Sousetsuka

17-2. Garden Party (1)

 

※[Garden Party] has been split into two parts as it exceeded 8000 characters

Satou here. During my parents generation, it was apparently normal to hold a wedding in a wedding hall with extravagant full course meal.
I had a chance to attend a friend's wedding where we had a stand up buffet in a garden party after the ceremony in a wedding chapel was held. Maybe it can't be compared to an extravagant full course meal, but I remember very much enjoying the freedom to chat with both my friends and their relatives.



◇



"--Phew, finally got a breather."

I'm finally done with greeting people.

Once we were done with the parade which came after the formation of private knights, we were invited to a huge garden separate from the ceremony venue, to be the main guests of honor of a garden party sponsored by the royal family.
I thought that a garden party would mean pleasant chats, sumptuous snacks, and a time to enjoy all kinds of games--.

But I was given no time to enjoy any of that as I got swarmed by an awful amount of nobles trying to greet me.

"Ahaha, that's just how it is for the guests of honor."
"I couldn't have managed it all if Mito didn't took over half of them, you really saved me there."

The greeting probably would have continued until dark if Hikaru didn't take it upon herself to deal with half.

"Satou-san, Mito-san, would you like some fruit water."
"Thank you, Zena-san."

I drenched my throat with the fine grape water Zena-san brought us.

"Meat~?"
"We secured meat from the whole roast for Master's portion nodesuyo."
"Thanks, you two."

I had to suddenly deal with the nobles while I was enjoying the whole roast Oumi cow with Pochi and Tama earlier, hence the two secured some for me.

After patting Tama's and Pochi's head, I accepted the roasted meat on a plate.
The well done roasted meat is already delicious in itself, yet the salty-sweet sauce topping on it brings forth the meat's savoriness multiple folds. It's really good.

"Mushrooms, good."

This time, Mia brought skewers of colorful mushrooms with her.
They look pretty poisonous but apparently they're all just normal mushrooms despite the colors.

"This is good, Mia."
"Nn."

Mia nodded satisfyingly.

When I handed over the plate to a nearby maid after I was done with the meal, someone called for me from behind.

"Congratulations for the formation of your private knights, Sa--Earl Pendragon-sama."

As I turned around while thinking 'there's more?'--the daughter of Viscount Emlin, Rina Emlin, who had been working as a governor rep of Brighton City, and also a member of the private knights stood there.

She was still a kid when we first met, but now she looks more grown up than her age would suggest.

"For someone of my standing to be included in the glorious Bridal Knights--it's, um, the greatest honor!"

Looks like Miss Rina is feeling nervous, she's stuttering her words.

"What are you saying! It's all thanks to Rina-chi managing Brighton that Master could go around freely. Stop belittling yourself with 『Someone of my standing』."

Arisa who slyly hugged my arm chided Miss Rina.

"Nn, good girl."

Mia took my other free arm.

When they're taking the same pose like this, Arisa's growth becomes evident. Arisa who was about the age of an upper grade elementary school student is now about middle school--or not quite, but she's gotten bigger for sure.
Pochi and Tama are gradually growing up as well, but their growth seems slower than ordinary beastkin, perhaps it's a side effect from having too much strength points from level ups.

Whoops, more importantly, I've gotta say my thanks to Miss Rina first--.

"These two are right. It's thanks to Rina-san's effort that Brighton City is seeing better progress than I and Marquis Muno expected."
"Oh not at all! I didn't do much! It's all thanks to everyone at Echigoya Firm and officials."
"And they only come together so well due to the governor rep! Just take pride in your amazing work!"

Arisa whacked the sheepish Miss Rina's back like some encouraging Osaka-borne grandma.
Since Miss Rina asked for my opinion on the matter, "Is that really true?" with upward glances, I smiled and nodded back at her, "Quite so."
Then Miss Rina smiled proudly with a tinge of red on her cheeks.

"Satou-sama, give us your praises too, see we're in our finest attires here."

The pink haired Princess Menea came bringing along Elina and newbie-chan, lady Karina's escort maids with her.
This is the first I've seen Princess Menea in armor, it looks unexpectedly well on her.

There were many opinions about including her as a member, but after considering the fact that she's one of the few people who see eye to eye with Lady Karina, that she has a Gift of summoning magic worth to nurture, and that she's a royalty of Rumooku Kingdom where the Shadow Castle resides, her entry was decided.
Since the Shadow Castle seems like to be a place deeply connected to Demon God, there's a good chance I'm gonna pay it some visits in the future.

"Yes, it really suits you well. You too Elina and Totona, you look fantastic as well."
"Thank you, Satou-sama."
"Ehehe~, yer' making me blush."
"T-thank you so much! I'm really happy!"

Each had their reaction when I praised them as requested.
Seeing that, all members of the golden and silver knights gathered here.

"Master, I too wish for your praise so I inform."
"Masita, me too~"
"Masita... If you could give me as well."

I praised the girls' gallantly cute figures in their armor one by one and enjoyed the garden party together.

Looks like the host knew about their preference, there were lots of meat and sweets dishes.
Most of the dishes Liza recommended me, "This is good", were good. Since this party is attended by nobles, it appears that they're not serving meat tough enough to feel like it'd break your teeth, which is Liza's favorite.
I stopped eating after having enough as to not get myself too full for other dishes, then I tried Chinese-style Yamu Cha Lulu recommended me, and sweets so sweet it felt like my teeth were melting recommended by Mia and Arisa.


<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>
◇



"Quite a harem you got there, Satou."

The one that came while spouting a misunderstanding-inviting remark was Lady Ringrande Oyugock, the [Witch of Sky Breaker] and a former attendant of Hero Hayato.
Lady Maryest the great mage of Saga Empire and the little sister of late Saga Empire's emperor followed after her.

"--Ane-sama."

Sera who's standing next to me looks hesitant.
It seems like she's still not good at dealing with Lady Ringrande, her elder sister, like always.

Since the elder sister in question loves Sera herself, she hugs and greets her candidly, "I'm back Sera."

"Ringrande-sama, and your highness Maryest. Have things settled down at Saga Empire?"
"Yes, thanks to the high speed airship loaned by you Earl Pendragon, I was able to finally get those provincial governors and personages off their heavy rears."

I'm told that the two got their dress armor as well, but due to the partial destruction of Saga Empire, they had departed together for Saga Empire.
Normally, it wasn't Imperial Princess Maryest's job to take care of since she had distanced herself from Saga Empire, but in a situation where most of the imperial family and important personages of the empire had been lost, she couldn't bear to leave the troubled refugee at the imperial capital alone.

"Oh my, welcome back."

Arisa noticed the two and went to talk to them.

"Maybe we should have delayed the private knights formation if we knew you'd be back this quick."
"We would have taken longer to go back if we went by the plan. It can't be helped. Besides, if I stayed there any longer, it felt like they would make me a new emperor, so I hastily made my way back here."

