Arifureta Chapter 390

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Author note: This is the revised version of Tortus Travel Journal (After III). The first half is the same like before, while the later half after Adol made his appearance has been changed slightly. Because of the story of Tios return to her village before the final battle that I wrote as the extra story of volume 11, I revised this chapter to make it consistent with that story. Best regards.

Keep living. Keep struggling, and struggling to live like youre going to die from here on too. Do that, and one daythere is meaning in you surviving this day, the day you can think so is going to come for sure

Behind the roaring waterfall. Inside that natural cave, a voice that was heavy like rock, hard like steel, and unshakable like a great tree echoed.

At the northern mountain range, near the summit of the first mountain there. It was the place where Hajime and co found Will Cudeta who was stranded here.

The scene of that time was being watched through past replay.

He was a young master of a house of count. He asked for unreasonable things and accompanied some veteran adventurers. He wasnt any use at all, yet he was the only one who survived. He harbored a terrible feeling of guilt about it, however at the same time he was helplessly happy of the fact that he survived.

Will sobbed with a crumpled face saying that he was an ugly human. Hajime grabbed his collar and threw those words on him.

Inside the past replay, Hajime immediately came back to his senses and let go of Will. It was as though he was feeling embarrassed that he got so heated up. He was giving off an awkward air.

There is certainly a meaning of your survival huh?

Shuu messed up Hajimes hair with a rough stroke. Hajime averted his eyes as though he was faced with a black history. He slapped down Shuus hand with embarrassment.

But, even though he averted his gaze from his father, Sumire was lying in wait ahead of his gaze.

You dont need to be that embarrassed. Look, Will-kun is it? A bit of strength has returned into his eyes.

It was mostly me venting out my anger. It was too childish of me I cant bear to look at it.

Hajime and Wills circumstance overlapped at the aspect of surviving alone inside a cave. That Will spouting out words that it was shameful for him to survive sounded like he was saying that Hajimes own survival was a mistake and he spontaneously spoke that line just now. Certainly, it could be called as him venting out.

Thats not true! Papa, you were cool nano!

Myuu

Myuu tightly hugged the legs of the self-depreciating Hajime. Her perfectly round eyes were sparkling. At the same time, a kind tune could also be vaguely felt from her voice, it conveyed both her true feeling and consideration.

A smile naturally formed on Hajimes face. He unconsciously stroked Myuus head. Myuu narrowed her eyes pleasantly, as though she was entering a warm bath. Myu~~ An adorable voice that lacked tension slipped out.

Aikos expression loosened smilingly seeing such Myuu while showing her agreement.

Thats right. Those words also echoed deeply at the bottom of our heart. Just how heavy the experience of Hajime-kun in the abyss. It felt like we were able to slightly sympathize with that experience that we could only imagine about.

Just as Aiko said, Aiko and Yuuka and others inside the past replay were all showing expression as though they were greatly moved by something. It was like they were in front of a small hearth within harsh winter. Hajime who only showed his cold side to them since their reunion gave off a humane heat, and that heat melted the freezing part inside themselves. Their expression showed that.

Tomoichi and others who had actually watched the struggle for survival in the abyss were also feeling something from those words just now. They were sending gaze that was filled with warmth somewhere inside toward Hajime. Tomoichi asked with a gentle tone.

Hajime-kun. Is he still an adventurer even now?

Im sorry, I dont really know how he is doing right now. After the final battle, he came with his parents and brothers one time for greeting butit seemed they were really busy with the reconstruction, perhaps he is helping his parents right now.

Hajime tilted his head in puzzlement, but Liliana told them the answer.

Cudeta Houses contribution for the reconstruction is immense. They cooperated with Fuhren, and they even use their own private fortune in the effort. To reward that dedication, now they are the feudal lord that govern over the southern territory of the kingdom.

It seemed they obtained great success where their influence was at duke level.

When the devil race invaded the capital, many high class nobles became sacrifices. And then the number of surviving nobles who perceived that as chance to fatten their own pocket also wasnt just a few.

Lilianas eyes for judging people were the real thing, so there was no problem in discerning that type of people but, it couldnt be denied that people who could be trusted was lacking in supply.

In such situation, the count who underwent great hardships to fulfill his duty as noble and also returned the favor to his majesty the demon king who saved Will and helped Liliana who was the demon kings wife seemed to be someone who could be strongly trusted even in Lilianas eye. Right now he was even becoming one of the kingdoms mainstay leaders.

Inevitably the responsibility that the lord is shouldering is also becoming immense, so Will-san also washed his hand from being an adventurer and give his all in helping with his houses work. Right now he is holding the post as the official responsible for the aid commodities and the like in Fuhren as the representative of Cudeta House.

Hee, so he is the one in charge of negotiating with that metropolis of commerce, thats amazing. Your average joe will get cajoled and has all his possession stripped away from him in that job though.

Right now everyone is united so even Fuhren isnt being that opportunist. If they are doing business greedily which cause the peoples dissatisfaction to pile up, and that news enter a certain someones eartheyll end up like a certain underground organization in the past! Or so they think.

So thats how it is. The tragedy that befell the underground organization that auctioned Myuu and caused dirty fireworks to bloom in a part of Fuhren seemed to left a lasting impression in the mind of the upper echelon there.

It wasnt like Hajime was the ally of the people but, Liliana had worked hard doing everything she could. Then, seeing that Hajime would movesurely they couldnt discard such possibility.

