Seirei Gensouki Konna Sekai De Deaeta Kimi Ni
Chapter 22's

Rio explained his state with Latifa to Arthura and the others.

That he was on his way to Yagumo.

Latifa was once raised as a human slave.

About how she met Latifa in the middle of her journey.

And how he released Latifa from slavery.

And he plans to give Latifa to people who have passion.

「As I thought, this side is completely wrong, isn't it? My apologies………… . . 」

After listening to the entire story, Arthura lowered her head with a sad expression.

Latifa, who was the talk of things, either because she was tired or maybe because she had given up on understanding the complicated story, slept through the story on Rio's lap. No matter how you say it, it becomes the best proof of his attachment to Rio.

「Uzuma dear, it is not an exaggeration for me to say that this problem becomes complicated because of your busyness. Will you at least let us hear your reasons? [1] 」

Arthura asked Uzuma, the winged woman, in tongues.

「That, from what I heard from Oufia, she saw a trace of abuse and something that caused her ODO to fall apart and put her into a deep sleep, the man ………. . I got the wrong idea about the things he did to her ..

Against his will, Uzuma is forced to testify about his reason for attacking Rio. A large amount of cold sweat appeared on his forehead. [2]

「From hearing the story to the end, it seems that the boy was fast asleep so that he did not cry at night. First of all, you always jump to the wrong conclusion, even though it always says that you will be thinking about things a little more [3]. Attacking without thinking of the consequences, this idiot [4]. How could that warrior head become a regretful person? Isn't most of this your fault? Don't you think it's unnatural or strange? N? 」

「My deepest apology! E, honorable elder. 」

Uzuma shrank even smaller as she apologized to Arthura.

「Don't apologize to me. You should reflect carefully on your mistakes in your heart, Your punishment will be decided in the older Council today. For now, be nice and apologize to Rio-dono. Understood it? 」

"Yes……"

Besides, Sara, Oufia, Alma, that includes all of you as well. Sooner or later you will also become the leader of this country. It's a sad problem for me that, despite your training, you still failed to stop the lone Uzuma rampaging 」

「You, Yes! 」

The wolf, elf, and dwarf girl twitched as she called out their respective names.

「Although there is actually no need to give you a sentence, I hope you contemplate this case in your heart」

「Y, Yes!」

The three girls lowered their heads so deeply.

"My apology . Rio-dono, I was too engrossed in giving the girls a lesson 」

Arthura, who finished with her scolding, lowered her head to Rio again.

Although Rio pitied the quartet that seemed to have just been scolded, he only watched them silently, as he could not understand them.

「By the way, Rio-dono, incidentally, you are not cold,?」

Arthura, who noticed Rio's bad skin, showed it.

「Er ~ m, just a little cold …………. 」[5]

Rio, with a glance, showed his appearance of only wearing underwear under the blanket. Arthura sighed looking at her miserable state.

「………………. . It was also our fault, wasn't it? We will soon prepare a special elf medicine. The meeting of the elders will begin after the break of dawn. After that, there will be an official apology from the entire spirit race. Until then, please sleep on that bed 」

"Thank you very much"

Looking at the bed that Arthura pointed at, Rio thanked her.

At that time, Uzuma's pale expression somehow subsided, then she said something to the wolf girl. Sara began to speak, translating Uzuma's words.

「It, uh ~ m, Rio-sama, Uzuma apologized to you ....」.

Uzuma sat in seiza, then lowered her head to the ground in a state of panic.

Also known as DOGEZA. [6]

「About that, please also accept our apology. For our unjust treatment of the benefactor who protects our brethren. 」

Sara, Oufia, and Alma also said their apologies to Rio at DOGEZA.

「………. Although it would be a lie if I said "don't worry about it", I accepted your apology. Because at that time, there was also the possibility that I might cause some injuries to Uzuma-dono as well. 」

While she is shocked by the fact that this world also has the DOGEZA culture in her memory, she feels uncomfortable having an old woman and girls of the same generation when she prostrates in front of her.

