The forest seemed to be crying.

There was no wind, but yet the leaves still swayed as if in sorrow.

Hearing a far off commotion Akatsuki promptly returned to Forestnium.

What received Akatsuki was an eerie silence, as if Disdia’s attack had never happened. Then within the demon race, it was not calm, the air was filled with a tight atmosphere, representing that this tiny village had already become prepared for war.

"......."

Just as he pa.s.sed the entrance into the village Akatsuki was stopped suddenly by two familiar faces.

Izumi Chikage and Nanase Haruka -- They were responsible for protecting their companions.

“——Akatsuki, you’ve returned.”

Chikage, who took the lead to speak, had a very calm tone. Akatsuki nodded in response and said,

“I forced the incoming soldiers to retreat. There should be no immediate threats..... How are things on your side?”

"We haven't even spotted so much as an enemy shadow, but we're still on high alert."

Chikage casually shrugged, on the other hand, Haruka lowered her head to look at her feet.

“The Concept Magic Barrier has been thoroughly reinforced, the enemy should not be able to easily enter.”

The three of them suddenly became speechless.

The reason why Akatsuki declared war on Disdia was because he suspected the movement of the armor knights, because he suspected they were dispatched by Disdia to attack Forestnium.

With the presence of Kaidou and the other members of Akatsuki's group from the other world, they were able to keep the damage done substantially lower than if the villagers had been without their presence. Which was an accomplishment in of it's own. But in their eyes it had not been enough. They had not done enough. And that was why so many lay injured while only seeking shelter from the battle, just like young Riruru.

Urumu was the leader of the village, who had unfortunately lost his life in the enemy’s attack. He died at the hands of the golden knight, who was by far and wide the most powerful of all the 20 or so invaders.

As the village leader Urumu was the one to maintain the barrier of Forestnium. Who knows how the enemy found out this information, but it was apparent that the golden knight came charging for Urumu.

Although meeting a strong enemy, due to Urumu’s sacrifice, among this attack, he was the only one that died. Urumu had set a magic within his body, the magic’s activation condition was his own death.

The moment Urumu died at the hands of the enemy, the magic within his body instantly activated, and transferred the invaders to outside of the village, at the same time, it enhanced the Concept Magic Barrier, to completely prevent foreign enemies from entering. Since the golden knight and the other Disdia soldiers were all sent to a distant location, it ended that day’s tragedy.

Half a day later, Akatsuki and the others returned from Sherfield.

“Time really flies, 20 days had already pa.s.sed instantly.”

This also represents that Akatsuki, under Miu’s support, had become the demon race’s representative, it had already been 10 days since he had formally declared war on Disdia. These 10 days, Akatsuki had only constantly repelled the invading army of Disdia and did not attack Disdia’s territory. There was obviously a reason for him to utilize such pa.s.sive tactics.

To blindly defeat Baram while angered; it will not achieve the outcome that Akatsuki desired.

……However, it was almost time.

These 10 days, Disdia had launched a total of 4 attacks, and each time, it was repelled by Akatsuki. As the amount of failures increased, the number of people trying to invade also gradually increased, today, they had even sent an army with tens of thousands of people. Just by looking at the situation, the next attack could possibly evolve into a large-scale conflict.

Presumably they next time the troops are sent out, it was the decisive moment using all their strength.

“——Is there any news that came from Melissa?”

Akatsuki suddenly mentioned the leader of the brothel guild. Before formally declaring the war, Akatsuki had privately asked “her” to find out information about various countries if it was possible, and regularly compile a written report once it was complete.

“There is.” Haruka nodded, and replied to Akatsuki’s inquiry.

“After this military action failed, Disdia had already officially requested help, they wanted Sherfield and Aleclasta, based on their military alliance, to send troops to battle, but since Sherfield and Disdia both had their surveillance forces attacked, it is difficult for them to refuse Disdia’s request.”

“Stalling until now before they were forced into joining the war, the fellow is already amazing.”

Akatsuki narrowed his eyes, and tried to figure out Listy’s situation.

While before, during the four countries’ meeting period had reached the conclusion of a duel, Listy was already in a dilemma.

So Akatsuki, after a fierce battle, had voluntarily resigned, and used a deep kiss to end the duel, and had also allowed Listy to save some face. However, Baram overthrew the decision of the four country’s talks, and decided to launch attacks by himself, which had suddenly caused all the hard work Akatsuki had done go down the drain.

Thus, Akatsuki had no other choice, and could only go down the remaining path in front of his eyes. Galevain was a demon race’s country, if he had seeked help from Listy, it would undoubtedly trap Sherfield for injustice; However, if the situation had turned into a war between Galevain and Disdia, due to the constraints of the military alliance, Sherfield will have to send troops as support, at that time, Akatsuki and Listy will be forced to fight each other on the battle field.

So if we had to express Galevain’s stance, currently it was a pressing matter.

Galevain’s only enemy is Disdia, and there was no intention to turn the other 2 countries into enemies ——Under these circ.u.mstances, it was likely that the immediate situation will become a joint force of Disdia and Sherfield together resisting Galevain, it was important to indicate this stance. If they do not make any representations, and fought Sherfield and Disdia without care, the meaning of this entire body was completely off. Whether was it for Listy or for Sherfield, this option will cause the least harm to them.

Thus Akatsuki inquired Haruka about this key information.

“Meaning that Meliisa had already understood the inside of “that matter”?”

“Yes, almost all of it.”

Haruka answered.

“Disdia’s fourth prince Alphonse, due to taking an opposed stance to this attack, had been arrested. He should currently be under house arrest.”

“I see, then there is nothing to worry about.”

Alphonse, who was a military-level that specialized in strategy, was already gone, the chances of Galevain winning the war naturally increased dramatically.

Aside from winning the victory in front of their eyes, it also includes diplomatic conciliation after the war.

Thus, Ousawa Akatsuki formally issued commands to Chikage and Haruka.

“Based on the information provided by Melissa, the next battle would probably the main forces from both sides, at that time, I hope that you two will also partic.i.p.ate.”

