Chapter 41: The Promised Victory of Hero Ryuguin II
Gilbert shrugged and spoke with a hint of exasperation.
“You were just publicly humiliated and accused of being a liar in front of so many people. I saw it all. How unfortunate for you. I truly think it’s terrible. I could never do something like that. I can’t understand how everyone is capable of such actions. That’s the epitome of inhumane behavior.
But don’t worry. My thoughts differ a bit from theirs.
You see, I believe that lies can be forgiven if there’s a reason behind them.”
“Re-reason?”
Ryuguin echoed Gilbert’s words, his tone questioning.
“Exactly. A reason. There’s a saying in your world, ‘the end justifies the means,’ right? We have a similar mindset here. I think lies can sometimes be necessary. However, when you’re a clergyman, like the Pope and the other rigid-minded folks, it’s a different story… But you seem to have a more flexible way of thinking.”
“Ah, you seem to understand the subtleties of things.”
Ryuguin’s haughty demeanor prompted Gilbert to nod in agreement.
“To rise in any world or field, you can’t just rely on pretty words. That’s true even for my organization—the Klaatel Church, which claims to revere God.
Look over there.
Some people are turning pale at what I just said—though I must admit, I share their views to some extent, so I don’t intend to criticize them.”
Gilbert wore a mischievous smile, like a playful child.
“That said, if you choose to lie to rise up, I think that’s perfectly natural.”
Ryuguin showed a serious expression, as if he was deeply moved.
“So it’s only natural that I want to borrow your strength.”
“What should I do…?”
Ryuguin, now intrigued, asked with a hint of modesty.
“Oh, it’s simple. Just continue to lend your wisdom in various fields as you have until now. And please, don’t misunderstand. I’m not asking for anything difficult. If you provide ideas and insights, I will take full responsibility and provide the funds and top-tier personnel to implement them.”
Ryuguin licked his lips.
“You want me to work under you?”
Even though the answer was already decided, Ryuguin hesitated to nod, perhaps trying to negotiate better terms.
“Oh, my apologies. I’m not forcing you to become my subordinate or to join the Klaatel organization. That might have been a bit unclear. Essentially, I’m asking you to act as an external consultant.”
“Consultant… external advisor…”
Ryuguin murmured something in response to Gilbert’s words, but I couldn’t catch it.
“I am convinced that utilizing your vast knowledge and extraordinary ideas will contribute to the development of this world, rather than judging and punishing you.”
Ryuguin, gathering his resolve, asked.
“If, if I were to agree to your proposal…”
“Yes, yes.”
“Would I have to live like you all do?”
Ryuguin hesitated, vaguely referring to “like you all” as he turned to Gilbert.
“I can imagine what you mean by ‘like you all,’ but the Klaatel Church doesn’t have overly strict rules, you know—”
Gilbert glanced at a few church members nearby.
“After all, we have our share of unseemly priests.”
A few individuals in Gilbert’s line of sight trembled at his words. Once he confirmed this, he sighed in exasperation.
“Well, I don’t think it’ll be a problem. Besides, you’re considered an outsider to the Klaatel Church.”
Ryuguin closed his eyes dramatically, pretending to ponder like a clever monk. He exaggeratedly tried to present himself as more significant. After nearly two minutes of this, he finally—
“I think I will accept your proposal. If my knowledge can serve as the foundation for your lives, I will gladly assist.”
Upon hearing Ryuguin’s words, Gilbert’s face brightened.
“Ohhh!! Today is truly a wonderful day!! Holy Knight-kun and Hero-kun are perfectly suited for their roles. Two heroes have been born on this day! What could be more magnificent than this?
From now on, everyone will refer to this day as ‘Hero Memorial Day’!
Let’s give a grand round of applause for him—for Arcana and for the future of this world—!!”
In a room where no one clapped, only Gilbert beamed with joy, clapping his hands together with a loud “Clap clap—!!” Ryuguin didn’t seem displeased either.
“By the way, Hero-kun, the women you brought along were all beautiful.”
The sudden change of topic made Ryuguin nod, “Yeah, uh-huh.”
“They’re women I’ve carefully selected over a long time.”
“I see. So, do you have other ‘women’ aside from them?”
“Well, that’s the case. I probably have around twenty or thirty? All of them are obedient and cute, my women.”
“Wow! That’s impressive! But they say ‘heroes have a taste for beauty,’ so I suppose that’s only natural for you?”
Gilbert’s words made Ryuguin smile broadly.
“I believe that to achieve success, one must be energetic. That kind of exceptional energy often leads to seeking out many women.”
“Haha! I see!! I’m in awe, Hero-kun!!
Well, that’s perfect.
You’ll be working closely with me from now on, and honestly, the Sisters of Klaatel are quite beautiful! I’m sure you’ll be satisfied.”
Ryuguin grinned, envisioning the future of his impending victory.
Why doesn’t he realize it?
The aura emanating from Gilbert, who spoke so casually and frivolously, sent shivers down my spine.
☆《Ring of Friendship》☆
An item equipped by Gilbert.
It has the effect of making the speaker more persuasive, allowing the listener to open their heart.
However, it has little effect on those who are suspicious or adversarial, so its rarity isn’t particularly high.
Yet, if used correctly, it can demonstrate incredibly powerful effects, making this rarity somewhat underestimated.
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Please allow me to promote something a few times!
The paper version of this work’s comic adaptation will be released on 11/19! Both volumes 1 and 2 will be released simultaneously!
Until now, it was only available in digital format, but finally, the paper version will be available!
I’m so incredibly happy!
It includes scenes with the dog-like Eris and the haughty Ryuguin.
I hope everyone will get their hands on it!