Jigglypuff's Diary

We ate breakfast, and then we walked through the narrow path of the canyon again.

Shiva-san is leading without looking at a map, but if it was just me, I would definitely end up lost because of all the turns.

From what I heard, it’s because Shiva-san has used this same path plenty of times before as part of the training of fresh recruits. It’s definitely not the most accessible place, but with all the cliffs that could be climbed, it just might be perfect for training.

And speaking of geography, I noticed that the geography here in this area is sometimes weird. It’s probably the effect of Masaharu’s magic, but there are rock cliffs here that are actually perpendicular to the ground.

If it at least had some slope I’d understand, but I don’t think it’s natural for terrain to be that perpendicular. Geological formations are things that form after the accumulation of earth and sand after all. And then there are those places that form from hardened lava.

I’ve also heard that jewels and gold were reported to have been spotted here. It wasn’t a meagre amount either, and people would mine out the veins immediately after finding one, so there were quite a number of people searching for them here. But after most of them failed to find anything, they gave up. And the people who found some couldn’t make enough of a profit to make it worth the effort either.

We talked about things like that as we walked. And then Shiva-san said,

“We’re near the labyrinth. Undead roam in the area near the labyrinth, so get ready.” [Shiva]
“Understood.” [Ryouma]

As I said that, we walked. The path was at most just big enough for three people to walk side-by-side. There were plenty of places before where the road was wider, but this area we’re in right now feels eerily artificial.

“Well we’ve made it this far, I guess we can take a rest for a bit. This path’s connected to the execution grounds that became a labyrinth, so it’s being maintained.” [Remiri]
“I see, although it doesn’t seem to be a straight line.” [Ryouma]

The road’s being maintained, and yet it has so many turns.

“It’s a precaution against escapees, something to buy time in the one-in-a-million chance that a convict for death row manages to escape. For a similar reason, the road before here isn’t being maintained as it’s not part of the main road, so it’s quite hard to cross.” [Remiri]

I see… that makes sense. But right after Remiri-san finished talking, the smell of rotting flesh wafted to my nose.

“This rotting stench, could it be?” [Ryouma]
“Yep, it’s the undead. Most likely a zombie.” [Rheinbach]
“Good timing. I’ll go ahead and teach you how to deal with them.” [Shiva]

20 seconds passed, and a rotting corpse walking towards us entered our vision.

According to what I’ve investigated beforehand, the undead of this world like places with little or no sunlight, so they can usually be found is such places. But that doesn’t mean they can’t function under sunlight.

My impression of my first time seeing a zombie is that they’re disgusting. Their flesh is rotting; they stink… But unexpectedly, they can move quite fast.

I expected them to be disgusting, but I didn’t expect them to move that fast. Oh, but while I say they’re fast, they’re only really faster than my expectations, and are walking around the pace of an adult man. So it’s not like I’m feeling threatened or anything.

It’s just a bit different from the image I had in mind is all. I expected a zombie groaning as it walked one step at a time, very slowly. So it’s a bit unexpected that it’s actually walking normally.

“Well then, before all else, let’s go and confirm the property of the zombies. First––“ [Shiva]

Shiva-san ran to the zombie, and swung his halberd diagonally from his shoulder, cutting the zombie in two halves in one swing. After cutting it two more times, Shiva-san came back.

“Just now, I cut it without using any magic, but my attacks had no effect at all. And the zombie just regenerate, and start walking again.” [Shiva]

Exactly as Shiva-san had said, the cut zombie began to gather its remaining parts, and started putting itself back together.

“It’s not just zombies either. Other undead-type magical beasts can also regenerate. So beating them with only weapons is extremely inefficient. If you really need to beat them with just weapons, then it would be better to use a blunt weapon rather than a sharp one. As that would allow you to crush their bodies thoroughly rather than just cutting them to pieces. Lastly, there are also magical beasts that can’t be beaten with such methods, so it’s imperative to exercise caution.” [Shiva]

Around this time, the zombie finally finished regenerating, and has started walking towards again. Then suddenly, Shiva-san casted ‘Wind Cutter’ and cut off the Zombie from its waist. The zombie started to regenerate again, but it’s far slower this time around.

“You might’ve noticed it, but these magical beasts regenerate at a slower rate when attacked by magic compared to when they are attacked by weapons. This is said to be because of their dark attribute magic power being dispersed by the magic power of a different attribute. And the most effective magic are those under light attribute. Try hitting it with ‘Light Ball’ once it finishes regenerating.” [Shiva]

After some time, the zombie finished regenerating. Just as I was told to, I casted ‘Light Ball’.

“’Light Ball’” [Ryouma]
“a’ ,aa’ !” [Zombie]

A ball of light appeared on my chest, and in the next moment, it flew towards the zombie in a straight line, piercing through its chest. The zombie groaned in pain as a giant hole could be visibly seen on its chest. The flesh and the bones near the affected area were thoroughly extinguished.

“As can be observed, light magic is extremely effective against the undead. Even the elementary magic, ‘Light Ball’, can pierce through its body, extinguish it, and greatly weaken it. However, a single shot from ‘Light Ball’ isn’t sufficient. If you wish to kill it in one hit with only ‘Light Ball’, then you’ll have to target its head or chest. Any other place will require two or three shots.” [Shiva]

“I understand. I’m surprised to know though that ‘Light Ball’ could extinguish an undead’s body… I’ve heard that people who die become undead. If by chance I do die, my body won’t disappear when hit by ‘Light Ball’ will it?” [Ryouma]

“Right, your corpse won’t disappear from being hit by ‘Light Ball’. Only, it’s said that a change occurs once a body changes into an undead, but it’s not fully understood. Moreover, not all undead come from corpses. There are also those that just naturally appear.” [Shiva]

As I received that explanation, another zombie came. As I was about to fire another shot of magic at it, Remiri-san stopped me.

“This time I’ll show you how it’s done with intermediate magic.” [Remiri]

As she said that, she aimed her wand at the zombie, and chanted.

“ ‘Exorcism’ !” [Remiri]

A ball of light as big as a basketball appeared in front of her staff, and hit the zombie. But that ball didn’t pierce the zombie. Instead it wrapped it in its light. It was as if it was extinguishing the zombie.

“With this magic, it won’t matter where you hit. You’ll be able to kill them in one hit no matter what. It costs around 1,500 points of magic power though, so it’s a waste to use this kind of magic against zombies. If it’s just zombies, ‘Light Ball’ will do. Just use this when you really have to, or alternatively, you could use fire magic instead of light magic as that’s also effective.” [Remiri]

Like this I was able to study how to fight undead-types. And I was also able to practice by shooting at the zombies and skeletons that were roaming on the road.

As a result, I’ve learned ‘Exorcism’, and am now even able to clad my blade in ‘exorcism’, which was quite effective as the undead could be extinguished with a slash.

It’s a waste though, as although I’m able to kill three zombies with one cast, a single elementary magic, ‘Light Ball’, could kill a zombie in one hit… Ah, come to think of it, I wonder what would happen if I just used light attribute magic power instead of an actual magic?

As I thought that, I clad my sword in light attribute magic power, and slashed at an undead. Oh, hey, it worked. It’s not the same as ‘Exorcism’, but I think I can work with this.

After I finished my experiment, Shiva-san and Remiri-san were shocked and went, “What just happened!?” as they hurried over.

As we got closer to the labyrinth, more and more undead have been appearing, causing our pace to greatly slow down.

Also, the labyrinth that was once the execution grounds is apparently located at the center of an artificial bowl-shaped geographical formation. Right now, we’re on top of a hill where we can see the entrance to the execution grounds.

We can see a huge, ancient gate from afar that’s connected to a tall wall. The door on the right side of the gate is collapsed, so we can also see what’s inside the gate. There, we could see some iron bar windows and some buildings made out of stone. As well as an uncountable number of undead.