“No problem, I have already been prepared.”

Chikage nodded, her att.i.tude was very firm.

The two of them had already overcome the unstable state caused by the dimensional transfer, and successfully linked back the consciousness channel for magic. In short, Chikage and Haruka had already recovered their original fighting strength.

“I don’t have any opinion.”

Haruka continued to speak.

“Ignoring the result of the duel that was decided in the meeting between the four countries, Disdia’s attack should be punished.”

“I’m grateful. However, I would still like to remind the two of you, don’t try to force yourself.”

Akatsuki’s tone was very serious. Chikage and Haruka nodded, and their eyes revealed a firm gaze.

Looks like the two of them know the seriousness of the situation, there should not let their emotions affect them.

“How is the other people’s situation?”

“Miu is currently speaking with the young people inside the village.”

Haruka answered.

“They still refuse to admit that you are the demon race’s representative, Miu is currently trying to promote you, hoping that they will reconsider.”

That can’t be helped.

“After all, the moment the peace agreement had collapsed, you were no longer an agent for the demon race. And now you suddenly claim that you are the demon race’s representative, it's no wonder that there will be rejections from numerous demons… Even if this was Miu’s decision, the situation is still the same.”

“I see……But that matter, only that fellow can manage and deal with it.”

Akatsuki replied.

The youths of the demon race do not trust Akatsuki, just because Akatsuki is a human.

If Akatsuki had directly conversed with the youths of the demon race, there will be a larger rejection effect.

Thus, this situation can only be given to Miu to manage.

“As for Kaidou, he seemed to be happily taking care of the children inside the village.”

Haruka continued to speak:

“Many children are very close to him, with his care, it had undoubtedly helped many mothers inside the village a big favor. And since there is still fear within everybody’s hearts about the attack before, Kaidou Motoharu’s liveliness will undoubtedly help a lot to lead the children out of this fear.”

“Is it……Can’t believe there is a situation that he would also be useful.”

“Yes, I was also taken aback.”

“The two of you really have cruel mouths.”

Listening to the comments of Akatsuki and Haruka to Kaidou, Chikage could not help but show a wry smile.

“……As for cla.s.s rep……”

Chikage lowered the volume, with an hesitant expression.

“She is still waiting at the side of Riruru, and whatever we say, she is still refusing to leave.”

The huge room was not empty, yet it was still enveloped in a breathtaking silence.

Being surrounded by the heavy atmosphere was Sherfield Kingdom’s Queen Listy’s office.

The magnificent office desk was positioned next to the window side.

Listy was sitting on the chair and carefully read the letter that was sent by Disdia.

On the other side of the desk, two loyal comrades that have fought together with her through life and death, Zechs Doltrake and Loutier Trum, who surpa.s.sed the relations.h.i.+p of Queen and Va.s.sal, was standing there.

Until after Listy had finished reading the letter, then Loutier broke the silence.

“Listy……What did Emperor Baram say?”

“Almost the same as what I imagined. Based on the agreement of the Military Alliance, please send troops as soon as possible, and fight together with Disdia against Galevain……”

“About the actions of Disdia’s forces invading the forest, how did Baram explain?”

Zechs interfered. The most difficult situation currently was that Disdia had ignored the conclusion decided in the four country’s meeting, and sent out troops to attack Galevain. In the past, Sherfield had repeatedly refused the demands of fighting together with Disdia, all in order to clarify the true intent of Baram.

Thus, Listy read out the contents of the letter that Disdia replied with:

“——This time, the conflict that erupted between the demon race, the reason was because the surveillance forces had mistakenly entered the village of the demon race, as a result, they were under attack by the demon race, and was helplessly forced into taking actions to fight back.”

Listy read up to her, then angrily turned the letter into a paper ball.

“This battle that was suddenly started had cause damage to both sides, at the same time, it led to Galevain declaring war, I, as a representative of Disdia, can only express by regret……!”

Then, she threw the letter with Baram’s signature aside.

“That muscle-idiot, actually wanted to rationalize this act of aggression?”

Zechs’s surprise further aroused the flame of anger inside Listy.

“Outrageous……It is too much!”

“Since things have developed to this point, aside from rationalizing Disdia’s actions, Emperor Baram had no other path to take.

Loutier concluded.

“Denying the legitimacy of Akatsuki declaring war, would be the only reasonable excuse for Disdia to take military action, at the same time, it can create an image of them being the victim to win the world’s sympathy.”

“Furthermore, they could accuse Sherfield and Aleclesta, who have the an alliance relations.h.i.+p, by saying that the two countries are reluctant to send troops to a.s.sistance Disdia on preventing the invasion, whether such acts are contrary to their morals……!”

Listy bit her lip angrily.

For the people who knew the truth, Baram’s excuse was just simply nonsense.

But this was also common sense. In the political arena, the truth was often covered by what was called common sense.

During the four countries’ talks, Akatsuki, who forcibly pushed for the peace agreement, was the best example.

Aleclesta, who believed in the Erdia Church, had always believed peace was the most important, it was naturally understandable for them to take a stance of not wanting to be involved in the war; However, Sherfield and Disdia’s surveillance forces were both victims of the attack, their positional was naturally different than Aleclesta. Since war had already broken out for ten days, but Sherfield had not sent any troops to partic.i.p.ate in the war, the conservatives inside the country had been issuing screams of injustice. Sherfield’s democrats had already stepped on tract and the Queen’s authority was greatly reduced, if Listy continued to maintain the stance of waiting, it was possible that before the monarchy system was abolished, Sherfield would have already been split into two countries.

……If Akatsuki had asked us for help……

The conclusion of the four countries’ talks had an international binding power. As long as Galevain had gone through formal diplomatic channels to charge Disdia their attack actions, perhaps Sherfield would be able to help.

Of course, Listy understood the reason why Akatsuki did not do so. In case Galevain seeked a.s.sistance from Sherfield, then it will undoubtedly pull Sherfield into the firing line, right where Baram wanted it to be. Thus, Akatsuki could only declare himself as the Demon King and singly declare war on Disdia. This was not only just to defend Galevain, but at the same time, to protect Sherfield.

