I Don’t Want to Die as a Mob in My Second Life! ～A Story Where I Kept Training from Inside the Womb and Ended Up Being Mistaken for a Monster～ - Chapter 24: Reunion with Ouma Shiranui

Chapter 24: Reunion with Ouma Shiranui

—In my second life, I can use spiritual energy of all attributes.

That’s because I messed around with my Spiritual Pathways while I was still a fetus.

I’m glad that’s finally coming in handy.

“Alright then, let’s flow it in, Giant.”

“MAMA, MILK!”

“You’ve gotten so gross.”

Did I break its mind too much…?

Anyway, under the watchful eyes of the legendary Hinosuke Muramasa, I placed my hand in front of the giant’s mouth.

“Attribute selection: Fire, Water, Earth, Lightning—spiritual energy, release.”

I transformed my spiritual energy into elements of the four attributes and poured it directly into its mouth.

“GU-GOGOGOGOGOGO!?”

With a loud gulp gulp gulp, [Hihiirokane] started swallowing the flames, water streams, sand, and electricity all at once.

It was a sight to behold. If this were a human, their stomach would have exploded by now.

But this Giant? Its eyes went wide, letting out a strange moan of “GU-GOGOGO~!?” before clinging to my hand!

Disgusting!

“Hey, Giant!?”

“MMMM—IT’S SO GOOD, GUGO~~~~~~! WHAT IS THIS!?”

I should be the one asking, ‘What is this?!’

“CALORIE OVERLOAD, GUGOOOOOOO! EVEN JUST THE ATTRIBUTES TOPPED ON THIS ARE ENOUGH TO MAKE MY STOMACH BURST! BUT THIS COMPLEX, RICHLY FLAVORED SPIRITUAL ENERGY SOUP IS FORCING ITS WAY INTO MY GUTS, GUGO! IF A HUMAN ATE THIS, THEY’D GET FATTY LIVER IN AN INSTANT, GUGOOOO!”

Was it some kind of toxic substance?

“THIS ISN’T JUST FOOD—THIS IS A FIGHT, GUGO! RIGHT NOW, I’M IN A LIFE-OR-DEATH STRUGGLE WITH MAMA’S SPIRITUAL ENERGY, GUGOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

Is that supposed to be a compliment?

“IT’S DELICIOUSSSSS! BUT MY INSTINCTS ARE SCREAMING THAT EATING THIS WILL RUIN MY BODY, GUGO! AND YET, I CAN’T STOP, GUGOOOOOOOOO!”

With loud slurping noises, [Hihiirokane] kept gulping down my spiritual energy. And then—

“PUH—HAAAAAA…! I’M SATISFIED, GUGO…! FROM NOW ON, I’LL LIVE CONNECTED TO MAMA, GUGO…!”

“Hmm.”

In that instant, a sensation like an electric shock ran through my soul.

It was proof that I had formed a bond with the Conceptual Spirit.

Like plugging a new device into a power outlet, an invisible spiritual connection had been established.

The Soul Bond was complete.

“Well, whatever happens, I’ll be counting on you, [Hihiirokane].”

“GUGO~.”

And so, in my second life, I gained my fourth hosted spirit, [Hihiirokane].

Life sure is unpredictable.

“――Oh-hoho, you really did it, Lord Kanata!”

As the situation settled, someone enthusiastically patted me on the back.

It was Hinosuke, grinning ear to ear as he looked at me.

“Not only did you capture [Hihiirokane], but you also formed a Soul Bond with it. This is a huge achievement!”

“Heh, you think so?”

“That’s right, that’s right!”

R-Really!? Now that I think about it, I’ve done something pretty incredible, haven’t I?

With this, Japan in the second timeline now possesses a powerful mythical metal.

It’s a huge leap toward catching up to the overwhelming national power of former America, also known as the Libertarian Empire.

“Do you think Ouma Shiranui will be pleased with this?”

“!?”

When I asked that, all excited, Hinosuke’s face stiffened oddly.

“H-H-Hohoho. Lord Kanata, you’re asking that on purpose, aren’t you? You’re really something, you know that?”

Huh?

“[Hihiirokane] will become a major asset for Japan. That crazy patriot, Old Man Ouma, might even drink alcohol for once to celebrate. But the one holding the reins of this power is…”

“???”

As Hinosuke started explaining something, a loud KABOOOOM echoed nearby, accompanied by a flash of lightning striking the ground!

