
The trip to the Kingdom of Ingrasia took place without incident.
I called Ranga, and asked her to take a smaller form. He also had fur equipment, so there should be no problem if humans saw him.
That is, he currently looks like a slightly larger black wolf.
Although the road we were traveling on was not paved, it was still considered a highway, so we did see some mounted soldiers.
Some monsters appeared around here, and there was a bit of magic in the air.
We don't see any strong monsters. However, the streets are full, in some ways.
Robbers and robbers, those small types were all around them.
But we didn't even meet them.
Well, I guess that's what's expected. What kind of creature could catch up to Ranga's speed?
And it's not like we're running at high speed; we're continuing at a leisurely pace, but still at least 60km an hour.
Much faster than a horse-drawn carriage.
Thus, the trip went smoothly, and we arrived at Ingrasia Royal City in just two days.
The scale of the city was surprising.
Sure, this was vast, but there was also a huge wall surrounding the city.
Two gates lead there, and there is no entrance except for two gates. It is really confusing to think about how much money and time it takes to build this.
We entered the city and were amazed to see the sight.
Many tall buildings filled the city, but that was what we expected; however, the scale of the building was not comparable to the one in Brumund.
Most are at least five stories high.
The city was full of brick and wood buildings.
But more than anything, the strict city planning and the white castle in the middle of the city made me wonder.
A large lake occupied the center of the city, and a castle was built in the center.
Four bridges stretch from the castle and connect to the main street of the city.
This piece of solemn architecture aptly conveys the military might of the country.
In short, what I thought was: amazing!
From a defense perspective, every important crossroads had knights who monitored public order.
You must be very desperate to even try to commit a criminal act.
As expected of a city planned in advance by the Council.
I mean, just think about the consequences if some foreign prince gets in trouble here. In order to prevent such an incident, the city had perfected its defenses.
Thanks to the guild card I was able to quickly pass through one of the gates; normally, one would have to undergo three different identity checks to be able to access.
In the first step, they check your identity documents. If you have successfully passed this examination, you must go through a thorough body search.
Then, line up in another line.
Each dot was heavily protected, and its lines were much longer than those in the Kingdom of Dwarves.
In other words, I am really happy that I have a guild ID.
By the way, even if there is a problem during your second check, you can proceed to the third, but you will be treated as a criminal from then on.
You will basically be treated in a way that will prevent you from trying to get in.
But still, there were many people trying to enter. So, a very long line lay out in front of the inspector.
This all proves how deceptive this city is to foreigners.
I kept getting impressed.
As for Ranga, she entered my shadow ever since we reached the royal capital.
Whahuh? You think I'm just gonna bring him here in the open?
Of course not . Wolves are not in town. I even have a lot of common sense. Don'worry.
So, after hiding Ranga in my shadow and spending half a day in line, we finally entered the city.
It is more amazing than its appearance.
I can see a good look at their advanced culture.
I saw many large gymnasium-style buildings used for concerts.
The busy grounds are home to performers and theaters. There are also many advertisements for the show.
I don't know if the paper is that cheap here, but you see leaflets thrown in the streets.
It really is a metropolis.
I can finally smell the scent of the busy capital after all this time.
No way! I was surprised to see a glass building.
Behind the glass you can see the products being sold, such as the shop windows of our world.
Actually, I guess that's them.
The only difference is that the main products on display are armor and weapons.
Shops specializing in dresses and such are located closer to — castle in the high-class district.
But it was not a store aimed at the masses.
You have to be rich enough just to live inside the city walls, but the housing near the castle is certainly only limited to the nobles.
It is a sign of wealth difference.
Well, that's how it is. Isn't it natural to treat those who contribute more to taxes better?
So, after wandering around the city for a while, I started looking for lodging.
The city is divided into four major districts.
Merchant district, tourist district, production district, and residential district.
Separated by a castle in the middle, a round town.
And easy to understand.
So, I proceeded to the tourist district.
As I thought, I quickly found a section dedicated to lodging. There is also a bar in the back.
It makes me excited. But that's not my goal today.
Unfortunately, I abstained from the celebration, and booked a room at the inn.
The tourist district is located near the walls, with various attractions lined up on the streets. There are also some street vendors.
Closer to the center is a large building devoted to diplomats and conferences. It seems like there is a school in it.
Of the four parts of the district, it is the most heavily guarded.
