《Mob… Sore mo waki mob no hazu nan desu kedo!?》 Prologue Prologue TL: Krrizis Editors: Nahct & Karma The cool, fragrant breeze of summer That was the apt expression for a day like today, I guess. The wind carried with it the fresh fragrance of various beautiful flowers in full bloom from all over the country and the scent of fresh verdure from the trees that were lined up in a row. Not exceedingly warm, the rays of the sun were comfortable, gentle, and calming. It was very, very pleasant. Yes, it should be very pleasant. Despite that, I felt the complete opposite of it as I let out a burst of laughter from deep inside of me. Ah What am I even doing here. I dont even understand the meaning of it I surveyed my surroundings. There were some who looked truly exhilarated as they began their life anew, a few appeared somewhat insecure, and still others simply drank in the circumstances of their surroundings They were varied; but, even so, I caught sight of a spark of overflowing hope for their future within everyones eyes. In comparison to the extremely cheerful surrounding atmosphere, I alone felt differently. The place where I am now. My life was at a place where it definitely couldnt, shouldnt, and cant be. Haa Why me How many times in the world should I be saying these words? No, Im already aware of it. What the heck should I do from here on? I dont know what else I should do. There is only one thing Im certain of. Only this is absolute. Im alive. No matter what happens. I am me. Not anyone else but myself who will continue living Thats right, we only live once. There can only be one life. I scowled at the blue sky that was comfortably spread out above my head. My future is Ah. I want to see the cherry blossoms. Although it cant be seen But I think I understood why I thought of them. Even if I understood that, it was a form of escapism. CH 1 Chapter 1 C Who the heck am I? TL: Krrizis Editors: Nahct & Karma I unconsciously groaned from the pain in my body. The slightest of movements was enough to cause intense pain to course through me. Where is this? Am I in the hospital ? The pain Im feeling seems different from the usual seizures. Hold on, what usual seizures? Little by little, I began to recognize myself. I opened my eyes. Somehow, just this action required me to use a lot of strength. It seems Ive fallen onto the ground. I knew it was the ground from the muddy soil I felt on my cheeks. Lying face down, I was unable to move because of the pain. Furthermore, there was a peculiarly sickening and ammonia-like smell, similar to food scraps and gum, or something that was burning. The various stenches blended together, making me nauseous. This place smelled awful compared to my bed. Hnn? Bed? What is a bed and where is it? Startled by my own thoughts, I was taken aback that I hadnt realized I had gone into a daze. Something felt extremely amiss. What in the world could it be? My My name is Nakamura Yuudai eh? Nakamura Yuudai*? Naturally, a doubt rose from the sound of the name that had just come to mind. In the midst of the confusion, I caught sight of my hands that were tightly grasping the soil on the ground and gasped at how small they were. However, in the next instance, the dumbfounded gasp turned into further confusion. Because that hand is my hand. Thats right its Asnord Flaskas hand. As soon as I recognized it, various things flooded into my mind. I couldnt tell how fast or slow time passed, but when I finally came to, I remained in a daze despite finally understanding everything. My name is Asnord Flaska. Presently, six years old. Three years ago, my parents passed away and I was taken in by my relatives and later, abandoned. It seems they had also taken all of the money that remained. As I was just a six year old kid, I wouldnt have been aware of it. Even if I had, that was something that happened before. However, the present me understands it. Thats right, for the present me has obtained knowledge. The knowledge I have inside of me is probably referred to as a past existence? I was Nakamura Yuudai, a 26 year old boy. In my family of six, there was father, mother, my older sister, and my twin younger brother and sister. We were just an ordinary family. The last memory I had of my 26 year old self was the white ceiling of the hospital. I had been inflicted with an illness that had consumed all of my strength. Vaguely, I remembered how my last moment went. That was how it should have went My eyes closed again, as I was unable to fight against my fading consciousness. It was a mysterious sensation, as dwelling within my body were two sets of memories. Both were also me. However, comparing the two, there were more memories from the 26 year old self that shrouded my 6 year old memories. Ah Awful Thats right, I was awfully exhausted. However, there was still a matter of great importance to deal with. Though I would like to ponder over it, my mind had already given up thinking. Within the pitch black darkness, my mind floated away. It simply floated away; however, is it alright to just drift away? I couldnt tell up from down, left from right. There was no ground or walls, or anything to understand, as there was nothing in the first place. Only the perception of myself, whoever I am, remained. Wherever this unknown space was felt mysterious and unintimidating. It was just me thinking within myself. I thought that if these memories were true, then who am I CH 2 Chapter 2 C Im abandoned? A vagrant? I wonderrr? Translator: Krrizis Editor: Nahct & Karma Choking, I leapt to my feet. Thats right, I leapt to my feet. In order to let my body know that the heaviness it felt right now was a reality. As a result, I groaned from the pain that reflexively coursed through my body. I had trouble breathing from the pain and was crouching, when I felt someones hand gently touch my back. Out of all the thoughts I had, I hadnt expected anyone to be around, so I was startled. Recalling that there wasnt anyone to the left, I turned in that direction, holding my breath as my body was still wracked with pain. For a moment, I stopped breathing and was unable to comprehend anything. Seeing the surprised look on my face, the other person laughed. Becoming terrified once again, I turned my face away with all my strength and groaned again from the pain. Thats enough! Learn from it, yo!! Ah, are you alright? Youve been asleep for three days, so you shouldnt move so suddenly! In the first place, youve got an awful injury. Hey! Lie down slowly Once again, I examined the person who supported my body and laid me down. It was a terrifying large man, with short red hair and red-brown eyes. He was a muscularly built o- -ji-san*. Yup. He looked like he was in his early forties, therefore he couldnt be an onii-san. Just a glance at his inverted triangular body was already frightening. Looking up at him from below, his large stature coupled with the feeling of oppression was impressive. Aa-kaff-kaff* When I tried to thank him for propping me up into a lying position, my throat was blocked by the violent coughing. I was at a loss for words as the coughing fits, as well as the intense pain in my body continued. Ah you been asleep for three days, so thats bound to happen. Just wait here for a minute Saying that, he stroked my head gently before leaving my side. It seems he had gone to the nearby table to fetch some water. At the same time, he also picked up some pills that were near it. Coming back with the water in his hand, he lifted me and propped me up, bringing the cup against my lips and slowly tilted it. Look, drink this slowly! Dont be so impatient. After your throats settled down, swallow this too. Its a painkiller As he said, I slowly swallowed the water a sip at a time. I bore with it because when I first took a drink, I almost choked on a mouthful of water. Somehow, swallowing the water slowly calmed me down. It was extremely delicious. Although all things considered, my throat No, my body probably just wanted water. Feeling relieved, I let out a sigh as I laid down again. For some reason, I didnt have a good feeling about the medicine that he had brought over, so I didnt take it. If Im unable to bear with the pain anymore, then Ill swallow it. Thank you very much. If my pain gets any worst than this, I will gladly take the medicine I formally convey my gratitude to the muscular oji-san. When I said this, his eyes opened wide in what I believed to be astonishment. Wearing a very kind smile on his face, he tenderly stroked my head. Impressive! Despite being tiny, youre able to properly say your gratitude Ah, because Im currently six? My senses as a twenty-six year old male strongly dominates the other half, so Ive yet to adjust myself successfully. Now~~then, would you be alright to speak for a bit? Removing his hand that he used to stroke my head, the oji-san scratched his head as he waited for my reply. Yes. As long as Im lying down, it should be fine At my brief words, he let out a sigh in relief and began to speak. In that case, thats great. First of all, my name is Mooks. Im sixty-four years old. This is my workplace. It would have been fine to leave you at home, but you would have been alone while I was at work. As it didnt seem like a wise idea, I brought ya here instead. I found you at the slum quarters thats two sections away from here. You were worn out because of a high fever and it would have been terrible if you had stayed in that condition whilst asleep, so I took you with me When he said sixty-four, I did a double take. Why, he most certainly didnt look like it. At most, he looked like he was in his late forties Unintentionally, I stared at him absentmindedly, but quickly came back to my senses. I apologise for everything. It seems Ive troubled you. My name is mm. Its Asnord. So this means Mooks-san stayed here at the workplace for three days and youve yet to return home? Im so sorry about that! Ugh. Mooks-san stopped me when I tried to get up to bow despite groaning from the pain. Dont get up, you. Feel the wound. Haa. Your fever still hasnt gone down. Leaving that aside, are you a noble? That mannerisms, the way ya speak compared to the clothes you wore when I picked you up Ahh~ you used to be one, werent ya? I averted my eyes when I heard those awkward last words. No, Im not. The way I speak Ah ~ Well, there are reasons for it. Right now, Im a hnn~abandoned child No, a vagrant? Or rather Im a street child*? Yeah, was it that strange that Im now an abandoned child? But I was abandoned. How should I put it. The closest term would be a street child. Mooks-san seemed to be dumbfounded when I answered hesitatingly. Haa? Suto StreeC?? Whats that. Well enough about that. How about you tell me the circumstances that led to this?? Seeing Mooks-san become uncomfortable while speaking, I unconsciously let out a laugh. He appeared to be an awfully gentle person whose looks didnt suit him at all. Ok. Since Im already in your care, it wouldnt do to not explain the situation. Wheres a good spot to begin from My memories were currently a bit jumbled up and I wasnt able to grasp the situation properly. Taking a breather, I calmed myself down before I began. Mooks-san watched me intently with a serious look on his face. Its a secret that it was a bit scary I was born in a household that was certainly a little bit richer than the average. It is a bit hard to imagine seeing that Ive become this now. I am currently six; when I was three years old, both my parents passed away. From then on, my relatives began passing me around until finally, they abandoned me at that place where Mooks-san had picked me up from Thats right. Since my parents passed away, the money had been exhausted and as there wasnt any merit left, it was concluded that it was better for me to die so they could usurp my rank, thus I was abandoned. It was really merciless compared to all the violence I usually received. Thats outrageous. Three years old You were so young yet they passed you around for three years Seeing Mooks-sans extremely sorrowful face, I said Im alright and smiled. Well, the first year my parents passed away, there should have been some inheritance which they had somehow obtained. Only, they sold the articles and the house so the fortune began to deplete. That was when they began to treat me violently. But as long as I had a roof over my head, it didnt matter one way or another, so I did as I was told and worked. However, even that came to an end two years later After I touched upon the subject of my fortune, Mooks-san became visibly upset. Im sure he was upset for my sake. He really was a gentle person. *fuu* Taking a rest, I stared at Mooks-san seriously. Sensing something, Mooks-san corrected himself. *gulp* My throat sounded unintentionally and I timidly opened my mouth. Erm Id like to ask you something, if thats alright? Yup, its a question about the future life that Im going to lead. In some respects, I was naturally frightened and my hands felt strained. It was difficult to breathe. Looking at my situation, Mooks-san gave me a serious nod. Ah. What is it? Could you tell me the name of the country and the name of the current king? My heart began to throb quickly and painfully. On the other hand, Mooks-san didnt expect it and thought I would have asked about my future, so he looked puzzled whilst responding. Huh? Ah! This country is the country blessed by the flowers, the Riestinne Kingdom. By the way, this is the capital. The current king is the heartless King McNard The moment I heard that, I lost all strength in my body. Seeing my state, Mooks-san panicked. !? Whats the matter? Does your wound hurt? Are you alright? My wounds fine. It seems Im just a bit tired For the time being, I gave whatever excuse that popped up in my head, but was that enough to cover for it? Just then, I heard a knock on the door. Chief! Weve got a slight problem that just cropped up!! I heard an impatient mans voice from outside the door. The chief he was referring to was Mooks-san? When I stared at Mooks-san, he gave a tsk and clicked his tongue whilst he glared at the door. He turned around, I think, and looked at me before softly brushing my head. Since Im being summoned, Im going to step out for a bit. Youre still seriously wounded so just go to sleep Saying so, he left the pitcher beside me and left the room. After seeing Mooks-san leave, I let out a deep profound sigh. So this country is Riestinne. Somehow, I remembered it. I remember hearing of it. The kingdoms name I remembered the name McNard Kingdom sounding seemingly sweet. My name is Asnord Flaska. Ah, this country No, this world was a world in a shoujo manga in my previous life. TL Note: CH 3 Chapter 3 C My past, my present and now, my future TL: Krrizis Editors: Nahct & Karma In my past life, my family of six consisted of Father, who was strict with everything; Mother, who was gentle yet overly pushy; my terrifying queen-like elder sister; and my unbelievably cute younger twin brother and sister. It was honestly just an ordinary, normal family. Father was a martial arts enthusiast. Starting with the art of fencing, jujitsu, the sakkatsu* method of the naginata, spearmanship, bojutsu, the art of iai, torinawajutsu*, and many more were hammered into me. In the deepest corners of my heart, I thought about what I would have to fight against in this peaceful world and even questioned it. I considered it a blessing in disguise that he didnt make me do ninjutsu. As for my gentle mother, she believed it was natural in this day and age for boys to help out in the house! And without realizing the truth, I did all the basic house chores. From cooking to sewing, cleaning, doing the laundry These various things were drummed into me and, sayingWith this, youll always be good with any bride, she gave her sign of approval. Although, back then, it was completely incomprehensible, now its just a good memory. Also, for some reason, I took lessons with my sister in calligraphy, tea ceremony, flower arrangements, and even the various traditional Japanese dances. Just who was the daughter!? Mothers demands were really incomprehensible My terrifying queenly elder sister said,I have no need for an idiotic brother!, and forced me to immerse myself in my studies. Was the person teaching me my elder sisters own extraordinary boyfriend? No, it was both of them. Thanks to that, I was always first in my year*. Sister was an exceedingly beautiful person. With a fine appearance, she naturally had the air of a woman who was out of ones league. However everyone is being tricked by this woman!! I shouted this in my heart many times. At this point, I had thought there was no one who was as good as her at the art of reading people. And the~~~n there was my solace my ever-cute, adorable younger twin brother and sister. I would often play various games with my younger brother. Although my day was full of lessons, whenever I could make some spare time, we would play together. Because of that brief moment of bliss, I was always certain that I would be able to overcome my daily training!! With my younger sister, we would get excited over manga together. I, myself, had never read manga until she took an interest in it. The type of books we would read were nothing other than stories of queens-to-be and their boyfriends. It was my sister who created a new world for me. Whenever there was time in between moving about and taking a break, I would read the manga I borrowed from my sister. After, if there was time, we would talk about the protagonist and so on. In various senses, it was due to my younger siblings that my world expanded. And now. Yes, thats right. The world that I was in was the shoujo manga that I borrowed to read from my younger sister. If I remember correctly, the title was Koihana short for Koigokare, Kono Hana wo*!! This manga was already a simplification out of all the simplified springtime school-love manga. The heroine was a commoner who enrolled in a certain school. Together, she and the prince met three sons of dukes, quarrelled, came to an understanding, jointly overcame their hardships, tightened their bonds, and finally, were married to each other. Til the very end, it was a conversely stu~pid!? heroine school-life story. The story was so popular that the manga became a social phenomenon. It spanned out into an anime, games, goods, and even a live-action adaptation film and drama. For that reason, the life in school until they got married was made into the school arc. After which the story continued. In the middle of that Strictly speaking, Asnord was a bit different? That guy wasnt the main character. He wasnt even an exploitable. He was a mob! And, in addition to that, a supporting mob!! The underling of the stalking horse*, who existed as both an aristocrat and as the heroine and princes kiramen (referred to as a kirakira member). His name was Asnord. I saidstrictly speakingbecause his name never showed up in the original work. There was also that thing about the stalking horse kiramen. As he was also a good-looking character, he inversely became popular. And so, the stalking horse had his own spinoff in which I first appeared. And also, disappeared. So why do I even bother remembering the name of a mob? Thats because, in my previous life, I loved the author so much that I assisted him on the manga Well, I was like a guest assistant, and Asnord was drawn by me. Thats why I remembered his name. From when he first appeared in the spinoff all the way until the end, he was the stalking horses No. 1. Moreover, in the spinoff, there were also other people drawn in (probably by the original assistant-san) whos segments I looked forward to, which I surprisingly still remember to some extent. And then, this Asnord was used like he was nothing more than a lizards tail to cover up all the crimes, until he eventually earned the death penalty. But because he was just a mob, it was smoothly washed over. Thats right since I had started a fight with the prince and the three dukes sons, it was understandable. My life went astray!! No, calm down, its not there yet. The stalking horse hasnt appeared. In that case, there should still be enough time. I will not die, Ill live! Thats because, in my past lifes final moments, no matter how many times I wished and begged, I was unable to obtain a healthy body. Although Im currently somewhat covered in bruises, strictly speaking, its a healthy body. Carefully recalling my knowledge, I deeply considered the way of life I should take as Asnord. When I said my name to Mooks-san earlier, my memories were slightly blocked. Instead of declaring that I had no memories, it would have been better if Id said I was a different person from the start However, in Asnords memories, the warm love of his parents still lingered in his heart, so I was unable to do so. I didnt want to. I didnt want to deny that I was Asnord, because I am him. For the time being When does Asnord encounter the stalking horse? If Im not mistaken, a part of it was shown in the stalking horses spinoff. It was right before his school enrollment. At this school, you could enrol when you turned fifteen. I know this as I was in the same year as him When he was roughly fourteen, the stalking horse had picked up Asnord from the slums, so Asnord must also have been fourteen years old. Are the slum quarters in the northeastern direction?* Having been double-crossed and beaten up by his comrades in the slums, he was found by the stalking horse, who took an interest in his magic when his magical powers nearly ran wild. And so, judging that he could be useful, Asnord was employed with money and became the stalking horses underling. Huh? That means I can use magic!! Awesome~~~!! I can go to school as long as Im able to use magic it doesnt matter if Im an underling or not. In this country, anyone who can use magic is allowed to go to school no matter what. Hnn? Even if I used magic without encountering the stalking horse, wouldnt I still have to go to school anyway? Itll be quite risky if I go to school I dont know what will happen there. I also dont want to be acquainted with the stalking horse whos undoubtedly a main character. For the sake of having some peace of mind, I feel that it would be better if I dont use any magic. Furthermore, I should move to the distant countryside, or rather, another country. That way, therell be no chance of us encountering each other. Somehow I recalled the neighbouring country, as Asnord had the information This country was a country surrounded by the mountains and sea. The sea was peaceful and naturally lacked disasters, so our country was peaceful throughout the year. Because of the sea, we were able to obtain marine products and stabilize both agriculture and selective breeding. Because of our mines in the mountains, being a rich country is a given. We also trade frequently with a country across the sea. This was why the empire Erm, I believe its the Daitonia empire, has always been aiming at us. There was a small neighbouring country, but the empire had attacked and subjugated it. After that, theres the heroines country! The episcopal* country of Vallomehl! In that country, the heroine was a miko*. As it was more or less a country ruled by the shrines, it was quite religious. However, due to the eruption of discontentment among the aristocracy, there was a conspiracy behind the scenes to take over the country with the aid of the empire, and they aimed for the lives of the mikos. The heroine, who was able to escape with the help of a certain intermediary, enrolled into the school as a commoner. By the way, that person was revealed in the Vallomehl arc. Koihana was about how her love blossomed with the prince in the school arc, followed by their lovey-doveyness in the circumstances of the princes home arc the Riestinne arc. And finally, breaking into the Vallomehl arc, the pursuers from Vallomehl approached. Somehow, everything was settled in the end, and they got engaged. And just when you thought it was going to be over, the empire then came and picked a fight with them, leading to the empire arc. When is this manga ever going to end!? So I thought. Hmm? There isnt a country I can go to, is there? The empire was a restless nation because they were always at war and only subjugated countries existed around it. I dont want to go to the heroines country, as it gets involved in the main story, and a difficult problem suddenly occurs. Is this checkmate Nnnn~~~ Ahh, shouldnt I just go to the country across the sea that were trading with?! I havent heard anything bad about it, and because its across the sea, it gives me a bit of peace of mind. Wait, thats an excellent idea!! Yosh! For the time being, my objective has been set. Ill go to the trading country!! For that reason, I need money. I wonder if there are orphanages in this country. If there are, I could go there, reserve a bed, and learn how to read and write. First, I have to acquire more knowledge about this world. I dont want to be a vagrant. Due to Asnords circumstances, he wasnt able to study these past three years and could only do his best to keep on living every day. Im thankful that, at the very least, Im able to speak the language. As my queenly elder sister once said, knowledge becomes great power~. I owe it to my past life for my ability to predict future events and the knowledge to survive. As I recall my martial arts knowledge, Ill study and temper my body to familiarize and adapt to it. If nothing else, I should be able to protect myself. Next is magic. Its a rare fantasy element and I want to use it. I want to use it!! Itll be fine if I use it without being exposed, right!? In order to protect myself, its also better if Im able to use it when the time comes I made an excuse for myself. Yosh! Its a hidden practice!! Ill live honestly for myself!! And above all, I must save money. Shall I set the deadline for when I turn fourteen? The prince was about fourteen years old when the king passed away and this country slowly fell to ruin. As the eldest in succession, the prince was next in line to be king. However, as he was not of age, the country was at risk, and he and his younger brother fought for the right of succession. Upon his defeat, the prince, at fifteen, then enrolled at the school. While the country is falling to ruins, would it be difficult to go to a foreign country? Could I go easily? It was troubling, but I wont have to worry about it until I depart for the trading country when Im fourteen. It would be before the story begins. Another eight years to go. With the feeling of death approaching, Ill do whatever it takes. If I cant, itll be troublesome. Whether its in the past, or the present life, its all the same. If I can do it, Ill do it. Whatever Im able to do, Ill be able to do it because of my own strength. Well, currently, my body still has to heal and until it recovers, nothing can really be done. Later, Ill improve my appearance The manga version of myself was a yankee. I wont be able to go across the world with that. A smile is precious! Oh, I* should sayIin public because Im a child! Its not embarrassing! Its one of the secrets of success in life. Haaa Though Ive been saying past or present life, is this a parallel dimension trip? No, reincarnation? It seems that way. Although I still have trouble believing it, this is not a dream. TL Note: CH 4 Chapter 4 C My ordinary appearance is a cheat? Thats meaningless!? TL: Krrizis Editor: Nahct & Karma Since meeting Mooks-san, its been seven years and now Im thirteen. It wasnt a dream. Well, I knew that the pain that had coursed through my whole body was real, but I still wanted to escape from reality. After that, when I wanted to go to an orphanage somewhere, Mooks-san offered me a place: his house. He actually offered it to me, whom had he picked up despite the fact that he didnt know me and I was someone of unknown origin. Was it the magic of being a child? No matter, it didnt change my gratitude towards him. Though I was slightly troubled, I jumped at it. Before problems occur, Ill head to the trade country so that Mooks-san wont be troubled by it. It was much later that I heard from Mooks-san that the environment at the orphanage wasnt appropriate. I was a bit interested in what sort of orphanage it was. Even though I was curious, I didnt want to go. After judging that life with Mooks-san was certainly better than the orphanage for my plans, there was virtually nothing else to say about it. He really saved me. Mooks-san was a man who lived a solitary life. Moreover, his single storey house was huge. However as a bachelor living alone the room was neglected, as expected!! The condition of his room gave off a rough feeling typical of a bachelors room, and even his meals were takeaways. Does he even use the kitchen? It was then, that my previous life skills proved useful! I took it upon myself to live and take responsibility for all of the household chores. When I had the free time, I also would go over to Mooks-sans workplace and study various things. Mooks-san was the agencys chief. Additionally, since the agency was established everywhere, it was necessary for the capitals agency to have a representative who would collect and assign the tasks to be completed by the various agencies. In both the game and manga, there was no such thing as a guild in this country. Instead, there was the agency. When my brother, who was excited about the game heard there wasnt any guild, he was extremely disappointed. The agency was a place where people seeking assistance could put in a request and, shortly thereafter, the request would be turned over to the corresponding people who had registered as subscribers. It was similar to a temporary agency? Both short and long-term contracts existed, and the subject of the work was varied. In the beginning, workers were assigned as errand boys to complete requests in order to gain more reputability. If they were reputable, they would be assigned jobs that suited their ability. If they worked hard, they would be personally nominated by the client for requests. Within a year, I had mastered reading and writing. While I was studying, the staff members of the agency and the subscribers would teach me martial arts and give me indispensable information. Amongst the subscribers, there was a splendid military man No, he was certainly nothing but a soldier. In this world, there were demons born from harmful animals and magic. Those born from magic had their own will and were called demonic beasts because of their ability to use magic as well. The order of chivalry was essentially for the suppression of these demons; however, a lot of the suppression cases were requested through the agency in this country. If there was an emergency, apparently the agency would cooperate and work together with the government. To facilitate this process, it seems combat was included in their training as well. Then, there were a lot of requests from merchants, aristocrats, and so on for soldiers to act as guards and escorts. So, whenever those requested people came, I would ask them to teach me various things. After all, I am a combative fellow. I did various things when I started, from being an errand boy for the bakery to being dispatched to repair various roofs in the neighbourhood like a handyman, and completing collection requests. Now Im even able to go on suppressions as well. Mooks-san wasnt very pleased about it for some reason. Since currently I could read, write and calculate; at the age of nine, I signed a long-term contract with a merchant. The contract was designed so that as long as I didnt bring multiple losses to the client; when the merchants were on break, it could be written off, allowing me to save my migration funds laboriously. Although Mooks-san didnt look pleased that I was overworking myself, I was grateful that he didnt try to stop me, since he knew my objectives. Besides that, the really surprising thing was magic! In this country, citizens who turned ten years old could touch an item at the government office known as a magic probing stone to somehow check their receptiveness to magic and its attributes. Apparently rich people and aristocrats were able to check it immediately after they were born. In this country, the ones who the stone reacts to are registered and go to school when they turn fifteen. When Mooks-san brought me to the government office, checkmate! Or so I thought. After all, I can use magic already. So, after becoming nervous and being examined by the pleasant people in the surroundings, I finally gave up and touched the stone for half a minute. However, the magic probing stone did not react at all. It was rather disappointing. When a person with the makings of a mage* touches it, apparently the stone will light up with the color corresponding to their attribute, and the intensity corresponding to their receptiveness to magic. A mage is, well, a generic term used for people whore able to handle magic. From here, the education received splits into three paths: magician, wizard, and sorcerer*. I remembered Mooks-san being shocked at the extent of my surprise and comforting me. Be that as it may, it was quite unexpected. Even though I can use magic, it didnt react. Strictly speaking, what I can use isnt really magic, but I only knew that a little while later. The magic in this world was a bit different from what I had thought of. From the start, the magic users* in my mind were just a small portion of mages: magicians. In this world, magic is invoked from mana essence* that floats in the atmosphere and is then converted into magic power by means of a magic stone. This power is then kept within the body and transformed into the persons attribute. When the course of direction has been determined, the transformed magic power will be released from the body. At this point: There are six types of attributes: fire, water, wind, earth, light and darkness. As someone who dearly loved RPGs, this was extremely exciting for me. Apparently a normal person can only hold one attribute or, at the most, up to three. The magic power accumulated within the body can be judged depending on the intensity of the light, which occurs when the user checks their receptiveness to magic. However, in this world, nobody possesses magic power within their body. Magic power are only taken in. Putting it roughly, this means that mages with power are receptive to magic. In my situation, the conclusion seemed to be that I cant use either magic or black magic. But that was before I managed to operate my magic power. After the examination, I tried to experiment with the magic stones usage. The magic stone could draw mana essence from its origin into the stone, and the mana essence that was drawn in would then be converted into magic power. However, that magic power doesnt remain in the stone and it is thought that magic power is used to rebuild the stone itself, as that is its very nature. For a mage, the more a stone has been used, the more useful it is. The rebuilding of the stone could be considered a sort of growth? Except that before that happens, the magic power is stored within a persons body. There were a variety of magic stones that were commonly sold, and heading to the mines would allow me to potentially excavate one. When I said variety, that was in reference to the differences in the stones magic power conversion volume. The higher the volume, the more expensive it would be. Off topic, but, the stone I used broke. Marvelously. After that, I tried to sense the mana essence. It was unusually mysterious, but when I tried, I was able to see mana essence and magic power! Observing it consciously at first, the mana essence was so dazzling that it somewhat became a My eyes! My eyes!! sensation. Deep in my heart, I thought I should have been able to control it better. If magic power looked like the light of a firefly, despite being pretty, mana essence was like a flash of light. Being careful not to break it this time My heart raced as I used the magic stone, my magic power transforming the magic stone into a mana essence stone. Although I declared it to be a mana essence stone, that was just my unofficial name for it. Originally, mana essence would not cease flowing within the stone as long as there was magic power, and even if it were to stop, the stone would be unable to retain its form. Moreover, mana essence transforms into magic power. Therefore, the flow of mana essence within the stone is unchanging. Yet it stopped. What a miracle! It was like a Wot sorta mana essence stone is this!?