The blinding light temporarily robbed me of my vision.

And then—

“—So, you were talking about me, Hinosuke.”

As the light scattered, a man appeared at the spot where the lightning had struck.

“Ouma Shiranui.”

“Kanata Soranaki.”

The guardian demon of the nation.

The warlord of Yamato.

The black beast of Japan—the Supreme Commander of the Spirit Conductor Agency, Ouma Shiranui, stood before us.

“……”

Ouma’s piercing crimson eyes stared straight at me, reflecting my expressionless, doll-like face.

Even though I was secretly startled, my body, as usual, stayed calm and unshaken. What a nerve this body has.

“O-Ouma Shiranui … the Supreme Commander!?”

“Lord Ouma…!”

“His face is terrifying, de gojaru!”

The nearby regional Reisoushis, along with the Kirisame sisters, were frozen in fear, overwhelmed by Ouma’s sudden appearance and the heavy aura he exuded.

Come on, Body, read the room a little and change expressions for once!

“Fuh.”

Why did you just smile, Body? And stop it—it’s an evil smile!

“…Kanata Soranaki.”

Ouma’s commanding voice broke through the tension as he addressed me, still smiling like that.

“I’ve been keeping track of your actions. You’ve skillfully handled the reckless daughters of the Kirisame family, earned their trust, and today, you’ve managed to secure [Hihiirokane] with impressive finesse. Truly, your performance is nothing short of terrifyingly efficient.”

Hmmmm.

W-Wait, I’m being praised. Despite being watched like a hawk, I’m being praised.

Ohhhh, is this it? Have I finally graduated from being treated like some kind of monster?

Did he finally realize I’m just a kind and friendly mob character inside? Well, let’s play it safe and thank him.

“I’m honored to receive your praise. It is truly humbling.”

Ohhh~. Body even managed to express gratitude properly this time.

And unlike our first meeting, it even used polite language.

“…Have you learned the art of socializing and changed your approach?”

“If I am to be your loyal dog, then I hope my behavior pleases you, Master.”

“You…”

Ouma’s gaze sharpened intensely.

He must be moved by how well-behaved I’m being now.

Ah… I can tell.

I can almost hear the sound of his caution toward me fading away, little by little, grrrrrrk.

Hahaha. Well, since I’m such a capable and mature adult, maybe it’s time to shift the conversation toward business?

“Now then, Supreme Commander Ouma. —How should we handle [Hihiirokane], which this ‘Kanata Soranaki’ has secured? It’s something Japan greatly needs, isn’t it?”

“…!”

The usually stoic commander narrowed his eyes slightly.

Is he deep in thought? Oh, no need to rush! I’m a considerate guy, after all!

Being the leader of the Spirit Conductor world must come with some heavy responsibilities.

“Please take your time to think it through. The future of Japan depends on your next actions.”

“…!”

Ha! Nailed it! What a perfect display of concern. And with the news helicopters flying overhead, too.

By telling the Supreme Commander, Ouma Shiranui, someone who deeply loves Japan, that ‘the future of Japan depends on this,’ I’m clearly signaling that ‘I, too, am committed to Japan’s peace!’

“The Supreme Commander is an incredibly wise man. Surely, you understand what I’m aiming for, don’t you?”

This is it—his approval rating for me is going through the roof. And not just him—everyone watching on TV, too!

“I see… I understand now.”

Yes! Success!

“You cunning demon hound. This is exactly what you wanted me to do, isn’t it?”

…Wait, what?

“Fine. This time, I admit defeat for underestimating you…”

For some reason, Ouma Shiranui clenched his fist, visibly trembling.

Then, he slowly lowered his sword to the ground. Huh? What’s he doing?

Wait, is he kneeling? Is he tired or something?

“For Japan… for my homeland, I will endure any humiliation—”

As he muttered something incomprehensible, he started to lower himself onto one knee. And just when I thought he was about to…

“Alright, alright, let’s stop right there!”

Hinosuke suddenly stepped in and yanked Ouma back to his feet.

H-Huh? What just happened!?

“Don’t interfere, Hinosuke.”

“Can’t let that happen, Ouma. You’re Japan’s pride, and showing such a pathetic sight would only lower the morale of the people.”

“…Hmph.”

Hinosuke calmly advised the Supreme Commander before turning to me with a sheepish grin.

