuss, but she was a perceptive person.
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291Many signs had given her the impression that Chiho was avoiding Maou.
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293Kisaki even––
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295“I don’t know what has happened, but if you feel that you cannot solve it on your own, you can discuss it with me as much as you like.”
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297––told Chiho this before.
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299This matter was beyond Chiho’s ability to handle.
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301However, different from before, this was definitely not a trouble which could be solved just by discussing it with someone.
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303“Uuuu……”
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305After Chiho groaned, she prepared to return.
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307However, when she walked to the place where she could see the apartment roof from afar, Chiho’s steps slowed down again.
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309“What am I doing?”
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311Chiho asked herself this.
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313At the start, she had wanted to apologise for her bad attitude.
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315But more importantly, she wanted to express her feelings to Maou properly.
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317“I…… like Maou-san……”
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319However, when she reached the public stairs of the apartment, Chiho discovered a problem.
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321That would be the true identity of ‘Maou Sadao’.
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323If everything she had seen earlier was real, then the huge abnormal appearance which did not appear human at all was the true identity of ‘Maou Sadao’.
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325Did that mean that the kind and dependable senior at work whom she likes was actually fake?
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327If the figure who was supporting Shuto Expressway as it came close to collapsing was the true form of Maou, then how should she act around ‘Maou Sadao’, who was currently staying in that apartment room?
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329As she thought to this point, Chiho wanted to run away to the road which she had walked back and forth on many times so far.
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331After the foreign dimension battle which took place at the Shuto Expressway ended, her heart had become numb and she was able to accept everything.
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333Even so, as time passed, Chiho became more and more clueless about how she was supposed to face Maou.
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335She wanted to believe in the person she liked.
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337She wanted to be the person to say that she liked the other party.
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339But what if the person she liked was different from what she imagined?
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341Was the one living in that apartment really the person I liked before?
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343As Chiho sprinted through the streets and arrived at the scene of that battle, which no longer bore any traces of it, the area below the viaduct bridge at Sasazuka Station––
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345“Ah, s-sorry……”
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347“S-Sorry.”
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349She bumped into someone again.
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351Thinking about it carefully, on that day, because she was running away with all her might from a misunderstanding, she had bumped into that scary person, then was involved in that battle.
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353That memory instantaneously surfaced in Chiho’s mind, but she had bumped into a lady this time, and it was someone she had become acquainted with recently……
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355“Ah.”
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357“Eh? You’re……”
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359The other party recognised Chiho immediately as well.
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361Chiho hesitated, thinking how she should address that lady with beautiful long hair, eyes which showed a determined will, and left her with a deep impression.
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363“Yusa…… san.”
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365“Chiho-chan. It’s been a long time…… but it doesn’t seem to be that long either.”
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367Yusa Emi.
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369Just like Maou, she was not from any part of this Earth, but came from a foreign world, a lady known as the Hero.
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371In addition––
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373“Alberto-san, Emerada-san……”
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375––standing behind Yusa Emi, the man whose build resembled that of a foreign athlete was Alberto. The lady whose stature was smaller than Chiho was Emerada.
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377The two of them seemed to be Emi’s ‘travel companions’.
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379Alberto’s appearance was not that different compared to the last time they had met. However, Emerada, who had been originally dressed like a sorceress from a fantasy world, was currently dressed in an attire which did not stand out too much in the streets of Japan.
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381Not considering Emerada, with Alberto’s hammer-thrower-like stature, it would be rather difficult to find clothes for him.
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383“Are you going to look for Maou-san?”
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385Chiho asked this immediately.
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387In their world, Emi and the two people behind her were companions who travelled together for the sake of fighting Maou.
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389Did they come this time so that the Hero and Demon King could have a showdown?
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391She had run here because she was still troubled about how to face Maou, but once Chiho saw these people who were Maou’s enemies, she grew wary.
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393Next, for unknown reasons, the two people behind Emi looked at each other as if they felt surprised about something.
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395“Miss, do you still remember us?”
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397“Eh?”
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399The large man––Alberto’s question, caused Chiho to feel surprised as well as unhappy.
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401Even if she wanted to, she could not forget.
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403After all, Chiho was only this troubled now because of Alberto’s careless words.
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405“This is~~ really unexpected~~”
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407For unknown reasons, Emerada seemed to have gotten a shock too.
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409It had been less than two weeks since that battle which caused the explosion of Sasazuka Station and the collapse of the Shuto Expressway.
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411And that incident should be considered something which could not be forgotten for the rest of one’s life.
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413Compared to the surprised Alberto and Emerada, Emi nodded as if she had understood.
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415“See, I was correct, wasn’t I? She would definitely remember us.”
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417“Even Yusa-san is like this…… what are all of you talking about?”
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419Wasn’t it Emi who had told Chiho about the true identities of Maou and the others in the first place?
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421As if to answer Chiho’s question, Emi looked at Chiho in the eyes and said, “I’m sorry for saying strange things. We had planned to look for Maou…… no, in front of Chiho-chan, please allow me to use ‘Demon King’ when referring to
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423that guy, we did plan to check out the Demon King’s situation today. However, we also plan to go the MgRonalds at Hatagaya after that. Chiho-chan, this is to check on your situation.”
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425“Eh?”
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427“It is to confirm whether you still remember us or not…… remember what happened that day, and if the Demon King
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429did anything strange to you.”
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431“Em and I both thought that you would have definitely forgotten about us. Or more like––”
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433“––Was already forced to forget about us~~”
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435Alberto’s and Emerada’s words touched the uneasiness in Chiho’s heart.
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437“Erhm…… are you referring to becoming like the people in town…… unable to remember what had happened at that
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439time at all?”
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441After Chiho said this quietly––
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443“……You noticed after all?”
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445Emi nodded with a heavy expression.
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447“How can I not notice? Other than Maou-san, no one had mentioned anything about it at all, even the television, newspapers, and internet did not mention anything about what happened that time. I vaguely sensed that Maou-san and Yusa-san used something like magic. And……”
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449“Chi, Chiho-chan?”
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451“H-Hey, Miss?”
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453“E-Erhm~~?”
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455Emi, Alberto and Emerada, who had been listening to Chiho, started to panic in their own ways.
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457“Ma, Maou-san, did ask me, if I wanted, my memories erased. I don’t even have, any memories, which I hated……”
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459Her lips were shaking, her temples were heating up as if she was having a fever.
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461Tears were pouring out from her eyes.
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463“That idiot……”
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465Seeing Chiho like this, Emi mumbled in irritation.
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467“I don’t understand what demons are…… or about different worlds at all…… but towards Maou-san, I still…… but, I
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469really don’t know…… what to do…… uwah!”
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471Emi hugged Chiho lightly, who was crying so much that even the people walking by could not help but look back.
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473“Sorry, for causing you so much chaos.”
474
475“……”
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477“If you don’t mind, we can tell you everything you want to know, so, we’re sorry.”
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479“……Yusa…… san…… uwahhhh!”
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481As if she was releasing all the chaos and anxiety which had been bottled up in her heart so far, Chiho collapsed into Emi’s arms while crying.
482
483Alberto, who had been observing the two of them from behind––
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485“……Erhm…… how should I interpret this? Maou, refers to the Demon King, right? In other words, she……”
486
487Alberto scratched his head and turned towards Emerada to ask this, but the latter glared at him with a cold sideways gaze.
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489“Saying such things in front of the person herself~~ not knowing the meaning of being considerate~~ you probably won’t understand it~~”
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491What Emerada was referring to were the careless words spoken by Alberto in the six tatami Demon Fortress.
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493Alberto and Emerada had come to Japan to search for the missing Emi.
494
495To pinpoint Emi’s location, they used the telekinesis spell ‘Idea Link’ to try and obtain communication using the conditions ‘people who thought about the Demon King all day’.
496
497However, Chiho, being the one who thought about ‘Demon King=Maou’ more intensely, she was more receptive to their Idea Link than Emi, and Alberto had said this in Maou’s presence.
498
499From Chiho’s point of view, this was a huge incident where her hidden feelings were suddenly exposed by a stranger. “Hey, don’t make it sound so bad…… then again, weren’t you very enthusiastic at that time too?”
500
501Alberto seemed to be aware of this.
502
503However, his explanation of thinking that he was not the only one at fault only caused Emerada to roll her eyes in response.
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505“I’m a girl~~ so it’s fine~~”
506
507“Does the definition of being considerate differ between male and female? And you’re already past the age to be called a ‘girl’, aughh!”
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509The impact of Emerada’s kick penetrated through Alberto’s thick leather trousers to his shin, causing the latter to writhe in pain.
510
511Immediately after that, from an angle unseen by the people around her, Emerada placed the edge of her hand against Alberto’s throat, then her palm started to glow because of a strange power.
512
513Contrary to her calm tone, her eyes, illuminated by the light from below, did not contain any traces of a smile.
514
515“Die~~”
516
517“W-Wait, it, it’s my bad! Sorry!”
518
519“What are they doing……”
520
521Emi, who was hugging Chiho, turned back to the commotion happening behind her, feeling stunned by the scene.
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523“We were planning to eat lunch anyway, so why don’t we bring Chiho-chan along and find a place where we can chat properly?”
524
525“……What are we talking about~~?”
526
527Watching Chiho, who was still crying, Emerada asked this in surprise.
528
529As for Alberto, he was rubbing his shin with tears in his eyes.
530
531With a serious expression on her face, Emi said, “Everything, all of it. Things about us, about the Demon King, and Ente Isla.”
532
533※
534
535“Yusa-san, the things you were saying about being people from a foreign world, were those lies?” “Why are you saying this so suddenly?”
536
537Chiho’s sudden question caused Emi to ask this in confusion.
538
539“Because……”
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541Chiho had followed Emi while harbouring a sense of anticipation and unease.
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543Things about the foreign world. About Emi, about Alberto and Emerada, about the two people who kidnapped her, about Ashiya, and about Maou.
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545Because she heard that she could know about the truth behind these things, she went with Emi and the others with a tense expression on her face, but in the end, she was brought into––
546
547“Why did you choose a revolving sushi store!?”
548
549Within the seating compartment filled with the smell of vinegar rice and seafood, Chiho asked this while rubbing her eyes which were swollen from the crying.
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551“You don’t like to eat sushi?”
552
553“It’s not like that……”
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555This should not be an issue of liking sushi or not.
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557“Table 5, two bowls of clam soup!”
558
559“The customer at Table 17 wants the bill!”
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561“Thank you for your patronage! Uh, 19 coloured plates, 3 gold plates……”
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563The business within the store was flourishing and most of the seats were filled. The empty tables were filled up quickly with new customers too.
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565The shouts of the employees were very lively as well, whether it was the atmosphere or environment, it did not feel suitable as a place to talk quietly.
566
567Especially for a ‘Hero from another world’, actually choosing a revolving sushi store as the place to discuss secret things, how was one supposed to react?
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569“Don’t worry, I’ll pay for this meal.”
570
571“I’m not worried about that! And, I’ll pay for whatever I eat!”
572
573“Eh~~!”
574
575For unknown reasons, after Chiho said this, Emerada shouted in surprise.
576
577“R-Really~~?”
578
579“W-What’s wrong?”
580
581Seeing that the other party was not looking down on her, but feeling truly surprised, Chiho could not help but feel insecure.
582
583“Sushi is a dish made from raw fish, right~~?”
584
585“T-That is correct……”
586
587Never viewing sushi from this angle before, Chiho replied, feeling astonished.
588
589“That’s high class cuisine~~ I know you are wary of us~~ but it’s still better to allow Emilia to pay for it~~”
590
591“Eh, but, this is a 100 yen……”
592
593Chiho could not help but point towards the menu set up next to the seats.
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595‘Revolving Sushi Gyogyoen’ was considered a low priced revolving sushi chain store. Basically, most of their sushi dishes only cost 100 yen per plate (tax not included).
596
597This price did not apply to seasonal or premium ingredients, as well as miso soup and other ala carte items, however, no matter how Chiho forced herself, she would only be able to eat up to 1000 yen at most.
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599“Em, calm down. In this place, the four of us will be thoroughly fed at the cost of one silver Airean coin at most.”
600
601“Oh! Really?”
602
603Emi’s words caused Alberto to let out a cheer.
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605“Ehh~~? That impossible~~! Something like raw fish~~ even I who live in the palace~~ have only seen it a few times during my travels~~”
606
607“Relax, anyway Chiho-chan, Em, Alber, just sit down first and drink some tea.”
608
609With practiced movements, Emi poured the green tea powder into the plastic cups, poured in the hot water from the tap and passed the cups to the trio.
610
611“The drinking water and tea is free here, that’s amazing, isn’t it?”
612
613Alberto drank the tea cautiously.
614
615Seeing the three of them like this, Chiho felt that this situation was getting stranger and stranger.
616
617She did not know why they had come to a revolving sushi store to discuss the mysterious topic of a foreign world, but it felt that she had already witnessed a filming location for a show showing foreigners feeling surprised about Japanese culture.
618
619“Then, about why I choose a revolving sushi store––”
620
621After confirming that everyone had received their tea, wet tissues, disposable chopsticks, and plates containing soy sauce, Emi finally answered Chiho, “Not only are the surroundings noisy, the compartments here are spacious and there is a certain distance between the neighbouring seats. As the customers are focused on what to eat next, they will not focus on the conversations of the other customers next to or opposite them, so it’s still rather suitable for confidential conversations. More unexpectedly, the field of view here is wide, so eavesdroppers can be detected immediately.”
622
623“……Is that so?”
624
625Chiho could not help but look around her.
626
627She had not taken notice before, but unless she was sitting at the counter, she could not hear what the customers at the neighbouring table were saying even if she strained her ears to listen.
628
629The gazes of all the customers were either focused on the belt transporting the sushi or the touchscreen tablets used for ordering, no one was paying attention to what was happening at the other tables.
630
631In addition, she also noticed that this was a shopping district close to the city, so there were a few foreign customers.
632
633This meant that Alberto and Emerada would not stand out that much.
634
635“Everyone, let’s eat something first. The difficult questions can wait until the brain has replenished its energy.”
636
637Noticing that Chiho was gradually accepting the situation although she still found it difficult to comprehend, Emi clapped her hands and acted first, taking a plate of sushi from the belt.
638
639Taking the Japanese Halfbeak fish at the start, their tastes were really unique.
640
641“You take the dishes you want from the turning conveyer belt and stack the plates on the table once you’re done eating. Finally, the bill is tallied by the type and number of plates.”
642
643Of course, this was an explanation targeted at Emerada and Alberto.
644
645By the way, with regards to the seating arrangement, Emi and Emerada were sitting on the side closer the belt, facing each other, while Chiho and Alberto were sitting closer to the outside, also facing each other.
646
647“I’m still not really used to this taste~~ but is this really fish~~?”
648
649Emerada looked at the various types of sushi moving on the belt in curiosity.
650
651“That’s right. Slicing raw fish into this shape, then placing them on top the vinegar rice which is shaped like rice sacks.”
652
653“What are those things which look like sliced black logs?”
654
655Alberto pointed towards the cucumber sushi rolls which happened to pass by.
656
657“That’s a nori roll. The black thing outside is called nori…… it’s a food item which is processed from seaweed. It’s fine
658
659to eat it together with the rice.”
660
661“Wow, wow, wow~~! Is that a boat? It’s transporting fish eggs on top~~!”
662
663“Ah, that’s called Gunkan sushi. Fish roe known as Ikura are placed on top. It’s delicious.” (TL Note: Gunkan means military ship. Ikura refers to salmon roe.)
664
665“Gunkan?”
666
667“That’s right. From the side, the shape looks like a military ship, right? That’s why it was named this way.”
668
669“Oh~~! How exquisite~~! Now that you mentioned it~~ that green gourd type slice~~ does look a little bit like a sail~~”
670
671With sparkling eyes, Emerada stared at the cucumber slice on top of the Gunkan fish roe sushi.
672
673How were they supposed to discuss serious topics after this? With a cold gaze, Chiho stared at the three people who got excited on their own and left her behind.
674
675And were Alberto and Emerada able to use chopsticks? Not considering raw fish slices, did they dare to eat wasabi?
676
677Ignoring these questions from a Japanese person observing foreigners eat sushi for the first time––
678
679“Sigh, some things have to be tried to know what they’re like. Emilia, just choose something for us.”
680
681Alberto gestured towards the conveyer belt.
682
683“No matter how much I look at them, I don’t think these things are fish. That red thing looked like raw meat.”
684
685“Ah, you’re talking about belly meat? Do you want to try?”
686
687In the direction Alberto gestured towards with his chin, a plate of tuna belly happened to turn towards them.
688
689Premium ingredients such as belly meat and snow crab could be eaten at low prices here, but unlike other plates which had two pieces of sushi, the plates for this type of sushi only contained one each.
690
691The white strands of fat which appeared to be delicious spread out beautifully on the red meat, this outer appearance did look very similar to raw meat.
692
693Emi took the plate of belly meat and placed it in front of Alberto.
694
695Emerada observed Emi’s every movement seriously.
696
697“Hm…… it does look like raw meat after all…… can this really be eaten directly?”
698
699The large sized Alberto was staring at the small belly meat sushi in front of him with a stern expression, this scene was rather amusing.
700
701“Don’t worry. Here, this is soy sauce…… a special sauce from Japan…… dip the sushi in it and give it a try. You can eat
702
703sushi using your hands.”
704
705“O-Okay……”
706
707Within the corner of Chiho’s mind, a random thought ‘so they don’t know how to use chopsticks after all’ surfaced.
708
709With a stern expression, Alberto picked up the belly meat sushi and dipped it in the sauce in a manner which could only be described as ‘nervous’.
710
711It was the ingredient and not the rice which should be dipped in the soy sauce. Chiho remembered this knowledge which she had heard somewhere before, but if she mentioned it now, it would only cause them more chaos.
712
713Alberto slowly raised the belly meat sushi, and making up his mind, he stuffed it into his mouth in one go.
714
715He frowned in confusion because of the foreign texture, but he still chewed slowly.
716
717Then he reacted strongly.
718
719He widened his eyes with force as if he had realised something very important.
720
721At this instant, Chiho noticed that Emerada, who was leaning forward beside her, jump up with fright.
722
723It was only one piece of sushi, these two were really too tense.
724
725After a while, Alberto’s chewing speed suddenly increased, and his gaze started to wander––
726
727“Ugh!”
728
729––after that, he pinched his nose and showed a stony face for unknown reasons.
730
731Chiho and Emi immediately knew what had happened, but Emerada, unfamiliar with sushi––
732
733“D-Did he eat something bad~~?”
734
735Looked completely worried.
736
737However, Alberto only frowned for a short moment.
738
739He immediately regained his calm and continued to chew, swallowing the food in his mouth.
740
741“…………Fu.”
742
743Maintaining his tense expression of widened eyes, Alberto pressed his hand against his face.
744
745Because he was too nervous, there was even sweat on his brows.
746
747“A-Are you alright~~?”
748
749Emerada asked with worry, but for unknown reasons, Alberto did not reply. Instead, with a serious expression, he asked Chiho, who was sitting in front of him, a question.
750
751“Miss……”
752
753“Y-Yes?”
754
755“……This….. is really fish?”
756
757“Eh?”
758
759Alberto was truly trembling.
760
761“It’s raw, yet there’s no fishy taste at all…… no, it even tastes sweet.”
762
763“It, it’s sweet~~?”
764
765“Y-Yeah, but it’s not like the sweetness of sugar, how should I say this, I don’t know if it’s the sweetness of the meat……
766
767or the sweetness of the fat, but after combining with this sauce and grain, it feels as if all the tastes have concentrated in the mouth…… yeah, this is delicious.”
768
769The terms used did not seem to be appropriate for sushi, and it seemed like he was talking to himself near the end, but Chiho still understood that Alberto wanted to emphasise that the belly meat was very delicious.
770
771“W-What is going on~~?”
772
773“Uh, erhm, no, Em, you have a try too, you won’t understand it without trying it first. Until now, I still find it difficult to believe that this is fish. This is a totally different kind of food when compared to the grilled or salted things which we have ate thus far……”
774
775As Alberto was in the middle of speaking, he naturally grabbed his head and slumped on the table.
776
777“Al, Alberto-san?”
778
779“How nostalgic. When I ate sushi for the first time, that was my reaction too.”
780
781Chiho was flustered because of Alberto’s exaggerated reaction while Emi showed a nostalgic gaze filled with understanding.
782
783“Uuuu…… but~~ didn’t you groan in the middle~~? There’s a fishy taste after all, right……”
784
785Alberto advised Emerada to eat as well, but she seemed to be unable to overcome her worries because of Alberto’s vague descriptions.
786
787The ‘groan’ Emerada mentioned was probably the action of Alberto pinching his nose.
788
789Any Japanese would know that that was the rush brought about by fresh ‘wasabi’, and Chiho troubled over whether she should reveal this fact.
790
791But…… what is wasabi?
792
793Grinding the roots of a crude looking green plant into paste, making it into a green mash which includes a special blend of spiciness, sweetness, and a smell pungent to the nose, this is wasabi sauce. However, if the other party does not know of its existence or concept, how can its meaning, taste, and significance of its existence be explained?
794
795If they explained directly without thinking it through, it felt like they would just mention terms which made others think of a poison, this troubled Chiho greatly.
796
797Emi had picked up a small packet of wasabi which was placed there as a refill, but she seemed to be thinking of the same things as Chiho, so she ended up putting it down quietly.
798
799Then––
800
801“Since it’s like that, why don’t you try the fish roe one just now? It’s coming over now, and it doesn’t have that ‘thing’ which caused Alber to groan, so it will be easier to eat.”
802
803As Alberto was expressing his impactful monologue, the conveyer belt had gone almost one full round and the Gunkan fish roe sushi Emerada had noticed first was turning towards them once more.
804
805“If it’s fish roe, you should have eaten it before, right?”
806
807“Y-Yeah…… but~~I have only eaten fish roes which have been simmered in fish sauce and salt~~”
808
809“If you do not dare to eat it, I will help you to finish.”
810
811“Uu, uuuu~~”
812
813With a lifeless expression, Emerada stared at the approaching red Ikura Gunkan sushi.
814
815“Didn’t Alber say that some things have to be tried to know what they’re like?”
816
817“I-I understand~~ okay!”
818
819For taking a plate of Ikura, it was really too energetic.
820
821Even if it was placed in front of her, Emerada still hesitated for a long time before she held the Gunkan sushi with a force which would not break the nori and stuffed the whole Ikura Gunkan sushi into her small mouth. Then after one bite, her eyes widened.
822
823Afterwards––
824
825The serious conversation from the humans from a foreign world, it did not start even after two hours.
826
827“……Sixty five.”
828
829Chiho mumbled to herself after counting the plates on the table.
830
831Of course, this was the total amount of sushi plates eaten by four people.
832
833“Em, I want to live in this country.”
834
835“Hm~~ I don’t want to go back as well……”
836
837It could be understandable for the burly sized Alberto, but Emerada, who was even more petite compared to Chiho, was eating the sushi with so much vigour that it made people wonder how such a small body was able to contain so much volume.
838
839Amongst the sixty five plates, Chiho had only eaten six plates because someone else was paying for it and she also had other concerns. For Emi, who had eaten ten plates, she was considered to have a sizable appetite for a lady, but when considering the remaining plates which were split equally between Emerada and Alberto, this was still within the margin of error.
840
841“It doesn’t seem appropriate to ask this after finishing, but after eating so many delicious things, does it really only cost one silver Airean coin?”
842
843Alberto asked this while drinking tea.
844
845“It’s probably, two coins.”
846
847Emi, who had not expected them to eat this much, replied with a wry smile.
848
849“‘100 yen sushi’ is amazing~~”
850
851Next to Chiho, Emerada was showing a blissful expression and leaning back against the chair.
852
853“This is the first time I have eaten delicious cakes which are so smooth~~ yet aren’t too sweet~~ I can no longer accept those cakes in the castle that have a sugary taste~~”
854
855Other than sushi, Emerada also ate á la carte items like french fries and karaage, as well as chawamushi and miso soup
856
857– even adding on dessert at the end.
858
859She seemed to especially like the chocolate cake a lot and ate three by herself.
860
861“The price of that cake is actually equivalent to five bronze Weiss coins~~ I still find that a little difficult to believe~~ if I were to eat this kind of cake in Saint Aire~~ I wonder how much it would cost~~ I would say that whether it can even be found is an uncertainty……”
862
863Emerada may have high praise for it, but to Chiho, the 100 yen cakes in a revolving sushi store were just 100 yen cakes.
864
865Remembering that there was a cheap and delicious cake store near her house, Chiho tried to imagine what would happen if she brought Emerada there.
866
867Next, Emi asked, “Chiho-chan, have you had your fill?”
868
869“……I feel full just watching them eat.”
870
871Chiho’s normal appetite was not considered small, but even when not considering this, she still could not match up to Emerada and Alberto.
872
873“That’s true.”
874
875Emi nodded in agreement while looking at those two, drank a mouthful of tea, then straightened her posture to speak, “Then again, Chiho-chan, this question is a little sudden, but do you think that there are any differences between you and us…… not considering the capacity of the stomach.”
876
877“……Eh?”
878
879 
880
881Because this question was really too sudden, Chiho blinked in surprise.
882
883“I do remember that we came here to discuss serious topics. Sigh, although we might have eaten a bit too much.”
884
885“Haha, sorry about that.”
886
887“Because it was too delicious~~”
888
889Alberto and Emerada did not show any signs of guilt at all.
890
891At this moment, Chiho finally remembered about the things that happened before they started eating sushi.
892
893“Em, Alberto, and I are humans, just like you. Sigh, I am half angel, but at least in terms of stomach capacity, these two people are more monstrous.”
894
895“O-Oh……”
896
897Noticing that Emi seemed to want to talk about serious topics, after Chiho cleansed her mouth with a mouthful of tea, she straightened her sitting posture as well.
898
899As for Alberto and Emerada, they maintained their postures of being fully stuffed.
900
901“The reason why they were so suspicious of raw fish is mainly because in our world, there are no chances for raw fish to appear on the dinner tables of the common folk. Their logistics and freezing technology are not as developed as Japan, so they normally eat grilled fish which has been smoked or salted. Even so, that is already considered a premium item. It can only be eaten around once a year.”
902
903After Chiho finished listening to this, she remembered her father’s childhood home.
904
905The childhood home of Chiho’s father was a farmer’s house located in the mountains. During New Year, there would definitely be a dish cooked from a whole Japanese amberjack.
906
907It was said that this was a custom passed down from the times when sea fish was still a premium item.
908
909“However, we were born in that kind of country. So you would probably understand better if I phrased it this way. We’re from a technologically backward country which Chiho-chan has never heard of and has nothing to do with Japan.”
910
911The trio’s Japanese was too fluent for people who have no connections to Japan, but this was not the time for rebukes.
912
913“The name of that country, that world……”
914
915“‘Continents of the Holy Cross, Ente Isla’. We came to this country by chasing after the Demon King, who committed brutal acts in Ente Isla. And that Demon King is the ‘Maou Sadao’ you know.”
916
917At this instant, Chiho felt her stomach become heavy.
918
919This was probably not because she was affected by the eating mannerisms of Alberto sitting opposite her, who ate a plate of seafood salad followed by a plate of Gunkan sushi.
920
921For unknown reasons, it felt as if Maou’s name had become very distant to her.
922
923“Yusa-san…… er, erhm, then again, the name ‘Yusa Emi’……”
924
925After she said it, Chiho recalled that this name was not the actual name of the lady in front of her.
926
927She had started to stammer––
928
929“You can just continue to address me the same way. I still intend to stay in Japan for the time being, so I would feel troubled if someone addressed me as ‘Emilia’ when I meet them outside.”
930
931But Emi shrugged after replying this––
932
933“Chiho-chan. To a certain extent……. I know what you’re troubling over right now. However, from my standpoint, I am
934
935unable to decide if I should solve your troubles for you.”
936
937––and spoke with a stern tone.
938
939“I came to Sasazuka today partly to check on the Demon King and the others, but most importantly, I want to confirm one thing with Chiho-chan.”
940
941“Confirm one thing?”
942
943“Yes. You know ours and Maou Sadao’s true identities. And in this Japan, you’re the only one who has not gotten your memories erased by the Demon King.”
944
945Chiho sucked in a breath.
946
947This fact was one of the cases which had been lingering in Chiho’s heart.
948
949Why did Maou treat her, treat her memories differently from others?
950
951“After pondering the meaning behind this, I want to explain the reasons why the Demon King and I came to Japan. This will definitely be a painful topic for you. I understand if you do not wish to listen to this.”
952
953In an instant, Emi signalled to Emerada and Alberto with her gaze.
954
955The two of them were still holding their full stomachs, but their stares were so serious that it was intimidating.
956
957“What do you think? Are you willing to listen to our battle with Maou…… with the Demon King, and the reasons behind
958
959that guy appearing in our world as the Demon King, me rising up as the Hero, and why we have continued this up to today? I need to emphasise once again that this topic is definitely not easy to absorb. If you don’t want to listen……”
960
961Chiho interrupted Emi.
962
963“Please tell me.”
964
965“……Is that alright?”
966
967“I want to know. If the person I know called Maou Sadao…… is real or fake.”
968
969Hearing Chiho reply this way, Emerada and Alberto glanced at one another.
970
971“What has he done so far, where is he from…… and what kind of person he actually is.”
972
973“Sigh, from our standpoint, just seeing that Demon King Satan working in a restaurant and being commanded by humans, we don’t want to admit that this guy is the same person.”
974
975“Alber, don’t interrupt so carelessly.”
976
977As Alberto frivolously said what Emi intentionally left out and did not mention, Chiho’s expression turned stiff.
978
979“Then let me explain in sequence. I have said so many times already, but if you do not want to listen, you can ask me to stop anytime. The topic I am going to talk about next is that heavy.”
980
981“I understand.”
982
983Chiho nodded determinedly.
984
985“……Then, I’m going to start.”
986
987Having seemed to have sensed Chiho’s determination, Emi started to speak in a clear tone.
988
989“The Demon King led huge numbers of demons and came to Ente Isla, that was seven years ago…… when I was still
990
991ten years old.”
992
993“Eh? Yusa-san and I are only one year apart?”
994
995The truth which was revealed from the contents of what Emi said shocked Chiho, and she interrupted in the beginning.
996
997Emi, who had planned to continue speaking, froze with her mouth still open, and she pressed her hand against her forehead.
998
999“……I’m not going to inquire which part you feel shocked about for now. With regards to the relation between my
1000
1001current age and job, I will explain in detail later, so please listen to me properly first.”
1002
1003“Ah, s-sorry.”
1004
1005After discovering that her words and the fact she was shocked was equivalent to her thinking that Emi’s appearance was a lot older than her actual age, Chiho immediately reflected on it.
1006
1007“A-Anyway.”
1008
1009Emi cleared her throat and continued.
1010
1011“The whole world had fought against the Demon King Army and lost, and the various countries were conquered one after another, in the end, the day Lucifer’s…… that shorty who kidnapped you…… army came to the village I lived in, I
1012
1013bore the mission to become the Hero to defeat the Demon King. At that time, I was just a girl from a farming family who did not know anything.”
1014
1015Surprisingly to Chiho, her mental state did not change that much after listening to the whole truth.
1016
1017Emi intentionally carried out her explanations without including any emotions.
1018
1019Other than the fact that her father died under the hands of the Demon King, following a chronological order, she tried her best to explain what she had seen and heard during her journey in a simple and concise manner.
1020
1021The war between the humans of the foreign world Ente Isla and the demons.
1022
1023About the Four Kings of the Demon King Army, which included Alsiel, the things about the Demon Generals invading the human world.
1024
1025The Demon King Satan who commanded these demons.
1026
1027The tragic events which she had witnessed during her journey.
1028
1029The counterattack of the human world.
1030
1031The confrontation between the Hero’s party and Demon King Satan and Alsiel in the Demon Fortress, that last battle.
1032
1033As well Emi’s experience of drifting to Japan because of an accident (what she had originally assumed it was).
1034
1035The re-encounter of the Hero and Demon King at Sasazuka……
1036
1037“Thinking about it calmly~~” Emerada, at the side, said this guiltily, “Perhaps this might not be suitable for an after meal topic~~”
1038
1039Emerada and Alberto were carefully observing Chiho’s expressions from the beginning until the end.
1040
1041They were probably worried that such an intense topic would affect Chiho’s feelings.
1042
1043However, she had surprisingly accepted all these facts in a more composed manner than they had imagined, and did not receive any huge shocks at all.
1044
1045“Are you alright? Did you become depressed because of this?” Alberto’s tone was kind, but Chiho shook her head naturally. “I’m alright. Thank you for the concern.”
1046
1047Chiho took a deep breath with force.
1048
1049“Can I ask questions now?”
1050
1051“Please go ahead.”
1052
1053“Was it only during the final battle at the Demon Fortress that Yusa-san and the others saw Demon King Satan for the first time?”
1054
1055“““……?”””
1056
1057Emi, Alberto, and Emerada momentarily looked at each other.
1058
1059It seemed like this question was not what they had expected.
1060
1061Representing the three of them, Emi answered, “No. The earliest we have seen him was when we were liberating the Eastern Continent of Ente Isla. He appeared at that time to allow Alsiel to retreat, that was when we met for the first time.”
1062
1063“Then, the final battle at the Demon Fortress was the second time?”
1064
1065“……That’s right.”
1066
1067Chiho nodded in understanding.
1068
1069The trio were confused by her expression.
1070
1071They probably could not guess what Chiho had understood.
1072
1073Chiho ignored the three of them, and continued to speak, “Thank you for telling me so many things. Honestly speaking, it doesn’t feel real to me yet, but thinking back on what happened back then, I know Yusa-san and the rest of you are not telling lies.”
1074
1075Courage was needed to say things out loud.
1076
1077However, with things as they are now, feeling conscious in front of these people was meaningless.
1078
1079Chiho suppressed her excited heart, opened her mouth, and spoke, “Lastly, can I ask another question?”
1080
1081After looking at the trio in the eyes one after another, Chiho breathed in.
1082
1083“Can I…… continue to like Maou-san?”
1084
1085※
1086
1087“Wowwww~~!”
1088
1089Emerada’s eyes shone like a child’s, and she let out a rather embarrassing sound while plastering her face against the display counter.
1090
1091Various cakes were displayed within the counter, and when cakes were mentioned in Chiho’s home, this ‘Patissier Tyronn’ store would be the first one they thought of.
1092
1093“This––is––so––cute~~!”
1094
1095Other than the fixed selection of sliced cakes, chocolate cakes, and Mont-Blanc, many cakes would be changed out every day, offering so many types that it was difficult to believe that this was a privately owned business.
1096
1097The store was not large, so it could not display that many types per day, for today, however, it seemed to mostly consist of fruit tarts and chocolate cakes.
1098
1099“E-E-Emilia~~ how many of these can I buy~~?”
1100
1101“You’re not a child.”
1102
1103Alberto criticised Emerada who was being overexcited, but the latter was not bothered by this kind of thing at all.
1104
1105“Since the uncle said that he didn’t need any~~ then I can buy his portion too~~” “Uncle……”
1106
1107“Em, calm down a little. It’s impossible to buy everything, Chiho-chan, are there any flavours you would recommend?”
1108
1109Emi asked this, acting like a mother with common sense, but before Chiho could reply, Emerada had already shouted unhappily,
1110
1111“Ehhhhhhh~~! Let’s buy everything~~?”
1112
1113“My wallet has a limit!”
1114
1115“So~~ when I return, I will send many things over~~”
1116
1117“If you send me money which cannot be used in Japan or jewels which do not match my identity as a salarywoman, I will only feel troubled.”
1118
1119She had heard that contrary to their appearances, Emerada was older than Emi, but after observing the interactions between them, Emi was definitely acting like the older sister.
1120
1121Using the opening sentence, ‘This is based on my personal tastes’, Chiho spoke––
1122
1123“……Uh, the swiss rolls are definitely not a problem, but there are many kinds of cream filling. In addition, the more
1124
1125interesting one would be the raccoon cakes……”
1126
1127And pointed at a few cakes in order.
1128
1129“Raccoon~~? Was raccoon meat added in~~?”
1130
1131“No. It’s just using chocolate and almond paste to create a raccoon’s appearance. It’s the one placed in that corner……”
1132
1133“Ahhh~~! How cuteeeee~~! Emilia~~!”
1134
1135“……Alright, alright, then let’s buy that one. There’s still one left. Alber really doesn’t want one?”
1136
1137“Yeah. I’ll just give my share to that brat.”
1138
1139Alberto had called Emerada a brat in revenge for being called an uncle, but the latter was not bothered at all–– “Uh~~ one more…… hm……”
1140
1141––and only stared at the display counter with a serious expression on her face.
1142
1143This was the shopping street at Sasazuka 100th Street, and it was evening time.
1144
1145The four of them left the revolving sushi store, and under Chiho’s lead, they came to buy cakes as souvenirs.
1146
1147It might be rude to the sushi store, but if Emerada thought that Japan’s cakes were only of that standard, it would be troubling as well.
1148
1149Because of this, Emerada’s attention had been totally occupied by the different types of cakes.
1150
1151“But, I’m very surprised.”
1152
1153“You’re referring to?”
1154
1155Emi spoke as she watched Emerada’s back.
1156
1157“I did not expect you to ask that kind of question, I had thought that once I spoke about the truth, you would no longer want to have anything to do with us. You even brought us to a cake store for Em’s benefit.”
1158
1159“If Yusa-san and the others did not give that kind of answer, I would probably not do this.”
1160
1161Emi’s eyes widened momentarily in surprise.
1162
1163“But, we are unable to give you any other answers?”
1164
1165“Because Yusa-san and the rest are like this, I thought that I must introduce delicious cake stores to all of you,” Chiho said enthusiastically.
1166
1167※
1168
1169“Can I…… continue liking Maou-san?”
1170
1171Faced with Chiho’s question, after hesitating for a while, she replied, “We are unable to sever these feelings from you.”
1172
1173Alberto also spoke after Emi, “When Emilia said that she wasn’t going to return and did not plan to kill the Demon King, I was shocked. However, dragging you into our affairs in a one-sided manner, this is also very unfair to you, we also have the leeway to think about this matter. Honestly speaking, if you can forget everything, we would be able to defeat the Demon King without saddening anyone, thus ending everything.”
1174
1175“Alber is saying too much again~~”
1176
1177Emerada chided Alberto who was too direct in various ways.
1178
1179“Of course~~ we are unable to cheer you on~~ if the Demon King does something dangerous~~ rather than Chiho-chan’s feelings~~ we will prioritise the lives and safety of the surrounding people~~”
1180
1181“Whether it’s me, Em, or Alber…… we do not like to make our friends cry. Allowing the Demon King to escape to this
1182
1183world is our responsibility, this has nothing to do with you. Therefore, after you have heard us out, heard about everything in Ente Isla, and still like that guy,” In an organised manner, Emi stacked the sushi plates into groups of ten, “then there is no need to be concerned about us. In the future, your feelings will always be decided by you.”
1184
1185※
1186
1187“Then~~ we’ll be returning to Ente Isla tomorrow~~”
1188
1189“We’ll leave Emilia in your care.”
1190
1191The ticketing gate at Sasazuka.
1192
1193Emerada, who was hugging a huge box with a blissful expression after finally buying lots of cake through pleading with Emi, and Alberto, who was watching this scene with a wry smile, said goodbye to Chiho.
1194
1195“This is a good country. Not only is there good food here, there is a lot of money and resources. There are also good people like you, Miss. It would be better for Emilia to leisurely stay here for a while.”
1196
1197Emerada turned back to look towards Emi who was staring at the ticketing price chart as she helped Emerada and Alberto buy tickets.
1198
1199“This is her first time making ‘friends’ other than us, I feel very happy about this.”
1200
1201“Eh?”
1202
1203Emerada’s way of speaking suddenly turned normal, giving Chiho a shock.
1204
1205“Ignoring the Demon King makes us uneasy, but for unknown reasons, I am strangely able to agree with why the Demon King would decide to preserve your memories.”
1206
1207“The reason why Emilia’s expressions have become so cheerful~~ must be because she met Chiho-chan and the Demon King in this country known as Japan~~ we might have said many stern words to you~~ but please continue being good friends with Emilia~~”
1208
1209Emerada reverted to her usual self immediately.
1210
1211Chiho was unable to perceive the hidden meaning behind these emotional words.
1212
1213She may have lied about her age, saying that she was twenty years old for the sake of working in Japan, but Emi’s actual age was seventeen, one year apart from Chiho.
1214
1215A seventeen year old girl being forced to carry the fate of the whole world on her shoulders, fighting across different worlds. With nothing but these facts, Chiho could sense the weakness of the human world of Ente Isla, who had no choice but to make a young girl carry this destiny alone.
1216
1217Emerada, noticing that Chiho did not react much, did not say any more. She smiled thinly and, after getting rid of her stern expression, she moved her face closer to Chiho.
1218
1219“And~~ it seems like even if you do not worry so much~~ there won’t be much problems~~?”
1220
1221“Emerada-san?”
1222
1223“The Demon King definitely~~ is hoping that Chiho-chan can remember him as well~~ so~~ there’s no need to be so troubled~~ you just need to understand each other little by little~~”
1224
1225“Is, is that so?”
1226
1227“Uh, you shouldn’t view what Em says so seriously. This person basically doesn’t take responsibility for what she says, ugh!”
1228
1229Without speaking, Emerada used the tip of her foot to kick Alberto, just as the latter was writhing in pain, and Chiho was trembling from the power behind that kick––
1230
1231“Sorry for the wait, I wanted to pay with my card, then realised that there weren’t enough funds, so it took some effort to settle it.”
1232
1233Emi returned with the train tickets.
1234
1235“What were all of you talking about?”
1236
1237“Uh, nothing…… owowow.”
1238
1239“We were only asking her to help look out for Emilia~~”
1240
1241“Is that so? Then it’s about time for us to return. Chiho-chan, sorry for taking up your time today.”
1242
1243“Don’t say that,” Chiho replied, shaking her head. Then for reasons unknown, her line of sight met with Emerada’s, who had been walking to the ticketing gate with Emi.
1244
1245“Ah, t-that’s right, Yusa-san!”
1246
1247“Hm? What is it?”
1248
1249Chiho still did not know what Emerada’s earlier words meant.
1250
1251However, based on her own life experience which was vastly different from Emi’s, Chiho suggested conducting a ceremony which was natural between ‘friends’.
1252
1253“Mobile phone……”
1254
1255Chiho took out her own flip phone––
1256
1257“Ah, that’s DoCoDeMo’s PN-04iS pink model, right?”
1258
1259As expected of someone working in a company related to mobile phones, by just seeing the shape of the back, Emi was able to accurately point out Chiho’s phone model and colour.
1260
1261It was difficult to believe that this person was a Hero from another world after all.
1262
1263Chiho, who was mentally giving a troubled smile, breathed in lightly while gripping her phone. Then she looked straight at Emi in the eyes and spoke, “Are you willing to exchange numbers and mail addresses?”
1264
1265“……Eh?”
1266
1267“……I am still unable to judge, and am unable to make decisions. I will probably continue feeling lost and continuously
1268
1269trouble you. Even so, I still want to know more, listen to you speak about various things, and talk to you even more. With regards to Ente Isla, things about Maou-san, and things about Yusa-san, about Emilia Justina……”
1270
1271“Chiho-chan……”
1272
1273Chiho’s unexpected suggestion stunned Emi and caused her to stop where she stood.
1274
1275Emerada and Alberto, who were behind her, looked at each other with smiles which were a mix of relief and puzzlement.