Due to the sharp decrease of members of royalty and nobles at the capital city, regional nobles who had left the capital are probably trying to amass their influence quick now. The political situation there is probably going to get stormy for a while.

"Won't they try to take you back?"
"There's still a few surviving male members of royalty even if they're positioned low in the succession rights ladder, it should be fine. Some idiots are even trying to make Trimenus a puppet ruler over me, my head hurts."

According to the crown prince Soltrick, the candidate of his eldest son's fiancee, the late Saga Empire emperor's eldest daughter, princess Trimenus has been shutting herself in her room ever since the news about the disaster at the imperial capital perpetrated by Goblin King broke out.
It's understandable considering she has just lost her parents and many of her siblings.

Well, that applies to Princess Maryest as well though.

"Mary, save that for later, don't forget the congratulations."

Lady Ringrande tapped Princess Maryest who was holding her head.

"Satou, congratulations for the formation of your private knights."
"Oh that's right. Congratulations Earl Pendragon."
"Thank you."

I bowed back to them.

"Hey hey, so you two have received the dress armor I sent you right, tried changing into it yet?"
"Yes--True, I should change into that as I'd rather the fact be well known. How about you Rin?"
"If Mary is changing, I'm changing too."

The two agreed to Arisa's suggestion.

"If I promote to people here that I'm one of Satou's mistresses, I'm sure to get a lot less marriage proposals."

Lady Ringrande said that jokingly.

"It's not mistresses, it's members of private knights."

I corrected her since this is important.

"Right, right. Members it is."

Please stop putting on that, "Geez, oh you Satou", face.



◇



"Your highness Maryest, how is the situation at Saga Empire currently?"
"There was a chaos, but it had quieted down in all cities besides the capital when the news about present heroes beating the demon lords and 『Goblin Demon Lord』 at the capital became known."

Princess Maryest who had changed into her dress armor replied to Princess Sistina.

"We owe everything to Hero Nanashi and the Golden Knights. You have my gratitude."

Imperial Princess Maryest made a respectful bow in a female royalty fashion after looking at Hikaru and us.
Even though there are only us four around here right now, a rustle erupts from other people who are looking from afar.

Looks like these two have noticed the fact that we're the real identity of Hero Nanashi and the golden knights.

"Then you'd better thank Hero Nanashi and the Golden Knights, not us."
"I suppose that's right. I have to remember to express my gratitude the next time we meet."

Imperial Princess Maryest readily nodded at Hikaru.

"Besides, I heard Hero Seigi and Hero Yuuki played a role in the demon lords' subjugation at the capital."
"Yes, they were working hard helping to remove debris and calming the refugee even while complaining when I arrived there."

That sounds just like those two.

"Was it really that bad at the capital?"
"Yes, it suffered a crippling damage, however since they didn't find any more people squashed under wreckage, and the bigger debris had all been removed, I am sure that it will return to its former state in a few years time."

I helped with that when I dropped by the capital.
It took me half a day, but doing it the normal way would have taken quite a toll after all.

"Still..."

With a glass of red wine in her hand, Lady Ringrande murmured as if she recalled something.

"To think the 『Goblin Demon Lord』 that was defeated by the First Generation Hero was revived."
"Yes... For the three great demon lords to have been resurrected, it's as if the 『End of the World』 has begun, I don't like it."

Princess Maryest uttered some ominous sounding words.
Please stop raising such a dangerous flag that sounds like it could happen for real.



※ Next update is planned for 2/17







Previous Chapter

6


'Okay then, let's get to work', Shira said that, asked Jericho to bring out four barrels and put the herbs inside those barrels.

"Now Jericho, you stay in the house. Lecan, you come over here."

Shira went to the storage room before going to her private room at the farthest end of the house. The four barrels are floating after her.

In a fairly small room lay a conspicuously big bed.

"Okay, now get to the back more. Make some space in front of the door."

The two huddled together as they moved next to the bed, then the bed suddenly floated away blocking the door.

A huge rectangular hole showed up on the ground after the bed had moved.

"We're getting down."

Shira stepped her foot on an empty space as she said that.

Having no choice, Lecan followed after her.

He's floating instead of falling.

Then they descended.

Shira must have casted <Light (Teraparm)> spell. The huge pit is brightly lit.

They descended quite far down.

"We made it."

The surrounding area was suddenly filled with lights.

It was a huge basement. 50 steps wide, and around 70-80 steps long. In other word, this basement is as big as the whole house and the poisonous plant garden above the surface.

The 24 apparatuses giving off lights on the ceiling are probably magic tools. Each one of them is emitting a bright light.

"What are those shining things?"

"Oh they're magic lamps. They emit light when you supply them with mana. Still, I went all the trouble to show you this secret basement and got no reaction from you. That sure surprised me instead."

"I knew that there was a huge basement beforehand."

"Ooh right, you can detect stuff with your ability."

"No. I already knew before detecting anything."

"Hee? How come?"

"That chimney is way too big for that fireplace. It's positioned oddly as well."

"Haha. I guess that's right. You've got quite some powers of observation there."

This huge basement feels more like some kind of laboratory than a workshop. There's lots of utensils of unknown purpose here and there.

"The air's so dusty here."

Shira shook her forefinger as she said that. Then the wind blows. The huge hole below the bed also functions as a ventilation it seems.

There's a hearth with a huge pot on it under the chimney. Shira poured water into the pot with magic.

"Water produced by <Origin Water> of creation magic is pure water of magical origin, you see. I call it Pure Magic Water. Although a bit lavish it may be, boiling herbs in it will afford you the best medicine. By the way, if you want to make healing magic water, you cast Body type <Recovery> magic or Sacred type <Purification> into the pure magic water and then mix in some herbs. Depending on the type of herbs mixed in, the kind of medicine it will turn out will differ as well, it could be for healing wounds, illness or restoring stamina. Though in actual practice, you'd want to say, put on disinfectant on wound or use specific remedy intended for that particular illness to go along with them. Were a priest who can use the highest form of <Recovery> put it in undiluted form Pure Magic Water, the result would be a medicine capable of healing any wound no matter how fatal. It can only hold such a strong effect for one day though."

Afterward, Shira put herbs while casting <Recovery> magic in it.

Ordinarily, you put magic gems along with catalyst during this stage of magic potion production, but in reality, putting in herbs while repeatedly casting <Recovery> would result in a better effect instead, so Lecan was told.

Shira skilfully continued with the work while explaining the steps to handle herbs.

Lecan labored busily following Shira's instructions, but even while his body was moving about, he made careful observations on things like fire adjustment, or the way to pour magic.

By daytime, it was a break time, and Shira lifted Lecan up to the surface. She would watch over stuff below, she said.

Above ground, Lecan heated up tea and ate some light meal he had put in <Storage>.

Eventually Shira called for him, so he went down again. They brought another four barrel worth of herbs.

He had to rely on Shira to move the bed and went down the basement every time. Indeed, he has great need to learn <Move> and <Float> fast.

