“Chapter 216: The Sage of the Volcano 3”


    Tree papers help people find their place in the world. It’s how I was able to find such an amazing group of friends.


    – There are a lot of mysteries surrounding these little boys. I’m sure you’ve thought about it too.


    – Well, yeah.


    No one I’ve asked knows where or how tree papers were created, or why the aptitudes of a person are pictured as a tree.


    By the way, no one knows how to make them. There are few of them, and they’re very valuable.


    A mysterious item that appeared in this world long ago.


    – We know what they do now, but think about our ancestors. They see one of these and suddenly a picture of a tree appears. Not very clear, right?


    – Right.


    I don’t even know how people came to understand them.


    If only the aptitudes could be quantified, or at least made easier to comprehend…


    – … Wait.


    – What is it?


    – Maybe the tree papers were used for a different purpose originally?


    – Hahaha! You’re a quick one, ey? Come live with me, Ever doesn’t need you.


    – I’m under the tutelage of a great Grandmaster. Thank you for the offer. Besides, you have Regda-san already.


    – Ah, he’s a brilliant one, but too hard-headed. Talking to him is as boring as talking to the rocks in this volcano.


    – …How blunt.


    – As you can see, I spend all day here researching the people of this country. They’re all my hostages.


    – Hostages? That’s a bit-


    – It’s not an exaggeration. You’ve seen the birthmark on this country’s citizens, right?


    – …Yes?


    – Regda! Can you hear me? Get the ritual ready!


    I don’t know if Regda heard her or not, but Shamsheel put on her black and red robe.


    – We’re going somewhere else. Tell your friends at the summit to go back home.


    I have no reason to refuse. I came here looking for information.


    – Got it. Mike, can you take care of that?


    – I can, but where are you going? I don’t want to leave you alone.


    – What an anxious puppy you are. Don’t worry, it’s called a ritual but it’s not dangerous at all. If anything, I’ll be there to protect him.


    – Grrr…


    – Hoooh? You wanna fight? Inside my own crater? Are you sure about that?


    Shamsheel’s fist became red hot like lava. Regda’s magic was still in effect, and even then I felt like my skin was about to melt.


    – Haha, I’m joking. I’ll spare you from the fight. Though I could use a little puppy as a familiar. What do you think?


    – Uuu~ Stop patting my head!


    – It’s just a little bit of burnt hair.


    – I don’t want to be bald! Master! Say something!


    Moments like these make me appreciate the fact that Ever is my Grandmaster.