The Feeling that won’t Lose to Anyone
{It"s finally decided! Since Partic.i.p.ant Reus is unable to fight, the winner is Partic.i.p.ant Sirius! Coincidentally, the winner of this year"s Fighting Festival was decided!} (Announcer)
As the excitement of the live coverage told the end of the match and the winner, the cheering sounded enough to shake the arena.
I should responded to the cheers that made me reflexively wanted to close my ears, but I was using [Scan] on Reus who had fallen.
There were countless number of wounds cut with a knife. The bones were not broken, but the cracks on the bones here and there stood out, and he was able to attack me well in this state.
Well, what I wanted to say was…
"… I overdid it. Sorry." (Sirius)
I should go easier on Reus, but he was stronger than expected and it was difficult to be moderate. Prior to that, I was glad with Reus" growth, and that made me become serious.
There were several reasons why I heartlessly fought to the point releasing bloodl.u.s.t. The main reason was to see Reus" growth.
I thought that Reus was good enough to go all out without submitting to my bloodl.u.s.t, but he broke through my pa.s.sing. As a result, the bone on my left arm cracked. My arm hurts a bit, but the disciple who gave more than expected made me involuntarily smiled.
If he could reach so far in this year, he would certainly surpa.s.s me in the future. Oh well, since I was specialized in an unusual direction, it would be different from the direct strength.
When I was treating Reus with [Regenerative Activity], Reese came in front of us together with the treatment staff of the Fighting Festival.
"Sirius-san! Is Reus alright!?" (Reese)
"Judging from Reus" vitality, his life is not in danger. Since I have finished treating the vital parts, I leave the rest to you." (Sirius)
"Understood." (Reese)
"Uhmm, we will also…" (Treatment Staff)
"There"s no need. I can do this alone. Healing water, lend me your power…" (Reese)
Reus" whole body was recovered with water containing therapeutic action at the same time Reese activated the healing spell. The wounds were healed, as well as the dirt.
The staff were surprised when looking at the speed of recovery. In the meantime, Jekyll and Beowulf, who came along with Reese, came beside me.
"First of all, congratulations for the victory. I thought you were strong, but it was more than I expected." (Jekyll)
"Congratulations from me too. How stupid I was a few days ago. It"s embarra.s.sing." (Beowulf)
Beowulf was certainly said "good luck on making me go all out"… or something like that. Would you also want to miserably scratch your head?
As I answered and congratulated by those two, Beowulf turned his attention to Reus, who was being treated with a question mark on his face.
"I have few questions. Where did Sirius-san gain such strength?" (Beowulf)
"Ooh! That"s what I wanted to ask too. I understand that Reus is trained by a monster like you, but how did Sirius become stronger? Tell me if you know any tricks!" (Jekyll)
"I also want to ask!" (Announcer)
When I turned to a sudden voice heard from the side, the woman, who did the live coverage, held two magic tools. She came in front of me with a smile full on her face.
It wasn"t weird to say that she was an unusually s.e.xy and well known person whose age in mid twenties. However, it had already been understood that she would recklessly behave when the "switch" turned on.
"Are you done with the live coverage?" (Sirius)
"I came down to the stage for the award ceremony and I"m going to give you simple questions. Nevertheless, I can"t really endure when looking you this close! In a glimpse, you have a thin body, but to think that an overwhelming strength lie within… it make me lose my mind! If it"s alright, would you embrace me with those mighty arms?" (Announcer)
"Tha-that"s not good!" (Reese)
The female Announcer came with rough breathing and glistening fiery eyes, but Reese jumped from the side and hugged my left arm.
"Reese… it"s hurt, so please tone it down a little bit." (Sirius)
"Aah!? I-I"m sorry." (Reese)
I could endure the pain and I didn"t mind the hug of jealousy, but I never thought that she would let loose Reus" treatment.
Still, the treatment seemed to be almost over, so it would be alright if he rested after this. Now, the staff was putting on a stretcher.
"Oh, are you the lover that was mentioned in the introduction? However, Lover-san, it is said that great men have great fondness for the sensual pleasures, so I think that one or two women should be alright. Like for the n.o.bles and the descendants, it is normal to have two to three marriage partners." (Announcer)
"I am sorry, but I already have three lovers, including her, so I decline embracing you." (Sirius)
"…Wha!? You already have three!? As expected of the winner!" (Announcer)
I thought that the champion of the Fighting Festival and the number of lovers were unrelated. Meanwhile, Reese seemed to concentrate on casting healing spell on my arm, but it seemed that she didn"t hear our conversation.
When I looked to the surroundings, Jekyll was happily whistling, and Beowulf was sighing with an obviously dejected look.
"More importantly, how about the award ceremony? I think the audience is waiting." (Sirius)
"Yo-you"re right! I will ask some questions when the award ceremony is over, so please answer within the range that you can answer.
