Sousetsuka

603 Monopoly and Competition

"Please wait. I got it. You win, I lose. I'll get straight to the point. I want your help to hunt a certain magic beast."

I returned her word with silence. Because that still explains nothing.

"I'll start from the beginning, okay. Also, as a merchant there is no lie in my word. That's the one thing I won't betray. Please believe in me."

Apparently this magic beast lives in a mountain region quite far from here.
Only a select few know about the beast presently, so she's being careful to make sure she could monopolize it.

"I wanted to form a party to subdue that beast but anything grand would draw attentions from untoward people sure to get in our way. We can't make it too obvious."

Must be her business rivals. The whole thing will turn into a 'competition' if this intel becomes known. No monopoly possible anymore.
Yep, this beast must be a big deal enough to warrant all this secrecy.

"You see, I did ask for Balga's help in this matter. But he dislikes being under my command. Of course I offered him with more than enough reward as his compensation. I do not 'use' other people if they don't get something equal in return. But he wouldn't give me the time of the day despite knowing that."

I got it now. Having Balga recommend me. And that mock battle with Kyaro.
She had her eyes on me.
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
"And there's no telling if the beast materials would be intact even if Balga complied. I deem him capable of taking that beast down on his own. We can't make big moves so it has to be done solo and stealthily."

In short, there's a chance of the magic beast ending up in such a sorry state even after his victory, which means there's nothing left to sell.
They can't mobilize too many people so they can't provide proper back up for him.

"That's where you come in, Saito. I'm convinced of it after witnessing your strength. Your name is still unknown in this city too so nobody else should be aware of our plan either, I'm sure of it."

"Did you lie to Kyaro?"

I pressed on this point. Even I think that question is a bit nasty.

"I'm not lying. The Great Rally is opening soon. And Kyaro will participate in it. But she wasn't too eager about it. Even though I'm absolutely sure of her victory. She's just that strong. It's just that she's hit a bit of a roadblock lately. I thought a match with you could be a good stimulation for her. Turned out it wasn't enough."

She had it all figured out already. I was surprised by this.

"But ultimately, the fact that you were the one who hunted those Bearud is the biggest factor. You beat four Bearud on your own right? Nobody has ever killed those beasts in such an exquisite manner. You crushed their head and killed them in one blow, right? How did you do it? I personally heard the story from the mercs you saved, see."

Looks like this all started from the moment Selram bought those Bearud pelts.
I'm also sure she's got someone monitoring Balga considering she went for him first.
The matter with magic beast was a longstanding thing.
My meeting with Selram was inevitable the moment she asked those two mercs. Everything else up to this point was her skill at work.
She must have known about my unique feature right from the start. All the intense skin contacts and flirtatious behaviors were for the sake of lubing the OK word out of my mouth.

"I see zero fault on her plan... I'm absolutely no match to her~ This pattern, nothing good's gonna come out even if I refuse here, I just know..."

The only thing I could do was grumbling in whisper.

Previous Chapter

Next Chapter 

Beginning of War - Black Gale

Welp, it's time to go to war. Ah, I'm scared, so nervous, I wanna go home.
...But running forever solves nothing, I gotta bear it in.


"First unit, move out! We will be now teleporting to the resistance base on Continent 3!"

"We are to join the resistance and systematically attack the demon's smaller bases of operation. You will be informed of the detail on site, stand by until you're given order."

"More people will be teleporting in from other continents as well! Please never forget that no one fights alone!"

"Teleport!"


The royal mages and sorcerers teleport the recapture force members one after another.
They're gulping mana recovery potion with every teleportation. Hopefully they don't come down with water intoxication.


"Next unit, move to the teleport space."

"I-it's finally our turn...!"

"We likely won't have to fight right after teleporting there, but it's still nerve wracking."

"Nah, no guarantee on that. Make sure you're ready to draw your weapon just in case."


I gave them all a warning with Alma's remark.
I've kinda got a bad feeling about this.


"You're telling me those demons might come at us right off the bat?"

"I'm not sure but I believe that's not outside the realm of possibility."

"Ain't you just overthinking it? Well, I'd welcome the fight with open arms if they gonna jump me pronto tho'."


Yeah you would but most people likely can't immediately cope with that kind of ambush, Hyula-san.
As I said that, Aizawa-kun made a sound with his sword's sheath behind me. This group's way too bloodthirsty.
...Hm? That sword's kinda tingling me.

<<House Aizawa's treasured sword 'Flickering Flower' ATK+1200 made by a past hero 'Aizawa Madoka'. It has a self-repair function on top of its high attack power as well as modular additional effects through attachments.>>

A sword handmade by a past hero huh, who'd see that coming. Heck, that Attack power alone is around 2-3x our party's girls' weapons.
Umu, should I evolve their weapons using those candy thing I got back then? But Menu-san recommended to use that immediately after those weapons evolved first. What do.


"Teleporting!"


Ah, hold up, I wanted to discuss some things first, ah, no go huh, okay then.



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




~~~~~~~~Alma's POV at the teleported site~~~~~~~~~







I'm standing in an unfamiliar location once the teleport light subsided.
Remains of destroyed buildings with charred grounds here and there.
It seems to be a downtown somewhere after a disaster hit.

This place is supposed to be Continent 3.
I remember traveling around with my parents and how lively every town we visited was.
And this is how it's like now... Must be, demons' doing.

Anyway, I should check up with Hikaru and think about our next move.
...Huh?


Hikaru, where?


"!"


A wind cutting sound.
I could tell something is flying toward me. Someone shot out an arrow.
I dodged with 'Ground Shrink' and shot Fireball and Mana Blade Farslash in the arrow's direction.


"Gwaaaaa!!?"

"Kuh... How dare a mere human wield both sword and magic...!"


There stood a burned red colored human, no, demon, with one arm cut off at the spot where my magic landed.
Where they hiding at our teleport site? Where am I anyway.

I looked around and found nobody else here.
No Hikaru, Reina or Hiyoko.
...Did these demons erect a barrier with magic at the teleport end site to split us up?


"Watch it, this gal's got hands!"

"Put up the barrier! Once she's been debuffed, we go all in!"


...! upon a closer inspection, I'm surrounded by demons.
Around 20 of them. Each of them is not much of a threat but there's a lot.

There's a barrier around 10m in diameter enveloping me.
I believe this is the type that blocks enemies attacks while letting yours slip past it. Quite troublesome.

It also dulls your movement and saps your strength.
It seems to have the effect of Status Down magic added.
This effect will keep getting reapplied even if I buffed myself with Support Magic. I'd only be wasting my mana.

They're too coordinated. As if they've been training in anticipation for this situation.
No mistake about it, these demons must have split us up.


"Barrier and debuff, up!"

"Alright, all hands attack!!"


Magic and Farslashes are shot at me from all directions.
Even with the level difference, taking on all this in my debuffed state would be bad.

Their attacks landed creating a flashy explosion and raising a dust of cloud.
They kept up the barrage for a while, no mercy.
I think the only people who could come out of this unharmed are my parents, Hikaru and Neora.



"How'd you like that!"

"Haha, doesn't matter how strong you are in the face of a well thought out plan."

"Alright, there should be more of 'em teleporting in. Keep this up... Eh?"

"Ah, hot, a, aaaaaaaaaaah!!?"

"M, my legs, they're, melting, u, uwaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!"

"W-what's going ooon!? Hi, hiiiie!! Noooooooooo!!"


The ground below those demons turned red and bubbling.
All of them got melted down into the magma-turned ground.

What I did was exceedingly simple.
I dodged the attack by digging a hole below me with Spirit Magic like usual and summoned Ifrit and Little Gnome outside the barrier to turn the ground there into magma.

Their coordination and plan may be solid but it's still too naive.
They only think the possibility of them holding the advantage and that the enemy is completely helpless.


Meanwhile, we've been training under the assumption the worst case happened.
So that we can instantly deal with unexpected situation.
The training with Hikaru is far more dangerous than this... Not sure what to think about that though.

Hikaru and the others should be fine if this is the demons' cards.
I think, but I hope they're fine.


...!?


Something's, coming...!



~~~~~~~Man-hater Commander of Unit 4, Vijikaranna's POV~~~~~~



"Hahha! More pathetic moths to flameee!"

"Do not let up! Make doubly sure you kill every last of 'eem!"


...Darn it, what's going on!
I thought I was getting teleported to Continent 3. How am I surrounded by enemies in all directions, alone!?

Could these demons have erected a barrier that covers the entire continent?
That cannot be. There is no possible way to cast a magic of such a massive scale unless they deployed Forbidden Magic.
Could the demons sacrificed an untold amount of their kinds to activate Forbidden Magic. Or perhaps, they couldn't have been...!


"I shan't take this lying down, you demons! I'll slaughter all of you even if it cost me this life!"

"Hyahaha! Whaddya hope to do alone!"

"Activating Simple Appraisal Lens... Hohou, Lv62. Judging from her equipment and strength, she must be a commander class of the army."

"Oh, a big fish. We hit the jackpot zehahaha!"

"Keep barking all you want!!"


I leaped back while shooting a Farslash.
They'd gang up on me if I let them surround me. I must get out of this situation...!

!?

My body, heavy...!!


"Gwu...!?"

