As we are collecting the magic stones and materials,

“Thank you very much for having saved me before.”

I was chatted up by the warrior whom I had roughly rescued some time ago.

However, thanks to my <Magic Hand guided by Thought>, his armor and shield have ended up warped…

As a result, even though I saved his neck, I feel slightly awkward.

“No, that is, sorry for denting your armor and so on.” (Shuuya)

“Eh? Ah, something like that is a cheap price to pay for my life. You know, I had resolved myself to die for the sake of my friends, but I fortunately survived to see another day.”

Going by his reaction, the young warrior hasn’t apparently noticed the state of his own armor yet.

At that point,

“Aaaaahh, Ruka! You’re alive!”

“Ruka’s aliveee―!”

his party members, who had run away earlier, all came back.

“Alf Rulexander, Mimi Shibishi, Scrane Zukisasagu, Sasuri, Tomilion, Chuoss… for me to be able to meet you once more! This is all thanks to you. Oh, my name is Ruka Zen Southerion. I’m the one leading the party 【Lucys’ Game】. If possible, I’d like to hear your name as well.” (Ruka)

After looking at his friends, who are gathering around the young warrior, with teary eyes, he asked for my name while switching to a serious expression.

“The name’s Shuuya, and our party is 【Innocent Arms】.” (Shuuya)

“…Shuuya-san, thank you. Please take this as a sign of my gratitude.” (Ruka)

The chain of a golden necklace, which has three small jewels—red, black, and yellow—with old-styled carvings that overlap in spirals embedded into it, is clutched in the warrior’s hand.

Once I check it with Magic Observation, I realize that mana is swirling through the entire chain.

I guess it’s not merely gold; appearances are deceiving, huh?

This is quite the magic item, it seems.

“No, something like that is…” (Shuuya)

When I decline modestly,

“…It’s no good with just this? It’s an item that possesses the effects of a magic defense up, physical defense up, and an increase in physical ability. This is a War Steel Ogre Master’s Necklace said to have been equipped by the War Steel Ogre Cavalry Division, which exceeds Radford Empire’s Special Groundforce Brigade that’s even now playing an active role in the 50-years-war. It’s a war spoil heirloom that’s handed down in my family. Please, accept this as my gratitude for having saved my life.” (Ruka)

Even if I’m told something like this…

It’s not like I saved him while hoping to get some money or items.

…I’m quite bad with things such as this.

Save, being saved. Thank, being thanked.

Isn’t it fine with only that much? Though that’s not something I can say here, I suppose.

“Ruka-san, I can’t accept this. Your feelings of gratitude are plenty for me. We don’t need any more since prior to this, we defeated the Death Emperor’s party and obtained their materials and magic stones.” (Shuuya)

“But…” (Ruka)

He has an expression telling me that he wants to show his respect somehow.

This ikemen youth is quite attractive.

I guess his character is great, too.

“…To be frank, your attitude as shield bearer was too cool and dazzling. That’s why I went as far as saving you. Come on, your friends, who are celebrating your survival, have also arrived, so please go to them.” (Shuuya)

“…I won’t forget this debt of life. Having been able to meet a great gentleman like you is a blessing in disguise in this whole ordeal.” (Ruka)

“Haha, you’re exaggerating.” (Shuuya)

It’s a feeling as if being hit on by an ikemen…

“No, that’s not true. Your performance in killing the Death Emperor, your body movements, and your assessment of the situation, all of it has been amazing… If possible, I’d like to employ you as a high executive under the direct control of my Earl household… Can you come visit my mansions in either the Southerion territory or in Pelneet in the future? I'll show you my personal gratitude while having a chat there. How about it?” (Ruka)

Ruka-san appears to belong to an Earl family.

An employment opportunity, huh? I’m thankful for the offer.

But, can this whimsical me be content with working under someone else? No way.