His next work was mincing and mashing herbs. Lots of steam rose up from the pot. Shira announced that they were finished for the day when it was still unexpectedly early.

"Now then, we're putting out the hearth's fire for now. We're also done with other works for the time being. Meaning it's a good time as any to practice some magic."

Lecan learned <Move> that day. It wasn't going too well at first, but in the end he managed to roll an empty barrel around.

"Alright. Once you've learned this, the rest should come quick. You've got a stupid amount of mana and all, make use of it to practice a lot."

It was evening when he left Shira's house.

Lecan went back to his room at the inn and continued to cast <Move>.

The next day, he resumed the herb making work. While concurrently practicing magic.

He got the pass with <Move> in three days, and four days with <Float>. Afterward, Lecan moved the bed out of the way and floated down the hole himself. Moving objects wasn't that hard, but moving his own body required a delicate handling, he felt like he would immediately crash down the instant he lost focus.

The medicine making also began for real.
<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>
Ratio and process to mix, and effects of completed medicines were explained to him, Lecan busily wrote it all down during noon break.

Despite using so many herbs, they're not making that many kinds of medicines.

Since the finished medicines are intended to be mixed with other raw materials depending on the illness, to raise the healing efficacy.

First one done was wound salve. It took them two days.

Three kinds of herbs can be used to make wound salve. The first one is Cula Grass that can be picked during the first to second month, the second one is Krussim Grass that can be picked during the fourth and fifth month, and the last is the Pourika Grass that can be picked during the eighth to ninth month. Any one of these herbs can be used as the main raw material, you boil them with other secondary herbs and then pulverize it into powder.

When you sell it to pharmacies, they will mix it with powder of other less effective herbs before selling it. With a variety of combinations, those pharmacies mix it into several types of salve, from the most expensive to the cheapest. And then buyers will boil a small dose of the powder in water before applying it to the affected part.

This time they're making powder made of Cula Grass. Lecan obtained a huge amount of the finished product. He can use it to make an even more effective medicine if he's able to produce Pure Magic Water himself later in the future, moreover, if he learns <Recovery>, he can make high grade medicine by using <Recovery> on the powder.

Next, they finished making medicine for stomachache, and medicine for chest pain, both in form of pills.

Pharmacies sell these by crushing them into powder and mix it with lesser herb powder, but they also sell it in its pill form to guests of honor. Of course, it's expensive and only a few could afford it.

One time, Lecan asked.

"Shira. You remember about the magic list you gave me the other day, are you able to use everything in it."

"Well now, I wonder about that. I don't recall everything I wrote in there, but I can tell you that I cannot use <Purification> spell of sacred magic. Other than that, think I can manage those magic."

"Impressive. What kind of magic is <Purification>.

"I suppose you could say that it's a magic that cleanses out the evil and the corrupted. It works on most illness, including poison and abnormal status. As <Purification> contains strong divine protection of God, it exhibits similar effect to that of <God Cure>. Though I don't think there's a priest capable of performing <Purification> as potent as <God Cure> today. Priests who can use <Purification> get locked up to be a source of medicine for high-ranking nobles and priests, you see. After all, <Purification> ever so slightly carries a rejuvenating effect, so those old geezers cling really hard on it."

"I guess that means there is no way for me to learn <Purification>."

"Uun. Practitioners of <Purification> are quarantined deep in temples, meeting one would prove hard I think. But I do know the spell, and once you've got far in <Recovery>, you might naturally learn <Purification> yourself. I believe <Recovery> and <Purification> belong to the same type of magic, you see. For now, I'll be teaching you <Recovery> first thing first."

"Please."

"Now that you mention it, apparently the young wife of the Duke House of Schadrest has got quite the talent in <Purification>. At the time being, it's being kept secret and they only let nobles related to them getting the free treatment, but since the rumors are spreading hotly like a wildfire, the temples or royalty will probably summon her before long. So long as she doesn't let <Purification> slip by mistake, it should be fine though."

Lecan wondered hard, how did Shira who was staying indoors all the time even get those confidential rumors.

Lecan had heard of <Schadrest> house name before, but he had no recollection of it. It was at time when his grasp on this world's language was still far than his current understanding, and he heard it only once in a conversation, so of course he wouldn't remember.

If he did remember, he might have noticed that this <young wife of the Duke House of Schadrest> referred to Lady Rubianafale. But he had no idea at this time.

Lecan would only realize the environment Lady Rubianafale was in far in the future.

"Even a very slight showing of <Purification> demonstrates a wonderful effect on treating illness and wounds. Moreover, <Purification> can banish undead type and incorporeal Youma like Revenants or Soul Demons in one shot, regardless of how strong they are. Or at least deal an irrecoverable wound. It can cleanse polluted lands and buildings as well. Honestly, practitioners of <Purification> should be let to work outside more instead."







Previous Chapter

Chapter 251 Strongest Sage, Buys Time for Repair

 

"Repair...? Can you really do that?"

"If even augment magicians from Second Academy can't deal with it, I don't think anyone else can..."

"This girl here, Ruli, is an augment magician belonging to Second Academy... She's got the best class of skill among Second Academy augmenters who can deal with broken artifacts."

I'm not lying.
Though it's more like "best skill" than "best class of skill".

"There's someone else better at fixing things than me, but I think I can handle this elevator just fine!"

Ruli showed her Student ID as she said that.

"She's for real..."

"I was wondering how someone so young would go this deep... So you were a student of Second Academy..."

Second Academy student IDs sure are handy...
Now that Second Academy is famous thanks to chantless magic amongst other things, simply showing these IDs would smooth lots of things over.

"...I think leaving the repair to her is a good idea since she's an augmenter from Second Academy, what do you think?"

"I don't have the authority to give you permission to tamper with the elevator... But I'd rather get yelled at back on the surface than dying by the [Devil]... Can you really fix it?"

"We've already figured out the problem in particular, it should be done in 10 minutes."

I've already told Ruli about the problematic spot.
This type of [Dungeon Elevators] has all the same structure, there's no need to even look for it.

So long as she knows where to work at, Ruli won't fail with her skill.

"Got it. Let's just pray that the devil won't find us out during those 10 minutes."

"You heard it Ruli, please take care of the repair."

"I understand!"

Thus, Ruli began fixing the Dungeon Elevator.
Even though it should be a simple matter for her, she's still giving her all attention to do it.

『...Still, I wonder what this devil is.』

『I'm not sure, but judging from the conversation, it's probably a monster that use mental ailment attacks... Don't worry, 90% of mental ailment attacks won't work on those who can control their mana.』

『Mental ailments... So those kinds of monsters exist.』

『It's rare, but yes they do show up sometimes... This floor has bunny monsters, They may be the monster that attack people with mental ailments.』
<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>
I probe the surrounding mana.

This floor is mainly inhabited by bunny and wolf monsters.
Most of wolf monsters rely on brute strength, while bunny monsters may be capable of mental attacks in exchange of their weak physical prowess.

