As I flipped through the pages of the list, the Mad Emperor spoke.

[I have one thing Id like to discuss with you.]

Stopping for a moment, I looked towards him.

[Is this to be added to the terms of our negotiations?]

[Id like the Forbidden Race to visit Mira once.]

At the moment, I cant see through his intentions.

[Can I ask you why?]

[To tell you the truth, there is a sealed door in the basement of our countrys royal castle. Its on the same floor as our Great Underground Treasury, and its been there for a long time.]

A sealed door huh.

[No matter what we did, it wouldnt open. We even tried to destroy the walls around the room, but it was ineffective. It appears that the only way to open it was through legitimate means.]

[.]

[It is said that inside the room lies a great secret about the Forbidden Curses. If its possible, I would have liked to have unlocked the secrets of that sealed room before we prepare to face against the Goddess-]

In other words

[Youre certain that the Forbidden Race can open it?]

[That was what was written. However Only those who possess the symbol can open the door. I dont exactly know what exactly they meant but I feel like its not enough to simply be one of the Forbidden Race. Of course, if theres no one among them who has this symbol, well just have to give up on the secret of this sealed room.]

[Even when the secret of the sealed room is excluded in the plan, you estimate that you still have a good chance against the Goddess?]

[As far as it goes, yes.]

This was to make assurance doubly sure huh.

The symbol that the Mad Emperor mentioned

Perhaps, that would be the crest on Munins back.

The symbol that allows them to use the Forbidden Curses.

Those who possess this crest would be Munin and one other person.

Theyre symbols that only these two have.

That means, if we were to agree with having them visit Mira

We cant just have someone among the Forbidden Race to take out the secret hidden behind that door huh.

The Forbidden Curses are powerful cards to hunt down the Goddess.

Its possible that there is a new Forbidden Curses behind that sealed room.

Or perhaps

I currently possess three Spellbooks of Incantations.

Were able to identify one of them as a Nullification Curse.

However, we still dont know the effect of the other two Spellbooks.

There exists a spell to identify the Forbidden Curse written in the Spellbook.

That enables Munin to read them.

Naturally, she could also read what the Curses were on the remaining two Spellbooks.

However, it was nearly impossible to discern the effects of those Curses.

The content of the Spellbooks was apparently- poetically narrated.

It was like they were narrating about some person.

This is why its difficult to even guess the effects of the two Spellbooks.

For now, my only means to defeat Vysis is to nullify her <Dispel Bubble>.

(T/N: Goddess Spell Breaker / Dispel Bubble)

Well, it would be reasonable to assume that the two remaining Spellbooks contain the Summon and Repatriation Curses huh.

However, it seems dangerous to make assumptions about Forbidden Curses.

I dont know how it works, but I tried using it once to see its effect.

Theres a possibility of being accidentally sent back to my former world by testing it out.

-As I was in such a state of thought, I heard about this sealed door.

Perhaps, the secret behind this door might help us find out something about those two Spellbooks with unknown effects.

[..]

No matter what curses they are- My target of revenge is that unscrupulous goddess.

The more cards I have in hand, the better it would be.

Putting my mental calculations for a moment

[By the way How high exactly are his Majestys odds? Ive heard that the Goddess possesses overwhelming power. With all due respect Even if you possess the Forbidden Curse that allows you to summon Heroes from Another World and allow them to return to their original world, that doesnt directly lead to defeating the Goddess, wouldnt it?]

[Within the secrets that lie within the sealed room lies the Forbidden Curse that could directly defeat the Goddess or so I hope.]

[But his Majesty said that if no one among the Forbidden Race had this aforementioned symbol, you will give up on the sealed room. That being the case, I can assume that the odds of victory you foresee have nothing to do with what youre hoping for inside this room.]

[With the Forbidden Curse that allows me to return them to their original world, I can persuade the S-rank Heroes to join my side. We can fight together. Perhaps- We could even skillfully arrange it for the Great Demon Emperor to get rid of the Goddess, for I dont have just a single plan that could lead to such an outcome Though those plans were too much of a gamble, and may be unrealistic to rely upon.]

[I dont mean to be rude- but Im afraid that doesnt sound very persuasive.]

I said in a slight questioning tone.

It may be a bit rude to say considering that the other party is an Emperor.

However, the Mad Emperor smiled back, looking as if he was pleased

From the atmosphere around him, it seems like the Mad Emperor had something in mind huh.

Thereupon, Wright and their counselor looked at the Mad Emperor.

Looking as if they were wondering if hes going to reveal something else at this point.

[That would be]

Readily

[the person waiting over there.]

Despite the concerned looks on the people on his side, he revealed the true nature of his winning card.

Pointed out by the Mad Emperors hand was

Ikusaba Asagi.

[Whoehh? Me? Hello there~~]

Seeing that the attention was turned towards her, Asagi bowed.

As usual, shes a fellow following her own pace.

Being that I should be completely unaware of Asagis true identity

[That girl is?]

[Asagi Ikusaba A Hero from Another World.]