"There is no escape. With multiple debuff magic applied, you are now several tiers below your original strength."

"Meaaaning, yer' now only about as good as one of us! We got the number on us, ain't no getting outta this!"

"You coward!"

"Haa? Gyahaha! What are you, dumb?! Winning's all that matter in war! Die as you bark 'bout that worthless chivalry stuff!"


Yeah, I will!
I'll lead the way to the afterlife for all of you bastards! You lower than lowlifes lifeforms!


...!?





"Get outta my waaaaaaaaaay!!!"


An lightning-like like explosion crashed down.

The sound was so loud it hurt my ears, my entire body had goosebumps.


"W-what the hell was thatgabova!!?"

"Gebya!!"

"W-what are yogogyaba!!


"Shut up!! I got no time for y'all!!"


"Gyaaaaaaa!!!"


Something as fast as a gale passed by.
All the demons around popped off as it happened.

In just a few seconds, dozens of demons turned into a lump of meat, no, minced meat scatted all over the place.


...What just, happened?
I couldn't see them because they were so fast, just who was that black haired person that passed by? Actually, what even was that all about...?

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602 Behind the Cuisine

This is supposed to be a surprise for me.
Her way of showing off the inn she's managing.
Selram giggled seemingly satisfied that it worked.

"Come, have a seat now. My? Perhaps you're unfamiliar with the custom? Oh that's alright. This is your first time staying at this inn after all."

I took off my footwear and put a foot on the soft looking carpet.
I was genuinely surprised at how blissful it felt.

"It's so soooft~ Oof, soft and fluffy~..."

I let out a weird sound as I sat down.
Then an unplanned sigh as my arse got wrapped in the gentle sensation.

"My, I see it's to your liking. I'm so glad. Come, let's enjoy the meal."

Selram signaled to the staff after confirming my satisfied look.
All kind of food got brought in.
An assortment of fruits, a whole roast of some sorta poultry, unfamiliar sliced seafood, salad with vividly colored fresh vegetables I don't know of, a hot piping mushroom-like gratin with a generous serving of cheese-like thing. A soup shining purple with unknown ingredients wafting a fragrant aroma, a silver booze letting out a strong alcohol smell, and bite-sized bread glazed with some sort of pasta.
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
More unfamiliar cuisines got brought in afterward. As someone ignorant of the world, I have no idea what they're all called or made of. Everything is grand.

(Ah, geez she's definitely plotting something. Recall what Kyaro said. The supply Selram gave her when she was stranded didn't come free.)

First of all, I gotta confirm that. My instinct is telling me. Apparently a concept as vague as instinct works pretty well in this world.

To begin with, I booked a room for a night with no meal included.
I never asked for a meal service. She never said anything about treating me either.
'Let's have a meal together', that's it. Meaning all this food is not meant for me.
Selram prepared it all. I have no idea what kind of meal is served at this inn.
But there's no way all of this is a normal course set.
Selram asked when she saw me not touching the food.

"What's wrong? Aren't you gonna eat?"

"I will. But before that, what are you plotting? I want to hear that first."

I don't mind asking after chomping down on all this food. That card should have enough funds to cover this much, it's unlimited and all.
Kyaro's case was because she didn't have a penny back then.
The me now do. I had no reason to fear eating. Nevertheless, I must first ask her deal first. To avoid unnecessary awkwardness doing that after meal. I don't wanna find myself in a situation where it's hard to run away.

"My, I'm not scheming anything..."

"That's fine, I'll excuse myself then. I'll be in my room if you need me."

I flashed my business smile to try her. Selram stopped me in a hurry.
My instinct did great.

Previous Chapter 

Next Chapter

Respective Night Before Final Battle

This chapter will be character lines only, with changing POVs.

"...So you've come, Alan."

"Yea. I'm gonna inherit that sword off you for sure today."

"I shall not hand it over. Take it by force if you want it. Such is the way as it has been established."

"'Course that's the plan. En garde."

"Hold it, what is with that wooden sword. It may not be a fight to death, but fighting me with that toy is--"

"I'm good with this. Feel free to use that sword of yours."

"..What?"


"I'm tellin' ya this is enough against you, uncle. Hurry up and get ready, that sword's wasted on someone who got no backbones against demons."

"! You sure can bark when you're still wet behind the ears... I shall have your arm sliced off."



~~~~~~



"Hey, Rasfi. Once the battle with demons is over, let's---"

"Stop. Don't finish that, you'd die."

"...Wha? But why?"

"Heard every single past heroes said people who talk about post battle stuff before the big one all ended up dead."

"No, that must be coincidences, right...?"

"That's what I thought too but the town's fortune teller saw the shadow of death hanging over the face of a soldier who told the hero, 'Please marry me after this battle'..."

"What the hell, that's some scary stuff!?"

"Yep. You should take your time and think long and hard about what you wanna do after the battle."

"O, ou... Uh, change of topic, you know I got this weird equipment from that 'Kajikawa' guy."

"Mwu, it's here at last huh. Fufu, the same craftsmen who made Radia's gauntlets made that. You better get used to that thing by today."

"Ah, you mean those exploding gauntlets? ...I'm terrified my arms would pop right off..."

"High risk high return. It's definitely a powerful weapon if you know what you're doing. Grit your teeth if you wanna survive."

"Yes ma'am... But man, that Kajikawa guy's voice sure sounds familiar... Think we met him before?"



~~~~~~



"Uhi~ hihihi, havin' a good time with the booze, Radia-san~?"

"Nope I ain't drinking. You had too much Reina. What're you gonna do if you end up with a hangover during tomorrow war?"

"Oh I be just fine~. I'm finna sleep now... By the by, what got you so grim faced anyway?"

"! ...Do I, really?"

"Yessire~ Got nothing on Kajikawa-san when he mad tho' nehehehe~"

"Don't use him as a reference... I've got, stuff to think about."

"Hnn? Is it, about your brother?"

"...."

"You almost died cause of him the other day. You still hurting somewhere?"

"Nah, I'm fine thanks to Kajikawa-san's treatment... It just hit me he's really gone off the deep end, too far to go back up now."

"He sure is. People who turn their back on their family are just the worst. I almost got sold by my father too so I get how shook it must be to you."

"Eh, say what? Your father, almost sold you?"

"All I could do was running away back then cuz I was too weak. But Kajikawa-san lent me his power when I saw that guy again recently and I beat him up real good."

"I, I see... You don't, have it easy either."

"Rather than getting down in the dump festering about all that stuff, you'd be better off coming at him with all you got and beat him so bad he regrets being born. That's gonna show him your anger and makes you feel so much better."

"...Trust me, that's always been the plan. I'm never living it down until I punched that darned aniki super hard...!"

"That's the spirit~. This calls for boozing time, come on let's drink together Radia-san ehehe."

"I'm telling you no, and you really should stop now! You're seriously gonna get an awful hangover!"



~~~~~~



"Ufufu, ufufufu, there's so many, so many Neora-san..."

"What are you talking abouuut, there's only three Neora here hehehahohoho."

"No, there's only one me! You two are super wasted!"

"Nnfufufu, gotta~ loosen~ up~ bottoms up Neora-kun~"

"Uh, how come you're here Aina-san! When did you even get here!"

"Oh c'mon what's the problem~ Here, drink up~"

"Yeeep, drink drink~"

"Why're you girls so persistent on it anyway...?"

"I'll feed you mouth to mouth if you don't hurry it up, you know?"

"Wait no, I'll do it. I'll drink, so don't."

"Y, you canf't, mouth to moutfh is too shameless! I voluntfeer for itf insteadf!"

"Eh, wait, Olivie? Y, your eyes look glazed over...? Ngu... N, nnnn?!"

"Aaaaaa!? What are you doing! Gununu, can't believe I got lapped...! Fine then, lemme at it too!"

"Me too~!"

"Nku, nnn! Puhaa! Haa, haa...! H-hold it! Stop, h, help! Save me someone! Anyoneeee!!"



~~~~~~



"...Alan mighta said that and all but this battle may very well be my last."

"But haven't you gotten stronger, Spadia-sama."

"Well, y'see, my body is starting to feel rusty lately, just won't move as I wanna. I couldn't bring out my full power in that battle against Demon King, for instance."

"But the swordsmanship you displayed was more than sufficient to be a menace. Although, perhaps you would like to spend your remaining times in a more relaxed manner."

"A battlefield is where I'm gonna breathe my last. Well, those younglings are all real masterpiece of work. Things're gonna go swimmingly even without me."

"They may be rushing a bit too much in life, however."

"That includes your daughter, and her company. Death will catch up to 'em if they don't rush it. What a restless world we live in."

"...That's enough alcohol for today. So that we won't leave behind regret with every swing of our swords tomorrow."

"Ou... This was an excellent drinking bout. Both the drink and the servers."


"Urp... D, drank too much...!"

"Hyula, you went overboard! How many bottles you emptied anyway!?"

"T, three?"

"No uh, there's five, six bottles laying next to you, three's selling it short. You can't have gone through all these by yourself, can you...?"

"Uh, I, I'm done for, Ganan, bring me etiquette bag... Uu...!"

"Oy, hold it right there darnit, hold it in, don't you dare throw it up hereeeeeee!!"


