Toward the Master

 

――― Emilia ―――

(Thank you for reading at bayabuscotranslation.com)

After seeing off Sirius-sama as he headed towards the Demonic Continent, my memory stopped there. Perhaps due to the exhaustion from the fierce battle, combined with the sudden release of tension, my consciousness seemed to fade away. Just as I lost sight of the figure of that man riding on Hokuto, I collapsed on the spot and lost consciousness.  And when I woke up next, I found myself lying on a bed in a certain room.

“Ugh… Sirius… sama…” (Emilia)

“It seems you’ve woken up. How do you feel?” (Fia)

Is this… a room in Sandor Castle?

Since it’s pitch black outside the window, it seems to be nighttime. As I vaguely pondered how long I had been asleep, Fia-san, holding a light, approached me.

“Fia…-san? I… am…” (Emilia)

“You don’t have to force yourself to talk yet. Here, have some water first.” (Fia)

“Thank you… ah…” (Emilia)

“There, there. Your meal should be brought soon, so just wait a little longer.” (Fia)

Managing to prop up my upper body somehow, as I reached for the offered glass, my stomach growled fiercely. Despite feeling embarrassed, the thirst and hunger that couldn’t be endured attacked me, so I started drinking water without hesitation.

“Ah… it feels refreshing.” (Emilia)

“Of course. After all, you’ve been sleeping continuously since yesterday.” (Fia)

“Eh!?” (Emilia)

Considering the time when I lost consciousness, it must have been evening, as the sky was beginning to turn red. And now it’s night, meaning I must have been asleep for more than a whole day. With such continuous sleep, it’s natural for my throat to be dry and for me to crave food. I want to put anything in my mouth and recover my body as soon as possible, but right now there are things I need to confirm more than eating.

“Um, what about Sirius-sama?” (Emilia)

“… He hasn’t returned yet.” (Fia)

“I see…” (Emilia)

It was said that it would take several days for the monsters to be led, but even so, if it’s that person… I had a faint hope, but it seems it wasn’t that easy after all.

‘Come to think of it, it might be the first time I’ve been separated from Sirius-sama for this long. Since the day we first met, there hasn’t been a day without exchanging words with Sirius-sama.’

Feeling lonely, my chest feels tight, but I didn’t have time to be depressed because there are still many things to confirm.

“Where are Reese and the others?” (Emilia)

“The men are sleeping in another room. Reese woke up around noon, but… oh, speak of the devil.” (Fia)

“Oh, Emilia’s awake too. I brought plenty, so let’s eat together.” (Reese)

As Fia-san spoke, Reese appeared as the door opened. She carried a large tray of food, emitting a delicious smell that further accelerated my hunger. Anticipating my awakening, she had prepared various dishes in the dining hall. It might be a little impolite, but since my body still felt heavy, I decided to eat in bed.

“Just to be sure, is that enough?” (Reese)

“It’s not.” (Emilia)

“Don’t worry. I asked them to bring additional dishes before coming back here.” (Reese)

The dishes were focused more on quantity and speed rather than quality, but they were all so delicious. As the dishes for about four people disappeared one after another, servants from the castle began bringing more dishes midway through, causing Fia-san to smile wryly as she accepted them.

“Leaving Reese aside, you’re still just waking up, right? Won’t you feel sick if you eat too much?” (Fia)

“No problem.” (Emilia)

“That’s right! Eat a lot now so you can recover as soon as possible!” (Reese)

“Yeah, you seem surprisingly calm. I was even thinking you might rush out of the castle as soon as you woke up, so I’m a little relieved.” (Fia)

“To be honest, I want to head out right away. But considering that the continent Sirius-sama went to is filled with countless monsters, if we don’t get ourselves in good shape and prepare properly, instead of helping Sirius-sama, there’s a possibility we’ll end up being done in ourselves.” (Emilia)

Sirius-sama didn’t take anyone except Hokuto because he judged that we would be a hindrance.

‘It’s not just because of our lack of experience, but also simply because we were utterly exhausted. That’s why Sirius-sama told us to rest before leaving. It was almost as if he was saying if we’re going to chase after him, then we should prepare ourselves properly first. That’s why I’m quietly resting my body, but there’s another reason I’m this calm.’

