Sousetsuka

520 Terror-stricken Eyes

I was led to a moderately big house with a spacious garden.
Guy must be quite well off. Binota, that is.
Looking like that despite living a life of luxury. He must be so absorbed in his hobby he's been neglecting food intake.
By the time I grasped Binota's character, the captain took me inside the house.

＝＝＝　　～～～　　＝＝＝



We were standing out hugely on the way here. The captain went out of his way to pick a route with the least foot traffic but it was no use.
Apparently today was the day a huge crowd formed along that path.

"We've been getting a lot of merchants recently as circulation of goods and money returns to normalcy. In fact, there's more merchants than ever now. I suppose there was no point taking this route."

The captain had a sour expression.
You could tell he was trying hard to avoid causing an uproar in the federation.
This might be an unintended result of something I did too.

(Ah, could the reason for all these merchants flocking here... Eltros's handiwork.)

There's an unending flow of merchants coming and going on this road.
Yet, only the captain, griffon and me are walking. Smack dab in the middle of the road.
The people had opened a path out of fear. The majestic appearance of griffon naturally becomes a hot topic among them.

"Err, I'm real sorry about this..."

I apologized in whisper. I was too naive. Had no idea there were so many people around. Just the other day, this road was deserted.
I felt pretty bad for the inconvenience I caused.
That alongside my own 'I don't want to stand out' policy is wringing my neck.

"Fumu, think nothing of it. What you showed us earlier was much more of a shock. This is nothing."

The captain reassured me as he led.
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
A voice called out to me.

"W-w-wh! Why are you here of all place!? And! What!? Is that thing! What the hell is going on!? Quit screwing around!"

A loud voice that sounded shaken. As if it's trying to deny my existence.
It's Mirza. The same Mirza who lost to me in a game of tag at Eltros's mansion.

I turned my gaze at her before proceeding to ignore her and kept walking ahead.
I mean, I can't exactly stop in the middle of the road. Mostly due to the griffon. It's way big.
Griffon would stop if I stopped. I can't afford to chat with her now.

"Ah, follow me if you wanna have a talk. I've got someplace to go, griffon is also in the way. We can chat while we're walking."

"Dangit! What's wrong with you! I've got lotsa piece of mind! Don't screw with me!"

For some reason she's mad at me? As Mirza groaned.
I replied back to Mirza in order to calm her down as she fast approached us.

"I'm not screwing anyone though? In fact, this is the end result of me taking things seriously. Can't you please not deny all my effort?"

"Yer' pissin' me off! Screw it!"

I'm trying to figure out Mirza's mental state.

(I'm sure she can't accept me strolling with a griffon. I mean magic beasts are synonymous with disaster, right? That must be how she sees griffon too.)

That conclusion wasn't actually the reason for Mirza's state. Which I had no way of knowing.

How I shouldn't be here yet considering the time I left the commercial city.
How I'm walking around with a griffon in such a situation.
Irritation from those two facts being ignored.
And how she had no choice but to admit defeat to the person she deems as brat, and the unfathomable-ness of that brat.

All that culminated in her 'screw it' wallow. It was not just from one or two things.
Of course, I was unaware of Mirza's irritation.

"I take it she's your friend, we're almost there. I don't mind waiting if you wish to speak with the young lady."

The captain suggested that out of consideration. But I declined the offer.

"No, please keep going. So, you got business with me, yeah?"

She yelled back.

"Like hell I do! I ain't ever come anywhere close to a complete unknown like you no more! Dangit! We picked a fight with a real monster!"

Mirza disappeared into an alley like she was trying to run from me.

"...What was that all about? She was just mad at me? That's it? What's her problem..."

We arrived at Binota's house without me finding out about Mirza's terror-stricken eyes.

Previous Chapter

[White Demon Fight] End

"Duryaaaaaaaaa!!!"

"Gwu...!!?"


The masked guy swung his great hammer as it popped off.
It got swung unbelievably fast for a heavy weapon.
The white demon narrowly managed to block it, but his arms seem to hurt badly.


"What, have you done...? You've become, even stronger...!"

"Told ya, figure it out yourself!"


The masked guy was unrelenting as he kept up his barrage of attacks using his great hammer, punches and kicks.


"Don't get cocky, you lowly humaaaan!!"


Roar.

The white demon finally began losing its composure.
That roar carried enough pressure to knock people out.
...Can anyone really defeat this thing...?


"Oh shut up already! Who's getting cornered by that lowly human now, huh?! Dead! You're deadmeat!"


The masked guy yelled even louder in response.
Overpowering even the demon's roar, like a fierce god. If there were Production type people nearby, I wouldn't blame them if they passed out from it.
...Who's the demon again? Despite his upper half face being hidden behind the mask, I could tell he's extra furious. Scary.


"Ha, ha ha... That was intense..."


Aina-san let out a dry laugh as she fell on her butt.
The masked guy probably contributed more than the demon.
To even knock that iron nerve Aina-san off her feet, is he even human...?


"Burn down to ashes!!"


The white demon cast [Burning Flare] again.
A ball of flame dozens of meters in diameter. There's no way anyone can keep erasing that magic...!?


"Screw off!!"


...The masked man approached and held his hand over the flaming ball, bursting it open mid air.
No no no, what the heck was that!? What did that mask do!?

<<An explosive liquid, no, a mass of highly dense combustible liquid formed from mana...!?>>

Eh, what's that. Is there a Skill like that?

<<...It's not, a Skill.>>

Then, what?

<<I, I have no idea... Just what's that person doing...>>

...So it's something so outrageous it even befuddled Menu.
That reminds me about what goddess muttered when I was getting reincarnated to this world, 'Someone so absurd who keep doing outrageous stuff.'
I knew it, that masked guy's identity must be...







~~~~~~~~Absurd masked guy's POV~~~~~~~~





Fuhahahaha! I see, I can see it!
I was on my wit's end handling this demon when he was moving as fast as Oni-sensei earlier but the me now easily manhandles him instead!
How dare you beat me up badly, white demon! How'd you like being on the receiving end now!


"Oooraaa!!"

"Fugu!?"


During our clash, I shot a mana pile bunker from my head at the white demon's face.
That's what happens if you focus only on visible attacks.
You said it yourself how your attacks got blocked by invisible something. Of course that something can be used offensively too.


"Kuh, you, blasteeeeeed!!"

"Seryaaaaaaaaaa!!"


He activated [Mana Blade Arm] to attack me. I'm gonna block that with Mana Blade Rev!
As our blade arms clashed with one another, the demon's arm slowly got chipped away like a weekend carpenter working on their DIY wood project.


"Guuuuuu!!? T-take thiiiiis!!"


Unflinching, the demon used [Iron Headbutt].
A headbutt with over 6000 Attack power. Woulda been bad if I took that head-on.
But there's no rule saying I have to. Eh, what about that time I fought ogre for the first time you ask? Whatchu talking about.


"No, you!"


I dodged the Iron Headbutt, fetched Lightning Pepper Powder from Item Screen and threw it on the white demon's face.
I dumped it all on his eyes, and nose. Looks super painful.


"Kuuuuuuuh!? P-petty triiicks!!"


It only worked for a bit before he recovered.
Guess that only counts as a harassment. Welp, what a blunder hahaha.


This white demon is stupidly strong. The normal me can only raise my Attributes to around 3000, which is no match to him.
Then how did I manage to overwhelm him? It's simple. It's all thanks to a certain strategy.


I call this strategy, 'If 3000 ain't enough, I just gotta buff myself even more' plan.
Eh, that's too obvious? I mean yeah, told you I got no naming sense.


As for how, first I Fast Travel-ed away to safety, away from that humongous ball of flame, to a medicine store.
I bought up all potions they had in stock, be it HP or MP, converted my mana to stamina and kept buffing my Attributes to the limit.
The limit of buff my entire body can take is presently around 6000, which is far above the white demon.

If he's gonna use an unfair move that doubles his Status with virtually zero cost, then I won't hesitate to cheat as well. I'll pay you back twofold!
I can probably get it higher if I focus the buff only on specific parts of my body, but I don't see any need to after seeing this.


"I underestimated you...! You are no human, no you're a monster wearing human skin...!!"


Who're you calling a monster in human skin! That's you, dangit!
I kept up the offensive while cursing in my mind.
Originally, the demon should have the upper hands in a close combat fight thanks to his assortment of martial arts Skills, but the sheer gap in our Attributes values buried that moat.


"Fsh!!"

"Damn youuu!!"


He blocked my punch and counter kicked me.
I grabbed that leg and spun him around like a giant swing!


"Uooooooo!!?"

"Zuoryaaaaaaaa!!!"


I threw him down the ground once I reached the max centrifugal force.
The ground cratered, sending a cloud of dust everywhere.


"Guuuuu.....!!"


Not even the white demon could escape this unscathed, his face warped, bloodied all over.

But this ain't over yet, y'know?


"M-my body, won't move...!?"


I bound the flying demon's limbs with Mana Armor generously infused with stamina and life force, affixing him on the ground.
Then I of course, fetched the explosive hammer. Guess what's next?


It's mochi pounding time.


I'm gonna use up all of my remaining stamina.



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



~~~~~~~Hero's POV again~~~~~~~~~







"Hop hop, flatten flatten."

"Gahaa!! Oof!? Gugaaaaaa!!"