* feeling. Since mana essence could not be transformed into magic power, it could not be drawn into my body. Therefore, I believed that no matter what, even if I used a spell or magic formation, it would be useless. What I meant by no matter what is that I wouldnt be able to attempt spells or magic formations. In this country, mages are treated harshly. In order to become a mage, one must enroll into the school or theyre unable to partake in the study of magic power. Till then, magic power at most Well, only having the so-called basics isnt considered learning. ( with the exceptions of the aristocrats.) No matter how I tried to change the mana essence I was conscious of into magic power and make it take the form of various shapes, I was unable to. Although the magic stone naturally collected mana essence and changed it into magic power, when I used it, it would immediately dispersed and vanished. Moreover, I was able to use all attributes. Considering the amount of mana essence that had entered my body, I wasnt afraid to test my limits. What am I A cheat? Im a CHEATTTTTTTTTTT! No, Im supposed to be a supporting mob! Ah, but my appearance is that of a supporting mob. And it was shocking, simply shocking. When I first looked into the mirror, I was at a loss for words. Why I reacted that way was because the appearance reflected in the mirror was the appearance of my previous existence. Elegant upward angled eyes, thin lips. This was just like what I looked like as a child. That means even when I grow up, Ill still be me. However, I also had parts that were different. Like the color of my hair was dark brown, and the color of my eyes were grey But everyone in this world has a strong chiselled face. Considering that, besides having a weak, ordinary face with brown hair, nothing else had changed. Far from being unchanged, the black hair that Id grown accustomed to seeing wasnt particularly ikemen-like to me, since I couldnt help but see it as being pretentious*. Haa~ Yo, so this isnt a reincarnation, but a trip? But I have Asnords memories. Suddenly, I felt a chill but only for a moment. Well, leaving that aside, I must evade the death flag. The world isnt going to change whether its a trip or reincarnation, and right now its of the utmost importance for me to find the right path for the sake of living!! TL Note: CH 5 Chapter 5 C Whats this!? As expected, the slum quarters are bad luck!? TL: Krrizis Editors: PenWie & Karma Once again, I was giving it my all at work today. Since the merchants were on break, I was hunting dangerous animals and demons on my own. Today, I wore a largish robe with the hood pulled down over my eyes. As one of the fantasy elements used by adventurers, its exciting!! When I first wore the robe, I felt that using a sword didnt suit my image as a magic user. However, since the robe itself had a notch to hold my sword that was rather convenient and user-friendly. The only negative was that pulling my hood down over my eyes narrowed my range of vision and was obstructive. Despite this nuisance, I pulled it down anyway because of Mooks-sans order. When handling subjugation requests, it was a condition that I wear the hood at all times. In any case, I was told it was to conceal my face Do I really need to cover it up this much? I thought I was ordinary, but am I actually ugly?! The thought was simply depressing. Was that really what it was? I didnt have the courage to ask, though. It was just like me, but since today was the truly long-awaited subjugation request, my excitement for the hunt returned. Although I had left in the morning, it was already evening now. I did make dinner preparations in advance, though, so, maa, itll be fine, but am I a housewife?!! I futilely tsukkomi-ed* alone as I made my way home. Even though I made preparations, it would probably better if I rushed home anyway. If I take too long to hurry back from the subjugation request, Mooks-san wont be happy. When I imagined that it may be because hes worried about me, it made me feel slightly happy. As I quickened my pace to return home, something suddenly came flying out from the direction of the slum quarters. Confused, I did not stop in time, so I I ended up colliding into it and fell on my butt. It couldnt be helped since I had a body of a childs, but Its still embarrassing. Sitting on my bottom, I sensed blood thirst and immediately back flipped to my feet, preparing myself in advance. Catching sight of the situation, I was stunned. That guy over there was probably the one I had collided with. Two large men were there, one of which appeared to be badly injured as a knife was stuck in his stomach. Eckk. The other was propping up the injured guy despite his own injuries. Although both of them were gasping, they didnt look away from their opponents. The injured men were facing two other men in black while I was stuck in the middle. The blood thirst from a short while ago (Ah! It isnt a bad pun!*) seemed to have come from those men in black. What the heck is going on!? As expected, the slum quarters are bad luck!? Just as I pulled myself together from the surprise, I was hit by the sharp blood thirst once again. My body reacted before my brain, lowering my centre of gravity and extending my posture with my sword drawn. The swords clashed with a heavy impact, but I parried it and sent a roundhouse kick his way that he avoided. I clicked my tongue at the seemingly large gap between us that put him out of my reach. However, since I had managed to compete with him even from a distance, I suppose its a pass. Does my opponent have an unknown ability? He was holding two short swords in his hand and my attacks were on the defensive side, maybe my counterattacks had surprised him. Heee, serves you right!! When I had attacked him with the roundhouse kick, I had also used magic to search for more enemies, locating a total of seventeen people. Besides the two men in black, there were fifteen others, excluding the two injured men and I. The fifteen other people were hidden a fixed distance away in order to observe the situation. Seriously, what the heck is going on?? What do these seventeen assailants have against these two? Do they have a lot of time on their hands or something? Whats the deal? Mouu, the slum quarters are absolutely bad luck!! Discreetly, I activated my physical enhancement magic. For the past four years, I had practiced magic without letting anyone around me know about it, even though my magic is invisible, so even if I had used it out in the open, I wouldnt have been exposed. Teehee. I paused, sweating as I mulled it over. No matter how I thought about it, wasnt this an excessive amount of people? There were also those two seriously injured men behind me, who had mostly caught their breath. Whats with this impossibly hard game mode? Ani-ueee! Hold on!! You cant close your eyes. Ani-ue! Shit. If I hadnt brought you along, for whose sake did IC The mans shout echoed through the area, inadvertently scaring me. However, this was truly a dangerous development. I looked over my shoulder in the direction of the guys voice and froze, unintentionally raising my voice. Kei?! Thats right, I knew the man bleeding from his stomach. Seeing his face, I was shocked. This man was more than an acquaintance, he was my best friend*. As I was distracted, the two men in black suddenly dashed towards us. Maa, its natural if theyre aiming for his life. Even if I were to defend him, I wouldnt be able to make it in time from this distance. I instinctively raised a barrier around the three of us. *clang*. The sound of their mighty swords being repelled, violently reverberated throughout the surrounding area. The sudden presence of the barrier caught everyone by surprise. As they recovered, I tried to think of something else. How the heck should I move on from here? I didnt want to use magic, but I was reluctant to see anyone die in front of me because I refused to use it. On top of that, he is my best friend. I cannot let that happen. Besides, Ive already used it, and if I hadnt, Id surely be dead by now. Nnn SuddenIy, an idea hit me. However, Ive never used it on a person before Previously, when I had received a request to stop a bunch of thieves, I had somehow obtained a large egg during that scuffle. Perhaps, it was transferred to me. From the warm egg, a healthy creature was born and grew up splendidly; however, when I thought to send it back to its parents, it disappeared. That was all that happened, though, and I didnt even verify all of the possibilities. Even so in order to obtain a hint, I tried it out on an object and was successful. Its probably too risky to test that out right now, though. If thats the case, theres nothing I can do, but just go with it!! Fuuu, I exhaled and allowed myself to get fired up. Turning around, I fixed my eyes on the man who was being supported upright as I used a recovery spell on both of them. Im healing you now. However, itll only last for a short while. Can you hold onto your brother? Even though I had inquired in a low voice, the man seemed startled, but he seemed to have understood and nodded his head. At that, I laughed and broadly grinned. Close your eyes. At the count of three three, run to the back of the alleyway!! Following my instructions , the man obediently closed his eyes, and I took the opportunity in that three seconds to flash a large ball of light at the opponents. After that flash of light hit the attackers, I turned around and ran, leading the way while helping to support Kei. The difference in our physique didnt matter much due to my physical enhancement with magic, making me much stronger, combined with the additional assistance of wind magic. Mou, its a splendid treat!!* After verifying that there were no signs of danger in the immediate area, I slowed down. Noticing my actions, the man followed suit. There are no enemies in the vicinity for now. Are you Kei-sans younger brother? As I came to a complete halt, I watched the man intently as I spoke. It was obvious that the man was clearly relieved by the situation when he replied. Aaa. Yeah. Sorry for getting you mixed up in that situation. My name is Ani* The older brother, Kei-san, had mint green-hair that more-or-less reached his shoulders and his eyes were golden. He was moderately muscular, a hosomacho* who was long, slender, and well-proportionate. A splendid-looking man. Unfortunately hes expressionless. When I first saw him, I thought he looked like a doll; although, he appears to have loosened up some recently. In comparison, Ani-san had the same mint green hair, but he kept his neat and short which was paired with crimson gold eyes. He had an exceedingly well-built physique, similar to a military mans. Actually, he probably had a lot of experience fighting as well. As for his expressions Maa, at least he was more expressive than Kei-san. There was no mistake that both of them were ikemens. Thats right, both of them were awesome ikemen-sans. However, what a pity. Were the expressions on these brothers fixed by default? Maa, its excusable since theyre ikemen. In a way, since theyre ikemen, theyre hot!? Are those guys ikemen explosions? In my heart, I was cursing ikemens as I continued to carry the conversation. My name is Asnord. I meet up with Kei-san once a month. Were best friends Calming myself down immediately, I put on a pleasant smile. But hey, with the hood down over my eyes, it doesnt mean anything. Ani-ues best friend? In these past few years, Ani-ue has changed. Perhaps its due to Asnord-donos* influence Looking gently at Kei-sans figure, he quietly smiled. Seeing his expression, I knew that he really treasured Kei-san. We first met aboutfour years ago. Back then, he was also badly injured, and I was shocked by it. Even his expressionless manners were surprising. Compared to that time, he now gives off a gentle feeling but for this cruel thing to happen again He looked at the badly injured Kei-san, unconsciously frowning. Four years ago and he was even badly injured then as well. No matter what, were in your debt Upon seeing his sorrowful expression, I flusteredly answered him. He was only badly injured that one time! Back then, Id taken him back to the agency and applied medicine repeatedly all over him. Ahh, e~to, what are we doing just standing around here for. Lets head over to the place I spoke of earlier Right, I wasnt sure if those seventeen folks in black would come again, and this wasnt a place that he could be treated in peace. You may not trust me but he cant be treated peacefully here. Got it? Aside from just assisting him, youre brothers best friend, right? I trust you. Originally, Id planned to request that from him. Would you lead the way? He smiled sweetly and laughed for a moment before hardening up. An ikemens smile really was impressive. Correcting my hold on Kei-san, I decided to devote my attention to leading the way. TL Notes: CH 6 Chapter 6 C An Ikemens Smile Really Is A Freaking Bomb~~~!!! TL: Krrizis Editors: Karma & Momielxai With great difficulty, we were finally able to arrive safely at Mook-sans house. I had cast magic to search for enemies as we moved, to ensure that it was quite unlikely for us to be followed. Although Kei-san needed treatment, I couldnt exactly take him to the agency and use healing magic there. So, since Mook-sans house was closer to our location, I led them there instead. However, Mook-san still wasnt home yet. Ill just ask him for permission later, but it should be okay, right? Please lie Kei-san down over here. The bed is a bit small, though Considering Kei-sans physique, it couldnt be helped that he didnt quite fit on the bed, as there was no other place we could lie him down. It cant be helped. After all, Im a child! Yup. Im only small because Im a child. As I guided them to my room, I removed the robe I wore, and opened the door to the room. Ani-san entered the room first, laying Kei-san on the bed as he examined it. As expected, my bed is too small, his legs are sticking out. Yosh! Im going to focus completely on his treatment now When I drew closer to Kei-san, Ani-san stepped backwards to give me room. Standing near Kei-sans abdomen, I could feel Ani-sans watchful gaze from behind me, but I ignored it and concentrated on his treatment instead. I wrapped my hands around the knife that was still sticking in Kei-sans stomach. As I had casted a simple recovery spell while I was at the scene of the crime, it wasnt life-threatening anymore. I could feel Kei-sans magic around where the knife was. Rather than healing, the magic was concentrated on keeping the knife in place. Fuuu~ I exhaled, psyching myself. As I dispelled the magic that kept the knife affixed, I began to remove the knife. Blood started coming out as I pulled out the knife, so I cast a healing spell to mend the wound. When I come into contact with it, magic disperses on its own, which was useful at times like these. With the knife completely removed and the bleeding stopped, I verified that the wound was closed before casting a stronger healing spell again. It was for a healthy body, so that Kei-san would be healthier. As I cast it, I recalled the times when I drank tea with Kei-san. In the worst case scenario that the knife had been poisoned, I imagined strongly detoxifying any poison that might have been present. Before releasing my hand, I verified that the light had spread throughout Kei-sans body completely. Sighing with relief, I withdrew my powers and turned around to look at Ani-san behind me. It should be fine with this. He should awaken shortly I said with a slightly more relaxed smile. At my words, Ani-san collapsed to his knees, crouching down. It appeared that his tension had snapped, and he lost his strength. Blood was flowing from his hands that had been tightly clenched. Ah Thank you for saving my ani-ue. I dont really know what else to say. I thought it was over, but I shouldnt have given up. Even though I thought that I had to save him, you did it instead. Really, thank you His voice trembled with emotion as he said those last words. As he spoke, he tightly hugged me and I could feel that it wasnt just his voice, even his body was faintly trembling. Quietly, I rubbed his back gently, while praying that his heart would ease. When I caught the sweet fragrance of blood, I remembered that Ani-san was also wounded and hurriedly cast a healing spell on him. Just in case, I didnt forget to detoxify him as well. In surprise, Ani-san lifted his head, and I smiled at him. With this, Ani-sans wounds should be also fine, but if theres still anything else, please let me know. If everything seems alright, then Ill be making some tea, so please sit down over there After we separated our bodies for a moment, I pointed at the chair. The chair was definitely too small as well. It cant be helped. Uh huh its inevitable at the moment. Ani-san nodded his head, and after checking that he had headed towards the chair, I went into the kitchen. I prepared tea, as well as a jug of water to put on standby for when Kei-san regained consciousness. While I got the tea, I also took the opportunity to bring the cookies I had made myself. This was also a skill from my past life. They were quite popular with everyone at the agency, including the merchants, but I hoped they would suit Ani-sans taste as well. Although it was my room, I knocked just in case, and was waiting for a response when Ani-san opened the door from inside. Ah, pardon me. Thank you When I lowered my head as I entered the room, Ani-san chuckled. Wondering why he laughed, I looked up at Ani-san, and he said, This is Asnord-donos room. Surely, you dont need to knock As he patted my head unreservedly and took the tray from my hands. Oh My voice leaked out reflexively, but Ani-san continued to make his way to the chair where a small table had been placed. An ikemen really can make anything look stylish Amazing! Even if I did the same thing, I wouldnt be able to pull it off so smoothly. No, not even that stylishness earlier. Somehow, my thoughts made me feel rather empty. Uuu Though I felt lost, I brought another chair from somewhere else to the table that Ani-san was sitting at as he watched me and sat down. After sitting down across the table from Ani-san, I looked straight into his eyes. At the same time, Ani-san opened his mouth. Once again, Im really sorry to trouble you this time. Even so, Ive unexpectedly dragged you into my conflict. Because of this, there is a possibility that you will be targetted from now on He said, as he lowered his head forcefully. *whack* I had a feeling that I had just heard a fairly audible sound!! Not felt it, definitely heard it!!! It wasnt that loud, but I fell down from the chair onto my butt instinctively. Dont tell me, he wasnt just satisfied with hitting his head, he had to hit it against the table top!? Why are you going that far!? Arent you just venting it on your forehead!? Do ikemens do things like a manzai act?? As I was panicking alone, Ani-san opened up to me without raising his head. Having a child like you protect and engage against such dangerous guys. Making the enemy draw their attention towards you. On top of it all, going so far as to give us such assistance. Im pathetic No, no! Even if its just providing assistance, its not to the extent of lowering your head that much!? Although this isnt my house that I brought you to, I only treated you and made tea while Kei-san was sleeping. Isnt that a natural thing to do!? Such exaggeration! Of course, a hot blooded person wouldnt be able to do it in that state. Or rather, just having an ikemen lower his head makes me feel powerless. Urk. As I was able to get him to raise his head, I breathed a sigh of relief. Ah, you. Fuu Asnord-dono, you possess a really strong, gentle, and exceedingly pure heart Saying that, he showed me the same tender smile he had directed towards Kei-san in the alley. My face was definitely bright red right now. Instinctively, I covered my face with my hands. At the level of that mans smile, what on earth was I supposed to do was the kind of thought swirling around in my head. However, there were words I wanted to say out loud! Ill just say it!! Gender was a trivial matter when faced against an outrageous smile like that which was like a bomb carrying brutal powers, no matter if they were male or female!! Uhh, Im not the kind of person who can do those things. So, with the Asnord-dono, could you please stop using the honorific dono for a child, like me. Its alright for you to just call me Asnord!!* Again, those words were spoken in a haste. Moreover, my face was still covered by my hands. I mean, I cant raise my head. Mou, what is this! Oi!! Then, from the front, I heard a sudden laugh. There was the sound of the chair being moved, and my head was stroked afterwards. Turning so red Its really hard to imagine because of that manly figure you had earlier. Its really cute. Asnord-dono, would it be alright if I call you Az?* Eckk. As expected, my brightly red face was discovered!! But you didnt have to deal that final blow, you know! Furthermore, while stroking my head. What are you trying to convey!? You!?* That wasnt manly, and this is definitely not cute!!! Even if its said by an ikemen, all I can hear is sarcasm!! This is definitely not an inferiority complex!! Is there something wrong with your eyes!? HUH?!! Look! Look!! Dont tell me that the healing was ineffective and something happened!? Hah Its no good. I definitely cant raise my head. Im fine with anything that you call me by!! Uh, Ani-san!! ICI brought cookies with the tea!! If you like, please have some!!! I apologize, its something I made but it should be tasty! Trying to change the subject somehow, I promoted the cookie while still hiding my face. You made this, Az? You are even able to make things like this? Thats really admirable. Ill eat them with pleasure. Nnn Feeling the hand leaving my head and hearing the sounds of the chair being sat on along with chewing sounds, I raised my head to see if he liked them. After all, I made the cookies, so its impossible for me to not be concerned by what other people think of it!! Raising my face, what appeared before me was a smile like a goddess from Ani-san. Nnn. Its delicious, such a gentle taste. Its been a long time since I ate such a heart-warming thing. It feels like Ive remembered something really important. Thank you He said as he smiled. Does that mean that the stoic expression when we first met wasnt your default?? Although its better that he has a facial expression, this is the first time I feel troubled by him having it. An ikemens smile was a dangerous weapon!! This was extremely informative!! TL Notes: CH 7 Chapter 7 C Smiles that explode and even with a bang!! After I said that, the two of them simultaneously nodded their heads repeatedly. Having not expected them to be synchronized so much, I laughed. Even if theyre ikemen, they still looked slightly foolish. As a result, the state they were in was very heartwarming. Kei-san, you really understand your brother. Although Ive only seen a little bit of the situation between the two of you, Ani-san has shown how much he cares for you greatly. Its nice!! PFFFT! Kei-san spouted water as he choked and began to cough. Although he was rubbing Kei-sans back, Ani-san wore a look of surprise, while Keisan had turned bright red. Ah Thats right. Its because I followed your advice. I am who I am today because of you, Asnord. When I reflect upon it, Im grateful that the attack happened back then Unconsciously, I admired his soft and gentle smile. It was quite similar to Ani-sans. The power of a smile from a usually expressionless person was amazing. All the more unexpectedly, was its beauty. Ani-sans smile was wonderful, but Kei-sans was just as impressive. If Ani-sans smile gave off a strong, handsome feeling, then Kei-sans was like a transient flower that needed protection. However, to say those words while being presented with a smile like that was extremely dangerous. about them since then, but Ive always been curious Sorry that Ive kept you worried this long. I cant say theres a working solution to it yet, but theres progress. Both my younger brother and son understand me, and I believe them to be my allies When Kei-san looked at Ani-san, Ani-san looked surprised for an instant, but then he laughed happily. Thats right. Being able to receive those words from you and to hear you speak about it, and even share my thoughts with you, Ive come to understand you. From now on, I wish to support you, ani-ue, from the bottom of my heart. Also, oh~ I feel relieved. It looks like your relationship with your family is going well from how I see it. You look really happy. This must also be Azs doing. Thanks As we had bowed our heads again, flustered, we laughed when we realized it. That exceedingly warm mood in the air warmed my heart as well. Which reminds me, youve grown really close to Asnord within such a short span of time. If the others saw this, they wouldnt believe it at all The same goes for you. I, too, am in disbelief of ani-ues current self Did those two never experience feelings like this? I wonder what theyre usually like. I really cant imagine it at all. Oh well, it isnt necessary to raise your guard in front of a child. Its a good thing, if itll let them to relaxedly pass the time. As I spoke, I turned to the table to take the tray away. Kei-san tried to get off the bed, so I rushed over to stop him. Although youre cured, Kei-san, it would be better if you continued to relax and stay in bed In that case, Ill come and assist you Ani-san said, coming up to me and attempting to follow me. When I also prevented him from doing so, Ani-sans brows drooped down, looking upset, and I laughed unconsciously.* Ani-san, please remain with Kei-san. If possible, could you move the table and chairs closer to him? That way the three of us can have tea together Come to think of it, Im grateful he revealed such a happy smile, as now Ive grown quite accustomed to it! However, for some reason, he still looked upset. Whats the matter? Puzzled, I looked up at Ani-san, and he turned his face a bit away from me as he blushed, saying in a subdued voice. Its nothing to compare with, but No, towards me no no! Hah~ Your tone towards me is different from your tone towards ani-ue. How to put it I can feel how close you are with him? Coming from a guy youve only just met today, you might have a problem with what Im saying, but it makes me feel a bit left out. Im not envious or anything Yeah, Im just feeling a bit left out. Could you speak to me like you do with ani-ue? If you cant, thats alright* Kei-san who was behind Ani-san, began to whistle. Although I wasnt bothered by it, I was kind of confused. I never thought that out of all the things in this world, a handsome man would blush and say those words to me. In short, he wanted to become closer to me? What the hell is this! Wait what? A grown man, and one whos even a peerless beauty, is saying hes lonely. Just as my head began to understand it, poof is probably the sound that best fit how bright red my face must have turned, and even the insides of my nose became hot. Im, Im not nosebleeding, okay? Just feeling slightly anxious. As I unconsciously became at a loss for words, Ani-san gazed at me quietly. His expression, coupled with his drooping eyebrows, became one that was quite impossible to speak of. I was becoming even more perplexed by that face, when I heard laughter coming from behind Ani-san, as Kei-san called out to us. Thats really unusual, isnt this the first time youve felt that way? This is definitely the first time Ive seen you like this, Ani. I got to see something good. Fufu ANI-UE! At Kei-sans words, Ani-san spun around to face him, his face red, and said something to him. As he declared that while tilting his head slightly, I was once again speechless. Seriously, no matter what a handsome person does, they still look good. Ikemens really should all go and explode!! By the time I recovered, Ani-san was also looking at me. Because of the combination of both of their gazes, my face turned even redder. How red can someones face become? For some reason, even my body was trembling. Mou, what the heck is this? Are they teasing me!? I-if thats what you like, then Ill speak to you normally, Ani-san! Kei-san too, you can call me whatever you like. Uuu, Im going to go grab the tea~!! As I was in the middle of saying that, the two of them both broke into smiles, and I had a bit of trouble breathing. As expected, it was impossible for me to get used to their smiles! As soon as I finished my sentence, I turned around and headed for the door. Swoosh, Ani-san bypassed me and opened the door. This is why ikemens are sooARGHHH!!! Somehow, I was able to only make a quick bow, before running straight to the kitchen. I had a feeling I could hear laughter in the background, but like I care! No matter how much noise the items on top of the tray made, I didnt slow down. Translators Note: 1. ʥ򥢥ˤ֧Ƥ롣ֵܐۤĿĤ֤줽Someones jealous. 2. դ˼鷺Ѫˤʤ롭䡢gHˤϤʤɤ⡣Took me ages to figure out the meaning of this. Gufuu is the sound of someone vomiting blood. Typically used in emoticons >>> _:(?`):_ Things you learn when translating. Hoho. 3. ǰޤǤƥˤԤƤ褦ȤΤǡֹ롣 ȥˤüϤ֤ˤʤäΤ˼鷺ЦäƤޤ- The actual phrasing for this sentence is different in Japanese, and I had to paraphrase it to work in English. Originally, the translation goes something like the following: Doing so, Ani-sans eyebrows formed into the character which unconsciously made me laugh. Lost puppy Ani-san. 4. ȤǤϤʤΤ䡢ˤȤäƤϡ䤤䡣 ϤˌƤȥˌƤο{`äƤƤʡϤȤηH ˸ФȤʤȤΤ ճäФūΘʤȤԤΤɤ˼Τ äȼŤäwޤȤǤϤʤäȼŤä ХˤϤͬ褦ԒƤ館ʤʤ CH 8 Chapter 8 C What in the blazes!? Whats this!? TLC: Krrizis Editors: Momielxai & Puissansa Heading towards the kitchen, I deftly prepared tea. By no means was I running away. Well.alright. I did run away. I ran away, alright!? Or rather, I would like to know who wouldnt run away from that situation. Theres no way anyone wouldnt, right?!! For someone not to run away from the smiles of those beautiful brothersaah, but if he died instantly, then he couldnt have escaped. Even while escaping from reality, I was still treating the tea utensils with proper courtesy*. (TLN: The raw implied a sense of respect towards the tea utensils which is likely due to their practices in proper tea ceremony) This is also the result of my previous life. Moreover, Im grateful to this world for having similar utensils to the ones in my past life. Thank you, my previous lifes Kaa-sama. My previous life wasnt futilely lived. Its a relief that the lifestyle here isnt too different from that of my previous life C perhaps due to the fact that this world was a shoujo manga world drawn by the Japanese. The only difference, image-wise, is that magic has replaced electrical appliances. Common-folk who cant use magic have lifestyles similar to those of the early Showa era*, while the rich, the nobles and magicians lead comfortable lives like (TLN: Showa era: 1926-1989. Heisei era: 1989-modern day) For example, in the kitchen, common-folk that cant use magic have to rely on hearths. Magicians, nobles and the rich, on the other hand, use a magical artifact similar to modern kitchen systems. Sorcerers are people who become mages when a magic probing stone gives a reaction. They can only take in a small amount of magic power into their body and while they are able to convert it, they could neither use spells nor sorcery with that amount of magic power. Hence they have to insert magic stones into their magical circuits, store magic power in stones to make mana crystals and insert them into the magical artifacts that they craft. Fundamentally, magic stones cannot be used to store magic power. The stone is unable to hold more magic power than it naturally possesses. However, the stone can have its magic affinity increased by calculating the maximum amount of magic power it can hold and gradually forcing magic power in at fixed intervals by using a magical circuit. This probably gives off the image of a battery. The resulting product is known as a mana crystal that can then be inserted into an apparatus with a corresponding magical circuit inscribed. Consequently, the magical circuit can be activated, and the completed apparatus is called a magical artifact. Magical artifacts are then utilised by the nobles and the wealthy. They employ a sorcerer in their estates to maintain their magical artifacts, and to replenish magic power in mana crystals. Of course, tea leaves like that of my previous lifes exist too. They are called herbal tea here and are the equivalent of green tea series of tea. The taste and fragrance are the same too, with the colour of the tea being the only difference. It is jet black. When I first saw it, I thought it was poison. When it was served, I instinctively confirmed that other people were drinking it before drinking it myself. Well, it was the ordinary delicious taste though. I myself like this tea too and as I was brewing it, I was enjoying its fragrance. Thats right, I was enjoying myself but due to someone peering in from behind me, I froze on the spot. GigigiI turned my head to look and a macho ikemen was standing right behind me. Hii. I really want to praise myself from the bottom of my heart for not dropping the tea utensils. If nothing happened, why are you putting your arms around my waist and and resting your chin on my head? What, in the blazes is this situation. I repeat. What in the blazes is this situation!? Language* He murmured. At the same time, vibrations are transmitted to my head. Ehh? Dont tell me hes pouting?? Theres no way I will find it cute!! (TLN: Japanese use informal speech for close friends, family etc) Eto, what happened*? After I repeated the question, he added strength into his arms around my waist. Why!? Even though I did it the way you wanted me to. (TLN: informal speech) Its nothing. Its just that I was thinking of helping you out somehow. By the way, it doesnt seem like you live here alone. Who do you live with? He asked while remaining in this position. Cant you release me? Uuu. You know the agency? The agencys chief lets me use this place, after picking me up. Hearing that, he added more strength into his arms, which created pressure on my stomach!! Ani-san, its a little painful!! With that, his countenance softened for an instant, before showing one of sorrow and finally changing back to anger. Mou, this fellow cant be said to be expressionless. You wouldnt think he is the same person I met earlier. CH 9 Chapter 9 C After relaxing, its time to get serious Having heard that, ikemen-san smiled and said something incomprehensible. Im only doing this because I want to. Dont mind it. Come on, take a seat. No no no no. How can I not mind it! This kind of ambiguous situation, with you silently standing there. Whats wrong? Are you not going to sit? I dont mind carrying you to your seat. Ill sit! Ill properly sit on my own! Im not a child after all. Saying so, I hastily rushed to take a seat. After all, he will definitely do as he said and carry me with his hands under my armpits. Certainly, it.makes one want to drink it both at work and at home too. Ohh! His earnest thoughts surprised me. Its good that he seems to like it. Ani-san as well, thank you! Im glad you like it! Even if you dont like sweet things, for times when you are tired such as when at work, its probably good to add a little sugar. Aah, is that so? Ill try it next time. Although, I would prefer to have Az brew it for me at my workplace. Suddenly saying this in a casual manner while smiling, the words themselves made me choke on my tea. What are you saying? You are saying it to the wrong person!! Time passed as the 3 of us leisurely enjoyed our tea. While I did not wish to spoil this comfortable atmosphere, there were things we had to discuss. I quickly got up and went to the bedpost. Ani-san raised his voice in response. Hold on a moment. Setting enemy detection and sound-proof magic aside for now, why the heck is the knife necessary? Ani-sans words held a hint of surprise. Kei-san on the other hand just narrows his eyes at me. After all, didnt Kei-san purposely leave the knife in the wound? Th-thats because if we pulled it out, the wound would bleed more profusely, right? Well, thats plausible, but Kei-san can use recovery magic, cant he? Both of you seem to be trying to hide something from me, but Im sorry, I noticed the strangeness of the situation. Above all, instead of using recovery magic, you used hardening magic to hold the knife in place. Ive been thinking about what you were trying to achieve with that. Its definitely not because a lack of magic power. The magic power consumption of hardening magic is higher than recovery magic after all. Furthermore, if this knife belonged to the assailant, there would be some sort of evidence of that as well. After I finished my explanation, Kei-san let out a deep sigh. Ani, its alright. Im sure lies wont work on Az. In the first place, there isnt a need to lie to him nor deceive him. Everything is as Az