――The tiger at the front door, the wolf at the back door.

　Strictly speaking, the situation was different, but that phrase crossed Subaru’s mind.

　Nonetheless, the fact that it took him a moment to arrive at that proverb clearly illustrated the troublesome nature of his circumstances.

“Almost a hundred enemies!?”

　Peeking outside from the back door of the inn, Al’s voice cracked as he received the astonishing report from Talitta.

　In response, Talitta quietly nodded, “Yes,” and then added,

“They’ve surrounded us. More than hostility, it gives off an impression of caution…”

“One or two is one thing, but almost a hundred can’t be overlooked.”

　Closing the door of the back entrance, Talitta whispered, and Abel remarked.

　At those words, Talitta lowered her chin, and Abel’s gaze shifted to Subaru, his black eyes narrowing behind his demon mask, sending a chill down Subaru’s spine.

　Then—

“—You’re also facing a problem beyond being surrounded, aren’t you?”

“—Ah.”

“Your limbs are shrinking in defiance of reason. It’s no wonder given what’s happening.”

　Sighing softly, Abel pointed out Subaru’s strange behavior.

　Hearing that, Subaru felt his cheeks flush with embarrassment, both from being seen through by Abel and from the awareness that he was dragging down the team.

　Even so, he felt a strong urge to put on a brave face and pretend there was nothing wrong.

　However—

“Hey, Subaru, you okay?”

　Just then, the gentle voice of Medium, who had comforted the weakened Subaru moments ago, stopped him.

　Being stubborn here wouldn’t resolve anything. Moreover, the fallout from that stubbornness wouldn’t just affect Subaru; it would also impact his companions, including Medium.

　So—

“Actually, um… I feel like my memories are a little foggy. It’s hard to recall things I should remember, and that might be a problem.”

“…So that’s what was strange earlier.”

　Swallowing his bravado, Subaru admitted this, leaving Al speechless.

　Al had likely felt discomfort at Subaru’s earlier reaction as well. Touching on the specific content brought unease to him too.

　What happened to Subaru wasn’t just a matter of concern for him; it affected Al too.

“—Specifically?”

“…I couldn’t remember the names of my important family. No! Well, it’s more like it took me a while to recall them.”

“Dude, now’s not the time to be acting tough…”

“I’m not acting tough…”

　He reflexively tried to respond, but then thought that might just be bravado too.

　He didn’t want to be explicitly told that he had forgotten important names. He definitely remembered Beatrice, Emilia, and Rem.

　He should remember the friends he left behind at the mansion, too.

“So, I’m not acting tough…”

“Be specific.”

“Eh?”

“Did you forget? Or does it take you time to say it? Which is it?”

　Faced with the question, Subaru stumbled over his words.

　Abel’s inquiry, now just a step closer, was firm and sharp, leaving no room for lies.

　A tingling sensation shot through Subaru’s brain, making it hard to tear his gaze away from the man before him. As Subaru fell silent, Abel pressed, asking again.

“Have you lost the ability to see your surroundings, and now even your own mind?”

“—No! I haven’t forgotten, it’s just hard to remember! Yeah, it’s just coming out slowly, not forgotten!”

“…So it takes time to retrieve the memory, huh?”

　As he responded impulsively to Abel’s ruthless questioning, a quiet acceptance settled over Abel.

　Subaru himself didn’t know what was different about the excuse once he said it. So it was unexpected that Abel didn’t dismiss it outright.

　In fact, Al, irritated by Abel’s reaction, shot back, “Hey,” and asked,

“What’s the difference? Is that really something to focus on right now?”

“It makes a world of difference. There’s a vast chasm between forgetting and struggling to retrieve a memory.”

“Huh?”

　Al grumbled in annoyance, but Abel didn’t say anything more.

　While the confusion between Subaru and Al continued, Talitta, attentive to the outside, turned and asked,

“What’s happening outside? They haven’t attacked yet, have they?”

“For now, they’re just holding their breath. The encirclement should be complete by now.”

“If that’s the case, it means we haven’t met their requirements yet.”

“Requirements…?”

