146.Magic
執務室を出たホーラント宰相クゼムは、そのまま城内にある自分専用の部屋へと入っていった。
そこは本宅へ帰る時間が無い場合などに仮眠をとるための部屋であり、城内で働く高級職員にのみ与えらえる部屋である。あくまで仮の宿泊設備のため、お茶を入れる程度の設備と収納、ベッドが一つだけ設えてあるのみだ。
クローゼットを開き、手早くコートを羽織り旅装に着替えたクゼムは、執務室へは戻らず、兵たちを指揮する将軍の執務室を訪ねた。
「私だ。入るぞ」
一声だけかけて、勝手知ったるという雰囲気で入室したクゼムの横を、着崩れたドレスを慌てて押さえながら侍女が走り出て行った。
「これは、宰相閣下」
丁寧な物言いをしながらも、半分以上ボタンをはずしていたシャツをゆっくりと整えながら、若い男がはにかむ。
「タンニーン。貴様も一国の軍を預かる将となったのだ。多少は外聞を考えろ」
「いやいや、あちらからモーションをかけられては、断りようもありませんでね。ところで、そんな恰好してどうしたんです?」
悪びれた様子もなく、顎先の髭を手で撫でつけながらタンニーンと呼ばれた男が問う。
三十前半といった見た目のタンニーンは、クゼムが現在の体制を整えてから登用した軍人で、ホーラント貴族としては伯爵家に次男として生まれ、クゼムからすれば甥にあたる男だ。
能力はあるが女癖が悪く、上位者に好かれない性格のせいで辺境勤務が多かったのだが、クゼムが実権を掌握するとともに呼び寄せ、大臣を処分した後で軍のトップへ引き上げた。
血縁者で制御しやすいと考えた上での人事だったが、想像以上に手癖が悪かったのを見て、若干後悔していた。
「オーソングランデから千人の大部隊がここへ迫っている。すぐに準備をして迎撃しろ。私も同行する」
「おやおや。軍事的観点から言えば、首都の出入り口をガチガチに固めて防衛。しかる後に敵の疲れを待って反撃というのが、確実かつこちらの損害も少ないんですがね」
しかも、遠くまで出張る必要がないから楽でいい、とタンニーンは笑う。
苦い顔で言うかどうかを迷っていたクゼムだったが、少なくとも目の前の男を味方として動かさなければならん、と腹をくくった。
「......最悪の場合、ネルガルがオーソングランデの軍に同行している可能性がある。同行していても護衛で固められ、顔が見られたとしても田舎者どもにはわからんだろうが、首都に来るのはまずい」
軍体制上、城内の状況を知る者はほとんどが首都か近辺に勤務し、地方の町や村に駐屯する者の中には、一生城に入らない者もいる。
「つまり、首都にネルガルが来る前に、行方不明にしておきたい、というわけですか」
「そうだ。だから今すぐにでもこちらから打って出なければならん。今動かせる兵は、少なくとも二千はいるだろう」
「首都の防衛は?」
「そんなもの、考えなくていい。強化兵も出す。使えるのは五体ほどだが、役には立つだろう」
「仕方ないですな。ほかならぬ宰相閣下のご依頼ですからね」
シャツの襟を伸ばし、煌びやかな飾りを施されたジャケットを着ると、不思議と軽い性格が隠されて威厳が見えてくる。
「ところで、例のお客人は?」
「あの男なら、ガアプを付けている。ガアプに城の防衛を任せているが、問題ないだろう」「まあ、あいつは魔法兵の中でも研究畑ですからね。連れて行く実働部隊とは別なんで、大丈夫ですよ。それより、気になることがありましてね......」
「どうも、侍女の中でも結構な人数がお客人が気になるらしくてですね。こりゃライバル登場かな、と」
顔を紅潮させたクゼムに微笑みかけたタンニーンが手を叩くと、先ほど走り出た侍女が恥ずかしそうにうつむきながらも入ってきた。
タンニーンも立ち上がり、部屋の中央で向き合うと、素早くレヴィの腰を抱く。
「ああ、かわいいレヴィ。俺は今から戦場へと往かなければならない。愛しい君を置いていくこの罪を、どうか許してほしい」
「タンニーン様......」
呟くために開かれた侍女の唇を奪い、クゼムが怒鳴りだす寸前まで舌をからめあったタンニーンは、腰を抱く腕に力を込めて、自分の腰にレヴィの細い体を押し付けた。
