Sousetsuka

277 Exchange

Sure enough, they barraged me with questions... Or not.
Why? Because they still can't process what just took place before their eyes.
I had moved far away from the magic beast when I undid Acceleration so they're unable to connect the dots. 'There's no way he could have done it from so far' or something.

The magic beast had its completely stripped out pelt spread on the ground with its meat and mats on top of it, not touching the ground.

"...Hey, are we dreaming?"
"I know I lured that thing here and all... Never imagined that humongous boar showing up though, I was going to call for a retreat..."
"I got no traps that'd work with something that massive... Gotta admit I misjudged..."
"Yep yep, not even I was sure my super special magic's gonna work on that big boy~. But can anybody explain to me how'd it get so cleanly cut apart? I mean, I blinked and it was already like this, how?"
"Judging from the situation, that man must have done this. However, I do not comprehend. How was he able to cut down such a gigantic magic beast in but a moment? And in such a precise and fine manner like this..."

These people have no choice but to accept that I did it.
However, as they saw no proof nor saw how it actually happened, they could only surmise from the situation.

"We would likely meet our end had we come across this beast without him around..."

The other members nodded with a pale face at the priestess's word.

"Hey, so this is all yours. In exchange, I want you to keep everything you saw here to yourselves. What do you say?"

I put forward this deal to the still pale faced 'White Fang'.

"Oy... So you're saying this was your doing?"

The hot guy asked, I reminded him what our goal was coming here.

"Aren't we here to check my strength? Is this not good enough?"

We came all the way to this woods for that. Mission complete.
But it'd be a pain if they spread news about me afterward, hence the gag deal.

"Ooh, all this stuff gonna fetch handsomely~ I mean just look at these fangs! Have you ever seen a mat this flawless? Hyaa~, and there's so much meat, and the pelt's perfectly unscathed, can't wait to cash this out~!"

The mage is getting excited at the prospect of selling the magic beast mats.

"Well... I am not against 'keeping silent' if you're willing to hand over this much to us."
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
The big man accepted while putting his greatshield on his back.

"I woulda keep silent even if he gave us nothing. Dunno what's the deal with the magic beast, but I can't imagine us putting up any resistance if he went for us. There ain't no correct answer 'side from 'yes'."

The thief took his knife and started sorting out the mats as he said that.

"We have invited a terrifyingly powerful man to join us it seems. I do not believe you are a bad person. However, I can only shiver at the thought of having you as an opposition..."

Meanwhile, the priestess looked shaken.

"We have a deal then yeah? Ah, do you have a magic bag? Wrappings for the meat?"

"Yeah, we have the smallest one, but uh don't think it'd fit this all..."

The hot guy grabbed a small pouch on his waist.
All the members started putting meat into that pouch.

"Yep, it's full right away. You got a magic bag? If you do, can we borrow some space inside?"

All the 'White Fang' members looked at me. They obviously wanna turn as much of this freebies into money.
Well, guess it'd be a pain if they had to bring the rest on their back or something.
Even just carrying the pelt, fangs and stuff would be a laborious task.
I decided to help here. All of the mats are part of the deal after all.

"Got it. I'll carry the rest with mine. You guys help putting them in."

My magic bag's already got lot of stuff inside and yet it kept taking in all the mats one by one without any issue.

(Man, I can never get used to how it looked whenever you put stuff inside...)

I was feeling sick while the White Fang members were surprised to see the mats kept going inside with no problem.

"Well dang. The highest grade bag huh? Just who are you... No, we agreed not to probe. My bad."

The thief immediately stopped asking when he recalled.

"Don't worry about it. I get how you just can't contain the urge to ask sometimes."

The thief replied back, 'I'm gonna be careful next time'.

And once all the material was inside my bag, I thought to myself.

(Highest grade... Eltros? And he even gave us three of this thing? Eh? How much is this bag anyway?)

I got a bit of a stomach cramp after realizing the truth of those bags here of all place.

Previous Chapter

Day Before Stampede

During our meeting, Guildmas said I'm the key in this Stampede, but that can't be farther from truth.
A reminder, I'm just a G-ranked peon.
I don't think there's any adventurer who is *not* stronger than me around.


"I know you're thinking, 'what's this guy on', however you and Almatina have proven yourselves capable of defeating a Hobgoblin and a Bladewing accompanied by ten of goblins unharmed."

"I mean yes, but that only worked well by pure chance and an ambush. It would have been impossible if not for Spark Wolf's horn and Fire Frog's oil."

"Precisely. An ambush that utilizes Spark Wolf's horn. I am thinking of using that tactic."


Meaning the horn is the key, not me.
There's no need for me, is there?


"We had sent guild staff to purchase those in a mat store close by the guild, but another customer had bought the last one they had in stock. Kajikawa, do you still have more horns on you?"


That customer is probably me.


"Yes I do, can I just give the horns to the guild then?"

"In a way, yeah."

"What do you mean in a way?"

"We will have you throw the horn at the raiding magic beasts on the invasion day. You alone by yourself."


...Say what?


"H-hold it right there, me? Eh? By myself?"

"From what I heard, you are able to move things around without touching them and even freely fly at high speed, unbelievable as that sounds."

"Eh, well, uh..."

"You're not denying, it's true then... Just who are you really."


Please don't look at me like I'm some sorta monster.
Wait that's not it!


"What does that have to do with having me go up against an army of magic beasts? Are you telling me to die?"

"Calm down. I'm not saying you to go on a suicide attack. We'll work on the detail now."


...Had I known it'd come to this, I wouldn't have shown off mana control or bought those horns.
I want to take shelter right this instance.



<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >


The following day.

At the training ground behind the guild, around 100 adventurers have gathered, clattering.
Most of them sound worried about the Stampede. There were also some confident sounding guys among them though, 'Can't wait to go wild'.

Well, we are outnumbered three to one after all. From a quick look, I see that most of them are around level 5 to 20.
There's a group with conspicuously high level members, they're likely tasked to deal with the boss. Can't they leave at least one behind or something.

Standing on a stage in front of these adventurers are Guildmas and Alma's parents.
As well as me, wearing a weird mask that hides my face and some high class equipment I don't normally have.


How'd it come to this.


【Mask of Bewitchment】
<<A white mask that covers top half face. It has an effect of obscuring the wearer's face and outline. It's also capable of camouflaging status against Appraisal skill below a certain level.>>
ＤＥＦ+５


【Arrow Ward Overcoat】
<<A white overcoat that voids damage below a certain threshold.>>
ＤＥＦ+２０


【Gale Boots】
<<A superior grade of Wind Boots. Makes the wearer moves faster. Also grants wind elemental resistance.>>
ＤＥＦ+１５　ＡＧＩ+３０


【Ring of Mana Storage】
<<A ring that acts as an external mana storage. Can store up to 35 MP.>>


They're all nice equipment Guildmas rented me.
Apparently, he's gonna give me the mask at least, but honestly that's the one I don't want most.
It's not my style. Or rather, I'd take all other equipment instead.

Alma who's standing among the adventurers is staring hard at me, please stop that, they're gonna suspect us...


Guildmas opened his mouth at the murmuring adventurers.


"Quiet down!!"


Everybody here shut up at that yell.
Yeah anybody would when they're glared by those sharp gazes and yelled at that loud. It's scary.


"As you're all aware, this town is facing an attack by a group of magic beasts coming from the nearby magic beast forest due to the Stampede. Two S-rank adventurers, 'Sword King' Dukeris, and 'Arch Mage' Lunatiara, will be joining us to eliminate the boss of this Stampede."


The adventurers started making noise when they heard those two's names.
I knew it, they're pretty famous. Wait, did I hear that right, S-rank.
Don't tell me, these two are the world's top class experts?
...Hmm, well, I mean they were running at an inhuman speed and got that overwhelming pressure and all during our first meeting. Guess it makes sense.


"As such, there is nothing to worry about regarding this Stampede's boss. In fact, I pity that boss for having to deal with these two."


"O-oy, is that for real!? Sword King and Arch Mage!"

"Aren't they heroes who saved so many places from Stampedes! That's awesome!"

"Oh man, never seen S-rank adventurers in the flesh! I'm so pumped!"

"Huh, don't you think they kinda look like Almatina?"

"Aren't those two the same people who were running super fast while yelling something loudly..."


The adventurers cheered.
Some looked perplexed, wonder if they saw those two running and yelling in the middle of the town...


"The bigger problem is the raiding magic beasts, you lot will have to take care of them. We anticipate there will be around 300 magic beasts coming here, a head-on clash would turn ugly."


The training ground fell silence with that.
Guildmas resumed regardless.


"Setting up traps now would only affect small localized areas, we can't expect much from that. Thus here's the strategy we propose. 【Soarer】, step forward."


I took a step forward as instructed by guildmas.
By the way, 【Soarer】 is me. But why.


"We cannot divulge his identity due to various circumstances. Just know that I have full trust on this man. Call him with his Job's name, 'Soarer'."


Perplexed voices got thrown out in the venue.


"Soarer...?"

"Never heard a job like that tho'?"

"What's up with that mask. Scary..."