　Not answering Talitta’s puzzled query, Abel tapped his chin as if deep in thought, then turned back to Subaru.

　Unable to keep up with Abel’s speed of thought, Subaru flinched as Abel leaned in closer and questioned,

“—What conditions must be met for the outside forces to attack us?”

“Eh…?”

“Answer me. What conditions must be fulfilled for them to make a move?”

“W-well, even if you say that…”

　With Abel’s inquiry pressing down on him, Subaru felt his heartbeat quicken.

　He had no idea. Recall that “death” was something so sudden that even his memories before “Return by Death” didn’t make much sense.

　If he had more information, he could at least offer some sort of appropriate countermeasure—

“Answer me!”

　But trampling over Subaru’s hesitation and confusion, Abel hurled the question at him. Not being able to respond left Subaru at a loss as the demon mask clenched his shoulders.

“Answer me! Natsuki Subaru!”

“I-I don’t know! The moment I step outside, they’d attack! That’s all there is to it!”

　Forced by Abel’s intimidation, Subaru answered, his eyes wide as he pressed his hands to his chest.

　Once again, he had inadvertently revealed information gained from “Return by Death.” He feared the penalties for breaking that taboo might strike again. But nothing happened.

　Time didn’t freeze around them, and there was no punishment for his foolishness waiting to enact revenge.

　Instead—

“Ugh!”

　Louis stepped up, positioning herself protectively behind Subaru, glaring directly at the intimidating Abel while letting out a growl.

　Abel, having released his grip from Subaru, glared at Louis with irritation. But soon, Medium joined her side as a reassuring ally.

“Abel! Don’t bully Subaru! I’ll tell my big brother!”

“…What would happen if I got told on? I merely extracted necessary information. —So, the trigger to attack is stepping outside, huh?”

　Unfazed, Abel shrugged in response to Medium’s sharp gaze.

　With that, he turned back, contemplating something further, and Medium adjusted her hands on her hips while turning to Subaru.

“Subaru, are you okay? Abel was pretty scary, wasn’t he?”

“W-well, it’s not like I was scared or anything. I just got a little surprised… yeah.”

“Really? Well, that’s good, but Subaru, you’re such a strong kid!”

　As she said this, Medium’s palm gently stroked Subaru’s black hair.

　The tender gesture and being called a “strong kid” made Subaru feel a rush of embarrassment. Yet he couldn’t deny that his heart was beginning to settle down slowly.

　This feeling was truly strange.

　While he felt relief from being comforted by Medium, a greater concern was the difficulty in expressing his feelings towards Abel and the underlying fear crept in.

He couldn’t resist Abel’s fierceness, always left feeling overpowered.

It was as if—

“It’s like an adult and a child. Not just in appearance.”

“Ugh…”

　From the side, Al, who had been silent until now, chimed in, his tone harder than before, as Subaru’s profile turned downcast from his earlier encounter with Abel.

　Being called an adult and child cleared up doubts within Subaru.

　Yes, just as Al said, that was an appropriate expression. In truth, the exchanges between Subaru and Abel were more reminiscent of the power dynamics between a child and an adult.

　Not just in appearance, but even in the substance, it felt as though Subaru was being dragged into that dynamic.

“—Listen. We’ve pinpointed the forming enemy.”

“R-really!?”

　As Subaru felt a strange chill, Abel uttered that quietly.

　Talitta’s eyes grew wide with shock in response to Abel’s proclamation. It wasn’t just Talitta; everyone aside from Al found themselves equally astounded. More precisely speaking, excluding Louis, who wasn’t keeping up with what was being discussed.

　In any case, Abel gathered everyone’s attention and nodded.

“The conditions proposed by Roswaal and the hundred enemies Talitta sensed… excluding improbable possibilities narrows down the options naturally.”

“And your wise deduction? Who’s targeting us?”

“—Chaos Frame.”

“Chaos Frame…? You mean this city?”

　Abel gravely nodded in response to Al and Medium’s inquiries.

　He looked around at their faces, still unsure of how these connected to the answers, and continued.