「必ず帰ってくるからね、それまでこの部屋をきれいにしておいてくれないか。勝利の報酬はここで頂戴するつもりだからね」
言いながら腰から下を撫でてくる大きな手に熱い吐息を漏らしながら、侍女は小さく頷く。
「伯父さん、いや宰相閣下。どうか勝利の暁には、彼女を迎えるための家をお願いしたいんですがね」
振り向きながらの要求に、クゼムは深いため息を吐いた。レヴィという侍女にとってはマイホームなのだろうが、タンニーンにとっては妾宅である。
「......わかった。だが、先ほどの件は確実に頼む。私も見届けるからな」
「お任せあれ。ではレヴィ、あとは頼んだよ」
軽いくちづけをして部屋を後にするタンニーンを見送り、クゼムは不安を覚えながらも強化兵を持ち出す準備に取り掛かる。
「ここまで来たのだ。誰にも邪魔はさせん......。そうだ。あれも使おう。もはや出し惜しみしている場合ではない」
オーソングランデ撃退後のシナリオ。つまり一二三の扱いについても考えねばならぬ、とクゼムは唸り声をあげながら城内を早足で突き進む。
「打って出る、か。民衆か、城の連中に見せたくないものでもあるんだろうな。あ~......ネルガル、か? それじゃなくても、首都攻撃となれば基盤もぐらつくか」
「どうやら、僕たちは留守番のようです。念のためご教授いただきました方法の実験も兼ねて、城の防備を固めておきますが、出番はなさそうですね」
一二三の隣に立ち、城に併設された広場にて大人数が並んでいる様子を見て、ガアプは苦笑いを浮かべた。
「兵は二千五百を動かすそうです。歩兵が二千、魔法兵が三百......防衛戦であれば、僕たちにも出番があったんでしょうけれど、今回は無さそうです」
生返事をしながら、タンニーンの指示を受けた中級兵が隊列を作っていく。大まかに言えば歩兵を魔法兵の前後に置き、いざとなれば歩兵が左右に分かれて魔法兵が前に出られるようにするようだ。
強化兵も魔道具と思しき鎖で繋がれてやってきた。
五体いる強化兵はすべて最前列を歩かせるらしい。
「でかいのは、もう壁としてしか利用しないようだな」
賢明な判断だ、と一二三は考えた。
対抗手段がわかってしまった兵器は、もはや隠し玉でもなんでもない。無駄に頑丈であることを生かして、オーソングランデが使ってくるであろう投槍器に対する防壁に使う算段だろう。
そうこうしているうちに、前列から出発し始めた。その隊列の後ろから、奇妙な馬車が続く。プレハブ小屋にそのまま車輪を付けたような大きな馬車を、五頭の馬がゆっくりと引いていく。
「ああ、あれはですね......」
説明をしかけて、ガアプは「あっ」と声を上げてうつむいた。
「す、すみません。あれについては内容をお教えするわけには......」
「強いのか?」
「......強化兵よりも、さらに後に僕が開発したものです。これ以上は、ご勘弁ください」
その様子から、何か楽しいものらしいと判断した一二三は、ホーラントの将も馬鹿ではないらしい事と、自分も知らない秘密兵器の存在にわくわくしてきた。
「うん、丁度いい」
「えっ?」
「それくらいの何かが無いと、アリッサやイメラリアの勉強道具としては面白くないからな。いいんじゃないか?」
ガアプは目の前の男の立ち位置がわからなくなる。
「し、しかしこう言ってはなんですが、あの兵器を相手にしたら、倍以上の兵力でも厳しいのではないかと言われていまして......」
言っていることが自画自賛であると気づいていないのか、ガアプは兵器について詳細を濁しながらも、その脅威について語る。
だが、その全てを一二三は笑顔で聞き流した。
「良いな。それで死ぬならそこまでだ。今度は勝った方に合わせて誰かをぶつけるようにするか、ぶつける数を増やすだけだしな」
獣人とかもいいかもな、とさらりと言う一二三に、ガアプは気づいた。
一二三は敵とか味方とかを考えていない。ぶつかり合う駒の色が違うだけ程度の認識なのだ。
視線を兵器が乗った箱馬車へ向ける。
(この戦いでホーラントが勝ったなら、今度はこの一二三さんが連れてきた獣人と戦うことになる。そしてそれに勝ったら、今度は......)