...The masked guy kept pounding the demon with his great hammer like he's pounding mochi over and over again while saying that line in a carefree tone.
Despite his unenthusiastic voice, I can tell there's an incredible amount of force and bloodlust behind each and every swing.

The white demon spewed out blood, and had his bones and entrails crushed with every hit.
S-so gruesome... This mask guy is utterly merciless.

But man, this demon just won't die.
Anyone would have long been a goner when splattered up like that, yet this thing is barely holding on to dear life.

But, his HP is about to run out soon.
Can't believe that mask managed to easily crush someone with such an overwhelming power. Don't tell me, this masked guy is actually a demon king...?

High above, the masked guy held his great hammer aloft to finish the demon off even though he'd have died on his own anyway.


"...Die."

"Fu, fufufu... Cough...! Your strength, undulled, till, the very end, unrelenting, bloodlust...! We may, be enemies, but, I commend, you...!"

"Thanks. Don't really care about your praise tho'... Well then, good day to you."



The instant he swung his hammer down.





The demon shot something out of his mouth.

That's, a scroll...?


The scroll unfolded and wrapped around the masked guy like a snake.
A binding spell...!? He was hiding such a trump card!


"!?"

"O, unadulterated, power...!"


He spat out another scroll and opened it toward the masked guy.


An eerie violet light came out of the scroll and shone on the masked guy.


"Guuuu....!!?"

"That, power, may, bring about, my demise...!"


<<T-that's not good! That's a light from Brainwash Skill! A scroll loaded with spellcrafts infused by multiple powerful users is impossible to resist!>>


B-Brainwash...!?



"My, first, and last, order...! Kill, every, last, human being...!"



The white demon breathed his last after saying those.
Died with a peaceful look on his face, leaving an outrageous bomb behind.



Immediately after, the masked man slowly turned his gaze toward us.


"...."


I can see the eyes behind the mask shining violet.
...That looks obviously real bad.


"...Aw snap... He's been brainwashed it seems... What do we do now."


Aina muttered behind me.
She's sweating bullet.

I get her. We just bore witness to this masked man's strength after all.
And now those fangs of his are bared on us.


"Order, confirmed... K, ill..."


The masked man took a stance with his great hammer while uttering with a hollow voice.
...You can't be serious now...!

We're stuck to facing off against an opponent so monstrous even that white demon looked like a joke in comparison.
I can only see despair in the horizon...











<<Heeeeeeeeey!! What are you doing! How are we supposed to stop this monster now!>>

<<...He has no more stamina left. It should be easier than the white demon.>>

<<Yeah, still bad news! I mean, let me see his Status already! I've expunged [Demon King's Menu Function], there's no danger of leaks anymore!>>

<<...Acknowledged. Unlocking blockade. Recommending to display his Status to hero.>>

<<And even if he's not worse than that demon, this situation is still just as hopeless... What should we do?>>


<<The brainwashing Skill effect will likely lapse once Kajikawa Hikaru's HP is reduced to zero.>>

<<...You're telling us to kill him?>>

<<Negative. Kajikawa Hikaru's HP is not in sync with his body. Any wounds received reduces his HP however his physical body remains undamaged.>>

<<What the heck is that even!? So like, you're saying we can keep attacking him until his HP goes poof?>>

<<As long as the attack does not exceed a certain threshold once his HP reaches zero, there is no issue.>>

<<Oh okay then... Even so, this is gonna be real rough...>>

Previous Chapter

519 Crying in Joy

Binota ran up to me and took my hand.
I failed to dodge him. Not like I had to but the way he moved betrayed my expectations, I couldn't react in time. Guy's pretty quick on his feet belying his thin build.

"Thank you! Thank you! Riding on griffon was my lifelong dream! Ever since the day griffon's beauty bewitched me! Thank you! You even let me take to the sky... Uuu..."

His smile suddenly turned to tears. Looks like he's been overcome with emotions.
My hand is still being firmly gripped and shaken too. Quite dexterous. Needlessly so.

"I don't mind your excitement but can you let go of my hand now. Your nose is running... Oy, that's dirty!"

I shook off his hand by force when he was about to bring it to his face.
Binota wiped his tears and nose with that hand.
He's a mess.

"So, can I go in now? Ah, is there an inn that allows a griffon...?"

I walked away from Binota and asked the captain. My destination is the coliseum town.
But I'm not in a hurry. Acclimatizing griffon to traveling is a good idea too, staying at an inn here should help with that.

"Then, would you like staying at my house? I've got a lot of questions for you! Please give me your time!"
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
Binota asked loudly. Which got me thinking.

(Why is this guy being so pushy anyway? He wants to observe griffon... no, doesn't seem like it. Judging from his reaction when he saw me, it's got to do with me?)

Binota is staring fixedly at me. Waiting for my answer without even sending a glance to griffon.
Regardless of the reason or his motive, this must be some sort of important event.

"Is there a spot for griffon to take it easy, out of public eyes at your place? Also, I'm itching for a good tea."

(I have a feeling that there's no way to avoid this event. Wonder why? I don't really believe in vague stuff like instinct though.)

"Yes! We have a spacious garden and all kinds of teas at home! I insist! Let's have a good long talk!"

I regretted a bit when I saw Binota getting excited like a kid in a candy store.

"Let's go now! Over here! Come with me!"

The captain stopped him just as he was about to walk off.

"Hold it! Binota-kun, prioritize taking back the document you wrote down earlier to the office."

Binota stopped moving and robotically moved his neck toward the captain.
His face screamed he couldn't wait any longer.

"O-okay! Would you mind waiting here? I'll be back in a flash!"

"Binota-kun, doesn't your work shift end in evening? I'll take him to your place. Do your job."

Apparently this captain is close to Binota. He's admonishing him like his elder.

"Uncle... Can't you overlook it this once!? I mean it's a chance to delve deeper into that ancient manuscript I've been researching!"

"Aren't you a member of working society? You have a duty to fulfill, do it well."

Turns out the captain is Binota's uncle. He makes a good point.
Also, one term caught me.

(Ancient manuscript, research? How does that relate to me?)

The answer has to wait until Binota comes home from his job. For now, I have to follow this captain to Binota's house.

Previous Chapter

Next Chapter

Second Round Starts

This chapter is from Hero's POV

"Uu... Uaa..."

"Are you alright!? I'll get you fixed up, don't die on me!"


Adventurers and the kingdom's soldiers who were fighting magic beasts earlier are lying about everywhere.
A lot of them got injured when that white demon used 'Blast Fist'. Some are in danger of dying without prompt interventions.
I've been helping those in precarious states with healing magic and potions, but I can't tend to them all by myself!

<<Neora-san! Surviving demons incoming behind you!>>

"I know, I know! But this person's gonna die if I stop now!"


"Keke. What's this guy's deal yappin' to himself."

"This weakling must be desperate to save his kind. How gallant of you, great hero hahaha!"


I heard vulgar voices of what seemed to be demons behind me.
Normally, I'd turn around and beat them up right away, but this person might die if I stop the healing process.


"Look here now, oh great hero. Or else, I'mma just gonna kill you off along with that guy, ya know?"

"Or perhaps you wanna test how much pain you can take? Let's start with skewering your back!"


DOSH the sound of something stabbing flesh.


"Ga, ha...?"

"There you have it, a stab on the back as you wished. Good enough?"


That was followed by the sound of something falling down and a familiar voice.
Levia had thrust the demon's heart from behind before it could stab me.


"B-bastaaaard!! How dare you, Gavaaa!"

"Levia-san!"

"Sure thing, there!"


Olivie's magic hit the other demon as it frantically lunged, Levia then pierced its head as it flinched.
Nice work. Good job.


"You two are lifesavers, thanks."

"Don't mention it. But this is just terrible..."

"Yea. That white demon's attack sent everybody flying. I don't have enough hands to treat them all. Levia, I'll hand over some potions, help me administer them. Olivie, please use your healing magic to treat the wounded."

"I understand!"

"...Speaking of which, where's that white demon right now--"


A sound of explosion reverberated throughout the capital before Levia could finish.
Rushing hot winds followed afterward. W-what was that about...!?

<<That white demon had just cast Advanced Magic [Burning Flare]! Not even Special Class Job can survive through that move!>>

Oy oy, then what about that masked guy, is he alive!?

<<I-I have no idea. I don't know why I can't display that person's Status nor does the Map shows his location...>>

But why... Well, I can hazard a guess, probably has to do with that masked guy's real identity.


...!!


An overwhelming pressure from the direction of that explosion.
It's coming here. That white figure, isn't that--


"Fumu, a lot of them have survived I see. I suppose they aren't quite fragile enough to die from that."


White demon, Leaguvein moved here at incredibly high speed.
His appearance remains unchanged except for tear-like tattoos below his eyes.

But... But, his overpowering pressure has magnified even further.
Must be the effect of [True Demon Release]... I can sense the hopeless gap between our power even without checking his Status.


"...That masked man has met his demise."

"...!"

"Truly quite a bothersome foe he was. I might have not made it without perusing True Demon Release. His strength was too good for a human, shame I had to kill him."


...Is that for real.
That masked guy seemed super strong too, and you're telling me this demon easily killed him off...!


"Now then, I've no time to waste. I shall have you all taken care of."