1276
1277“If you do not mind……”
1278
1279Fearing demons at night and craving revenge in the day, Emilia Justina, who hid her true self for the sake of preparing for battle and obtaining food––
1280
1281
1282
1283
1284“Can you be friends with me?”
1285
1286
1287
1288
1289And Sasaki Chiho, who lived in a world where she was naturally protected, taking one step towards an unknown world which no one on Earth knew about––
1290
1291
1292
1293“I should be learning from you instead.”
1294
1295
1296
1297
1298The hands of two girls from different worlds clasped together tightly.
1299
1300 
1301
1302Short Story 2: The Demon King, Thinking Back on a Thrifty Life
1303
1304The 100th Shopping Street in the evening instantly became lively due to the crowds coming from Sasazuka station. All of them had come here to buy things, and some of them were going home from work or school.
1305
1306Kamazuki Suzuno, nimbly avoiding the flow of the crowd, browsing the stores, and thinking about ingredients for dinner today, suddenly spotted someone familiar in the crowd. A person who was a head taller than anyone else in the crowd such that even someone as petite as her could see that person easily.
1307
1308They did coincidentally meet each other on the streets, but their relationship was not so close to warrant an exchange of greetings. The other party was a neighbour living in the same apartment. And his ability to pick up a good bargain should not be underestimated.
1309
1310“I should just go and greet him.”
1311
1312Staring at the back of the head of a resident from Sasazuka Villa Rosa Room 201, Ashiya Shiro, Suzuno slowly approached him, then noticed something strange.
1313
1314“Hm? I remember that that store stopped operating some time ago…… what is he doing?”
1315
1316Ashiya was standing in front of the shuttered store in a daze.
1317
1318Because he was standing at the side of the road, he did not block anyone’s way, however the usual Ashiya would never stand at the side of the road and blank out.
1319
1320“Hey, Shiro-dono, is there something wrong?”
1321
1322Suzuno approached Ashiya and, while initiating the conversation, observed the other party.
1323
1324In Ashiya’s hands were two shopping bags which seemed to contain some products. One was the reusable bag that he frequently used, while the other was an unusually large paper bag which seemed to contain something very heavy.
1325
1326“……Hey, Shiro-dono, Shiro…… Alsiel!”
1327
1328It was unknown if he had heard Suzuno’s voice or not, but Ashiya did not turn back at all.
1329
1330As Suzuno was usually the only one who would address him with his Japanese name ‘Shiro’, worrying that he had not noticed Suzuno because of this reason, Suzuno tried shouting his real name within the crowd.
1331
1332“…………Oh, it’s Crestia Bell.”
1333
1334Ashiya finally turned around. But his appearance was strange.
1335
1336His eyes were dazed, and he even used Suzuno’s real name while in the streets. Ashiya, who was a cautious person, would never act this way.
1337
1338“What, what happened? Are you feeling unwell?”
1339
1340Recently, the two of them had forgotten their respective positions and purely interacted with each other as neighbours. Seeing Ashiya’s abnormal behaviour, Suzuno simply felt worried.
1341
1342“This…..”
1343
1344With a trembling voice, Ashiya lifted the heavy bag which was in his right hand.
1345
1346“Hm? What is inside this……”
1347
1348Suzuno looked into the opened paper bag.
1349
1350And inside, there was……
1351
1352“I won.”
1353
1354“Huh?”
1355
1356Ashiya’s dazed voice was heard from above, and Suzuno looked up before she could understand what was written on the box within the paper bag.
1357
1358“I had thought that this kind of thing would not happen in reality…… just a fool’s fantasy……”
1359
1360Ashiya, whose existence was considered close to fantasy to the Japanese, no, to the humans of Earth, slowly shifted his gaze to a certain direction.
1361
1362After looking in that direction as well, Suzuno saw the words ‘100th Shopping Street Lucky Draw’ on a white tent.
1363
1364“……Hey, Alsiel, the reason why you’re standing here in a daze, could it be because of……”
1365
1366Suzuno, who had been worrying about Ashiya, suddenly had a feeling that she was wasting her time.
1367
1368Then she looked within the paper bag once more.
1369
1370There were the large words ‘Defal Pressure Cooker 4L’ written on the study looking cardboard box.
1371
1372Suzuno sighed deeply.
1373
1374Seeing how Ashiya acted as if he wanted to rub his face against that hard and sturdy silver outer surface, everyone who gathered in Room 201 of Villa Rosa Sasazuka felt a sense of pity.
1375
1376The Demon General Alsiel, who had conquered a huge continent in the foreign world Ente Isla, was elated because he had won a pressure cooker in a lucky draw.
1377
1378Even Hero Emilia––Yusa Emi––who had come to Japan in order to fight them, felt a sense of pity towards that figure.
1379
1380“Demon King, Lucifer. Seeing him become like this, don’t you feel embarrassed about this?”
1381
1382“Uh, erhm……”
1383
1384In front of Emi’s stern gaze, the Demon King Satan, Maou Sadao, bit his lip and lowered his head.
1385
1386“In order to support your livelihoods, he has exerted himself so much that he lost himself completely just because he won a pressure cooker in a lucky draw, shouldn’t all of you reward him a little?”
1387
1388“Feh~uh…… hm.”
1389
1390The Demon General Lucifer, Urushihara Hanzo, who was being lectured by Suzuno, let out a sound of irritation.
1391
1392“Ashiya-san is really happy.”
1393
1394“Pot, very happy?”
1395
1396“Yeah, that pressure cooker, it’s costly if it’s bought from the store.”
1397
1398As for the only human on Earth who knew about Maou’s and Emi’s true identities, Sasaki Chiho, she attempted to explain to the Demon King’s and Hero’s ‘daughter’, Alas=Ramus, why Ashiya was so happy.
1399
1400Pressured by Emi’s and Suzuno’s reproachful gazes, Maou forced out a smile and said to Ashiya, “E-Erhm, how should I say this, I’m sorry, putting you through such hardships all this time.”
1401
1402“What are you saying, Demon King-sama!? As long as I think about what happened today, the hardships up to now are nothing!”
1403
1404Perhaps he had accepted Maou’s consolation, Ashiya showed an even brighter smile and took the sparkling new pressure cooker to the sink, and then started washing it with flowing water.
1405
1406It seemed like he planned to use it immediately to cook dinner.
1407
1408“I don’t know what kind of hardship he has experienced, but it appears that the hard times experienced by a Demon General can be negated by a pressure cooker.”
1409
1410Seeing Ashiya’s back, it was not strange for Emi to rebuke in this manner.
1411
1412To people who knew about Ashiya’s situation in daily life, they would understand the huge impact one pressure cooker would bring to his househusband life.
1413
1414However, to the people who knew about Ashiya’s true identity, if a pressure cooker could negate all the hardships experienced so far, it was difficult to judge if the amount of hardship experienced was considered significant or not.
1415
1416“It’s said to be expensive, but in fact, how much is that pot worth?”
1417
1418Also watching Ashiya’s back like what Emi was doing and showing a doubtful expression, Urushihara pulled the empty pressure cooker box next to him to study it.
1419
1420Just as Maou looked in the same direction, Chiho answered Urushihara’s question nonchalantly.
1421
1422“Even a small one can cost more than 10,000 yen.”
1423
1424““10,000 yen?””
1425
1426The box instantly dropped from Urushihara’s hands, and Maou was so shocked that it seemed like his chin will hit the floor.
1427
1428“One, one pot costs 10,000 yen? What is this?”
1429
1430“T-This thing is that expensive?”
1431
1432Emi picked up the box from the shocked Fallen Angel and Demon King and said,
1433
1434“10,000 yen is considered a cheap one already. The capacity 4L is written on top, so it’s probably more than 20,000 yen?”
1435
1436“20,000 yen?”
1437
1438Maou shouted again, and was so shocked that he got up from the tatami.
1439
1440“If, if so, we might as well sell it for money……”
1441
1442“No!”
1443
1444Perhaps because he had been paying attention to what everyone was saying, Ashiya sensitively reacted to what Maou said on a whim.
1445
1446“Home appliances are not worth much even if they have not been used before! I will definitely not give up on this!” “I know that! I was just joking……”
1447
1448Faced with an agitated Ashiya, Maou hastily retracted his comment.
1449
1450“I have wanted to make Chashu since a long time ago! And with this size, there will be no problems making stewed meat or stewed vegetables……. ahh! This is getting more and more exciting!”
1451
1452The dreams Ashiya harboured for this pot keep increasing, and in contrast––
1453
1454“I wonder if he could just restrict his dreams to the pot and give up on conquering the world.” “Ashiya-san is shining so brightly!”
1455
1456“Alsiel…… you have really been through a lot.”
1457
1458––Emi, Chiho and Suzuno expressed their feelings of pity and other emotions one after another. “Hey, Urushihara, you’d better not touch that pot. If you spoil it by accident, we’ll be killed.” “How can I touch that pot? Ashiya is scary today.”
1459
1460On the other hand, Maou and Urushihara did not dare to comment positively on this side of Ashiya which they had never seen before.
1461
1462“However, Ashiya-san is able to cook using a pressure cooker immediately even though he just got it huh.”
1463
1464“Yeah, he seems to have done quite some research on it through recipe books some time back. Then again, there is a pot which actually costs 20,000 yen.”
1465
1466Maou looked at the kitchen which was filled with cooking equipment from afar.
1467
1468“I remember that a pan only costs 700 yen at the supermarket?”
1469
1470“That’s right. A kitchen knife only costs around 1500 yen. And because it has been sharpened too many times, it’s already a lot thinner than before. I had thought that a pressure cooker was a distant dream.”
1471
1472After washing the pressure cooker, Ashiya used a dry cloth to remove any water which was left inside.
1473
1474“A place to put it has to be found, but when I first bought the oil filtering machine, I had thought that it would be impossible to increase the amount of culinary equipment. Today is a really good day.”
1475
1476(TL Note: An oil filter is a device that some Japanese households get to allow them to reuse cooking oil. Environmentally friendly.)
1477
1478 
1479
1480Everything Ashiya spoke clearly showed his happiness towards the pressure cooker.
1481
1482“When we first arrived in Japan and were restricted by the cooking equipment, we weren’t even able to make economic dishes.”
1483
1484“Unable to make economic dishes? What does that mean?”
1485
1486Feeling perplexed, Suzuno asked this, and Emi raised her head as well.
1487
1488“Simply put, economic food is taking the sprouts or similar ingredients which are normally thrown away after eating and replanting or reusing them, right? Alas=Ramus likes drinking onion tea, so I have been keeping the onion skins recently.”
1489
1490“Onion tea?”
1491
1492Maou frowned after hearing Emi join two terms which did not have much relation to each other, but either unexpectedly or naturally, the one who continued the topic was Ashiya.
1493
1494“You’re referring to cooking the brown outer skin? I heard that you can add sugar or honey to it.”
1495
1496“Is it really alright for young children to drink this kind of thing? I remember that honey isn’t good for young children.”
1497
1498“Ahm, I don’t like Papa scratchy scratchy.”
1499
1500Once Maou stroked Alas=Ramus’s hair, the latter smiled as if she felt that it tickled.
1501
1502“You don’t have to point it out to me. I do pay attention and not give her too much, also botulinum poisoning only occurs in children younger than one year old, when their intestines are not fully developed.”
1503
1504“Sigh, sprouts and onion tea are considered easy things to do. However, proper economic cooking would mostly require complete cooking facilities. For example…… fried Edamame pods are a classic example.”
1505
1506“Edamame pods can be eaten?”
1507
1508The example Ashiya raised caused Chiho’s eyes to widen in surprise––
1509
1510“You’re not questioning the fact that demons eat Edamane?”
1511
1512––while Emi was surprised about other things.
1513
1514“Usually, they cannot be eaten. However, most of the economic dishes teach people how to cook things which would normally be thrown away into something which is edible.”
1515
1516As Ashiya explained this, he quickly peeled the onion skins which he had mentioned earlier using his hands.
1517
1518“I heard that the method is simple, just remove the stem and seam from the top and bottom of the pod, split the pod into half, coat it with flour, and fry it. However……”
1519
1520Ashiya then cut the potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables into chunks.
1521
1522“To us in the past, since large amounts of flour and oil need to be used, this could not be considered economic cooking.”
1523
1524When they had just drifted to Japan, to the penniless Maou and Ashiya, to perform economic cooking, other than cheap ingredients, other conditions of not requiring additional seasoning and not needing to spend money on buying cooking equipment had to be fulfilled.
1525
1526Large amount of cooking oil was needed to deep fry food. In addition, used oil would oxidise quickly due to the presence of the impurities such as flour and other factors, so it could not be reusable if it was not stored properly.
1527
1528Considering the living conditions of the Demon Fortress, it was unacceptable to throw away frying oil after one use. If they wanted to fry something, they had to first prepare an environment which could reuse large amounts of frying oil.
1529
1530However, for this purpose, other than preparing heat resistant oil filtering equipment and kitchen towels for the filtering, they had to prepare dishes which would make use of the oil which was saved after filtering before it went bad, a complete strategy was needed for this.
1531
1532Cooking Edamame pods, making something which would be thrown away edible fit the definition of economic cooking on the surface.
1533
1534However, if they were already financially tight, it would be impossible to create an environment which could use this method to save money.
1535
1536“In addition, the pots used for deep frying have to be separate from the pots used for pan frying, else not only will it shorten the lifespan of the pots, more dish washing liquid will be needed when washing them. If you buy new seasonings for the sake of making economic dishes, then it will be truly foolish. Making the best use of the leftover ingredients and recipes which does not require a large amount of money in the long term is what is known as home cooking…….”
1537
1538“Enough! I know all that! I was wrong!”
1539
1540Emi did not do anything wrong, but to prevent Ashiya from going on and on about economic cooking, she apologised immediately.
1541
1542“Seriously, it’s rare for me to want to teach you about making economic dishes with just a pan and a knife.”
1543
1544“Thank you, I don’t need it! See, Alas=Ramus knows you’re making something new and is looking forward to it, hurry up and cook something for her.”
1545
1546“Hm, I see. Please wait for a while. Because it is my first time challenging this, I need to be more cautious. As for the stock powder…… it will be a better idea to add a little for a start.”
1547
1548Noticing Alas=Ramus’s gaze, Ashiya nodded and started to focus on his cooking.
1549
1550“Sigh……”
1551
1552Before Ashiya’s excitement completely cooled down, Maou smiled wryly, “During that time, we spent all our effort just to make it through every day. Ashiya probably started to research cooking seriously only after I obtained the job at MgRonalds.”
1553
1554When Maou and Ashiya were defeated by Emi and fled to Japan, they truly had nothing.
1555
1556If not for the kind aid of Sasazuka Villa Rosa’s landlady Shiba Miki, it would not have been strange for them to die from malnutrition.
1557
1558“At that time, we would eat broccoli cores and ask supermarkets for cabbage leaves which they did not want. In addition, we would always, always be eating bean sprouts!”
1559
1560As long as the hard skin of the broccoli cores were cut away and diced and the spoiled parts of the outer cabbage leaves were carefully removed, they would become versatile ingredients for stir frying, making soups or salad.
1561
1562By going to the supermarket on the right days, bean sprouts could be bought for around 10 yen. Not only was there a significant amount, it was packed with nutrition.
1563
1564Of course they have also eaten many replanted vegetables which Emi had mentioned and tried to buy bread ends from the bread store or tofu curdles from the tofu store, using various methods to obtain cheap ingredients.
1565
1566All this effort paid off and they went hungry less and less frequently.
1567
1568“……I don’t want to lead this kind of life.”
1569
1570Maou lightly kicked Urushihara who had complained.
1571
1572“Thank him properly, you rice weevil. You can live such a leisurely life now thanks to Ashiya’s thrifty lifestyle.”
1573
1574Maou said this, as if to remind Urushihara who only knew of the current life of the Demon Fortress.
1575
1576“……Ashiya-san, can I help you in any way?”
1577
1578After that, Chiho, who had been listening to the demon’s conversation, got up slowly and spoke to Ashiya.
1579
1580Ashiya turned back with a smile––
1581
1582“Is it okay? Then there are two tomatoes at the bottom of the fridge, please help me blanch them in hot water and peel them. You can use that pot.”
1583
1584––and used to gaze to point out the location of the pot.
1585
1586“……I’ll go and slice some pickles. It’s something I bought from the supermarket, but I recently found a delicious brand
1587
1588which I like a lot.”
1589
1590Suzuno also got up quickly and notified that she was returning to her room to add a dish to the dinner table.
1591
1592“W-What is it, Alas=Ramus?”
1593
1594Seeing how everyone was acting, Alas=Ramus also looked up at Emi.
1595
1596“How about Mama?”
1597
1598“Eh?”
1599
1600“You’re not helping?”
1601
1602“Ugh……”
1603
1604Emi was silenced by her daughter’s innocent eyes.
1605
1606Because Chiho and Suzuno started to help Ashiya, the girl thought that Emi would do something as well.
1607
1608Unfortunately, Emi had not made any preparations which could add anything to today’s dinner table.
1609
1610“……What’s wrong?”
1611
1612“Uh? Nothing.”
1613
1614Maou showed an expression as if he felt that Emi being unable to respond to Alas=Ramus’s innocent gaze was interesting. Seeing this out of the corner of her eye, Emi pushed down the anger which was rushing up––
1615
1616“……Next time, I will cook something and bring it over.”
1617
1618––and said something which was more like an announcement to everyone present rather than just saying it to Alas=Ramus.
1619
1620“Sigh, there’s no need to force yourself. You normally come here after work after all.”
1621
1622Emi normally came after work to join the Demon Fortress’s dinner gathering made up of a mix of humans and demons.
1623
1624This had naturally become a routine.
1625
1626Even if she were to prepare something at home beforehand, whether it was bringing it to her company or going home to get it first, a lot of effort was needed to do this.
1627
1628“Hey, Alas=Ramus, Mama is actually unexpectedly hardworking, you know?”
1629
1630“What do you mean by unexpectedly!?”
1631
1632Maou picked up Alas=Ramus and put in a word for Emi.
1633
1634“Rather than that, Alas=Ramus. You should say something to Lucifer. Ask him why he isn’t helping.”
1635
1636“Don’t drag me into this.”
1637
1638After Alas=Ramus stared at the irritated Urushihara with wide eyes for a while, she shook her small head.
1639
1640Then she looked up at Maou with a perplexed expression and said, “Papa, Lucifer won’t help!”
1641
1642““““……Uh.””””
1643
1644“What?”
1645
1646Besides Maou and Emi, even Ashiya and Chiho who had heard this sucked in a breath. As for Urushihara, he quickly turned towards Alas=Ramus.
1647
1648Then––
1649
1650“What is it, what happened?”
1651
1652When Suzuno returned after placing the cut pickles on a small plate, she noticed that everyone in Room 201, with the exception of Urushihara, was doubled over in laughter.
1653
1654She saw that Urushihara was shaking while blushing madly, the other four were holding their stomachs and laughing, and only Alas=Ramus had a confused expression on her face.
1655
1656She did not know the details, but Suzuno knew that she had missed out on something interesting. “Hey, hey, Lucifer, are you okay with Alas=Ramus saying that about you? Kukuku.” “~~!”
1657
1658Urushihara, whose face turned even redder because of what Emi said, first glared at Suzuno who entered the room– –
1659
1660“Don’t ask about unnecessary things!”
1661
1662After giving a warning––
1663
1664“………………………Alright, I’ll wash the dishes, okay? Anything other than the pressure cooker……”
1665
1666He said this in a very small voice.
1667
1668“It seems like I have really missed out on something interesting. I regret missing it, but please fill me in on the details.” Urushihara actually said that he would help out, causing Suzuno to show an expression of curiosity–– “I already told you not to ask about unnecessary things!”
1669
1670As for Urushihara, he was acting as if he would lose his temper on anyone if he was triggered again.
1671
1672“A child’s eyes are amazing.”
1673
1674“They really are.”
1675
1676Maou and Emi nodded at Alas=Ramus’s keen eyes in admiration.
1677
1678“Ashiya-san, I have peeled the skins. Ahaha……”
1679
1680Chiho was smiling as she confirmed that she has finished her task, but still could not resist letting out a laugh.
1681
1682“Thank you, Sasaki-san. Oh yes, Urushihara, you don’t have to wash the dishes, but help me press the power button on the rice cooker. You should know how to do that.”
1683
1684“Don’t underestimate me! I’m going to get angry!”
1685
1686Urushihara may have lost his temper at Ashiya’s instructions, but he still obediently walked over and pressed the power button for the rice cooker.
1687
1688The rice cooker made a noise, and then started to cook rice for all the humans and demons gathered in this room.
1689
1690After a while, the room was filled with the heat and fragrance coming from the pressure cooker and rice cooker, and after the noisy dinner preparations were completed, a day in Sasazuka passed by normally.
1691
1692 
1693
1694Short Story 3: The Demon King, Buying a New Mobile Phone with the Hero’s Money
1695
1696“Welcome! How can I be of……”
1697
1698“Erhm, can this be fixed?”
1699
1700“Ser… eh?”
1701
1702Emi noticed that the store employee’s smile and professional tone instantly froze after the sentence ended in a strange way.
1703
1704However, this could not be helped. After all, what Maou took out was a battered piece of metal which barely looked like it had been a mobile phone.
1705
1706Even so, because of her sense of responsibility to the brand and her strong will, the frontline employee, who was in charge of serving the customers at the ae direct retail store in the city centre, still managed to recover her smile.
1707
1708Emi mentally praised the professionalism of the other party.
1709
1710“Uh, erhm, I’m sorry, may I know if you wish to repair this?”
1711
1712“Yeah, if it can be fixed. Because it can still be turned on, I thought there might still be some hope.”
1713
1714“……How is that possible?”
1715
1716Emi grumbled in a volume no one else could hear, as for the employee––
1717
1718“E-Erhm, it’s very dangerous to turn on the power in this state, it’s best to avoid doing so!”
1719
1720––she frantically advised Maou not to do so.
1721
1722“A-Anyway, since you want to conduct repairs, please take this number tag here and wait in the waiting area for a while.”
1723
1724“Ah, alright. So it can’t be done after all.”
1725
1726“Didn’t I tell you that it’s too ridiculous already?”
1727
1728“Eh? Y-Yeah……”
1729
1730Having his clothes tugged by Emi, Maou seemed to have given up making things difficult for the employee in front of them for the time being.
1731
1732Holding the number tag, Maou did not even look at the display cases in the direct retail store showing the newest models of the mobile phone company ae and sat on the sofa at the waiting area.
1733
1734“Mama, there, that’s Mama’s job!”
1735
1736After that, the personification of the ‘Yesod’ Sephirah, Emi and Maou’s ‘daughter’, Alas=Ramus, who was in Emi’s arms, patted Emi’s shoulder and pointed in the direction of the counter.
1737
1738Looking in that direction, wearing the uniform of the ae direct retail store which had a large ribbon across the chest
1739
1740area, the employees were serving the customers in separated counters.
1741
1742“……That’s right.”
1743
1744Her heart felt a little bitter, but Emi still nodded with a smile.
1745
1746The company and type of service provided were different, but some time back, she was the same as those people working behind the counter, providing mobile phone related services in another company within the same industry.
1747
1748Thinking back on her job like this, she noticed that having worked as a call centre customer service officer at DoCoDeMo although she was a Hero was just as strange as Maou working at MgRonalds even though he was the Demon King. Therefore, she had no right to criticise his job.
1749
1750“Mama? Going to work tomorrow?”
1751
1752Alas=Ramus’s nonchalant question hurt Emi’s mental wound slightly.
1753
1754Emi’s ‘daughter’ Alas=Ramus could not be separated from the Emi’s holy sword, so when Emi was working at DoCoDeMo, Alas=Ramus was merged within Emi.
1755
1756Therefore, Alas=Ramus knew about Emi’s work situation.
1757
1758“……There’s no need, the work at DoCoDeMo, I’m taking a break for the time being.”
1759
1760As a ‘mother’, Emi lied in response to Alas=Ramus’s innocent question.
1761
1762Emi had been fired by her previous workplace.
1763
1764This was a result caused by her own actions and was something which could not be helped, but losing a place of belonging in Japan still left a scar within her heart.
1765
1766Thinking about it, since the day she crossed worlds to kill the Demon King, in terms of time and situation, she had arrived at a faraway point.
1767
1768“Hey, Emi, you didn’t have to come with me.”
1769
1770Perhaps he had noticed Emi’s gaze, sitting on the sofa, Maou said this without looking in her direction.
1771
1772“……Eh?”
1773
1774“What I mean is, I will get a receipt from the store then pass it to you, so, you just have to give me money later……”
1775
1776Maou said this while intentionally showing an unhappy expression, but Emi knew he was worrying about her thinking of being fired from her previous job.
1777
1778It’s irritating, I wished he did not worry about unnecessary things.
1779
1780After all, she was aware that she owed him a favour.
1781
1782“……I can’t do that.”
1783
1784Emi smiled slightly, and sat on the same sofa, keeping a short distance away from Maou.
1785
1786“I haven’t decided on my next job yet. I might be a call customer service officer or an employee at ae or SoftTank in the future. I have to observe the situation in the other stores.”
1787
1788(TL Note: SoftTank is a parody of SoftBank.)
1789
1790“I-I see. Yeah.”
1791
1792Maou nodded and replied vaguely, then did not say anything more.
1793
1794He looked a little awkward, but as two of them felt the same way, they were in similar positions.
1795
1796“So which mobile phone do you plan to buy next?”
1797
1798“Eh? Uh~ erhm……”
1799
1800Maou looked at the battered piece of metal in his hand on reflex. Seeing through the meaning of his gaze, Emi took the initiative and spoke first, “I said that definitely cannot be fixed. It’s already an old model. Actually charging it when the outer shell is broken and not intact, unbelievable.”
1801
1802“Eh……”
1803
1804Maou looked sadly at his mobile phone which had become a battered piece of metal.
1805
1806The ae mobile phone Maou was using was a model released by a company called Thu-ka. However, that company was merged under ae afterwards.
1807
1808Thu-ka had merged under ae when Maou and the others arrived in Japan. Being able to buy a new model from Thu-ka Telecommunications before the brand disappeared was considered a miracle, however, it was not so great a model that it was worth creating a miracle to buy it.
1809
1810Then, this mobile phone Maou bought in a miraculous manner and used lovingly became battered during the journey to Ente Isla.
1811
1812In order to rescue Ashiya, Alas=Ramus, and Emi who had been imprisoned because they were dragged into the plans of Heaven, the Demon World, and Ente Isla, Maou journeyed to Ente Isla.
1813
1814During this time, whether it was falling into the water, being caught in an explosion and motor accident, or battling with the angels, this mobile phone had been in Maou’s pocket the whole time.
1815
1816The left half of the LCD screen had completely malfunctioned, and the surface of the keypad had disappeared completely, revealing the base plate below. Originally, the phone could be folded, but because the joint area had completely shattered and exposed the underlying circuitry, it could no longer be folded.
1817
1818According to Maou, the phone could still be charged and phone calls could still be made. However, allowing electricity to pass through a mobile phone which has been dunked in water and has its underlying circuitry exposed was an extremely dangerous act which could result in electrocution or explosions causing injury or death.
1819
1820Amongst the items Maou proposed to Emi in the ‘Fees and Compensations for the Journey to Ente Isla’, the highest priority item to settle was this mobile phone.
1821
1822Unlike in the past, Emi was no longer able to fight Maou, the Demon King, while harbouring simple feelings, but if he met with a huge accident because of inappropriate mobile phone usage, it would be very perplexing.
1823
1824Demon King Satan, died in a fire caused by an electricity leakage incident because he continued to use a damaged phone, even if such a thing happened, this incident would not even appear in the Society section of the newspapers.
1825
1826“H-Hey……”
1827
1828Maou had asked for a large amount of money, but Emi seemed to agree without any protest.
1829
1830Maou, who had initially asked Emi for compensation with an arrogant attitude, might have felt surprised about this, and his attitude towards Emi after that was strangely unnatural.
1831
1832Emi sighed deeply.
1833
1834“What?”
1835
1836“Let, let me say this first, I’m going to buy the model I want.”
1837
1838“Do whatever you want.”
1839
1840“Is, is that alright? Even if you say no, I’m not going to listen. Because we already agreed, the request document also……”
1841
1842“I know that. Didn’t I say do whatever you want? I won’t complain even if you buy the newest Slimphone, so please give up on fixing it.”
1843
1844“O-Oh…… uh, erhm……”
1845
1846Emi was composed from beginning to end, causing Maou to become more flustered. He intentionally picked up the small booklet introducing the newest ae models from the magazine rack beside him and started to read it.
1847
1848“……Mama?”
1849
1850Alas=Ramus, in Emi’s arms, asked in curiosity after looking up at Emi’s expression as Emi watched the side of Maou’s face.
1851
1852“Mama, looks a little happy?”
1853
1854“Hm~ I wonder how that is?”
1855
1856Emi answered Alas=Ramus without looking at her, then spoke to Maou who was sweating strangely within a store with strong air-conditioning.
1857
1858“Hey.”
1859
1860“Hmm?”
1861
1862If Maou, who was so spooked that he almost jumped up, reacted in a troublesome way, it would also be bothersome, so Emi pointed in a certain direction before Maou could open his mouth.
1863
1864“Is it alright for you to not stop her?”
1865
1866“Huh? What do you mean?”
1867
1868“Acies-chan.”
1869
1870“Hmm?”
1871
1872Maou got up with widened eyes.
1873
1874In the direction Emi pointed at, Alas=Ramus’s ‘younger sister’, Acies=Ara, was bugging a store employee and asking endless questions.
1875
1876“Hey, Acies!”
1877
1878Maou frantically ran towards Acies, who was standing in front of the display counter filled with the newest models of jaw dropping price, her eyes sparkling.
1879
1880“Ah, Maou! Hey, which one do you think is better?”
1881
1882“What are you referring to?!”
1883
1884“Mobile phone! Maou, didn’t you say that you would buy me one as well?”
1885
1886“I have never said anything like that! Ah, s-sorry, there’s no need to pay attention to this person!”
1887
1888Maou apologised to the store employee Acies was bothering and pulled Acies to the sofa.
1889
1890“You said so before! When meeting Alberto in Ente Isla!”
1891
1892What Acies was talking about seemed to have happened during the journey in Ente Isla.
1893
1894Acies and Alas=Ramus were the same kind of existence, personifications of the ‘Yesod’ Sephirah, and just like how Alas=Ramus and Emi were merged together, Acies and Maou were also merged together.
1895
1896When Emi and Alas=Ramus were imprisoned in their foreign hometown Ente Isla, Acies and Maou went to rescue them together. At that time, not only did Emi reunite with her father, Nord, whom she thought had died, Acies also successfully met her older sister, Alas=Ramus, once again.
1897
1898Because he felt that such a thing would happen, Maou believed that it would be troublesome if he went with Acies.
1899
1900“I never said that I would buy one for you! I just said that even if you wanted to use one, you could only use a child’s model!”
1901
1902“I object! Doesn’t that equate to you saying that you would buy one for me!”
1903
1904“Objection overruled!”
1905
1906Maou rejected Acies’s opinions, forced her to sit next to Emi, and watched her closely so that she would not cause any trouble.
1907
1908“Acies, cannot be stubborn.”
1909
1910“Nee-sama, I’m not being stubborn! Don’t you want a mobile phone?”
1911
1912“Mobile phone?”
1913
1914“Please do not feed strange information to Alas=Ramus……”
1915
1916With a troubled look on her face, Emi changed her posture to gently separate Alas=Ramus and Acies.
1917
1918“It’s fine! I don’t plan to rip off Emi! I’m only asking Maou to fulfill his promise……”
1919
1920“Whether that promise exists or not is questionable! Take this as a request from me, please behave yourself! I only let you out because you said that you wouldn’t be noisy!”
1921
1922“S-She really can’t quiet down……”
1923
1924“Hey, Maou! You caused Emi’s evaluation of me to decrease!”
1925
1926“You caused that yourself!”
1927
1928Maou’s shoulder’s sagged in frustration.
1929
1930Because Acies would definitely cause trouble if she was let out, Maou did not want to bring her along in the first place.
1931
1932However, the rule that Emi and Alas=Ramus could not be separated beyond a certain distance seemed to apply to Maou and Acies too.
1933
1934And that distance limit was the same as Emi and Alas=Ramus, just going from Sasazuka to Shinjuku would exceed the limit.
1935
1936So when Maou travelled to the city centre, he would be forced to bring Acies with him.
1937
1938However, Acies was different from Alas=Ramus, her physical and mental states were similar to a middle schooler in Japan and she was more disobedient than Alas=Ramus.
1939
1940When going out, she definitely would not merge with Maou obediently, however, as long as she was let out, Maou would end up being led around in circles by her. He was already used to it now, but it was still equally tiring.
1941
1942On the other hand, Emi had only met Acies recently, but since Acies had been living with Nord Justina, the father Emi had lost contact with for many years, Emi was unable to judge the distance between them.
1943
1944However, the only one who seemed to be unable to grasp the distance was Emi. Since the beginning, Acies did not avoid Emi and her attitude towards Emi was similar to the way she treated others.
1945
1946“……”
1947
1948Harbouring complex feelings, Emi watched the girl who kept bothering Maou to buy a mobile phone for her.
1949
1950This emotion was slightly different from jealousy.
1951
1952Since the girl was the same kind of existence as Alas=Ramus, she must have protected Emi’s father many times.
1953
1954Emi had never heard the details, but she knew that her father had thought of ways to reunite with her after they were separated.
1955
1956Even so, for unknown reasons, Emi strangely felt that she could not raise her head in front of Acies.
1957
1958“Hm? Emi, what’s wrong?”
1959
1960Noticing Emi’s gaze, Acies suddenly turned over.
1961
1962Huge purple eyes, a streak of purple hair in the midst of silver hair, and that face which resembled Alas=Ramus.
1963
1964“Uh……”
1965
1966Emi, who did not have a special reason to look at the other party, did not know what to say, and at this moment––
1967
1968“The customer with number fifty five!”
1969
1970“Ah, coming! Hey, Acies! I’m not going to buy one for you today! Sorry, Emi! Please help me watch this idiot!”
1971
1972“Eh? Ah, wait a moment……”
1973
1974––it was Maou’s turn, and without waiting for Emi to reply, he left Acies behind and headed for the counter.
1975
1976“Maou, who are you calling an idiot!?”
1977
1978After Acies protested towards Maou’s back, she immediately turned back towards Emi.
1979
1980“Ah, so what is the matter?”
1981
1982“Eh? Uh, erhm……”
1983
1984“Then again, Emi……”
1985
1986“H-Hmm?”
1987
1988“You are Father’s daughter, right?”
1989
1990“……That is, correct……”
1991
1992What is this girl saying all of a sudden? Ignoring the surprised Emi, Acies continued to speak with the same tone of voice.
1993
1994What she said next dealt a heavy blow to a place deep within Emi’s heart.
1995
1996“Sorry. I have always been acting as Father’s daughter.”
1997
1998“……Eh?”
1999
2000“Next to the father whom you were separated from for many years, a person who called herself his daughter and acted very close to him suddenly appeared, you probably dislike that.”
2001
2002Acies spoke no differently from before, using a cheerful tone and saying this directly, causing Emi to become speechless momentarily because she could not sense any underlying motive.
2003
2004 
2005
2006“However, there is one thing I hope you can understand. Ever since I became aware of my surroundings, Father……
2007
2008Nord had always been by my side. When we were living in Japan, acting as family was more convenient in various ways, so……”
2009
2010As if she was trying to reassure Emi, Acies patted Emi’s shoulder while smiling widely.
2011
2012“Nord has never forgotten Emi, please forgive the fact that he called me his daughter.”
2013
2014“Acies-chan……”
2015
2016Emi finally understood. The reason behind the strange feeling she had felt from Acies.
2017
2018“I don’t like being treated too formally, just address me by my name directly. Maou called me by name since the beginning!”
2019
2020“……Yeah.”
2021
2022Emi nodded.
2023
2024“Does Acies…… like Father?”
2025
2026“Yeah.”
2027
2028Acies replied directly.
2029
2030“Your older sister…… is Alas=Ramus.”
2031
2032“Uh?”
2033
2034“Hmm?”
2035
2036Suddenly having her name called, Alas=Ramus looked up at Emi.
2037
2038“……This child, is not related to the Demon King or me by blood, but I treasure her a lot. To be called Mama by his
2039
2040child, I feel very proud of it. The Demon King must feel the same.”
2041
2042“Yeah.”
2043
2044“Father, must also feel that being called ‘Father’ by you is something to feel proud of. He is my father after all. Regardless of the circumstances which led to this, he must treasure you the same way he treasures me.”
2045
2046“Hm? Is that so? Doesn’t Emi feel that it’s strange?”
2047
2048Acies said this in a relaxed manner. Her heart was filled with honesty and frankness, no melancholic feelings could be sensed.
2049
2050There was only one answer to the distance Emi felt between the girl and her, that was worry.
2051
2052“If you lose your place of belonging because you’re too considerate towards me, then it will be really ‘strange’. Acies, you seem to be living in the Demon Fortress now, there is supposed to be another resident living there. What will you do after that guy returns? That place can’t fit four people, right?”
2053
2054“You’re referring to Urushihara, Lucifer. Hmm~ that is currently a problem.”
2055
2056Acies crossed her arms with a serious expression on her face, while watching her, Emi thought back on what happened the past few days.
2057
2058Since returning from the journey to Ente Isla, Acies rarely approached Villa Rosa Room 101 where Emi was watching over Nord.
2059
2060If she was truly being considerate to Emi who was Nord’s daughter just like what she said earlier, then Emi felt bad for Acies.
2061
2062Just like how Alas=Ramus looked up to Emi and Maou as ‘Papa’ and ‘Mama’, Acies was addressing Nord as Father from the bottom of her heart, the one who created this situation must have been Emi’s mother.
2063
2064“Do you want to live with me?”
2065
2066When she had come to her senses, Emi said this naturally.
2067
2068“Eh?”
2069
2070Acies looked towards Emi in surprise.
2071
2072“……Many things have happened, but considering your ‘parents’, you’re like my ‘younger sister’. We have the same
2073
2074father after all, let’s just live together.”
2075
2076“Ooh……”
2077
2078Acies mumbled, feeling very touched.
2079
2080“Such a magnanimous heart……”
2081
2082“Is, is that so? Thank you……”
2083
2084“But, this suggestion isn’t realistic right now. Since I am unable to leave Maou.”
2085
2086“Ah, that’s true.”
2087
2088Emi looked towards the back of Maou who was at the counter on reflex.
2089
2090He seemed to be debating with the store employee while holding the battered phone, but he should be close to giving up.
2091
2092“It’s impossible for Emi and Maou to live together, and Suzuno said that you don’t plan to move to Sasazuka, right?”
2093
2094“……Yeah.”
2095
2096Emi and Alas=Ramus lived in an apartment located in Eifuku, three train stations away from Sasazuka, completely exceeding the distance which Maou and Acies could stay apart.
2097
2098“I cannot go to Emi’s place like this, and……”
2099
2100Acies looked at Maou’s back, Alas=Ramus in Emi’s arms, and Emi in turn.
2101
2102“I am happy that Emi is willing to see me as a younger sister, but the family relationships will become very complex like this, don’t you think?”
2103
2104“……Y-You do have a point.”
2105
2106Emi understood what Acies wanted to express and showed a wry smile.
2107
2108Assuming that Acies, who had an older sister Alas=Ramus who was Emi’s daughter, became Emi’s younger sister, although Emi and Acies were both Nord’s daughters, Acies’s older sister was Emi and Maou’s daughter, in addition, Alas=Ramus’s and Acies’s true ‘Mama’ should be Nord’s wife Lailah.
2109
2110“Just thinking about it is dizzying. Depending on the situation, perhaps even the descendants will continue to sink into this swamp of family conflict.”
2111
2112“That’s true.”
2113
2114In the sky at Azure Sky Canopy, Maou mentioned a ‘grand family meeting’, but how would it turn out in reality? Unable to imagine this, Emi and Acies started to feel that it was amusing.
2115
2116“But how should I say this, everyone’s relations are truly complicated, but to me and Nee-sama, what we feel happy about the most is that everyone cherishes each other, so it probably will not be a problem even if quarrels occur. This includes Maou.”
2117
2118“……Is that so?”
2119
2120Without noticing it, Maou’s original standpoint of not wanting to back down changed to being lectured by the store employee.
2121
2122Perhaps allowing electricity to pass through a mobile phone in that state made the store employee angry.
2123
2124Seeing that figure, Emi’s pursed her lips.
2125
2126“Yeah. Because Maou loves to lie and isn’t straightforward, it’s hard to tell.”
2127
2128Acies said with a cheerful smile.
2129
2130“However, when riding on the Moped and charging towards Azure Sky Canopy, Maou did shout Emilia’s name. I’m not sure if you and Maou were enemies in the past, but Maou cherishes everyone a lot. I am very sure of that.”
2131
2132If it was Emi in the past, she would definitely deny it on the spot.
2133
2134However, Emi could no longer find a trace of ‘Hero Emilia’ in her heart.
2135
2136“Acies, Papa doesn’t lie!”
2137
2138“Eh~ Nee-sama should be a little more suspicious of other people. Maou is actually very bad, you know?”
2139
2140“Cannot say Papa is bad!”
2141
2142Emilia Justina, who did not show any signs that she was listening to the two ‘Yesod’ sisters bickering––
2143
2144“……I know.”
2145
2146––absorbed Acies’s words after a subtle show of hesitation.
2147
2148“Hm? What? Are you referring to Maou being bad?”
2149
2150Emi shook her head while showing an indecipherable expression, then opened her mouth to reply, “Not just about that, the things you said before are also correct…… but, I cannot accept this.”
2151
2152“Hmph~”
2153
2154Acies did not continue to ask about Emi’s intentions behind her words, Emi did not know if this was due to being considerate or simply being disinterested, but she felt that it would probably a bit of both.
2155
2156At this moment, both of them saw Maou get up from his seat, so they also stopped chatting.
2157
2158“Seeing this, it looks like he hasn’t bought it.”
2159
2160“Perhaps.”
2161
2162Emi showed a wry smile, Maou appeared to be obviously depressed.
2163
2164It was probably because the other party was unwilling to repair it.
2165
2166“……They said I can only buy a new one.”
2167
2168“Is that so, then you had better choose one.”
2169
2170“……Sigh.”
2171
2172He could change to a new phone with another person’s money, yet Maou’s face was still dark.
2173
2174“What’s wrong with him? Isn’t Emi buying a new mobile phone for him?”
2175
2176Acies asked Emi this, and the latter answered nonchalantly, “He’s probably grown attached to the one before, so he doesn’t want to let it go.”
2177
2178“Is that so?”
2179
2180“It is his first mobile phone after all, it probably went through many hard times with him.”
2181
2182This deduction was accurate.
2183
2184The time Emi and Maou had spent together was long enough for her to easily guess Maou’s thoughts.
2185
2186And the reason for not wanting to change to a new mobile phone although he was the one who suggested it, Emi had roughly guessed the reason too.
2187
2188“Papa, not happy.”
2189
2190“Eh, Emi?”
2191
2192Emi got up and walked towards the counter Maou just sat at.
2193
2194“The data inside cannot be backed up too?”
2195
2196She asked this.
2197
2198“It may be a little dangerous, but since it can be powered, then the data probably can be extracted. It is currently turned on after all.”
2199
2200Perhaps he did not know the relationship between Emi and Maou, the store employee showed a surprised expression.
2201
2202Since a child was with them, they were probably a family, but like this, Acies’s presence would be strange.
2203
2204However, Emi was not bothered by this.