"...Yeah, I should stop right about now."



~~~~~



"It's finally continent 3 landing tomorrow."

"Yes... It's finally time to regain our home."

"You're right. Even if there's so many things we've lost forever."

"I still remember it like it was yesterday. The day our town, the people, our home were burned to the ground."

"Same with me, Nakram... We'll make those demons taste that hell back."

"Let's give it our all so that tragedy won't ever repeat."

"Ou."


"As such, please finish these documents, Commander Jangrajima."

"...The war is upon us tomorrow, tell me again why do I still hafta deal with documents, Vice Commander Nakramrada."

"I am finished with my share. I will excuse myself."

"Help a guy out will yaaa! What if it affects tomorrooow!"

"It's your fault for putting off those documents, commander! Just get to it, now!"



~~~~~



"Hikaru."

"Hm~ What's up~?"

"I'm sorry I could only say this when you're drunk too."

"Nn...? What's it?"







"I love you."

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601 Can't Let Up, but Is There Even a Choice?

I lay down on my bed. I let out a huge sigh before blanking my mind.
Then I sprung up and went to bath. These bathroom-equipped inns apparently all have the same standard of usage.
I let out another big sigh as I submersed myself in the bathtub.
I feel like I'm sighing a lot as of late.

(Hmm? I had this same thought just the other day no? Well, guess it's natural.)

Why couldn't my life go the way I want. Who could blame me for sighing?

('Live and laugh', who said that again? Guess it doesn't matter.)

Today was yet another dramatic day. Still so many hours before the date changes too. I've still got my diner with Selram after this.
I'm getting bummed out thinking about it. She's probably gonna pester me about my identity.
Only now I'm regretting not saying no to her invitation.
I convinced myself to forget about it as I drained the water and left the room.

I wore the prepared bathrobe and sat down on the sofa.
Then I waited for the agreed upon time by meditating. Thinking about anything at all is only gonna stress me out, I'll be better off abandoning all thoughts.

Someone knocked on the door, right on cue.

"Your diner is ready. I shall lead the way to the dining room."

A staff member called out to me. I replied.

"Yes, I'll be right there. Err, is there an issue with my outfit?"

I opened the door a bit and probed for a bit of 'common sense'.
Normally, at least on earth, walking around in a bathrobe is a no go at hotels. It's shameful.

"There is none. At our inn, we believe that our guests' comfort takes the highest priority, this applies to all inns. Please wear whichever you feel at ease best."
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
Apparently this is how it goes with the inns in this world.
I shouldn't overthink it. Just gonna follow the custom here.
When in Rome, do as Romans do. No point fussing over it. I was led to the dining room.

The insides are, in a way, Arabian-like.
I couldn't help but to throw a quip. My room looked like a typical business hotel, just slightly more spacious than normal, yet I got greeted by this at the dining room.

"Can't let up at all..."

Am I gonna keep getting all these surprises in this world forever?
Meanwhile, the inn staff urged me to keep going, 'If you'd please over here'.
It's another door. A private room. I should've expected this.
Selram is this inn's proprietor. Booking a private room is a simple matter to her.

Inside was Selram in an attire that just begged a punchline from me.

"Hii, how do I look? Good, or not? I wear it just for you."

The room is full of super luxurious looking ornaments with a super big carpet.
A complex, exquisite and so obviously expensive looking Arabian-style carpet.
Sitting on it is Selram wearing a bombastically sexy Arabian-style attire.
Forgive me for my lack of vocabulary. I'm at a loss for word.

"...It's absolutely alluring. Eh, and, what's this supposed to mean?"

Faced against her dynamite sexy body, that was the only thing I could squeeze out.

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Next Chapter

Drunken Rambling From Heart

We're eating dinner under the night sky outside.
I cut corners today and served meal packs like sushi and party sets I bought in Japan.

I originally wanted to cook but as I was snacking out in the inn terrace in the evening, Hero-kun's group joined in asking for sweets, then Hyula-san and Radia-kun also showed up until eventually all the training members were here.
It turned into an impromptu all you can eat party. How'd it come to this.


"Uwoo! It's sushi!"

"Pipe down, Neora! Heck, isn't that just raw fish on aro rice!"

"R-raw fish huh... I really like that seafood bowl dish from Randorainam, but I dunno about eating them raw..."

"Ah, are you talking about the day special set near the port? That restaurant's real fussy about freshness but they're pretty lax on parasite management."

"Ha!? They were selling that kinda hazard there!?"

"P-parasites. Good thing you recovered fine, Radia-san."

"Urp... I'm getting sick recalling that..."


As part of an effort to save, I usually cook for our party and rarely eat out.
So we never came down with food poisoning like Radia-kun... Guess I'll heat up some frozen food for him.


"Haa... Suppose this is the last time I can kick back and enjoy my meal worry free."

"Well, it's wartime from tomorrow on after all. Wait, can't Kajikawa-san and Neora-san go back with Fast Travel?"

"It won't look good with other groups if we're the only group that goes back and take it easy. People will eventually find out we've been returning home."

"Yea, we already got that purple captain hot on our tail as is. I can just imagine her sermon if we did that."


I should avoid going back unless it's to train with Oni-sensei, or for fetching the new equipment and replenishing supply.
Taking everyone back home with Teleportation is unrealistic due to the sheer amount of people, so it's gonna be a one way trip.
...It's probably feasible if we had Alma Mama chuck down bottles and bottles of Mana Potions, but she's an important war force that's better off taking care more important stuff.


As our dinner pretty much turned into a full blown party, I treated everybody with some alcoholic beverages from Japan.
Sake, shochu, whiskey, all kinds of stuff. I bought them for all the people that have helped us out, not for me personally.

Apparently they tasted quite novel to the heavy drinkers.
Even Hyula-san who usually chugs down a barrel is sipping hers bit by bit.
...Old man Spadia is guzzling down seishu next to her though. And there he went opening another bottle. You're drinking too much, man.


"Hmmm, all of them tastes new yet familiar all the same, really curious... It's good stuff."

"Mwu, this seishu drink has got this deep flavor to it yet it goes down easily. Umu umu, very nice."

"They're drinks from my homeworld, please go ahead and have as much as you want... Well, not like I'm much a drinker though."

"What, that won't do. Drinks are the oil that lubricates socializing, ya gotta learn to like 'em."

"Yep, you always got away whenever I offered you drink but there are times you just gotta cut loose."

"No uh, Hyula-san, those times are every time to you."

"No buts!"

"Wha, maggobuguaaa!!?"


...She chugged a bottle down my mouth and strong alcohol taste spread out inside my mouth.
It's bitter, it's pungent, it's sweet, I still don't get how can these drunk find this tasty...

I coughed violently as the alcohol went down my throat.
It's almost waterboarding by way of alcohol.


"Cough cough, gah! Hyuu...! Phew...! H, hey now, I really don't like alcohol, stop it...!"

"Gahahaha! Do you even hear what you say, youngling! Ya ain't got nowhere near enough, get to it!"

"No way! You can have it all!"

"Whaaat, you not gonna drink mine!?"

"No uh, I brought those!"

"Kajikawa, your real self is showing there. Here, have some water and pull yourself together."

"S, sorry... Gofa!? Hy-Hyula-san, this is no water, it's diluted alcohol!"

"Ah, my bad, my mistake. Well, it's pretty much water when it's so thin, no biggie hahaha."

"It is a biggie..."


U, urp, I'm feeling sick...
I don't feel tipsy when I drink, I get straight to feeling nauseous.
...It tastes so bad, so sick, all that food now tastes like alcohol, this is why I don't like them...


"S-sorry, I'mma rest over there. Go ahead and drink anything you want."

"...Y-you sure you're alright, Kajikawa-san. Your articulation is getting weird, want me to look after you?"

"I'mma be fine, you-take-care-you-don't drink-too-much-Neora-kun... Ourp..."

"O, ou... Will he even manage the war tomorrow..."


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



I lay down on an inn's bench but it's so hard it doesn't feel good on the head part. Heck my head hurts.
Cushion, someone get me a cushion...

...Mwu?


"...Hmm? It's so soft..."


My thought was answered and someone really did put a cushion over my head.
They're so kind. Gratitude.
...Who's it anyway?


"Hikaru, you okay?"

"Nn...? Alma? Ah, I'm fwine, just a lil' tipsy, thanks for the cushwon."


I looked up to see Alma's face.
Mwu? Shouldn't it be a wall. How am I looking at Alma's face?
...Could this be the so called lap pillow. My first ever in life~.


"...Where does it hurt, your head?"

"Nn, it not, thanks to your lap pillow."

"That's good... I had no idea you'd act like this when you're drunk, Hikaru."

"Yup... I'd go away and lie down on my own whenever we had a drinking party in Japan too."

"Really."

"The next room's gets swo nwoisy, it's killing my head. Give me a break, no for real~."

"...Really."


Why'd I go and start grumbling again.
It's troubling Alma. Sorry, for real.


"You're not eating and drinking with those guys, Alma?"

"I've had my fill. I'm avoiding alcohol to get ready for tomorrow."

"Yeah? I shoulda got away first thing first too..."

"Are you sure you're okay, Hikaru?"

"Yup I am... I been avoiding alcohol lately so I got no resistance against something that strong outta nowhere."