Thus, Listy had made up her mind, saying that they must repay Akatsuki’s kindness.

“Zechs, is the investigation report from Ayersmarina out yet?”

The efforts that Akatsuki had made in the meeting had caused the three countries to agree on reinvestigating the attacks towards the surveillance forces. In the end, Disdia invaded and Galevain formally declared war, causing the action of investigating the truth to be temporarily stalled.

However, Listy had gone through private relations.h.i.+ps to request Ayersmarina’s professionals to reinvestigate the truth. As long as the covered truth was revealed, perhaps they will be able to break through the deadlock in front of their eyes.

Compared to Listy’s expectations, Zechs could only let out a helpless sigh.

“Yes, it indeed came out……However, it is simply a progress report.”

After a short pause——

“Based on the current investigation results, the murderer was indeed the demon race, there is no room for doubt.”

“Nnnn……”

Listy gave a downcast glance, and it was hard to conceal her inner disappointment. However, Zechs added another sentence:

“However, the investigation officer also expressed that the entire affair was overly perfect, and that revealed a bit of unnaturalness.”

“……What does that mean?”

“Within the world, there is no situation that is perfect, more or less, there will be flaws.”

Loutier replied.

“But this affair was quite perfect, it was perfect to an incredible extent, and there was not the slightest flaws.”

It was apparent that it was a deliberate camouflage.

“If we had found out about this in our first investigation……”

Loutier bowed her head down and stared at the ground, and had an guilty expression.

However, Listy shook her head.

“Saying this right now will not help the situation. Under this kind of situation, anyone will also believe that it was the act of the demon race. At that time, we could not stand on the side of Galevain, and the so called camouflage is also only a hypothesis, and it is not an actual evidence, right?”

“Yes, right now, there is no evidence of the murderer pretending to be the demon race and attacking the surveillance forces……”

Zechs interjected.

“If both sides had not declared war yet, the current findings will also help Akatsuki to turn over the tables. But since the situation have developed this far, I’m afraid that……”

“……”

Listy bit her lips resentfully.

She wanted to help Akatsuki, but she did not know where to start.

It was unlikely for Akatsuki, who was requesting for peace, to rush into war without a plan.

The current situation, must be within Akatsuki’s calculations.

Listy El Da Sherfield frowned and tried hard to think.

In the letter, Disdia had requested Sherfield to partic.i.p.ate in the attack the following day. Considering the time to prepare the forces and the time to move, at the very latest, they would have to reply in the evening.

However, this was not yet the time to give up. As long as there was still some time, they must continue to think and try to find the answer.

Think quickly.

Think about what in the war, has Akatsuki seen?

The current scene was filled with a faint light.

It was more gentle and brighter than the sun’s rays, it was the inner qigong that was generated from Renkan Keikikou.

Akatsuki was currently activating the true ki inside his body to increase the healing abilities. The target was the dark elf race girl that was lying on a bed unconscious, which is also Riruru who was injured heavily during the attack of Disdia.

Most of the injuries from the wounded people were fractures or scratches that came from falls when they were fleeing, only Riruru’s body had no obvious outer wounds. After her head received a terrible blow, Riruru has still yet to regain her consciousness.

Truthfully, if it was just based on the effects, then recovery magic would still be the best.

However, because of recovery magic’s special properties, only a few people can use this type of magic, and unluckily within Galevain’s residents, there were no recovery magic users, Chikage, Kuzuha and his other companions also do not have this ability, so they could only rely on Akatsuki to use inner qigong to treat the injured.

“……”

“Absolute focus brings absolute silence.” Akatsuki stretched out his hand and placed it on top of Riruru’s pet.i.te forehead, and send the healing true ki into her body. After some time, Riruru’s pale face gradually restored some color.

“……Right now I can only do this much.”

Akatsuki took back his hand from Riruru’s forehead. The unconscious Riruru had already not been eating for several days, her bodily strength was greatly reduced, and she must accept inner qigong treatment every day.

“——Is it over?”

A calm inquiry came from behind. Akatsuki replied and slowly turned around.

Beside Riruru’s bed, sat a girl with pet.i.te figure and had her arms around her knees.

It was Doumoto Kuzuha.

“Izumi was worried about you. If this continues on, it is possible that even you would not last.”

Akatsuki slowly walked over and sat down beside Kuzuha.

“I’ve heard that you do not have much of an appet.i.te these days, you do not even have a good rest at night right?”

“……”

Kuzuha did not reply Akatsuki’s question

She was only staring silently at the unconscious Riruru.

Looking at Kuzuha’s expression on her face, Akatsuki could not help but have personal feelings. Although Kuzuha’s age was still small, she was still a returnee that was once summoned to an alternative world, even if she was not accustomed to others dying, but she should still have some degree of immunity. If he did not remember incorrectly, Kuzuha had been involved in a war between humans at a Alternative World called Kristya, and the result was that she failed to protect the people that she wanted to protect —— No matter how many times you experience it, this heartbreaking pain was still unbearable. Although the two of them had not met for long, but to Kuzuha, Riruru was absolutely a target that she wanted to protect.

“……Sorry, causing everybody to worry about me. However, I just cannot let this go……”

Kuzuha clenched her fists, her voice was very dry.

“If only I was a little stronger, then perhaps I could have protected Riruru……This thought has been lingering around……”

“I can understand how you feel, but you do not have to feel such remorse.”

Akatsuki slightly deepened his tone.

“……You do not understand.”

Kuzuha muttered.

“There is no need to feel remorse due to your own powerlessness? Although it seems thoughtful, but deep down it was a very cruel way to say it. These arrogant lines, only the truly strong people are able to say it. Most people would always just regret about their own

, to strong people like you that would win regardless of strong enemies or difficulties, how would you understand the weak’s ——“

Once she had said half, Kuzuha immediately noticed that she was wrong.

She raised her head and looked at Akatsuki with frightened eyes, pale faces and her voice was even trembling slightly.

