――The time was before the Dancing Princess danced at the Gwararu City Hall.

“――A bloodless capture of the castle, you say?”

Natsuki Subaru declared it boldly in front of everyone as he stormed into the assembly hall.

With his demon mask forcibly removed, Abel looked up at Subaru and repeated the ‘dream story’ with a trembling voice full of chill.

What was buried in it was not a sneer—no, there was no sound mocking us. What lay before us was pure doubt, a breath steeped in confusion about what had just been said.

I understand the intent.

“You may plan to minimize sacrifices, but the thought of zero casualties doesn’t exist in you.”

“Of course. Whether you admit it or not, what we’re doing now is war. Regardless, death is unavoidable. While you may think of avoiding the waste of human resources.”

“I don’t like the way you refer to ‘human resources’ in the first place.”

Looking down at Abel, who sat cross-legged, Subaru clicked his tongue.

The term ‘human resources’ combined the words ‘human’ and ‘resource’, which should not have been combined; Subaru loathed it.

By distorting the view into ‘humans’ into something distant, it makes people seem like mere numbers.

Perhaps for rulers like Abel, that sense of balance is indispensable—

“But I won’t accept it. Flopp, you feel the same way, right?”

“――So, is the alternative that you’re proposing a bloodless capture of the castle? You’ve sure got a grand vision, considering you were so worn out just a moment ago.”

“I won’t deny that I displayed a pitiful and shabby state. Ever since I was blown into this country, nonstop calamities have been raining down on me.”

Self-deprecation in response to Abel’s sharp comment, Subaru gazed at his palm.

His right hand, now peculiarly beautiful; it could be considered a piece of his ‘nonstop calamity’ that this arm had been replaced. Prudently, the replacement of his right hand was one of the few strokes of good fortune.

The replacement of his right hand, the awakening of Rem, and meeting with Flopp and Medium’s siblings could all count as genuine strokes of luck.

Aside from that, whether fortunate or disastrous, it was a coin with two sides.

Just like Abel in front of him, the People of Shudrak, and the empire soldiers including Todd—

“It’s been a continuous struggle, draining my soul. But—”

“――”

“—the more friction, the more fire it ignites.”

Clenching his hands, Subaru stated that clearly.

Just then, Rem arrived at the assembly hall’s entrance, late but just on time for Subaru. Leaning on her staff, she appeared with Utakata and Lui by her side.

She must have come to witness it.

Her selfish plea ignited the fire within Natsuki Subaru’s soul.

“I heard from Flopp about the back entrance strategy to infiltrate the city… Are you planning a surprise attack? That’s definitely not going to work!”

“Oh? Why is that? It’s a castle city protected by walls. Is there any other way to get over?”

“Anyone would think about searching for back entrances if there are walls. Sure, those must be cleverly hidden…”

Naturally, the back entrance, designed for entering and exiting the castle city, would be intended to allow dubious individuals or suspicious goods through.

Of course, they must be hidden from the guards. Yet that would only be to evade normal vigilance during peacetime.

When it comes to heightened security during wartime, there’s little chance of slipping through.

Above all—

“The one who cornered us in the city will not overlook something like that.”

Quick witted and astute, not a bit hesitant in decision.

Once Todd had become aware of Subaru’s group’s existence, the back entrance would be deemed the most suspicious ‘hole’. The enemy wouldn’t be so benevolent as to simply leave it open.

They would certainly seal it up or turn it into a ‘trap’ by not sealing it.

“Therefore, a surprise attack is utterly impossible. The moment we slip out from that back entrance, it’s feasible we could be cleaved in half by an axe awaiting us on the other side.”

“W-why are you saying that while looking at my face, dear sir?! That’s a scary imagination!”

Intending to let everyone be aware of the danger, Subaru unintentionally stared hard at Flopp’s face.

What flashed back were the instances he’d seen Flopp fall before his very eyes to the murderous blade—no, the murderous axe. He couldn’t afford to see that again, and it couldn’t go on repeating.

“If it’s just a surprise attack, I agree that the enemy will be wary.”

“What?”

Surprised by the unexpected agreement, Subaru’s eyes widened. The one who concurred with Subaru’s thoughts was none other than Abel himself.

With raised eyebrows at Subaru’s astonished expression, Abel continued, “Is it that surprising?”

“That’s for sure… You act like you know everything under the sun but then easily admit your mistakes…”

“Fool, when have I ever admitted I was wrong? I merely agreed with the notion that a plan using the back entrance for surprise attack wouldn’t succeed.”