And close to this section stands the main headquarters of the Freedom Association.
I had no idea where it was at first, so I had asked a knight for directions.
「What business do you run? The nearest one is straight like that. 」
He said, pointing.
In that direction stood a large, conspicuous building.
Next to it, was a building affiliated with the West Saint Church. The Saint Cross symbol stands proudly on top.
「Next to that church?」
「Yes, the conspicuous one. Even a little girl like you wouldn't get lost. 」
That's how I learned my way. The Freedom Association seems to have another building, but I'll go to the nearest one first.
It is a large building that can be seen from far away.
Therefore, after obtaining a place in the inn, I came to the Headquarters of the Freedom Association.
I have no business with the church. As an atheist, I would rather stay away from church all my life.
In addition, the church considers monsters to be natural enemies. I'd rather not show up before.
But who would have thought it would stand so close to the Freedom Association.
Well, as long as I don't reveal my aura, they shouldn't recognize me for who I am.
It's not worth worrying about that. If they find out, we'll figure out the next step.
The entrance to the glass-covered Association. It must cost a lot.
Frankly, I didn't expect to see a glass door in this world. As you would expect from “Travelers of the World”.
They seemed to have achieved the impossible through pure will. I think my own efforts have been lacking so far.
What you allow to happen, and what you do not allow to happen, does not happen.
Rather than saying what you can or cannot do, doing it is important.
Let's remember that.
And, as I was thinking of entering, I felt a presence staring at me.
The door opened itself.
Seriously! A sensor detects the presence of a human and opens the door. What an example of useless complex technology.
I'm surprised they've gone so far. The church next door was opened by hand.
“Why different? It's next door! ”I can't understand the reason for the difference.
When I entered I felt the gaze fall on me.
A woman near the door said,
"Welcome! For what purpose have you visited us today? 」
Just like in a hotel. The headquarters were too influenced by them.
「Ah, I want to meet with Grand Master. I have a cover letter. 」
I said, and handed the documents to him.
「Let me verify it. Please wait in this room. 」
He led me to the waiting room.
The headquarters is impressive. As I sat on the sofa, another officer brought me some tea.
They really don't leave anything to be desired.
Suddenly I wanted to know, so I asked,
「Hey, security seems pretty loose around here; can anyone waltz in like this? 」
「Oh, this must be your first time to headquarters.
Only adventurers with B rank and above could enter it.
The entrance scans your guild card, so people without proper identification cannot enter.
Those below B, C + and below should use the building near the city entrance. 」
So he explains.
I see, so the sensors also have that purpose.
And the other building mentioned by the knight must be that one, huh.
I might be sent here after handing over the letter, but I'm glad I stopped by here first.
Ranking up to B is also a good decision.
While I was thinking this, I heard a knock on the door.
A door opened and a man entered.
Black hair and black eyes, the appearance of a young man.
A rather nice face, blessed with a truly young appearance.
He could easily introduce himself as a high school student.
「It's nice to meet you, I'm Kagurazaka Yuuki,
The Grand Master of Freedom Association.
I look forward to our conversation, Rimuru-san. I will listen with Ama! 」
He said, smiling brightly.
Easy to make friends with young people. That's how I met Kagurazaka Yuuki.
* * *
* Paaaaan! *
The door opened, and Milim entered.
That was the norm, so Frey didn't react much.
First of all, the huge mass of energy that was rapidly approaching him was simply Milim.
When Milim entered, he happily exclaimed with a wide smile, saying,
「Yahoo, Frey! What amazing weather we have today! 」
She combed her beautiful blonde hair with her hands. His hands were decorated with foreign goods.
Not rings. Something wrapped up his four fingers, with a picture of a dragon as an ornament.
It fits naturally around her little hands.
「Hmm ... did I arrive too early? 」
He said, shaking his face.
Since when was he disturbed by the heat …?
「Ara, Milim. Been a long time. You seem to be in a good mood today.
Did something good happen? 」
「Nnn, does it look on my face? Look it!"
He said, showing the dragon knuckles in his hands.
Proudly laughing "Fufun!"
Frey could only sigh to himself.
「Ara, my! They fit you. Where did you get it? 」
After deciding to praise him, Frey asked the question.
Restless in shame, Milim said,
"Want to know? Should I tell you .. should I …
Hmm ... what should I do .. 」
And the endless lines are similar.