不毛にもほどがある、とガアプは頭痛を覚えた。負ければ終わりだが、勝ったとしても次の戦いがやってくる。この男が存在する限り、無限の戦いにホーラントは飲み込まれていくのだ。
「一二三様、お食事の準備が整いました」
「昼食は私たちが作らせていただきましたの。お口に合うと嬉しいんですけれど」
三人の侍女たちが、上目使いの視線をちらちらと一二三に向けながら、屋上の風にひらひらと舞うスカートを抑えつつ近づいてきた。
「ああ、そうか。ありがとうな」
一二三が礼を言うと、侍女たちは嬉しそうに一二三の手を引いて食堂へと誘う。
屋上で警備についている兵士たちが羨ましそうに見ているのを、ガアプは不安げに見ていた。
「危ないものほど、魅力的に見えるのかも、しれないね」
身勝手な考えではあるが、技術を教わった以上、一二三には一刻も早く帰ってもらいたいとガアプは思った。
「タンニーン! そんな気楽に笑っている場合か!」
隊列中ほどで、共に馬車の上にいたタンニーンとクゼムは、想像以上に早い接敵に対応しようとしていたが、その矢先にオーソングランデ側から猛攻を受けていた。
首都を出発して二日目。太陽が中天にある頃である。
今までの戦争であれば、大軍同士が接敵したことがわかれば、お互いの代表が話し合いの場を持ち、その間に陣を敷き、ぶつかり合うのが基本であったが、最前線からの情報によると、ホーラントの強化兵を確認したオーソングランデは、見えた数秒後にはすでに槍をうち始めたという。
「あの槍の威力は俺も知ってる。でもよ、痛みを感じない強化兵なら関係ないだろ?」
「それが......」
状況を伝えにきた兵が言うには、正確な狙撃をしてみせたオーソングランデの槍は、瞬く間に強化兵の膝と足首を破壊し、行動を制限したうえで、頭部に向かって集中して槍を浴びせたという。
「私がこちらへ向かう前には、二体が頭部を破壊されて行動不能になっておりました」
「ま、魔法兵に攻撃させろ! どうせオーソングランデには大した魔法使いはいない!」
叫ぶクゼムに、タンニーンはその魔法使いを前に出して、遠距離からの攻撃をするように命じた。
「その間に、後ろから例の気持ち悪いのを連れて来てくれ。さっさと使って終わらせてしまおう」
「よ、よろしいのでしょうか?」
戦いが始まったばかりだというのに、虎の子の兵器を使うというタンニーンに、兵もクゼムも目を見開いた。
「いいさ。出し惜しみして負けても馬鹿みたいだろ? こういうのは、完全に相手方が勢いづくのを阻止しないと総崩れしてしまう。ほら、急げ」
駆けて行く伝令を見送り、タンニーンはぼやいた。
「まあ、魔法で多少盛り返せば、数で勝ってるこっちの勝機は揺るがないでしょう」
その言葉に、クゼムは肩に入っていた力を抜いた。
「早く終わらせないと、お客人に城の美女たちが奪われてしまうかもしれないし」
ふざけた物言いをしながら、タンニーンは立ち上がり、宝石がちりばめられた派手な鞘に納まる愛剣を手にした。
「どこへ行く?」
「ちょっと前線に行ってきますよ。こういう時は“士気”ってやつが大事なんです」
馬車に併走させていた愛馬の手綱を兵から受け取り、軽やかに鞍の上に飛び乗る。
「それじゃ、宰相閣下。また後で」
急な接敵に驚いたのは、何もクゼムたちだけではなかった。
「いきなり撃つというのは、野蛮ではありませんか!」
「何をぬるいことを仰るのですか。敵だと判断するには、あの巨人兵がいれば一目瞭然です。先制して見事に打倒しているフォカロルの兵や、頑張って援護している王国の兵を褒めるべきでしょう」
「ぅぐぬぬぬ......」
言い合いをするイメラリアとオリガに、ネルガルは周りを見ても助けがいないことに苦笑いを浮かべていた。
アリッサはさっさとフォカロル兵がいる前線へ行き、狙いをつけるために指揮をしている。サブナクは状況の確認に追われ、ヴァイヤーはもとより最前線にいる。
フォカロルのみでなく、オーソングランデ王国軍も同調して投槍器を発射しているのは、ヴァイヤーの判断だろう。
前線から駆けてきた騎士が、サブナクに向かって叫ぶ。
「巨人兵はほぼ無力化に成功したようです! 敵の総数はわかりませんが、こちらと同等かそれ以上の隊列が続いているのが確認できます!」
「敵の動きは?」
サブナクは、質問をしながら水の入ったカップを手渡す。
「ありがとうございます。敵は一時的な混乱から回復しつつあり、巨人兵の後ろにいた歩兵たちが左右に広がる動きを見せています」
「サブナクさん。こちらの話を伝える機会はありませんか?」
イメラリアの問いに、サブナクは「残念ですが」と答えた。
「少なくとも遠距離戦が終わるまでは難しいでしょう。あちらには魔法兵がいる可能性が高い以上、陛下の御前を無防備にするわけにも参りません」
「こちらの魔法兵との打ち合いになるのですか?」
「難しいでしょう」
オーソングランデの魔法兵は、有体に言って“貧弱”である。
習熟の度合いも低く、もしオリガのレベルで入隊すれば、瞬く間に魔法兵のトップに上れるだろう。
「人数も少ないので、魔法の打ち合いになればしばらくは台車を盾にして向こうの魔力が尽きるのを待つ形になります。そうすれば、こちらから打って出て押さえこむことも......」
過去の対魔法使いの対応としては、大盾で耐えるのが定石とされていたが、人的被害も無視できなかった。今回は頑丈な台車を倒して盾にするフォカロルの常套手段を使わせてもらう、とサブナクは出発前に決めていた。
