What a curious cave. It's covered in ice, but it's not that cold.

Just being sheltered from the winds makes it a lot warmer than outside.

Hmph, in a place this cold, I'll take what we can get.

......

...is there something on your mind, Karl?

Yeah, kind of.

It's probably just about that demonic power or whatever that you have, I'll bet.

Did seeing Shusui's power at the end make you think about it?

Is Mr. Nice-Guy Karl thinking, "Will I be able to use this power when it matters?"

What's gotten you in such a bad mood?

And you wonder why I call you a dumb broad.

Don't you get it? Karl is looking down his nose on all of us.

He thinks if he can't use his demonic power freely, then we're going to end up in trouble.

No, that's not what I...

The fact that you're worried now just proves it!

Listen here, Karl!

I'm not so weak that I gotta depend on your power to save me!

You just worry about your own problems!

You got that?!

......

Ha ha. Yeah, I got it. I'll be careful.

Yeah but, Lugina...

...didn't you need help getting out of that crevice earlier?

Sh-Shut up!

Are you listening to me?!

The power to fight is just one type of strength, anyway.

Truly strong people...

...are the ones who can do whatever it takes to achieve their goals, is that it?

Bertz, why you...

Hello, everyone.

And Seria, I'm so glad to see you again.

Really? I'm not glad at all.

Ha ha ha ha, you're as harsh as ever. That's just another part of your charm, though.

And Lugina...dependable as always, I see.

Strategy takes all factors into account in order to achieve a goal.

Force of arms is merely one factor that comes into play in the field.

Even while you say this, you're striving to gain power far beyond the normal individual's in force of arms.

I have admired your thinking and approach to these things for quite some time.

The War Demon Shusui tried to bestow the title of "Strongest" upon Hans, but...

...I feel that it is better suited to you, Lugina.

Tsch...

Well, he does introduce himself as the self-styled "Great Summoner Lugina," after all.

You shut up! It makes me mad when you say it!

Anyway, Bertz! What did you come here for?!

You're after Menon, not us, aren't you?!

Such cruel words...

I came here because I wanted to see you and Seria.

......

Oh, Seria, please don't stare at me like that.

You're making me blush.

Why, you...

Ha ha ha. If I speak the truth any longer, it seems it will displease my dear Seria, so...

...I will take my leave.

I am content, just having seen Seria and my good friend's faces.

Oh, I almost forgot! Lugina!

Since we ran into each other, I've got several new bits of information for you.

The Elgaia Federation and Randall Empire's top ranks are already aware of the situation here.

In short, they are already taking measures to address what happens next.

What do you mean?

As expected of the noble-born Paris. Does that concern you?

Yes, it does concern me.

He he, I appreciate that you're so straightforward. Allow me to explain.

It means that they are thinking of what comes after the demonic threat is handled...

...and Karna Masta is defeated.

......

Bertz, you're such a...

Ha ha ha ha, and with that, I really will be making my exit.

Having gained the powers of multiple demons, Mora is a more formidable foe than any you've faced before.

She might even be a challenge for Hans, a candidate for the strongest being there is.

Until we meet again...

Tsch, dealing with him is always such a pain.

Listen, all of you.

I know I've said this before, but don't let his words confuse you.

We know.

Giving us such information at a time like this...

...it must benefit him in some way.

Paris, it's best not to over-think it, just like Lugina said.

Learn from Karl.

He hasn't said a word since Bertz appeared.

Ha ha ha, it seemed like things would get complicated if I spoke up.

Besides, Hans hasn't said anything either.

That's true in every conversation...

But, whatever.

It seems like we're all used to Bertz now, so let's proceed on toward our original destination.

Yeah, you're right.

Hans, Paris, Lugina, let's go.

Yes.

Tsch...

That Bertz, what is he thinking?

Did he anticipate that Paris will return to the Empire after this battle is over?

......

Hmph, there's not enough to go on.

Oh, well.

I won't let him have his way. Next time...