Chapter 15

Side: Shou Amanohashi

Even though it’s not uncommon to see foreigners even in local cities these days, Noctia stands out with her companions.

Pritia, Sanctina, and Filia were also known for their looks over there. During the day, as Kitamura caused a commotion, they often attracted the attention of men. Noctia, being a demon, was unsure how she was treated.

Of course, they drew attention even before arriving here, but it didn’t seem to bother them much.

The family restaurant was relatively busy, perhaps due to mealtime. After waiting about ten minutes, they were shown to a table where all five could sit.

What impressed me, though, was that all four of them seemed accustomed to their surroundings, not glancing around in surprise.

“Feel free to order whatever you like. This side has drinks, and that side has sweets.”

It seems they can read Japanese thanks to the effects of magic items, but they mentioned that many of the words are still difficult to understand. In that regard, the family restaurant menu is easy to understand with its pictures.

It might be a bit surreal to see the princess of the greatest nation in that world, a saint, an elf, and a demon lord looking at a family restaurant menu.

Of course, since they’re dressed casually as foreigners now, there’s no particular awkwardness.

I ordered from the drink bar while they ordered wine and some items that could serve as desserts or snacks.

“This place isn’t half bad,” Sanctina remarked.

“Indeed. A place where children can come at this hour…” Pritia added, glancing around the restaurant.

In that world, children rarely walked outside after dark. There were taverns, but it seemed children weren’t allowed in.

Soon, the alcohol arrived, and I brought drinks from the drink bar so we could all start sipping.

“It’s delicious,” Noctia said.

“Indeed,” Filia replied.

Noctia and Filia were slightly surprised after taking a sip of the wine. It was probably not in comparison to higher-end alcohol, but rather in comparison to the atmosphere and prices of the restaurant.

I believe the quality of alcohol available to the common folk here surpasses that of Japan. I’ve never drunk alcohol, so I can only imagine.

I hope this helps them unwind a little.

Side: Sanctina

Walking outside on my own has made me realize many things.

The streetlights are everywhere, and the city is bright even at night. It’s a continuous surprise to see a woman walking alone. What a wonderful country this is.

I remember the time after Kakeru was summoned.

The new hero was a man who had never even been in a fight. Noblemen and bishops had grumbled about how difficult it would be to raise him.

He was taught that the role of the hero was to fight demons and save humanity, and I thought it was his destiny, just as it was for me to be a saint.

Thus, I didn’t realize at that time that Kakeru had no reason to fight for that world.

Now, Kakeru seems joyful. It must be fun for him to return to his homeland and eat out.

I pray for his future happiness and raise my glass.

Ah… it’s really delicious. It doesn’t seem to be a particularly high-class establishment, but the balance of fruit flavors and the taste of the alcohol is quite nice.

The dishes and glasses also seem of high quality. In that world, one would typically go to a place like this only if they had some social standing.

However, this seems like a tavern where common folk gather. It’s interesting to compare the differences.

“Don’t hesitate to refill your glasses,” Kakeru said cheerfully, and Pritia and the others seemed delighted.

As we talked, the food and desserts arrived. Everything looked delicious. However, seeing this alcohol and food makes me worry about the cost.

Well, it would be rude to talk about money right now. Let’s try a bite of the cake we ordered.

“…It’s sweet and delicious.”

The fluffy and soft cream and dough. The fruit is just the right sweetness, exquisite. Though tastes differ by country and region, I think delicacies are relatively precious. This seems to be a prosperous country.

For common children to enjoy such sweet treats—it feels like a dream.

“Good, I’m glad it suits your taste.”

“I don’t live a life of extravagance every day either. Even after starting that job, I continued my primary research.”

Listening to the cheerful voices of the people around them, Noctia began to speak about herself.

Everyone is aware that Kakeru is concerned about our situation. Despite our individual thoughts, we have decided to put an end to any pointless disputes while we are here.

By sharing her own story, Noctia—who has the least interaction with us and remains quite mysterious—seems to be trying to convey this message.

“Research, huh…”

“That’s what scholars and researchers are like. We’ll discuss the research topic another time.”

Indeed, she has shown no signs of dissatisfaction with her life since arriving here. What I’ve heard about the reality of demons is vastly different.

Are all demons like Noctia? No, that’s not the case. She became a demon lord against her will. While she must have had the strength and qualifications to do so, it can also be inferred that there was something compelling her to accept it.

“This place is quite comfortable. I don’t want to go back. Honestly, I’ll just be forced into unwanted circumstances if I do.”

When Noctia said this, Prichia seemed to share her feelings, and Kakeru looked surprised.

Returning will not grant us any freedom. While I’m not sure about Filia, Prichia will soon be forced into a marriage with a member of foreign royalty, and I am destined to remain single, serving God for the rest of my life.

“Honestly, I don’t really want to rush back either…”

I can sense Kakeru feels a sense of responsibility. That’s why it might be best to express our true feelings sooner rather than later.

“I never said I wanted to go back.”

“Everyone…”

Finally, when Filia expressed her current feelings, Noctia couldn’t help but laugh at Kakeru’s bewilderment.

“Ufu, this is amusing. Regardless of our desires, we have become a community of shared fate. I will continue my research. It’s not a burden to have means. When the time comes, we can decide.”

A community of shared fate. Noctia’s words may resonate the most. Perhaps it doesn’t feel so bad because I have little attachment to that world.

“If that’s the case, I’d like to work on something.”

“That’s true…”

Prichia and Filia also began to think about what lies ahead. Noctia has her research, but we have nothing to do.

Kakeru is still confused, but I am starting to feel excited.

I want to know more—about Kakeru and about this world.