Yup, that Job doesn't exist after all.
And I don't have a choice with this mask. Gimme a break.


"His skill, 'Soar' is an extremely rare skill that allows him to fly around in the air without external help. He will engage with the invading magic beasts and launch the first strike."


Guildmas said that so nonchalantly when that's normally a death wish.


"The strategy is simple, using Soar this guy shall ignite a 'Spark Wolf's Horn' in the middle of the beasts followed by a 'Roaring Mushroom' to rob them of both sight and hearing, that will be your cue to rush on the magic beasts when they're in disarray. Using those items in the heat of a group battle would only result in collateral damage, and even if we could use signals, closing your eyes and ears in the middle of combat is fatal, as such, he will be the only one in charge of the horns and mushrooms."


'Roaring Mushrooms' is exactly what you expect, a mushroom that explodes when you crush it, along with a deafening sound.
The explosion itself is pretty much harmless, but the sound it produces is enough to rupture eardrums apparently.
'Soar'? There ain't no skill like that y'know? I'm just moving my body around in mid-air using mana control.


"Soarer has proven himself by defeating ten goblins along with a Hobgoblin and a Bladewing on his own without the mushroom. Winning against the one to ten odd. Compared to that, it's only a difference of three to one, it's nothing."


No no, I was with Alma okay? It was only five to six times more okay?
What are you BS-ing there. Please don't make them pin all their hope on me.
Look, those adventurers are looking here with dubious eyes.
One of the adventurers spoke up.


"Err, I don't mean to doubt your word, but is that person really capable of all that?"

"There's no point in flying if it's too slow, bird type magic beasts would just shoot him down."

"I am not sure I agree with you guildmaster telling us to just believe in that maskman and go along with your plan out of the blue like this."


Yep, that's reasonable. I mean I would doubt it too if I were in their shoes.
Also, don't call me maskman.


"I suppose seeing is believing... Can you do it?"


I nodded silently at guildmas and stepped forward on the stage.
I took another step at the very edge of the stage which should have sent me down crashing.
And yet I keep walking forward, I'm no longer on the stage, walking mid air.
Though well, I'm just wrapping my whole body in mana and making it look like I walk.

The adventurers looked surprised at this.


"You guys see that? Now, show us your speed."


I nodded at Guildmas and looked at the sky.
Think the same speed I used to chase Bladewing should do.
Ah, but they're gonna complain about flying control or something if it's only that much, might as well go at top speed.
So here we go, 'Soarer' launching!


BWOSH!


I soared to a higher elevation at high speed, producing that sound in the process. Can't do what I'm gonna do on the ground, that's dangerous.
Now to demonstrate my control on flying. One, two.


Bwoshbwosh, BWOSH, stop, BWOSH


I flew around freely in the air drawing a ☆ shape, stopping abruptly before speeding up again.
Zigzag, straight line, ask me anything nothing I can't do! Good thing I practiced on my way to gather herbs.


Lastly I went back to my spot in the training ground at high speed. Suspending to a full stop and landing on the stage.
Ugh. The inertia from flying randomly makes me sick. My MP... is barely decreased. Moving my body wrapped in mana consumes little as I figured.

The adventurers in the venue looked stupefied. Fufufu, *smug face*.
Uh wait, they look unsettled? Oh come on, don't make that face.
Ah hey Guildmas, why'd you look agape too. You're the one ordering me to.
I changed my tone before calling out to him.


"Master, was that satisfactory?"

"Y-yeah. Well done... As you guys have seen, with this the raiding magic beasts will be a cinch, any more complains?"


None of the adventurers spoke up. Rather than having no complain, it looks more like they don't even know what to ask.

...Alma Papa whispered behind, 'you went too far'. My bad. Got ahead of myself.


"Very well then, you may now go receive guild provisions from our receptionists. The mission will start tomorrow morning. Gather in front of the east gate. Disband!"


With that order from the guildmas, some went to the receptionists, some flocked to Alma's parents, and some were looking at me doubtfully.
Guildmas approached and whispered in my ear.


"Well damn, the real thing is really nothing like hearsay... Absolutely keep your identity a secret, ya got that!"

"...I went too far, apologies."

"Well, that worked on our favor, shutting down the complainers. No problem at all with the end result. We're counting on you tomorrow."


Tomorrow huh. I would have liked nothing more than running away even now.
But Alma and her parents are gonna take part. No way I'd escape on my own.

Haaa, wonder if I'm even gonna survive this...

Previous Chapter

276 Of Course, It Is

The magic beast is heading straight at me while tearing apart all trees in its path.
Normally, bumping into something will slow you down and the magic beast has been crashing into many trees, uprooting and blowing them away.
And yet there's no sign of it slowing down in the slightest.

(Oh man... How am I supposed to deal with this mammoth...)

My katana is unlikely to deal a fatal strike. Blades can only cut as long as they reach.
I don't think just slashing at this gigantic boar is gonna do a thing.

(That is unless I'm under Accelerated state.)

Yes, I'm currently in Accelerated state. Simply slicing and dicing this magic beast into a mincemeat would be a simple matter.

(Might as well use this chance to muzzle these guys too...)

Just killing the beast is not hard. But I can imagine the 'White Fang' members barraging me with questions afterward, it'll be a total pain in the ass.

(Heck, I'll go ahead and dismantle the thing while I'm at it, why not.)

Why'd I agree to temporary join 'White Fang' I'd even go this far?
That's because I have never delved in an actual dungeon.
So far the dungeons I stepped into was one, a goblin cave that hadn't 'evolved' yet.
The second one was a relatively complex maze-turned mine.

(The dungeon that emerged in the Kingdom this time must be an 'authentic' one. I mean it's even got adventurers, pros involved.)

I have no 'know how' on this kind of dungeons. Except the ones you see in games in my past life.
This is reality, not an RPG. 'This ain't no game!' or something.
I need these guys' wisdom, techniques and experience to compensate for my shortfall.

(And yet, I'm confident this Accelerated state can take me to the deepest part of the dungeon just fine.)

That's the brute force way which I won't hesitate to resort to if it comes down to it.
But now that I've made a 'connection' with this 'White Fang' party, going along with them in this dungeon conquering activity is probably the best course of action.

(No thanks to all those obstructions popping up whenever I tried to escape.)
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
I've been dismantling the magic beast all while thinking all that.

The boar beast was in a leaping position toward me, so I cut its belly in a straight line from below.
After which, I carefully stripped its leather from the meat.
Then I divided the meat from the intestines.

Once I was done with the simple processing, I undid Acceleration.
Of course that was after I fled far away to avoid all the inbound blood sprays.

SPLASH! That sound came up for an instant and then oh wow.
A dismantled giant boar is laying there on the ground.

(When I'm in Accelerated state, sharpness doesn't matter at all...)

I've got a katana and all now but in Accelerated state, it doesn't matter what kind of blade I use, there's no difference.

Previous Chapter

Next Chapter

Absurdness

Good morning. Quite a refreshing morning we have today.
Yesterday I went straight to bed after meal, and it was morning the next thing I knew. Time just flew by. Just how fatigued I was.
Think I'm going with salad and french fries for breakfast...
Gotta make some snacks too.


After breakfast, I went and stocked up more foodstuff just in case.
I'll use up all the space I have in the refrigerator.
There's now enough to sustain Alma and me for one week easy, but who knows how long it's gonna take for this town to be back to normalcy after the Stampede, so might as well.
Also no telling if we're getting surprise visitors like yesterday.
There's some food from the guild provision we got, but most rations don't taste good...

People are distributing fliers and making announcements regarding the incoming Stampedes all over the town.
I did right shopping early. Even saw some stores closing up this morning.

My fund is finally starting to run dry. Can't hunt magic beasts in the forest since it's been closed off. I could easily gather more than 100 pieces of herbs if I tried though, guess that's what I'll do.
I can just imagine receptionist Neia-san's scream, but this is a time of emergency, forgive me.


And now we're currently heading to the guild carrying a heap of herbs.
I collected them from multiple spots, so the soil condition should be well kept. Hopefully.

I went through the usual swinging western door and headed for Neia-san's counter.


"Welcome! Are you here to deliver herbs!?"

She sounded high spirited, her frightened face was nowhere to be seen.

"Yes... Somebody's full of motivation today."

"I am! With Stampede day growing closer, getting as many herbs as we could will help saving the wounded when the time comes!"


She's doing her best to reduce casualties huh.
Her enthusiasm is obvious not just from her words but also gestures.
I can feel a strong determination from her, a far cry from her usual timid self. I might have underestimated her a bit.

It should be fine then no?


"Come at me with 50 or even 60 of them! I'll take care of it all!"

"Man, look at how dependable you sound. Then, here you go please."


BAM

Neia-san's face stiffened up when she saw the sack that gave out that noise as I dropped it on her counter.
I've gathered 173 pieces of herbs. Around five times the usual amount. Carrying them all the way here was quite the hassle.


"O-oh... I-is this all herbs...?"

"Yes. Please Appraise them."

"Fu-fueeeen!!"


Don't cry.
Do your best, Neia-san. Bear with it, Neia-san.
Your hard work today will save the wounded tomorrow.