"Really. You can take it easy at least when you're drunk. You've been too hard on yourself lately, Hikaru."

"Nn, in what way?"


Alma puts her palm on my forehead. It's cold, feels so nice.


"This world has no future if we don't defeat Demon King. I understand that much but you can't be the only one doing all the work Hikaru. I think it's okay to let it all out every once in a while like this."

"You think~?"

"Un. Don't keep it until you're drunk, please open up to me when you're feeling down. I know you're the type that bottles it up, Hikaru."

"I see."

"...Don't you have anything to say to me?"

"Nn...?"


She looked downcast with a dispirited expression, what's wrong? Your tummy hurt?


"You've been looking after us all this time. But you seldom show your weak side or open up to us."

"Eh, is that how you see me?"

"Un... I believe this is a good opportunity to let it out. It's not good to keep piling up grumbles and complaints."

"You're 'rite. Guess you don't mind if I do then?"

"Un, don't hold anything back."


"Then, oh yeah, I been living a sad lonely life until I got to this world. Having meals and going out with Alma have been super fun~."

"Un. Same with me, every day is fun with you, Hikaru. How was it like in Japan?

"Err, nothing felt fun no matter what I did ever since my mother passed away. I dun even know if I was alive or dead. Heck I just kept living on while thinking it was poo poo."

"Your mother, is...?"

"Nn, in an accident."

"...I see, sorry."

"Well, I got to meet mother in the dungeon the other day tho'. Cried my eyes out. Not literally 'course."

"I heard you get to meet a magic beast that takes the shape of someone you wants to see most there. You mean that?"

"Yep, that. She asked me if I was happy, told her I was thanks to Alma and the girls. Prolly couldn't have said that if I was still in Japan."

"...."

"Sorry I can only say this when I'm wasted."

"Hm, what?"



"Thank you for staying by my side always. My happiness is when I'm next to you, Alma."











Hello, good morning. It's such a nice weather today.
I could kinda recall old man Spadia and Hyula-san harassing me with alcohol but no more after that.
I never experienced this kind of memory lapse after drinking before, but I guess I must have headed back to my room on my own since I was in my bed by time I came to.

I'm not having a hangover either, in fact, I feel more refreshed than ever.
Glad it didn't have an ill effect on my body, today's the d-day after all.
Now then, time to make breakfast.

Oh, Alma's sitting in the dining room. What an early riser.


"Good morning, Alma."

"! M, morning."

"Hm, what's up? Your face is red, caught a cold or something?"

"I, I'm fine... Um, about, yesterday..."

"Mwu? What happened yesterday?"

"...Nevermind if you don't remember."


She turned away while blushing hard.
Her State shows 'Normal' so she hasn't come down with a cold or anything. But then why.
...Really, what happened yesterday? What did I do again?

Previous Chapter 

Next Chapter

600 Surrender to the Flow

It looks like Taj Mahal outwardly. No wait, that's a tomb if I recall right.
What does this mean? I tilted my head hard and came up with an answer.

(Ah, so Japanese weren't the only people that got brought here...)

That's right. Why didn't I think of that before?
Because my hands were already full trying to deal with everything going on in my life in this world.
Up until I turned 15, my whole world revolved around my family at the small village I was born in.
I know nothing about the world's culture at large. I have no knowledge about the common sense and history of this world.

"What do you think? Wonderful isn't it? My? It's quite a surprise huh. Fufufu, it may look flashy but I assure you it's relaxing inside."

Selram looked delighted to see my mouth agape. Like a child who pulled off a prank.

There was nothing shocking inside. Which made it all the more shocking instead. The light is neither too bright nor too dim.
I looked around and immediately sensed something off.
It looks like your average apartment hotel. I can't help laughing at the huge gap between how it looks inside and outside. Like, what the heck. I didn't see this punchline coming.

Mismatched, I'm the only one who seemingly thinks that. Selram and Kyaro aren't particularly fussed.
I do because I have knowledge and common sense from my previous world.
Whether a culture fits with another doesn't matter to this world's populace. Because they previously never existed.
Everything is new to them no matter the combination. Nothing about it is off.

"Give him a discount okay. Ah, what would you like, Saito? Our very best room?"

Selram had gone off to the counter and informed the staff there.

"I shall retire to my room early."
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
Kyaro went upstairs like she was used to it.
Selram lightly waved at her.

"Sure, I'll take you up on that, best room it is."

I fetched my card. The usual black one.

"My? ...Who are you really?"

I've stopped counting Selram's use of that word.
But I can't help it. I don't want to know how much this inn cost. Not even a pep.
Hence my use of card to smartly skip all that.

(My sense of value is getting more and more paralyzed... I should lower the rank. Gonna stay at the cheapest inn next time.)

I'm afraid I wouldn't want to lower my standard of living if I get used to luxury. It's a grave problem.
I can't predict what kind of life will I lead. There's no guarantee I won't be penniless in the future. Even with all this money I have right now.

"Hey? Would you accompany me for a dinner? I want to talk more with you."

Selram invited me just as I arrived at my room.

(Ah, how should I respond here... Gotta choose carefully.)

Whether to accept or not, which one gets me the better future?
There's no way for me to know though.

"Sure thing. How could I refuse an invitation by a gorgeous lady."

I decided to surrender myself to the flow.

Previous Chapter 

Next Chapter

Bath Before War - Women's Side

This chapter is from the big breasted sage, Olivier's POV

"They're huge..."

"Yup, sure are."

"They're pretty much artillery class... Gununu."

"U, umm, please don't stare so much. It's embarrassing..."

"...I wish you could stop with the stare."


After we were done with our leveling session, we all went back to our inn and to bathhouse in order to wash away sweat. There, we met up with other training members.
We were all relaxing in the hot water together when their gazes gathered at my and Almatina-san's chests... I can't help standing out because they're floating on the water.
I understand we're all girls here, but getting all this attention is a bit...


"By the way, where'd hero gone off to? Is she still leveling, no way right?"


While I was panicking inwardly, Levia-san's big sister, Fifraila-san spoke to me.
Maybe she couldn't stand seeing us looking bashful and diverted the topic.


"Neora is at the men's side though?"

"H, haa!? I, is she, a pervert!?"

"No Fif-ane, he's a boy, you know?"

"Eh!?"

"Seriously!?"

"No waaay!?"


...All members of Fifraila-san's party looked so shocked their eyes were wide open.
I cannot blame them. I mistook him for a girl too on our first meeting.


I first met Neora-san when he and Levia-san brought back the medicine for my illness.
'Chronic Mana Deficiency' is an unusual syndrome that perpetually deprives me of mana. It can even lead to death in some cases.

I was actually active as an adventurer in a certain party until I was stricken by this illness after which they immediately turned their back on me.
They were not to blame. The only cure to the illness was either the highest grade panacea or a medicine specifically concocted for it. The latter requires an ingredient harvested in a magic beast-infested danger zone no ordinary adventurers could hope to traverse to.
The risk was far too great to justify for a single girl. I had abandoned all hope.

...No, in reality I didn't want to die I cried every single day.
My heart could only cling to an invisible hero who would come to my rescue.
Even though I was aware my situation won't improve even if I pinned my hope on something so vague.

Or so my belief until one day, father ran to my bedside in a hurry.
He cried in joy saying the people who took his request brought back the medicine.


Those people being Neora-san and Levia-san.

They likely had to brave deaths... In fact, they apparently died so many times and kept going back to the said danger zone.
The reward father offered was by no means paltry yet it just didn't reflect the degree of risk involved.

I told them I wanted to repay them no matter what and Neora-san asked me to join their party.
That he's actually the hero, and currently looking for people that will assist him on his mission to defeat Demon King.


My Job is 'Sage'.
A very rare Job that is said to be the higher tier version of Mage, requiring one to have learned four types of magic including Healing Magic, and Support Magic before coming of age.
I could see how this Job would be a great help for Hero.

Yet the fact that they saved my life remained even if they were aiming for my Job.
I'll wholeheartedly become his pawn if needs be.
I steeled my selfless resolve and gave my affirmation.


...In reality, there was never any need for such a grim resolve.

I was in shock when I found out Hero-sama, Neora-san was actually a boy.
...There were times when I thought he'd make me his plaything since he would steal glances at my chest every now and then.
Yet, he's actually a late bloomer who hesitates to proactively form a relationship with someone.

He's candid and down to earth despite being a hero. He'd extend a helping hand to people in need even all while grumbling about it.
As I kept watching Neora-san, my goal changed from repaying my debt to wanting to become his strength on my own free will.

Ah, I'm thankful for Levia-san as well of course.
...But whenever I think about Neora-san, I don't know why but my chest feels stuffy yet warming and full of joy.
...Neora-san... I'm....


"But, boy oh boy, those things are massive."

"...What kinda food does one eat for those..."


...They started talking about that again while my thought was derailed.
Hyumlassa-san and Rasfin-san conversed with their sight directed at me... Please just let me go.


"Maybe the meals hero made? Ah, nah, can't be it."

"Hey, I saw you glancing my way, Hyula, you wanna have a go? I'll take you on!"


Levia-san got mad at Hyumlassa-san.
I think Levia-san's aren't exactly small either.


"O, ou, my bad, calm down now. But if it's a fight you want, a fight you get, I'm ready when you are. You girls seem to have gotten plenty strong 'fter all."