The white demon raised his hand high in the sky.
Countless balls of flames shot out of that hand.

<<That's Advanced Magic Spell [Flare Rain]! B-but if those hit the downed people!>>


"Stop thaaaaaaaaat!!"


I cut at the white demon's neck with Dimensional Blade but he easily evaded my attack.


"A Master Skill. It would have been quite a nuisance were someone as powerful as that masked man owned this move, not yours."

"Shut the hell up! Stop! Quit casting that magic! Die!"

"[Grave Lance]!!"

"[Black Bomb]!!"


Levia and Olivie followed through but none of their attacks made dent on the white demon.
He's just standing there despite taking direct hits...!


"...Unsightly."


The white demon swung his arm down while looking at us like we're garbage.


But all the fire balls exploded before they could land.
Echoing explosions. Heated winds spread throughout the surroundings but that was the extent of damage.

Did something strike down those flaming balls?



"...Oh dear, how did things go so bad here."


A familiar soothing voice.
She's someone I both respect and fear for having killed me so many times.
Aina-san smiled wryly from a distance, her bow at the ready.


"[Rain Arrow] is it. To think not even one fire ball escaped. Your skill is commendable."

"Thanksies. Your praise does nothing to me tho'~."

"However, an archer taking point is a poor decision. Or perhaps, do you mean to oppose me by your lonesome?"

"Heck no 'course. How about ya think a lil' before you yap, Whitey-kun."


Right as Aina-san swayed her index finger while trash talking, some debris near the white demon flew off.


"Mwu!?"

"Eat thiiiiiiis!!"

"Go to hell!!"
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >

The champion and runner-up of Advanced Division, Hyumlassa and Gazanginando jumped out of the debris while respectively swinging their giant axe and great sword at the demon in a pincer attack.
Two blades coming from two opposite directions not unlike a guillotine. An average Rank A magic beast would have easily felled by this.


"Umu, an excellent ambush. Superbly timed as well. Almost perfect if only for one fault."

"!?"

"Monster...!!"


The white demon stopped both blades with his hands.
Then he threw both of them along with their weapons.


"Your sole fault is lack of power. You are not quite there."

"Gaha!?"

"Guaaa!!"


He quickly approached the two and punched them both on the torsos.
The two screamed in pain while coughing up blood. Two Advanced Class, so easily...!


"As for you, elven archer. Your prowess warrants praise as well. You anticipated how I moved and precisely let your arrow loose."

"..."


Aina-san shot the demon's head while he was punching the two.
With an arrow capable of easily penetrating through mithril plates.
The attack was also powered up by her Skill to further increase its piercing power as well, making it a true finisher.

Yet, this arrow broke apart the moment it hit the demon's head.
He must have countered with Martial Art Skill [Iron Headbutt].


"But that bow is no more now."

"...!"


Aina's bow broke apart.
No way, did he break it with magic during that split second...!?



It's clear to me now.
It's not the lack of techniques, courage, or coordination that make us fall short to this demon.

What we're lacking most is strength.


This demon is just too strong. Far beyond anyone or any magic beast I've come across.
No, that's not it... It's us that's too weak...!


We might have a chance if only he's out of [True Demon Release] state...!
Menu! How long till that expires!

<<O-one hour and 42 minutes left!>>

Why is it so long...!? Forget an hour, I dunno if we can even last another minute! What are we supposed to do!


"Is that all? Then it is nigh to part ways."


The white demon raised his hand, no, both his hands high up once again.

A giant ball of flame of a dozen or two meters in diameter emerged above him.
That's the magic that killed the mask guy...!?


"Good day to you, my good sirs and ladies."


He lowered his hands, dropping down the giant flaming ball.


Everybody here is gonna die if that thing lands!
None will survive besides my party due to Revival!


No way, to stop it. No way, to run. Absolutely no way, to kill the demon before that magic hits.
I'll at least save Aina-san and Hyumlassa-san with Fast Travel, no, they're too far away!

Menu! Please! Tell me how to get through this!

<<I-it's no use... There's nothing, we can, do...!>>


There must be something, anything, no, it's too late...!










The flaming ball burst open, sending hot winds in the surrounding area as an explosive sound roared.







"Wh... at...?"



Followed by the white demon's dumbfounded voice.


...Huh...? My Revival Grace didn't set off?
No wait, nobody died? But I was sure that fire ball exploded.


Did someone stop it mid air? Who?





"Get bent."

"!!!?"


A collision sound almost as loud as the explosion just now reverberated.
Someone punched the demon which he blocked.
That alone was enough to produce such a loud sound. The result of two tremendous powers colliding.


"...You...!!"

"Second round. Just die already."

"You persistent bastard!"


A man whose face is hidden behind a mask and a hood stood next to the demon.
His clothes have been singed all over, but he seems unscathed nonetheless.


Did he erase that magic...?
Who, who the heck is this guy anyway...!?

Previous Chapter

Next Chapter

518 Sky of Dream

Binota begged me with sparkling childish eyes.
The people around looked at him like he's a rare animal.
The captain ordered the soldiers guarding the spot to leave us here.

"I-it's always been my dream since childhood! P-please... would you... let me?"

"I don't really mind. As long as griffon is okay with it. What do you say griffon?"

I gave the ok and asked griffon for consent.
To which griffon responded by crouching down while crying, 'kue, kue~', which sounded like, 'Guess I've no choice~.'

"You got the ok it seems. I'll help you get on it."

Binota was overjoyed and started jumping around without a sound.
I wryly smiled at the pureness of this man.
I even felt a tinge of envy, wondering when did I lost my honesty.

(That's probably just how it goes to be an adult. Wonder if I still have some left in me?)

I lifted Binota by his soles up griffon's back. It was simple thanks to my monstrous strength.
But it would have been simple even without. This Binota guy is too light. He's way underweight.

"H-hyo! T-that surprised me. Eh, ah, I just have to climb my way up now... U, uu..."

Binota succeeded straddling on griffon's back.
And started crying out of joy.

"Uu, I'm really riding a griffon... This is the happiest day of my life... I can die content now..."
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
I didn't expect this overreaction and decided to give him a bonus service.

"Griffon, why don't you take a stroll around these parts. We've a nice weather today, a sky stroll doesn't sound bad."

Griffon started flapping its wings. Binota wasn't the only one surprised at this. The captain who remained here as well.

"H-hey you!? Are you sure it's safe!? That griffon isn't going to run wild, is it? It won't shake Binota-kun off!?"

His shout drew the attention of travelers still waiting to enter the federation.

(Ah, I'm scared how much attention I'm getting... Bah, whatever goes.)

I decided to take it in strides instead.
Griffon didn't care about all the gazes pouring at it as it slowly ascended.
Then once they got so high you could only see them as a dot in the sky, griffon started descending like climbing down a spiral staircase.
It landed on the same exact spot it was at and crouched down.

"Good job, griffon. That was quite a splendidly calculated landing. Good boy."

I rubbed griffon's chin gently.

"...Am I dreaming? It was my dream to ride a griffon. But flying in the sky on top of that... I must have gone to the afterlife from this rapture. Am I even alive right now? This isn't a dream?"

Binota kept muttering to himself.
Griffon raised its upper half and let him slide down.
Binota slid on the lower half down the tail and landed his butt on the ground.

The captain took a sidelong glance of Binota as he fixed his gaze on griffon.

"...The shape of war will change if armies make use of this... This could be big..."

This captain probably had no concept of air supremacy. Not until he witnessed the griffon's sky stroll just now.
It's not my responsibility or problem though. Besides, griffons can't be the only option to fly.
But it probably hasn't been realized yet, or even exist. This is a fantasy world.
There should be plenty of tame-able magic beasts that can fly.
Though there's the issue of the budget required to manage and keep them. They'd be better off creating some magical flying machines instead.

(Ah, could this be a flag? I should stop delving deeper.)

I halted that train of thought as it wandered off to a certain fantasy of final.

Previous Chapter

Next Chapter

Versus White Demon

I guard against right fist with my great hammer's handle, clashed the Extended Mana Fist from left fist with Mana Pile Bunker, stopped the right leg kick with my elbow, then I counter with my exploding hammer while mana cushioning away his counter magic as I side step--

It's been two minutes since my hectic deatchmatch against the white demon began.
We've been going at it all this time, yet neither has managed to land a decisive strike.


"Fumu, an invisible something has been obstructing my attacks. Is that a Skill? Or perhaps an Enchantment of your gear?"

"Figure it out yourself. Die."

"That great hammer carries tremendous weight. Its trajectories can be wildly altered through explosions as well. Impressive you're able to wield such a thing."

"You wanna? I ain't giving. Die."

"To top it off, you're repelling my Offensive Magic... Truly a bothersome foe, you are."

"Quit yapping already. Yer' gonna bite your tongue. Actually do and die from laceration."

"And, most of all, is that bloodlust of yours. It's as if I'm seeing a mirror image of our lust for the eradication of humanity."

"Don't lump me with y'all. Die. Die. Die."


Responding every time is a bother but I don't want him to think I can't even afford to speak, so I've been replying curtly.
I may sound like a corrupted manga character from all the 'die, die, die' repeat line but my insides are still that of a reserve unit old man with a disappointing mind.
I just don't have it in me to forgive this demon, not in the slightest.