“――? So, how do you intend to use the back entrance then?”

Abel’s denial resonated differently, not like a backhanded compliment that spoke of resentment.

To the questioning Subaru, Abel winked one eye and replied.

“There’s no need for it to exclusively be humans passing through. As long as it incapacitates the soldiers holed up in the city, just bringing in items would suffice.”

“Items…?”

“—Poison.”

“Then that surely can’t be overlooked!”

Calmly delivering this, Abel’s tone surprisingly radiated steady efficacy, causing Subaru to inadvertently raise his voice in condemnation of this plan.

Using poison is utterly unacceptable. —In fact, since Subaru had felt the deadly potency of the poison that the People of Shudrak could handle, he absolutely opposed it.

Such agony, that hell would surely become even more tragic than dying in battle.

“First of all, weren’t we discussing ways to persuade Flopp without causing too much damage, decreasing the harm? What part of using poison fits that…”

“What are you talking about? Even if it’s an ambush plan with the back entrance, there’s a possibility that our forces will suffer casualties during the attack. But with poison, that wouldn’t happen.”

“――――”

“Reducing casualties among our active forces. That’s what it means to minimize damage.”

With that declaration, Subaru held his breath.

And then, he re-recognized the vast difference in position between himself and Abel, the ruler and those beneath him—the disparity surpassed what he could understand.

In other words, Abel was not considering the damage to the residents of Gwararu—no, even if he didn’t let any harm befall the residents, he considered not a wit for the losses sustained by the imperial soldiers.

This had been clear since he had burned the encampment that aimed for his life.

“My thinking was still naïve. You are…”

“Yes, your reasoning is naïve. Thus, there’s no place for you here.”

Their glares locked, sparks flew between Subaru and Abel.

Their opinions collided, nearly leading to a breakdown of discussion—

“—Hey, hey, wait a moment, you two! There’s no need to glare at each other and get hostile!”

Breaking in between them to put space between them was Flopp.

With a flabby smile on his face, he glanced back and forth between the scowling Subaru and Abel, and clapped his hands before his chest.

“Truth be told, my discussions with the village chief have been going in circles! And now here comes the dear sir, full of enthusiasm! I, for one, would love to hear about that ‘bloodless castle capture’ plan you talked about! If that’s true, it sounds like a dream!”

“Flopp…”

Subaru suppressed the anger he had felt just before at Flopp’s eager expectation. It seemed Abel had been equally disarmed by Flopp’s behavior.

Abel let out a small huff and continued, “Very well, I’ll listen. If you can successfully trick this merchant with your plan and find out where the back entrance is, that would be a massive win.”

“Wha!? Dear sir!? You’re not seriously…”

“No, no, no! We haven’t coordinated anything! You’re trying to drag me down with you just because your own plan seems unlikely to succeed!”

This unwarranted suspicion brought on by Flopp, yet Abel showed no signs of embarrassment. Maintaining his poker face, Subaru muttered under his breath.

“You don’t need a demon mask at all…”

“Now then…”

At that moment, a faint voice slipped into the gap that emerged.

It was Rem’s voice from the entrance of the assembly hall, standing still and gazing at Subaru’s back.

Without being swayed by the atmosphere, she continued to look only at Subaru.

“So, what would you do? Can you find another way that isn’t just a sweet dream or a bloody reality?”

“…You sure know how to set my heart racing.”

“――――”

Suffering a bitter smile from Rem’s unwavering gaze, Subaru steeled his resolve.

Afterward, he surveyed the faces of those in the assembly hall once more. While gathering the gazes of Abel, Flopp, and the Shudrak people led by Mizelda,

“My plan requires neither a back entrance nor bloodshed at all. However, I will need Flopp’s assistance.”

“A back entrance isn’t necessary yet you want my help…? But, dear sir, you know I’m just a mere merchant with little strength and only a glib tongue, right?”

“Ah, of course. But you’re not just a merchant, Flopp; you possess a natural talent bestowed upon you. —You have a pretty face.”

“—Huh? My face?”

Flopp’s eyes widened in surprise as he placed both hands on his face.

The others in the assembly hall processed the information as well, tilting their heads in confusion at the mention of ‘face.’

“Well, that’s true, certainly.”

“—! Sister, did you notice something?”

“I’m merely agreeing with Subaru’s comment that your face is good.”

“Goodness, sister…”

Mizelda nodded with her arms crossed, while Talitta wore a sour expression, looking dejected.