“I haven’t fully grasped the current situation, but the main reason is thanks to Fia-san.” (Emilia)

“Me? I haven’t done anything. I’m just watching over you guys…” (Fia)

“But unlike us who were asleep, Fia-san must have had a tough time, right?” (Emilia)

In yesterday’s battle, she showed remarkable feats, not only saving me but also many others with her sniper shots from a distance. However, because of Sirius-sama’s words, Fia-san didn’t fight on the front lines, so unlike us who slept for a whole day, I think Fia-san woke up at her usual time.

‘Of course, she must have nursed us until we woke up, but I’m sure she was worrying the whole time. Despite staying in Sandor for the sake of her unborn baby, I think she not only worried about Sirius-sama’s safety but also felt regret as if she had abandoned him. With her skills and the help of the spirits, Fia-san is more than capable, and she can even fly in the sky, so she probably felt the urge to fight alongside Sirius-sama more strongly than anyone else.’

“Since Fia-san is keeping calm, we can’t afford to show ourselves in a sorry state. So, I’d like to ask about the others.” (Emilia)

“Um, yeah. First, about Reus and the others, they’re all sleeping in the adjacent room together. Marina and Liefel are watching over them, so we’ll get immediate contact if anything happens.” (Fia)

“I see. The fact that they woke up later than me means that Hilgan was a formidable opponent, right?” (Emilia)

“But according to what I heard earlier, they woke up before noon and had a meal.” (Reese)

Apparently, Reus, Julia-sama, and Keith-sama woke up suddenly, ate with great gusto, and then fell asleep again. According to Marina, who was in the same room, despite calling out to them several times during the meal, they remained silent and continued eating. Even unconsciously, they didn’t neglect to replenish their nutrients… Sirius-sama would be impressed if he heard about it. The only exception was Albert, who had the least exhaustion among the four. After waking up before noon, he immediately confirmed that his body could move and left the room.

“He forced himself a little because he needed to prepare to head to the Demonic Continent. He’s currently discussing with Sandor’s soldiers to gather the necessary items.” (Fia)

“I briefly talked to them when I checked on them earlier. I think Reus and the others will be back in action by tomorrow at the earliest, so we need to prepare now while we can.” (Reese)

“Good judgment. Judging from everyone’s recovery speed, I was expecting us to set out at dawn. By the way, what about Karen, Hina-chan, and the Dragonkin?” (Emilia)

“They’re not in mortal danger, but all the members of the Dragon kin are in a severe condition. While Karen and Hina-chan are tirelessly taking care of them.” (Fia)

Since they were mostly engaged in fighting against the approaching monsters from the sky, it seems all the members of the Dragon Tribe were heavily wounded. Although they survived, the three dragons, who had little combat experience, suffered severe injuries, and Mezea-sama was deeply wounded in what was almost a mutual kill with three formidable opponents, requiring several days of rest. Even Zenodora-sama, who had the least injuries, seems to need a little more time to be able to fly, so we had lost our means of aerial transportation.

“They seem to have been injured in places that are difficult to heal with magic or medicine. But Zenodora-san said she would be able to fly by tomorrow.” (Fia)

“Tomorrow… I see. In that case, it seems waiting for her recovery would get us to the Demonic Continent faster than rushing out on horseback. Then, what about Ojii-chan and Beowulf?” (Emilia)

Although those two had been continuing to fight, as far as I know, they hadn’t suffered any major injuries. While they might be somewhat tired, I had relied on them as they seemed to have the most stamina left at the moment. However, according to Fia-san, they are currently not in Sandor.

“After you all collapsed, the Beast King who was leading the central unit and Forte stayed at the front line to start clearing out the monsters, so those two joined them.”  (Fia)

“They didn’t keep fighting continuously, did they?” (Emilia)

“They did rest at some point, of course. But thanks to Sirius pulling many monsters, it was decided this morning to push the front lines even further. According to the latest report, they safely recaptured the frontline base.” (Fia)

“To think they’ve gone that far…” (Emilia)

It seems that Sirius-sama’s guidance and Ojii-chan’s breakthrough power played a role, but it was also said that the number of monsters they faced was unexpectedly low. Perhaps because there was some time after Lambda’s mind control was lifted, the number of monsters might have decreased further due to territorial disputes and predation.