“Chaos Frame… in other words, the inhabitants of the Magic City. They should be the ones surrounding the inn looking for an opportunity to strike.”

　――Abel clearly stated that the enemies were the inhabitants of Chaos Frame.

“――――”

　Subaru gaped at Abel’s assertion, jaws flapping in silence. –No, it wasn’t just Subaru. Al and the others reacted with bewilderment.

　That should be expected. To suddenly hear that the city’s residents had turned hostile was jarring.

“Is that really true? How did you come up with such an idea?”

“It’s a perfectly natural line of thought. Simply put, a force capable of surrounding the inn with hundreds of figures is limited. From that, we’re already down to two possibilities… the Emperor’s entourage and the fighting force of the Magic City. However, Chisha masqueraded as me. What I can’t do, they can’t do easily either.”

“So, you mean to say that it would be obvious that the Emperor’s soldiers wouldn’t come to the Magic City?”

“Exactly that.”

　While he was about to nod along with the assertive speech, Subaru couldn’t determine whether that piece of information was set in stone. The idea of a hundred soldiers accompanying the Emperor, he couldn’t gauge if that was significant or trivial.

　It could easily become a valid point.

“I’m not too familiar with this, but how many soldiers does your castle have, Abel?”

“Are you asking about the Imperial capital’s number? Then…”

　In response to Medium’s raised hand, Abel glanced at Subaru. With his intention unclear, he touched his forehead and, after a brief deliberation, stated,

“At least thirty thousand. However, that’s not about the available combat forces. The focus should be on whether the Emperor will send them or not. And—”

“Whether the actual Emperor would engage in such acts or not…”

“Indeed.”

　Nodding in agreement, Abel negated the easy-going disposition of the false Emperor.

　Despite hearing this, Subaru felt a sense of suspicion that perhaps the adversary had acted impulsively, but he remained mute, realizing his insights wouldn’t likely be entertained.

　In any case—

“The Emperor proclaimed to keep his hands off us, and Roswaal appeared ready to adhere to that. As long as that’s true, it doesn’t follow logic to dispatch troops against us.”

“…There might be some argument saying he didn’t act himself when considering that theory?”

“Then tell me, do you think I’ll permit him to use that theory?”

“I don’t think so.”

　In response to Talitta’s answer beside him, Al shook his swathed head similarly.

　Since the false Emperor was disguised as Abel, his standards of judgement had to be the same as those of the Emperor himself. In other words, what Abel wouldn’t approve of, the false Emperor couldn’t allow either.

　That means, they would have to maintain a facade of extreme caution.

“Even if they carefully twist reasoning, Kafma Ilurukusu won’t allow it. That man isn’t very flexible. Therefore he is a valuable resource, but Kafma’s generals wouldn’t overlook a misinterpretation.”

“Kafma… isn’t that the uptight guy from yesterday?”

“He’s obedient to the Emperor, but he doesn’t hesitate to voice his opinions even to a general if it doesn’t conform to logic. Roswaal’s cunningness pairs with Kafma’s unwavering convictions.”

“Does that guy really have that much power?”

“At one time, he was considered for elevation to the ‘Nine Divine Generals.’ Various circumstances caused it to be put on hold.”

　As Al picked up on Abel’s words, he muttered, “Ugh,” with a grimace.

　If that statement were true, two individuals on the level of ‘Nine Divine Generals’ had been present at the Crimson Lapis Castle yesterday—no, that included the false Emperor, leading to three in total.

　That truly might offer more reliability than bringing any ordinary military force with them.

“But if the fake Emperor isn’t the enemy…”

　As a natural consequence, Abel’s projections started to feel more plausible.

　That meant, the inhabitants of the Magic City Chaos Frame lying in wait outside, and that mastermind pulling their strings was—

“You’re saying Yorna is trying to have us attacked?”

“…It’s hard to imagine otherwise. After all, no one else knows about us well enough to target us.”

“—What does Abel think about this?”

　The residents of the Magic City Chaos Frame, those who could be manipulated as pawns. Naturally, when thinking about such individuals, the first to come to mind is Yorna Mishigure, the ruler of this Magic City.