Fufu. To say nothing of how Will-san is someone who his majesty the demon king personally saved. They can do nothing else but treating him with sincerity and good faith. Fufufu.

Oh? It felt like Princess Lilianas smiling face was wicked

Hey, Lily. Could it be, you did something like advising the lord regarding Wills placement

Pyu~pyupyu~pyu~

A lovely whistling voice echoed in the cave. What a clich way to play innocent. Even though it was just whistling but the way it had absurdly delicate and beautiful tune was aggravating. Furthermore, the tune was from the magical girl song before this. What fast learning. The slight arrangement so that the tune was usable for whistling was even more irritaiting.

The tough princess who made use of her husbands influence without reservation caused everyone to look conflicted. Setting that asideKaori returned her focus into the past replay.

Muu. Hajime-kun entered a world with Yue all alone again.

Thats right, Kaori-san. Theyre creating this pink world anytime anywhere. Do you understand my feeling when we were still traveling with just the three of us?

Yes, I understand it, Shia. Because, Shia is making an amazing face even inside the projection. This face, filled with things like alienation or loneliness or emptiness, its like all those are all jumbled up. Surely Ill also be like that in your position!

Kaori-san!

Shia!

Somehow the friendship value of Kaori and Shia was rising. They hugged each other tightly. It might be understandable. After all, inside the past projection, tightly grasping Hajimes hand,

Its fine, Hajime isnt wrong

Yue

Live with your all. Keep living. Forever together with me. Okay?

Yues expression was compassionate like the holy mother. Hajime was lovingly staring at such Yue while caressing her cheek.

Of course, Yue was also rubbing her cheek on Hajimes hand fawningly. There was the illusion of heart shaped bubbles were drifting airily and the air being colored pink. Even though it was inside the projection, somehow even the air felt sweet like cookies.

And then that sickly sweet scene became paused as a still image. The culprit was of course Yue-sama. Her face was smug. It was really smug. At the same time she was even pointing her finger and bending backward like a certain pirate empress when looking down on others.

With godspeed Kaori moved behind Yue and restrained her. In the same beat Shia carried out a tickling execution with her rabbit ears. Shizuku and Aiko and Liliana also joined in nonchalantly. Shia held Yues waist and lifted her up horizontally. Even her shoes were taken off and not just her sides, even the back of her feet were tickled.

Nh!? Nnh!? Sto, stop-, fuhih!? Hyawa!?

The moment she tried to shake them off, That looks fun nano~! Myuu also joined in the tickling! Yue became unable to act roughly and screamed ahi ahi with tearful eyes.

The parents were watching their frolicking with gaze that seemed to say Theyre really getting along. During that, Hajime suddenly noticed. How Tio was strangely docile.

Oi, whats the matter Tio? Youre making a face like a normal dragon race like that.

I am a normal dragon race people though!?

haha-

Why art thou laughing!?

How insulting! Tio huffed as though to say that. Seeing her like that Hajime narrowed his eyes thinking that something was strange as expected. Because, she wasnt going haa haa even though he just insulted her with something like You are a dragon race that is not dragon race. Youre dragon race (lol) right?. It was abnormal.

And, whats wrong?

Good grief, goshujin-sama art sharp. Well, its delightful that thou art watching me carefully like that

A docile Tio is so strange that its conspicuous to anyone whether they want to notice or not, right?

Nh fuuh. Mine overwhelming gratitude for the sharp words that floweth like water and yet sharp like spear!

Enough, just say quickly whats wrong.

Hajime was slightly relived seeing Tio finally going haa haa and urged her. Then Tio turned around and bared open her feeling while smiling bitterly.

Its nothing, its not something that needst to be worried about. I am merely a little ashamed of mine blunder.

Hajime guessed Tios thought from those words.

Most likely, she was reminded once more from seeing Will inside the past projection. How she was controlled and killed the adventurers.

It was truly, an irredeemable mistake.

Indignation could be seen inside her bitter smile. Behind her golden pupils, there was a flicker of flame that blazed fiercely as though burning herself.

Yue and others stopped messing around seeing that. They looked at Tio with a quiet expression. And then the parents gasped and opened their eyes wide.

Kaoruko and Akiko got flustered by the stifling air. They gave a follow up toward Tio.

Bu, but, if I remember right, Tio-san was controlled wasnt it?

That was what I heard from Aiko too. Then

Both of you, mine gratitude for thy consideration. But, human lives were lost. It couldst not be put away merely by saying that it couldst not be helped.

Kaoruko and Akiko became speechless from Tios decisive reply. Shuuzou and other Yaegashi family members seemed to understand Tios feeling. They were watching her with a calm gaze.

Sumire and Shuu looked at each other and asked Tio.

Didnt you obtain the forgiveness from Will-kun and the other adventurers family?

After the final battle, you went to apologize to them before going to earth didnt you? Hajime also accompanied you right?

Actually, Tio already went to apologize to the families that were left behind by those adventurers. Not just from Will, she also obtained forgiveness from them. It seemed there was already explanation about the circumstance from Will beforehand, and there was also Tios achievement in the final battle and other place that they received Tios apologize with no ill feeling so much that Tio felt troubled instead but

That is that, this is this. Due to mine mistake, lives were lost needlessly. Whether I am forgiven or not for it, its something that I must not forget for mine whole life.