You can use this." (Announcer)
The magic tools handed over was drawn with the magic formation of [Echo] that could make voice resound to the surroundings. When mana was poured into it, it became a subst.i.tute for a microphone and speaker.
There was a staff nearby came to pour mana to activate the magic tool, but I turned him down since my mana was enough.
"I"m sorry but, will it be alright if anyone other than winner get off the stage?" (Announcer)
"Aah, sure. Well then, I will look out on Reus. You may receive the award at ease." (Jekyll)
"I"m sorry." (Sirius)
"Don"t worry about it because I was satisfied fighting with that guy. Hey Beowulf, how long are you be like that? You also come here." (Jekyll)
"Haa… Got it." (Beowulf)
Since there was a possibility that those, who bet on the sleeping Reus, might attack him for revenge, it was very helpful to have someone to watch over him.
Those two descended from the platform while chasing Reus who was carried by the stretcher, but Reese didn"t try to get away from my arm.
"I leave Reus to you. The treatment is not over yet, right?" (Sirius)
"But, I have to cure SIrius-san"s arm." (Reese)
"It is not bad. I will heal myself while getting the interview." (Sirius)
"…Understood But, please be careful with that person." (Reese)
The pain was considerably alleviated, but since the crack on the bones couldn"t be immediately healed even with Reese"s healing spell, I would like her to concentrate on Reus now.
Reluctantly separating away from me, Reese got off the stage while looking here many times. I tried to urge the female announcer about receiving the award, but…
"With Partic.i.p.ant Jekyll"s muscle, and Beowulf"s beautiful slender body… I can"t endure it!" (Announcer)
"Oi, come back." (Sirius)
"Ha!? So-sorry. Well then, shall we go with the real thing?" (Announcer)
It seemed that her consciousness was flying off somewhere, but as she regained herself and then activated the magic tool. So, I also followed her by activating the magic tool.
{Ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for waiting. Now, let us begin with the awards ceremony of the Fighting Festival.
I noticed that the entire arena was quite excited as they listened to the awards ceremony, but I felt that hot gazes were directed to me among the audience especially from the women.
It was the only town which organized the Fighting Festival, and perhaps there were a lot of strong people attracted to it.
{The winner for this year has been decided and he is Partic.i.p.ant Sirius, an adventurer! And the reward money for Partic.i.p.ant Sirius is a piece of white gold coin!} (Announcer)
White gold coin was a rare coin made of Mithril. A piece of this was equal to twenty gold coins… and it was worth two million yen if I converted to the value in the previous life.
Commoner rarely used it. It seemed to be mainly used by n.o.bles and royalties. I heard that I can get the reward as gold coins, but I decided to get it in white gold coin.
{This year is similar to the year when the "Strongest Sword" partic.i.p.ated in. Subsequently, I will ask some questions to the winner, Partic.i.p.ant Sirius!} (Announcer)
And then, I answered since I was asked simple questions which was similarly asked by Jekyll and Beowulf along the way.
{Although we have heard this from the winner every year, how did Partic.i.p.ant Sirius become stronger? Of course you don"t have to answer if it"s impossible.} (Announcer)
"Well… know your limit, and from that, you need to push yourself over and over again until you surpa.s.s that limit. And take a break during day off.} (Sirius)
{Take a day off… is it?} (Announcer)
{It is not all about training your body. You will recover by resting and that will make your growth bigger. Hence, moderate training that doesn"t break your body and proper rest. That is my basic.} (Sirius)
{I see. The Strongest Sword didn"t say anything but swords, and you told us a story of studying.} (Announcer)
{Other than that, I would always remember to be in a perfect condition and prepare for battle. And since I properly rested in an inn called [Wind Cape Cottage] that I found in this town, I was able to fully demonstrate my ability in the match.} (Sirius)
There would be no existence that threaten the [Wind Cape Cottage] already, but I tried to publicize to the extent that it would blew away the spread of the rumor at once. If the inn which I stayed was known, it would gradually regain its popularity.
In addition, since they heard the tangible method of training, it looked like most of the audiences were dumbfounded when I explained some stories that took place in the Elysion school in the past. There were some people who murmured that it was unreasonable, but the students at the school, who partic.i.p.ated in the training, were able to get good results, so it wasn"t impossible since Reus and I were the living proof here.
{I understand how Partic.i.p.ant Sirius became strong. Lastly, is there anything would you like to say?} (Announcer)
{Well, I will just say one thing. I am currently in the process of going around the world, so I am not going to be under someone. Because of that, let me let you know in advance that I will refuse any invitation.} (Sirius)
As there were seats for n.o.ble guests, there were considerable number of n.o.bles came to watch the match, so there was a high possibility that invitations will come after the match.
In Elysion, Reese"s sister, Lifell-hime, took various measures, but it would be hard to get through here since this was a different continent. Hence, it was best to clearly say in this place.