"Sweating up already right off the bath? You battle junkies."

"Wanna tag along too? Rasfi."

"No thank you. I need to save for tomorrow."

"Oh, let me be the stand in. I've still got plenty of energy left."

"Ou, that works. Let's get outta there and onto it!"

"Owawa!? H-hold it Hyula-san, let's take it easy for now, err, are you listening...?"

<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
Hyumlassa-san carried Reina-san off the hot bath.
I think she could use a bit more relaxation...


"Still, I can't believe how much stronger Levia and Alma have gotten in the short span I missed you two."

"...I mean, those two are prolly higher leveled than me yep. Your little sister needs to slow down in life."

"Hmph, what's you two's level now?"

"I'm 60."

"61."

"Six...!?"

"Y, you're already midway past Advanced Job...!?"


I understand their surprise after hearing Levia-san and Almatina-san's levels.
It's only been a year or two since their coming of age after all. Their growth is obviously abnormal.


"L-Levia, what kind of life have you been leading?"

"I've got the revival blessing as as a hero's companion so I've been going up against powerful beasts over and over again, getting revived again and again in the process."

"Getting revived...!? You can't mean!"

"...Yup. I've lost count how many times I died."

"I'm gonna wallop that girl-faced hero real hard. What does he think he's doing to my little sister...!"

"S-stop it! I volunteered to join Neora on my own, aware how dangerous the journey would be!"

"That's not the problem! He can't have been making you do all the dangerous work while he sits back and relaxes in the back, can he!?"

"No, the one who died most was Neora-san! We're still much better off than him okay!?"

"His tally must exceed thousands during our training with Sword King-sama and Archmage-sama and the Ruins of Trials alone..."

"E, eeh..."

"G, guy's got it real hard huh..."


The enraged Fifraila-san calmed down once we explained things to her.
...I get her. He never shows it on his face even though he's experienced worse pain (physically) than anyone else.


"So, how's Alma level even higher than these death-braving party of hero."

"You said it. I can't even see a trace of her from that time she was called a Failed Job..."

"I did my best to catch up to Hikaru and his incredible feats. I got like this before I realized."

"Ah, that dangerous old man huh... What's his level again anyway?"

"79."

"""Wha!?"""


Our surprised yelps echoed in the bath house.
Lv79 should be already in the realm of Special Job... Arriving at that domain in his 20s. Calling it abnormal doesn't even cut it.
I suppose this is expected of someone from Neora-san's world... I wonder what kind of haunted den is that world.


"B-but he was only Lv2 when we first saw him at Daijel. It's just weird..."

"Nah, considering that old man's ability, he's probably got a fake stats, no? I mean he even beat Hobgoblin to death bare handed."

"I guess you gotta be strong, like it or not, if you've been in that kind of monster's company. So tell me, how's it going with him?"

"? We get along well."

"No uh, I'm asking about your progress with him."

"..."


Almatina-san turned away and fell silent.
Looks like she doesn't want to talk about it.


"So you see, forget about baby making they haven't even kissed yet~."

"!?"


Someone joined the conversation from behind me.
It's Archmage-sama, Instructor Lunatiara. She's Almatina-san's mother... She's, pretty big herself.
She let her splendid objects float in the hot water and let out a sigh as Almatina-san glared at her.


"Please don't say anything weird."

"My oh my, mom's sorry. But it's been nearly a year since you met Hikaru-san, no? Isn't it about time you come out about your feelings?"

"...I'll be going on ahead."


Almatina-san got up the hot water and left the bath house like she was running away.
Her face is red, either from the heat or Archmage-sama's word.


"Arara, she got away ufufu."

"...Instructor, think you were being too direct."

"But, you know? I was just trying to enliven the conversation with a bit of love talk. Didn't expect her to be so vulnerable to it."

"...Serious talk, why did she choose that old man anyways."

"M-maybe she's into older men...?"

"Heck, that old man's got the will of steel if he's still keeping it clean... Or maybe he's just a dunce?"

"I think it's only a matter of time seeing them both though."


He's probably a late bloomer just like Neora-san.
I wonder if it's a trait shared between Japanese people.
...I could frankly say that I can understand Alma-san's feelings.


Here I'd have welcomed him anytime.


We'd have been in a much deeper relationship if only the rule that states men must propose didn't exist.
...I can't help myself slightly cursing the person who put forth this rule.


"Oh right, your party should take care if they're going to join the war, Fif-ane."

"We'll be fine... I dread the moment I have to join Kyano-ane though."

"Ah... My condolences."


Levia-san's eldest sister is apparently called 'Kyaranonno', she's also an Advanced Job.
...Seeing how hard Levia-san and Fifraila-san are shaking, she must be really scary.

Also, we've been told that Special Job holders from all over the world will join the mission this time.
It's hard to see us on the losing side if each and every one of those holders is as strong as our instructors.

And yet, I don't know why I can't expel this bad premonition I have.

I feel like I'm overlooking something about gathering all the powerful people in one place.
The only one who can concretely says what that is, is likely only that Kajikawa-san person.

...I wonder if we can truly put our trust on him.

Previous Chapter 

Next Chapter

599 Proactively Round and Round

"My what a surprise. I had no idea you were an accomplished food critic too Saito. Really, who are you? Mind telling me exclusively later?"

Selram got up her seat and snuggled against me.
Jido got mad at that.

"Hey! Quit acting so vulgar! What have I been telling you all this time!"

"Eeh? What's the harm. This is my weapon. How can a woman not use theirs in business? But it doesn't seem to have any effect on Saito. What a shame~ I'm losing confidence here, you know?"

She whispered in my ear which sent a shudder down my spine. There's no way it doesn't work.
Hence, I made a follow-up.

"No men can remain calm when a woman as attractive as Selram approaches them."

"My? But you... look calm in spite of your flattery. Fufufu."

Selram got off me with that. She immediately settled the bill with the manager in one swift motion. Pretty chic.

"It's my treat for you all. Aren't I generous?"

"Haa. I'm gonna pay mine though? I don't feel good owing you any favor."

"I shall bear my own bill as well. I may be under your protection, but letting my employer pay for me does not sit well with me."

Balga and Kyaro tried to decline.
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
"My, don't worry really. Both Bal and Kyaro won against your challengers, right? This is a celebration. Victory feast, see. You too, gramps. Besides, those with surplus money need to circulate them in the society or they rot."

Money makes the world go around. Not the money itself doing the work, but people gotta proactively do that.
Perhaps it's some sort of a self-imposed rule to her.
Well, some people are the type who loves treating others.

Thus ends the good meal. As we left the store undecided what to do next, Jido wanted home.

"I'm heading back. I must train to knock this guy off his high horse! Wait for it! Bal! I shall personally perform your last rite!"

Hmph! Jido snorted before making his way home.
Selram spoke after seeing him off.

"It's still a bit early, but let me see you to our inn. I'm sure you're gonna love it. Follow me, okay."

"I'll take my leave. I don't stay at her inn anyway. See you."

"My, Bal? Is there a need to get so high strung? Well, that's fine."

Thus, we took our own paths. I'm walking behind Selram.
Kyaro seems to be staying at the same inn, she's also with us.
This was when I finally noticed something important.

(Does Selram not need to work? She's been walking with us the whole day.)

My image of a merchant, a big one at that, is that of a person that's rooted to their desk with a pile of documents.
Selram doesn't look like one. But I opted to pay it no mind.

(It's not my place to worry about, not like it's something negative to me either.)

Then, I was led to an inn that makes you question if it's actually an Arabian palace.

Previous Chapter 

Next Chapter

Bath Before War - Men's Side

Splash

Hi hello. All male training members plus the old man, Alma Papa and even commander chief are currently washing up in the royal capital inn's bathhouse.
...So many super VIPs around me I'm gonna get a heartburn. How'd it come to this.


"Haa... This stuff goes straight into these old bones."

"Didja go on another rampage, geezer? Think of yer' age for a sec will ya."

"Right back atcha, all whipped up just from a day training. You hatchling got no backbones, Alan."

"Get off my back darnit, that old man's training just on a whole 'ther level. Ain't no way anybody still got energy left after that..."

"Hohou, pray tell what kind of training is that?"

"You get electrocuted through your hands in order to get stronger."

"What in the blaze..."


Aizawa-kun and the old man are having a heartwarming conversation like that of a grandfather and his grandson. Their tone might be a bit off though.
He looks the age when he's like this, but the gap between this and his usual antics is a bit...


"Ah, the water temp hits the spot. How many months since the last time I got in hot water I wonder."

"Kicking back like this is pretty nice every once in a while. I can feel my fatigue melting away."

"Alright. Baredo, let's go for another swim!"

"I ain't gonna! Haven't ya had enough already!?"


Radia-kun can't contain his excitement in this large bath. You're troubling other guests if you swim here, don't do it.
Apparently, he was down in the dump for a while after his run-in with his older brother (trash). I see that he's doing fine now.
I'm told He learned Mana and Energy Control the fastest among all training members. Sounds right considering he's the youngest with the lowest level.


"The sheer aura of two Sword Kings together is overwhelming..."

"Halved cause we're baring it all here."

"Look who's talking, haven't you just got Job Changed to Sword King the other day. Congrats."