It's not like I hold a grudge toward demons or discriminate them because of their race.
My murderous impulse towards demons is simply a product of kill or be killed mindset. Exterminate them before they do us in. That's all there is to it.


I think it's also partly due to the trauma I suffered from that time at Vinfitt.
My head would have been splattered flat like a tomato if Reina didn't come to the rescue.
Alma, Reina and all the citizens would have been devoured whole by the slime if I failed at sealing it back.


What's gonna happen to the populace here if these demons succeed destroying this capital city?
Might be presumptuous of me to worry about that, as I'm neither a hero or an ally of justice.

Watching mobs getting killed in manga or games only garner 'Oh poor them' reactions but this world isn't a game. It's real life.
You get to find out about a lot of stuff just from the simple act of strolling the city.


Like say, the old lady selling bread near the front gate is waiting her grandchildren visit in a few days.

Or how the mister blacksmith near the arena is expecting his and his wife's child soon.

Or how excited the neighborhood kids around our inn were when they made a promise to play again tomorrow.


There's no mob in this world. Everybody is living their life. Of course they are.
Is it really that weird to harbor bloodlust toward a bunch wanting to ruin them all just because they feel like it.


Well whatever. Can't afford to run my thoughts aground anymore, let's get to killing.


I explosively powered up my Attributes for a brief instant with Energy Control.
I made the push to nearly 3000 Attributes' values.
Would be nice if I could end this before this demon used [True Demon Release] but things probably won't go that smoothly.


"Haaaaaaa...!!"

"! He's grown even stronger, faster...!"
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >

The white demon popped his eyes wide open in shock as he guarded my attack.
My Attributes are almost double his right now. Anyone would be surprised at this sudden power up.


I punched the white demon's face with all my powered might.
It was a clean hit. He failed to react.


"Guoo!?"


I chased the blown demon, grabbed his head and flung him onto the ground.
I also bound him with Mana Armor to prevent escape.

I raised the explosive great hammer high, poured a lot of mana into it and swung it down hard!


SPLAT the sound of splattered flesh could be heard, or so I thought, but no, there wasn't any in reality.
The feeling transmitted to my hands were that of a hard material.
My arms are numbed.
I hit something even harder than my hammer.

A translucent wall of light enclosed the white demon. It looks similar to a barrier you see in SF work.
...Barrier magic? Thing's stupid hard.

<<The demon utilized a personal barrier magic scroll, 'Force Protect'. It generates a barrier possessing 10000 Defense value with the scroll as its epicenter.>>

We finally hit five digit number huh. I can't catch up with the wild inflation.
10 seconds huh... Oh man, that's real bad.

<<Demon [Leaguvein] has activated [True Demon Release] inside the barrier. All Attributes except HP, MP, and SP have been doubled.>>


Ah, knew it. 'Course, he's gonna use it. Wasn't a situation he could penny pinch.
...By the way, what's the duration of this [True Demon Release] state, what about MP and SP consumption?

<<Usable once every 24 hours. Two hour duration. 0 MP SP consumption.>>

What the crap is that stupidly cheat Ability! That's against the rules! Nerf that crap!
Here I am consuming most of my SP just to raise my Attributes to 3000 for 5-10 seconds! That crap is a complete upgrade!


While I was filing claims inwardly, the barrier broke apart and the white demon showed its mug.
There are now tear-like long strip patterns below his eyes, likely indicating his Ability's activation.
...Oou. He's like a whole different demon. His base specs alone are probably on par with Oni-sensei.


"Phew... I have underestimated you. To think you were hiding such strength."


I'm not. I'm just forcing myself to get stronger.
So please don't get so serious, no, for real. I'mma die.


"Now then, I cannot afford to belate anymore. You will have to forgive me, and die."


The white demon moved so fast he left an afterimage as he went in to punch me at super high speed.
Fast.
Way too fast.
There's no way I can block this--


"Tch!!"

"Oho, you blocked that...!"


'Course! I ain't been training with an even faster Oni-sensei for nothing!
I'm confident I can handle this speed for up to ten blows!
In other word, more than that is impossible for me! Stop it, please!


I frantically guarded against the barrage of punches while complaining pathetically in my mind.
My energy and life force are getting shaven down with each and every hit I block.

He may not be as strong as Oni-sensei, but he's still stronger than me, he'll drive me to the corner at this rate.
I've been pouring potions directly into my mouth through Item Screen, but I only have a few remaining.
I gave most to Alma's group after all. I don't got lots of potions on hand.

Should I raise my Attributes even further and end this in split seconds...?


Ah, crap. I don't have the leeway too. I'm running out of energy.
Gotta convert my mana to, aah, he flicked away my hands, no, won't make it--


"Disappear."


The demon struck my belly with his fist before further exploding it with 'Blast Fist'.
My HP went straight to zero, a dull pain ran through my stomach.


"Gah...!!"

"You're still breathing, I see... This shall end it."


He kicked me away as I crouched down while holding my abdomen, followed by a magic attack.
The spots where it hits are burning, melting and carbonizing, it hurts, it's hot, it hurts, ouch ouch ouch ouch.


"Farewell."


He shot a fireball around 20 meters in diameter as he uttered that parting word.
I'm trying to dodge but my body won't move from the intense pain and temperature.
Mana Control, no, it can't repel a spell that size and power.


Nope. I can't win at my current state.
...I took this demon too lightly.



My figure vanished inside a huge explosion caused by the erupting fireball.

Previous Chapter

Next Chapter

517 Rare Human

I can't remember how long I waited when someone tottered out of the gate.
The person vigorously took off their hood.

Dirty robe, thin figure underneath his attire, and caved-in cheeks. The guy looks real shady.
It's the spitting image of 'No**ta-kun' if he were undernourished.

The man spread both his arms wide while looking like he would start screaming 'Help me! Dorae**n!' anytime now.

"Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaan!? It's a griffoooon! The real thing!? It's the real thiiiiiiiiiing! It wasn't a lie at aaaaaall!?"

His voice was so loud I wondered where he squeezed it out of that lanky body.
Frankly speaking, it's gross. The sight of a skinny 'No**ta-kun' in a weird attire excitedly running this way triggers my flight response.

The man was stopped by by two intersecting spears held by two soldiers guarding the griffon.

"Everybody was sure you guys were just screwing with us when you said someone tamed a griffon! I thought you were gonna hoist some troublesome work on me! B-b-but it's real! Amazing! I can't believe I'm seeing one up close! And it's docile too! It's so big! Its fur looks so lustrous! I-I wanna get a closer look! L-let me through soldiers-san! I wanna take a realll good look close up!"

One thing for sure from his excitement. This guy is an otaku.
The type that gets lost in their own world at that.
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
"Binota-kun, please compose yourself. You've been called here to do your job. Not to appease your hobby. This man over here is the griffon's... Hey, are you listening?"

The captain seems to know the man personally. He gave him a warning.
Yet his words don't seem to reach the man at all. The otaku stares fixedly at griffon.
Even griffon is taken aback by this. It's sending me a glance saying 'This guy's beyond help'. Uh not like griffon can talk though.
The man called Binota traced that glance, turning his sight on me.

"...Eh? Y-you're... It can't be... It's real!?"

No idea what surprised this Binota guy, but one thing for sure, his object of interest has shifted to me.

"I can't believe it! It actually does exist! Amazing! I can get a deeper understanding now! Yay! What an incredible day this has been!"

Binota-kun inched closer at me with his grossly excited face.
I drew back at this unknown form of fear. The captain sent a lifeline my way.
He landed a chop on Binota's deranged head.

"Ow, ouch! W-what are you doing? Ah, hey stop! Don't hit me again! I don't like pain!"

"Do you recall why you were called here? Can't you get on to the registration process already? We don't have all day here. Your seal of approval is needed. Save your personal interest for after work, will you?"

Binota straightened himself, 'excuse me'. Finally pulled himself together after that reproach.

"L-let's officially register your tamed beast. Oh it's nothing difficult. All you need to do is prove to us that this griffon obeys your commands."

Despite Binota getting excited again when he saw griffon doing the tricks I showed the soldiers earlier, the registration process went down smoothly.

"You may carry this document with you. That will be your certificate. And now, you only need to attach this plate on the griffon's collar. Yes, that will do. The fee is two silver coins. Yes, thank you. And that is all. So um... I-if possible, could you, um..."

Binota started fidgeting. Which looks really gross.
None the wiser of my inner turmoil, Binota put on a resolved look as he begged.

"Could you please let me ride on griffon's back!"

Previous Chapter

Next Chapter

Mere Human

This chapter starts from Scarymast's POV
We're facing off against the army of demons.
Then just as the white demon leading them uttered 'Annihilate all'.


"!?"

"...Who are you, mavericks."


Two figures showed up between the kingdom's army and the demons.
The white demon asked with a frown.


"Guy's asking something."

"Then he will have the answer... Wait a minute, how do you know about that reference--"


One is a beautiful blond boy easily mistaken for a girl.
Hero Neo Raifu. He finally came to... His lips look red, lipstick? No, they're just swollen? What happened.


"...Well whatever, but you just you wait later. The sting in my mouth is killing me."

"I merely took an emergency measure since you wouldn't wake up. Or what, you'd rather get killed and revived?"

"I might prefer that over this spicy hell..."