It's hard to imagine they'd be capable of wielding mental attacks potent enough to annihilate entire parties of adventurers... But I can't say that for sure.
While thinking that... A portion of monster mana reactions--a herd of around 10 monsters are coming here.

The leader of this herd seems to be this Floor Boss.
It probably found us due to its superior detection capability as a Floor Boss.
Well, a mere boss of floor 9 is no different than the weaklings on Floor 27 asides from its detection ability though.

"...Looks like it found us."

I spoke about the incoming monsters without comm magic to warn the adventurers about it.
The girls must have noticed it already.

"Found us? What did?"

"Monsters did... I'll go and eliminate them for a bit."

I ran toward the monster herd while saying that.

"I'm going too!"

"W-we'll help too!"

"No, Alma, you've got to conserve your mana! They're all weaklings, I alone would suffice!"

Alma and the adventurers were going to follow, but I stopped them.

I don't need mana for my training, but Alma does.
There's no need to use hers just to defeat these small fry.

I stopped the adventurers purely because they'd just get in the way.
Rather, it'll be over with one shoot of my magic, their help is unnecessary.

"Whoopsie."

I shot an impromptu flame magic at the center of the herd.
With a loud sound, the flame exploded and annihilated all but the Floor Boss.

Right afterward, I launched a spear magic and defeated the Floor Boss.

"...Looking good."

This was the first time I used magic in an actual battle since my mana quality had improved.

I thought I would make a slight mistake in the power adjustment, but it turned out to be an imaginary fear.

If there was a mistake, there would be leaks, wasting mana and causing my magic to produce more power than intended.
Hence, I used magic with just enough power on purpose in order to confirm that.

But I found no problem in particular.
Since my Crest now is different from my past life, I thought I'd need to adjust the sense of my mana control, but my worry turned out unfounded.
Though it hasn't even been 20 years since my return, the years I've been living with this Crest since I reincarnated must have proved useful.

I collected the floor boss's material while thinking.
Even though it's just a weakling from floor 9, materials from a Floor Boss may carry some special properties.
I've got nothing to lose taking them with me.







Previous Chapter

Chapter 250 Strongest Sage, Present During Breakdown

 

"We are aware of the non-optimal condition of this elevator, however, since this is a relic from an ancient civilization, no one has the knowledge to repair it..."

"Can't you do something about that? There's rumors about some real augment magic whizz at the capital's academy, rite?"

"We have requested the academy if they could help repairing the elevator, but from what we've been told, the best augmenter they have is presently away... While other augmenters are still inexperienced, they apparently have never even touched high-level artifacts before."

Magic tools created in the era of my past life are called artifacts in this era.
The technology needed to manufacture and repair these artifacts is deemed to be of very high level by today's standards, hence artifacts are generally being used without maintenances.
Looks like the Second Academy does accept requests to repair some mass-produced structurally-simple magic tools, but it seems no one can work on rare and valuable magic tools like Dungeon Elevators yet.

...Still, that augmenter that's currently away, are they talking about Ruli...?
If yes, she's here though.

Maybe they'll give us the permission to repair the Dungeon Elevator if we disclose that here.
Since we plan to train on Floor 27 for about a month, the sooner it gets repaired the better for us.
With me and Ruli, repairing this thing would take less than 10 minutes.

I wait for the Dungeon Elevator to descend while thinking that.
...It's not like we cannot train elsewhere, but doing so at a place with no one getting in our way is pretty valuable.
And it's even situated in a town, which is convenient.

--At that point, the Dungeon Elevator stopped with a dull sound.
Ruli and I look at each others when we heard that sound.

『...It broke.』

『...It broke down.』

The two of us exchanged words.
Looks like it's finally reached its lifespan.

A moment later, BAM! The Dungeon Elevator fell several meter down along with that sound.
The safety device for when its magic circuit broke down kicked in, sending us to the next floor.

"Oy, what just happened!"
<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>
"It's an emergency! The elevator has broken down!"

The operator rapidly pushes [Dungeon Elevator]'s button as she said that.
But the elevator won't move.

Of course, it's broken after all.

"...Just when I thought it was doing badly, it broke down!　...You can go up and down floors in this dungeon the usual way, right?"

"Yes. It's possible to move between floors through the normal method, so we have to go up if we want to go to higher floors."

"It's settled then. Heck if we could fix a broken artifact, we gotta climb the hard way."

Befitting of veterans, the adventurers who were with us quickly made a prompt decision.
...The Elevator only needs to be fixed and all is well again though, there's no need to walk all the way out.

Right when I was about to say that... One of the adventurers spoke.

"By the way, which floor is this?"

"Err... Ah."

The operator's face turned pale the moment she read the floor number in the elevator.
It's like 'it's all over' face.

The adventurers were befuddled to see her reaction.
Then they looked at the floor number... and turned pale themselves.

"...Floor 9 huh..."

"Seriously..."

"You guys, better steel yerselves. You gotta survive even if you're by yourself... That thing can't be defeated. If it's coming at me, use that chance to escape."

And then they began to make some sort of tragic resignation.
...Considering they didn't get off the elevator before it broke down, these adventurers must have braved floor 10 and beyond.

So why would they fear mere floor 9.

"Is there something wrong with floor 9?"

"You might not know this since you just got to this town, but there's a devil on Floor 9 of the [Gambling Dungeon]... If you plan to traverse this floor, ya guys better prepare yourselves as well."

"...Devil?"

"Yeah. Many attempts were made to subjugate that devil, but only a few who partook ever returned... We're all here cuz we didn't take part in those subjugations."

Devil huh...
Judging by the name, it's probably a monster that employs mental attacks or something.

Abnormal status like confusion would be fatal to a party that hasn't taken precautions.
Most of mental-type abnormal status like confusion and sleep are made possible by disturbing the target's mana balance.

As such, magicians capable of chantless magic have a good resistance against mental-type abnormal status due to their mana control.
Thus, they won't be easily brought down.

But adventurers who rely on chant magic are unable to control their mana, thus they have zero resistance against mental-type abnormal status.
A single monster capable of causing confusion with its ability can decimate an entire party.
The current world is extremely vulnerable against mental-type abnormal status.

...It's uncommon for a monster with confusion ability to spawn on floor 9, but it's not improbable either.
Well, sleep and confusion from floor 9 monsters won't work on the girls, so there's no real need to be so wary.
But I guess I should prepare to use the magic to dispel mental-type abnormal status anytime, wouldn't want to get attacked by other adventurers who have fallen victims to it.

Afterward, I decide to make a suggestion to repair the Dungeon Elevator.

"Could you let us repair the [Dungeon Elevator]?"







Previous Chapter

17-1. Ceremony

 

Satou here. Wonder why speech from the bigwigs always take so long in a ceremony. I remember fighting my drowsiness real hard during those times in my student days.



◇



『Master!』

Arisa's cheerful voice coming from the Familiar Link snapped me out of it as I was lost in my research.