said. Ani-san widened his eyes at Kei-sans words. But! Ani-ue, this will put Az in danger!! Even if you say we will be dragging him in, its already too late. Ever since that day, 4 years ago. After all, I am irritated. Isnt it normal to be annoyed when someone messes with your tea-drinking companions this badly? I cant forgive your attackers. Neither do I intend to. In any case, even if I did manage to seize them, itd be hard to get to the mastermind pulling the strings from behind. However, if this means getting dragged straight into danger, Ill be happy to oblige. Of course, Id usually prefer to avoid being involved in troublesome matters but Ill accept this challenge. I dont mean to sound arrogant but Ive been training. Ill take care of my own safety. It seems like I was more irritated than I thought. I spewed out those agitated lines in a single breath. Once again, the 2 of them were dumbfounded. Did I say something that shocking? CH 10 Chapter 10 C Im just an ordinary person. No, strictly speaking Im supposed to be a mob character. Az! Do you know who owns the estate that youve drawn on the map? Even though Kei-san was in a panic, he spoke in a calm voice. Eh? I dont know. Since its a big estate, it probably belongs to some rich noble. I used clairvoyance magic while I was treating Kei-san, so I havent investigated that much yet. Sorry for the incomplete information. Ill find out the details after this! Leave it to me!! Having said so with a sweet smile, the two of them turned pale as a sheet and became even more flustered. No. Absolutely not! Its true that youve been a great help. While its inexcusable for us to get you involved without your consent, this matter is, from start to end, our own problem. I dont wish to involve you in this matter any further. You definitely mustnt approach the estate. It has nothing to do with you from now on! Although I was shocked by Ani-sans menacing glare, I could not agree to it. But Please. Its really dangerous. I dont want to see Az getting hurt!! I dont want to see the two of you getting hurt either!? I dont want to see the two of you in that state again!! Is it unacceptable for me not to want the two of you to face danger!? I blew my top and gnashed my teeth. I know it was better for me not to get involved. I also understand that you two would be worried. But even so, I would still be worried. Furthermore, the fact that I got angry only because I was worried, gave me a fuzzy feeling in my chest. I dont want you to be involved in this and It has nothing to do with you were much more shocking to me than expected. When I thought about what made it this much of a shock, I realised that it was because this made it seem as though a line was drawn between us. Although it could be thought of as a matter of course, when I remembered the comfortable time we spent together, it made me feel sorrowful. It somehow felt miserable and lonely. Was I such a bother? Even so, having seen them in that state, I could not just nod my head when told to stay away from this matter. Although I had a feeling that if it had been the me of my previous life, I would have given up after complaining a little. I bit my lips and gulped while my vision turned blurry. Not able to hold my tears back, I cast my head down and felt the tears drip down. Dont cry. Im really happy to know that you think that way. Erm, to be told I dont want you to be involved in this and It has nothing to do with you from now on. It was a little shocking. You might be wondering just what in the world am I saying. Sorry. But, I understand! When I think in Kei-sans and Ani-sans shoes, I somewhat understand. It would be even more strange to be involved with someone like me. I perfectly understand that. From now on, I will think things through properly; I wont get involved or have anything to do with you two. Its only that having it said aloud was still more of a shock to me than I imagined. It makes me feel lonely. As I said that, I clenched my fists which were on my lap. But, Ive thought things through. Kei-san and Ani-san, arent they at fault too?? They were nice to me and leisurely drank tea with me, causing me to misinterpret our relationship! Things arent as desperate as you think, so wont you let us do it our way? Ani and I both treasure you. Thats why we dont wish for you to get involved in something dangerous. All the more so when it is our own problem to deal with. I sneaked a peek and met Kei-sans concerned gaze. As I previously said, I know Ive been taking advantage of Azs kindness. Yet, when I want you to not be involved and not have anything to do with this matter, I still felt depressed. Since you dont want me to apologise, I wont, but I still feel apologetic. While giving me a bitter smile, he gently patted my head once again. Eeh? Was it my misunderstanding? Was that it? Uu this is embarrassing. As I hid my face behind my hands and shook my head, I could hear Kei-sans and Ani-sans relieved laughter. Mou, I really want to dig a hole and hide myself in it. In the first place, if I didnt want to have anything to do with you, I wouldnt go out of the way to come meet you. I also wouldnt selfishly make you listen to my complaints nor would I come here to enjoy tea with you. Moreover, even if our relations sour, I wouldnt say something stupid like I dont want to have anything to do with you. If there exists someone who would say that, that person is just an idiot. And Ill say it now, dont treat me like those idiots. I also do not care about our difference in status, hasnt that been the case since we first met? Kei-sans words put me at ease. Now that I think of it, thats true. Its the same for me too. I think of you as my teadrinking companion. As I said this, I smiled, which then caused the two of them to turn away. I wonder whats wrong while I was feeling uneasy, Ani-san suddenly turned to face me. Im glad we managed to clear up the misunderstanding. Just to make it clear, its unnecessary for you to help out in this matter. As Ani-ue has said, leave this to us. I will dispel the grudges with my own hands! Ani-san said so angrily, to which Kei-san solemnly nodded. It has certainly been unjust thus far. Just thinking about it makes me angry. We can finally resolve this. I look forward to seeing the looks on their faces. be? I would rather have you stay away from the estate and those guys though. I felt touched by Ani-sans worried look, but I replied with a smile. Dont worry. I wont get close to them because I will do it from here! My words made the two of them stiffen. I then explained. I think I should be able to pull it off! Probably. Black magicno, perhaps curse is more accurate?? Dont worry! Its not a death-inducing curse, as is often the case, and its not a curse that causes abnormalities in the mind and body of the victim either. Its just that if I completely fail, then please! I made my fingers go waki waki* as I said so, and noticed that Kei-sans and Anisans facial muscles had cramped. (TLN: Something like this https://gifmagazine.net/post_images/107416 ) I wonder why?? Its not a death-inducing curse, as is often the case? And I dont even want to know the details of those that causes abnormalities in the mind and body. In any case, just how do you want us to help? Is there anything we can do to help in case you fail? Would the curse harm you as well? Ani-san sure is kind to be worrying about me. It should be alright. If I remembered it correctly, the game did have something like this. Although Im only basing this on how it was in the game, the user of this curse would not suffer any side effects. What was it? The Inauspicious system of magic that inflicted misfortune on its victims. I could probably cast the curse by just having that as my mental image. It might be a questionable act to cast this on others, but I wanted to render that black-clad group speechless by my own hands. Even if I were to fail, there would not be any consequences; but if I succeeded, there would be some meaning to that.I think. At least for my mental state! If I failed, I would feel disappointed, but I had no way of confirming its success anyway. I can only do it with the belief that it will definitely reach them. Not knowing how I should explain things, I decided to start with this. Even if you ask who I am, Im just an ordinary person nothing more nothing less. Even if you say Im young, Im actually already 13, you know?? There wasnt anything else I could say. It wasnt like I could say Im a mob character after all. The two of them looked astonished on hearing what I said. UuSeemed like it wasnt going to work, but theres no way I could explain the other reason. What should I do?! CH 11 Chapter 11 C Shocking the soul out of the body ordinary person as well, right? Should I have said that I am a commoner? I sank into deep thought. Az, you are 13 years old right now? I raised my head at Keisans voice to face the two of them. Un. Im 13 now. I will be 14 in half a years time. The two of them had faces of disbelief. They scrutinised me from top to toe repeatedly. Are they astonished by how small I am? But, 156 cm tall is normal for a 13 year old, right? Am I mistaken!? Of course if you compare me to the two of them, Im tiny. But, Im still a kid after all! Even if my mind isnt that of a child, my body is!! My bad. I assumed that you were 8 or 9 years old. Awkward This time around, Im the one who became dumbfounded. For you to guess that Im 8 or 9 years oldeeh?? Yeah, I thought so too. Judging based on your height. Estimating my age to be 8 or 9 based on my height of 156cm? Im getting a bad vibe from this. A premonition!! Can I ask you guys something? Whats the average height of 13 year olds? At my question, the two of them exchanged glances and nodded. Keisan answered. Around165cm to 170cm? I think its around there. Keisan looked towards Anisan who nodded in response. I froze on the spot. Around 165cm to 170cm? Isnt that weird!? Ah! The unit of length in this world is the same as my previous worlds. Its a relief that the measurement of time is roughly the same too. Thanks, Sanrinsensei!! (Koihanas author!) Yes. I know escaping reality changes nothing. I understand that, but there are times when I dont want to face reality. AahI now understand why everyone treats me so nicely! The mystery of Anisans treatment has been debunked too. That wasnt escorting, that was babysitting! Whats with my misunderstanding? How shameless!! Well, if everyone thought I was 8 or 9 years old, they would naturally treat me nicely. It wasnt like I went around telling everybody my age after all. If they didnt ask, I wouldnt have said it. Speaking of which, when the guys from Suzuella Company found out my age, they were shocked too. Back then, I thought they were shocked because I was wise beyond my years, but it seems like it was actually due to my outward appearance not matching my age. Aah In the first place, its because theres only adults around me so I had no idea how kids my age look like and merely assumed I was normal. Is this the downside of having knowledge of another world!? It might be a little late to say this now, but am I lacking basic common sense? Nono, Mookssan didnt say anything, and everyone I know didnt say anything either. If theyve noticed something weird, theyd have told me, right? Theyd have pointed it out to me, right!? AahI suddenly feel so uneasy about everything. I need to relearn everything.what do I need to study for this? Common sense? Does that mean I lack common sense? First things first, I need to drink milk!! Lots of it! Lets go with at least 3 cups a day. AAz? You dont have to feel so down! Youre just a late bloomer, Im sure youll grow taller. In any case, height isnt everything. I think youre fine no matter how you look!! Dont worry. And even if youre short, your skills and knowledge arent what 13 year olds usually have. Thats what matters. Anisan earnestly tried to lift my depressed mood. Is he really trying to do that? Hes trying to do that, right? but its not working. Even if you tell me not to worry, how can I not worry!? Yeah. You have skills and knowledge unimaginable for a 13 year old. Just where in the world did you pick them up? Keisans words made Anisan pull a surprised face as well. I wanted to change the topic as soon as possible so I went along with it. As I said to Anisan earlier, and I think Ive mentioned it to Keisan as well? I was picked up by the Agencys chief. In order to be able to live on my own, I spent time at the agency reading, writing and learning math. As for swordsmanship and unarmed combat, I learned them from the martial artists who visited the agency. My magic is more or less selftaught, though. The two of them widened their eyes. Anisan especially seemed to be at a loss for words. Selftaught? That magic was selftaught? Sorcery? Ha. I really cant believe it. In the first place, only nobles can learn magic, and its not something you can selfstudy. From what I know, magic on the level that you use is limited to this countrys Magic Knights Division Commanderor Corps Commanderno it can even be said to be on the level of Court Mages. Keisan was surprised by Anisans words. Recovery magic is certainly rare, but just having support magic doesnt mean hes on the level of Court Mages or Division Commanders, right? Aniue, after you lost consciousness, I saw it. Right after you lost consciousness, he created a barrier to protect us, easily casted Anisans words put Keisan into a contemplative mood. He possesses at least 2 elements; light and wind. He can also use barrier magic and support magic. Furthermore, he has enemy detection magic. Not only that, he can use more than 2 types of magic at the same time and they are of high rank, possibly even special rank. Although I wasnt going to say this initially since I lacked proof, but if he were to possess offense magic as well, wouldnt he at least be on the level of Division Commander? Considering the fact that hes still 13, thats pretty amazing The two of them got up and sandwiched me in between them while they spoke, dropping me into the listeners role. Its probably better if I dont interject unnecessarily. I dont want to stir up more trouble for myself. I dont mean to boast, but when it comes to things like this, I will definitely say something unnecessary and cause more harm than good!! However, compared to sitting here and listening to what they say before replying, wouldnt it be better if I make my escape? No, theres no point to running away from my room. But, I still feel like escaping. After all, what was that about Division Commander, Corps Commander and Court Mage? Me being on the same level as them? Thats just scary!! I dont want to hear about such things I looked into the distance in an attempt to escape reality. Eehwell, considering the fact that hes a 13 year old child, its rather strange. This is just based my own judgement, but I think that the magic that Az uses is not an existing magic. Even if we overlook that, his abilities in the usage of magic is above high rank. Its probably more accurate to consider it special rank. Keisan narrowed his eyes.Thats scary, you know? With just that, the air seemed to change. Is it fine if I run away?? Not an existing magic? What makes you think so? His barrier. I have seen and used countless barriers so far, but I have never seen anything like his barrier, much less be able to use it. Back then, the enemy attacked with their swords instead of magic Thats right, it was a physical attack. And yet, Azs barrier repelled it. The attack came from an assassin as well, so it wasnt some halfassed attack. Keisan was rendered speechless. Im probably the same? I wasnt in deep thought though This worlds Barrier Magic can only defend against magicbased attacks. To defend against physical attacks, youd have to use a shield. If you wanted to defend against them using magic, you would have to use Elemental Constructs instead of Barrier Magic. You can also call it a protective wall. For example, for earth element theres the Earth Wall magic, for wind element theres the Pressurised Air Wall magic, and for water element theres the Pressurised Water Wall magic or the At least based what Ive observed, Az did not use any incantations. Typically, even for chantless magic, the final spell word is necessary. But, he didnt even use that. I thought he might have used a spell circle instead, but I couldnt find one no matter what method I used. The spell he previously used in this room was chantless and a spell circle floated up beneath his feet. That was likely a new magic. Hii! You were observing me even in that chaotic situation where you and Keisan were worn out? You had that much composure at that time? It didnt seem like the danger was staged thougheeeeh. But in any case, incantation! Chantless magic! Spell circle! Uhaa~ fantasy components banzai!! This is definitely not the right time for this though. To selflearn that much knowledge and skillThat cant be possible. There are no textbooks for a commoner to be able to selflearn magic. At most, there are introductory books. In the case where you were to learn from others most probably, you can only go find sorcerers. But even if you beg them to teach you, its illegal for them to teach incantations and spells to others without a permit. Similarly, its illegal to use spells and sorcery without a permit. Thats why its hard to come into contact with magic. eh? I understand the first half but the not the second half! I didnt know that!! Does that meanusing magic can get me arrested?? I asked timidly. Its important after all. Itd be embarrassing if I used it in the spur of the moment and got myself arrested. Yeah, its prohibited by the law. What? Dont tell me youve using magic all this while without knowing that? Anisan looked somewhat amazed when I nodded vigorously. In my defense, I didnt have anyone teaching me magic since I was judged to be incapable of using magic. Even though I studied various things regarding this world, I didnt study anything related to law. This country has strict laws when it comes to the usage of magic. Especially since magic is a great power for us humans. It can be used to make our lives more convenient, but it can also bring about calamity. Anisan lightly struck me on my head and explained. Now that I think about it, that Mookssan thought I was depressed because the magic probing stone didnt react, so he bought it with the intention of making me feel as though I can use magic even if I couldnt? I ended up treating it as a good luck charm since the colour compliments my hair well. I didnt expect it to be of use in such a manner! If I didnt have this, Id be in trouble now, wouldnt I? Even as it is, I have to explain my usage of nonexisting magic. It seems like theyve finished their inspection of the bracelet as they handed it back to me. The situation is a little delicate now though. If they were to ask me to use magic right now, itd be the end for me. Although I possess a magic stone, I cant manipulate magic power.what should I do? Ano ne, I dont know about stuff like being on the level of Court Mages, but physical attacks can be blocked using water and wind elemental magic. Since magic attacks would be troubling, I also used Barrier Magic. And on the exterior, I applied an ice wall and strengthened it with pressurised air. With this, it can withstand 1 or 2 hits. I couldnt stand this situation anymore. After I spoke, Keisan sighed while Anisan looked a little doubtful. Why!? I can understand that Anisan couldnt quite accept my explanation from his reaction, but whats with Keisans sigh? While I was thinking about it, Keisan softly murmured. You can even use water element? And a high rank version of it too? So you can use at least 3 elements? As I thought, I shouldnt have spoken!! Aah I should have said I used pressurised water instead. But, its too late for that now. I somehow received so many shocks in this short period of time that my soul has left my body. I urgently need Mookssan to return home. Please get rid of this delicate situation! CH 12 Chapter 12 C Its hard to explain it. Theres no way I can say it after all! What does he mean by proposal? I want to take over guardianship of Az. guardianship? I was instantly stunned. Anisan seemed overjoyed for some reason and said Good idea!. Although I say overjoyed, its only that had an extremely bright smile on his face and he spoke in a lively manner. However, compared to his expressionless face when I first met him, he could probably be said to be overjoyed right now. When I finally managed to process the meaning of his words, I asked while remaining seated. Sorry, I dont understand what you mean.no I should say, I understand but can I hear the reason? If its because of my ability as a magician then I will politely decline. Even if that wasnt the case, I would still refuse. Definitely. This is really bad after all! In koihana, my character was bought by the stalking horse from the slums because of his magical capabilities and my character became his subordinate. In this situation however, its a noble that Ive met in the slums, and not the stalking horse; nonetheless, being bought for my magical capabilities Isnt it just a difference in appearance? Its essentially the same thing!! Its a little early too, but its close. .Dont tell me C this is force majeure? No matter what I do, nothing will change?? A shiver went down my spine. I unintentionally clenched my teeth. I glanced up at him in surprise. I saw that his face was deep red and his breathing was rough. But because his face was beautiful, I wasnt bothered by it. No! Its not because of any despicable reasons like that!! It cant be helped that you think that way, with the timing that I said it, but that really isnt the case. I feel ashamed to have made you think that way. I swear in the name of Riestinne, the pride of this nation, that that wasnt my intention. Thats why, would you believe me? I dont want to see you making that face. Please dont worry about it. AAniue Anisan was at a lost for words as he watched Keisan sorrowfully furrow his eyebrows into the shape . In the name of Riestinne, the pride of this nation huh. Ive heard of people swearing in the name of god, with their own name and pride or with their family name, but Ive never heard of anyone swearing with the pride of this nation. Is he swearing in the name of the country? As expected of nobles (assumed)! What a grand oath. Although it sounded a little flimsy because of how grand it is, the one swearing it was Keisan. Keisan isnt someone who would make a shallow oath. He was truly swearing with the pride of the nation at stake. I feel like I can trust Keisans words because of that. If thats the case, I should reply. Before that, I took a deep breath and faced Keisan. Im sorry too, for making you feel sad. The way you two said it just now was kind of scary. Just thinking back on it still makes me feel scared. Keisan looked relieved. Gohon I coughed. Our relations went back to how it was. Anisan looked relieved as well. So, if its not because of my abilities, why do you want to be my guardian? I tilted my head as I looked at Keisan. Its true that your ability is not the reason, but in a sense, it is related to it !? Eeh? It hasnt even been a minute and hes broken his oath!? Thats fast! No no, thats not it! Let me explain!! Keisan explained in a panic when he saw my expression. To put it simply, they had been fighting and escaping from people who seemed to be assassins. They must have remembered their enemies faces and characteristics. That mastermind is definitely involved in the incident this time. It seems that I got involved in this mess when I passed by and decisively took action. The two of them seemed to know who the mastermind is, as they went If its that bastard with a vein popping out on their forehead. Scary! Either way, it doesnt change the fact that Im in danger and so Keisan wishes to become my guardian. So, before I even meet the stalking horse, my life will be targeted by the assassins and the mastermind instead? Would it be better to stay on the side of the stalking horse? No no no, I hate both options. Somehow I feeltired. But, well it should be fine in this case! After all, I Thanks for worrying about me and thinking for my sake! But, you dont have to take up guardianship of me. I think Anisan remembers, I wore a hood to cover my face so I couldnt have been recognised, and I dont have any distinctive features as well. Furthermore, Im thinking of moving to Tournons Kingdom in the near future..!? Tournons is that trading country that Ive been planning to move to. But, now is not the time for that! Right as I finished my sentence, Anisan grabbed my shoulders, as though he was trying to pin me to the chair. Anisans No way. When I was 10, Mookssan properly took me there for the inspection. Its just that I was unique or something and the magic probing stone didnt react no matter how many times I touched it. Even though I can actually use magic. Thats why I was treated as though I cant use magic. This kind of something like this C Ive never heard of it. Keisan muttered as he seemed to be overcome with shock. If you dont believe me, you can ask Mooksan. its true. I had been looking at Keisan to speak to him but Anisan clasped my shoulders harder suddenly and so I looked up at him. What greeted me was his usual expressionless face. UuI hear a giri sound from my shoulderswhat!? Why must you go to Tournons? And not just that, you are migrating there? Super scary. From where and how should I explain this!? No, I cant tell them the truth, can I? I still remember my past life. Im a supporting mob character now and I dont want to meet the stalking horse or the main character so Im going to the trading country! How can I say thaaaaattt!! CH 13 Chapter 13 C I think I heard something snapping Keisans words caused Anisan to regain his calm and he released his hold on me. With the pressure on my body finally gone, I breathed out. Even though my shoulders were released from the pressure, I could still feel it tingling. While I was confirming the state of my body, Keisan urged Anisan to return to his seat before he sat down as well. What are you planning to do after going to Tournons Kingdom? Do you have any relatives there to thats impossible, isnt it? Do you have someone you can rely on? Anisan was probably going to keep asking until he got an answer he could accept. Thats the kind of vibe hes giving off. Would I be able to give him a reason that can get him to give me his consent?? Im really worried now. It seems like Keisan is of the same mind, so I wouldnt be getting any help. How the heck did things turn out this way? Recently, it feels like this is the only thing Ive been saying, but it cant be helped. The events that happened recently were all things that I had no control over. And they were also not something I could understand, which makes me want to sigh. For now, should I try the standard excuse? I feel bad for the earnest Keisan and Anisan but I cant possibly tell them the truth. I dont have anyone like that in Tournons Kingdom. But I have been saving up for the sake of migrating alone, so I think itll be fine. As for the reason why I chose Tournons, its because I heard that its a country of magic and I wanted to see their spirit magic in particular. This is what I told Mookssan as well. In his case, he thought I yearned for magic since I couldnt use them myself, so it probably didnt feel out of place. I didnt know if it would work on the two of them, but it wasnt completely a lie. I do want to see spirit magic! If its really possible to see spirits, I want to try it! Theres finally a fantasy world component after all, so I definitely want to fully enjoy it!! Our country wont lose out to Tournons in terms of magic. We also excel at swordsmanship and the like, unlike Tournons. Spirit magic is rare, but you can learn it at the academy. Isnt this countrys academy considered the best amongst all countries? Even if the magic probing stone did not react and you cant use magic, you would be able to enter the academy with your swordsmanship and a bit of studying. After getting in, if you get good results, youll be able to work in the royal palace. On the other hand, if you just graduate with poor grades, or even if you drop out of school, youd have grabbed the attention of a lower class noble. It would also be better that way; you wouldnt have to keep taking on requests at the agency, but instead you can get stable employment. Your wages would also be However, I do understand what Ani wants to say. Az, do you hate the academy? Or is it this country? I had my breath stolen from me for an instant when I heard his words, and his expression rendered me speechless. The reason being that he looked extremely sorrowful. I do like this country. Everyone is surrounded and protected by flowers of all colours and it is gentle. Everyone around me is nice to me. This is my favourite place. Keisan looked slightly less sorrowful after I said that. As I was feeling somewhat relieved, Anisans next words made the two of us freeze in place. If thats the case, you should just continue living in this country! Is it a monetary problem? Its true that for commoners who cant use magic, that might be an issue. If thats the case then let me handle it. You can also leave everything after enrollment to me! Its an investment. You should just attend school without worries. Eehhes advancing this topic by himself? Why? If the magic probing stone had reacted, I would have been forced to enroll in the academy, but school expenses and the like would be covered by the country. It seemed that I would then have to pay back a certain portion of the expenses after I get a job, postgraduation. Generally, everyone will work for the royal palace and get reduced wages from them. The magicians are trapped in this way and they become part of the nations power. Ive heard that it is rather costly to enroll by other means. The same goes for school fees. Its not something a mere commoner could afford. I gathered this information despite not having any interest in it, just in case something unexpected happened. But, an investment, huh? Who said I wanted to enter the academy? Aah this isnt goodIm going to snap for the first time in a long while. Ani! What a great line Its fine. I will cover it with my personal assets. Was the snapping sound putsu that I heard in my head just my imagination? I stood up from my chair with a loud bang and glared at Anisan. What are you joking about? Do you think Im stupid? Who wants to enter the pale. Aah, there are probably earnest nobles as well. But, I think the majority there are those who would obtain their worldly desires by force. Naa, can I ask you? Just what the heck do the nobles learn in the academy? My anger has overflowed and burst forth, I cant stop. I dont know how to stop. The faces of the kind villagers and townsmen, the staff at the agency and the martials artist pop up in my mind. As the time we spent together increased, weve talked about various things. Of good things and of bad things. Furthermore, there are also things Ive seen during this short life Ive lived. I know that its useless to tell the 2 of them this and that this is just me venting my anger, but I cant stop. My frustration had been piling up no, I had just been averting my eyes. I would not have been able to go on otherwise. Its painful to see this world with my previous lifes outlook. Ive only been experiencing situations I cant do anything about, so no matter how unreasonable it was, Ive been pretending that I didnt see it for my own sake. They learn all that is necessary to become magicians, knights or soldiers. Anisan replied painfully, and it was obvious that hes depressed. Thats right. But, nobles hire home tutors to teach them from young. Well, they might not focus as much on actual techniques but there are probably those who do. What would these people learn in the academy? Commoners are tested on their magical capabilities at the age of 10. Nobles? Right after they are born, right? Whys that? Its for them to be able to use magic from young. Naa, is the academy necessary? Aahdont say things like commoners can enroll too. After all, didnt you say it earlier? That it might be an issue for commoners to enroll without magic. It might be better if it was just an academy for magicians, since everyone with the makings of a magician will be forced to enroll even if they were commoners. Teaching them the right way to use magic? I do think its important. But, as for what comes postgraduation its not like I dont understand. They have to work for the country and become the countrys strength. If they went to other countries, what this so proud of. I dont want to understand it too. Haa I sighed. Seeing the 2 of them now made me wince. Keisan bit his lips so hard that it bled. He probably clenched his fists so hard that he hurt himself too. I can see the blood after all I quietly used recovery magic. The moment I used it, Keisan looked surprised and showed a bitter smile while tearing up, surprising me. Haa sorry. I was just venting my anger. I know it myself but I couldnt stop. The 2 of you are good nobles so I took advantage of that. Im really sorry. This is just my own opinion but nobles should learn to have conduct befitting their pride. I would like them to learn the weight of their words and actions, and be responsible for them when they are home tutored. Its the basics of basics after all. The academy would become a slightly better place in that case. Well, I think the decent nobles have no need to learn it though! When I became my current self, I was speechless at the excessive irrationality of this world. While this is true of only a portion of the nobility, these nobles view everyone outside of nobility as trash. I initially thought of them as idiots, and expected them to be the minority. But, I was wrong. In this world, such a thing was commonplace. Even if its irrational, they were nobles, so I could only give up. I could only accept things as they were. Despite us all being human beings, whats so different about us? Even in my previous life, I encountered irrational things. Its a part of life. Even if thats the case, this world has way too many irrationalities. I cant remember how many years ago it was but I met 2 brats when I went to brats, they were taller than me so they were probably older? Well, it doesnt matter. Brats are brats. The noble was overconfident and came to take on a magic beast on his own. The attendant came along somehow or other. While I was covered in wounds from protecting the 2 of them, I set up a trap and managed to defeat the magic beast. But, do you know what that noble said in the middle of the fight? Arent you embarrassed to use traps!? To use such a method for the sake of victory, as expected of scum. Have you no pride? I hang my head down and stare at the floor. Even though telling them this will only bother them. Its really a nuisance to them. But, if I rant this much, we wont meet again, right? While Im being a nuisance, Ill make them listen to the end! I raised my head to face the two of them. Its so dumb that its unforgettable. Its not like I mind being told something like that, but at that time, what came to my mind was that the incident was caused by this mistaken pride of his. Just what the hell is this pride of the nobles? Where does this pride come from and what are they so proud of? Or rather, who the hell do they think they are? The roads, the villages, and the companies are all the same. Do they think that if they use prideful words however they want and in any situation, they can overcome anything? Even though they didnt fulfill their duties? I would not look down on this pride if it was used for the sake of establishing oneself, instead of being used to look down on others. There are things nobles must do. The world of the nobility exists, doesnt it? But, the country doesnt just belong to the nobles. Commoners and nobles are all citizens of the country. I sighed and sat down. Keisan and Anisan looked baffled. Thats not surprising, since I said all that, huh? I looked up, closed my eyes and grumbled. I do think education is important, you know? But just a small mistake and itll be brainwashing.is what I personally think. Brainwashing? Did he hear my monologue? Keisan sounded confused as he said that. I faced him and nodded. Un. Should I say common sense? No, a persons way of thinking? I think there exists strange educational methods, for example C this might be an extreme case C but if children were taught that hurting others was normal, and continued to be taught that way, wouldnt they not feel anything while hurting others? They would think its natural to hurt others. For nobles, if they grow up surrounded by idiots, and are taught