"Guess Aitserina-shi should have committed to it. She was seriously deliberating killing you for real."

"The hell, that's terrifying!? I mean, she did kill me many times already during our training!"


The other person is wearing a mask under a hood.
...That's a different mask from the one he wore during Hunting Fest. Is he a collector? I don't get his taste.
He handed something to Almatina and Reinamiure once he was done talking with the hero.


"I-it's the hero...! We're saved...!"

"Where'd he gone off too all this time?"

"Who's that masked guy beside him...?"


Nearby adventurers and soldiers wondered about the two.
Responding to that, the demon chief spoke with a frown.


"I see. You are the present day's Hero. I suppose it hasn't been half a year since your summoning, which explains your feebleness. Conceivable."

"...Well yeah, most people gonna seem feeble compared to ya."


Hero replied while sweating bullet.
Apparently, Hero and Kajikawa can see Status. I wonder how strong is that white demon.


"It is to my understanding that Hero is capable of fathoming everything, akin to Appraisal Skill. Naturally, that includes my Status."

"...Ou, I'm regretting that now."

"And, are you capable of stopping me from slaying every single human living in this city?"

"..."

"You cannot, can you? All of them will die, except you and your companions thanks to your Revival Grace. Every last one."


The white demon spoke plainly, neither in a mocking tone or provocatively.
Hearing that, the people nearby looked anxious.
They must be wondering if the addition of Hero does anything to the hopeless gap in power.


"Those humans appear to put their hope in you, yet my word carries the simple truth. You are powerless. You cannot save or defeat anyone. Not even me, a much inferior being than Demon King-sama."

"Be that as it may, I have to fight no matter what."

"So you choose to challenge me despite knowing the futility of it all. That too, is fine."


The white demon held his hand aloft in this direction, prompting the other demons to get into combat stance.


"Let us begin the annihilation... Kill them all."


The moment white demon gave his order



A thunderous explosive sound and tremor


An explosion swallowed the spot where the demon army was.


"Ugaaaaaaaaa!!?"

"W-what's going on!?"


Some of them got burned down, some instantly got encased in ice, some got hit by lightning as they fell one after another.


"...Man that's gruesome."


Hero muttered while frowning.
The white demon frowned as he surveyed the disastrous scene.


"...What have you done."

"Nothing? The plan was to buy time but you went and flapped your gums on your own, so yeah, I did literally nothing."


Buy time...? What is he talking about...?


"Foooo!? I leveled up a whole lotsa!"

"...Lv43 huh. Defeating demons really net you a lot of exp."

"Uwaa, all those demons scampered away everywhere."

"Julian sure worked wonder. Didn't think he even managed to create stuff that can kill demons over Level 50."

"You asked him to make something that dangerous...?"

"Guess you can call these things Magic Ore Mines. That went much better than anticipated."


I could hear Kajikawa's group chatting behind them.
...I see, they made use of that [Shadow Dive] Skill and set up some sort of traps under those demons.


That explosion has erased 30% of the demon forces, while the rest are suffering from not insignificant damage.
That should let us fight on equal an footing despite our fatigue.
Only if anyone can take on this white demon though.


"Fumu, you succeeded lowering our number. Quite a conundrum."

"Quit spouting such an obvious lie. Your face says it's not an issue at all."

"Nay, conundrum is the truth. Truly a bother this is."


The white demon sighed before resuming.


"No matter. I had always planned to personally kill every last one of you. This spells more work but the end result changes not."



The white demon raised his fist as he said that.


"Allow me to strike back."


And hit the ground.



The impact and explosion made the earlier explosion seemed like fireworks.


A crater formed on the ground like a meteorite crash as dust rose into a mushroom shape.


What tremendous power...!!


Everything, be it enemy or ally, got blown away by this impact.
I too was powerless as the shockwave sent me flying--