“Sorry……I actually placed all my anger on you……What am I doing……”

“Don’t mind it, it’s okay……I understand.”

Akatsuki revealed a calm smile, and gentled hugged Kuzuha’s shoulders.

Kuzuha was still apologizing to Akatsuki constantly.

Until the very moment, Kuzuha finally remembered that Akatsuki really did understand her feelings right now.

——The past Akatsuki also cursed his own incompetence and powerlessness, and in the end, he finally became the strong person right now.

“Besides, the enemy that attacked Urumu and Riruru has strength that was comparable to mine right? If you really have the power to defeat him, then you would not be staying here.”

Akatsuki gave off a wry smile. He stared at Kuzuha who raised her head to look at him.

If Kuzuha really had this power, she would have long been incorporated into the A-cla.s.s in JPN Babel, and even became a member of the Student Council, at that time, she would naturally have a distinctly different encounter with the B-cla.s.s Akatsuki and Miu, the possibility of them becoming friends will not be too high.

“It is because you are the current cla.s.s rep, so that’s why you would know us. And you’ve already tried your best, if you ask for too much, it is equal to deny our encounter and our current relations.h.i.+p.”

Don’t be mistaken.

“The reason why Riruru was injured was not because of your own power. If you were not there, Riruru would probably already be killed, and the other children will also probably not be able to escape.”

Listen up.

“Who says that you cannot protect anyone? You not only protected Riruru, but also protect the other children.”

“……!”

Akatsuki’s consolation suddenly made Kuzuha break into tears.

The pet.i.te body did not hesitate to throw herself into Akatsuki’s arms.

Akatsuki gently stroked the weak and slender back of Kuzuha, and with a gentle tone.

“It had been hard for you, feel free to cry. Let me take on the burden of your pain and sorrow.”

There was nothing to worry about.

“This time, it’s my turn. Before you saved Riruru, now it’s my turn to save her. Don’t worry, I’ll definitely wake up her consciousness, and give you back a Riruru that is alive and kicking.

“……Y…You really mean it……?”

Kuzuha, who was upholding tears, raised her head. Akatsuki firmly nodded.

“Of course that is true. However, right now I require your strength, cla.s.s rep. Are you willing to fight side by side with me once again?”

Kuzuha thought for a moment, and immediately, she calmly and resolutely nodded.

Akatsuki tried to wipe of Kuzuha’s tears, and said out an oath that came from within his heart.

“Cla.s.s rep……The person that made you cry was me, and the fellow who was wearing the Disdia armor. Don’t worry, I will take responsibility of you till the very end, at the same time, I will make sure that guy is responsible as well.”

Part 4

Sherfield Kingdom’s Great General Zechs Doltrake.

He, who is commanding the country’s army and the militia, had outstanding sword techniques, and was known as the

.

When he came out of Listy’s office, it was already sunset.

After leaving Listy’s office, Zechs immediately headed towards the military meeting room for the forces of the country. After reaching his destination, he pushed open the heavy stone doors and went into the military meeting room. Under the rays of the sunset, the person that was waiting for Zechs in the military meeting room was a knight in his prime age with a burly body. Grant Bangert. Among the 5 lieutenants, he was the one that was trusted by Zechs the most.

“……Looks like they have a conclusion.” When Zechs entered through the door, Grant immediately stood up from his chair.

Seeing Zechs nod, he casually replied back.

There was no need for Zechs to explain, Grant was already understood.

“Is this battle still unavoidable?”

“Listy does not want to send the troops, but……”

Zechs said:

“But time is running out, and it beyond the control for Listy to say no. She probably already guessed the purpose of Akatsuki, but after all that, it is only a speculation. In the end, we will only be able to ask why on the battlefield.”

This was the decision that Listy had made after all that pondering. However, she did not intend to have a direct conflict against Akatsuki, sending out troops is only simply for support. Akatsuki, representing Galevain, had sent out a declaration of war towards Disdia, meaning that this war was directed at Disdia, Galevain had no reason to view Sherfield as an enemy —— This was already greatly accommodating for Sherfield.

That being the case, Sherfield definitely cannot fail to live up to Akatsuki’s plans.

“The forces will be launching at sunrise tomorrow, please inform the others for me.”

“Understood……This time, will Queen Listy also follow the army’s expedition?”

“Yes, that’s correct. Just as a precaution, she would also bring Lulu with her.”

“I see……It must be hard for her Majesty.”

Grant quietly lowered his eyelids. The incident about the surveillance forces being attacked had forced Sherfield to send out troops, Grant could understand the inner struggle within Listy.

……Not to mention, the enemy this time is Akatsuki again……

The duel before had already caused much struggle for Listy, since they will meet Akatsuki in the battlefield, the inner troubles within Listy was easy to imagine. Of course, Zechs and Loutier’s mood weren’t exceptionally good as well.

But as long as they send troops to partic.i.p.ate in the battle, it is equal to have fulfilled the obligation of military allies, even if it was only rear support. Also, partic.i.p.ating in the battle wasn’t without any benefits, after all, if the situation deteriorates, only the forces on the battlefield would be able to prevent the tragedy.

Disdia certainly did not have any wish to prevent the tragedy, and also did not have any expectations from Aleclasta.

Therefore, this work will naturally fall onto Sherfield.

……If there was really anything just in case……

Zechs secretly thought. Truthfully, he had a plan to avoid Akatsuki and Sherfield to be forced into a lose-lose situation, but he did not mention this plan in front of Listy.

And Zechs was quite sure, at that time, Disdia will absolutely have no objections. However, this plan could be only used on the battlefield, thus Zechs Doltrakes formally issued these orders:

“Relay it over. If we really meet on the battlefield, I will be the one to deal with Akatsuki.”

Part 5

In the ancient forest city, Forestnium, Galevain’s resident’s refuge.

Directly in the center stood a Sacred Tree that was a few hundred meters tall. As the symbol of Forestnium, the Sacred Tree’s trunk was divided into several floors, each floors has its own stairs, becoming a large living s.p.a.ce.

Under the pitch-black color of the night, Ousawa Miu’s figure appeared at the top floor of the Sacred Tree.

