Strange Grief Wants to Retire ~ The Weakest Hunter Dreams of a Hero ~

Chapter 359.2: 《Infinite Variety’s》 Strategy ⑤

Part 2

“Kuh…… Kukuh………… So, this is 《Infinite Variety’s (Senpen Banka)》 divine strategy. I heard that his request completion rate is 100%, but………… That’s crazy!!” (Adler)

　I, Adler, tremble at the sight reflected in the mirror of reality.

　Our first encounter was by chance. When I realized the possibility that 《Infinite Variety (Senpen Banka)》 is similar to us, I was both shocked and excited, and when I was faced with an army of Phantoms, I felt a bitter feeling of defeat, but at the same time, I was overjoyed at the possibility of a new power.

　I was frightened by the skill with which he rescued Ruin, but at the same time, I was able to derive the technique to subdue a Phantom.

　However, now, we have no leeway at all as we watch this scene.

　Reflected in the mirror is the move that 《Infinite Variety (Senpen Banka)》 finally made. The glimpse I caught shows that our difference in power is far too great.

　It isn’t a difference that could be made up by leading a somewhat powerful Monster.

　The ability to plan strategies is an important ability for a Guide, but it is not something that should be a top priority. That was what I thought. I thought the most important thing was to travel around the world and subdue powerful Monsters.

　However, against his ability…… I can’t win. I call myself Adler, the “Demon King (Maou)”. So I had some confidence in my leadership ability, but I don’t feel like I will ever be able to catch up with him.

　He is certainly, a divine strategist――Wisdom that only gods or evil gods are allowed to possess.

　The cards in his hands, his ability to control the situation, and even his courage are incomparable. I thought I understood that there was a difference in our strength, but that was just a thought in my head.

　When I close my eyes, the scene I saw in the mirror a moment ago comes vividly into my mind.

　《Infinite Variety (Senpen Banka)》 rode on the carpet with Tino and landed very close to the Treasure Shrine.

　Then, from the ghost summoning to the Black Knight. Until that moment, when his staff becomes gigantic and the Phantoms return to being Spirit People.

“I can’t believe, he’s trying to save everyone………… How, did he manage to lure only the former Spirit People?” (Uno)

“………… That tree, is also a mystery. I don’t know if it’s a Monster or what…… But it seems like he can’t control it.” (Adler)

“It must have been dormant in the form of a staff, I’m sure. I never thought of using a Monster that I can’t control, but…… Is this what you call 『Ryuukei1』 ? Shit.” (Quint)

　Quint clenches his fist and says this as if spitting out.

　Ryuukei is a strategy that was used in ancient times. It is an extremely risky plan to control the movements of angry Dragons and Monsters possessing supernatural abilities to defeat an enemy with an overwhelming difference in strength.

　It is a tactic that I would have laughed off in the past.

　Having to resort to high-risk measures is a sign of weakness, and for us, Guides, powerful Monsters are opponents that must be brought to their knees. If you can’t handle it, it is due to nothing but your own immaturity.

　The reason we studied under 《Infinite Variety (Senpen Banka)》 was to learn his power and eventually overcome it. But now, 《Night Parade (Hyakki Yako)》 is losing heart without even fighting. Neither Uno nor Quint has any fighting spirit left.

　He is too bright, too free. He is always at ease and calm, and his face does not change even when he looks into the eyes of a god.

　It is such a huge difference in talent that I cannot even admire it. I am now afraid of 《Infinite Variety (Senpen Banka)》. Just like how the Hunters and armies, who once stood in front of us, were frightened by the sight of Yuden――.

　Guides do not use any technique when controlling Monsters. The reason why Monsters follow their Guide is because of their charisma.

　Therefore, the Guide is required to be at the top of the pyramid for the Monsters.

　Monsters do not obey a master who is no longer the king nor when they show their weaknesses.

　He has them cornered. He will probably be able to handle the World Tree’s rampage. No, I am sure that man will do something about it. However, even if everything ended successfully, it is the end for us.

　A loser can’t lead anything. I have to somehow change the status quo.

　However, 《Infinite Variety (Senpen Banka)》 is too strong. Even in perfect condition, we cannot win.