‘So, since Ojii-chan and the others are at the frontline base, we’ll have to stop by there before heading to the Demonic Continent.’

As Fia-san continued to give me details, perhaps due to having eaten my fill, drowsiness crept in midway through. Reese, who was nearby, seemed to be in the same state. We decided to call it a night and each crawled into our respective beds…

Silence enveloped the room. Despite understanding that moving right now wouldn’t make a difference, deep down, I couldn’t shake my concern for Sirius-sama’s well-being. In the quietness, unsettling thoughts unconsciously surfaced, and though I felt drowsy, I couldn’t sleep, which was truly distressing.

‘It’s okay. Sirius-sama will surely… definitely survive. To welcome him back in his usual self, I must rest even just a little…’

“…I guess I can’t sleep after all.” (Fia)

As I tried to calm my mind by closing my eyes, I felt Fia-san stir in the bed next to mine. Just as I thought she might be in the same situation, someone suddenly slipped into my bed. Recognizing her scent and presence, I didn’t resist, and she hugged me as if comforting a child.

“Um…” (Emilia)

“I just wanted a little warmth. Can you share it with me?” (Fia)

“Yes…” (Emilia)

It sounded like Fia-san was being selfish, but she was probably lying for my sake. In times when loneliness and anxiety threatened to overwhelm me, being held by someone could sometimes provide solace.

“Reese, come over here too.” (Fia)

“…Okay.” (Reese)

The beds in the castle were spacious, but with three people, it might feel a bit cramped. But… right now, it felt comfortable. Feeling gradually reassured by the warmth and compassion emanating from both of them, my consciousness slowly drifted away…

The next morning… the surroundings were still dim, and it was a bit too early to wake up when I opened my eyes. Seeing Reese and Fia-san, who were breathing peacefully beside me, also wake up, we exchanged greetings and got out of bed.

“Good morning…” (Reese)

“Good morning. Reese, how are you feeling?” (Emilia)

“Mm… I’m fine. Just overused my magic, and my body’s feeling the chill.” (Reese)

“I can’t say I’m completely recovered either, but I’ve healed enough to not hinder combat. I think it’ll be fine.” (Emilia)

‘I may not be as tough as Reus, but I’m still a daughter of the Silver Wolfkin. Most of my fatigue and wounds, which would normally require a few days to heal, seemed to have already recovered about eighty percent. Now, all that’s left is to check on Reus and the others and prepare the necessary items. But first, I should change my clothes…’

As I tried to change into my usual attire, shedding the thin garments that seemed like sleepwear, there was a knock on the door, and Liefel-sama and Senia-san appeared.

“We heard from Senia that you woke up… Well, you seem to be feeling better.” (Liefel)

“Yes. Thank you so much for taking care of me all this time.” (Emilia)

“Haha, it was mostly Senia who did it, so if you want to thank someone, it should be her. But before that, why don’t you wipe yourself down first before changing?” (Liefel)

Senia-san brought hot water, so I gratefully accepted and used it. After drying myself off and combing my hair, we headed to the room where Leus and the others were staying. Those kids had fought tirelessly, pushing themselves to the limit multiple times, so there was a possibility that they wouldn’t recover in time… but it seems that was needless worry.

“Ngh… Ngh… Keith! That’s my meat!” (Reus)

“Shut up about a piece of meat! Just eat that over there!” (Keith)

“I need more orders! And make them all extra-large!” (Reus)

They weren’t just sleeping; they were sitting at the table in the center of the room, devouring their meals with incredible vigor. While their manners were a bit lacking, they didn’t seem fatigued at all. On the contrary, they seemed to be overflowing with energy.

“Oh, Nee-chan! You’re awake!” (Reus)

“Yes. Are you feeling okay to go?” (Emilia)

“Of course! I still have some sore spots, but I’ll get used to it before we reach there. How about Julia and Keith?” (Reus)

“I’m fine. I can fight anytime!” (Keith)

“Me too! My arm’s a little numb, but it’s nothing!” (Reus)

‘Their statements were indeed reassuring, but it seems they weren’t in perfect condition like me. Even though most of their wounds had healed, there was still a slight stiffness in their movements. However, there’s no use in resting further. We should leave today.’