2205
2206“His mobile phone might be an old model which does not support an external connection to its storage, but ae probably provides a service to help backup the messages, photos, and contacts of these old models, right? I will have him sign the indemnity form for missing data, so can I ask you to help with this?”
2207
2208“……Please wait a moment.”
2209
2210A store employee who looked very troubled left his seat, probably to consult his supervisor.
2211
2212Plugging in a data connection line to a heavily damaged phone was a dangerous thing to do, considering this, Emi’s request was pushier.
2213
2214However, Emi knew clearly that in this situation the customer was allowed to make more unreasonable requests.
2215
2216Current mobile phones usually were equipped with features and memories exceeding that of telecommunication equipment.
2217
2218Especially the photos and videos taken via the camera and video functions, they frequently contain more of the user’s memories than a normal camera.
2219
2220“Emi…...?”
2221
2222Maou watched Emi’s actions with surprise, but Emi did not look back.
2223
2224Because once she looked back, she would definitely say something strange.
2225
2226Fortunately, before Maou asked why Emi did such a thing, the store employee returned.
2227
2228“Sorry for the wait. We cannot guarantee that all data will be transferred, but we can help you to carry out the extraction of the data. If this is alright……”
2229
2230“I understand. This is fine. Hey, Maou.”
2231
2232“Eh, uh……”
2233
2234“They are willing to help you extract the data from your battered old phone. If everything goes well, the new mobile phone can accept the data from the old mobile phone directly. However, that means that you had better not choose a Slimphone as your new mobile phone.”
2235
2236Recently, many companies have provided the same brand and same model of Slimphone, but Maou’s old phone was probably using the operating system of an independent telecommunications company, so the extracted data might
2237
2238not be able to transfer because it was not compatible with Slimphones.
2239
2240Therefore, it would be better to change to a mobile phone which is a similar model and has the same operating system as the independent telecommunications company.
2241
2242“Hey, come over here. You need to sign the indemnity form for missing data before they can help you handle this.”
2243
2244“O-Oh.”
2245
2246Emi waved her hand to summon Maou to the counter.
2247
2248After Maou followed the instructions and filled in the form the other party took out, the store employee bowed and took Maou’s mobile phone to the back to the store.
2249
2250Seeing the store employee leave, Maou looked up at Emi with a dazed expression, as if he could not keep up with the situation.
2251
2252“What kind of expression is that?”
2253
2254“Uh, erhm…… why……”
2255
2256Maou’s gaze seemed to say ‘Why are you willing to help me do this kind of thing even if I did not say anything?’
2257
2258“The bike you are using right now has a reflector light installed in a strange place.”
2259
2260“Eh?”
2261
2262That was referring to Maou’s treasured bicycle, Dullahan II.
2263
2264Maou did use glue to stick the reflector of the previous generation of Dullahan which Suzuno had broken onto the front basket, but he naturally did not tell Emi about this.
2265
2266Just as Maou wanted to ask how Emi knew about this, Emi answered first,
2267
2268“Do you think I will not properly investigate what Alas=Ramus will sit on?”
2269
2270“Uh, erhm……”
2271
2272Emi had not noticed it yet, but she did not dislike herself who could clearly understand Maou’s thoughts all that much.
2273
2274Therefore, she interpreted Maou’s feelings and continued to speak,
2275
2276“The phone book and messages are like the mobile phone’s soul. If these things can be transferred, it will feel much better, right? In reality, many customers are like this……”
2277
2278Emi, who suddenly felt that she had spoken too much, increased the distance between her and Maou slightly, and intentionally showed an unhappy expression.
2279
2280“……It’s rare for me to buy you a mobile phone, if you’re unhappy about it and the requested amount increases, it
2281
2282would be irritating, wouldn’t it?”
2283
2284Of course, Emi knew that Maou would definitely not do such a thing.
2285
2286However, she did not say this for Maou’s sake only, it was for her own sake as well.
2287
2288“So, what do you plan to do? It’s almost time for Alas=Ramus’s afternoon nap, if you want to make a decision, and do so quickly.”
2289
2290“O-Oh.”
2291
2292As if being controlled by Emi’s forceful tone, Maou ran to the display and took a silver mobile phone which was closest to him.
2293
2294Acies, sitting on the sofa and watching the two of them, leaned back with a smile––
2295
2296“……These two are troublesome.”
2297
2298––and said this bluntly, even so––
2299
2300“It seems like the family meeting later on will be fraught with troubles.” That mumbling voice appeared to sound a little happy.
2301
2302 
2303
2304Short Story 4: The Hero, Admiring the Ability of the Enemy Officials
2305
2306Suzuno sensed something amiss from the back of the figure she had gotten used to seeing recently, and it was truly just a coincidence.
2307
2308Perhaps it was because the morning sun just happened to shine into the public corridor, or because she accidentally dropped her keys when she planned to lock the porch door and moved her eyesight downwards in order to pick it up……
2309
2310“D-Demon King……”
2311
2312“Hm? Oh, you’re going out so early?”
2313
2314Living in the room next door, the King of Demons who had almost successfully conquered the world and was now staying in his human form, Maou Sadao, replied in his usual tone of voice.
2315
2316“Why did you freeze in such a strange position?”
2317
2318“Uh, no, erhm……”
2319
2320Suzuno, who maintained her position of bending at the waist to pick up the keys, accidentally had her gaze drift to a certain area, causing her to blush.
2321
2322“It, it’s nothing……”
2323
2324Of course it was impossible for it to be nothing.
2325
2326Although it was not nothing, what could the current Suzuno do after pointing it out?
2327
2328Considering her relationship with Maou, it was not so good that she would actively tell him what was wrong.
2329
2330As neighbours, their relationship did become closer, and he even appointed her as one of his army’s officials, so it could not be denied that their relationship had recently deviated from what it had originally been.
2331
2332However, according to their original relationship, if there was really a problem with him, Suzuno’s role should be to point it out and laugh at him.
2333
2334However, even then, the problem Suzuno saw just now was truly at a scale so small that doing so would only be embarrassing.
2335
2336Even if he was the enemy, no, because he was the enemy, she did not want to hurt the other party because of the problems caused by this abnormality.
2337
2338Therefore, after weighing Maou’s reputation and her own sense of shame on a scale, Suzuno chose not to point it out directly.
2339
2340“D-Demon King, erhm, where is Alsiel?”
2341
2342Her second plan was to ask if Maou’s loyal servant, capable of all housework and self-proclaimed professional househusband, Demon General Alsiel, a.k.a Ashiya Shiro, was at home.
2343
2344“Oh, he accepted a rare job which needs him to stay outside, so he will only return very late tonight.”
2345
2346“W-What?”
2347
2348As Suzuno felt a sense of despair, she fully understood why that thing would be shown outside in this state.
2349
2350Ashiya, who always worried about his master’s life in society, would definitely not miss that kind of thing.
2351
2352“Are you looking for Ashiya for something?”
2353
2354“No, uh, erhm, I planned to go to the morning market at the supermarket today, and only planned to tell him as well, but––“
2355
2356Suzuno was not lying.
2357
2358Her original plan was to mention if they had met by coincidence, so it was not considered a lie.
2359
2360However, it still became a lie to be used as a means of ‘escape’.
2361
2362“D-Demon King, are you going to work now?”
2363
2364“Yeah, it’s only half day today…… oh my, it’s this time already. See you.”
2365
2366“Ah……”
2367
2368Maou looked at his watch and turned to leave without waiting for Suzuno to reply.
2369
2370While still maintaining her position of bending at the waist, in a dazed manner, she listened as the sound of Maou’s beloved steed Dullahan II faded into the distance and disappeared.
2371
2372※
2373
2374“Chi-chan…… that, I think it’s better for you to tell him after all?”
2375
2376“No way! I can’t do that……!”
2377
2378This was probably the first time the high school girl, Sasaki Chiho, who had good morals, was polite, and wore a veil of justice, resisted the orders from the shop manager.
2379
2380Maou, who wore a refreshing cheerful smile while working behind the counter as usual, did not appear to be acting strange.
2381
2382However, from the standpoint of Kisaki Mayumi, the shop manager of the MgRonalds in front of Hatagaya Station, and Sasaki Chiho, who knew about Maou’s true identity, private life and various parts which could not be spoken of, they had something which they must tell Maou today.
2383
2384However, the topic which they originally discussed was to tell the person about it directly, but is that really a considerate way to go about it??
2385
2386“No, I feel that it should be said by you, it would cause him the least harm……”
2387
2388“No, no way, I can’t say it…… b-because I would have to explain why I saw it……”
2389
2390“You might put it that way, but even someone at my height noticed it, so there shouldn’t be anything suspicious about it……”
2391
2392“B-But Maou-san is a guy, he would probably feel hurt if a girl said this…… at this time Kisaki-san should tell him using
2393
2394authority as shop manager, minimising the harm to him……!”
2395
2396“That’s what you think. There will be no issue ‘right now’. I do not have the right to lecture him about private matters which have nothing to do with the store’s business…… it should be better for someone with a personal friendship with
2397
2398him to tell him secretly.”
2399
2400“Er, erhm, b-but……”
2401
2402The two kept shirking their responsibility––a meaningless conversation which did not match Chiho’s and Kisaki’s personality at all.
2403
2404They may have interacted in private, but to point out a sensitive problem so directly, it would make anyone feel hesitant.
2405
2406However, amongst these ‘private interactions’, Chiho was recently appointed to an important position by Maou, this caused her to think of a ‘senior’ who was related to this position.
2407
2408“This is too strange. If such a thing happened, Ashiya-san…… ah, that would be the friend living together with Maou-
2409
2410san……”
2411
2412“I know. He came to the store a few times. It’s that tall guy who came together before, right?”
2413
2414Chiho mentioned the name of Maou’s close top loyal subordinate, Ashiya Shiro.
2415
2416Chiho was unable to understand, Maou had someone around him who took care of all household matters to the last detail and called himself the model househusband, how did such a thing happen?
2417
2418“Ah, yes, that person should have noticed it. All housework, including the laundry, is done by Ashiya-san, so it is impossible for him to miss this.”
2419
2420“No, that’s hard to say. This is the first time I’ve seen that place become like this. If you don’t know, you won’t look at that place in particular.”
2421
2422“But when folding it and placing it into the cupboard, you would see it no matter how much you don’t want to see it, right?”
2423
2424“It might not become like this until you wear it? If only the white part is sticking out, it can be missed out……”
2425
2426It seemed as if the two of them were discussing Maou’s clothes.
2427
2428Like usual, Maou was wearing the MgRonalds’ red shirt, black straight cut trousers, red visor cap, and cheap black shoes.
2429
2430For a MgRonalds male employee found in Japan and all over the world, there was nothing to criticise about this attire.
2431
2432“A-Anyway, I will not express my opinion about any things unrelated to the store. Please, Chi-chan. If you value Maa-kun, then tell him directly, or tell his friend Ashiya-san, solve it while trying your best not to hurt Maa-kun’s feelings.”
2433
2434“Ki, Kisaki-san! How can you say this…… ugh!”
2435
2436“I have things I can do and things I cannot do!”
2437
2438“Uuuu, I can’t do it…… how should I say it……”
2439
2440Chiho looked like she was going to cry while Kisaki prepared to leave with a complex expression on her face.
2441
2442Seeing these two, Maou––
2443
2444“How rare, did Chi-chan make Kisaki-san angry?”
2445
2446––thought about this in a leisurely manner.
2447
2448※
2449
2450At Sasazuka bathed in the evening light, Emi planned to call out because she discovered that figure, but her voice stopped at her throat.
2451
2452“It’s Pa-uphmm!”
2453
2454On reflex, she covered the mouth of her ‘daughter’ who had also recognised that figure.
2455
2456“……Mama?”
2457
2458Alas=Ramus, in Emi’s arms, expressed her confusion at Emi’s unnatural actions, but Emi did not have the leisure to reply.
2459
2460The person who was pushing a bicycle and walking in front of her was definitely Maou, and the one walking next to him was Chiho.
2461
2462Emi had heard from Chiho beforehand that two of them were working from morning until evening today, so it was not strange to see them walking together on the streets.
2463
2464Chiho was wearing casual clothes and was carrying something like an insulating bag in her arms.
2465
2466That must be the dish which Chiho planned to bring to the Demon Fortress today.
2467
2468However, no matter what, that is too difficult to comprehend.
2469
2470Emi knew that Maou’s finances were tight, but did he not feel embarrassed going out like that?
2471
2472Even if it was him, he should have the self-respect of a Demon King. With his personality, he would probably still make the minimum effort to dress up properly.
2473
2474Perhaps he had not noticed it.
2475
2476It was impossible for someone to notice that kind of place on their own. Unless it was folded beautifully, that area
2477
2478would probably not be noticed at all.
2479
2480As she thought to this point, a question surfaced in Emi’s mind.
2481
2482What was Ashiya, his loyal subordinate Demon General Alsiel, doing?
2483
2484Having his master dressed like this, didn’t that guy feel ashamed?
2485
2486Of course, Emi was not bothered about how embarrassed he would be.
2487
2488In Emi’s position as the Hero who saved the world which was almost conquered by him, she should be mocking him from behind and stabbing the holy sword into his back while she was at it.
2489
2490Of course, having stayed in Japan for some time, she did not plan to do that kind of thing in a place with human traffic, Maou did not think that he would experience such a thing as well.
2491
2492However, as a human, as a Hero, she did not wish for the Demon King to lose society’s trust because of the accumulation of these small faults.
2493
2494Logically, it should be like this.
2495
2496However, that fault was truly too insignificant and tragic, causing feelings of pity to rise within Emi.
2497
2498She could not help but harbour feelings of sympathy which were close to pity.
2499
2500“Chi, Chiho-chan!”
2501
2502However, the first one to save should still be Chiho.
2503
2504She could not allow Chiho to be hurt by walking next to Maou when he was in this state.
2505
2506Anyone who knew Chiho well would know that Chiho had a crush on Maou.
2507
2508Before her identity as a Hero, as a woman, as Chiho’s friend, Emi could not allow the girl’s pure feelings to be hurt because of the idiotic actions of the Demon King.
2509
2510Thinking these thoughts, Emi quickly caught up to the two of them.
2511
2512“Ah, Yusa-san, Alas=Ramus-chan.”
2513
2514“Papa, Chi nee-chan, ‘allo!”
2515
2516Emi, who was unable to act like Alas=Ramus and look at the two of them directly, could not help but shift her gaze away.
2517
2518“Oh, Alas=Ramus, you came…… what’s wrong, Emi.”
2519
2520Even so, Emi had decided that no matter how unnatural it was, she needed to preserve the dignity of Chiho who was walking together with this man.
2521
2522Until they reached the apartment, she must block Maou’s back.
2523
2524For a Hero to continue staying behind him, Maou would definitely feel uneasy.
2525
2526With things as they were, Maou understood that Emi would not suddenly stab him in the back, but the position Emi chose was really too unnatural.
2527
2528However, Emi had exerted all her effort.
2529
2530In fact, she did not wish to walk using this method.
2531
2532But if Chiho had not noticed ‘this state’, Emi decided that she was to protect this friend with her body.
2533
2534The idea that she should push the bike and have Maou carry Alas=Ramus flashed through her mind, but she realised that not only would she be unable to cover that place, it would be more difficult to circle behind Maou, so she could only give up on that.
2535
2536“Yusa…… san.”
2537
2538At this moment, Chiho turned back and smiled sadly at Emi.
2539
2540“Chiho-chan…… you……”
2541
2542Seeing that expression, Emi was convinced.
2543
2544Chiho knew the truth.
2545
2546She knew, yet she chose to walk next to Maou.
2547
2548That was expected. After all, it would be too unnatural if Chiho walked behind Maou when the two of them were together.
2549
2550This fact caused Emi to understand that Maou did not know about his current state.
2551
2552A wave of anger surged up within Emi.
2553
2554She knew that Maou cherished Chiho, but it was meaningless if he was unable to manage this small detail.
2555
2556And Chiho’s behaviour which provoked feelings of fondness also caused Emi to feel upset.
2557
2558It was impossible to obtain happiness from liking this dense and shameless Demon King……
2559
2560“We’re almost there…..”
2561
2562“Y-Yeah.”
2563
2564“Wha, what’s wrong with the both of you?”
2565
2566Maou, who looked like he did not understand what these two females were thinking, felt that the way Chiho and Emi spoke was strange.
2567
2568In Chiho’s and Emi’s position, they hoped he could hurry up and notice the other places which were strange.
2569
2570However, the area around Villa Rosa Sasazuka was a residential area without much human traffic, so the probability of being seen by a stranger was not high.
2571
2572“Eh? Isn’t that Suzuno-san?”
2573
2574After noticing Suzuno standing at the staircase landing of the apartment’s external staircase, Chiho pointed in that direction.
2575
2576Suzuno seemed to have noticed Chiho as well, and the moment she noticed Chiho’s and Emi’s positions, she sucked in a breath.
2577
2578From that expression, Chiho and Emi were convinced.
2579
2580Suzuno knew as well.
2581
2582“Suzu nee-chan, ‘allo!”
2583
2584Only Alas=Ramus showed an innocent smile which seemed like it could get rid of all the troubles in the world and waved at Suzuno.
2585
2586
2587
2588
2589
2590
2591
2592“Why didn’t you say anything when you saw it in the morning……!? Such an unsightly……!”
2593
2594“See, seeing such a thing so suddenly, I could not think of any considerate words……!”
2595
2596“I-I didn’t say anything in the end…… I, didn’t know how to say it……”
2597
2598Such a thing had not happened before, it was only today that Suzuno came downstairs to welcome the trio (or more accurately, to welcome Chiho and Emi).
2599
2600At a location some distance away from Maou, the three of them huddled together and started to whisper to each other.
2601
2602“I don’t know what all of you are doing, but I’m going in first.” Feeling perplexed, Maou climbed up the stairs.
2603
2604Chiho, Emi, and Suzuno could not help but look towards his back.
2605
2606When Maou’s figure disappeared within the door of the public corridor, the trio huddled together once more. “What is Alsiel doing!? That guy should notice something of that standard!”
2607
2608“T-That’s right. It’s impossible for Ashiya-san to miss this out……”
2609
2610“According to the Demon King, Alsiel seemed to have accepted a dispatching job which required him to stay outside……”
2611
2612““……””
2613
2614The information Suzuno revealed caused Chiho and Emi to press their hands against their foreheads.
2615
2616“It was like that with the door to door merchant too, what is this? Is that guy unable to live normally if he doesn’t have Alsiel with him?”
2617
2618“Ashiya-san has been supporting everyone from behind all this time……”
2619
2620“A-Anyway, Chiho-dono, is ‘that’ very obvious?”
2621
2622“Kisaki-san and I noticed it just by walking past him in the employee room……”
2623
2624“When I saw that figure on the streets, my line of sight drifted there in an instant…… it looked so unsightly that I
2625
2626wanted to cry.”
2627
2628“Is, is it that bad? But he did not notice it, right?”
2629
2630“Kisaki-san said that the cloth might have torn after wearing it……”
2631
2632“Ah, I see……”
2633
2634“No, no matter what, since he has not noticed it, then we should try our best to point it out naturally without hurting his feelings, that would be the most sensible thing to do.”
2635
2636“T-That’s right. We have to be gentle, like sugar coating……”
2637
2638“……Who’s going to do it? I’m not doing it.”
2639
2640“……Like I said, we just have to phrase it like it was not that obvious and we only noticed it just now……”
2641
2642Just as Suzuno was saying this––
2643
2644“Uwahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh?”
2645
2646Maou’s tragic shout was heard from the second floor of the apartment, causing the three of them to finch.
2647
2648Then at the same time, the three of them knew what had happened.
2649
2650He finally found out.
2651
2652In addition, the trio had forgotten something.
2653
2654Around Maou, there was a guy who basically did not know the concept of being considerate.
2655
2656“Hey~ sorry about this.”
2657
2658At this moment, the window of Room 201 opened, and the sleepy looking Urushihara Hanzo leaned out and shouted.
2659
2660The three of them looked up, showing expressions of understanding.
2661
2662“Can all of you wait for a while? Because Maou is digging through the closet now and making a mess of the room.”
2663
2664After Urushihara pulled his head back indoors, the three of them looked at each other with empty gazes.
2665
2666“He said it.”
2667
2668“He probably said it.”
2669
2670“Urushihara-san……”
2671
2672“Uh?”
2673
2674Their sighs dissipated into the darkening skies.
2675
2676Suzuno, Kisaki, Chiho, and Emi had noticed it in an instant.
2677
2678Urushihara, who must have been sleeping in the morning and finally woken up also noticed it just like Suzuno, Chiho, and Emi.
2679
2680Then, he must have naturally said this directly.
2681
2682The fact that Maou’s pants had two holes at the thigh area underneath the butt.
2683
2684※
2685
2686“T-This, this kind of place……”
2687
2688Maou looked at his pants which were spread out on the tatami, trembling as he did so.
2689
2690“Why would it tear in such a place?”
2691
2692The cloth of the trouser legs, the joining point of both the trouser legs and the bottom of the butt area of the jeans Maou normally wore as casual clothing had turned white, and examining them carefully, the vertical seams have already been worn down and come off, only the horizontal stitches were barely holding them together. When someone wears them, the skin below would be seen through those holes.
2693
2694“And all three of them are like this!”
2695
2696The three pairs of jeans spread out on the tatami had similar holes in them.
2697
2698“You only have three sets of casual clothes huh……”
2699
2700From Emi’s perspective, even if she had known that Maou lived a life of poverty, this greatly insufficient quantity of clothes still gave her a shock.
2701
2702“I still have three pairs of pants for work!”
2703
2704“Are those pants alright?”
2705
2706Chiho answered Suzuno’s question.
2707
2708“The pair I saw at work was not that bad.”
2709
2710When she glanced at Maou’s long pants at work because she was concerned, it had not turned out like this.
2711
2712Nothing seemed unusual with the other pair of work pants which was folded nicely and kept too.
2713
2714Maou had changed into a pair of work pants due to this emergency.
2715
2716“E-Erhm, Chi-chan.”
2717
2718“Y-Yes?”
2719
2720Maou looked down at the damaged pairs of jeans with a sad expression and asked Chiho, using a tone as if it was the end of the world.
2721
2722“Erhm, since Chi-chan noticed, that means……”
2723
2724With an honest personality, Chiho was unable to lie to Maou, so she bitterly admitted it.
2725
2726“Kisaki-san, was worried about you as well……”
2727
2728“Uwahhhhhhhhhhhhhh!”
2729
2730Maou grabbed his head and slumped on the floor.
2731
2732“So exaggerated.”
2733
2734Urushihara mumbled this as he glanced sideways at how Maou was acting, and having been badly traumatised, Maou rebuked immediately in an agitated manner.
2735
2736“Idiot! Don’t compare me with you who doesn’t go outside! Clothes are a direct reflection of someone’s personality! Are you alright with other people thinking that you’re a person who nonchalantly walks around wearing pants with holes in them?”
2737
2738“I live a life where I do not care about the opinions of others.”
2739
2740“M-Maou-san, it’s alright! All of us know that it was an accident!”
2741
2742Chiho tried to put in a good word––
2743
2744“But from the viewpoint of the humans of Ente Isla, the fact that the Demon King who tried to take over the world walked around wearing pants which had holes in the rear end area would be an interesting story worthy of being recorded in the history of the world.”
2745
2746“Uwahhhhhhhhhhh! Having Emi see this is making me regret it so much, damn itttttt!”
2747
2748“A new page has been added to the bible……”
2749
2750“Suzunooooo! Don’t joke about it, I’m really depressed right nowww!” “Maou-san…… I’m sorry. If only Kisaki-san and I gathered up the courage and said it……”
2751
2752“Chiho-chan is not at fault. Tracing it back to the source of the problem, the greatest sinner in some sense should be
2753
2754Alsiel who had not noticed this, right?”
2755
2756“That’s right, I was the most surprised about that.”
2757
2758Urushihara responded to Emi’s words.
2759
2760“When I first saw it, I thought bugs had caused those holes.”
2761
2762When Emi and the rest were waiting outside, Maou and Urushihara did an overall inspection on all their clothes in the room, other than being worn out, only Maou’s pants had such interesting holes.
2763
2764“However, there shouldn’t be clothes which are this old amongst all the clothes, right? Why have so many pairs of pants become like this?”
2765
2766Without showing any signs of anger, Maou nodded to acknowledge Chiho’s question.
2767
2768It had been less than two years since Maou and Ashiya arrived in Japan.
2769
2770That meant no matter how old the clothes were, the clothes Maou and Ashiya bought after they arrived in Japan could not have been older than two years.
2771
2772There were some second-hand clothes, but according to Maou’s explanation, two of his jeans were bought from the UNIxLO at Sasazuka Station and one pair was bought at a clothes store at the shopping street during a sale.
2773
2774“The reason doesn’t matter anymore…… hey, all of you can eat first if you want. UNIxLO should still be open now, I’m
2775
2776going to buy some pants.”
2777
2778As if he was a spirit, Maou got up listlessly, picked up his wallet, and prepared to go out.
2779
2780“Maou, wouldn’t it be better to check with Ashiya first?”
2781
2782Urushihara shouted to Maou from behind.
2783
2784Urushihara must have pointed out the holes in Maou’s pants in the same direct manner earlier.
2785
2786With regards to this, the three females were thinking the same thing, but they avoided mentioning it because Maou was really too pitiful.
2787
2788Maou turned around with an angry gaze and said with a low tone, “This is an emergency. Ashiya is not so merciless that he would nag about one or two pairs of pants.”
2789
2790“But Ashiya would say ‘Don’t judge a book by its cover’, right?”
2791
2792“How would there be any inner good to talk about for adults wearing pants with holes when they live a normal social life in modern Japan!?”
2793
2794After Maou spat this out, he opened the door with a bang.
2795
2796“M-Maou-san!”
2797
2798Chiho, feeling restless, chased behind Maou who was feeling sad.
2799
2800Suzuno, Emi, and Urushihara silently watched both of them leave.
2801
2802“However…… why did it tear this way, this is so strange.”
2803
2804After a short while, Suzuno spoke and picked up Maou’s torn pants.
2805
2806“You normally wear kimonos so you probably don’t have to worry about this. I should inspect my own clothes later. I have not paid attention to such areas before, but if our clothes become like this, the damage would be something the Demon King cannot even compare to.”
2807
2808“I don’t think Maou’s heart is so fragile that he would be hurt by such a thing.”
2809
2810“For the Demon King’s pants to tear at the rear end area, it should be us (humans) who are hurt more by this.”
2811
2812“Where did Papa and Chi nee-chan go?”
2813
2814Alas=Ramus looked at the door where Maou and Chiho left through in curiosity and asked Emi this.
2815
2816“Hmm…… they went to buy clothes together.”
2817
2818“Not eating?”
2819
2820“About that.”
2821
2822Emi and Suzuno looked at each other, and spoke as if to placate her.
2823
2824Alas=Ramus would not understand even if they told her the truth, and if she did understand, Maou would feel even more embarrassed.
2825
2826“We’ll eat together when everyone is here, can you wait a while longer?”
2827
2828Since Chiho had left, it would feel awkward to eat the food Chiho brought over on their own, and because Maou was too pitiful, Emi could only reply this way––
2829
2830“Okay.”
2831
2832––Alas=Ramus nodded without complaint––
2833
2834“Ehhh.”
2835
2836––but another overgrown child protested instead.
2837
2838“Didn’t Maou say that we can eat first?”
2839
2840“Seriously, you……”
2841
2842“Lucifer…… you……”
2843
2844Emi and Suzuno glared at Urushihara disdainfully.
2845
2846“Something like that happened to the master of the house who takes care of you, don’t you sympathise with him at
2847
2848all?”
2849
2850“Even Alas=Ramus is this obedient, don’t you feel embarrassed about it?”
2851
2852“W-Why are both of you so biased towards Maou? This feels a little strange to me. No matter how much Maou embarrasses himself, it shouldn’t matter to the both of you?”
2853
2854Urushihara’s unexpected comeback shocked Emi and Suzuno, but the two of them shouted at the same time, ““There should be a limit to everything!””
2855
2856Getting traumatised just by holes appearing at the rear area of the pants, to the citizens of the world who were conquered by this kind of Demon King, that was almost as much as they could take.
2857
2858※
2859
2860“Maou-san, erhm, please do not be too depressed…… we are at fault too, we noticed it yet we did not know how to
2861
2862tell you about this, erhm……”
2863
2864“……No, I’m the one who feels sorry, I was a little too agitated.”
2865
2866On the way to the UNIxLO at Sasazuka Station, Chiho tried her best to cheer up the depressed Maou.
2867
2868“Yeah, from a perspective of a female, they would have no idea how to go about saying it. If the positions were reversed, I wouldn’t know what to do either. I was the only male amongst the employees today too.”
2869
2870Of course, if someone did tell Maou, he could at least wear his work pants when going home.
2871
2872However, this is just consequentialism, since he had already worn pants with holes to work, Maou knew that everyone was unable to say it because they were concerned about his feelings.
2873
2874“Sigh, having holes is embarrassing, but it’s not as if the whole butt or underwear was showing. I just have to buy a pair of pants and change, so I am depending on you to help choose one.”
2875
2876It seemed like he had forced himself to cheer up, but since Maou had already cheered up, Chiho no longer mentioned that hole.
2877
2878The two of them arrived at Sasazuka Station like this.
2879
2880Luckily, every store in the shopping centre at Sasazuka Station was still open, and UNIxLO was filled up with customers who were commuting or going home.
2881
2882“The budget…… I can squeeze out 5000 yen……”
2883
2884Maou opened his wallet in front of the store and groaned.
2885
2886Chiho felt that the budget being only 5000 yen after losing three pairs of jeans was too tight––
2887
2888“Summer is almost over, it should be cheaper after they start selling autumn and winter clothes.”
2889
2890“I see, that’s true.”
2891
2892As the scale of the UNIxLO store at Sasazuka Station was not large, they would frequently change their products every season.
2893
2894At this time when summer was almost over, Maou predicted that the leftover summer clothes would be sold at stock clearance or bundle promotions.
2895
2896“But can jeans be sold at such a cheap price?”
2897
2898“It’s not a must to buy jeans, so it‘s fine to get cheap pants where the design isn’t too strange.”
2899
2900After Chiho understood this, the two of them entered the store.
2901
2902“Ah, Maou-san, look over there.”
2903
2904Within the store which was not that spacious.
2905
2906Chiho pointed at a clothes shelf filled with summer clothing. Such as a T-shirt being sold at 590 yen, or a short-sleeved shirt at 790 yen, as long as they could be properly stored and cared of until next year, these clothes were being sold at worthwhile prices.
2907
2908In the same corner, many pairs of pants with thinner materials with their selling points as being sweat absorbent and quick drying were placed there.
2909
2910Chiho picked up the product next to her and confirmed the price tag.
2911
2912“It’s really cheap.”
2913
2914The double pleated cotton pants were considered cheap when decreased to 1500 yen.
2915
2916“But…… since they are summer pants, won’t they be too thin?”
2917
2918“It would be better than not wearing one, right?”
2919
2920“Uh, that’s true, but not what I meant……”
2921
2922Maou’s extreme conclusion caused Chiho to show a troubled smile.
2923
2924Thinking about it carefully, Maou was the type of person who would wear a hoodie outdoors if he did not have any thick clothes even if winter had not ended yet.
2925
2926“Let me see…… ah, no good, the waist is too large.”
2927
2928“I’m not too sure about men’s sizes, but what size does Maou-san wear?” The tag on the pants which Chiho picked up at the start had ‘87’ written on it.
2929
2930“The ones I am wearing right now had ‘76’ written on them when I looked just now. Sigh, if I use a belt, I can still accept it if it’s a little bigger.”
2931
2932Maou patted the knee portion of his work pants as he said this.
2933
2934To the Demon Army where cheap prices are first priority, the clothes and shoes did not have to fit.
2935
2936As long as the measurements were within an acceptable range, the body would have to go along with the clothes and shoes.
2937
2938Maou took a few pants from the shelf and put it back, repeating this action……
2939
2940“……There’s none.”
2941
2942“……Yeah.”
2943
2944Maou’s expression gradually turned stern.
2945
2946There were many summer pants here, but could it be the fate of promotional products, it was difficult to find normal sizes which were close to Maou’s size.
2947
2948The smallest size was ‘73’, then it jumped to ‘81’ at one go, the remaining were pants around size ‘85’.
2949
2950“Ah, Maou-san, this is ‘79’………… let’s just forget about this one.”
2951
2952“Yeah, that’s a bit, you know.”
2953
2954What Chiho picked up by only looking at the label was a pair of pants covered in a pattern of the flags of various countries as if it was sewn from the cloth of flags of many countries, giving others the impression that it had mistaken the concept of internationalism.
2955
2956“Hm~ if I wear a belt, ‘81’ should still be okay. Chi-chan, please pass the one just now to me, that one as well. I will go try them on first, help me take a look later.”
2957
2958“Ah, al, alright.”
2959
2960Chiho handed the double pleated long pants from just now to Maou, and Maou picked up another pair of cotton pants, then he entered the fitting room after greeting the store employee.
2961
2962“Then, if there are any problems, please let me know.”
2963
2964After the store employee said this, he brought Maou to the fitting room and helped him close the door.
2965
2966In front of that door, Chiho leaned against the wall––
2967
2968“……Heh heh.”
2969
2970––she could not help but show a smile despite it being this kind of situation.
2971
2972She had nothing to do during this time, but didn’t this feel a little like a date?
2973
2974“I wonder if there will be a day in the future where our positions will be reversed.”
2975
2976Daydreaming, Chiho imagined this.
2977
2978She was the one entering the fitting room while Maou commented on whether it was cute or not.
2979
2980Just this felt like a dream.
2981
2982Of course, since Maou received a serious blow to his mental state, she could not just feel happy on her own. In addition, Emi and the rest were still waiting at the apartment.
2983
2984Even so, just as Chiho was hoping that this would last a little longer––
2985
2986“Chi-chan, what do you think?”
2987
2988“Y-Yes?”
2989
2990Chiho, blushing a little, looking at Maou in the fitting room, then……
2991
2992“Uh……”
2993
2994…...she became speechless.
2995
2996Simply put, it was unfashionable.
2997
2998This pair of double pleated pants is a no go. Chiho was convinced of this.
2999
3000Maou’s rather firm upper body could still be vaguely seen from the T-shirt, but the bottom half ended up resembling a wide kite, and there was so much extra cloth at the waist that it could not be explained away by calling it loose and comfortable.
3001
3002The pair of pants he had originally worn was thin as well, but since it had a narrow cutting, this pair appeared to be thicker and heavier in contrast, so Chiho shook her head immediately.
3003
3004“It’s best not to wear that one, try on the other one and see.”
3005
3006“It’s strange after all?”
3007
3008“It’s very strange. It doesn’t suit your body shape at all, and it feels like it won’t match any of Maou-san’s current clothes.”
3009
3010She was not at the level where she knew Maou’s closet inside out, but the few pieces of clothing Chiho had seen Maou wear so far felt like it would not match this pair of pants in front of her.
3011
3012“I understand. Please wait a while.”
3013
3014Maou nodded without protest and closed the door once more.
3015
3016However, this time, what was immediately heard from the fitting room––
3017
3018“No good.”
3019
3020––was this voice.
3021
3022Then a series of sounds of clothes rubbing against each other were heard and Maou walked out wearing the pair of pants he was wearing originally.
3023
3024“It’s too large at the waist, even if I use a belt, the hook at the front protrudes out and makes it look ugly. ‘81’ is too large after all.”
3025
3026“I see…… then……”
3027
3028Chiho looked to a different shelf than before, Maou also shifted his gaze.
3029
3030“We can only buy those over there. But my budget.”
3031
3032Chiho knew what Maou wanted to say.
3033
3034The two of them were looking at the shelf containing gentleman pants.
3035
3036There were various colours and sizes, but there was already a switch to autumn and winter styles, so the price would be comparatively more expensive than the summer clothes.
3037
3038“3990 yen, my eyes hurt just seeing this number……”
3039
3040Maou squeezed this out.
3041
3042The budget was only 5000 yen, if the pants to be bought cost close to 4000 yen, then they could only buy one pair.
3043
3044To Maou, this budget of 5000 yen was something he squeezed out while harbouring a determination strong enough to cause the Kiyomizu Stage to collapse.
3045
3046(TL Note: This is derived from the phrase ‘jumping off the Kiyomizu Stage’ which describes a person’s determination.
3047
3048Relevant link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kiyomizu-dera#Present)
3049
3050Of course, Ashiya was not an evil Oni, he would not make it such that his master had no pants to wear.
3051
3052It was still possible to buy one pair now and then buy the other two pairs after negotiations.
3053
3054However, to use up more than half of the budget before the negotiations because they assumed that the negotiations would end well was a very poor strategy in negotiation technique.
3055
3056“Now what……?”
3057
3058“Y-Yeah……”
3059
3060Chiho could understand the dilemma Maou was facing even without asking, so she could not rush Maou irresponsibly.
3061
3062※
3063
3064“I’m home…… what are all of you doing?”
3065
3066Eight o’clock at night.
3067
3068After Ashiya returned home, he realised that his master was not in the room. In place of that, Emi, Alas=Ramus, Suzuno, and Urushihara welcomed him with strange expressions on their faces, causing him to think that the Demon Fortress had been overrun by the Hero’s forces and that Urushihara had surrendered to the enemy.
3069
3070This could not be helped.
3071
3072After all, a few containers of food wrapped in cling film which could be eaten after being heated in the microwave were placed on the kotatsu.
3073
3074Emi and Suzuno were sitting next to the kotatsu as if they were the owners of the dinner table. As for Urushihara, he had allowed Alas=Ramus to sit on his back as if he was a horse.
3075
3076“Urushihara, what kind of situation is this? Where did Demon King-sama go?”
3077
3078After placing his large backpack on the tatami, Ashiya sighed.
3079
3080“Before that, Alsiel! We have something we want to ask you! Where did you go during this emergency?”
3081
3082“W-What, Emilia? You said emergency?”
3083
3084Hearing this sentence once he returned, Ashiya received a huge shock.
3085
3086“I did not go anywhere specific, I just accepted a job which required me to stay somewhere else. I only left home for a day because someone introduced me to a job with rather good welfare, why do I have to be lectured by you for that.”
3087
3088“I knew you weren’t at home yesterday, but you should at least explain what kind of job it was. Where did you go?”
3089
3090After hearing the horse say this, Ashiya nodded.
3091
3092“Thinking about it, I did not tell Lucifer about this. It was a drug trial.”
3093
3094“Drug……? Hey, Alsiel?”
3095
3096After hearing this answer, Emi was the one who felt shocked.
3097
3098“Drug trial refers to becoming a tester in the research for new drugs and allowing people to take data, right? Is that a wise thing to do?”
3099
3100“Oh my, you worry about my health as well?”
3101
3102“Impossible. I was thinking that if there are wrong results from having you demons take human drugs, how are you going to plan to take responsibility for that!?”
3103
3104“We have taken human medicines in the past and no negative side effects have appeared so far.”
3105
3106“That’s not what I meant!”
3107
3108Emi shouted agitatedly. Shaking his head, Ashiya opened the backpack which was on the tatami floor and threw the information contained inside at Emi.
3109
3110“What is this?”
3111
3112“The drug used in the drug trial I participated in.”
3113
3114Frowning, Emi looked at the title of the first document filed inside the information folder.
3115
3116“……Transdermal Anti-inflammatory Analgesic Patch?”
3117
3118“It’s a drug production test for a topical drug. The idea of the product was an easy to use transdermal anti -
3119
3120inflammatory analgesic for eliminating the soreness from housework. Simply put, it’s a pain relief patch.”
3121
3122“Is it that thing used to sooth stiff shoulders and sore waists that occasionally appears in television commercials?” Suzuno asked as she looked at the folder.
3123
3124“You just have to think of it as a weaker version of that. This is not used to get rid of serious pains, but to sooth minor soreness and pains, a medicine which needs to be used continuously.”
3125
3126Ashiya started to explain with the information he obtained from the description of the product.
3127
3128The products which would appear on the television commercials Suzuno had described would normally claim that the product was fast acting and effective, and would give people the impression of being too strong when used to treat minor ailments.
3129
3130Therefore, there were people who proposed this plan of selling medicines with weaker effects used to sooth more minor symptoms, and Ashiya was one of the people taking part in the final test of this medicine.
3131
3132“Oh, if it’s just applying medicine, then I can do……”
3133
3134“Impossible.”
3135
3136Urushihara mumbled this softly after hearing it, but Ashiya rejected this.
3137
3138“A strict examination must be passed to take part in this drug trial. This may sound rude, but not just Urushihara, even Demon King-sama will find it difficult to pass this examination.”
3139
3140“Huh? What is this?”
3141
3142“I said this earlier. This weaker drug is used for minor symptoms. In other words, this target of this drug are not the athletes who normally go through vigorous training, but housewives.”
3143
3144Ashiya said the term ‘housewives’ with a stern expression on his face, causing Urushihara and Emi to feel perplexed, but Suzuno nodded as if she agreed.
3145
3146“Oh, I see. That would be taking a strong acting drug perceived to be for males and developing a version suitable for females to use.”
3147
3148“That’s right. As the testing period was short, only people who could complete the household chores with high standards could take part in this drug trial. There were many testing segments. Just the cooking department alone can be split into five segments. In my situation, I was hired because I could obtain a high score for caring for young children in the childcare segment although I was a guy.”
3149
3150““Childcare……””
3151
3152Emi and Suzuno looked at Alas=Ramus at the same time.
3153
3154The one who took care of Alas=Ramus the most when she stayed at the Demon Fortress was definitely Ashiya.
3155
3156Excluding the fact that he had accepted Chiho’s guidance and would occasionally trouble Suzuno for help, since he was this good at taking care of young children, that meant that other than Emi, Ashiya was currently the one most capable of taking care of Alas=Ramus.
3157
3158As everyone recently started to gather frequently for dinner, Ashiya also learned the skills of cooking dishes while considering the needs of young children.
3159
3160“Other than cooking and childcare, there was still cleaning, laundry, and other chores which require the moving of the body. The drug tests can only be conducted after finishing six hours of doing these tasks. Because that place was spacious and had the newest tools, regardless of cooking or cleaning, I found it easier to do than normal. The sixty year old madam who remained in the test even praised me saying that my skills were so good that it was difficult to believe that I was a young man.”
3161
3162Seeing Ashiya say it rather proudly, Emi and Suzuno felt bored for the first time in a long while.
3163
3164“Alsiel…… isn’t it about time you question yourself on your identity as a demon?”
3165
3166“Honestly, being this capable, I feel a little jealous as a female.”
3167
3168“People must really have one speciality huh.”
3169
3170Even Urushihara heaved a sigh from either surprise or amazement.
3171
3172“That’s how it is. This should be enough explanation on the reason I was not at home. Let me say this first, this information cannot be spread. If it’s leaked, I will not let you off.”
3173
3174From Emi and Suzuno’s standpoint, rather than this information, they wanted to tell the world about other things.
3175
3176“So, what are all of you doing here? Where did Demon King-sama go? Emilia, did you take the chance to occupy the Demon Fortress while Demon King-sama is not around?”
3177
3178“Who wants to conquer this room? Compared to this, I would rather stay in Bell’s room.”
3179
3180After going through this meaningless argument, Emi pointed to the three pairs of pants on the tatami.
3181
3182“Hm? Aren’t those the pants Demon King-sama wears when he’s resting? Why were all three pairs taken out?”
3183
3184“You’ll know when you see them. Thanks to that pair of pants, not just us, even Chiho-dono and Shop Manager Kisaki felt very awkward today.”