“That many is a little annoying.” [Remiri]
“Couldn’t you just make do somehow with consecutive casting of light magic?” [Rheinbach]
“I could also ask my slimes to help.” [Ryouma]
“We risk getting surrounded by entering through the gate, so let’s lure them here to the hill instead. It’ll also help once they clump up.” [Shiva]

After our short meeting, we decided to lure our opponents. Everyone else aside from me will be casting advanced magic, while me and my slimes will be cleaning up the remaining undead.

So I opened my ‘Dimension Home’, and called out my scavenger slimes, acid slimes, metal slimes, iron slims, and light slime. The slimes were itching to go.

The scavenger slimes and acid ones in particular were very excited. Apparently the dark magic power and the rotting meat of the zombies have turned them into quite the delicacy in front of the scavenger slimes. In a similar fashion, the acid slimes were also quite taken by the bones of the undead. I’m happy they’re full of spirit, but I’ll have to remind them to prioritize safety.

“Alright, let’s go! ‘Flare Bomb’!” [Rheinbach]

Taking my slimes with me, I neared the gate. And when I was around 700 meters away from it, Rheinbach-sama fired an intermediate fire spell. A ball of fire the size of a basketball was summoned at his spell, and it flew right between me and the gate, causing an explosion. The undead reacted to that booming sound, and the undead began to climb up the hill.

“They’re coming, let’s go! ‘Beam’ !!” [Remiri]

Immediately after Remiri-san’s chant, a beam of light fired towards the undead, extinguishing almost all in its path. Most were killed, but I couldn’t count how many in all.

But the undead wave doesn’t end there, and more of them came after the ones Remiri-san extinguished.

“Next is my turn. ‘Fire Storm’!” [Rheinbach]

At Rheinbach-sama’s spell, a whirlpool of fire was summoned, swallowing the crowd of undead that neared. That blazing whirlpool filled my vision, and I couldn’t count how many undead died at Rheinbach-sama’s magic.

But more undead came, and they too climbed the hill. But once they gathered, Shiva-san made his move.

“ ‘Storm Cutter’ “ [Shiva]

At that moment, a powerful tempest was summoned, and the undead were blown away. After a while, the undead came falling down from the sky as scattered pieces. Again, I couldn’t count how many were killed.

As I was thinking such things to myself, the undead began to climb again. And this time, it was Sebasu-san’s turn.

“ ‘Water Fall’ “

Sebasu-san raised his hand as he chanted that, and in the next moment, a giant ball of water that looked as if it contained all the water within a swimming pool appeared in the sky, floating.

In the next moment, that giant blob of water fell down to the cliff with a rumbling sound. The blob broke, and it washed away the zombies. The total number of zombies washed away… again: uncountable.

Ah… on top of all the zombies, they even killed the left wall that was fine just a while ago.

Aren’t these people a bit too strong? And speaking of Shiva-san… if he had used that ‘Storm Cutter’ of his in our previous match, I would have definitely lost. Saved by the rules I guess.

“You guys are amazing…” [Ryouma]
“Ryouma-sama, you’ll be able to do something like this in no time at all.” [Sebasu]
“Advanced magic packs a lot of heat, and can affect a huge area, but it also requires a lot of magic power and control. On top of that, it takes time to cast. It’s not something that can be casted consecutively. Save for advantageous situations like just now, it’s not something that could be easily cast.” [Shiva]
“That aside, it’s your and your slimes turn next, Ryouma-kun.” [Rheinbach]
“Do your best!” [Remiri]

Oops, I almost forgot!

“I’m going.” [Ryouma]

I had the light slime ride on my head, while I went down the cliff with the rest of the slimes. Before me were the undead who appeared to have not learned their lesson as they continued to climb the hill. The skeletons were at the front.

The iron slimes were the first to attack those skeletons.

Using the slope of the hill, the iron slimes rolled towards the skeleton, and then jumped for their chest. The skeletons received a direct hit! Those iron slimes that were basically lumps of iron scattered the skeletons, causing them to collapse. There were also other iron slimes that simply body slammed their foes, crushing bones and flesh alike.

With just this the undead could still regenerate, but at the same time, they were now defenseless. The undead that was now in the middle of regenerating was left unable to fight, so the scavenger slimes feasted on zombies and skeletons alike without any reserve.

But the slimes weren’t numerous enough to take on all the fallen undead, so some of the undead would still become able to fight them. During that time, the slimes would fight with the techniques we’ve trained, spitting their digestive liquids, melting the foes’ limbs, taking away their ability to fight, and clinging to the arms that their enemies use against them, and feasting on them.

Around that time, the metal slimes and the iron slimes neared the gate, and they started using the new fighting ability they have learned.

Lately, the iron and metal slimes have become even better at transforming. And the iron slimes are now able to transform from their wheel form into something thinner that resembles the blade of a katana almost immediately. Coupled with their weight and rotation, the sharpness of that form can cut its opponent apart.

They probably learned it since I kept turning them into a blade. From the outside, they look like a chakram when transformed. I tried it using against goblins once, and they were able to easily cut their necks and limbs off. It’s quite terrifying honestly.

As for the metal slimes, they rolled, and then they jumped. And having learned how to change even in mid-air, they transformed into a rod-shaped object with a sharp end. Following the force from their previous jump, they thrust themselves into their foes like a throwing spear.

They pierced into the chests of the zombies and the undead, stopping their movements, and leaving them wide open for the scavenger and acid slimes to feast on.

…At first, I thought to watch them quietly from behind, only to interfere when they’re in danger, but… I don’t think either me or my light slime need to make a move. I just realized this, but… These guys are actually peerless when it comes to zombies and skeletons! Well, that’s the way it is, so I guess I’ll just go to the front lines now.

I neared the gate as I ignored the slimes that were trampling all over the undead. There are still a lot of slimes even in this area, so there’s no danger of getting surrounded. At the same time though, there’re also still a number of enemies.

“A’ –“ [Zombie[
“U-“ [Zombie]
“…” [Skeleton]
“ ‘Light Ball’ ‘Light Ball’ ‘Light Ball’” [Ryouma]

First, I fired off light balls toward the two zombies and one skeleton, headshotting them, and killing them. With a light slime on top of my head like this, we can fire light balls together, killing any undead that comes before us.

Speaking of which, with the light slime on my head like this, I’m able to feel it’s magic power. As such I’ve realized that although the magic casted has the same effect, the slime seems to use less magic power.

Thinking about it again, the wind slimes that I learned chantless casting from might’ve also been using less magic power… It’s just a hunch, but the slimes might actually be able to use magic more efficiently than humans. Remiri-san did also mention that it’s possible to become more efficient with magic through training, so it just might be possible.

I continued to kill one undead after another as I thought that to myself. When we finally finished killing everyone, no more undead came to attack us near the gate anymore.

Volume 3 Chapter 26

The next day.

I woke up early, and left the town with the others, passing through a canyon known as Troll Canyon.

The Troll Canyon is a large canyon located west of the country. It’s a maze that has naturally formed after many years.

The roads narrowed as we entered the canyon, and tall cliffs could be seen at every direction.

As this canyon is at the border of the country, there is a fortress watching over the border west of Teressa at this canyon. The Town of Departed Spirits that we will be going to however, is located north-west.

It’s about a 2-day walk from Teressa. We can’t ride on horse to go there because of all the cliffs, so we’ll have to go on foot with a rope in hand.

I have to say though; this is quite a valley. I just can’t help but look around at everything.
Then having noticed me, Remiri-san asked,

“Is it your first time seeing this kind of scenery?” [Remiri]
“Yes. It’s amazing. I wonder how much time it actually took for such a place to form naturally.” [Ryouma]
“This one took around 1,500 years.” [Remiri]
“Eh?”

1500 years? Only?

“Can something like this be made in such a short period?” [Ryouma]
“True, it’s definitely a short time to create a valley. But that only holds true for natural valleys.” [Remiri]

This isn’t natural?