Tio spun words of admonition like a strict judge, or perhaps like a priest that preached the truth.

From her words there was certainly the figure of strict and moral dragon race who wouldnt allow any pampering for herself or averting her gaze from what she should shoulder.

With self-reproach and self-admonition, and then prayer to the death for happiness in the next world in her heart, Tio silently closed her eyes. While solemn atmosphere was filling the cave, a small silhouette came running with rapid steps.

Fufu, thank you. Myuu.

Myu

Before it was to Hajime. Now it was to Tio. However, this time it wasnt with words. Myuu was simply clinging on Tios leg.

Yue and others, also the parents too were praying for happiness in the next life for the dead. Time flowed solemnly for a while.

Before long, Hajime broke the silence.

Well, she isnt worrying or anything, if its something that Tio decided herself then I dont really have anything to say but

What is it goshujin-sama?

Hajime didnt mind if she wasnt being tormented by guilty conscience and trapped in it. In that respect, Tio was more level headed than anyone else despite being a total pervert, so he wasnt worried. Though although he said that, Hajimes expression softened with consideration somewhere in it. Tio tilted her head seeing that.

There might be negligence in your part. You must be really confident in the defense power of the unbreakable dragon scale. You were also undoubtedly very tired after flying continuously from the far away solitary island without stopping until here.

Thats, wellthat art the case. However

Tio tried to argue back, however, Hajime interrupted her with his hand and continued.

Above all else, you were unlucky. Even though you were hiding within a vast mountain range, you still encountered that guy. Whats more it was in a superb timing where he was in the middle of carrying out his plan. It made me wonder just what kind of coincidence was that.

Hajime folded his arms while talking. Everyone focused on him. Hearing the word Unlucky, her expression looked like she wanted to object Thats not an excuse so much, but she stayed quiet and lent her ear.

Tio, should I say as expected from the dragon race, that mental strength of yours isnt a joke. Ive never seen you shaken no matter what kind of trial it was in the great dungeons.

I hath, lived for more than five hundred years after all.

Yes, whether it was at Great Dungeon Haltina, or the cave of ice and snow, against trial that tested the mind, she would face it with more firmness than anyone, and broke through it.

Yeah, thats why Im saying this. You were unlucky.

Goshujin-sama, thats

Of all people, you got found out by an absurd genius like Shimizu.

Genius

It was Shuuzou who was muttering with a questioning tone. But, it seemed everyone felt the same. They harbored surprise and puzzlement toward Hajime praising Shimizu Yukitoshi as genius without exaggerating.

Hajime shrugged sensing such atmosphere.

Because thats true right? Even though it took a whole day, he brainwashed this Tio you know? How else youre going to call him other than a cheat level genius?

Not only that. Even without looking too far back, the feat of dominating a large army of sixty thousand monsters within two week wasnt normal.

Even if it was just him controlling the boss monsters within that army instead of all sixty thousand, that still counted of nearly a hundred monsters. Furthermore those monsters were the boss of several hundred or several thousand monsters, so naturally they were powerful monsters. And he completely brainwashed them under his control, so it could be seen how amazing that was.

Perhaps it was actually Shimizu who was the natural enemy of the devil race. Exactly because of that they brought up the talk of accepting him as their comrade and when he was captured by us they immediately washed their hands off himwell, its nothing more than a speculation though.

Hajime-kun, what do you mean by natural enemy?

Shuuzou-san, I explained the situation at Tortus already didnt I? Do you remember what was the absolute advantage of the devil race?

Thatsif I remember right, a general called Freed was leading a monster armyaa, so its something like that. Shimizu-kun wascould it be, there was a chance he might steal that monster army

Yes. He controlled that large army while he was still inexperienced. If he trained diligently, there was enough possibility he could do that. Even if he could not, it was proved that numbers can be resisted with numbers.

Aiko looked down hearing Hajimes speculation.

If, Shimizu-kun stayed at our side, he might be able to become a hero just like he wanted.

I wonder about that. What that guy wanted was an environment where he was the only special one. If thats the case than either way its only the devil races side that can grant his wish. I think the result wouldnt change.

Is, that so?

Thats so. After all every last one of the guys in the class is a cheat.

The biggest example was, Kouki. As a hero his spec didnt allow anyone to catch up to him. And then, Eri. She developed the magic Soul Bind to bind the deaths soul and enslave them with her own effort. It was a skill that took a step inside the territory of soul magic which was an age of god magic.

Kaori was also like that. Even if she didnt obtain the apostles strength, just by training diligently in recovery magic as she was, she would be able to become a healer who could heal in the scale of thousands by herself alone.

Shizuku too, she surpassed the hero if it was just in speed. If she increased her slashing ability and trained her skill and magic, she would literally be the strongest and fastest swordsman who could cut anything.

Suzu could deploy a barrier in the class of the capitals great barrier with her own strength, Ryuutarou too, using his senses alone he was able to use Vajra from the start when Hajime needed to plunder that skill from monsters by repeatedly breaking down and regenerating his body, his toughness could only be described as abnormal.

There was no need to mention Aiko. Then there was a certain abyss lord and also others, they were abnormal since before coming to Tortus.

Being the only one special that environment that Shimizu wished for would undoubtedly never come to pass. And then, there was no doubt that his conceit wouldnt accept that.

It was beyond doubt that the young man called Shimizu was a threat who possessed extraordinary power.

