Isekai Nonbiri Nouka Chapter 1024: Visiting Dragon

Following the conclusion of the spring parade, Ursa made a reappearance.

Abruptly.

Her arrival caught me by surprise.

Before I could properly process it, she was already seated in the dining hall, casually enjoying a meal.

I couldn't help but do a double-take.

Ursa's return was prompted by the impending visit of a dragon acquaintance of Dors, whom she intended to introduce to the village.

Once this introduction was complete, she planned to resume her travels immediately, though she would be staying for a few days. Hakuren and Zabuton were absolutely thrilled.

The children of the village also expressed great joy at seeing Ursa again after such a considerable absence.

Witnessing this, Ria let out a sigh and remarked, “My child…”

Furthermore, it’s not appropriate to draw such comparisons.

And then there's Ice, the ice monster.

You've seamlessly fallen into a role akin to Ursa's butler, but are you truly content with this arrangement?

What about the fact that Ursa did not summon you… or rather, choose to bring you along?

Well, if you are satisfied, then it is perfectly fine.

-0-

While awaiting the arrival of Dors’s acquaintance, I engaged Ursa in conversation about recent events.

My inquiries were particularly focused on the new town being established to the far east of Village Five.

Given that Asa and Earth remained there, I assumed matters would proceed smoothly, but I wondered if everything was truly in order without Ursa's direct oversight.

Ursa explained that her role was primarily that of a figurehead, with the actual construction and management being handled by specialists, assuring me that all was well.

I see.

So, the reason Asa and Earth couldn't accompany her back was because they are integral members of that specialist team… in fact, they are responsible for its organization and leadership.

That does make sense.

Apparently, both Asa and Earth were quite concerned about Ursa's solo return journey, as indicated in the letter she had brought.

However, in truth, it is we parents who should be apologizing for causing them any inconvenience.

Reports indicate that the town's development is progressing favorably, and the Angels dispatched as civil officials, along with the airships, have proven remarkably effective.

Although, every time an airship needs to relocate, the Angels residing within it voice their displeasure.

……

This likely signifies their desire for an airship that they can utilize at their own discretion.

I will review the current status of airship production and give this matter further consideration.

-0-

Ursa remained tight-lipped about the specific nature of Dors’s acquaintance.

It seems this information was to be kept confidential until their actual arrival.

This was not Ursa’s stipulation, but rather the express wish of Dors’s acquaintance.

Regardless, it is imperative that we secure adequate provisions to host them with proper hospitality.

My first step will be to place an order with Michael-san of the Goroun Company.

Subsequently, I will also approach Youko from Village Five for assistance.

Since their culinary preferences are unknown, it is prudent to prepare a diverse array of dishes.

As for alcoholic beverages, I shall entrust that matter to the Dwarves.

Oh, and I am also counting on Kuro and the others for the hunt.

However, I urge them not to overexert themselves.

They must avoid pursuing excessively large prey, which could lead to injury.

-0-

Furthermore, given that our visitor is a dragon, we must determine an appropriate landing location.

Landing directly in front of the mansion… while Hakuren and Doraim might manage, an inexperienced flyer could potentially damage the fields.

The plaza within the residential area… well, that section has seen increased construction of houses.

Any mishap could pose a significant danger.

Considering these factors, the racetrack situated to the south of the village appears to be the most secure option.

Very well, we shall designate that as the landing site.

A signal fire platform will be erected at the racetrack.

Dragons are, by and large, intelligent creatures.

Upon observing smoke rising from their intended destination, they should comprehend the signal.

While I have heard tales of dragons who are somewhat slow to notice such cues, it is reasonable to assume Dors’s acquaintance will not have such difficulty.

-0-

Although the exact arrival time is uncertain, it is crucial to ensure Dors remains in the village.

His absence would be considered discourteous, given the considerable effort the acquaintance made to travel here.

「If you are referring to a dragon acquaintance… it might be Kworain, Raimeiren’s younger brother. He is the father of Kwon, who is married to Domaim.」

Ah, I recall meeting him previously.

At that time, he appeared somewhat reserved… but is he difficult to interact with?

「No, no. He is quite a gentle soul.」

That brings a sense of relief.

But then, why the need for secrecy?