“Was this valley made by humans?” [Ryouma]

Remiri-san looked a bit worried for a moment, then she said,

“Mn………… Well it’s definitely influenced by man. But it’s also wrong to say that it was intentionally made by man. Actually, this place used to be the training grounds of a godchild. And because of the influence of his magic, the ground changed.” [Remiri]

Interjecting, Sebasu-san continued,

“Our country was at war when this canyon was created. Just as the country was about to be destroyed, a child of god, carrying great magical power appeared. Records speak of his absurd and powerful magic.

At the godchild’s training, mountains would be born, the earth would be split, broken, and washed away in heavy rain and waves. Because of that, this canyon and the surrounding mountain district were born.” [Sebasu]

Haa!? An otherworlder created a canyon with his magic!? No way… Ah, wait… This might be that peerless magician that Gayn and the others were talking about. He was also supposedly around during wartime too…

How crazy was his magic though, I wonder.

“Can you do it too?” [Remiri]
“No way!” [Ryouma]

No way I could! Don’t put me together with that guy! Wait, actually, since there was a guy who could do something like that, I guess it’s only a given that they would be cautious with other godchilds… If anything, I suppose I should consider myself lucky for not being persecuted.

As I thought that to myself, I felt like I remembered something. But right before I could remember that something fully, a magical beast attacked us, so I focused on that instead.

The beast that attacked was a harris crow, a bird-type magical beast. There were 20 of them. It’s an E Rank magical beast, so they’re not that strong. But with the place being so narrow, it’d be better to attack them with magic instead of weapons. But just as I was thinking to do just that, Shiva-san had already gone ahead to use a weak tornado with little killing power to drive them away.

“That sort of weak opponent; you can just scare them away with a little bit of power. There’s no reason to actually waste magic power fighting them.” [Shiva]
“I see, thank you very much.” [Ryouma]
“Don’t mind it. Something like this, I can do as many times as needed. After all, you made me realize that I’m still more than capable! Ha Ha Ha!” [Shiva]

… Somehow, Shiva-san’s a bit different compared to yesterday. Rather than cheerful, I guess you could say he’s more lively now.

We walked through the canyon with Shiva-san in the lead. From time to time, we would cross rivers, climb cliffs, fight magical beasts. It was in this way that we proceeded until the sun began to set. We looked for a place that was a road’s width wide, big enough for us to make camp. There we decided to rest.

Being at the bottom of the valley, there was little moonlight, and as soon as the sun had fully set, the whole area was submerged in darkness.

Remiri-san then began to use magic.

“Ryouma-kun, this is a good opportunity, so I’ll teach you a light attribute magic now.” [Remiri]
“Thank you very much, please do, master.” [Ryouma]
“… You don’t feel like calling me oneechan?” [Remiri]
“Please teach me, master.” [Ryouma]

I called her master a second time, and Remiri-san made a sulking face.

“Fine. Until you decide to call me oneechan, I’ll be strict on you! I’m not going to hold back at all because I’m not as nice as Elize-chan.” [Remiri]
“Yes! By the way, why did you suddenly mention the madam’s name?” [Ryouma]
“Oh, didn’t I mention it? I used to be Elize-chan’s teacher on magic.” [Remiri]
“Really? I didn’t know.” [Ryouma]
“That’s right. And not just magic, I thought her all sorts of things too. Because of that, I’ve actually also met with her daughter many times, but Elize-chan has a bad tendency of being overprotective.” [Remiri]

Ahh… I can somewhat understand.

“Anyway, let’s start. First, I’ll show you how to do it, so pay attention. ‘Holy Space’” [Remiri]

Remiri-san released light and magic power as she chanted that. Using not only my senses, but also using my magic detection, I saw a cube of magic power appear with Remiri-san at its center. Its center was teeming with magic power. It was somewhat similar to barrier magic.

“This is an intermediate magic of the light attribute, ‘Holy Space’. With this magic, you can temporarily create an area where weak undead, like the zombies or the skeletons, won’t be able to enter.

The duration and the size of the barrier depends on your ability. Also, stronger undead will be able to enter the area affected by ‘Holy Space’ by force, so be careful. Now, how about you try it yourself. Creating a small space that’s at least big enough for one person to sleep in will be good enough for your first try.” [Remiri]

Just as Remiri-san said, I gave it a shot. Using light attribute magic power, with the same concept as that of barrier magic, I designated the area. And as I filled the designated area with light attribute magic power, I visualized the image and chanted the magic words.

“’Holy Space’” [Ryouma]

I invocated the magic according to the image in my mind, but it’s a lot more difficult to control compared to barrier magic. How to put it… A normal barrier magic is like a wall, with the magic power as water inside it, but this one is closer to that of a cloth. Water can’t pass through the wall, so it just stays inside, but with a cloth, the water seeps out. If I let my concentration up for even a moment, the magic power within the designated area spills.

Well, in any case, I seem to have successfully casted the magic, so I asked Remiri-san to confirm that, saying,

“Remiri-san, how is it?” [Ryouma]

To which Remiri-san replied with a hint of disappointment somewhere in her voice.

“It’s a success. You succeeded at your first try. Congratulations in succeeding at learning ‘Holy Spell’…………… Even though it was supposed to be the hardest magic amongst the intermediate class spells to control.” [Remiri]

You know I can hear what you’re mumbling there at the end of your sentence, right!? Asking for something so unreasonable, did you really want to be called oneechan that much?

I thought that to myself as I looked at Remiri-san. Then noticing my gaze, Remiri-san brought up a new topic.

“Ah, umm… Well for the meantime, since you succeeded with ‘Holy Space’, let’s try to perfect it this time around.” [Remiri]

If there’s a place that can be improve, then lets.

“Please take care of me.” [Ryouma]
“Before that, can you show me your status board?” [Remiri]

Status board? What for?

Anyway, I brought it out just as she told me too. And then she told me that she wanted to see how much magic power I’m using by looking at the value of my magic power before using and after using the magic.

Incidentally, elementary magic costs around 50 to 999 magic power, intermediate magic from 1000 to 4999, and advanced magic from 5,000 up.

‘Holy Space’ being an intermediate magic, consumes somewhere around 4,000 to 4,900 points of magic power. But my previous successful cast of ‘Holy Space’ apparently consumed too much power. When I went to check how much magic power I used after casting ‘Holy Space’ again, I found out that I had used over 10,000 points of magic power.

The more the magic power, the longer the duration, but the 4,000 to 4,900 points of magic power are already supposedly more than enough to last a night. So naturally, using enough magic power to last several days for a place you won’t be staying in for more than a night is a waste, right? Or so said Remiri. It makes perfect sense though.

Incidentally, a similar method is being used at the imperial capital’s academy that Elia is studying at, but the standards are far lower. For example, if casting a fire ball would normally be considered efficient at 100 points of magic power per volley, and thus be considered a pass. In order to allow the nobles to have good grades, the school would let them pass even at a consumption rate of 500 points of magic power per volley.

With that kind of standard, the students use enough power to cast five volleys, but can’t even cast more than one volley. Something like that might not matter at the academy, but if they do something like that out in the real world, they’ll run out of magic power quickly. Which then effectively makes their magic useless. So Remiri-san says that in order for me not to suffer a similar fate, I need to train properly.

After that I practiced ‘Holy Space’ for a bit, adjusting it repeatedly. And eventually I managed to keep the duration up while keeping its consumption to only 4,900 points of magic power.

Actually, I could lower the magic power even back when I first used it, but this magic takes a bit of skill. That so-called skill is the distribution of magic power. Without that, this magic won’t work.

When activating ‘Holy Space’, one needs to fill the designated space with magic power, while controlling that magic power with another force of magic power. If the magic power that controls the magic filling the space is too weak, then the magic power will leak out, causing the effect of the spell to weaken, fail, or consume more magic power.

After practicing the spell for a bit, I started to change the image in my mind from that of barrier magic to that of a balloon. After which, it became much easier to cast.