that way by their parents, itd be natural for them to turn into idiotic nobles, right? The commoners are like this too, if they see their parents debase themselves before nobles more than is necessary they would probably end up thinking its normal. There are negative examples too, so I cant generalise it. Education I think its really difficult. But, how did I come to this topic? Aah, its because I lost control, isnt it!? I spewed out my emotions as it is, and ended up losing track of what I wanted to say. Tehe*. (TL note: probably short for tehepero which is something like this ) I ended up ranting about all the complaints I had about the nobles. Thanks to that, I feel refreshed, but their expressions have become tragic~! CH 14 Chapter 14 C Even if you want anything else, nothing comes to mind, you When I timidly looked at the 2 of them, I noticed that their expressions were stiff and dark. Aah~ as expected, I went overboard. Even though I know they are nobles too just (provisional) though! But, they are most probably nobles. Having said that, we are teadrinking companions and their status doesnt matter, but its difficult to ask the question now anyway, isnt it? I dont regret it though. Keisan, who was staring at the floor with his head down, said. Are those the only reasons why you dont want to go to the academy? The way the academy is run, or the attitudes of the nobles if theres anything else, tell me! It doesnt have to be about the academy either, I will be grateful to hear Azs feelings about your daily life. Nn? After making such a dark expression, you want to hear more!? Is he a Mnono, it cant be, it cant be. Keisan smiled wryly and sighed when he saw my blank expression. I rarely have chances to speak to others, especially when it comes to people outside of nobility C you could say I have never spoken to them. The things Ive heard from others are also not nearly as frank as Azs. Thats why I want to hear your opinions, if possible. It doesnt matter what its about. I want to hear it no matter what its about since it comes from Az. He really. has quite a high status, doesnt he? A high status even amongst nobles, huh? Is there anything I can say to someone like that? No!? What I said just now was only because I snapped. Honestly speaking, I dont even remember what I said!! Before that, Aniue, can you give me some time? Anisan stood up from his seat to get permission from Keisan. After Keisan acknowledged, Anisan came towards me and kneeled down. .He kneeled!? Whats he doing? This person. While I was panicking alone, he stared at me with a serious look. Just what the heck is it? Az. Firstly, let me apologise. Sorry for just now. I was at fault. I prioritised my own selfish desires and hurt your pride. This is by no means an excuse, but I didnt intend to do that. I just wanted you to remain in this country. When I heard that you were going to Tournons, I unintentionally But, I know its an inexcusable act. Im really sorry. It was a truly sincere apology. Can a noble, and one with a particularly high status at that, lower his head so easily? No, Im sure its only because its Anisan. Its also because he was truly apologetic. While thinking so, I suddenly smiled. I stood up from my seat as well, pushed it aside and kneeled before Anisan. I looked into his eyes as I replied. Im sorry too. I unintentionally snapped at your words, and along the way ended up venting my frustrations, even though it is something unrelated to the two of you. I should be the one apologising. Aah, aahits fine. No problem. Im the one whos actually at fault. I thought I made you hate me. No way! I think Anisan is a good person after all! I just got slightly offended? I might have snapped, but I dont hate you at all, you knogufuu! I was tightly hugged in the middle of my sentence.I think. I didnt understand what was going on in that instant because of the force and strength. All I knew was that my nose hit something and it really hurt, and the painful pressure constricting me. While I was in pain and agony, I was abruptly assaulted by a floating feeling. I was carried by Anisan over to the edge of the bed like this, and lowered onto Keisans side. It all happened in an instant, so I couldnt quite grasp what happened. Anisan sat on the opposite edge of the bed from Keisan. A gishi sound came from suddenly, I cant think of anything to say. I think my current posture is one of the reasons for that though. After all, Anisan is holding my hands for some reason. Even if he knows that Im 12 years old, he probably cant see me as anything other than a 8 or 9 year old. Its kind of shameful. You dont have to look so worried. If you just happen to think of something.even if I say that, its too vague, isnt it? U~n. Do you have anything else in mind related to the academy? Or even the state of the streets or country? Anisan probably couldnt bear seeing me troubled and lent me a hand. Academy, nope. I didnt enroll so I only know things I heard from others. U~n, commenting on the streets and the country sounds rather grand. Is that something you could ask a child? No, but my mind is that of an adult so its alright. They might want to hear the views of a child though. Academy, no. If you are fine with me sharing my personal point of view, Ill talk. After I said so with a sigh, Keisan The 2 of them exchanged glances and nodded. So it was true. Its really scaryyy. I dont want to make such an oath. Using it for the sake of the country, its such an ambiguous oath. What comes to mind first with this oath would be that it means helping out during emergencies, or to support the country and defend it These are to be expected and I can accept them. But, its not just that. How should I say it This oath gives me the impression that the oath bearers are forced to work for brass of the country, including the King, for anything conveniently labelled as for the sake of the country. How should I say it to convey the message its ambiguous, which makes it hard. To put it simply. I dont want people to take advantage of it? There arent only good fellows in the world. There are heaps of wickedhearted people too, especially the leader of this country, who seems frightening. Above all else, Asnord of Koihana was sentenced to death because he carried out the stalking horse nobles orders. Who would want to end up in a similar situation!? Even if my lord is the country, for example, I will definitely refuse. The greater the authority, the more dreadful it will usually be. Good humans are not the only kind of humans out there. Bad fellows and idiots wont use their authority properly. Unfortunately, I dont have a good impression of the nobles in this country and I dont trust them either. Its not like I know all the nobles, and the stupid ones are probably only just one portion of the nobility.AahI do trust Keisan and Anisan though! Seeing their eyebrows form the shape, I added on in a panic. I wonder why. I feel like I can see dog ears on their heads. Tails as well. Nah, just my imagination. On top of that, I want to use my strength for the sake of what I want to protect. As long as it is precious to me, even if the country considers it evil, I will use my strength to protect it. Even if it means having the country as your enemy? I turned towards Keisan when I heard his quavering voice, but he was not showing anything on his face so I didnt know what he was thinking. I heard Anisan gulping from the side. Even if it means having the country as my enemy. Even if the country, the King, chief authorities and the citizens consider it evil. But, dont misunderstand, I will properly consider the reason why they find it evil. I wont blindly protect it just because its important to me. Even if its important to me, I will listen to the reasons for it to be considered evil and think about it. Depending on the reasons behind it, I might even end up not protecting that important thing. But, I think the reason will have to be something quite substantial for me to forsake it. Im so indecisive, arent I? My eyes met Keisans for a short while and the one to turn away first was him, sighing as he did so and he covered his face. Come to think of it, thats how Az is like. When we first met 4 years ago, that was the feeling I got too. When he helped me, a stranger with grievous wounds, I asked him what he would do if I was actually a criminal, and he calmly answered that he would help me even if I was. When I asked why, he said that its annoying to consider that when Im trying to save someone and that I didnt seem like a bad person. What he said after that was pretty interesting too. After helping me out for the time being, if I really were a criminal without any acceptable reasons for committing the crime, hell bring me to the police station by any means necessary. I remember laughing when I heard that back then. As I watched Keisan raise his head with a smile, I got a subtle feeling. Is it really something that funny? Did I say something weird? U~n, if I helped someone dangerous recover and end up exposing the people around me to danger, I cant just leave it alone. I would have to take responsibility. If you say Im naive in my risk management, I have no excuse. Well, I did it because it seemed fun, isnt it fine? CH 15 Chapter 15 C A development worse than the manga? Nn? How did it come to that? Whats he saying with such a painful look on his face? Im happy to hear that Im important to him, but. Isnt that natural? You are probably disappointed.since Im someone who would turn his back on the country. Despite what I said earlier, I do think that the task of making people responsible for their own power is important. So you shouldnt be concerned about me. Im happy to hear that Im important to you though. Thank you! Im sure that Anisan will protect this country well, even if such a task does not exist. Of course! This country, the King and the citizens are more important to me than anything else in the world! He declared with a serious look. This is true patriotism, isnt it? Itd be good if all nobles are like him. Although nothing will change even if I think this way, I still think so anyway. His patriotism is truly precious. He devotes himself to the country because of the oath, and his patriotism comes along with it. Nn? Is patriotism a part of the oathis it included in the oath? Its because people like Anisan exist that the people of this country can live peacefully. If entering the academy requires an oath, then wouldnt there be another oath for the people going to work in the palace as well? Since its the palace, wouldnt the oath be stricter as well? Patriotism, or rather, obedience will be required? That seemed to be the case, as the 2 of them nodded. So thats how it is. Something like a pledge of allegiance? Just what is included in it? I want to know, but at the same time, I dont think I want to find out. Well, its quite common. With the premise of using their strength for the sake of the country, they cant hurt the King, the royalty and others. They cant use power for their own benefits as well. Its The patriotism that comes from the oath C being forced to protect the country C is different from true patriotism that comes from the heart. Theres no meaning to it if only the form of patriotism is there. Nn? Somehow Im concerned about this? Why? Well, it doesnt matter! Although it might be a relief to have an oath, just that alone is useless. Particularly, the contents of the oath, patriotism or obedience or such The oath alone is useless? Anisan asked while seeming to not understand. Or should I say.U~n. Ill protect the country! C If this is something they themselves wish for then its fine, but I think most people enter the academy and work for the royal palace not because they want to protect the country but for their own sake. The 2 of them were utterly speechless. What the heck!? Ehdont tell me everyone who swore the oath sincerely wished to contribute to the country? Thats impossible, right!? Right here! Right now! Theres someone who just said he doesnt want to swear the oath. No, in my case, I dont even wish to contribute to the country! Eh~ are the 2 of them really alright? Well, anyway. Lets continue with the conversation. Since we are all humans, its not like I dont understand how they think. Will they really protect the country if something happens? They have no choice but to do so because of the oath. However, since they are forced to do it against their will, the extent of their service will be different from someone who truly wishes to protect their country. When something big happens, the difference will become more obvious. The 2 of them stared at me in surprise.I feel a little uneasy~ about these two. I somewhat understand the discomfort I felt just now. I want the people who swore the oath to truly treasure the country C the King and those involved must think in this manner while they rule the country. If the citizens see them giving it their all, their loyalty will likely deepen. If they dont know anything, wouldnt their patriotism be weak? How else would they be patriotic? Out of admiration of the brass? If that is the case, when they find out that the brass of the country is different from what they imagine, wont it be dreadful? The current oath forces patriotism, and perhaps even obedience, onto the oathtakers, right? It might just be an empty ideal from my na?ve self, but I think patriotism and the oath should be separated. Patriotism is an individuals feelings after all. So, I think it should be for the individual to decide. I think the oath is necessary to prevent rebellions though, so it should just focus on that aspect. nobles, but either way, they are likely to be one of those people that the oathtakers swear their oath to. I could sort of tell from their clothes, their conduct and the way they speak. I also heard that Keisan was the head of something. Hes definitely someone that only nobles get to speak to. Thinking about it, hes probably a key figure of this country. Isnt it kind of bad to reduce them to such a state!? Aah!? That reminds me, isnt the King going to die soon!? He dies when Asnord turns 14, doesnt he!? It completely slipped my mind. Im going to turn 14 in about half a year. What if a rebellion occurs when the King dies? Why didnt the manga go into detail about the death of the King Wait, I remember I skimmed through it. I should have read it carefully!! Eehfor the 2 of them to be in such a state, dont tell me, are they somehow related to the King? No, no, it cant be It wasnt in the manga. Aah~ if there was a spinoff about me, I wish I read it. No, I know it doesnt exist, and even if there is one now, it would be too scary to read. While the strange expression on their faces eased up a little, I felt my hand getting squeezed tightly. Thats right. My hand was still being heldI forgot about it. Can I ask you something? He gripped my hand firmly and asked. I nodded in response. My hands hurt. If C just if C the capital is involved in a war, and the King or either one of us asked you for help, what would you do? But until then, Id do my best to help out wherever I can, right up to the last moment. The 2 of them had a vacant look. Did I say something wrong? No, everyone would say that they value their lives and that they would run, wouldnt they? After all, no one wants to die. It cant be helped if they lie to get their way, though. This time around, Keisan placed his hands on my shoulders and addressed me. Az is really honest, huh. No. Thats not what I was trying to ask. What would you do if I asked you to choose between us and the King? Eh? Of course if I were to choose, I would pick your side. Keisan is more important to me than someone I know nothing about! I promptly replied with what I really thought, but wait! Dont tell me the 2 of them are going to start a rebellion!? Did the King do something to them? Thats why they were in such a bad state? Hiiiiiii. Isnt this way worse than in the shoujo manga? How early did the Prince start acting against the King!? Impossible!! The levelno, the rank!? Has increased now. No, I must be overthinking. He must be asking me which side I will help if a war breaks out Eh? What happened to what I said to Anisan about running away? What the heck? Ererm, well, its best to not have a war. Un. Peace is the best. I believe Keisan is a good person. How should I say this, Keisan can be trusted. If the King is bad, and I can accept it, I will choose you guys!! If not I dont understand. AahWhat am I saying? My mind is in a mess. This is different from my initial answer Why did he even ask such a question? Even if your decision would result in the King dying and the country getting destroyed? tell me, its not just that my physical body didnt grow, but my mental age has stagnated too!? No, no, no, such a tragic thing isnt true I think. Un. I trust myself! And besides, Im currently a child. Im currently 13 years old!! (TL note: he said it in a childlike manner. 39 years old is the combined age of his previous life and current.) Well then. Az, what do you think? How will you plan it? How will you seize this country? Keisan silently increased pressure. I recalled my previous lifes kaasan somehow. No, no, its pointless to run from reality! But, he asked for what I think What should I do Keisan and Anisan were both looking at me with such serious looks. It doesnt seem like I can escape. My hands are still being held too.Uun. CH 16 Chapter 16 C The country exists for the sake for citizens! TL: Januva Editor: Momielxai & Puissansa First Published on Ainushi Their stares put immense pressure on me. My views wont changeeven if the country or the King is gone I think? They both had blank looks on their faces. Uu- how should I put it? If the King dies and the country falls to ruin, my living environment will change, but I myself wont. I will just live the way I want to. Although if its possible, I would prefer to have left the country before that happens. Even if the King or the country is gone, the country can probably be rebuilt, though it might not be Riestinne. But even then, Id still live on. Even if the country changes and my lifestyle changes, I wont change fundamentally. Is that how it is? Kei-san asked. The both of them seemed dumbfounded. They loosened their grip on my hand C does that mean that its fine for me retract my hands? Immediately after I shifted my hand slightly, it was caught again. I stopped myself from clicking my tongue in a panic. After all, it wouldnt be good for me to do so. Its not like everyone thinks this way. On the contrary, everyone loves Riestinne. The so-called patriotism or something? The majestic King ruling this country C that is loved by flowers C now thinks for the citizens. Its definitely something to be proud of. I think it happened about 4 or 5 years ago? This is just what I heard from others, I personally dont quite know what has changed. What I said just now are all just my personal opinion. I feel sorry for the King and the people who work hard for the country, but to me, the country doesnt exist for the sake of the King but for the sake of the citizens. The sake of the citizens? Ani-san asked with an excessively bright grin. Kei-san on the other hand coughed violently. Whats wrong? I separated my hand from Ani-san and patted Kei-sans back. He seemed to be in a lot of pain; even his eyes were teary. Is he alright? As I continued to pat his back, I replied. Yeah. It cant be called a country if only the King exists, right? You will need merchants, soldiers, farmers, and shepherdsall sorts of people to cooperate and interact with one another to form a country, wont you? The person who guides them and brings them together is the King. Ani-san nodded in agreement while Kei-san seemed to have calmed down. What a relief. I quietly stood up and approached the table. Touching the tea-set, I willed it to become clean and it instantly did. Its probably considered purification magic. Magic is really useful. Without pause, I conjured up some hot water and prepared tea, although this time it was the usual black tea instead. As I did, I continued speaking. Let me return to the original topic. Even if the King and the country are gone, Ill still want to protect the people I care about, which includes Kei-san and Ani-san. I want to live on with the people I care about after all. Conversely, if the King and the country remains, but the people I care about are no longer around, it would be meaningless to me. I finished brewing the tea and passed it to the two of them, before nonchalantly sitting on the chair. It would just be a punishment to return back there after all! It must be my imagination that they looked a little unhappy. Like I said, it must be my imagination! Then itd be fine if I was the King, right? Az will protect me. Kei-san could not hold back his laughter as he said that, and even Ani-san joined in as well. Eh? I cant do much on my own. But well, I will definitely help out if I see you guys in such a bad state. Besides, the King has many bodyguards so Id be of no help even if Im there. Also, if you were the King, I wouldnt be able to have tea with you this casually. I dont want that, its terrible! Its enough for them to be transcendentally handsome upper class nobles. That must be the absolute limit! For a short moment, their faces betrayed a hint of sorrow, but it was quickly replaced by a smile. But I mean, if he was the King, we wouldnt be able to have tea together, right? Generally speakingsince I am a commoner after all. What? Even if I were the King, I would still be happy to have tea with you, you know? Thats right! Please invite me along for tea too. They sounded really happy for some reason. Dont tell me he wants to become the King!? Ive never met the King but Ive heard that he is rather handsome. In Koihana, the Princes flashback scenes do pop out occasionally, and he had royaltys blonde hair and blue eyes. As his father, the King should have the same features. Ikemen explode! Keh. Share some of it with me, please. Aah I want to grow taller too! Thats the most important thing!! Well, for now Well, its just until I leave for Tournons. Once I get there, I wont be able to help you two. The two of them fell into silence. Uu- it might be a contradiction, but no matter how important they are to me, I cant stay here. I cant be with the people important to me if I dont stay alive anyway, so my priority now is to search for a way to stay alive. Youre going to Tournons no matter what? Ani-san murmured softly. Somehow, I felt really guilty. Can you not give me such a sad look? Un. If I go to Tournons, I might find out why the magic probing stone didnt react, too. Ive heard that magic can be used freely there, so I can use it without worry. Since I dont want to go to the academy, I cant use magic openly in this country. Although I only just found out that using magic is prohibited by law for someone like me. Kei-san sighed after hearing what I said. I slipped in a lie thoughsorry. You dont want to go to the academy, so you cant use magic, huh? To not use magic even when youre hunting magic beasts, you really are thorough. I probably shouldnt be saying this since I benefited from itbut why did you make it an exception this time? Ever since you first encountered ani-ue 4 years ago, you have practically been meeting him monthly, right? Does that mean you value him enough to use the magic that you have never used all this time? I heard that you didnt use it 4 years ago as well. Its true that I meet Kei-san about once a month, so the total number of times weve met should be 24. This country counts 6 months as a year, although the number of days in a single month is different from how it was in my previous life. While the number of hours in a day and the number of days in a week is the same, one month here consists of 63 days and one year consists of 378 days. When he finishes his work, or when he has a day off, Kei-san comes over for tea. Now that I think about it, Ive never gone over to his place. Nn? I only know his given name C Kei? And not any other details. nothing at all!? Our first encounter was so astonishing that I didnt pay attention to anything else. Our every meeting afterwards always ends with me thinking its good that he looks fine now!! This is unacceptable Well, if I found out something weird, we might not be able to have tea together. Thats purely because I wanted to help the both of you at that time. Theres no need for reasons when it comes to helping out a friend, right? I would say we are tea-drinking companions, but I really dont know much about Kei-san, besides his given name. If he doesnt come to visit me, I would never see him. Im a little surprised that Ive only just realized this. But even so, if you were to be targeted again, I will still help you out. Our very first encounter was somehow so shocking that just seeing Kei-san healthy makes me feel relieved. Aah- Im glad he isnt hurt this time. I was content with just knowing that. I unintentionally smiled bitterly as I said so, and Kei-san looked as though he was going to cry. And besides, when I saw you covering for Kei-san, even though you were already covered with wounds, I could tell how dedicated you were in protecting him. When I heard you shouting then, I just ended up using magic. This time, even Ani-san looked as though he was on the verge of tears. It must have been tough when they were forced into such a bad state from the attacks. Is it really fine to expose your ability to use magic? You would regret it if others find out after all, since you have been hiding it so thoroughly all this while. Furthermore, it was for the sake of someone like me, someone you hardly know anything about. Kei-san clenched his fist tightly and hung his head down as he spoke with a quavering voice. I thought things through even in that situation, you know? I used magic only after careful consideration. Even if we were to return to that point in time, I would still choose to use magic. Thats why I dont regret my decision. I wouldnt be able to forgive myself if I had chose to run away without helping you guys. That would truly make me regret it. Had I not used magic, the 3 of us would definitely have died. But, I knew things would be different if I used magic, so I did. Kei-san raised his head in shock when he heard my words. Ani-san too, was staring at me. They both looked so glum. I gritted my teeth and scowled. I wont allow that to happen. Having the power to protect what I want to protect yet not doing so! I dont want to die. I did mention earlier that I would escape if I might have ended up dying. But, I did also say that I will do my best, to my utmost limit. Back then, I judged that we would be able to escape if I used magic. Thats why, I decided to help. I absolutely wont allow a life that can be saved to be lost. For that, I am willing to brave any consequence. I want to help you two. I dont want to see you die. So, I just used the strength I have. I dont regret it. Even if my secret is exposed, this is more important, so I dont regret it! Thats why, dont show me such a sad look! Silence descended upon the 3 of us. There was nothing any of us could say. The one who broke the silence was Kei-san. I understand how you feel now. Sorryfor hurting your feelings yet again. Im really grateful for how you think of me and for your help. Both of them bowed deeply in apology. Its probably better for me to accept their apologies. I want to accept it, because their actions were brimming with sincerity. CH 17 Chapter 17 - As I suspected, I lack common sense!?!? TL: syk TLC: Januva Editor: Puissana First Published on Ainushi After a while, the two raised their heads; seeing that I nodded my head, they seemed to be relieved. Kei-san had a bitter smile on his face when I looked at him. [I''m really sad. Because Az will be going to Tournons. I was hoping that Az would stay in this country. You are an important tea friend that I want to enjoy being with together forever. To not shame Az who changed our lives, I will fulfil my duties in this country. If possible, I would have liked it if you would watch over this Kingdom next to us. In any case, though I should have been determined since four years ago, it seems that I was pathetically unaware and acted stupidly. But to think that I didn''t notice until I met Az, how disappointing. When you return from Tournons, I''ll work hard so that Az won''t be disillusioned. This time for sure, I won''t be a fool.] As he suddenly stood up from the bed, he walked towards me. While I was trying to figure out what was happening, he suddenly straightened up and put his right hand over his chest. Seriously what in the world is going on!? What''s happening!? [I vow to the Kingdom. I won''t be caught up with foolish people. I swear by my life to create a country where the citizens aren''t harmed and live happily. I will show you a country filled with smiles.] As soon as Kei-san finished speaking, Ani-san also stood next to Kei-san. Their heights were really tall, so the feeling of pressure from their stature was impressive. It seemed like the chairs are about to fall backwards. should I also stand up!? While I was panicking by myself, Ani-san also placed his right hand over his chest. Hiii! [I vow to the Kingdom. I will eradicate those foolish people, and protect the citizens and this country with my life. I will support and protect my brother, and together make a country overflowing with smiles. I will work hard to make a country that Az won''t be ashamed of.] I was lost for words. How should I react to this? In the first place, why would you vow in front of me? Is this harassment against me because I was mad just now? No no, they aren''t the type to do that, it''s not about that!! Both of them are seriously telling me, with their strong gazes. What''s with making a country I won''t be ashamed of. I''m just a normal commoner!? I guess it means a country where commoners can live happilyor not? I don''t understand it at all. Anyway, such a thing, I''m not someone who can accept those words. But they spoke to me so seriously that I can''t say anything. Such passionif the King saw these two, he would definitely work harder. [Umm, if there are nobles like Kei-san and Ani-san, then I''m sure it will become a wonderful country. The King as well, if the nobles - the retainers? If they who cared about the country and people are next to the King, they would be like a thousand forces! I can''t do anything, but I''ll cheer you on, and I''ll pray that this country will become one where the people are overflowing with smiles, even more than now.] I recalled the time when I met the tattered two today. [But, don''t overwork yourselves. Though you guys said you would bet your life on it, please treasure yourselves more. I don''t think someone who can''t treasure themselves could protect othersI don''t want you guys to get tattered and hurt again anymore. Don''t forget that there''s someone who wants to see you two keep smiling] When I finished speaking, I remembered that I was still sitting, so when I tried to stand up in a hurry the two of them started laughing. You don''t have to laugh!! This is because of you two in the first place. But, as the sense of pressure from before vanished, strength started leaving my body. Seeing me like that, Ani-san started stroking my head while laughing. [We''ve became strongly attracted to Az, not because of your amazing swordsmanship or magic, but by talking to you and coming to know you. Az is an indispensable and important existence to us. Since Az is important to us, we will prioritise Az''s feelings. Just come back to this country. I''ll be waiting.] When I looked up at the two, they were looking at me with such a very gentle smile that I started to blush. LikeI give up already [Thank you for your warm words. I feel grateful that you two wonderful people think of me as important. When I come back to this country one day, would you have a cup of tea with me again?] When I''m finally free from Koihana, I would like to return to this important and warm place. [Of course. I''m looking forward to that time. Don''t feel grateful but throw out your chest out with pride. Because that''s how important you are to us.] The two started laughing - I also started laughing. It was a very warm time. [Before I go to Tournons, may I invite you over for tea again?] Kei-san turned shy when he heard that. Why are you being bashful!? It''s a crime for such an ikemen to blush!! [I think I still have about half a year left, so I''d be happy if you came. Just make sure you are unscathed!!] As I said that with my cheeks puffed out, Ani-san suddenly started speaking. [It will be fine. I''ll protect him this time. So can I come together as well?] [Of course! But Ani-san can''t be injured as well!? It''s a promise.] When we all started laughing, Kei-san suddenly opened his mouth like he just remembered something. [That reminds me, that person also wants to meet Az. It has been quiet lately, but after what happened recently, that person started making a fuss again. If I can''t keep that person obedient, would you come with me? Would that be alright?] [Who is ''that person''!? why does that person want to meet me?] When I asked timidly, Ani-san started asking. [Could it be, yourthe lady?Doessister-in-law, know about Az?] Ani-sanwhy the subtle questioning? And you even rephrased it. I wonder why? Do they not get along?? No, rather than that, is "that person" your wife!? Say it properly, like your wife or bride~!! For some reason, the two of us seemed rather anxious about it, while Kei-san smiled wryly in response and replied. [Ahh. 4 years ago, when she found out that I only told Az about our marriage, she was astonished. Even though it was a political marriage, I was really mad at that man who came onto my wife. So I proposed, after the advice from Az. Of course I couldn''t say anything more about it! She kept asking me whose suggestion was it, I was really troubled at that time. She asked me about it so much that when I told her, she became really excited. Well, that was then and now we talk about many things, and I''ve shared everything.] [So it was like that. I guess. certainly if that''s the reason, it would be difficult to calm her down.] As Ani-san said that while sighing, I pulled back a little. If such a strong-willed lady comes here, one would worry about what she will say, right? In the first place, I''ve never had a chance to speak with females in this life and in my previous life, so I''m not very good at it!! Hm?? But, since I can face these two ikemens, I feel like the me right now might be able to do it!! Or rather, it might be a bit late to ask this now but, how old are these two actually? From my observations, Kei-san seems to be in his thirties while Ani-san in his twenties. [Um there''s something I want to ask you two. Can I?] Kei-san also seems fine now, so I''ll continue asking when they sat down. I''ll sit on the edge of the bed. The two said it was okay as they sat down, so I decided to ask. [It''s a bit late asking now but, how old are you two?] They looked at each other and wryly smiled. [It seems that we really didn''t tell you anything. I''m 41 years old and Ani is 34 years old.] [Haa?] What!? Does everyone in this country make themselves look young? I thought it was strange that time with Mooks-san, but Haa? 41 years old and 34 years old? They definitely don''t look like it. Not at all!! [Hm? Is something wrong?] Ani-san tilted his head as he asked. No no no they''re not lying right? It can''t be helped even if they were lying. [The two of you look really young!? Kei-san looks like he is in his thirties and Ani-san in his twenties!] The two of them had a strange look on their faces. [That''s, because of that. It''s because we are in our adult phase.] To Ani-san''s words, a question mark floats on top of my head. Hm? Adult phase?? What''s that??? I don''t know anything about it. The two were dumbfounded when they noticed that I didn''t know what it meant. [Perhaps, Az doesn''t know about it?] Ani-san who was still stunned asked me. [I''m not sure what it is that I don''t know about, so I probably don''t know.] All three of us were stunned. I wonder what it is with this atmosphere. Eh? But I don''t know, I don''t understand, what is it?? Is it related to age?? Looking at me, the two who unable to let it pass taught me about it. So I learned about it. There was also something else I''ve noticed. Human beings, if they become seriously surprised, their voices really won''t come out. Who could guess that the average lifespan in this world is 150 years old to 200 years old? You wouldn''t think so, right? I''ve never thought about lifespans in the first place. It never came out in Koihana at all!! At most, the age of the main characters came out? If I summarise what Kei-san and Ani-san told me if I explain it to so that it''s easily understood, the panicked me won''t be able to understand it at all, that''s the kind of feeling. The average lifespan is from 150 to 200 years old. But there is a difference depending on whether you have magical capacity or not. It seems like the lifespan of a person with magic powers is 200 years old, while people without it is 150 years old. Life can be broadly divided into four periods. Child phase, teenager phase, adult phase and old aged phase To summarise regarding people with magic - child phase is from age 0 until 10 years old. Teenager phase from age 10 to 20 years old. Incidentally, it seems like 16 years old is an adult. Adult phase is from age 20 to 130 years old, and after that is old age. The point is that when one is in their adult phase aging becomes considerably slow. The speed might be related to magical capacityis what I think but I am not sure. Once you are in the old age phase, it seems that you would age instantly. Therefore, people in their adult phase generally retain their youthful appearance. People without magic age slowly, regardless of their adult or old age phase. I think I, who haves memories from my past life probably wouldn''t know the difference Looking at me who was in a state of absentmindedness, Kei-san unintentionally leaked out his true thoughts. [Az is, how should I say it, has amazing knowledge, but is missing knowledge basic to humans?] Ehh, it probably is like that. I don''t even know myself what it is I''m missing. But still, I''ve survived this far without any disadvantages. As I suspected I lack common sense!! Note: A person''s growth phase (Sorted by stages) | Lifespan approximately 150 ~ 200 years ?