[Goblin] Gi Gu
The former leader of the village. He was pressured by the protagonist in his goblin noble form, and was added to his subordinates. He uses the long sword, and is relatively smart for a goblin rare. Became a goblin noble in chapter 39.
[Goblin] Gi Gi
Known as a beast warrior, a goblin with the ability to tame beasts.
He evolved while hunting spear deer with the protagonist.
He prefers to use the axe. His goblin class is rare.
[Goblin] Gi Go Amatsuki
A goblin with many wounds on his body. The food of his horde was stolen by the gray wolves, so he made a decision to follow the protagonist. He is the most experienced amongst the goblin rares. His weapon is a curved katana. He acts like a samurai.
Recently became a noble, and received the divine protection of the Sword God, Ra Baruza.
[Goblin] Gi Za
The druid goblin rare that recently joined them.
[Goblin] Gi Ji
A goblin rare. He evolved in chapter 37 after hunting with Gi Ga.
[Goblin] Gi Do
Druid. Uses wind magic.
[Goblin] Gi Jii
Goblin Rare. From Gi Gu’s Faction. He is known for his <<Wide-Open Eyes>> which allows him to see his opponent’s weakness.
[Goblin] Gi Da
Goblin Rare. From Gi Ga’s faction. Notable skills are <<Knowledge of the Spear>> and <<Unreasonably Stubborn>>.
[Goblin] Gi Zu.
Goblin Rare. The goblin favored by the Mad God (Zu Oru). Has the <<Mad Dog>> skill.
[Goblin] Gi Zo
Druid. Water magician.
[Goblin] Gi De
Beast tamer.
Chapter 50: The Princess of Ganra
[Race] Goblin
[Level] 5
[Class] Lord; Horde Chief
[Possessed Skills] <<Ruler of the Horde>> <<Insurgent Will>> <<Overpowering Howl>> <<Swordsmanship B+>> <<Insatiable Desire>> <<King’s Soul>> <<Ruler’s Wisdom I>> <<Eyes of the Blue Snake>> <<Dance at Death’s Border>> <<Red Snake’s Eye>> <<Magic Manipulation>> <<Soul of a Crazed Warrior>> <<Third Impact (The Third Chant)>> <<Instinct>> <<Ruler’s Wisdom II>>
[Divine Protection] Goddess of the Underworld (Altesia)
[Attributes] Darkness; Death
[Subordinate Beasts] High Kobold <<Hasu>> (Lv1) Gastra (Lv20) Cynthia (Lv20) Orc King <<Bui>> (Lv36)
On the day of departure, the one to guide as was the goblin messenger coming from the tribe’s village, Ra Gilmi. He appeared before us dressed like a human with a quiver over his back, and a small bow in his hands. He looked no different from a human hunter.
Accompanying that hunter from Ganra were the beast tamer, Gi Gi, and the stealthy Gi Ji.
Their duty is to scout out any enemies ahead in cases of fighting until we reach the village.
The difficulty of the coming battles will be decided by whether they would be able to scout the enemies ahead or not.
In the main force are Gi Zu, the one who received the divine protection of the Mad God (Zu Oru), Gi Za, the chief of the druids, Gi Go Amatsuki, who received the divine protection of the Sword God (La Paruza), and Gi Do, the wind magician.
It’s the main force’s duty to exterminate the enemies spotted by the advanced force.
Making up the rear guard were Gi Gu Verbena, and as his subordinate, the wide-eyed Gi Jii.
These two goblins are tasked with the duty of securing a way back from the tribe’s village to the Gi Village.
In the case someone tries to block away, it’s also their duty to ensure that they’re dead.
As for the goblins that were left behind in the village, there’s the long armed Gi Ga Rax, the water magician Gi Zo, and the spearman, Gi Da. Originally, I didn’t want to leave behind any of our already limited strength, but Gi Ga’s body was far too injured to handle a fight. In order to support him, I had to leave behind the water magician, Gi Zo, and the spearman, Gi Da. I also had to leave behind the beast tamer, Gi De, in order to allow communication with the kobolds.
I left two sets of normal goblins each.
Then I took forty-eight with me.
Our forces may have also been worn out from the orc war, but there’s also the food consumption to take into account when moving such a large force. Moving 50 goblins doesn’t come cheap food-wise.
It’s because of that that I decided to use preserved food.
If we were to hunt as we moved, we wouldn’t be able to make much progress in a day. But if we focused our time solely on moving, we should be able to arrive at our destination quickly.
“Gi Ga, I’m counting on you.”
As Gi Ga held himself up with a spear in place of a cane, he sent me off.
“The king too… may you be safe.”
With words of parting spoken, there was nothing left to say. I turned my back, and left the village.
I would only end up saying unnecessary things if I had stayed longer after all.
“March!” I ordered. with a voice that seemed to make even the forest shake.
◇◆◆
It’s been three days since we passed through the orcs’ turf.
Since then the monsters we faced along the way have changed a great deal.
As we approached the mountain range that separated the vast heavens and the boundless earth, the thick forest grew quiet, and a figure appeared from the grass-covered plains. The comforting wind blew past the meadows.
In that swaying field of grass normally appeared several beasts. One of which looked to be a zebra wearing an armor, an Armor Stripe, a tiger with sword-sharp fangs, a Saber Tiger, or a rat that walked on two legs with a spear in its hands, a Ratman.
We subjugated those kind of monsters as we continued on our way.
The first ones to find the enemies were always Gi Gi’s beasts. It’s because the double head he was riding on, and the wild dogs amongst the beasts in his employ have better noses than the goblins.
And as soon as a beast would be spotted, Ra Gilmi’s arrow would fly through the air.
With nimble fingers unlike what common sense would suggest a goblin to have, he would pull on the string of his half-moon bow, letting loose an arrow with punctuality as if he had predicted the prey appearing. The arrow would fly, and it would strike at the beast.
But a fiendish beast that could be called a magical beast even when rotten, could not possibly be felled with just Ra Gilmi’s arrow alone.
From there, the beast would attack, enraged. But then the stealthy Gi Ji would be right there hidden in the shadows with his presence concealed ready to strike the beast with his long sword.
Most beasts would fall there, but there are some rare ones that are surprisingly lively. Cases such as those calls for the main force, the druids.
So Gi Do, the wind magician, would cast his wind magic to impede the movement of the beast.
Then with the beast unmoving, the normal goblins would be free to lay waste to the helpless beast.
This fighting pattern is something we’ve been putting to practice in order to train the lower classes.
A goblin will evolve from a normal to a rare. Then from a rare to a noble.
The more I use the weaker goblins, the more experience they will pile up.
I can tell how strong the four tribes are through the messenger of Ganra, Ra Gilmi.
Yet that Ganra Tribe is currently being overwhelmed.
The Gaidga Tribe is a tribe of goblins possessing herculean strength.
If they are a foe more troubling than the orcs, then I will have to bolster my forces’ strength.
As we passed the grassy plains after three days’ time, we once again entered the thick forest.
“From here on is our territory. Not even orcs could enter past this point,” said Ra Gilmi with his chest puffed out as he continued to lead the way through the animal trail.
As Ra Gilmi walked ahead, the advance force stopped.
Raising his finger, Ra Gilmi asked for silence. The stealthy Gi Ji readied himself, Gi Gi ordered his beasts to go quiet, and I ordered the main force to spread themselves perpendicular.
Something is coming.
Rustling… a sound resounded out from deep into the animal trail.
Ra Gilmi braced himself, holding tight onto his bow.
Then in the next instant, he swallowed his breath, and as a goblin came out of the animal trail, he struck out his bow.
“Chieftain!?” he exclaimed.
“Gilmi!?” exclaimed back the goblin.
Following right after that goblin was another goblin, wielding a bow. Against which Gi Ji struck his long sword out. They glowered at each other… the advance force and the unknown goblins.
No, they’re not unknown. Ra Gilmi called that goblin ‘chieftain’.
“Withdraw your sword, Gi Ji,” I commanded. “Calm your beasts, Gi Gi.”
They’re probably the Ganra Tribe.
Then the chieftain who was taken aback, ordered.
“Put down your bows. They’re not our enemies.” said the goblin.
“Oh? A female rare… how unusual,” muttered Gi Za who was calmly watching by my side.
At Gi Za’s words, I looked at the goblin again with a tinge of curiosity in my eyes.
It’s certainly a type my village doesn’t have. To think it was actually a female goblin.
There’s not much difference between a normal male goblin and a normal female goblin. I know I’m judging them from a human’s perspective, but there’s really not much difference aside from some breasts.
But the goblin rare in front of me is different. She looks like a human.
Red skin, a lone horn growing from her forehead, and flowing green hair that seemed to prove her a friend of the forest. She’s taller by a size than the goblins, but she can definitely pass for a human.
But even then… she’s at most a young girl.
Her face is certainly a bit rigid for a human, but it’s not such that she couldn’t pass for a human. With a loincloth wrapped over her chest and her waist, if anything, she gives off the image of a hunter.
“Is there something the matter? Did we not plan to wait for me by the village?” asked Gimli.
Gilmi’s question caused the chieftain’s face to twist.
“It’s because of Gaidga’s whoresons. They attacked us all at once. We managed to escape safely, but the village’s hopeless,” spat the chieftain who was seemingly trying to do her best to endure the pain.
Then she sent her gaze at me.
“…This is?” she asked.
“This is the leader of the Gi Village of the eastern goblins. I asked him to lead his forces here in order to aid in Ganra’s crisis,” replied Gimli, proudly.
The Chieftain of Ganra looked at me.
“Child of Gilan, Ra Narsa. I am the Chieftain of Ganra.”
Filled with dignity and pride, her appearance was like that of one who led her tribe.
“I’m sorry for having you come all this way, but I’ll have to ask you to leave. There’s no longer any village left to save.”
As she spat those words, she tried to pass through, but Gi Go Amatsuki thrust out his curved sword. The curve sword that was sheathed at his waist just moments ago struck out like flowing water at Narsa’s neck.
“What is the meaning of this, peasant!?” she asked, clearly annoyed.
The goblins of Ganra glowered, and Gi Go’s eyes narrowed.
“Disrespect to the chief will not be forgiven,” declared Gi Go.
“Lord Amatsuki, please withhold yourself,” asked Gilmi.
But Gi Go’s curved blade did not even quiver at Gilmi’s petition.
However, Narsa didn’t seem to be bothered by the blade. In fact, she seemed to be even provoking Gi Go.
A ballsy woman, huh?
“Speaking of which, Lord Gilmi. If we were to return like this, what would happen regarding the reward we agreed upon?” asked Gi Za as he smiled mischievously.
“Umm… that’s…”
Gilmi could not answer immediately.
After all, he definitely wouldn’t pay.
“If so, then that would prove to be troubling. After all, we have already mobilized our men,” said Gi Za.
Gi Za sent a quick glance at me. Those brown eyes of his over that smile of his seemed to be saying to leave it to him.
“But that’s–––“
“It’s up to your discretion whether you need our help or not, but if we don’t receive what we came here to receive, then we won’t be paid. Do you understand what I’m saying, Lord Gilmi?”
I calmly watched over their exchange with my arms folded.
Regardless of what happens, in the end, the four tribes will all bow before me.
Since that’s how it is, I might as well take this opportunity, and see how good Gi Za is at negotiating. Besides, he seems to be really fired up for this. That bastard… he’s enjoying this, ain’t he?
“What did you promise, Gilmi?” asked Narsa, nervously.
“The elf princess,” replied Gilmi.
“Imbecile!” spat Narsa.