"...Hikaru, are you thinking something blase...?"


Alma stared hard at me.
...Okay, I'm sorry.


Tens of minutes later, she was finally done with the appraisal.
As for Neia-san... Her face has turned deadly pale. I'm sorry. Should have reduced that a bit.


"1-173 pieces in total, that will be 17,300 en..."

"O-okay. Thank you.... Will you be all right?"

"I don't want to hear that from you Kajikawa-san..."

"...My bad, for real. Ah, here's something for you."

"A-are there more of them...?"


Oh, don't be frightened now.
I took something a bit smaller than a fist wrapped in a thin paper.


"It's an apology for everything you've done for me. Sorry I could only offer a handmade snack though."

"S-snack..? Kajikawa-san, you can cook...!?"

"I do. This might sound presumptuous, but I'm confident in the taste, if you'd like."

"I-I'll take it! Thank you!"


Her near death face perked up at once.
She unwrapped the snack to reveal my handmade 'Rice Tart'.

A cream made of aro rice, milk and sugar poured on top of a tart base.
I can't find a substitute for vanilla unfortunately. Hope to find one some day.

I didn't know how to make tart at first, but after succeeding on charging my smartphone with a certain technique I devised recently, I managed to read recipes in it and cooked something akin to tart with the ingredients on hands.
Ah hey, she's eating already. Probably should go to the backyard first. I mean she's still on the clock. I don't mind personally, but the other people here...


"I-it's so good... so sweet... It must be a reward for all my hard work..."


She looks like she's really enjoying it. Glad it's palatable.
By hard work, I'm guessing it's my herb deliveries. It was hard huh... Sorry about that for real.
Once she was done eating, Neia-san had a look like she just recalled something. What up?


"Ah, right! A-almost forgot! I've been told to notify Kajikawa-san and Alma-san to head to the guildmaster's room when they come!"

"Why didn't you tell us that before you checked the herbs...?"

"...Please excuse me, my head is always full of herbs whenever I see Kajikawa-san coming to my counter..."
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >

I mean that's what I usually do I guess...


"Okay then, we'll head there... Alma?"


She's looking at me like she's got something to say.
...Ah, maybe.


"Is that tart earlier on your mind? Worry not, I've made a few of them as today's snack."

"!... Un."


Her expression brightened up a bit. Bull's eye huh.
Missing the candied sweet potato yesterday since I gave that to the old lady must have been quite a shock.
She could have just bought snacks instead of mine, oh right, they're too expensive.
You could buy lot of snacks for 100 en in Japan. Really drives home how blessed Japan is.


Write, write, write, write, write, write.

Sounds of writing brush echoed inside guildmas' room.
Looks like he's behind those literal stacks of documents on the desk. Can't see him from here though.


"There you are. Have a seat."


He sounded a bit, no, quite tired.
Has he been like this since we left yesterday? Hoping he's not gonna overwork himself to death.
We took seats on the nearby chairs and table.

Guildmas left his seat and sat down opposite of ours.
With a super tired looking face, he started talking.


"First of all, well done dealing with Dukeris and Lunatiara yesterday. Heard you supported their reunion with Almatina, treated them to a meal and even notified them about the Stampede."

"Oh I did nothing much... That was a tiring experience for sure, though nowhere as bad as guildmaster's."

"Had those two gone on a rampage due to a matter with their kid, the district might have not been spared. You really did well there, I'm serious."


Guildmas said that with a relieved look like he meant it.
Had no idea that interview was a matter of life or death.
I mean, why'd you leave dealing with those people to me alone, even if Alma was there. Oh right, they arrived here earlier than expected huh.


"They dropped by last night and spoke about you and Alma for an hour straight. One whole hour in this damn busy period."

"Good work."

"Um, I'm sorry."

"Don't you two worry about that. Spared us the trouble of calling them here to discuss about Stampede after all. They also asked a few favors from me."

"Which are?"

"First, it's about the direct mana control you can use."


...!
I thought those two can keep secret, they just went and exposed me?


"Don't make that face now. They told me that technique shouldn't be publicized, and I agree. Also told me, 'Evading the topic should be easy since our daugther's job is more unusual, but seeing as Kajikawa has an unknown Job with no Skills to speak of, it'll be quite a mess if somebody suspects him, so you come up with ways to help conceal it for him.' To think those two would go so far for somebody else besides their daughter, whom they just met the same day. They must really like you huh."


....

I want to hit the me who had the wrong idea of those two even for just a bit.
Can't believe they'd consult guildmas for me. I'm owing both Alma and her parents a huge debt. Gotta pay them back somehow.
For now, a thank you is in order. Thank you you two.


"I can never thank those two enough."

"Oh yeah, they'd like to eat the food you make again some day. Even Lunatiara said reproducing your food might be a tall order even with her Cooking skill. You sure you really don't got skills?"

"I don't even have the slightest idea how to learn one... Huh wait? Doesn't Lunatiara have a Combat Job, and yet she has Cooking skill?"

"Aah. Once you reach Level 50, you can learn one Skill unconditionally regardless of Job types. It's called a Gift Skill. There are exceptions to Skills you can learn though."


Level 50.
Wonder if I'm gonna get a Skill too once I reach that point... No, got a hunch that's not happening. I mean I can't even learn any.


"And so Lunatiara-san picked Cooking Skill. But won't it be bad to Production type Jobs with that kind of system in place?"

"The majority of people plateaued at Level 40 y'see. Cause of experience points and ages. Those two have been doing crazy stunts like leaping into Stampedes one after another or slaying dragons since they were in their twenties. With all that exp to go around, they're probably over level 70 by now."


....Level 70?
They're really a cut above the rest huh... I feel sorry for the Stampede Boss now.


"Guess that's the Stampede Boss taken care of with two people that strong here."

"The boss, yeah."

"Hm? Is there going to be another issue besides the boss?"

"...After the public announcement regarding the Stampede, several low level adventurers have started evacuating. Well, challenging a Stampede beyond their capability is a fool's errand so I won't condemn them. But thanks to that, more and more adventurers also started taking shelter, which prompted other adventurers to follow due to lack of personnel. Thus a vicious circle was formed."

"By the way, how many adventurers are present now?"

"Around 100. Considering the team that will head into the forest to dispatch the boss, we can only expect around 90 to intercept the magic beasts raiding this town. Might decrease even more at this rate."


I don't think those two need a team, but then I'm reminded of the forest's vastness, searching the whole area for the boss would take too long with just those two.


"How many magic beasts have been predicted coming to raid this town?"

"Around 300 or so. The scale itself isn't that big, however, the huge discrepancy in numbers will make this a tough one. Not to mention the magic beasts coming from the sky, frankly, it's gonna be quite ugly."

"I'm guessing having Alma's parents deal with the raiding magic beasts before going after the boss is not a good idea either. Would be too much for those two to handle."

"That idea crossed my mind as well, but worst comes to worst, they might end up using all their strength to deal with the small fry, leaving none for the boss. Stampedes continue unabated until the Boss has been defeated."


Yikes.
What do then.


"That's where you come in. Kajikawa. Your power will be the key in this Stampede."

"...Come again?"


Eh, but I'm just a G-rank beginner.
Aren't you asking too much.
I mean look, this ain't no musou game, what hope do I have against 300 magic beasts?

Previous Chapter

Next Chapter

275 Entirely Altogether

"That will be decided after we have taken a close look on your capability."

Afterward, we departed the kingdom for a nearby forest.
It's supposedly a tranquil forest that only spawns magic beasts every few years, nevertheless dangerous beast do occasionally show up without warning.
We're currently in the cycle of that magic beast spawn.

(Of course, it is. It's definitely coming out. Am I right? Then it doesn't matter what I do, this party's gonna acknowledge me in the end.)

Inwardly, I did think I was jumping the gun on this dungeon conquering business, but it's too late to pull back now.
I mean, I could have just run away here if I were being selfish.
But I'm not courageous enough to do that.

(Even if I tried to quit here, something would without a doubt pop up to block my path.)

I actually made several attempts to escape on our way to this forest. Sneakily at that since I didn't have the nerve.
Like slowing down my pace, or naturally distancing myself from this party. And yet, whenever I did that, they'd call out or start talking to me, giving me no chance.
Not just that, so many obstacles popped up at the most exquisite timings as if there is some sort of power at work here.
One time, a food stall old man suddenly called out as I stopped moving, this party would go on to buy food from that stall. Mostly the beautiful mage. She's running for the glutton character spot on top of being the deranged type.
Another time, just when I thought I finally managed to separate from them, a line of people waiting to enter some famous store formed.
All these obstacles just came out of nowhere whenever I second guessed my decision to join them on a condition.
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
And now we've arrived at the forest.
It's obvious what's coming next. 'The magic beast not showing up' is absolutely not happening.

Magic beasts only show up once every few years in this forest, and the time now is conveniently during one such cycles. As someone who's never far from troubles and mess, me just being here ensures the magic beast is 100% going to show up.

We got quite deep into the forest when the big man muttered 'This place looks good' and took a stance.
He grabbed a short spear and started beating it on his great shield.
Producing very loud noise. Way too loud.