Miu’s goal was to shower. The tangled roots of the Sacred Tree was spread throughout a wide area, aside for the underground water, there was even a natural hot spring that seep through the tree trunk through a pipe and was pushed upwards. Thus, at the very end of the pipe, which is also the top floor, the villagers used the Sacred Tree’s naturally formed holes to create a hot spring.

However, Miu was not at ease while bathing.

Just when Miu was about to push open the door to the hot spring, someone called her name from behind.

Currently —— she was even surrounded by several people.

The other party was numerous youths that lived in Forestnium, but Miu did not feel any fear, her face did not reveal any suspicious look either, after all, in the past few days, similar situations have occurred several times.

10 days ago, Miu made a decision ——The youths in front of her was currently protesting against Miu’s decision and had gathered here.

“Myuu-sama, this is no small matter —— please reconsider it!”

The other party’s tone carried dissatisfaction and disapproval entered Ousawa Miu’s ears, who had her back facing the door towards the hot spring.

“Declaring war to Disdia is taken for granted, after all, they killed off Elder Urumu, Galevain’s soldiers will not forgive this despicable act. But——Why do you recognize that person as our representative?”

“I have already clearly explained it. After Urumu’s unfortunate death, everybody wished for me to make a decision for Galevain’s fate, and this is the conclusion that I came up with…… after discussing it with that person.”

Miu’s att.i.tude was extremely calm, but her answer caused discontent among the youths.

“We indeed requested Myuu-sama to decide Galevain’s fate, but Myuu’s sama’s decision was completely unexpected!”

“At first, pus.h.i.+ng him to be the representative of Galevain was simply for a peace agreement. Since the peace agreement ended in failure, his mission is already over.”

The youth’s appeal entered her ears, Miu could not help but have feelings about it. These youths was caught up in loss and was anxious about the future of Galevain.

During the period of the peace agreement negotiations, Forestnium was suddenly attacked and the responsibility clearly lies on the other side. However, Disdia is a militant country, the residents in Forestnium simply could not compete with the powerful military strength the other side has. Thus, the request from the youths was clearly self-contradictory.

“However, without that person’s help, this battle ——we have no chance of winning.”

You should all understand this point, Miu suddenly paused for a moment.

“At present, the enemy still have not found the method to enter Forestnium; however, the enhanced barrier, that came in exchange of Urumu’s life, is not permanent. When the barrier effect disappears ——do you think just us alone can defend Forestnium?”

Miu’s words were justified, the youths at the scene all froze for a moment, but they quickly recovered and continued their aggressive tone as before.

“At that time, it should be fine if we can just invite that person to fight together with us.”

“That’s correct. He is an integral part of our combat power, but there is no need for him to become our leader.”

It was a rather selfish way of saying it, they just wanted to use Akatsuki’s power. However, Miu did not blame them, because they did not know where they were wrong. Inside the hearts of these youths, it was strongly dominated by anxiety, and they had long lost the ability to determine what was right and what was wrong.

Because of this, they hope that Miu would become the spiritual pillar for everyone. The Demon King Galious had used his overwhelming power to rival the humans. As the daughter of Galious, Miu undoubtedly was the only hope for lighting up their will to fight inside the residents, who were in the brink of despair. Ousawa Miu thought, if she was to become the new leader of Galevain, the ouths in front of her would definitely become warriors in the front lines.

……But.

Once they enter the battlefield, what was waiting for them eventually was the fate of death. This was not the outcome everybody would like to see. Thus, when her father was still alive, he had clearly expressed that he will be the last Demon King, and at the same time, he entrusted the safety of Miu, happiness of the demon race and their future to Akatsuki.

For both sides, Miu’s existence would only cause Alayzard to be caught up in a never-ending war and deaths. After understanding Galious’s intentions, Akatsuki decided to bring Miu with him back to his own world. Even if Miu’s ident.i.ty was to cause a huge uproar, but since Alayzard would not easily let Miu go, Akatsuki still did not regret his decision at that time. He even returned to Alayzard again in order to stand up for Miu and Galevain.

However, the youths in front of her do not appreciate it and even question the actions of Akatsuki.

“Why are you not willing to accept that person? Is it because he was the Hero that defeated my father?”

“That is also one of the reasons, but the matter isn’t that simple.”

“He is a human, and not one of the residents of Galevain.”

“In the time of crisis, how can we allow him to become the leader of the demon race?”

Facing the barrages of accusations, Miu let out a reb.u.t.tal that made everyone speechless.

“If that’s the case—— then why were you all willing to allow father to become the king?”

That shouldn’t have forgotten about it, right?

“Father was also a human…… just like him.”

Miu’s words were all true, everybody suddenly quieted down.

At this moment.

“Myuu-sama, what we are concerned about is not his race.”

The youths surrounding Miu automatically headed left and right and allowed a path. One young man slowly walked forward, the other people all had trust and expectations towards him.

“Kurt……”

After the young man had walked up in front of her, Miu silently called out his name. This tall and slender dark elf was the grandson of Urumu. You could only see Kurt look at Miu who was in front of him.

“We simply only wanted revenge, towards the people who murdered my grandfather……to have a fight to death with the murderer who killed the village elder. But he forbids us to fight the enemy on the battlefield.”

Kurt slowly said out everybody’s feelings.

“We also have the right to fight on the battlefield, but as a result, that right was deprived from us. The future of Galevain that we placed into Myuu’s hands had simply become his reason and excuse. Myuu believes that he is the new representative of Galevain, thus, he believes that he has earned all the support from the citizens of Galevain. Thus, he ignores our opinion to fight and fights alone in the battlefield with the enemy.”

This was the point that Kurt and the other youths were not able to accept.

“……The elder died in the hands of the enemy, we also do not have the right to head to the battlefield……How should we vent for the wronged heroic soul of my grandfather and our inner anger?”

“……”

Myuu quietly listened to Kurt’s request, she also understood the inner anger within Kurt’s heart. Even if she was to speak, she could not allow them to join the battle, or the efforts they did up till now will all vanish into thin air.