However, the intent behind Subaru’s statement remained unclear to everyone, and questions hung in the air. Even Flopp and even Abel were baffled.

But Mizelda, who had a strong interest in others’ looks, was not off base. Her discerning eye provided a substantial hint to Subaru for this situation.

Mizelda’s penchant for beauty inspired the thought for this ‘bloodless castle capture plan.’

“The proof’s in the pudding. —Flopp, let’s give it a go for the sake of experimentation.”

“Give it a go? That’s fine, but what exactly are we…”

At Flopp’s questioning, Subaru firmly commanded, “Just go with it.”

Then he shifted his gaze toward Mizelda and said,

“Since you dye your hair and paint body patterns, I assume you wear makeup? Can you lend me your tools for just a moment?”

△▼△▼△▼△

“――――”

After a while, when the assembly hall reconvened, those present were left speechless upon witnessing the ‘results.’

However, it was not silence born of bewilderment or exasperation; rather, it resonated pure astonishment, admiration, or perhaps something close to emotion, that Subaru was confident of that.

The quality of what he produced was evident, as he puffed out his chest and proclaimed,

“As long as the materials are good, I can pull this off.”

“――――”

Rubbing his nose, Subaru made his statement while still receiving no response. The crowd remained at a loss for words, unable to turn back from their astonishment, when the only voice that pierced through was Flopp’s uneasy tone.

“Uh, dear sir. I’m not seeing the results here, what’s going on? This doesn’t feel very reassuring…”

“Hey, no need to worry, Flopp—nah, there’s no need to worry, Flora.”

“Flora!?”

Flopp—no, Flora, widened her eyes in shock. However, that expression, bathed in surprise, was indeed charming, and Subaru nodded confidently as he stroked her cheek.

Then he once again gripped Flora’s slender shoulders, urging her to turn forward.

With golden long hair cascading softly, he applied eyeshadow to enhance her features more than usual. He tidied her eyelashes to make them more pronounced, lending a rosy tint to her pale cheeks and coloring her lips, transforming her attire.

With his delicate physique, a bit of clever work could make her appear as ‘her.’

In other words—

“—This is the key to a bloodless castle capture; the best plan I can devise!”

Raising his fist high with determination, Subaru introduced Flopp—Flora to everyone present in the assembly hall.

In a short time, he was proud of the jewel-like finish that accentuated the quality of the materials used, though for a twist, this was Flora in her least flattering state.

If the necessary tools were gathered and the subject learned the appropriate mannerisms, her appeal could exponentially rise instead of merely adding to it.

“Beauty can be created.”

“Are you kidding me?”

“Eh!?”

As that chilling voice pierced through, it struck deep.

The one who had spoken was Rem, with cold eyes directed at Subaru. The expectant gaze she had held just moments before was nowhere to be seen, replaced by the piercing look that had marked her since awakening.

Taken aback by her lethal intensity, Subaru cried out, “Wait!”

“Are you serious? You’re not fooling around? You really did this?”

“This isn’t a joke! I’m completely serious, so don’t give me that look!”

“Is this serious? Please stop joking. I was foolish to think I’d… trust you even a bit.”

“Quick to conclusions! Your way of cutting ties is just like Ram’s!”

“Huh?”

Rem, who had no idea what he meant, must have found it strange, but just as Ram was with her absurdly quick dismissals, the similarity in their sisterly instincts felt heartwarming, yet regaining Rem’s lost trust took precedence now.

In truth, Subaru wasn’t fooling around at all. He was fully committed and thoughtful in everything he did.

The very act of having Flopp disguise himself as a woman named Flora was—

“—meant to target Ziqru Osman.”

The first to reach this conclusion, with his hand on his chin, was Abel.

Unlike the stunned demographics, Abel had kept quiet to gauge Subaru’s true intentions.

And indeed, he had astutely discerned Subaru’s target.

—The target is Ziqru Osman.

The commander of the imperial soldiers stationed in the Castle City of Gwararu, holding the rank of one of the two generals of the empire. A capable individual who favored prudent and safe military strategies, and—

“I’ve heard he’s a notorious ‘womanizer.’ It seems he’s famous among the imperial soldiers.”

“It’s well-known that it was referred to as a title.”

“A ‘womanizer’… not exactly a thrilling impression.”

Hearing the conversation between Subaru and Abel, Rem made a sour face.

Subaru felt the same. If one hears a military officer is a womanizer, one usually imagines a lewd person with a shameless disposition. However, that presented an opening.