か細い声に全員が視線を向けると、小さく手を上げたエルフのプーセがいた。
「魔法障壁は使わないのですか?」
思わず素で聞いてしまったサブナクに、プーセが逆に驚き、簡単に説明する。
要するに魔力による魔法に対する防壁なのだが、長い封印のためにエルフは魔法障壁が得意な者が多く、プーセも使える。
ところが、人間の間では魔法は攻撃の手段としての研究のみ進められていたため、そういった技術は失われてしまっていた。
「よかったら、障壁でお手伝いができると思うんですが」
ありがたい話ではあったが、サブナクにとってあくまでゲストである彼女を戦闘に参加させるのは気が引ける。
イメラリアにしても同様で、魔法を研究する者として見てみたい気持ちもあったが、ここは、と自分を抑えていた。
抑えていないのは、オリガだけである。
「素晴らしいですね。ぜひ見せてください。私も前線まで同行しますね」
「あ、はい」
連れだって台車
「お待ちなさい」
やれやれ、と首を振ったイメラリアは「この台車ごとわたくしたちを前線へ進めなさい」と指示を出す。
「サブナクさんも前線で指揮をする方が良いでしょう。どうせなら、わたくしやネルガル様がお話をする機会を逃したくはありません。障壁が作れるというのであれば、危険も少ないでしょう」
サブナクが台車を操る兵士に合図を出すと、兵たちをかき分けて前へと進みだす。
プーセが詠唱を始めると、オリガやイメラリアの視線が集まる。
(やりにくい......)
真剣な目で見つめられながら、タイミングを見計らったプーセが魔力を展開すると、うっすらと半透明の壁が地面から沸き立つように広がっていく。
その直後、ホーラント側から魔法攻撃が始まったが、火球や岩石、風も水も、すべて障壁に当たると同時に霧散していく。
「これはすごい」
「なるほど、属性を持たせない魔力を具現化して......」
褒め言葉と解析の声が混じるなか、プーセは障壁の維持に意識を集中しながら赤面していた。
(治癒と障壁は得意なんだけどね)
攻撃関係はからっきしであることは、黙っておこうと思ったプーセだった。
「ああっ!」
突然、オリガが声を上げて立ち上がった。
「一二三様が見ています!」
「えっ。どこどこ?」
どんな感が働いたのか不明だが、オリガの言う通り、一二三は街道から離れた場所でのんびり観戦していた。
一二三の名前を聞いた兎獣人のヴィーネも、慌てて耳と首を動かしているが、見つけきれずにいた。
「こうしてはおれません。一二三様が見られているなら私も戦いに......あ痛っ!」
慌てて杖を掴んで立ち上がったオリガの頭にコツン、と当たったのは、小さな石を包んだ羊皮紙だった。
そこには、一二三の下手な文字で「黙って見てろ」とだけ書いてある。
「そう言えば、これはアリッサの試練でした......」
しょんぼりとして座りなおしたオリガの後ろ。戦場の空気に緊張していた虎獣人の子マルファスは、匂いと石が飛んできた方向を見て、口を開いて固まっていた。
マルファスが見つけた一二三の姿は、自らの集落を壊滅させたあの男だったからだ。
Chapter 146: Magic
Kuzemu, who left the room to perform his official duties, entered his private room located in the castle just like that.
It's a room for the sake of taking a nap in cases such as when he has no time to return to his principal residence. It's a room that can be obtained and granted only to high-ranking staff members who work in the castle. Because it's a temporary accommodation to the bitter end, it's only provided with a single bed, storage and equipment at the level of being able to prepare tea.
Kuzemu, who opened the closet and quickly changed into travelling clothes by putting on a coat, visited the office of the general who commands the soldiers without returning to his own office.
"It's me. I'm coming in." (Kuzemu)
A maid ran out of the room next to Kuzemu, who entered the room in a familiar manner after giving just a short notice, while fixing her dishevelled dress in a hurry.