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

~~~~~~~~Hero's POV~~~~~~~~~



"Damn, are you for real...!"


What the heck is that destructive power...!
That was Martial Arts Skill Ability [Blast Fist].
How can this much destruction come from a weaponless Skill used by a lone individual.

Level 82 sure ain't no joke...!


Demon: Leaguvein

Lv 82

State: Normal

[Attributes]
HP (Life Force): 4277/4277
MP (Mana): 932/987
SP (Stamina): 781/789

STR (Strength): 1671
ATK (Attack Power): 1671
DEF (Defense): 1683 (+690)
AGI (Agility): 1411
INT (Intelligence): 1430 (+347)
DEX (Dexterity): 1210
PER (Perception): 846
RES (Resistance): 1034
LUK (Luck): 213

[Skills]
Demon Lv 9
Offensive Magic Lv 10
Advanced Offensive Magic Lv 7
Support Magic Lv 8
Kempo Lv 10
Grappling Lv 8
Martial Arts Lv 10
Ultimate Martial Arts Lv 7

[Master Skills]

Master Fist
Magi Regeneration
Aura Mitigation

Equipment

Magic Steel Silk Robe
DEF +690

Demonic Ring
INT +347



All the adventurers and soldiers got blown away.
I'm the only one left standing.


"Oho, you alone endured through that. Hero, you are indeed."


...That attack was nothing more than a greeting to this demon. What the heck, he's not even a yasain.

<<O-oh no. If even his base spec is this powerful, his True Demon Release state will be...!>>

Eh, what? True Demon? Why does that sound like he's got some sort of second form...


"Yet, that's all you amount to. You may sleep now. Everything will have come to a pass when you're awake."


Not a moment after he said that, a pure white fist was already coming right before my face--







"Nah, you sleep. Scratch that, die."

"!?"


...Just before the fist hit my face, the mask man zeroed in on the demon.
With a huge hammer in his hand.


"Oraaa!!"

"Guh...!!"


The white demon barely managed to guard against the swung exploding hammer.
An incredibly loud sound of explosion reverberated in the air the moment it hit.


...I've been meaning to ask since waking up at the stadium, who is this mask guy anyway?
I can't see his Status and his attire looks way too suspicious.
Aina-san said he's a reliable ally, but I can't guess who...?


"...Fumu, you appear to be comparatively better than the rest. State your name."

"Die."


Mask man swung his hammer again while ignoring the white demon.
...How is this guy swinging that gigantic thing so fast.
The white demon who's guarding and parrying that bare handed is just as bad news.


"What're you spacing out for! Help me or go save those people, pick one!"


He yelled at me while I was dumbfounded.
S-scary... He might be scarier than Aina-san when she's mad...


<<Neora-san, let's leave this to him! You're only going to get in the way if you join this fight!>>

N, no, this demon shouldn't be that much stronger than a Shining Tiger.
I can at least serve as a shield...

<<Demons over Level 80 possess an Ability called [True Demon Release] which doubles their Attribute values! Neora-san is just gonna get instantly torn to shreds like a piece of paper! We should retreat and help those in need with Recovery Magic and medicine!>>

...I can't even be a shield huh.
Then, at least let me do this much...!


"[Speed Up]!"

"!"


I cast Support Magic to buff the mask man's speed.
Support Magic can only buff one Attribute at a time.
You need either the Advanced upgrade or a Master Skill to buff two or more.


"Sorry, that's all I can do for you! I'll go save the victims! Can I leave him to you!"

"Ah, I got this. Appreciate the buff."


Dammit, I'm so pitiful! So uncool! I'm no hero!
Only ever fight enemies weaker than me, running away when stronger foes show up! I haven't changed at all from my previous self!
I'm not suited to be Hero at all! I'm, just an ordinary man...!


"Fumu, I see the hero has made his escape."

"I'm more than a match for you, shi*heel."

"You mere human and your nonsensical rambling."

"And what's wrong with being a mere human! Don't care what you think, we're all giving it our all to live! Don't you dare make light of the life every single soul you're trying to murder lead!! I hate your type and your disdain for life! Die!!"


...Mere human, giving it all huh.
He probably just said it in the heat of moment, but it's good enough to encourage me.
There are things I can do... That last part sounds kinda contradictory though.

Previous Chapter

Next Chapter

516 Bother Classic

I've given Griffon several instructions on the way here.
That there will be people with spears encircling us but they're not the people who attacked you, so keep cool. No need to panic.
I also taught it how it should act when I say some keywords. Which was how it did the tricks earlier. You know, some standard dog's training.
Griffon aced it with a flying color on first try without a rehearsal. Inwardly, I was surprised, 'Is this creature a genius?!'

"I happened to save this griffon on my journey here. It grew attached to me, hence I decided to make it my tamed beast. I'd like to officially register it as one."

I just randomly blurted all that out. I still lack knowledge and common sense of this world.
Therefore, I don't actually know if you can officially register tamed beasts and such.
But the stuff about saving and attached is true. I'm not lying.
The captain's reply revealed my impromptu excuses weren't wrong at all.

"...It does appear that this griffon understands our speech. Very well. This is an extremely unusual circumstance. I've never heard a griffon getting attached to human before. As such, we have to stay on the highest level of alert. I trust you don't mind that? I have to ask you not to stroll this country until after you're done registering as well."

Apparently there is a registration process for real. I sighed in relief knowing it's a classic.
I also only noticed Chimera missing just now.

(Ah, it went off somewhere again huh. What a free soul. I wanna live freely too.)

I can probably make it happen if I use my 'power'.
But I am not going to. I'm neither a tyrant or a despot.
That's not me at all. My only choice is to be picky on how to utilize this power.
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
Due to the commotion Griffon and I caused in front of the gate, the soldiers stationed here were busy running around calling reinforcement as a precaution for griffon.

(Real sorry about this. Must be a pain. But there's no way around this. Not like they'd believe me anyway.)

They'll let me in once I've filled some sort of form and then the soldiers will lead me to the tamed beast information office to register.
But a problem arose here. I'm told the griffon can't enter to avoid chaos.
Yet, me going alone probably won't do any good. Why you ask?

(You can tell seeing this captain's 'I can't believe it' face. The people at the information office definitely won't believe me.)

Humans are a creature that can't be easily convinced unless they've seen it with their own eyes.
There won't be registration with my word alone.
So I stayed outside the gate with Griffon.

"Oh right, we haven't checked your pass. May I have a look... Who are you really? This is a Second Class Pass... Very well. We shall call someone from the information office here to confirm your tamed beast. Alongside everything required for the registration process."

The captain's attitude saw a drastic change. Second Class Pass is as destructive as ever.
I opted not to protest and rubbed Griffon's chin under the gazes of many other travelers waiting to enter the country.

Previous Chapter

Next Chapter

[Annihilate All]

This chapter starts from Alma's POV

"[Power Down]! [Speed Down]! [Speed Up]! [Shield Down]!"


Olivie cast her Support Magic to debuff enemies and buff allies.
She'd lower speed of agile enemies and defense of sturdy ones.
Making enemies lose their edges while either compensating for allies' weak points or further reinforcing their strong points.


"[Grave Lance]!! Olivie, now!"

"[Black Bomb]!!"


Leviara waited for the right moment to crowd control the enemies with her Master Skill, giving Olivie the chance to cast Offensive Magic.
A single spell cast by Olivie killed multiple magic beasts at once.

These two are better at working as a team than by themselves.
They're moving much smoother than they were during the tournament. Easily dealing with higher leveled magic beasts.
It's astonishing how they work so well despite lacking Mana and Energy Control.


『Gigyaaaaaaa!!』

"O-oh craap! Those birds're shooting magic!"

"Dammit, a bombardment from above! They're gonna burn this city down to the ground!"


A swarm of monstrous birds shot out a barrage of offensive spells from the sky.
That's no good, we don't have a lot of means to strike down flying targets. Meanwhile, they're free to pick on us.
Offensive Magic is our only chance to hit them, but that might prove difficult from this distance.

...?


『Gyaaaaaaaaaaa!!?』

"Shut the hell up, damned birds. Trash should keep silent, die."


Alancyan ran in the sky and cut down the birds one after another.
...I had no idea he can use [Air Step].


『Kigigyaaaaaa!!』

"Ain't gonna work on me. That tiny flame ain't even enough to light a candle."

『Byuiuuuaaaaaa!! Gape!?』

"Think ya can handle melee combat against me? Think again, die."


The birds shot Alancyan with a barrage of magic to no effect.
Some resorted to melee combat to which Alancyan responded by swiftly cutting them down.
He's a bother as an enemy, quite reliable as an ally.


『Vaaaaaaaaaaaa!!』

"Alma-san, some big ones are coming right up!"


...No, I must keep moving my hands.
In the direction Reina pointed, I saw four, five magic beasts that look similar to the worm we encountered on that dungeon's final floor.
Judging from their mana pools, they're about as strong.
We struggled to the point of nearly dying just to kill one back then, but I'm much stronger than I was.


"[Grand Blade]."


I enlarged my blade with Magic Sword, point the tip at the worms and activated a Master Skill.


"【Needle-point Thrust】!"

『『『Pigyaaaaaaaaaaa.........!!!』』』


Master Skill [Needle-point Thrust] unleashes countless mana blades upon the usage of a thrusting attack, drilling my foes full of holes.
Grand Blade plus Needle-point Thrust. Each one has enough power to annihilate most magic beasts, combined even these worms are helpless.
This move consumes a hefty amount of mana, but a level up restores my mana full anyway.


『Vi, vaaaa....!!』


Not good, one survived.
It's trying to run away. I've got to kill it quickly...!


『Cluuck!!』

『Vagu!!?』


Hiyoko kicked the fleeing worm on the belly with [Mana Claw Gale].
Watching the worm getting flung by the kick despite their overwhelming size difference is a bit surreal.


"Charge complete! Teryaaaa!!"

『Gyavaaaaa!!?』


Reina's dagger can absorb lightning elemental attacks and adds its power to the next attack.
The power of each charge can't be higher than the dagger's base ATK, but there is no limit to how many times it can be charged.

Reina has converted her mana into electric energy, and then let her dagger absorb it.
She brandished her dagger like a [Lightning Flash], easily slicing the worm like a cook dicing up a fish on a cutting board.


"Level up!"

『Cluuck!』


Reina and Hiyoko high fived each other once the worm was dead.
These two people... Um, one girl and a chicken? are a great duo, not unlike Leviara and Olivie.


We've been killing magic beasts without any problem but this can't go on forever.
Our MP and HP may be restored with level ups but not our stamina. We're toast once it runs out.
We've got to exterminate all the magic beasts before it gets to that point. But, their number isn't decreasing at all.
Are these beasts getting reinforcement somewhere? Where?


I used Mana Search and found two spots with a weird mana flow.
Fresh magic beasts are emerging from those spots.
We can probably stop their reinforcement if we destroy whatever device there.


"Reina, there's no end to these magic beasts. Not unless we go and stop the two spots where magic beasts are coming out."

"Nn... You're right, I do feel two weird mana spots."

"Let's head there quickly with your Shadow Dive."

"Gotcha!"


We went to one of the suspicious mana spots by moving through building shadows.
We'd be stuck dealing with magic beasts along the way if not for Reina's Shadow Dive.
Then we'd likely be too exhausted by the time we reached the spot. You really can count on Reina to save the day.



We found a stone pillar drive on the ground with a strange carved pattern at the said spot.
I think that's the thing responsible for teleporting magic beasts here. It's probably working in a similar fashion to the teleportation circle at the arena earlier.

Wonder if breaking that pillar is enough to stop these magic beasts?


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


~~~~~~~~Aina's POV~~~~~~~~~~



"147, 148, 149, 150.... Ooh?"


I can tell there's less and less magic beasts as I'm working my way through their number.
Did someone destroy the sources? Pretty damn good job without Neora-kun.

Now that the sources are destroyed, the rest of magic beasts should be an easy picking.
Oh, the kingdom's army is finally joining the fray. They're soo slow.

Guess I can leave the clean-up to the army.
But geez, Neora-kun is still sleeping even now. Is this really alright, hero.