“There was talk among the troops to offer captured women to that Ziqru ‘General.’ In other words, there’s a high chance of approaching him with an innocent woman.”

Recalling with distaste, there were moments when Jamal had suggested offering Rem to Ziqru back at the encampment.

Since Rem was a beautiful girl, Ziqru’s taste could be regarded as quite average.

“If that’s the case, with Flora’s charm, we should be able to do it.”

“D-dear sir?! What’s going on? You’re calling me Flora with high expectations, but I have no idea what’s going on! This is terrifying!”

“Don’t worry, Flora. I certainly won’t let you do this alone. I plan to fight alongside you.”

“That’s way too reckless, Subaru!”

Soothing the bewildered Flora, Subaru’s remark made Mizelda stand up. Her previously intense expression clouded, as she grasped Subaru’s shoulder, shaking her head.

Then, lowering her tone to convey something hard to convey,

“You have your own charm too. But what you were born with is…”

“Hey, hold on a minute, Mizelda. Didn’t you hear me?”

“What’s up?”

“—Beauty can be created.”

Placing his hand atop Mizelda’s gripping hand, Subaru declared firmly.

Mizelda widened her eyes and gasped. Then she turned toward Flora, her face adorned with makeup, and squinted as though dazzled by its brilliance.

“I’ve been bested by you. …Show me your potential.”

“Ah, just watch me.”

“What’s this conversation about? I can’t fathom it.”

Given the task by Mizelda, Subaru accepted. Meanwhile, Kuuna watched their exchange with a perplexed expression, but refrained from comments.

Ultimately, the current issue is—

“If we leverage Ziqru Osman’s tastes, what do you intend to do? He’s also a wolf. He’s not just a dog that falls for some beautifully dangled bait.”

“Well, if it’s merely dangling with no purpose, it’s pointless. So, we’ll need to come up with something that lures him. For instance, luring him into a party.”

“A feast, huh? But, coaxing him won’t be easy. Naturally, there’s no reason for him to emerge from the walls until reinforcements arrive from the imperial capital. He won’t fall for a suspicious invitation.”

“Right. I’m still narrowing down the options, but…”

“W-wait!”

At that moment, while Subaru and Abel exchanged thoughts, Rem raised her voice.

With a look of surprise plastered on her face, she switched her gaze back and forth between Subaru and Abel.

“Are you serious about progressing the discussion mainly centered around Flopp’s prank?”

“Eh, Flopp’s prank? I’m really confused here! What’s happening to me, dear niece?”

“Oh h-huh? Uu! Uu!”

Beside the tense Rem, Flora, who had yet to see her own reflection in a mirror, sought help from Lui. However, Lui, flustered at Flora’s unfamiliarity, hid behind Rem.

In essence, from Lui’s perspective, Flora and Flopp were two entirely different people.

“Whether that girl’s reaction proves to be a test of suitability remains to be seen, but I don’t consider this a prank. Finally, I’ve come up with a plan worth discussing.”

“Then you acknowledge Flora’s beauty.”

“—I recognize your unique idea as something I didn’t have, but… it’s quite sideways, isn’t it?”

Subaru showed displeasure at Abel’s stubborn response with a lip curl of frustration.

Yet Abel ignored it, contemplating for a moment, placing his hand on his mouth.

Then, with his sharp gaze fixed on Subaru, he asked,

“Natsuki Subaru, let me ask you this… Is your makeup only applicable to merchants?”

“――――”

For a moment, Abel’s question caught him off guard.

However, Subaru processed the implication of that question in his mind and shook his head.

“I already said I would put my own life on the line if we were to execute this plan!”

“Fool. Who would expect anything from you? Look in the mirror and talk some sense!”

“Watch your language!”

Furrowing his brows, Abel spat those words with genuine contempt. Ignoring how they hurt Subaru, he placed his hand on his chest and declared,

“It’s beyond mere merchants. —Then, I’ll join in.”

“Y-you are, Abel?!”

Upon hearing that proud self-recommendation, the atmosphere surrounding the assembly hall stirred, centered around Mizelda.

Naturally, Subaru was shocked by Abel’s statement. He never imagined he would bring it up himself.

“…Honestly, I thought the biggest focus would be on how to persuade you.”

“Under normal circumstances, this foolish strategy wouldn’t deserve consideration. However, given the current situation, our options are limited, and we must deploy viable strategies. If it’s effective, sacrificing oneself becomes an inevitability.”