{In the case of directly putting measures on my companions and lovers… I will not hesitate to crush you. I ask you to keep in mind that much.} (Sirius)
As an insurance, I properly gave a warning while releasing bloodl.u.s.t to the surroundings. Although it might be quick if I declared that I had been marked down by the next queen of Elysion, there was a possibility that my action might cause inconvenience, so I intended to keep my mouth silent except when necessary.
However, since I would also depart from the town in a few days, it might not be necessary to worry about it. Well, if they still picked a fight even with this, I would accept it as a price of being popular. And let"s make an example if they took out their hands.
{Haaa… to feel Partic.i.p.ant Sirius" bloodl.u.s.t from close distance… I can"t handle it! Uhmm, I heard that you already have lovers, but me as a lover…} (Announcer)
{I refuse.} (Sirius)
{Wha!?} (Announcer)
I could take it easy because I preferred choosing women, but I would definitely refuse because I felt that her personality didn"t match with mine. She was depressed because of me, but she immediately regained herself with a smile.
How should I say this… she was professional. She had various and unique personalities, but I wanted to praise only on the quickness of the "switching".
{Although I was easily turned down, with this, this year"s Fighting Festival ends. Ladies and gentlemen, let"s meet again next year!} (Announcer)
Finally, the Fighting Festival ended with the clap of applause from the audience.
—
"Congratulations, Sirius-sama!" (Emilia)
When the Fighting Festival and almost all audience returned home, I came to the seat where my companions were watching.
Emilia was running with tail waving when she saw my figure, she looked up at me with glistening eyes and both hands in front of her chest.
"If it was Sirius-sama, I believed that you would be the champion. As expected of our master." (Emilia)
"Thank you. But, it seems that I was overdid Reus a bit. I"m sorry, Emilia." (Sirius)
"No, Sirius-sama. You don"t need to worry about it. I felt a little bit complicated at the beginning, but I am glad to see the growth of Reus, and that child probably satisfied too." (Emilia)
"Really? I am also happy to have disciples who understand like Emilia and Reus." (Sirius)
When I stroked Emilia"s head who was really happy, she narrowed her eyes and swung her tail as much as she could to express the joy.
"More importantly, sorry for asking a lot of things. Was it hard to make a round-trip back and forth in the crowded town due to the festival?" (Sirius)
"Since it"s Sirius-sama"s order, I don"t feel any trouble at all. Rather, I want you to order me more." (Emilia)
"I will let you know then." (Sirius)
Actually, before I came here once together with Reus before the match, I asked Emilia to do few things.
As for the matter, I would like her to return to the [Wind Cape Cottage] and tell the people in the inn to prepare for celebration. At that time, Reus and I would surely won the championship and the second place.
Since I gave the funds, they might be busy with buying stuff at this time.
"Woof…" (Hokuto)
"Hehe, as expected, isn"t it? Congratulations for winning." (Fia)
When Emilia moved to my back from her original position, Hokuto, then, rubbed his nose against my chest, and Fia came in front of me with a smile.
"Thank you. I"m relieved that there is nothing wrong here." (Sirius)
"Instead of us, is Reus really alright? Basically, It wouldn"t be funny if he died from that." (Fia)
"Aah… I might overdid it, but he"s going to be alright since Reese is treating him. He will soon wake up." (Sirius)
I saw Reus" condition before coming here, his breathing was stable, so I smiled in order to make Fia relieved and there should be no problem.
"Well then, you"re going to return back to the inn as soon as Reus woke up, right? Since the celebration is today, I also want to cook something to celebrate Sirius-sama and Reus." (Emilia)
"Yeah, I also want to cook something to calm myself down, but before that…" (Sirius)
There were things left that I hadn"t settled yet.
I invoked [Search] while looking at the platform getting cleaned up, and I confirmed the target person was approaching here.
Since Hokuto, who was rubbing against me, became vigilant towards the pa.s.sageway at the same time, I stroked his head to calm him down. Together with Hokuto, we could defeat any opponent even without our acquaintance, but it seemed that he personally couldn"t bare the att.i.tude towards me, his Master.
"Oi, lead me." (??)
Jekyll was the one who appeared along with the voice from the pa.s.sageway, but he was only a guide.
There was someone behind Jekyll…
"…Sieg?" (Fia)
It was Sieg who had me decided to partic.i.p.ate in the Fighting Festival.
Fia looked puzzled because of Sieg"s appearance, but whether she immediately remembered, she hugged my arm and crossed her arms. It seemed that she had forgotten the existence of Sieg until she saw him, so I thought that he was a bit pitiful.
He was behind Jekyll until he came here, but as he confirmed our appearance, he went forward and turned a sullen look.