Since the three of them were still eating, we proceeded to the courtyard of the castle, where preparations to head to the Magic Continent were underway. Many soldiers were running around, and Albert and Marina were checking the supplies.

“This seems… we might need more of this. Lower those over there and add two or three more boxes here.” (Albert)

“Aniue, what about these supplies… Oh, Emilia-san!”  (Marina)

“Good work to both of you. It seems the work is going smoothly.” (Emilia)

“Yes. I tried to gather the necessary items as best as I could, but Emilia-san, is there anything missing?” (Albert)

“Well… I think it’s sufficient. This time it’s a rescue mission, but it seems like you’ve gathered all the necessary items.” (Emilia)

In the center of the courtyard was a large carriage, loaded with various supplies ranging from weapons to food, as well as medical supplies and materials for setting up a base. While Albert had asked me to check, I couldn’t find anything lacking. Considering there wasn’t much time, they had done an excellent job.

However, even though we’ve loaded a considerable amount of supplies onto one carriage, it still seems like it will be quite difficult to move it without it collapsing. But with the individuals in the courtyard, that problem should be resolved.

(Thank you for reading at bayabuscotranslation.com)

“Zenodora-sama, are you feeling better now?” (Emilia)

“Yes. I’m in a condition where I can fly, somehow. I had hoped that Mejia and the three dragons would join us, but it seems they didn’t make it in time. My apologies for not being there when you needed me.” (Zenodora)

“No need for apologies. I thank you again for lending us your strength.” (Emilia)

“Thanks are unnecessary. I won’t spare any effort to help a friend in need.” (Zenodora)

‘It’s a relief that Zenodora-sama’s recovery has come in time. Despite the massive size of the dragon, his dignified demeanor is truly reassuring. Now that his recovery has been achieved, we can not only transport the cargo but also head straight to the frontline base and the Magic Continent. As for when to depart, it seems there’s no need to deliberate on that any longer.’

“Sorry to keep you waiting, Nee-chan!” (Reus)

“We’re all set. We can leave anytime, Emilia-dono!” (Julia)

Reus and the others, having finished their meals and prepared their equipment, arrived. Now, all those heading to the Demonic Continent were gathered in the courtyard. Despite heading to an unknown continent to fight against the creatures we faced two days ago, not a single person seemed hesitant. Gazing once again at my dependable family and comrades, I made a resolute declaration.

“We will now head to rescue Sirius-sama. Everyone, please lend us your support.” (Emilia)

Joining me and Leus were Reese, Julia-sama, Keith-sama, Albert, and Marina. Additionally, about ten elite members of Lady Julia’s guard, skilled in various fields, would accompany us, as well as Grandpa and Beowulf, who were planning to join us at the frontline base. As everyone boarded Zenodora-sama’s back one by one following my declaration, Reus and I approached Fia-sama, who was about to step back to see us off.

“What’s wrong? Oh, Karen and Hina-chan are still asleep, so if you have a message…” (Emilia)

“No, Fia-san… won’t you come with us?” (Reese)

“Huh? Well, if you ask me if I want to… well, I do. But right now, I have to protect this child.” (Fia)

“Indeed, given Sirius-sama’s wishes, your decision is not wrong. However, how about as a woman, rather than as a mother?” (Emilia)

“That’s true. Even though there’s a baby, it doesn’t seem like the usual Fia-san. Yesterday, I told Sirius-san not to make a fatherless child, but I thought maybe the usual Fia-san wouldn’t just wait, but would also try to protect Sirius-san…” (Reese)

‘It might be a child’s selfish babble, but Fia-san’s usual character isn’t one to just sit and wait, so I feel like waiting would burden her more. I recall Sirius-sama saying something like “stress accumulates” about such things. And if her belly were too large to move, I could understand, but pregnancy is still in the early stages, and I’ve heard that some exercise is necessary. I don’t think heading to the monsters’ nest will be easy, but if we do our best, that’s fine. But if we were to fail and no one could return, leaving one person behind, even if they were alive, would be too harsh.’