3185
3186“What?”
3187
3188Ashiya frowned and finally took off his shoes, entering the room.
3189
3190“Alsiel, welcome back! You wowked hawd!”
3191
3192“……Yeah. I’m back, Alas=Ramus.”
3193
3194Alas=Ramus greeted him and showed her appreciation in a refreshing manner, causing Ashiya to show a small smile.
3195
3196Ashiya, who would normally show a hostile attitude towards Emi and Suzuno, seemed to be bad at resisting the mannerisms of the innocent Alas=Ramus.
3197
3198“Sit quietly on top of that for a while.”
3199
3200“Oh!”
3201
3202“Ashiya…… what do you mean by ‘on top of that’, hey!”
3203
3204Urushihara, who was strangely close to Alas=Ramus, would normally play with her like this. It was not that uncommon of an occurrence, but his efforts would normally go unrecognised.
3205
3206Ashiya knelt on the tatami and picked up one of the jeans.
3207
3208“Hm, this is……”
3209
3210Ashiya immediately noticed the holes from before.
3211
3212“All three of them are torn.”
3213
3214“That’s right. The Demon King wore that pair of pants today and walked around in it.”
3215
3216“What?”
3217
3218Emi’s words caused Ashiya to show a serious expression.
3219
3220“I don’t want to say things like this, and I am not obligated to do so, but I really feel that this is disgraceful. My enemy, or more like the enemy of the humans was actually walking around outside wearing pants with holes in the rear end area, then felt very embarrassed because this was pointed out by Alas=Ramus’s horse. Aren’t you a Demon General serving under the Demon King? I know that your finances are tight, but allowing your master to wear something this old and worn out, don’t you feel ashamed?”
3221
3222“U-Ugh……”
3223
3224Ashiya was unable to retort Emi at all––
3225
3226“Since when have I been demoted to Alas=Ramus’s steed?!”
3227
3228––and Urushihara protested.
3229
3230“B-But for these pairs of jeans, two of them were bought at UNIxLO. I also bought my own pants at that time, but none of those pants had this kind of problem.”
3231
3232“That’s true. Only Maou’s pants turned out like this.”
3233
3234Alas=Ramus’s horse said this, and Ashiya became lost in thought.
3235
3236“Then, where did Demon King-sama go?”
3237
3238“After seeing such a disastrous situation, he ran to the UNIxLO at the station, crying as he did so.”
3239
3240“Ugh……”
3241
3242Ashiya showed a gloomy expression.
3243
3244“Alsiel, forgive him this time. The Demon King is really too pitiful. Chiho-dono went with the Demon King too, so they
3245
3246won’t buy anything too expensive.”
3247
3248“No, it can’t be helped since such a thing happened…… hm. Hey, that horse over there.”
3249
3250“I should be getting mad around now, right?”
3251
3252“Call Demon King-sama. I will mend this pair of pants. Tell him to please consider this when he is buying the new pair of pants.”
3253
3254“Why do I……. hm?”
3255
3256“Eh?”
3257
3258“Huh?”
3259
3260Urushihara crawled reluctantly towards the computer, then widened his eyes because he noticed that Ashiya had said something strange just now.
3261
3262Emi and Suzuno appeared to have noticed it as well, and expressed their confusion at the same time. “You just said…… mend? That……”
3263
3264“Yeah, for this kind of hole, it can probably be mended without looking unnatural.” Ashiya said this nonchalantly, stunning the trio.
3265
3266Ashiya opened the closet and took out a cupboard box.
3267
3268“Is, is that?”
3269
3270Suzuno shouted in surprise.
3271
3272Many needles and string were contained within, making it obvious that it was Ashiya’s sewing kit.
3273
3274Maou mentioned in the past that Ashiya had mended torn socks using a spoilt light bulb, but actually seeing the sewing kit caused Suzuno to feel dizzy.
3275
3276“For patching...... I’ll use this piece of cloth.”
3277
3278Next, Ashiya took out a few pieces of blue cloth which were of similar colours to the pair of jeans. “W-Wait a moment, Alsiel, that is made of different material, right?”
3279
3280Emi, who had not recovered from the shock of Ashiya’s actions, asked this.
3281
3282The cloth Ashiya was holding may have been blue in colour, but the shade was completely different and it wasn’t denim material as well.
3283
3284If that was used for the patching, it would only make that place look more obvious. “What are you saying? It’s being used in a place which cannot be seen, so it’s fine.”
3285
3286“Cannot be seen…… even if it’s under the rear end area, the difference in material should still be obvious.”
3287
3288“What did you say?”
3289
3290Ashiya was the one who sounded surprised at what Emi said instead, looked at her and the pair of jeans repeatedly– –
3291
3292“That’s stupid. It’s impossible to use this to patch the hole directly.”
3293
3294And after saying this, Ashiya turned the pair of jeans inside out, and started to cut out the area above the hole––the inner cloth of the back pocket.
3295
3296“H-Hey?”
3297
3298“When mending clothes which have been worn for a long time, finding a patch at an unseen area of the same piece of clothing is the basic thing to do. Because the degradation over time such as the fading of colour happens at a similar rate, the external appearance will not be that unnatural. To avoid the cut-out area causing discomfort when worn, it has to be patched with cloth of similar thickness…… only this much blue string is left huh. It seems like I can’t cut out too large of a piece.”
3299
3300While Ashiya was answering, other than nimbly threading the string with his large hands, he was also adjusting the size of the cloth.
3301
3302There was a tool called a needle threader, but it seemed like this sewing kit did not have any.
3303
3304“A cloth with similar thickness…… is it that one?”
3305
3306“This piece of cloth? Could it be that you have an impression of this…… that’s impossible. It did happen a long time
3307
3308ago.”
3309
3310“Eh?”
3311
3312“This is the pair of pants which Demon King-sama tore when he reverted back to his demon form for the first time. You were present at that time, right?”
3313
3314“Eh? It, it’s from that time?”
3315
3316Emi shouted.
3317
3318This happened before Suzuno started to live in Japan.
3319
3320At that time, only a few days had passed since Emi and Maou met again, and Chiho still did not know about the true identities of Maou and the others.
3321
3322Urushihara, who was still Maou’s enemy at that time, caused the Shinjuku underpass where Maou, Emi, Chiho, and Ashiya were to collapse.
3323
3324When that happened, Maou turned back into his demon form for the first time. However, the statures of human Maou Sadao and Demon King Satan were significantly different.
3325
3326Thanks to that, the clothes Ashiya bought on a rare occasion, which were of higher quality than normal, were so torn up that they could not be worn again.
3327
3328“T-The clothes the Demon King wore at that time? That piece of clothing which was slightly better than the clothes he normally wore……”
3329
3330“It was of significantly better quality. Seriously, since before Urushihara came to the Demon Fortress, he has been the enemy of our household finances.”
3331
3332“Sigh, I was seriously being your enemy at that time, you know?”
3333
3334Urushihara was totally unrepentant, and because Alas=Ramus refused to get off his back, he could only remain on all fours while opening the computer and activating Skyphone.
3335
3336“Because the material was good, I was reluctant to throw it away. When I was thinking about its uses, I discovered a type of craft called ‘embroidery’ described in books I found in the library, so I kept these pieces of cloth as material.”
3337
3338In an era in the past where clothes were not as cheap and plentiful compared to modern times, embroidery was developed as a craft where cotton cloth was sewn together with cotton string for warmth and patching.
3339
3340“The description mentioned that it was a technique which can be used on cherished cloths and clothes to make them last longer. At that time, my pants were torn as well. After using it as practice, the process was unexpectedly smooth. After that I used socks or other things to train my skills.”
3341
3342“Ah……”
3343
3344Ashiya’s demon form had tails.
3345
3346If he wore human clothes when transforming, his tails would pierce through his pants to go outside, Ashiya had also used his tails to tear his pants once in Emi’s presence.
3347
3348Emi and Suzuno could only stare in a stunned manner while watching the jeans in front of them gradually being patched, one stitch at a time.
3349
3350“Ah, hello, Maou? Ashiya just returned, he said he will mend your pants and asked you to keep this in mind while buying a new one…… eh? Yeah, that’s right, it can be mended, and it seems like it can be patched up very nicely too.
3351
3352Yeah, bye. Ah, hey, Alas=Ramus, return those earphones!”
3353
3354Urushihara spoke while trying to get his earphones from Alas=Ramus, who still refused to get off his back. “He felt surprised, but he seemed to understand. He even said that he’s coming back.”
3355
3356“I-I see, then it’s about time to prepare dinner.”
3357
3358Suzuno abruptly came back to her senses after hearing this, pulled up the hem of her clothing to get up, then returned to Room 202 to use the microwave to heat up the plates wrapped in clingwrap.
3359
3360“Alsiel…… do you really not question the fact that you’re a demon?”
3361
3362Emi, who had nothing to do, could only ask this.
3363
3364“I don’t.”
3365
3366Ashiya answered immediately.
3367
3368“The demons in the Demon World do not depend on machinery or others, we are beings who are independent even while having demonic magic as a medium. If not, we will not be able to survive in the Demon World. When I arrived in Japan, I learned cooking, laundry, cleaning, and sewing on my own because I felt that there was a need to do so for daily living. That is all. The skills I know are basic things which can be learned by normal people as long as they practice diligently for a week.”
3369
3370“I feel that phrasing it that way is a little too extreme……”
3371
3372Even so, Emi could not deny it completely.
3373
3374When other people were asked to do something a person could not do themselves, there would be a price. The human world was gradually built up like this, but it was an undeniable fact that some skills would be lost in the end because everyone kept pushing the things which they could do as long as they put effort into it onto other people.
3375
3376“Then again, how did these holes come about in the first place?”
3377
3378“T-That’s true.”
3379
3380The first question Urushihara asked caused Emi to remember that this question had not been answered yet.
3381
3382“You still don’t understand even after becoming a horse?”
3383
3384Ashiya answered nonchalantly while looking at the needle and string in his hands.
3385
3386“Amongst all of us, only Demon King-sama rides a bicycle.”
3387
3388““Ah.””
3389
3390Emi and Urushihara exclaimed as if they finally understood.
3391
3392“It’s like that when commuting as well, but Demon King-sama frequently uses his bicycle no matter where he goes. He seems to normally cycle very fast too. Because he applies more force on the pedals, this area which rubs against the seat will tear.”
3393
3394““Oh……””
3395
3396“If Alas=Ramus gets too agitated while playing on your back, her diapers would shift. Be careful, okay.”
3397
3398“Eh? Hey, A-Alas=Ramus, you haven’t done anything yet, right? C-Come down for a bit……”
3399
3400“Uhm, no, I still want to play! More!”
3401
3402“Uh, if there’s nothing, I will play with you for a little longer, please come down first……”
3403
3404Freezing in place, Urushihara tried to coax Alas=Ramus off his back.
3405
3406“Alas=Ramus, it’s about time to eat, get off Horse Lucifer now. Be obedient.”
3407
3408“Emilia! You just said ‘Horse Lucifer’ right, actually calling me a horse!”
3409
3410“If he could work as hard as the horses which pull horse carriages, he might be a little cuter.”
3411
3412“What is Ashiya saying without even looking up?”
3413
3414“Hey, that useless horse over there, Chiho-dono and the Demon King are coming home soon. Help out a little.”
3415
3416“I’m definitely not helping!”
3417
3418With Suzuno saying this as she returned with new plates, Urushihara determinedly refused to help.
3419
3420After that, just like what Suzuno said, the sounds of someone climbing the stairs were heard from the public staircase outside.
3421
3422“I’m back.”
3423
3424“I heard Ashiya-san has returned? Can the pants really be mended?”
3425
3426Chiho returned with Maou, who had happily bought the new pair of 3990 yen pants once he heard that Ashiya could mend his pants.
3427
3428“Ashiya-san…… is amazing…… it’s really patched up.”
3429
3430After Chiho saw the pants which Ashiya mended with needle and thread, she seemed to have received a huge blow.
3431
3432Even when she was sitting down at the table, Chiho kept staring at Ashiya’s hands.
3433
3434“I just practiced some clumsy techniques before. It’s nothing much.”
3435
3436Ashiya answered Chiho in a humble manner, and to Emi who witnessed the whole process, she was unable to believe that mending torn pants in just twenty minutes was considered a clumsy technique.
3437
3438After that, though Ashiya temporarily stopped his mending operations because he had to eat, when it was time for Chiho to return, he had already mended all three pants to the point that it was difficult to immediately tell that they had been torn before.
3439
3440※
3441
3442Because of the rule which was unknowingly established over time that at least two people had to accompany Chiho home if she stayed until a later time, Emi and Suzuno were Chiho’s companions on the return trip today.
3443
3444“Chiho-chan, you seem rather listless, is something wrong?”
3445
3446Chiho kept looking down and not speaking, and Emi asked this in concern.
3447
3448“……Sorry, I just lost some of my self-confidence.”
3449
3450Chiho replied with a rather distracted gaze.
3451
3452“Eh?”
3453
3454“Because the wall I have to surpass is a little too high, I don’t know what to do……”
3455
3456“I don’t really want to confirm this, but is this referring to Alsiel?”
3457
3458Suzuno asked in a cautious manner, and Chiho nodded immediately.
3459
3460“I have never felt that I ‘could not win’ against a certain person as much as today.”
3461
3462“……”
3463
3464Emi and Suzuno were speechless.
3465
3466Wanting to stay around the guy she liked was a natural feeling of a girl in love.
3467
3468“I had thought that I would be barely meeting standards for cleaning, laundry, and cooking…… but sewing, was a blind
3469
3470spot……”
3471
3472“Uh, but…… yeah, that’s true.”
3473
3474Emi had wanted to say that people who still thought that way were in the minority, but she swallowed her words before she said it.
3475
3476Even if Chiho’s feelings overcame all barriers and were transmitted to Maou successfully, if her skills in daily living were not at least good enough to replace Ashiya, it could inconvenience Maou instead.
3477
3478“……But Chiho-dono. No matter what, Alsiel is the Demon King’s ‘subordinate’, their relationship isn’t equal……”
3479
3480“I, am still not confident that I can be a human who is an equal to the ‘Demon King’……”
3481
3482“………Yeah.”
3483
3484Chiho’s skills in daily living were definitely not as poor as she described.
3485
3486It was just that the person she was comparing against was too strong.
3487
3488But even if they said this, Chiho would not accept it.
3489
3490If so, there was only one method left which could cheer her up.
3491
3492“I can teach you a little bit about sewing, do you want to try?”
3493
3494Chiho immediately showed a strong interest in Suzuno’s suggestion.
3495
3496“Please teach me! I have only used needle and thread in home economics classes in the past and my mum rarely does any sewing work, there’s no one else I can depend on!”
3497
3498“Y-Yeah, Chiho-dono, I understand, please step back a bit. E-Even so, I can only teach you Ente Isla styles, which simply put, would be the style of the priests of the Church. The terms and techniques are completely different from here, and you will still have to practice on your own after that.”
3499
3500“Of course!”
3501
3502“I-I am not too sure about that, but that’s great…… thinking about it, Bell has quite a number of skills.”
3503
3504“Due to the nature of my occupation, I will learn it even if I don’t wish to.”
3505
3506Suzuno was an Inquisitor in the past, and she was an Inquisitor responsible for handling underground jobs. If she was not familiar with spying and disguising techniques, she would probably be unable to complete many jobs.
3507
3508These skills would be very convenient techniques when used in daily life, but after seeing Chiho burn with a strange competitive spirit towards Ashiya, Emi suddenly thought of something.
3509
3510“……If it was in Japan, other people would think that this is outdated……”
3511
3512Recently, most people did not see cooking, laundry, and cleaning as female only tasks.
3513
3514However, compared to not being good at it, people who are good at housework would be viewed more highly and their lives would definitely become more fruitful.
3515
3516For Emi, since she had been doing it since she was young, she was confident that she could perform various household chores. However, it was undeniable that she had recently become sloppier at it since Japan was truly too convenient.
3517
3518“……Hey, Alas=Ramus.”
3519
3520As Suzuno and Chiho were speaking enthusiastically with one another, Emi called out to Alas=Ramus in a volume which both of them could not hear.
3521
3522Because she could not bring out Alas=Ramus in front of Chiho’s mother, they would normally be in a merged state when they walked Chiho home. At this moment, Alas=Ramus seemed to be a little sleepy because she played too much with Urushihara.
3523
3524“Hm…… what is it, Mama?”
3525
3526Hearing the slightly dazed voice, Emi smiled.
3527
3528“Sorry to disturb you from your sleep. Alas=Ramus, what do you want to eat tomorrow?”
3529
3530“……Corn soup…… fwah.”
3531
3532“Cream of corn soup huh, I understand.”
3533
3534Emi nodded, took out her Slimphone, and started to search for ways to make cream of corn which did not use the canned versions.
3535
3536Then she confirmed that the ingredients she needed could be bought from the convenience stores and supermarkets on the way home.
3537
3538Emi thought to herself as she watched Suzuno and Chiho who were walking in front of her.
3539
3540As long as it was for Maou’s sake, Chiho was willing to put in all her effort.
3541
3542This was the same for Ashiya as well.
3543
3544Suzuno learned these skills based off of her religious beliefs because she wanted to contribute something to the world.
3545
3546“Luckily I still have Alas=Ramus.”
3547
3548If Emi wanted to work hard for someone other than herself, the first one she would think of would be her ‘daughter’ Alas=Ramus.
3549
3550To Emi, who had always charged forward for the sake of the things she had lost early on, this was the first time she wanted to work hard for someone.
3551
3552This was what she thought.
3553
3554 
3555
3556Short Story 5: Demon King, Learning about his Superior’s Past
3557
3558The highest temperature shown on the weather reports should have been decreasing, but it was still the period when people missed air-conditioning.
3559
3560Maou, who had arrived at the MgRonalds in front of Hatagaya Station for work, discovered Kisaki behind the counter, flipping through a pile of documents with a frown.
3561
3562“Good morning, Kisaki-san. Is something wrong?”
3563
3564“Hm? Oh, good morning, Maa-kun. Uh, there is a slight problem.”
3565
3566Kisaki only glanced at Maou before immediately returning to the documents.
3567
3568As Maou peered from the side, he realised that it was mostly a stack of handwritten receipts.
3569
3570“What’s wrong with these receipts?”
3571
3572“No, it’s nothing much…… Maa-kun, have you seen Sarue recently?”
3573
3574“Eh?”
3575
3576This unexpected question surprised Maou.
3577
3578The competitor of the MgRonalds in front of Hatagaya Station––the Hatagaya Sentucky Fried Chicken store––its manager Sarue Mitsuki was actually not an inhabitant of Earth.
3579
3580Archangel Sariel, who was from Ente Isla's heaven, was an enemy of and had fought against both Maou, and the one targeting Maou, Hero Emilia a.k.a Yusa Emi.
3581
3582At the end of the fierce battle, after Sariel met Kisaki Mayumi, the MgRonalds Shop Manager, by chance, he fell in love with her at first sight.
3583
3584From that day on, having completely turned into Kisaki’s slave, he threw his duty as an archangel to the other end of the universe and began to carry out outrageous methods of courting Kisaki to capture her heart.
3585
3586“Shop Manager Sarue huh…… no, thinking about it, I have not seen him for a long time.”
3587
3588Maou would normally address him as ‘Sariel’ directly, but in front of Kisaki who did not know about the situation of Maou and the others, he still had to treat him as the shop manager of a competitor store.
3589
3590According to Maou’s memory, Sariel a.k.a Sarue Mitsuki had not come to the store recently.
3591
3592“Yeah. I had thought that he had come to the store while I was not around, but that does not seem to be the case. If I’m not in the store, he will always ask for handwritten receipts, right?”
3593
3594So that was why Kisaki was flipping through that stack of receipts.
3595
3596Considering the inappropriate advances on Emi and Chiho in the past, the way Sariel courted Kisaki was truly unbelievably shameless.
3597
3598Of course, it was not as if he could do anything he wanted as long as he did not break the law, but if the other party was magnanimous enough, they would just laugh it off, his actions were within that limit.
3599
3600Sarue would only carry out his courting actions within the business hours of the two stores and would not interfere with Kisaki’s private life.
3601
3602He would normally bring extravagant gifts when coming to the store, recite mysterious love poems loudly, order abnormal amounts of food, and would leave after thirty minutes at most.
3603
3604The problem would be that he would come a maximum of three times per day, which would be eating all three meals there per day. However, if he did not cause trouble for the other customers, he was then only a customer with a more unique personality.
3605
3606He had been banned from the store in the past because of various misunderstandings, but that restriction had now been lifted.
3607
3608After that he would occasionally visit the store noisily, then return after ordering a normal amount of food……
3609
3610“But that’s unexpected. Kisaki-san is actually concerned about whether Shop Manager Sarue came or not.”
3611
3612“Of course I’m concerned. Aren’t you?”
3613
3614“Eh, erhm……”
3615
3616Maou was surprised by what Kisaki said instead.
3617
3618Sarue liked Kisaki a lot, this fact was known by Kisaki, all the MgRonalds employees, their regular customers, and even the employees from the nearby stores.
3619
3620Maou felt it was impossible, but could it be that Sarue not visiting the store had some special meaning in Kisaki’s heart……
3621
3622“That guy has been passionate so far, yet he disappeared suddenly, it would be concerning if he found a new target. Isn’t that guy very lecherous?”
3623
3624“Y-Yeah, probably…… b-but it’s a concern?”
3625
3626“I’m not being egoistic, but other than myself, not many people are able to handle that guy’s irritating and strange way of courting. If that guy is allowed to do this an unspecified number of females, depending on the situation, he might be arrested immediately by the police.
3627
3628Maou could only look at Kisaki in surprise as she said this with a serious look on her face.
3629
3630“He is a comrade of this shopping street after all, if a criminal appeared in this shopping street, it would be a huge loss to the shopping street and us.”
3631
3632“Oh…… so it was that kind of concern……”
3633
3634Maou finally understood.
3635
3636Maou was momentarily worried that Kisaki had felt moved by Sariel’s courting actions, but it seemed like what Kisaki was worried about what more realistic than what Maou had thought.
3637
3638“But he really didn’t come after all.”
3639
3640Kisaki sighed lightly and kept the receipts into the drawer under the cashier machine.
3641
3642“I should go over occasionally and check out the situation of the enemy. Then get information from the employees over there, if that person’s actions are strange, I will discuss this with the chairman of the shopping street……”
3643
3644“Uh, I feel that it’s too early to be considering these things?”
3645
3646It seemed like that in Kisaki’s mind, Sarue was either breaking the law somewhere,= or was going to commit a crime.
3647
3648“E-Erhm, perhaps he suddenly became busy because of something like a business profit strengthening month. Manager Sarue has been slowly understanding Kisaki-san’s methods recently and starting to work hard, right?”
3649
3650Maou was thinking why he even bothered to defend his enemy so seriously, but it would be troubling if the situation blew up and caused Sariel to become depressed again, so Maou continued to advise Kisaki against it.
3651
3652“Hm, that’s true.”
3653
3654Perhaps she had accepted Maou’s explanation, Kisaki nodded lightly.
3655
3656“We’ll handle it when something really happens then. For starters, let’s distribute the phone number of the nearby police stations to all the employees.”
3657
3658It appears that the presumption that Sarue would cause trouble had not changed.
3659
3660“Ah, oh yeah, Maa-kun, I have something I need to make clear to you first.”
3661
3662“Yes?”
3663
3664“If you misunderstand that I am looking forward to that guy’s visits, I will feel troubled. From the business point of view, Sarue may be a good customer, but whether he can be considered a good customer to the shops cannot be judged by profit.”
3665
3666“I know that.”
3667
3668Kisaki was probably the only one who would not feel moved at all by Sarue’s courting.
3669
3670In the first place, Kisaki rarely expressed feelings of like and dislike towards others.
3671
3672Of course, Kisaki was human and it would be impossible for her to treat everyone equally, but at least Maou had never seen Kisaki comment on other people if it was not related to work……
3673
3674“No, I wonder if that counts.”
3675
3676Only once in the past did Kisaki mention someone Maou did not know, calling that person ‘an eternal nemesis’ and showing a terrifying competitive will.
3677
3678By coincidence, that person seemed to be working for Sentucky Fried Chicken.
3679
3680The reason for Kisaki’s bad mood when Sentucky Fried Chicken opened and wanting to compete with Sentucky’s
3681
3682business profits for no reason might have been mainly because of that person.
3683
3684To be seen as ‘an eternal nemesis’ by Kisaki, what kind of person was that?
3685
3686That person should have been appointed as the shop manager for the Hatagaya store, but it had ended up as this current situation.
3687
3688“Eh?”
3689
3690Then, Maou suddenly realised something strange.
3691
3692How did Kisaki know that this ‘nemesis’ would be appointed as the shop manager of the store opposite them?
3693
3694They may be situated in the same shopping street, but before the Sentucky Hatagaya branch opened, no one had come over to greet them. In addition, as an MgRonalds employee, how did Kisaki know about Sentucky’s staffing information?
3695
3696At this moment.
3697
3698“Erhm, Kisaki-san.”
3699
3700“Hm, what is it, Chi-chan?”
3701
3702Chiho, who had been cleaning tables in the main dining area, came to the counter while showing a troubled expression.
3703
3704“There’s a customer, erhm, it’s Manager Sarue from the store opposite and……”
3705
3706Kisaki momentarily showed Maou a wry smile.
3707
3708“Speak of the devil.”
3709
3710“Yeah.”
3711
3712“Is something wrong? Just bring him to the counter……”
3713
3714“No, erhm, the customer who came with Manager Sarue, erhm……”
3715
3716Chiho looked back at the store entrance with a perplexed expression on her face.
3717
3718“Said ‘Ask Manager Kisaki Mayumi to come out’……”
3719
3720““Hmm?””
3721
3722Kisaki and Maou showed a confused expression at the same time.
3723
3724Chiho’s message contained an air of danger.
3725
3726Firstly, if Sarue had really come, the store would not be this quiet.
3727
3728He would proclaim his love to Kisaki almost every day, and amongst the regular customers at the store in front of Hatagaya station, they had even given him the nickname of ‘one person flash mob’.
3729
3730“Who did Sarue come with?”
3731
3732Kisaki showed a doubtful expression, but since a customer had come to find her, it was not as if she could refuse to go.
3733
3734Maou followed Kisaki out of the service area on reflex and Chiho walked in front to lead the way.
3735
3736Archangel Sariel––Manager Sarue Mitsuki of Sentucky Hatagaya––was standing at the entrance.
3737
3738However, different from normal, he was standing at that spot in a strangely quiet manner.
3739
3740It seemed that this was because of the petite lady who had come with Sarue.
3741
3742Because of the glare from the sunlight shining into the store, Maou could not see the face of that person clearly–– “……Hmm?”
3743
3744––but Kisaki suddenly stopped walking, giving Maou a shock.
3745
3746“Ki, Kisaki-san?”
3747
3748Not just that, Kisaki’s back actually started to emit a unique air of anger.
3749
3750Because he was a demon who could convert negative feelings to demonic magic, Maou shuddered when he sensed this change in atmosphere.
3751
3752Maou had seen the various ways Kisaki shown her anger so far, but this never seen before extremely abrasive feeling, was called hatred towards the enemy.
3753
3754It was something which would never be seen in the usual Kisaki, but she was showing an obvious animosity towards the visitor.
3755
3756Seeing this now, it was difficult to believe that this was the same Kisaki who had said ‘Unless Sarue comes to the store completely naked, I won’t call the police’ in a half joking manner.
3757
3758Kisaki would even serve demanding customers in a sincere manner, why did she become like this? Chiho, who was leading the way in front, must have felt that aura more strongly than Maou did.
3759
3760Maou did not miss seeing Chiho looking back at Kisaki because she felt the dangerous aura, her expression twisted in fear.
3761
3762“……Why are you here?”
3763
3764Maou thought, could it be that the Earth would end tomorrow?
3765
3766That Kisaki actually spoke to a customer in this manner.
3767
3768Maou and Chiho froze because of the unexpected situation and could only silently observe the developing situation.
3769
3770They only noticed it now, but for Sarue to say nothing was also very strange.
3771
3772Sarue, who would start dancing once he saw Kisaki, was curled up in the corner as if he was helping someone take care of a cat.
3773
3774This suffocating atmosphere only lasted a moment.
3775
3776“We have not seen each other for a long time, and you’re acting so cold?”
3777
3778This voice did not come from Kisaki, Chiho or, Sarue, and of course, it did not come from Maou.
3779
3780That was the voice of the ‘visitor’.
3781
3782“I didn’t come here for any special reason. This is only a greeting.”
3783
3784It was only now that Maou clearly saw the face of the woman who had a sarcastic way of speaking.
3785
3786Her medium length hair was tied back, she had a work bag slung over the shoulder, and she was wearing a shirt and long pants which could also be worn as casual wear.
3787
3788Her age appeared to be about the same as Kisaki.
3789
3790Phrased in a nicer way, she had a strong desire to excel, but this lady who appeared to be showing a friendly smile was also directing a strong aura of animosity towards Kisaki.
3791
3792“Greeting?”
3793
3794Kisaki shot the first heavy bullet, causing Maou and Chiho to flinch in fright.
3795
3796“Yeah, since there are other industry players near the area I am in charge of, I thought it would be better to come and greet them first.”
3797
3798The sentence from this mystery lady caused Kisaki’s orcish expression to turn into something more sinister.
3799
3800“The area you’re in charge of?”
3801
3802“That’s right! When I was preparing to become a shop manager, the order was rescinded, I am currently the area manager of the West Shibuya area.”
3803
3804“You’re an area manager? This joke isn’t funny.”
3805
3806“This isn’t a joke. My principle is not to do drawn out and troublesome things like how you do it, so I get promoted faster.”
3807
3808“…………….!”
3809
3810“”“Eeep!”””
3811
3812Maou, Chiho and Sarue screamed at the same time.
3813
3814Kisaki had a model like lean figure, and good looks to attract many fixed supporters which included Sarue, but when all these factors were used to express the emotion known as anger, it caused an indescribable terror to the surroundings.
3815
3816“Since this Sarue……”
3817
3818The mystery woman used her work bag to bump Sarue who was standing beside her––
3819
3820“Ugoh!”
3821
3822––and having seemed to have hit a strange place, Sarue cried out in a strange way.
3823
3824“......kept talking about how capable and beautiful you were, being as irritatingly noisy as a cicada, I thought to look
3825
3826for you since it had been a long time. I really miss the days when I was competing with you. Thinking about it carefully, the last time I competed seriously with you was during that event in university.”
3827
3828“Oh, I never thought that you would still be so hung up on that boring event.”
3829
3830I don’t want to know anything about that mysterious activity which the two of them experienced together.
3831
3832Maou and Chiho’s thoughts were the same.
3833
3834I hope this hell will end soon.
3835
3836For the first time, Maou understood the feelings of the humans who suffered when they were exposed to demonic magic.
3837
3838As long as he stayed next to Kisaki who did not hide her anger, Maou sweated cold sweat, and it was difficult to breathe.
3839
3840“I am different from you, I’m not so twisted that I am unable to honestly accept praise from other people, so to me, this was one of my cherished memories from my school days.”
3841
3842“……Ughhh!”
3843
3844“Ma, Maou-san!”
3845
3846Finally, while being close to tears, Chiho ran to Maou for refuge.
3847
3848Chiho was different from Maou and Sarue, she was a normal human.
3849
3850Even the King of the Demon World and an Archangel from Heaven felt uncomfortable staying here.
3851
3852To Chiho, who was just a normal highschool girl, keeping herself together under this atmosphere was very difficult.
3853
3854They could not allow the two of them to continue chatting while staying here. Or else something bad might happen.
3855
3856Maou spoke out to encourage himself, “E-Erhm…… other customers will be obstructed like this, if you don’t mind,
3857
3858please move to the employee’s room……”
3859
3860The voice Maou managed to squeeze out, unlike his determination, was so weak that he thought it was pathetic, but this was still a sentence Maou said after gathering his courage and intelligence.
3861
3862However, the mystery woman rejected Maou’s suggestion without even looking at him.
3863
3864“It’s fine standing here. It won’t take much time and you don’t look like you have that many customers.”
3865
3866““Eh?””
3867
3868“Uwahh!”
3869
3870Maou and Sarue groaned at the same time and Chiho finally ran off while crying.
3871
3872This lady, whose identity was unknown, just said something which definitely should not have been said in front of Kisaki.
3873
3874No, it could be deduced from the conversation just now that the woman was actually a Sentucky employee, and she was also Sarue’s superior, but why did that person keep saying things which would provoke Kisaki?
3875
3876Kisaki’s back appeared to swell up from anger, just like a balloon which was about to burst.
3877
3878“Then again, according to the rumours, you guys seemed to have pushed out new business models one after another? Doing that although your average visitor numbers are lower than ours.”
3879
3880“Wahhhhhhh?”
3881
3882“M-Manager! D-Don’t say anymore! Ugopuh?”
3883
3884Maou, who understood Kisaki’s personality very well, started to panic, and with things as they are now, even Sarue frantically tried to stop that lady, but the lady pushed Sarue back, not planning to stop at all.
3885
3886“Rather than that, how long do you plan to keep that recruitment notice there? You’re just going to exhibit your meaningless sense of perfection and pick the employees based on your own preferences in the end anyway.”
3887
3888““Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah!””
3889
3890“Considering the scale of the store, your profits appear to be on the good side, but with this, you’re just going to continue working under someone forever. The dreams you spoke of during your student days were very great, but are you going to be buried in a large corporation forever…….”
3891
3892The idiotic inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah, the ancient cities recorded in the Bible, must have seen this before.
3893
3894That light of despair and the shockwave of the explosion.
3895
3896“Scram!”
3897
3898Kisaki shouted with such anger that it felt like all the glass in the store was going to shatter, causing Maou and Sarue escaped the scene as quickly as possible.
3899
3900
3901
3902
3903
3904
3905That night at Room 201 of Villa Rosa Sasazuka.
3906
3907The mixed human and demon dinner gathering at the Demon Fortress which recently had been held more frequently was covered in a tragically sad atmosphere.
3908
3909“Uu…… uu……”
3910
3911“Are you alright? Chiho-chan.”
3912
3913“Y-Yeah…… uuuuuuuuu.”
3914
3915Emi kindly comforted Chiho who was lying on her lap and crying, and glared at Maou at the same time.
3916
3917“You really didn’t do anything to her?”
3918
3919“It’s more like I was unable to do anything at all……”
3920
3921Chiho, whose tears continued to fall into the tatami, shook her head and said, “Maou-san didn’t go anything wrong……
3922
3923but thinking back on what happened in that instant, it was so scary…… so scary…… uwahhhhh…….”
3924
3925Chiho, who had shown her brave side even when dragged into a battle fierce enough to cause the collapse of the Shuto Expressway, or challenging an archangel directly, or being kidnapped by a demon, was this afraid.
3926
3927Seeing Chiho like this, Maou felt pained as well.
3928
3929“Chiho-chan is crying this much…… it seems like she encountered something very terrifying.”
3930
3931“Chi nee-chan, pain, fly away!”
3932
3933Alas=Ramus also tried her best to comfort Chiho from the side.
3934
3935“However, the more I hear, the harder it is to believe, Shop Manager Kisaki actually……”
3936
3937After Suzuno heard the reason Chiho had come crying here from beginning to end, she crossed her arms and mumbled to herself.
3938
3939To Suzuno and Emi who knew Kisaki Mayumi’s personality, this fact was too surprising.
3940
3941In an inappropriate manner, Kisaki actually shouted at a customer and forcefully chased the other party away.
3942
3943That was the summary of the situation from an outsider’s point of view.
3944
3945Then without omitting any details, Kisaki reported what had happened to her superior––the manager in charge of the area where the MgRonalds in front of Hatagaya Station was situated.
3946
3947The manager, who understood Kisaki very well, did not believe it at first, even Maou and the others who had been present at the scene with Kisaki still did not believe what they had seen.
3948
3949However, Kisaki apologised to the superior for her own blunder and asked the superior for an internal penalty.
3950
3951“Honestly speaking, I don’t know the details either.”
3952
3953“Making that report herself, did Manager Kisaki get penalised?”
3954
3955“Erhm……”
3956
3957Faced with Ashiya’s question as he efficiently prepared dinner, Maou shook his head, speaking in a heavy tone.
3958
3959Ten percent deduction in salary for one month.
3960
3961Suspended for three days to reflect.
3962
3963That was the penalty given to Kisaki for the incident she had caused.
3964
3965To be frank, it was a very harsh penalty.
3966
3967Over the phone, Maou heard from the manager that he had planned to just scold her verbally, but Kisaki insisted that she would be unable to accept it.
3968
3969“So, who was that Sentucky manager in the end?”
3970
3971In response to Suzuno’s question, Maou could only shake his head.
3972
3973“If that idiot Sariel had not come, that lady would have been the shop manager opposite, I only know that much.” “Wait a moment. Why would you know about the staffing situation of the Sentucky shop manager?”
3974
3975As expected, Emi felt suspicious about the fact that Kisaki knew about the Sentucky’s staffing situation beforehand.
3976
3977“Uh, Kisaki-san told me this before.”
3978
3979“That’s not what I meant.”
3980
3981“You want to say that it’s strange that Kisaki-san would know about this, right? I’m the one who wants to know what’s going on with that.”
3982
3983However, the information they had right now was too scarce.
3984
3985What’s wrong with Kisaki?
3986
3987After the suspension ended, could they ask her for the details?
3988
3989When he thought about these things, Maou could only confirm one thing.
3990
3991That Sentucky manager must be Kisaki’s ‘eternal nemesis’.
3992
3993“Hey, is it this person?”
3994
3995At this moment, Urushihara called out to Maou from behind.
3996
3997“Eh?”
3998
3999“This is Sentucky’s staff list. I mentioned this to you before.” “Yeah, that did happen before.”
4000
4001When Sarue’s true identity was still unclear, Urushihara had illegally connected to Sentucky’s human resources
4002
4003database and pointed out the strange part about Sarue’s identity.
4004
4005At that point of time, the name of the ‘shop manager who should have come over’ which Urushihara mentioned was……
4006
4007“Uwahhhh!”
4008
4009“Sa, Sasaki-san? Please get a hold of yourself!”
4010
4011Urushihara showed a photo on the screen and Chiho descended into panic once more. Ashiya, who was not used to seeing Chiho like this, became flustered.
4012
4013“T-That’s her! That’s the lady!”
4014
4015Standing behind Urushihara, Maou stared at the screen.
4016
4017“‘Tanaka Himeko’ huh……”
4018
4019This lady, who gave the impression that she had a strong desire to excel just from her photo, was definitely the one who quarrelled with Kisaki directly.
4020
4021“Hey, I just remembered from seeing this, but there should be another ‘Sarue Mitsuki’ right? Where is that guy now, can it be seen from here?”
4022
4023“Yeah, there is such a person. Uh, give me a moment.”
4024
4025Urushihara operated the computer once more––
4026
4027“Ah~ he’s still at Sentucky. It appears that he has not been fired because of Sariel. However, he is at a department unrelated to the store operations.”
4028
4029“I see……”
4030
4031He was someone they did not know at all, but they were still worried if Sariel had harmed the original Sarue Mitsuki and stolen his experience.
4032
4033“But from this, Sariel clearly used abnormal methods to become a Sentucky employee, after Maou regains his demonic magic, he should be able to do the same thing, right?”
4034
4035“Hey, what I want to obtain isn’t just money and power. What I want to learn is the process of working, not just the title of full time employee.”
4036
4037“Even if you tell me about these things, do you think I can understand?”
4038
4039“What do you see my trust in my subordinates as?”
4040
4041“Futile effort.”
4042
4043“Urushiharaaaa! You actually treated Demon King-sama’s good intentions in this way!”
4044
4045Ashiya, standing at the side, reacted strongly to Urushihara’s completely self-centred comment.
4046
4047“That’s why I said it was futile effort!”
4048
4049“You rice bucket! Using the money earned by Demon King-sama to support a guy like you is what I call futile effort!”
4050
4051Ignoring Urushihara and Ashiya who started a meaningless argument, Maou sat in front of the computer.
4052
4053“Tanaka Himeko…… she doesn’t have any work experience which stands out. Hey, Chi-chan.”
4054
4055“Y-Yes……”
4056
4057“Do you know how old Kisaki-san is?”
4058
4059“Eh? I remember that she had vaguely mentioned it before…… that she’s ten years older than me……”
4060
4061“If it’s twenty six or twenty seven, then that person is about Kisaki-san’s age. They seem to know each other from before, but we don’t know what happened in the past. And their relationship is so bad that it feels like this nemesis topic isn’t a joke at all.”
4062
4063“What do you mean by nemesis?”
4064
4065“Yeah, when I chatted with Kisaki-san before, she had used the exaggerated term ‘my eternal nemesis’ to describe that person called Tanaka.”
4066
4067“Uuuu…… this might be rude to Tanaka-san, but I keep thinking back to that scene just from seeing her picture……”
4068
4069Chiho’s position as she tried her best not to look at the computer screen as if she was a vampire afraid of the sunlight was a little funny, but from Maou’s standpoint, he could not laugh at all.
4070
4071“What if that person is going to stay at the Sentucky opposite for the time being?”
4072
4073In the end, Maou did not have a proper conversation with Tanaka Himeko at all.
4074
4075Because Kisaki had chased Tanaka out before Maou had the chance to take any action, and Sarue had left together with her, he never found out why she had come to the store.
4076
4077Not being around at all when they do not come, then appearing a lot when they come, that was the existence known as a store manager. Therefore, there was a high chance Maou would encounter Tanaka when Kisaki was not around.
4078
4079“If she comes again, we can only nonchalantly respond to her in a normal manner.”
4080
4081Maou supported his cheek with his hand and sighed.
4082
4083“So passive. Since Chiho-chan is this afraid, you should actively think of some defensive measures such as investigating more about the opposing party.”
4084
4085“Investigating the enemy? Investigating Sentucky?”
4086
4087Maou carefully thought about the suggestion Emi gave while she consoled Chiho……
4088
4089
4090
4091The next day, during the lunch break, Maou stood in front of Sentucky.
4092
4093He peeked into the store from outside and did not see any sign of that manager.
4094
4095“Sariel seems to be around.”
4096
4097Making up his mind, Maou opened the Sentucky’s door, then noticed one thing.
4098
4099“Thinking about it, this seems to be the first time I am entering this store.”
4100
4101This was a store in the same industry and an archangel from Heaven was its store manager. In both ways, this place was Maou’s business competitor, so he was surprised that he had not come to this store before.
4102
4103The trendy interior design created a comfortable atmosphere in the store, giving others the impression that it was more high class when compared to MgRonalds, so that was why their prices were so expensive.
4104
4105Because he had chosen a time when there was less people, it was Maou’s turn very quickly, and as planned, Maou successfully stood in front of the counter where Sarue was standing.
4106
4107“Welcome…… what, it’s the Demon King?”
4108
4109Once Sarue recognised Maou’s face, he dropped his business smile and his gazed lowered as if he was tired.
4110
4111“Do you need anything? I don’t have the energy to chat with you right now.”
4112
4113“Because your superior made Kisaki-san angry?”
4114
4115“Ugh……”
4116
4117Sarue groaned as if he was poked in a painful place, then asked Maou in an uneasy tone.
4118
4119“……After that, was Shop Manager Kisaki alright?”
4120
4121“Hm. Because she crudely chased all of you away, the company gave her a severe punishment.”
4122
4123“Pun, punishment? Ahh, how can this be! Although I was there……”
4124
4125Sarue started to shake as if he was going to fall to his knees any moment.