Getting back on track, Tio.

Umu.

If it was us who received the brainwashing, we might not be able to wake up just from getting hit by physical impact. You were hit by a threat of that level from the beginning. Thats why, I wont tell you to not get too bothered by it, and I also respect your resolve to shoulder that responsibility, but

Hajimes gaze wandered around at empty air while searching for words. And then he spoke with a troubled expression.

The people with the right to blame you, they forgave you. Thats why, if its just for a bit, it should be alright for you to also forgive yourself shouldnt it?

Goshujin-sama

Tios expression became very troubled. She couldnt accept itit wasnt because she thought that. She couldnt express it in words but, she fell into the sensation of her heart getting tightly clutched and became unable to understand what kind of expression she should make.

Hajime muttered Youre really, youre only strict toward yourself rather than toward your surroundings before adding more words.

The war against god is over. The longstanding wish of the dragon race is also accomplished. Thats why, Tio. Isnt it fine even if you spoil yourself just a bit more?

Is that so?

Yeah, thats what I think. Or perhaps its that? By treating yourself harshly, youre getting self-haa haa inside? In that case I might be poking my nose unwontedly here

Im not self-haa haa or anything!? Pleasure art meaningful when its given from other people who thou couldst trust!

No, no one gives a damn

Tio grabbed Hajimes collar looking extremely angry, but no one tried to stop her. The reason was simple. Tios expression, it was loose like someone stuffing their cheeks with candy.

Everyone in that place was watching Tio hitting Hajime repeatedly *pow pow* with a gaze that wanted to say even a dog wont want to get near.

*Pow pow, pow pow-!*

Nn, anyway, the past replay here is over. Lets go out.

The group headed outside following Yues command. *Pow pow, slap slap*.

I wonder if she sensed the presence of Hajime and others? Hey, Tio, do you remember about that

Eei, annoying! This useless dragon!

Thank you very much-, for supreme slap-!!!

The useless dragon-san spun artistically like a figure skater while crumbling down. She was going ahe ahe so much. It was a picturesque expression of ecstasy.

At the same time, Yue split open the waterfall at that timing so the scenery outside was visible. Inside the past image, a black dragon was glaring down with soul-stirring and fierce pressure. It was really giving off the atmosphere of a last boss. The surging out jet black magic power and the vast pressure that was conveyed even through the projection. The dragon eyes that were glaring fiercely were so sharp that all the parents jerked in surprise.

In front of such dragon that was like an evil dragon from a story,

Goshujin-sama! I asked thee for a second helping-!!

Gururururu-

If your right cheek was slapped, then offering your left cheek was the way of the world! Tio pleaded for reward with an expecting gaze as though to say that. And then, the past Tio was growling.

The image was paused for the moment. Yue turned around toward everyone behind and said.

Its this gap.

Kaori and others, and also Sumire and other parents, they simultaneously looked at Tio who was sitting beside Hajimes foot while going woof woof auu. Their heart became as one.

Really, what a really hopeless legendary dragonthey thought.

In any case, the group exited the cave. With the waterfall behind them, they gathered on an empty lot that was still desolated from the scar of battle.

Hajime tossed away Tio who he dragged along with him and opened his mouth while glancing at the paused past replay.

Now then, a shocking image will be playing after this

It wouldst be the wonderful moment when a new door was opened for me! Please watch! Im asking everyone to please watch-!

Yue, Shia, and Aiko were staring like they were looking at an alien. Why would she herself wish for that moment to be publicizedthey wondered.

Honestly, its just a scene of a pervert being a pervert.

Hajime-kun. You shouldnt mislead everyone. Its the scene of Hajime-kun creating a pervert.

Nn. Its not good to nonchalantly direct the flow to make it look like its not your fault.

In the first place, its Hajime-sans responsibility no matter how you look at it. Please shoulder your responsibility properly.

Cough-. Its just-, a scene-, of me creating a pervert-

The three different comments from three different people caused Hajime to reword his sentence with a look of self-abandonment. The wive~s were strict with their husband sometimes.

And, will you watch? Or will you not? I strongly recommend that you dont watch it.

Theres no way we wont watch the current Tios beginning after coming this far!

Ri, right. Its also a bit scary after hearing the story though

Hearing Kaori and Shizukus reply, the parents were also nodding even while looking slightly hesitant. Until now, they had been watching the track of Hajime and others that they actually didnt even need to see, including the heavy and painful scenes. In that case, how could they refuse to watch something like shocking scene that the person herself wished to show off! They convinced themselves like that with a tension that they slightly didnt understand.

Hajime sighed. He turned his gaze toward Myuu. Myuu twitched. She made an upward gaze and asked timidly. She didnt want to go through Up, u~p, but she really wanted to watch.

Is it, no good? Nano

Its fine. If Remia allow it.

Myuu went Eh?. It seemed she didnt expect an okay to be given. When she hurriedly turned her gaze, Remia mama was looking slightly hesitant. This was also unexpected. A scene where a pervert was awakened to perversion, no matter how one thought about it, it would be bad for a childs education. It would excessively bad. And yet she hesitated because

Ma, mama? Myuu, want to watch nano. The time when Tio-oneechan and papa met, Myuu want to watch it nano.

Ri, righti, it might be fine, I think.

Its fine!?