“We will protect you, Fia-san. And please, protect us within reasonable limits.” (Emilia)

“I’m probably going to get scolded by Sirius later. But we’ve rested properly and prepared ourselves, so if things really go south, we can always pull back, right?” (Fia)

“Yes. Since we don’t know where Sirius-sama is, we plan to establish a base somewhere and ensure a safe retreat. Swiftly… and surely.” (Emilia)

“…Honestly. If you put it that way, I can’t just sit still.” (Fia)

‘Though Fia-san might receive a scolding from Sirius-sama later, it’s something we’ve accepted. Because we’re family, after all, and we want to go to Sirius-sama’s side together. Even if the worst outcome awaits us, we want to give our all together before regretting anything. If we’re going to fall, let it be while moving forward…’

With Fia-sama now joining us, nearby, Liefel-sama smiled softly and nodded.

“I see, you’re going too.” (Liefel)

“Yes. We’re going to bring Sirius back together.” (Fia)

“Then we need to prepare. Senia!” (Liefel)

“Here you go, Fia-sama.” (Senia)

Though I had my Sacred Tree Bow, Archelion, with me, I had taken off my armor and cloak, so I needed to return to the room to retrieve them. However, Senia-san had brought them over, saving me the trouble. Fia-san received them with a wry smile, but for me, it’s a skill worth learning. Since it took a bit of time, I hurriedly boarded Zenodora-sama’s back and, after confirming that everyone was ready, gave the order.

“Alright, Zenodora-sama, please take care of us!” (Emilia)

“Understood. Make sure you all hold on tight.” (Zenodora)

Then, Zenodora-sama, carrying the prepared carriage with his hands, spread his wings and slowly took off from the courtyard. Under the watchful eyes of Liefel-sama and the others waiting for good news, as well as the many people continuing to prepare supplies for the next mission, we departed from Sandor.

Our first destination, the frontline base, was only about half a day’s journey by horse, but with Zenodora-sama flying, it should be much quicker. As we quietly waited for our arrival, feeling the wind against our bodies, I suddenly noticed a strange behavior from Reus behind me. Leus, whose beloved sword had broken yesterday, was now carrying a spare sword on his back, but he had been repeatedly gripping and releasing the hilt of the sword several times since earlier.

“Hmm… this sword feels a bit light after all.” (Reus)

“This is my last spare sword. I apologize for it not being up to your standards, but please handle it with care.” (Marina)

“Yeah, I’ll be careful. But I’ll just practice swinging it a bit to get used to it…” (Reus)

“You shouldn’t be swinging it around here!” (Marina)

“I know, I know!” (Reus)

Now, Reus was being scolded by Marina, who had forcibly tagged along with us, while everyone else watched with laughter but warm eyes.

It might seem a bit carefree, but if it meant they could exert their usual strength, I didn’t mind at all. Sirius-sama must have always watched over us like this.’

Since it seemed like we still have a little time until arrival, I took out the map of the area around the First Defensive Wall that was prepared before our departure.

“This is the map closest to the Demonic Continent. Hmm… but if this map doesn’t show the Demonic Continent, then it doesn’t really serve much purpose, does it?” (Emilia)

“We’ll reconsider once we see the situation on the ground, but for now, we’re planning to establish a base around here.” (??)

Directly charging into the Demonic Continent was an option, but considering the prolonged search for Sirius-sama, we should secure a safe location. Where Sirius-sama might be heading to survive, and how he might be acting… while considering all the possibilities I could think of, I continued to gaze at the map. Then, there was a report that the frontline base was in sight.

When Zenodora-sama landed in front of the front-line base, it was still early morning, but King Beasts-sama and Fort-sama welcomed us. After discussing the situation at the base and with the troops, as well as the surrounding monsters, we were asked about our plans. I left the explanation to Julia-sama and entered the frontline base. Time was of the essence, as I needed to retrieve Ojii-chan and Beowulf-san promptly.

Though I didn’t measure it precisely, Ojii-chan had slain more than half of the monsters we defeated yesterday. There was no reason not to bring along such a reliable Ojii-chan. He might have already performed more than enough but leaving him behind would only make him angry. So, I forcibly woke Ojii-chan, who was sleeping in a room, and pulled his drowsy arm as I stepped outside.

“Ngh… Emilia, just a little more…” (Lior)

“If you want to sleep, you can do it while we’re moving. And could you all over there help with organizing the carriage?” (Emilia)

“””Yes!””” (??)