『We're done preparing over here. Come to the ceremony hall soon, okay.』
"Got it--I'm heading there now."

I get off the chair while putting away the research data.
I shouldn't have paused there--.

『Master, are you still mulling over the identity of that black-haired man?』

--As it made Arisa worry.

This [Black-haired Man] Arisa talking about must be the mysterious man who stopped the undoing of Demon God's seal at Saga Empire's capital back then.

"Nah, not really."

His identity may be shrouded in mystery, but since he went out of his way to stop the crisis of Demon God revival, I don't really consider him to be a threat.
I believe he's probably someone related to gods--along the line of familiars or apostles or something.

『Really?』

Apparently the fact that Arisa's divine gift [Status Check] couldn't see through the man's status and that the beastkin girls couldn't see the man's face despite facing him head-on weighted on Arisa's mind.
The former was probably due to the man wearing the same type of equipment as the [Thief God Harness] that Arisa and Liza also had.

"Teleporting directly to the royal castle's waiting room is probably not a good idea, is it."
『Un, there's a lot of people going in and out, so I think you'd want to get to either Mito's room or the capital's Pendragon Mansion first.』

There's usually a lot of attendants and maids present in Hikaru's room at the royal castle, so I'll just be a good kid here and head to the capital Pendragon's mansion first.

--Oh?

When I tried to see Arisa and the girls with space magic [Clairvoyance] after she was done showing off, I could feel a Spacial Obstruction Field put up by Arisa.

I could break through it if I wanted to, but there's no need to act so boorish here.
They might be in the middle of changing after all.

I moved from the Solitary Island Palace to Pendragon Mansion with Unit Arrangement.



◇



"Earl-sama! Please hurry."

When I got out of the teleport room, a maid who worked at the mansion urged me to hurry.
Even though I had borrowed the help of Quickdress skill to change into the ceremonial suit already, I still got made to change into a white suit that matched with Arisa and the girls.

This suit kind of feels like it's made for a bridegroom.

"I've got to put make-up on too?"
"Yes, the venue where the ceremony takes place is quite big."

Since it's not like I'm going to perform in a theater, I firmly refuse heavy make-up.

Today's ceremony will be for the king to give awards for our various roles on the continent, and the official formation of my [Private Knights] which is authorized thanks to my Demon Lord Slayer status.
I personally didn't have any interest in this Private Knights stuff, but the girls had been getting so many more invitations from foreign countries thanks to our efforts around the continent, thus, as encouraged by Arisa and Hikaru, we'd be forming the knights as some sort of breakwater.

As the reason is such, the members will be comprised of a select few mainly from Solitary Island girls, handpicked by Arisa and Liza.
And since it looks like we'd get a flood of applications, we make it a requirement to [subjugate a Selbira's Labyrinth Floor Master without casualty] before anyone can apply.
With this requirement, there's only going to be at most two chances a year to apply.

"My lord, a visitor is waiting for you in the parlor--"

A butler who had just been hired recently led me to the parlor after telling me that.
I checked the Map while thinking that today no one was planning to visit and saw someone unexpected there.

"Please accept my apologies for making you wait, Your Highness Soltrick."
"Fret not. I merely stopped by here on my way back from a business."

The crown prince of Shiga Kingdom, First Prince Soltrick spoke back candidly as he stood up.
Looks like he's only accompanied by royal knight Bodan-shi today--no wait, there's about 20 royal knights outside, probably his escort.

"You are heading to the castle now, no? It won't hurt to go together as friends sometimes."

As there was no reason for me to refuse him I smiled and nodded before getting on the royal family carriage outside.
This carriage is the open hatch type for parade usage and such, thus it's been installed with a magic tool that generates a powerful magic barrier to prevent assassination attempts.

There's usually many people sightseeing around Pendragon Mansion ever since the stuff about [Demon Lord Slayer] spread, so he must have made this arrangement with my safety in mind.
Though I don't think some random ruffians could so much as put a scratch on me, I'm just happy for His Highness Soltrick's thoughtfulness.

"It's Lord Pendragon!"
"Long live Demon Lord Slayer!"
"Earl-sama! Marry me too!"
"Glory to Lord Pendragon and his seven brave warriors!"

As the carriage got closer to the entrance, a crowd of people waiting outside the mansion cheered for me.
Seems like there's a lot more people than usual today.

--Hm?

I saw someone familiar among the crowd.
That's--right--an attire from the snow kingdom at the eastern country group. She looks similar to princess Awayuki (Light Snow) of Kiwolk Kingdom.
But there's no way a princess of the snowy Kiwolk Kingdom would come to this place, and I didn't see her trademark super huge hammer with her, so it must be someone's else.

"Lord Pendragon."

Right as I was about to search the Map, his highness Soltrick talked to me.
I shut the menu and turn toward him.

"Would it be safe to assume that you have an interest in military affairs considering you are forming your own private knights?"
"No, that's not--"

I told him that the formation of private knights was to act as a repellent for the girls.

"That sounds just like you..."

First Prince Soltrick didn't seem to find my answer to his liking, he muttered on about something with his finger on his forehead.
It seemed that his mind eventually came to term, as he then said "Well fine. You do you." with a partly understanding look on his face.

"I was going to make an offer for the marshal position under my rule were you had an interest in military... What a shame."

--Marshal?

I didn't know that the rank even went up to marshal in this world.

"My deepest apologies."
"You need not apologize. Even though nobody except the king could command you, would you still be willing to assist, within your capacity, ancestor king--Hero Nanashi-dono when disasters strike?"
"Yes. I have no experience in military either, so please pick the marshal from among the generals instead."

I'm happy that he holds such a high opinion about me, but I'm not gonna thrust myself into Shiga Kingdom's military affairs, nope.

"Right. Forget about what I said--"

Maybe the present king has made it forbidden to solicit me as it doesn't look like the prince is going to aggressively pursue the matter.
I can only hope that he'll continue in this stance even after he's succeeded the king.


<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>
◇



"Now then, let's have a look at the ceremony's schedule--"

After parting from the first prince at the ceremony venue, I took out the handwritten schedules Arisa gave me from Storage as I sat in the waiting room.

There's a lot of bigwigs I gotta greet in these ceremonies.

"Satou-sama, your necktie is a bit crooked."

Since a lady attendant in the room pointed that out, I put the schedule in my hand onto the desk and reached my hand to my necktie.

"Allow me to take care of it, Satou-sama, please just relax--"

The attendant whispered in my ears and gently touched my necktie.
She's getting oddly close. I'm glad at the ample bosom that's pressing on me, but Arisa and the girls would get mad if they found out, I gotta take care not to show it on my face.

"Your Excellency, the ceremony will begin soon, if you'd please come."

A male official, the program director, called for me, so I thanked the attendant and left the room.

When I got to the ceremony stage, the male host's eyes sparkled brightly when he saw me.