Gilmi began to argue with her.
“But…” Gilmi began, but Narsa cut him.
“There’s nothing here for you bastards to do. Leave,” glowered Narsa as she spat those words against me.
“And I believe I said that would be troubling,” said Gi Za.
“Princess…” Gilmi tried to calm Narsa.
“Show respect!” yelled Gi Go again.
I wonder if she’s forgotten that Gi Go’s sword is at her throat.
It doesn’t seem like the Ganra goblins’ chieftain temper will get better any sooner.
“At this rate, this discussion will go nowhere. Anyway, Lord Gilmi. It’s not as if we care that much about that princess of yours, how about Lord Narsa herself instead?” suggested Gi Za.
He seems to be used to playing the bad guy’s part.
Wait… didn’t I see a similar scene somewhere before?
“That’s… unacceptable!” promptly replied Gilmi.
“Tch… So goblins outside the tribes are really like beasts after all…” said Narsa, but just then.
Gi Za sent a gaze at Gi Go, and he pushed his blade a little deeper into Narsa’s neck. The words she muttered then seemed to be powerless.
Now, I’d like to enjoy this tense turn of events a bit more, but Gi Gi’s wild dogs seem to be growling now, so I made my move.
“…Play time’s over, Gi Za,” I said.
As Gi Za shrugged his shoulders, I passed by him, and wielded my Iron Second.
“Please wait, Chief of the East!”
Gilmi stood in front of Nara to block my way, but I haven’t the time to bother with him now.
“Gi Gi, how many?”
“About twenty,” he immediately replied.
Good. Unlike Gi Za who was playing around, he was keeping a constant watch on the surroundings.
“Gi Go, I’ll leave the attack to you!” I commanded.
“Understood!”
With the situation now like this, Gi Go had no choice but to put the Ganra goblins for later as he took out his second curved blade from his waist.
“Gi Do, support the frontlines. Gi Za, attack the right!”
“As you will!”
“Leave it to me!”
My subordinates scattered themselves in the blink of an eye at my commands.
As they took their normal goblin subordinates with them, they ran through the forest with their bodies compressed.
“Gi Gi, Gi Ji, Gi Zu, take care of the left.”
“Yes.”
The three rare goblins left, and entered deep into the forest.
“Gi Gu, Gi Jii, you two will be on standby.”
After I finished giving out orders, I looked back at Gilmi.
“Messenger of Ganra, Gilmi. Just as we’ve discussed, I will save your village!” I declared.
“Y-Yes!” he exclaimed after a moment of pause.
“But… there’s a condition. From here on, the Ganra Tribe shall fight under me.”
Narsa looked at Gilmi once.
“Don’t mess with me!” she snapped.
But ignoring her anger, I looked only at Gilmi.
“…Very well. I shall persuade the others,” he replied.
“Gilmi!” yelled Narsa, unbelieving.
“…Then it’s decided,” I said.
I confirmed my grip over the great steel sword that was over my shoulder.
With this… one tribe has fallen.
Now… which tribe will come next.
Author’s Note:
The long requested female goblin rare’s finally made her appearance.
Also, katakana is one of the three Japanese character-types, and is often used for foreign words or for emphasis.
Volume 4 Chapter 7: Pick-up
The next day
After I finished my morning preparations, I went outside to the bamboo thickets, and prepared my monster carriage.
A monster carriage is just a carriage pulled by a magical beast, so the structure isn’t really that different from a normal carriage. People wanting to buy one also needs to go to a workshop or a store that sells carriages, so there are people who just call them both carriage.
If I had to point out a difference, it would be the position of the coachman’s seat. The magical beast’s body is different from a horse, so it’s necessary to position the seat with that in mind. As a result, there are quite a number of specially ordered goods for monster carriages. Unless of course, the body of the magical beast to be used is similar to a horse.
“I’ll be relying on you today.” [Ryouma]
“Kyuyon!” [Cannonball Rhino]
I said that as I tied Rai to the carriage. When I did, he responded with an unusually high-pitched voice.
Rai’s no longer the same as when I met him 2 years ago. His body is now close to being 3 meters long, which is the average size for an adult cannonball rhino. So with that, I guess you could say he’s an adult now. Along with that growth comes power. Nowadays, Rai’s strong enough to pull a large carriage by himself easily, so whenever I use one, I usually let him pull it.
Moreover, the monster carriage I tied Rai to was closer to an oxcart in shape rather than a carriage. The frame of the carriage is a long rectangle with sticky slime hardening liquid planks inlayed onto the windows to prevent crimes. There’s also the specially-ordered seat for the coachman that’s positioned a little higher than what it should be in order to take into consideration Rai’s future growth.
It’s possibly to put objects atop the frame, but even without doing that, the frame could already fit 8 adults inside excluding me. So there’s plenty of space even when I let the slimes ride on the carriage. Only, due to Rai’s overbearing strength, the stress placed on the frame and especially the wheels at full speed was too great. So in order to remedy that, I had the big iron slimes transform into wheels.
“Whoops, I guess I better go now.”
I shouldn’t be late for my appointment with Elia and the others.
I ordered Rai, and he entered into my Dimension Home. I plan on going to Gimuru with my dimension magic, but I won’t be able to take Rai and the carriage with me. Fortunately, I can take him along as long as I have him enter the Dimension Home first, and then release him once we get there.
I say… Dimension magic sure is convenient. Though I guess saying that might be a tad bit too late now considering everything.
“‘Gate'” [Ryouma]
When I used the advanced dimension magic, Gate…
“Made it in just the nick of time.” [Ryouma]
…the scenery immediately changed from that of the abandoned mine and the bamboo thickets to that where I was close enough to see the outer walls of Gimuru.
Relatively speaking, it’s just something recent, but I learned how to use ‘Gate’. It’s thanks to this magic that I’m able to greatly reduce the travel time between towns. Unfortunately though, with the speed comes the loss of enjoyment. There’s no elegance or atmosphere to it, so I only use it when I’m in a hurry. Otherwise, I’d rather take my time, and enjoy the travel with Rai pulling on the monster carriage.
“Just as the name implies, the advanced long distance magic, ‘Gate’, is able to teleport one from outside the gate to the next town’s gate. It seems to have been named exactly because of that ability. Anyway… ‘Dimension Home’” [Ryouma]
With a cast of my Dimension Home, I took Rai and the monster carriage out. Then I sat myself over the coachman’s seat, and took hold of the bridle as I drove the monster carriage. By the way, the bridle is just for show. Rai is my magical beast, so I can just order him to pull it with the bond between us that’s formed via magic. There’s no need to actually hold the bridle.
Five minutes later as Rai pulled on the monster carriage, we arrived at the northern gate of Gimuru.
“Good morning.” [Ryouma]
“Hey, good morning. Big as always, huh? This guy.” [Guard]
“Kwon!” [Rai]
“Oh, good morning to you too, huh?” [Guard]
“I’ve finished confirming your identification. You can go now. And if it’s you, I think you’ll be fine, but do take care in handling your magical beast.” [Guard]
“Alright. Thanks as always.” [Ryouma]
I passed through the gates, and then I headed to the girls’ lodging.
Riding on the monster carriage, I entered Gimuru. As we passed by, people who recognized Rai waved their hands, and the children ran along with us. There were also people who were surprised, but they were all either people who didn’t live in Gimuru or people who had only recently moved here.
There was a time when the people were scared due to the idiots over at the tamer guild, but after earning the trust of the people, I now often come here with Rai. Besides, the people like to touch him, and the kids like him too.
He’s big, he’s strong, he’s gentle… and the fur over his body is pretty too. He’s actually great to look at.
“Even though I thought he was brownish when we first met…” [Ryouma]
“Kwon!” [Rai]
I didn’t notice it back when we were at the Great Forest of Shurus, but his fur is actually colored gray, close to white. I only found out after he became my magical beast, and I had the cleaner slimes give him a shower. I was really shocked when the color of his fur vanished in the blink of an eye right in front of me…
I investigated the matter a bit later, and apparently, the base color for a cannonball rhino is gray. It does change a little depending on each cannonball rhino. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to get any information on what other colors there were. I do want to research the matter a bit more, but even if I tried to clean the other rhinos with my cleaner slimes, they’d just run away… But then again, Rai has grown up… Should I find him a mate? Once I do, I could use that as an opportunity to research.
In any case, I’ll deal with that later…
As I approached the lodging, I noticed that Elia and the others were already outside, waiting.
Oh? Was I late?
“Good morning. Sorry for making you all wait.” [Ryouma]
“Good morning, Ryouma-san. You’re actually earlier than the appointed time.” [Elia]
“Yesterday, I heard you were going to prepare a monster carriage. I was so excited wondering what magical beast you would take with you.” [Michelle]
“This kid’s so big… What kind of magical beast is this?” [Kanan]
“His name is Rai. He’s a cannonball rhino. A B Rank magical beast. Not only is he a huge help with that carriage, but he’s also a great deterrent to other magical beasts attacking, making travel a breeze.” [Ryouma]
Because of that though, he’s unfit for subjugating bandits. Since they’d just run away as soon as they saw him. For example, the bandits that aren’t a part of the dark guild that haven’t heard of the rumors about me – who, in other words, are ‘unlicensed bandits’ ¬– would just generally run upon seeing Rai.
“That’s that, but isn’t it hot waiting outside?” [Ryouma]
“Not at all. It’s still early morning, so the weather’s still fresh. The morning wind also feels good, so there’re waiting outside’s no problem.” [Riera]
“So she says, but deep inside, she’s actually just dying ta have her match with you.” [Miyabi]
So that’s why they were waiting outside.
“M-Miyabi…” [Riera]
“Ain’t it fine? I don’t think there’s anything ta be embarrassed about considering it’s Ryouma we’re talking about.” [Miyabi]
“He’s on a different league compared to our classmates at the academy.” [Kanan]
“Well that’s true…” [Riera]
Her face is a bit red… I wonder if she’s nervous or embarrassed because she got found out. In any case, I should help her relax. I planned for the match to be held in the afternoon from the start anyway, so…
“We’ll just keep talking and standing outside here at this rate, so everyone, please enter inside.” [Ryouma]
As I stepped down the coachman’s seat, I opened the door of the carriage attached at the side of the carriage’s frame. But before letting them enter, I placed a wooden foothold to make it easier for the girls to enter. Elia and the others thanked me as they each entered the carriage.
After everyone had gotten inside, I sat myself back up over the coachman’s seat. There’s a door just big enough for one person to reach the coachman’s seat. Opening that door, I called out to Elia and the others.
“If there’s nothing else, we’ll be departing. Are you all ready?” [Ryouma]
When I asked that, they answered back that they were ready. Since everything was good to go, I gave Rai the order, and the carriage began to move. The people of this town are alright, but there’re a lot of outsiders in the lodging, so it’ll be best for us to leave quickly. Rai is a strange sight after all, so there’re a lot of people who can’t help but want to take a look at him. There’s also no point in staying, so leaving quickly is best.
“Please feel free to speak out if the temperature’s too hot or cold! I can adjust it for you!” [Ryouma]
I said in a voice just loud enough for them to hear as I continued facing the road’s direction. But the response that came back from the girls was not an answer, but a question.
“Change?” [Kanan]
Ah… I’ve been using the monster carriage like a car from my previous life, so I’ve forgotten. But now that she mentions it, yeah… ACs aren’t normal here in this world, huh?