(What're you doing!? Keep that up and... Ah, I see, that's the idea huh...)

I got it. Rather than going around trying to find the thing, he's making the magic beast come our way instead.
All this noise must be irritating. Small animals around here can be seen scattering everywhere.
It's echoing quite far into the forest, I can see animals fleeing in the distance.

I've accepted that there is no escape.

(Ah come to think of it, I haven't hunted in a while... I wanna shoot stuff with a bow. I miss hunting with dad...)

You can't blame me for trying to escape reality. I mean I can see a gigantic figure heading this way.
It's charging right toward the source of this annoying noise. The big man has stopped making sound, yet the magic beast isn't stopping, clearly furious with its red eyes and loud snorts.

"Ah, this takes me back. That's the same boar I hunted on the last day at the village."

However, this one is about twice as big as that.
The size is even more striking up close.

(Why'd it always end like this every single time... Can't you just please leave me alone...)

The magic beast is rushing straight not at the man making all the noise, but me.

"How cursed am I anyway..."

As I resigned to my fate, I entered 'Acceleration' and went around the charging magic beast.

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274 Swelling Worry

"The dungeon that popped up in this kingdom this time around's apparently some major bad news. Our chance to hit it big! Don't wanna other party conquering it first now, do we?! Why're you guys dilly-dallying here."

(Oou, thanks for the exposition. What a perfect timing, what is this a game? Guess I don't have a choice huh? I gotta get in this dungeon no matter what?)

This thief turning up yet again stopped me from leaving.
He even brought up some worrying remarks like 'dungeon in the kingdom'.

(Are you saying this country's gonna be in big trouble if this dungeon isn't conquered? There's no way right...? No, this isn't a game. Somebody else gonna solve this issue, don't have to be me... Surely.)

Despite wanting nothing but to leave this place, my feet are firmly planted.
Thanks to the 'major bad news' line this thief spouted up.
Ordinarily, adventurers would have gone on to conquer the dungeon like they always do.
Yet the question here is why does this news come to my attention right as I'm here in this kingdom?
All while this adventurer party was trying to recruit me.
Perhaps this 'Destiny' of mine that's more like a 'Curse' is telling me that I must go and conquer this dungeon?
No matter what, regardless of the means. It's gonna make me go in the dungeon.

(What if I kept refusing and it got to a point of 'no return'? Gramps and Minya could be in danger...)

That worrying thought swelled up. Gramps and Minya are living in this Kingdom. I've only known them for a little bit, yet I'd like them to stay out of harm's way.

(The hell... I've been completely 'pigeonholed'...)

A mix of dejection and helpless anger. But there's no object to vent on.

"Fine. I'll go with you guys into the dungeon. But I have conditions. You have to agree to them first."

"Oh, what's with the sudden change of heart? You were really bent on not going just now."

I'm not gonna respond to the hot guy's remark.

"Either you agree or you don't, decide here and now."
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
Instead, I said that.
If 'White Fang' declines because of my abrupt change, I'm just gonna head in that dungeon on my own.

"We do. As long as those terms are within an acceptable range to us."

Thus the priestess decided. It seems she holds the veto here, the other members aren't saying anything back.
I continued while thanking her prompt decision inwardly.

"You must not inquire my background. I don't need money or fame. Neither do I want magic gear or tools. I ask nothing back. You must never disclose me to anyone. I don't want to stand out. I'm not here to make friends with you. Once this matter is over and done with, you must not concern yourself with me anymore."

'That's...', they looked like they had something to say to that. All of 'White Fangs' members.
Those terms are my best concessions. Because.

(I could've just gone straight to the deepest part of the dungeon by myself under Accelerated state. But there's no telling what kind of 'Issue' would crop up if I did that. That's why.)

I need these guys to act as my 'cover'.

"I understand. We agree to those terms. Here to a fruitful collaboration."

Her prompt and unfaltering personality must be proof that she's been through a lot. The other members communicated with eye contacts while remaining silent after the priestess made the decision.
That's enough to tell me that this priestess is the focal point of this party. Their leader.
However, there's something that needs to be verified first. Which is.

"Show us your strength. That's the only term we ask you."

The big man spoke.

"I can tell strong men from experience. But I still need to see it for myself. Mind showing us what you've got?"

"He's right, you know! I mean we're gonna put our lives on the line, I have to know in what way you're strong for the teamwork to work! I'm gonna get stressed out if I can't bombard my enemies with my magic!"

Forget idiotic, the beauty mage outed herself as a deranged person.

"Then, how about we all go hunting in the forest now? Not like we can head straight in the dungeon like this anyway. Might as well check out his strength first. Right, guys?"

Looks like the hot guy has a carefree personality.
Thief looked like he couldn't believe it.

"How often do you think that happy-go-lucky attitude of yours landed us in hot waters huh? Well, gotta admit that same attitude saved us just as often though."

Apparently the hot guy's behavior has its plus and minus, but that's got nothing to do with me.

"Got it. What do you people seek out of me."

Strength isn't the only thing required when you're fighting together as a party.
I'm asking them what my 'role' is going to be.

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273 But There's No Escape!

"Please accept my apologies for my companions' brusque manners. We are an adventurer party, 'White Fang'."

Nobody asked and yet this very picture of a priestess introduced their party while bowing.

"We are currently looking for a capable individual to help us conquer a dungeon. Would you be willing to join 'White Fang' as a hired hand? We have prepared a large sum as an advance payment. The completion reward is quite an amount as well."

I pondered over her word. Not about money. But how they kept coming one after another despite my refusal.
Right after I refused the hot guy, the beauty showed up which I denied as well, then just as I was about to leave, the big man stood in my path.
Adding insult to injury, the priestess came out and invited me.

(The firmer I rejected them, more and more of them showed up and the more persistent they got... Could this be?)

The four party members of 'White Fang' stared at me, seemingly under the impression that their solicitation was going well when I fell silent.

(I'd probably get caught in an additional 'Event' even if I rejected them here... Willing or not, I'm gonna get dragged into this problem somewhere even if I manage to escape here... That's the hunch I have. Then I should.)

"What is an adventurer? Also, I'm not a mercenary. I'm honored you went out of your way to invite me, but I will have to decline."
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
I chose rejection until the end. I mean, these guys are still total strangers to me.
My mood has worsened because of this, and just when I was feeling good from obtaining the katana.
I just can't bring myself to help them. My mental state isn't like that time I decided to help Minya.
Now that I'm irritated, I'm sure I won't regret this decision.

But thanks to that small question I threw out, I couldn't escape the conversation.
Yep, I know mercenaries. But what's an adventurer?

"You don't know that? Let's see, if mercenaries offer their 'force' in commissions in exchange for money. Then adventurers' work is to conquer dungeons."

The hot guy gave a simple explanation.

"Like I told you before, you can get rich quick if you bring a dungeon core out, but there's also lots of treasure chests you can find in a dungeon! And gold isn't the only thing inside those chests, plenty of magic equipment and magic gear to go around too! Even legendary grade stuff, amazing right!"

The seemingly dimwitted beautiful mage got in a high tension.

"Precisely. Those who seek such things delve in dungeons. Undaunted of danger. They are people who go on an adventure. Adventurers."

The big man finished with deep words.

"That's not all. If a dungeon isn't swiftly dealt with, the monsters inside will multiply unchecked until they overflow outside. This could result in enormous casualty. Whenever a dungeon is found, it must be destroyed at once. Each country manages and offers reward for this. Adventurer Guild exists to aid adventurers in their efforts."

The priestess had a serious look as she described that as a 'mission'.
Looks like the money and fame also comes with heavy responsibility. Not to mention the risk to your life.

"Appreciate the explanation. Well then, I'll take my leave here."

At the four's passionate speech, I turned around and attempted to make my exit only to have it hindered yet again.
I lost my chance to escape again just because I threw that adventurer question without thinking.

(Why... Are you really not going to let me skip this, 'event'...)

"Oy, what the hell are you guys up to! We're running way behind schedule! Quit slacking around!"

The man has a bandana wrapped on his head, multiple knives strapped on his waist, and a light chest protector made of leather as well as other tools, the very picture of a 'Thief' class.

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272 With Weapon in Hand...

I left the store with the two seeing me off.

(Still, my effort of swinging that stick for a whole week paid off if Minya couldn't see my iai.)

Thus I walked around while praising myself.
I didn't commission this katana just for my own satisfaction.
The idea is by carrying a weapon around, thugs won't bother me as easily.
It's hard to deny how suspicious I look with a hood and a mantle on along with the katana on my waist.

However, that was naive of me. There's no way I could avoid the fate of being 'dragged in' simply by carrying a weapon.
It just means people who react to me having a weapon, an unusual one like katana at that, will show up instead.
Something I failed to notice due to my good mood.

"Hey you there. That's quite an unusual sword you have. Do you mind if I have a look?"

That voice called out as I walked on a street with many food stalls on the roadsides.
I can't use 'Acceleration' to flee, would have quite a disastrous result if I tried.

(Uu... What now... I'm just here to get some food for lunch and some sightseeing.)

I was feeling so euphoric after getting this katana I completely forgot about my near curse quality of easily getting dragged into trouble.