"He's a mithril explorer who has left countless monsters dead in his wake, he's also the Demon Lord Slayer who leads the Pendragon Seven Warriors! Here comes His Excellency Earl Pendragon!"

As I climbed up the stage like being guided by the super enthusiastic host's words, applause erupted in the venue.
It was earsplitting huge applause.

Of course it would be, as the people not only crowded the huge venue space, they even occupied the surrounding buildings' windows and roofs.

--Oh?

I noticed something as I surveyed the surroundings.

Arisa and the girls aren't on the stage even though they're displayed on the Radar.
Looking at Map, they're currently standing by in a waiting room situated under the stage.

Oh right, it was written on the schedule--.

Using the Menu's inspection function, I check the schedule note in Storage.

Apparently, the girls will make their entrance along with announcement of the private knights' formation.
I'm told that they're going to show up by getting lifted up from under the stage like singers in Showa era.

Needless to say, it must be Arisa's idea.

"--To confer Blue Blossom Medal in recognition of Earl Pendragon's distinguished services."

The king had finished his speech while I was thinking some random stuff.
Later on, Hikaru told me that this unfamiliar sounding medal was awarded to people who strive to maintain order and peace and help with disaster relief.

After doing the noble thanking thing for the award, the program moved on to the private knights formation ceremony.

Jajajajaaan, with a BGM that sounded like one for a wedding ceremony, the stage's floor opened, and a lift came out of the theater's basement.

--Geh.

I see many brides.

No wait, looking closer, those are armor fashioned like wedding dresses.

"Earl Pendragon's Private Knights 『Bridal Knights』 made their entrance! Everyone, please give them applause!"

As the host shouted, thunderous applause erupted in the venue.

Bridal Knights--like knights of wedding? No, they must mean knight of brides here.
As the name is in English, I don't think Shiga Kingdom people get what it means, but since their armor looks exactly like wedding dresses from afar, they may very well get that as a general picture.

『--Arisa.』

Since the Spacial Obstruction Barrier was still active, I called Arisa through the Familiar Link.

『Ehehe~ how do I look, cute aren't I? Did you fall for me again?』

She didn't believe even for one second that I'd get mad at her.
I got taken aback by her effervescent smile and lost any motivation to complain.

『So so hey, what do you think~? Feeling like embracing me, or pushing me down yet?』

It looks good on her and she does look cute, so I just go with 『Yup, cute armor』.

『Ehh, just the armor~? Praise me for real~』

Ignoring Arisa, I look at the girls.

With Arisa leading, I had a feeling that Hikaru along with the golden armor team, the silver armor team Zena-san, Sera, Lady Karina, Princess Shistina, including Shiro, Crow would be there, but even viscount Emlin daughter, Rina Emlin who should have been working as an acting lord of Brighton City, Princess Menea of Rumooku Kingdom, Lady Karina's maid Pina, and escort maids Elina and the newbie-chan were all also present, wearing the same kind of dress armor.

Though of course, members of Echigoya Firm or the house brownies weren't there as that would just be--.

--Eh?

My eyes was nailed on a beautiful woman who was shyly waving her hands while hiding behind other girls at the end of the line.

"Aze-san!!"

I reflexively let out a loud voice.

My beloved Aze-san, the high elf of Borunean Forest, was there.

"Nothing less to expect from Earl Pendragon! His wonderful sharp sight has found out about it so quick, special advisor of Bridal Knights, the Sacred Tree-sama of Boruenan hidden by the mystical veil--High Elf Aialize-sama graces us with her presence!"

After the host declared that, the venue buzzed louder than ever.
Even ordinary elves are rare, yet a high elf who should have never left the World's Tree is here after all, it's no wonder they're shocked.

『What are you doing here, Aze-san?』

I undid Arisa's Spacial Obstruction Barrier and asked Aze-san.

『Arisa-chan called for me. She said a mass wed--』
『I didn't want to leave Aze-san out for the formation ceremony!』

Arisa cut in and interrupted Aze-san.

『Hou? It's really just a ceremony for the formation of the private knights?』
『O-off course!』
『It's not a mass wedding?』
『U-unn... That's um, err, how should I put it...』
『It's okay even if it wasn't a mass wedding.』

The idea of holding a wedding with Aze-san does sound enticing, but I'm not really sure if it also comes with dozens of brides.
I've got to steel my heart and proceed with the Knights Formation Ceremony here.

After we were done with the Knights Formation Ceremony approved by the king, we the knights paraded around the city, creating a commotion that rivaled that of a royal family wedding.



◇



"That was really fun. Arisa-chan, thank you for inviting me."

After the parade was over, Aze-san took out a wand from Item Box.

"Are you heading back already?"
"Yes, as I should not leave Boruenan's World Tree for too long."

Looks like she's asked Saisalize-san of Beriunan Clan to take over in the meantime.

"I'll escort you there."
"Thanks, Satou. Everyone, see you again--"

I took Aze-san's hand and sent her back to Boruenan with Unit Arrangement.

"Oh right, Satou I almost forgot, congratulations for clearing the 『Trials of Gods』."

Aze-san congratulated me at the wooden house.

"If you're going to the Realm of Gods--"

Aze-san's platinum blonde hair fluttered.

『--Take care of your own body.』

While combing down her light pale pink-colored hair, Aze-san stares at me with eyes that are unlike that of Aze-san's nor Demi-God mode Aze-san's.

『Do not leave your body behind at the rift between dimensions. Make sure to put it in your hand luggage and bring it along with you.』
"Who are--"

Before I could ask for her identity, deep emerald haired Aze-san put her face closer to mine.

『Just a bit more, Ichirou.』

I saw fluttering indigo blue hair in the corner of my view.
Right as she finished saying that, Aze-san blocked my lips using hers.

Just as our lips met, innumerable amount of compressed information flowed into my brain.
After what felt like both an eternity and an instant, Aze-san slowly pulled back.

『Just a bit more.』

Aze-san's hair color turned back to platinum blonde.
I hold Aze-san who has passed out, and go over the information I just got.

The Garden of Gods is located in a higher-order dimension, those who aren't used to the place risks having their soul getting torn apart, and the kiss earlier is intended to give me the knacks and protection that would prevent that.

"--Satou?"
"Aze-san, how are you feeling?"

Aze-san had no memories of what just occurred, but the phenomena of rapidly changing hair color must have been caused by that unknown little girl possessing her.

I'm quite happy that she would give me a warning, but I'd prefer if she didn't arbitrarily use Aze-san's body like that ever again.
Even a kiss from Aze-san had no point if it weren't from her own volition.

I entrusted Aze-san to miko Lua-san and went back to the capital with Unit Arrangement.



◇



"Master! I can't believe you'd leave behind the note written by your beloved Arisa-chan--"

Right as I got back to the garden party at the ceremony venue sponsored by the king, Arisa pressed on me with the schedule chart in her hand.

"Aah, sorry sorry--"

Just as I apologized, I found the schedule chart inside my Storage.

"--But mine's here though?"
"Hoee?"