Hearing his declaration, a ruckus arose in our group.

Of course, being that I should also be surprised by his words

[A Hero from Another World? Dont tell me she betrayed the Goddess?]

[There have been heroes who have rebelled against the Goddess in the past. Its not without precedent.]

The Mad Emperor continued.

[I see her special power as a trump card that could defeat even the Goddess. Depending on how you see it, she had a power that could take down Gods, equivalent to the Forbidden Curses. And Depending on the compatibility of her power with the secret of the Forbidden Curse lying within the aforementioned sealed room, the certainty of its power can be increased- or so I hope.]

If I remember correctly, Asagi is a B-rank.

[.]

Her inherent skill huh.

Immediately after we were summoned, it was explained to us that only A-ranks and above were originally capable of acquiring it.

But even the E-rank me, who was considered to be at the lowest rank, acquired an unprecedented amount of Abnormal State Skills.

Perhaps, Asagis B doesnt just mean B-rank.

Thus, it wouldnt be any wonder for the B-rank Asagi to have acquired it.

The Mad Emperor didnt seem to be willing to reveal what her power was.

The expression and atmosphere around him clearly indicated that he wasnt going to reveal anything anymore.

Just then, Seras behind me gave me a signal.

The words the Mad Emperor had said so far

According to Seras signal- everything is true.

He didnt say any falsehoods.

Taking Seras ability to judge lies

He isnt lying, but theres a possibility that the words he said may have a slight deviation from the truth.

For the time being, I could trust his words.

At that moment, the Mad Emperor sharply looked at me.

[One more thing Its related to our current topic, but regarding our alliance with the Faraway Kingdom. The official signing ceremony will take place in Mira. This is the intention of the three Elected Imperial households, they who hold tremendous authority in our country. Of course, even without a formal signing ceremony, we would still consider it an alliance and act accordingly. However, in regards to the aforementioned provision assistance-]

[Is it because the land held by this three Elected Imperial household is the one that supports Miras abundant food supply?]

[You really understand very quickly. You are one with excellent mind. It feels comfortable talking to you.]

The verbal alliance was concluded for the time being.

However, the food assistance would only be resolved when we visit there.

Hes trying to invite us to his country huh.

I suppose it would be obvious why.

Even though he said earlier that hes willing to give up

Its natural that he would want to strengthen his prospects against the Goddess.

That being the case Hell want to get the secrets of that sealed room at all costs.

What hes suggesting is that we visit his country along with the Forbidden Race.

With this in mind, I looked at Liese.

[When it comes to the official signing ceremony As expected, I dont think the three Elected Imperial households wouldnt be satisfied with me as their representative. Im not officially a citizen of the Faraway Country after all.]

Hearing how the conversation was directed towards her, Liese straightened up, before she nodded.

[Youre right.]

Upon her words, the Mad Emperor spoke.

[Even if your King wouldnt come, Im sure those households would be satisfied if the Prime Minister, Lieselotte-dono, were to visit. I have heard that your country has been closed for a long time then, it might be a good idea to visit the outside world- is what I think but what does Lieselotte-dono think?]

Looking straight at the Mad Emperor

[I think Yes, I can go to your country for the signing ceremony as our countrys Prime Minister. As you said, it would also be necessary for us to see the outside world in the future.]

Lieselotte feels different from before.

There was no hesitation in the way she spoke.

She seemed to have become less self-conscious.

It seems like shes somewhat gotten used to it.

She may have gotten used to the atmosphere that the Mad Emperor gives off.

Its like shes one of those new artists who was performing their live performance.

At first, they are nervous, self-conscious, and sometimes awkward.

They may not even be able to sing or perform to their full potential.

But as time goes by, their nervousness and self-consciousness will gradually disappear.

They will then be able to perform to their full potential.

As long as they dont feel like they were completely defeated- The time where they would be able to do their best would eventually come.

[However, theres just one thing you need to keep in mind.]

The Mad Emperor said, to which Liese waited for him to continue.

[In the outside world, Lieselotte-donos species Arachnes were quite rare. Many people now consider your kin as a species from folklore, just like the Dwarves. In other words You may be exposed to strange looks.]

[Even if you say that.]

Liese flinched a bit but

[I dont think I can continue being afraid of it. We have to get used to that kind of gaze, and your people would also eventually get used to our presence If I dont I think nothing will progress.]

[And for such a future, youre prepared to receive their gazes first?]

[I intended to be ready for that now Your Majesty.]

Hearing her declaration, the Mad Emperor smiled.

[Im somewhat relieved then.]

[ ? ]

Looking like she doesnt know what hes talking about, Liese turns towards me.

Thereupon, propping his chin on his hand again, the Mad Emperors white cheeks loosened a bit.

[At first, you were noticeably agitated and awkwards due to the unfamiliar atmosphere and place I saw Lieselotte-dono as no less capable as a negotiation partner. Thats why I rebuked Wright and the people behind me earlier and it seems like I wasnt wrong with my assessment. The point is Im relieved to have proven that my eyes havent become clouded.]