4126
4127“You were there at that time, but you were totally useless.”
4128
4129“I-I don’t want to be said that by you! Weren’t you also unable to intervene between Manager Tanaka and Shop Manager Kisaki!”
4130
4131An archangel and the Demon King had gathered, yet they were unable to intervene in a quarrel between two fast food store employees, it was truly embarrassing.
4132
4133“Then, you can’t handle that manager at all?”
4134
4135“I basically cannot resist all beautiful ladies.”
4136
4137“I’m not asking you about that kind of thing, you idiot!”
4138
4139Maou could not help but punch the counter with his fist.
4140
4141Sarue’s preferences were unknown, but if Kisaki’s beauty could be compared with the moon, ice, or night, then what Tanaka Himeko had was the opposite, a beauty like the sun or the summer fields.
4142
4143Without considering if Tanaka Himeko could be considered someone of the opposite gender who people would want to approach, she was a beauty Sarue would praise even if his heart firmly belonged to Kisaki.
4144
4145“Uh~ simply put…… Manager Tanaka…… seemed to be Shop Manager Kisaki’s classmate during their student days.”
4146
4147“So that’s how it is. I knew that they had known each other in the past.”
4148
4149Of course, Maou did not mention that they had illegally obtained the employee list.
4150
4151“Then, after I mentioned that I have interacted with Shop Manager Kisaki, she became strangely interested, and because I thought that I would hear some things about Shop Manager Kisaki, I exchanged various bits of information with her. After that, she suddenly came here yesterday and said that she wanted to greet Shop Manager Kisaki……”
4152
4153“Hmm……?”
4154
4155Tanaka Himeko was the one who wanted to see Kisaki, what he heard could be interpreted this way.
4156
4157“But what does this have to do with you being bad at handling that manager?”
4158
4159“Didn’t I say that I am unable to resist beautiful ladies?”
4160
4161“Are you being serious or not?”
4162
4163“Demon King, I’m the one who wants to ask what you’re planning. If you’re not here to buy food, hurry up and return. Once I think about the feelings of Shop Manager Kisaki who was punished by her company, my heart feels like it’s going to tear apart!”
4164
4165Maou wished that Sariel would just explode and end everything, but it was not as if it would truly happen.
4166
4167“Uh, I want to have three pieces of chicken, original, takeaway.”
4168
4169“……I understand.”
4170
4171As long as they pay money, that person was a customer.
4172
4173Currently, the situation and position was different from usual, and Sarue helped Maou take his order in a serious manner.
4174
4175“Then, what kind of information did the two of you exchange?”
4176
4177“You’re still talking about that, huh.”
4178
4179Sarue showed an obviously unhappy expression but still continued to speak honestly.
4180
4181“It’s nothing much. Only things like Manager Tanaka and Shop Manager Kisaki knowing each other for a very long time and that I am very infatuated with Shop Manager Kisaki.”
4182
4183“You deserve respect when it’s about this kind of thing.”
4184
4185“Also, about what happened some time back.”
4186
4187“What happened some time back?”
4188
4189“When I helped Sasaki Chiho with her Idea Link training, didn’t we meet Shop Manager Kisaki on the way back?”
4190
4191“……Yeah.”
4192
4193To be able to get help from Maou and the others during emergency situations, Chiho had undergone training to learn the spell ‘Idea Link’.
4194
4195During this process, Chiho also asked Sariel for help, but on the way back after one of the training sessions, they met Kisaki by coincidence.
4196
4197Thinking back to the conversation at that time, Maou had a realisation.
4198
4199“Did you tell her? Kisaki-san’s……”
4200
4201“Don’t look down on me. I won’t reveal the dreams of others so easily. However, I did mention vaguely that Shop Manager Kisaki was thinking of being independent in the future.”
4202
4203Maou felt that just saying this was already saying a lot, but this was still within acceptable levels when chatting about common acquaintances.
4204
4205“Alright, it’s done.”
4206
4207At this time, the fried chicken Maou ordered had been packed and sent to the counter, Sarue politely handed the bag containing the fried chicken to Maou.
4208
4209“Anyway, I have not seen Manager Tanaka for some time. Therefore, nothing which you need to worry about happened. Rather than that, once I think about Shop Manager Kisaki staying at home and worrying about the store…… ahhhhh!”
4210
4211Maou was convinced that if they continued speaking, Sarue’s abnormal behaviour would only cause trouble to the other Sentucky employees––
4212
4213“Excuse me.”
4214
4215––and since he had obtained a lot of information, Maou decided it would be better to leave early.
4216
4217
4218
4219
4220
4221
4222
4223
4224“S-So how was it?”
4225
4226Once he returned to the store, Chiho ran over to ask about the situation, and Maou shook his head with a serious expression.
4227
4228“I seemed to have learned quite a few things, but at the same time, it was nothing much at all.” Maou briefly explained what he had heard from Sariel.
4229
4230Tanaka Himeko and Kisaki have known each other for a long time, the other party was also very concerned about Kisaki.
4231
4232In addition, Sariel had told Tanaka Himeko about Kisaki’s recent developments.
4233
4234However, all this information did not explain why Kisaki would act that way.
4235
4236“Sigh, they knew each other for a long time, but it didn’t mean that their relationship is good, perhaps they are just incompatible existences.”
4237
4238“Incompatible…… existences?”
4239
4240Maou’s analysis may have been correct, but hearing this sentence, Chiho thought about two completely different people instead.
4241
4242“Hm? Chi-chan, what are you smiling about?”
4243
4244“It’s nothing, I was just thinking that there are such people around me too.” “?”
4245
4246“It’s really nothing. Then, that Manager Tanaka……”
4247
4248“Yeah, according to that idiot Sariel, she has not appeared for some time.” “I-I see.”
4249
4250Chiho showed an obviously relieved expression, placing her hand against her chest.
4251
4252“If that person comes to the store again after Kisaki-san returns, I might be scared to death.”
4253
4254“Being able to face Kisaki-san head on at that time, I don’t think I would be able to win that Manager Tanaka.” These were the true thoughts from the King of Demons. However, the incident occurred that evening.
4255
4256※
4257
4258“That Sariel……”
4259
4260“Hm? Did you say anything?”
4261
4262“No, nothing at all.”
4263
4264Maou silently swore to take revenge against Archangel Sariel.
4265
4266In the day, Maou had said that they would not meet Tanaka Himeko for the time being, but currently, she was in the store.
4267
4268With Chiho taking the lead, all the employees who knew what happened that day nervously observed the conversation between Maou and Tanaka.
4269
4270“Uh, I want a teriyaki burger meal with fries and orange juice. In addition, I want to order an ala-carte burger. I don’t want ice in my drink but give me the normal amount.”
4271
4272Tanaka Himeko came to the store in the same attire she had worn during the commotion a few days ago, and stopped Maou, who was acting frantically and about to walk to the other side of the counter. Then she started ordering as a normal customer.
4273
4274“I understand. That would be 650 yen in total.”
4275
4276“Yeah, I’m sorry, it’s all coins.”
4277
4278Tanaka Himeko placed the coins into the tray and Maou checked the amount.
4279
4280“Excuse me, miss. This…….”
4281
4282Four 100 yen coins, four 50 yen coins. Maou almost missed it, but he still picked out a strange coin from the remaining five bronze coins.
4283
4284“Oh my, I’m sorry.”
4285
4286In an unapologetic manner, Tanaka took out another 10 yen coin to replace that coin.
4287
4288“I forgot to remove that when I returned from Britain earlier.”
4289
4290A two pence coin. Its colour was very close to the old 10 yen coin, but the size was totally different.
4291
4292However, when a lot of coins were taken out at once, it could be missed out.
4293
4294“……You were on a holiday?”
4295
4296“Yeah.”
4297
4298When Maou asked this, Tanaka Himeko nodded naturally.
4299
4300During this time, the food she had ordered arrived, Maou placed those orders on the tray and handed them to her.
4301
4302“Thank you for waiting. Enjoy.”
4303
4304“Alright, thanks.”
4305
4306Then Tanaka walked towards a seat next to the window which could not be easily seen from the counter.
4307
4308Maou confirmed her position from the corner of his eye––
4309
4310“Maa-kun, you’re amazing.”
4311
4312––then his colleague, Kawada Takefumi, known as ‘Kawa-cchi’ by Kisaki and the other employees, talked to him from behind.
4313
4314“Chi-chan and I were shivering in fright……………… hm?”
4315
4316Kawada noticed that Maou had shown a signal with his right hand, positioning it such that it could not be seen from the customer seating area.
4317
4318That was the signal to stop.
4319
4320After confirming that Kawada had stopped talking, Maou approached Kawada with natural movements and spoke as he walked past Kawada, “Wait until she leaves.”
4321
4322With just this, Kawada nonchalantly returned to his workstation.
4323
4324Maou said the same thing to Chiho later, then continued working as normal.
4325
4326After around one hour had passed, Tanaka Himeko got up from her seat and, after throwing away the rubbish on her tray, waved to Maou lightly and left the store.
4327
4328Maou did not let down his guard even after being unable to see her from where he was in the store.
4329
4330Only when thirty minutes had passed since Tanaka Himeko’s departure did Maou finally relax.
4331
4332“Maou-san, what was that just now?”
4333
4334Chiho and Kawada, who noticed that Maou had stopped being tense, quickly went to Maou’s side.
4335
4336“That was probably a test.”
4337
4338“Eh?”
4339
4340“What do you mean?”
4341
4342“She ordered a teriyaki burger which is troublesome to make and also easily affected by the condition of the grill.”
4343
4344The grill mentioned here was the covered grill used to grill the burger patties.
4345
4346To make the teriyaki burger, a special sauce needs to be brushed on the burger patty when it is being grilled, so it was difficult to make it together with the other burger patties.
4347
4348If the condition of the grill was poor, not only the burger patty, even the taste of the sauce would degrade, easily decreasing the completeness level of the burger.
4349
4350Not only that, when assembling the teriyaki burger, if the patty sauce and mayonnaise were not added properly, it was easily to dirty the burger bun or paper during the wrapping, making it inconvenient for the customers to eat. Therefore, it was considered a product which needed to be prepared with a lot of care.
4351
4352And Tanaka Himeko added on their signature product which could not be prepared one the same grill, the normal
4353
4354burger.
4355
4356Luckily, they had undergone a renovation when introducing the MdCafe, and in the current situation where there was an increase in the number of grills, Maou and the others were able to prepare the teriyaki burger and the other burgers at the same time, but from this, the other party might have deduced the state of their facilities.
4357
4358“In addition, it’s concerning that she ordered orange juice as the drink. And she also chose that seat specifically.”
4359
4360For the drinks in MgRonalds, other than coffee and red tea, the rest were dispensed from specialised drink machines.
4361
4362This drink dispensing machine was designed to mix the concentrated syrup, water, or carbonated water beforehand, but the ways to process concentrated carbonated drink syrup and concentrated orange juice or oolong tea were very different.
4363
4364“Was she trying to check the condition of the machines?”
4365
4366“Yeah, and she even asked for no ice.”
4367
4368The syrup and carbonated water for the carbonated drinks flowed into the machine from a dedicated sink outside the machine, but the syrup for orange juice and oolong tea were contained in a specialised concentrated syrup bag contained within the sink. In addition, the orange juice concentrated syrup bag had a high concentration of fructose, so the amount dispensed was less compared to the carbonated drinks, if maintenance was not done regularly, it would be more prone to solidifying in the pipe or the dispensing outlet.
4369
4370“Specifically sitting at the seat at the back of the store, it was probably because she would be able to assess the cleanliness of the store from there. Sigh…… I don’t have any evidence to support it though.”
4371
4372Maou continued to speak with a stern expression.
4373
4374“I heard Shop Manager Sarue say that this Manager Tanaka seemed to have known Kisaki-san in the past. I don’t know what has happened between them, but we are Kisaki-san’s employees. If so, we should not show any openings in front of the other party.”
4375
4376“Kawacchi-san made the hamburgers, so it should be fine.”
4377
4378“Only in this, I am confident that I will not lose to anyone.”
4379
4380“I cleaned the floor thoroughly after lunch time, so there’s no need to worry!”
4381
4382Full of confidence, Kawada and Chiho thumped their chest, and believing in them, Maou nodded.
4383
4384“I think so too. I also checked the drink dispensing machine yesterday. Since it was handled by us, then this store shouldn’t have any problems.”
4385
4386As Maou said this, he was still unable to put aside his feelings of worry because he did not know Tanaka Himeko was thinking.
4387
4388Even so, whether it was Kisaki or Tanaka Himeko, the two of them were considered young for someone working in society.
4389
4390Because they oversaw on-site activities, they would have many opportunities for conflict; the other party was only in the lead at this time.
4391
4392“Sigh, no matter what.”
4393
4394Maou spoke as he looked towards the shift timetable hung on the wall.
4395
4396“Before Kisaki-san returns, we have to work hard to protect this store.”
4397
4398
4399
4400
4401
4402
4403That night, thirty minutes before closing time.
4404
4405Maou called the area manager (using MgRonalds’ phone, of course) to report that the store closing activities were going smoothly.
4406
4407This happened rarely, but Maou was responsible for locking the store doors today, and the next morning, the area manager would be responsible for opening the store for business.
4408
4409Maou surveyed the store and confirmed that the work which had to be performed at store closing was mostly done.
4410
4411Eleven thirty at night.
4412
4413Considering the location, it was not strange for customers to come in when it was almost midnight, but this did not happen today, the customers in the store decreased gradually, and just as Maou thought that the store could be closed without any problems today.
4414
4415The bell of the automatic door rang, and Maou shouted, “Welcome…… eh?”
4416
4417Maou, who greeted the customer in a more cheerful voice because they were about to close, saw a visitor who gave him an equal amount of shock like when he saw Tanaka Himeko, though in a different kind of way.
4418
4419“You are?”
4420
4421After recognising the visitor, Maou could not help but gasp.
4422
4423“It’s been a while, you seem to be working hard.”
4424
4425It was a lady around Maou’s height, with a refreshing bob cut hairstyle and appearance of a dependable person.
4426
4427In contrast to her kind voice and elegant appearance, the woman was very nimble at work, but this was the first time Maou saw her in casual clothing.
4428
4429“Are you…… Mizushima-san?”
4430
4431“Hello, sorry for disturbing you this late.”
4432
4433The lady walked up to the counter with a calm smile.
4434
4435Mizushima Yuki was an employee in the same batch as Kisaki and was the shop manager of the MgRonalds in Fushima Park, an amusement park in the city.
4436
4437The store belonged in a different area from the store in front of Hatagaya Station, which was part of the West Shibuya
4438
4439area, but Kisaki and Mizushima would frequently support each other when they were shorthanded, and Maou had gone over to Fushima Park to help out many times.
4440
4441However, this was the first time Mizushima appeared at the store in front of Hatagaya station.
4442
4443“Erhm, I’m sorry, Mizushima-san. Actually, today, Kisaki-san is……”
4444
4445From her attire, Mizushima appeared to have just finished work and was on the way home. If so, the reason why she came to the store in front of Hatagaya station must have been to visit Kisaki.
4446
4447However, Mizushima stopped Maou and spoke.
4448
4449“I know. She is on a self-inflicted suspension, right?”
4450
4451“Self-inflicted…… uh, erhm, this is still considered a formal punishment ordered by the company’s internal
4452
4453department……”
4454
4455“Don’t you think she’s really stubborn? The management did not plan to punish her in the first place.”
4456
4457“I did hear about that. However, I can understand Kisaki-san’s feelings, since she chased away a customer in front of us……”
4458
4459Kisaki touted the principle of treating every customer equally no matter who they were, and expected the employees to do the same.
4460
4461However, she went against this principle herself, standing in Kisaki’s position, she probably felt like digging a hole and burying herself.
4462
4463As Maou thought this, and for unknown reasons, Mizushima showed a meaningful smile and leaned against the counter.
4464
4465“Thinking about it……”
4466
4467“Yes?”
4468
4469“Is Maou free after work?”
4470
4471“……Eh?”
4472
4473Mizushima spoke in an unusually charming manner, giving Maou a shock.
4474
4475“Do you want to eat dinner with Onee-san?”
4476
4477“Huh?”
4478
4479
4480
4481
4482
4483
4484“E-Erhm, may I know where we are going……”
4485
4486“There’s no need to be concerned about that. Just follow me.”
4487
4488At the carpark behind the store, Maou asked Mizushima this in an uneasy voice, but the latter ignored him and started to walk.
4489
4490Without any choice, Maou pushed his bicycle after her, but Mizushima stopped quickly.
4491
4492“Here.”
4493
4494“Eh? Ah, o-oh. Eh?”
4495
4496It was normal for Maou to feel shocked.
4497
4498Mizushima stopped in front of a mixed residential and commercial building where an Izakaya store chain was located, but this place was located less than fifty meters from the store in front of Hatagaya Station, and was a store located in the same street.
4499
4500Mizushima immediately walked up the steps of the building and opened the door of the store.
4501
4502Because it was late at night on a Sunday, there were a lot of empty seats, Mizushima did not speak with any of the employees and walked into an area deep within the store.
4503
4504Perplexed, Maou followed behind her––
4505
4506“Sorry for the wait.”
4507
4508After seeing who was sitting in the seat which Mizushima stopped in front of, Maou could not help but jump in fright.
4509
4510“Ki, Kisaki-san……?”
4511
4512Sitting at a four person seat with an emotionless expression and arms crossed was Kisaki wearing casual clothes.
4513
4514“Hi…… Maa-kun. Thank you for the hard work. Apologies for calling you here when you just got off work.”
4515
4516“I watched him close the store in Kii-chan’s place, there aren’t any problems.”
4517
4518“Ki, Kii-chan?”
4519
4520From this situation, the ‘Kii-chan’ Mizushima spoke of must be Kisaki’s nickname.
4521
4522However, to address Kisaki Mayumi who could make the Demon King and an Archangel submit to her as ‘Kii-chan’, Maou did not know how to react at all.
4523
4524Acutely sensing that Maou was wavering, Kisaki spoke to Mizushima in an unhappier tone,
4525
4526“Yuki, don’t call me that in front of other people. I’m not a child anymore.”
4527
4528“Just like in the past, Kii-chan will get angry from just seeing Hime’s face, so you don’t sound convincing at all, right, Maou!”
4529
4530“Eh? Uh? Huh? No, e-erhm? It’s been like that since a long time ago?”
4531
4532Mizushima suddenly swung her arm over Maou’s shoulders from the side, causing the latter’s heart to almost jump
4533
4534out of his throat in fright.
4535
4536Whether it was Kisaki or Mizushima, it was difficult to understand them.
4537
4538Their behaviour was completely different from when they were working.
4539
4540“Hey, Yuki, you’re troubling Maa-kun acting like this. Let go of him…… sigh, anyway, sit down first, Maa-kun.”
4541
4542“Sure.”
4543
4544“Alright, erhm, ex, excuse me.”
4545
4546Mizushima sat next to Kisaki who was sitting at the window seat from the start while Maou sat opposite Mizushima, in a chair next to the walkway.
4547
4548Mizushima placed the menu in front of Maou, whose mind was in chaos because he did not know what would happen next.
4549
4550“We’re treating today, there’s no need to worry. Maou, do you drink?”
4551
4552Whether it was based on the law, his actual age or Japan’s position on this, Maou would not cause problems if he drank alcohol.
4553
4554However, the conditioned reflex from living a thrifty lifestyle for a long time and the mysterious situation with Kisaki and Mizushima in front of him––
4555
4556“No, erhm, I still have to wake up early tomorrow, so I’ll just drink oolong tea.” ––caused Maou to reply this way.
4557
4558“Is it because you have a serious personality? Nervousness? Or you’re just being polite.” Maou started to suspect that Mizushima had drunk alcohol before she came to this store. “Considering Maa-kun’s situation, it should be a little of everything.” “Kisaki-san.”
4559
4560
4561Maou could not help but protest, but after Kisaki ignored this, she suddenly bowed her head towards Maou in apology. “Sorry. Because of my negligence, I caused trouble for you.” “Uh, not, not at all.”
4562
4563
4564“Kii-chan is still under probation, so she won’t drink alcohol, there’s no need to worry. So, what about it? You just got off work, so you should be hungry. I already ordered a lot of main dishes.”
4565
4566“……Mizushima-san, are you drinking?”
4567
4568“I don’t need to reflect on things, so it’s not a problem.”
4569
4570In the cup placed in front of Mizushima who said this openly, there was diluted Taro Soju.
4571
4572“Then, the reason why we called you here was to talk about the past.”
4573
4574“Talk about the past?”
4575
4576Once Maou showed a perplexed expression, Kisaki said unhappily, “The lady Sarue brought is called Tanaka Himeko.” “Actually, I got some information from Shop Manager Sarue. I heard that she is Kisaki-san’s old acquaintance.” “That’s right, and we have known each other for a long time.”
4577
4578Mizushima chewed on the ice cube in the Taro Soju and smiled happily.
4579
4580“They have known each other since kindergarten after all.”
4581
4582“Eh?”
4583
4584Mizushima’s shocking statement caused Maou to suck in a breath.
4585
4586With this kind of level, rather than saying that they were old acquaintances, it would be more accurate to say that they were childhood friends.
4587
4588“Eh, could it be that Mizushima-san is the same?”
4589
4590Since she knew about this, that meant that Mizushima has probably known Kisaki and Tanaka Himeko for a very long time.
4591
4592“No, I knew them starting from elementary school. We did go to the same kindergarten, but we were in different classes.”
4593
4594“That makes no difference at all.”
4595
4596In response to Maou’s rebuke, Mizushima smiled quietly.
4597
4598“Then, the extent in which the two of them did not get along had become a legend since elementary school.” “Oh……”
4599
4600“According to the friends around them, they have been quarrelling frequently since kindergarten.” It seemed like their incompatibility was very extreme.
4601
4602“If so, then why are they still keeping in contact with each other?”
4603
4604“We’re not keeping in contact at all. The reason why I can’t cut off contact with her completely is due to Yuki’s interference.”
4605
4606“Oh my, you really said it.”
4607
4608As if to tease the angry Kisaki, Mizushima poked Kisaki’s upper arm a few times.
4609
4610“Anyway, one of the reasons why the competitive spirit between Kii-chan and Hime is so strong is because they were put in the same class for all six years of elementary school and all three years of middle school.”
4611
4612“T-That’s rare.”
4613
4614Maou had never attended a Japanese school, but he knew about the class shuffling policy.
4615
4616Being in the same class for a total of nine years in elementary and middle school was something close to the miracle.
4617
4618“From what I remember, Kii-chan was good in drawing and calligraphy and would always get awards in the school. Then Hime would always turn red and hate it so much. Using modern terms to describe it, Hime is a ‘Master Artist’.”
4619
4620(TL Note: ‘Master Artist’: Originally used to refer to someone who is skilled at drawing, but on the internet, it is normally used to taunt those people with such a unique drawing style that the drawings are extremely bad.)
4621
4622“Master Artist?”
4623
4624“She doesn’t have any artistic talent at all. Not only was her handwriting very ugly, even if Himeko was asked to draw a dog, bird, and fish, I could not tell the difference between them.”
4625
4626“T-That’s really extreme……”
4627
4628“On the other hand, the pictures I drew in art class have been submitted in district competition.”
4629
4630Kisaki spoke about the past in a slightly proud manner, but Mizushima quickly burst her glorious memories.
4631
4632“However, Kii-chan has never won in sports.”
4633
4634“Eh?”
4635
4636“Ugh……!”
4637
4638From the difference in statures of Kisaki and Tanaka Himeko right now, it was really difficult to believe, but seeing Kisaki’s reaction, this must have been true.
4639
4640“Kii-chan’s sporting talents aren’t bad at all, it’s just that Hime is too good at sports, and she would always get first place in marathons and physical tests. So every time Kii-chan lost to Hime in marathons, she would always cry in regret and say that she would definitely win next year while crying.”
4641
4642“I was really frustrated! I’m obviously taller and stronger than her! But Maa-kun, I don’t lose every single time! I won against her once in a long distance run competition in second year of middle school!”
4643
4644“O-Oh……”
4645
4646It was something which happened when they were young, but Maou was unable to imagine Kisaki crying in regret. In addition, Kisaki actually displayed a competitive spirit towards someone outside the work environment, and not knowing how to respond, Maou could only reply while feeling stunned.
4647
4648“That was because Hime had a flu and a fever. Did you forget that she forced herself to participate while saying ‘I don’t want to forfeit. I don’t want to turn my back on a competition with Kii-chan’ and ended up being in bed for one week?”
4649
4650“Taking care of one’s physical condition is part of the competition too!”
4651
4652“……”
4653
4654What caused Maou to become speechless was not the contents of the conversation.
4655
4656But the unexpected personality shown by Kisaki and Mizushima when they were not working.
4657
4658Noticing Maou’s perplexed mood, Kisaki cleared her throat and said to him, “It’s not like I sold my soul to work. When I am with friends, I will still say random things like a normal person or show emotions.”
4659
4660“T-That’s true.”
4661
4662Kisaki made sense, but the disparity when compared with the usual aloof Kisaki was too huge, so it was difficult not to feel perplexed about the situation.
4663
4664“B-But, why did your relationship become so bad……? And it even started from kindergarten.”
4665
4666“I don’t really remember it, but according to my parents……”
4667
4668“Even your parents recognise that the relationship between both of you are bad?”
4669
4670Maou was speechless.
4671
4672“During kindergarten, there was a male teacher who was very popular with the girls. The opposition between us seemed to have started from deciding who that male teacher will play house with.”
4673
4674“Just because of that?”
4675
4676If only this part was heard, it would only be seen as an amusing child’s quarrel. However, this small ember developed into a long, draggy, swampish war.
4677
4678“Uh, then, how does Mizushima fit into this situation……”
4679
4680“I am the buffer between Kii-chan and Hime. When Kii-chan lost to Hime, I would console Kii-chan when she’s crying; when Hime lost to Kii-chan, I would accompany Hime when she’s relieving her stress due to her feelings of regret.”
4681
4682Maou, who almost said ‘Why do you have to do such troublesome and unappreciated things’, swallowed his words frantically.
4683
4684However, he was unable to conceal his expression.
4685
4686“Ignoring my personal feelings, it won’t be boring when two of them are together. It might be trouble if they are left alone, but with expert guidance, a lot of class related matters can proceed smoothly. I became the class monitor very frequently.”
4687
4688“O-Oh……”
4689
4690That meant Mizushima was responsible for pulling the strings behind Kisaki and Tanaka Himeko.
4691
4692He sensed it vaguely but Mizushima was an amazing person after all.
4693
4694“With regards to exam results, because they are the hardworking type, they always ranked highly. When the top
4695
4696twenty ranks were announced, my stomach would hurt. Because no matter who won, Kii-chan and Hime would quarrel.”
4697
4698“Hearing Yuki talk about results is really ironic. Whether it was me or Hime, none of us have beaten Yuki before graduation.”
4699
4700“If I want to continue being around both of you, of course I have to work harder.”
4701
4702Kisaki showed an unhappy expression while Mizushima had a calm expression.
4703
4704“But no matter what, I feel that the three of us are considered very good friends? Although we don’t feel very close and we don’t do things other normal girls do, like going to the washroom together.”
4705
4706“That’s such a bad joke. I have never thought of that person as a friend. I worked with her occasionally only because of Yuki.”
4707
4708This sentence convinced Maou that Mizushima, who could pull Kisaki and Tanaka Himeko together by herself despite their stubborn personalities, was a terrifying person.
4709
4710After the three of them graduated from middle school, they went to different high schools.
4711
4712It was believed that the long battle between the two had finally ended, but unexpectedly, the three of them reunited at the same university three years later.
4713
4714“This is already past the level of karma.”
4715
4716Maou, gradually getting used to the atmosphere, started to respond to what was said.
4717
4718“Because our homes were nearby. Then, thinking about it normally, you would think that a person would become more mature after becoming a university student and learn how to compromise, right? However, it was not like that at all.”
4719
4720Kisaki and Himeko, who studied Business Management in Meiji university, started to compete against each other in battles which were on an entirely different level in comparison to their childhood.
4721
4722“When we were studying in university, the employment rate was so low that even calling it an Employment Ice Age seemed stupid, and because we understood that, the three of us worked hard. However, at this time, things happened.”
4723
4724“To today, I still suspect that something is wrong with the professor who gave Himeko an ‘Excellent’ on her Educational Management Thesis. Systematically discussing about education without considering the unpredictable factor of the employees’ personality, what is the meaning in doing such a thing?”
4725
4726“……They started to be at odds with each other on this kind of level.”
4727
4728“I see.”
4729
4730At this point, Maou could only show an awkward smile.
4731
4732At this stage, Kisaki and Himeko no longer fought with each other based on the results alone, but also on the process and discussions, the amount of complexity increased day by day.
4733
4734“The most fatal one should be that event. The beauty contest.”
4735
4736“Beauty contest…… is it that thing which is occasionally shown on television?”
4737
4738“The scale of our university’s cultural festival is not that big, so that beauty contest is just like playing house, no celebrity-like impact will occur even if you win. Anyway, they happened to organise a beauty contest that year. A friend from the same research society registered all three of us.”
4739
4740“Ah……”
4741
4742At this moment, Maou remembered the conversation between Kisaki and Himeko.
4743
4744“Oh, I never thought that you would still be so hung up on that boring event.”
4745
4746“Because I am different from you, I’m not so twisted that I am unable to honestly accept praise from other people, so to me, this was one of my cherished memories from my school days.”
4747
4748“Could it be, that Manager Tanaka, in that beauty contest……”
4749
4750“So what if she won in that kind of frivolous event!”
4751
4752Kisaki’s easy to understand reaction helped Maou understand everything. Not considering the scale, Kisaki had lost to Himeko in a competition where females competed with each other in terms of beauty.
4753
4754It seemed like that loss had left a scar in Kisaki’s heart, and it was more serious than what she had described. If he said something to console her without proper consideration, an endless hell was in store for Maou.
4755
4756“And she’s acting so arrogant although she only got second place, that’s so immature! Without getting first place, there’s not much difference between the second and third place!”
4757
4758In a depressed manner, Kisaki gulped down the oolong tea as if it was alcohol, and slammed the empty cup on the table.
4759
4760Simply put, Himeko must have been second place, and Kisaki was third place.
4761
4762“By the way, I’m the champion.”
4763
4764“Please don’t supply me with any more unnecessary information.”
4765
4766Maou had a feeling that Mizushima would be in first place, but just knowing his superior’s complicated relationships in the past was shocking enough, he would be incapable of reacting even if he was given a chance to be a Tsukkomi.
4767
4768“Anyway, with this, you should know what the relationship between Kii-chan and Hime is like now.”
4769
4770“Yeah, I already know too much.”
4771
4772Starting from the third year of university, not just in terms of capability and the validity of their theses, the contrast between their principles in their careers and future was really striking.
4773
4774In a half-joking manner, their classmates termed their behaviour as ‘War of the In-Laws: Hime and Kisaki edition’.
4775
4776“Using career as an example, Kisaki believes in the principle ‘Better to be the head of a chicken than a tail of an ox’. As for Hime, she thinks that it would be alright to hide on the ox’s back as long as she is in the lead at the finish line.”
4777
4778(TL Note: ‘Better to be the head of a chicken than a tail of an ox’: It’s better to run a small business then be a part of someone else’s larger business. ‘Hiding on the ox’s back’ is a reference to the Japanese/Chinese zodiac race where the mouse hid on the ox’s back the whole race and jumped off just before the finish line to end up in first place.)
4779
4780Even so, with Mizushima as the shield, the two of them maintained a certain level of friendship. However, after getting employed, a definitive split appeared on both their paths in life.
4781
4782After entering MgRonalds and Sentucky respectively, these two very similar large companies, the actions they took were completely opposite of each other.
4783
4784Because she treasured every single employee too much, Kisaki would frequently get into conflicts with the people around her, so although she produced excellent results and was highly popular, she also gave others the impression that she would not be able to scale the corporate ladder quickly.
4785
4786On the other hand, Himeko’s personality was not well liked by the employees, but she completed her store manager activities efficiently and walked down the path of accomplishment with steady results.
4787
4788Of course, it was impossible for Kisaki and Himeko to tell each other this.
4789
4790All this information was conveyed through Mizushima.
4791
4792After meeting with Kisaki, Mizushima would tell Himeko what had happened in a tactful manner, leaving out anything which may cause problems.
4793
4794After meeting with Himeko, Mizushima would tell Kisaki about the process in a casual chat, not leaving any trace.
4795
4796This was the strange triangle relationship they had cultivated since they were children.
4797
4798Himeko probably told Mizushima that she was getting transferred and that news was conveyed to Kisaki.
4799
4800Either way, Maou finally understood the sour relationship between Kisaki and Himeko and the reason behind Kisaki’s actions.
4801
4802“In the end, this relationship did not change at all, but because things kept accumulating, after seeing Himeko’s face after such a long time, I became agitated…… I really caused you a lot of trouble. I’m sorry.”
4803
4804Kisaki bowed her head deeply towards Maou once again.
4805
4806“No, erhm…… but, why are you telling me these things? We don’t think that Kisaki-san would do that kind of thing
4807
4808without a reason, so there should be some reason which you can’t tell others……”
4809
4810“Honestly, I didn’t not expect that Yuki would reveal so much to you. My initial intention was just to explain the circumstances and apologise to Maa-kun, whom I caused the most trouble to. As for Chi-chan and the rest, I plan to apologise to them properly later.”
4811
4812“Kii-chan couldn’t stop talking either.”
4813
4814Shaking the glass with only ice cubes left, Mizushima supported her chin with her hand.
4815
4816“But from this, it does seem like we have said too much. However, I do have a reason to believe that I can tell Maou all of this.”
4817
4818Mizushima showed a smile with mixed emotions and looked at Maou. “Because Kii-chan seems to really trust Maou, this is a rare thing.” “Trust?”
4819
4820From Maou’s viewpoint, he felt that Kisaki trusted every employee, but that was not what Mizushima was trying to convey.
4821
4822“Until now, only Hime and I knew about Kii-chan’s dream. So when I heard that she spoke about it to you, I got a shock.”
4823
4824Kisaki’s dream was to become a professional in the food and beverage industry––a barman.
4825
4826She wanted to know how far she could fight on in Japan’s food and beverage industry with just her own power.
4827
4828Kisaki had mentioned this in front of Maou and Chiho.
4829
4830“……It’s not like I am giving special treatment to Maa-kun. It’s just that there was an opportunity to talk about it.”
4831
4832Kisaki retorted this way, but it could not be denied that her tone was evasive.
4833
4834Kisaki was not saying what she truly thought.
4835
4836And Mizushima sensed this.
4837
4838“Is that so?”
4839
4840Mizushima looked towards Kisaki’s face as if she was probing, then spoke while raising her head slowly. “I have never heard Kii-chan mention this thing to anyone else besides us. Isn’t that right, Hime!?” ““Eh?””
4841
4842Maou and Kisaki expressed surprise at the same time.
4843
4844“……That’s right, this is the first time I have heard of this.”
4845
4846With a partition between them, a lady got up slowly from the seat behind Maou.
4847
4848There was no need to confirm this. That person was Tanaka Himeko, wearing the same attire from when she came to the store in the afternoon.
4849
4850“Yuki…… you tricked me?”
4851
4852Strong flames of animosity burned within Kisaki.
4853
4854“When you made a rare move of acting serious and proposing that I apologise to Maa-kun, it was to allow Himeko
4855
4856hear everything just now?”
4857
4858“Because if I did not do that, the both of you would definitely not meet.”
4859
4860“That’s true, if I sat in front of Mayumi and drank alcohol, that alcohol would not taste nice.”
4861
4862Himeko said this and naturally sat down in the empty seat next to Maou.
4863
4864“I won’t drink Taro Soju which only old men would drink. I want to order Kahlua.”
4865
4866“Hmph, you like to drink sweet alcohol as usual. Your taste is like a child.”
4867
4868“I don’t want to be said this by you, Mayumi, who would turn so red just from one cup of beer.”
4869
4870“It’s only my face turning red! I won’t become drunk just from that!”
4871
4872“Stop it, both of you. Can’t you see that Maou is going to get scared off? The food is here, hurry up and eat.”
4873
4874“Uh…… s-sorry.”
4875
4876“Hmph.”
4877
4878Kisaki and Himeko looked towards Maou’s face as if they had suddenly noticed Maou’s presence and slowly leaned back against their chairs.
4879
4880During this time, the store had served up Izakaya style dishes which were strong in flavour and high in carbohydrates such as Teppanyaki and fried rice. Mizushima efficiently served the food to everyone.
4881
4882“I went to your store in the evening.”
4883
4884“What did you say?”
4885
4886Sipping the Kahlua which was just served to her, Himeko suddenly said this.
4887
4888“It was amazing. In the area I am in charge of, none of the branches are at such a high standard. All the employees are very energetic and despite not talking to each other more than what was minimally required, their communication was still perfect. Not only were the products presented well, the store was spotless.”
4889
4890“I don’t feel happy being praised by Himeko, but those are my employees. Being able to do such a thing is expected.”
4891
4892“My, employees huh.”
4893
4894She had just praised Kisaki, but Himeko immediately expressed her unhappiness at Kisaki’s words.
4895
4896“Mayumi, do you plan to continue staying in MgRonalds and immerse yourself in such cheap self-satisfaction?”
4897
4898After showing a mocking smile, Himeko continued to speak.
4899
4900“When I heard that you joined the huge company MgRonalds, I already thought it was strange. In such a big company, you won’t be able to learn any skills or ideals needed for a bar. Why haven’t you become independent?”
4901
4902“What did you say?”
4903
4904“The thing you want to do now isn’t just opening a bar, right? If you only wanted to open a bar, you can resign immediately, rent an empty store, and open your own store. If it’s you, you will succeed as long as you work hard. Why aren’t you doing this immediately? Are you lacking money or a guarantor? A branch store is the lowest tier of a huge corporation. Being a ruler in such a small society, how will it benefit the current you? Even if you do perform well, if you get promoted at a slower rate than me, what is the meaning in doing so?”
4905
4906“Himeko, are you looking down at the work done at MgRonalds?”
4907
4908Kisaki’s tone was dangerous––
4909
4910“No. I am looking down on you who does not use your talents on accomplishing great things, shutting yourself up in a small store, and dragging your feet.”
4911
4912––but Himeko shook her glass impatiently.
4913
4914“It would have been acceptable if you climbed up the corporate ladder to be in charge of one or two districts and made revolutionary changes, but is your current job so worthwhile that you can stay in the same branch and invest your passion in it? Or is there any opportunity for you to change your path?”
4915
4916“……”
4917
4918Faced with Himeko’s consecutive questions, Kisaki had nothing to say in response.
4919
4920This proved that Kisaki mostly agreed with what Himeko said.
4921
4922“Chase after two rabbits and you will end up with none. As long as you stay in a large corporation, no matter how much you struggle, you will always encounter moments where you have to abandon something, you aren’t so naïve to not understand this, right?”
4923
4924“I……”
4925
4926“What, if you have any thoughts, then hurry up and say it.”
4927
4928Kisaki almost followed Himeko’s lead in the conversation, but immediately glared at the latter.
4929
4930“What I want to do is my choice. You have no right to interfere.”
4931
4932Maou was afraid that the two of them would quarrel again, but Himeko smiled unexpectedly.
4933
4934“That’s great. I don’t want to hear about your future plans in the first place. If you plan to continue hesitating and play a game of ‘Get along, everyone’ in the store, I’m fine with that, you know? I will quickly achieve great things then laugh at you from high up in the industry.”
4935
4936“You’re just the same, not respecting those comrades who are working with you.”
4937
4938“Because they are mostly people who aren’t worthy of respect. If so, I might as well treat everyone equally from the beginning. This is also a rule cultivated by Japan’s industries over a long period of time.”
4939
4940Himeko looked towards Maou.
4941
4942“Sigh, I don’t know if this inconspicuous guy is worth respecting, but I just want to clearly let you know this. If you want to surpass me in the future, it will be impossible based on your current situation.”
4943
4944“Inconspicuous guy……”
4945
4946Maou felt unhappy at being pointed out suddenly, but since they were from different companies, he could not act too aggressively.
4947
4948Himeko was from another company in the same industry, but her standing in society was still much higher than Maou.
4949
4950“If you could retort or do something other than backing down in this situation, you’ll definitely benefit in the future.”
4951
4952“……Oh.”
4953
4954“Remember this. There are many enemies within and outside an organisation. Other companies in the industry who want to make you fail once they see an opening. Or superiors, colleagues and juniors who are black hearted, incapable and would only be a hindrance. There are many people in the world who are like this. If you stay under Mayumi who cares about a harmonious atmosphere within and outside, you will never learn the skills needed to handle these people.”
4955
4956Maou glanced at Kisaki out of the corner of his eye.
4957
4958However, Kisaki, who would reach her tipping point just by seeing Himeko, had fallen silent with a serious expression on her face after hearing those words from just now.
4959
4960“If you plan to be a soldier forever, you probably feel very comfortable working under Mayumi, but if you plan to climb upwards, then I can only say that you’re really unfortunate. Because you can’t accumulate any experience with regards to fighting enemies.”
4961
4962“But, by working under Kii-chan, you can work with colleagues who are much better when compared to those from other places, you can improve yourself this way too?”
4963
4964“That’s the difference in viewpoints. I think comrades who you find while getting hurt in a battlefield full of enemies are the comrades who can truly help each other improve.”
4965
4966Himeko’s words were correct. And Mizushima’s interpretation was not wrong. And of course, Kisaki’s way which Maou had always believed to be correct was also not wrong.
4967
4968However, these things cannot happen at the same time.
4969
4970“I think……”
4971
4972Without troubling over this for long, Maou expressed his thoughts directly.
4973
4974“Since there are still things which cannot be done in the current framework, then just think of ways to change oneself such that it would be possible to build a larger framework from the beginning, wouldn’t that be enough?”
4975
4976“!”
4977
4978“Oh~”
4979
4980“Hmph.”
4981
4982Kisaki raised her head quickly, Mizushima clapped her hands together in awe, Himeko hmphed once, but it did not seem like she was looking down on Maou.
4983
4984“It’s not as if it’s just Mayumi’s dream, are you planning to start a business? Compared to people who cannot even reach normal working standards and will only feel uneasiness, grievance and dissatisfaction, I like foolhardy people better, but it’s easier said than done, it’s not that easy in reality, you know.”
4985
4986“I know that. Money, educational qualifications, and talent, the more of these things, the better. However, what I have right now, is only this mouth and body.”
4987
4988After Maou said this, Himeko blinked once in surprise, then nodded with force for unknown reasons.
4989
4990“……I see. Mayumi.”
4991
4992“……What is it?”
4993
4994“I kind of know why you have high expectations for this guy.”
4995
4996“Right? I did say he was good.”
4997
4998Strangely, it was Mizushima who agreed with Himeko.
4999
5000“Eh? Eh?”
5001
5002Maou looked at each of them in turn, feeling perplexed.
5003
5004“……Maa-kun.”
5005
5006Kisaki spoke, interrupting Maou who felt perplexed.
5007
5008“Y.Yes.”
5009
5010“Is the time alright for you? If you don’t go back soon, your friend will worry, right?”
5011
5012“Eh? Ah! It, it’s already 1:30am?”
5013
5014Maou jumped up after seeing the clock. Thinking about it, he did not tell the people at home that he was returning later than usual.
5015
5016“What, you have to go already? Things were becoming interesting too.”
5017
5018“Ah~ Maou, we can’t finish so much by ourselves, can you help to eat some?”
5019
5020“Ah, al, alright, then……”
5021
5022Following Mizushima’s instructions, Maou quickly ate the sumptuous food in front of him.