"Emilia…" (Sirius)
"Yes. I will head back to the inn first. I will prepare the feast with Cecil-san, and we will wait for your return." (Emilia)
"Woof!" (Hokuto)
Emilia and Hokuto, who presume the situation, quietly left from the pa.s.sageway where Sieg came. They were my proud loyal subject and faithful dog who understood without the need to say anything.
Well then, should I continued with things few days ago?
"…First of all, I would like to congratulate you as an audience." (Sieg)
"Aah, thank you. And, do you remember the promise?" (Sirius)
If I won against Jekyll and Beowulf which Sieg hired as escorts, that was his promise. Although I didn"t fight with Jekyll, he seemed had no complaint since I had obtained the overall victory.
He regrettably glared at me, but this time, I planned to do it without reservation because Fia was in trouble.
"I remember. If you can show your strength until that far, I can"t say that you can"t protect Shimifia-san. I will embarra.s.sed myself if I pursue her any further." (Sieg)
I thought that… he would not give up, but he was obedient more than I expected.
While feeling a little bit let down, Fia secretly whispered to me.
"I wonder what happened? Even though he was so aggressive, don"t you think that he changes too much?" (Fia)
The other person, who was pa.s.sionately preach about love and said that she was the his other half, had become like this.
Fia was questioningly puzzled, but I remembered this kind of change… that person in my previous life.
"I love Shimifia-san! But, when I think that a strong man like you aimed for her, I thought that this was impossible. I thought that… I could possibly win against you." (Sieg)
"Do you give up on her?" (Sirius)
"There is no merit to protect Shimifia-san when she has such a man. That"s why, I would like to wish for Shimifia-san"s happiness. I entrust her to you." (Sieg) (TLN: FYI, Sieg used "Kisama" towards Sirius. Since I don"t want to use "you b.a.s.t.a.r.d" all the time, I just use "you" instead.)
"Actually, I never became yours, you know…" (Fia)
As a matter of fact, Fia was right, but since Sieg himself was drunk, it might be best to leave him alone. After all, he lose to me and and had to give up on Fia.
I didn"t think that I overdid it. I didn"t want to entrust to a guy who submitted to my bloodl.u.s.t.
"So, don"t lay your hand on Fia anymore, alright?" (Sirius)
"Don"t make light of me! I won"t imitate shameless who change their promises. Shimifia-san… please be happy." (Sieg)
"Of course. Because Sirius is my destined partner." (Fia)
Sieg, who had smile full on his face, turned his back and went away.
Even if Sieg"s back was floating the air of unrequited love and sadness, Jekyll who was quietly watching, waved his hand.
"I won"t say anything much, but I think the employer-san who didn"t admit that he had no hope, is no good. So, don"t worry about it." (Jekyll)
"I understand that, but I think he"s a bit bad because he liked me." (Fia)
"You"re too kind. Well, please leave it to me afterwards. Because there is an effective way for that kind of man." (Jekyll)
"The thing about Reus, it was bad in various ways." (Beowulf)
"We can"t obtain money when the employer can get a grip of himself. You guys don"t need to worry about it." (Jekyll)
Jekyll had a refreshing smile that didn"t make me feel bad. Whether his life experience was plentiful, he was matured in many ways.
"I would also like to express my grat.i.tude, thank you." (Fia)
"Hahaha! After all, I"m glad to be thanked by a beauty. Alright then, both of you, please take your time." (Jekyll)
As we saw Jekyll off, Fia let a big sigh while stretched out her body to unravel the tension.
With this, there was no one who would meddle with Fia, but… there was something I wanted to ask her at last.
"Haa… it"s over with this." (Fia)
"No, not yet. Fia, I want to ask you once again." (Sirius)
After I untied our linked arms, I put my hands on her shoulder and looked into her eyes.
"What is it? Aah, you can do it any time, it"s not a problem." (Fia)
"That will be nice at a proper place. More importantly, Fia should have felt my bloodl.u.s.t in the match against Reus. Didn"t you think that was scary?" (Sirius)
Emilia and the rest knew about my true nature since they were a.s.sociating with me even when they were children. They still followed me even after they knew about my bloodl.u.s.t, but… Fia wasn"t necessarily became like that.
Even if we long for each other, there was also another possibility. I didn"t unleash bloodl.u.s.t when we first met. However, if Fia was going to be our companion from now on, I would like to hear her intention after feeling my bloodl.u.s.t once.
Even if she liked me, I didn"t want her to be frightened every time I went all out.
Fia thought with her eyes closed for my serious question, but she immediately opened her eyes and lifted her hand…
"Eii!" (Fia)
She hit my forehead with her palm.
Although it didn"t hurt or itch, I rubbed my forehead as it made a good sound, and the smiling Fia brought her face closer.
"As I expected. This is my answer." (Fia)
And then… Fia"s lips touched mine.
The kiss continued for a while. Fia slowly separated from me. She touched my face with her hands while laughing in satisfaction.