The owner of that voice walked up close enough I could no longer just ignore him. A 'hot guy' wearing a silver armor, carrying a great sword almost as tall as he is, looking like a mercenary. Despite such heavy equipment, his stride was firm.

"Pardon me, but it's not something I'm willing to readily show to anybody. My apologies, but I must decline."

I had no choice but to respond here, with a firm refusal.
However, the neatly trimmed haired 'hot guy' wouldn't relent.

"Ah excuse my manner. But I just need a quick peek. In fact, I will pay you if you're willing to show me. Not a bad deal, don't you think? Tell me, that's a katana right? It's a really rare weapon, I can't contain my curiosity. What do you say? I hope you reconsider."

"I don't need money. I have plenty. Besides, I will not draw this katana haphazardly, do understand."
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
I went harder with my refusal, but the hot guy still wouldn't pull back.

"Then how about a match with me? Seeing as you have that katana, you must be a 'Blademaster', am I wrong? The strong seek strong, or so they say."

(What the hell is that jungle line of thinking... Is this a survival of the fittest world or something?)

"I have no recollection of naming myself this 'Blademaster'. I believe you have a case of mistaken identity."

Knowing I had lost my chance to escape, I tried to end the conversation abruptly. But then, an awfully beautiful woman showed up from behind this hot guy.

"Hey? Then how about joining our dungeon delving party as a temporary member? I mean, you look super strong and all. My intuition is telling me, it must be right~."

(What the heck is this beauty talking about? How'd she jump there? Didn't she listen to our conversation? Is she an idiot?)

I can't even fathom the mental state of someone who'd invite a total stranger they just met that also clearly displayed rejection of them.

The beauty kept going on disregarding my feeling. We had already moved to the roadside before I realized even though I was called in the middle of a crowd.

"You can sell dungeon cores for lots of money! What do you think? Make you wanna get on board right! You can use the chance to show off your power and this guy here get to see that katana thing! To top it off, conquer the dungeon and we'd get our hands on fame and money! Isn't that nice!?"

The blond hair channel kept pressing on without asking me.
This blond haired blue eyed beauty wearing the mage attire from a certain famous RPG had a smug look on her face like, 'I just said good thing!'
<TLN: most likely referring to Dragon Quest.>

(Ah man she looks like the brainlet type... She's not gonna get it even if I said no to her face.)

"I don't need money. I don't need fame. I don't care about your opinion. I decline. I have no obligation to respond to your requests. If you'd excuse me now."

I turned around and tried to walk away only to have a big figure blocking my way.

"What are you guys doing? What's taking so long. We're leaving."

The big man spoke to the hot guy and the beauty while ignoring my presence
Standing in my way, stopping my advance.

"Hey, sorry about that. We're trying to recruit this guy to tackle that recently emerged dungeon in the kingdom."

The big man is carrying a huge shield on his back with an overpowering presence. He's got a clean shaved head, a scar on his cheek and sharp glints in his eyes.

"Fumu, you're strong. I welcome strong men like you. Good to have you around."

I'm gonna correct him for acting like I've agreed to it.
But still, how did they even deem that I'm strong from just a glance? I don't get their reasoning.
Not when I look like a 15 year old lackey who's just come of age no matter the angle.

"You're mistaken, I am not interested in mingling with you guys. I'm not going to that dungeon either. Feel free to go yourselves. Step aside."

I got a bit irritated and said all that to avoid more bother.
I'm getting fed up.

However, yet another new character showed up.
And of course she's wearing the clergy attire from that certain famous RPG.

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How'd It Come to This

G-good evening...
Presently it's almost dark out.

Alma's parents finally left, and while I acted a bit lonesome on the outside, I was super relieved inwardly.
Cuz we'd been talking since lunch. I'm bad with talking with others by default, and that was magnified with these two since I had to be careful with my words.
Then there's that huge ruckus... We almost got driven out of our inn. Even though I'm not in the wrong...
I was planning to train my mana control but I just don't have any strength left...

The ruckus earlier was like this.



"Alma-chan, we're a bit hesitant to ask this but... Have you had a Job Change yet?"


As we were having an after lunch tea break, Alma Mama asked that.
Alma looked a bit troubled getting thrown that question out of nowhere.


"It's okay. We won't fight over it anymore regardless of whether you pick swords, or magic."


The two continued with apologetic faces toward Alma.


"I'm sure you're sick of dad telling you you're gonna be great with swords in the future..."

"Mom kept asking, no, demanding you to become an even greater Mage than me in the future..."

"...Forgive us for all we did before your coming of age. We never stopped to consider your feelings, just selfishly tried to get you succeed us. That brought you to your choice of a Job with a tough road ahead..."

"We've only just realized that we should have asked you what you wanted Alma-chan, not what you could... Please forgive us."

"...Dad...Mom..."


Oh right, these two are veteran adventurers known as 'Sword King' and 'Arch Mage' huh.
Almost forgot after watching how they acted while spoiling Alma.
I see. The reason for her awkward relationship with her parents was because of the kickback from each them wishing for her to succeed them.

Then as Alma kept being unable to pick either a mage or a swordsman, she ended up choosing the so called failed job, Apprentice Paladin.
What an irony. Both of them wished for their daughter to succeed them for her sake, and yet it resulted in a half baked form.

Well, that was the correct choice in hindsight though.


"I did the Job Change today. I can use both swords and magic."

"...Eh?""
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >

Both parents had the same reaction and expressions as question marks popped above their heads.


"I have Job Changed to 'Paladin' that wields the power of both 'Swordsman' and 'Mage'. This is the Appraisal Paper."


She took out a paper that has her stats written.
Did she ask someone to write that paper?

<<Status on Appraisal Paper transcribed through Appraisal Projection displays real time changes of the owner, there is no need for re-transcription with every change.>>

Man, that old man's skill sure is handy.


"I-it's. Paladin...!"

"I can't believe my eyes...! Its existence has only been hypothesized with no actual proof in reality..."

"Un. It seems I'm the first ever Paladin."

"Ah, if I may, according to Appraisal Fildaim-shi, the Job has the good quality of both Swordsman and Mage, with a similar growth rate, so it's not at all a failed job, heck, it's a really good one."


I did a follow up, unnecessary it may be.
I'm sure Alma probably doesn't want to boast about her Job.


"Thanks to Hikaru, I learned Magic Swords and fulfilled the condition for the Job Change. I can use both the swords dad taught and the magic mom taught, I don't have to give up on either. Thank you, Hikaru. And thank you mom and dad for raising me well. It's only because you two I obtained this Job."

""...""


What a beautiful story. Such a good child you are, Alma. Sniff.

Oh? These two seem off...


""UOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!! ALMA(CHAN)-------!!!""


Hug

Gyuuuuuuuuuuu.......!


"H-hang on, dad... mom... Can't breathe...!"


BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB!
No, no, no this isn't canceling an evolution!
Stop! Stop at once! Calm down! Staaaaahp!

The two hugged Alma while yelling loudly, the scene looked moving at a glance but their super high attributes plus them hugging for real means Alma is looking like she's about to die of strangulation.
Her face is seriously turning pale, you sure this isn't dangerous?


"Y...you, two...can't...bre..."

"Ah, h-hey! You're choking her! Look at her neck! Alma isn't gonna last!"

"Aa-lll-maaa-jaaaaan!!"

"Our daughter is the best in the woooooooorld!!"

"...Gaku."

"A-Alma! Keep it together! Don't pass out, you're gonna die for real! These two are gonna choke you to death!"


A true chaos. How'd it come to this. Really how.


Afterward, the inn (old) lady who heard the commotion came to the kitchen and we all finally calmed down.
I was seriously panicking when Alma's state turned to Stopped Breathing even just for a moment.

Lesson learned: don't get too excited. Gotta think of time and place, also everything in moderation.


So yeah, that happened.
The parents thanked me a lot afterward, but I told them I didn't do much, it was all Alma's hard work.
Well, it doesn't feel bad though. I'm not used to getting thanked, so I dunno how to react...

They left for the guild to discuss on things after we told them about the impending Stampede at this town in three days time.
It was quiet after they left, like a storm passing.
...I'm gonna go straight to bed after meal tonight. What a dense day it's been.
Feels like going through my own personal Stampede...

Previous Chapter

Next Chapter

271 Might

The art of sword drawing or 'batto jutsu'. The so called 'iai'.
I lowered my posture and twisted my body a bit. Recalling the sensation I had during my time at the dojo I frequented in the past.

(We had to slice cardboard back then... Sure takes me back...)

I took a breath and quickly let it out.
At the same time, I drew the katana and slashed once at the log.
But that wasn't the end of it. I did a 'reverse slash' upward at the end of the first slash.
Not yet. This time I held the katana above my head and swung it down with both hands.

Continued alertness the moment you draw your weapon. This is important in martial arts. You gotta keep up your stance to anticipate counterattack.
Getting caught off guard in this world means death, it's almost a necessity here.

But the two who should have witnessed my movement remained silence.
It's because the state of the log is a reminiscence of when a certain 'Goemon's companion cut steel.