“There’re three slimes in the carriage, right?” [Ryouma]
“Yeah.” [Kanan]
“Those three slimes are cooler slime, heater slime, and aircon slime. Those slimes can each use wind and ice, wind and fire, and then wind, fire, and ice, magic respectively. If you want me to, I can order those slimes to blow cold air or hot air inside the carriage to control the temperature. Please feel free to say it if you need the temperature changed.” [Ryouma]
The girls weren’t surprised at all when I gave that explanation, rather they just calmly accepted it.
“By the way, Ryouma-han. Where are we going right now? Yesterday, you did mention that we would be going several places today.” [Miyabi]
“First off is the lodging for the training and the trainees. It’s close to the residential district, northeast of Gimuru. That place used to be the slums three years ago, but all that changed thanks to the increase in jobs.” [Ryouma]
Most of the town personnel were split between the two towns, so I was put in charge of dealing with the demolished slum. The training facility is one of the things I constructed there. There are also a lot of trainee that lived in the slums before.
As I laughed while saying that, the others said they were interested. Especially, Michelle-san who was staring quite strongly… Well, as long as they’re enjoying themselves, then that’s all that really matters.
“By the way, why did you start that training facility of yours?” [Michelle]
“Hmm… Well if there was to be a reason, then I guess it would be because I was uncomfortable.” [Ryouma]
Michelle-san could only tilt her head in puzzlement when she heard my words. Can’t be helped… it’s only natural after all that she wouldn’t understand much with just that explanation..
“I started the training facility about 2 years ago. Until then I was always away from Gimuru. But during that time, the construction of the second town began, and the adventurers and slave demon magic users coming from outside also increased. Even if I were to say it myself, the reason behind what happened then was probably because I was strong…” [Ryouma]
“Were you envied by adventurers your age?” [Riera]
“Exactly.” [Ryouma]
That time sure was rough… I was really sensitive to petty envy due to the demon king’s fragment. It was such that I could feel even the tiny envy from adventurers I was close with whenever we talked.
“Then why did you start the training facility because of that?” [Kanan]
At first, I did consider just cooping myself up inside the mine. But then, it hit me. While I may have been bothered by the ill will people held against me, at the same time, although vague, I was able to understand what it was that was causing that ill will.
When I realized that, I thought to try something.
“So I thought I could solve the issues as long as I made the reason behind their malice go away. And since people were envious of me because of my strength, I figured I should just train them until they were strong enough they didn’t need to be envious. As for those who were envious of my money, then I decided I should just introduce them to a good job, so they could earn money.” [Ryouma]
I wasn’t sensitive to subtle things like that back in my previous life. Thanks to the demon king’s fragment though, I was able to sense it. It might only be limited to negative emotions, but it’s no doubt that it’s thanks to it that I was able to understand the emotions those people held.
My actions were done on a whim, but the result was mostly a success. I trained people whenever I went out to buy food ingredients, and over time, the eyes that the troubling people looked at me with changed for the better.
Of course, there were also times when they needlessly refused. But at that point, there’s nothing else to do, but to just ignore those types of people. That’s a compromise I decided on since before, so I wasn’t really bothered much.
There were failures too. Some of the people who were envious became scared instead. I did hold back though. I wonder if they were beginners. People thought I was bullying people, so the guild master, Wogan, paid a visit. I explained everything to him except for the demon king’s fragment, and he decided to help out as well.
I think it was around that time that aspiring newcomers would sign up on their own. It was due to that that the scale of the facility also grew bigger…
After continuing that for some time, I eventually learned the Coach skill. Moreover, even though the fragment of the demon king’s almost been finished being treated, I’m a lot more sensitive to people’s feelings now… Or at least I think so anyway. At the very least, my acquaintances have increased. I know way more people now than I ever did back in my previous life. I’m really happy about that. I also have a bit of influence in Gimuru nowadays too. No one’s coming to sabotage my stores like that time when I first opened my store either. Everything’s going real well.
Now going back to the main topic…
I explained the story to Elia and the others as the carriage swayed. Of course, I made sure to leave out the demon king’s fragment. As I finished explaining, a white wall about 2 meters tall and a gate surrounding a two-story building entered my vision.
You can’t see the whole thing from here, but the buildings are arranged like the katakanas ‘コ’ (ko) and ‘ロ’ (ro) from the entrance of the building. Overall, the place looks like a mansion save for some parts. The whole place is shaped like a rectangle with the dimension 50m x 100m, and an area of 5000 square meters.
“You can see it now.” [Ryouma]
When I said that, Elia and the others took a peek from the door behind me.
“So that’s Ryouma-kun’s training facility?” [Kanan]
“It’s well made.” [Michelle]
“To think it would be this big.” [Riera]
“I talked with the duke before making this, so I got a lot of help.” [Ryouma]
“Ryouma-sama’s efforts have greatly improved the public order of Gimuru. The household of the duke also managed to gain some hidden gems amongst the accomplished people trained by the facility. The master also plans to continue providing assistance depending on the success from here on. Moreover, the Jamil Household is also investigating whether to make similar buildings like this one in the different town. It’s not so strange at all that the duke would support Ryouma-sama’s idea.” [Sebasu]
Come to think of it, weren’t there people leaving to work for the duke recently? I can’t remember their names, but they should be doing well… right? It’s great that they were able to find a good place to work at.
[Goblin] Gi Ga
The goblin in that estranged group that was with the protagonist when he defeated an orc. He is currently a noble class, the highest amongst the protagonist’s subordinates. He prefers to use the spear.
[Goblin] Gi Gu
The former leader of the village. He was pressured by the protagonist in his goblin noble form, and was added to his subordinates. He uses the long sword, and is relatively smart for a goblin rare. Became a goblin noble in chapter 39.
[Goblin] Gi Gi
Known as a beast warrior, a goblin with the ability to tame beasts.
He evolved while hunting spear deer with the protagonist.
He prefers to use the axe. His goblin class is rare.
[Goblin] Gi Go
A goblin with many wounds on his body. The food of his horde was stolen by the gray wolves, so he made a decision to follow the protagonist. He is the most experienced amongst the goblin rares. His weapon is a curved katana. He acts like a samurai.
Recently became a noble, and received the divine protection of the Sword God, Ra Baruza.
[Goblin] Gi Za
The druid goblin rare that recently joined them.
[Goblin] Gi Ji
A goblin rare. He evolved in chapter 37 after hunting with Gi Ga.
[Goblin] Gi Do
Druid. Uses wind magic.
[Goblin] Gi Jii
Goblin Rare. From Gi Gu’s Faction. He is known for his <<Wide-Open Eyes>> which allows him to see his opponent’s weakness.
[Goblin] Gi Da
Goblin Rare. From Gi Ga’s faction. Notable skills are <<Knowledge of the Spear>> and <<Unreasonably Stubborn>>.
[Goblin] Gi Zu.
Goblin Rare. The goblin favored by the Mad God (Zu Oru). Has the <<Mad Dog>> skill.
Chapter 49: To the West
[Race] Goblin
[Level] 5
[Class] Lord; Horde Chief
[Possessed Skills] <<Ruler of the Horde>> <<Insurgent Will>> <<Overpowering Howl>> <<Swordsmanship B+>> <<Insatiable Desire>> <<King’s Soul>> <<Ruler’s Wisdom I>> <<Eyes of the Blue Snake>> <<Dance at Death’s Border>> <<Red Snake’s Eye>> <<Magic Manipulation>> <<Soul of a Crazed Warrior>> <<Third Impact (The Third Chant)>> <<Instinct>> <<Ruler’s Wisdom II>>
[Divine Protection] Goddess of the Underworld (Altesia)
[Attributes] Darkness; Death
[Subordinate Beasts] High Kobold <<Hasu>> (Lv1) Gastra (Lv1) Cynthia (Lv1) Orc King <<Bui>> (Lv36)
[Abnormal Status] <<Charm of the Saint>>
Cynthia and Gastra played about with my tail that was like a toy for cats as I swung it.
The two gray wolves, Cynthia and Gastra, have gotten bigger recently. They’re about 50 centimeters long now. And although it’s wrong, they’re big enough to ride.
Even their levels have risen too. They started at one, and now they’re twenty.
I can’t let them act like babies forever.
From time to time, when Hasu, the high kobold, would drop by, they’d end up grappling with each other. But as it wasn’t anything serious, just friendly rough play, I’d just quietly watch over them.
I guess if anything, they must’ve been deciding the ranks. They are all similar dog-type races after all. I mean kobolds and wolves are all dogs after all, right?
Anyway, it’s been three days since the messenger came, and we’ve been repairing the village since.
During that time, I ordered the orcs that are now living by the base of the great tree to the north to pick up the corpses here at the village. They were a great help.
Half of the pitfall traps we made have also become functional again. Moreover, 10% of the fences have also been repaired.
We also began a large-scale acquisition of food resources. As we did, I ascertained the course we would be taking.
The plan is to leave the minimum number of goblins with the humans in the village, while we head west. Once there, I plan to turn Ganra’s Village into my base of operations as I attempt to have Gaidga and the other tribes under my rule.
Of course, I didn’t mention that part to the messenger.
Our last destination will be the acquisition of the Fortress of the Abyss, the home of the goblins. It is there where I will build my kingdom. Afterwards, I suppose I’ll take with me the promising humans and the kobolds too.
Once I put this plan into action, the village will be left unattended for a long time.
At that time, the one to protect the humans will be…
My gaze shifted toward the gray wolves that were playing with my tail. Cynthia was lying on her back, being playful as always, while Gastra seemed to have grown bored of playing, and was lying down, yawning.
They’re resembling the high kobold, Hasu, more and more. I won’t say of what exactly, but I should be careful.
“Protect the hum–– No. Protect Reshia. Protect her well, alright?”
I rubbed Gastra’s small head as I spoke those words. And he barked back, saying, woof! Good. Although I don’t really know whether he understood or not.
In any case, I’ll have to leave some rare class goblins behind to manage the village.
The question is… who should I leave behind?
I could leave a noble class, but then considering the humans, I should probably leave behind a druid.
What a troubling question.
“King, did you call?” said Gi Za as he entered the house of the king.
“Yes, there’s something I want to ask you regarding the tribes,” I replied.
With his hands folded and a robe over his body, he looked like a scholar. I wonder why he’s even a goblin.
“What is different from us, normal goblins, to those of the four tribes?” I continued.
“What’s different, you say? Right…” as he pondered the question, he sat before me with his eyes closed. “Right, I think I’ve mentioned it before, but the four tribes are Gordob, Gaidga, Paradua, and Ganra. Each one of these tribes carry with them the blood of the goblin ancestors.”
A story I’ve heard before. Regardless, it’s an introduction to their fighting style, so I kept it in my mind as I continued to listen.
“As for their features,” said Gi Za. “Well it’s different for each tribe.”
That’s precisely what I wanted to know. That is that these so-called tribes have turned themselves into factions of sort. With something like that, it wouldn’t be strange if they managed to attain a peculiar evolution path.
Gi Za continued.
“The strongest amongst the four tribes is Gaidga, boasting superhuman strength, while the Paradua tribe manages the rider-beasts?”
Rider-beasts?
“What are rider-beasts?”
“If you’ve never seen one, it might be hard to explain, but they’re basically four legged beasts. The Paradua goblins ride them like Lord Gi Gi would one of his beasts.”
So they’re riders in other words.
“The Gordob Tribe excels at raising and using magical beasts. Then as for the Ganra Tribe, they’re the most dexterous with their fingers amongst the tribes. Even amongst the tribes, they’re the only ones who can craft and use bows. “
“So the Gordob Tribe are all beast tamers then?”