It’s thanks to my huge reservoir of magic power that I was able to train up to this point. After all, I was already close to my limits by the time I managed to properly keep my magic consumption in check. If it was a normal magician, it would’ve taken him at least several days.

According to Remiri-san, it’s possible to become so efficient at one’s control of magic, such that one would be able to cast magic with the same effect but at a lower cost. Right, I should continue to practice even more.

By the time I finished training, we were able to have our supper immediately because Sebasu-san made supper early.

After we finished eating, they talked about the godchild who created this canyon. They noticed how interested I was this morning, so since there was time to spare, they decided to talk about it.

Come to think of it, didn’t I remember something around that time? What was it again?
Ah, well… whatever. Let’s just hear their story first.

“Hmm… where should I start… The name of the godchild who created this canyon is Masaharu. That name has now become rather famous because of his tyranny though.” [Rheinbach]
“Tyranny?” [Ryouma]

At that question, Shiva-san answered.

“Yes, tyranny. You know that he appeared when the country was in dire straits, right?” [Shiva]
“Yes, I’ve heard of it.” [Ryouma]
“At that time, the king was desperate to break through that situation, so he wished to gain the power of that godchild at all costs. So much so that he ceased to care about appearances.

So the king spread a lie that the godchild was his illegitimate child, gave him a cordial welcome, and then bound him to the country as part of his war chest.” [Shiva]

So that otherworlder, Masaharu, became royalty, huh?

“There were three children before the king, so it was believed that there would be little chance of Masaharu becoming the king. But then one of them was betrayed by his allies, while another went out to war to encourage the soldiers, only for himself to die. And the last one was killed by an assassin from an opposing country. Then the king himself after winning the war through the use of his adopted child that he turned into knight-commander, and after making use of another godchild, died of illness right after the war.” [Shiva]
“So, then… No way…” [Ryouma]

Shiva-san silently nodded, then he continued,

“Masaharu inherited the throne.” [Shiva]

Seriously? Didn’t anyone protest?

“Of course, there were those who were against Masaharu becoming the king. But after the war, he was hailed as a hero because of his achievements. And even the commoners were aware that he was the king’s illegitimate child, so rather than find some reason to take the position from him, it was decided that it would be best for him to become king instead.” [Shiva]

Then Remiri-san interjected, adding,

“The nobles then thought to turn Masaharu into a puppet. After all, despite his power, he was a coward and an obedient man.” [Remiri]

There’s no doubt about it, that Masaharu is the peerless otherworlder magician. A hero, and at the same time, an otherworlder and a coward. It’s exactly as what I’d heard from Gayn’s group.

After that, I asked them how Masaharu acted, and apparently he did whatever he wanted. So I guess he really was a tyrant.

But then again, although it wasn’t implemented, he did try to enact a number of policies, such as compulsory education, free healthcare, and pension for those who can’t work.

That kind of thinking isn’t strange at all for someone like me who lives in modern Japan. But as for whether this world can understand that way of thinking or not is another story. There were many who protested against him, and he met those with his two powers as a king and as a powerful magician, silencing any who stood against him.

“The nobles who plotted to turn Masaharu into a puppet, were left unable to do anything but find ways to compromise with the king.” [Shiva]

The man they were against was not only the man who saved the country, but also the man who could overturn the battlefield with his magic alone. Moreover, each time he would leave for war, he would say, “I’ve casted a self-destruct magic on myself. So if ever I should die, I’ll be taking the opposing nations with me.” Whether that self-destruct magic of his could take the other nations with him is true or not, it was a fact that his magic was beyond the understanding of people, so no one tried to do anything foolish.

The one exception was the other godchild who was referred to as a hero. His name was Shuu. He was a strong knight wholeheartedly trusted by Masaharu. And unlike the other nobles, he didn’t fear Masaharu, and exchanged opinions with him.

It was he who aided Masaharu and mediated between him and the nobles; an irreplaceable person that allowed compromises to be made.

“In the end, it wasn’t until four years later until Masaharu was to be succeeded. During one of his trips, an assassin attacked him, and he died. The only thing that remained of him was a giant hole that’s believed to be the effect of his self-destruct magic. Of course, neither the assassin or the servants, or the escort knights, or the horses and the carriages were left. Not a scar, nor trace could be seen. All of them had vanished.” [Shiva]

An assassin, huh? ………… It’s true that Masaharu might be a tyrant, but it’s not like I don’t understand his feelings… His methods might have been bad, but I can’t deny him either without hearing his side first.

An academy was built in the capital instead of the compulsory education. And the fact that anyone can enter as long as they pay the fees seems to be very much like him. So it’s not like he didn’t anything for the people at all.

There are many good people who’s helped me out, but for Masaharu, he might have had no one else but Shuu beside him. And even if he did become a part of the royal family by his own will, he was still only wanted for his power. After he became king by chance, the nobles tried to turn him into a puppet. If I was in his place, I too would have relied on my powers alone, and tried to threaten others to protect myself.

After I thought those things, I said,

“Rheinbach-sama, Sebasu-san, truly, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything.” [Ryouma]

They were startled at my words, but continuing, I said,

“I just realized it now, but I’m really glad that the first people I met were members of the Jamil Household.” [Ryouma]

Continuing, I told them that I imagined myself in a situation where I had no allies, surrounded only by people who wanted to take advantage of me. Hearing that, the two understood.

“There’s really no reason for you to be grateful, you know? And besides, Elia’s been much more cheerful since meeting you, Ryouma-kun.” [Rheinbach]
“Really? So Elia…!” [Ryouma]

Oh, right! What I remembered this afternoon was Elia! Elia’s ancestor is that peerless magician, meaning Masaharu should be her ancestor according to Gayn. But wait a moment… If that’s the case, then… madam is royal family? …But then again, they are the household of a duke, so I suppose it’s not that weird.

“Something the matter?” [Sebasu]

Suddenly stopping mid-sentence, Sebasu-san became concerned, but I just told him that it was nothing.

After that, the conversation shifted to Elia, and this time I was thanked. They were grateful for me becoming Elia’s friend, and helping her make friends.

Elia possesses an enormous amount of magic power, making it difficult for her to control her magic, resulting in her causing a number of accidents. Exaggerated rumors of her spreads causing many of the noble children to fear her. And eventually, even the children who were her friends started to evade her, staring at her with eyes full of fear. Not long after, Elia herself grew to fear herself.

So that’s why…

“So what happened then?” [Ryouma]
“Around the time Elia learned how to successfully use elementary magic, she learned how to control her powers, and the rumors petered out. But it’s still not something that could be forgotten completely. Making friends is another story, but if it’s just acquaintances then there’s no problem.” [Rheinbach]
“Ojousama had to endure being stared at with fear by her good friends, so she was hesitant to make friends herself. But after becoming friends with Ryouma-sama, that fear has mostly faded.” [Sebasu]
“I didn’t really do anything noteworthy though. And besides, we were only together for such a short while.” [Ryouma]

Sebasu-san and Rheinbach-sama shook their heads at that response.

Even though I just did whatever I wanted? It was only now that I came to understand the situation too…

“That you did not fear Ojousama, looked at her face-to-face, and accepted her… That is more than enough.” [Sebasu]
“That’s right. Ryouma, you are the impetus that allowed Elia to take her first step. For her to ask you to become her friend on her own volition… Honestly, I was shocked at that time, but at the same time, I was relieved. Besides, I heard that you’ve been helping her make friends recently as well.” [Rheinbach]

Ahh, it’s about Miyabi-san. She mentioned in her letter that they’ve become friends, but it looks like she mentioned it to her family as well.

“Then in that case, you’re welcome. But you know… Elia couldn’t have made friends unless she moved by herself.” [Ryouma]

I’ll take their thanks for the meantime, but Elia was definitely the one who worked hard.

You were able to make friends because of me! Is not really something I feel like throwing my chest out for… If it was around seven or something, then maybe… but it wasn’t really anything like that.

I was thinking of all sorts of things like that, but since storytelling was mostly done now, I went ahead and slept.

