New chapter of Ordinary Person is out! (3/3 chapters)

 

 

Chapter 166

(Thank you for reading at bayabuscotranslation.com)

(POV switch – Mira)

I couldn’t deny the feeling of relief that wells up within me at the thought of finally returning to Japan.

During the official press conference, that woman acted in a manner unthinkable for a soldier, throwing the entire homeland into chaos. On the orders of “Chatman”, she revealed to the entire world that she had been made to assess the abilities of various individuals.

Furthermore, she exposed matters that were commonplace within the intelligence community, such as Chatman’s connections with foreign intelligence agents, to the general public. The problem now lies with the homeland itself, for both public opinion and reason have united in declaring Chatman a national enemy.

Otou-sama might have been content had he been able to find a reasonable compromise, but this woman’s actions made that impossible. At the press conference, Otou-sama found himself trapped between two impossible choices. If he stopped her, he would place himself in danger. If he did not, he would harm the homeland’s standing.

In the end, Otou-sama allowed her to continue speaking. Though later summoned back to the homeland, Otou-sama managed to turn public sentiment by presenting himself as an indispensable figure in restoring trust with Japan.

This was due, in no small part, to the existence and public broadcast of Dungeon Philharmony. After all, being chosen as one of only ten groups permitted to livestream their explorations, and having successfully traded information with that much-discussed explorer, carried tremendous significance.

For the politicians, if they wished to win the next election, Otou-sama had become someone they could no longer afford to attack.

 

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“Mira, there is something I wish to speak with you about before you return to Japan.” (Fitcher)

“I do not mind, but shall we change locations?” (Mira)

Because Otou-sama serves as an ambassador, we can never be certain where listening devices might be hidden within our home.

Though we dispose of them whenever we discover them, there seems to be no end to it. That is why we never use our residence when holding important discussions with Kouta and the others.

“No, there is no need.” (Fitcher)

So, it is a matter he did not mind being overheard by those in intelligence.

I relaxed my shoulders and took a seat before Otou-sama.

“First, I wish to thank you for your assistance.” (Fitcher)

“Not at all. I am simply pleased to have been of service to you, Otou-sama.” (Mira)

The topic would likely concern either the German children residing in Japan related to the dungeon, or my activities as part of Dungeon Philharmony. For truly, there is little else of which I have been any use.

“Their broadcasts are doing well, and the information I purchased from him has proven useful.” (Fitccher)

“I am glad to hear that.” (Mira)

Of course, not a single detail of that information may be revealed. Then, perhaps this is not about the dungeon?

“Mira, it may not concern you directly, but it is better to be cautious.” (Fitcher)

“What do you mean by that?” (Mira)

Is this something I am unaware of? What kind of information could it be?

“The intelligence agents assigned to him by various countries have been disappearing one after another.” (Father)

“…What…” (Mira)

Kouta. It must be him, mustn’t it? That means this information is known only to intelligence circles and not the general public. Unbelievable.

“Ah, perhaps ‘disappearing’ is not entirely accurate. It may be that there is simply no one capable of continuing the assignment.” (Fither)

“…” (Mira)

It depends on how they were attempting to approach him. If they try to observe him closely, it would be impossible. He ventures solo as far as the sixth floor of the dungeon. Unless one is as unhinged as Kouta himself, such a task cannot be done.

What about keeping a distance and monitoring only his daily life? But this is that guild. They give Kouta half the day entirely to himself. Such intelligence would have no value.

“Even one of our own agents suddenly lost consciousness and collapsed.” (Fitcher)

“…” (Mira)

What?

“Other nations’ agents have suffered far worse. From what we know, there are 27 unexplained deaths, eight missing, and 13 who were hospitalized after accidents or sudden illness.” (Fitcher)

“Could those not simply be neighborhood accidents?” (Mira)

“I wish that were so, but can you believe that only intelligence operatives are affected?” (Fitcher)

Of course not. Intelligence agents are uniformly skilled, professionals at blending into their surroundings. And yet they were repelled with such precision. Even that woman, though she hid her eyes behind sunglasses, was easily seen through.

“Imperial Japan”. Once, I thought it nothing more than an idle rumor. But ever since the dungeons appeared, the Eastern demon has awakened. He is that very being.

“Those who merely retired due to accidents may count themselves fortunate. As for the dead, their condition was so dreadful that one could scarcely believe it was the work of a human being.” (Fitcher)

Not human. There is indeed a being at his side that is not human. One who usually acts harmless, whose true power remains unknown. One who finds supreme joy in being indulged by Kouta, and who feels no hesitation in erasing his enemies.

“For now, I believe you are safe, Mira, but do take care, will you?” (Father)

There was no hidden implication in Otou-sama’s tone. He likely does not understand the true nature of this matter. Perhaps he merely thinks it the work of Japan.

“Please do not worry, Otou-sama. I have no intention of making an enemy of him.” (Mira)

 

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