5023
5024“You’re living together with your girlfriend? Acting like this at such a young age.”
5025
5026“Himeko, Maa-kun is just renting a room with someone else. He’s staying with a male friend.”
5027
5028“What? He has such interests?”
5029
5030“Eh? Maou is someone from that world?”
5031
5032“I didn’t ask because I felt that it would be better not to probe too much into it. However, it’s not what both of you think it is.”
5033
5034Since Mizushima and Himeko had been drinking alcohol, it felt that he would just be teased no matter how he explained it, so after that, Maou focused fully on eating.
5035
5036
5037
5038
5039
5040
5041Mizushima and Himeko bade Kisaki and Maou farewell in front of the store.
5042
5043“The more the better?”
5044
5045“Hime?”
5046
5047“For money, educational qualifications, and talent, the more a person has the better, but these are not absolutely needed. Someone who knows this is very strong at heart. Because they are strong at heart, they will challenge many things, and will cause more harm to the people around them when they fail or self-destruct.”
5048
5049“That’s right. However……”
5050
5051Mizushima could not see Maou and Kisaki anymore, but she still smiled in the direction which they had left in.
5052
5053“It looks dangerous when it is one person, but it gives off an impression of being very strong when there are two people.”
5054
5055“What is that supposed to mean?”
5056
5057“Hmm~”
5058
5059Himeko asked in curiosity, and Mizushima smiled lightly in reply.
5060
5061“We’re talking about that Kii-chan, you know? So I meant that literally of course.”
5062
5063※
5064
5065“Sorry about that. Because of Yuki, you were dragged into a strange situation again.”
5066
5067Walking on Koshu Kaido after leaving the Izakaya, Kisaki apologised to Maou again.
5068
5069“No, it’s fine. I’ll just treat it as a business networking event made up of my seniors.”
5070
5071“A business networking event? That’s true, thinking about it carefully, the three of us have not gathered like this since we graduated from university.”
5072
5073Kisaki sighed as if she was feeling nostalgic.
5074
5075“Kisaki-san?”
5076
5077“……Maa-kun, please don’t form any strange misunderstandings and just listen to me. Just treat it as joking remarks
5078
5079said after drinking alcohol.”
5080
5081The two of them did not drink any alcohol, but Maou still nodded seriously.
5082
5083“When working in a company, what Himeko said is a lot more correct than my stance. However, even so, I cannot abandon my ideals now. Because someone like you appeared.”
5084
5085“……Eh?”
5086
5087“If you had not appeared, I would have taken action much earlier for the sake of opening my own store just like what Himeko said. However, one year ago, you appeared in my store and started working, causing my thoughts to change.”
5088
5089“E-Erhm?”
5090
5091“You had said that you wanted to be a permanent employee. This wish of yours still hasn’t changed at all?”
5092
5093“About that…… let me think.”
5094
5095Compared to one year ago, huge changes had occurred in Maou’s surrounding environment.
5096
5097Not only was there progress in his goal of returning to the Demon World, troubling things had been occurring continuously.
5098
5099Even so, Maou still strongly wished to continue staying in the human world to learn.
5100
5101“It has not changed. For the sake of my goal, becoming a permanent employee is a path which cannot be avoided.”
5102
5103“Yeah. I have never doubted your sincerity and philosophy towards work. I have never met anyone else like you who can mix their work and private lives so perfectly. Which was why I felt so troubled. Should I……”
5104
5105“Eh?”
5106
5107Maou got a huge shock because this sounded a little like a confession between a man and a woman, but what Kisaki said next was even more unexpected.
5108
5109“Treat you as a trusted subordinate and climb to the top of MgRonalds to change this industry, or treat you as my right-hand man and bring you to a new world, I have seriously debated with myself over this.”
5110
5111“……………Huh?”
5112
5113“To change or create a world, other than power, it is more important to have comrades whom you can trust from your heart.”
5114
5115Without Kisaki saying this, Maou knew this better than anyone.
5116
5117Because when Maou took the first step towards unifying the Demon World, all he had was the knowledge passed down to him by that angel.
5118
5119“Then amongst the employees in my store, you have the biggest chance of working with me for a long time in the future.”
5120
5121After saying this in one go, Kisaki paused.
5122
5123“……Sigh, just like what I said earlier, these are just joking remarks said after drinking alcohol. You have no obligation
5124
5125to go along with my dreams, I don’t plan to restrict your future either. Just treat it like you were hounded by a young person who had gotten drunk because she was trying to capture her bright future early and is currently facing the prospects of a bubble industry. You can forget about this for now.”
5126
5127In a dazed manner, Maou stared at the back of this female who only lived for work, wearing only casual clothes and not arming herself by wearing work clothes.
5128
5129“However……”
5130
5131Kisaki turned back and smiled at Maou with her usual refreshing expression.
5132
5133“I have a principle of not telling jokes which are not funny. You should know that already. Then, I’ll take my leave here. I’ll have to trouble you to take care of the store for a while.”
5134
5135At the intersection where their paths to go home deviated, Kisaki waved at Maou, and walked towards the streets at night in a cool manner.
5136
5137After watching that figure leave until Maou could not see her anymore, Maou scratched his head and looked up towards the sky.
5138
5139“What a headache……”
5140
5141※
5142
5143“D-D-D-D-Demon Kingggggg, youuuuuuuuuuuuu?”
5144
5145The next day, the usual dinner gathering at the Demon Fortress was invaded by an archangel.
5146
5147“Demon King, damn you! You, you actually walked with my Goddess on the streets at night, just the two of you? W-What exactly happenedddd? Depending on the circumstances, I might just kill you on the spot––!”
5148
5149“Pufft!”
5150
5151Hearing Sariel’s words, Chiho spit out the wheat tea in her mouth.
5152
5153It was not known how Sariel obtained this information, but Maou and Kisaki were probably seen by someone when they were going home from the Izakaya.
5154
5155“Ma, Ma, Ma, Ma, Maou-san? Being alone with Kisaki-san at night…… w-w-what, is going on?”
5156
5157“Uh, no, it’s nothing…… I just had drinks for an hour at an Izakaya……”
5158
5159“D-Drinking? Maou-san and Kisaki-san, drinking together at night? An, an adult’s world?”
5160
5161No one knew what Chiho was imagining, but her face had turned red despite not drinking any alcohol.
5162
5163“Demon King-sama, you said Izakaya just now?”
5164
5165“A-Ashiya? You ignored the atmosphere and reacted to a specific term again?”
5166
5167“How much money did you spend? I was thinking why you had returned so late, and unexpectedly, you spent unnecessarily……”
5168
5169In order to run away from his trusted general who approached with a low voice, Maou backed up to the wall.
5170
5171“N-None, someone else was treating! Because someone else treated, I didn’t spend any money, and when I said drinking, I meant a drinking party, I didn’t drink any alcohol……”
5172
5173“My Goddess paid for it…… and she drank while f-f-face to face with you? I’m going to kill you! I’ll definitely kill you
5174
5175today!”
5176
5177This time, it was Sariel who grabbed the front of Maou’s shirt to interrogate him, and the latter roughly pushed the archangel’s hand away.
5178
5179“I didn’t sit opposite Kisaki-san! I was with your manager and the shop manager of Fushima Park, the four of us……”
5180
5181“The shop manager of Fushima Park is that well-known beauty…… Ma, Maou-san let himself get treated by three
5182
5183beautiful ladies, drinking at night…… fuwahh.”
5184
5185Maou continued explaining, but this time, it was Chiho who collapsed lifelessly––
5186
5187“Chi, Chiho-chan, get a hold of yourself!”
5188
5189––Emi hurriedly supported Chiho from the side.
5190
5191“There were other ladies besides Manager Tanaka and my Goddess? Demon King, damn you! What evil tactics did you use to end up in such a great, envious situation!? Hurry up and tell me! What should I do to encounter that kind of situation!? Tell me quicky! Tell me alreadyyy!”
5192
5193Crying while grabbing the front of Maou’s shirt, Sariel shouted things which sounded like threats and pleas at the same time.
5194
5195“Like I said, I didn’t do anything…… we were only talking about work…….”
5196
5197This was not a lie.
5198
5199But while they were talking about work that day, they did interact at a more meaningful level compared to the usual working day.
5200
5201Of course, Maou knew that if he said this, it would only worsen the hell in front of him, so he could not say it, but everyone seemed to have acutely sensed the deeper meaning hidden in Maou’s words, so they did not stop interrogating him.
5202
5203“Demon King, can you not do something like drinking until late at night, you’ll affect Alas=Ramus’s education.”
5204
5205“I believe you, Maou-san! You were really just talking about work related things, right?”
5206
5207“It’s not alright just because someone treated you! If your superior treated you, then you have to return the favour properly! Demon King-sama, have you considered this?”
5208
5209“Demon Kinggggggg! Admit ittttttt! What happenedddddddd!?” “Didn’t I say nothing happened!?”
5210
5211Unable to tolerate the hellish summons echoing within the small room–– “Can’t all you be quieter when eating!?” ––Suzuno finally shouted angrily––
5212
5213“Suzu nee-chan is scary wahhhh!”
5214
5215––Alas=Ramus, who got scared, started to cry––
5216
5217“……So noisy.”
5218
5219––and Urushihara, some distance away from the hellish noise, was the only one who focused on eating.
5220
5221 
5222
5223Short Story 6: The Hero Before She Found a Job! –a few days ago–
5224
5225Just after three pm in the afternoon, Alas=Ramus was snoring steadily in bed.
5226
5227Normally it would just be ‘Mama’ Yusa Emi in Room 501 of Urban Heights Eifuku, but there were two visitors today.
5228
5229Perhaps the young girl was exhausted because she had interacted with people she was not familiar with.
5230
5231Some distance away from the bed, someone watched Emi enviously.
5232
5233“That’s so nice~~ I want to coax her to sleep too~~”
5234
5235“Alas=Ramus probably needs a little more time before she is familiar with Em.”
5236
5237“Uuuu~~”
5238
5239Emi’s good friend, one of the visitors, Emerada Etuva, grit her teeth in regret.
5240
5241“This might sound strange, but you have completely turned into a mother.”
5242
5243Suzuki Rika, another good friend of Emi, smiled evilly.
5244
5245“Yeah, because this child and I have spent a long time together.”
5246
5247Emi intentionally responded with a composed attitude.
5248
5249“Oh, not affected at all.”
5250
5251Rika appeared to be a little happy.
5252
5253“Then again, you haven’t been officially hired yet, but Emi is actually going to work at that MgRonalds huh. I am not teasing you, but is it because you want Alas=Ramus to be together with ‘Papa’?”
5254
5255“That’s not possible. It’s not like I can bring a toddler to work. It’s either we stay in a merged state during working hours, or asking Suzuno to help take care of her if it does not cause Suzuno too much trouble.”
5256
5257Emi replied with a shrug.
5258
5259“If so~~ it feels like you should just move house~~”
5260
5261“Emi seemed to have developed some attachment to this apartment, so she can’t do such a thing. Considering the quality of this room and the rent, I can sort of understand this feeling. Sigh, I am more curious about how Emi managed to find this house and settled down here.”
5262
5263Room 501 of Urban Heights Eifuku was a suite targeted at tenants who were single, but not only did this two room eight tatami apartment have a fully electric powered kitchen, it had a separate bathroom.
5264
5265Considering that Emi’s and Emerada’s enemy, the Demon King a.k.a. Maou Sadao, was living in a space where three guys were squeezed into a six tatami sized room, this environment was truly much better.
5266
5267There was even a penthouse on the highest floor, so its appearance truly matched the term condominium.
5268
5269However, the rent here was only 50,000 yen, this was difficult to comprehend. Anyone, not just Rika, would be bothered by this.
5270
5271“That’s true~~ I have not heard the story behind how you chose to stay in this apartment~~”
5272
5273Because Rika and Emerada expressed their interest, Emi turned towards the two of them after arranging the blankets around Alas=Ramus.
5274
5275“These may be memories, but they aren’t really good memories. It’s just that this room was the first place in Japan which gave me a safe and secure environment. By the way, I was able to continue chasing after the Demon King because this room existed.”
5276
5277“Did you become more lively and energetic because the living environment was good?”
5278
5279“No, it was a more direct reason. This was something which happened when I first arrived in Japan, when I knew nothing about what I saw and understood nothing.”
5280
5281Speaking softly, Emi described the events which happened recently, even though it seemed like years ago.
5282
5283This was something which happened in recent history, when she had arrived in Japan, a country in a ‘foreign world’ after going through a ‘Gate’ to chase after Maou Sadao, no, to chase after Demon King Satan.
5284
5285※
5286
5287That tall building was erected there, resembling a huge gravestone.
5288
5289Standing in a city filled with lights, only that place had a black exterior.
5290
5291The dim lights which could be seen everywhere only served to make that place look darker, resembling the candles flickering weakly in the wind after being lit by people attending a funeral to pay respects to the dead.
5292
5293“……If it’s that place…… I probably will not get discovered by anyone......”
5294
5295Her mental and physical states had reached their limits.
5296
5297In this world filled with light, she was the only one constantly looking for darkness, finding caves which no one would take notice of.
5298
5299“The door…… is locked after all.”
5300
5301The front door illuminated by yellow lights was naturally locked and could not be opened.
5302
5303However, at this point in time, she could confirm one thing.
5304
5305Within this building in front of her, there were no signs of humans.
5306
5307During these past few days, she had already encountered countless huge buildings which she had never seen before.
5308
5309Inorganic in appearance, all these buildings had an impressive height which easily surpassed those of the royal cities in her home country, with every single window reflecting dazzling light.
5310
5311Many people were living within them.
5312
5313Living lives she had never seen before.
5314
5315The building in front of her may have looked similar to the buildings she had seen so far, but no signs of people could be felt.
5316
5317Just like how torches will be lit at the city forts to guard against intruders, there were also rows of dim lights here.
5318
5319However, it could be felt that there was no one patrolling these illuminated areas.
5320
5321For a full five minutes, she stood there in a dazed manner.
5322
5323“Please allow me to borrow this place for a bit.”
5324
5325She did not know who she was asking for permission, and allowed herself to lightly float into the air.
5326
5327After flying over the gate, she landed in a place which looked like courtyard. She still did not feel any other presences.
5328
5329The unmaintained grass patch which surrounded that building had already grown until it was level with her line of sight, so it appeared that she would not have to worry about being seen by the people outside.
5330
5331“These don’t look like ruins……”
5332
5333Looking closely, this building was made from material she did not know about.
5334
5335It looked like stone or brick, but the feeling when she touched it was significantly different from the feeling she knew about.
5336
5337Smooth, glossy, hard, and also felt very light.
5338
5339“It would be better to go higher.”
5340
5341She looked up at the higher levels which blended into the darkness, made her body float again, and slowly rose, following the walls of the building.
5342
5343When she was rising, she turned her head lightly, and in front of her was a huge area of lights dispelling the darkness.
5344
5345As if the stars in the sky had fallen, colourful lights covered the ground.
5346
5347The shock she had received when she understood that they were people living under all these lights would never be forgotten regardless of what may happen in the future.
5348
5349“Demon King Satan…… where did he go?”
5350
5351She mumbled weakly.
5352
5353He should be here. The existence she was chasing was somewhere in this land of light.
5354
5355Perhaps, at this moment, he was even plotting how to bring darkness to the land of light in front of him, using his demonic wings to cause the night sky to descend on the land.
5356
5357She had to find that evil existence quickly, and eliminate him before this brilliance gets harmed in any way. “I can’t, find him anywhere. I can’t even feel his presence……”
5358
5359Such a thing should not be possible.
5360
5361No matter how injured she was, no matter how much power she had lost, she would not misidentify that evil aura, however, as if he had been sucked into this light tornado, the existence she had been chasing had disappeared.
5362
5363“……This place, should be fine.”
5364
5365She stepped onto the balcony which was built at the windows on every floor.
5366
5367Standing on the balcony, she then peeked into the room through the extremely transparent window made of glass.
5368
5369Inside was a room with paved floors, but she could not sense any people.
5370
5371The floor of the level above was the roof of the balcony, so it seemed like she could take shelter from the rain here. “Sigh……”
5372
5373Once she thought that she was in a space where no one could see her, her fatigue suddenly rose within her body, causing her to sit down on the spot.
5374
5375A balcony built on ruins which were brand new.
5376
5377She was so tired that such a narrow space could provide her with a sense of safety. “If I had killed the Demon King there…… things would not have turned out like this.”
5378
5379She clenched her fist and said this in regret.
5380
5381As if responding to her will, light appeared in her palm and something which was originally not there appeared.
5382
5383An intricately decorated sword which emitted holy light.
5384
5385“……Holy sword…… why aren’t you emitting the guiding light and telling me the location of the Demon King. Could it
5386
5387be that you have lost that power because of the fierce fighting?” Even the voice she squeezed out with all her might sounded weak.
5388
5389“Or is it…… because I was unable to successfully kill the Demon King…… you don’t recognise me as the Hero anymore?”
5390
5391The sword did not reply.
5392
5393In a night where the moon and stars could not be seen, the lights from afar shone slightly on the purple gem on the hilt.
5394
5395“……Em……”
5396
5397She hugged her legs and groaned.
5398
5399“Alber…… Olba……”
5400
5401Then she buried her face in her legs, speaking weakly.
5402
5403“……Save me.”
5404
5405Five days had passed since Hero Emilia Justina took part in the final battle with the fate of the whole of Ente Isla on the line and failed to kill the Demon King after coming close to doing so.
5406
5407Emilia chased after the Demon King and one of the Four Kings Alsiel who had escaped through the ‘Gate’ and arrived at this mysterious world which had an advanced civilisation.
5408
5409It felt as if she was one blow away from defeating the Demon King. Even so, the Demon King’s power was still so strong that she could not be careless.
5410
5411Therefore, Emilia believed that the true final battle would take place in the world on the other side of the ‘Gate’.
5412
5413However, after arriving in this world, she could no longer sense the ominous energy of the Demon King.
5414
5415Since she went through the same ‘Gate’ as the Demon King and Alsiel, she should not have arrived in a different world.
5416
5417The Demon King and Alsiel must be somewhere in this world.
5418
5419However, the aura of the Demon King which Emilia was familiar with had disappeared. This increased Emilia’s anxiety.
5420
5421She could not imagine the size of this world, and it was not impossible for herself and the Demon King to be separated by a continent.
5422
5423If that was the situation, she would have to spend a lot of time to find the Demon King again.
5424
5425And even if he was injured, the Demon King, who could turn the Central Continent into Hell in one night, could easily destroy one or two countries in this amount of time.
5426
5427The Demon King could not be allowed to increase his victims.
5428
5429Emilia was also injured from the battle and lost her power, but she still ignited her fighting spirit and started to look for traces of the Demon King, however through today, there were no results.
5430
5431Because she had not eaten or slept properly, and only let time pass in vain, she finally decided to stop her search for the time being yesterday.
5432
5433However, in this land filled with light, there was no place where Emilia could rest properly.
5434
5435“I am really…… very tired……”
5436
5437From Emilia’s point of view, the things which had happened in these five days could only be described as a bolt out of the blue.
5438
5439Honestly speaking, she did not want to recall those things ever again.
5440
5441Emilia leaned her armoured body against the glass window.
5442
5443“Sigh…… ehhhhhhhhhhh?”
5444
5445With the glass window sliding sideways, her body, losing its support, fell.
5446
5447“Eh? Strange? Ehh?”
5448
5449Without being bothered by her sword disappearing the instant she fell, Emilia got up immediately and looked at the window she was just leaning against with a surprised gaze.
5450
5451It opened.
5452
5453As if it was inviting Emilia inside, the window opened.
5454
5455Just like before, there was no one inside, and it was quiet.
5456
5457However, when she came to her senses, Emilia had already walked into the room as if she was attracted by this empty space.
5458
5459Emilia felt that she had not let her guard down at all, but she was unsure of how calm she was feeling.
5460
5461This may have been an abandoned area, but it did not mean that she could just enter without permission, and from how the floor was spotless, there must have been people entering and leaving regularly.
5462
5463Even so, with Emilia’s mental state reaching its limits due to loneliness and fatigue, she could not resist the temptation of this isolated space which could not be seen by anyone from the outside.
5464
5465After jumping indoors and closing the window, this became a completely quiet room.
5466
5467“Ah……”
5468
5469Emilia lay down, spread-eagled on the hard floor.
5470
5471She was still calm enough to keep her armour on, but this inorganic sealed space still provided Emilia with a sense of liberation which she had not felt in days.
5472
5473At the same time, a strong sense of drowsiness welled up within her.
5474
5475That was natural. Because during these few days, she could not find a place where she could close her eyes and sleep soundly.
5476
5477Whether it was her body or brain, she had reached her limits.
5478
5479The moment she closed her eyes, Emilia’s consciousness fell into darkness.
5480
5481
5482
5483
5484
5485
5486The young girl dreamed.
5487
5488She dreamed that she was still living in her hometown, Sloan Village.
5489
5490She ‘had never seen it before’, but Emilia knew that this was what the village looked like after she was taken to the Theocracy as the ‘Hero’.
5491
5492Since it was Sloan Village, her father should be around. With steps which were not really taken, Emilia ran around the village with all her might.
5493
5494However, no matter how much she searched, forget about her father, she could not find anyone.
5495
5496She had searched inside her dream for more than one day, but she could not even find any signs of habitation.
5497
5498At a certain point of time, the appearance of the village changed drastically.
5499
5500A huge explosion occurred behind Emilia, looking back, she discovered a huge demon standing in front of the flames.
5501
5502In the demon’s arms was the body of a person Emilia recognised.
5503
5504Emilia immediately summoned the holy sword, intending to cut down the demon, but the holy sword did not appear in her hands, not only that, the demon turned around as if it had not seen Emilia.
5505
5506She wanted to shout, “Stop!” but her mouth did not obey.
5507
5508During this point, fires started to appear around the village and screams echoed within the village which was supposed to be empty.
5509
5510The winged demons danced in the air.
5511
5512The demons with abnormal appearances started to destroy the homes.
5513
5514She had to stop them, and she had the power to stop them, but the holy sword did not appear, and no matter how she struggled, her feet would not advance and she could not make any sound.
5515
5516At this moment, a familiar figure descended in front of Emilia.
5517
5518The size of the one who came was small for a demon, but it possessed demonic magic which exceeded the levels of normal demons.
5519
5520“Lucifer!”
5521
5522One of the Four Kings of the Demon King Army, Demon General Lucifer, showed a cruel smile, and on reflex, Emilia planned to fight him barehanded.
5523
5524Emilia’s fists had hit Lucifer’s face, but as if everything was an illusion, they just went through.
5525
5526No, based on this situation, Emilia might be the one who was the illusion.
5527
5528Why, why was she unable to fight?
5529
5530Despite the fact that she had to stop this tragedy.
5531
5532“Kyahhhhh?”
5533
5534At this moment, a shrill scream was heard.
5535
5536Was it from the village, from behind Lucifer, from the sky, or from the land, none of them sounded right……
5537
5538
5539
5540
5541
5542
5543“Huh?”
5544
5545The strangely vivid scream caused Emilia to get up abruptly.
5546
5547What she saw after opening her eyes was not Sloan Village being attacked by demons, but an unfamiliar and deserted square room.
5548
5549The interior was not lit by flames or demonic magic, but sunlight, after Emilia got up, she only took a second to remember that she had sneaked into a mysterious abandoned ruin.
5550
5551“Ugh!”
5552
5553She immediately realised that she had encountered an emergency.
5554
5555Someone was around. It was a lady. And from how the other party was wearing well-tailored grey clothes commonly seen in this country, it could be confirmed that she was a human from this world.
5556
5557Opposite the window Emilia sneaked in from was the door of this room, and with her back facing the sun, Emilia could clearly see the face of the lady who was standing by the door.
5558
5559That face was filled with surprise and fear.
5560
5561In this current situation, she was definitely an intruder, and the lady who entered was likely someone who was connected to this building.
5562
5563Emilia instantaneously analysed these things, and immediately regretted her failure from last night.
5564
5565She had closed the window and locked it.
5566
5567The structure of the lock was very similar to the one Emilia knew, so the fact that she was able to lock it had come back to bite her in the end.
5568
5569If she broke the window and escaped, traces would be left behind.
5570
5571If so……!
5572
5573“Light Mirror Coat!”
5574
5575A spell of invisibility.
5576
5577She did not have many opportunities to use it, but when sneaking into a fort overtaken by demons, this spell would help them avoid unnecessary battles.
5578
5579Because holy magic had to be used, it would be easily detected by high level demons, Emilia was not very good with the spell too, but if her comrade Emerada Etuva used it, the level of concealment was good enough to fool human sorcerers.
5580
5581If they had already encountered the enemy, using it would be meaningless because the other party had already discovered their existence, but they could still run away while the enemy was still confused.
5582
5583The way out was not the window, but the door behind the lady.
5584
5585However, the situation developed in a way which Emilia did not expect.
5586
5587“Eek?”
5588
5589The surprise in the lady’s expression and tone gradually disappeared and it was her fear which increased instead, her legs also started shaking.
5590
5591“It…… it……it disa……ppeared…… disappeared…… kyahhhhhh!”
5592
5593“Eh? Wait……?”
5594
5595“There really is oneeeeeeeeeeeeee!”
5596
5597Looking pale, the lady gave a strange scream and slamming the door open, she ran out.
5598
5599Emilia had planned to slam into the lady to push her back, but she did not expect that the other party would just run off after seeing her invisibility spell.
5600
5601In fact, the invisibility spell used by Emilia was not that perfect, so if the person focused, it could be seen through even if the person was not a sorcerer.
5602
5603Or could it be that the other party was worried about a sneak attack and chose to fight her in a more spacious area?
5604
5605Emilia could not help but run towards the door, chasing after the lady––
5606
5607“Uwah!”
5608
5609––then a sound which sounded very painful was heard from outside.
5610
5611Emilia looked outside and realised that the lady from before was crouching in the middle of the long corridor.
5612
5613A stick-like object had fallen at the end of the corridor, and upon closer inspection, the shape of the heel area of the left and right shoes worn by the lady was different.
5614
5615She knew that there was a type of shoes known as high heels, but Emilia, who had only worn it a few times, realised that the lady in front of her probably fell after the heel on her shoe broke.
5616
5617She should have been able to get up immediately even if she had fallen down, but for unknown reasons, the lady was shivering all over and was unable to get up successfully.
5618
5619“Eek, ah, no!”
5620
5621It was only after seeing the lady was still moving her hand forward and trying to escape the room from just now did Emilia realise that the lady was trying to run away from her.
5622
5623The other party did not look like a warrior or sorcerer, and Emilia, who had wandered around the city in this world for five days, had also seen many similarly dressed ladies.
5624
5625The lady was probably in charge of managing this building, or a normal person living in one of the rooms which Emi had overlooked.
5626
5627Sneaking in just because the window was unlocked, and even wearing armour to scare others, she was the bad person in this situation.
5628
5629Emilia opened the door slowly.
5630
5631The door looked like it was made of gold or stone, but contrary to its heavy looking appearance, the door was much lighter than she had thought.
5632
5633The hinge area of the door let out a ‘creak’.
5634
5635“Eh…… eh, eh, no, no way, eh?”
5636
5637Hearing that sound, the lady who fell on the ground looked back, and even started crying.
5638
5639She had to apologise for scaring the lady and entering the room without permission.
5640
5641Emilia, wearing her armour, slowly approached the lady.
5642
5643The armour’s metal boots gave off a ‘ka ka ka’ sound on the scarily long corridor which was only made with one piece of stone.
5644
5645“N-No, what? What is that? Is someone there? D-Don’t, don’t come over!”
5646
5647The lady, who ruined her makeup from crying, seemed to be looking for something and did not look at Emilia at all.
5648
5649Emilia did not understand the language of this country, so she did not know what the lady was saying, but at least she knew that those were not tears of welcome.
5650
5651Then the lady crouched and nervously said something which Emi had heard many times in this country and deduced as a form of greeting.
5652
5653“T……th……thanks……”
5654
5655“Eek!”
5656
5657“Th, thanks, thanks for the hard work.”
5658
5659This time, the lady produced a scream from deep within her throat which did not sound human.
5660
5661“Nooooooooooooo, a sound was heard from a place with no one presennntttttttt!”
5662
5663“Eh? Ah, wait, wait a moment!”
5664
5665When Emi called out, it was already too late.
5666
5667The lady took off her shoes and escaped frantically.
5668
5669“W-Wait a moment! It, it’s dangerous like this……”
5670
5671“Nooooooo……!”
5672
5673There seemed to be a flight of stairs in the place Emi could not see.
5674
5675The lady appeared to be weak at the knees from fright, yet once she took off her shoes, she emitted an exaggerated scream and ran further and further away until her voice could not be heard.
5676
5677“T-There’s no need to be that afraid.”
5678
5679She was a trespasser, but she should have properly shown that she had wanted to talk.
5680
5681Feeling slightly hurt, Emi pouted, but she suddenly realised that a large object had fallen at her feet.
5682
5683It looked like a bag. The lady must have left it behind.
5684
5685The material seemed to be high grade leather, and the gold frame opening gave off a golden sheen of a new product. “……Uh, eh?”
5686
5687Emilia looked at that smooth metal surface, then noticed one thing.
5688
5689She quickly raised her hand to her eye level, and her shoulders drooped as she sighed heavily.
5690
5691“No wonder she was afraid. She heard the sound of the door opening and footsteps, but could not see anything.” Emilia used the invisibility spell beforehand but forgot to dispel it when approaching the lady.
5692
5693Upon closer examination, a person would have noticed Emilia’s swaying silhouette, resembling that of a mirage, but the panicked lady probably did not notice it at all.
5694
5695Regardless, with this, this building was neither an abandoned place nor a place where Emi could settle down.
5696
5697She felt bad about the lady, but it was not a good idea to continue staying here.
5698
5699The other party might call the police or the soldiers, and if that happened, Emi would have to employ forceful methods against the humans.
5700
5701This was not what Emilia wanted.
5702
5703“If I leave that here, the person will probably come back for it…… but……”
5704
5705Emilia frowned and looked up at the sky.
5706
5707She did not notice this when she had woken up, but the light shining in through the windows seemed to come from a setting sun.
5708
5709Looking up from where she was in the corridor, she realised that the sky had turned into a faint purple colour, and night was approaching once more.
5710
5711After noticing how tired she had been, Emilia realised deeply that she had committed many mistakes.
5712
5713“I don’t know who that person is, if there are other people in this building, it might be stolen if I just carelessly leave it here……”
5714
5715Emilia picked up the bag while talking to herself, planning to place it at the end of the corridor–– “…………”
5716
5717––but after seeing many pieces of paper through the opening in the bag, she stopped.
5718
5719From how it felt in her hands, there were probably many things inside.
5720
5721“………………………….”
5722
5723After Emilia hesitated a little––
5724
5725“……Ugh!”
5726
5727––she surveyed the surroundings, took the bag and returned to the room she had originally came from.
5728
5729Locking the door with much effort, she sat in the middle of the empty room and stared at the bag, and after looking at her face reflected in the gold frame for a while, Emilia sighed forcefully.
5730
5731“I swear to the Gods, Evolving Holy Sword, One Wing (Better Half), and on my father’s name. I will definitely not steal your things. I will not tell anyone else about the information I have obtained and will not use it to commit evil deeds. So please lend it to me…… to learn more about this world.”
5732
5733She started to search through the other person’s belongings.
5734
5735Even if she was not a Hero, this was still a shameful action.
5736
5737However, at the same time, these things were also a necessary source of information to help Emilia find the Demon King and survive in this country.
5738
5739Armed with the conviction that she would have to accept any scolding and punishment if she was questioned by anyone about her guilt, Emilia made up her mind and reached towards the bag.
5740
5741
5742
5743
5744
5745
5746She probably sat in that room for half a day.
5747
5748It was already late at night, and the room was covered in darkness.
5749
5750However, Emilia made an illumination spell float in the middle of the room and focused on checking that lady’s bag.
5751
5752Before that, she never had a chance to make direct contact with the items owned by the normal people of this country.
5753
5754That lady probably wanted to have the bag back as soon as possible. She had to return the bag and all its contents after the lady returned, then leave this room.
5755
5756The time limit was almost up.
5757
5758“This is money after all. A coin having a hole is really rare.”
5759
5760Emilia took out coins and pieces of paper from a small leather bag, and after carefully placing each piece of paper on the floor, she nodded and said this.
5761
5762Diagrams of what looked like temples, flowers, trees, and an ear of rice were engraved on the coins, and although the contents of gold, silver, and bronze did not seem to be that high, it was not difficult to deduce that these coins were currency.
5763
5764There were beautiful background patterns and exquisite human portraits and landscape drawings on the pieces of paper. In addition, there was also a system of characters recorded on them, similar to that used on the coins.
5765
5766 
5767
5768For these characters, there was ‘1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 0’, these ten types.
5769
5770If these are numbers, these pieces of paper should be ‘banknotes’.
5771
5772She could understand the concept of banknotes, but this was the second time Emilia had seen a country where banknotes were in circulation.
5773
5774The first time was at the harbour city in the Central Continent, but because of the Demon King Army, the currency value circulating in the Central Continent at that time had fallen greatly, she even remembered one of her comrades saying that there was no need to force herself to exchange money.
5775
5776Anyway, when banknotes are used as currency, to the countries who distributes them, these banknotes need to be absolutely trustworthy, and because they are so light, these banknotes have a very high currency value.
5777
5778The lady who was the owner of this bag seemed to be close to Emi’s age, was this country so prosperous and strong that such a young person could carry so many banknotes?
5779
5780“Either way, it seems like the gold and silver coins I have with me cannot be used that easily here.”
5781
5782Emilia did not have any banknotes on her, and although the coins in this country were silver coloured, they did not look like they were crafted from silver.
5783
5784She could understand that these characters were numbers, but she did not know the numeric sequence, so it was meaningless to continue thinking about money matters.
5785
5786The next thing Emilia noticed was the large map.
5787
5788Spreading it open, she realised that this was a large map made from western style paper.
5789
5790It looked like a white map, but after examining it carefully, there were many small characters which appeared to be numbers written on it.
5791
5792Before coming to this building, Emilia roughly knew that this country’s printing technology was very advanced, but this technique which could write wheat grain sized words on maps still surprised her greatly.
5793
5794“These series of numbers might not necessarily refer to amounts of money. It might refer to distance, or assign numbers to roads…… but, there is a fixed pattern. Roads are arrow symbols with four characters. Blocks would be two
5795
5796characters written within a circle symbol. This…… this is four characters, but it can’t be determined if this is a very
5797
5798wide road or a river…… as for the other characters, they’re not written within circle symbols. Hm…… the red characters
5799
5800were probably written by hand.”
5801
5802On the map where only roads, blocks and numbers, there were also some red characters written on it.
5803
5804“The red mark in the middle, is it this building?”
5805
5806Her consciousness was fuzzy because of fatigue, but Emilia roughly remembered the geographical situation of her surroundings.
5807
5808Emilia discovered that this white map was a map with very limited range, expanding out with this building as the centre.
5809
5810“Even so, the numbers between these arrows should be a distance. These units represented by four digit numbers,
5811
5812should be the distance from the beginning to the end of the arrow! These ten characters are numbers after all!”
5813
5814If these ten characters ‘1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 0’ were numbers, it meant that the numbers used by this country were in base 10, just knowing this was already considered significant progress.
5815
5816Other than that, if she could arrange these numbers in order, she would roughly know the values of money and distance.
5817
5818“But, the distance here and here look the same, so why are the numbers different……?”
5819
5820Because the characters printed on the map were very small, Emilia brightened the light of the spell slightly and stared at the map.
5821
5822“The places around the areas where many red characters were written have similar groupings. There are also numbers written around this building which are different from the other places. If I do not confirm this properly…… eh? This
5823
5824is……”
5825
5826At this moment, Emilia discovered that there was another map inside the bag.
5827
5828“Hm? This is a map showing a similar location?”
5829
5830This map was printed in blue and red, and the characters printed on it were much more than the white map from before.
5831
5832The white map only roughly drew out where the blocks were located, but on this map, it was divided in a more detailed manner and various types of characters were densely written.
5833
5834In addition, there was a frame of diagrams and large words around the layout, this design reminded Emi of a shop sign.
5835
5836“This…… this map looks more like the maps I am familiar with.”
5837
5838As the Merchant Association would often publish advertisements about the stores and other important facilities on the area guide maps in the large cities, Emilia deduced that this was something similar.
5839
5840At the same time, Emilia noticed a certain problem.
5841
5842“This…… looks rather bad.”
5843
5844She looked towards the blue map, and noticed that not only were there many different varieties of characters, the shape of each character was complex.
5845
5846After coming to this world, she immediately noticed that there were many types of characters in this country.
5847
5848Skimming through the blue map, three to five systems of characters could be identified, if all of them were phonograms, then it would be bad, and even if they were ideographs, she would not understand all of them in one or two days.
5849
5850“It seems like if I do not use Idea Link, it might be very troublesome……”
5851
5852When they did not know the language of the land which they were travelling to for the first time, Idea Link was a very important spell, but it did not mean that everything would be translated completely.
5853
5854For example, when both sides did not have a common concept or when they interpreted things differently, they would not be able to communicate at all, this was something which happened often.
5855
5856When travelling in Ente Isla, there would definitely be someone among Emilia’s comrades who would be able to speak the language of the country they were travelling to next. Of course, they could hire a translator, but she could not do so in the country.
5857
5858“If I could have the opportunity to slowly chat with someone……”
5859
5860Since she came to this country, Emilia had not talked to anyone.
5861
5862The people walking past would clearly avoid Emilia once they saw her attire, and being chased by the police was not counted as talking.
5863
5864What Emilia understood about this country’s language was what she had heard from the streets.
5865
5866When people met each other, they would use ‘Thank you for the hard work’ to greet each other.
5867
5868When store employees called out to the people walking by, they would use ‘Welcome’.
5869
5870For the parents walking on the streets, they would use ‘Come over here’ and ‘Be good’ when trying to calm down a child who would not settle down.
5871
5872When the police were chasing after a suspicious person, they would shout ‘Stop’, ‘Wait’, ‘Stop right there’.
5873
5874“……This is.”
5875
5876Emilia suddenly realised that a series of characters with the same shapes were written on both sides of the white and blue maps using the same handwriting.
5877
5878About this series of characters, Emilia had the impression that she had seen it on something else inside the bag.
5879
5880“Found it, it’s this.”
5881
5882That was the small leather pouch which held the currency, inside the wallet.
5883
5884There were various cards made from different materials inside, but similarly shaped characters were written or engraved on them.
5885
5886“Here too.”
5887
5888In addition, inside the small leather card box, she found a stack of cards which had the same design and characters.
5889
5890A refined portrait more detailed and brightly coloured than the drawings on the banknotes was drawn on the stack of cards, and after seeing the face drawn on it, Emilia confirmed one thing.
5891
5892“It’s that lady…… the owner of this bag. So…… this is her name.”
5893
5894Writing her own name on the maps was probably to signify that she was the owner.
5895
5896She did not know the purpose of these cards which came in many varieties, but a shield symbol was drawn on one of the cards, it was a type of shield known as the kite shield, and a red cross was drawn in the middle of that shield.
5897
5898Perhaps it meant that the owner of the card belonged to a certain knight group.
5899
5900“If only I knew how to read this person’s name…… are there any clues?”
5901
5902In the room which had turned dark, Emilia continued to search the bag, hoping to find more clues about that lady or this country.
5903
5904“Hm~ this stack of paper should be some work documents. This should be a handkerchief, the colours are so pretty……
5905
5906there are numbers and a name on this card as well. This is a glass bottle containing water…… no. What is this light and
5907
5908transparent bottle? There is a drawing of a mountain and words written on it, but I can’t understand it…… the rest of
5909
5910the things are almost the same…… this is?”
5911
5912Emilia discovered a strange object in the side pocket.
5913
5914It was a palm-sized hard rectangular object, a board painted in a magnificent colour. It was heavy for its size and there was a cloth strap hanging from the corner.
5915
5916There were many small bumps around the board and there was a hole which looked like something could be stuck inside.
5917
5918“What is this…… is it a button…… kya?”
5919
5920After Emilia accidentally pressed on one of the bumps, the surface of the board lit up, causing her to drop the board onto the floor in surprise.
5921
5922Not knowing if it was going to explode next, or give off a blinding light, Emilia would rather treat it as a trap set to guard against people stealing the bag and backed up quickly.
5923
5924However, other than emitting a light, the board did nothing else.
5925
5926She nervously looked towards the glowing surface––
5927
5928“Ah, how cute……”
5929
5930––and noticed that there was a super simplified diagram of a bear on the surface.
5931
5932Other than showing a diagram of a bear hugging a pillow and lying down sideways, a four digit number was also shown.
5933
5934“T-The numbers are moving?”
5935
5936The moment Emilia looked towards the screen, the right most digit of the four digits changed from ‘1’ to ‘2’.
5937
5938Just as Emilia reached for the glowing board because she had discovered a new mystery.
5939
5940“Eeek?”
5941
5942“Eh?”
5943
5944The door facing the corridor had been opened without Emilia noticing.
5945
5946The door which had been locked was opened, Emilia looked up and discovered a person standing there.
5947
5948It was impossible for Emilia to forget that fear filled face under the glow of the magic light. It was that lady who dropped her bag and ran.
5949
5950Emilia did not plan to run away this time.
5951
5952She had to apologise for entering without permission and going through the other party’s belongings. The moment she reached out to do this––
5953
5954“Uwahh!”
5955
5956––the lady shouted strangely and ran into the corridor once more.
5957
5958“Ah, please wait, uh, no, let me think!”
5959
5960Emilia tried to recall what happened when she was being chased by the police and shouted loudly, “Wait! Stop!”
5961
5962However, despite Emilia not turning invisible this time, the lady did not stop.
5963
5964“Kyaaahhhhhhhhhhh! There are spirit lights and an armoured Samurai!”
5965
5966“……Spirit lights and armoured Samurai?”
5967
5968Emilia frowned because she heard a few terms which made no sense to her, but she still had to return the bag to the other party, if the lady escaped again, Emilia did not know when they would meet again.
5969
5970Emilia chased after the lady to make her stop.
5971
5972“Wait! Be good!”
5973
5974“Kyahhhhhh!”
5975
5976“Welcome, welcome.”
5977
5978“Don’t come overrrrr!”
5979
5980“Come here! Come here!”
5981
5982“I don’t want to dieeee! This apartment is cursed after allll!”
5983
5984Emilia’s shouts echoed lowly in the building and the screams the lady made when running away were so high pitched that it overwhelmed Emilia’s voice.
5985
5986Emilia chased after the lady with all her might, but the lady still disappeared somewhere further up the corridor, Emilia had lost her again.
5987
5988She heard the sounds of someone going down the stairs, but Emilia did not know where the stairs were.
5989
5990The other party got away again. And she had scared the lady again.
5991
5992Emilia knew that wearing a suit full of armour was considered something very strange in this country, but she felt that the lady’s scared behaviour was too abnormal.
5993
5994And the term ‘spirit light and armoured Samurai’ gave off an ominous feeling.
5995
5996Had she been mistaken as a vicious criminal?
5997
5998“Hm~ seems like I shouldn’t wear armour.”
5999
6000Thinking about it carefully, she did possess some characteristics of a suspicious person.
6001
6002And because she had come here immediately after the final battle with the Demon King, the armour was damaged in various places.
6003
6004Since she had come to this country, Emilia had not seen any knights wearing armour.