TL Note:
King Ryouma and Queen Elia, anyone? 😀

“That’s enough!!” [Sebasu]

As blood spurted into the air, the butler whose uniform had been dirtied from the clouds of dust, called the fight.

“Looks like… I lost…” [Shiva]
“…Ah? Wasn’t it my? –Ow…” [Ryouma]

The two fighters whispered that as they grimaced in pain.

Wounded and bleeding, the two were only enduring.

The armor covering Shiva’s left shoulder was cut, bleeding. His neck’s scruff, pierced by the tip of Ryouma’s blade. On the other side, Ryouma’s shoulder was pierced from above by the blade of the halberd with a shortened handle that Shiva was using. And his abdomen was suffering from a large wound incurred from the ‘Wind Cutter’ spell that Shiva fired off.

The ‘Wind Cutter’ spell is an elementary wind magic, and is often considered to be the first step in one’s study of the element. Because of this its consumption of magic power is low, and its power is also proportionally weak. But in Shiva’s case, he trained this elementary spell, and although he can’t fire it consecutively, he became able to cast it chantlessly while possessing great power. On top of that, he could shoot it from a number of angles, turning it into a quick and powerful shot.

Although simple, the ‘Wind Cutter’ spell is effective in any situation. Combine that with Shiva’s ability and experience, it’s a frightening weapon. All the more so for humans that don’t have a natural armor like carapace, scale, or flesh like some magical beasts.

It was by that magic that Ryouma was hit in his armor’s seam. The attack didn’t cause an instant death, but if left alone, Ryouma could bleed to death. In fact, if it weren’t for Ryouma’s physical pain resistance skill Lv 8, he’d be writhing in pain at this very moment.

“I thought I had stopped him with my spear, but to think he would actually retaliate like that…” [Shiva]

Their attacks came mostly at the same time, but Ryouma’s was slightly faster. And the moment Ryouma’s attack sliced Shiva’s armor apart, wounding him. Shiva’s halberd pierced Ryouma’s right shoulder that was thrusted towards him from the last attack, and in the next instance, he fired off his ‘Wind Cutter’.

Shiva thought Ryouma’s sword had finally come to a halt there, but then Ryouma pulled out his sword from Shiva’s shoulder and armor. Because he was unable to move his right hand because of the halberd, he let go of his sword. And as a last resort, he focused his ki into his left arm, and thrusted into the scruff of Shiva’s neck.

Then Sebasu who was acting as the referee said,

“If Ryouma-sama had fully swung his sword, then that attack would have definitely lopped Shiva-sama’s head off. At the same time, Ryouma-sama would have also suffered a life-threatening wound. So as the referee, I decided to put a stop to the match here. Now please sheathe your weapons, and quickly get yourselves healed. Especially you, Ryouma-sama.” [Sebasu]

At Sebasu’s calm declaration, the two warriors sheathed their weapons. Immediately after, Shiva fell to the ground into a sitting position, while Ryouma fell down. And as Sebasu-san held Ryouma up, and gently made him lie down on the ground, more blood flowed out of Ryouma’s wounds.

“Remiri-Sama!” [Sebasu]
“Yeah, yeah, I’m healing him! ‘Mega Heal’! Sheesh, what kind of match was that supposed to be anyway?” [Remiri]
“One mistake, and either of you could’ve died.” [Rheinbach]
“My apologies, as a referee–” [Sebasu]

Sebasu tried to apologize, but Rheinbach stopped him.

Although Sebasu-san was the referee, and although he should ‘ve stopped the match earlier. The battle was just too fierce right from the start, and he couldn’t enter the fray. Nevertheless, he did his best as the referee, went as close as he could, and tried to see the fierce fighting to the end while not getting in the two fighters’ way. His dirtied clothes were proof of that.

Because of that Rheinbach stopped Sebasu from apologizing, and while Remiri healed the two fighters, he said,

“Sebasu, you’re not at fault. I couldn’t get in between these two either.” [Rheinbach]
“ ‘Mega Heal’ ‘Mega heal’ Exactly, so don’t beat yourself up over it, Sebasu-chan. ‘Mega Heal’ After all, even I couldn’t keep up with their movements at the end.” [Remiri]

Said Remiri as she healed the two warrior’s wounds with advanced healing magic that made it look like she was turning back time, leaving not even a scar to be seen. As a result, Ryouma was too shocked at the efficacy of advanced healing magic to hear what the adults were saying.

“Sorry, but he wasn’t an opponent I could hold back against. In order to measure him up properly, I needed to go at full strength.” [Shiva]
“I know that but…” [Remiri]
“Well they’re both fine in the end, so isn’t it fine? Neither lost their life, and neither got any scars.” [Rheinbach]

Then Rheinbach asked,

“With this he should be more than good enough to enter the Great Forest of Shurus. And I don’t have any complaints either, so I suppose we can send him off without worrying, right, Sebasu?” [Rheinbach]
“Yes. With that much ability, he should be fine even without any escorts.” [Sebasu]
“Right. Although for him to actually manage to force Shiva to go at full strength, and come out on equal footing… the power of the godchilds are truly frightening.” [Rheinbach]

Just as Ryouma finished checking his wounds, he was finally able to shake himself from his amazement, and the word ‘godchild’ entered his ears, causing him to tilt his head. Judging from the context, he knew that they’re talking about him, but he’s never heard of the word ‘godchild’ before.

“Godchild? What is that?” [Ryouma]
“Oh, you didn’t know? Well, I guess it’s not that common of a word… Godchilds are people who appear once every several hundred years, possessing power, abilities, and knowledge that far surpasses other people.” [Rheinbach]

That ‘godchild’ Rheinbach was talking about, that comes once every several years, are most likely earthlings just like himself, thought Ryouma. At the same time, Ryouma started to wonder whether they knew that he was an otherworlder, but after hearing from Rheinbach, he finally understood the situation.

The otherworlders who come into this world all leave behind some sort of mark in history. And there are even some who inherit the ideas of those otherworlders. Amongst the otherworlders are people who inherit important positions, people who discover a number of things, saving lives until today. And even those who claimed to others that they were called here to this world by the gods.

The people of this world couldn’t ascertain the authenticity of having been called here by the gods. But there was no denying that these people did exist, and they possessed knowledge and abilities that transcended others’. So the people of this world honored them, and were grateful. And with fear, they came to call these people that possessed transcendent knowledge and abilities as ‘godchild’ or ‘the apostles of god’.

“So I’m the same as those so-called ‘godchilds’” [Ryouma]
“Well yes, there shouldn’t be any mistake. Actually, on top of Shiva’s level 7 halberd arts and his position as a former knight commander, he is also the nations’ strongest knight. For a 12-year-old child such as yourself to fight him on equal footing, that is something that far surpasses the territory of ‘genius’. On top of that, you even have talent in various magic and knowledge in various areas. So just thinking about it a little, it’s not really a hard conclusion to arrive to.” [Rheinbach]

Said Rheinbach with a bright smile, to which Ryouma then asked with conviction,

“Not hard, then… Could it be that you knew from the start?” [Ryouma]
“Ever since you stayed with us at the Town of Gimuru actually. I told you before, right? You are too skilled, so you should be careful of bad people, or something, right? And besides, godchilds all possess high skill levels and special skills since a young age. And they all also appear as orphans or people with no relatives.” [Rheinbach]

He noticed that quickly, thought Ryouma to himself, shocked. But that was almost right after we had just met when we went to the church to get my status board made.

As Ryouma was thinking to himself, Sebasu said in a calming voice.

“Please don’t be concerned. Regardless of whether Ryouma-sama is a godchild or not, we will neither put you in harm’s way, nor try to bind you.” [Sebasu]
“Our relationship won’t change. All the more so if you truly are a child of god.” [Rheinbach]

Ryouma trusted the Jamil Household, so he wasn’t worried about being treated badly by them in particular. But he was curious when he heard Sebasu mention something about being ‘bound’, so he asked about it. The one who answered however, was neither Rheinbach nor Sebasu, but Remiri.