...!?



~~~~~~~~Scarymast's POV~~~~~~~~



"Your efforts warrant much appreciation! We shall take over from here on!"

"Exterminaaaaaaate!!!"

"Chaaaaaaaaaarge!!!!"


The kingdom's soldiers charged in toward magic beasts while raising a wary cry.
Finally here. Good grief, could have come sooner.

Fatigue was about to set in for us though. Their arrival is on point.
The sources may have been stopped, but there's still a lot of magic beasts left. Around a hundred or so.


"Alancyan-sama, please withdraw! If you were to get hurt--"

"Shut yer' trap, the hell y'all here for now, hyenas. These beasts woulda demolished the crap outta the city if nobody stopped 'em while ya lot were fumbling around. The crap ya been doin' huh?"


Aizawa grumbled harshly at the late army. Can't say I disagree.
They're mobilizing too slow during an emergency. Despite his foul mouth, Aizawa moved well in accordance to the shifting situation.
Wish the army bigwigs learned a thing or two from him.


"Ooh, the army is here at last. The rest should be easy-peasy now."

"Reina, don't let your guard down just yet. There is no telling what comes next after these beasts."


I saw Almatina and Reinamiure watching the soldiers.
These two must have destroyed the magic beast sources. They've done an astounding job as expected of Kajikawa's companions.

The number of magic beasts are gradually decreasing. They should all be dead in about ten minutes.
...Those demons sure adopted quite a roundabout tactic.
They must plan to eliminate the tournament participants and set humanity back, but they might have underestimated our strength.
Or perhaps, they have another hand at play--


Goosebumps.

I can't stop trembling.


What is this feeling...!?


A blue light shone on a nearby ground.
This pattern, it's a teleportation magic circle.


Plural humanoid figures emerged on the circle. There's around 100 of them in total.
Their exteriors resemble humans.
However, their colors are not that of human.
Almost the primary color of red and blue, with dark scleras instead of white.
And above all, their presences are more akin to magic beasts than humans, no, even more sinister.


Finally made an entrance huh, demons...!


"Hmph, they took care of those beasts faster than anticipated."

"Doesn't seem like we got many kills. Useless bunch."

"It changes nothing. Their purpose has always been to tire them out. Any expectation was misplaced."


I see so their strategy was to wear us down with magic beasts until their main forces, the demons arrived.
...This is bad. That strategy is working, we're all greatly exhausted now.
Both from the tournament and from fighting those beasts. All of us likely only have less than half of our maximum stamina left.

Just when I was wracking my brain trying to come up with a way to overcome this.


That thing emerged on the magic circle last.


A pure white skin with no color at all.
It's a blond young man with red irises on dark scleras.
My instinct is telling me he's clearly on a different level.


"Fumu. All went according to plan."

"Sir. However, they managed to destroy the summoning pillars quicker than anticipated. Their loss is at a minimum."

"It matters not. It's all the same once we destroy and kill everything there is."


My sweat won't stop. It's chilling. I'm shaking. I can't breathe well.
I feel an even greater pressure than Black Dragon emanating from the man before me.


There's no doubt about it. This man holds a leadership position among the demons. He's one of the demon chiefs...!


"Aa... aa...!"

"Hi, hi, hiii...!!"


Some people started screaming and groaning from the hopeless gap in strength.
Some fell on their rear, some tried to run, some froze up in fear.


"Annihilate all."


The white demon spoke thus as he pointed his finger at us.

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515 Tricks, Maybe Dog

Naturally there's no way this wouldn't create a commotion among travelers we passed along the way.
Forget people staring.
It was like a tempest of screams. Some ran about everywhere, some fell on their rear, some yelled in a distance.
But all of it quickly settled down, because Griffon isn't attacking.
It's crying jovially while paying no attention at all to the states of the people around.
'Kurururu, kue, kue!' like it's humming happily and rhythmically, it's fun to watch.
Watching that, people drop their jaws with a look of complete surprise, losing for words, 'Eh?'.

(Ah, it must've mimicked me humming my favorite fighting game's character OST? Only took a bit of time for griffon to learn huh?)

I've resolved myself to stand out no matter what as I'm riding on Griffon's back.
All while humming my favorite tune while overlooking the world below.
At this point, secluded life is all but a farfetched dream. I mean just look at this.
All those travelers we passed by would definitely spread rumors.
Besides, despite all my efforts, every trouble that fell on my laps were all of flashy kinds.
I got marked by the imperial family at the empire, and the princess at the kingdom. There's no way I can pretend otherwise.

And thus it took no time at all for us to reach the federation's gate.
Each step griffon takes is big. Then there's its size, so large even a little stroll covers quite a distance.
Its figure can be easily seen at the gate from here. An alarm bell resounded and federation soldiers surrounded griffon in no time.

"C-captain!? What's your order!? That's a griffon no matter how you look at it!? W-we can't deal with it! With our equipment, not even to buy time!"

The captain responded to the soldier's shout.

"Eei! Don't falter! Position yourself well to avoid its attacks! Hold out till our reinforcement comes! Why's this magic beast here anyway!? Men! You must no die! Fight! We must make a stand to defend our nation! That is our duty! Oy! Don't you dare running away! You aren't paid to hide and take a nap! This is work! You knew the risk when you joined!"

As the captain announced a soldier's dereliction of duty to the world, the other soldiers started wondering at griffon's inactivity.

"Oy, what's going on? It's not... attacking?"
"Why isn't it moving? Also, wasn't it walking on the highway?"
"Huh? Why'd this thing slowly make its way here on foot when it could've air raided us?"
"...Uh? There's... someone on its back? That's, a person, right?"
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
Right as they realized my presence, I spoke.

"I'm sorry for the commotion. This griffon follows my instructions, it's not dangerous. Will you lower your spears? Eer, it's a, tamed beast, I think?"

I slowly got off Griffon as I informed them. I slid down Griffon's tail once it crouched down.
The captain looked surprised. His grim countenance obviously screamed MAX alert level.

"Who goes there! State your business here at the federation! We may have to arrest you depending on your answers!"

Well that's troubling. What should I tell him? That I'm here for the coliseum? But it doesn't seem like he'll believe me being a tourist in this situation.

"This griffon is my tamed beast. Does the act of walking your tamed beasts break the law?"

I put on my 'business mode' mask. My original self can't really hold a decent conversation with people.
Hence, the need for a mask. My past life work mask.

"...Your tamed beast? You're telling me it's yours, are you speaking the truth? It won't run amok?"

Seeing is believing, so I made Griffon do tricks.

"Come, griffon, paw, the other paw, spin, sit, belly rub, good boy."

I rubbed Griffon's belly as it lay on its back.
Griffon cried happily at this, 'Kurururu'. Like a dog.

(Ah, is this creature a raptor, a cat or a new breed of dog anyway?)

I may be the one who taught griffon all those tricks, but its brilliant performance brought about a new doubt in me still.
The sight of this seems to have blown the soldiers' mind.
Same goes for the onlookers, they're at a loss for word.

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Raising Curtain on Battle with Demons

Can't believe they showed up during the final.
Thankfully, I was all prepped up for a fight already.


"Sorry, destroying the barrier took a bit. Are you hurt?"

"I'm fine. But Neora covered for me..."

"Ah, his life is not in immediate danger but he's passed out cold. Well, Hero got that revival grace so he'd be fine even if he died."

"But he still saved me."

"That he did... I'll hand him over to Aina-san to look after."


I went deadly pale when I saw that monster suddenly emerging above the ring.
Alma might have not made it if I was slower breaking the barrier. Gotta thank Hero-kun later.

Using Mana Flight, I carried Hero-kun and Alma back to my seat where Aina-san and Scarymast are.
Should be no problem flying in public. The audience are frantically looking for exit, they probably can't afford to look this way. I hope.


"G-good work... Neora-kun, K.O.?"

"Yes, can you look after him until he's awake?"

"Y-yup. I got you~."


...Is it just me or Aina-san and Scarymast are acting awkward around me?
Your faces are twitching you two.


"...I think that bear was a Giganto-class. That is to say a magic beast over Lv70. I can't believe you killed that thing in just one punch."

"It's nothing I can't handle but bare handed is asking too much. Doing so in one hit is absolutely impossible for me... Are you really human, Kajikawa-kun? You're not actually a humanoid Unique Monster are you?"


That'll be my sensei. Oni-sensei probably can kill that thing with a poke on the forehead.
I used up 30% of my Stamina to explosively boost my power for a brief instant and killed that bear in one punch.
Using my great hammer or high powered pile bunker would have been more efficient, but I couldn't control my emotion when I saw Alma in danger...


...!


"Hikaru, several magic beasts on par with that one just appeared out of nowhere...!"

"...Five in the stadium, 30 in the vicinity, and around 200 outside. They all got teleported in."

"Weh!? T-two hundreds, magic beasts that size!? This capital is done for!"

"No, only the five inside the stadium are over level 70, all other are mostly around level 50 to 60."

"That's more than bad news enough! 200 rank A magic beasts might very well be more devastating than a Stampede!"

"Enough to destroy most towns and cities in just a few hours. Even the capital's army would have a hard time... If we exclude Black Dragon that is."

"Ah, right that thing is here. Then it should be fine...?"


...Come to think of it, what's that Black Dragon doing right now?
I can kinda feel its presence outside the capital and several other nearly identical presences close to it...

<<Black Dragon is currently fighting five level 60-70 dragons outside the capital. Presently, they are having a close match.>>

What the heck is that dragon doing in this situation. This ain't no time to play around, you useless dragon.
Menu, you said it's a close match, how long till it can get back here and deal with these beasts?

<<Unknown. Even if Black Dragon succeeded defeating all opposing dragons, it would be too spent to realistically handle all the magic beasts located here.>>

Thing's useless when you need it most, dangit.
No wait, could the demons have prepared those dragons too? No idea.
Either way, we can't rely on Black Dragon. We gotta do this ourselves.


"It seems Black Dragon is busy fighting five hostile dragons outside the capital."

"Say what?"

"There's no telling when it'll get here. We shouldn't expect help from it."

"...I see."

"Eh, how do you figure? ...Ah, right Menu Function. Almost forgot you can use it too."


Normally only Heroes can.
As an earthling, I've also got Menu-san's support though it feels more like a bone they threw at me.


"I'll take care of the magic beasts inside the stadium. Alma, and Reina, you two deal with the beasts outside together. However, you must flee the moment your life is in danger."

"We'll be fine, but how about you, Hikaru?"

"You saw what I did, right? These things are nothing more than bonus exp to me. They're all weaker than that giant snake anyway."


Speaking of exp, that bear was plenty yummy.
I leveled up to 48.
Consumed stamina doesn't get restored when you level up but I can convert my mana to stamina, no issue there.
Think I should replenish my stamina every time it's consumed. My mana gets back to max with a level up anyway.


"So yeah, I'll do something about those five giants. It would be great if you could annihilate the beasts outside."

"Oh that's fine. I'll find somewhere to lay Neora-kun at and start firing with my bow."

"I shall lead and fight on the battlefield myself... Dear me, I suppose I must stand at the frontline once again."

"Hikaru, don't overdo it. Call for help or run if you're in danger."

"Yea, I got it. I have my Fast Travel ready in a pinch, I'll be fine. You take care out there too."


Godspeed~. Well, they'll be fine, they have Aina-san. There might be reinforcement though.
Now then, wonder how many levels can I get from these five?



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



~~~~~~~~Aina-san's POV~~~~~~~~~






There exists a bow atop a stadium's watchtower.


"11, 12, 13, 14, 15."


Pull bowstring, release arrow, hit target.
I keep repeating that routine work over and over again.


"16, 17, 18, 19, 20."


Counting the number of killed magic beasts is the only humanity left in me when I turn myself into a bow that hits its mark.
I have a feeling that I can never go back to my original self if I completely turn myself into a machine that only draws its bow.