ħΈ (In the case of having magic powers) סɡڡr r Children phase (0~10 years old) / Young 졡ɡڡr r Teenager phase (10~20 years old) / Maturing ׳ɡڡr r Adult phase (20~130 years old) / Prime ϡɡڡr r Old aged phase (130~200 years old) / Matured ׳ڤϻäˤʤꡢϳڤϻһݤMࣩ Upon entering into the adult phase, aging gradually slows down but resumes as per normal, upon entering the old aged phase. ?ħʤΈ (In the case of not having magic powers) סɡڡr r Children phase (0~10 years old) / Young 졡ɡڡr r Teenager phase (10~20 years old) / Maturing ׳?ϳڡr r Adult/Old-aged phase (20~150 years old) / Prime & Matured ׳?ϳvSʤäϻMࣩ There''s no distinction between the adult and old-aged phase, aging occurs slowly. CH 18 Chapter 18: In the next report, reporting, a new cheat abilityhii Translator: Syk TLC: Januva Editor: Momielxai First Published on Ainushi I somehow recovered myself from my state of absentmindedness. Rather than saying I recovered myself, for now I just decided to leave it as it is. My life expectancy only just doubled. Un, thats right. There probably arent any harm. I think I am probably on the 200 year course. But since the magic probing stones didnt give any reaction, I probably dont have the makings of a mage. Well anyways, its really half-assed. Lets just take the 180 year course. There is still a long way ahead of me. After I recovered, we chatted about the town, village, agency, magic beasts. Though it felt like it was mostly me talking and the two only listening. It seemed like it was interesting getting to know about various things. But for me, it was my everyday life so I didnt know what was so interesting about it. It was mostly likely a new world to aristocrats. After helping them in the evening, then healing them and chatting about various things the sky had changed, the two thought it was bad and returned (back home) in a hurry. They properly thanked me again then left. Now that I think about it, I didnt even get to eat dinner. Was it better if I had prepared dinner? But their family would probably had been worried, so letting them return home quickly was better. As expected, I was worried about the two on their way back so I gave them both a pendant as a present. I was wondering whether a pendant in the upper aristocracy is alright, but this is for protection rather than an accessoryor rather an amazing magical artifact? So I hope theyll overlook it! After all, its my specially self-made mana essence stone pendant. Though the appearance looks just like an ordinary stone stuck to the pendant, it is a proper magical artifact. I wish it was prettier but I wasnt up to that point yet so it cant be helped. Anyways, Ill be going to Tournous soon so there shouldnt be any problems giving them the present. Actually, during my spare time in my job, I wasnt only just taking one-off requests but also challenging making magical artifacts! If you cant use magical artifacts, then make one that you can use! And so, I was inspired. Everything with magic power and magic stones had bad affinity with me but I didnt give up. Having bad affinity means that magic power disperses when touched and the magic stones break when engraved. Its not because of the physical act of engraving. I tried many times with soft touch but I never succeeded. Even though magic stones arent free! Such a waste! I wanted to test with mana crystals but I cant make one since I break the magic stone to begin with, and its not something thats sold easily so I cant test it out. I wonder if anyone would sell them, though it would be extremely expensive. Since the magic stones are useless, I tested with a lot of different mana essence stones. Theres no word such as give up in my dictionary! Though I tried to act cool, I am just a persistent man that is bad at giving up. Fuu. First is the mana crystal which is the foundation for all. As a result of thinking to make a mana essence stone into a mana crystal; Is mana essence stone already a mana crystal? Is what I concluded. Because mana crystals are made by using magical circuits to store magic into the magic stone. The mana essence stone I made already has mana essence stored in it. How convenient! Moreover I thought! Mana crystals are already inserted with a magical circuit to store magic but mana essence stones arent. So you can insert it straight onto the mana essence stones itself and use it as a magical artifact. From there, it was a series of trial and error, and since I didnt know any magical circuits or spells I just made my own kind of mark of a magical circuit and engraved it on. On the mark, using game knowledge from my previous world as reference, I decided to make many effects such as recovery and defense. Naturally, I confirmed the effects and it worked properly. I wonder if this is what you call chuunibyou!?* I was able to make a properly functioning magical artifact but its not what I was seeking to make, I had to repeatedly go through trials and errors. Although I failed many times, at last, I finally succeeded when I engraved the mark while imagining programming inside my head! It was the auto function effect that I wanted. In addition, the magic essence created uses the atmosphere itself for self-recovery effect. It can be used permanently! It is indeed a cheat! There isnt any mana essence stone or even any magical artifact of this type. Though commoners dont even have the opportunity to see a magical artifact. Still, I havent seen any in town or in shops. I wonder if there is any in an aristocrats mansion or maybe in the royal castle? Also, I dont know whether you call this a fortunate error or a fluke, but I was able to get another cheat ability. Rather than making magical artifacts, it might be more amazing. its reconstructing things. Now, haa? Is what one would think! I also thought that. Its what I thought!! I tried to clean up the fragments and particles of the broken magic stones and mana essence stones while thinking what a waste it was. I thought about how great it would be if I could reconstruct things like in the alchemist manga I was hooked on with my younger brother in my previous world, and it happened when I put my hand out. It worked!! I was surprised it worked even though I didnt understand anything about the compositions. Mou, its so exciting!!! I went through some verifications experiments I could think of. First of all, it might not be reconstruction magic but healing magic? Is what I thought. I tried healing magic to test whether I could heal things. But nothing happened when I tried it. Well, it was expected. I guess I must have been really excited. If I thought about it a bit, I would have already known. Healing is basically curing illnesses, injuries and so on. I wanted to tell myself before I tried! Next, I tried to imagine making magic stones and mana essence stone with nothing but it didnt work. I thought if I imagined a mud dango on the same ground it might work and it did. It was the same no matter how many times I tested it, apparently it seems that I can reconstruct things if I can understand the compositions somehow; the present materials and a proper image. This time it worked as I imagined a mud dango on the soil of the ground. I dont know the particular components of the soil on the ground, but I could somehow do it. How kind it is to me!!! So it would mean that I cant alchemize things that I cant understand the composition of, but then I wouldnt have been able to construct the magic stone and mana essence stone in the first place. Thats strange. Because I reconstructed the magic stone and mana essence stone even though I didnt understand the composition one bit. While I was groaning to myself, the magic stone I was holding broke, and so, as a test, I tried to imagine the original state of the magic stone and I was somehow able to alchemize it. After thinking, it seems that if there is a broken object and I have the knowledge of the original state of the broken object then I can reconstruct it? So, I searched around the house looking for broken objects which I have no knowledge of the original state of. Conveniently, I discovered something that looked like a broken wooden bucket and tested it out. If its this, I can experiment on whether objects other than minerals is also possible. Its killing two birds with one stone! And the resultI was able to alchemize brilliantly! There was a splendid wooden bucket just as I imagined it to be. I understood from this experiment that even if I didnt know the original state of the objects, I can reconstruct it to any shape I imagine to. Though I dont understand very well, but I tested various things and there are conditions to it, but if I imagine the alchemist manga and use magic I am able to do something like alchemy. So I decided to just believe that I am able to use it. Its too much of a cheat that Im kind of scared of myself. This is probably something I shouldnt show to other people. Though I should be really thankful, its a bit scary. In Koihana, there was no description of this kind of ability. More than anything, I was just a supporting mob. I feel like its an ability a supporting mob doesnt need!? Initially, its alchemy! Hyahaaa!! I was excited like this but then as I proceeded the verification experiment, I became scared. Although while I say its scary, I experimented one more thing. I tried to alchemize the crushed magic stone into a magical artifact but it didnt work. Because I imagined a magical artifact, it didnt become a magic stone either. Then, I tried to imagine a magic stone, and then imagine a magical artifact from there but it was useless. As expected, cunning doesnt work Ive never been disappointed so slightly! Un. Its enough having an amazing ability. I wont ask for more. I wont. Ill work hard steadily. Somehow I made it while shuddering at my own talent, the special mana essence stone pendants I gave as a present. Without telling them its a magical artifact, but despite telling them it was just a protection charm, they were so pleased that they immediately wore them. I was genuinely happy when they were so pleased with it. But, if its a gift from a child, no matter what it is they cant flatly refuse it. I hope they at least keep it on until their safety is confirmed. Lets hope that auto function wont be activated. I hope nothing happens to them. Also, I cant forget about Mooks-san! Mooks-san hasnt returned yet. I waited without sleeping but in the end he didnt come back. Until now, this had never happened before so I thought about going to the agency, but I promised Mooks-san that I wouldnt go out at night so Im waiting at home. Still, Im worried so I used a little bit of detection magic to check his whereabouts. But Mooks-san was moving all over the city. I wonder if he is searching for something? Since there was nothing to do while waiting, though its a little early, I decided to make the usual bento. I made bentos for Mooks-san and assistant chief every day. After making the bento, I finished cleaning up the tools used. While I was at it, I finished preparations for tonights dinner and so I sighed in relief. I gazed at the sunrise outside the window and went outside after checking Mooks-sans whereabouts with detection magic. I took the bentos which I made too much of since I was restless and delivered it to the agency. ****** Currently, I was running in the streets of the Kingdom, enveloped by the morning mist, towards the agency. Since it was still early morning, people were sparse and very quiet. As it became brighter, the sunlight shining through the morning mist, and as a fantasy loving person in a magical world my tension went up. I arrived at the agency and caught my breath as I stepped in but I stiffened. There was a splendid mountain of corpses. I entered the entrance and heard from the exhausted subscriber at the front counter, an emergency request came in yesterday afternoon by a high rank subscriber agency staff. I didnt get to know what kind of request it was since it was confidential but it seemed to be very tiring as they were only done at dawn. I guess wandering throughout the whole city was part of the request. I greeted the people while listening to the groaning voices around and headed to the chiefs office. When I knocked on the door and heard an answer from the inside, I entered the room, in there, Mooks-san was leaning completely exhausted on his desk just like the subscriber I just saw earlier. Good morning? Excuse me for disturbing you. Are you alright? Youre not asleep, are you? Mooks-san raised his face to my voice. His face was void of any vitality. Good morning. Youre not disturbing me. Im, well Im okay. More importantly, Im sorry. I didnt contact you or go home. I didnt even have the time to contact you. Since its you, you probably waited for me without sleeping? Youve got dark circles under your eyes Its a job right? Then it cant be helped. Dont worry about me. Here, its the usual bento. I made a bit too much so please eat it with everyone else if you dont mind Despite being tired, Mooks-san being concerned about me gave me a tingling feeling as I went towards the table and sofa set. There was a lot of documents on the office desk so I placed the bento on the table at the sofa. Gazing at the mountain of documents, I turned my eyes towards Mooks-san. I hope you can return home early today. Youre probably tired so Ill prepare the bath. Later, Ill also prepare your favourite sake* so please do your best today! Mooks-san laughed happily as he stood and walked towards me. He stroked my head before I could look up. A warm and gentle big hand. After I became me, I wonder how many times has he caressed my head like this. Ill work hard and finish this work as soon as possible. Thanks. Ill eat the bento with everyone else. Theyll be very happy, itll be a good reward for them If thats the case, Im glad Youre heading to the company now right? You didnt get any sleep, will you be okay? Should I contact them for you? When I looked up, Mooks-san was looking at me with a very worried face that I laughed. Im totally fine. Im relieved I could see Mooks-san safe and sound. If I skip work because of something like this, I wont be able to face Suzuella-san. Dont worry! As I smiled sweetly, Mooks-san bitterly smiled and stroked my head as he said it cant be helped. Really, Az is the number one honour student here. But, dont push yourself too hard. Okay, go ahead As he gently pushed my back towards the door, I headed for the door. I looked back at Mooks-san and lowered my head. Well then! Ill be going cheerfully today as well. If you can sleep in the nap room, please sleep if you can even for a little bit! Im off I waved my hand to Mooks-san who saw me off and left the room. As I left the agency, I casted recovery magic to the whole building just enough so its not noticeable, so the people around wont be tired anymore and then headed towards the company. Im a bit sleepy, but when work gets busy my sleepiness will fly away. Lets work hard today too!! I have to prepare to welcome back the tired Mooks-san home today without working overtime! TLC Notes: CH 19 Chapter 19 C Was the royal capital such a dangerous place? TL: syk Editor: Shirani, Puissansa Im working well today, as usual. Im cheerfully earning the money to migrate to the trading country. Today, Im working as a merchant and am currently in the middle of delivering goods to our regular customer. The customer Im heading for right now seems to be a pretty difficult person, who is picky about the courier. I seem to be of sound judgement and got nominated for the deliveries, thankfully. From my point of view, hes a stubborn and curt grandpa, who is actually nice and gives me snacks. When I tell the other merchants that he gives me snacks, they get surprised; this is what you call the magic of children. Ive arrived at the customers house somehow and knocked on the door. [Gordo-san! Hello~ Im Asnord from Suzuella Company. Ive brought the goods youve ordered!] The door opened just as I felt a presence moving inside while I was raising my voice. The grandpa who came out appeared surprised, so I hurriedly removed my hood and lowered my head. [Im sorry! I surprised you. I forgot Im wearing a hood] Actually, Im wearing a robe today, despite working as a merchant. [Ahh. Maa, I knew it was Asnord so its fine, but whats going on today? Isnt it rare for you to wear robes? Were you going to your usual subjugation quest or something?] [No, I only have work as a merchant today. Well, the person taking care of me right now told me to wear a robe. For some reason, Suzuella-san told me me to as well. Its not even cold. I wonder if something is going on?] Thats right. This morning, when I was about to leave, Mooks-san told me to wear a robe without even telling me why. I wore my robe like I was told to and went to work. There, Suzuella-san also told me to wear my robe during deliveries, and to make sure to put on my hood properly. I originally wanted to work in the office without having to work outside, but there was an order from Gordo-san, so I had to go out. [Mooks-san and also Suzuella-san, I see. Its rare for Suzuella to talk. It just means that theres something that made him talk. Now that I think about it, recently, Ive felt as if like theres tension among the aristocrats. Be careful on your way back. Here, the usual snack] I received a snack along with the payment. I carefully tucked the snack in my bag, then checked the amount of money and handed over the receipt. [Yes, Ive properly received it. Thanks you for the snacks as always. I will gladly eat it during my break!] [Asnord is really mature. I should say that youre not child-like at all. Normally you wouldnt wait until break time] Gordo-san showed me a wry smile as he spoke; I also scratched my cheek as I tilted my head. [Ehh? Is that so? Im currently at work, so I think its normal] [Haaa. I guess it would be for you. Saa, Suzuella is probably worried, so take care when you return] [Yes, thank you. Ill be waiting for your next order. Goodbye!] I bowed and put on my hood again as I left the place. So, the aristocrats, I see. The royal capital is situated on a gentle hill, with the royal castle at the top. The capital draws circles around the castle and is surrounded by walls. Its a common setting, isnt it? Fantasy banzai!! The castle is enveloped by a barrier with a moat around it. During an emergency, the bridge is raised and the castle becomes a fortress, it seems. Its a good thing that Ive never seen the castle like that, but I do want to see it at least once. The town is spread around the castle, and if divided into north, south, east, and west, the main gates are located to the north and south. There are small gates in the west and east as well, but the west gate is sealed off except in times of emergency. The east gate is a gate where only those permitted by the country can use. If I roughly explain it, the lower half of town is lined with various stores, blacksmiths or other craft shops, and lodgings. I wonder if youd understand if I say its the commercial area? The northwest quarter is the residential area and the northeast quarter is where the government offices and buildings are located. A common feature of all the areas is that the aristocrats live close to the middle of town, with a simple barrier separating the commoners area spread around their periphery. Moreover, in the aristocratic area, the social class goes higher the closer one is to the castle. Even among the commoners area, the areas closer to the castle are filled with rich people. Therefore, when you have business at the castle C though thats rare C everyone says that they get nervous, when they pass by the rich residences and the aristocratic area. Gordo-sans house is located near the aristocratic area. Which reminds me, the mansion the assassins the other day entered was also from that area? When I tried recalling the incident, I noticed that it was surprisingly close by here. Its been three weeks since then. There hasnt been anything special, but Mooks-san seems to be busy. I wonder what happened to the curse I casted? Was there any effect? Itd be great if there was. As I was recalling various things and became slightly irritated, I could hear several footsteps beyond the street corner. I thought that I could hear some dispute occurring. Thinking that its suspicious, I stopped right before the street corner. Just as I stopped, A person rolled over!? Its fine that a person comes over, but why is that person full of injuries!? Since when did the royal capital become such a dangerous place!? Its the town under the King!? Moreover, this place is the rich area close to the nobilitys residences! Isnt the security strict here? To begin with, its even more strict if youre from the aristocracy. Thats right. The direction of the footsteps C or rather the direction that person came from C is the aristocratic district. The mansion of the men in black should be there as well. The person that came this way was surprised for a moment and stumbled when he saw me. Originally, the person rolled over here, so his balance was unsteady, but then he also stumbled a step further so the point is that he came flying towards me. Somehow, I felt a sense of dj vu. Maa, can I respond a little this time? Since Im alone? If I dont, the impact is going to be pretty big! The other party this time is a thin but tall man C .. Everyone is tall from my perspective!! As I was thinking I would be happier if I was a woman, we collided. What are you doing, me. The other party fell onto the ground together with me without being able to reduce the momentum. I unintentionally used wind magic for support, so thanks to that my butt C no, the impact to my entire back C was halved. The moment the man collapsed on me, I could smell blood. He seemed to be bleeding quite a bit. Surprised, the man stared at me with wide open eyes and stiffened. When our eyes met with his I also stiffened. Because, there was . [Amazingbeautiful. Amazingits a beautiful crimson colour] I was fascinated by the stunningly deep crimson-coloured eyes. Ive never seen such a colour this beautiful. I didnt realise how fascinated I was, but when I heard the footsteps coming from beyond the street corner, I came to my senses at once. It seems like it was the same for the other guy as well since, we both stood up at the same time though the mans balance was unsteady from the pain. Looking over the mans head, I could see a black shadow running this way. Thats right, a black shadowwait, its black even if its not a shadow!! Because its completely black. Moreover, its the same guys from the other day. Though some guys were different, I could sense my mana essence from four out of the seven. Its highly likely that what I sensed was my magic. Its still not working yet. Thats disappointing, but leaving that aside, are you saying that I should deal with them directly!? Is that bad luck in a sense? Not that I feel like going easy on them. The four cursed people also seemed to have noticed me and started talking with the three other people. Muu, it seems like a surprise attack is impossible. Thats disappointing. In any case, these guys, Ill fight them fair and square, crush them completely, and naturally attain victory! Thats right, I absolutely cant forgive these fellows for repeatedly hurting people using the advantage of numbers. I started to expand my detection magic. It would be strange not to do so, because, Im curious as to how many people there are today. These guys have a lot of free time!! Theres a lot less than before, but theres still seven people. So, its seven people against one. Unconsciously, I sighed. Unaffected, I put my hands on the shoulder of the man shielding me. [Onii-san, are you okay? Your injuries probably hurt, but they arent that deep, so you can move right? Could you move to the end of the street and rest there? I have something to do, you see?] I gently helped him up and sat him down on the ground. Meanwhile, the men in black werent attacking, they couldnt attack. Because I bound their shadows with dark magic. I did it while those guys were sneakily exchanging information! However, when I used magic, I felt a bit uncomfortable. Maa, Im probably fine. Since no phenomenon occurred, they probably havent noticed that magic was used. Though, since those men in black were affected by it, they probably would have noticed that something was done to them.but, it has nothing to do with me and I had to prepare a place to fight fair and square. After all, I didnt think that they would wait for me, and a surprise attack didnt seem possible. Just like that, I supported the man and moved locations. As if nothing had happened, I used physical enhancement magic and C since Im scared to be exposed C I didnt use wind magic. Physical enhancement magic alone should be enough. The man was in a daze. I became a little worried whether he was alright. Lets clean up quickly and leave it to the police. Un, lets do that. When I tried to leave the man that was leaning on the roadside wall, he caught my hand. [Is something wrong?] [Those guys are people who assassinate for a living. You cant win against them by yourself] The man was worried about me, it seems. But, this guy knew that the opponents are assassins. [I want to ask you something. Is onii-san friends with them?] [No. It turned out like this after I refused to guard their master and mansion] He replied quite simply. Maa, if he isnt a comrade, then its fine. [Im fine, dont worry. You can run away if it seems like Ill lose] I released my hand that he caught and broke free. Then I headed towards the group of men in black and stopped about 3 meters away from them. Now, you are out of luck to have met me hereI will end you guys with my own hands! Its not like I involved you guys so you can forgive me, right. Un. Ill be fine as long as Im not exposed!! I gently breathed out and cancelled the dark magic. CH 20 Chapter 20 C This means I can use all my strength right! TL: syk TLC: krrizis Editor: LadyBlue QC: Kittsune The aristocratic and rich areas have very little people around during the day, unlike the commoner area. Even if there were people, it was sparse. That is why it is very quiet. I guess the only time it is actually lively is when an aristocrats carriage passes through. But, right now there are nine people including me here. It is unthinkable on a usual day, nonetheless it is enshrouded with silence. There is not even one sound. That is, rather than just a normal silence, it felt more like something in the shadows was controlling this placea tense air was flowing. Though I said that, actually its not that bad for me. Rather, the sense of tension when dealing with magic beasts is much worse. There are seven opponents. Standing in rows of three by 2-3-2, it kind of looks like a hexagonal shape. The cursed men are the two guys in the front and two guys on the side of the second row. Im confident they will make a mistake. Maa, I wont count on it though, I can still win without it. Reading the situation I strengthened my physical enhancement magic even more, and increased my agility with wind magic. The road isnt that wide. If the road beyond here is where the carriages can pass through, then it would be a little wider, but only five or six people can line up in this place. So they wont spread around pointlessly. The most troublesome thing would be an attack from both sides with incoming support. I should clean up before that happens. Lets see, how should I attack? I guess the early bird gets the worm, the one who makes the first move will be the winner. I was thinking this while watching the opponents movements, when one of the men in black (Ah its the cursed guy!) stepped on his foot. That robe and that heightyoure the guy from the slum quarters from before, right? You said from before, but I dont know what you are talking about? He only stepped on his feet and there wasnt any more movement after, so I decided to wait and see a little more. Dont joke around! If you hadnt gotten in the way that time, our master would have achieved his longtime dream! Everything in this world was going to change!? The world our master would create. the task assigned to us for that sake, something like you! That Shut up!!! You, saying needless things!!ugh! Ohh, Cursed no.1-kun said something uncalled for! Is this also an influence from the curse? I would be happy if it was. But our master huhso they arent just moving because of money. Whats with everything in this world, thats scary. Moreover, the world our master would create its not my imagination is it? Somehow isnt this guy really sick in the head? In the first place, I dont know anything about that, and it has nothing to do with me at all. Besides, if its a dream you cant achieve unless Kei-san and Ani-san are killed, its better off to stay as a dream. Somehow youre saying some unpleasant things, but it doesnt have anything to do with me at all. I dont understand either. Just that master guy, letting people do these things and while he just watches, hes underestimating us. What the heck do you think life, human life is! Were not living for your sake! If youre saying its for your own dream, then come do it with your own hands! Ill beat you up while youre at it though! Wha! The men in black all started to give off murderous intent. Though I dont care. Because they irritate me. Nn? WaitI cant beat them while theyre at it since its not like Im the one they are targeting!? Well whatever! It doesnt change what I have to do now. Though the men in black started to move, the anger caused their movements to be more violent. Thats a disqualification as an assassinnot that I know their line of work. But, they shouldnt expose their emotions like this. Two people in front are heading this way holding a short sword. I also started to move accordingly. Putting power in my legs, I circulated the power in my waist, and jumped forward. Planning to draw my sword, I turned my hands to my waistbut my hands cut the air. I couldnt draw my sword. Nooooooooooo!!! Im not carrying a sword!! Its prohibited to carry swords in the royal capital without authorization. Since there wasnt any subjugation quests today, I didnt carry my sword since I wasnt permitted to. Kuu, well its okay. Even if I dont have a sword, I can deal with them. Yup. Rather, without a sword I can rampage around more as much as I want. What do you think peoples lives are! I hit the wrist of the two people charging in with the short sword, and knocked it out. It appears that the other party arent idiots, they seem to be guarding their vital pointsbut it doesnt matter to me since Im using physical enhancement magic, they wouldnt be able to withstand the impact of the blow I give using my whole strength. Leaving it to the flow, I got closer to one guy, struck his neck and threw a kick from behind. Taking advantage of the reaction of the kick, I stepped in towards the persons chest, struck his neck and delivered a kick to the guy. Both guys flew magnificently towards the back, though they didnt hit the three guys standing at the back.but, they hit the two guys standing behind them and the four guys collapsed in a tangle. The men in black who were hit shouted What are you doing!? and looked like they were eager to thrash Cursed no.1-kun and no.2-kun, but the two in agony, suffering pain from being struck in the neck didnt hear them shout. As expected they dont have any luck! Serves you right!! Still, being commissioned by money Oomph! Do they think that Ill behah! easy to finish off? There we go! I kept attacking whilst talking. Its not like the opponents wont stop attacking me. This time, the guy in the middle of the second row drew his sword and attacked, but I barely avoided the point of the sword, struck his wrist and knocked it down. But he grabbed the hand I struck with. However, dont be flustered! The moment my hand is grabbed I flung his wrist back, and in a slight instant, removed the hold on my hand. This time, I gripped his wrist and pulled him towards me. While pulling the man, I put my foot behind his pivot leg and did a foot sweep. It was executed so skillfully that his stance crumbled and I carried out a knee strike to his chest, as I lowered my kicking leg, at the same time put strength into the axle of my pivot foot, turned the force on my waist, and kicked him away with momentum. Hes flying away nicely!! It feels refreshing! The man in black who was flung away knocked into Cursed no.3-kun who was at the right end of the second row, and both of them lost their consciousness. Lucky!! No no, its not a good thing! Funn. These guys who think lightly of human lives, haaaa! Who could forgive them!! Hmph!! After he flew away, from the left of the second row next to me Cursed no.4-kun started coming this way, but he is really unlucky huh. He collapsed after colliding with Cursed no.1-kun, and just managed to stand up with great difficulty when he clashed with one of the men who was heading this way from the third row. They were both thrown off balance in front of me. How unlucky! Fufu. I didnt miss a chance even for a moment, and kicked towards Cursed no.4-kun reaching for his knee just before turning towards his temple with a roundhouse kick. Another guy lost his balance, and towards him, I took a step without stopping the flow of the kick I just did, and stepped on the opponents leg with all my strength. Storing the strength I just trampled the opponent with, I concentrated it onto my waist and executed a knee strike to the guys vital point. Bastards who dont know the meaning of life and how to treasure life! Thump! Thud. He collided with Cursed no.2-kun and fell while the remaining guy in the third row came up from behind me, to bind my arms. In doing so, he tried to stab me with a short sword, but I grabbed his wrist, twisting it and stomped on his feet at the same time. When he started to become aware of the pain, I threw away the short sword, dropped my waist and bent my knees like a spring, and jumped. My head flew towards the mans chin standing behind me, and took a mega hit!! Painful sounds rang from his head to the body. Although I casted physical enhancement magic, it would still hurt. Immediately, strength left the mans body and so I grasped his right arm, that was binding me, and dealt a one-arm shoulder throw. Even after he hurled to the ground, I didnt forget to deliver a blow with my whole weight onto my elbow to his solar plexus. Was it called something like an elbow drop? No room for mercy!! Theres no way Ill be done in I guess this ends it. I stood up from the top of the men in black, and looked around while dusting off the dirt on my robe. The sight of seven unconscious men spread around seemed surreal. When I looked around, I could see Onii-san leaning on the wall looking dumbfounded. Was he in a daze like that the whole time? Will he be okay? I slowly approached him. Onii-san? Are you alright? It looks like Im looking down on him, but Ill stay standing and listen. I dont think the men in black will get back up again, but just to be sure, I was thinking about pursuers coming