"To be honest, I thought that the bloodl.u.s.t unleashed by Sirius was scary. It is definitely beyond me, and for you to hold such terrible amount of power… However, I know that Sirius is a person who will not drown with that power and understands when to use it. It is necessary for Reus today… right?" (Fia)
"Aah. As what Fia had said, today"s bloodl.u.s.t was to see Reus" seriousness, and wanting to let Fia know about myself.” (Sirius)
"Besides, you could easily avoid the palm strike just now, but you didn"t even try to avoid it, right? In other words, that much is an evidence that you trust me." (Fia)
"Of course. That will be a story if you don"t trust your lover." (Sirius)
"The relationship between me and Sirius is still early, but I really understand your kindness when looking at Emilia and Reus. That is why I am no longer afraid at Sirius, and that is my answer." (Fia)
Fia brought her face closer again, and she kissed me.
Dear me… she was a pa.s.sionate and big hearted woman.
"I also thought about it since long time ago, but I can"t suit you in many ways." (Sirius)
"I may lose in terms of strength, but I will not lose to you if it"s only about love. Of course, the same goes to Emilia and Reese." (Fia)
"Both of them too, huh? I won"t tell you not to quarrel, but please let me know if you"re having disagreement, alright? I can"t choose over a single person, sorry about that." (Sirius)
"Hehe, you don"t need to worry because I have no intention to quarrel with them. We are talking with real feelings, and it is like siblings who likes same person. That"s why… please love us equally." (Fia)
"Aah, I will do my best to make you guys happy." (Sirius)
And then, I headed to Reus" treatment room once again with Fia who linked her arm with mine, but she pulled my arm as if she remembered something.
"Aah, yes. I want a lot of children, so please let me know as soon as you think that I can give birth. I think that I want at least four children." (Fia)
Since I was in the process of going around the world at the moment, I properly told them that I couldn"t afford having children, and the ladies also acknowledged it.
But…
"…Isn"t it too soon?" (Sirius)
"It isn"t. It"s just that I am an elf, you know? I can offer you a young body, but someday you will leave me." (Fia)
"Oi, oi…" (Sirius)
She easily said something difficult to be said.
Indeed, when comparing the longevity of human such as me and Fia as an elf, I would surely die first. I thought that I would talk about it someday, but I didn"t expect that she would easily say it until that far.
However, thanks to that, I barely felt the obligation. I must thank you for the consideration brought up by her.
"But, will loneliness fade if there are many children? When that time comes, please do your best. By the way, Emilia wants a boy and a girl, while a girl seems ideal for Reese." (Fia)
I had decided to prepare, but… I thought it would be good if I increased the preparation one degree higher.
"Although it seems to be tough, I will do my best. I promise that you will never regret accompanying me." (Sirius)
"I am expecting that from you. But you know, I don"t plan to be a women who only rely on you. I will also do my best to be a good woman who can support you." (Fia)
The number that I need to protect had increased, but… I would do the same things as before.
While feeling the warmth from the arm that was embraced, we were naturally smiling.
—
"Well then, to celebrate Sirius-sama and Reus" victory and second place… cheers!" (Emilia)
"""Cheers""" (Reus/Reese/Fia)
That evening, we returned to the [Wind Cape Cottage] and cooperated with the inn employees for the preparation, and then, we had a small celebration at the inn"s bar.
On the table which was made by two tables combined together, there were not only dishes made by Cecil, but also Emilia and Reese.
By the way, the partic.i.p.ating members were us and the daughter of the inn"s landlady, Kachia, who was allowed by her parents.
"Delicious! What is this dish!?" (Kachia)
"This is Karaage, a dish that I learned from Sirius-san. But, Cecil-san"s dishes are also delicious, isn"t it?" (Reese)
"That"s Okaa-san"s dishes after all. But… Okaa-san is a bit excited. Aren"t these dishes easily for ten people?" (Kachia)
"Really? This much is normal, you know?" (Reese)
"Eh!?" (Kachia)
As Kachia was absorbed looking at the dishes prepared by the disciples for the first time, she, along with Reese, had it full in his mouth and enjoyed it.
Emilia was waiting next to me. She was attentively taking care of me in order to prevent me from using the left arm injured which had a stick and bandages. Well… it was always like the usual.
"Sirius-sama. Here you go, please open your mouth." (Emilia)
"Yeah… it"s delicious. Sorry about it." (Sirius)
"Ehehe, this is my happiness, so you don"t have to be bothered. Here is the next one." (Emilia)
I had no trouble to eat by myself because my right arm was fine, but Emilia wanted to help me, so I was thinking of responding to her request as much as possible since I had asked her for things today.
There was another guest of honor next to her, Reus, and he was fed by Fia.