　However, like Roswaal—no, perhaps even more so—could it be that this unreadable figure was the one orchestrating everything in these circumstances?

　As Subaru posed that question laden with suspicion, Abel struck his own forehead with a finger.

“I can’t abide by that.”

　The response was brief.

“You mean you can’t abide by it? As in, you can’t accept that? Why?”

“To presume that every question demands an answer is an act of arrogance. —As for the letter.”

“A letter?”

　Adding that unnecessary line, Abel answered Subaru’s inquiry.

　That letter was the missive delivered to Yorna yesterday. Getting that letter delivered had been the purpose for the day and the reason for the summons today.

　Yet Abel hadn’t told them the details of what he wrote in that letter.

“The letter specified that I would reward her with what she desires.”

“What does that sister of mine want… so, the position of Empress?”

“She wants a husband?”

　Responding to Abel’s mention of the letter, Al and Medium chimed in almost simultaneously.

　In their previous discussion, Yorna expressed her desire for an “Emperor”, which related to Abel, thus seeking “the position of Emperor.”

　So, if it was written that her wish would be granted, it could imply such things.

“How reasonable is it to express that in a letter?”

“Do not belittle the weight of your own perspectives. Regardless, it means she will get what she wishes. That’s why it was essential to call me to the castle. Even so, for her to send forces against us is irrational.”

“Is it possible that she might want to kill you because she doesn’t wish to marry you…?”

　Or perhaps she might want to murder him for having written something offensive in the letter.

　Given her behavior in direct conversation, it’s not far-fetched to consider she may conduct herself in a similar manner with a proposed spouse.

　However, Abel only scoffed at Subaru’s thoughts.

“If necessary, she will do just that. Emotions come secondary. She is no Priscilla.”

“I think that lady bears a striking resemblance to Princess in terms of troublesome nature!”

　Subaru found himself agreeing. Priscilla and Yorna were both fearsome in their own rights.

　Yet having felt the certainty in Abel’s tone, it seemed sensible enough. —Moreover, upon recalling Yorna from yesterday, he thought so.

“We, the masters of this Magic City, will not deceive you in the presence of my retainer.”

　That statement of Yorna’s as she smiled elegantly was essentially a promise that she wouldn’t discard the letters Subaru and associates presented without reading them.

　Still, shortly after, her retainer, Tanzer, visited Subaru and companions in the stable to say that “Yorna acknowledged you all.”

At least, she didn’t seem like someone who would arbitrarily overrule her own previous statements.

Since he couldn’t see that happening, he wanted to believe Abel’s claims.

“In any case, it’s about time the outsiders grew impatient. What will we do?”

　While keeping an eye on the outside, Talitta asked as it seemed they were approaching a limit.

　As for the matter of what conditions would provoke an attack on them—solely, they figured it to be that they needed to step outside. However, since the outside was wary and preparing to strike against them, it wasn’t known when they might burst in no matter what.

　Moreover, they were currently deep in a game of “Hide and Seek”.

“Well, even knowing that the people outside are about to charge in, we can’t just stay inside, can we?”

“Well, if that old man pulls a double bluff and hides in the inn again, it’s a different story… But for now, should we check the room once again?”

“I would’ve considered that if we didn’t have leads on ‘the lookout with a clear view.’”

　Al was disappointed as that suggestion was shot down by Abel.

　In truth, Subaru also contemplated that there was a chance Roswaal was hiding in the first room once more. Although, he hadn’t voiced it as he had been unable to connect it to “the lookout with a clear view”.

　Even while that discussion was ongoing, Subaru and the others solidified their strategy.

　It was obvious that turning back wouldn’t be an option. The question now being what strategy they should deploy for that one path to succeed.

“—Talitta, attract their attention.”

“Abel!?”

　In an instant, Abel’s order was perhaps the cruelest one he could have given.

　Talitta’s expression hardened as she received the order, and Subaru rebuked Abel with an incredulous tone. But Abel ignored Subaru’s outburst, continuing to address Talitta.