Uuyes, if Myuu want to watch then

Remia mama said that, looking like it was a really painful decision! Hajime said OK, Remia said OK, why would they do that

Getting concerned, or rather getting worried, the man with common sense Tomoichi asked while sending Myuu a concerned gaze.

Hajime-kun. Is it really okay? Or rather, why is it okay?

No, well, its about Tio after all.

Tomoichi and Kaoruko and others tilted their head. Hajime continued with a wry smile.

No, its not really meaningful to not watch this scene with the excuse that its bad for her education. Look, even now she is going haa haa from getting tossed away by me there.

Aa

So its because she is already a walking obscenity

Thank you so much-

Its the same whether she watch or not. Its the fetish of a family member, or rather its her major personality, so perhaps its fine even if Myuu doesnt deny it so much.

Looking at Remia, she nodded with a troubled expression. It seemed she was of the same opinion. If they told Myuu that You cant see this!, then in the first place they should tell her You must not look at Tio!. For Remia, that kind of attitude toward family would be bad for Myuus education instead. Though it was a hard decision for her to make.

Waa~~i! Nano! Myuu can watch Tio-oneechans scene nano!

Umu-, Myuu! Pay a close attention! Of mine way of life!!

Myuu will pay a close attention nano!

Myuu hopped and hugged Tio. Tio was going haa haa while accepting the hug. Someone breathing hard with expression of ecstasy while being hugged by a little girl, it was bad in a different sense.

Like that, even while harboring worry of Is this really alright~, Myuu-chan wont get traumatized from it riiight~, they shared an unspoken understanding that if push came to shove a mosaic would be put on Tios existence itself using illusion, then Yue looked around with a gaze that said Now, have you steeled yourself?at that timing.

Nn? This presence

Eh? Hajime-san, could this be

Hajime and Shia suddenly turned their gaze to other direction. The other people wondered what it was about and followed their gaze. There they started to see a black dot in the sky. It was gradually getting bigger and before long they could also see wings flapping.

Oo? Is thatJii-sama!?

The figure that came into view was a gallant red dragon. An indigo blue dragon was also flying slightly behind it.

Like that, two dragons flapped their wings hard on the empty lot while landing. Right after that, the dragons were enveloped in light and took human form.

Long time no see, Hajime-kun.

The red haired good looking man wearing kimonoTios grandfather Adol Clarus was wrapped in an aura that was like a great tree. His tone that was greeting him was also similarly powerful and yet calm.

Long time no see, Adol-dono. Its surprising to meet you here. A coincidenceit is not isnt it?

Umu. I heard the story from the queen of Heiligh. I flew here to greet you and also to suggest something.

Adol smiled a reassuring smile even though it was still filled with dignity. His gaze looked around toward the parents.

Its a honor to meet everyone. I am Tios grandfather, Adol Clarus. Because it was my dearest wish to be able to meet everyone, I was embarrassingly unable to contain myself and intrude on your trip like this. My apologies.

Adol said that and lightly bowed his head. Shuu and others who were dumbfounded finally returned to their senses. This was someone who was one of the few people that Hajime would seriously show respect toward. Naturally Shuu and others were also feeling it. Of the majesty and refinement that made them wanted to kneel naturally. They held their breath, thinking that this was a real king.

Thats, please raise your head. Were the one who feel honored to be able to meet you, yes!

Tha, thats right desu!

O, oi, Sumire! Tone! Your tone is weird, yes!

You are also acting strange desu!

The Nagumo couple were plainly losing their cool. Hajime covered his face with both hands. A lighthearted laugh immediately came from Adol.

I have heard about you two a little from Hajime-kun, but it seems you two are really a delightful parents.

Ha, hahaa, thank you for saying that~

Geez, really our son, just what has he been saying I wonder. Calling us the worlds most delightful and wonderful parents like that!

Tou-san, Kaa-san. Please. Calm down.

Hajime begged at his parents who were starting to show the sign of running wild while sweating a lot. Of course Yue-sama immediately used soul magic.

Tomoichi and others were also slightly nervous from being swallowed by Adols atmosphere, but after looking at the two who were at their wits end from right nearby and,

Its Adol-ojiichan nano~~!!

Oo! Myuu! Long time no see! Has you grown slightly taller? Umu, you have also become slightly heavier.

Muu, Adol-ojiichan, bad nano. Talk of weight is taboo~ for a lady nano.

Oops, indeed. I apologize. It was imprudent of me. Myuu is already a splendid lady.

Ufufu~ nano~

Adol hugged Myuu with a wide smile like they were normal grandfather and granddaughter. Seeing that, they recovered their cool. Each of them exchanged greeting with a calm face of an adult.

While the adults were deepening friendship with Adol at the center, Liliana silently approached Hajime who had various questions pasted on his face.

Im sorry, Hajime-san. I forgot to mention it.

Nn? You mean about Adol-dono?

Yes. Actually, Adol-sama and everyone of the dragon race are shouldering the role of communication and defending the whole continent.

So it was like that. If it was the dragon race who could fly freely in the sky without anyone obstructing them anymore, they would be able to move quicker than anyone to resolve various problems like the quarrel that still existed between races, various areas that were still shaky in foundation, and so on. Regarding the communication and information sharing too, considering their nobility and trustworthiness, there would be no one else that could be reliably entrusted with such role.

Oh my, is that so. If that art the case, then everyone in the village hast come to the continent?