“I’m actually not that well informed either. How about asking that messenger instead?”
That’s difficult, but… true. If needed, I should ask.
In any case, it appears the four tribes have strength, mounts, bows, and beasts, huh?
I want them.
A frontline of powerful goblins. A mobile force of beast-riding goblins. Goblins that could fight from a distance. And goblins that possess special skills. If I could have all these, then building my kingdom won’t remain just a dream.
Finally, finally the pieces needed to fight the humans have gathered.
All that’s left is to acquire them. I must acquire them!
And riding… If… if even normal goblins like us could fight on mount, then… I would like to acquire that skill.
If… and this is hypothetical, but what if… such a thing was possible… then wouldn’t it be possible for a goblin who has lost his legs to fight once more?
…
Gi Ga Rax
The corners of my mouth twisted into a smile.
Wait for me.
◇◆◆
Amongst the emotions that humans possess, empathy was the most unique compared to the other races.
Who knows whether it’s affinity or not, but ever since the attack of the orcs, Lili hadn’t had to help the other humans too much. The need for that had greatly decreased.
“Big sis,” called out Bern and Neumann who had a sword strapped around each of their waists.
Lili couldn’t help but pout in dissatisfaction when she heard their words.
“Didn’t I tell you to stop calling me, ‘big sis’!” she snapped.
“Ahh, sorry. I, uh, slipped,” said Bern as he scratched his head.
Neumann could only laugh at his friend’s blunder.
With Lili having saved them, 15 villagers all in all, these people naturally came to rely on her.
Before, Lili had to be the one to meet with the goblins even for the pettiest of things, but ever since the orc attack, the people have gotten less timid.
Bern and Neumann are the only ones among the villagers who know how to wield a sword. But the extent of their knowledge is only from the bare experience gained when they were conscripted in the past. The difference between them and Lili, who is an adventurer that makes a living through her sword, is like night and day.
Because of that, despite Bern and Neumann both being older than Lili by five years, they greatly respected Lili’s swordsmanship.
“How’s Palone? And is Mill alright? He didn’t get hurt from playing all the time did he?” asked Lili.
Palone is Bern’s wife. She’s currently pregnant. As for Mill, that’s Bern’s oldest son. He’s still a babe though. He’s turning five this year.
“Nah, although we are expecting soon. Unfortunately, even if it’s the second time already, there’s not much a guy could do to help. As for Mill, well he’s the same as always. Always playing with the goblin masters. I told him it’s dangerous, but he just won’t listen,” said Bern, clearly perplexed. His friend Neumann could only pat his shoulders.
“It’ll work out,” Neumann said.
“I hope it does, I hope it does…” said Bern back.
Seeing the two like that, Lili narrowed her eyes.
“Come to think of it, have you two gotten used to this village?” she asked.
It’s been almost half a month since they came to this village.
“…Well, we can’t put our guard down, but it’s not bad,” said Bern.
“They don’t make us pay taxes like humans do. They also don’t make us fight,” added Neumann.
Apparently, the goblin king didn’t have any intention of levying taxes. Lili’s expectation of a wretched life where they were treated as slaves was completely off.
The king was generous.
His only demand was that they produce what he wants. That’s all.
What the king wanted was food and the methods of preserving it.
Whenever she talked with the goblin king, Lili would mistake herself to be talking with royalty. An extraordinary one at that.
The world outside the forest was in distress.
Out there, chaos ran rampant with many of the chiefs in constant war with each other. And evil masters were like the grains of the sand, far too numerous to count.
She knew how filthy humans were. It was precisely because of that that she could not understand the goblins.
Defeating monsters was common sense.
Monsters are creatures with no other way of life but evil.
Or at least that’s what it should have been. Yet these past days have been telling her that that ‘common sense’ was nothing but a ‘public stance’.
If so, then what should she do?
She thought back to her respected employer.
They have probably already sent out a group to retrieve Reshia.
“Saint” Reshia Fel Zeal.
The Ivory Tower’s youngest graduate. A prodigy. Zenobia’s young follower. A cardinal candidate for the church. A woman blessed with power and authority regardless of her will.
She doesn’t know whether Reshia herself was aware, but Reshia’s influence was one such that it was enough to move a nation.
Right now is still fine.
But once that goblin makes man his enemy… where will Reshia turn?
And Lili herself as well… where would she go? She had to prepare herself.
But just a little bit, she thought. She’d like to keep living in this miracle-like peace.
“Woof!” barked Gastra as he swayed his tail.
She carried him up.
“You’ve also gotten heavier,” she said.
Who knew those fierce gray wolves could actually be this adorable?
As she thought that, she quietly prayed.
I wish this days would continue forever.
As Gastra rubbed his cheeks on her, she sighed.
◇◇◆
As the evening wind gently caressed my cheeks, the bell crickets’ song could be heard both near and far.
Even though I have no sense for seasons, I can tell… the seasons are changing.
As I absentmindedly stared at the moon, I felt a presence near me.
“Moon-viewing?” asked Reshia.
I only raised my tail in response.
“If you’re that lazy, you’ll be hated by women, you know?” she said.
“Unfortunately… I’m not fated to be with one,” I wryly smiled.
“Well, whatever. Can I sit next to you?”
“Do what you want. This village will soon belong to you all.”
“Not yet, you mean. That’s a bit wrong, right?”
Well that’s true.
We absentmindedly watched the moon together.
“How’s Gi Ga?”
“I’ve never treated goblins before, but his life should be fine.”
His life… huh?
“…Are you regretting?” she asked.
“Nah… I’m not.”
If I’m going to regret, then I wouldn’t have thought to fight from the start.
My resolve is just lacking is all.
The pain in this chest of mine is because I can’t come to terms with living on despite others sacrificing themselves for me.
Something like that should have been obvious from the start. But I can’t help but have my heart torn because of it.
This way of living… it’s as if I’m cursed, unable to live without hurting those close to me.
But I have to endure…
I have to endure, and move forward. Otherwise, there’s no meaning to it.
“I wonder why you’re so strong… Anyone would cry if they were sad. Anyone would run when in pain. No one would scorn you for doing so. No one has that right,” said Reshia.
“…It’s because I’m a monster,” I said back. “I won’t forgive any weaknesses from myself. Strength… Strength alone… will I carve upon this world as proof of my life. Until then… I won’t shed any tears. And neither will I run.”
Am I man? Or am I a monster?
I have the memory and thoughts of man, but the body of an abnormal monster.
I decided it then when I chose to live this life. I don’t need the weakness of man.
“Even if someone were to stand before you?” asked Reshia.
“Yeah… that’s right.”
With her eyes cast down like that… Reshia, what is she thinking?
This wise girl who’s praised as a saint, and bound by the chains of destiny… what do you think?
Of your destiny? Your life? Your will?
“I never wanted to be a saint,” she said. “I want to run. I want to be just Reshia!”
As she stood up on her knees, she faced toward me, and rested her hand on my chest.
The sound of shattering entered my ears.
“With this there’s nothing left to bind you… You can even kill me if you want,” she said.
As her eyes looked up, her gaze met with mine. Ardor filled her eyes and her cheeks stained with red.
The breath she breathed woke up a force within me.
–––I want to kill and eat this woman.
–––I want to eat and violate and kill this woman! What are you hesitating for? Isn’t she giving you her body!?
As that force twisted my thoughts, I looked back at her.
“Then you should fight. Against Zenobia. Against man… For that… is the will of man.”
When I recalled the calm expression of the healing goddess’ upon seeing Reshia’s face, I couldn’t help but scowl.
“I said it, right?” said Reshia. “No one’s that strong. People are weak.”
Her amethyst-like eyes, moistened and saddened… they shot at me.
“Please kill me,” she said. “If you don’t, then one day… I will surely kill you.”
For that is my destiny, she muttered under that frightened, quivering voice of hers.
“I refuse,” I replied. “You are only running away. If you are human, then show me the will befitting that of man!”
“King…” she said. “How strict.”
A sorrowful smile painted her lips.
In turn, I could only caress her head.
“Tomorrow, I head west. When I return, I will return as the king of the goblins. Until then… please take care of Gi Ga and the others.”
I brushed off the dust as I stood up.
“…Ah,”
I felt Reshia gaze at my back when I stood up, but I left without saying a word.
I will become king.
For the sake of those who’ve sacrificed themselves…
For the sake of those who will die from here on…
Until then… I shall seek no one.
◆◆◇◇◆◆◇◇
[Abnormal Status] Charm of the Saint released.
◆◆◇◇◆◆◇◇
Author’s Note:
The protagonist didn’t want to abandon the wounded, so Reshia had to stay behind.
Beneath the blinding light of the sun, within the passionate zeal of the spectators, was me, sitting to the right of the stone pedestal, at the middlemost seat of seven chairs.
As I somehow managed to secure seats for everyone, I felt Elia’s group nearing through the shadow slimes lurking in their shadows. I looked toward their direction, and I saw them through the gaps between the many spectators. I waved my hand, and they came over.
“Ryouma-han~ sorry for making ya wait.” [Miyabi]
“We bought some drinks. And umm… is this crushed ice ok?” [Kanan]
Kanan-san handed me a transparent bag filled with transparent ice and fruit juice, with a straw sticking out.
“Thank you very much.” [Ryouma]
“It’s been really hot lately, so I ended up buying as soon as I saw something cold.” [Kanan]
“Well I started selling crushed ice because of the heat, so if you bought it for that reason, then guess it’s a success.” [Ryouma]
Crushed ice is a product based on my previous life’s memories. Right now, I’m selling it as one of my shop’s limited products, and is currently one of my best-selling goods.
Products like ice, ice cream, and sherbet have actually existed long before I even came to this world despite them not having fridges. They were able to make them through the employment of magicians, but because of that, there weren’t a lot of stores that could sell them. It wasn’t easy to make them even with one or two magicians due to the limits of magic power. Plus, adding to the fact that sugar was a necessary ingredient to make sherbet and ice cream, they naturally ended up being expensive.
But in our store, the ones creating the ice are ice slimes who can use ice magic and the many slimes that could use barrier magic. Because of that our store can afford to sell a lot at a cheap price impossible to other stores.
Moreover, the other stores can’t imitate the transparent bags we’re using that prevents water from seeping through. These bags along with the straws are products of the sticky slime’s sticky liquid and hardening liquid. I combine those two liquids, rub them over a metal mold, dry them, and then tear them off. The resulting product is similar to a vinyl bag that’s extremely easy to use. As the product isn’t in circulation, it can’t be helped that the other stores aren’t able to acquire it.
Or rather, if they manage to get some, I’ll have to investigate where they got them… Well, in any case, the crushed ice sold by our store is unusually cheap. Couple that with a place like this arena here were people are quick to spend, then you have a recipe for a killing.
Also, I’m digressing a bit, but the one who came up with this bag wasn’t me, but the branch manager of a laundromat, Caulkins-san. Having gotten used to managerial work, Caulkins-san sent me a letter, saying he’s started researching slimes again. I don’t have any intention of interfering with my employees’ private lives so long as they’re able to do their work, so I just sent him back an approving reply.
Half a year after that, a letter came with several prototypes of a vinyl-like bag. I was really touched when I saw those bags… I forgot about vinyl bags already, so when I saw them, it felt so nostalgic. I knew immediately that the vinyl bags would be useful, so I gave Caulkins-san a special bonus that also served as research funds.
As for the straw it was necessary before selling crushed ice. I created it with the production method of the bags as reference. It was made in pretty much the same way save for the ratio of the sticky liquid and hardening liquid and the mold used.