"Delicious! But Fia-ane, rather than vegetables, I want to eat more meat!" (Reus)
"That"s not good. Sirius was saying that you need to balance the vegetables and meat while receiving treatment. That"s why, you should eat vegetables first." (Fia)
"I am happy to be fed by you, but I don"t want vegetables only! Look, I ate the vegetables, so next is meat, right?" (Reus)
"Aah, this vegetable is good for bones, right? Here, say aahh…" (Fia)
"Give me meat, Fia-ane!" (Reus)
Most men would be jealous to have a beautiful elf fed you, but if judging from the side, they were like an owner who was disciplining her pet dog.
By the way, Reus woke up in the evening, and with my and Reese"s treatment, he was recovering to the extent that he could walk. However, since the condition of both arms was quite severe, both of Reus" arms were firmly fixed with bandages and sticks in order to prevent from moving.
So he had no choice to be fed. At first, Emilia was about to fed him, but Fia volunteered. Thus, this was the situation now. According to the person herself, since she had touched me in the arena, the next would be the skinship with the younger brother.
After that, when I watched at Reus who was happy to be finally fed with meat, a new guest came from the entrance of the bar.
"Oou, I came as promised." (Jekyll)
"Thank you for calling us this time." (Beowulf)
The ones who appeared were Jekyll and Beowulf.
They stayed in a different hotel with Sieg, but I invited them to come for my celebration if Sieg allowed it.
I was pointlessly invited them since I was hated by their employer, Sieg, but I didn"t expect that they really came.
"Thanks for coming. The drinks are…" (Sirius)
"Here"s the additional drinks and dishes." (Cecil)
"Woof!" (Hokuto)
Incidentally, the drinks were given when I turned my eyes, and Cecil-san brought more foods and drinks.
Next to her was Hokuto who had a tray on his head and was helping Cecil-san to serve. If it came to Hokuto skill, he would certainly able to carry cups with water without spills. Since Emilia was attending me, Hokuto, who was available, decided to help as a waiter.
As those two received drinks from Cecil-san, they were smiling when they saw the dishes lining up on the table.
"Thanks. Hoho, it seems delicious dishes are lining up." (Jekyll)
"Yeah. Those are the dishes that I have never seen before." (Beowulf)
"Since the taste is guaranteed for the first time, please do not hesitate to eat," (Sirius)
While being surprised by Hokuto who was serving, they began eating after sending congratulatory words.
"Ooh, it"s delicious! I"m glad that I came here." (Jekyll)
"That is good then. By the way, although I invited you guys earlier, somehow you manage to come. Did Sieg give the permission?" (Sirius)
"Hmm? Aah, yes, he absentmindedly gave us the permission. Besides, aren"t you having fun also?" (Jekyll)
"What are you talking about?" (Fia)
"Fia-ane, my mouth is lower!" (Reus)
Whether Fia concerned a little about Sieg, she turned her face to me while feeding Reus. Whatever it was, properly feed him, you know. Because the Karaage entered Reus" nose.
"After separating from you guys, the employer-san was noticeably depressed. As soon we returned to the inn, he seemed to drink alone, so I brought him an escort." (Jekyll)
Jekyll was also know that direction, and he had been going there several times, so he became familiar with the service. Hence, he introduced a rather suggestive escort.
"Although people who have broken hearts will have different kind of shocks, sometimes they will feel refreshed if they embrace a woman." (Jekyll)
"He was confused at the beginning, but after they got along well, they went into the room." (Beowulf)
"That is why I carefully selected the escort. I briefly explained the circ.u.mstances, and that Nee-chan would surely comfort the employer-san. Ooh, this is also delicious!" (Jekyll)
"Yeah… if that makes him get better, it"s good then. That is also an escort"s job." (Sirius)
After finishing the explanation, Jekyll began hanging around Reus while putting food and drinks inside the mouth.
"Nevertheless… to be surrounded by beautiful Nee-chans, the dishes felt more delicious. You"re having the best spot, isn"t it?" (Jekyll)
"I am thinking a bit different since Nee-chan"s are Aniki"s women. But, the foods are delicious and since Aniki is here, it"s really the best." (Reus)
"Is that so? Hahaha!" (Jekyll)
"Although they are looked like a child and an adult, they are getting along well." (Beowulf)
Looking at the two who were happily talking with each other, Beowulf, who sat next to me, muttered how amazed he was with them.
"They are like cut out from same cloth. You can enjoy this without holding back, Beowulf." (Sirius)
"Yes, I"m going to enjoy this. But before that, there is something I want to talk to Sirius-san." (Beowulf)
When I was wondering why he suddenly became respectful, Beowulf turned his head with a serious look.