I passed the schedule chart from my Storage to Arisa.

"Oh my, it's true. The girl in charge of dresses at the waiting room said someone left it behind, I was sure it was Master's."

Arisa took my hand and pulled me toward the party while apologizing using Showa phrase "Sry, sry".

"Master~?"
"Master, over here nanodesu! A whole roast of Cow-san awaits nodesuyo!"

At the spot where a whole Oumi Cow pierced by a huge skewer was getting cooked, Tama and Pochi who were in bridal-looking dress armor called for me while hopping up and down.

I should save complaining about the matter of making the Private Knights Formation ceremony look like a mass wedding for when we get back to the Solitary Island Palace.
Today, let's just enjoy the garden party.







※ Next update is planned for 2/10.





Previous Chapter

4



The day after Lecan's dinner with Chaney, two of Chaney's subordinates dropped by his inn.

"First of all, here is the payment for the magic gems and jewels."

One of the subordinates handed over three gold coins and a paper with the breakdown written on it.

"And this is the appraisal result of items with Graces."

Lecan unfolded the appraisal result.

Two swords and three daggers are listed there.

"I get that the great sword on top of this list has the highest price. Five gold coins, but what are these Attack Power 5, Sharpness 9 and Endurance 4 numbers written here."

"Appraisers discern items by way of what look like hazy masses of colors. Those numbers are representations of those masses of colors based on personal experience of our store's appraiser who was in charge of appraisal this time. These numbers would of course differ depending on appraisers in charge. However, results between veteran appraisers will not vary greatly."

"Next to those numbers, there's Sword Speed Increase 12 as its Grace, what's this."

"It's a wonderful Grace. If one were to brandish that sword properly, its speed will be added by 12. In other words, it will be faster by more than 10 percent. If the size of this sword was more accommodating for anyone to wield, it would have sold for more, but unfortunately, those who can use a great sword are limited, hence that price. Great swords usually sell better with a Grace that increases attack power rather than speed."

"I see, I get it now. So when's the payment for the swords and daggers?"

"We need to consult you about that. If you wish to sell those items to the store right away, the amount of money written there shall be promptly paid, however if you give us time, you can also get a percentage of actual sales of those items instead. I believe you could get a considerable sum if you take your time and wait for the sales."

"Fumu... I'll sell those for this much."

"Acknowledged."

The subordinate took a small bag from the man standing behind him and handed it over to Lecan.

They already had it prepared.

Lecan counted the money and put it in
<Storage>.

"All good."

"Thank you very much. Incidentally, Master has a request for you."

"What is it."

"We'd be very delighted if you could share even a few of potions next time."

"Really."

Lecan took out 10 small red potions from <Storage> and put it in the emptied bag. And then, he put another 10 medium red potions, 10 small blue potions, and 10 medium blue potions inside the small bag. It's stuffed full now.

"Take these with you."

"Thank you very much."

"Give my regards to Chaney."

"But of course. We look forward to a lasting relationship."

The next day, he got the potions' money, which was surprisingly six gold coins.

Lecan was surprised to find out how much these potions were worth.


<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>
5



Lecan went to Shira's house the day after.

Incidentally, it was exactly the tenth day since she took a rest.

This time he didn't pass through alleys but jumped between roofs and climbed up the wall to land behind the lavatory. This much is nothing. Doing this gets him here faster and simpler.

Opening the door next to the well, he arrived at the workroom.

As always, the space above his head is filled with hanging bundles of herbs. What was once a raw stimulating scent has turned into a fragrant scent before he knew it. This is the scent of herbs.

"Oh dear, here you are. Well, here have some tea."

Today Shira looks calm and composed completely unlike how she was 10 days ago. The tea she served tasted very relaxing.

"How many floors did you get down to?"

"Got to floor 26."

"Was it good?"

"Quite."

"Glad to hear that."

"Shira."

"Un?"

"Teach me about the kinds of potions there are."

"Ah, sure thing."

She took a piece of paper and wrote something on it.

"Here you go."



Blue (Recovers Mana) Large - Medium - Small

Red (Heals Wound - Restores Stamina) Large - Medium - Small

Yellow (Cures Abnormal Status)

Green (Detoxifies)

Bluish Purple (Temporary Mana Boost)

Purplish Red (Temporary Strength Boost)

Silver (Temporary All Status Down, Improves Growth Rate)

Golden (Skill Grant) Detail Omitted

Brilliant White (God Cure)



"What is this Golden <Skill Grant>?"

"You'll obtain some sort of skill. It could be magic skill, archery skill, or swordsmanship skill. However, those who have never swung a sword will not get swordsmanship skills, nor those without mana could get magic skill."

"Was there ever a case where someone obtains a skill they cannot use?"

"Only when someone who didn't get the potion when it spawned used it. If a Golden Potion pops up after you beat a monster, that Golden Potion will grant you a skill you can use for certain. However, Golden Potions can be sold for an amazingly hefty sum. Lots of folks sell them."

That doesn't sound like how an adventurer would act, but then the way adventurers in this world think probably differs from him, so Lecan thought.

"I don't get the explanation for Silver Potion too."

"For example, you throw this potion at your enemy in the middle of a fight. It then bursts open and the content spills onto your opponent. Once that happens, they'll have all their status reduced for half a day at the very least, a day at most. Status like speed, strength and mana."

"Hou. And what's <Growth Rate Improvements>?"

"Getting splashed by or drinking that potion will reduce all your status, however if you train yourself while it's down, your status will increase at an incomparably tremendous rate. Essentially, it drastically raises your learning rate. That said, not even a day worth of learning is nothing really."

"<God Cure> got nothing on it."

"It works on anything, hence <God Cure>. It recovers anything, be it abnormal status, physical and mental fatigue. Detoxifies poison, cleanly closes cut wounds. It cures any kind of sickness. Of course it also restores your stamina and mana. Heck, even cut arms will grow back."

"That's astonishing."

"I've gotten my hands on <God Cure> a few times before and checked on it myself. It's truly an incomprehensible substance. The way <God Cure> works probably varies on case by case basis."

"Hou?"

"You've acquired some potions during your several days venture in the dungeon, don'tcha. 'I've got no need for magic potions with these potions on hand', did that thought cross your mind?"

"To be honest, a bit yeah."

"Well, that might be one option for adventurers. However, you'd better not use it on children unless the situation really calls for it."

"Why."

"Human body gets stronger when it recovers from an illness or a wound, you see. There are even cases where getting certain diseases during childhood prevents those disease from reoccurring in adulthood."

"Ah yeah that happens."

"Magic potions heal wounds and sicknesses by reinforcing your life force, see. As such, someone gets one stage stronger by using magic potions to recover from wounds or sicknesses. Yet such things do not apply with potions. Those only rewind your state back."

"I got it now."

"What I understand from researching potions is that they are not something that can be reproduced by hands of men. Those things are something separates from the providence of this world. By the way, you."

Shira stared hard at Lecan's face.