“…No, no, umm, just the thought is more than enough.” (Shuuya)

“…R-Really? An outstanding talent like you is extremely needed in the war against the Empire, though…” (Ruka)

War, eh? At the moment, I have no interest in that, however.

“Even if you talk about war, I’m just an unsophisticated adventurer, not a soldier.” (Shuuya)

“I understand. Still, I'll inform everyone in the mansions of an adventurer named Shuuya, so please feel free to visit any time.” (Ruka)

I don’t plan to go, but let’s be a gentleman.

“Okay.” (Shuuya)

He released a standard ikemen smile and obediently returned to his friends.

That person is likely popular with women. After all, he got everything covered: looks, personality, and morals.

The members of 【Lucys’ Game】, who had gathered and were waiting for him, all made merry due to Ruka’s return while crying tears of joy.

“Ruka! How wonderful! It finished without me having to convey your father the sad news.”

“Haha, Toren Chuoss. It’s likewise great that you’re safe. Don’t forget who retreated the fastest after saying “The hell we can die in such a place before dying in the war against the Empire,” okay?” (Ruka)

“Ugh, I mean, didn’t you frantically shout that all of us should run away as you'll become our shield…?” (Chuoss)

Hearing that, Ruka smiles.

“That’s true. Fuhahaha, it was just a joke; cheer up.” (Ruka)

I see. Going by the situation, I suppose that option was very probable.

Yet they escaped far too quickly, I misunderstood it as them abandoning him.

Those members must have run for their lives while harboring overwhelming sorrow inside.

As I’m looking at them with complicated emotions,

“Something like not accepting the remuneration, Shuuya, that’s admirable. I got a better opinion of you.” (Rebecca)

the one who praised me is Rebecca.

The blinking of her golden eyelashes make her blue eyes stand out like a full moon in a dark night.

It’s a commendation with a smile adorning her face while her eyes sparkle.

“…Well, that’s only natural, right?” (Shuuya)

Since I am seriously praised by Rebecca for a change, I become happy and talk to her with a broad smile.

“Ah~ It’s your feeling cocky expression.” (Rebecca)

Rebecca immediately breaks my facade.

“Nn, certainly. Shuuya has a well-proportioned, flat face.” (Eva)

Ugh, Eva.

Saying something unnecessary while smiling so gently.

“Nyaa.”

Even Rollo, who’s resting on my shoulder, meows once and unreservedly hits my shoulder with a cat punch.

“Rollo-chan is obviously thinking the same as well!” (Rebecca)

“I love Master’s face and smile, however it is.” (Viine)

Oooh, good job, Viine.

“Eeh!? A nonchalant confession!” (Rebecca)

Rebecca squints slightly and glares at Viine.

Without being perturbed by her gaze, however, Viine stares at me as if elated by her victory.

“His Excellency is a supreme being of a great blood line…” (Helme)

Next, even Helme, who is bowing her head while genuflecting next to me, states something like that.

“Nn, I also love Shuuya’s flat face.” (Eva)

Eva casually goes along with the flow of the conversation.

“Eeehhh! Spirit-sama and even Eva, too… then…” (Rebecca)

Somehow, the flow of the conversation urges her on to confess.

Rebecca’s face also becomes bright red as she mumbles…

“Me too…” (Rebecca)

She whispered, her voice akin to a mosquito's.

How about I tease Rebecca, who is showing such a cute reaction, a bit?

“Umm, Rebecca-san. Can you say that once more, a bit louder this time?” (Shuuya)

“…ngh. Bah, I don’t care!” (Rebecca)

Seemingly understanding that I’m messing around since I’m laughing while putting my hand to my ear, Rebecca turns her back to me in a huff.

“Haha, Rebecca, don’t be so mad. I’m sorry, okay? Can’t you turn that adorable face of yours in my direction?” (Shuuya)

Once I follow up like that, it causes her back to twitch, and Rebecca turns around with a smile on her face.

She’s easy to see through, carrying her emotions on her sleeves.