Tio approached and tilted her head. Yue and others also gathered and listened. Then it wasnt Liliana who answered but the youth dragon race who accompanied Adol. Yes, it was the indigo blue dragon race who had been sending stern eyes toward Hajime all this timeRistas.

No, princess. Only around thirty percent of the villages populace came here.

Oo, Ristas! Long time no see. So thou art here.

Im here. From the start.

Eh? Whats this. It felt like there was a certain abyss lord who received this kind of treatment

By the way, Ristas-kuns first love was Princess Tio, in the past he was also one of her former fiance candidates. It was a known fact, so Kaori and others were sending him a sad and sympathetic gaze.

Ristas-kun, he was making a face that wanted to say If you guys are sympathetic then return back the proper princess!, even so he continued explaining.

Although the gap between demi-humans and human race is being closed, right now is an important period for both sides to understand and accept each other. All of us dragon race flying freely in the sky too much might cause a needless sentiment.

I see. Certainly its as thou say. It wouldst be inexcusable if we cause people to harbor feeling like fear toward other demi-humans.

Yes. Also, while everyone is busy doing reconstruction, its too much to ask them to secure a place for everyone in the village to stay here. And so currently we are selecting a place where a new village of the dragon race can be set up in the continent under the cooperation of the countries.

I seeso thats how it is

Tio nodded several times looking somewhat deeply moved. More than five hundred years had passed since the dragon race escaped from the continent. Finally even the dragon race was able to come back to the continent.

There are various prospects raised for the site. Fea Bergen was also generously proposing to set up an autonomous region for us to live together with them butfor good or bad our existence is mighty, so were making our decision carefully.

Umu. Thats good to hear.

Yes. And so, princess. The future of us dragon race is hanging on this period from now, so I beg you, please return back to the

Stop that, Ristas.

Ristas pitched forward to entreat earnestly, but those words were silenced by a gunshot from Hajimebefore that could happen, Adol who seemed to pause his conversation with the parents for the moment interrupted him with an exasperated face while still carrying Myuu in his arms.

Pa, patriarch-, however-

Ristas tried to argue even then, but Adol shut him up with his gaze and said.

Tio, dont mind us. Rather, you should enjoy yourself. As for what will become of our new home, everyone is praying for your happiness, and they are in high spirit to one day display our new home to you and surprise you with it.

Jii-samaI see. Umu, even without thee telling me, I shall do as I please. I wouldst not leave goshujin-samas side. I was also told just now that it wouldst be fine for me to spoil myself more.

Hou. So Hajime-kun said such thingfufu, he said something good to you.

Umu-

The two calmly smiled to each other with the face of a grandfather and a granddaughter. Ristas was going Gununu with a vexed face like in manga while glaring at Hajime.

Hajime ignored that with a shrug while sending his gaze to Adol once more.

And, Adol-dono. You mentioned something about a proposal

Aa, thats right. As mentioned just now, we will migrate here before long.

Yes. Congratulations, is it alright if I say that?

But of course. Thank you. Although, its a place where we had spent more than five hundred years there. We are quite attached to it. I heard about the trip of everyone here in such timing, so I was thinking if everyone together with your families will accept my invitation to visit the village once before we migrate.

I see.

Certainly, this might be their last chance to see the settlement of a hidden village in an isolated island that was located at the northern sea far away. With that as the case, this invitation was truly a precious offer that they should be grateful for.

This wasnt in their schedule but, How about it? Hajime asked with his gaze.

In mine opinion, I wish that we couldst visit no matter what.

Added with that wish of Tio, the groups heart decided immediately. Of course, the answer was yes.

Thats how it is, Adol-sama. We will be in your care.

Thats great. The people in the village will be happy too.

Hajime took Myuu while the two shook hand.

Seeing the respect that was visible on Hajimes expression, Shuu muttered Eh? Have Hajime ever looked at me like that, Tomoichi replied Ive also heard that before. Or rather, dont compete with Adol-san, Nagumo Shuu. The difference in status as a person between the two of you is too far. While the two of the them were silently grappling with each other, Adol continued his talk.

And, I heard a little from Shuu-dono just now, but it seems everyone is planning to watch the battle at your first meeting with Tio?

Eh? Aa~, yes, thats, right. Yes

Sweat trickled down Hajimes cheek.

Please allow me to watch it too.

Ha, hahaa, about that. As expected, the recording of defeat of a granddaughter isnt something that should be seen by her family I thinkI too, was a li~ttle bit merciless at that time you can say

In a super rare occasion, Hajimes gaze was swimming around like a migratory fish. Tomoichi and others looked astonished seeing Hajime babling incoherently like that. Yue, Shia, and Aiko were making an expression that seemed to want to say Well, of course he will act like that.

You dont need to finish those words, Hajime-kun.

Adol shook his head with a pained expression seeing Hajimes extreme awkwardness.

I have heard about the gist of it. I had even fainted from that. I have steeled myself!

Id rather you dont steel yourself so much for this kind of thing!

Certainly, Adol had the expression of a warrior that was going to challenge a diecisive battle.

The eyes of Ristas-kun who was standing behind him was staring at a world far away. It seemed this one hadnt managed to steel himself. He loked like he was going to say There is nothing in my memory.

Hajimes gaze asked TioOi Tio! Could it be you even talked to them about the matter of pile bunker in the ass!?. In respond Tio dared to answer back with her gaze It was the beginning of mine love with Goshujin-sama. I wanted everyone in the village to know about it while looking bashful for some reason.