"Ah, thanks. But y'know, I'm just a fledgling compared to you two. Still got nothing to back calling myself Sword King."

"Eh ye'll be fine. Keep swinging your sword for 50 years and you'll get there. I'm gonna get even stronger by then tho'. Fahaha!"

"...How long yer' plannin' to stick around anyway, geezer."

"Hm? I'm just starting up, what 'bout it?"

"Uh nah, forget 'bout it... I can picture ya actually pullin' that off, geezer."


Ganan-san and Alan-san had an animated conversation mixed with wry smiles with their forerunners. These guys really hit it off.
Alan-kun is actually quite the people's man surprisingly enough. His speech includes words you don't see people blurt out by mistake in professional world though.


Everybody is making merry, and then there's me and Hero-kun just existing quietly.
...I guess we're both bad in social settings. I don't think I can join in their conversation.

Or so I thought before Hero-kun spoke to me.
I must look like I'm taking a bath with a girl from the sidelines. But nope.


"Kajikawa-san, tomorrow we're going to war with demons."

"Hm, sure are."

"But y'know, why were 'Demons' and 'Demon King' even born anyway."

"Hm, they might be the accumulated forms of longstanding negative emotions of humans, or maybe..."

"Maybe?"

"The god let them come to be in order to cull out humanity, or something."

"...Figured."

<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
The total population in this world is at most 500 million even at the very height.
Each continent only has around a hundred million people. It's not even a tenth of earth's population.

Considering this planet has similar environment and surface areas as earth, and the amount of years human lived in this world, it's clearly unnatural relative to earth.
It's as if someone has been deliberately regulating population number so it won't ever exceed a certain threshold and eat up all resource.

The main cause of that is the existence of demons and demon king.
They come to be once population reaches around 500 million, and start slaughtering humans left and right.
By the time they're defeated by the hero, the population has already decreased to a certain amount, and humanity is free to multiply until the time another demon king is born again.

The history of people on this planet is a constant repeat of such.
Human never proliferate too much nor they go extinct.

This solution is quite violent yet it might be a necessary evil in order to maintain the world.
In fact, earth only has a few hundreds years left of natural resource due to overpopulation.
Wonder if earth lacks a deity that rules over this kind adjustment. Or maybe we've been left to our own devices cause it's a bother to this deity?


"That goddess leaves the impression of a serious and kind onee-san when I talked to her too. But this revelation makes me second guess myself."

"I mean she made that hero exclusive skill work like that and all. She might be the scheming type in reality."

"...You said it. Why'd she go and make the gender change by majority rule..."

"Cause she prefers it that way?"

"Yeah, that sounds the most plausible..."


Hero-kun soaked his face in the bath water and started making bubbles. That's bad manner, quit it.
What kind of goddess is she I wonder. I know she's a shotacon judging from Hero-kun's physique at least.
...No point mulling over this stuff, let's save it for later.

I ask Hero-kun who came out of the bath water.


"You've got the plan on continent 3 recapture and the subsequent demon king slaying mission down pat right?"

"Yea. But man, the last part of the plan is way too random, or more like kinda roundabout."

"I can't give the detail yet. But it's a necessary step. I understand that it sounds dubious, but please believe in me."

"...What if the people you added as allies turn out to be hyper baddies."

"Ah, according to Menu, Heroes can arbitrarily kick anyone out of their party."

"Well yeah, I guess we'd hit a dead end if not for that kinda safety measures."

"This is the best course of action my Menu and I came up after poring over all the information we have. Does your Menu have anything to add?"


A blue display window showed up in front of me.
The font it's using makes me think it's in a bad mood.


<<...Aren't you hiding something?>>

<<Affirmative. Divulging more than necessary may impede the stratagem. Therefore it is imperative to lock out a portion of intel.>>

<<Shouldn't you say you're not hiding anything even if it's a lie...?>>

<<Telling the truth in this juncture is deemed necessary to gain trust.>>

<<Sure... Just so you know, I won't forgive you if you prioritize Kajikawa-san's group you sacrifice Neora-san's group for your goal.>>

<<Hero Neora-kun has been acknowledged as an ally of Kajikawa Hikaru, therefore he is included in protective custody. Despite his revival ability, this recommended plan also contains consideration for his safety.>>

<<That means you could have acknowledged 'Those Two' as allies too from the start. Why delay it...?>>


The strategy I proposed to Hero-kun has Hero-kun, Leviara, Olivier as well as Alma and Reina in the final battle against Demon King.
With Heavenly Heroic Fusion and all kinds of powerful abilities like Energy Control and blade-related Skills, this plan has a good chance of working. It's absolutely not a kamikaze attack.

Reina would create an opening with Shadow Dive and Body-out-Body no Jutsu, Alma's Magic Sword would charge buffed Hero-kun's Dimensional Blade. Something like that should work well enough.
In short, we're gonna get Demon King's first form over and done with quickly by way of ambush.

I really hate the idea of leaving Alma and Reina with Hero-kun but there's no other way around if we wanna save the world.
It's only temporary until Demon King is defeated. I've made damn sure he understood that I'd personally pluck it off with my hands if he made a move on them.


Well, there's no way it'll go without a hitch though.


The actual plan is a bit more complex.
...I would love to avoid resorting to that if possible, but our hands are tied. Haa...


"Welp, I'm about done here. Neora-kun, which one you prefer, coffee milk or fruit milk?"

"Nn, fruit... You even made that stuff? You really love cooking don't you."

"Nah, I bought 'em."

"Where can you even buy those? Never seen those drinks here..."

"In Japan."

"...Eh."

"I found a door connected to Japan on Floor 21 the other day. Used the opportunity to buy all kinda stuff. I even got cup noodles and snacks."

"No frickin' waaaay!? Y, y, you're not kidding right? You, really went back to Japan!?"

"Yup. And I can always Fast Travel back now that I've gone there once."

"...Mind letting me go back and shop around too?"

"Not now. I'll take you there once Demon King is dead. Do your best."

"Hell, yeah! You promised! You're taking me back no matter what! You can't just die on me now, no seriously!"


...It kinda sounds like he's worried about me from the way he phrased it but this kid is probably entirely motivated by his desire.
Well, I get him. Even as someone who don't have a lot of lingering attachments to Japan, I still think about going back and make up for things I lacked. Chiefly foodstuff that is.

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598 Sweet Trap (Physically)

Sugar is said to cause addiction. Sweets can make people go mad.
I don't doubt that for a second cause sweets bring us bliss after all. It's only human to wish that bliss to last forever.
Is there anyone out there who willingly put themselves in a misery?
Right now, four people are lost in that bliss in the form of dessert. Balga, Selram, Kyaro, and me.
Only one among five of us is spooning the desert with a sullen look.

"Fumu, the smoothness alongside a mass of sweetness spread all over your mouth the moment you take a bite. That texture and this coldness help bolster it all the more on the tongue. Truly a mayhem."

This mass of sweetness refers to the generously poured honey. The texture comes from pudding.
I agree, it is a mayhem of sweet. A dash of aromatic sweet yet bitter taste would have perfected this harmony.

"Geez, gramps. You're never putting that overly analyzing bad habit of yours behind, are you."

Selram laughed. But not Jido.

"Do you guys realize the future that awaits you if you let yourself get taken over by this? Once in a while is fine but drop your guard even a bit and this thing's gonna put you somewhere you can never back out from."

Jido gulped a glass of water as if he was washing down a bad taste.
His focused expression made it look like he was undergoing an intense training.

"All that stuff is just ain't it over this feast, old Jido."

'Hahaha', Balga laughed. Kyaro smiled wryly too.

"I'd love it if it had the kind of flavor that would... like say, pull and bring together this mass of sweetness."

The lack of caramel made me blurt that out without thinking.
Old Jido sent a sharp glance as his reaction.

"Oy, youngster... Say, that again?"

What, did I step on his nerve or something?
But that wasn't it.

"Looks like we'll get along just swell, youngster. Kahahahaha!"

I was dumbfounded at Jido's sudden change of heart.
Nobody seems have a clue what prompted this change.

(What's this all about... I can't, man... Something's definitely brewing later...)

An individual came by out of nowhere.

"We are currently researching this flavor. Our head chef has yet to finalize which would that best be."

It was the manager. He came right as we were done eating.

"I eagerly await for your next visit to share your impression once it is done. Your input is very valuable to us."

He must have overheard us talking. Manager kept staring at me.

"Your impression almost mirrors that of our head chef's. Would you be willing to divulge more as a reference?"

I don't really have a reason to refuse this. But I have a feeling saying caramel outright is a no go so I went in a roundabout way.
Nothing wrong with helping make good food. But I just know referencing the thing directly will open a bigger possibility to cause a mess later.
I gotta avoid that. I have to wrack my brain to do this. I've never written a single food critic after all.

"Err? Nothing but sweet in the mouth makes it feels sticky. So, ah? How about something more savory, a pleasant kind of bitterness that's not just sweet? Like something that brings everything together as a whole."
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
A weird silence ruled the room after I said my piece.

(What's with this mood! Hey! No way! Why're you all staring at me!?)

Awkward, a super awkward mood is concentrated on me. Give me a break.
The one who broke this silence was a man in an apron, apparently the head chef himself.