“The godchilds all possess great talent and great power, so getting them as one’s subordinates would reap great profits. But you know, it’s also because they possess great power that should they be offended, they could cause great damage. Such calamities have occurred many times in the past.

That’s why all the nobles in the country have wordlessly agreed to honor the will of the godchilds. How each one honors or dishonors this tacit agreement is up to each individual, but should they anger a godchild, the nobles will ostracize them, seize their properties, and/or even execute them.” [Remiri]

Ryouma’s eyes opened wide in shock.

“No way… why would a country do so much for an individual…” [Ryouma]
“It’s not an exaggeration at all.” [Remiri]

Remiri then brought up a previous case.

Once upon a time in this country, the Rifo-ru Kingdom, appeared a child of god. That godchild was a man who rode upon an iron horse that knew no rest, and would ride across the country at a frightening speed. Moreover, being skilled in dimension magic, he would carry with him a great number of commodities as he travelled around the country.

That man’s abilities caught the eye of the king. And so the king ordered him to enter the army. But the man wished for freedom, and he obstinately refused the king’s orders time and time again. He was the sort of man that would absolutely never yield, so in the end, the king decided to threaten to take away his freedom, forcibly binding him as his servant. But the man rebelled, and he mowed down all those who tried to catch him. Riding on his iron horse, no one could catch him.

After that, the man would raid the residences and carriages of the nobles, pillaging their money and their goods. And no matter how many tried to catch him, not one man could catch his iron horse. Gradually, the man gained comrades, and he became a problem that even the country’s army couldn’t handle.

With his new comrades, his larceny reached a new height, and he stretched his hands even on the nobles of the other countries. It was a disaster. On top of that, when the man would run away, he would announce that he came from Rifo-ru, and that the king of Rifo-ru tried to take his job and freedom away, so he’s doing these things as a form of protest.

Gradually, criticism towards the country that caused the disaster began to propagate both in the country and outside. Soon a conspiracy theory about how the thieves were actually a special force disguised as a thief, sent by the country to pillage other countries’ treasure.

As a result, the relationship with the other countries worsened, and the power of the king fell. In the end, his younger brother stole his position, and as punishment, the king was executed.

“The other countries calmed down a bit after the execution of the former king that was the cause of the disaster, but the relationship was still strained. It would have been fine if the godchild was also arrested, but in the end no one could catch him, and the stolen treasures were never recovered.” [Remiri]

Hearing that, Ryouma remembered what the magic God, Fer Noevir, had told him, and he understood.

Ryouma never had any intentions of committing any atrocities with his powers, but ever since hearing about how the otherworlders abused theirs, he’s been making sure to keep his abilities in check. But that was only something personal. Ryouma never had any perspective as the assailant or as the victim.

A victim would obviously try to prevent a disaster from happening. Especially, if there’s a high chance of it occurring.

“I see…” [Ryouma]

As Ryouma mumbled that, Shiva, who’s been quiet until now, asked,

“Since you understand, I’d like to ask, now that you know the truth, what are you going to do?” [Shiva]
“Even if you ask me that… I’ll still continue my training all the same, get my grandparents’ inheritance, and continue my life as a researcher and as an adventurer. I don’t really have anything I want aside from living a leisurely life.” [Ryouma]

Shiva heaved a sigh of relief at Ryouma’s response, and said,

“Exactly as Rheinbach had said, huh?” [Shiva]
“Eh?” [Ryouma]

Ryouma alternately looked between Shiva and Rheinbach, then Shiva explained.

Actually, when Ryouma left the inn, Rheinbach talked about the possibility of Ryouma being a godchild and his personality. There he mentioned that Ryouma was an unselfish person with no interest in money or honor, and would rather spend his days fixating over his hobbies without living in luxury.

And while that wasn’t exactly correct, it wasn’t wrong either.

While Ryouma was working hard back in Earth, there were also times when he thought to live a more comfortable life. But of course, that doesn’t mean to say that he wanted to live luxuriously.

Cheap, delicious food was more than enough. Clothes that wouldn’t get him laughed at was sufficient. And a warm, strong house that wouldn’t break during storms, and stay warm even during the winter was all that he wanted.

Ryouma isn’t completely free of desires, but he is more than content just having the necessities of life.

On top of that, this world could be said to be the embodiment of Ryouma’s hobbies. That’s why Ryouma is more than satisfied just living his life here normally, working as an adventurer. As a result, he really doesn’t really have much more he could ask for.

He’s also not the type to show off his abilities ostentatiously, and neither is he the type for needless violence. Although he might not seem to act as young as his 12-year-old self would suggest, he’s definitely a good boy.

That along with Ryouma’s response just now and the air about him showed how little intention he had of harming the kingdom, bringing Shiva great relief.

“Don’t worry, it’s nothing.” [Shiva]
“I see.” [Ryouma]

Ryouma didn’t pursue the meaning behind those words any further. Shiva was the former knight commander so he figured it wouldn’t be strange at all for him to be thinking about something. What’s important is that he seemed to be relieved, thought Ryouma to himself.

After that, the atmosphere became silent for a bit. The one to break that silence was Remiri.

“Hey~ Ryouma-chan.” [Remir]
“What is it?” [Ryouma]
“If you don’t mind, could you show us your status board?” [Remiri]
“My status board?” [Ryouma]
“Yep, your status board. We think you’re a godchild, but if you could show us your status board, we could find out if you really are one or not.” [Remiri]

Ryouma was surprised again when he heard those words. Ryouma’s only heard about the term ‘godchild’ today, so of course he didn’t know that you could find something like that out just from looking at the status board.

Ryouma wondered whether he should show his status board or not, but thinking to himself, “What’s the point in hiding it after everything?” He showed his status board.

“There’s a column for titles in the status board, right? Is there a “Favorite Child of the Gods” title there?” [Remiri]
“…Ah, there is.” [Ryouma]

Looking at his status board, Ryouma saw that there was in fact such a title. So he made the column of titles visible for others to see, and he handed the status board to Remiri.

“He really is a child of god, huh? Even though I’m a dark elf, I never really thought I’d get a chance to meet one.” [Remiri]
“Same. Magic aside, I don’t think I could get him to go all out in martial arts.” [Rheinbach]
“So you left it to Shiva-chan?” [Remiri]
“Yes. Although I think today’s meeting was actually by the gods’ wills. I’ve always been planning of having Ryouma meet Shiva to measure his abilities, but I didn’t think we’d end up meeting today. Remiri, if you hadn’t seen Ryouma staring at the carriage we were riding on… No, if we had gone here either by my slave demons or by Sebasu’s dimension magic, then we probably wouldn’t have met Ryouma, right?” [Rheinbach]
“Yeah, that’s true. If Remiri hadn’t suggested to travel via carriage since we hadn’t met in such a long time, then we would have already gotten an Eternal Darkness (herb) and be on the way home now.” [Shiva]

As Shiva agreed with Rheinbach, he looked at Ryouma’s status board. Then suddenly, his eyes opened wide.

“Ryouma-kun, this title is…?” [Shiva]

As Shiva said that, he pointed towards the two titles beneath the title, “Favorite Child of the Gods,” toward the “Disciple of the Sage” and the “Disciple of the Martial God”. Ryouma replied,

“Ah, those are my grandparents who raised me. They are the ones who trained me in the foundations of magic and martial arts.” [Ryouma]

It was Ryouma’s prepared reply.

Silence flowed for a few minutes, then they asked for the names and race of Ryouma’s grandparents. Immediately, the four adults were shocked, and they finally understood why Ryouma was so strong.