While I was caught up in my recollection after seeing the crushed ice, Riera-san and Sebasu-san took out a paper bag filled with food and a vessel made out of thin bamboo strips.
“What sort of food do you want? There’s popcorn and fried corn.” [Riera]
“There’s also hotdogs and corndogs.” [Sebasu]
Looks like they bought a lot…
Incidentally, popcorn, hotdog, and corndogs were in this world since long ago. They were definitely introduced by the otherworlders before me.
“I wonder if we bought too much?” [Riera]
“Don’t worry, what’s important is that you’re able to eat your fill.” [Ryouma]
“Well that’s true.” [Elia]
The six each took their seats as they ate, and started to watch the matches. I took a corndog for myself too as I listened to the six’s report regarding the store.
“Right… I think the service was good. They also explained the products well.” [Elia]
“I don’t think there were any problems in particular, but if I were to be picky, then I guess they seemed to be busy?” [Michelle]
“That can’t be helped though. There was a huge crowd of customers other than us after all.” [Riera]
“No, thank you very much. It’ll serve me well as reference for making a decision in whether I should add more employees, or whether the employees have simply not gotten used to their job yet.” [Ryouma]
Moderate busyness due to the store flourishing and being lively is fine, but if they make a mistake due to their busyness, it’ll be problematic. Customers don’t like seeing clerks that are too busy and always in a hurry either. I’ll have to check up on them in the near future.
While I was talking with the others, a flourish of trumpets resounded, signaling that there were 30 seconds left before the start of the match. The surrounding spectators had already begun to cheer on the fighters.
“Start!” [Announcer]
Several warriors entered the arena from the two gates on opposing sides. From our right were 5 men (1 spearman, 3 swordsmen, and 1 man with sword and shield). Facing them from our left, was a lone man nearly 2-meter-tall, wielding a huge hammer. Wait a moment… isn’t that Glen-san?
It takes me back when I see him him change his weapon from what he had when we met a few days ago to something different. Still… he’s making a killing anyway, so he should just go ahead and buy an adamantite weapon not just for fighting, but even for matches like these arena tournaments.
“Ryouma-dono, is this match a five on one?” [Riera]
“Seems to be the case.” [Ryouma]
“Then is the man to the left at the disadvantage?” [Riera]
“No. That man to the left is Glen-san. He’s an adventurer who just became S Rank last year, so he should be fine.” [Ryouma]
“Really!?” [Riera]
Ohh, Riera’s eyes turned sharp as soon as she heard he was an S Rank adventurer as if she wasn’t going to let even a single movement of his go unobserved.
“He’s the champion of a tournament that was held here before. Sometimes when a person like that comes out, he’s made to fight against multiple opponents as a handicap. Otherwise, since Glen-san’s so strong, it wouldn’t be possible to bet… Ah, but of course, there’s no match fixing going on here. Especially when Glen-san’s fighting as I think he’d get mad if that were to happen.” [Ryouma]
Glen-san is what you would call a battle junkie. He made Gimuru his home base as soon as the arena was completed. He lives here precisely so he can fight. He’s not one to go easy on his opponents or put his hands in match fixing. Even if he were asked to, the only thing that would result in is souring his mood.
I’ve also met with Glen-san several times since he lives in Gimuru. When we did he would always ask, are you fighting in the arena? It seems he remembers my face from when we met at the Great Forest of Shurus before.
…Fortunately, he wasn’t the type to forcefully make me come with him, or attack regardless of the location. Then again, a person like that probably wouldn’t become S Rank. There’s a background check before one is promoted to S Rank after all. You can’t become one just with power alone, you also need to have a good history and personality.
As I was thinking that, we approached the start of the match. The constants were gathered, and at the center stood a man dressed in white armor. The two groups braced themselves.
“Match, start!!” [Announcer]
At the voice’s call, the bell sounded, and the battle began.
“WoORa!!” [Glen]
“Ga!?” [Spearman]
Immediately, Glen-san rushed toward the spearman. With his hammer in his hands, he struck down, and crushed the spear. Then with a full swing, he sent the man flying.
I guess that he’ll be sent to the first-aid office then.
After that, the shield and sword wielding warrior stepped out, attracting Glen-san’s attention while the three others came from the side. Glen-san tried to destroy his opponent’s weapon with his hammer, but as he was aiming for a counter, he was able to dodge. The shield wielding man covered for him, allowing him to recover his stance, and there after attack once more. A close battle with neither side gaining an advantage continued.
That shield guy sure is holding it well. The other three guys are also strong. I don’t recognize any of them, but regardless how bad my eye is for skill, they should all at least be B Rank up… This match is certainly something worth seeing. After this, I should check the matchups later.
As I was thinking that the battle grew fiercer.
“Ah!” [Someone]
As the shield of the shield-wielding warrior was flicked away, someone cried out in surprise.
The warrior tried to pick up his shield, and fix his stance, but instead he was sent flying away together with his shield. He was forced to withdraw. Then with the remaining three warriors’ coordination broken, Glen-san took them down one by one to claim victory.
The referee declared Glen-san the winner, and the spectators all broke out into cheers as Glen-san waved back at them, exiting through the gate.
“As expected of an S Rank, he didn’t step back once.” [Kanan]
“What an amazing match. Do matches like this happen here all the time?” [Riera]
“Oh, no. I don’t think the normal matches here are up to that level.” [Ryouma]
“Although they lost, they were quite strong too.” [Sebasu]
The trumpets blew again, and the spectators’ cheers grew louder. Because of that I’m not sure whether the girls heard my and Sebasu-san’s explanation.
It’s not obvious, but Glen-san is a dwarf. The dwarves have an image of being a small race, but that’s only because most of them are short. There are actually tall dwarves as well.
Dwarves are handy with their hands and physically fit. They are a race blessed with a powerful body, but even within that, Glen-san is exceptionally strong. It’s only because the shield-wielding warrior from before was able to endure the force of that strength despite being bashed by the hammer several times while the others fought together as one that they were able to fight a battle like a while ago. If it was anyone else, they would surely have been instantly defeated.
The five girls already seemed to be looking forward to the next match, but if they’re expecting a match similar to just now, I hope they don’t get disappointed…
And then night came.
“The matches sure were exciting.” [Michelle]
“The matches were amazing, but the first one was definitely the best.” [Riera]
“Really? I think the three matches after that that used magic were better.” [Michelle]
“Those matches were really showy~. If it weren’t for the barrier magic protecting us, we wouldn’t have been able to watch the battle.” [Kanan]
“Speaking of showy––––“ [Elia]
After watching at the heated arena, we rode back home on as the girls talked about their impressions. They seem to have really enjoyed themselves today.
Although I sure didn’t think they’d spend the entire day watching fights.
The five of them were girls after all, so I thought they’d get tired after a while. But apparently that wasn’t the case. Especially for Riera-san who was especially heated during the matches. But the other four weren’t bored either. I wonder if it’s simply because they’re bored?
Come to think of it, I’ve never heard of sports in this world… some board games from earth were passed down, so there’s relatively a lot of them, but I’ve never heard of anything pertaining to sports. I’ll try asking someone about it next time…
The carriage continued on its way as I quietly thought to myself. As the crowd of scantily-dressed women grew more numerous on the road, we left the gates of the 2nd town, and reached the gates of the 1st town. Our carriage was stopped here.
“Please show your identific–––– Ah, old man!” [Guard]
I sent a gaze toward that nostalgic voice, and what greeted me was the face young guard with a familiar face. He’s someone I personally taught. If I recall correctly, his name is…. Crais-san. Oh, so he was recently hired then.
I thought that as I rubbed the corner of my inner eye with the thumb and index finger of my left hand. Then as I abruptly stood up, I inched my way through Elia and the others who were seating to get to the driver’s seat. There, I took a tight grip of Crais-san’s head.
“Old man…?” [Crais]
As I held him tight under my arms, I said.
“Who are you calling an old man? I’m younger than you!” [Ryouma]
I’m 14 years old, he’s 18 years old. The younger one is me! Of course if you include my previous life, then I’m an old man, but there’s no way he would know something like that. Being called younger is one thing, but I don’t want to be referred to as someone older.
“Ah, owwwwww!! Wait a sec, old man! I’m a guard! It’s not good to manhandle guards!” [Crais]
Complained Crais has he endured the pain. But the other guards in the area only said.
“Ah, it’s fine, it’s fine.” [Guard 1]
“That guy got married recently, so he’s been getting over his head. Do him in more!” [Guard 2]
“We see nothing.” [Guard 3]
“This kid always talks about his wife every chance he gets! Damnit!” [Guard 4]
“… Crush him!” [Guard 5]
“Senpai!? owwwwww!” [Crais]
The surrounding guards cheered me on, so I locked his head hard one more time then I let him go. We couldn’t stay locked like that forever after all.
“We want to enter the town, so please quickly grant us permission.” [Ryouma]
“Ah… it still hurts… Excuse me, I’ll just check your identification…. Alright, everyone seems to be ok. Please enter.” [Crais]
“Thank you very much.” [Elia]
“Thank you very much, Crais-san. Please continue to do your best.” [Ryouma]
“Of course! I’ll do it for my wife and my future child too!” [Crais]
“Ryouma, do him in again!” [Guard 1]
“Even using that giant slave demon of yours is fine.” [Guard 2]
“Nah, let’s just do it ourselves.” [Guard 3]
“Wait, senpai! Please stop!” [Crais]
As Crais-san was surrounded by the other guards, we entered the town with our carriage. I sent a glance back toward where Crais-san was, and what I saw was Crais-san’s two arms locked down by two guards as he received light body blows from another. Then while they were playing around another guard came. I guess it’s time for them to change shifts. In any case, I offered a silent prayer for Crais-san.
“Umm… Ryouma-san? What was about just now?” [Elia]
“That guard was my former student. For some reason he likes to call me old man though. Even though I’m the younger one…” [Ryouma]
Upon hearing that, not just Elia, but even Sebasu-san and Miyabi-san showed understanding expressions.
“…What is it?” [Ryouma]
“Ryouma-sama, you’ve always been mature mentally, so it probably can’t be helped.” [Sebasu]
“I remember I thought you were really composed too when I first met ya.” [Miyabi]
“Sometimes you even look at me with eyes like gramps and the others. Eyes that seemed like they were protecting me.” [Elia]
Following them, the other three also spoke.
“Ryouma-kun, you’re younger?” [Michelle]
“I do recall hearing you’re younger than us by a year, but I forgot all about it after talking with you.” [Riera]
“We might call you with ‘kun’, but your atmosphere’s definitely that of an older guy.” [Kanan]
Maybe it’s because I’ve been a kid for 6 years already that I find it strange they think of me like this… I don’t know anymore… Am I a kid or an old man? I know deep inside that I’m older than my exterior shows when I put my two lives’ ages together, but I still can’t help but insist, ‘I’m 14 years old!’, deep inside.
…Nothing would change even if we kept this up, so I just forcefully changed my feelings. I asked what Elia and her group will be doing tomorrow, and apparently, they want to go somewhere different. There, Riera-san mentioned that she wanted to have the match we talked about the day before yesterday. I guess she’s been influenced by the arena. Well I did promise her though, so why not?
After thinking for a while, I suggested to give them a tour of some of Gimuru’s training. There’s a training area there too, so we can use that to have the match. After that, I chatted idly with Elia’s group until we reached their lodging. After we parted, I went back home.