"Have you tried using a Large Red Potion?"

"I have."

"And yet your eye hasn't been restored?"

"You mean my left eye? This is impossible. Even the Greater Magic Potion in my world couldn't restore it once some time had passed, would be a different story if I drank it right after my eye was crushed though."

"Would it have healed if you did drink right after it was crushed?"

"It would if it had just been crushed. But not if the entire eyeball was lost."

"You have Large Red Potions with you right. Try taking one."

"Right now?"

"Yep right now."

Lecan took a Large Red Potion and drank it.

With half-closed eyes and her right palm on Lecan's face, Shira probed for something.

"It's working properly. However, it's showing no effect. Dearie me."

After losing in her thought for a while, Shira speaks up.

"You. How many of those Greater Magic Potions thingy from your original world you have with you?"

Lecan put his right hand into <Storage> and checked.

"I've got five left."

"Take real good care of those five, you hear me. Like, don't use one unless you're suffering from serious wounds like having your eyeball crushed."

"Umu?"

"Red Potions you see, probably have a fixed amount of restoration capability."

"Amount?"

"Even Small Red Potions will cure fatal wounds or serious illnesses on small children and the elderly. Because the aggregate weight of their life is not much."

"Hou."

"But the weight of your life is way too big. Even Large Potions aren't enough. Hence, your eye can't be fixed."

"I don't really get what you're saying."

"Well, just take it slowly. Right, show me something from your world, anything will do. Even that sword."

Lecan passed his sword to Shira.

"...I knew it."

Shira put on a serious look on her face.

"What's wrong?"

"<Appraisal> doesn't work on it."

"What."

"I had used <Analysis> on it when you first came to this store back then. But I forgot to use the normal <Appraisal>, you see. So I did just now, but it was no good."

"Did the <Appraisal> get bounced back?"

"It passed. It did but the displayed content was unreadable. I had thought that'd be the case. Contents shown by <Appraisal> are akin to notes left by God, they're concisely displayed. And yet, the note on this sword is written in your world's way. And since I don't speak your world's language, of course I've got no idea the stuff that's on the note."

"Is it written in my world's words?"

"When someone uses <Appraisal>, concept comes up to the their mind. That's why, rather than words, it's a problem with language."

"Fumu. Which means, it's safe to assume that objects brought from my world cannot be appraised in this world."

"Well, that'd be the case unless someone who has been taught of your world's language by someone who comes from the same world as yours did the appraisal. Conversely speaking, you should be able to appraise this world's items if you just learn <Appraisal>."

"Does that only work on items?"

"<Appraisal> is for appraising items, you see. 'Course you can't appraise humans, animals, magic beasts nor vegetation."

"Wonder if I can learn <Appraisal>."

"Surely you can. You've already got the ability to detect locations and shapes of people and things, and also mana and stuff don'tcha? So you should be able to learn <Appraisal> spell which is a similar type of magic. But well, first you wanted to learn Space type magic right. Since you were able to easily learn <Draw>, you've got the aptitude for Space type. I'm sure you'll learn <Move> and <Float> in no time at all."






Previous Chapter

Chapter 249 Strongest Sage, Written on Document

 

"What do you mean by no problem?"

"I mean the rank! ...The one assessing these mats will be people related to Second Academy right?"

"Well no, not exactly... But someone from Second Academy will be present during the assessment for sure. Unfortunately, guild staff cannot valuate materials that are too high leveled, nor they can discern the authenticity of the materials' origin..."

The receptionist answered Alma's question.
Alma nodded confidently when she heard her.

"Then, I'm sure they'll let it slide... Just write [Mathias] for the seller's name then no one's gonna question the materials' origin, floor 27 is nothing!"
"...Now that you mention it, that's true. Any suspicion should be cleared if we'd just cite the seller's name to the Second Academy's people."

...Is that how you're gonna use my name...

Well, there's no one in Second Academy who doesn't know my name indeed, I guess there's no problem then.
My name got to be widely known at Second Academy after taking part in the academy competition right after enrolling back then.
After all, it was one of the biggest events in the academy.

『Who would have thought the fame we got from the competition would be useful here.』

『...Your fame isn't just from the competition though, Mathi-kun.』

『We took part in the competition ourselves, yet we're nowhere as well known as Mathi-kun!』

Humm.
These girls should be recognized by all students as well, hence our fame should be even though.

I talk to the receptionist while thinking.

"Well, that's that. There should be no problem selling these mats even as rank F."

"I-I see... There really are many kinds of people at the Second Academy aren't there..."

The receptionist then wrote my name on a paper titled [Assessment Request], and put it in a box along with the materials.
Normally, you would have held doubts just from this conversation alone... Looks like Second Academy is treated like some sort of special place by the guild.
It is indeed a special place in this current era though.

...Thus we managed to sell the materials and went back to the inn.
We're gonna continue doing the same training as today for a while.

<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>
◇


Several days later.
We came by the elevator like usual.

『You two have gotten quite good at reducing mana consumption already.』

『Yes! ...Although I feel like there's still room for improvements, I'm using less mana than ever now!』

『Think I still use up more mana than Ruli... But it's gotten way better than when I first started!』

It hasn't been long since we begun training, but the two have managed to reduce their mana consumption by a lot.
That feat is a sign that they're now capable of controlling good quality mana.

When you've got to this point, it's possible to reduce mana used with any magic if you apply the method of magic control to it.
Once you can do that, raising the firepower of your magic is an easy task.

...Guess it's about time to introduce practical training besides the basic training to simply reduce mana consumption.

The [Dungeon Elevator] arrived while I was thinking that.

"To the usual floor please."

"Understood."

I boarded the elevator as I said that.
After getting on it so many times, the operator has memorized our destination.

...Though we're not the only adventurers she remembers.
About half of the adventurers who get on the elevator also say, [the usual floor].

Looks like the operators of this [Dungeon Elevator] have memorized most adventurers' faces and their destination.

We too pointed ours [Floor 27] every time at first, but it eventually turned to just [the usual floor].
Cause it's annoying when other adventurers get surprised when they hear the floor number...

『This elevator is looking bad as ever...』

『I'm worried it'd stop working and drop us down hard...』

『Even it did, it'd stop on the next floor instead of falling, no worries there.』

I pray for the ailing Dungeon Elevator to not stop working all the while.

Right now, eight people including us are inside this elevator.
Us four, a party of three adventurers and the operator.

The adventurer party seems to be veteran adventurers.

It hasn't gone overcapacity since this Dungeon Elevator is designed to carry 10 people... But this thing is doing even worse than the usual today.
It's also going at half the usual speed.

"Oy, don't you think this elevator is working weird?"

"It's going really slowly, and shaking really hard too..."

The other adventurers who are on board with us (they didn't mention their destination, but judging from their equipment, it's probably floor 13) have also begun to express their worry looking at the elevator's condition.
Even if you're not familiar with magic tools, I guess you'd notice when you're in it...






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