“Ha… Lord Kanata, how about letting this slide, just for my sake? I’ll craft you a top-tier weapon in return.”

Hmm? I mean, having a custom weapon sounds great, but…

“Let it slide? What do you mean?”

“To you, Ouma’s basically the guy who put a sword to your throat the moment you were born and turned you into his guard dog, isn’t he? Your mortal enemy, so to speak.”

M-Mortal enemy!?

No, no, no, no, no! I’m totally fine with how things are, okay?

Honestly, I kinda like Ouma Shiranui. Sure, he’s intense, but he’s a man who’s dedicated to making Japan prosper.

Back when I was just a mob character, people like him—those who live boldly, risking their lives for their goals—were the kind I admired.

Hmm, I should probably clear up this misunderstanding!

“Now, Mr. Hinosuke, what are you even talking about?”

“Huh?”

“I hold the utmost respect and admiration for Supreme Commander Ouma.”

“Whoaaaaa!? Wow, Lord Kanata, you’ve really got a way with words!”

For some reason, Hinosuke looked absolutely dumbfounded. Why?

“All that, after planning to use [Hihiirokane] to make Ouma bow to you.”

Wait, what!?

Make him bow…? Why does it sound like I was trying to do that!?

“Hahaha! Looks like Ouma, you’ve ended up keeping a pretty dangerous demon hound, huh?”

“I was prepared for this…”

“Still, you’d better start taking care of yourself, Ouma. If you weaken, Lord Kanata might end up causing some serious chaos, you know?”

I WOULD NOT! Stop treating me like some rabid dog!

“Well, I’m just a blacksmith. Whether it’s Ouma’s reign of peace or Kanata’s era of upheaval, I’ll just keep hammering steel all the same~.”

Hinosuke ended the conversation however he pleased, leaving me utterly unsatisfied.

Grr… this isn’t sitting right with me. I’ll absolutely prove to Supreme Commander Ouma that I’m a good person.

Hmm. But just claiming “I’m a good guy” won’t convince him.

Maybe I can show my character naturally through everyday conversation? Let’s see… what kind of topics could I bring up with Ouma?

Oh, right, mutual acquaintances!

“As you know, I’ve become quite close with Miss Setsuna these days. You know, the young lady you’ve been keeping an eye on?”

“!”

“And there’s Mr. Shiina from the ‘Yatagarasu’ as well. I’ve grown close to him too. He’s someone precious to you, isn’t he? Please continue to treat him well, okay?”

“!!”

Wait a second.

Why are Ouma’s eyes suddenly getting sharper and sharper?

“Boundless… evil…”

Why!?

“Haha… (Ah, this is bad. The Supreme Commander seems really tense right now—he must’ve misunderstood something.)”

Oh! I know. How about inviting him out for a meal?

We can call it a meeting to discuss the handling of [Hihiirokane], and I’ll suggest a meal together.

In a calmer setting, he’ll have a chance to relax, and I can help him understand me better.

“Supreme Commander, Ouma.”

“…What is it?”

“Regarding the handling of [Hihiirokane], why don’t we—”

Just as I was about to suggest having a meal together…

“I’ll take over that matter.”

This time, my father, Michitaka Soranaki, stepped in.

“Michitaka Soranaki.”

“Indeed, Supreme Commander. It seems you’ve taken quite a liking to my son. To the point of gifting him something akin to a dog’s collar, no less.”

With a pointed glance, Dad looked at the cursed bracelet locked around my arm—a device that can never be removed and allows Ouma to track me until I die.

…Ugh, Dad just threw shade at the Supreme Commander over that!

“…You’ve changed, Michitaka. What did Kanata Soranaki do to you?”

“Nothing, really. I simply swore to myself—to become a knightly man who can protect that child.”

“…I see…”

For a moment, Ouma Shiranui cast a sharp look in my direction before turning back to my father.

Huh? What’s going on!?

“So, what is it you want?”

“It’s regarding the rights to [Hihiirokane].”

“Go on.”

“As you know, my son does not hold a Reisoushi qualification. Therefore, during this mission, he was supervised by me, Lord Ujimaro of the Godaiin family, and Lady Setsuna of the Kirisame family.”

That’s true.

—Ah, I see where this is going.

“According to the rule that ‘all actions of a Reisoushi apprentice are the responsibility of their supervisors,’ the achievements likewise belong to the supervisors.”