too. Although Ive already casted detection magic. Onii-san was looking towards me with his eyes wide open when he abruptly stood up. It feels like a big wall suddenly appeared in front of me. The sense of oppression isnt normal. It was so sudden and the sense of oppression was great so I tried to retreat back a bit, but he held both my shoulders so I couldnt! What is going on!? Who do you live for? What do you live for!? Eh? You ignored my question, and on top of that asked an incomprehensible question?? What the heck am I supposed to do!? CH 21 Chapter 21 CWhy are we having this kind of discussion? I guess its too late to regret. TL: syk Editor: LadyBlue QC: Kittsune The vicinity is wrapped in silence. Meaning, it is the same kind of feeling as before, but this is obviously different. The air makes it so that I cant say a thing. I wonder what this isthis subtle air. It is clearly because of the man in front of me. When I looked up, I was asked the same question again. Who do you live for? For what do you live? If I dont answer this, he probably wont let go of my shoulders. This also makes me subtly feel a dj vu. Recently, theres only been trouble. Ahh~ it would have been better if I just escaped without dealing with him. Isnt it obviously myself that I live for. Also, you dont need a reason to live. I do the things I want to do and live for myself. Isnt it normal? The man is surprised by my answer. What the hell are you surprised about? As expected, this man is weird! The hands grasping my shoulders also became strongerthis also intensely feels like dj vu!? What is it you want to do? Is there hope? Is it money? Status? Really, what is with this person. I have no idea what he is trying to say, and I dont feel the need to answer him. Should I run awaydid he read my thoughts, the hands grasping my shoulders suddenly became stronger. This is extremely bothersome!! But, this person somehow seems really desperate. So, its like I cant seem to ignore him. Since I was absorbed with the men in black just then I just realized this here is another ikemen. Besides his eyes were impressive, so I only looked at his eyes. Are ikemens normal in this world? Or is that all the guys I happen to meet are special. Even when I walk through the street, the ikemen rates arent that high so its probably the latter. Keh. Im not happy or anything even if I meet an ikemen!! Its only a demerit for someone average like me. Kii! What is it you want to do? Is there hope? Is it money? Status? Authority? Power to fight? He asked me again. Moreover it somehow increased. As expected, its no good if I dont answer. I dont understand the meaning. Well you cant live without money so I dont want it. But the amount I earn by myself is enough. In some way I will manage the money to live by myself. Was it status? Asking that to a commoner like myself wont understand it. Its the same with authority. Though I would be genuinely happy if someone recognises the work I do and my rank goes up. Power to fight? Ha, I already have it. If I have more power than I do now, I wouldnt wish to improve myself more or anything. What is it you want to do? Is it to help others? Make money? To indulge in greed? Im getting tiredseriously what is with him? What does this person want to hear. Is there any meaning in hearing? Haa. helping others is ambiguous. If Im safe and have the energy, then I guess I would help others, but basically I dont think I would do anything. If I get involved, well Ill think about it. Also, I cant say that I dont have any greed for making money or other desires. I think everyone has it, since we are living, its natural to have it. What I want to do above thatthere isnt anything special I can come up with, but if I had one it would be to live life like myself. I want to normally live a peaceful life without being disturbed by anyone. I want to reach a relaxing old age. Hearing my answer, the face that seemed desperate became blank. Its kind of cutethough he is a man. I didnt say anything weird, did I? I only answered to his questions though. To normally live a peacefullifea relaxingold age!? What is with that ridiculous answer! Haa!? What a fellow!! Continuously asking me questions, and when I answer, saying its a ridiculous answer!! I can feel blood rushing to my head. Im not messing around in the slightest!? Where am I messing around! Humans desire wealth and power, and desire status along with it. Then, even if they acquire them, they would further wish for more and their greed never ends. They desire it one after the other. The humans I saw were all like that. There were some who sought eternal life as welldo you want an eternal life? Did this guy not hear what I said? If I wanted an eternal life I wouldnt use a word like old age!! This guy is stupid!! An idiot!! You must be stupid. Who said I wanted an eternal life! Dont put me together with the kind of humans you saw! This idiot!! In the first place, isnt it because there is an end or stop that I think about now and treasure the moment more? Even if its the same days you can feel the difference! You think you should do your best. If you say doing your best is greed, then humans cant live without greed. Only, its different from the greed youre talking about!! The desire Im talking about is appetite, sexual desire, desire to sleep, and a little bit of money and materialistic desire; these kinds of things. I dont wish for overloading money, materialistic or prestige. I dont want to spend my whole life endlessly like an idiot. Its because there is an end, that I want to spend a life that makes me feel that I was glad to live at the end. Do you understand!? Unintentionally I huffed on my shoulder. Because I was irritated I spontaneously argued furiously. Making fun of peoples dreams! But, how did it become this kind of conversation? Was it like a philosophical conversation? That is what I was thinking when I stiffened at the mans next words. What would a brat like you know about the end? That is nonsense. You say big things like that and in the end you wish for a peaceful life? Arent you the stupid one? Can I hit this guy? Can I!? He makes me feel like an idiot!! After I helped him, no, I only wanted to beat those men in black so I guess thats wrong. Though I did help him as a resultwell thats enough for today. In addition, after seriously answering to the questions of that guy I dont understand, he called me an idiotunbelievable! Moreover, a brat. What are you asking questions to a brat for then! Hes seriously an unbelievable guy!! Whos an idiot! Whats wrong! Isnt each persons sense of value different!? Im not bothering anyone with what Im wishing, and they have nothing to do with it? Theres no need to be noticed by other people, nor be conscious of other people. I only want to enjoy a dokidoki and exciting life looking, feeling, and knowing many things I dont know of yet in this country and worldwhat is wrong with that! After asking a brat these incomprehensible questions, you, who is saying all these kinds of things to a person, you probably have something even more amazing right! Ill listen for you so say it!! Ahh?? If its even a little bit weird, Ill thoroughly talk down on you! Ill make a fool of you!! I slow my breathing and wait until the person speaks buthes not saying anything. Theres only a guy who is lost for words. Why is he speechless?? After coming this far making an idiot of a person, hes really a guy I dont understand. I tried to call out to him, but I alertly looked behind. Because six people were caught in my enemy detection magic. Meanwhile, though its a bit far there is a response of five people, coming from the direction the men in black came from. They are coming towards here from both sides, but they dont seem to be enemies. If its not an enemyI think over and look up at the guy. The man was surprised, but he didnt look dumbfounded so I think hell be alright. People will probably come here. You escaped from the men in black, but on the way you, who happened to be present, saved me from the men in black, is what happened. Match your story with mine! At the same time I said that, I shook his hands off my shoulders and tripped his legs and he fell over. With that, I looked back and began to run. Then, I was surprised by the people coming from the other side. Isnt this Asnord-kun! Its been a long time! Captain!! I was familiar with the head person. Although I dont remember as far as the group of the Knights Corps, I know hes some captain. The moment I said Captain-san the knights standing behind suddenly let out bloodlust. Hii! I shouldnt have called out to him!! Was it because I was acting overly familiar with him!? One of the knights standing behind asked Captain-san about me. Everyone, please dont intimidate him so much. I am familiar with this child. Dont we often have a joint magic beast subjugation practical exercise training with the Agency? He is a child who often participates in that training. Even like this, he is an amazing high-class subscriber. I believe you cant beat him even with those knights. With the Captain-sans words the knights gazes pierces me. Captain-san~!! Saying something unnecessary at the end!! The bloodlust disappearedno, it hasnt disappeared at all. It feels like only the type of bloodlust has changed! Its painful. It also includes the feelings like they cant believe itI guess they would be. Im already used to these kinds of gazes. By the way, what are you doing in such a place? I come to my senses from the Captain-sans words!! Thats rights, thats the problem!! I was in the middle of a delivery when I came across a strange group of men in black, and I was saved by that man over there, and the man got hurt soheh? I look back to point to the man as I talk, but it made feel surprised again. Because, the man full of wounds was certainly on the ground, but for some reason he covered both his eyes with some black bandage. Whats with that!? He didnt have that before?? While I was speechless the knights at the back gasps. You say you encountered the men in black!? Do you have any injuries? Everyone apart from Captain-san headed towards the men in black. It seems like Captain-san will stay with me. Yes. Because I was saved by that man. As I approached the man while speaking, a group of five people came running towards here from the other side of the men in black. I become lost for words. Because. Az The people were a group of subscribers from the Agency. This again, why at this timing, at this place!? Everyone, ignoring the knights and the men in black came here and surrounded me. I became a little uneasy. ThisI feel that things arent looking good. Is Mooks-san not being here my salvation? But, with this situation it doesnt seem to be that different, its useless. Unconsciously, I look up to the sky. As I thought, I should have escaped earlier!!! CH 22 Mob: Chapter 22 C Please no prohibition on going out! Hey, someone listen to me!? TL: syk Editor: Kai QC: Rin Lee While I was surrounded by the people from the Agency, the Knights tied up the men in black and dragged them back here. At this time, the wounded man also came over. Being surrounded by a large number of people, the sense of oppression was great, but if I lose here I will definitely regret it later! Pull yourself together, me!! [Why is Az here?] One of the subscribers from the Agency asked me and I unconsciously swallowed my saliva but I told them the same thing I told Captain-san. However, they all put on strange faces. WuuI have a bad feeling. [Let me check for a moment. So Az was saved by this man here? Really? It wasnt Az that saved him??] I listened to the pause with the slow tone of their voice. Moreover, the gazes hurt a lot. Ill vomit blood!! But I wont lose! I will do my best for the future me! I can do it! Only I can do it!! [Yes! I was saved by this person!!] I spoke as I pointed to the man who was somehow next to me, but everyone from the Agency and Captain-san tilted their heads. Only the remaining Knights were nodding their heads. There was a subtle air flowing around my surroundings. [Captain. Was there any points of suspicions?] As one of the knights called out to the captain upon noticing the Captains behaviour, Captain-san approached the men in black. After confirming the situation, he headed towards the place where the men in black had collapsed. The people at the Agency also did the sameso inevitably everyone moved in succession. [You know, I think its strange. Notice that there are blood stains sticking to the lower side of the wall and on the ground? The bloodstains are quite new. I cant see any bleeding on the attackers or on Asnord-kun. Then, whose bloodstains are those? If you think logically, it is reasonable to believe that the man who saved Asnord-kun was sitting there.] Captain-san, who was looking at the bloodstains, suddenly turned around and flashed a great smile. However, all I could feel was horror!! [Its strange. If he was sitting over there, then how could he have saved you Asnord-kun?] Hii! I should have erased those bloodstains. I didnt notice it until I was told though! I could have erased it with purification magic. I dont have the time to discuss these arguments that I dont understand!! But still, this is a battle I cant afford to lose here!! [He most likely sat down after saving me! Since he is covered with injuries!!] As I said that, Captain-sans smile widened even further. WuuI want to escape. I want to run away!! There, a lifeline!! [This amazingly, only the vital points of the men in black are injured. Apart from the vital points there are no traces of a fight. It was all decided with a clean hit to the vital points. It truly is a merciless strike that was made brilliantly. When going against these kinds of people you need not only knowledge, but also skills. And I know a person who often gives such damage very~ well. Moreover, that person is here at this place?? Right, Az?? Also, when we ran over here, this onii-chan, he was close but he was sitting at a different place?] Noo!! He wasnt my lifesaver!! Unintentionally, my face stiffened. Moreover, Captain-san showered me with questions and pressed me for an answer with his forceful grin. [Besides, there arent any bloodstains on the injured parts of the attackers or elsewhere. I believe youd realize it if you see him wounded with the injuries, but if he fought in that state, I think that blood would also splatter onto the opponents. Its not like there was a fight with weapons.What do you think? You over there whos covered with wounds.] On top of being pressed for answers, he changed targets~!! I unconsciously looked up towards the man next to me. Match your story with me!! While I removed the grudge, I dont believe I can communicate with a man wearing a bandage over his eyes. After thinking for a while, the man opened his mouth. [You escaped from the men in black, but on the way you, who happened to be present, saved me from the men in black. Match your story with mine! is what I was told to do.] I was betrayed so soon~!! [Hey!! Returning evil for good hii!!] I started to complain to the man but stopped in the middle. It was because Captain-san struck my shoulders with a great smile. [Now then, Asnord-kun. Shall we talk for a little bit? Of course, that goes for that man as well.] [Ah umm, Im, in the middle of work] [Ahh, you did say something like that. Its okay. Was it Suzuella Company? I will send someone to the company to explain. Please rest assured.] At the same time, Captain-san looked towards one of the knights from the Knight Corps, and the knight nodded as he started to run. What a great subordinate. Now I feel like I will remember my hate in such excellence. [Um~m~ If it could be a secret from Mooks-san] Ill try to ask with my last hope!! Not losing hope is my good point!! [That, I think its impossible. Its because we have to make a report. This time, its a request. If we report falsehood there will be difficulty in future requests, just give up! Its not like you did anything bad, just accept the Chiefs love!! Ahahaha!!!] Not Captain-san, but my comrade from the Agency delivered the final blow, what!? [I tried hard because I didnt want to accept it~!! Mooks-san is really merciless. If it goes bad, Ill be banned from going on subjugation requests. If that happens, what will you do!!] I instinctively collapsed on my knees and my eyes became teary. Thats right! If I meddle in dangerous things, he will restrict the requests!! Its an abuse of a Chiefs authority! If I complain like this, the restriction on my requests would only become heartlessly extended. Hes really merciless. Thats why I tried to trick them.I unconsciously glared at the man I saved and as if he sensed something, he looked towards my direction. This fellow, it seems that he moves well even though both his eyes are covered. Just now, he walked normally together with the knights. [In this current situation, you have no chance of winning. I dont lend my hand to those who have no chance of winning. Its more important to live.] I accidentally hit the mans lower leg but Ill definitely be forgiven! I was dragged like this to the Knight Corps station. * * * * * * At the station, I recounted the story from the part where I delivered Gordo-sans goods. Its not like I did anything bad so I told them everything that happened. Before, I just didnt want Mooks-san to find out. If its certain that it would be found out, then thered be nothing for me to hide. However, I kept quiet about the event that happened near the slums quarters. While I was talking, the door of the room I was in opened up loudlythe door didnt just open it looked like it was about to fly off. Yup. To the extent that it would be strange that it didnt fly, the door hit the wall and bounced back. Im glad there wasnt anyone nearby. [Az!!] The person there was Mooks-san. For some reason, Suzuella-san was behind him too. What the heck happened!? While I was bewildered, the two rushed over and Mooks-san held my shoulders to make me stand. The two looked around me in all directions respectively as they continuously scrutinized me many times. After doing that, Mooks-san hugged me. [Im glad. You werent injured. Seriously, why are you so. Moreover, you! It seems like you tried to hide it. I heard it from the guys at the Agency!? Doing useless things!!] Noticing Mooks-sans body slightly trembling, I couldnt say anything. Even Suzuella-san who I could see over the shoulders was nearly in tears. [Im sorry I made you worry.] I somehow said this to the two, but they didnt say anything. [You, do you really understand? I dont know why I made you wear a robeno, I heard you wore your hood so I guess it was somewhat useful. But by any chance, if something happened and you werent carrying your sword, I thought that you would call for help or run away, but with bare hands. You! What were you thinking? In this case, it would have been better if you carried your sword around!! Moreover, when this happened you tried to conceal it, but its impossible that I dont know when something happened to you!!] [I should have made him work in the office by all means. Either I should have gone to Gordo-sans place or asked others to help. Im really sorry.] Surprised at Mooks-sans angry face and Suzuella-san bowing his head, I couldnt say anything. [N-no, theres no need for Suzuella-san to apologise. Why is it? Just because I went to deliver something to Gordo-sans place, suchI just happened to encounter the men in black. Also, Mooks-san, I tried to hide what happened because I didnt want you to say that Im not allowed to take on subjugation requests again soIm sorry.] [No, I knew there was something happening at the aristocratic town today. That is why I should have been more careful. Especially if its in the same area as Gordo-sans house.] [Thats right. I shouldnt have let you out of the house even though you got involved in troublesome things. Therefore, you are forbidden from taking on subjugation requests! Do you understand!?] Ehh? Was I ever involved in something before? [I wasnt really involved in it though? I only did my job from the Company as usual and completed a one-off request.] When I looked at Mooks-san, he heaved a big sigh. Why!? [You aredo you not have any self-awareness!? Listen, you are strange. Listen carefully. When you go to collect herbs you come across dangerous animals, when you go on dangerous animal subjugations you encounter unexpected demons, when you go on demon subjugations you happen to come across magic beasts which normally shouldnt appear, you pick up a dying young master of some aristocrat, when you walk in town you pick up a person full of injuries, when you go to magic beast subjugations you also subjugate a group of thievesits the same this time! When youre walking in town you encounter a group of assassinsseriously, please have some self-awareness!!] Umm~. Its not like it happened because I wanted it to so I dont have any awareness.Suzuella-san and the knights became speechless. [Until now, you stayed alive wellamazing.] Suzuella-san cautiously opened his mouth. The knights around me also nodded their heads strongly. It feels like they cant mindlessly believe it only by knowing about the dangerous animals, demons, and magic beasts. But its Mooks-san who is saying it, so it cant be a lie. [But, its not like Im poking my nose into those affairs or meddling with it on my own accord] [Thats why its a problem. If its you yourself who is poking your nose into those affairs and meddling voluntarily, wouldnt it end if I just warn you? Its troubling because thats not the case.Rather than prohibiting subjugation requests, it might be better to prohibit you from going out] [!? What are you saying!? Mooks-san! Prohibiting me from going out would trouble me! I wont be able to work. It would also bother Suzuella-san!] I heard terrifying words come from Mooks-sans mouth! Words that were impossible!! Prohibited from going out, what!? Thats confinement!? [I am fine. Compared to Az-kuns life, its not a big deal. Please be relieved! I will cooperate with all my strength!!] Nonononooooo!! Someone! Someone stop them!? Compared with my life, theres no need to compare isnt there? What are you saying Suzuella-san? While I was huffing to myself, Captain-san entered the open door. [Oh, it seems like the both of you came. Youre being loved~ Asnord-kun. Have you finished questioning here?Its over, right? If thats the case, it is fine for you to return home today. Weve finished questioning the man Asnord-kun saved as well. Again, if theres something we would like to ask, we ask for your cooperation. Asnord-kun, well, do your best from now on. Well then, please excuse me.] Captain-sanhe left after only saying what he wanted to say. He didnt even lend a helping hand. It seems like hes mad about what just happened !! He was smiling widely when he was saying the final do your best part. Wuu. Please do something.about this situation. I absolutely dont want confinement!! CH 23 Mob: Chapter 23 C Ehh, is this person dangerous!? TL: syk Editor: Evangeline Stark QC: Kai Even after Captain-san left the room, I stayed to talk but I temporarily decided to go back to the Agency, as I thought I would be a bother by staying here. When I told them[I still have work left to do], Suzuella-san for some reason made me rest today, tomorrow and the day after too. When I tried to refuse, he grasped my hands with teary eyes and desperately begged [Please let me rest my mind and body!] so I was made to give inI give up. Its not that much of an issue for me to take days off to rest, but I would be thankful if I had work to do though. This feels like confinement! Then Suzuella-san returned to the company, while apologizing till the end. Why did he apologise so much? Thinking its strange, I looked up to Mooks-san, and he sighed and said a few words [Ill explain once we return]. I guess it means there is something I need to get an explanation for. He did tell me to wear my robe in the morning, I guess it might because of those reasons. We talked as we walked and when we reached near the stations gate, a man leaning on the wall came into view. Its that guy with crimson red eyes! His wounds must have been healed at the station, the visible external wounds had disappeared. The moment I saw him, I unconsciously ran close to him and complained! [You! Even if you couldnt win, you didnt have to tell them what I said word for word!? This traitor! Thanks to you I might be banned from taking on subjugation requests, let alone going out!! If that happens, what will you do for me!?] Immediately, I regretted saying anything at all. The word regret is a perfectly fitting phrase! I regret itits an accurate word. Fuu. Right now is exactly that. Doesnt it seem like I havent reflected on myself at all like this!? If its like this I would seriously be prohibited from going out!! With one person flustered, timidlyslowly looked behind me and naturally Mooks-san was there. However, when I looked back, it was different from my predictions. Mooks-san, who I thought would be mad, looked at the red-eyed man and turned stiff. Is there something wrong with the red-eyed man? An acquaintance? He was still for so long that I became worried and tried to pull his arm, but there was no reaction. Incidentally, when I looked back at the red-eyed man, who should have been the main cause, Mooks-san called out to me. [Az, theres something I want to check. By any chanceIs it by any chance, the man Az helped, the person currently leaning on the wall behind youthat man?] He repeated by any chance twiceis this red-eyed man a man with circumstances!? Im getting a bad feeling looking at Mooks-san? My feelings ended up appearing in my answer. [Yes. That man leaning on the wall was chased by the men in black, full of injuries, it was coincidental but I helped him.] The red-eyed man was looking at us with interest. Even though the man had covered both his eyes with a bandage, I could somehow understand his expressions. With the shape of his mouth I guess? Mooks-san seems to be stunned, I wonder if he is alright? But this man, he doesnt look that dangerous, so the way Mooks-san has hardened makes no sense. The guy looks like he is always in a daze anyways and when he became sane again, he asked a barrage of questions I didnt understand. Ahh! Is he all right in the head!! If its like that then I can understand. Un Un. [Is that so. Thats right. Unwell, there were other as well, guys with black bandages covering their eyes. There should be many others. Moreover, he was full of injuriesits impossible. Az! I want to further check, you havent looked at this mans eyes right?] Nn? I looked at the guy as Mooks-san asked me. Even now the mans eyes are covered with a black bandage. [Eyes? I saw them? When we met, he wasnt wearing a bandage. They were a really beautiful deep crimson colour! For some reason, when the Knight Corps came he wore the bandage, such a waste. Even if he is crazy, his eyes are very beautiful so he should be able to boast what he could boast about. But its strange, covering both his eyes!?] I looked up at Mooks-san as I kept talking and became lost for words. Because, Mooks-sans face was pale. Really what is happening? Its scary. [Moo-Mooks-san?are you alright?] I became further surprised once I held onto Mooks-sans arms. Because, Mooks-san was trembling. Instinctively, I clung onto his arms and Mooks-san turned his eyes this way. [You!haa. thats rightAz is, whatever happens its still Az. That is always stable. Yeah, I knew it from the start. Anyway, you wait over there for a moment.] When I thought he seemed to be grumbling and muttering to himself, he caressed my head and gently pushed my back to move me away. Mooks-san headed towards the red-eyed man and called out to him, then moved further away from me and the two of them started to talk about something. I watched them in a daze~. Was it about 5 minutes? It seems like they finished talking as Mooks-san came back.When Mooks-san returned, his face looked like he had lost his soul. What on earth happened in that short time? While I was worrying, Mooks-san wore a wry smile and stroked my head. [Well, lets go back. Az, youll be returning with me. Dont you try to run away! I wont leave you alone.] Ahhhits like that after all! The issue of prohibition on going out is still left, I wonder what will happen. Ahh, I dont want a prohibition on going out or on subjugation requests. Why did this happen, I feel like crying. [Im also going together. I decided to register at the Agency.] Just when we were about to return, a voice from behind us could be heard. To the red-eyed mans words, the two of us looked back at the same time and became surprised as the man was right behind us. Though Mooks-san was stunned. [Yo you! Werent you returning back to the inn? Also, you, registering? Are you serious!?] As Mooks-san started to ask questions, the man laughs away. This guy, he seriously only likes making a fool out of a person!! [Ill return to the inn once I take care of the business. Unexpectedly, it seems I have decided to stay here in this capital. If I think of the future, its better if I am registered. Dont worry, you can check/investigate all as much as you want. I wont interfere at all. Though I dont think anything suspicious will appear, so it will be a waste of time.] Mooks-san became speechless at the mans words. What is it from a while ago? Would he tell me if I asked about it later? At any rate, its difficult calling him the red-eyed man. If hes coming to the Agency, I can at least ask his name right? [You, whats your name?] The man turned his face my way as I asked. Though our eyes didnt meet! [Im called as Latu] I lost my words at the mans reply. Because, the word Latu is an ancient word and it meant demon. Is he being called by this name knowing the meaning? I know the meaning. [That, is that your real name?] Just to be sure, but he gave a short answer of no. If its not his real name, I cant call him as Latu. I dont want to call him that. Suddenly, the mans hair colour comes into my view. Red hairtinged with the colours black and brown. In my previous life, I feel like this kind of hair colour was called sappanwood (suou-iro). Now that I think about it, I feel like it perfectly fits the man. Mooks-san seemed to be making a lot of noise from a while ago but Ill listen to his story later [Then, Ill call you Suou. Im sorry, but I dont want to call you Latu] I hope that he doesnt know the meaning of the word Latu, but Im sure he probably knows. Because, this guy looked surprised at my words and bit his lips. After that, for a moment, really just for a moment, his face looked like he was about to cry. I didnt miss it. Mooks-san standing next to me surely didnt either. Strangely, I could understand just by looking at his mouth. [ShiShiiShu~su ou, Suou. Ahh, so that is my name.] After saying so, this guySuou certainly smiled. Mooks-san was hanging his head down as he deeply sighed. Did I do something bad? Rather, before that! [Hey you! You do have a proper real name? Then Suou is an aliasa nickname!?] When I said so to the strange man, he started to laugh, I said something stupid again. [I dont have a real name. Even if I had one, I have forgotten it so Suou is now my name. Take responsibility, okay?] I dont understand! What did he say? Where is the fool who forgets his real name? Ahh, right in front of methe idiot. That name is only a hair colour to me. Isnt there a better name!? Moreover, take responsibility? Youre not a petand I didnt pick you up in the first place!! What kind of responsibility are you telling me to take!? [Such an idiot!? You really are a fool! Isnt it your name? Treasure it!! Also, take responsibility in regards to what? I helped you and properly handed you to the Knight Corps, didnt I!? Seriously its impossible!] Mooks-san who was in a small panic suddenly tapped my shoulders. When I looked at him, he laughed without any strength and said a few words. [Give up. I gave up. Un. You are as expected, you are still you, no matter where you go. Ive already given up.] Why is he saying such sinister things? What on earth are you giving up on? And why are you repeating that you are giving up twice!? Because its important? Or rather, what did you give up on!? Mooks-san!? Honestly, what is happening. Without understanding the meaning, I was confused and Mooks-san looked like was in resignation, like his consciousness had flown far away, and the red-eyed man was looking at us with interest and laughing. CH 24 Mob: Chapter 24 C Its a common story in manga! TL: syk Editor: Evangeline Stark QC: Kittsune Once I arrived at the Agency, I went straight to the Chiefs room. Mooks-san, Suou and I walked in succession, but we drew a lot of attention from the people inside, so we moved quickly. Naturally, all the attention was towards Suou. When we arrived in the Chiefs room, Mooks-san sat at his desk while Suou and I sat at the sofa and table set. There were two sets of two-seater sofas with a low table in between. And now, for some reason we are sitting together side by side. No, its not like I was aiming to sit with him. When I sat down first, this guy just came and sat next to me. I thought for sure that he would sit on the opposite sofa. Normally, you wouldnt sit side by side. Right? Mooks-san also seemed to be dumbfounded. Since I couldnt calm down, I stood up and decided to prepare some tea. Who would sit next to someone you just got acquainted with, and moreover with some idiotic guy I dont understand at all. Mooks-san, Ill go prepare some tea. Ill return soon! I left the room without hearing his reply and headed towards the kitchenette on the same floor. Since I always used it, I had become familiar with it. I prepared the tea and immediately returned to the room. It was a little disappointing that there were no tea cake as this was unexpected. When I returned to the room, nothing had changed since I went out, and so I put their teas before them and sat down on the sofa with the tea in my hand. Of course, I then sat on the sofa opposite of Suou! Its no exaggeration to say that it was for this reason I went to prepare tea. Despite that, this fool! I dont know what this fool was thinking, but he purposely moved next to me! My actions became meaningless!! A~z, give up. There are things in this world you cant change. Then, since the tea has been prepared, is it okay for us to start talking? Sorry but please excuse me for handling paperwork while we talk. As he said that he looked at the mountain of documents on his desk, and sighed deeply. Is it alright if I also breathe a deep sigh? I understand there are things in this world thats helpless, but is this also included in that? I definitely cannot accept that!? But, time is also valuable. I wont mind you doing so. If there is something that I can help with Ill help, and if it seems like Im in the way, Ill go to the restroom after we finish talking? N? Isnt it better to talk after you finished working? WellI dont need helpright now. Un. Its better to finish the talk now for many reasons so lets do it now. Is that fine with you? Mooks-san looked towards Suou and confirmed it with him. Ahh. Theres no problem. How conceited!! Who does he think he is!! Who is he in the first place!? While I was becoming quite annoyed, Mooks-san started to work on the documents just like he said he would. How skillful! Its a trick that I would never be able to copy. First of all, its about the matter of Suzuella that Az was curious about. This time, it involves a top secret request from the country. Originally, Im not allowed to tell you but theres the matter with Suzuella and the two of you are slightly involved so Ill tell the both of you as an exception, but its forbidden to disclose this to anyone else. Got it? However, I wont be able to tell you everything. I hope you understand that. I unconsciously gulped. It was important to the point that it was a request from the country. Then the Knight Corps would naturally be involvedno, it was because it was a request from the country that the Knight Corps were there. It was within my expectations. I understand. I will definitely keep everything you tell me a secret. Got it. From there, the story told was one thatwas often a common story of a villain in a manga. No, since this world is a shoujo mangais it normal? To summarise Mooks-sans story, the request from the country this time, seemed to be collecting information about a certain aristocrat and the subjugation of the people hired by that aristocrat. After the encounter with the men in black and listening to Mooks-sans story, I tried to conjecture but it seems like the aristocrat he spoke about was the owner of the mansion the men in black entered, and he was a Baron. Moreover, he seemed to be of a family lineage with a long history. Although