Looking somewhat ashamed, Liese lowered her head with her face flushed red.

[T- Thank you very much.]

Rather than bashful, I got the impression that she was feeling happy instead.

Putting aside whether or not this was the Mad Emperors plan to make a good impression for the future-

Its not a bad thing that Liese has regained the initiative as a negotiator.

I had originally judged that she would regain control of herself at some point.

Thereupon, with a smile kept on the Mad Emperors lips

[Well then, can I assume that weve reached an agreement upon this matter?]

[Yes. I think weve reached an agreement on the basic points. Its just]

After answering, Liese looked at me.

Yes.

Lastly, we have to make sure.

[Its necessary to confirm the intentions of the Forbidden Race the Kurosagas to visit your country. Liese-dono, please allow me to leave for a moment to acquire confirmation]

[I understand. Ill leave it to Belzegia-dono.]

Confirming with Lieselotte, I turned towards the Mad Emperor

[And thus Your Majesty, would you mind waiting for a moment?]

The raven behind me began flying away.

After the Mad Emperor glanced at the raven

[Acknowledged Well take a short break.]

Seemingly returning into the door to get the opinion of the Forbidden Race, I left the meeting area.

Ill leave that place to the people left there.

Liese is regaining her initiative quite well, and Seras is also there.

Although he is somewhat prone to getting hotblooded, Gio is also there.

The basic points of the negotiations were already settled, so they should be alright over there.

Incidentally, its like Liese and the others wont do anything until I return.

I asked them to look at the Great Treasurys list.

I had them check to see if there were any other items of interest.

Seras herself has been reading the Encyclopedia of the Forbidden Arts.

She should be able to judge the level of importance almost as well as I can.

Liese and the rest of the Faraway Country may also find something they want themselves.

They did say theyre willing to give those items to us.

The battle against that sh*tty Goddess is drawing near.

If its useful, it would be better if they receive them.

And as for me, who had left that place

[Youre going to Mira, arent you?]

[Yes.]

After walking back for a certain amount of time, I met up with Munin, who had flown here earlier.

In the end, it was a good thing that Munin was there.

I think its easier for her to make a decision since she had met Miras people and listened to what they had to say herself.

Of course, we didnt want to expose her to them as a member of the Forbidden Race too easily.

[I think that- if we can add any winning factor towards the final battle against the Goddess, we should acquire it.]

Now, Munin was back in her humanoid form.

Thereupon, she smiled at me

[And youre coming with me.]

[Well, I cant really let you go there alone. However, dont you want to hear what the rest of the Kurosagas have to say?]

[Even like this, Im still their Chief]

[Well, an irresponsible one at that]

[Fufufu, dont worry. Ive already told everyone what happened and my intentions. Theyve already agreed with me. They also know the history of the Kurosagas, so they were already prepared to a certain extent. Thats why, you need not worry. We are the Kurosagas after all.]

[Its not like we could have the other crest bearer come along either.]

[Youre right If its possible, Id like to finish this battle with the Goddess on my own is what I think.]

The other crest bearer is a girl named Fugi.

She is 13 years old.

Shes still young.

[However, she is also prepared for this. If my blade doesnt reach the Goddess, and if I fall along the journey I think she herself is prepared to be the next one to risk her life.]

With the slight smile kept on her lips, Munin sadly looked down.

[As far as Im concerned, I dont want her to force herself Thats the kind of child she is after all. Even at this matter, saying Im also going on the journey, she wont listen in the beginning]

Thereupon, Munins small smile turned to a wry smile.

[You know how hard it was to convince her?]

Honestly, for me

Im grateful for that kid Fugis fighting spirit.

No Im also grateful the resolution of the Kurosagas.

Perhaps

Dont get Munin involved in your battle! Dont take her with you!

Because you came here, the peace that the Kurosagas finally got is broken!

If they had said something like that, I think there may have been another dispute in the Faraway Country.

Well, this is all- thanks to Munins efforts, isnt it?

[You must have a hard time too.]

[Fufu, well yeah Its just, thats right Thats why I want this battle to end with just me, their Chief. If we can defeat Vysis here, we may not even need the Forbidden Curses after that If that happens, Fugis burden- the Kurosagas burden would finally be lifted.]

As I thought, this person

Shes got a strong heart.

[Alright.]

She made up her mind.

[Then, lets go there once Mira.]

The Gem of Teleportation in the Great Treasury.

The material for Pigimarus final enhancer- the Purple Beetle.

The secret of the Forbidden Curses that lies within the sealed room.

Once we have acquired them, its finally time for the real deal-

[..]

The battle to settle the score with that sh*tty Goddess would finally begin.

<Afterword>

We have received one new review since the last update. Thank you very much.

Also, the mangas chapter 25 has been updated and is now available for free at Comic Gardo. Eve is finally getting involved with the party, and Im now looking forward to reading that scene and that scene from the light novels Volume 3 in the manga. Seras, disguised with the identity Misra, also has a refreshing cuteness when seen in the manga.

Also, it may have been late, but Im also in your care this year.