Hamusuke raised his head and looked over after Ainz indicated to Narberal.
“Master…my head hurts…”
Those raven black eyes glistened with tears.
He felt a little guilt. Perhaps his chop earlier was too forceful, but then again if he were thrown down at this speed, it wouldn’t be good.
Even if he hit the ground vigorously, Ainz would not suffer the slightest injury. He had conducted experiments using servants with damage mitigating powers like himself, and had felt no pain even when falling from a height of a thousand meters.
The problem were the companions who would feel suspicious about such a sturdy Ainz. Since he had already permitted them to accompany him to this point, he hoped to likewise handle the matter to the end. Ainz’ wish was sincere and without hypocrisy.
“Run more steadily. I do not wish to forcefully clamp onto your body.”
“Understood, master is concerned for this subordinate’s body condition right?!”
This time Hamusuke welled up with emotional tears. At the moment Ainz ordered him to watch the road when running, Igavaruji’s companion from earlier felt impressed again and praised:
“Oh, incredible, maintaining such a position while keeping balance. Even if you pre-empt and counterbalance, isn’t this position quite dangerous?”
“It’s because I’m used to it… anyhow I plan to install a saddle later.”
“Saddle…is a little detested… of course I am joking! If it is master’s opinion, this Hamusuke shall obey without objection!”
Enveloped by Narberal’s sharp gaze, Hamusuke desperately exhibited a loyal appearance. Ainz felt a tremor from his waist, a different vibration feeling from sprinting.
Ainz furrowed his brows on his illusionary face under the helmet.
There was no need to use murderous intent to frighten a mere hamster? This degree of loyalty is delightful, but could it have gone too far? Discrimination against humans is fine, but it is necessary to be aware of the time and place… she doesn’t appear to fully comprehend this part… are her settings like this? If that’s the case then it can’t be helped, but still…
Merely bringing Hamusuke along for the action had already made the name and fame of Momon the adventurer well known, and the Virtuous King of the Forest’s loyal appearance as well as it’s terrified behavior gave two different impressions to others. The former let others believe that Ainz was a great adventurer which was evaluated well. Although he was controlling Hamusuke in both cases, as long as there was an opportunity Ainz would prefer to grow his reputation into that direction. This was because he wished to quickly obtain the title of Hero and not a ruthless person.
Furthermore, obtaining allegiance from those outside of Nazarick would definitely be useful in the future.
Ainz reflected on his own actions slightly. Perhaps he was too rough in his treatment of Hamusuke, therefore he gently stroked the area where he had chopped earlier tenderly like he would to a small animal.
“Master…it’s really embarrassing…”
Ainz clearly heard the sound of gnashing teeth nearby, mingled amongst the sound of galloping horses.
….It's partly your fault too, you know? Speaking of which, you were too forceful, apparently out of jealousy? Would it be better to have her do something else? Narberal is also very loyal, but… what kind of reward should I give her?
Just as Ainz troubling himself not knowing whether to give a ring or a treasure, Igavaruji let out an unfriendly voice.
“Hey, Momon, we’ve already reached the destination.”
After indicating understanding, Hamusuke followed by slowly reducing in speed. Different from horses, being able to communicate directly with Hamusuke was his greatest strength as a mount. If he were riding a horse, Ainz who lacked experience, would not have the confidence to handle it easily.
Riding Hamusuke is certainly a bit embarrassing, but I am also quite fortunate that because of this, I don’t have to be riding a horse. However, in the future there may be an occasion when I need to ride on horseback. To cope with that contingency, it’s still better that I train horseback riding.
Ainz jumped down from Hamusuke. After stroking him with the intent of expressing gratitude, Ainz saw Narberal turn the horse back into a statue, and the men leading the horses to one side.
“Then, let’s be off. What kind of formation do you want when entering?”
“We walk in front, you people follow from behind.”
“We won’t mind whatever you want to do, but please show concern for us and be careful in your movements.”
After hearing Igavaruji’s impatient response, Ainz took Narberal and Hamusuke into the forest.
Just like the forest near Carne Village, this deserted forest was extremely difficult to traverse in. However for Ainz who was equipped with various kinds of magical items, it was as if it were flat ground. Also, because he was worried about Shalltear, his footsteps naturally increased speed continuously, and at times even Igavaruji had to request slowing down the pace.
Even if his requests were justified, the profanities used were full of hostility. Narberal who followed on one side almost shouted out in accusation several times, but was blocked by Ainz on every occasion.
“We’re arriving soon. Do not act rashly.”
Seeing Narberal’s wondrous expression made Ainz smile from under his helmet. At this moment Hamusuke felt that something wasn’t right, and continuously moved his ears as if trying to clearly locate the source of a sound.
Ainz, who knew the reason Hamusuke showed such a reaction, whispered in his ear:
“—Stop listening.”
“What? Master, what are you saying—”
“— If what you are hearing is a metallic sound, that’s just the noise I am making with my hand. Pay no attention to it.”
“Y-yes, so that’s what it is. Forgive me for being rude, master.”
“Then, apart from that, have you discovered any signs of tracking?”
He had already ordered Niguredo to monitor, and in addition had taken many precautions, but still just for insurance he still asked for confirmation.
“None. In addition, it seems that nobody is tracking.”
“Hey— has something happened?”
The man who was riding beside Ainz before probed with his question. It was not the group representative Igavaruji who came over to ask, for obvious reasons which need not be spoken.
Ainz gave his hand a gentle wave, responding to the other side that there was nothing.
“Is that so?”
The man had a look which showed that he did not accept this answer, shrugged and remained silent after knowing that Ainz had no intention to speak.
Even though I harbour no hatred at all towards you people.
Ainz did not say anything, only whispering this in his heart and silently advanced through the forest.