It sucks . Frey, who had known Milim for a while now, could only think of that.
「Ara, aren't our friends "? You can tell me, right? 」
Upon hearing these words, Milim's eyes opened wide.
"Good! We are friends!
Fine . I'll tell you . Problem is…!"
And so Frey heard from Milim about the city of monsters.
Constantly bragging and showing off the clothes he got.
Frey couldn't hide his shock at seeing such an overjoyed Milim.
After Milim finished telling his story once,
"Yes, right . Milim, as a "friend", I have a gift I want to give you.
Will you accept it? 」
Frey said, and called his servant.
The officer took him in. Lying on the purple cloth, a beautiful jewel.
And this beautiful gem is embedded inside a stunning pendant.
Anyone who saw it would recognize its incredible value.
「Hmm? Her prize?
Can I still accept it? Even if I do, I won't give you the dragon knuckles! 」
Milim said, with a wry smile.
「Don't worry, Milim. It's proof of our friendship. "friend" as I said.
Will you wear it for me? 」
Frey said with a gentle smile.
"I will!" Excited Milim with a brilliant smile.
〈Incantation: Preparing the Demon Marionette .. success. 〉
At that moment, Milim's smiling face stiffened.
Something flashed in his eyes, but his consciousness was gone.
The dragon knuckles instantly shot out of his hands.
Seeing this reaction, Frey heaved a sigh of relief.
「It's done, Clayman. Is this all right? 」
He said to a dark and empty corner of the room.
From where you would think no one can be a single man appears.
Satan Lord Clayman. One is called the Marionette Master.
「Kukuku. Well done, Frey. I have now obtained the strongest puppet!
Ahahahahahaha !!!
You have looked down on me as a young demon king, but have fallen for a small trick! 」
With a sinister smile, Clayman smacked Milim in the face.
Her fat cheeks turned red and her lips broke.
Milim, who usually wore many defensive barriers, currently did not have much of a defense.
A normal girl, no, was even inferior to a human; it was natural for her to be injured by the attack of a demon lord.
Ahhaha! Laughing loudly, Clayman continued his attack.
「Shouldn't you stop now?」
「Hmph, it's not a spell that will disappear with a little damage!
Considering his arrogant attitude, surely you have a grudge or two against him?
Isn't that why you agreed to this plan? No?
If so, then do not hold back. He can't refuse anymore.
Well, he's really sturdy, and we can keep healing him when he's destroyed! 」
His eyes reddened, Clayman kicking Milim into the air.
Contrary to Clayman, Frey calmly observed.
「Hei, Clayman. You don't know, but Milim has an automatic defense mode, you know?
We call it "Rampage" where he uses abilities beyond the limits of his body.
So if you want to die, be my guest, but don't involve me by your side. Understood?"
Clayman regained his composure after hearing these words.
Ch Cih's. It was really a joke from the demon lord. What's with the oldest demon king. Look down on us.
Bodo time . If I use him, I can increase my position among the demon lords.
Frey, you're my accomplice. So don't think you can betray me now! 」
「Ara? Shouldn't we be the same? 」
"Draud! I'm the one who came up with the plan! You have become one of my works.
You don't want to die at Milim's hands right now, do you?
Ahhaha! Now that I get Milim, you can't refuse me anymore! 」
Frey put on an unhappy face after hearing his words.
You are the Queen of Heaven, the lord of the heavens, aren't you? You wish Milim disappeared and I can make it happen!
He agreed to the plan because of those words.
When she somehow learns that Milim is weak against the word "friend",
"I understand . 」
「Good It's just, don't try to betray me.
What, you don't like Milim – I won't rule you. Ask for some help here and there! 」
While continuing his laughter, Clayman said.
Now, he had gathered three demon kings under him. A power that their council could no longer ignore.
At the very least, he far surpassed the other young demon kings.
Milim and Frey. By controlling both of them, he might even be able to force the others to follow.
Then, even the older generation would be afraid of him.
He will rule them all!
After all, he was a puppet master! He will lead them all by that name.
The next one on the list is Demon Lord Karion. After that, the next one is …
Clayman was busy planning.
Frey coldly observed this.
On the floor, the dragon Milim knuckles emitted a faint light.
But there was no light in Milim's eyes.
The dragon's knuckles shone in vain.