"Oh, how surprising, Your Excellency, the Prime Minister."magic
Even though his manner of speech is polite, the young man is shy while slowly putting his shirt, which had more than half its buttons undone, in order.
"Tannin, you bastard became the general who is in charge of this country's army. Think about your reputation a bit." (Kuzemu)
"No, no, being wooed by the other side, there's no reason to refuse it either. So, what's wrong for you to have such appearance?" (Tannin)
Without even a fraction of timidity, the man called Tannin asks while smoothing down the beard at the tip of his chin with a hand.
The appearance of Tannin, who is said to be in the first half of his thirties, is that of a soldier promoted after Kuzemu adjusted the current system. As noble of Horant, he was born into an Earl family as second son. For Kuzemu he is a man that is related to him as nephew.
Although he has the ability, his philandering is bad. He had to serve at remote regions many times thanks to his character which wasn't liked by his superiors, but alongside Kuzemu seizing the power, he was summoned and raised to the top of the army after the ministers were disposed of.
It was a personnel affair with the reasoning that it would be easier to control the army with a blood relative, but seeing that Tannin's sticky fingers were far worse than expected, Kuzemu regretted it a bit.
"A large force of 1000 soldiers from Orsongrande is moving towards this place. Get ready to intercept them immediately. I will come with you as well." (Kuzemu)
"Oh dear, if seen from a military viewpoint, we should tightly solidify the entrances of the capital for a defence. What we should do following that is to counter-attack after waiting for the enemy to tire out. That way we will certainly win while our side will have little losses as well." (Tannin)
"Moreover it's fine to take it easy as there's no necessity to go to a distant place", Tannin smiles.
Kuzemu was hesitating whether to tell him or not with a bitter expression, but
"... In the worst case there's the possibility that Nelgal is accompanying Orsongrande's troops. Being supported by guards who are accompanying him as well, countrymen will likely not recognise him even if they were able to see his face, but for him to come to the capital is bad." (Kuzemu)
On top of the army's organization, the people, who know about the castle's internal affairs, are mostly those working in the capital or its neighbourhood, some among those stationed in provincial cities and villages and there are also people who haven't entered the castle even once in their life.
"In other words, before Nelgal arrives at the capital, we want him to go missing, is what you mean?" (Tannin)
"Right. That's why it's necessary to leave here and strike them at once. Currently there are at least 2000 soldiers who can be moved." (Kuzemu)
"What about the capital's defence?" (Tannin)
"It's fine to forget about it. We will take the reinforced soldiers with us as well. There are around five bodies that can be used, but they will likely serve their role." (Kuzemu)
"It can't be helped. After all it's no one other but His Excellency the Prime Minister requesting so." (Tannin)
Once he put on a jacket, that had gorgeous decorations, and straightened the neck of his shirt, a strange dignity could be seen which was usually hidden by his non-serious nature.
"By the way, what about the aforementioned visitor?" (Tannin)
"If it's that man, Gaap is sticking to him. I have entrusted the protection of the castle to Gaap, but it probably won't be a problem." (Kuzemu)
"Somehow it appears that a reasonable number among the maids feel inclined towards our visitor. Is this the appearance of a rival, they ask." (Tannin)
Once Tannin, who smiled at Kuzemu whose face was blushing, clapped his hands, the maid, who ran out not long ago, entered while looking downward in embarrassment.
Tannin stands up as well and when they face each other in the middle of the room, he quickly hugs Levy's waist.
"Ah, my precious Levy. I must head to the battlefield from now on. Please, I'd like you to forgive this crime of leaving you behind, my beloved." (Tannin)
"Tannin-sama..." (Levy)
Stealing the lips of the maid who opened her mouth to mutter words, Tannin, who entangled his tongue with hers up to the point that Kuzemu was on the verge of shouting, put strength into the arm hugging her waist and pressed Levy's thin body against his waist.
"I will definitely come back to you. Won't you please keep this room tidy until then? I intend to receive my reward for victory here." (Tannin)
The maid nods lightly while leaking a hot sigh due to his large hand stroking her from the waist to below while saying that.
"Uncle, no Your Excellency, the Prime Minister, I'd like to request a house for the sake of welcoming her at the dawn of victory, please." (Tannin)
For the maid called Levy it's probably her own home, but for Tannin will be a house where he keeps a mistress.
"... Got it. However, I rely on you to definitely make sure about the matter just now. I will ascertain it myself as well." (Kuzemu)
"Leave it to me. Well then, I entrust the rest to you, Levy." (Tannin)
Seeing off Tannin, who leaves the room after giving her a light kiss, Kuzemu begins to prepare for taking out the reinforced soldiers while remembering his anxieties.