Nevertheless, it is still futile to think otherwise. It seemed like it was also not a good choice to make matters worse, if he considered their relationship in the future.

While thinking about all that, Rio showed his acceptance of their apology.

After taking the sent elf medicine, Rio fell asleep. By the time he woke up, it was already noon.

When she tried to lift her body, she realized that Latifa was sleeping by her side.

The coldness in his body completely disappeared.

It seemed that the effects of fairy medicine far exceeded those of human medicine. It had reached a point where there was no point comparing them.

As she gently stroked Latifa head, the door room was knocked.

"Yes nih . Please come in"

When the other party heard his reply, the door slowly opened.

The ones who came were, the wolf girl, Sara, the elf girl, Oufia, and the dwarf girl, Alma.

"Good morning"

The three who entered the room politely gave their morning greetings.

「Is there a problem?」

Rio asked the three people who entered together.

「In this morning's meeting, we were temporarily appointed to take care of Rio-dono. So we came to introduce ourselves well again. 」

Sara said that, representing the three of them.

As the oldest among them, she somehow acted as a figure like their elder sister on many occasions.

—-

「For now, please think of the three of us as Rio-sama's servants in this seirei no tami village [7]. Please take care of us from now on 」

There were very few people who could speak in human language among the seirei no tami.

Only those who stand at the level of government can speak in human language.

Thus, the fact that they were already acquainted with Rio, Oufia, Sara and Alma was assigned as Rio's nanny due to their ability to speak in human language.

「I will also bother you, please take care of me from now on. It's nice to meet you"

Rio said that while nodding his head in the right way.

「N, no, we were supposed to say it」

Although for different reasons, as if being humiliated by something, the three of them also lowered their heads. Their movements look stiff.

It was as if they were too aware of it; or rather, they were in some way feeling guilty towards Rio.

「The news will be here soon. Older conference held in our hamlet until now 」

As if she had finally sorted out her feelings, Sara then spoke with a tense face.

「It is written that we will convey our gratitude and apology to Rio-sama officially. It is set for tonight and we were told to tell Rio-sama about this at lunch, if you are already up 」

「Understood」

Although she felt somewhat uneasy that she would be apologized in the official event, she understood that it was necessary.

Putting that aside, he was currently more interested in seirei no tami food.

「And then, lunch is ready. Do you want to have it now? 」

"Thank you very much . Of course please. 」

He gave a direct reply to the heaven that sent the offer.

"Yes nih . Then, will we also bring the portion for Latifa-chan? 」

"Religion . Because I think he will wake up soon 」

Rio smiled gently as he looked at Latifa who was soundly asleep.

「Understood. Then, we'll bring him in soon. Please, Oufia, Alma 」

「Uhm!」

"Yes, that"

Oufia smiled innocently and Alma obeyed her formally; they each answered and left the room.

Only leaving Rio and Sara, along with Latifa who was still sleeping.

Silence enveloped the two of them for a while.

「That, Latifa-chan is a former slave, right?」

Some time later, Sara asked that question with a sad face.

「Yes, dia. 」

Rio replied with a short nod.

Sara called Latifa a topic of conversation.

「Could Rio-sama was an acquaintance of Latifa-chan when she was still a slave?」

"No . Although I can guess what kind of treatment he received, I never asked him, because I don't want him to remember when he became a slave of 」

「I understand ....... Err, If you agree with that, can you tell me as far as what Rio-sama knows about him」

「Are you sure, it's not an interesting story, you know?」

He wouldn't have told that story if it was just to satisfy his curiosity. So he implied that in his answer.

「.... Yes。 But anyway I still want to know. 」

Sara looked at Rio, a strong desire emanating in her eyes.

「Understood」

His strong desire reached Rio, he then told Sara about the kind of treatment Latifa received, as well as her own conjecture.