“I should make some preparations for tomorrow. And since we’re going to the Slime Den Restaurant tomorrow noon, I guess I should inform Celma-san in advance.” [Ryouma]
I stopped walking, and then I decided to go to the Slime Den Restaurant first then go home. My course decided, I began walking the night road again.
Heads up. eCookie’s finished making his EPUB. He’s also provided a temp version for PDF in case any of you folks prefer that as Usi hasn’t made his PDF yet.
Here’s the link:CLICK HERE FOR V3 PDF/EPUB
I didn’t help out with the pdf/epub making, so make sure you all thank eCookie!
“Amazing. I don’t know much about martial arts, but I can tell Ryouma-kun’s really strong.” [Michelle]
“Can you really sum that up in such few words?” [Riera]
“I don’t think there’s really anything else to say though.” [Michelle]
From the girl’s perspective, Ryouma’s fight was nothing short of a performance.
Above a bandit that ran to attack Ryouma with his one-handed sword, was a bandit that was sent flying by the ogres. The flying bandit flew past the running bandit as he approached Ryouma. Ryouma caught that bandit, then with a turn, Ryouma bashed the other bandit with that bandit.
But at the last moment, the bandit managed to jump to the right, avoiding the other bandit in Ryouma’s hand. Taking that opportunity, Ryouma extended his hand toward the opening of the bandit’s one-handed sword. Then as Ryouma dropped the other bandit, he grasped the sword with his left hand, and as he swept his right hand, he entered into his opponent’s chest. Finally, with an elbow strike from his right to the chin of the bandit, he knocked him unconscious.
At that moment, another bandit came attacking at him. Ryouma averted the tip of that bandit’s sword that came piercing at him with his right hand. Then continuing with that momentum, he grabbed the bandit’s wrist and arm, and with a karate chop, he knocked a second, unconscious.
But just as Ryouma finished knocking down a second, at nearly the same time, a bandit swung his great sword down behind Ryouma. Ryouma immediately thrusted the unconsciouss bandit away, then as he turned his body, he dodged the great sword, and at the same time, he landed a backhand blow on the bandit’s chin.
However, the bandit was able to barely dodge the backhand blow. In no time at all, however, Ryouma stepped in with his left foot, and sent a kick flying from his right leg. The kick landed itself onto the hands carrying the great sword, forcing the bandit to release his weapon as it grazed past his face.
But at the same time, something had hit the bandit’s stomach. The very same moment Ryouma sent a kick flying toward the bandit, he chantlessly casted earth needle, attacking the bandits from a place hidden by the shadow of his feet.
The earth needle couldn’t pierce through the armor, but it imparted a shock no different from a pillar crashing into a body. The strength of that force momentarily caused the bandit to blank out, giving Ryouma time to pull back his leg. Then with a fist to the brow, Ryouma knocked his third one down.
All these took place within only a span of a few seconds. Ryouma’s precise movements that hadn’t any unnecessary moves in it made short work of the bandits. Were this the arena, Ryouma might just be accused of match fixing. That’s how one-sided the fight was. But what the bandits did next left Elia and the others puzzled.
“It’s the Cleaner! Run!!” [Bandit 1]
“You think I’ll let myself be caught here!? Damnit!!” [Bandit 2]
“I won’t attack anyone anymore! Please let me go!!” [Bandit 3]
For some reason, the bandits suddenly started panicking. Ryouma hadn’t used any magic that attacked one’s mind, and yet all these people were clearly mentally affected.
Those bandits were also beaten up. After everything ended, they checked whether there were still any survivors left along with the recovery of the dead bandits and the bandits that were still alive. While they were doing that, Elia and the others decided to stop the carriage, and take a break there.
“Sebasu, why are those people scared of Ryouma-san?” [Elia]
“And Ryouma-kun was also making a sad face.” [Kanan]
“It’s a long story, so cutting it short… Everything started due to Ryouma’s bandit subjugation during his journey.” [Sebasu]
In the past, Ryouma happened upon 10 bandits whom he subjugated.
Those bandits were affiliated with the Dark Guild. They were the leaders of a small branch of a fairly large bandit organization who came out to show off the strength of their tiny branch as well as give some orders.
Due to having their leaders arrested, the bandit organization attacked Ryouma’s house in revenge, but they were instead done in. Most of the bandits were arrested, but they were turned into guinea pigs for Ryouma’s new medicines.
Other bandits came to take revenge, but Ryouma, starting to get fed up with them, decided to leave an opening to let them escape, and reveal their home base. But what Ryouma ended up finding wasn’t the home base of the bandits, but rather the home base of a branch of the Dark Guild.
Thinking it would be foolish to make a move alone, Ryouma decided to contact the duke’s household. Ryouma left the matter to the duke’s household, but from the time Ryouma contacted the household to the time the branch of the Dark Guild was destroyed, the things Ryouma had done were exaggerated. Rumors amongst the bandits began to circulate, saying malicious things such as Ryouma capturing bandits and inflicting excruciating pain upon them, or Ryouma slowly torturing people as he beat them and healed them to death.
“And because of that, the bandits are now scared out of their wits of him, huh?” [Elia]
“Yes. Due to a rumor that’s quite different from the truth.” [Sebasu]
While it’s true Ryouma is still using bandit test subjects to this day to test his medicines on, he first tests the medicine on goblins to distinguish which of his potions are poison and which are not. He checks whether there any strong side effects, so he doesn’t try out medicines on humans aside from those that are generally safe.
Because of that, there were rarely any cases of someone dying due to his experiments. The bare necessities (water, food… etc.) were provided, there were no unnecessary violence either, and in order to hand them over healthy to the guards of Gimuru, Ryouma’s been dealing with the bandits who aimed for his life, humanely. But unfortunately, the rumors turned everything upside down.
“Thanks to Ryouma-sama, the bandits around Gimuru had been reduced for a period, and even the people who tried to bring prohibited goods into the arena were lessened. We’re really grateful for it, but it seems Ryouma-sama’s somewhat bothered whenever he sees the bandits so scared of him.” [Sebasu]
“Seeing someone so scared of you just from seeing you… It probably can’t be helped.” [Kanan]
Here, Michelle asked Riera.
“By the way, Riera. You asked for a match yesterday from Ryouma, right? What are you gonna do now?” [Michelle]
Riera made a troubled face for a moment, but not long after, she recovered herself, and calmly answered with resolve.
“Mn… No, there’s no problem. I’m not fighting to win. The match is to let me know my current strength.” [Riera]
“Good. Even I can’t win against Ryouma in a one-on-one, so it’s better to focus on studying rather than on winning.” [Sebasu]
Hearing that, Kanan asked Sebasu.
“Sebasu-san, just exactly who is Ryouma-kun? Putting the battle just now and Sebasu-san’s story, it almost seems as if his story of being a C Rank adventurer is a lie.” [Kanan]
Having been told that, Sebasu answered.
“Ryouma-sama being a C Rank isn’t a lie. However, because Ryouma-sama spent his time these past two years on other jobs, his studies, and even in philanthropic work, he has rarely taken any adventurer jobs. If it was just his abilities, then he wouldn’t lose out to an A Rank adventurer.” [Sebasu]
When the girls heard that, everyone except for Elia was surprised, causing them to renew their image of Ryouma. After Ryouma finished gathering the bandits, he returned with an old man.
“We’re done. By the way, let me introduce Harold-san. He is a slave demon magic user just like myself.” [Ryouma]
“Hi, I’m Harold. Sorry for bothering you all while you’re on your trip.” [Harold]
Harold bowed his head as he said that.
“Harold-san is an A Rank adventurer, so he teaches low ranked adventurers, children aspiring to be adventurers, and the guards in my stores how to fight. Today, the best amongst the trainees are fighting bandits under Uncle Harold as well as other teachers to gain experience. The bandits from before were apparently those that got away from the trainees’ encirclement.” [Ryouma]
“So that’s how it is. Sorry for bothering you. But thanks to you and your friends, we’ll be able to have a safe trip. Thank you for you work.” [Elia]
“Thank you. Now if you excuse me, I need to rendezvous with my comrades now. Also, Ryouma, those boys are still too naïve. They still need plenty of working.” [Harold]
“There’s no need to hurry, so please take care of them until it’s safe to send them out. Should you need any help, please feel free to inform me.” [Ryouma]
Harold told Ryouma to leave it to him, then he took the three ogres with him, and he left toward the direction fo the trees. There, Sebasu handed a glass filled with water and a towel to Ryouma.
“Please.” [Sebasu]
“Thank you, Sebasu-san.” [Ryouma]
Ryouma lightly wiped the sweat of him, then as he took a mouthful of water, and a short rest, Elia spoke to him.
“Ryouma-san, what was that last thing you were talking about?” [Elia]
“Oh, didn’t I mention it? We started raising up some human resources in Gimuru. I am also a teacher actually… By the way, what happened to those four?” [Ryouma]
“Don’t worry, they’re just having some issue putting together common sense and reality together after seeing you fight.” [Elia]
“So long as they’re not scared, I guess it’s fine.” [Ryouma]
At the other end of Ryouma’s gaze were the four girls, but Ryouma didn’t say anything to them as he took a short break and had some snacks.
It might have been because they had already heard of Ryouma before, but after the break ended, the four were back on their feet. And they chatted just as they did before the bandtis came out.
The carriage continued to descend the mountain, and just before the sun set, they managed to reach the western gate of Gimuru, where a line of carriages had formed.
“We’ve finally arrived, but the line sure seems long.” [Kanan]
“There are a lot of carriages, so it’s probably some sort of merchant group, and is probably going to take a lot of time, right?” [Riera]
“…They’re examining the luggage, so I think it will take a lot more time.” [Michelle]
“I don’t mind waiting, but I wonder whether we’ll be able to get some rooms today? It’s also the same time as yesterday, but…” [Riera]
The one who answered Riera’s thoughts were Ryouma.
“There are plenty of lodging for tourists, so you’ll be able to get an inn. If there’s any issue, it would be the quality of the room.” [Ryouma]
“Any recommendations?” [Michelle]
“Hmm………Rather than the new town, I think it’ll be better to go to the lodging in the first town. There are also guards in town number two, but there’s a lot of people, so it’s noisy, and there are plenty of pickpocketing going on too. It’s safe enough to go out in the night, but the first town’s quiet and safe.” [Ryouma]
“Is there anything we should be careful of in Gimuru?” [Riera]
“Nothing in particular, but… Ah, there’s one. There’s an inn built specifically for slave demon magic users and a resting area for slave demons by the gate of the second town. It’ll be best to stay away from it. The slave demon magic users and conjurers there are generally bad folks.” [Ryouma]
Ryouma continued.
“While it’s good that the jobs in the town increased thanks to the new town, there are some bad folks amongst the people who came here to work for the tamer guild. They would drink themselves drunk, rampage with the ir magical beasts, walk around, showing off their strength and scaring other people… And in the worst case, there are even those who pick fights inside the town with their magical beasts.” [Ryouma]
“That bad?” [Michelle]
“The really bad ones are being caught one after another, but as I’ve said, the bad folks stay in that particular inn. There are also good people amongst the slave demon magic users who came to help the construction of the new town, but the ones stand out. Because of that, people have started to look badly on slave demon magic users, and… Oh, I’m sorry. I started ranting.” [Ryouma]
As Ryouma apologized, the other five told him not to mind it.
“It must’ve been tough for you, huh, Ryouma-han? Enough to complain at least.” [Miyabi]
“You don’t have to hold back. Just throw everything out.” [Kanan]
“Thank you very much.” [Ryouma]
Suddenly, the line began to move quickly.