She had a terrible kind of sensitivity. As expected from the super perverted dragon.

Certainly it was, a litte bit, unique method of attack, I say, that it might open, aa~, the door? that was hidden inside Tio.

Chief. Its not just might. It was definitely that attack that pried open the door. And the result is that.

Ristas. Havent you become, somewhat self-despairing right now?

Ristas-kun looked like he was going to spit out keh even now. He was turning slightly delinquent when faced with the reality that was hard to accept.

It couldnt be helped. After all before the legendary final battle, the village was almost met the bitter experience of annihilation due to the story of the beginning of my love with Goshujin-sama that was talked by Tio when she returned home.

The village fell into a hellish pandemonium by the completely changed figure of their princess. At that time Adol fainted while Ristas-kun also entered cardiac arrest due to the extreme shock.

If Tio didnt stop with just showing the recording of the battle at the demon king castle and also showed the recording of the pile bunker in the ass incident

Surely the figures of dragon race wouldnt be seen when the legendary final battle broke out, no doubt about it.

Adol cleared his throat once and pulled himself together.

Even so, Tios black scale was never brokenby anyone in the village. And yet you broke it and made Tio who boasted an undefeated record even if it was just in the small world that was our village to admit defeat. I wish to observe such battle by all means. No matter what kind of content it has, it is the event where the love between both of you began. Im curious as Tios grandfather.

It seemed Adol had already intended to accept everything that her granddaughter was as a grandfather.

Tios cheeks reddened seeing Adols grandfatherly expression. Ristas was sending his gaze to look at far away while he was starting to sit down and hugged his knees. And then he covered his ears with both hands. It seemed he intended to shut out all of the outside world from his senses.

W-what now Tio? If he is going as far as saying all that, then I have no other choice except to show it butif you dont want to show

Bring it on-

Im an idiot for asking.

Hajime looked up to the sky before looking toward Yue. Yue made a kind expression and sent him a thumb up. As expected from the first wife-sama. It seemed she also had the caliber to accept everything that Hajime was.

Tio was hugging herself and wriggling around because her grandfather was going to witness an even that was her first time in various senses. Ignoring her, Hajime signaled with his gaze for Yue to activate the past replay.

Well, it couldnt be helped. That was just how impactful it was. Said Adol-san smilingly.

With a glance Hajime asked Oi, Tio! Could it be, you didnt mention about the ass pile bunker!?. Tio too replied back with her gaze I only showed the memory playback of the battle in the devil king castle! Because, it was really urgent at that time! As expected, I thought that it wouldst be bad if I showed them the ass pile bunker!. It was really a wise decision. And then, the time to pay for that had come now.

Wha, what now, Tio? This is more or less the record of your defeat. You dont want to show it to the grandfather you respected dont you?

Hajime-san desperately tried to cover it up! Yue and others who somehow guessed his though sent a thumb up.

But however,

U, umu. Thats right. As expected its embarrassing or ratherunlike Hahaue-dono and others who art already aware from the beginning that I am someone like this, the people of the village art still feeling respect toward me

As expected, unlike with the earth group who was interacting with her with the awareness that she was a pervert since the beginning, toward them who had only seen her side as a noble and wise last descendant of the royal family all this time since her birth, showing them the scene of her awakening through ass pile bunker was a bit

Though she was saying that, Tio-san was also wriggling around at the same time.

But-, its also difficult for me to suppress the desire to purposefully show the scene to those brethrens of mine so that they wouldst look at me with scornful gaze-. Aah, this conflicting desire-. Goshujin-sama! What should I do!?

Itll be better if you enter the grave isnt it?

No matter what time it was, in the end Tio was Tio.

Ignoring Tio who was hugging herself and wriggling around, Hajime faced the greatly dignified Adol-san who was watching them warmly and Ristas whose expression was twitching before telling them the pre-screening warning.

Adol-dono. In this world, I believe there are things that one is better off not knowing.

Fumu? Thats a wise saying. However, I believe that Im not so narrow minded I will be offended just from my granddaughters defeat.

Even if, she lost in a horrible way?

Tio was controlled right? That battle should be a pure battle for survival. In that case, no matter what kind of method you used, I wouldnt call it as cowardice or despicable.

What a praiseworthy person. It wasnt just for show how he was able to accept even the Tio who was transformed into a pervert as She simply have a slightly strange taste with unperturbed attitude.

Seeing that unshakeable gaze of Adol that was like a saint and his large hearted smile that felt like it could accept everything, Hajime resigned himself with Ah, this is impossible. I cant easily divert his attention.

Hajime turned his gaze toward Yue and told her to resume the past projection.

Like that the intense battle began.

Everyone held their breath at the scene where he blocked Tios breath with a large shield.

The scene after that too, the shooting, and the black scales that deflected it. Tios tenacity that evaded Shias iron hammer and counterattacked while under the attack of gravity magic caused admiring voice to be raised. Hajimes tempestuous attackthe frontal attack from Schlagen that broke through the breath from the front and the storm of pinpoint sniping into the spots with weak defensecaused shocked yell to be raised.