“Make a tremendous ruckus and draw the attention of the outsiders. In that time, we’ll slip out.”

“Abel, isn’t there a less reckless plan we could count on…?”

“There isn’t. Given the present circumstances, this is the best strategy we can manage with the cards we hold. Had you not shrunk in fear, there might have been alternative routes to pursue.”

“You’re being excessive!”

“Ouch!”

　Abel cut off Al, who was worried about Talitta.

　As Subaru snapped at Abel for his merciless demeanor, Louis also voiced her righteous indignation. Yet in reaction to Subaru and the others—

“Of course, I understand. I’ll draw the attention of the enemies outside.”

“Talitta-san! Please reconsider…”

　Talitta shook her head and was ready to accept Abel’s asinine order.

　Subaru wanted to secure her safety through a better plan. However, at that moment, all that floated through Subaru’s mind were two types: the anxiousness of the dangerous enemies outside and the fear that something bad would happen.

“Talitta, hand over your load. It will be necessary ahead.”

“Sorry. Even if I manage to draw enough attention, I don’t think I’ll have the luxury of signaling you guys.”

“That’s something for Medium to assess.”

“Me?”

　Abel took the load that Talitta had been carrying, and as it shifted to the thinner bag, Medium, who had been specifically named, sat up wide-eyed.

　As Abel turned back to her, he nodded.

“Even if you shrink in fear, your eyes should remain attentive. You’re the most suited for this within our ranks.”

“Alright then. I’ll keep a proper lookout! So, Talitta, be careful!”

“Yes.”

　Leaving Subaru behind, Abel, Talitta, and Medium swiftly progressed in their discussion.

　While Abel had his diligent mindset, Talitta and Medium were unshaken. Especially Talitta, having been entrusted with the most dangerous role.

“Then, let’s go.”

　As Talitta prepared to grip her bow and stepped steadily to the back door, Subaru reached a breaking point and called out, “Talitta-san!”

“Please don’t… die!”

“――――”

　How could he utter such an obvious statement—it disgusted him. If he couldn’t offer helpful advice or declare a foolproof plan, he should at least use words to boost Talitta’s morale.

　Yet, what came out was a quivering plea. —Despite that, Talitta loosened the corners of her eyes ever so slightly.

“Alright, let’s meet again later.”

　With a light smile, Talitta’s body shot out into the outside world.

　Just before she disappeared, Abel threw one last piece of advice towards Talitta.

“Talitta, you need not hold back. Treat it seriously. —The inhabitants of this city won’t let anyone die easily.”

　It was a jarring warning that could neither be considered encouraging nor a strategy for certain victory.

　――The moment Talitta took a step outside, a fierce surge of hostility swelled.

　Feeling that forbidden sensation wash over her brown skin, Talitta squinted as she scanned her surroundings in one quick sweep.

　For one who lived as a hunter among the People of Shudrak, grasping the immediate geography and situations in a flash was a fundamental skill, of which Talitta was no exception.

　――No, rather than that, Talitta had been entrusted with leadership among her kin by her sister Mizelda.

　Thus, Talitta needed to excel in these skills compared to others of her Shudrak kin, and she truly excelled at it.

“—Ah.”

　With a slight breath caught in her throat, Talitta gauged the number of hostilities directed at her.

　Surrounding her were roughly a hundred hostile intentions but of those, less than twenty sensed her as she leaped out from the back door.

　Moreover, among those, even fewer were capable of swift movement.

　Initially, she turned to spot one and—

“—No!”

　Recalling Abel’s instruction to give it her all just before she leaped out, that advice sprang to mind.

　Abel was a proud man, a handsome one. He met the criteria for what Mizelda found appealing, yet Talitta was not particularly fond of him. Talitta was easily influenced by pushy types, and facing someone with personalities like her sister or Abel left her tongue-tied.

　Thus, Talitta preferred those who would listen to her. Especially since it took her time to organize her thoughts, she often felt dizzy when pressured.

　Seen from that angle, someone like Flopp, left back in Gwararu, was much more accommodating—

“—What on earth are you thinking?”