“Tch, you’re infuriating. That’s what charisma does to you…”

Even if ousted from his position, his status as an emperor remained steadfast.

That is Abel’s creed, a principle that won’t bend. Subaru could only be firmly impressed by the part he exhibited.

If looking at a poor ruler serves as an example, they would screw up for valuing their own safety too much.

However, ever since his primary meeting with Subaru in the jungle, including the Ritual of Blood, Abel has effectively continued placing his own stakes for substantial gambles.

Without a doubt, in this instance as well, he had no intention of backing down.

“Unorthodox strategies only shine when they hit from outside the enemy’s expectations. Let’s leverage the general’s tastes and capitalize on the unavoidable negligence. It’s worth a consideration.”

“Ah, it says so in the book of ancient tales. It’s ideal to cross-dress to aim for the enemy’s general.”

“To take at face value the contents of such a dubious book…”

An honorable quote from documented ancient texts, however, telling Rem about the credibility of ancient texts would likely be as effective as throwing water at a stone wall. Given the circumstances, he couldn’t think of how to swiftly regain the trust he’d lost.

Worrying that it could merely be dismissed, it was unexpected yet fortunate that Abel’s reaction was one of cooperation.

“When you mentioned using poison earlier, it made me wonder if you’re someone keen to commit mass murder against those who defy you…”

“If required, I’d not hesitate to do that. But emotions are a superfluous burden in future decisions. Besides, what I need to acquire extends beyond just the city of Gwararu.”

“――――”

“Should I be able to control Ziqru Osman, we can orchestrate our desires without conflict. Reducing concerns of internal collapse would be a blessing.”

“…I see. As expected from someone whose ground has crumbled from within, there’s wisdom in your words.”

The provocation initiated casually was met with indifference by Abel’s expression.

This sort of sarcasm or disrespect wasn’t something the likes of him likely took offense at. —Or he may not be as stubborn as implied, being one who can admit to his blunders.

In any case—

“Considering your cooperation, that’s all the more advantageous. So, shall we go with—Abel, Volakia… Bianca?”

“Feel free to use whatever name suits you. However, I’m not convinced that ourselves, you and the merchants, alone will suffice. So let’s see…”

As Abel crossed his arms, scanning the assembly hall, he then murmured “Hmm” while closing one eye.

“I suppose those useful are Kuuna and Talitta.”

“Hey?”

“Of course, this is for precaution. Even if we manage to draw out Ziqru Osman successfully, we’ll need to have enough forces in place to restrain him. But we should avoid anything that could instantly reveal they are the People of Shudrak.”

With a gesture of his chin, it was obvious what Abel meant to Subaru.

Suddenly pointed out, Talitta and Kuuna looked bewildered. Compared to the likes of Mizelda or Hori, who both exuded a clear battle-ready vibe, their participation would not align with the current intent to conceal.

What was needed was the feminine presence that wouldn’t evoke suspicion—

“I can navigate that with some makeup and coordination.”

“—So can I.”

“Rem?”

Amid the gathering, Rem raised her hand.

Having not hidden her feelings of distrust toward Subaru since the Flora incident, Rem seemed to have found something worthwhile in his serious consideration and made her expression earnest.

With determination and resolve shining in her pale blue eyes, she said,

“Please allow me to join you. I’ll surely prove useful.”

“Rem… that’s not possible.”

“――! You’re trying to keep me away from danger again…!”

Having her determination crushed, Rem’s glare was fierce as she fixed her gaze on Subaru.

Without a doubt, there were protective instincts that Subaru possessed that annoyed Rem. He honestly wanted to avoid danger for her and let her live in peace.

But his refusal to allow her to join wasn’t based solely on that motive.

“I worry for you, it’s a fact. But keeping you out of this is purely because it would reduce the success rate of the plan. You have been seen by imperial soldiers in the city.”

“――Ah.”

“Not only when you were captured at the encampment; the same applies to when we escaped from the city. For this reason, we cannot rely on Medium’s strength either. I drew too much attention.”

After being that conspicuous, the guards at the checkpoints wouldn’t easily forget Rem, Medium, and even Lui’s faces.

This operation revolves around how deeply we can infiltrate the enemy’s reasoning. Therefore, it was vital not to endanger that foundation, so Rem couldn’t come along.

“But… but if we’re talking about having been seen, you’re in the same boat!”

“Yeah, but it’s different. The next time we delve through the main gates of Gwararu, it won’t be me but Natsumi Schwarz doing so.”

