An outcast dropout, surviving on the frontier and rising to become an S-ranked counter-magician.

'I asked you two to come together, of all people. It's about a new mission.

Me and Shelly had been called in by Princess Liane. Originally, we knew it was about a new mission before we came here. Then she handed us some documents while she swept her golden hair back.

'Here's the detailed document. Last time, I had three of you, including Gil, go on a reconnaissance mission, but this time, I'll have the two of you do a more detailed investigation.

Look through it. The document contained detailed mission details. However, it's not complicated, and simply this time it's mainly an investigation again. However, unlike the last time, it seems to go quite deep.

That's because the scope of that reconnaissance goes as far as level 7 of the twilight danger zone.

Level 7.........I think. I have indeed experienced up to level 10 during my wandering days. But a certain amount of time has already passed since then. Not all of my experiences are equally applicable.

I guess that's why I'm a select few. Regardless of the choice of people, we should only think about accomplishing this mission first.

''May I ask you one question?

Shelley's dignified voice echoes in the room. In response, Princess Liane prompts a response by saying, "Go ahead.

''Suppose you were to come into contact with a demon, would you be willing to kill him?''

It was probably referring to the demon who killed Belle-san. Regarding that question, she answers calmly.

''If you can kill them, I don't mind, but.......the main purpose of this time is the same as before, reconnaissance. I don't want you to push me too hard.

Well......... I understand.

He didn't seem to be convinced, though he said it in words. Shelly seemed a little depressed, but Princess Liane said something unexpected.

''But──I want to prepare the stage to fight against that demon.

...Is that true?

''Yes. Recently, it has been confirmed that a creature possessing great magical power is in the Twilight Danger Zone Level 7. It could be a demon, but it could also be a demon. Sherry-san's stage will be well set up here.

Thank you ... really, I can't thank you enough.

I bow my head deeply, very deeply. That must be what he truly and sincerely thinks. Unlike me, the two of us have been in close contact with Belle. That's why we have an understanding of each other.

Then we will leave next week. Both of you, please be ready to go.

I understand.

Yes, sir.

And so we left the conference room. At that point, Shelly blurted out.

'I thought you and Julia were alone, right?'

Well, yeah. Thanks for everything.

Huh, what...?　Good luck with your stuff!

What, did I say something funny?

Then Shelly calmed down and cleared her throat.

'Uh-uh. It's nothing!　I'll see you next week!

It was as if she was running away from the scene. I don't know what happened, but I should get ready for it, even if it's just a matter of time. With that in mind, I also moved on.