6005
6006“The armour is the issue after all……”
6007
6008If she had the Evil Repelling Armour, a proof that she was the Hero, she would not need this full body armour, but it might be an issue with her total holy magic capacity, Emilia was unable to use the full potential of the holy sword and the Evil Repelling Armour at the same time.
6009
6010If she could guard against the Demon King’s attacks but was unable to cut him, it would be meaningless.
6011
6012With these thoughts in mind, Emilia decided not to use the Evil Repelling Armour during the final battle and chose to pour all her power into the holy sword.
6013
6014“……There shouldn’t be any strange odor.”
6015
6016Feeling bothered all of a sudden, Emilia sniffed her long hair.
6017
6018After fighting the final battle with the Demon King, she was immediately thrown into this foreign world and wandered around for a few days.
6019
6020After experiencing a fierce battle and not bathing for a few days, this was really a scenario which a girl would not want to face, but Emilia actually had a trick for this.
6021
6022“I transformed yesterday…… so there shouldn’t be any smell.”
6023
6024Angel blood lay dormant in Emilia’s body.
6025
6026When she awakened the bloodline from her mother who she did not remember at all and only knew about on that faithful day, Emilia’s whole body would ‘completely’ refresh.
6027
6028For example, if she got hurt after a vigorous battle, she just had to ‘transform’ once using her angel blood, and the wounds would heal immediately.
6029
6030The injuries she had received in her transformed state would gradually recover over time, and if she was unable to recover fully, the injuries would not suddenly worsen when she dispelled her transformation.
6031
6032Therefore, Emilia only needed to transform once to obtain the same effect as having a thorough bath.
6033
6034When travelling in the Eastern Continent where the average temperature and humidity were high and clear streams were scarce, even after encountering many battles, Emilia was the only one amongst her comrades who could stay clean.
6035
6036The difference between her and her three comrades was actually just this.
6037
6038Because of the benefits of this power, Emilia could avoid some things which normally could not be avoided during war, causing Emerada Etuva, a female like her, to feel very envious.
6039
6040However, transforming required a lot of holy magic, so the efficiency was not very high, and the effect of the transformation would not extend to what she wore.
6041
6042“The smell should be coming from here.”
6043
6044No one was watching, but Emilia still blushed.
6045
6046Based on previous experience, if she did not take care of her appearance in peaceful and flourishing countries, it would be embarrassing and lead to many inconveniences.
6047
6048“I wonder if there is a place to wash clothes…… it’s not like drinking water where I can use the water machine at the
6049
6050plaza. In addition, in this country, there are also many pedestrians at night, so even if I use the Light Mirror Coat, it will still be suspicious. Moreover, even if people cannot see me, I cannot bring myself to do this kind of thing……”
6051
6052Emilia, who suddenly became bothered about many things, started thinking about this, but of course, she had no solution.
6053
6054Perhaps the lady’s maps contained this information, but if she could not understand the words on it, she could not do anything in the end.
6055
6056She had to use the last resort after all. Just as Emilia was thinking this.
6057
6058“…..What is that sound?”
6059
6060A faint low pitched rhythmic sound was heard from a certain place.
6061
6062It sounded like a large insect was flapping its wings, but that sound seemed to be coming from somewhere within the room.
6063
6064Emilia looked around the interior of the room which was still unlocked––
6065
6066“It’s that board again……”
6067
6068––and noticed the glowing board just now was now vibrating lightly on the floor while flashing.
6069
6070“W-What’s happening?”
6071
6072Emilia approached nervously, keeping up her guard.
6073
6074Just as she peeked at the glowing surface while being worried that the board would suddenly fly over, the place which had the bear diagram earlier now had a red rectangle diagram and a green rectangle diagram, there was nothing like that before.
6075
6076Confused by the situation, Emilia stared at the glowing board, it stopped vibrating a short while later and the picture changed back to the bear which was there originally.
6077
6078“W-W-What was that…… kyah?”
6079
6080Then the board started to produce the same vibration and glow again.
6081
6082This time, it showed no signs of stopping at all. After one minute had passed, Emilia finally decided to pick up the board.
6083
6084The board vibrated gently in her hand, but it did not appear to be harmful.
6085
6086The red rectangle and green rectangle from before appeared again, and upon closer examination, a new diagram had appeared in the rectangle.
6087
6088“W-What is this circle…… eek!”
6089
6090Emilia touched the green rectangle jitterly, the vibration stopped immediately and the surface of the board changed diagrams again.
6091
6092Next, the board produced a blunt sound like when it was dropped on the floor, then silence.
6093
6094“W-W-What?”
6095
6096However, the next change occurred immediately.
6097
6098“H-Hello…… is anyone there?”
6099
6100“?”
6101
6102It was a voice.
6103
6104A voice came out from the board.
6105
6106Background noise which Emilia had not heard before was mixed within, but could it be that lady’s voice? Emilia could not help but search her surroundings, but she did not feel any other presences nearby.
6107
6108Could this board be the same as the Idea Link magical tools in Ente Isla used for long distance communication? “Did, did anyone pick up? Hello…… hello.”
6109
6110“Voices can be transmitted…… this means……”
6111
6112Idea Link for long distance communication, Emilia used it frequently during her journey. Since there was a person on the other side of the board, there might be a chance! “Perhaps I can use…… Idea Link.”
6113
6114After coming to this country, this was Emilia’s first chance to quietly talk with someone.
6115
6116This could not scare the other party this time. For this purpose, she could only use this technique. “……”
6117
6118Emilia focused on the board in front of her.
6119
6120Then she connected more easily than expected. The other party was that lady after all.
6121
6122Emilia sat down in front of the glowing board, slowly reading the other party’s consciousness using Idea Link and spoke.
6123
6124“H……hello?”
6125
6126This seemed to be a term for greeting during long distance communication.
6127
6128“Hello? It, it connected? This means that my phone and bag were dropped in different places! Hello?”
6129
6130Phone?
6131
6132Because they did not have a common concept, Emilia was unable to understand the meaning of this term.
6133
6134“Phone……”
6135
6136“Y-Yes. Erhm…… I am the owner of that phone, I’m currently at the police station at Eifuku station.”
6137
6138Based on her impression, Eifuku was the name of this area.
6139
6140Police station must have been referring to the building the policemen use when they were on standby. Emilia quickly unfolded the blue map, and confirmed the location of the concept that could have in common.
6141
6142Station referred to the stopping place of the transport vehicles, so Emilia roughly knew the current location of the lady.
6143
6144It did not seem that far away.
6145
6146“Erhm, then……”
6147
6148“T-Thanks, for the hard work.”
6149
6150“Eh? Uh, yes, erhm……”
6151
6152“What’s your name?”
6153
6154It seemed like she was still unable to receive everything about the language and its concepts.
6155
6156Basically, if they did not share common concepts, they were unable to carry out ‘Idea Link’.
6157
6158Even so, to continue talking with the other party, Emilia judged that it would be better to communicate in the language of this country.
6159
6160She did not realise that it was a fatal mistake.
6161
6162“Eh? Name, erhm, I’m YUSAKEIKO.”
6163
6164“YUSA?”
6165
6166“Ah, yes, the ‘Yu’ from ‘Oyu’, and the ‘Sa’ from ‘Satou’, Yusa Keiko……”
6167
6168(TL Note: Oyu means hot water.)
6169
6170“YUSA…… KEIKO……”
6171
6172She finally knew the lady’s name.
6173
6174The ‘Yu’ and ‘Sa’ written on the objects in the bag must be read as ‘YUSA’.
6175
6176She did not know if the two characters ‘惠’ and ‘子’ were read as ‘KEIKO’, but with this, Emilia finally knew how to read the other party’s name.
6177
6178Emilia replied excitedly, “Your, things…… are, with me.”
6179
6180“Eh?”
6181
6182The other party’s voice transmitted by Idea Link became stiff after Emilia replied.
6183
6184Emilia, realising that she had become too hasty after understanding the other party’s name, said frantically, “Come……
6185
6186to…… the room.”
6187
6188“………………Kyah!”
6189
6190“Eh? Strange?”
6191
6192The call and the Idea Link was suddenly cut off.
6193
6194Emilia had some impression of this feeling, this was a disconnection which frequently happened when the other party fell asleep or lost consciousness.
6195
6196The glowing board seemed to have sensed that the connection was cut off and the surface turned back to the bear diagram again.
6197
6198Did she do something to scare the other party again?
6199
6200However, picking up the other party’s words while using long distance Idea Link was a very mentally draining task.
6201
6202If she could return the things to the other party face to face, she could use Idea Link easily, and more importantly, she could return the bag to its owner and apologise to the lady.
6203
6204However, during the series of questions and answers just now, she had used the language of this country, so there should not be any problems.
6205
6206“……It should be, fine like this……”
6207
6208Since she did not know the exact location of the other party, she could only ask the lady to come over. Because she did not know the correct way of operating the board, it was difficult for her to take the initiative to contact the other party using Idea Link.
6209
6210“I can only wait.”
6211
6212Wait for the lady to come back here.
6213
6214There were many rooms in this building, so someone who had no connections to this building was unlikely to keep coming to the same place.
6215
6216She had to properly welcome the other party next time, and apologise to the lady for many things.
6217
6218Although it could lead to her being arrested by the police, she could only react to the situation when the time comes.
6219
6220From the short conversation with the lady who called herself Yusa Keiko, Emilia obtained significant results. The things she learned this time would probably enable her to converse much better with the police if she met them again.
6221
6222“Thinking about it…… this armour is not a good idea after all.”
6223
6224Emilia now knew the meaning of ‘armoured samurai’.
6225
6226Armoured Samurai. It was true that she was a warrior wearing armour.
6227
6228The lady, who could see through this at once, was amazing, but to show that she was not hostile, it would be better to take off the armour when they next met.
6229
6230However, with this……
6231
6232“Ugh.”
6233
6234Once Emilia took off her shoulder armour, she noticed the smell of rotting food underneath.
6235
6236“I-I have to wash it…… it’ll be impossible the other party to listen to me like this…… ah! Talking about that!”
6237
6238During the Idea Link earlier, Emilia realised that the white and blue map were highly important in Yusa Keiko’s life.
6239
6240The ‘Yu’ in Yusa Keiko’s name seemed to refer to the concept of hot springs and bathing pools.
6241
6242“Found it!”
6243
6244Carefully examining the map filled with unfamiliar words, Emilia let out her first cheer since she came to this country.
6245
6246
6247
6248
6249
6250“……I’m alive again.”
6251
6252Five days after her departure, Emilia walked down the streets of the foreign world, feeling physically and mentally refreshed.
6253
6254Her clothes and undergarments under the armour, which had absorbed the sweat from the fierce battles, were currently clean and smelled like soap.
6255
6256There was a facility known as a ‘paid public bath’ near the building.
6257
6258Emilia did not know what ‘paid’ was until she reached the location, but after eavesdropping on the conversations of the people there, she realised that it meant a small amount of money.
6259
6260The usage of public bathing facilities would not differ as much across different worlds.
6261
6262However, as she had to conform with the unique culture of this country, Emilia mustered up her courage and spoke to the middle-aged woman who appeared to be a staff.
6263
6264If she could have a quiet conversation face to face, the concentration of the information gathered over Idea Link will
6265
6266increase greatly.
6267
6268The middle-aged woman seemed to have assumed that Emilia was a foreigner who could not speak the language, so she spoke to Emilia kindly with carefully chosen words.
6269
6270There were still many things she did not know, but Emilia had learned many words.
6271
6272The problem was with the money Emilia had.
6273
6274She had sworn not to use Yusa Keiko’s money.
6275
6276Before the final battle with the Demon King, with the hope of ‘wanting to return to a peaceful world’, she had placed one gold coin, one silver coin, and one bronze coin into a cloth bag and hid it under her armour. At this time, she tore open that amulet and took out the highest value coin from it.
6277
6278Just as the female staff showed a surprised and perplexed expression, an unexpected source of help appeared.
6279
6280“Oh…… such a rare coin.”
6281
6282The one who spoke to Emilia from behind was an old lady wearing spectacles.
6283
6284“Rare?”
6285
6286“Pass it over, let me have a look.”
6287
6288“Sure, please have a look.”
6289
6290The old lady took out a monocle used by watchmakers and closely examined the surface of the gold coin.
6291
6292“Hm…… at the very least, this is not currency being used in modern Japan or the world, I have also never seen the
6293
6294engraving on the surface before…… but it seems like the gold portion is real.”
6295
6296“But Madam Kimura, though she did take out a real gold coin, we’ll still be troubled as well.”
6297
6298The female staff shrugged and said this to the old lady known as Kimura, but the latter did not answer her.
6299
6300“If you wish, I can buy this. Let me help you pay for this first. Come with me to my store after the bath. I’ll pay you money after I have carefully appraised it.”
6301
6302She did not understand it completely, but Emilia understood that this old lady she met by coincidence was willing to exchange the gold coin for this country’s currency.
6303
6304After that, thanks to the old lady Kimura, Emilia entered the paid public bath successfully. Including how to use the facilities in the paid public bath, Kimura taught many things to Emilia, who did not know the method.
6305
6306Unexpectedly, without wearing any armour, she could talk with other people so easily.
6307
6308This was a huge shock for Emilia.
6309
6310With this, she painfully realised that her unwillingness to put down her weapon and take off her defensive equipment because she did not know when she would encounter the Demon King had caused such a negative effect.
6311
6312Emilia used a liquid which would produce a lot of bubbles to wash her hair, experienced a tap which could freely dispense cold water and hot water, a round cylinder which could blow hot air, and a smooth, shiny mirror. After obtaining many new experiences, she finally finished her bath after many days of not doing so.
6313
6314Kimura also taught her how to use the equipment for washing clothes which was installed within the paid public bath.
6315
6316“A foreigner not bringing a change of clothes, I admire your courage, but I don’t commend it. The money used for buying things here, I will deduct it from the amount after I buy the coin from you.”
6317
6318After knowing that Emilia did not bring a change of clothes, though she felt a little exasperated, Kimura still helped Emilia buy underwear made from a material Emilia had never touched before from the vending machine in the changing room.
6319
6320After putting on the underwear, Emilia waited in front of the equipment for washing clothes for twenty minutes.
6321
6322Smelling of soap, her long sleeved shirt and pants made from hemp restored their dry state.
6323
6324“Do you come from…… a country without any washing machines?”
6325
6326Seeing that Emilia was so touched that she became speechless, Kimura showed a troubled smile.
6327
6328Emilia, worried that the other party would become suspicious, quickly put on her clothes which had become clean, and was taken to Kimura’s store.
6329
6330Inside the store, a sign with the words ‘Watches, Antiques, Precious Metals’ was hung.
6331
6332Kimura fixed the coin on top of a strange looking box and examined the coin with two cylinders.
6333
6334“Hmm…… it looks similar to the ancient coins in Spain, but the purity of the gold is much higher…… five…… no, I’m
6335
6336willing to pay 70,000 yen. What do you think?”
6337
6338She did not know if 70,000 was considered large or not, but she knew that Kimura had ‘increased’ from five to seven.
6339
6340Once Emilia nodded, the old lady showed a rather strange smile and passed seven of the bank notes Emilia saw earlier to her.
6341
6342“Thank you for the business. If you’re facing any more troubles, you can come and find me.”
6343
6344Emilia, who continued using Idea Link during this time, understood in this instant that Kimura was a capable merchant.
6345
6346“Thank you for the business.”
6347
6348This sentence contained the meaning of ‘I made a good deal’.
6349
6350To Kimura, being able to buy this coin with 70,000 was a very profitable transaction. This old lady would definitely sell the coin at a much higher price.
6351
6352Other than that, Emilia obviously did not know this, but this transaction must be recorded regardless of how valuable the items were, but she had never seen such a document before.
6353
6354However, this was fine.
6355
6356Emilia never planned to stay in this country for that long in the first place, and talking with Kimura helped her accumulate many words and terms.
6357
6358Most importantly, she understood that this amount of 70,000 yen would allow her to live in this country for some time.
6359
6360After learning this much, she would have the ability to apologise to Yusa Keiko.
6361
6362In addition, she had obtained money which could be used in this country.
6363
6364After this, she could eat, bathe and wash her clothes whenever she wanted.
6365
6366She needed to thank Kimura based on this fact alone.
6367
6368Of course, this did not mean that everything had been solved.
6369
6370Emilia still needed to return the bag to Yusa Keiko, apologise for entering without permission, and with regards to her original purpose of killing the Demon King, she had no clues at all.
6371
6372The fact that she could not sense any demonic magic after this long was worrying.
6373
6374Where were Demon King Satan and Demon General Alsiel hiding, and what were they planning?
6375
6376“It should be impossible…… but perhaps a human is sheltering them.”
6377
6378Even if the Demon King was injured, not many people could come into contact with his demonic magic and be completely unaffected. Although they had drifted to the same world, it was possible that the two of them were sent to locations far away from each other.
6379
6380“I should find a method to obtain extensive information about this world.”
6381
6382I might be staying here longer than I expected. Just as Emilia felt melancholic when she had this feeling.
6383
6384“W-What is this smell?”
6385
6386As Emilia, in a shameless manner, prepared to return to the room which she had entered illegally from Kimura’s store, a smell drifted from an unknown location which strongly activated her feeling of hunger.
6387
6388It smelled like chilli spices, but the instant her nose picked up this smell, her stomach, which only received water in the past few days, started to rumble loudly.
6389
6390“What is…… this smell……where is it coming from……?”
6391
6392Emilia walked forward, following the smell and, in the end, stood in front of a particular building.
6393
6394It looked like a restaurant.
6395
6396There was a ventilator opening outside the store, allowing the smells to drift out and whet the appetite, and there were products which looked like food shown within the store’s display case.
6397
6398There were many varieties on display, some were scenes of chopsticks picking up some noodles out of the bowl, and some scenes of spoons scooping up grains which had been stir fried or pan fried.
6399
6400Emilia deduced that the numbers on top probably referred to the price, and compared it to the amount she had on her.
6401
6402“I-I don’t think I will be able to afford it!”
6403
6404She could not keep it in anymore.
6405
6406Emilia’s body was craving ‘cuisine’.
6407
6408Not just any casually prepared cuisine which could fill the stomach, but cuisine seriously prepared by chefs which would bring happiness to her stomach.
6409
6410“Chinese…… cuisine…… let’s go!”
6411
6412Emilia opened the glass door bravely.
6413
6414“Welcome!”
6415
6416A sound which she had heard many times was heard from within the store, and after close to two hours, Emilia had not left the store.
6417
6418
6419
6420
6421
6422
6423After filling her stomach with a lot of food she had never eaten before at the place known as a Chinese cuisine store, Emilia naturally returned to that room in the apartment.
6424
6425That’s right, during this journey outdoors, Emilia learned the term ‘apartment’.
6426
6427Normally, after obtaining money which could be used in this country, she would find an inn, but Emilia’s feet walked towards that apartment naturally.
6428
6429Room 501 of ‘Urban Heights Eifuku’, that was the room Emilia had entered illegally.
6430
6431Just like before, the window was not locked, Yusa Keiko’s bag and belongings were also intact.
6432
6433Emilia, who felt like she had come home although she was an intruder, felt a tinge of guilt, but she still decided that she was going to sleep here today as well.
6434
6435“Thinking about it……”
6436
6437Emilia casually surveyed the room.
6438
6439For a building, this apartment was obviously newer than the paid public bath, Kimura’s precious metal store, and the Chinese cuisine store from before.
6440
6441This was brand new amalgamated dwelling on such a large scale, why was no one living here?
6442
6443Before returning to the room, she walked around the surrounding area once, but there were no signs of it being incomplete or damaged.
6444
6445Thanks to that, Emilia obtained a place to stay for two days and temporary funds for her activities, so she had no right to complain, but she was still bothered by this all the same.
6446
6447Yusa Keiko’s actual identity was still a mystery.
6448
6449With regards to this, perhaps she should have chatted more with the old lady known as Kimura.
6450
6451However, that old lady was an opponent who could not be underestimated.
6452
6453Emilia still felt grateful to Kimura for the events at the paid public bath and the exchanging of money, but that old lady had seen through her, knowing that she was a suspicious person with an unclear identity.
6454
6455Emilia had come to defeat the Demon King, she had no plans to, and no need to actively build a relationship with the people of this country, and if this country was a peaceful country, it was more important that she did not do so.
6456
6457Based on this, Emilia should not build too close of a relationship with Yusa Keiko, either way, on moral principle, she had to apologise for scaring the other party and return the things which she had shamelessly borrowed.
6458
6459“If only I could learn more about this country. Hmm~”
6460
6461Sufficient sleep, a clean bath, and delicious cuisine.
6462
6463A mind and body fully satisfied after such a long time, Emilia lay spread eagled on the floor and closed her eyes.
6464
6465She may be ambushed in the morning, but currently, Emilia would be able to sense if anyone was approaching no matter how deeply she slept.
6466
6467After she had closed her eyes, various memories of what happened after she had arrived in this country surfaced in the dark.
6468
6469The shock she felt when she first arrived in this land filled with light with many stone towers concentrated together.
6470
6471The first time she was approached by the police when walking on the street and running away when she was close to getting arrested.
6472
6473Unable to enter any buildings, spending a few hours flying around the roofs of the stone towers (also known as skyscrapers) to look for shelter from the cold rain.
6474
6475Spending three days outside, only drinking water from the public fountains.
6476
6477She was discovered by the police again on the third day, and could not go to the same park anymore.
6478
6479Because she could not hold in her hunger, she wanted to enter a store and use her gold and silver coins to buy something, but because she could not speak the language, the police were called again.
6480
6481Talking about the food she had eaten the past few days, it was only the bread ends distributed by the bread stores (even so, it was at a level of deliciousness which was difficult to find in Ente Isla), and the mash distributed by the stores selling soft white cubes which seemed to be mashed cooked beans and did not have much taste (but could fill her stomach).
6482
6483And where she arrived in the end was this apartment which she was staying illegally.
6484
6485“It feels like I have not encountered anything good……”
6486
6487They were all memories which were more tragic than expected.
6488
6489Emilia could not help but crouch over to hold back her tears.
6490
6491When she first arrived here, she only had the thought that she had got something good by being able to lie down and rest in the balcony, but because the window happened to be unlocked, she was able to enter the room.
6492
6493She was able to learn some things about this country in the end, but it was really just a coincidence.
6494
6495She had strayed from her comrades in the new lands during the journey around Ente Isla, but she had never encountered a situation where she was completely unable to communicate with anyone when arriving at a land for the first time.
6496
6497Basically, no matter where they went, they were welcomed as the Hero and company who defeated Demon General Lucifer, Emilia only knew now, even if that part was not considered, the reason why she was able to avoid the many troubles during travelling was because of her comrades’ experience and rank.
6498
6499In the Western Continent protected by the Theocracy, there was no one who did not know Olba Meyer, one of the six Archbishops, the highest decision-making body in the Theocracy, and in countries on bad relations with the Theocracy, the reputation of the Court Sorceress of Saint Aire Empire, Emerada Etuva, was also a strong influence.
6500
6501After leaving the Western Continent, having many mysterious connections all over the world, as long as Alberto was around, there was no problem they could not solve.
6502
6503“Olba…… Em…… Alber……”
6504
6505Emilia called out her comrades’ names softly.
6506
6507Strong, kind, dependable, important comrades whom she could entrust her life and heart to.
6508
6509None of them were around now.
6510
6511“I want to see all of you……”
6512
6513Emilia sighed lightly and one tear flowed down her cheek, and without being aware of it, she fell asleep like this.
6514
6515
6516
6517
6518
6519“……Hmm?”
6520
6521Emilia woke up because she felt a strange aura approaching.
6522
6523Many humans were approaching. Emilia got up quickly, opened the door at the porch, and looked down from the corridor.
6524
6525Close to ten men wearing blue and gray were gathered at the entrance of the apartment, and a vehicle carrying a large metal box was parked on the road in front of the apartment.
6526
6527“That is?”
6528
6529There was a lady mixed within the group of men. Yusa Keiko.
6530
6531Feeling a dangerous aura, Emilia returned to the room. It seemed like this encounter would be different from before.
6532
6533The men around her did not look like policemen, but these could be reinforcements Yusa Keiko found to chase her away.
6534
6535“……No matter what, I cannot stay here anymore.”
6536
6537She wanted to apologise to the other party directly, but this was not the time to say these things.
6538
6539Emilia placed Yusa Keiko’s bag which she had packed last night in front of the porch, put on her armour again, and after turning around and glancing at the room once more as if she could not bear to leave it behind, Emi opened the window and flipped over the balcony.
6540
6541â—‡
6542
6543“There really is one! There’s a spirit! It would be better to exorcise every single room!”
6544
6545“Idiot! Didn’t I tell you not to say such unnecessary things in front of the renovators!?”
6546
6547“But, there really is……”
6548
6549“Stop this already! You should clearly know the situation of Urban Heights Eifuku! Alarming the police because of a strange reason of spirit haunting during the time we need to increase the occupancy rate. What are we supposed to do if strange rumours spread!?”
6550
6551“B-But…… before I came here, the surrounding neighbours have been making enquiries at the company because they
6552
6553saw strange things……”
6554
6555“That’s enough! Just open the first rooms from the first to fifth floor!”
6556
6557“U-Until the fifth floor? Won’t we be entering room 501 then! The spirit appeared there!”
6558
6559“Just go already! What spirit will appear during the daytime!?”
6560
6561“H-How can this be……”
6562
6563At the entry hall of Urban Heights Eifuku, a man and woman were having a heated discussion in low voices.
6564
6565The woman was Yusa Keiko whom Emilia had met before, the man seemed to be her superior.
6566
6567In front of the two people, a few employees who were wearing uniforms from the decorating company were looking at a large pile of documents to confirm the tasks they had to carry out later.
6568
6569“I’m sorry! Can we start now?”
6570
6571“You see!? They’re asking about it! Hurry and unlock the doors! We’re coming! I’m asking her to open the doors! Hey! Hurry up and go!”
6572
6573The superior showed a huge smile at the manager from the other side, and ordered Keiko with an ogre-like expression.
6574
6575“I’m returning to the agency at three o’clock in the afternoon, if you continue to delay this, I’m going to make you settle everything on your own.”
6576
6577“I-I understand, I’ll, I’ll do it.”
6578
6579Keiko, who looked like she was close to crying, ran up the stairs while holding a uniquely shaped key.
6580
6581“Uuuu, why am I in charge of this kind of project……”
6582
6583Because the elevator was reserved for the renovators, wearing flat shoes which had no heels, Keiko ran up the stairs while complaining.
6584
6585Urban Heights Eifuku was the worst performing apartment project in the history of the company ‘Omura City Area Real Estate Pte Ltd’, which Keiko worked for.
6586
6587During the economic slump in the recent five years, the condominium sales within the city centre were still rising steadily.
6588
6589The unorganised building of high rise condominiums at Tokyo Bay was representative of this trend, however, the competition of the condominium industry to attract customers in the city centre outskirts was getting more and more intense.
6590
6591The unit value within Tokyo District 23 was on an increasing trend because of the transportation convenience with Ikebukuro Station, Shinjuku Station, Shibuya Station, Meguro Station, Osaki Station, Shinagawa Station, Tokyo Station and Ueno Station.
6592
6593The key was not because of the area surrounding these various stations but the lands which were within the range of several stations leading to the JR, private, and underground trains.
6594
6595From the Showa Era to the early years of the Heisei Era, people have avoided the city centre where the land was expensive, and the population in the suburbs and satellite cities such as Saitama, Chiba, and Kanagawa kept increasing, causing an obvious doughnut phenomenon. However, people were slowly returning to the city centre, creating a small doughnut phenomenon to form around the terminal stations.
6596
6597(TL Note: Doughnut phenomenon is where there are less people in the city centre and more people in the suburbs. Drawing the concentration will cause the diagram to look like a doughnut.)
6598
6599Amongst this, built at this perfect location, Urban Heights Eifuku was a large project with the fate of the company on the line, and everyone believed that it would be successful.
6600
6601There was a Rapid Train station on the Keio Inokashira line, and it was also easy to go to Shibuya, Kichijoji and Shijuku, three areas within the city where people liked to gather.
6602
6603The bus stop for the Keio bus in the Eifuku subdivision was also the bus stop for the first and last bus, it was easy to go anywhere in the city.
6604
6605There were medium scale commercial facilities and a large-scale shopping street nearby, and the surroundings were made up of many old and quiet residual residential areas, so not only was it an area with many amenities nearby, the scenery from the high floors was amazing.
6606
6607However, in reality, although Urban Heights Eifuku was only three years old, the occupancy rate was still a shocking zero percent, a ghost apartment.
6608
6609Honestly speaking, there were no factors for failure in this project.
6610
6611However, rather than walking on the path towards success, Urban Heights Eifuku had failed before standing on the starting point.
6612
6613“In fact, this isn’t our fault. Sigh……”
6614
6615After opening room 401, Keiko looked up at the ceiling melancholically.
6616
6617‘Eifuku’s futuristic living environment, beginning soon’, was the slogan for Urban Heights Eifuku.
6618
6619The parent company of Omura City Area Real Estate Pte Ltd, Omura Group General Trading Company, had been pushing this project strongly since the construction began, so only half a year after the advertising began, including the penthouses on the top floors, the sales for the high floors had reached eighty percent.
6620
6621The rental portions of the middle and low floors have also received many enquiries.
6622
6623When everyone was sure that this project was going to succeed, Urban Heights Eifuku suddenly stepped off the red carpet to success.
6624
6625The reason was because of some minor errors in the documents.
6626
6627Because one part of the land which was bought was a land containing buried cultural property, there was a need to conduct development surveys before building a high rise building at that location.
6628
6629This was a very normal procedure, but after that, the district agency pointed out that according to the records, the application should be filed sixty days before the construction start date. The filing was submitted fifty nine days before the construction start date.
6630
6631It had been a few months after the application was filed, and saying this when the construction was almost completed would only trouble others, but rules are rules.
6632
6633To eliminate any problems before the completion, the city district company followed the law and conducted an investigation within the company.
6634
6635This was when Hell began.
6636
6637After conducting a large-scale investigation, many truths were discovered one after another which could not be explained away as an error in paperwork.
6638
6639Close to completion, Urban Heights Eifuku was, simply put, an estate where many shortcuts were taken.
6640
6641The constructions materials differed from the original plans and the structural calculations were watered down, leading to less materials than required being ordered. Both were huge problems enough to overturn the company, but after that they discovered scandals such as the insulation and earthquake resistance grades being tampered with, and that some employees had tampered with and falsified receipts, pocketing the excess budget. The problems had grown to such a large scale that it could not be solved by the company’s internal department.
6642
6643Since the successful sales had already reached eighty percent, the company had to accept criticism from various parties and face the prospects of damage compensations and legal proceedings. It was not just Omura City Area Real Estate Pte Ltd, their parent company Omura Group also suffered a rare huge drop in stock market.
6644
6645The board members of Omura City Area Real Estate Pte Ltd were all changed. A board member on the Omura Merchant Association, the highest level of the Omura Group was also forced to resign. Having just entered the working society, Yusa Keiko could not imagine the number of people who had lost their jobs during this period.
6646
6647Keiko experienced a stormy year after entering the working society, and two years after this nightmarish completion, she was assigned to the ‘Urban Heights Eifuku Restoration Project’.
6648
6649They wanted to resume the promotion of Urban Heights Eifuku which had fallen into Hell.
6650
6651As long as they did not sell the land and the building, and restored the building back to the state it should have been in by their own efforts, they would regain the trust they had lost, this was the direction pushed down by the group.
6652
6653The group picked out all the falsehoods which caused issues at that time and spent three years to renovate one apartment building.
6654
6655The project and company had failed, but there should still be value in the location.
6656
6657They were probably unable to reach the commercial scale of the original plan, but if they could recover some of the trust they had lost, that would be the best result.
6658
6659“So I know that it will be really bad if rumours of spirits get out…… but there really is one……”
6660
6661In the corridor illuminated by the morning sun, Keiko gulped as she stood in front of Room 501.
6662
6663Keiko saw it.
6664
6665A human disappeared before her eyes. A stench she had never smelled before. A door which opened by itself. A faint and terrifying voice although there was not one around. A voice calling out to her, chasing her. A spirit light floating in the air, and a figure of an armoured Samurai behind that spirit fire.
6666
6667“Uuuu, I hate this, I don’t want to go in.”
6668
6669Nothing had happened yet, but Keiko looked like she was going to cry. However, she did not want to get scolded by her superior.
6670
6671A spirit in front of her and her supervisor behind her. How did she end up in such an unreasonable situation?
6672
6673Even so, her superior and company were working very hard.
6674
6675In a slightly different way from before, Urban Heights Eifuku would affect the fate of their company. For the sake of carrying out the promotion plans to the customers today, Keiko also survived a harsh journey.
6676
6677She could not stop here.
6678
6679“Spirits do not exist spirits do not exist spirits do not exist spirits do not exist!”
6680
6681Remembering all the hard times she had experienced until now, and the fact that it was still morning, Keiko made up her mind and opened the door to Room 501.
6682
6683“…………Ugh.”
6684
6685There was nothing.
6686
6687No unusual stench.
6688
6689Of course there was no spirit fire or armoured Samurai.
6690
6691“Fuuuu.”
6692
6693Keiko exhaled the breath she had been holding.
6694
6695She must have been too tense and saw an illusion. She tried to convince herself with this, but Keiko still walked into the room nervously.
6696
6697“Ah! My bag!”
6698
6699She noticed that her bag was in the middle of the room.
6700
6701Last night, when she ran out of the police station in fright after hearing a spirit’s voice, it was only then did she realise that she had dropped her bag.
6702
6703Keiko definitely knew that her bag, filled with the important tools for her job, had dropped here, but she did not dare to go back last night to get it.
6704
6705“Ah~ thank god! It’s here after all. Yeah, seems like the things inside are fine.”
6706
6707Keiko rushed into the room and roughly confirmed the contents of the bag.
6708
6709“…………Eh?”
6710
6711Then immediately realised that something was strange.
6712
6713“……Eh?”
6714
6715She turned back to look at the porch door which she had just opened.
6716
6717Last night, once she entered the porch, she immediately ran away from the spirit fire and armoured Samurai.
6718
6719Why was her bag in a room which had been locked?
6720
6721“S-S-Strange? Eh, this is, what is going on?”
6722
6723Could it be that she did not see a spirit, but a suspicious person who had sneaked into the room?
6724
6725However, if the other party was a human, then it would be more difficult to understand. How did the intruder enter this room, and how did the person escape after the porch door was locked?
6726
6727This was the fifth floor.
6728
6729To guard against burglars, there were no emergency stairs or pipes on the external wall, the emergency ladder was designed in such a way that it would not be controlled from the lower floors.
6730
6731“……Ugh!”
6732
6733Keiko rushed to the balcony and discovered that the windows were not locked.
6734
6735However, the emergency ladder in Room 501 was still folded neatly.
6736
6737“W-Who put my bag into the room?”
6738
6739If this was done by a human, how did that person enter, and how did the person leave the room?
6740
6741“Could it be, that the person’s still around?”
6742
6743Considering that her superior and the renovators were downstairs, Keiko surveyed the room resolutely.
6744
6745The toilet, bathroom, and closet did not show any signs of anyone entering them.
6746
6747If so, only the balcony next door was left.
6748
6749“There’s no one.”
6750
6751Even if normal people ignored the rules, the structure of Urban Heights Eifuku was such that people could only use the external balcony to move around. Between the two balconies, there was a few meters of wall with no place which could be grabbed, but this distance could be crossed via jumping.
6752
6753“How, how was it……”
6754
6755Keiko, who decided to tell Kazumura downstairs that all the rooms have been opened, subconsciously reached into her bag––
6756
6757“……Strange?”
6758
6759After realising she was missing something which should normally be there, she sucked in a breath.
6760
6761
6762
6763
6764
6765“~~Ugh!”
6766
6767Some distance away from the apartment, Emilia was troubled.
6768
6769She was holding a strange board with a glowing surface.
6770
6771“I took it out accidentally……”
6772
6773â—‡
6774
6775The evening sun caused Urban Heights Eifuku to cast a long shadow in the city.
6776
6777Pale faced and holding a DSLR camera, Keiko watched evening sun.
6778
6779Currently, she was the only person in the apartment.
6780
6781Her supervisor and the renovators who moved the furniture in have already left, but Keiko’s work was just beginning.
6782
6783After the sun had set, she had to film and take photos of the appearance of the first rooms from the first and fifth floor at night.
6784
6785Photos which could be used for the promotional materials would then be chosen from the recorded material.
6786
6787Normally, advertising agencies or professional photographers would be hired to take the photos used in advertisements, but in the Urban Heights Restoration Project, other than things which could only be obtained by outsourcing, all sales related tasks had to be done by an employee of the company.
6788
6789The upper management had said that this was something which had to be done to regain their reputation, comply with business standards, and reduce costs, but to the people doing it, this was only a method for one person to take on more tasks, decreasing the overall efficiency.
6790
6791Keiko, who had just gotten used to her job and was considered a newbie in her department, happened to be the most suitable person for this kind of job.
6792
6793Keiko would normally convince herself that it could not be helped in this situation, but it was completely different this time.
6794
6795There was an unexplainable existence in this apartment.
6796
6797She did not know if it was a spirit or an intruder, but Keiko experienced many strange things.
6798
6799For example, the strange incident where her bag was placed in an impossible location.
6800
6801She did not hear any sounds from unidentified origins, but her newly bought Slimphone had disappeared from her bag, causing her to feel uneasy.
6802
6803Her mobile phone and bag had disappeared for two days, but she had been so busy that she had been unable to go to the mobile phone store to report the loss.
6804
6805Work related calls could be handled with the phones distributed by the company, but as Keiko frequently used her own phone during work, this was very inconvenient.
6806
6807Therefore, she called her own Slimphone last night, and an unknown person picked up the call.
6808
6809It felt as if the voice from the phone and the voice which called out to her at the apartment were very similar, but because the voice sounded very far away, she could not confirm it. In the first place, her memories were vague because she had been scared out of her mind.
6810
6811“When it’s night, I’m going to quickly take some pictures and go home!”
6812
6813Keiko shouted as if to get rid of her terrifying memories, and took the chance to revise the shooting locations which had been picked beforehand in the various rooms, changing her camera mode to night time indoor shooting.
6814
6815“Hm~ this lighting is an issue after all. It would be better to move it a little.”
6816
6817The renovators which Keiko and her supervisor found placed the various furniture in each room in a magnificent manner.
6818
6819It was not just for one night, Room 201, catering to families and Room 501, catering to people living alone, would be used as display rooms and would be opened to the public for some time.
6820
6821“The water usage area is a focal point too. Since we used the newest model this year for the taps, it would be a waste not to take a photo of it.”
6822
6823She was seen as a newbie in her department, but having worked for three years, she still accumulated three years of pride and knowledge.
6824
6825As long as she switched her attitude, she would focus on her work and forget about everything else.
6826
6827During this time, the night scenery outside the window darkened.
6828
6829Keiko turned on the interior lighting one after another and started to prepare for the photo shooting.
6830
6831At this moment, someone knocked on the door of Room 501 from outside.
6832
6833“Uh?”
6834
6835Keiko almost dropped the camera in her hands.
6836
6837Who was that?
6838
6839It was probably her superior or someone from the company. It might also be the renovators who forgot something.
6840
6841However, no matter who it was, why were they not using master key to enter?
6842
6843Just as Keiko froze, the knocking was heard again.
6844
6845At this moment, she remembered that the porch door was not locked.
6846
6847So this was no longer an issue of not having a master key. If it was someone from the company, they would just open the door and enter.
6848
6849“Who, is that……”
6850
6851Being careful not to make any sound while walking, Keiko activated the intercom in the living room which had a screen. “……?”
6852
6853The image captured by the high definition wide angle camera was shown on the screen, and a long-haired lady who she had never seen before was standing there.
6854
6855The casually dressed lady was wearing a simple white shirt and long pants, and a huge cloth bag was placed at her feet.
6856
6857At least that figure who was looking left and right with a troubled expression did not look like a spirit.
6858
6859Keiko touched her chest and breathed out in relief.
6860
6861Her attire was concerning, but it felt like the rental furniture vendor had bought over something she forgot.
6862
6863If they knew that it was an apartment which was going to be sold, it would be reasonable not to use the intercom. “Sorry, I’m opening the door now.”
6864
6865Keiko pressed down on her pounding chest and shouted towards the intercom.
6866
6867After that, for unknown reasons, the lady in the video suddenly started to survey the surroundings in a bewildered manner.
6868
6869She probably shocked the other party because she replied too late. Keiko opened the porch door while thinking this– –
6870
6871“Eh?”
6872
6873––then froze on the spot, speechless.
6874
6875The lady had disappeared. And only the cloth bag was left.
6876
6877“………………Ehh?”
6878
6879Keiko looked left and right, but there was no one on the long corridor.
6880
6881It was less than ten seconds from the time she answered the intercom to the time she opened the door.
6882
6883Were humans able to suddenly disappear in less than ten seconds without any sound of footsteps being heard? “What is this?”
6884
6885Keiko, who could not comprehend the situation, mumbled this, and as she took one step out of the room, she kicked the cloth bag at her feet.
6886
6887“Clank?”
6888
6889The sound of hard objects hitting each other was heard.
6890
6891Keiko opened the cloth bag, and inside, she discovered––
6892
6893“A-Armour? Eh, ah?”
6894
6895Keiko could not help but jump backwards, falling to the ground.
6896
6897This looked like western style armour.
6898
6899This differed slightly from the description of an armoured Samurai, but it was still enough to make Keiko remember the spirit from that night.
6900
6901“What, what is going on?”
6902
6903No matter how much she rubbed her eyes, or how much time passed, the armour in the cloth bag did not disappear.
6904
6905Keiko sat down on the floor in fright, unable to move.
6906
6907
6908
6909
6910
6911On the other hand, Emilia kept watch on that apartment so she could return the glowing board to Yusa Keiko.
6912
6913As Yusa Keiko had not shown signs of coming out after the men had returned, Emilia had thought that she could grasp
6914
6915Yusa Keiko’s movements if she continued waiting.
6916
6917Coincidentally, the lights of that room lit up, Emilia ran over quickly and knocked on the door to return the glowing board.
6918
6919However, as the voice which responded did not seem to come from within the room but a completely unrelated direction, Emilia thought that Yusa Keiko had prepared troops to ambush her, so she could not help but hide herself.
6920
6921By the way, Emilia was hiding outside the corridor.
6922
6923In other words, she had stuck herself on the exterior wall of the apartment.
6924
6925However, after hiding herself, she realised that not only were there no reinforcements, Yusa Keiko was the only person in the room.
6926
6927What is going on?
6928
6929After a short period of suffocating silence.
6930
6931“……Uwahhhhh.”
6932
6933“Eh?”
6934
6935Suddenly hearing Yusa Keiko’s crying, Emilia got a shock.
6936
6937“I hate this, I had enough…… what is going on…… did I do something wrong…… uawhhhh!”
6938
6939“Eh? Eh?”
6940
6941“I didn’t do anything wrong…… it’s all the fault of those people who took shortcuts in the first place! Why do I have to
6942
6943encounter such things!?”
6944
6945Emilia, who was stuck on the wall, could not understand this.
6946
6947“I had no responsibility in this, why do I have to be scolded, spend so much time and experience such terrifying things for something which happened a few years ago…… I’ve had enough!”
6948
6949Emilia felt a surge of guilt which she had never felt before.
6950
6951She came to apologise and she made the other party cry instead.
6952
6953She did not understand half of what Yusa Keiko said, but she could confirm that her actions had scared the other party again.
