I left Romilda to Sofia and for now, I read the Documents. What is about to happen… though, it’s only about the previous battle. Since proceeding as is won’t change the outcome, I must change my actions somewhere.

“There’s a different kind of trouble than the War with the Demon Lord…”

Of course, there were unexpected things in that battle too. But I understood the full scope of the Demon King, and it was a battle along the Leader line of the Story, so dealing with it wasn’t that difficult.

This time, I don’t fully grasp the enemy’s entire scope. That’s a major sticking point.

“However, it would be different if I had enough power to completely seal off the opponent.”

In the end, it comes down to that. Unlike the previous battle, I also have information. Furthermore, Romilda has also gained power. Precisely because of these points, I should be able to defeat them this time.

By noon, I had ingrained the Documents in my mind and began to organize my thoughts. The actions we should take are—

“Ugh, there’s too much to do.”

It’s true that I have to choose what to acquire, but…

“Should the priority be to rush the Spirits with Time Reversal Magic and train the people who will confront Sofia and the Knight?”

Or… in Sofia’s case, she has a Trump Card. Garuku seems to be aware of this, as I suddenly heard a voice.

“As for Princess Sofia, there’s the Divine Spirit Sword, isn’t there?”

“…Ultimately, that might be it.”

“Currently, only she can use it, so there’s no need to worry about it being stolen.”

In the previous battle, the Spirits’ investigation wasn’t completed in time, so they probably couldn’t bring the sword.

“Will that alone solve it… or is that enough?”

“I don’t know. If Lord Ruon is uneasy, there’s also the idea of being extra cautious.”

What to do… In this case, the problem is what kind of battle Sofia went through.

Richard being vague about the outcome is understandable if Sofia was the cause. However, even if that were the case, there should at least be a description like “Sofia fought in this way.” But there isn’t. This probably means Richard himself wasn’t there.

In other words, he knows the result but doesn’t know the circumstances that led to it. Therefore, it’s even conceivable that Sofia might—before being able to utilize the Divine Spirit Sword, even if she possessed it.

“If there was someone like my Resveil who could act independently of her will, that would be a different story.”

“But that’s a high hurdle. Even for Spirit Creation, since there are no Divine Spirits, a being like Resveil cannot be created here. To counter Nefmeiza’s Plan, considerable power would be needed, wouldn’t it? It might be difficult.”

Indeed, what to do… Candidates emerged from my knowledge of the game, and I considered them one by one in my head. Even after lunch, I continued to think about it.

I continued to ponder various things, and as a result, night fell without a conclusion. It was almost time for the Feast, so I was changed into different clothes, but…

“Mr. Ruon, you look good.”

“…Thanks.”

I don’t know if it’s formal wear, but I was given something like a Noble’s outfit and changed into it. The black-based attire fit my height perfectly, and I didn’t feel much discomfort.

“Mr. Ruon has a decent physique, so he looks good.”

“Is that so?”

“At least unlike me, you’re not swimming in it.”

Richard’s clothes, as he said, were navy blue. They felt somewhat loose, creating an atmosphere where if I were a Knight, he would be a Magic-user.

“Speaking of which, Mr. Ruon.”

“Hmm, what is it?”

“Have you ever seen Ms. Sofia in a dress?”

…Now that you mention it, I don’t remember. We met in prison when she was wearing a cloak, and at the Feast after defeating the Demon King, it was informal, and we participated in our usual clothes.

“No.”

“Then this will be the first time. But it’s strange to have a Feast in such a place.”

“Absolutely.”

This kind of setting is mostly new to me, so I’m a little nervous… Well, among the people gathered, the only noble figures are Sofia and the Marquises, so maybe I don’t need to be too stiff.

“Everyone’s gathering.”

Abel’s voice. I turned my gaze to see Abel in similar clothes to mine, and Yusuka beside him.

“Mr. Abel, hello. Who else from ‘Sword of Heaven’ is here?”

“Several Executive Class members. About half men and half women. It should be a good opportunity to speak with the Marquis.”

After he spoke, men came from behind. However, I didn’t recognize them, and they were definitely not characters who would become allies in the game.

“Is it really alright for me to be here?”

Yusuka murmured anxiously. I understand why a former Knight would be anxious.

“You don’t really need to worry about that, do you?”

After replying, I looked around. The women seemed to be changing elsewhere, and their figures were not visible.

It’s almost time, so let’s head to the venue.

Yeah.

The moment Richard replied, we started walking. Then,

Oh, they’re here.

Anastasia was standing there on the way. However, her attire hadn’t changed.

Are you planning to go through like that?

There’s no problem with me, is there? Besides, if I’m dressed like this, it’ll make things easier for you.

I thought to myself, “That’s a good way to put it,” and then asked her,

What about the other women…

Oh, they should be done changing soon. Women have it harder than you men, don’t they?

Saying that, Anastasia started laughing.

Princess Sofia was impressive, as expected, but the others looked like they were being worn by their dresses.

That can’t be helped… Can we enter the venue?

Yes, Exon seems to be in charge of the proceedings, so you can eat and drink as you please. I’ll do the same.

She started leading us. We followed her, and eventually reached the venue. The setup was already complete, with several tables and lavish food laid out on them.

It seemed to be a standing reception, with no designated standing positions. I vaguely looked at Abel, and he gave a small nod, leading the organization’s members to the front table.

What should we do…? At this point, Richard pointed to a nearby table and went over to it.

Yusuka was also at the table. The three of us waited for it to begin—

Oh, that looks quite good on you.

Exon’s voice from behind. I turned around to see him smiling.

The women will be here soon, so please wait a little until then.

Understood.

Hearing my reply, he passed us and went to the front. As the lord of the mansion, he seemed to be the master of ceremonies… that looks like a tough job.

We’re more like supporting characters.

At that moment, Richard suddenly muttered.

It’s nominally a social gathering. The Marquises and the members of the “Sword of Heaven” should be the ones doing the talking.

Well, that’s true… And it’s better that way. I’d rather not be on the front lines.

However, if we win this war and there’s a celebration, Sir Ruon will definitely have to step forward.

…It was similar during the War with the Demon Lord, but that was tough.

Well, I should probably think of some clever words now.

That’s a bit premature…

After that exchange, the sound of a door opening came from behind. It seemed the women had arrived.