At first, his emotions were thin.

Looking at the traces of abuse all over his body.

He suspected that he might have received serious injuries during battle practice.

The things he did, something similar to a murderer.

The thought that maybe he also did not receive a decent meal.

He also had extreme trauma.

She tells Sara everything she roughly knows about Latifa.

Although Sara became confused when she was told that killing Rio was also Latifa's task, after she was done with the story, her blood boiled as if recalling what anger was, and her body slowly began to tremble.

「GIRL WHO IS NOT AN OBJECT！ IT .....!」

Sara raised her voice because she could not find anything to vent her anger.

"Rubber"

Even Rio felt the same way as her.

In her case, she was filled with strong emotions for her siblings, so it was only natural that she had stronger emotions.

「But ................. eavesdropping is not a very good habit, you know 」

Rio said that while turning towards the open door.

「..... Muuu ~, so I was found. You're a sharp guy, right. Forgive me . 」

After saying that, Arthura stepped into the room, along with Alma and Oufia who brought food for the two people.

Sara was so engrossed in hearing the story that she didn't notice the three getting any closer.

「Then, about the boy's story. I also have something to say to Rio-dono. 」

Arthura said that with a mysterious expression.

「Well, that's just a possibility, but, the boy, perhaps, is my great-grandchild」

「My granddaughter disappeared more than ten years ago …………. At first, he was an active and fun boy. At first, I thought that, maybe he was around, wandering aimlessly because he was tired of this hamlet. But he never came back. Just like that, there is also no news about him, I think he was attacked by a savage beast or a monster …………. . 」

—-

Arthura glanced at the sleeping Latifa while holding onto Rio's clothes.

「His face, which I miss, overlaps strangely with the face of this child. I wanted to hear his mother's name, but at the same time I was also afraid .. This child, his mother is dead, right? 」

「True, I heard that he's dead」

"I saw……… "

Arthura let out a very sad expression.

「N ..... Onii-chan .....」.

At that moment, somehow reacting to the conversation happening, Latifa slightly opened her eyes and woke up.

「Did we wake you? Good morning, Latifa. Time to eat 」

「Un. Good morning . Eat, eat ………. . 」

Latifa said that, speaking like a spoiled child with sleepy eyes.

「Rio-dono, thank you」

Latifa gaze that was curled up to Rio, looked like a child that was happy to be pampered.

Watching the scene, Arthura lowered her head in gratitude.

"No, not at all . Say thanks like this .. 」

Rio's face grimaced a little as he was said in thanks by Arthura.

First, he did not plan to save her and then came here with her.

Of course, of course, after learning of Latifa's circumstances, she had become something close to that female guardian.

But, in order to receive his gratitude for it, just like that, Rio was not so thick-skinned.

Even though she noticed the slight change in Rio's expression, even with her long life experience, she was still unable to fully understand what emotions Rio had back then.

「Fumu, your long-awaited meal will be cold. Come on, you have to eat 」

To change the atmosphere in that place, Arthura urged them to eat.

After which, the thoroughly awakened Latifa began to eat with a bright and carefree smile.

Rio also started eating, a little after.

Although it consisted of the dish he had seen for the first time, it seemed that it was to Latifa's liking.

It even felt satisfying to Rio.

After eating that, Sara, Oufia, and Alma went on to deepen their relationship with Latifa.

Rio and Arthura watched their conversation while standing some distance away from them.

Since talking to girls who were her same age was something new to her, Latifa initially felt awkward and could not chat without Rio beside her. Despite that, he quickly got along with them.

Just like that, time passed and soon became twilight.

Leaving Latifa under the supervision of Sara and the others, with Arthura as the guide, Rio arrived at the room where the elders seirei no tami held their council.

The meeting room of the elders was built on the top floor of a tree house in a very large tree.

Rio had been observing and knowing the lifestyle of the hamlet seirei no tami, while on his way to the meeting room.