“Ah, looks like the carriages of that merchant group finally got through… Huh? Up to where did we talk? Well… so long as you gain the trust of the people, there shouldn’t be any problem. It’s not a big deal, so it should be fine. It’s not just me, even Uncle Harold who is a slave demon magic user from another place is an honest person and is trusted. Rather than that, let’s begin to enter the town.” [Ryouma]
As Ryouma said that, they each took out of their chest and bags their respective proofs of identities. When they were ready, they talked about what they would do after they enter the village. There, they decided to first rest at the inn. It wouldn’t be nice after all if the girls were to suddenly fall sick or something, so they decided to rest up first, and begin sightseeing tomorrow.
Finally, after going pass the gate, it was Ryouma’s turn to shine. Ryouma guided the girls and Sebasu to a nice inn that, while not luxurious by any means, was clean and had good food for the price.
The girls took a room there, and after Ryouma volunteered to tour the girls tomorrow, he went back home to his house in the abandoned mine.
“Amazing. I don’t know much about martial arts, but I can tell Ryouma-kun’s really strong.” [Michelle]
“Can you really sum that up in such few words?” [Riera]
“I don’t think there’s really anything else to say though.” [Michelle]
From the girl’s perspective, Ryouma’s fight was nothing short of a performance.
Above a bandit that ran to attack Ryouma with his one-handed sword, was a bandit that was sent flying by the ogres. The flying bandit flew past the running bandit as he approached Ryouma. Ryouma caught that bandit, then with a turn, Ryouma bashed the other bandit with that bandit.
But at the last moment, the bandit managed to jump to the right, avoiding the other bandit in Ryouma’s hand. Taking that opportunity, Ryouma extended his hand toward the opening of the bandit’s one-handed sword. Then as Ryouma dropped the other bandit, he grasped the sword with his left hand, and as he swept his right hand, he entered into his opponent’s chest. Finally, with an elbow strike from his right to the chin of the bandit, he knocked him unconscious.
At that moment, another bandit came attacking at him. Ryouma averted the tip of that bandit’s sword that came piercing at him with his right hand. Then continuing with that momentum, he grabbed the bandit’s wrist and arm, and with a karate chop, he knocked a second, unconscious.
But just as Ryouma finished knocking down a second, at nearly the same time, a bandit swung his great sword down behind Ryouma. Ryouma immediately thrusted the unconsciouss bandit away, then as he turned his body, he dodged the great sword, and at the same time, he landed a backhand blow on the bandit’s chin.
However, the bandit was able to barely dodge the backhand blow. In no time at all, however, Ryouma stepped in with his left foot, and sent a kick flying from his right leg. The kick landed itself onto the hands carrying the great sword, forcing the bandit to release his weapon as it grazed past his face.
But at the same time, something had hit the bandit’s stomach. The very same moment Ryouma sent a kick flying toward the bandit, he chantlessly casted earth needle, attacking the bandits from a place hidden by the shadow of his feet.
The earth needle couldn’t pierce through the armor, but it imparted a shock no different from a pillar crashing into a body. The strength of that force momentarily caused the bandit to blank out, giving Ryouma time to pull back his leg. Then with a fist to the brow, Ryouma knocked his third one down.
All these took place within only a span of a few seconds. Ryouma’s precise movements that hadn’t any unnecessary moves in it made short work of the bandits. Were this the arena, Ryouma might just be accused of match fixing. That’s how one-sided the fight was. But what the bandits did next left Elia and the others puzzled.
“It’s the Cleaner! Run!!” [Bandit 1]
“You think I’ll let myself be caught here!? Damnit!!” [Bandit 2]
“I won’t attack anyone anymore! Please let me go!!” [Bandit 3]
For some reason, the bandits suddenly started panicking. Ryouma hadn’t used any magic that attacked one’s mind, and yet all these people were clearly mentally affected.
Those bandits were also beaten up. After everything ended, they checked whether there were still any survivors left along with the recovery of the dead bandits and the bandits that were still alive. While they were doing that, Elia and the others decided to stop the carriage, and take a break there.
“Sebasu, why are those people scared of Ryouma-san?” [Elia]
“And Ryouma-kun was also making a sad face.” [Kanan]
“It’s a long story, so cutting it short… Everything started due to Ryouma’s bandit subjugation during his journey.” [Sebasu]
In the past, Ryouma happened upon 10 bandits whom he subjugated.
Those bandits were affiliated with the Dark Guild. They were the leaders of a small branch of a fairly large bandit organization who came out to show off the strength of their tiny branch as well as give some orders.
Due to having their leaders arrested, the bandit organization attacked Ryouma’s house in revenge, but they were instead done in. Most of the bandits were arrested, but they were turned into guinea pigs for Ryouma’s new medicines.
Other bandits came to take revenge, but Ryouma, starting to get fed up with them, decided to leave an opening to let them escape, and reveal their home base. But what Ryouma ended up finding wasn’t the home base of the bandits, but rather the home base of a branch of the Dark Guild.
Thinking it would be foolish to make a move alone, Ryouma decided to contact the duke’s household. Ryouma left the matter to the duke’s household, but from the time Ryouma contacted the household to the time the branch of the Dark Guild was destroyed, the things Ryouma had done were exaggerated. Rumors amongst the bandits began to circulate, saying malicious things such as Ryouma capturing bandits and inflicting excruciating pain upon them, or Ryouma slowly torturing people as he beat them and healed them to death.
“And because of that, the bandits are now scared out of their wits of him, huh?” [Elia]
“Yes. Due to a rumor that’s quite different from the truth.” [Sebasu]
While it’s true Ryouma is still using bandit test subjects to this day to test his medicines on, he first tests the medicine on goblins to distinguish which of his potions are poison and which are not. He checks whether there any strong side effects, so he doesn’t try out medicines on humans aside from those that are generally safe.
Because of that, there were rarely any cases of someone dying due to his experiments. The bare necessities (water, food… etc.) were provided, there were no unnecessary violence either, and in order to hand them over healthy to the guards of Gimuru, Ryouma’s been dealing with the bandits who aimed for his life, humanely. But unfortunately, the rumors turned everything upside down.
“Thanks to Ryouma-sama, the bandits around Gimuru had been reduced for a period, and even the people who tried to bring prohibited goods into the arena were lessened. We’re really grateful for it, but it seems Ryouma-sama’s somewhat bothered whenever he sees the bandits so scared of him.” [Sebasu]
“Seeing someone so scared of you just from seeing you… It probably can’t be helped.” [Kanan]
Here, Michelle asked Riera.
“By the way, Riera. You asked for a match yesterday from Ryouma, right? What are you gonna do now?” [Michelle]
Riera made a troubled face for a moment, but not long after, she recovered herself, and calmly answered with resolve.
“Mn… No, there’s no problem. I’m not fighting to win. The match is to let me know my current strength.” [Riera]
“Good. Even I can’t win against Ryouma in a one-on-one, so it’s better to focus on studying rather than on winning.” [Sebasu]
Hearing that, Kanan asked Sebasu.
“Sebasu-san, just exactly who is Ryouma-kun? Putting the battle just now and Sebasu-san’s story, it almost seems as if his story of being a C Rank adventurer is a lie.” [Kanan]
Having been told that, Sebasu answered.
“Ryouma-sama being a C Rank isn’t a lie. However, because Ryouma-sama spent his time these past two years on other jobs, his studies, and even in philanthropic work, he has rarely taken any adventurer jobs. If it was just his abilities, then he wouldn’t lose out to an A Rank adventurer.” [Sebasu]
When the girls heard that, everyone except for Elia was surprised, causing them to renew their image of Ryouma. After Ryouma finished gathering the bandits, he returned with an old man.
“We’re done. By the way, let me introduce Harold-san. He is a slave demon magic user just like myself.” [Ryouma]
“Hi, I’m Harold. Sorry for bothering you all while you’re on your trip.” [Harold]
Harold bowed his head as he said that.
“Harold-san is an A Rank adventurer, so he teaches low ranked adventurers, children aspiring to be adventurers, and the guards in my stores how to fight. Today, the best amongst the trainees are fighting bandits under Uncle Harold as well as other teachers to gain experience. The bandits from before were apparently those that got away from the trainees’ encirclement.” [Ryouma]
“So that’s how it is. Sorry for bothering you. But thanks to you and your friends, we’ll be able to have a safe trip. Thank you for you work.” [Elia]
“Thank you. Now if you excuse me, I need to rendezvous with my comrades now. Also, Ryouma, those boys are still too naïve. They still need plenty of working.” [Harold]
“There’s no need to hurry, so please take care of them until it’s safe to send them out. Should you need any help, please feel free to inform me.” [Ryouma]
Harold told Ryouma to leave it to him, then he took the three ogres with him, and he left toward the direction fo the trees. There, Sebasu handed a glass filled with water and a towel to Ryouma.
“Please.” [Sebasu]
“Thank you, Sebasu-san.” [Ryouma]
Ryouma lightly wiped the sweat of him, then as he took a mouthful of water, and a short rest, Elia spoke to him.
“Ryouma-san, what was that last thing you were talking about?” [Elia]
“Oh, didn’t I mention it? We started raising up some human resources in Gimuru. I am also a teacher actually… By the way, what happened to those four?” [Ryouma]
“Don’t worry, they’re just having some issue putting together common sense and reality together after seeing you fight.” [Elia]
“So long as they’re not scared, I guess it’s fine.” [Ryouma]
At the other end of Ryouma’s gaze were the four girls, but Ryouma didn’t say anything to them as he took a short break and had some snacks.
It might have been because they had already heard of Ryouma before, but after the break ended, the four were back on their feet. And they chatted just as they did before the bandtis came out.
The carriage continued to descend the mountain, and just before the sun set, they managed to reach the western gate of Gimuru, where a line of carriages had formed.
“We’ve finally arrived, but the line sure seems long.” [Kanan]
“There are a lot of carriages, so it’s probably some sort of merchant group, and is probably going to take a lot of time, right?” [Riera]
“…They’re examining the luggage, so I think it will take a lot more time.” [Michelle]
“I don’t mind waiting, but I wonder whether we’ll be able to get some rooms today? It’s also the same time as yesterday, but…” [Riera]
The one who answered Riera’s thoughts were Ryouma.
“There are plenty of lodging for tourists, so you’ll be able to get an inn. If there’s any issue, it would be the quality of the room.” [Ryouma]
“Any recommendations?” [Michelle]
“Hmm………Rather than the new town, I think it’ll be better to go to the lodging in the first town. There are also guards in town number two, but there’s a lot of people, so it’s noisy, and there are plenty of pickpocketing going on too. It’s safe enough to go out in the night, but the first town’s quiet and safe.” [Ryouma]
“Is there anything we should be careful of in Gimuru?” [Riera]
“Nothing in particular, but… Ah, there’s one. There’s an inn built specifically for slave demon magic users and a resting area for slave demons by the gate of the second town. It’ll be best to stay away from it. The slave demon magic users and conjurers there are generally bad folks.” [Ryouma]
Ryouma continued.
“While it’s good that the jobs in the town increased thanks to the new town, there are some bad folks amongst the people who came here to work for the tamer guild. They would drink themselves drunk, rampage with the ir magical beasts, walk around, showing off their strength and scaring other people… And in the worst case, there are even those who pick fights inside the town with their magical beasts.” [Ryouma]
“That bad?” [Michelle]
“The really bad ones are being caught one after another, but as I’ve said, the bad folks stay in that particular inn. There are also good people amongst the slave demon magic users who came to help the construction of the new town, but the ones stand out. Because of that, people have started to look badly on slave demon magic users, and… Oh, I’m sorry. I started ranting.” [Ryouma]
As Ryouma apologized, the other five told him not to mind it.