Moreover, if it is indeed him, wouldn't an introduction from Ursa be unnecessary?

「Perhaps he wishes to present Raimeiren with a surprise. As for Ursa… there might have been a specific reason he wanted her to return to the village.」

Ah, I understand.

So, he represented himself as Dors’s acquaintance to prevent Raimeiren from becoming aware of his intentions.

「Indeed. There might be some joyous news to share.」

Oh! Could Kwon be expecting a child?

「Now, now, let us cease our speculation. We must not spoil their anticipated surprise.」

You are quite right.

Dors and I shared a laugh as we discussed these possibilities, and then…

Given the uncertainty surrounding the acquaintance’s arrival, we resolved to await their appearance with patient anticipation.

-0-

It was precisely five days after Ursa's return to the village when the event occurred.

The dragon, who was Dors’s acquaintance, finally arrived.

She appeared at the village's southern entrance, assuming human form.

Yes, it was a female dragon.

Therefore, it was not Kworain, Raimeiren’s younger brother, as we had speculated.

In her human guise, she appeared to be in her mid-forties.

Given her association with Dors, it was evident that her true age far surpassed her current appearance.

She possessed a tall, slender build… a noblewoman attired in what seemed to be men's clothing.

No, upon closer inspection, her demeanor was more akin to that of a mafia boss.

Her presence exuded an undeniable aura of power.

It transpired that she was acquainted not only with Dors but also with Raimeiren and Girar.

…….

Um, Dors?

And Girar?

Why are you skulking behind my back?

Ursa brought her here, so it's unlikely she's an enemy.

Ursa's instincts for that sort of thing are usually spot on.

She wouldn't lead an enemy into our village.

Still, Dors and Girar persisted in hiding behind me.

There was no other way.

It seemed I'd have to handle this situation myself, so I addressed her.

I am Hiraku, the village chief of this settlement.

And who might you be?

"I only reveal my name to those who dare to challenge me."

Huh...

She seems like quite the handful... I mean, she is definitely a dragon.

When I inquired of Dors and Girar, still concealed behind me, if they could do something about this, the two of them exclaimed in unison.

"Challenge her! And vanquish her!"

Whoa, hey now.

Dors shoved my back.

"I wish to witness the true strength of the village chief."

N-no, I'm not particularly strong.

I denied it, but Dors remained insistent.

"You'll manage. You somehow dealt with Hakuren after all."

Somehow dealt with...

Is she weaker than Hakuren?

"She is approximately ten times more formidable than Hakuren."

.......

Following Dors, Girar chimed in.

"Village chief, do not falter. Have faith in yourself!"

No, the very person you're placing your faith in is claiming weakness.

"Village chief, you are our beacon of hope. You shine with a brilliance that is almost blinding! Please! Defeat her!"

Even if you insist...

"It will be alright! Once you defeat her, we will ensure she is completely finished off!"

Nothing about that sounds reassuring.

And the phrase "finish her off" sounds rather brutal.

Raimeiren, perhaps you could restrain those two... hmm?

Come to think of it, she's been in her dragon form for quite some time now. What is she occupied with?

Wait... are you creating a combat arena for me?

Even if she prepares one, I have no intention of fighting anywhere near the village.

Um... the woman refusing to give her name doesn't appear eager to fight either.

"Ah, indeed. If you at least demonstrate an intent to challenge me, I shall impart my name to you."

See?

It was Dors and Girar, still hiding behind my person, who became incensed by her words.

"Have you lost your nerve!?"

"You were the one who declared your dream was to be challenged by someone superior to yourself!"

They began to vociferate loudly.

"...To think you would address me with such insolence. Dors-boy and Girar-boy have truly grown audacious. Shall I test you once more after this considerable lapse of time?"

The unnamed woman uttered these words, causing Dors and Girar to swiftly retreat further behind me.

She truly intimidates them.

Very well then... for the time being, I shall await Ursa's proper introduction.

-0-

As for Ursa... she was apparently engaged in playing with Nutt and the others.

I have a feeling she should not forget the reason for her return to the village, but since the dragon arrived in human form...

No signal smoke was dispatched either, so she might not have been alerted.

Someone, please go summon Ursa!