"21, 22, 23, 24, 25... Aren't there more of 'em?"


...Hold it, Kajikawa-kun. You said 200 but I'm counting more and more of them!
That was close. I wouldn't have noticed this if I erased all my thoughts. Just goes to show the importance of these lingering emotions.

These extra magic beasts show up out of nowhere and seem to be replenishing every time their number decreases.
Just culling these beasts isn't enough to finish this.
I'm guessing there's some sort of teleportation installations set up somewhere.

Finding those would have been a cinch if only I had Neora-kun or Kajikawa-kun here, but Neora-kun is still out cold.
Kajikawa-kun seems busy on his side... I'm hearing intermittent sounds of explosions from the stadium's direction, which only bolster the evacuees' anxiety.
Wonder what's happening over there. Nothing in this world can make me go there hahaha...

I did briefly consider the idea of killing Neora-kun to forcefully revive him, but it's a bit too drastic even for me.
Fortunately, nobody has died yet but there's no guarantee that'll hold on.
If things are getting worse, I must steel myself to pierce an arrow through Neora-kun's skull. Like, seriously, get up already~.


"Haa, guess all I gotta do now is to look for these teleportation devices while I shoot down these magic beasts. I won't run out of arrows as long as my mana last, but I'm not sure if I have enough potions on hand."


Levia-chan, Olivie-chan, Alma-chan and Reina-chan are doing goddess's work below.
Prodigy-kun is doing pretty good against higher leveled enemies himself~. He's still a nobleman though, probably shouldn't be too eager to jump right in the thick of things. Go at it~.
Raiza-chan literally ripped those beasts to shred and cast them aside one by one all while giving instructions on site. Such a waste for her to retire~


Well then, let's continue this road show.


Pull bowstring, release arrow, hit target.






~~~~~~~Scarymast's POV~~~~~~~~






"Uwaaaaaa!! G-get away from meeee!!"

『Gujaaaaaaaa!!』


A seemingly Intermediate Job young man is being chased by a bear magic beast while screaming for dear life.
Good grief, if you want to run, get to it from the start. Don't stand on the battlefield with a half-baked resolve.


I grabbed the bear's neck from behind and strangled it to death.
Fumu, it's a bit fleshy but a magic beast this level is no issue for me.


"H, hiiie..."

"You're not hurt, are you? Get away from here. You're in the way."

"O-oy! A herd of wolf beasts are charging in our direction!"

"Those who can cast Offensive Magic, shoot your shots! Melee units close in once they've dispersed!"


I haven't fought and led people at the same time for quite a while.
That young man aside, everybody here is fighting in harmony, none suffers major injuries.

There's only so much I can do alone, a lot with all these professionals here.
However, these magic beasts don't seem to be decreasing. In fact, it almost feels like they're multiplying instead.

We'll be overrun eventually unless we find where these beasts spring forth.
These fighters must have not a lot of stamina left after the tournament.
Those demons were likely waiting for this very moment indeed.


"Hiiiie!! A, a big one's comiiiiing!!"

"O-oh crap! Here too!"

"They're gonna crush us all in a pincer attack!!"


Gigantic wild boar-type magic beasts. Considering their size, they must be around later half level 60s.
Three of them are rushing this way altogether to trample us down.


"Hyumlassa! Gazanginando! You're in charge of those two beasts!"

"Ou! I'm on it!"

"Oy, what about the last one!?"

"Fret not, it's already in her sight."


The victor and runner-up of Advanced Division, Hyumlassa and Gazanginando swung their great axe and great sword respectively, splitting the boars' heads in two.
An arrow of light coming down from above shot through the last boar like a meteorite, opening a hole and killing it straight.
Nicely done, Aitserina.

We have our hands full trying to keep these beasts away from the town even though finding the sources are of the utmost importance. What's the best move here.

Still, I can't see a shadow of those demons. Where are they lurking anyway.





～～～～～～～～～～



<<Here heere! Finally caught you red handed, stalker! Pervert! Degenerate! Molester! Peeping tom!!>>

<<...Discovered by Hero's Menu Function. Cause unknown.>>

<<Hmmhmph! Finding you only took a teensy bit! I won't let you monitor us anymore! Verboten! Barred! Keep ouuut!!>>

<<...Further attempt at surveillance determined difficult. Cutting off connection before trace back is possible.>>

<<Ah, hold it right there you! ...Tch, it ran off. That third party's Default Menu is quite a prudent one. How come the last boss can use Menu this time around. Menu is supposed to be accessible only to those with earthling's souls, so how? I'll mail goddess about this issue just to be safe... I just hope she won't collapse from the stress.>>

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514 Heavy Responsibility

It's been an hour since they asked me for my name before we took off.
Griffon is flying at considerable speed. A familiar-looking country has come into view.
It's somewhere around the federation. Trembling from the cold, I ask Griffon to land nearby.

"Ah, go down in that open space. Forgot to put on a mantle. It's gotten chilly."

Griffon slowly descended and lowered its posture to allow an easy dismount.
Already missing the ground, I jumped off its back. Even crouching, Griffon's back is quite a bit ways off down. Necessitating jumping every time I mount and dismount.

"Ah, that was nice and all but sure gets my body stiff. Alright! Thanks Griffon. Can you make your way back to your mountain turf from here?"

Since Bandoro is getting arrested tomorrow, the group attacking Griffon should find out about the news.
They're unlikely to camp out in Griffon's turf even now anyway.
Besides, Griffons are clever. I don't believe the same trick will work again. They're just that smart.

Next to me, Chimera mimicked me stretching.
It was riding on Griffon with me. Yep, on Griffon's back even though it could fly on its own.
It felt kinda surreal but since Griffon didn't seem to mind, I guess I shouldn't mind about trivial stuff either?

Griffon kept staring at me, showing no sign of leaving.
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
"Hm? What's wrong? Don't you know the way back? What about your wild instincts or the likes? Hmm, doesn't seem like that's the reason."

Griffon approached me and licked my face.
Then it cried lonesomely, 'Kururururu...'. I realized this pattern and looked up into the sky, 'Ah man'.

"That's it huh. You wanna travel around together with me? But, people are gonna get heart attacks if they see a magic beast as big as you. Out of shock and fear. The solution is... that I guess..."

Griffon cried happily 'Kueee', at the 'together' part and dejectedly 'Kueeee' at the 'but'.
I'm no longer surprised at the fact that it can understand human speech.

As for the best way to ensure this griffon's safety, I took something out of my magic bag.

"Hmm, this and that, also this, think that suffices? Man this is some grade school-tier craft."

I fetched a thick rope and the most worn out sword I had.
First of all, I pulled a knife and entered Acceleration. Then I sliced and diced the worn-out sword.
I sanded out the edges and shaped it into a square. It's turned into a plate. Then I punched a hole on it.
I still have no clue how an ordinary knife could easily slice iron under Acceleration. But might as well make use of it.

Thus I attached the rope on the plate and put it on Griffon. It's a collar.
This is apparently a common knowledge in this world, which means everybody should get it at a glance.

(...Nope, it's full of holes. I mean, Griffons are supposedly impossible to tame. Crap, all sorts of troublesome types are gonna approach me...)

Then I realized that's not all that different from the usual.

"Oh yeah, trouble always finds me even if I do nothing... The only difference now is having a Griffon around. That's nothing."

'Kue?' Griffon looked askance about the object I put on it, to which I explained.

"Err, that thing is proof that you can stay with me from now on. Well, I'm sure there's an official one in this world, so it's just a temporary holdover..."

I whispered the last part since it's my problem alone. Griffon looked overjoyed at the 'can stay with me' part, 'Kuee!', anyway.

"Ah, that's right. It's my responsibility to take care of any problem coming our way..."

I'm the one who offered help. This Griffon getting attached is the result of my action.
Forcing griffon to separate here is too sad. Griffon has feelings.
As another being with feelings, sympathizing with Griffon is nothing weird.
I'll look after it until the end. Such is my responsibility. And by 'end' here comes down to either my or Griffon's death. No matter if it's due to lifespan, sickness or getting murdered.
Abandoning, deserting, or throwing it away before that point is shirking responsibility. I must not play around with its life.

"Can't be helped. Let's get along from now on."

No idea if a new traveling companion is a good idea, but Griffon is an excellent mode of transport.
Ignoring twisting paths by flying is a huge advantage in this world.
Might as well make good use of it. Gotta see it from another angle.

Then, it hit on me. I'll have griffon act as my legs. The mere fact of having Griffon around makes me stand out anyway. Might as well use it to the fullest.

"Griffon could act as a camouflage to my power. But, it's kinda putting the cart before the horse? Pointless? ...Ah, guess this is the real meaning behind 'can't be helped'..."

I remember reading 'can't be helped' being a positive word in a story.
Giving up and acceptance. Facing the truth head on, 'What's the next move?' mind set.
Giving up since what's done is done, and to accept and move forward. A constructive way to see things.
Griffon will act as my mount. Done by simply riding and telling it where to go.
I can't handle mounts like Grudos. But Griffon understand my word.
I can control it without a rein, an outstanding steed you can easily direct.

I jumped on Griffon's back.

"Griffon, we're heading for the federation. Can I count on you? Alright, then try to walk on the road ahead."

Thus, our trip resumed as I intensified communicating with Griffon to get it understand my instructions better.

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