“That tree…… Don’t have the power to directly interfere with the earth’s veins and absorb Mana Materials. I think that’s probably why 《Infinite Variety (Senpen Banka)》 proceeded with the plan to use the stirring device at the same time. That was in order to make that tree absorb the Mana Materials that were disturbed by the devices――And make it grow. Adler-sama, maybe, if it is that one――They can defeat the 【Temple of Origin】.” (Uno)

　Uno tells me this with a serious expression. Her eyes are asking about 《Night Parade’s (Hyakki Yako)》 future actions.

　Uno Silva is a smart girl. She exactly understands the situation. I mutter naturally.

“…………………… A hero, huh.” (Adler)

　I am sure of it. That man will make history someday.

　And how 《Night Parade (Hyakki Yako)》 will be treated in that history will depend on my actions.

　I think while looking at the Mana Materials Stirring Device operating quietly. 《Infinite Variety (Senpen Banka)》 and the black tree are tracing the point where the devices are installed. Soon they will reach us.

　I had to decide where we stand. If I continue like this and meet up with 《Infinite Variety (Senpen Banka)》, it means we will admit our defeat and just become a group of 《Infinite Variety’s (Senpen Banka)》 disciples. We will be in such a pathetic position, neither enemy nor ally.

　However, we cannot simply turn into his enemies in this situation where there is no chance of winning. Yuden absorbed Mana Materials and grew. We also have Ripper’s spatial rift. However, those abilities have already been broken by 《Infinite Variety (Senpen Banka)》.

　No, maybe, if it is that man, even if he succeeded in subduing the Phantoms of the 【Temple of Origin】――.

“Hh………… No, there is still one way. There’s still one move that can make us win against that man――” (Adler)

“!?” (Uno)

　Before I know it, my hand that is holding my spear is shaking. Because of the terrible 『Strategy』 I come up with.

　It is an epiphany that can be called a revelation, and it is accompanied by a shock like being struck by lightning.

　My heart is beating like a fast bell. The tips of my hands and feet are freezing cold. I feel a strong dizziness and tighten my grip on my spear.

　It is definitely a strategy that I wouldn’t have thought of just a few hours ago. I wonder if the reason why I came up with such a stupid strategy is because I was influenced by the move 《Infinite Variety (Senpen Banka)》 made.

　Adler ruled over Monsters and antagonized many countries. If I had continued our advance without getting involved with 《Strange Grief (Nageki no Borei)》, the name of Adler, the “Demon King (Maou)” would have spread throughout the world shortly.

　After fighting 《Strange Grief (Nageki no Borei)》 and reaching Yggdra, this future has been cut off. However, if this strategy works, I won’t be at the level of just a “Demon King (Maou)”.

　I will become the enemy of all humanity.

　I desperately try to catch my breath and think about the validity of the strategy.

　Unknown results. Extreme risks.

　No, everything doesn’t have to go well. If I can get some revenge on that man――.

　What I need is――Uno’s cooperation.

　I take a deep breath and look at my friends.

　The strategy is too risky. If I don’t have a strong will, I am likely to succumb to my weak side. I shout.

“Uno, Quint. We are――《Night Parade (Hyakki Yako)》. We can’t afford to lose without doing anything!” (Adler)

　I spin my spear and forcefully slam it into the Mana Materials Stirring Device.

　Once, twice, three times. The glass tube shatters into pieces and shards rain down like the rain.

　Uno and the others watch my actions without saying anything.

“We’ll be enemies. Pandering about it is the same as death! Being 《Infinite Variety’s (Senpen Banka)》 disciple is over. 《Night Parade (Hyakki Yako)》 will now challenge that man to a fight! Will you follow me?” (Adler)

“I-I don’t mind that, of course, but do we really have a chance of winniiiing?” (Uno)

“…… Shit. All right. If it ends without me doing anything, I cannot face the dead Zork. Let’s do this!” (Quint)

　There is no hesitation in the two’s responses. Uno is calm and collected, and Quint’s bravery is still here.

　《Night Parade (Hyakki Yako)》 is not finished yet.

　I smile from my heart and begin to explain to my friends the stupid strategy I have just come up with.

TL notes:

Thanks for reading! Thanks Oliver for the ko-fi!

Adler, do you really think you can beat Cry?

You are too naive, everything is in the palm of his hand!

Tchao à plus!

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