I wasnt able to hear what the nature of his offence was, but from the Agency and countrys investigation, I learned that the Baron would be imprisoned and today was the day it would be carried out. Originally, the Knight Corps was supposed to carry it out, but this Baron especially has a lot of money amongst the aristocrats, and by using money he seemed to be controlling the aristocrats within a wide range from behind. Also, one cant say that someone wasnt cooperating with the Baron from the Knight Corps since it was mostly filled with aristocrats, so the country secretly requested the Agency. It was such a pathetic story. I understood the story but when I was wondering how this was related to Suzuella-san, I found that there was a proper connection! This Baron, it seemed like he was Suzuella-sans business rival. To be exact, the Barons wifewas so. It was a common pattern, it seems that thanks to the marriage with his wife he never had to worry about money and became an extremely rich person. Furthermore with his wifes resourcefulness even within Riestinne, it seems like they opened and expanded stores, establishing a firm position among the business people in this country. The country, it appears had kept an eye on them, for the reason that they had the leading company in the empire, but since they hadnt committed any crimes they could only keep alert against them. It sounds like there were a lot of rumors and suspicious points until now. However, whether it was purely just rumors or they had skillfully hidden it, information that was strictly more than necessary never arose, and it appears that not a single piece of evidence ever came out. Even the royal family it seems, couldnt move recklessly against the Baron, who was from a powerful family lineage with a long history, the countrys leading company, the power of the wifes family and so on. If they handled it badly, conversely they would get swallowed up. But in the end, he seems to have done a lot of bad things. Even though they had conducted themselves well until now, they had taken a sudden turn right? As I spoke, Mooks-san nodded his head vigorously. [Thats right. Even I think this is strange. Even though there wasnt even a single piece of evidence until now, during this half of the month, evidence started to continuously come out to light. Regarding the group of secret agents, they were one of the best groups in the underworld. For these guys to repeatedly make mistakes, normally its not possible. But that actually happened. I had suspected it was the opponents trap but it didnt appear to look like it. He was present at the subjugation today. As Mooks-san spoke of the strangeness, I reflexively turned my face away. Because its so hard to endure to resist smiling! My magic was working properly! Alright!! I clenched my fists and put strength into my stomach to prevent myself from unintentionally making afist pump. Even so, I was surprised at the Barons house and Suzuella Companys relationship. The world sure is small. But I feel that its unrelated to me? N? I somehow understand the relationship between that Baron and Suzuella-san, but I have nothing to do with it right? The only connection is really that I am employed by Suzuella Company, moreover its through the Agency. Mooks-san sighed once I said so. If you sigh that much, happiness will run away you know~? Though I cant say it, since Ill get scolded. You, that Baron kept an eye on you. Suzuella knew that and was worried that the Baron might harm you. It seemed that Suzuella knew the Baron was up to something today from his personal intelligence network. So he unnecessarily felt more anxious and because something had actually happened even if it was by coincidence after all, he was regretting it. Eh? Haa? Its not like Suzuella-san did anything bad, and also he was keeping an eye on me!? Its no ones fault that I encountered them by chance. Also I got involved in it myself when I came across them. If someone is at fault, its me. At any rate, I was being marked by the Baron!? But its the first time Im hearing this!? I didnt do anything that would make me a target though!! Looking at me, Mooks-san breathed a de~ep sigh again. So why? That face of yours is saying that its my first time hearing this! I didnt do anything that would make someone want to keep an eye on me! Is what youre thinking right!? Surprised that Mooks-san guessed correctly, I unconsciously strongly nodded. You arehaa, its because its you. I wonder how many times I will say I give up from now on. You, saying that you havent done anything amazing to be kept a close eye on, as if the things you have done arent enough. As you started to work at the company, didnt you advise Suzuella to develop and release a variety of products? All those products are selling ridiculously well too. By focalising the company with those goods, the current Suzuella Company has become one of the top companies in this country. Furthermore, without any backing from the aristocrats. Now, there isnt anyone in the country who doesnt know of the name Suzuella Company. Do you understand what Im saying? You are the reason it became so successful. Theres no way that Baron wouldnt keep an eye on you. In other words, its not just that Baron but other aristocrats too. Haa!? But I didnt give any suggestions. What Mooks-san is saying, I think, is that Suzuella-san got excited hearing my soliloquy, but the one who had actually developed and improved the products to a form that it can be sold was Suzuella-san. But if, by any chance, if Im being watched by the aristocrats, isnt it better if I quickly fly to Tournons! No, theres no way an aristocrat would deal with a child like me. Yup. Y~o~u~haaaa! Then Ill tell you. Clean out your ears and listen well! First is the bento box!! That had destroyed the concept of bentos until now, that lbento box is amazing!! Moreover, your bento is also delicious! Its exquisite! Especiallyno, Ill leave that for now. Next is the black wooden board and white soft stone set! After that is the pen! Then there is still the alcohol lamp and also the chair and shelf that rolls! How is it, you understand it now right! Eh? Mooks-san! I havent said anything! I didnt speak a single word on it though? But why is it that the conversation has been established?? CH 25 Chapter 25 C The result of Suzuella-sans excitement and rampage TL: syk Editor: Kai QC: Noa I pondered on Mooks-sans words for a moment. I thought for a bit but it was a result of Suzuella-san getting recklessly excited and reckless splendidly in every way. All I contributed was just the bento boxand the rest fundamentally doesnt concern me. Firstly, the bento box. This, I worked hard on it as well but I didnt start it to make it into a product at first. The bento boxes of this world simply involved wrapping rice balls and breads. Even when bringing side dishes, it was just lumps of wrapped up meat or fish. Thats why most of the townspeople just dine at a food stall or restaurant. Although it is a digression, it is a medieval like world and it was surprising that there were rice balls and proper rice. So I just used an appropriate wooden box to make into a bento box and handed it to Mooks-san. At first he was like [What is this?], but once I explained, I remember him being very happy and satisfied. Since then, I have been continuously making bento boxes. I was sidetracked for a bit, but anyways Suzuella-san saw this bento box and got extremely excited. While he was excited, he tried to sell the bento boxes at the Company and the problem started from here. He couldnt sell it because everyones image of the bento box was like the one I said earlier. Even if you tried to inform everyone of the usage of bento boxes, paper was expensive and it was not feasible to print. Also, the image wasnt conveyed well through words so it was ambiguous. So, for a certain period, instead of selling normal bento boxes, I decided to sell bento boxes filled with food. Naturally, it was decided that I was to make the food. If it was like this, they would be able to understand the usage of it; and once they are aware of it, they can use it. It didnt sell well at first, but it gradually spread and now its become a big hit to the point that bento boxes were synonymous with Suzuella Company. Suzuella-san happily gave me a report but it was vague for me. Because there were many more better thingsit cant be helped that I think like that! The surprising thing here was that as my special bento boxes were sold, the sales of the surrounding restaurants and food stalls decreased and complaints increased. So, how about sending home delivery from the restaurants? Speaking of it, it seems that they were pleased with this unprecedented system. Since my bento boxes were only made for a fixed period, it was decided to sell them at food stalls instead. And if we spread the idea of mobile catering, this again was an unprecedented new system so they were pleasedconsequently, a large order of bento boxes to be used by both sides came in. Suzuella-san was very excited and happy. As they were things I said without permission, I remember being relieved that they werent angry with me. With regards to the black wooden board and white soft stones, it was supposed to be the blackboard and chalk. Though it was only an imitation of it. To practice writing, I get tired before I even learn how to cut wooden boards, and writing on the ground is also troublesome. Also, paper was expensivebut someone like me who remembers by writing really wanted to write so I remembered the blackboard. I made black stones into fine powder and adhered onto the wooden board, then I also made the white stones into fine powder and mixed it with water and made it into the shape of a chalk when its hardened, that was when Suzuella-san coincidentally witnessed it when he came over to the Agency and earnestly requested it so when I handed over the pseudo-blackboard set, it was sent to the development department straight away. Then it was commercialization. Since I used magic to crush the stones, I only remember being anxious on how to respond if they asked me how I crushed it into fine powder. Though in the end, I wasnt asked. With the pen, I didnt even make an imitation of it. Only, I had muttered about it. While I was writing, I wasnt used to dipping the feather pen into the ink bottle to write and when it was a bother and annoying, I had suddenly/casually remembered about fountain pens. So unintentionally, when I mumbled [If only there was ink in the pen holder], Suzuella-san who was listening to me got excited and rushed to the development department and after numerous trial and error, successfully commercialized it. Now its become a popular product along with the other related products. I was also really saved by this! Because, with the ink bottle, ink drops, spills and becomes dirtywell, I was speechless at my clumsiness. Many times I felt like breaking the pennow its just a nostalgic memory. I dont ever want to experience that a second time. The alcohol lampit was also an imitation of an alcohol lamp. When I was doing small tasks in my room, it was troublesome using a candle every time and I also felt that using a candle just for me was a waste. So, relying on my knowledge from my previous life, I put alcohol of high purity in a bottle at home, opened a hole in the lid, tied it with a rope and used fire to use it. It was then witnessed by Suzuella-san who coincidentally came over to the house to deliver something I forgot to bring, and from the moment it was witnessed, it brought great excitement and huge rampage. He swiftly took the alcohol lamp with him without any room for argument. After that, it was improved at the development department and commercialized. At that time, it was the first time I felt that Suzuella-san was scary. The light in this world doesnt seem to be that developed so it seems like the difference between the rich and the poor was clearly shown. The aristocrats and rich people use magic artefacts, but the commoners used candlesticks. However, not all commoners used candlesticks. Candles were fairly expensive and the poorer families couldnt afford it, and if they needed one they would buy things like pottery lanterns made of earthenware, use a brazier, or light fire on torches but it was normal to be without light. So it seems that the release of the alcohol lamps shocked the whole world. Alcohol of high purity was cheap because there was no use for it and others didnt know what to do with it, so it was possible to purchase the product itself at a low price, and now even those families who couldnt buy candles could buy these. Therefore, it sold explosively well and it was adapted into everyones lifestyle in no time, is what I feel like Suzuella-san who was greatly excited explained to me as such. Again, I didnt do such a big deal in this as well. With the final rolling chair, while I was doing office work at Suzuella Company, small movements were cumbersome so I attached small wheels to the foot of the chair. This again, was naturally noticed by Suzuella-san and was rolled to the development department. After that, I was really surprised when it was actually commercialized. After it was released, I was curious whether it would actually sell but it seems that the rolling chair was novel and sales were focused towards the aristocrats. It appeared that no one had thought to attach wheels to the chairs. Incidentally, when I also said that attaching it to shelves, making it easier to move and keep things tidy and in order, the development department jumped on the idea and it was also commercialized. It seems that this was similar in structure with the tea wagons/trolleys so it was easy to develop. Well, its only attaching it onto shelves. But this again, it appears that no one had the idea to do so. Also, this sold better than the rolling chairs, and the development department seems to have attached wheels to many things for research. I recalled and thought about it, but apart from the bento box, they were made because I didnt like troublesome things. How lazyam I. Moreover, it was knowledge from my past life and not my original ideas, and I didnt take part in any of the commercialization and improvements and so forth. As I thought, its not like Im amazing. If someone is amazing, its Suzuella-san who had discovered the various items and commercialized them. Should I say its his sense of smell or the insight to notice successful items. I think his luck in meeting those items is amazing. [Even if you say [How is it!], as expected the amazing one is Suzuella-san and the people of the development department, and so its not me? Basically, I didnt take part in it. To begin with, the fact that it started from my soliloquy or trial items was kept a secret so theres no way its a reason to be kept an eye on.] [Something like a secret is bound to be leaked. The more you try to hide it, the more people will try to uncover it. This time, its not necessarily bad information commercially, so everyone will speak lighter of it soon. Especially since everyone likes Az-kun. And it also seems like they want to brag about it. Besides, anyone can understand if they investigate a bit about it. What has changed in the recent Company. Anyone can predict it if they investigate from the day the Company met Az. Especially, the people of the same trade, they probably have considerably investigated already? Also the main issue is that you, from the earnings of the products how much do you think you have received? Thats why you get traced.] Ehh? From something Im not aware of, thats scary!! Actually, when it was commercialized and the products started to sell, Suzuella-san drew up a written contract for me. Because the items were my ideas he said. I refused since I wasnt involved in the process of commercialization, but Suzuella-san was a person of firm character and did it properly. I also became somewhat apologetic, but I got the fundamental earnings, and my shameless heart decided to accept it and signed it!! Thanks to that, my migration funds accumulated at once and my future had opened up! Even now Im still saving up so Im very much saved. Thank you! Suzuella-san!! Im sorry I thought you were scary for a second. My head wont raise. CH 26 Chapter 26 C I cant believe it even if you tell me! Because only an idiot TL: syk Editor: Kagami QC: Wafflez First Published on Ainushi Just as a subtle air had begun to form between Mooks-san and me, the voice of a third person could be heard. [That issue is, well, fine, but have you disposed of that problematic baron and his dogs?] Now that I realised it, there was another person in this room, right next to me. But to say dispose of [Ahh. The baron seems to have been personally imprisoned by the General and his henchmen were apprehended by the Agency and the Knight Corps.] Im glad thats the case. Kei-san and Ani-san will be safe with this as well. I can finally have peace of mind. I can go to Tournons without any worries. [The General personally moving is amazing. But how can you say that those are all the members? I can understand the small fries, but there may be other men in black that just cant be found? Normally, those kinds of guys scatter and do their jobs, although I assume that someone like you already knows that.] [. I dont know if youre underestimating me or not. Regarding of their numbers, you can find out easily if you investigate, as you probably already know. Well, its fine. Ill be continuing from what I said before. It was in the information the spy leaked. There was information that all of them would be gathering at the mansion today, but that would normally be impossible, so I thought it was a trap. However, it wasnt a trap in the end, because I was able to imprison all of them along with the mastermind.] [Its an unlikely story. They should be a famed group in the underworld. For such a thing to happen it would be possible if that was common, but it was only this time, so its unusual. The gathering at the mansion today was probably because of me. Besides, its true that those dogs have been acting strange this half month. I got the same feeling as when I was moving. I wasnt able to find out whether something happened, though. However, Im sorry to pour cold water on you, but youre wrong if you think the Baron is the mastermind. I dont think those dogs are obeying that guy. Even if they are obeying him, at best, other than the dogs, the small fries are probably moving because of the money. That man is the tail of a lizard. Theres no evidence, but my intuition has never been off before. You should understand even without me telling you] The air became momentarily cold at Suous words. I became stiff and Mooks-san narrowed his eyes. [That, what does that mean. What do you know?] Mooks-san lowered his voice, which echoed in the room. That low voice seemed to resound heavily from deep within. I have never heard Mooks-sans voice like this before, nor have I ever seen such a cold expression on his face. Unconsciously, I held my breath while Suou remained aloof as usual. [Theres no other meaning, it is as I said. I came to the royal capital to listen to a request. The client was the imprisoned baron. Although it was before he was caught, I actually met and spoke with him. I have seen several types of clients by taking on various requests, but he isnt one that can pull off being a mastermind. I dont know the nature of the offence hes being charged with, but if it was such a crime that the General would personally take action, its definitely impossible for him. I just thought that since you had been working on it for a long time, there was no way you would not have noticed. You should already have a clue on the mastermind.] Mooks-san was looking at Suou with his cold expression unchanged. The room was deathly silent. Because of the quietness and tension in the air, I thought that the sound of my heart beating was echoing in the room. [What was the request from the baron?] Suou sighed as he said this sentence. It seemed as if he was declaring that he wouldnt allow the other to deceive him. Although it already became like this, it didnt feel like he noticed this tension in the air. I would really like to see how his head worked at least once. Im absolutely sure his nerves were steel! [Being the Barons bodyguard, as well as helping his escape and eliminating any hindrances. I wasnt intending to accept in the first place, so I refused it. Then it lead to the situation as you saw.] Suou responded while snorting, as if it was a really interesting story. Looking at him, Mooks-sans expression changed into one of bewilderment. The air in the room somewhat returned to normal and I unknowingly relaxed my body a little. [Why did you bother to meet the baron if you intended to refuse? Also, for a guy like you, you could have escaped without any injuries. Rather, instead of escaping, you should have been able to beat them easily. What exactly happened for you to be helped by someone?] Eh? Is this guy that strong? Hmm? Was him being injured an act? But theres no reason for him to act in front of me. Moreover, he was dazed the whole time as well. [As you know, Im somewhat different and known as one with closed eyes (heigan). How much do you know about the one with closed eyes? There arent many in recent times who know of us.] Nn~? What is heigan? Joint application (heigan)military application (heigan) flat face (heigan)? I dont know! Its also not a mood I can ask in. Wuu Im curious. Well, will I be able to know if I listen to them talk? I can smell some fantasy scent and it might be a bit imprudent but Im getting a little excited! [Indeed, I dont hear about it much. I also only heard about it when there was the war with the empire. Even then, there werent many people who knew about it. One with closed eyesthey have hair stained red with blood spurted from their victims, and their eyes are always covered with a black eye band. Therefore, as their eyes are kept closedthey are called as one with closed eyes. Well, there are other meanings as well though. They use arcane magic and bring a storm of death. After that person has left, only a blood-soaked ground will remain. There were others as well. They obtained eternal life from their arcane magic and those who look at their eyes only end with deathor so Ive heard.] Suou listened to Mooks-sans explanation uninterested as if it was boringthough youre the one who asked in the first place!! What a guy. Naturally, I was listening excitedly. [It seems that the one with closed eyes on the battlefield actually did not age. Some people miraculously survived even after looking at their eyes, and according to them, their eyes were a deep scarlet crimson colour. However, due to the overwhelming fear, people warned others not to get close to the scarlet eyesso it was said that their scarlet eyes were a taboo. Nowadays, normal people wouldnt know why they were considered a taboo. I also have never encountered one with closed eyes until this year, and the story I heard from before was a long time in the past. But to have actually.] Whats with that, its so chuunibyou!? What arcane magic? And blood-soaked ground!? You face death if you just look at their eyes!? It would be really scary if it was true! As expected of fantasyeh? This guys eye was a deep crimson colour!? I saw it but Im still alive! Whatam I an idiot? Its a rumor, just a rumor. If you died by just looking at his eyes, then he wouldnt be human. [You wouldve been in your teens during the Imperial war. You sure remember it well.] For a moment, Mooks-sans gaze became sharp, but Suou continued on unconcerned. [Thats right, that is how I am thought of by the people who know about my hair colour and eye band, and it is actually all true. But now there are only a few people who knows about the one with closed eyes correctly and in detail. Even if they know about it, they only know about the characteristics like you. Normally, you wouldnt believe in eternal life right? I think you understand it, but I am not the same age-wise as the rumored one with closed eyes. I am 23 years old. I wasnt born at that time. In the first place, the one with closed eyes isnt one person, although the leader is by inheritance. If I were to say it, they would be people with closed eyes. Society in general believes it is just one person, but the clan made it so that they think like that Wait a minute ! ! what is it?] This guy just easily acknowledged that hes one of the people with closed eyes! I cant believe it. To me, he is just a fool. After all, would you normally admit it that easily? Ordinarily, you wouldnt admit it right? Moreover 23 years old? Thinking from all my personal experience so far, I thought he would be older. I got fooled by his appearance! Or so I thought, and above all else, he had a big attitude!! While I was surprised, Mooks-san stopped Suous story. His face was ghastly pale, so I became even more surprised. Was Mooks-san also surprised by his age?? [You! Can you talk about the clan so much? If you talk about it as you please and we decide to exterminate the clan after listening to you, its not an issue you can handle!!] Wha, theres no way! But whats with that! Scary, scary, Im really scared. Uwaah~, when I unconsciously tried to make a little distance from Suou I slipped off and he held onto my waist and pulled me towards him!! Why!? Is this necessary right now? What, you wont let go!? AhhI, saw his eyes. Just when I was panicking by myself, he applied more power to the hands on my waist and I could hear laughter from next to me. Nn? Laughter?? [Haha! Kid, why are you in such a panic? Even though you made such a mess of the group of men in black. I cant believe its the very same person. Relax, I wont kill you. I dont have any plans to kill. Moreover, I dont fundamentally undertake any killing] [Haa?] When I looked towards Mooks-san, who let out an idiotic voice, he was looking this way with his mouth open. This time, he was pointing this way while gaping. It was kind of interesting. It was the same for Suou, he was laughing evilly. I could feel the vibration from his body, so I knew it without looking at him. I dont like using this kind of method to find out, but it couldnt be helped since I couldnt remove his hands. [Yo, you! You just admitted that you are a person of one with closed eyes. So its a lie that you fundamentally dont undertake killing!? What kind of idiot would be deceived by such a lie that would be exposed immediately!?] The vibrations of his laughter became stronger as Mooks-san keeps talking. Even though Mooks-san is so desperate, this guy issomehow. [Im not trying to deceive you, its all true. Just dont misunderstand. I dont take on killing requests, but I never said I dont kill people. I dont kill people easily, but I do kill if its necessary. The killing by the one with closed eyes you are thinking of is of the previous era of predecessors, and otherportion of people. That portion of people dont have the characteristics of the one with closed eyes. They are different from me.] Suddenly, the air Suou was emitting changed. I knew without looking. Mooks-san also seems to have felt it, as he became serious and put up his guard. I also want to put up my guard, but this hand on my waist is a bother. I cant keep up with the gap between this tension and the hand on my waist. Seriously, what the hell is this?! CH 27 Chapter 27 C It somehow became a serious issue? TL: syk Editor: Kagami First Published on Ainushi Pre-QC version. Even though I was struggling inside, Suou continued to talk regardless. If you are going to talk in such a serious atmosphere, I want you to release this hand. He holds onto me stronger if I try to remove his hand, so I just gave up. Lets just listen obediently for now kuu. [The reason I came to the Kingdom and met with the Baron is because there was a connection around them. I already told you earlier, but there are only a few people who know about the one with closed eyes. Naturally, there arent any requests either. No other person of one with closed eyes would undertake the request except for me. But suddenly, there was a request to the one with closed eyes to smoke me out and bring me in. That request was from the dogs group. I dont want to stand out more than necessary and I dont want to be found out by troublesome people, so I basically lived while hiding. It wasnt like I was in the country. It is impossible to find me unless you spend time, money, effort, and have connections. But to go as far as to find me, there is no way it could be because of that kind of request. Then it has to be because of the dogs or the owner of the dogs. He knew about the one with closed eyes in detail. Otherwise, the actions and words of the dogs couldnt be explained. I felt that this was something more than a simple request and I judged that it couldnt be ignored. So, despite the probability of it being a trap, I still came.] Mooks-san started to think about something at Suous words and let out a groan. [So the Baron wasnt the one behind the men in black. Did he not know about the one with closed eyes?] [He knew about the characteristics. Thats why he made me remove my eye band and checked my eye color. Well, thats how I knew.] Mooks-sans face became even more thoughtful from Suous words and he scratched his head. [Well, they would check if your eyes were deep crimson if they knew about it. They could confirm it at once if they looked at your eyes. There isnt any better proof of identity Ahh, are you saying that they didnt know about the rumor that they would die if they looked at your eyes?] [If they only thought about the distinctive features, their actions werent strange. But I said it before, right? That the owner knew about the one with closed eyes in detail. That wasnt at the level of knowing the rumors. The dogs were wary of the arcane magic of the one with closed eyes. Those who knew about it wouldnt carelessly try to look at my eyes. As evidence, the dogs who knew about it were all cautious of their surroundings and tried not to look at my eyes at all. It was set up so the Baron only thought I was a useful pawn and knew about my characteristics. He didnt know about the rumors at all.] This time, I also stiffened up from Suous words. Because I saw it! I saw his eyes!! What arcane magic? When I lifted up my head to stare at him, I didnt know if he noticed my confused face, but he sneered while continuing his talk. [Relax. A rumor is just a rumor. Now, nothing happens if you look at me. I investigated about it even before I came to the Kingdom, but I cant seem to catch any leads. The mastermind is quite the careful guy. This time, thanks to the dogs mistake, we got to know some information, but its merely a fraction of it. Even if you follow the tracks, they skillfully cover it up. I wanted to check how much the owner knew about the clan, but naturally, including the characteristics of the one with closed eyes, I found that they at least knew that the eyes were related to arcane magic, and the simple contents of that arcane magic. Another thing is that the owner is connected to the upper ranks of aristocracy. Thats also troublesome.] I wondered how many times this room was going to get cold. The atmosphere in the room became cold in an instant again. My stomach hurt. [Do you have any evidence? Youre not going to say its your instinct again, are you?] [Its not my instinct, but its my weakness, so I dont want to talk about it. Haa. Its the reason I was caught.] Amazing! Mooks-sans glaring worked! It was really scary after all. Even I almost wet my pants, just a little bit. This guy only sighed. It would be better if a hole opened up in his stomach!! [While the mansion was attacked, I was poisoned. Im immune to most of the poisons in this world, so there are almost no poisons that work on me. Even if it does work, my body recovers immediately. The only exception is the poison possessed by the Daitonia Empire.] Mooks-san gasped. [My clan knew of the existence of that poison and its symptoms, but since it was difficult to get a hold of, we couldnt make an antidote or a method for immunity. This time, it matched with the symptoms. This coincidence is absolutely impossible with other poisons. This poison is the fruit of labour I attained this time.] [How can you be so sure they are connected to the upper ranks of the empires aristocracy, or about the relationship with the men in black? The poison could probably be obtain by the Baron as he has connections with the leading merchants in the empire. Isnt it normal to think that the mastermind is using that connection?] [The Baron cant obtain it. If its something the Baron could obtain, then my clan would have already gotten a hold of it. Not even the upper ranks of the empires aristocracy know of its existence. Moreover, its controlled so no one can use it. Its supervised to that extent Well its fine. I dont know if the empire is using it while knowing its a useful pawn or whether they joined hands, but narrowing down the prospective candidates shows that the owner is connected to the empire. Excluding the Baron, even with spies, the empire would not have been involved with the dogs to this extent. All that remains is the ownerif theres someone behind that owner, then its probably that personI cant specifically deduce who the mastermind connected with the empire is yet, but its certain that the empire is involvedmoreover Hey! You!] Near the end, Mooks-san seemed to slump down tiredly on the chair and look up to the ceiling, but he should be fine. He was in the middle of talking, but there was something that kept bothering me, so I hit Suous hand and interrupt him. [You!! Right now, what are the poisons effects? You dont have the antidote or immunity for it? If the poison is managed by the empire, then the antidote should be as well, right? Did the men in black take it!? Are you alright? Did they heal you at the station? Hey! Say something!!] Even though Im looking up at Suou and asking him questions, he was blank and did not reply, so out of annoyance, I unconsciously hit him on the head. He still seemed to be somewhat dumbfounded, but he finally replied. [Since the quantity of the poison was small, I wont die. The symptoms have also calmed down. Strangely, ever since before, I recover if youre near me Thats why I pulled you closer. Actually, I really want to put you on my knees, can I?] [? Haa!? Theres no way its alright! You really are an idiot! Its probably the wrong impression from your stupid head thinking youre recovering!! ] No way am I getting on your knees! But, you recover if you place me on your knees? Is there such a foolish thing? Im not doing anything right now. I would know if I used healing magic, but I havent done anything. [Thats why I only pulled you towards me. Normally, doesnt a kid gets happy when placed on the knees and hugged? Are you trying to look cool?] [Stop calling me a kid! I may be a child, but Im 13 years old! Would a 13 year old child be happy on your knees?!] Suous face changed into a surprised expression. Huh? I feel like Ive seen this expression before!! [I kept thinking you were a kid, but for it to be to this extent. Dont talk nonsense. Youre probably at most10 years old?] As expected! As I thought!! This guy also thinks Im around 8-9 years old!! [Im not talking nonsense! I am genuinely 13 years old, Ill be turning 14 years old in another six months! Ahh, you dont believe me!? Its true!? Mooks-san!! Im not lying right!? Im 13 years old.] When I suddenly turn around towards Mooks-san, he was nodding while holding back his laughter. Why are you laughing! [Ahh, Az is genuinely 13 years old. He isnt lying. He isnt saying nonsense. Kuku~] [I guess there are things you cant believe that exist in the world. Why dont you eat some better things? Are you very picky with food?] [Its none of your business! Im not picky with my food and I eat enough with three meals and snacks! I also drink milk!!] Th- this guy! What a guy!! I shouldnt have worried about a guy like this!! If he was going to talk like this, thenI dont think I need to worry. Well, I should probably get back on track. All we need is to make the antidote. I dont know if itll work, but its for my self-satisfaction. [Im sorry I intervened whilst you were talking. Its okay if the poison doesnt have any effect. Please return to your story. Theres no reason for such pointless arguing and its a waste of time!] As he talked, I imagined taking in mana essence at the same time. Suou started talking and I activated my magic. I didnt say any chants, spells, or even any magic formations. I probably wont get found out since no phenomenon has occurred. I wont get found out, right? [I guess sohm? You? . Haa. What were we on about againahh, the Baron and the