“Humph, so you do get it?” (Rebecca)

“Nn, Rebecca is getting carried away as well.” (Eva)

“Ugh, my bad. Even Eva… your violet eyes are pretty, aren’t they…?” (Rebecca)

Rebecca couldn’t be angry at Eva, who smiles tenderly while sitting on her wheelchair.

“Nn, thanks.” (Eva)

My slaves silently watch the whole spectacle, with faces as if asking “Just what are they doing?”

The raw materials and large magic stones of the Ghost Knight and Ghost Priest are currently resting in their hands.

It looks like they are finished collecting everything of value.

Once I look their way, they approach after seemingly having read the situation.

“Master, it’s the loot.”

Representing the slaves, the courteous Mamani hands over the spoils.

“Got it.” (Shuuya)

Let’s put them into my item box.

“Well then, listen up everyone. We will challenge the magic treasure map after taking a break.” (Shuuya)

“Roger.” (Rebecca)

“Nn, agree.” (Eva)

“Okay.” (Viine)

“Certainly!”

We set up a camp to rest and chat.

Eva, who has stacked up rocks and stones in a mound, ignites a campfire using the firewood she gathered.

We all erected a huge tent, which was as big as three standard tents combined.

I don’t bring out the magically-built houseMagic Home, though.

After all, there wouldn’t be enough beds, and it would be too small and cramped with the slaves included.

In exchange, I take out an abundance of food ingredients from my item box, and when I treat everyone to a simple stew using the deep pot provided by Eva, they are all delighted.

“This soup was delicious. I already said it the other day, but Shuuya, you can cook quite well.” (Rebecca)

“Guess so. But, it’s mostly because of the ingredients’ freshness. It’s also thanks to Eva having brought along a deep pot.” (Shuuya)

“Nn, Shuuya, that’s not true. Your cooking skill is fairly good. I’m sure Din would agree with me.” (Eva)

The chef working at Eva’s restaurant, huh?

His dishes were really amazing.

“Thanks, though I believe the opinion of an expert would be a lot harsher. Well then, let’s get a rest soon? I'll summon Helme and the Burning Knights to stand watch, so feel free to sleep without worry, everyone.” (Shuuya)

“Oh, I haven’t seen those Burning Knights yet.” (Rebecca)

Rebecca says with great curiosity while staring at my ring-shaped magic tool, Darkness Prison Bone Knights.

“That’s true. Want to have a look?” (Shuuya)

I hold up the ring while smiling grandiosely.

“Of course. Right, Eva?” (Rebecca)

“Nn, I’m interested.” (Eva)

Rebecca brings up the topic with Eva.

Eva agreed by nodding and gazed at my face.

Her two violet eyes appear to be glittering with excitement.

“Here I go then…” (Shuuya)

In order to meet the expectations of the two beauties, I hold out my hand in a grand manner,

nailing the pose with my finger.

While acting all cool, I touch the ring and finally summon the Burning Knights.

As always, two similar threads stretch into the air from the ring, draw an arc, cling to the ground, and lo and behold, a pair of burning knights materializes alongside a seething smoke on the ground.

“Your Excellency, the Black Burning Knight Zemetas has arrived.”

“Your Excellency, the Red Burning Knight Adomos is eagerly awaiting your orders.”

The two Burning Knights bow their heads while having one knee placed on the ground.

The slaves immediately react due to their appearance.

“Oooh, they were summoned!”

“Wow… How to say this… Master! You exceed our imaginations in everything—martial arts, magic, and tactical insight.”

While Mamani and Souther raise their voice in admiration, they imitate the Burning Knights and bow their heads while genuflecting on the ground.

“T-This is so mysterious.” (Bia)

For a change, Bia showed a surprised expression.

What’s mysterious here is a surprised expression on a snake face, you know.

“Summoning technique, a first-class warrior… you really are a great magic lancer who has exceeded even magicians…” (Fuu)

Fuu whispers with her pupils dilating.