“Unbelievable, to think that Ryouma would actually be the disciple of the martial god and the sage…” [Rheinbach]
“In all these years I’ve lived as a dark elf, this must be the most surprising thing I’ve ever heard.” [Remiri]
“So a godchild could show that much power after receiving guidance from those two.” [Shiva]

When Ryouma heard Shiva’s words, he couldn’t help but ask,

“Shiva-san, do you know my grandparents? You said ‘those two’ just now, right?” [Ryouma]

Shiva vaguely nodded, and then said,

“I only really got to exchange some words with them a few times. When we were still mere soldiers, they were invited by the country, but they refused that invitation and in exchange they taught martial arts and magic to select individuals for some time.” [Shiva]
“Of course one of those soldiers that were selected was me. Moreover, being just mere soldiers at the time, they weren’t someone we could freely call out to.” [Rheinbach]

After that, they decided to continue their conversation while eating, so they went back to town.

While eating, Shiva and Rheinbach spoke heartily. After that, Ryouma asked for advice in combining his magic with his sword, and he was told that he should at least find a way to cast his magic faster.

The group then discussed their plans the next day. Starting tomorrow, Ryouma will be learning from Remiri, and will be undergoing magic training while they search around the Town of Departed Spirits.

After their discussions ended, they went on their own ways, and Ryouma rested in a room that was prepared for him. There he was visited by Rheinbach and Sebasu.

“Ryouma-kun, do you have some time?” [Rheinbach]
“Yes, please enter.” [Ryouma]

Ryouma welcomed them. And when Rheinbach entered the room he said this,

“Actually, I wanted to thank you. Thank you for having a match with Shiva. There hasn’t been anyone whom he could fight with in these past few years equally, and on top of being made to do a lot of paperwork during his time as a knight commander, he became anxious over his age.

But thanks to you today, he was able to go all out, and has been feeling better since. And now it looks like that dominating spirit he once had is back. He’s tired, so he’s sleeping now, but it’s really been a long time since I saw him make such a satisfied face.” [Rheinbach]
“I’m happy I could help. I’ve also come to understand the places I’m lacking, so I’m also grateful to Shiva-san.” [Ryouma]
“I see. I’m glad to hear that it was mutual.” [Rheinbach]

Rheinbach laughed as he said that, then taking Sebasu with him, he left the room after telling Ryouma to enjoy himself, but to make sure to get some good night’s rest as they’ll be leaving early tomorrow.

After sending them off, Ryouma meditated until supper time, played with the slimes, and then he slept right after supper.

I continued to walk through the mountain road while looking at the dreary surroundings. I’m already sick from looking at this scenery, but then I saw the gates of the Town of Teressa.

Today I’m going to spend the night in this town, and then tomorrow I will be heading for the labyrinth. But what should I do for the inn? I have to make the meals by myself, but since I have my ‘Dimension Home’, it might be better to just stay there rather than to spend the night at a cheap inn. Well, let’s take a look at the town first, shall we?

Well the town doesn’t seem bad at all, so depending on the state of the inn, it might be better to spend the night there instead. But it’s almost afternoon, so I should probably go ahead and have lunch first.

After walking around the town for a while, I saw an inn with a stable in which a carriage was parked.

“Mn? This is…” [Ryouma]

The inn looked to be a bit too luxurious, so I was going to just walk pass it, but… Where did I see this carriage before? Hmm… Did I make a mistake?

At the side of the carriage was a familiar coat-of-arms… When I thought about it, I remembered. It’s the same carriage that I rode on last year from the Forest of Gana to the town of Gimuru.

Why is it here!?

As I was thinking that, I noticed someone sneaking in from behind. I turned toward her. When I did, I saw a brown-skinned beauty with silver hair extending until her shoulders, wearing glasses. The distance between us was no more than 3m.

She got so close, and yet I wasn’t able to notice her at all… If she had a spear with her, I could have been hit… I need to be more careful.

“Oh my, looks like I’ve been caught. Your instincts are pretty good, huh?” [Girl]
“Who are you?” [Ryouma]

Because she went near me while hiding her presence, my guard was up, and was a little impolite.

“Oh, I’m sorry, did I frighten you by any chance? I just wanted to startle you a bit. It’s because you were staring at that carriage so intently, so I was wondering to myself what you were doing, and then I suddenly thought of playing a prank.” [Girl]

True, she certainly doesn’t seem to have any ill will…

Suddenly a man’s voice called out from behind the girl.

“Remiri-sama, so you were here? It’s almost time for lunch, so… Oh? Could you possibly be… Ryouma-sama?” [Man]

This voice…

When I looked toward the direction of that familiar voice, what greeted me was that silver-haired man dressed in a butler’s uniform.

“Sebasu-san!” [Ryouma]
“Eh? Sebasu-chan, is he someone you know?” [Remiri]

The person there was none other than the head butler of the duke’s household, the person who taught me dimension magic, Sebasu-san. From the looks of things this girl is Sebasu-san’s acquaintance. So I guess it’s safe for now, right?

“Remiri-sama, he is our friend. However, I didn’t expect that we’d actually meet at a aplace like this.” [Sebasu]
“Friend? By ‘our’, you don’t just mean yours, but also Rheinbach-chan’s as well, right? [Remiri]

Just who is this girl? Even though she looks to be only 20 years old, or at the very least at the latter half of her 10s, and yet she actually affixes ‘chan’ to Sebasu-san and Rheinbach-sama’s names? I have no idea who she is, but now that I look at her again, she is certainly quite the beauty.

She looks young. And although she’s still taller than me, for an adult woman she’s on the smaller side. Also the front of the robe she’s wearing is open, so I know she has good style.

Her chest is also unusually bigger compared to her height, and her waist is thin. Her figure’s like the ones that you could see in the gravure idol mags in Earth. Her body’s healthy, but it doesn’t look she trained her body for fighting. She probably doesn’t fight with a weapon, though she does look to be quite nimble.

“Sorry for scaring you just a while ago, ok? My name is Remiri Cremis. I’m a wizard.” [Remiri]
“My name is Ryouma Takebayashi, sorry for the delayed introduction.” [Ryouma]
“Well, since you two are done introducing yourselves. Let’s move to a different place, shall we?” [Sebasu]
“Right. Do you mind, Ryouma?” [Remiri]
“Not at all.” [Ryouma]

Sebasu-san’s coming too, so it should be fine. But really, what is Sebasu-san doing in a place like this? Oh, but it seems Rheinbach-sama is here as well, so I guess he’s accompanying him.

When I went with Sebasu-san, I was led to the inn in front of us. And then we kept walking until we reached a room. Sebasu-san was just about to knock, when suddenly Remiri opened the door and pulled me by hand inside.

“Rheinbach-chan, there’s a customer–“ [Remiri]
“Wai– Oh, umm… Long time no see.” [Ryouma]

When I entered the room, the unchanged figure of Rheinbach-sama entered my vision, and I said hello. Inside the room, there was another man around Rheinbach-sama’s age, seating on the couch. Looks like they were talking about something.

“Ryouma-kun? You’ve grown quite a bit since the day we parted at Gimuru… But why are you here?” [Rheinbach]
“I just dropped here by coincidence during my training. And then as I was walking around the town, I saw the duke’s carriage, and then…” [Ryouma]

As I was saying that, I looked towards Remiri-san. Following my eyes, Rheinbach-sama and that other guy also looked at Remiri-san. With everyone staring at her, Remiri-san gave an extremely short and simple explanation.

“I brought him here because it looked like he knew Rheinbach-chan.” [Remiri]

After that we each introduced ourselves, and then I was told what relationship Rheinbach-sama had with her and the reason why Rheinbach-sama and the others were here.

Apparently, Rheinbach-sama is currently in the midst of his travels with his friends. And Sebasu-san is as expected accompanying him.
   
Speaking of friends, the ones he’s referring to are Remiri-san and the other man, whose name is Shiva Gardak. Well who would’ve thought, it’s the former knight commander that Rheinbach-sama wanted me to hire when I opened the store. Rheinbach-sama mentioned that he retired because of his age and has gotten weaker, but with that muscular body of his, it doesn’t feel like that at all. But at the same time, I don’t’ feel intimidated by him. Then again it’d be problematic as well if I actually felt intimidated in our first meeting. I thought a knight commander would have a more solemn atmosphere, but I’m happy that’s not that case.