Their lifestyle is fully integrated with nature. In the forest, they build dwellings or tree houses out of stone or clay.

Rio looked at the buildings with interest, it was really like a fairy tale scene.

Climbing up the spiral staircase that surrounded the circumference of the tree, the huge tree that released that overwhelming presence came into view.

This was probably the tree that she and Latifa had originally headed for, before she caught.

Surprisingly, Rio felt that it was very strong for him in the seirei no tami place.

Not too long later they arrived at the top floor and entered the room where the elders were waiting.

In the room, nearly 30 elders of seirei no tami were seated on tree chairs lined up in U-formations.

Sitting near the front entrance were elves and dwarves, who looked mature with age, and there was only one empty seat.

「Alright then Rio-dono, please sit here」

When Arthura urged Rio to sit on a chair near the entrance, he sat on an empty seat on the inner side of the front entrance.

「O-human child. We've heard about this incident. The problem is about you; that you freed our captured brothers from slavery, and then, the problem of misunderstanding caused by our brothers and sisters and caused you a lot of trouble. We want to say our deepest thanks. Thank you"

When the old elf sitting next to Arthura said that, all the elders present stood up from their seats and lowered their heads to Rio.

From their serious tone and that behavior, Rio could feel their sincerity.

Unfortunately, he felt a little uncomfortable with so many people bowing their heads to him at once.

「First, I thank myself, I have accepted it. To my knowledge that there is an inviolable black history between the seirei no tami and the human race. Maybe the actions you take, for all your brothers, are caused by that sad history. I can say with certainty that it was an accumulation of the evil deeds of my tribe until now. That said, I did not receive irreparable damage from the incident. For me, as long as the misunderstanding is cleared, there is no problem. Lift your head 」

Rio replied with the same level of politeness. [8]

The elders raised their heads in a confused state upon hearing his words. They looked at Rio with surprised expressions.

「Because you said it like that, then we are very grateful. However, regardless, the fact that we have returned your favor with hostility from our side. . Therefore, as compensation, we would like to grant a portion of your wish .......

She looked troubled in some ways, but the old elf said those words with a serious expression.

「........................... expect？ 」

「Rio-dono-s. Syldra ……. This man said that he wanted to express our gratitude for saving Latifa. Also, as a way to fix the difficulties we caused Rio-dono due to misunderstandings, that is what he meant. But, we are all unable to understand what Rio-dono wants to have, who is a human. Do you have the hope you want to get? And somehow, our colleagues are afraid to hear what kind of desire you will make

Hearing Arthura's words, starting with the old Syldra elves, then the other elders, all embarrassed the expressions on their faces.

From those same words, Rio face finally exuded a look of understanding.

—-

From the seirei no tami point of view, they regard humans, who have always treated their brothers like slaves, as vile creatures.

Therefore, they had doubts about the promised hope.

Even though they did not know what the humans wanted, they still had to say thank you.

Asking her directly what she wanted in such a straight manner seemed to be Arthura's own decision.

It would take a lot of courage for them.

「So …….. In that case, please take care of Latifa for me」

Rio said that, as he had been the reason from the beginning.

Hearing those words, the elders looked at Rio and could not hide their incredulous expressions.

「Hanya？ 」

Syldra spoke in a dumbfounded tone.

「Uhm, I vaguely suspect that Rio-dono is not a selfish person. But Rio-dono, that's what we've been planning since the beginning. 」

Arthura said that with a hint of surprise in her tone.

"I understand . But, since I don't think that girl can get used to living in this hamlet quickly. Therefore, I really hope you really take care of the girl, as the most important thing 」

A moment of silence descended into the room.

「KUKUKU. This guy is a real masterpiece! The human was there, he gave priority to the other races; someone who had nothing to do with him, rather than his own advantage! 」

After which, the old dwarf sitting next to Syldra laughed.