The log didn't move even an inch while I was cutting it. After a moment it crumbled down just like that.

"The heck... Real terrifyin' stuff I went and forged... And yer', ya a 'Blademaster' or somethin'?""

"I couldn't see a thing... What just happened? There were three flashes and then you already had the katana drawn, then...? It got cut... eh?"

I took another breath and put the katana back in its sheath.
I did not enter Acceleration state. Which must be the reason why Minya was able to perceive the three blue flashes. Must have been the trails from me swinging the katana.

Shing! The two came back to their sense after that metallic sound. It's the satisfying sound produced when a katana gets put back in its sheath. The fact that it made this cool sound improved my mood as well.

(But man, 'amazing' just doesn't cut it. I didn't even feel a resistance there. Didn't think it could cut a log the size of two adults so cleanly like this.)

"Yer'... No, I mean so? How's it? Yer' impression..."

The cross sections are absolutely flawless. There's not even a splinter, everything has been neatly split. No 'mark' anywhere to be seen.
Gramps must have been at a loss for words despite knowing this was a weapon he forged.

"Oh man, how can this sheath even hold back this super sharp blade?"
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
Realizing the tension wasn't going away for a bit, I asked that jokingly.
It's got this black lustrous surface with a sticky feeling on hand. The sheath also has a gleaming azure luster to it.

"Ah, I made that with mithril s' well. Got enchanted with magic too. Thing's more than sturdy. Don't ya worry a thing. No, that ain't it. Who the heck are ya really?"

Figured he'd ask that. In general, most people who got involved with me always threw that one out.
But I don't plan to give an answer.

"A kind young man who came to your rescue, gramps. Won't that suffice?"

Minya giggled at this, 'Fufufu'.
Gramps stared in wonder before speaking.

"Sorry 'bout that. The hell I'm thinkin' questioning my lifesaver. That don't matter here anyway."

"This katana is just incredible. I can't find the word, just that it's so awesome."

I lack the vocabulary to express it well, but that was my honest feeling.
Gramps looked overjoyed to hear that.

"Tell me 'bout it! Can't believe I coulda make something like that, can't believe someone so strong like ya's gonna wield that!"

"You have my gratitude gramps. So, how much is it..."

"I'mma stop ya there! Ya ain't about 'ta cough up even a speck of sand 'fer me! Heck, I shoulda been payin' ya!"

Gramps rejected me when I was about to pay him.
I mean it's only fair to pay for his service. But he told me they couldn't have prepared the change from that lump of mithril alone.

"You've saved my ass. Just think of this as one token of my appreciations. And that ain't all. I'mma take in all yer requests free of charge from now on. Yers gonna be top priority even if I got other orders lined up. Least I could do. Payment? Hell with that! I ain't shameless enough to ask that from our savior!"

"We have been truly in your debt. We will never forget it for the rest of our lives. In fact, please allow us to keep supporting you from now on."

Looks like that lump of mithril was just that big a deal to make them go this far.

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270 Miscalculation, Positive One

"Ou! Yer' here! Come 'ere, over here! To the backyard!"

Gramps was waiting in front of the store and said that.

"? Why the backyard? Ah, right."

I got what he meant right away. Led by Minya, we walked to a relatively spacious backyard.

"Gramps, looks like you've lost some weight, are you gonna be fine?"

"Nothin' to it! Ya see me like this whenever I got a blood pumpin' work goin'!"

Not sure why gramps spoke like it's Edo period, I'll just ignore that.

"Alright! I put my very soul into this blade! Have a look yerself."

I drew the katana he handed me.

At first, I was captivated by the beauty. There's this mist wave pattern on its gleaming azure blade.
You just can't put this beauty into words. Heck, it's a work of art fitting in a museum.

"Gramps... This is, damn... Is this really a katana?"

This was far beyond what I expected even as the commissioner.
Next to me, Minya is looking enthralled as well.

"So beautiful... I had no idea a katana was this breathtaking..."

I wanted to retort Minya here, 'Nope you're kinda mistaken', however, I couldn't deny the breathtaking part.

"Got an old acquaintance o' mine to sharpen that y'see. Guy's got the same reaction you had. Also got a veteran take care of enchanting. Ya bet he went ooh aah-ing 's well."

Even the gramps could only go, 'HAHAHA', at his own work.
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
"On top of that, guy even put an additional 'Sharpness' enchant to it."

I reminded gramps that wasn't the specs I asked him.

"What? But I asked you to give this katana 'Unbreakable' magic enchant, remember?"

Turned out there was a miscalculation, a positive one.

"Well yeah, it's got that too. But y'see? That magic enchanter y'see? He put as much mana as he could for 'Indestructible' trait. But turned out this mithril katana's got enough room for one more enchant, 'course I got 'im to add more!"

Gramps continued his explanation while grinning.

"What do you mean? Why do you look so happy?"

"'Course I do! Listen well lad! Mithril takes in magic well 'fer sure. But, one object one enchant is the unbroken rule. And yet! This katana took in two of 'em! D'ya know what that means!? This is unprecedented! S'why I told that magic enchanter to keep quiet. Can ya believe I made something this amazing!? Ya bet I'm on cloud nine!"

So he said about telling people to keep quiet while blabbering himself, I'm worried.

"I see. I get why you prepared this thick log for the blade test."

Minya finally spoke here after coming out of shock.

"Gramps! What's all this about!? Forget amazing, this is way way more!? Aren't dual enchants national treasure grade... no! Legendary grade!?"

Hearing Minya, all I could think was about how grading exists in any world.
Guess it fits with this fantasy world.
Otherwise, I'm never gonna stop getting surprised by every little thing.
I mean my existence is a like foreign matter here. And besides, that kind of thing is classic in fantasy settings, it's not something to be surprised about.

"Watch closely now gramps. You'll see how incredible this blade you smith."

I'm so excited I feel like a kid who's been given a new toy.

(Didn't expect to get something this wonderful. Time to take it for a spin.)

I slowly put my hand on the hilt and faced the log.

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269 One Week

I'm at the 'Dragon's Back' inn. The same inn I stayed the other day.
I booked a room for one week and went inside.
The innkeeper asked as I was paying, 'Here to sightsee?', which I confidently replied with a lie 'Yes that's right'.
That's not gonna hurt my conscience. It's just a white lie that harms nobody. It's fine.

"Haa, finally time for myself. Now then, suppose I stay put for the entire week, how should I weather this storm."

I've decided on it already. Practice swinging to fill my time. A training to get myself ready to wield a katana.
I'll be swinging a stick of wood all day for a week. Quietly and secretly as to not invite suspicion from other guests.
But I can't keep escaping reality like this. Yep, this is all for the sake of avoiding people.
So far, every single time I finished settling a matter, a new 'mess' would always crop up.
Even I'd notice that by now.

"Now then, what's the next gonna be I wonder... I'm absolutely cursed, am I... hahaha."

I let out a dry laugh before grabbing a piece of wood out of magic bag.
Going on a sightseeing tour outside will absolutely land me in trouble. I took a swing and resolved myself to not set foot out of the inn.
I couldn't help but smiling wryly at such an asinine resolve, but no pain no gain. I don't wanna think anything now for the sake of my mental health.
That day I did nothing but swinging the wooden sword until nightfall.

＝＝～　　＝＝～　　＝＝～
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
I'm amazed at myself for managing to go through this past week despite all the doubtful glances from other guests and getting called out by the worried innkeeper.
No way around it though, I was weird. After all, I did not so much as took a step outside the inn.
I would have meals in the morning, noon and evening on the first floor. During times when people were sparse because I didn't want to get in a quarrel. From experience, I just knew I would have gotten in one that would then develop into a bigger mess.
Hence why I shut myself in my room swinging the wooden sword during all other time.
I'm fully aware how weird I was. Were someone label me an oddball, I wouldn't find a word to argue back.
But this is the only way. I'm just so done with trouble. Also there's the thing with katana.
As I was fully preoccupied with that, Chimera came back before I realized. It just slept all day without even taking meals, maybe it had its fill with all those orcs from that time. That conclusion came after watching how it didn't even budge when I brought its meal in the room and put it next to it.

After some time, someone visited my room. It's Minya.

"Long time no see. I'm here to tell you that your katana is done. What would you like to do? Will you collect it right away? Or would you like to take your time? Or perhaps you would like to have me bring it here?"

"Aah, I'm gonna check out this inn and go grab it myself now. Thank you for coming all this way."

Minya seemed to be in quite a good mood. Of course she would. After all, not only did they settle their debt, they pretty much became a billionaire overnight.
I'm not particularly bothered giving them the mithril whole. Cause I knew that was out of my depth.
I don't have the skill to make good use of that mithril nor do I know a channel to sell it off. I do want money, but I'm not a money grubber. I'm confident that much money wouldn't be put to good use in my hand. Guess it's proof that I still don't get sense of value in this world.

Minya kept saying her thanks on our way to her shop. Along with some suspicion.

"Truly, how could we ever repay you? I still can't understand just who are you, no, what are you thinking doing so much for us. Not only the problem with debt is no more, the money from that mithril alone is enough for us to live comfortably for the rest of our lives. I mean, I am truly grateful for that... but..."