It was a fierce battle. Whether it was the tough battle of Tios soul stirring figure, or the tyrannical might from Hajimes artifact, it was a battle like the story that was passed down in myth

Everyone was absorbed in watching without even any leeway to speak their impression to each other. Even Adol was going ooh and aah with an impressed expression. Ristas who was shutting out reality had also stood up before anyone noticed and watched the playback while clenching his sweaty palm.

Yes, they were all watching with rapt attention. Even though that moment, had finally come.

Die from your butt. This useless dragon

*ZUBO-!*

AA-!!!? AAAAAAH-!!!

A thick stake stabbed into the princesss butt. A sad voice of Please pull it ouuutt~ echoed to the surrounding.

No one said anything. They were truly at a loss for words. Even though the past image continued to flow, it was like the time at the real world had stopped.

Looking closer, Kaoruko and Akiko were half fainting. Kirino covered her mouth as though she wanted to say Oh myy, while Sumire was looking up to the sky. As expected, it seemed to be a shocking scene that surpassed their imagination.

Unable to keep watching, Remias face went bright red while she unconsciously pressed on her own butt with averted gaze. Or rather, the female camp including Yue and others were also pressing their butt with blushing cheeks. They were also trembling a little, perhaps because they were imagining what if something like that was done to them.

Myuu could only keep watching with her mouth gaping wide open. Her face seemed to say An encounter with the unknown nano!.

Thi, this art embarrassing~

Normally it wont stop with just embarrassment though.

The hopeless dragon was wriggling shyly. It was like someone who was displaying their romantic kiss scene.

Even after that, the pile was punched hard & grinded while still piercing the butt and there was screaming, however, this scream was getting filled with luster bit by bit. Even the male camp became unable to watch and averted their gaze. It was during that time Tio finally dispelled her dragon transformation.

Over there, the princess Tio who was loved and respected by anyone was already gone. What was there was only a pervert who had opened a new door after going through ass pile bunker and moaning haa haa with expression of ecstasy.

Inside the image, the group began to descend down the mountain. Tio got her foot grabbed and dragged on the ground carelessly even though she was a princess. Even then, she was making perverted ahe ahe face that was terribly disgustingin that moment,

There isTHERE IS NO WAY THIS KIND OF PERVERT IS OUR PRINCESSSSSSSSSSS-!!

Ristas-kun instantly transformed into dragon and flew to far beyond.

Even though he was trying to stick with the stance of not seeing, not listening, and not knowing anything! till the end, he carelessly got attracted by the soul-stirring battle and ended up witnessing it. His heart was at his limit after seeing that.

The tears that spilled down from Ristas-kuns eyes were falling down glitteringly. His springtime of youth and first love became a rain that was pouring down.

Ti, Tio-oneechan. Is your butt, alright, nano?

Myuu approached Tio fearfully. Even while she was still dumbfounded from the shocking image, she at least understood that ass pile bunker was a deed that shouldnt be done to humans.

She was worried that perhaps, Tio-oneechans butt was still in a terrible state even now? Her small hand was rubbing at that spot.

Tio shivered and her expression broke into a broad smile.

Umu. Its alright, Myuu. At first the pain felt as though it penetrated until mine brain, but when thou get used to it, it become a pleasure that couldst not be described with wo

Tio-san? If you speak even one more word to Myuu, Ill become slightly serious.

Fuwah!? U, understood, Remia

Behind Remia mama who was making my my ufufu face that wasnt smiling, there was something flickering! With high waves as the background, there was a blasphemous existence that couldnt be described with words at all! Or something like that!

The strongest black dragon was easily defeated before the anger of a mother who was thinking of her child. She sat down in seiza posture beautifully. Her gaze wouldnt meet Remia mamas eyes no matter what. Large bead of sweats trickled down.

Yue erased the past replay while glancing at that. While the air was filled with indescribable atmosphere, Hajime silently stole glance at Adol.

Adol, was smiling. He was doing nothing but silently staring at the place where the past Tio was at with an aura that could even be called as peaceful.

It was shocking. No, certainly, the person himself said that he had already fainted when hearing the story and built up some resistance from there butHajime thought that even Adol would at least grimace when seeing what happened from up close like this.

And yet he was like usual, on his face was an expression of affection that felt like it could accept everything.

As expected fromt he leader of the dragon race. The grandfather of Tio. One couldnt help but to take off their hat in admiration toward the depth of his heart

Hm? Adol-donos condition seemed?

Adol-dono. Are you alright

Adol stayed completely still without moving at the slightest while the affectionate expression was still pasted on his face. A thought crossed Hajimes mind. He didnt want to believe it, even so he tried calling out to him and placed his hand on Adols shoulder.

Then at the next moment.

Adol collapsed backward while still standing straight & smiling. It seemed, or rather, as expected, the resistance that he built up from simply hearing the story was unable to bear the weight of the sad reality.

*Bam* He collapsed splendidly, however, as expected the smile on his face was still there with his body not even twitching. His consciousness had completely flew away to somewhere. The place was frozen.

Only

A beat later.

Ji, JII-SAMAAA!?

Tios shriek echoed through the vast north mountain range.

After that, Adol recovered somehow through getting showered with a lot of soul magic.

Before heading to the village that was located in the solitary island, Tio said that she wanted to join up with her servant who was also her wet mother Venri before teleporting to the village, so for the time being they headed to deep inside the northern mountain range area but

It went without saying that the atmosphere along the way was so terrific it was beyond description.

Also, Ristas-kun never returned. After that it seemed nobody was able to contact him for a while.