"They came up to here. No one is allowed to be a hindrance... That's right, let's use those as well. It's not a situation anymore where I should be holding back on releasing those." (Kuzemu)
The scenario for after the repelling of Orsongrande. In short, I have to ponder about Hifumi's treatment as well
"They have gone out to strike at them? The populace, eh? There's probably things they don't want to show to the people of the castle. Ah~... Nelgal, huh? Even without that, their foundation will get unsteady if it comes to an attack on the capital."
"It seems we are to watch home. For caution's sake, it also serves as experiment of the methods we learned from professor. The castle's defence has been strengthened, but it doesn't seem like there will be any chance to test it."
Looking at the sight of a large number of people lining up in the square, which was established in the castle, while standing next to Hifumi, Gaap showed a bitter smile.
"It looks like they will take 2500 soldiers. 2000 infantrymen, 300 magic soldiers... if it was a defensive battle, there would be a chance for us to have a turn as well, but this time that's unlikely." (Gaap)
While he gives a half-hearted answer, the intermediate soldiers, who received Tannin's orders, form up in units. Generally speaking, the infantry is placed in front and behind the magic soldiers. When push comes to shove, the infantry will part left and right so that the magic soldier are able to go to the front.
The reinforced soldiers arrived while being tied with chains that appear to be magic tools.
All of the five reinforced soldiers will apparently walk in the front row.
"It looks like the big ones aren't used as anything but a wall anymore." (Hifumi)
That's a wise move
Weapons, which have the measures to oppose them revealed, are worthless as hidden aces. Capitalizing on their pointless sturdiness, they will likely serve as bulwark against the spear throwers which Orsongrande will probably use.
Meanwhile the departure started beginning with the front row. A weird carriage follows behind the ranks and files. Five horses slowly pull the large carriage which is similar to a prefab hut with wheels attached to it.
"Oh, those are..." (Gaap)
Starting to explain, Gaap cast down his eyes after raising his voice with an [Ah] .
"I-I'm sorry. To tell you the details about those..." (Gaap)
"Are those strong?" (Hifumi)
"... Stronger than the reinforced soldiers. It's something that was later on further developed by me. Please forgive me, but any more than that ((is impossible))." (Gaap)
Hifumi, who judged that it's apparently something fun going by his look, got excited by the existence of a secret weapon even he doesn't know about and due to the general of Horant appearing to not be an idiot.
"Yea, that's just right." (Hifumi)
"Huh?" (Gaap)
"If you don't have something at this level, you won't be interesting as study case for Alyssa and Imeraria. Isn't that fine?" (Hifumi)
Gaap doesn't comprehend the role of the man in front of his eyes.
"H-However, although you say that, I was told that it might be harsh even with more than twice the military force if one takes on those weapons..." (Gaap)
Doesn't he notice that he is praising himself by saying such a thing? Even while keeping the details of those weapons ambiguous, Gaap talks about their threat.
However, all of that was ignored by Hifumi with a smile.
"It's fine. If they die with just this much, that's all there is to them. Will they try to hit someone collectively towards the direction of winning? That will only increase the numbers to be hit." (Hifumi)
Due to Hifumi smoothly saying "The beastmen and such are easy prey as well", Gaap realized.
Hifumi doesn't take enemies or allies into consideration. His level of perception of them is just the colour difference of game pieces clashing against each other.
He turns his sight at the box-shaped carriage with the weapons on it.
(If this swaying Horant wins, it will result in us fighting the beastmen which would be brought along by this Hifumi-san next. And, if we won against them as well, next...)
If we lose, it will be the end, but even if we won, the next battle would come. As long as this man exists, Horant will be engulfed in endless battles.
"Hifumi-sama, the preparations for your meal are finished."
"Lunch has been made by us. We will be happy if it suits your taste."
Three maids approached as they held down their skirts which fluttered in the wind on the rooftop while facing Hifumi with fleeting glances of upturned eyes.
"Ah, really? Thanks." (Hifumi)
Once Hifumi thanks them, the maids drag him to the dining hall by pulling Hifumi's hands while looking happy.
The soldiers, who are on guard duty on the rooftop, looking at that enviously made Gaap uneasy as he watched.
"Dangerous guys might appear to be attractive. I can't understand." (Gaap)
Those are egoistic thoughts, but above being taught skills, I'd like to have Hifumi go back home as soon as possible
"Tannin! Is this a situation where you can laugh around care-freely!?" (Kuzemu)
Tanning and Kuzemu, who were together on a carriage at around the middle of the ranks, tried to cope with coming into contact with the enemy faster than they imagined, but they suffered fierce attacks from Orsongrande's side at their vanguard.