Looks like she can't simply say 'thank you'. I get her though.
If a jobless man with no home address did that out of nowhere to me, I would also question their sanity. Is it some sort of scheme? Would be the normal reaction. I mean I never even told them my name.

"Well just think of it as you having used up all your luck in this lifetime."

I wanted to yell at myself, 'Who do you think you are!', but Minya took my word seriously and laughed.

"Fufufufu. I suppose you're right. Remember what I told you before? You don't look like a bad person to me. Yes, I suppose I'll take your word for it."

I could only laugh, 'Hahaha', at her reply as we arrived at the store.

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Lunch, Family Interview

Hello. It's way past lunch time I'm starving here.
Currently making food for four.

I cut up garlic (-like ingredient) and forest ginger clumsily, ground them into paste and mix them together with salt, soyu-like, sake, sugar (pricey) and pepper (stupid pricey) in a bowl.
Adding to it, large pieces of chicken meat-like meat. I massaged and left them for a while on the pot lid. It's kinda inconvenient not having plastic bags in a kitchen.

And now it's finally time. This sure feels like a cooking show. I've prepped it beforehand this morning.
Cut up the seasoning, mix it with beaten egg, and pour wheat-like flour. Would have used potato starch there if I had it. Too bad.

I couldn't help feeling like a host of a cooking show because of the three people eyeing me from behind.
Why are they staring so hard anyway? Alma's the same as ever, but the parents, their eyes are glaring...

Alma Mama is smiling softly but on a closer look it's obvious she's been watching my meal preparation in minute details.
Wonder if she's mad because I'm too clumsy... I feel like a newlywed getting stared at by a mother in law. I'm neither a wife or a husband though.

Alma Papa has a gentle expression but I can sense this hard prickly aura from him. He's definitely hostile inwardly.
I mean, thanks to the innlady saying, 'My, you're not carrying Alma on your back today', when we arrived here, it almost turned into a scene of carnage.

I explained that I had to do it cause she ran out of mana due to training, he pressed hard instead, 'You haven't done anything untoward on my defenseless daughter, have you'... I might have been cut down there if not for Alma and Alma Mama pacifying him.
I've been feeling how close to death you are living in this life recently. The weight of life is so light, so light.

...Let's get back to focusing on the food.
Next up, just gotta turn on the stove and fry the meat.


"Alma, can you light the stove please."

"Got it."


I asked the same thing like this morning, Alma Mama spoke here.


"My? Did you have a ring on Alma-chan?"

"I didn't."

"W-was livelihood magic cast-able without the ring on I wonder...?"

"...Err."


This person's pretty sharp. How'd she figure that.
Alma seems hesitant to tell them about direct mana control.


"Alma, you can tell them. I mean they're your parents right?"


Honestly, I wouldn't give the permission had they been abusive parents, but these two seem all right.
I'm sure they're not going to needlessly leak the info and trouble their daughter.
In fact, they'd likely boast to everybody around 'Our daughter's amazing'... Huh wait, isn't that bad? Am I being too hasty?


"Hikaru taught me how to directly control mana. I can do this much without a ring."

"Directly control mana...? Was there a skill like that?"

"It's not a skill. It's a technique to control mana without relying on skills."

"Without skills...?"

"It uses up a bit more mana, but it has a much broader practical use than skills. You can do many things without skills."

"T-that's incredible! Our girl is a genius~!!"

"Keep it down. You're bothering other guests."


Wonder if these overt reactions are default with these two.
Well, I do agree that Alma is a genius.

She wasn't able to adjust her output at first, it was like on/off where she either used up all her mana or none at all, yesterday she was finally able to grasp the knack and today she managed a delicate control.
Then she activated a magic sword-like technique and immediately learned the real magic sword skill.
She even defeated a hobgoblin with that new skill and Job Changed to Paladin, a job with stupid hard-to-fulfill conditions.
She's undoubtedly a prodigy with how much steps she accomplished even just today.

Whoa, the oil's at the right temp, time to put in the meat.
Gotta put five at a time to prevent cooling the oil too much.


Sizzle.......!
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >

The moment that sound filled the kitchen, Alma Mama turned her gaze here again. She's staring hard, kinda scary.
Looks like she found deep fried food unusual, she's got this curious looks.
As for Alma Papa... he looked startled. Well anyone would with that sudden loud sound.

After a minute, I put the meat pieces on a metal plate to cook them on the remaining heat, I whack them a bit and cut them, then put them back in the oil for a minute before repeating the above process.

Lastly, I cook at high heat for 30 seconds and drain the recess oil, done.

Japanese-style fried chicken, aka karaage.

...Even with the cooking show in my head, the gazes from behind is making me anxious. Let's just cook the rest.
I plan to have karaage for dinner too, so I'm making a lot... Maybe I should make a new menu tonight. What a pain.

Adding stir fried vegetable, heated aro rice and now we have karaage sets for four.

By the way, I heated up the rice by imagining my mana changing into thermal energy. Mana control is way versatile. Cooking made easy.

Normally we'd eat in our own rooms, but not today with the parents here.



"It's done. Please have a bite before it's cold. Ah, and please don't force yourself if it's not to your liking."

"""Let's dig in."""

"...Let's dig in."


The three said that in harmony. Guess they are parents and child in this regard.
I followed after.
Umu, the outside is crispy while the meat inside is juicy. Even my unskilled hands can make some good karaage. I don't actually dislike this stuff when cold either.
As for the three's reactions.
Alma just keeps chomping down, though I'm not sure if I'm just imagining when her face looks beaming whenever she crunches the crispy part.
Alma Mama had her eyes open wide briefly when she first bit on karaage but started nodding with closed eyes as she relished on the flavor. Oh good, looks like it's to her liking.
Alma Papa... He's gulping down the karaage, stir fried vegetable and aro rice at incredible pace. Does he even taste the food? Or so I thought until I overheard him whispering, 'Dammit, it's good'.


"""Thanks for the meal."""

We were done in no time. Glad you like it.


"Hikaru-kun, I heard from Alma-chan when you were busy earlier, you usually treated Alma to your cooking, didn't you?"


Alma Mama suddenly asked me.
Oh crap, did she find out I could only make simple dishes like that and get angry!?


"You went all the trouble to make food this good for her every day?"

"Eh, ah, yes. I'm sorry I could only make simple things, but I do make the food for both me and Alma every day. She pays for the ingredients though."

"Every day!? What the hell, you think you're married couple or so-- bupebaa!"

"Quiet, dear."

"Y-yes ma'am."


Alma Papa who interrupted our conversation got punched by Alma Mama at incredible speed. It's a wife country, I see.
How Alma Mama all smile as she hit him made it all the more scary...


"May I hope she'd keep troubling you in the future as well?"

"Y-yes, of course. We have an agreement."

"I see, thank you."


She went back to her seat.
W-what was that all about.

Afterward, we washed the dishware in the sink like usual.
Alma provided running water without the ring. Looks like she can do it with other elements besides fire.
Alma Papa spoke here.


"You really use livelihood magic without the ring huh. Hikaru-kun, was it? You're the one who taught Alma?"

"Yes. Well, direct mana control was more like a plaything, I could use some tutelage myself."

"Plaything that made magic swords possible..."


Alma muttered slightly in wonder. I mean that chuuni fire sword is a plaything compared to the real magic sword.


"Magic swords? What is this about?"

"It's a technique that bestows swords with offensive spells. I saw Hikaru using it once and asked him to teach me mana control for about a week. This morning I was finally able to do it and acquired Magic Swords skill out of nowhere."

"You mean you learned a new type of skill at the end of your training!? And in just one week! Our Alma is truly a geniussssss!!"

"Too loud. Pipe down."

"Aren't you too cold compared with your mom!?"


These couple sure are alike. Their reactions included.
No wait, I guess they're just super spoiling parents. I do agree that Alma is a genius though.


"Back to topic, Hikaru-kun, do you mind showing us how this mana control looks like for a bit?"


He asked me with a serious look out of nowhere. Not with the hostile face like earlier, but a honest curious look.


"Err, this place is a bit cramped, so I can only do this much..."


I wrap the washed dishware with mana and affix it.
Then I control that mana and float the dishware onto the drying racks one by one.
...Pretty plain. But it's gonna cause trouble if I make it too showy here.

Huh wait? Alma Papa's mouth opened wide, mama's frozen stiff?
Are they not sure how to react cause it's too plain. Ah, I'm gonna get another nickname am I.


"E-err, I'm sorry it's so sober--"

"What was that again!? It's like the plates floated around on their own!?"

"E-err, I just enveloped them in mana and then made it move."

"J-just what kind of training have you gone through to learn something like this...?"


Huh? I'm getting a bigger reaction than expected. But it's so plain looking.


"It seems to me that you are a Chef, how did you learn this kind of technique?"

"Oh I'm not a chef. According to Appraiser Fildaim-shi, my Job is unknown and I am apparently unable to learn skills, shameful as it sounds. I came up with this technique to control mana in order to survive."

"W-what, you're not a Chef? You can't learn skills? How is there someone like that alive? T-then how did you make that food earlier?"