"Today, I fought Sirius-san and I lose. I also learned about the truth of my Tou-san. Being proud by my strength and lost in various ways, I think today is the day that I reborn." (Beowulf)
"Well if you think so, it was worth teaching you then." (Sirius)
"Yes, that was necessary action for me. And I"ve decided that I was reborn." (Beowulf)
"Is it alright for me to listen to that?" (Sirius)
"I want you to listen because it was because of you. When I"m done being an escort for my employer, I think that I will go on a journey to find the Strongest Sword." (Beowulf)
From Beowulf"s refreshing look, it seemed that it wasn"t to take a revenge for his father.
Even though he would challenged with the current ability, he would only be beaten at his own game, so I was a bit relieved.
"I heard the story from Sirius-san, but I would like to hear it from the Strongest Sword himself. Because he was the person who took care my father"s last moment." (Beowulf)
"Since it is the path that you choose, you should live it the way you like it. But, don"t challenge the Strongest Sword even if you get stronger. If you challenge him with a half-hearted feeling, he will be a Jii-san who easily break a bone or two." (Sirius)
"I will do my best." (Beowulf)
Well… even he didn"t challenge him, I felt that he would challenge him from other direction.
"And after I meet the Strongest Sword, and see Sirius-san again… will you make me as your disciple?" (Beowulf)
"…To become my disciple, you will see things like what happen to Reus today, you know?" (Sirius)
"I am prepared for it. Besides, as the son of Sword Saint, I want to test how strong I can be. It is not because anyone. I decided it myself." (Beowulf)
"Is that so? I have no intention to refuse a guy who is willing. I am not sure when it will be, but that will be until I meet Beowulf again, so let"s wait for the day that I can directly teach you." (Sirius)
"Thank you very much." (Beowulf)
"Here you go, Sirius-sama." (Emilia)
As Beowulf was delighted with my answer, Emilia handed a cup of wine to us.
I see, it was a toast of today"s celebration. I gently stroked Emilia"s head because of her nonchalant behavior.
"Well then, let"s toast for Beowulf"s new beginning." (Sirius)
"Yes." (Beowulf)
Beowulf and I lightly b.u.mped our cups, and we drank the contents at once.
Although I was old enough to drink in this world, I didn"t drink much, so my body instantly became hot. Oh well, I didn"t feel bad.
As I savor the moderate drunkenness of alcohol, Beowulf drank it all at once, and…
"Gohuu!?" (Beowulf)
…He fainted while banging his head on the desk.
It seemed that Beowulf was a non-drinker, but I didn"t expect that he would be "defeated" with a single gla.s.s of wine.
"Sirius-sama, the meat that suits with the wine have been prepared. I will cut it right away." (Emilia)
"Cecil-san, I would like to have more of this, please." (Reese)
"Are you still going to eat it, Onee-chan!?" (Kachia)
"Since you can"t use both arms, I will give you meat if you alternately move your ears. Here, try it." (Fia)
"Yo…ho… how"s that, Fia-ane?" (Reus)
"Hahaha! Today is the best!" (Jekyll)
However, since everyone was at their own pace, they apparently didn"t even noticed that Beowulf had fainted.
I confirmed his condition with [Scan] once, and as I expected, it seemed that he was not good with alcohol.
"I will bring a blanket for him later, so please eat here without worrying, Sirius-sama." (Emilia)
"…I guess so." (Sirius)
Such a noisy celebration continued until late at night.
—
Extra/Bonus
In the middle of the celebration party… there was a certain someone visited us.
"h.e.l.lo, good evening. As for the celebration, I am also holding a celebration." (??)
"Wha!? Why are you here!?" (Emilia?)
"You don"t like it huh. Didn"t I say that I will stay here in the interview?" (Announcer)
She was the woman who was doing live coverage in the Fighting Festival.
Emilia stood up in front of me at the same time while revealing vigilance.
"Oh my… what a tremendous vigilance. I just want to make acquaintance with a strong person." (Announcer)
"This is just to confirm, but may I ask to which extent?" (Emilia)
"Oh yeah! Date is of course, and to make acquaintance until the bed…" (Announcer)
"No, absolutely cannot!" (Emilia)
Bristling the ears and the tail, Emilia was threatening to the extent that I rarely saw it. I clearly declined her confession at the arena. Hence, Emilia didn"t seem to hold back.
I didn"t think that she would pursue me, but for the time being, I pulled Emilia to calm her down. I held her on my chest while stroking her head.
"Aah… so happy…" (Emilia)
"It seems that there is no room for me to enter." (Announcer)
Looking at how happy Emilia who swung her tail, the female announcer apparently had given up.
"Well then, the next strong man…" (Announcer)
As soon as Reus" line of sight matched with her, he swung up his arms in panic.
"Lo-look! I can"t do it because my arms are like this!" (Reus)
"Please don"t worry. I will do everything, and you don"t have to move at all!" (Announcer)
"Aniki, save me!" (Reus)
Since Reus was seriously frightened and hid on my back, it looked like she had to give up because it was impossible. Although his conduct was like that, it didn"t seems like he was forcing it. She was somewhat an unbalanced woman.
