I Like Villains, so I Reincarnated as One
After recovering by drinking a magic restoration potion, I endured a lecture from Rosalia about my reckless actions. Then, in the lord’s chamber, I reviewed a report that Rosalia had brought from the Adventurers’ Guild. The report mentioned sightings of numerous monsters deep in the mountains—apparently, there were more orcs, goblins, and various other creatures than usual. A few adventurers who sought quick riches had gone missing. This situation reminded me of an event from the game.
This was likely a precursor to a “Stampede,” an event where monsters appear in massive numbers.
“I remember the protagonists defeated Weiss and then took on hordes of monsters that not only invaded Hamilton territory but also the surrounding lands… It was an event where they earned the trust of the citizens by defeating neglected monsters… So this must be the cause.”
The monsters are powerful. If I don’t come up with a plan, the stampede could invade our territory and lower the loyalty of the citizens that we’ve worked so hard to raise. Moreover… I’ve grown fond of them since we started talking. I want to avoid any sacrifices if possible. What should I do…? As I sighed, there was a knock, and Rosalia entered.
“Excuse me, Lord Weiss. I’ve brought you lunch. Since you said you love my cooking, I put a lot of effort into it.”
“Meg! You didn’t have to say that!”
“Hehe, I was happy to hear it. I’ll keep trying my best from now on.”
She smiled at me, but after her recent emotional breakdown, she seemed a bit embarrassed. I wanted to tell her, “That wasn’t me—it was Weiss!” But I knew it would just make me sound crazy.
Trying to brush off those feelings, I asked her a question.
“So… this is really happening, right? There are five monster nests… Can’t we ask Kaiser and his men to take care of them now?”
“I think it’s better not to provoke them prematurely. The Hamilton guards aren’t experienced in cave fighting or large-scale battles. Normally, hiring strong adventurers would be the way to go…”
“But we’ve already spent a lot on debt repayment, hiring extra guards for security, and developing new industries…”
“Yes… We can’t afford to be reckless…”
“What about asking neighboring territories for reinforcements? If the monsters overflow, nearby territories won’t be safe either.”
“That’s true… but… Unlike your predecessor, Lord Weiss hasn’t attended many parties, so… we lack connections.”
“Yeah, it’s not like we can suddenly ask for help without prior interaction…”
Rosalia and I both sighed deeply. Though we’ve increased the number of guards, most are still recruits and currently undergoing training. They’re not ready for real combat yet.
The loyalty of the populace is still low, and imposing heavy taxes would only worsen things. Shit, we’re screwed! But no, I can’t give up! I need to make Weiss and Rosalia happy!
“Fortunately, it seems we still have some time before the monsters leave their caves. Let’s figure out a solution.”
“Yeah, you’re right…”
In the heavy atmosphere, another knock sounded, and Meg entered the room. Her bright voice brought a small sense of relief.
“Excuse me, Lord Weiss. You have a letter.”
“Ah, thank you. What’s it about?”
“It appears to be an invitation to a birthday party from the Bloody Marquis family. Their second daughter, Aegis, is close to your age, so perhaps they thought you might enjoy the company.”
“A party, huh… Not exactly the time for that… Wait! Aegis… Aegis Bloody?!”
Meg’s words left me speechless. Aegis Bloody was an enemy character encountered later in the game. She was infamous for ripping off her fiancé’s head after he broke off their engagement, earning her the nickname “The Crimson Villainess.”
She was also one of the toughest enemies in the game, wielding an ancestral magic sword, with skills that bordered on cheating: heightened evasion through mind’s eye, defense-ignoring attacks, and double strikes. A beautiful yet cold-hearted woman who treated her subordinates like pawns, she was beloved by female fans and even garnered a cult following among certain masochistic male players due to her icy demeanor.
Normally, I’d think it wise to avoid her… but the Bloody family is known for its martial prowess. Although they were in decline at the start of the game, it seems they’ve regained enough power to host parties now.
If we get along, maybe they’ll lend us their strength…
Fortunately, I know some basic information about Aegis’ preferences. With my knowledge of the game, I might be able to win her over.
“Got it. Send a reply saying I’ll attend.”
I began calculating how to befriend her, despite the risk of being despised. Desperation has its own logic—I’m just trying to survive.
Besides… maybe she, like Weiss, has some unspoken pain that the game never revealed. Fortunately, we still have some time before the game officially begins. If I can save her, I want to try…