"How you ask, I just cook them as is."


Right after I said that, Menu showed a display screen on its own.


<<Ordinarily, heat adjustment, quantity of ingredients, cutting techniques, recipes and such are done automatically through [Cooking] Skill obtainable only to Chefs, making food like you did without the help of Cooking skill is next to impossible for humans in this world.>>


...You can't make something so simple without skills?
That means the Chefs in this world are used by their skills to make food instead of the other way around.
...Wonder how will earthen cooks react to this.


"You won't last if you're surprised from that much, dad. Hikaru was flying around so fast just this afternoon."

"Flying!?"


Alma, please don't give them ideas! You're just making this more complicated!


"I can't use skill, but after thinking it hard and long, I gave using mana a try and came up with such street performer-like stuff, and nothing else. Hahaha."


For now let's laugh it away. I can't think up of any excuse!


"Well, even if it all ends up being a waste, at least I could say that I tried, better than doing nothing."

"...I, see. You have gone through a lot. Surviving to this point without a skill. Uuu..."


H-huh? Papa-san's crying?
He's sympathizing with me for some reason. Guy's unexpectedly weak to sob stories huh.
I did all that out of having fun, at least half of it.


"Ah, but I do not approve you frolicking with Alma. That's a separate matter entirely."

"Ah yes."


Alma Papa warned with a straight face all of a sudden.
I'm telling you we're not like that.

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268 Idle Talk Harmony and Prosperity

"How long has it been since milord left us... None of you is trying to hide your loneliness, nevertheless our order is absolute. There is no going after milord, do you copy?"

I warned everyone during our patrolling duty in the forest.
Kardia nodded and replied.

"I'm sure milord will show himself before us again. Until that time, let's uphold his order and get us a praise!"

I sighed seeing her.

"You're getting too excited there. Come back to your usual selves. Or else you girls won't last until that time."

Even among elves, I'm regarded as the less flexible one, but that doesn't really apply when I'm interacting with these five.

"The forest has really stabilized ever since that time."
"Magic beasts have gone back to their usual zoning too."
"Though the trees are still as quick growing as ever."
"Yep, this forest is still the same abundant forest we know."

Thus we went about our patrol as usual. Nothing has changed from before we got caught and enslaved.
We focused on our task to avoid ever experiencing that again, taking vigilance of the change in mana.

"I sense an abnormal mana reaction... It's just up ahead. What do you think?"

I permitted them to voice their opinion here.
I hold the ultimate decision, none of them would act selfishly or against it.
That doesn't mean I'm making all the decision for us. I do not act arbitrarily.

"Should we go back and report first?"
"No, the elder will keep going once he starts talking. No good."
"Why don't we get as close as possible and observe the situation for a bit?"
"We do need to gauge our limit but it will be risky..."

Thus our opinions were split in two. Either go back or scout out.

"One of us will go back and report. Afterward, stand by at the village. The rest will head to the site while remain vigilant. Let's go."

I tasked the elf who made the suggestion to go back to the village while the rest of us went deeper.
What we found in the center of this anomaly was a bizarre sight.

"Serena! This is bad! We should retreat!"

Kardia shouted. The rest had the same opinion.

"Not yet. We must observe a bit more."

I voiced my disagreement to that.

"It's obviously dangerous to stay any longer here!"
"We should bring back reinforcement first!"
"There's no telling how it will affect us!"

I could only offer this plan to their dissenting opinions.

"All of you head back. I shall stay here and continue my observation."

They swiftly took action after I said that. They're staying.
I was surprised by this. Before we met milord, they would have chosen to leave this place immediately.

"How could we let you stay behind by yourself? Geez!"

Something warm welled up in my heart when I heard Kardia.
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
'Thank you', I squeezed that before resuming observation.

We're currently observing a mana anomaly. A phenomenon where mana flow is converging into a small point of space.
This is the moment when a Crystallized Mana is born. A tiny blue light shined as the mana kept converging before it eventually turned into a sand grain sized mass.

All of us were on the edge as we kept watching this beautiful scene.
Eventually, the Crystallized Mana grew into the size of a fingernail.

"I've never seen... anything like this... how?"

Up until now, we would always destroy all the crystallized mana we found. Crystallized Mana are very sturdy.
We had never witnessed the moment it came into being. The reason why Kardia was so surprised. The amount of mana we felt from it was just that unusual.
Even a Crystallized Mana the size of a fingernail requires an enormous amount of mana.
Kardia's whisper was understandable but something even more shocking took place here.
It's simply unthinkable for a Crystallized Mana that has grown into this size to naturally break down on its own.
And yet that precisely what took place before our eyes accompanied by a breeze.

The sound of a metal clashing echoed as the crystallized mana broke into pieces.
All of us could only stare in agape. We couldn't keep our composure.

"A natural break down, of a crystal that size...?"

In spite of this unusual situation, blue glittering particles spread in the surroundings, creating a mystical scene.
And yet even this scene failed to rob our attention from what just happened.

As the particles subsided, I finally regained enough composure to start ruminating.

(First of all, we should take everything into account... no matter how small it is.)

"Have you noticed anything from the phenomenon just now?"

I looked at the girls one by one to ascertain their opinion.

"That was the moment a crystallized mana was about to be born."
"We would have taken care of it like usual. Or so it should be."
"And yet the crystal naturally broke down by itself."

I'm sure we're all aware of all that. There must be a detail somewhere in there that would shine light to the situation.
Hence, I kept looking around to find a clue.

"Hey? Did anyone sense anything right before it broke? Did any of you use wind?"

All of us here shook their heads to that question.

"So I guess all of you sensed a breeze? Then, let's confirm the direction it was blowing from. What do you think?"

I felt that breeze as well. I confirmed with everybody to find the answer to Kardia's question.
All of us here pointed in the same direction. That is.

"No it wasn't a breeze. It's more the wind got sucked in. And in the direction of..."

A gigantic crystallized mana. Toward our village.
The mana flows that have been sustaining that massive crystal connected here in that instant.
Even imagining the sheer scale brought me shivers.
What milord said has just been proven correct despite how absurd it sounded.

"We head back at once and check on 'that crystal'. Spare nothing to run there!"

The girls seemed to understand just from that, we all ran at once while looking nervous.
The elf who went ahead earlier met us at the village.
Her face is a bit pale.

"What's the matter? Has something happened?"

She looked so shaken yet she managed to squeeze a word to answer me.

"The bud... it's! ...It's sprouted..."

That was all she could muster up.
However, I couldn't hide my surprise at that.

"Is that true!? All of you! To the basement!"

I understand everything. As well as the fact that milord was telling the truth.
The elder's house is protected by a barrier, only elves with permissions can enter. Those include us.

We ran inside and found Elder kneeling and crying in front of a huge tree stump.

"Elder! T-that's...!"

I couldn't stop myself from yelling out loud. On the middle of the stump is a crystallized mana. And right below it, a small sapling has sprouted.
This vibrant sapling is emitting mana light filled with life force hundreds of times bigger than its size.
Everybody present can feel it in their very souls.

The word 'World Tree' uttered by milord. Has now been restored back to life.

Great flows of mana are swirling toward the crystallized mana which then get absorbed into the newly sprouted sapling. This mana then gets dissolved through the World Tree's stump into the earth, spreading all over endlessly.
That whole scene briefly flashed in my mind. No, all of us here must have seen it too.
My tears come out naturally. The girls experienced it too, unable to hide their bewilderment.

We couldn't stop our tears coming out from this inexplicable feeling.

"I must... speak of this to all the elves. I'm calling for an assembly. Tell everybody to gather at the square. You all come too."

The elder left after saying that. We remained standing, still in shock.

"We must not waste time any longer. Let's all head to the square."

We loathed to tear our lines of sight away from the sapling but managed to in the end.
And once all the elves had finally gathered in the square, the elder spoke.

That we are descendants of the guardians of the Great Tree spirits.
However, the Great Tree was felled during the battle of gods.
The site of which we built our settlement upon. This fact was only handed down to elders.
All while secretly protecting the site in hope of a new tree spirit being born anew.
And right now is the moment where that 'Vow' has been fulfilled, with the birth of a new life.
We will make a new contract with this tree, so us elves can start walking toward eternal prosperity.

One by one, all the elves went into the elder house's basement where a scene never seen before unfolded.
Every single elves who laid their eyes on it shed tears. Proof of them experiencing the same thing I did.

(Us elves have been reborn at this instant... And only a few select elves know that milord brought this moment to us.)

My reverence toward milord has grown even stronger. He's like a messenger god sent to us.

(However, milord mentioned how he wished to punch the god. Then perhaps that thought is rude toward milord.)

And thus, elves embark on a new journey.
Toward a new pride and belief. And an even more flourishing future.


『After this development, the elves expanded their activities in the forest, improved their quality of life, and spread their influence further. 15 years later, with the enthronement of Emperor Albert, the two sides made a new agreement toward peace. A castle is built deep in the center of the forest where an unbelievably gigantic tree stood, but that is a story 50 years in the future. The elves literally build a new empire of harmony and prosperity, a future none of them present here could imagine at this point.』

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