「He is as I explained, Dominique. Rio-dono is a very rational human being. He also had a good personality, so he would never think of making unreasonable demands. 」[9]

「Yah Arthura, you know that because you have met and spoken to her in person. The unknown, add it human! Of course anyone would be wary, heh! 」

The old dwarf named Dominique said that in a pleasant tone to Arthura.

「I'm happy, Son! If it suits you, I'll give my great-granddaughter, Alma, as your bride! No need to feel quiet. Anyway, just say 」[TN: Alma flag GET !!! ]

Dominique stated that out loud.

「I want to know about it. I hope you're a little more greedy. It would feel bad for us if we at least did not compensate you for the help and unfair treatment we give you. 」

Arthura also agreed with Dominique.

"Religion . Do you really not have anything you want? 」

Syldra revealed that with a sigh, while looking towards Arthura and Dominique who were immersed in their own world.

「………. . Hmm, that's right. When you say it like that then I want to get some groceries from the hamlet. I'd also like you to teach me the things I need to know about Seirei no tami, and maybe your language? I'm a little interested. That's all, I guess? Ah, and it's okay if until Latifa gets used to this hamlet, can you allow me to stay here for a while? 」

Rio said his wish with a gesture as if he was thinking of something.

「This child is really not greedy at all ………. . 」

Arthura said that with a tone of admiration in her voice.

「No, actually not like that …………. I am greedy in my own way 」[TN: with loli, and food]

「That's not what I mean. You have too little desire, which is characteristic of your race, human race 」

「Haa ......」.

Rio showed an expression as if he did not fully understand what that meant.

「About that request, I think we can manage it. But what do you want to know about us? 」

Syldra asked about the details about Rio's second wish.

「That's right, it would be something like a way of using spirit arts, and then learning the knowledge of seirei no tami that is useful in everyday life. Of course I will not teach third parties what I learned, nor will I disclose that information. 」

「My hope sounds good. Is there any objection？ 」

All the members shook their heads as soon as Syldra said that.

「Fumu, then we will work on that request. Is that enough? 」

After Syldra confirmed that there was no objection, he asked for Rio's final confirmation.

"Yes nih . Please . 」

Rio said that while lightly bowing his head.

「Then, let's continue. It's about punishment for the head soldier, Uzuma. According to our law, the punishment should be decided by Rio-dono. Do you have anything on your mind? 」

Rio pondered after hearing Syldra's words.

Uzuma stood respectfully in the corner of the room.

「No, nothing ........ I personally think the punishment is unnecessary, but if we have to do it, then I will just follow the local customs. 」

「. Forgive me . Rio-dono, our doubts have tarnished your pride. Once again we deeply apologize for our abusive behavior 」

Out of wonder at what kind of punishment would be given to Uzuma, Rio could only smile a little.

「No, because I don't really care about such a thing」

「Fumu, we are very grateful for that. In that case, I wonder if it is okay for us to decide on the punishment for Uzuma? 」

"Rubber"

In the end, it was announced that the sentence for Uzuma stayed under house arrest for a while.

After that, receiving self-introduction from the elders, along with a simple banquet, like that Rio deepened his friendship with the elders seirei no tami.

[1] [TL: Uzuma is in the same position as Asura, but that does not mean they are of the same age]

[2] [Note ⁇ ⁇ ⁇ ⁇ has the same meaning as ⁇ ⁇ , i. e is forced against one's will. ]

[3] [TL*: think more carefully, that's an idiom I guess]

[4] [TL**: attacking without thinking about the consequences]

[5] [TL: warmed by passionate embrace of loli]

[6] [TL: The simplest form of apology, the variants are, Sliding DOGEZA, slide and roll DOGEZA, and many more are dominated by Oga's father from Beelzebub]

[7] TN: previously used spirit people, waiting for the poll results for now.

TL: now using seirei no tami

[8] TN: that politeness makes me dizzy

[9] TN: it is a very irrational otherworldly human being