And about Remiri-san, apparently she’s a former royal court magician. But what’s surprising is that she’s actually the oldest in this room. She’s a dark elf, and because she doesn’t look like she’s aged at all, I couldn’t tell at all.

I don’t know what her age is though, I couldn’t ask. When I was wondering to myself whether to ask her or not, Shiva-san asked her with no hesitation, and Remiri-san just stared daggers at him with a frightening killing intent. So after that, I just decided not to speak a word about her age.

Incidentally, Remiri-san hates being addressed with the sama suffix, and Shiva-san said that since he’s no longer a knight-commander he doesn’t need the sama either. So with that it’s been decided to just refer to them with a san.

I know that they met in this town to meet each other, but…

“Why did you decide to meet in this town?” [Ryouma]
“Since you’re in training, I think you should know, but there’s a nearby town here known as the Town of Departed Spirits” [Rheinbach]
“Do you know of the herb, Everlasting Darkness.” [Remiri]
“It’s an herbal ingredient that’s mainly used for tranquilizers and sleeping potions. And depending on the amount and what it’s mixed with, it can be turned into a poison that causes pain and confusion. As a result, it’s an herb that’s difficult to handle.” [Ryouma]
“Oh, how knowledgeable. It’s exactly as you said, but Eternal Darkness (herb) isn’t only used in medicines.” [Remiri]

As Remiri-san said that, she took out a black wand.

“This wand is something I was gifted when I became an adult. I’ve been taking good care of it all this time, but it’s almost about to reach its limit.” [Remiri]
“I see, so you want an Eternal Darkness (herb) in order to make a new wand.” [Ryouma]
“Precisely.” [Remiri]
“In my case, I had a lot of free time after retiring and after leaving the management of our territory to my son. So I thought it wouldn’t be so bad to go along with Remiri from time to time. I didn’t expect to meet you here though.” [Rheinbach]
“For you to be training at such a young age… Do you have any goals?” [Shiva]

Since Shiva-san asked, I explained the matter about recovering my grandparents’ inheritance.

“Hmm… within the forest of the Great Forest of Shurus, huh?” [Shiva]
“True… If you’re going there, you’ll definitely need some protection against the undead.” [Remiri]
“I can use light magic, but since I haven’t had any experience with undead yet, I thought of getting some experience at the Town of Departed Spirits.” [Ryouma]
“Oh? You can use light magic?” [Shiva]
“Yes. I can use the elementary offense magic, ‘Light Ball’, and the anti-undead defensive magic, “Holy Curtain’. But only those two.” [Ryouma]
“Considering your age, that’s more than enough. Since you know those, I guess you’re only worried about getting mobbed by undeads then. If you could at least use elementary light magic, you’d be set.” [Shiva]
“Want me to teach you? Elementary light magic that is.” [Remiri]
“Is it ok?” [Ryouma]
“Of course. You’re a kid Rheinbach-chan’s taken a liking to after all. And you even noticed me after I used ‘Hide’, so I think you’re a really brilliant kid.” [Remiri]

‘Hide’? I’ve never heard of that magic before, but could it be a magic to conceal yourself? …She used it when we met?

“Is ‘Hide’ a magic?” [Ryouma]
“Yeah, but it’s dark magic, so I suppose it’s only natural that you don’t know. It’s an intermediate level that allows one to hid his presence.” [Remiri]
“Remiri-sama is an expert of dark magic and light magic, an accomplished royal court magician. There are very few with abilities above her.” [Sebasu]
“Save for her personality, there’re no questions when it comes to her skill.” [Rheinbach]
“How rude… My personality’s perfectly fine.” [Remiri]

Said Remiri-san as she threw a puzzled gaze toward Rheinbach-sama and Shiva-san. Sebasu-san on the other hand just stood at Rheinbach’s side quietly as if saying, ‘Nothing to do with me’. In any case, I’m happy to have someone teach me light magic, but I wonder if it’ll turn out alright.

“Once you’ve met her, she’ll bring you trouble whether she teaches you or not. So Ryouma-kun, I think it’d be a fine idea for you to just accept her offer.” [Shiva]

What does that mean? Now I’m a little worried, but at the same time, I don’t want to waste this opportunity.

“Thank you, I’m truly grateful to be able to learn light magic. Remiri-san, if you’re alright with it, then please teach me light magic.” [Ryouma]
“Then it’s decided! It’s only temporary, but I’ll have you call me master during this time.” [Remiri]
“Master? Alr–” [Ryouma]
“Oneechan would do just fine too.” [Remiri]

Just when I was about to agree, she suddenly suggested something unexpected. But that was embarrassing so I refused.

“Let’s go with ‘master’.” [Ryouma]
“Eh, but that will affect my motivation–“ [Remiri]

Remiri-san was clearly not satisfied with my answer. When the other three heard that, they couldn’t help but remark.

“Even though you’re the one who wanted to be called master.” [Shiva]
“It must be tiring to have Remiri as your teacher, but there’s nothing else to it than to endure or let it pass. Do your best, Ryouma-kun.” [Rheinbach]
“Ryouma-sama, there’re no doubts about Remiri-sama’s ability, so please don’t worry.” [Sebasu]

How to put it… Remiri-san feels like a very ‘free’ type of person.

As I was thinking that, Rheinbach-sama suggested one more thing.

“Oh, right. Ryouma-kun, it’s been awhile, so how about you show us how you fight?” [Rheinbach]

I don’t mind, but why all of the sudden?

“Then would it be fine if I accompanied you guys to the Town of Departed Spirits.” [Ryouma]
“That’s fine too, but I’d like you to spar once with Shiva over here.” [Rheinbach]

Eh? Spar with a former knight commander? Wait, even Shiva-san’s shocked!

Before I could ask why, Shiva-san asked. And apparently Rheinbach-sama wants to see my abilities, but if he were to spar with me himself, his evaluation of me might be a bit too biased. So he decided it’d be best if I sparred with Shiva-san who I’d just met for the first time. On top of that, since he’s a former knight commander, he’d be able to give an accurate evaluation of my abilities.

This most likely isn’t the first time Rheinbach-sama’s thought of this though. As he seemed to have already been planning to test my abilities before my trip to the Great Forest of Shurus.

When I spoke with the members of the duke’s household before via letter regarding the Great Forest of Shurus, they suggested in our conversation to just let them send some people to pick it up for me, but I wouldn’t agree. So they told me to contact them first before going. I’m guessing they were planning to test my abilities then.

After hearing this reason, Shiva-san agreed to test my abilities. Then again, he was only a little surprised after being told to spar all of the sudden, it’s not like he was planning to refuse in the first place.

After that, Shiva-san said that it’d be better for us to fight with no information on each other as that would reflect my actual abilities the best. Of course, preparing carefully beforehand is also good, but there’re also times when one can get caught in a fight without being able to prepare. If one’s abilities aren’t up to par then, he wouldn’t be able to survive. With that, it’s been decided that we will be sparring before lunch.

As a result, I will be taken to the area where we will be sparring, just outside the town, by Sebasu-san’s dimension magic. Shiva-san’s just started to travel after all, so he’s different from me, and doesn’t have his weapons with him. Because of that it’s been decided that I’ll go ahead, and he’ll come after grabbing his weapons.

First we teleported to the gate of Teressa. We could’ve teleported beyond just fine too, but, save for emergencies, it’s illegal to go past the gate with dimension magic.

After going past the gate, we teleported again, and this time we reached a rocky area. With this, we won’t have to worry about our surroundings.

Sebasu-san said that he’ll bring Shiva-san and the others next, so I sent him off, and I began to do my own preparations. My opponent is a former knight commander. Obviously, he’s going to be strong. Even if he has gotten older, his power should still be on a completely different level compared to those bandits I’ve been fighting. I can’t let my guard down…