Since we had unloaded some of the supplies at the frontline base, we should be able to secure a place for Ojii-chan to sleep. While receiving help from the members of the guard, we organized the interior of the carriage, and after laying Ojii-chan down, Beowulf-san, who had somehow arrived unnoticed, watched us with a subtle expression.

“…It’s probably only Emilia-san who can handle him like that.” (Beowulf)

“Due to the circumstances, I had to be a bit rough. Beowulf, we’re going to search for Sirius-sama from now on. Could you lend us a hand?” (Emilia)

“Of course!” (Beowulf)

By then, we had finished explaining the situation to King Beasts-sama and the others, so we, along with Ojii-chan and Beowulf-san, boarded Zenodora-sama’s back once again and headed toward the Demonic Continent.

While heading toward the first defensive wall right in front of the Demonic Continent, we continued to discuss our future actions with Beowulf-san, explaining the current situation to him.

“Yes, I agree. I don’t think Sirius-san would be taken down so easily, so I think it’s worth searching for him.” (Beowulf)

“But I’m worried that there’s been no contact since then.” (Fia)

“There’s a possibility that he can’t use magic for some reason, or that he’s unconscious. We’ll use not only our eyes and noses but also our instincts and utilize all our abilities to search.” (Emilia)

‘Once again, with the map of the area near the Demonic Continent in hand, let’s try to predict our actions from Sirius-sama’s perspective.’

While summarizing our discussion with everyone’s input, Fia-san, who had been observing the situation on the ground while participating in the conversation, reported back.

“Yeah… The number of monsters on the ground is as reported at the frontline base. They’ve decreased significantly everywhere, so advancing further shouldn’t be too difficult.” (Fia)

“So, should we proceed with Emilia-dono’s plan and reclaim the first defensive wall? Our numbers may be fewer, but we shouldn’t have any problems.” (Julia)

“Yes. Let’s proceed with that strategy after circling the perimeter to confirm everything. We’ll approach the Demon Continent afterward.” (Emilia)

With the plan to reclaim the first defensive wall, Julia-sama and the members of the guard seem filled with determination. Considering that Sirius-sama might have escaped to the Demonic Continent but might also be resting at the first defensive wall, it was wise to stop by and secure a base.

After flying in the sky for a while, we finally began to see the first defensive wall and the sea. Zenodora-sama lowered her altitude a bit, and we circled over the First Defensive Wall multiple times while checking the ground.

“Julia-sama, there are few demons in the vicinity! I can’t see any prominent large ones!” (??)

“There are also few monsters around the first defensive wall! I can’t see any notable ones either!” (??)

“All right, if you spot anything suspicious, report it immediately!” (Julia)

“So, that’s the Demonic Continent. Hmm… from what I see, there doesn’t seem to be anything particularly concerning.” (??)

“Hey, where’s the road mentioned in the report? I can’t seem to find anything resembling it.” (Keith)

We received various pieces of information simultaneously due to dividing our tasks, but what caught everyone’s attention the most was Keith-sama’s question. Indeed, the road that supposedly connected the Demonic Continent to our continent and allowed a large influx of demons couldn’t be seen anywhere now. As everyone began to wonder about the situation, Julia-sama immediately consulted with one of the knowledgeable members of the guard in this area.

“According to the messenger who escaped from there, the road suddenly appeared directly in front of the first defensive wall. It was so huge that you could see it clearly even from a distance.” (Julia)

“But if we can’t find it, does that mean Shishou and the others destroyed it? Or perhaps it collapsed due to ocean currents…” (Albert)

“But, Aniue, wasn’t that road supposed to be for a large number of demons to cross? Even if the ocean currents were strong, it’s hard to believe it would collapse so neatly within ten days.” (Marina)

“…It was Aniki. Aniki and Hokuto-san destroyed it.” (Reus)

Amidst various speculations, Reus, who had been silently gazing at the beach where the bridge was supposed to be, made a clear assertion. I agreed with him on that point. Some were puzzled about how they could have destroyed it, but presumably, it was Hokuto-san who destroyed the road.