　A momentary embarrassment warmed her face, and with a furious resolve, Talitta pulled back the bowstring.

　In an instant, three arrows were unleashed all at once. Talitta’s archery skills kicked in, directing three arrows precisely at different targets.

　One arrow shot straight, and two arched over the exterior path outside the inn, each piercing their respective prey.

　The three men who had turned to face Talitta and lunged toward her had their necks and chests shot through, losing their combat capabilities in an instant.

“Hunting is just fine.”

　Not having to engage in conversation suited Talitta well.

　The prey did not wish for her to speak. Nor did Talitta desire any bond with her targeted victims. Their sole encounter involved arrows clashing upon release.

　Furthermore, the birth of new life and the acceptance of death don’t require much dialogue.

“—Oh!”

　Roaring as they were shot, multiple figures dashed toward the path in exchange.

　The first one Talitta spotted was a bullfolk beastman, a figure of immense stature. The man, sporting short and robust horns atop his head, charged forward, exploiting his physique to its maximum along with a booming shout.

　To encounter him head-on could crush Talitta’s slight figure completely.

　Yet there was no option to retreat back or sideways. Even leaping upwards, it would be likely that feet could snag her.

　Having painted herself into a corner, Talitta crouched low and charged forward.

“What!?”

　Surprised by her unexpected action, the bullman’s eyes widened as Talitta extended her legs, smashing her foot against his face and using him as leverage to launch herself.

　Bending her knees to cushion the impact, Talitta victimized the bullman’s face and leaped effortlessly into the air, twisting herself halfway mid-flight.

“――――”

　Spinning, she captured a 360-degree view, now able to spot surroundings that had eluded her previously—hiding in the shadows of the buildings, on rooftops, and anywhere else around the city were various threats preparing to make their attack, which she swiftly identified.

“I’m running low on arrows.”

　Talitta stated straightforwardly as she pulled multiple arrows from the quiver strapped to her back and nocked them onto her bow, releasing a barrage with dizzying speed at her foes.

　The number of enemies identified vastly exceeded her remaining arrows. Regretfully, she had no choice but to prioritize taking down the most threatening foes, relying on her intuition to cull the strongest amongst them.

　Overlooking the peculiar discrepancies in their appearances at present—

“Whoa!?”

　A depraved hail of arrows spiraled through the air, striking those shot and forcing them to tumble backwards from the impact.

　Following Abel’s advice, she unleashed merciless strikes at the crucial points, targeting chests and necks, aiming for the eyes and mouths wherever possible to deliver fatal strikes, crippling roughly thirty enemies in total.

　However, by the end of this initial clash, she had already exhausted her arrows.

　Now it was left to her to recover any used arrows possible while playing decoy—

“…This wasn’t part of the plan.”

　As she paused to reclaim the arrows from those she’d shot down, Talitta’s steps faltered.

　As a warrior of Shudrak, Talitta had shot countless beasts until now. While they took different forms, the tactile sensation of hitting vital points in living creatures was clear when firing her bow.

　From that experience, she had had confidence in claiming the adversaries she struck would pass into the next world.

“Grr…!”

　Yet, with groans, those who stood resolutely were clearly alive.

　Even if they didn’t die, they should’ve at least been severely wounded. Or so she thought, as they stared defiantly at Talitta with unyielding eyes not yet dulled by death.

　As they stared at Talitta, an unmistakable change emerged.

“What’s happening?”

　Furrowing her brows, Talitta questioned the newly risen bullman. However, the man did not respond. Yet, the peculiar alteration happening to him was markedly bizarre.

　—That right eye was engulfed in a red flame.

“――――”

　It wasn’t just the bullman whose eyes were ablaze.

　Those who fell from Talitta’s arrows, despite being shot down, all bore similar qualities—be it one eye or the other, they all had red flames blazing in their respective eyes as they glared at Talitta.

　And it wasn’t just those Talitta had shot.

　The ones who arrived late to encircle Talitta were similarly illuminated with the same fiery gaze.

　The flames fluttered and scattered like sparks.

　The shocking part was the fire began to burn and heal the wounds inflicted.

