My childhood friend, who I promised to marry in the future, came back as a swordsman

 

Chapter 57 Monster Tamer

{TL: By Creed}

"Nevertheless, to find Cerberus here of all places... and not just one, but several. What could be going on?"

"There's no way this is just a coincidence. Well, I can't say for sure that it's impossible for them to occur naturally... but even so, there's no reason for thieves to be unharmed. Most likely, there's a Monster Tamer around."

"What's that supposed to mean? Catching monsters?"

"Exactly as it sounds, it refers to those who can control monsters."

"Huh, controlling monsters? Is that even possible?"

"It's only a select few who can do it, and it requires talent. Being born into a Monster Tamer lineage or apprenticing from a young age... that level of dedication is necessary, making it a challenging profession. But because they can control monsters, they're quite powerful."

"So..."

Licorice pondered for a moment, then froze in thought for several seconds. After a while, her face lit up with an epiphany.

"Having a Monster Tamer among our enemies, is that what you're suggesting!?"

"Huh... ah, yes. I think so."

"Heh, I knew it! I knew that's what you were thinking, right? My deductive skills are terrifyingly good. To arrive at the truth so quickly, it's amazing. I'm scared of myself."

"..."

Ah, Sofia seemed annoyed.

Unaware of Sofia's reaction, Licorice continued with a smug expression.

"That Monster Tamer isn't anything special."

"Huh, why's that?"

"Hehehe... this super-genius beauty like me has a special plan! You see, fairies like me can use various magic. Remember when I healed Fate's wound in the dungeon?"

"Yeah, I remember. Thanks for that."

"I can't use overwhelmingly powerful magic, but I've learned many small spells. Among them is a spell that can be called the bane of Tamers."

"What's that?"

"It's called 'Dispel.' It can undo magic cast on a target. From what I've heard, Monster Tamers use their magic to control monsters, right? So, with my magic, I can undo their contracts and revert them. Well, since they're monsters, they won't necessarily become allies, but it might put them at odds with the thieves and work to our advantage."

"I see..."

If such magic existed, it would indeed be useful.

As Licorice said, there might be a risk of the uncontracted monsters going berserk...

But reducing the enemy's forces would be beneficial.

The enemy would also likely be thrown into confusion when their control suddenly ceased.

"Are you sure that'll work?"

Sofia gave Licorice a doubtful look.

"What, doubting my abilities? I'm the unbeatable super-cute fairy, you know."

"But you haven't actually tried undoing a contract, have you? You can't say for sure if it'll work or not."

"It'll be fine."

"On what basis?"

"Because it's me!"

Licorice puffed out her chest.

Sofia, on the other hand, looked as if she knew this wouldn't end well.

"Well... whether it works or not, does it really matter?"

"What do you mean, Fate?"

"If it works, it'll be a favorable outcome for us, right? Even if it doesn't, our course of action remains the same. It's unexpected to have so many enemies... but with you and Sofia, I think we'll manage."

"...You're right. Yes, with you and Fate, there's nothing we can't do!"

Sofia squeezed my hand, seemingly moved by something.

It felt soft and warm.

I returned her grasp...

"Do you two always have to be so lovey-dovey, no matter where we are...?"

Licorice glared at us with a disgruntled look.

――――――――――

"Dispel!"

Licorice's magic was activated.

A wave of light rushed through the cave, engulfing the Chimera stationed as the guardian.

The color of the Chimera's lifeless eyes changed...

Regaining its own will.

"Gaaah!!!"

"W-What's happening!?"

"This one suddenly became an ally... aahhhhh!?"

As if venting the resentment of being controlled, the Chimera attacked the thieves.

Screams echoed as the thieves fell one after another before the powerful limbs of the Chimera.

"Divine Dragon Sword Style - First Strike... Mountain Breaker!!!"

Since the Chimera targeted the thieves as its primary objective, it left itself wide open.

Taking advantage of this, a devastating blow was struck against its back.

The sword made of snow crystal severed the Chimera's massive body.

It let out a loud scream...

And then collapsed, lifeless.

"Alright."

Thanks to Licorice, the conquest was going quite smoothly.

By releasing the monsters controlled by the thieves and capitalizing on their confusion, they managed to advance, having already subdued nearly half of their opponents.

"By the way, Fate."

"Yeah?"

While restraining the injured and incapacitated thieves, Sofia asked.

"Why didn't you leave the Chimera alone for a bit longer? It would have been easier to let it defeat them, wouldn't it?"

"Well... that's true. But these people are thieves, and they've probably done terrible things... Even so, I don't want to resort to vigilante justice. It might be unavoidable in some situations, but for now, can't we handle it? I want to capture them properly and make sure they face proper judgment."

"I see, so that's why you're capturing them like this."

"I'll have to call for backup later and transport them with a large group. But if possible, I don't want any unnecessary killings. Though it might just be because I lack the courage for it."

"No, that's not it at all. What you're showing is kindness."

"Really?"

"Yes, I guarantee it. Showing mercy to evildoers isn't something everyone can do. I hope you'll continue to hold onto that kindness, always."

"Yeah... thank you. When you say that, Sofia, it gives me confidence that this is the right path."

Various things had made me almost start to hate humans.

But by thinking of Sofia, I managed to keep hold of my humanity.

That's why I want to continue cherishing my heart from now on.

I believe that doing so will also be for Sofia's sake.

"Oh, by the way, Sofia."

"Yes?"

"Where did Licorice go?"

"Come to think of it..."

After releasing the Chimera, we saw her flying deeper into the cave...

But for some reason, there was no sign of her returning.

What could have happened?

After finishing capturing the thieves and feeling puzzled, we headed deeper.

And what we saw there was...

"Oh, Licorice."

"..."

"What's wrong? It's dangerous to act alone in a thieves' hideout, you know?"

"...Intruders, be crushed!"

"Huh!?"

Suddenly, Licorice lunged at us.

Her eyes were not sane...

"Could it be... Licorice has been controlled in reverse!?"

TL Note: Friend turns enemy, What will Fate do?

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