“It must’ve been tough for you, huh, Ryouma-han? Enough to complain at least.” [Miyabi]
“You don’t have to hold back. Just throw everything out.” [Kanan]
“Thank you very much.” [Ryouma]
Suddenly, the line began to move quickly.
“Ah, looks like the carriages of that merchant group finally got through… Huh? Up to where did we talk? Well… so long as you gain the trust of the people, there shouldn’t be any problem. It’s not a big deal, so it should be fine. It’s not just me, even Uncle Harold who is a slave demon magic user from another place is an honest person and is trusted. Rather than that, let’s begin to enter the town.” [Ryouma]
As Ryouma said that, they each took out of their chest and bags their respective proofs of identities. When they were ready, they talked about what they would do after they enter the village. There, they decided to first rest at the inn. It wouldn’t be nice after all if the girls were to suddenly fall sick or something, so they decided to rest up first, and begin sightseeing tomorrow.
Finally, after going pass the gate, it was Ryouma’s turn to shine. Ryouma guided the girls and Sebasu to a nice inn that, while not luxurious by any means, was clean and had good food for the price.
The girls took a room there, and after Ryouma volunteered to tour the girls tomorrow, he went back home to his house in the abandoned mine.
[Goblin] Gi Gu
The former leader of the village. He was pressured by the protagonist in his goblin noble form, and was added to his subordinates. He uses the long sword, and is relatively smart for a goblin rare. Became a goblin noble in chapter 39.
[Goblin] Gi Gi
Known as a beast warrior, a goblin with the ability to tame beasts.
He evolved while hunting spear deer with the protagonist.
He prefers to use the axe. His goblin class is rare.
[Goblin] Gi Go
A goblin with many wounds on his body. The food of his horde was stolen by the gray wolves, so he made a decision to follow the protagonist. He is the most experienced amongst the goblin rares. His weapon is a curved katana. He acts like a samurai.
Recently became a noble, and received the divine protection of the Sword God, Ra Baruza.
[Goblin] Gi Za
The druid goblin rare that recently joined them.
[Goblin] Gi Ji
A goblin rare. He evolved in chapter 37 after hunting with Gi Ga.
[Goblin] Gi Do
Druid. Uses wind magic.
[Goblin] Gi Jii
Goblin Rare. From Gi Gu’s Faction. He is known for his <<Wide-Open Eyes>> which allows him to see his opponent’s weakness.
[Goblin] Gi Da
Goblin Rare. From Gi Ga’s faction. Notable skills are <<Knowledge of the Spear>> and <<Unreasonably Stubborn>>.
[Goblin] Gi Zu.
Goblin Rare. The goblin favored by the Mad God (Zu Oru). Has the <<Mad Dog>> skill.
Chapter 48: The Messenger from the West
[Race] Goblin
[Level] 5
[Class] Lord; Horde Chief
[Possessed Skills] <<Ruler of the Horde>> <<Insurgent Will>> <<Overpowering Howl>> <<Swordsmanship B+>> <<Insatiable Desire>> <<King’s Soul>> <<Ruler’s Wisdom I>> <<Eyes of the Blue Snake>> <<Dance at Death’s Border>> <<Red Snake’s Eye>> <<Magic Manipulation>> <<Soul of a Crazed Warrior>> <<Third Impact (The Third Chant)>> <<Instinct>> <<Ruler’s Wisdom II>>
[Divine Protection] Goddess of the Underworld (Altesia)
[Attributes] Darkness; Death
[Subordinate Beasts] High Kobold <<Hasu>> (Lv1) Gastra (Lv1) Cynthia (Lv1) Orc King <<Bui>> (Lv36)
[Abnormal Status] <<Charm of the Saint>>
When I got back to the village, I had the orcs immigrate.
I gave them Gi Za’s old place, the one situated by the root of the giant tree. The area surrounding it is a wasteland, so it’s perfect for the orcs. After that, I made a simple agreement with that small frightened orc.
I distributed different hunting grounds for the orcs and the goblins. I also gave instructions on how to deal with the humans should they enter the forest.
This is how I separated the orcs from the goblin.
There is a lake northwest of the Great Heaven-Piercing Tree.
So I permitted the orcs to live off of the north and east banks of the lake there. This decision is something I made in order to create a breakwater for the humans entering.
With this, there won’t be any issues between the orcs and the goblins.
Aside from me and the noble classes, the goblins don’t have a way of resisting the orcs.
But even if it weren’t for that, I don’t want unneeded conflict. That would only serve to benefit the threat from the east.
“Is it really alright with just this?” asked Bui.
The small and frightened orc’s words were unusually impressive. I’ve always thought of orcs as brutes who always tried to solve everything with power, but it would seem there are also orcs such as this one.
As Bui nodded quietly, he let out a sigh of relief.
Being the Orc King seems to be hard, but I have no intention of taking care of him that much. At most, I just want him to stay clear of my way, and not be a threat to the humans.
With this, the door to the west has finally opened before me.
When I got back to the village, the cleaning was mostly done. What’s left was repairing the fences, but that’ll take some time.
I asked Gi Gu, who I had left the village to in my absence, if anything happened while I was gone.
“A messenger came,” said Gi Gu.
“What?” I asked, surprised.
“A messenger from the tribes. I asked him to wait.”
The tribes? A messenger?
Now where have I heard that before…
“From what tribe?” I asked.
“Please ask him yourself,” replied Gi Gu, not knowing either.
While puzzled, I ended up having to meet with a messenger from some tribe.
◆◆◇
The messenger that was made to wait at the king’s house was apparently a goblin rare.
But although he was a goblin he wass clearly different from the goblins that lived in this village. If you were to ask what’s different, well for starters, he’s wearing clothes. He’s dressed simply, but he has a belt fastened around his waist, and is even wearing a pair of shoes.
But that’s not all that stood out. Beside him lay what was clearly a bow. Even though goblins are normally too clumsy with their hands, he’s able to use a bow?
The goblin sat quietly as he waited for me to take the seat of honor, then he spoke.
“Thank you for granting me an audience. I am a child of Gatsumi, Ra Gilmi of the Ganra Tribe of the four tribes,” declared the messenger.
Fluent speech and a dignified manner. He gives off the impression that he’s used to matters such as this.
“Let me hear why you’ve come,” I said.
I looked down on the goblin as I implored him to speak.
“Leader of the eastern village, please save Ganra,” requested the Gimli.
His skin is no different from the other rare classes, yet his intellect is clearly above the rare class. Is that because he’s from one of the four tribes? Come to think of it, didn’t he just call me the ruler of the east?
How much truth is there in the words of this goblin from the west? I strained my eyes to find the answer to that.
“Of course, we will give you an appropriate reward. We are willing to give you a young elven lady as a reward.”
So an elf has finally made an appearance. If I recall correctly, they should be situated at the back regions, so it shouldn’t be easy to catch one. But then considering the goblin’s reproduction, it’s probably necessary to capture a female from some other species. To have another settlement like the village we have here where the breeding is covered solely by the female goblins would undoubtedly require a powerful king.
“So what is it that you wish of me?” I asked him.
“Please fight off one of the four tribes, Gaidga,” he replied.
“You are fighting with your fellow tribes?”
Is the west that blessed compared to us here who’re only able to barely acquire food for ourselves? But then again, there might also be threats of orcs, and perhaps even giant spiders deep in the forest.
“It’s embarrassing, however, the truth is that a curse has been cast upon us four tribes.”
“A curse?”
“A curse since ancient times. A curse that dictates that the one we bow to will be the king who will lead the goblins.”
Ho…
“I would like to help you, but this village is currently under repair.”
Gilmi opened his eyes wide upon hearing my words. It was as if what I said was out of his expectations. The goblin cast his eyes down as he seemingly began to ponder.
“Give me five days,” I said.
Like a string that had been strung, Gilmi quickly looked back at me. As I nodded generously, Gilmi bowed his head deep enough to touch the ground.
◇◇◆
“Change the name?” asked Gi Za, puzzled.
I lightly shook my head at the druid chief’s, Gi Za’s, questioning voice.
“To be more precise, I thought of giving another name,” I said.
“…Exactly what do you have in mind,” asked the old goblin.
As I nodded, I answered the old goblin’s inquiry.
“The village has grown bigger. Until now I’ve given simple names, but from here on we will be confronting the tribes.”
My vague words left the two puzzled as they both tilted their heads.
“Why do we need more names when confronting the tribe?”
At the old goblin’s inquiry, I nodded and answered.
“What do you think when you hear, the child of Gatsumi, Ra Gilmi?”
“As expected of someone from the tribes…”
When Gi Za heard the old goblin’s simple answer, his eyes opened wide.
“S-So that’s why.”
Gi Za’s face twisted into a smile. That mischievous smile of his doesn’t lose out to me. His smile is plenty dark.
Legitimate blood, a blood that can support a person. It doesn’t matter whether one is a human or a goblin, there’s a natural sense of respect for one who possesses that kind of blood.
Even I couldn’t believe my ears when I heard Gilmi name himself. Thinking about it now, I was honestly surprised that time.
But if that’s the case, then we too must play that card.
Whenever one speaks of the tribes, there is an implication of pride in the olden blood.
A lineage to be respected.
If I were to say it myself, I think the lineage itself carries with it actual power.
“So what are you planning to do exactly? Are you going to give the new name to rare classes up?”
“No. I’ll start handing it out from noble classes. First, I’ll give Gi Ga one.”
“…I’ll call him.”
“Please.”
Gi Ga can’t walk, so I let Gi Za directly face him.
Gi Ga came as he pierced his spear, then he sat like that on the ground. Then place his one hand on the ground, he looked up to me.
“Gi Ga, I give you a new name,” I declared.
“That’s…” Gi Ga hesitated.
“Gi is the name of this village. Ga is the name I gave you. Thanks to your achievements in this recent battle, I give you the right to a household. Thus, I grant you a last name.”
“A right to a house?”
“If you wish, I could give you a village.”
My words left everyone in shock, causing them all to look on wide-eyed.
It’s the proof of the weight of my trust. And I won’t give a last name just to anyone, only those with enough strength will be worthy of one.
As I explained, Gi Ga’s body shook.
“King, am I unneeded?” asked Gi Ga.
“Don’t misunderstand. All I’m giving you is the right. If you so wish, then you can continue to stay beside me,” I responded.
But as proof of his honor and power, I will give him a last name.
“If at all possible, please let me serve under the king,” petitioned Gi Ga.
“I understand. But for the sake of rewarding you for the power you’ve shown me, accept this name.”
“By your will.”
“From here on, you are Gi Ga Rax.”
“I gratefully accept.”
In the same way, I named the others Gi Gu Verbena and Gi Go Amatsuki.
“By the way, King.”
After I had dismissed the noble class goblins from the King’s House, Gi Za asked me a question.
“What?”
“If you were to give me a last name, what would you give me?”
At that moment, a flash of inspiration shot through my mind, and I answered him with a huge grin on my face.
“How about Gi Za Za?” I jokingly replied.
It’s based on the same naming sense he suggested when we were thinking of a name for the gray wolves.
When said that to Gi Za, his face was visibly shocked as he went quiet.
“Ha ha ha… It’s a joke. I’ll leave the pleasure of thinking of a name for when you actually evolve.”
“Meanie king!”
“What? Even this is thanks to having a good teacher.”
I thoroughly enjoyed myself in this rare time of peace.