Rather than being surprised, her expression was one that seemed to be driven by fear.

Next,

“Nya.”

Rollo releases a light meow, joining the party.

The tummy of Rollo-san, who has finished eating stew, is sticking out like a potbelly.

Approaching the Burning Knights with a relaxed pace, she makes enigmatic actions such as entangling her tail around their bone legs and pushing her paws against them.

“Those are the Burning Knights…” (Rebecca)

Rebecca watches Rollo playing with the Burning Knights while her eyebrows twitch.

Yet, it doesn’t look as if she’s overly surprised.

“Yea, indeed.” (Shuuya)

After casually affirming Rebecca, I turn my face in the direction of the Burning Knights.

“You guys are going to watch the perimeter of this camp. Let me know if any monsters appear. It’s fine for you to fight them, but it’s important that you tell me.” (Shuuya)

“Yes! I shall demonstrate the patrolling skill of the Black Burning.” (Zemetas)

“Leave it to the Red Burning.” (Adomos)

Patrolling skill; as if you have something like that. I don't voice that retort out, though.

The Burning Knights begin to patrol outside the camp.

“Nn, Shuuya, summoned from that magic tool ring?” (Eva)

Eva asked.

“Yeah, I explained it a bit before. It’s the ring-shaped magic tool, Darkness Prison Bone KnightsDark Hell Bone Knights.” (Shuuya)

“…An item related to the spirit worldSebdora. Shuuya, you fine?” (Eva)

Eva asks worriedly as her violet eyes seemed to flicker with concern.

“I’m alright… I have a strange emotional connection with those guys. They are my important subordinates who have turned undead.” (Shuuya)

As I’m saying all that, I draw close to Eva and hold out my hand; it held the implicit message “Go ahead and read my mind.”

“Nn!” (Eva)

Seemingly guessing my intention, Eva grasps my hand.

Although her white hand looks like that of a noble lady, it’s actually quite firm, and there are many calluses on its palm.

It’s evidence of her having practiced a lot with those black, extending rodstonfa.

Eva is truly admirable. She’s a beauty, and I like her angelic smile.

Her boobs are, in reality, big, too. What a blessing would it be if I could massage them…

As I am pondering such things while Eva is touching my hand, her eyes begin to swim and her white cheeks react by gradually becoming red.

“…Nn, Shuuya, ecchi.” (Eva)

Eva releases my hand while looking embarrassed and shy.

“Aaah~~! Shuuya, what weird stuff are you doing to Eva while holding her hand!” (Rebecca)

Rebecca intervenes and stands in front of me, apparently trying to protect Eva.

“What do you think I’m doing? I just caught her hand. There are various things about our strategy from now on that have to be…” (Shuuya)

“Humph, despite not having said a single thing…” (Rebecca)

“No, you don’t get it. I tried to form a deeper cooperative link with Eva using eye-contact, but I suppose that’s still too early for you to comprehend, Rebecca-kun.” (Shuuya)

“…Somehow, that cocky face of yours reaaaaallly pisses me off.” (Rebecca)

Rebecca hits my chest armor with her small, white-fish-like hand as if nudging it.

“Ah.” (Rebecca)

“―You do have some nerve to hit His Excellency.” (Helme)

Helme lightly slaps away Rebecca’s hand, apparently protecting me.

“Master.” (Viine)

Viine also stands in front of me.

“Auu, Spirit-sama… I beg your pardon.” (Rebecca)

“Hitting His Excellency is not allowed. Make sure to pay attention to that from now on.” (Helme)

“Y-Yes, Spirit-sama…” (Rebecca)

Rebecca withdrew her hand from me and apologized.

“Helme, it’s okay. Go back into my eye.” (Shuuya)

“Yes, Your Excellency―” (Helme)

Accepting my order, Helme liquefies within milliseconds and flows into my left eye in a spiral.

———— End of Part 1 ————

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