It's the second day after departing from the capital. It's the period when the sun is at the zenith.
If it was like war until now, both armies, once they knew about nearing the enemy, would have representatives hold a conference and meanwhile take up positions. Clashing against each other was formerly the basics, but Orsongrande, which confirmed Horant's reinforced soldiers according to the news from the front row, began to fire spears already after having observed them for several seconds.
"I also know about the power of those spears. But, if it's the reinforced soldiers who don't feel any pain, it's irrelevant, isn't it?" (Tannin)
"That is..." (Kuzemu)
According to what the soldier, who came to relay information, said, Orsongrande's spears, which were shot precisely, destroyed the feet and knees of the reinforced soldiers in a flash and on top of restricting their movement, the spears were focussed at their heads.
"Before I head over here, two heads were destroyed and they became incapable of acting."
"H-Have the magic soldiers attack! After all there are no remarkable magicians in Orsongrande!"
Due to the shouting Kuzemu, Tannin had their magicians step forward and ordered them to attack from a distance.
"During that time, please take the aforementioned gross ((things)) in the rear along. Let's have this finished by using those." (Tannin)
"I-Is that alright?"
The soldier and Kuzemu opened their eyes widely due to Tannin mentioning to use their treasured weapons even though the battle started just now.
"It's fine. We will look like idiots if we lose due to being unwilling to deploy them, right? These things will end up routing them if they aren't completely blocked by the enemy side bundling its strength. Hey, hurry up!" (Tannin)
Seeing off the runner who dashes away, Tannin grumbled.
"Well, if we make a bit of a comeback with magic, our chance of winning probably won't be shaken as we outweigh them by numbers." (Tannin)
Due to that remark, Kuzemu released the tension which entered his shoulders.
"If we don't finish it quickly, the castle's beauties might get stolen by our guest." (Tannin)
While talking about something ridiculous, Tannin stood up and took his beloved sword which was sheathed in a flashy scabbard that had jewels embedded within.
"Where are you going?" (Kuzemu)
"I'm off to the front line for a bit. At these times something called "morale" is important." (Tannin)
Accepting the reins of his favourite horse, which was made to run along the carriage, from a soldier, he easily jumps on top of the saddle.
"Well then, Your Excellency, the Prime Minister. See you later." (Tannin)
The ones being surprised by the sudden enemy contact wasn't just Kuzemu's army.
"Aren't we uncivilized to shoot spears all of a sudden!?" (Imeraria)
"What stupid stuff are you talking about? It's obvious that it's the enemy if those reinforced soldiers are there. You should praise Fokalore's soldiers, who splendidly knocked them down after taking the initiative, and the kingdom's soldiers who are doing their best in protecting them." (Origa)
"Uugununu..." (Imeraria)
Nelgal revealed a wry smile at Imeraria and Origa quarrelling thanks to the fact that there won't be any help after watching his surroundings.
Alyssa has quickly gone to the front where the soldiers of Fokalore are and hands out commands for the sake of assigning targets. Sabnak was driven away to confirm information and Vaiya was at the front line to begin with.
For not only Fokalore but Orsongrande's royal army to shoot their spear throwers in alignment is probably Vaiya's decision.
A knight, who came running from the front line, shouts towards Sabnak.
"It looks like we were successful in making the reinforced soldiers mostly powerless! I don't know the total number of enemies, but we were able to confirm that their files and ranks are continuing equal to our numbers or above them!"
"How about the enemy's movements?" (Sabnak)
Sabnak hands over a cup filled with water while asking.
"Thank you very much. The enemy is recovering from the temporary confusion, the infantrymen, who were behind the reinforced soldiers, are showing movements towards spreading out left and right."
"Sabnak-san, isn't there any chance to tell them our side of the story?" (Imeraria)
Sabnak answered Imeraria's question with a [Though it's regrettable, but no] .
"At least until the long distance battle ends, it will probably be difficult. Seeing that it's very probable for magic soldiers being over there, I won't allow it as Your Majesty will be defenceless." (Sabnak)
"And if it turns into a rally with our side's magic soldiers?" (Imeraria)
"That might be hard." (Sabnak)
The number of Orsongrande's magic soldiers is, to say it frankly,
Their skill levels are low as well. If someone at Origa's joined the army, they would probably climb to the top of the magic soldiers in the twinkling of an eye.
