Isekai Nonbiri Nouka - Chapter 863

Chapter 863: Adventurer Ekaterize

My name is Ekaterize.

I was once the daughter of a duke in a certain human kingdom, but due to a dispute with my former fiancé, a prince, I fled my homeland.

Despite my determination to thrive in the Demon King’s Kingdom, I struggled with the unfamiliar environment.

Facing financial difficulties, I found myself called upon to assist in the literal ‘building’ of a new buffer state between the human countries and the Demon King’s Kingdom.

My assigned task was to do some preparatory work for farming in this newly formed buffer nation.

In simpler terms, I needed to determine where to cultivate fields, plan water channels and agricultural roads, and decide which crops to grow.

.........

I know why.

Since arriving in the Demon King’s Kingdom, I have been involved in farming, but I am by no means an expert.

I am merely a former duke’s daughter that had done a bit of farm work.

It seems that the task was not specifically requested of me, but rather assigned to the subordinates who accompanied me.

Among my followers, there are blood relatives of those managing estates within our dukedom.

Some have experience in pioneering and cultivating land.

Regrettably, I was called upon precisely because such capable subordinates exist.

Unfortunately, my own abilities were not the reason for my summons.

However, that doesn’t mean I can simply delegate everything to my subordinates and live a carefree life.@@novelbin@@

I will do what I can within my own capabilities.

-0-

「An adventurer, is it?」

One of my subordinates looks at me skeptically. But my attire unmistakably screams “adventurer,” doesn’t it?

My thick coat and trousers are made of sturdy fabric.

I layer my coat, wear an iron headband, don iron gauntlets, and sport leather boots.

I forego full armor for ease of movement, but over my trousers, I wear a reasonably thick skirt.

This skirt serves a dual purpose—not just for fashion.

Hidden within its folds are blades and daggers, allowing it to transform into a weapon when I twist my hips.

Furthermore, having a skirt conceals my movements at close quarters.

It is a wonderful piece of equipment.

As for my weapon, it’s a sturdy mace.

While I would have been fine with bare hands, I understand that visibly carrying a weapon deters unruly individuals from approaching. I had no choice but to equip myself with one.

By the way, swords don’t quite suit me.

I cannot entrust my life to a weapon that might break.

「Ojou-sama, are you quitting with working in the fields?」

I would like to, but it would be inconsiderate to cultivate land without proper planning.

In truth, you’re still considering where to place the fields, right?

「That’s true, but.....ano, are you really going to behave yourself?」

I intend to, but if the situation demands, I can take command of the Demon King’s Kingdom’s Army.

「Regarding that, some of the Demon King’s Kingdom’s Army personnel mentioned that it might be best if you refrain from leading the troops more skillfully than the professionals. 」

They did say that...

But if I lead effectively, what’s the issue?

「It’s because the professionals find it challenging to take orders from someone who isn’t part of their field. We wouldn’t want to cause any inconvenience. 」

Indeed, inconvenience should be avoided.

That’s why I’m an adventurer.

「......Understood. However, we cannot overlook you acting alone. Please bring along some subordinates. 」

Aren’t you all too busy assisting in the creation of the new buffer state?

Do I have subordinates who can accompany me?

I’m sure the chief maid, Henrietta, can’t join me as an adventurer.

「Mou. Well, then, please form a team. Five to six members. 」

Quite the worrier, aren’t you?

Understood.

I also recognize the inconvenience of acting alone.

「With just Ursa-san, we are vulnerable to enemy flocks. 」

After several adventures, I solidified my position within the team.

...

It’s not that they have given up, you know.

Our exceptional compatibility—Ursa-san and I—was the key.

For some reason, I could anticipate Ursa-san’s movements, and she understood mine.

It was as if we’d been friends for years.

Thus, without needing to exchange words, we supported each other seamlessly.

E3-san called it a remarkable combination, akin to a martial dance.

I don’t mind the praise.

However, alongside this partnership, I was surprised by how quickly Ursa-san absorbed the techniques I wielded.

The Tezanko technique recreated by Ursa-san has power rivaling my own.

Her vertical strikes, the “Ponche”, seem even more potent than mine.

It’s as if Ursa-san is only recalling forgotten techniques.

Yet, I harbor no jealousy toward her.

In the face of remarkable martial prowess, there is only admiration.

I must strive harder as well.

Ah, but perhaps Ursa-san could strengthen your core a bit more.

It would enhance the force behind your strikes.

Allow me to share a training method for strengthening the core.

Oh?

E3-san, what’s the matter?

I’m behaving like a noblewoman?

.........

First, you need to solidify your martial forms.

Half-measures won’t suffice.

I shall impart all my martial knowledge.

Look, even Ursa-san seems eager for it.

-0-

Dorothy: Ekate, don’t punch barehanded! Use your mace! Your mace!

Leonorah:...Ekaterize, I don’t think Dorothy meant to punch with the hand holding the mace.

Rokina: Why is it that you seem to have no need for healing your fists?

-0-

Dorothy: E3, say something to Ursa and Ekate.

Easly: You must know when to give up.

Leonora: During breaktime, we should take a break.

E3: Go with the flow.

Rokina: Why do they have to go on kumite every break time?

E3: When troubled, look up. The night sky is beautiful.

Rokina: ...It’s still noon.

-0-

Dorothy: If she were in command of the army...

Leonora: She’d shine when placed in the rear.”

Rokina: Wouldn’t she charge ahead saying she’s commanding by example?

Dorothy: She can pull her own weight when she leads a lot of people. Oddly enough.

Leonora: So, it’s like being with Ursa?

Rokina: ...Is that good information?

-0-

AN: My apologies.

Despite the advance notice, I didn’t explain why they teleported to this point.