"It can"t be helped then. The next strong man is…" (Announcer)
And then, she was looking for the next target… and her movement stopped at certain point.
"Such a strong man is defenseless like this… I can"t bear it!" (Announcer)
It was Beowulf who fainted by drinking sake.
"Haa… haa.. I can"t bear it! Let me take him home by all mean. Whatever it is… I"ll get the consent afterwards." (Announcer)
I didn"t understand what she was saying, but she used an unexpected power as a woman, carried Beowulf and walked away from us.
"""…""" (Sirius/Emilia/Reus)
…n.o.body was trying to stop it.
Everyone couldn"t move due to the overwhelming power she gave.
Later, Jekyll, who was absorbed with the drinks and dishes, noticed and gave a chase. It seemed that Beowulf"s chast.i.ty was protected.
—
Presenting Hokuto (Instead of Hokuto, it"s a bit different)
Late at night… when the parties were sleeping in the [Wind Cape Cottage], Hokuto noticed something and opened his eyes.
If he noticed it, the Master would noticed as well. Hokuto raised his body without making any sound. He looked into the face of the Master who still had his eyes closed in the next bad.
"Really? I leave it to you then." (Sirius)
It seemed the meaning was transmitted, and the Master allowed him.
Although the Master achieved the victory, he should also be tired from the Fighting Festival. Hokuto lightly rubbed his nose against the Master. He, then, left the room so as not to wake Reus.
"Hokuto-san." (Emilia)
Emilia was standing in the hallway when he left the room.
From her somewhat serious expression, it didn"t looked like she was going to sneak into the Master"s bedroom. Apparently, she seemed to have been aware of something.
(Hokuto)
As those who had same Master, they conversed through eye contact. After that, a human and an animal walked out of the inn.
And with Emilia as the lead, a dagger suddenly approached from Emilia"s back at the corner of a corridor.
"…How naive." (Emilia)
However, Emilia who predicted that, went around in an instant, and the dagger was conversely sticking to the throat of the a.s.sailant.
"You didn"t hide the bloodl.u.s.t, aren"t you? Are you aiming at us? As I am obeying Sirius-sama, what were you trying to get on with that poisoned dagger?" (Emilia)
By the way, when the interrogation began, a shadow that jumped out of the shade a little away was noticed.
He wondered whether the shadow would attack here, but since he ran towards the window, he was probably trying to escape.
And when the man tried to ram his body to break through the window… the window naturally opened. A shadow dashed out from the window while wondering about it. He prepared his landing position, but… he noticed a feeling out of place.
His body didn"t fall even until how much time had pa.s.sed.
"I wonder where are you going?" (Fia)
When turning into the direction of the voice heard, a beautiful hair was fluttering was seen under the moon light. A female elf… Fia was floating in the air.
The shadow was surprised on the impossible phenomenon, but it wasn"t over yet.
This time, water gathered to cover the shadow"s body, and when he noticed, he was wrapped with water other than his face, and he became unable to move.
"He can"t move with this." (Reese)
"Alright, I will drop him off." (Fia)
Fia exchange glances with Reese whose face was exposed from the window. She dropped the shadow wrapped in water b.a.l.l.s to the ground by manipulating the wind.
And when the both went outside the inn and approached the shadow… daggers popped out from the nearby bushes aiming at those two.
However…
"Woof!" (Hokuto)
Without a moment’s delay, Hokuto jumped in and repelled it with his forefeet and tail.
The a.s.sailant, who judged that he couldn"t win, went out of the bushes and kicked the nearby wall. He leaped high and ran away.
"W-what!?" (a.s.sailant)
However, Hokuto was already at his landing position.
As he was unable to do anything in the air, the a.s.sailant was knocked down by Hokuto"s paw and being silent.
And then, the three a.s.sailant were bound with a rope, while the female team and Hokuto were discussing before them.
"There are three a.s.sailants. I don"t know who they are, but it was as Sirius-sama"s said." (Emilia)
"What are we going to do with these people? We should hand it to the security guards." (Reese)
"Well… they may be peoples from the underworld, so it might be more effective to expose them than to hand them over to the security guards. Anyway…" (Fia)
Fia wrote large words with ink on a paper taken from the inn, and stuck it on the men"s heads.
"These people tried to kidnap women but got defeated… right? Since it is a fact, there is no problem then." (Reese)
"This kind of opponent is probably dislike being stood out. There are still many people here because of the fighting festival, so it will be more effective if we toss them in the square. Hokuto, can you do it please?" (Fia)
"Woof!" (Hokuto)
Hokuto brought the a.s.sailant by using his mouth to the town square through roofs, and threw them to the square to the extent that they wouldn"t die.
And then, Hokuto left the spot after confirming the a.s.sailant was properly taken by the security guards.