Seeker 337

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Chapter 337. War Council (2)

"We have a suggestion as well. May we speak?"

It was one of the senior Mononofu who spoke.

When Mikoto-san prompted him to continue, the middle-aged man said,

"This is a matter of national defense. It is a shame for us Mononofu, who are supposed to protect the people, to leave the risk solely to the princess, Mikoto-sama, and the foreign adventurers. We respectfully request to join the battle against Yamata no Orochi."

In essence, they wanted to accompany us to the battlefield.

Hearing this, I reflexively showed some reluctance.

"You say that, but—pardon me for saying this—but isn't it just a pointless death? According to Mikoto-san, half-hearted attacks won't even scratch it. No offense, but you would just be a hindrance... No, wait."

As I said this, I realized a tactical possibility.

However, this might result in more casualties...

Meanwhile, the senior Mononofu smiled wryly at my reaction.

"Ah, you've noticed, foreign adventurer. Many among us can use earth and water magic. While not useful in attack, we can take on healing roles."

At this statement, murmurs of admiration filled the room.

It may be odd for me to say this, having not noticed it at first, but this is a rather straightforward war council.

Nevertheless, it was quite an appealing suggestion.

If I could focus solely on attacking without worrying about healing, I could unleash the full power of the divine spear and [Triple Strike].

Honestly, I really wanted to accept their offer.

Adding such a positive factor to our forces would greatly reduce our risk.

However, there was something I needed to say.

I replied to the senior Mononofu,

"Pardon me, but wanting to risk your life as a warrior is your opinion, right? Do those who can use healing magic also wish to go to the battlefield? Even as healers, facing such a formidable enemy carries significant risk. I believe their will should be respected."

What came to mind was the image of subordinates being sent to die against their will.

Having experienced a harsh corporate environment, I didn't want to perpetuate such unreasonable demands.

But it seems my concern was unnecessary.

Just as the senior Mononofu showed signs of anger, the sliding doors of the meeting room flung open.

"We've heard everything, foreign adventurer! I am Toubei, a water mage! Please allow me to join the battle!"

"I am Yashichi, an earth mage! If I can help defeat the hated Yamata no Orochi, please let me join!"

With such words, numerous Mononofu flooded into the room, piling on top of each other.

Seeing this, the senior Mononofu showed an exasperated look and a headache gesture.

"I told you it was fine to listen outside the room, but not to come inside. Do you understand, this warrants punishment."

"We understand! But if it's to defeat Yamata no Orochi, please command us to the battlefield!"

"Alright, alright. That's what I was telling the adventurer."

...I get it. It seems I was the one out of place.

Despite the overly homey atmosphere, I decided not to mind.

"Is that agreeable, adventurer?"

"Understood. If they wish to, I would be grateful for their help."

"If the military didn't operate on personal will, it wouldn't function. Your perspective seems different from ours, adventurer."

"Indeed. I apologize."

I reflected on this different viewpoint.

After further discussions, a plan for the Yamata no Orochi battle was finalized.

Whether it would succeed, we would only know by trying.

We prepared thoroughly and faced the main event the next day.

And then, the decisive moment arrived—