“Please believe that person, believe in the one that me and my father both trusted. He must have his own concerns for not letting you all into the battlefield.”

Miu’s explanation was immediately caused a refute by the youths.

“Trust? How can a person, who does not put our views and thoughts into the matter, earn our trust?”

“And he does not plan on attacking Disdia, he might have planned on never to start a war in the very beginning. Does he want to quell everybody’s anger by just simply casually fighting a few battles?”

Kurt’s words immediately won everybody’s agreement.

“He is an outsider, he has no qualifications to lead us. This is our battle and is not something we can leave it to others!”

Akatsuki is not to be trusted, this was the consensus of the youths at the scene.

“I see……”

Miu muttered and looked down to the ground.

“——It seems that I have no choice but to tell the truth.”

After raising her head, Miu used her sharp eyes to stare at everybody.

Awed by the prowess of Miu, the youths at the scene were all afraid of speaking up, but Miu could only apologize to Akatsuki in her heart.

……Sorry. I know that this is a secret that can not be told to the public, but……

However, Miu could not longer hold it in and decided to say the secret in her heart.

“Why did that person officially declare war on Disdia? Yes, it is to persuade all of you, who are seeking a battle! Based on the situation at that time, it would inevitably lead to a devastating war unilaterally. And reporting the atrocities of Disdia, utilizing the international media to force both sides to achieve a peace agreement will not happen because you all will not be able to accept it. After all, for the current you, Disdia’s actions is inexcusable.”

Akatsuki did not deliberately ignore Kurt’s and the other’s feelings. In fact, it was the exact opposite. It was because he is able to understand their feelings so he had used his official declaration as a well to express their anger.

“However, Disdia’s interior will also remain the same. If Disdia really wishes to accept the peace agreement, then they would not have attacked Forestnium during the meeting. In order words, if we had continued to stick with the peace agreement route, both sides will only achieve peace on the surface, but in truth, the current situation will be no different than right now.”

But——

“Even so, that person is still reluctant to give up easily. Even though he knew that the current situation was extremely dangerous, that person still believed that true peace will come to this world. This is the reason why he is reluctant to hurt the enemy. Although Galevain is the side that officially declared war, but as long as it follows the policy of not hurting the enemy, the other side will eventually notice that Galevain did not have the goal of wiping out Disdida when it waged the war.”

After continuing to weaken the enemy’s troops and causing the enemy to gradually end up at a disadvantage, stopping the war will naturally appear in the mind of the other side. And because Disdia is not the country that declared war, it will not take the initiative to propose a truce. After all to Disdia, stopping the war is the equivalent of losing, it will be undoubtedly the same as if it had declared that it had lost to the world.

However, if Galevain was the one that proposed to stop, Disdia will consider it. At that time, Akatsuki’s policy of not killing will play a large and key role. Even if Disdia persistently refuse to compromise, you could still use diplomatic means to persuade Sherfield and Aleclasta to come forward. At that time, due to the situation of their alliance, Disdia will not be able to just say out their own opinion. This way the two countries will come forward to talk and at the same time, Disdia will be able to keep their pride.

But doing so is not without any risk.

Thus, Akatsuki had left a path to retreat.

“Why do you think that person is willing to become the Demon King?”

Miu revealed a tearful expression and said out Ousawa Akatsuki’s consideration.

“If the situation does not develop as what was expected, that person intends to bear all the responsibility.

Also, there was actually another purpose of Akatsuki to become the Demon King.

Once the two sides had entered a state of war, the previous Demon King’s daughter, in other words Miu, would become the number one enemy target. Phil Barnett or Zahhark’s a.s.sa.s.sination was the best evidence.

So Akatsuki could only claim the t.i.tle of the Demon King, in order to attract the enemy’s attention and also become the top target the enemy wishes to get rid of.

In addition——

“Is it really true that not attacking Disdia means that he does not wish to fight this war?”

That was false.

“That person only does not wish for the tragedy of Urumu to be staged again, so he insisted on staying at Forestnium. No matter what actions the enemy takes, he would be able to react immediately.”

Kurt and the others was extremely unhappy based on the att.i.tude of Akatsuki trying to reduce the military actions.

This was all because Akatsuki had made the decision to care about the safety concerns of the villagers.

“As for the purpose not to allow us to partic.i.p.ate in the war……”

Facing the surprised Kurt, Myuu attempted to suppress her own emotions.

“If you were to appear onto the battlefield, won’t the idea about saying that you were threatened will instantly be destroyed?”

Perhaps they could claim that they were afraid of Akatsuki to the outside, thus Galevain’s citizens could not partic.i.p.ate in the battle: However, once they become the captives of Disdia, the other party could use torture, drugs or even magic to understand the truth of the situation. At that time, all their efforts will be wasted.

Thus Akatsuki made a decision.

“Not only all of you, that person will not even let me go onto the battlefield.”

Miu recalled the expression that Akatsuki had at that time, and could not hold back her tears.

She cried. Even though Akatsuki was all doing this for the sake of Miu and these youths——

“

……Did you know? That person actually apologized to me!”

Miu’s cries echoed through the huge s.p.a.ce.

After learning the truth, the reactions of all the youths were all the same.

They could only stand still and could not say a single word.

They could only see the emotional outburst of Miu as her chest dramatically moved up and down, and as she let out the sounds for shortness of breath.

After a brief silence.

“Why……Why does he not tell us?”

Kurt looked at the ground and murmured to himself.

Miu breathed in and slowly said:

“Because this secret must not be revealed to the others, otherwise true peace will never come. This is the reason why that person does not tell everybody the truth. He can only keep the secret and allow the secret to become a secret forever……”

However, Kurt’s misunderstanding of Akatsuki was too biased, thus Miu could not help it.

However, Miu does not regret her decision. After all, inside Kurt and the other youths’ eyes, she could no longer she the suspicion and distrust towards Miu and Akatsuki.

“I will say it once again——Please believe him, believe in the one that me and my father both trusted. “

Kurt and the other youths did not responded to the request of Miu, but they all silently nodded.