“Huh?”

Possibly thinking she was being tricked again, Rem’s eyes ignited with anger. However, no matter how much he tried to explain with words, she likely wouldn’t get it.

But like Flopp transformed into Flora, Natsuki Subaru would transform into Natsumi Schwarz. —This only proved something beyond discourse.

“Regardless, I conveyed the reason I can’t take Rem along. However, I also need to ensure Talitta and Kuuna are on board, as this operation could become perilous…”

“No, no, that sounds interesting. I’ll permit it. Take both of them along.”

Thus, as Subaru attempted to confirm Talitta and Kuuna’s intentions, Mizelda interrupted.

Surprised, Subaru turned around to see Mizelda’s eyes sparkling with curiosity, fixed on him as if she were a hunter peering in to catch something beneath the surface.

For a moment, he felt a chill run down his spine.

“Mizelda?”

“Subaru, you and Abel have already proven your valor. The People of Shudrak boast of their martial honor. But that doesn’t mean intelligence is to be cast aside. The superior warrior shines in both strength and intellect… Prove that to me.”

Embracing a scheme with backdoor tactics, Mizelda seemed to find it rather appealing.

He had assumed the People of Shudrak would dislike such plans based on preconceived notions. Thus, he intended to confirm the willingness of Talitta and the others to participate.

However, when Mizelda responded that way, Talitta and Kuuna naturally nodded in agreement.

“If the chief says so, I don’t have any particular objections.”

“I will follow my sister’s thinking… I’m intrigued by the makeup as well.”

Arms crossed behind her head, Kuuna consented casually. While Talitta had a similar opinion, her glances flickered toward Flora.

It seemed she was intrigued by Subaru’s makeup skills, creating an unintended lighthearted mood before what was supposed to be a life-risking operation—

“If there are no opposing views, we should promptly prepare. We must conclude this before the cowardly castle city has its back slapped against the imperial capital.”

“…Alright, I get that. If everyone agrees, will that be okay for you too, Rem?”

“――You’ll likely not care to listen to me.”

Burdened with feeling of dissatisfaction, Rem continued her fierce glare at Subaru. While she felt genuinely aggrieved, that didn’t negate the fact she wouldn’t continue following him.

Thus, Subaru lowered his brow, resigning himself to face Rem’s displeasure.

But—

“However, I was the one who asked you to figure this out.”

“Rem?”

“You see, I can’t exactly speak out against it and demand to be heard. …So please, succeed.”

Despite maintaining a heart of bitterness, Rem didn’t forgive Subaru outright. However, she expressed she respected his judgment, albeit with her eyes diverted.

Just that was enough to bring a sense of clarity to the dark clouds hovering over Subaru.

“Though it’s strictly for Rem’s sake, it could be considered inexpensive… or maybe not?”

Just a hint of favorable attitude from Rem made Subaru feel as if he could soar to the skies with sheer glee.

Still, if Emilia smiled at him, it would elevate him to paradise, and if Beatrice lectured him with that smug face, his heart would feel swirling warmth.

What a simpleton he was, just realizing he was so easy to satisfy.

“What’s wrong? Are you losing your nerve now?”

“Losing my nerve in a different sense now, huh… It’s just that I’m slowly getting fired up.”

“Oh? Then show us that energy in action.”

Bolstered by Rem’s encouragement, Subaru responded resolutely, prompting Abel to huff.

Without needing to be told, he indeed was already set on it. —If this bloodless castle capture succeeds, the road to returning to the Lugnica Kingdom may finally be opened.

And even if not, there’s no way he would let any poison be scattered under his watch.

“—Hey, big brother! We should let that little piggy rest soon, it’d be cruel to keep it here for long—”

Just then, as the atmosphere of determination boiled in the assembly hall, Medium poked her head in.

Standing out amongst the sturdier figures of Shudrak, Medium’s greater stature was notable. She scanned the assembly hall with her round eyes, searching.

“Hey, where’s big brother?”

“Oh, my dear little sister! To lose sight of your brother is quite heartless! I’m right here!”

“――?”

Tilting her head in confusion, Medium held back as Flora stood up to assert her presence. At her words, Medium furrowed her brow thoughtfully.

After a moment of silence, she suddenly shouted as if realizing something.

“Big brother, you were actually my sister?!”

“Dear sir!? What’s going on here?! This is terrifying!”

If he could deceive even the eyes of his blood-related little sister, it would serve as a significant foothold in the operation.