"Ma! Magnificent! Your impression is simply a perfect pitch! I can finally see the final form at last! Thank you! I have to test this, pronto!"

He must have been secretly listening to us outside. He left as quickly as he came. Like a storm that passed by in mere seconds.

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Today's Youth and Their Short Temper

I barely managed to block the two's Sword Kings' fierce assault.
That said, the sheer power behind their coordinated attack really showed how they managed to fight Demon King.


"What's wrooong! Think yer' hot enough to beat Demon King with this crap huuuh!"

"Uh no, that's the hero's job! Sort out Neora-kun first, not me!"

"Neora-kun's and his group are currently busy leveling up. They're going around making a mess out of S-rank magic beasts territories. Also serves to test his new hero exclusive skills or something."


Dangitalll! Why now of all time!
...I mean uh, I guess we do need him to get as many level as he can considering what's coming.


"Fumwu, blocking mine and this guy (Duke)'s attacks huh. Yer' pretty dang good. Heard you're Alan's love rival and whatnot, guy might be biting more than he can chew..."

"Hahaha, you must be jesting Spadia-sama, none of these two is at all worthy to have my daughter hahahahaha."

"Quit laughing dryly with your eyes rolled back. It's disgusting."


Thanks to the old man's needless remark, Alma Papa's attack got thrice more intense. Who you calling a love rival.
This old man must did it on purpose, yep he must. You really want to see me get killed by Alma Papa huh, dangit.
...I should talk about that, would work to get us off this topic too.


"Speaking of which, heard you two have gone to Floor 21 as well. What did you bring back? Any item that might be useful against Demon King."

"Ah, sorry, but I have zero thing that can be of use in battle. In fact, I'm struggling to think up one good use for them..."

"Like say? They might work in an unexpected way."

"Uumu, 'A mysterious pill that makes one swap gender for 24 hours once', or 'A pouch that turns potatoes into sweet potatoes at equal mass inside'. I dunno how's that gonna work against Demon King...?"

"...Um yeah, forget I asked."


...Hero-kun would love that pill for his fusion but who knows what kind of side effects it'd have. I should keep quiet.
Would be disastrous if he can't get back to his original gender after they undid the fusion or something.


An hour later, Alma's side is losing steam.
Any more than this is gonna negatively aspect tomorrow, we should quit while we're ahead.
...Or so I told them but the old man's kept going on about wanting to continue. How much energy you got anyway...


"Fuhahaha! Knock me out cold if you wanna make me quit! Either that or you gotta play with me till I'm outta stamina!"

"Uh, why'd you spend all your stamina when tomorrow's the big day. Go on and beat all those demons out there if you wanna let out some steam."

"Nay! You're much more worthy to grapple against!"

"...Hikaru-kun, what would you do? Doesn't look like Spadia-sama is willing to relent."

"Maybe I should just Fast Travel away--"

"And make us deal with a grumpy Spadia-sama? Give us a break..."

"You two brought him here. He's in your hands now."

"I heard you lot. Go on and run, I'll get you continue our match during the war."


The old man thrust his sword between Alma Papa and me while we were whispering. Quit it, that's dangerous.
Urgh, who knows how he's gonna respond if I run now. What do...


"Ah right, it don't have to be you. I could always have those girls fight me."


Wha?


"Spadia-sama..."

"Yeah, I'd go and cut that black haired girl. She's good enough to take Morittz down a peg or two. Let's see which arm can I cut off first."

"Please wait! I won't let that slide even against you Spadia-sam--"


He's gonna what? Cut, Alma's arm. Off? Hahaha, oh I see.



"Die, geezer."

"!!?"


I briefly buffed my Attributes to 20000 and punched the geezer.


"Kuh! ...Whaa!?"


He blocked my fist with his sword on reflex but who cares.
I crushed his sword with my hand and swung my fist at his face--


"Hikaru!!"


!


My fist stopped a moment before it reached his face.
I might have punched him to death if Alma didn't shout.


"Hikaru, don't. He'd die, if that hit."

"S-sorry, all the blood went up my head..."

"I'm happy for your concern but you can't go all out against allies... You're probably stronger than anybody now, Hikaru, but that also makes you more dangerous than anyone if you lose control. Calm down."

"...Yup. Spadia-sama, my apologies. Are you hurt?"

"N, nah, my bad for dangling that girl m'self... Duke, your pupil's a monster among monsters. His strength rivaled that of Demon King just now."

"Indeed... I never would have imagined he'd get this strong."


The old man and Alma Papa smiled wryly. They were surprised at my sudden lost of temper.
...I really gotta fix my bad habit of losing all reasons when it comes to Alma's safety.

Ten minutes are probably my limit against Demon King.
And that's against his first form. I have zero chance if he gets serious... I'm counting on you, Hero-kun.


"And the grit to put a stop to that, that girl is also something else... It's impossible for Alan-kun..."

"Mwu... He needs Alma more than Alma needs him, it seems... But no, I cannot be lax on this *mutter mutter*..."


The two Sword Kings are muttering out loud with a conflicted look. Old man aside, what's Alma Papa even saying?
...Let's just leave them alone and go home.

Ah, Morittsugeito-san, wakey wakey. Why are you passed out anyways.
Heck, everybody else looks just as exhausted. Is the war tomorrow gonna be okay? I told you to keep in moderation over and ov--




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


I went to our inn and straight to bathroom to wash up.
The biggest inn in the capital's fame isn't just for show. Its public bath boasts the capacity of nearly a thousand people. It's practically a pool.
I usually only shower but there's no harm in taking it easy and dip in the hot water every once in a while.


There's quite a few of people already even though it's still midday.
They could be people like us, wanting to wipe off all that training sweat.


"Oh damn! Look at it Baredo, this bath's huge enough to swim in!"

"Quit jumping around you! Hey, wash your body first before you dip in, dangit!"


A green haired kid is frolicking around while swimming in the hot bath. Not like I don't get the sentiment.
But you still gotta wash up first, Radia-kun.


"O, oy oy, missy! This side's for men, ya know!? Go over there for the ladies!"

"I'm a man, goddangitaaaaaaaaall!!"


...I can tell who's making a racket as they enter even without looking. You're looking too purdy, Hero-kun.
Guess Hero-kun just got back from leveling? Might as well discuss about tomorrow in the bath.
Heck, those guys around Hero-kun are all acting weirdly. Why'd they all slouch down...?

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597 Time of Blissful Meal

"How fare you Selram? I trust you are doing well. Kyaro, do you plan to enter the tournament? Pray you do not get matched up with me. We'll meet at the final if you can keep your streak."

"Oh gramps, you really can't help running your mouth, can you. I'll do everything in my power to ensure my cutie pie's victory. Just wait for it."

Selram laughed off Jido's word. Looks like her namesake for him isn't just out of respect.
They're real grandpa and grandchild. And they haven't seen each other for quite some time it seems.

"You, the youngster over there. Who are you? Why is someone like you here?"

There's a nuance in his speech that implies he knows about 'Black Clad' and not just because I'm a stranger.
I could tell he's super wary of me as well.

"Old Jido, this young man is my friend. He's Saito. Didn't I mention it on our way here? Have you finally gone senile?"

"Shut it! Balga! Are you making light of me after just triumphing once!? I'll get back at you this grand rally! Your neck is mine for the taking!"

"Oh man, you sure can talk about some real scary stuff, old Jido. Think about your age."

"I don't need your pity! I'll pay you back for that humiliation! I'm winning next time!"
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
"Err, forgive my late introduction. As Balga mentioned, I am Saito. Pleased to make your acquaintance."

I interrupted their comedy skit and bowed.
With a business smile mask I learned from my previous life.
Jido put on a bitter look on his face.

"Hmph... I see you can behave. Your countenance don't look wicked either at the very least. Don't you dare bring harm to my grandchild or I shall personally deliver your just dessert."

"Gramps! You're being rude! Why are you like this to someone you just met. It's not like you at all, gramps. What's wrong?"

"Don't you realize? ...Well fine. You'd better off not knowing. Come, let's have our meal."

He's so obviously in the know about 'Black Clad'.
My wariness is rising up inwardly. With Jido in the mix, there's an even greater chance of unnecessary events coming up.

But all my anxiety was blown away by the food that got brought in.
I think it's a full course? Colorful dishes with stimulating aroma that spreads joy inside the mouth.
I forgot about all my problems as I relished on more and more unfamiliar food that kept getting served. Then it was over.
There's so many new types of umami I never tasted in my life, it made me lose myself.
I lack the vocabulary to express the sheer deliciousness of it all. Awe is all I had left.
Selram looked satisfied to see my reaction.

"Huhum, what do you think Saitou? The taste of my most favorite restaurant. It's so good right? Time flies by when you have at them."

It sure is, so much so I forgot about all my problems.
The waiter brought in the dessert. You really can never have enough sweets.
The golden colored, honey, I think? revived my appetite.
Dunno if the same honey exists in this world though.
It's generously poured on top of a lustrous white pudding-like object.

Nobody could afford to even talk while we worked on the food.
As if overturning that, Balga, Kyaro and Selram lightly yelled 'I've been waiting for this' in unison right as this dish got carried in.

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Great War Before Demon War

"This training ground is for soldier use not magic artillery. How did this happen?"