“Thank you……”

Miu’s face emerged a hint of a smile.

She could finally manage to show a slight smile.

After wiping the tears from the corner of her eyes, Ousawa Miu had felt many emotions.

Father, herself and Akatsuki. Urumu, and the inhabitants of Forestnium.

After a long period of time, everybody’s ideas and thoughts were finally one.

Part 6

After knowing Akatsuki’s intentions, Kurt and the other youths returned to the residential area located at the middle floors.

After watching the crowd leave, Miu was finally able to enter the bath. However, only to see her subconsciously sigh as she walked into the changing room and pulled the doork.n.o.b.

“……No, no.”

Noticing that she had almost relaxed her guard, Miu hurriedly shook her head. Galevain and Disdia was currently in a state of war, she must maintain a high degree of vigilance, any negligence could possibly lead to irreversible consequences.

……I must pull myself together……

Although it was voluntary, but after becoming the new Demon King, Akatsuki had arranged all the small and large battles by himself. As the former Demon King’s daughter, Miu also wanted to help make a contribution to everyone, that is to become the pillar inside the minds of the Forestnium residents. Thus, facing the hot-blooded youths like Kurt, Miu had to firmly continue the stance of trusting Akatsuki; in front of the other residents that were afraid of the battle, Miu had to keep smiling and give them confidence and courage. This was Miu’s duty, and also the only thing she could do.

“Yes……”

Miu nodded, and once again regained her mentality. Then she began to remove her clothing.

The bath was made using the Sacred Tree’s trunks, the surrounding furnis.h.i.+ngs were also made of wood. Just when Miu was prepared to place her clothes into the naturally formed cabinet by the trunk, the corner of her eyes suddenly noticed an unusual object.

Inside the neatly organized cabinet, one of the cabinet had clothes placed in it, representing that someone had already entered the bath. Miu was slightly surprised, aside from her, she could not think of anyone else in the village that would visit the Sacred Tree’s bath in the middle of the night.

Who is it? Just when her heart apologized, Miu stretched out her hand to take out the clothing from inside the cabinet.

“Huh……Isn’t this……”

Miu could not help but widen her eyes. The clothes inside the cabinet was an replicate of the black battle costume that the ancient Demon King wore. Within Alayzard, there is also only one person who would wear this type of outfit.

Miu look at the door leading to the bath, thinking that the youth on the other side of the door —— Akatsuki.

“……If it’s for a bit, then it’s fine.”

After Miu muttered an excuse for herself, she tightly hugged the black battle clothes in her arms. As she closed her eyes, her naked skin felt the warmth that Akatsuki had left on the clothing. Ousawa Miu firmly believes that this must be the remains of the “Heat” from the battle Akatsuki had during the day.

“Ah……”

Thinking up to here, Miu suddenly felt that her heart was beating rapidly, and it was gradually beating faster.

……What should I do……Even though I know I shouldn’t……But……

Miu’s gaze stared directly at the door leading to the bath.

——Ever since Akatsuki had become the new representative for Galevain, 10 days had already pa.s.sed since he had officially declared war towards Disdia. During this period of time, Miu and Akatsuki had never been together to the extent that they did not even have the chance to talk.

No matter what, they had to worry about the other people’s feelings. After all, not every Forestnium residents gladly accepted the fact about Akatsuki being the demon race representative, Kurt was the best example. In case the side that opposes it sees Miu walk closely together with Akatsuki, it might create a stimulus to them, causing a misunderstanding even to Miu, and believing that Miu and Akatsuki had a secret between them that they could not share with anyone else. Once those people believe that Miu’s judgment was based on her own emotions, it would bound to cause them to be dissatisfied and unease.

Currently, Galevain is facing the strongest country in Alayzard, everybody must be united, and it cannot be divided.

Thus, Miu could only keep a distance from Akatsuki if it was possible.

But……

……If it was right now……

The next battle will probably be the battle between the main forces. Akatsuki and his comrades will be facing the most dangerous situation.

Greeting Akatsuki and wis.h.i.+ng him a safe return, shouldn’t be too overboard, right.

Thus, Miu placed Akatsuki’s battle costume back into the cabinet and slowly stretched out her right hand.

The exit of the bath was right in front of her eyes, but Miu did not plan to leave, and instead gently lifted the lock towards the exit. Ka-cha, the door to the bath was locked by Miu.

The s.p.a.ce inside the bath was completely isolated, Miu and Akatsuki was inside a secret room alone.

“……!”

Miu swallowed her saliva, then picked up her towel and wrapped it around her body and stretched out her right hand towards the entrance of the bath.

Here is a s.p.a.ce that was as wide as a cave.

From the ceiling to the floor, even the surrounding walls were formed by the huge tree trunk.

Standing on the wooden floor with bare feet was extremely comfortable, Miu pa.s.sed through the white water vapor and headed slowly to the depths of the bath. After some time, the sound of flowing water entered her ears. Following the duct pipe that extends from the Sacred Tree, it draws out the natural hot spring water from underground, forming a large steaming hot bath on the uppermost area of the Sacred Tree.

A young youth was currently immersed inside the naturally formed bath.

His elbow rested on the side of the bath. The person that was leisurely enjoying the natural hot spring was the completely naked Akatsuki.

Miu suddenly stopped her footsteps and Akatsuki slowly turned around, as if he had long been aware of the existence of Miu.

“Hi……How is it? What are you standing there?

Akatsuki’s tone was extremely calm, as if Miu’s appearance was natural.

“This isn’t when you should say “How is it”……You can’t be pretending to be a fool, right?”

Miu sighed. Her cheeks were slightly flushed and she unconsciously pressed the towel onto her body.

“This is… the woman’s bath.”

That’s right. This is a woman’s bath, the bath on top of the Sacred Tree is not a mixed bath. The male’s bath was located on the other side of the Sacred Tree, it was separated by the woman’s tree by the tree trunk.

But she only saw Akatsuki smile.

“You’re really stupid……What’s the point of bathing in the male’s bath?”