“Hokuto-san has such a killer move. It wouldn’t be strange if he could destroy it so neatly.” (Emilia)

“The monsters are few, right? Even in such a situation, Sirius-san managed to accomplish it.” (Reese)

“It’s really impressive. However, what’s important is the fact that it’s been destroyed.” (Emilia)

‘Since Sirius-sama always looks ahead, I don’t think he destroyed the road immediately upon crossing into the Demon Continent. Considering that there are many demons slower than Hokuto-san, it would take at least several days for the monsters Sirius-sama led from Sandor to complete their crossing to the Demon Continent. In other words, Sirius-sama most likely stayed in the Demon Continent as long as possible before instructing Hokuto-san to destroy the road, so the likelihood of him not venturing far from there has increased.’

“There might be clues about Sirius-sama around there. Let’s land on the beach and take a look.” (Emilia)

“I don’t mind that, but reclaiming that area…” (??)

“Nuryaaa!” (Lior)

Just as we were torn between securing a base and heading straight for Sirius-sama’s trail, a familiar roar echoed from below. It seemed Ojii-chan had finally woken up. Although that was perfectly fine, before any of us could say anything, he jumped out of the carriage Zenodra-sama was holding, so everyone seemed to be taken aback as well.

“Come to think of it, before putting Ojii-chan on the carriage, we talked about using that place as a base. He might have been half-asleep, but he was listening properly.” (Emilia)

“He’s doing as he pleases again. But shouldn’t we have waited until he got off…” (Beowulf)

“An old man like Lior-jiichan jumping from a high place isn’t something new. Oh well, let’s go after him.” (Reus)

“Wait. If Strongest Sword-dono is heading there, there’s no need for everyone to go. Let him handle it, and Emilia-dono, please head to the beach.” (Julia)

“I’ll accompany Hime-sama as well. I’m not good with detailed searching.” (Albert)

“Then I’ll go too. Since we’re looking at Strongest Sword-dono, please go there, Beowulf-dono.” (Julia)

Julia-sama’s words make sense, so we decided to take her words this time. Although it was not wise to divide our forces, we were still outside of the Demonic Continent, and over there, with Ojii-chan, Julia-sama, her guards, Keith-sama, and Alberto, it should be sufficient. Once we reached the airspace above the beach and further lowered our altitude, we jumped off Zenodora-sama’s back.

“All right! Hold on tight!” (Zenodora)

“Hmm… I might be getting used to this kind of thing, and it’s starting to scare me.” (??)

Since it wasn’t too high, Beowulf and I jumped alone, while Fia-san carried Reese through the wind, and Reus flew with Marina in his arms. We landed smoothly on the beach with minimal impact, defeated any monster in the vicinity, ensured safety, and then began searching for clues.

“Hmm… No good. I’m sure he passed through here, but only the old scent of Aniki remains.” (Reus)

“Naya says the flow of magic is a bit strange here. Could it be because Hokuto-san used that finishing move?” (Reese)

“The one that emits a shockwave of mana from his mouth, right? Since it can reach all the way from here to the Demonic Continent, Hokuto-san’s exhaustion must be significant.” (Emilia)

“I’m no good with noses or sensing magic, so I’ll focus on the surrounding vigilance… Wait, Emilia-san? You seem lost in thought. Is something wrong?” (Beowulf)

“There seem to be too few monsters… No, it’s nothing. Well then, Beowulf, please keep an eye out for everyone else.” (Emilia)

As everyone searched for clues, I also wandered around the beach, focusing my concentration to its fullest. Not only the scent but also the instinctive sense of seeking that person were heightened to the maximum, but still, I could’t sense anything.

‘Perhaps… was it all in vain? To expect Sirius-sama or Hokuto-san, who have escaped from the Demon Continent, to be resting somewhere… is perhaps aiming too high. Sirius-sama… Where are you now? It doesn’t matter. Please, if only I could find something to guide me to you…’

“…What’s this!?” (Emilia)

In that moment… I noticed a slight change in the flow of the wind. Although the wind quickly returned to normal, I didn’t overlook the scent and indescribable sensation I felt in that instant. Before I knew it, my feet started moving, and I sprinted along the beach at full speed. Reus followed suit a moment later, and Reese and Fia-san chased after us, shouting something. However, using wind magic to accelerate, I widened the gap between us even further. Crossing over a rocky area along the way, I leaped over rows of rocks like walls, until finally reaching a beach where…

“A-ah…” (Emilia)

There, I found Sirius-sama collapsed weakly and Hokuto-san sleeping beside him, as if protecting him.

 

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