Dad continued,

“Thus, the credit and rights for capturing [Hihiirokane] should, in first place, be jointly claimed by the Soranaki, Godaiin, and Kirisame families.”

“…So that’s how you’re playing it.”

Supreme Commander Ouma let out a faint murmur.

Hearing Dad’s statement, Maro and Setsuna, who had been slumping with expressions of regret muttering things like “I didn’t contribute much…” and “Same here…”, suddenly perked up with startled “Huh!?” reactions.

“How cunning of you, Michitaka Soranaki.”

The Commander narrowed his eyes at my father’s declaration.

“At first glance, it sounds like nonsense—sharing the rights with other families. Anyone can see your son was the key player here. The Soranaki family could have claimed all the credit and rights for themselves. But—”

But Dad had roped in the prestigious Godaiin and Kirisame families, some of the most influential households in Japan.

This move carried significant weight.

First, he had effectively earned the gratitude of these two noble families. By granting them a substantial favor, he created a massive debt they owed to us.

Second, by avoiding monopolizing the rights and instead forming a kind of alliance with these powerful families, he drastically reduced the risk of attacks from lurking threats like the ‘Mediums’ and other shady forces.

The Soranaki family, a poor and insignificant house with no external connections or even servants to speak of, would never survive if it suddenly acquired immense wealth.

We’d be devoured in an instant.

Both by criminals and by political predators.

“And so, Supreme Commander Ouma, when it comes to discussions about these rights with you or other government officials, I ask that Lord Ujimaro of the Godaiin family and Lord Kagerou of the Kirisame family join the negotiations.”

“You’ve brought one of the elders of the Spirit Conductor world into your corner.”

“Ah, you see, I’m not very confident in verbal sparring. I’m quite timid, so I’ll need to lean on their expertise.”

Dad scratched his cheek with a sheepish smile, looking harmless and unassuming—though his eyes weren’t smiling at all.

“I am a father. For the sake of ensuring a prosperous future for Kanata—”

Father stepped forward boldly, fearlessly closing the distance between himself and Supreme Commander Ouma.

“I will do whatever it takes.”

“…”

Supreme Commander Ouma’s eyes widened in surprise.

He let out a low murmur before eventually nodding quietly.

And so, an unprecedented alliance was formed: the lowly Soranaki family joining hands with two of Japan’s most renowned noble houses.

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

[Tips]

Kanata’s Spiritual Energy Flavor (as Reviewed by the Giant):

“MAMA’S SPIRITUAL ENERGY FLAVOR, GUGO? IF I HAD TO DESCRIBE IT—IT’S LIKE A DELICATE LIGHT RAMEN MADE WITH AYU DRIED FISH BROTH, THEN ABSOLUTELY LOADED WITH PORK FAT AND CHEMICAL SEASONINGS, GUGO.
IT’S AN ONSLAUGHT OF NUTRITION. DELICIOUS. DELICIOUS, BUT THE KIND OF CALORIES THAT WOULD DEFINITELY RUIN YOUR HEALTH. AND YET, THAT’S WHAT MAKES IT ADDICTIVE, GUGO.
WHAT? YOU THINK THE DELICATE AYU FLAVOR HAS BEEN COMPLETELY DROWNED OUT? YOU THINK ALL THE TOPPINGS TURN IT INTO NOTHING BUT PIG FEED?

NO, NO, THAT’S A NOVICE OPINION, GUGO.

JUST LIKE HOW THE QUALITY OF WATER DEFINES ALL GREAT CUISINE, THE BASE OF THIS DELICATE LIGHT BROTH IS WHAT MAKES IT A CULINARY MASTERPIECE, GUGO.

ACTUALLY, THE SPIRITS WHO’VE BEEN TASTING MAMA’S SPIRITUAL ENERGY FOR A LONG TIME ALREADY KNEW HOW GOOD IT WAS, GUGO.
THAT FOUNDATION IS EXACTLY WHY, DESPITE ITS VIOLENT RICHNESS, MAMA’S SPIRITUAL ENERGY HAS MADE ME A COMPLETE ADDICT, GUGO. ALSO, SUCKING ON MAMA’S HAND WHILE TASTING IT IS SWEET AND PERFECT, GUGO. BEST FLAVOR EVER. AMATEURS SHOULD JUST STAY QUIET, GUGO.”

Kanata’s Review of the Giant:

“Disgusting.”

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━