　The bullman’s smashed nose, the arrow wounds from those who had been shot down, all were swiftly mended.

“…Abel, that was somewhat vague, don’t you think?”

　That scene intersected with Abel’s prior advice, and letting out a heavy sigh, Talitta murmured.

　Talitta was unsure but realized Abel could’ve seen this outcome as plausible. Thus, a more explicit warning would have been appreciated.

　So, while reflecting on the person who continually pushed the conversation forward, she unconsciously hoped for this.

　However—

“My role is to be a decoy, not to annihilate the enemy.”

　For that reason, in terms of focusing on her duties, she could say this was going according to plan.

　Next was—

“…I’ll have to break the arrows.”

　One by one, the shot targets proceeded to snap the arrows embedded in their bodies. The chance to reclaim the arrows had slipped away, rendering Talitta’s mastery of archery into a close-ended affair.

　That said, would it leave her completely defenseless?

“Hunters use daggers and stones as well, don’t they?”

　Talitta crouched low, swiftly drawing the dagger concealed within her ceremonial attire while holding her emptied bow, ready to face the onslaught.

　Thus, the war of retaliation for Talitta had only just begun.

　“—Talitta’s amazing…!”

　Running while still observing the fiery appearance of the flame-bearing foes, Subaru trembled as he exclaimed.

　The performance of Talitta had far exceeded Subaru’s expectations.

　Honestly, being shy and reserved by nature, he’d underestimated Talitta’s capabilities compared to the others within Shudrak.

　Most notably, he had witnessed her feeling powerless against Roswaal moments ago.

　Undoubtedly, Mizelda had nominated her as the next leader, so he should’ve accepted she shared nearly equal power with Kuna and Holly.

　Yet, witnessing that impeccable aim, rapid-fire, and incredible choreography against such overwhelming odds, It made him wonder if she was on par with Mizelda—or even surpassed her abilities.

“Even so…”

　Even with the astonishment of Talitta’s skills, the peculiarity of the attackers couldn’t be ignored.

　For starters, there was how they looked. After all, none of them were wearing armor or wielding any kind of weapons. They were unarmed.

　Their appearances were just like those of the numerous people Subaru had passed since the arrival in this Chaos Frame—a very unusual-looking civilian residing in this Magic City.

　Yet those very civilians surrounded Subaru and his party, suffering from Talitta’s exceptional skill shows as they stood tall, bearing grievous injuries without hesitation.

　At a glance, there were women and children among them, suggesting they weren’t merely gathered fighters, perhaps leaving Talitta feeling bewildered.

　She had masterfully drawn attention, and at Medium’s signal, Subaru and the others rushed forth. Yet, he wasn’t sure if fleeing was the right call, nor if he should assist Talitta.

　With so much uncertainty, the choices kept spinning inside Subaru’s head.

　While he stood to the side, AbelAdjusting his bags, nodded towards the same scene.

“They certainly have cast an entire city-wide ‘Soul Marriage Technique.’”

“Con Con…? Hey hey, Abel! What’s that all about?”

“They’re akin to the puppeteers in opposition to Talitta’s struggle.”

　With hurried footsteps, Al called out to Abel, who portrayed a cryptic answer.

　While the contents didn’t fully register, one clear fact emerged—Abel must have had insight into the connection between the fiery pupils and the assailants.

“Abel! Don’t you dare keep secrets! Tell me everything!”

“—Ancient texts spoke of a long-lost forbidden art—‘Soul Marriage Technique’—the act of sharing a piece of one’s soul with another to augment their capabilities.”

“W-what? What does that even mean?!”

“To put it plainly, those bound by the ‘Soul Marriage Technique’ share part of their power. And within this city, there exists only one user of the ‘Soul Marriage Technique’—”

　As both Subaru and Al urged him, Abel offered as simplified a response as possible.

　Even so, the explanation was still rather puzzling for Subaru, but he managed to grasp the nuance.

　This meant—

“—Everything that comprises this Magic City shares Yorna Mishigure’s power. For this reason, this city cannot be easily conquered.”