"My apologies. We got a bit carried away during a practice match."

"A bit...? ...Sorry but we cannot afford further damage. I understand you're brimming with enthusiasm right before the big battle, but take it outside the capital if you want to go wild."


Anti-demon Army's Commander in chief, Morittsugeit-shi spoke to me with his finger on his brows.
I really am sorry about this. Thankfully nobody got injured, the silver lining.


Initially I was going to do our practice outside town, but the girls suggested we go to this training ground instead. Oh, I'm not blaming them or anything.
Apparently, some military men and adventurers gathered here don't like my sudden promotion to Rank S.
My scuffle with the commander the other day also helped stoked the fire, so in order to avoid more trouble in the future, they suggested I should show off somewhat.

...And then, we brought that trouble upon ourselves.
I really don't care if anyone wants to complain, just let them be. But there's no guarantee they won't come looking for trouble with us so I reluctantly agreed to train somewhere crowded, only to end up like this.


"...Guess we should call it a day."

"It hasn't even been a minute since we started..."

"We didn't get enough training at all."

"Cause you girls went for that finishing move right off the bat. Hiyoko especially, wait for your punishment later."

『Cluck!?』

"'Why?' you ask, of course it's warranted. How many lives you think would be lost if that hit the residential area. Several hundreds would be optimistic. I know you were eager to show off your training result, but you clearly went overboard there, you fool."

『C, cluuuck...』


Hiyoko put on a dejected look while making a pitiful sound. I feel sorry for her but this is one thing I won't back down.
We're gonna fight in a group, there's no taking back if that move hit allies by mistake.
Hiyoko could end up getting treated as an ally killing magic beast and hunted down for it. I have to be stern.


"...Gotta say that move looks pretty awesome. Nullifying enemy ranged attacks and shooting it back at them many times more powerful. Use it as much as you want against demons, just be careful you don't hit friendly units."

『C, cluck.』

"I'll let you off the hooks with ten servings of spicy curry for lunch. Make sure you reflect on it, you hear me?"

『Cluck!』

"Does eating curry count as a punishment? Feels more like a reward to me."

"Wanna try a bite later, Reina? That stuff's spiciness is on another level even just by second bite."

『Clu...!?』

"Why'd you cook that..."


I didn't make that stuff, bought them in Japan.
Also bought lots of things you can't get here. Like sushi, snacks, instant stuff (etc).



In the end, we're resuming our practice outside the capital. Should've done this from the start, sheesh.
Now then, let's get this show back on the road... Or so I wished.


"Why's the commander-in-chief here again?"

"Oh, I thought of having a little warm up before the real thing against those demons. You look like you'd be fine even if I go all out, let me join in the fun."


The commander chief of Anti-demon Army followed us here for some reason. Uh, what about your duty?
Don't tell me he's here to shirk from his tasks.


"I have done everything that needs to be done for the war. The final check will be held tonight, I am free until that point."

"Oh okay. Then it's our party versus commander in chief."

"Oy wait, that's too much even for me."


I mean you're joining us uninvited, gotta bear that brunt at least.
Heck, us against this old chief alone is one thing...


"Hey now, Hikaru-kun, that's taking it too far, don't you think."

"Ufufu, that's our cue to join in. Moritz-san, we'll support you."

"...Why, are you two here?"

"Oh you know, just a little outing to check on the newest trekker of Floor 21 (that hell). Exceed our expectations, will you."


Alma's parents are here too. Where'd they spring out from.
Heck, please don't put that pressure on me. My level went up a bit sure yeah, but most of the stuff I brought back are still being worked on.
The only usable items I have now are stuff like Analysis Filters and Meat-Severing Kitchen Knife.

A burly brawny old man spoke up behind the parents while I was thinking.
Those are some muscles alright... Reminds me of Spada geezer.


"Oy, Duke, lemme have a go first. This guy looks like a toughie."

"And that gentleman would be?"

"Ah, he's Sword King 'Spadia'-sama. He's my and Alan-kun's master--"

"『Spada』!?"

<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
I yelled out reflexively since the burly old man in front of me was the spitting image of geezer.
No wait, the pronunciation sounds off. Kinda native-ish.


"Nay, it's 'Spadia'. My name comes from from Spada indeed. Being mistaken for the legendary swordsman is quite an honor, hahaha."

"Legendary, swordsman? That geezer?"

"Who you callin' a geezer! I'mma fix that foul mouth of yer!"

"Y-you've got it wrong! I'm talking about Spada himself!"

"Fool, that figure hailed from an era hundreds of years in the past! You won't fool me speaking like you met him for real!"

"P-please wait a moment... Hikaru-kun, did you meet him, on Floor 21?"


Alma Papa stopped the enraged old man and asked me.
Ah man, explaining is a pain...
Heck, what about our practice match. Look, even the commander chief seems confused with conversations he can't keep up.


Anyways, I told them how I met Spada geezer on Floor 21 and the fact that he was the previous life of current Demon King, Hero Soma Ryuta.
The old man looked simultaneously surprised and like something finally clicked.
He seriously believed that tall tale just like that...?


"Mwu, your story doesn't make a lick of sense, and yet... I see, those refined moves were that of hero Souma and the legendary swordsman, Spada...!"

"That does explain why we failed to measure up. Can't believe Spada and the past hero were one and the same."

"Ah, right you all fought Demon King recently... Almost hard to believe you managed to get out alive."

"We almost certainly did not. I shiver at the thought of Black Dragon and Spadia-sama failing to make it in time."

"We were completely outclassed despite all that buffs from those guys and girls... Our Attributes must have reached 15000 back then."


I mean yeah, Demon King's strength is just that crazy. I'm actually shocked they even managed to put up a fight when their stats were below him. Nothing less to expect from Alma's parents.
I fell in despair when Menu showed me Demon King's Status. It's just, so dumb. How is that real. Think of the balance, dangit.

That's why I resorted to teaching Mana and Energy controls despite the risk, thought up ways to use Hero party on top of many other plans.
Getting in touch with these veterans is part of the plans too.


I acquired 'Marking Function' alongside Fast Travel when I reached Level 40.
By marking someone I've met at least once, I can tell wherever they are.
My Map Screen expands the more they move around. However, Fast Travel can only be used to a location I've physically been to.

Menu advised me to mark as many powerful individual as I could.
Apparently Menu is prohibited from disclosing unacquired Functions but a Function I'll get at Lv80 will make good use of these marks.
Strong fighters from all over the world will gather for the operation recapture Continent 3 including Special Job holders and I plan to meet and mark as many as possible using that chance.


"Well, enough talk. Let's get down to business, youngster!"

"Owa! No signal, really!?"


The geezer slashed at me while I was lost in thought.
...His name isn't the only thing similar, even his behavior resembles that Spada (that geezer).

Checking his stats shows his level, 101.
The highest among all humans I've met. This guy's one incredible old man.


"Here we go~ 'Chtuga'."

"H-hold on! We're at a huge disadvantage here! With Spirits in the mix, your side's got both the number and firepower on top!"

"No but~!"


Alma Mama summoned an Advanced Spirit while simultaneously attacking with Offensive Magic, like usual.
Oh crap, she got overexcited she forgot to hold back!


"Hiyoko-chan! Suck in and shoot back!"

『Cluuuuu....! Cluuuuuuuuuuck!!!』


Just like our spar earlier, Hiyoko sucked in Alma Mama's magic and shot it back as a mass of mana.
Alma Mama narrowly dodged it with 'Ground Shrink'. Her face lacks the usual composed expression.
The attack hit the ground and formed a crater 100m in diameter...Thank goodness that never popped at the capital.


"Kyaaaaaaaa!? W-when did you learn that move, Hiyoko-chan...?"

"We're not gonna keep taking it lying down forever! 【Body-out-Body no Jutsu】!"

"! Clones, no, they're all real...!?"


Reina went for Alma Mama's vitals with her clones, no, body-out-body art.
Seven bodies plus one real Reina rushed in at her.
Unlike clones, all of those seem to have physical forms... Is she the blond protagonist of a certain ninja manga?


"'Laser Blade'."

"Unuaa!? B-blade made of light? It's so fast, and heavy...!!"


On the other hand, Alma is fighting on par, no, slightly pushing the commander chief.
That's her new magic sword huh... The force must have led her to that blade.
It seems to have the traits of both 'Burner Blade' strength and 'Storm Sword' speed.
...She's reliable but it kinda makes me scared of finding out her other new magic swords.


"Hey hey! Think ya could afford to look away, youngster!"

"Whoopsie, nay, that won't get me!"

"Fumu, you really have gotten quite stronger after overcoming Floor 21, I see. Allow me to join the fray."

"Eh, wait what!?"


Wait a minute, fighting against two Sword Kings at once is too much.
Isn't this supposed to be a light spar, we gotta prepare for tomorrow you know... Oh okay, you're just gonna ignore me huh.

I'm gonna get killed before the actual war at this rate.
...Actually, go train the hero, not us. He's still way too weak for the upcoming battle.
Whether we could defeat Demon King or not hinges on Hero-kun getting enough level ups during the upcoming war.

If he didn't reach a certain threshold, the battle against Demon King would get much harder.
I might have to reconsider how to allocate Resource.

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