"Since their numbers are low, it will take the shape of waiting until the opponent's side runs out of mana by using a platform wagon as shield for a while, if it turns into a rally of magic. In that case, it means that we will be pinned down after leaving from here..." (Sabnak)
Going by past measurements versus magicians, enduring with large shields was considered to be an established tactic, but they weren't able to disregard human losses either.
Once everyone turns their sight towards the fragile voice, there was the elf Puuse who raised her small hand.
"Can't you use a magic barrier?" (Puuse)
Due to Sabnak plainly asking by reflex, Puuse is surprised and explains it briefly.
To put it simply, it's a magic bulwark against magic, but there are many elves who have become strong at it because of the long sealing. Puuse can use it as well.
However, because only magic as means of attack was advanced in research among humans, that type of skill ended up being lost.
"If you like, I can help you with the barrier, I think." (Puuse)
It was a welcome offer but, Sabnak feels reluctant to have her, who is just a guest to the bitter end, participate in the battle.
Even for Imeraria it's the same. She had the drive of wanting to observe it as person who researches magic, but she restrained herself with
The only one not restraining herself is Origa.
"That's wonderful. Please show us by all means. I will accompany you to the front line, too." (Origa)
"Ah, yes." (Puuse)
Even a platform wagon got taken.
"Please wait." (Imeraria)
"Good grief", Imeraria, who shook her head, gives the instruction [We will advance to the front line together with this platform wagon] .
"It's probably better if you take command at the front as well, Sabnak-san. At any rate, Nelgal-sama and me don't want to miss an opportunity to make a speech. If they are able to deploy a barrier, there will likely be little danger, too." (Imeraria)
Once Sabnak gives a signal to the soldier steering the platform wagon, the soldiers begin to advance to the front by pushing their way through.
When Puuse starts to chant, Origa's and Imeraria's gazes focus on her.
(That's not easy to do...)
While being stared at with serious eyes, Puuse, who chose the timing on her own discretion, deploys her mana and a faintly translucent wall extends by seemingly boiling up from the ground.
Immediately following that, magic attacks started from Horant's side, but fireballs, rocks, wind and water, all of it scatters at the moment it comes in contact with the barrier.
"This is amazing."
"I see, it's the materialization of mana that holds no attribute..."
Within the mix of praising and analysing voices, Puuse blushed while concentrating her consciousness on the preservation of the barrier.
(It's because I'm good at healing and barriers though.)
Puuse decided to stay silent about her being utterly useless in regards to offensive magic.
"Aah!" (Origa)
Suddenly Origa stood up and raised her voice.
"Hifumi-sama is watching." (Origa)
"Eh? From where?"
Although it's unknown how she sensed him, just as Origa says, Hifumi was care-freely observing from a place separated from the highway.
Even the rabbit beastwoman Viine, who heard Hifumi's name, shifted her ears and head in hurry, but she wasn't able to find him.
"I can't stay like this. If we are observed by Hifumi-sama, I will fight as well... ouch!"
What hit the head of Origa, who stood up while grasping her wand in a hurry, with a clunk was a small stone wrapped in a parchment.
Only [Stay silent and watch]  in Hifumi's poor handwriting is written on it.
"Now that he mentions it, this is Alyssa's trial..." (Origa)
Behind Origa, who sat down once again while being downhearted, the tigerboy Malfas, who was nervous due to the atmosphere of a battlefield, whiffed, looked in the direction from where the stone came flying, opened his mouth and became stiff.
The figure of Hifumi, which Malfas discovered, was that of the man who destroyed his village.
Summoned Slaughterer
呼び出された殺戮者
https://www.novelupdates.com/series/summoned-slaughterer/
Action Adventure Fantasy Martial Arts Mature Psychological Romance Shounen
Adapted to Manga Aristocracy Arrogant Characters Average-looking Protagonist Beastkin Beautiful Female Lead Betrayal Calm Protagonist Clever Protagonist Cunning Protagonist Dark Demi-Humans Demons Determined Protagonist Different Social Status Dwarfs Elemental Magic Elves Enemies Become Allies Enemies Become Lovers Evil Protagonist Fantasy Creatures Fantasy World Fearless Protagonist God-human Relationship Gods Kingdom Building Kingdoms Knights Love Interest Falls in Love First Magic Beasts Magical Space Male Protagonist Marriage Monsters Nobles Obsessive Love Overpowered Protagonist Politics Power Struggle Protagonist Strong from the Start R-15 Royalty Ruthless Protagonist Samurai Schemes And Conspiracies S*aves Strong Love Interests Strong to Stronger Summoning Magic Sword And Magic Sword Wielder Transported to Another World Underestimated Protagonist Unique Weapon User Unique Weapons Wars Yandere
https://ncode.syosetu.com/n4399ci/
井戸正善／ido