“The purpose of taking a bath is naturally relaxing yourself, but a male bathing in the woman’s bath is a serious violation of the rules.”

After a short pause, Miu spoke again:

“If Kurt and the others discovered it, it wouldn’t be just scolding a few times and it’ll be okay.”

“If I was sneaking around and peeking, then that’s fine. But I am taking a bath without hiding anything. What is there to be angry?”

And, Akatsuki continued to speak:

“If I chose the male bath, I will bound to encounter a lot of people who dislike me. Especially since the final battle is approaching, it is best not to intentionally stimulate those people, right? So I took advantage of the midnight time, where no one will be here, and ran off to the woman’s bath to shower.”

“How can you just make your own decision……”

“Sorry, this isn’t my own decision. In fact, I had already obtained the approval of all the females in the village through Izumi.”

“What? Really?”

Miu was surprised, she had never heard of it. Could it be that Chikage forgot to tell her? No, the cautious Chikage will naturally not make such a mistake.

……It must have been purpose, really now Chikage.

Chikage must have known that Miu had not being alone together with Akatsuki for a while. If they were to talk while avoiding other people’s eyes and ears, the female bath was the most suitable place.

Thus, Miu felt somewhat thankful to Chikage’s intimate arrangement. However, she would still have to complain to Chikage the next time she saw her.

“When you were looking at the Black battle outfit in the cabinet, you should have already guessed that I was inside bathing, right?”

“Nnnnn……That’s……”

Miu was speechless, but Akatsuki just smiled.

“That’s right. Okay, quickly enter now, be careful not to catch a cold.”

“Yes……”

In fact, Miu only wanted to bless Akatsuki for a safe return, aside from that, she had no other intentions. Only that Akatsuki’s att.i.tude was overly open, as if he did not care about breaking into the woman’s bath, Miu suddenly did not know how to say it.

Miu could only stiffly nod and sat on the edge of the bath. She then picked up a wooden barrel, fetched some water and poured it over her entire body from her shoulders. Then, she slowly entered the bath.

“Hey hey hey, who would enter the bath with a towel?”

Akatsuki suddenly stretched out his hand and stripped off Miu’s towel that was around her body.

“UWAHHHHHH——!”

Miu turned pale and hurriedly sunk into the water, her two hands unconsciously covered the private parts around her chest and legs.

“You, what are you doing!”

“You can’t enter the bath with a towel. It can’t be that you do not know even the basic courtesies to a public bath?”

“Nnnn”

After being scolded by Akatsuki, Miu, who felt unwilling, revealed grudging eyes.

……You do not know how much courage I mustered in order to overcome my inner shame to come here……!

Miu, who was completely red, bit tightly on her lower lips, Akatsuki could not help but reveal a wry smile.

“I won’t eat people, why did you hide so far away? Even though you knew I was in the bath, but you still came in, you must have been looking for me, right?”

“Yes, that’s correct, but……”

“Then come over.”

Before she finished speaking, Akatsuki caught Miu’s wrist.

“No, don’t be like this……I will be completely seen!”

“Okay, okay, it’s fine if I don’t look.”

Miu was forcibly pulled by Akatsuki and completely could not resist. Only seeing Miu spin half a circle by Akatsuki and letting her had her back towards Akatsuki as she sat between Akatsuki’s legs.

“Ah……”

“It’s okay if it’s like this, right? This way I can barely see anything.”

“Yes……It’s okay……”

Akatsuki’s voice came from behind and entered her ears, Miu embarra.s.sedly nodded. This was like the principle of how a lamp could s.h.i.+ne faraway, but not nearby. If Miu had her back facing Akatsuki, her inner embarra.s.sment also naturally decreased.

And……

……This kind of thing……looks like a couple……

Suddenly, an inexplicable shyness appeared. Only seeing Miu bow down her head, her expression revealing a tiny bit of shyness and coyness.

“So……What were you finding me for?”

“Ah……This……”

She had nearly forgot that she had specially came to thank Akatsuki for everything he did and wish for him to have a safe return.

And the sudden situation was completely out of Miu’s expectations.

……Ah……My b.o.o.bs are actually floating in the water……!

Her voluptuous b.o.o.bs were floating in the bath. For Miu, this was a common situation. The problem is that Akatsuki’s action of forcibly pulling Miu next to him had caused many ripples. Under the ripples, her left and right b.o.o.bs were swaying at irregular angles.

The b.o.o.bs that were swaying left and right had created an erotic image, as if she was seducing Akatsuki.

“……Ah? What is it?”

“N…Nothing……!”

Miu hurriedly shook her head and as a result, created larger ripples.

Right now was not the time to wish for Akatsuki’s safe return.

……What should I do……If he sees this……

At the beginning of when they were bathing together, Akatsuki’s reckless actions had already shocked Miu. Under this situation where she constantly stimulated , it was undoubtedly courting her own destruction. Thus Miu shrank her back and tried to cover her b.o.o.bs by hiding it under the water.

“……Right, there was something I was curious about.”

Akatsuki suddenly spoke.

“You are a mixed between a dark elf and a human?”

“T…That’s right. My mother was a dark elf……so I am considered half-elf.”

Miu replied in an embarra.s.sed manner.

“However, you appearance looks exactly like a human, there is no traces of the elf’s special characteristics of pointed ears.”

Akatsuki looked at Miu.

“Galious also said that you looked similar to him……But shouldn’t an average half elf generally favor the elf-race’s lineage?”

“Actually when I was small, I looked more like a elf race child.”

Miu mentioned her own childhood.

“When I was small, I looked like the current Riruru.”

Miu had inherited the dark elf’s special characteristics of dark colored skin and a pair of pointed ears from her mother. But perhaps Miu was a special half-elf, as her age increased, her father’s lineage gradually became more clear and overshadowed her mother’s lineage.

“It was probably during the 4 or 5 years at p.u.b.erty. My body gradually grew and my appearance became more and more like a human.”

“Oh, I see.”

“Am I strange?”

“Not at all. You are you, there is nothing strange at all. Isn’t it?”

“&h.e.l.lip