6954
6955Emilia, who decided that she must apologise directly this time, peeked out and said, “Er, erhm, I’m sorry, for scaring you……”
6956
6957“Kyahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!”
6958
6959Naturally, Yusa Keiko let out a scream and, abandoning the company camera, she ran into the room.
6960
6961â—‡
6962
6963“Kyahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!” While screaming, Keiko fell over in the room.
6964
6965There was no place to stand on the exterior side of the corridor, yet a lady’s face appeared there.
6966
6967Only spirits could show their face in that kind of place, for Yusa Keiko who had experienced strange things the past few days, it was impossible to tell her not to be afraid.
6968
6969“Stay away stay awayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!”
6970
6971“Er, erhm, please wait a moment! I’m not a suspicious person.”
6972
6973If this was known as not suspicious, then the world would be peaceful forever.
6974
6975“Evil spirts begone evil spirits begone!”
6976
6977“E-Evil spirit? No…… I’m just……”
6978
6979“Noooooo, someone save meeeeeee!”
6980
6981“…………….◊◊◊◊◊! ◊◊◊◊!”
6982
6983“Eep!”
6984
6985At this instant, Keiko’s was surrounded by a warm air bubble.
6986
6987â—‡
6988
6989“Evil spirts begone evil spirits begone!”
6990
6991“E-Evil spirit? No…… I’m just……”
6992
6993“Noooooo, someone save meeeeeee!”
6994
6995“…………Oh seriously! Take it as a plea from me, just listen to me already!”
6996
6997Emilia walked towards Yusa Keiko who was hugging her head and crouching over, placing her fingers on Keiko’s forehead––
6998
6999“Connect!”
7000
7001“Eep!”
7002
7003––and transmitted the telekinetic wave for Idea Link.
7004
7005At this moment, Emilia’s and Keiko’s ideas connected.
7006
7007“……Do you understand, what I’m saying?”
7008
7009“Y-Yeah?”
7010
7011Yusa Keiko replied in a dazed manner.
7012
7013The instant Keiko’s focus began to return after swept away by fear and met Emilia’s eyes–– “Who…… are you?”
7014
7015“……Long story short, I……”
7016
7017“The spirit of an employee who had to take responsibility and was forced to resign because the apartment failed?” “......am from a place different from this world…… eh?”
7018
7019It was too late to find out now, but Emilia confirmed that she had been misunderstood to be a spirit and the expression on her face changed subtly.
7020
7021The concept of ‘spirits’ in Ente Isla was different from Japan, but both refer to the dead wandering in the world of the living.
7022
7023“A different world…… refers to which world?”
7024
7025That world was probably referred to Heaven mentioned by the Theocracy.
7026
7027It felt a place where spirits would be guided to after death of their living body.
7028
7029“Uh, it’s not like that…… anyway, I wanted to meet you and apologise to you directly.”
7030
7031“Apologise……”
7032
7033“I entered this place without permission and scared you, I’m really sorry. I don’t have any bad intentions. I was just unclear about the rules of this world.”
7034
7035“Are…… you human?”
7036
7037“Y-Yes, so I’m not some spirit……”
7038
7039“Even if you can suddenly disappear, or float on the exterior wall of the corridor?”
7040
7041“Uh, to someone who can use spells, this is something very normal…… this country doesn’t have these kinds of
7042
7043techniques?”
7044
7045After Emilia thought about it for a while, and used a spell which would not be that shocking.
7046
7047“Floating in the air like this……”
7048
7049“This is a dream this is a dream that’s right this must be a dream there are many spirits with legs in this world in the first place it’s a dream dream dream……”
7050
7051“Sorry. I won’t ask strange things anymore.”
7052
7053Emilia did not expect that just having her body float above the floor a little was enough to frighten Keiko that much. From this, even if Yusa Keiko died from shock and fright the day Emilia produced the illumination or flame, Emilia
7054
7055could not complain.
7056
7057“Then, I came today to return this.”
7058
7059“Dream dream dream dream dream……”
7060
7061“Please accept this.”
7062
7063“Ah, yes, eh? Ahhh! My mobile phone!”
7064
7065Emilia held out the Slimphone and after seeing it, Keiko got a huge shock.
7066
7067“Is this…… known as a mobile phone?”
7068
7069Emilia handed the glowing board which was known as a mobile phone back to Keiko.
7070
7071“What tool is this?”
7072
7073Emilia scrutinised it carefully in surprise, and asked this to Keiko who was mumbling softly ‘it feels like things have turned a little strange’, the latter responded in a dumbfounded manner.
7074
7075“Mobile phones did not exist in your era?”
7076
7077“Hmm?”
7078
7079Emilia was troubled for a while, then immediately understood what Keiko meant.
7080
7081“Seriously, I’m not an ancient spirit, so stop misunderstanding already.”
7082
7083“I heard that some spirits are not aware that they have died.”
7084
7085“I already said I’m not a spirit! Just treat me as a foreigner who is in this country for the first time!”
7086
7087“But your Japanese is so good?”
7088
7089“That is also because of spells…… seriously! This is so troublesome!”
7090
7091Emilia was very troubled, but at this time, she knew clearly that Keiko knew nothing about spells. However, if spells did not exist here, this meant that the cultural background which Emilia had grew up in could not be used in this country at all.
7092
7093“Anyway! I always wanted to apologise to you! I’m sorry for scaring you so many times, and entering this room without permission!”
7094
7095“T-That’s it! Since you admitted intruding into this room, and, and you’re not a spirit, then how did you come in here!?”
7096
7097“Didn’t you see it just now!? I used the flying spell you saw just now and came up to the balcony to rest, then I discovered that the windows to this room were not locked!”
7098
7099During this time, Emilia was continuously learning the language of this country which was used by the other party, but she was still unable to fully grasp the various things she truly wanted to know about this country.
7100
7101While it was easier to obtain concepts from Keiko than old lady Kimura, if she wanted to pull out the information she wanted, she would need to spend more time.
7102
7103However, if she interacted with Keiko for too long, it was difficult to guarantee that her existence would not affect Keiko’s life unnecessarily.
7104
7105Worrying about her future, Emilia became moody.
7106
7107â—‡
7108
7109“I already said I’m not a spirit! Just treat me as a foreigner who is in this country for the first time!”
7110
7111The whole time, Keiko felt something was off.
7112
7113“But your Japanese is so good?”
7114
7115She had already spoken with the lady who had suddenly appeared for a few minutes, but the voice of the lady in front of her seemed to echo in her cranium from a faraway place like a radio, making her feel that something was strange.
7116
7117The words said by the other party did reach her ears. However, these sounds and the content of what she understood were a little different. Keiko, unable to understand what was going on, began to feel more and more confused.
7118
7119“That is also because of ◊◊…… seriously! This is so troublesome!”
7120
7121And in what the lady said, there were occasionally some terms which she did not understand.
7122
7123When she heard terms she could not understand, the strangeness felt in her brain would produce noise like a radio tuned to a wrong frequency, and this noise would grow louder and louder.
7124
7125“Anyway! I always wanted to apologise to you! I’m sorry for scaring you so many times, and entering this room without permission!”
7126
7127“T-That’s it! Since you admitted intruding into this room, and, and you’re not a spirit, then how did you come in here!?”
7128
7129“Didn’t you see it just now!? I used the ◊◊◊◊◊ you saw just now and came up to the balcony to rest, then I discovered that the windows to this room were not locked!”
7130
7131“Even if you said that the window was unlocked, you wouldn’t be able to come up to the fifth floor directly……!”
7132
7133The information transmitted by the lady was difficult to absorb.
7134
7135Sometimes, even if the other party was talking about some familiar things, it still felt as if she was hearing it for the first time.
7136
7137Just before waking up, the dream world and reality would intersect, Keiko felt that she was stuck in this state, and at this moment, the lady spoke.
7138
7139“Anyway, I swear that I will not appear in this room anymore, and I will not cause you any trouble anymore!”
7140
7141“Oh……”
7142
7143“So…… at the end, I want to ask you something…… no, I hope you can tell me this.”
7144
7145“Yes?”
7146
7147“This mobile phone, what tool is this? I heard your voice yesterday through this mobile phone, is this like the ◊◊◊◊ of ◊◊◊◊, a tool used to talk to someone far away?”
7148
7149What is a mobile phone? Was the other party actually asking this seriously?
7150
7151“Rather than a mobile phone…… this is a Slimphone……but……”
7152
7153A Slimphone was a type of mobile phone, other than making calls, using the technology of big data communication, it has the function to serve as a mobile communication endpoint device. These Slimphones were being sold at the three large telecommunication companies and some internet providers in Japan.
7154
7155If a person wanted to buy a Slimphone, they had to go to a mobile phone seller or an electronics store to choose a model and a plan, then buy it by paying in one go or in installments.
7156
7157“Eh, what is this?”
7158
7159The mobile phone Keiko used was the newest model released by DoCoDeMo. She had decided to buy a new phone because her old feature phone had broken, but Keiko was not good with electronics in the first place, so she only got used to it only recently.
7160
7161“Wait, wait a minute, I didn’t plan to ask about this in the first place……”
7162
7163When changing mobile phones, because her old phone contract was signed under her father whose home was in Aomori, in order to change the contract to her own name, she even asked her family to send proof that they were father and daughter. Because she only needed her identification documents when she wanted to change her mobile phone in high school, there was a period of time when she did not know what to do at all.
7164
7165“S-Strange! Even these kinds of things……”
7166
7167It was only at that time did Keiko find out that her parents had been helping her pay her phone bills during the first two years she had been working, and when she saw the bank account transcript which was sent to her, she cried because she hit her deeply that she was truly staying very far away from her parents.
7168
7169At the beginning, when she was hired by the famous and reputable Omura Group, her parents were happy for her, however Keiko was immediately involved in the commotion surrounding Urban Heights Eifuku, and in her first year after entering working society, her mental state had become very fatigued.
7170
7171Within the chaotic company, newbies were thrown onto the scenes to face many issues without finishing their training. Many of her comrades in the same batch had disappeared during the first year. However, Keiko had lived alone in the city when she was studying, and at that time, when she was working as the customer service agent at DoCoDeMo’s call centre, she had pulled through in the end regardless of how much she had been scolded by others, or how many unreasonable inquiries she had received. Because she had this kind of experience, she could survive through that period.
7172
7173When the Urban Heights Eifuku Restoration Project ended, she had planned to go home and visit her family, something which she had not done in three years since she started working.
7174
7175“No…… if this goes on……!”
7176
7177At this instant, Keiko’s consciousness was momentarily surrounded by darkness.
7178
7179â—‡
7180
7181Keiko’s thoughts rushed in like an angry wave.
7182
7183“Eh, what is this?”
7184
7185Emilia felt troubled, she only asked about the tool called a mobile phone, but before Keiko opened her mouth, her thoughts and memories related to the ‘mobile phone’ flowed continuously into Emilia’s brain, as if both their brains had connected.
7186
7187“Wait, wait a minute, I didn’t plan to ask about this in the first place……”
7188
7189Even the series of events detailing how Keiko ended up being involved with this building unfolded in Emilia’s brain with such clarity that it felt like she was seeing everything in person.
7190
7191At the same time, everything Keiko needed to know to study, work, and survive in this country called Japan spread to Emilia’s brain.
7192
7193“S-Strange! Even these kinds of things……”
7194
7195The face of a middle-aged man she had never seen before, was it the face of Keiko’s father? The snow build-up in her hometown of Aomori was very deep, that stern expression and deep-set features was very similar to the men living deep in the mountains of the Northern Continent of Ente Isla.
7196
7197That father seemed like he did not talk much, but he loved Keiko deeply, and Keiko understood this, so to not humiliate her father, she did not slack off and studied hard.
7198
7199The work at DoCoDeMo was difficult but the hourly pay was high, allowing Keiko to earn enough money to support herself during her job search without relying that much on her family.
7200
7201After the work related to the apartment was done, she wanted to return home to visit her parents.
7202
7203“No…… if this goes on……!”
7204
7205Emilia grabbed her head and shouted.
7206
7207“Dispel connection! Ah!”
7208
7209Emilia forcefully broke off the Idea Link, stopping her connection with Keiko.
7210
7211Keiko panted lightly, and closed her eyes.
7212
7213As for Emilia, her eyes were wide open, she was sweating cold sweat, and gasping for air.
7214
7215“Just now…… that…… I never thought Idea Link, would have this kind of effect……”
7216
7217Emilia looked at her shaking palm, and shuddered because of the unbelievable situation.
7218
7219That was definitely Idea Link going out of control. Her forehead was burning as if she had a fever, her mind was blank and her heart was beating too vigorously.
7220
7221Most importantly, she realised that she had used up a lot of stamina in a relatively short amount of time.
7222
7223“My holy magic…… went out of control?”
7224
7225Only this possibility was left.
7226
7227A corresponding amount of holy magic had to be consumed when using spells, but Idea Link should not require that much holy magic.
7228
7229Moreover, this was to establish communication between her mind and another person. If the holy magic reversed flow accidentally, not only would it hurt the other party, her mind would also be in danger.
7230
7231However, Emilia had never failed in her control of Idea Link before.
7232
7233This was just like the memory release spell used during criminal investigations where they extracted the contents of the other party’s mind.
7234
7235Any spells related to memories were advanced spells, Emilia only knew the existence of such spells but had never learned them. At most, she only knew the spell to temporarily seal memories.
7236
7237And she had only succeeded when sealing the recent memories of children who had been traumatised by the disasters caused by the Demon King Army. If it had to be done on adults with strong sense of self, only Emerada or Olba could carry it out.
7238
7239“What is going on? Magic control…… ugh……”
7240
7241Emilia felt a wave of dizziness and had to sit on the floor.
7242
7243“Why…… even when losing control, Idea Link shouldn’t tire out someone this much……”
7244
7245After Emilia said this, she immediately looked towards Keiko who had closed her eyes and hung her head.
7246
7247This country had no concept of spells. This country did not have spells. No spells meant……
7248
7249“No holy magic?”
7250
7251Once she said it, the fear brought about by this fact tightened around Emilia’s heart.
7252
7253The holy magic in Ente Isla’s atmosphere was an important energy source for spells.
7254
7255The humans in Ente Isla all absorbed holy magic in varying amounts throughout their lives.
7256
7257However, there was no holy magic in this country known as Japan. No, perhaps this world, the whole Earth had no holy magic.
7258
7259Holy magic capacity varied from person to person, and it was not rare to have people who could not use spells at all.
7260
7261Even so, everyone would still absorb holy magic, Emilia did not know what would happen when a person ran out of holy magic completely.
7262
7263“There…… really is none?”
7264
7265Emilia touched Keiko’s hand and emitted a weak sonar into her body.
7266
7267“……Yah!”
7268
7269At this moment, as if she had been injected with stimulants, Keiko opened her eyes.
7270
7271“T-There really isn’t any……”
7272
7273Keiko’s body did not return any holy magic response at all.
7274
7275The reaction from Keiko just now was due to holy magic accumulating in the heart, a normal characteristic.
7276
7277“S-Strange, why am I…… ah, Spirit-san......”
7278
7279She understood the term spirit, but because she had not accumulated enough vocabulary, Emilia could not even understand half of what Keiko was saying if she did not use Idea Link.
7280
7281However, if she continued to connect with Keiko, not only was she unable to guarantee Keiko’s safety, she did not know how it would affect her as well.
7282
7283Perhaps she was unable to replenish holy magic in this country.
7284
7285Before she could confirm if her conclusion was correct, continuing to stay here was not a good idea.
7286
7287Emilia judged that it was time to leave.
7288
7289“Keiko-san.”
7290
7291“Eh? Strange? Ah, yes.”
7292
7293Keiko replied after touching her ears.
7294
7295“I’m sorry. I still caused you trouble in the end. However, I swear to you again. I will definitely not steal your things. And I will not leak out or abuse the knowledge I have gained from you. I will never…… have you encounter terrifying
7296
7297experiences because of me.”
7298
7299“O-Oh……”
7300
7301“You will forget me afterwards, but while harbouring feelings of gratitude and guilt, I will still tell you my name. My name is Emilia Justina. I am a Hero from another world…… who will bring calamity to this world.”
7302
7303“He……ro?”
7304
7305“Please do your best at work. I will support you…… goodbye, I’m really, sorry.”
7306
7307â—‡
7308
7309“Keiko-san.”
7310
7311“Eh? Strange? Ah, yes.”
7312
7313Keiko, who was unaware that she had lost consciousness, got a shock from the voice which, unlike before, transmitted clearly into her ears, then replied on reflex.
7314
7315“I’m sorry. I still caused you trouble in the end. However, I swear to you again. I will definitely not steal your things. And I will not leak out or abuse the knowledge I have gained from you. I will never…… have you encounter terrifying experiences because of me.”
7316
7317“O-Oh……”
7318
7319“You will forget me afterwards, but while harbouring feelings of gratitude and guilt, I will still tell you my name. My name is Emilia Justina. I am a Hero from another world…… who will bring calamity to this world.”
7320
7321“He……ro?”
7322
7323Feeling perplexed, Keiko blinked, then the lady who seemed to be called Emilia, stretched her hand in front of Keiko’s face.
7324
7325“Please do your best at work. I will support you…… goodbye, I’m really, sorry.”
7326
7327Something like a breeze blew out from Emilia’s palm––
7328
7329
7330
7331
7332
7333When she came to her senses, Keiko was already lying on a hospital bed.
7334
7335â—‡
7336
7337One month after that, when Urban Heights Eifuku went on sale again, the signing of the contracts for the sale and rent portions had reached twenty percent of the total. It was only twenty percent, but they had to admit that this was already considered a very good result.
7338
7339This caused everyone in the company to painfully realise that the world had not forgotten the bad reviews on this place.
7340
7341Most importantly, what happened to Yusa Keiko at the apartment was leaked to the public, then this incident lumped together with other incidents which were hotly discussed at that time, causing Urban Heights Eifuku’s past to be reported by some media outlets, greatly damaging the project.
7342
7343The morning following that incident, a colleague had visited Urban Heights Eifuku because they were worried about Keiko who had not returned, and they discovered her unconscious form.
7344
7345There was no life-threatening danger, but the fact that an employee of the apartment’s management company had fainted for unknown reasons and was taken away by an ambulance was viewed as a serious matter.
7346
7347During the same period, near Harajuku, Yoyogi, and Hatsudai, there were many cases of pedestrians suddenly losing consciousness because of unknown reasons.
7348
7349Because the cause was unknown, irresponsible conjectures such as gas leakage or terrorist attacks started to spread, and Keiko’s incident was also exaggerated using these conjectures.
7350
7351Furthermore, it was exposed that the company did not do anything when the surrounding residents had repeatedly reported to the agency managing Urban Heights Eifuku about a suspicious person and strange happenings, and Yusa Keiko had continuously reported the strange occurrences on the scene when she investigated, forcing the City Area Real Estate to improve on its internal procedures.
7352
7353Keiko did not know what had happened to her at all, and it felt as if something was stuck in her heart even after she was discharged from the hospital.
7354
7355Keiko still remembered that she had been scared by a spirit, but strangely, she was convinced that the spirit would never appear again.
7356
7357This was about her, yet she did not know anything.
7358
7359When she woke up in the hospital, she had been asked many questions by the police and firefighters about the incident where she had lost consciousness, but Keiko, who did not remember and had no impression of anything, was unable to give any clear answers.
7360
7361She had something which could be used as a clue, but that thing was no longer with Keiko.
7362
7363That was the DSLR camera Keiko brought with her for work.
7364
7365The day before Keiko was found, the last photo she took was the upside-down picture of the porch of Room 501.
7366
7367There was a photo of a bag like thing placed in front of the open door and an image of what seemed like a human face looking in from the exterior wall of the corridor, but it was too blurred to make anything out.
7368
7369Keiko was asked about what those things where, but she could only show a perplexed expression.
7370
7371In the end, Keiko was the last victim of the incidents where people were losing consciousness in various parts of the city, and the incident was slowly forgotten when there were no more strange occurrences at Urban Heights Eifuku. Keiko was also transferred to the retail department.
7372
7373“What exactly had happened?”
7374
7375She was one of the people involved in the incident which had shaken society, and Keiko found this intriguing, but she had a feeling that the series of incidents reported on the news did not match what she had experienced.
7376
7377The ‘Fainting Incidents’ which were reported earlier were all suddenly feeling a wave of cold air while walking on the streets and immediately losing consciousness, and the victims did not remember what had happened afterwards.
7378
7379But Keiko did not remember feeling unwell, and she was not walking on the streets then.
7380
7381Amongst those people identified as the ‘victims’, Keiko was the only person who was found indoors.
7382
7383All the rooms on the fifth floor where Keiko was found were all seen as haunted rooms, and the rent was less than half the price compared to the rooms on the other floors, but to today, no clients were willing to stay on the fifth floor.
7384
7385The reviews on the apartment had already dropped to rock bottom, but the reason Keiko went to Urban Heights Eifuku in the first place was because the nearby residents reported that ‘they saw a strange light’ or ‘it seems like someone entered’.
7386
7387In addition, an employee of the management company was involved in a mysterious incident, the fact that there were clients was already a strange occurrence.
7388
7389This in-between building age of three years was already enough for someone to want to investigate the background of the apartment, if someone interested in this incident did a search on the internet, they could even find websites set up by bored people who had arranged the past scandals and this incident into an easy to understand format.
7390
7391Especially all the rooms on the fifth floor where Keiko was found, even if their rent was significantly lower, forget about people moving in, no one had called to ask about them.
7392
7393Until yesterday.
7394
7395“Oh, it’s almost time for the appointment.”
7396
7397Yesterday, a client contacted the retail department and said that they wanted to move in to Urban Heights Eifuku, requesting for Yusa Keiko to be the one responsible for the liaising.
7398
7399This was not done through the Omura Group or an estate agency, this person had called the retail department directly.
7400
7401The other party seemed to be a young lady, and she had specified Room 501, the room with the problems.
7402
7403Keiko had felt confused when she picked up the phone.
7404
7405No one had died there before, yet all advertisements and documents related to the rooms on the fifth floor were recorded as ‘needing special explanation’.
7406
7407She did not know if the lady had seen those advertisements, but since the rooms were labelled as ‘needing special explanation’, according to the procedures, the staff responsible would have to notify the client about the related content.
7408
7409Keiko was the person involved, so it was a little awkward to say it, but work was work.
7410
7411Just as Keiko gathered her courage and planned to talk about the various facts surrounding Room 501, the lady interrupted her on the phone––
7412
7413“I know all about it. I understand everything about this, but I still want to rent this room.”
7414
7415––and said this.
7416
7417Since the other party had said this much, Keiko had no reason to reject her.
7418
7419The other rooms getting rented out quickly after a person started to stay in one of the rooms was also something which happened frequently.
7420
7421Keiko immediately made preparations for the signing of the contract and waited for the lady to visit at the appointed time.
7422
7423In the end, the person that came was a young lady with long hair, wearing a suit and carrying a shoulder bag.
7424
7425She should have been around the same age as Keiko, or younger than her. Her appearance seemed to be that of a person who had just entered working society, but her expression contained an aura of a person who had seen much of the world.
7426
7427Her client had come, but Keiko suddenly forgot how to react. When she saw the lady’s face, her brain reacted to something.
7428
7429I seem to have seen that person somewhere before……?
7430
7431“Hello. I made an appointment before, my name is Yusa.”
7432
7433“……Ah, my apologies. Welcome. Please take a seat.”
7434
7435After hearing the other party’s voice, Keiko came back to her senses.
7436
7437That’s right, the client’s last name was ‘Yusa’.
7438
7439The kanji was different, but the pronunciation was similar to her own last name, perhaps she had accidentally confused herself with other things because of this.
7440
7441“Thank you for taking the time to come down today…… erhm, I picked up your call from before, my last name is also
7442
7443‘YUSA’, just that it’s written this way.”
7444
7445“Yes. Nice to meet you.”
7446
7447The client who called herself Yusa bowed slightly. On a second thought, since the other party specifically asked for her when contacting the company, Keiko did not need to emphasise that their last names were pronounced similarly.
7448
7449“Then, with regards to the room you want to rent, Room 501 of Urban Heights Eifuku, have you seen the actual room before?”
7450
7451“Yeah, I saw it a few times. I viewed it when it was opened to public as a sample room setup.”
7452
7453Not only had she seen the room a few times, she even planned to stay in it? Keiko was shocked once again.
7454
7455“With regards to this room, there are some things I have to explain to you first, if you change your mind afterwards, we can introduce other rooms to you later, please confirm this first.”
7456
7457“Alright. But I wish to confirm something first, if I do not mind those things, I can rent it, right?”
7458
7459“Eh? Y-Yes, you are correct.”
7460
7461It appeared that this Yusa-san had a strong determination.
7462
7463There were people in the world who did not care about haunted houses at all, but Room 501 was a room meant for singles. Yusa-san also mentioned that she was living by herself when she was renting.
7464
7465A lady living alone on a problematic floor where there were no other residents, this made others feel that she was a very brave person.
7466
7467“As long as it is not a situation where the floor has holes, the porch has no door, or the water and electricity is not connected, I plan to rent that room.”
7468
7469After Keiko finished explaining everything, Yusa-san’s choice did not change.
7470
7471It was the room at the core of the hauntings, but the person’s intentions to move in was still this strong, this was of course the most ideal situation.
7472
7473From Keiko’s standpoint, she had no reason to say anything more to a person who still wanted to rent the room after knowing it was haunted, so she initiated the procedure to sign the contract.
7474
7475“Then please fill in the number we can use to contact you in the bolded box here, and fill in your workplace here too…… oh my.”
7476
7477Keiko had an impression of the lady’s mobile phone and workplace.
7478
7479Most importantly, after seeing the name below the leaser’s field, she started to suspect if it was really just a coincidence.
7480
7481“Is something wrong?”
7482
7483“Ah, no. Erhm, your mobile phone is the same as mine…… and, I actually worked here before.”
7484
7485“Is that so?”
7486
7487As if she felt surprised, the female client smiled.
7488
7489“Not only that……”
7490
7491“Yes.”
7492
7493“Your name is very similar to mine, so it feels like I can’t see you as a total stranger…… I’m sorry, saying such
7494
7495unnecessary things.”
7496
7497“No. Now that you mentioned it, it is very similar. Perhaps we have meet each other someplace before.”
7498
7499That smile touched a deep part of Keiko’s memories, but the other party was someone she was meeting for the first time after all.
7500
7501“……Then, because you wish to move in tomorrow, I will now explain the various facilities to you. There is no
7502
7503management staff there, so we will conduct an onsite tour now.”
7504
7505Keiko took the key to Room 501 and stood up, driving to Urban Heights Eifuku, which was just a few minutes’ drive away from the sales office.
7506
7507Passing through the hall which had an autolock and taking the elevator to the fifth floor, the two reached the quiet corridor.
7508
7509“……”
7510
7511After reaching this place, Keiko was still unable to shake off the feeling that she knew this lady.
7512
7513Did she see something in this corridor at that time? However, the more she tried to recall anything, the more she was unable to grasp those odd memory fragments, like a dream she could not recall after waking up.
7514
7515After unlocking the room and entering, Keiko realised that the room was empty.
7516
7517Keiko then remembered something.
7518
7519This room was only used as a sample display for one week. Because placing furniture in a haunted house no one was living in was not ideal, the renovators had already collected the furniture.
7520
7521“Yusa-san……”
7522
7523“Yes?”
7524
7525“The first time you came here, when was that?”
7526
7527“When was it, I wonder?”
7528
7529The lady did not answer, and only smiled slightly.
7530
7531“However, I feel that this is a good room. I like it a lot. There are rumours of spirits haunting the place, but seeing how the situation is, the spirits might just feel bad about it and not appear anymore.”
7532
7533“Uh……”
7534
7535Unable to keep up with the situation, Keiko showed a perplexed expression, and after entering the room, the client who exuded a mysterious aura closed her eyes in the middle of the living room and breathed in.
7536
7537“The things about this room…… I will never forget it. In this country, this room was the first place which provided me
7538
7539with a sense of peace……”
7540
7541“Eh?”
7542
7543The lady spoke in a language Keiko had not heard before, surprising her.
7544
7545“Anyway, I have caused you a lot of trouble, thank you for your care. Yusa-san, thanks to you, I was able to find a way to stay here. Really, thank you very much.”
7546
7547The lady known as Yusa Emi, who gave the impression that they had met before, ignored Keiko’s confusion and bowed deeply to her.
7548
7549※
7550
7551“Thinking back on it now, it’s not enough no matter how much I thank Keiko-san.”
7552
7553Yusa Emi said this while sitting with her two friends around the black tea and cream puffs.
7554
7555“Oh~ so Emi’s last name of ‘Yusa’ comes from that person?”
7556
7557Emi nodded and answered Rika’s question vaguely.
7558
7559“Half half I guess. Part of it came from the pronunciation of Justina, but there was some influence after all.”
7560
7561“But~~ according to the story just now~~ you might have taken ‘Kimura’ too, right~~?”
7562
7563After eating all the cream puffs Rika had brought over as a visiting gift, Emerada asked this with an expression of realisation.
7564
7565“Yeah, you’re referring to the old lady at the Kimura Watch shop. I didn’t plan to stay long at that time, so I was very guarded and made an effort not to get too involved with her, but after I started living here, I patronised her shop a few times. After chatting with her, I realised that she was just a normal old lady who ran her business passionately. I didn’t ask her how much she sold the Irihem gold coin for though.”
7566
7567The alarm clock in Emi’s room and the watch she wore at work were bought at Kimura’s watch shop, but since Madam Kimura served her enthusiastically at that time, she must have sold it for more than 70,000 yen.
7568
7569“Anyway, not only did Keiko-san link me to this room…… she created an opportunity for me to find the Demon King.”
7570
7571“Eh~~ what is that supposed to mean~~”
7572
7573“Summarising the story just now, Emi only acted as a ghost and forcefully brought down the rent of the room, there was no way for Maou-san to play a role in this.”
7574
7575Faced with Rika’s merciless commentary, Emi stood up with a troubled smile and returned after taking a scrapbook from the closet.
7576
7577“These are the newspaper articles from that time. This is the city map.”
7578
7579Rika and Emerada looked towards the page Emi opened to.
7580
7581“Ah…… thinking about it, something like that did happen before. I happened to move here at that time, so I had felt
7582
7583that it was a little scary.”
7584
7585After seeing the newspaper articles, Rika remembered the past events and nodded.
7586
7587“When Keiko-san…… fainted because of me and became one of the victims in the fainting incidents, it became huge
7588
7589news. This is the sequence and locations of the victims who lost consciousness. The scenes of the incidents began from Harajuku, and moved to Sasazuka gradually, do you understand now?”
7590
7591“Oh~~! So it was like that~~!”
7592
7593Emerada was the first to realise what Emi wanted to say.
7594
7595“The Idea Link initiated with Keiko-san~~ caused Emilia to realise that this world did not have any holy magic~~ and that it would flow out if it was not controlled~~”
7596
7597“Exactly.”
7598
7599“Hmm? Hmm?”
7600
7601As Rika looked like she still did not understand, Emi elaborated further,
7602
7603“In other words, it was then did I realise that the Demon King and the others might be in the same situation too. This world does not have demonic magic. Being injured, they might have lost a huge amount of demonic magic after they arrived, becoming too weak to be detected…… sigh, but I never expected that he would be working at MgRonalds in a human form.”
7604
7605With a troubled smile, Emi pointed out the location of the first incident.
7606
7607“The Demon King and Alsiel lost their demonic magic after coming to Japan. However, the demonic magic they lost did not just dissipate into thin air. The troubling thing is that the demonic magic still remains in Japan.”
7608
7609Satan and Alsiel, who got injured and were weakened in the battle with Emi, could not absorb the demonic magic flowing out from their bodies.
7610
7611It could be deduced that the two of them had begun losing their demonic magic immediately after leaving the ‘gate’, but just like Emi’s situation, the exit of the ‘gate’ was in the air.
7612
7613If they lost their demonic magic once they left the ‘gate’, then where did Satan and Alsiel’s demonic magic disappear to? There was only one answer, the sky where the ‘gate’ was located.
7614
7615Humans who have no resistance to demonic magic will experience discomfort once they come into contact with demonic magic.
7616
7617The reason for the consecutive fainting incidents was the demonic magic lost by Maou and Ashiya.
7618
7619“Eh? How does that work? This means that the demonic magic of Maou-san and the others slowly descended from the sky like PM2.5 or flower pollen, causing those incidents?”
7620
7621“Of course it’s not just that. Because those guys can move around, before reaching that apartment, they must have emitted a lot of demonic magic on the way there.”
7622
7623“The way you’re describing it feels a little dirty~~”
7624
7625Emerada smiled wryly.
7626
7627“And because they have really turned weak, it only caused this level of damage. Anyway, I deduced that they must have been near the location where the incidents stopped, so when I had the time, I investigated the areas around the private railways from Shinjuku to Shibuya. Sigh…… because I was by myself and also busy with work, it was a very time-consuming task.”
7628
7629“Sorry~~ for being unable to help during your toughest times~~”
7630
7631“It’s not like that. All of you have your reasons, and I have always believed that Em would definitely come to get me.”
7632
7633“Uuuu~~ Emilia~~!”
7634
7635Feeling touched, Emerada hugged Emi.
7636
7637“Hey, Emerada-chan, you’ll wake up Alas=Ramus-chan if you’re this loud.”
7638
7639Rika raised her index finger, and Emerada covered her mouth frantically.
7640
7641“In addition, the maps I read carefully when inspecting Keiko-san’s belongings without permission became a hint as well.”
7642
7643“You’re referring to the white map and blue map? The blue one probably has the residents’ last names or the advertisements of the nearby shops printed on them. But in the end, what did the numbers on the white map refer to?”
7644
7645“Yeah. You can’t see those now, but they’re called ‘Route Price Diagrams’.”
7646
7647““Route Price Diagrams?””
7648
7649Rika and Emerada expressed their confusion at this foreign term.
7650
7651Route Price Diagrams showed the local routes which make up the city area, in other words, it was a map which showed the price per square meter of the houses facing the road.
7652
7653It was the standard value used in the calculations of inheritance tax and fixed assets tax, because it was the most
7654
7655accurate reflection of the official land valuation value, it could also be used as a guide for the local estate value.
7656
7657“Other than the time with Keiko-san, three more fainting incidents occurred after that, one was in the hospital, one was near Koshu Kaido, and one was in a residential area near the Oda Rapid Line. Connecting those three locations together, one would get a piece of cheap land which does not face any main roads, in other words, an area filled with amalgamated dwellings with cheap rent. It was difficult to imagine that the Demon King, having lost his demonic magic, would have any items which could be easily exchanged for money, so I thought he might have been hiding in this area.”
7658
7659In reality, Maou still had a bit of demonic magic left, and obtained money using their methods.
7660
7661In the end, Villa Rosa Sasazuka, where Maou and the others lived, was located outside of that triangle, but Maou’s workplace, the MgRonalds in front of Hatagaya station which Emi also applied for, was within that area.
7662
7663“So you weren’t just wandering aimlessly in Sasazuka huh. However, you still spent a lot time before actually meeting Maou-san.”
7664
7665“This can’t be helped. It seems as if I had limited the area, but I did not have any definitive evidence, and although it looks small on the map, the actual area is very big when walking through it. It’s not like I could scout the area every day. Moreover, every time I felt uneasy, I would try to take the train to a further location, or research if similar incidents have occurred in other areas of Japan, taking many detours…… sigh.”
7666
7667Emi showed a nostalgic gaze, thinking back on the events at that time.
7668
7669“At that time, I never expected that things would turn out like this.”
7670
7671This sentence included the many unbelievable things which happened from the time she reunited with Maou until now.
7672
7673She did not kill the Demon King, kill Maou. She even met him almost every day, eating together with him, and after their ‘daughter’ appeared, she started to trust him and received his help.
7674
7675“I never expected things to become like this…… since I came to Japan, I was always thinking this.”
7676
7677“With regards to that~~ do you feel any regrets~~?”
7678
7679Emi replied immediately to Emerada’s question, “I don’t regret it that much.”
7680
7681What surprised her the most was that she had changed so much that she could say this.
7682
7683※
7684
7685Almost one year after Emilia arrived in Japan, when she was close to completing her search of the area drawn on the map.
7686
7687With no one else fainting, that incident was slowly being forgotten by the public.
7688
7689Unlike the time when she first arrived in Japan, her living environment was very complete, not only was she used to living in Japan, she had obtained a good job and friends, but Emi’s loneliness was still increasing.
7690
7691She was still unable to find any traces of Demon King Satan and Demon General Alsiel, Ente Isla did not send anyone to rescue her, and time just passed by.
7692
7693As she got used to living as a Japanese, and acted like a Japanese, unlike the time with Yusa Keiko, Emilia no longer encountered a situation where she had to reveal her true identity to someone.
7694
7695Of course, that was because if she carelessly admitted her origins, she might scare someone, just like how she scared Keiko.
7696
7697At this moment, someone noticed Emilia’s situation and started to show concern for her.
7698
7699“……Hey, Emi. Are you feeling unwell recently? Have you been eating well?”
7700
7701“Yeah, I’ve been a little tired recently, so I don’t have much appetite.”
7702
7703“You seem to be busy with something important, but you can’t do anything if you collapse. You need to eat properly.”
7704
7705“……Yeah, you’re right…… thank you…… Rika.”
7706
7707“Yep, you need to take care of your body first. If you want to exercise your brain and worry, you need to eat!”
7708
7709Without knowing anything, Rika filled in Emi’s loneliness.
7710
7711Rika would not pry into the private matters of others, as if she knew from the start how to make Emilia relax.
7712
7713Not long after, Emilia gained many juniors at work, and as she guided others on the job she obtained in Japan, she suddenly remembered things about Keiko.
7714
7715After Emilia moved into Urban Heights Eifuku, Keiko had contacted her once.
7716
7717Keiko sent a name card, saying that she would return to her hometown after getting married and that the contact person had to be changed.
7718
7719She was the one who had sealed Keiko’s memories, and Emilia also knew that these feelings were unreasonable, but someone who had known her true identity going some place far away was still a huge blow to her.
7720
7721After that, she had troubled over whether she should tell Rika her true identity a few times.
7722
7723However, Emilia did not want to lose this girl who was her friend in Japan, someone who had been continuously patching up her feelings of loneliness in her daily life, so Emilia could only continue lying.
7724
7725The days when she did not have to lie, when would they arrive?
7726
7727In the future, would she have to interact with others in a situation where she could declare her origins and true identity without hiding anything?
7728
7729Emilia really wanted to meet a person whom she did not have to hide things from, who knew about her past and could patch up her loneliness.
7730
7731She thought about these things as she walked on the streets of Sasazuka she was already familiar with, and encountered heavy rain which was not mentioned in the weather forecast.
7732
7733“Damn it! Why is it raining all of a sudden!?”
7734
7735She glared at the sky and complained, and ran under the eaves of a nearby restaurant for shelter, and at this moment–
7736
7737
7738
7739
7740
7741
7742“If you don’t mind, please use this.”
7743
7744“Eh?”
7745
7746A battered plastic umbrella was pushed towards her.
7747
7748Author, Afterword –AND YOU–
7749
7750The afterword this time will reveal some plot in this volume.
7751
7752Readers who start reading from the afterword, please take note of this.
7753
7754
7755
7756
7757In the afterword of the previous volume “Hataraku! Maou-sama” volume 13, I made the declaration that I would ‘compile the short stories which have not been published in a volume and deliver it into everyone’s hands as soon as possible’.
7758
7759As declared, I have delivered it at the fastest speed! This volume, the 14th volume of “Hataraku! Maou-sama” is the second volume of short stories after the 7th volume of “Hataraku! Maou-sama”.
7760
7761There is no rule that a short story volume will be published every seven volumes, and because ‘Volume 0’ was also published in between, this should be considered the eighth volume, but as long as you have read this volume, you would gain a deeper understanding of the world of “Hataraku! Maou-sama”……but it does not seem to be that way
7762
7763either.
7764
7765This volume does not narrate this kind of story. All you can see is their financial situation.
7766
7767Everyone, please focus on them who are living their normal daily lives, and the stories which are weaved from this.
7768
7769‘Hero and High School Girl, Becoming Friends’
7770
7771This is something which occurs a few days after the end of volume 1.
7772
7773This is a story for everyone to know that this child was already a very mentally strong person when she was still ‘a normal person who could be seen everywhere’. Everyone is still so green here. The setting that Emerada’s appetite is much larger than her stature was also revealed for the first time.
7774
7775However, when I went to a revolving sushi store recently, it feels as if the sushi were not revolving at all, everyone seems to be more inclined towards ordering through the electronic menu?
7776
7777
7778
7779
7780‘Demon King, Thinking Back on a Thrifty Life’
7781
7782Using this story, I wish to give him, who has been under a large amount of stress, a small reward.
7783
7784In addition, it was mentioned in the story, if you allow children under one year old who have not completely developed their digestive immune system to eat honey, this might cause botulinum poisoning.
7785
7786The reason is that botulinum is a type of bacteria which will not be killed under high heat, everyone please pay attention not to feed children under one year old any processed foods which have honey as the ingredient.
7787
7788
7789
7790
7791‘Demon King, Buying a New Mobile Phone with the Hero’s Money’
7792
7793I mentioned this in the afterword of the 5th volume of ‘Hataraku! Maou-sama’, the era of the world in this series is
7794
7795equivalent to 2010 in the real world.
7796
7797This is because I wrote the prototype for ‘Hataraku! Maou-sama’ during that time, but because of this, the real models of many of the stores, businesses, services and systems, do not exist in 2015 anymore.
7798
7799In the current era where ‘Smartphones’ and ‘Smart devices’ are very common, it might not be long before no one uses terms like ‘mobile phone’ or ‘handphone’.
7800
7801
7802
7803
7804‘Hero, Admiring the Ability of the Enemy Officials’
7805
7806This kind of hole does exist. It’s strange right? It’s really very rare. There are things like ripped jeans, but if it’s not ripped at the knees or the edges, it’s just a pair of torn jeans.
7807
7808When Wagahara discovered a hole at the bottom of the pockets, he felt it was time to change his pants.
7809
7810
7811
7812
7813‘Demon King, Knowing about his Superior’s Past’
7814
7815The mystery since the 2nd volume has been revealed! This is a story of fate which has continued from a long time ago!
7816I’m not lying!
7817
7818The shop manager of Fushima Park’s store, Mizushima Yuki, just like Kawada Takefumi, Ooki Akiko and Nakayama Kotarou, they were all characters which have been imported from the anime.
7819
7820I personally like this kind of character, but since she was an original character in the anime and there were shocking factors such as the female characters wearing swimsuits and true horrors, she did not stand out that much. Considering that this was the only way to write more about her, she appeared in this story.
7821
7822For people who normally wore smart uniforms, having them wear casual clothing occasionally will leave a strong impression.
7823
7824
7825
7826
7827‘The Hero Before She Found a Job! –a few days ago–’
7828
7829Writing about Yusa Emi a.k.a Emilia Justina when she just arrived in Japan, a prequel following the timeline around the 1st volume of ‘Hataraku! Maou-sama’.
7830
7831This is an entirely new story written for this volume.
7832
7833Everyone, thank you for waiting. The reason why the rent for Emi’s apartment is this low is due to these events.
7834
7835Because she is the Hero, because she was alone, she encountered many troubles which Maou and Ashiya had never experienced.
7836
7837
7838
7839
7840It is difficult living in this world, but if you die, nothing can be accomplished.
7841
7842For these characters who are struggling to live, this volume is for them to relax and show their true personalities.
7843
7844I hope these stories become a freshener for all the readers, relaxing everyone a little.
7845
7846Then, see you next volume!