dogs will be disposed of in the near future. Thats probably also within your expectations though. Whether its the mastermind or the empire you are anticipating, they wont keep something inconvenient left as is. Do you know what their response would be? Since the empire is involved, they will be dealt with thoroughly. They have probably already started moving.] Hii, it was not the time to be talking about my age. What a great topic. Why did I go interrupting his story at an important point?! While I was speechless, Mooks-san turned his gaze towards Suou. [We have formed a plan regarding the anticipated mastermind, but its another story if the empire is also involved. It means that in this case, the empires purge is skillfully covered and something is moving. One of their aims is you.] Suou let out a whistle. I could only stiffen and listen to the story, because the story was getting too big It would definitely better if I was not here! [Well thats true. Tthe dogs behaviour suddenly became strange, so they acted out of plan. I dont know which part is their trap, but could this also be their strategy? Its difficult to comprehend thoughthe Baron was probably treated as a sacrificial pawn from the beginning. Im not sure when they started planning it, but until now, they used him as much as they could. In the end, they used him as a cover to lure me out. However, I dont know whether it was to kill me or capture me alive. Whether it was the orders of the empire or of the mastermind, the fact that they got a hold of the poison makes you think it was the empires doing. But even so, why this country? Was it to make me careless? What was the masterminds purpose in the first place? Theres too little information to make a conclusion.] [I guess so. First is the protection of the Baron and the men in black. Itll trouble me if they die. Ill head to the royal castle. Az, you stay in the Agency. Do some work until I return. Think of it as todays punishment. So, what will you do?] As Mooks-san stood up and asked, Suou also stood up. [Presently, it seems better if I stop todays registration. Ill return to the inn today. After I investigate some matters, Ill temporarily leave the country, then return after I change my appearance. Ill register at that time.] Eh? Youre going to return? You dont have to come back though. Also, its totally okay if you dont register!? [What do you mean by changing your appearance?] [This is only my standard appearance for undertaking requests. Its the clans rule, but recently I didnt change it because its troublesome. Ive been spending my time like that, since this appearance stands out even if I dont want to. Its common sense if you want to live a normal life, so the predecessors made a magical artifact for it. Though the men in black and the empire recognise this appearance, they shouldnt be able to recognise my usual appearance, so Im going to use this chance. Moreover, the reason to stay in this appearance might disappear as well.] Mooks-san had an extremely difficult expression right now, but that was only momentary and we all left the room together. The moment we stepped out, Mooks-san gave me a warning [Dont return home ahead of time, okay? Were going to return together. If you are obedient, Ill buy you snacks. Pfft] I didnt need the last bit at all!! You laughed. Even Suou laughed. Haa. [I will absolutely not go out. Ill obediently do my work. I dont need snacks, so Ill be really happy if you cancel my prohibition on going out and taking on subjugation requests.] [Ah~, thats up to how you do! Then, Ill head out for a bit, now.] CH 28 Chapter 28 C What I want to hide and do! TL: syk Editor: Kagami QC: Mochi First Published on Ainushi After seeing Mooks-san and Suou off, I headed to the sofa and table set. First, I needed to clean up the teaware and then work hard on my tasks. I definitely wanted to preempt the prohibition on going out and taking on subjugations requests!! Otherwise, my body would become dull and, above all, I wouldnt be able to make money. Even if I had a contract with Suzuella Company, I couldnt rest assured. One might worry about not having any money, but theres no one who worries about having too much money. I got fired up while washing the teaware. After I finished with the teaware, I went back to the Chiefs office. Originally, I would head to the office room, but before I worked hard, there was something I wanted to do. Now that I couldnt leave the Agency, there was something I could only do here, because it would be bad if it was seen by other people. I put up a barrier to prevent anyone from entering the room. Mooks-san wasnt here and it was only for a brief moment, so it was okay. After I took a breath, I closed my eyes and concentrated on all the nerves in my entire body and took in mana essence and activated search magic. The targets were the magic powers of the 17 men in black. I should be able to find them, unless they left the kingdom. Mooks-san said all of them were captured, but if they were, would they be in the royal castle? As expected, all 17 of the sensed magic powers were gathered in the royal castle. Amazing! Other than the four cursed men from that time, they all seemed to have been captured. It seemed like they were in the royal castle. However, as expected of the royal castle, it was hard to search for them properly because of some kind of spell or magic. Rather, I wanted to try destroying the defenses, but if I did that, it would definitely become a big issue. I understood that at least, so I would endurebut honestly, at times like this, I really wanted to break it. It would be a lot easier to just break it. Protecting something while doing something else is a lot more difficult. Kii. Moreover! Even if I tried hard, the royal castle was swarming with magic power, so it was difficult to find them. Also, I had bad affinity with magic power!! I started thinking hard. If magic power was no goodthen, lets search the mana essence of the magic I cast on them. The magic I cast on them wouldnt disappear unless I released it, so they would continue to be in that state. When I tried to sense the mana essence of the magic, I found two different mana essences that were shining strongly. I unconsciously turned my consciousness towards them and I understood. It was probably the mana essence stones of Kei-san and Ani-san. I had not grasped the inside of the castle, so I didnt know what section they were in, but as expected of upper class aristocrats, they were in the upper floors of the castle although I predicted this, now that I confirmed it like this, my stomach ached. Wuu. They are just tea-drinking friends, tea friends, tea friends!! Nothing else, I told myself. Even so, they should be working right now, and seeing that there was a reaction from the stones, it meant they were wearing it. I felt kind of happy. I didnt know where they lived and I didnt think they would just leave it at home, but it was a lot better than throwing it away!! My heart got warmer. Yup, Im happy. I hope it keeps protecting those two peopleno, I hope a situation where they need to be protected doesnt occur. For that reason, I couldnt relax! I almost forgot my original purpose, but I started to concentrate again. I was able to properly find them this time. It seemed like they had been separated into groups of three, but they were still close. Uu~n, I wanted to know a little more about the situation. After a little hesitation, I started to concentrate again. I wasnt sure if I could do it, but I cast enemy detection magic, centering my consciousness on the mana essence I found At that moment, the castle was found to be full of enemies!? Why!? Did I fail? The warning signs started to ring in my brain and I started to get dizzy from the overwhelming amount. Why? Is everyone in the castle an enemy? Isnt it the end as a country. No, wait a second? To whom are they enemies to? I started to concentrate once again. I tried to imagine who would want to harm Kei-san and Ani-san, but that wasnt it; it was judged by who would be enemies from my viewpoint. It was a really vague image, but it succeeded? It did. The magic in this world was so nice to me!! It was so vague, but it still worked! I breathed out as the warning signs disappeared. The impact just then was really amazing. To think it would change so much with just one imageI learned a lot! My brain still ached. From the successful enemy detection magic, there was no enemy in the vicinity at the moment. There seemed to be shadows of 23 people around the 17 people, but they werent recognised as enemies. Were they the remaining members of the men in black? Did that mean there were 40 members altogether? There were a uselessly large number of people. Moreover, it was amazing for all of them to be caught or something. In addition, I tried using search magic in the surroundings. They seemed to be divided into several rooms. By normal thought processes, those would be the prison rooms.. These 40 people were separated into three rooms. There seemed to be dozens of people in a few rooms further away. Were they the small fries? Just how many did they hire Well, they could be criminals of a different crime. Now then, its the real thing from here. Since I could previously use enemy detection magic, I should be able to succeed in what Im going to do now as well. I will cast area protection magic on the 17 members of the men in black by concentrating on the mana essence of their magic. If the men in black were about to die, recovery magic, along with a barrier that decreased any physical attacks, magic attacks, and poison, would be invoked within a fixed range based on the mana essence. I also enhanced it with identification so that it wouldnt recover enemies within the range or invoke a barrier for them. If only I could use identification together with search magic was what I thought and was able to do. When I used search system magic, various targets with matching indications were displayed in my head, and from the indications, a marker was attached to the one I wanted to identify. With this, it would be alright if something coincidentally happened and a soldier who noticed something abnormal came to fight. Against the assassination later on, I imagined physical attacks, magic attacks and poison, but I wondered if that was alright. I also had to make it so the recovery and barrier were invoked only when they were about to die. Otherwise, if the recovery and barrier were invoked whilst they were being interrogated, it would become a problem. As one would expect, Kei-san and Ani-san wouldnt do an interrogation that might kill them. Those men in black might be cruel, but they did do bad things so, it couldnt be helped. The interrogation had priority. Thats right, what I wanted to do was to make sure that they werent assassinated. If what Suou said was true, the evidence that Kei-san and Ani-san would finally get their hands on would be destroyed. Thats unacceptable. Whether these guys lived or died, truthfully it didnt concern me, since I thought it was their retribution for all the things they did. However, it would definitely disturb my mind somewhat if I knew they would get killed and I didnt do anything. Therefore, since it involved Kei-san and the others, I decided to do something within my powers. I chose the best magic after thinking about it a lot. There wasnt any magic that would only be focused on the 17 people. That is why I cast area magic, but if they were all separated into different rooms, I wouldnt be able to save them. That couldnt be helped. There were things you could do and couldnt do. This was the best I could do. After finishing what I wanted to do, I opened my eyes. As expected, I felt like I overexerted my nervesIm so tired. I released the barrier in the room and headed towards Mooks-sans office desk. I lightly arranged the documents on Mooks-sans desk. The desk was brilliantly buried under the documents. Mooks-sans hands handling the documents stopped during the conversation. If there were any documents I was not allowed to see or touch, it wouldnt be in this room, so it was alright even if I touched them. In that aspect, even if he looked crude he was actually very reliable. I left the room after roughly organising the documents. What I thought while I was growing up was that it was a good thing if you had nothing. If the things I do caused needless worry, that way was better. Well, now that Im done with the things I needed to do, its time to do the Agencys work! A rewardhuh? I guess I have to work hard for the reward. On a different note, the moment I stepped into the office, I was surrounded by the staff and subscribers because of Suou. Everyone seemed to be interested. I was asked a lot of questions, soThats just an idiotwas what I told them!! CH 29 Chapter 29 C Is it done by the same human being? TL: syk Editor: Isabelle QC: MochiMochi95 First Published on Ainushi Remembering the feeling of my body being pulled towards something, I jumped up to my feet at that disgusting presence. I worked hard until Mooks-san came back, and when Mooks-san returned late at night I went home together with him. I was sleeping on the bed when I had a really bad feeling and woke up. I could still feel the unpleasant sensation. This had never happened before. I became confused because I didnt know what it was. How should I describe the internal body? The external mana essence was extremely disturbed. I tried to calm down the sense of discomfort that was running through my confused head and body, and after thinking for a while, I suddenly realized something. Did something happen to the men in black!? I immediately probed for the mana essence of the magic but it was disconnected. Beside me cancelling the magic myself, it would naturally be released if the target person died. Thats right, it being disconnected meant that the men in black were about to die. It turned out just like Suou said it would. I instinctively clicked my tongue and immediately cast detection magic zeroing in on the mana essence but nothing could be detected. I searched but there were forty people similar to the time when I put up a barrier. Yet I couldnt detect anyone else apart from those forty people. Even if there were no enemies, it was strange to have no guards over there. But why did the mana essence turn into scraps? I casted protection magic over them but why do they seem like they are about to diedid I fail? I jumped down from my bed and took the robe that was hanging on a nearby chairbut I stopped there. Currently it was the middle of the night, and the moment I left the room I would be discovered by Mooks-san and moreover, how would I enter the royal castle? What do I do when Im there in the first place? Clearly speaking, whatever happens to the men in black has no direct relation to me. I did what I could at the Agency. On top of that, what will I do from now on? The only thing I know is that if its left as it is, the only clue that can possibly lead to the guys targeting Kei-san and Ani-san might disappear. Moreover, in the form of dead people. I unconsciously clenched my jaws. [When I thought you suddenly woke up, you stiffen and when I think thats the end you suddenly jump off the bed and grab your robe and then stiffen again. A kid is truly an existence I dont understand. What is it that you want to do?] My body instinctively jumped up. I turned around with great momentum and near the bedSuou was on my bedside. Why was this guy here!? Why didnt I notice!? He was really close!? No, now isnt the time for thatno! This is also a problem! Ahh, my head is confused!! [I dont know why you are here but I dont have the time to deal with you right now!] After my declaration I started thinking again. Right now I wont have time unless I think about what I should do. Even though I was in a hurry, I sent murderous intent towards the guy who was talking in a carefree manner. [Ah~, is it perhaps the royal castle? Something probably started moving.] I unconsciously glared at Suou who was speaking whilst being so easygoing. [What? Whatever happens to those guys shouldnt matter to a kid like you right?] Suou, who was being carefree, asked with narrowed eyes. His eyes seemed to be probing for something but I didnt have the time to care about it. [Thats right. But someone important might experience something dangerous again because of it. Moreover, when I know someone is dying and I can feel it] Even now I could sense the continuous disturbance of the mana essence and I held my chest. An unpleasant presence invaded my whole body. [Important you say, is it more important than yourself? That shouldnt be. Moreover, it is normal for people to die. At that moment, the reasons are each to their own. That is their life. It does not concern you. You being like this, arent you just being a hypocrite? Or is it that youre just an extremely soft-hearted idiot or youre trying to be the good guy?] I was dumbfounded at Suous words. Thats right, I do know. I know it has nothing to do with me. But something got caught in my chest. Thinking about what that was, I suddenly came to understand it and got shocked. However, I accepted it. [Its not for someones sake. I act for myself. Thats all it is. Just a good person, Im not quite sure, but its just for self-esteem.] Thats right, Kei-san and the others certainly worried me, but more than that, its the magic I casted on them. At that time, I left it to my irritation when I used the magic. It was magic I casted without thinking much about it, and moreover it was negative magic. It might be an exaggeration but it involved the lives of the men in black. Due to the exercise of my magic, it had happened. It was only a mishap, but what if it led to death as a result? The magic I casted lightheartedly without any resolution, after hearing todays events and the importance of it, I just wanted to do something about the guilt inside me. I was shocked when I understood my thoughts, but once you admit something you can accept it and fix it. Yup. Since the aftertaste is bad, I want to erase it, even if its just a little. Thats all there is to it, nothing difficult. If its at a degree where I wont die, then all I need is to do it. I was refreshed after thinking about it when Suou suddenly started to speak. You are so annoying. [Is that so? Then Ill go to the royal castle and kill those guys. Since you did save me Ill erase the debt with this.] [Haa?] [Im saying Ill go to the royal castle for you. I can easily enter the royal castle. Ill find those dogs and save them if I can. Though I feel its a bit late.] No, wait, you cant enter the royal castle that easily. But it would be great help if he did actually go. However, if he said it doesnt concern me then it shouldnt concern him either, no, rather than me it doesnt concern him. This guy, after saying all that just a moment ago, he really doesnt make sense. [No, I refuse. Im doing it for my own satisfaction so I should do it myself. Itll be strange to ask someone else to do it for me.] Thats right, its strange to ask a person to do it for me when Im just doing it for my own fulfillment. Even more so when its something dangerous. [I know that its going to be dangerous so I wont ask you to do it. Ill go myself so you just go home already. Also, you were talking about a debt just a moment ago but that was also an extension of my self-satisfaction and I only happened to help you so theres no debt. Dont worry about it.] After saying that, I closed my eyes and enlarged the image of taking in mana essence and transferring it. Suou still seems to be here but I dont care. Theres no time. The magic mana essence is rapidly becoming disarrayed and is about to disappear. It means that the lives of the men in black are in danger. TeleportI think you can teleport if you use mana essence as coordinates. I havent tried it with a person. But if I can do it with objects there is no way I cant do it with people. Thats how magic is!! Definitely. Also after this, I wont be able to experiment with other living things so all I have to do is try it myself. If there is something I have, it is myself. Though Im an idiot to come up with such an emergency measure. I took a breath and clad my whole body with mana essence and further strengthened the coordinates. I could strongly sense the coordinates. When the surroundings started to glow, a thin light and the mana essence started to revolve around me, and my right arm was grasped. Grasped!? Unexpectedly, when I gazed towards that direction Suou was holding onto my arm. Thats the only thing I can think of, but this guy is really an idiot!! The mana essence for the transfer started to wrap around Suou as well. You cant cancel the revolving mana essence during the teleport. If I cancel it, I wont make it in time. I unconsciously clicked my tongue. [You, cut it out already!? Do you want to die!? Ahh??] Use mana essence to further cover the body, strongly sense the coordinates and strongly imagine transferring two people. So as not to be separated in various meanings, so it doesnt fall apart!! As it is, the thin light became a flash and wrapped around the surroundings. After a moment the light disappeared and we stood in the middle of darkness. My right arm was still being tightly grabbed onto. His presence was also still there. I havent checked it yet but its not my room. It seems that the teleportation was successful and safe. The moment the light went out, I almost wanted to complain but I stopped. No, I couldnt say it. I knew that we successfully teleported without even looking because of the smell of blood permeating around me. Quite a lot. Its viscosity was to the extent that it would make you choke on it. The air was extremely stagnate. When my eyes got used to the darkness, I observed the surroundings to the point of where I can see only and became lost for words. It was a picture of hell. The floor was a pool of blood and the walls, ceiling and everything was stained with blood. Several places probably had pieces of meat stuck onto it. Bloody chains were dangling from the walls. It was probably previously connected to the men in black because something that looked like a person was crouched under the chains. I wonder if he is still alive? What did they do, for it to become like this? Is it something a human being would do, is it something they could do. I started to tremble unconsciously. CH 30 Mob: Chapter 30 C Beyond self-satisfaction TL: syk Editor: Puissansa QC: LadyBlue First published on Ainushi While I was frozen on the spot, Suou moved to the closest man in black collapsed on the floor. He crouched beside him and searched him. After a while, he looked up at me. [They cant be saved. Look at this] I went forward and looked at where his finger was pointing at. Some kind of magic circle was among the bloody lumps that could barely be made out to be human.. [This is?] When I asked him, Suou scrunched up his eyebrows and opened his mouth, as if he detested it. [This is magic that is currently forbidden in any country. It is one of the so-called forbidden arts. Moreover, this magic circle was cast over and over again. Brainwashing is invoked in a consistent form; their unclear remarks when we confronted them on the street must be because of this. I dont know when were they brainwashed, but after a physical breakdown from the inside of their body and psychological breakdown as well, up till when everything ends, this magic circle was permanently secured so it would not lose effect. When they die, the effect ceases.It was even fixed such that the magic power wont leave any traces of the magic circle and caster. All that is left will be pieces of human meat. Although the possibility is extremely low, even if they were to have survived, their mind would have been broken and you wont be able to say that they are humans anymore.] Suou traced the magic circle as he started to ponder, so I didnt say anything. There was too much information, so much that my understanding couldnt catch up with the words and so I was unable to say anything. Since the attack was from the inside of the body, my protection magic wouldnt work. After all, protection magic only works against attacks from the outside. I didnt even think they would be attacked from the inside. [Is this?But, this is strange. The magic circle is working. It caused physical and psychological breakdown. It was working normally, but he didnt die. Usually, you would die from just one invocation. Hm? He is recovering a little? But even if he recovers, he will breakdown once againthen it repeats. It is a living hell. It is worse than any torture. It would be easier to just die.] I gulped at Suous words. If what Suou said is true, then it is probably because of my magic. If I didnt cast protection magic on them, then they would have died already. Its because of me. I couldnt breathe. I gritted my teeth and clenched my hands. My eyes started to get hot. [I, II, didnt want this to happen!] I shouted unintentionally. If I didnt, the urge coursing through my body could have blown everything away. [Hey? Whats wrong?] Suou was staring at me with wide eyes but I couldnt afford to care about it. [I cast protection magic on them for my own convenience. But it wasnt for something like this. I didnt wish for something like this. It was supposed to protect their lives! Not play around with their lives, this!! No one has the right to take a persons life. There shouldnt be any lives that are just fine to take] It may be just na?ve wordsCa na?ve way of thinkingCbut it is what I truly believe. I know its only na?ve thinking and a pipe dream, and also that it isnt the way this world functions. But that is why, if you do take a life, you must live on bearing the responsibility of it. You must have the resolution for that. There is no way something like this is fine. Certainly, the reason I wanted them to be alive might be the worst. But its not a lie that I wanted to let them live. I never thought of wanting them to die. To be alive, thats all. [Life isnt something you can handle so lightly. What do they think a persons life is! I cant forgive such a thing!!] I must calm down. If I make the wrong decision here, I wont be able to take it back. That is something that definitely shouldnt happen. I can blame myself later. Right now, there are other things I have to do. Concentrating my mind, I cast detection magic and search magic on my surroundings to check for the presence of any enemies and the other people in the castle. There arent any enemies, nor were there any soldiers guarding near here. I guess that they had already cleared out all the people. Well, thats convenient. Like this, I cast a barrier so nothing would escape. [Suou, stand aside] Telling Suou thus, I put my knees and hands on the floor. Breathing in deeply and deeply, I took in all of the mana essence that I could. Thats right, I dont plan to let these guys die. I didnt have much confidence on recovering their minds, but I still want these guys to live. [Hey! This is the royal castle. Moreover, its the prison. You cant use magic! You at least know that, dont you?] Suou warned me as he held my shoulder, but I ignored him. If its magic, I can use it forever. I focused on my nerves and invoked search magic. The magic possession over the 17 people were nicely balanced and divided into 3 rooms; that means I can grasp the situation. I confirmed the life and death of 40 people. Although it was just barely, everyone was still breathing. So, once again I put in my fighting spirit. Next is to grasp the magic power of the forbidden arts. Since the magic circle disappears if I come in contact with it, I wont touch it. Although it may be better to just touch it so it disappears quickly, but I wont do that.That was my ego. After sensing the magic power of the 40 people, I surrounded it all with my mana essence and brought it over. For a moment, I sensed an uncomfortable feeling but I didnt have the time to worry about it. I could feel the effect of the magic circle disappearing once the magic power came out, and at the same time, I secured the forbidden magic circle to their bodies. This will serve as evidence as to what happened to the men in black. Leaving the magic power I gathered aside, I then concentrated on the recovery of the 40 people. First is to heal the body. Concentrating more than ever, I let the mana essence I had accumulated pass through my hands to the ground of the three rooms and to the origin of the mana essence of the 17 people. [I pray for the healing of injured and battered bodiesImmense Restoration!] A huge white magic circle shone brightly as it appeared on the ground around me. In sync with the light, the mana essence also started to move intensely, producing wind. It caused my clothes to flutter strongly, but I ignored it and let more magic power flow. It activated safely, but this is not the end. I took in mana essence once more but this time I faced upwards. [May their scattered mind return to them so that they are themselves againFortitude Reverse!] A huge magic circle appeared above my head again, shining bright blue . It showed it effect by changing from blue to green . Mana essence and wind blew about intensely as I transmitted my wishes into the power of the two magic circles. The shining lights, along with the wind, settled down after a moment. Five perfectly healthy-looking men lay inside the room when the light disappeared. They were definitely not lumps of meat. Gently touching the body of the nearest person, I checked his heartbeat. When I felt the solid beat of his heart, I was filled with emotion. However, I wasnt relieved yetlightly, I tried to shake the man awake. Supressing my impatience I watched over their state. A little while later, the man opened his eyes and met mine. He was still in a daze, but I was relieved that his eyes were clear. [You, can you tell me name?] As I asked him with my trembling voice. A small voice replied, Toruto. Unconsciously, I started to cry. You are yourself if you can say still your name. He wouldnt remember detailed memories, but his soul has a heart. Carefully casting sleeping magic, I made him fall asleep again. Standing up, I looked around the room. The inside of the room was still bloody, but the collapsed men were all alive. I breathed a sigh of relief. I used search magic to check on the two other rooms, but it seemed like it is all fine. At the same time, I breathe out as I cancelled the magic on the 17 people. It will be alright now, though I felt strange since the magic of misfortune was connected to their lives. [I dont know what will happen from now, on but I hope you will protect your own life] It was not over yet. I moved the mass of magic power in front of me by manipulating the mana essence. I dont ever want to touch it. Closing my eyes, I concentrated. Making the mana essence become like a thin crystal, I carefully made sure that I didnt miss any magic power and it doesnt vanish. When I opened my eyes to the change of the flow of mana essence, I noticed a dark object floating inside the transparent crystal. Unknowingly, I breathed out a sigh. [I can sense magic power. I can deduce who the castor is with this. The rest is up to the country] When I gently placed the crystal on the floor, something suddenly alerted my detection magic. I didnt detect any hostile intentions, so I assumed that it wasnt an enemy. It appeared that a soldier is heading towards this way. Now, the problem is, how do I escape from this place? I sighed involuntarily. I reluctantly used teleport on two people to come here. But I wont use it to go back. I succeeded by pure luck when I came, but this time, I didnt have the coordinates of mana essence, so theres only a slim chance that it would succeed. Thus, I wont be able to teleport with Suou. The only way to escape from here is through the hidden passage, but the location of the hidden passage is in the direction where the soldiers are heading to right now. I also sensed magic power around the vicinity of the hidden passage. After investigating in detail, I found out that the hidden passage was sealed. This is probably also the work of the mastermind. I could feel that the magic power there is the same as the one in the crystal. So malicious!! If I had time, I would have detected their location! Thats the countrys job so I wont lend a hand, though. Yup, once I start helping anyone I find myself in deep trouble. I will definitely get in big trouble, so no matter how irritating it is, Ill hold it in. Doing something half-heartedly is bad. I dont want help halfway then have to take responsibility for it.More than anything, the most important thing to me is myself. [Suou, you can easily run away by yourself, right?] I looked at Suou. He was confused, but he still nodded his head. [I investigated with search magic but the hidden passage you are probably thinking of cant be used because of the soldiers. Moreover, the guy who engraved the magic circle has sealed the hidden passage. I will make a hole here, so run away. You will probably be able to escape outside the castle while I buy some time.] Quietly, I approached the back wall of the prison and placed my hand on it. Then, when I tried to accumulate mana essence, something pulled my right arm strongly. I looked back and saw Suou standing there biting his lips. [What is it? Theres no time. Let me go] As I spoke he held my arm even tighter. When I called out to him, he started to groan. [Its fine if I hold them back, isnt it? Rather, isnt it easier for you to escape instead of me?] [Ahh? I cant just leave you here and escape by myself. Although you followed me into the teleport of your own accordwait, its because you arbitrarily followed me into the teleport that things became worse! Well, even if I complain now its no use. Ahh~ So you want me to make you hold them back for me whereas you got yourself involved in my selfish self-satisfactionwhat kind of person do you think I am?] Shaking off his hand on my arm, I glared at him while placing my left hand on the wall. But my hand on the wall was pulled away and my back is pushed against the wall. Moreover, he was gazing at me from above. Thisif he puts his hand on the wall wouldnt this be a kabedon? What on earth! Ahh~ he really is a troublesome guy!! [Dont try to act brave, kid. Using your words, do I look like the kind of guy who makes a kid hold them back for me while I escape by myself?] Nn~ yes, you do. Objectively, you look like an extremely bad person. But, it cant be helped this time. [Yes you do? Well, you look like a heinous guy, but dont worry, no one has seen it yet] [You keep saying that I am an idiot, but you are also a fool. I wont run away by myself leaving you here. If we are going to escape then well escape together. If we cant escape, then well get caught together] Ehh! What is with this person!? Moreover, the soldiers are already so close by!! [Dont say stupid things and run away! The soldiers are almost here!! A hole is easy to make! I beg you, just run away. Ill also escape when I can!] [Then, isnt it fine if we run away together? Thatcant you use the teleport like you used before?] [Ahh? I used teleport on people for the first time today. Im relieved that it actually succeeded. On top of that, when we came here, I used the magic I cast on the guys here as the coordinates. There isnt any coordinates that I can use to return. If I have to use teleport, I would have to imagine my room and I wont be able to guarantee that our lives will be safe] [If it was your first time using it when we came here, then isnt it the same? Ahh, is that why you tried to teleport here by yourself? Well, once or twice, theres no difference. Just try it. Hurry up and do it. The soldiers will be here soon. They will get here after another two or three more corners you know?] I want to punch this person! And I did! I punched him in his stomach once, then started to concentrate. Suou wase choking but who cares!! Accumulating mana essence ,I held onto Suous arm. Similar to the way we came, I wrapped our bodies with mana essence and imagined my room very hard. So that we wont become pieces of meat. The thin light of the mana essence gradually started to shine brighter. Bang! The door opened at the same time the teleport activated. CH 31 Mob Chapter 31 C What was beyond was something unknown TL: syk Editor: Puissansa QC: LadyBlue First published in Ainushi I could feel myself floating for a moment. It was cold, like a freefall a long way down. When that calmed down, the dazzling light became gentle and I could feel gravity again as my feet landed on the ground. My right hand was firmly grasping Suou, I could also feel his presence. All thats left is to hope that this is indeed my room. When I nervously opened my eyes, it was my familiar room! Unconsciously I was about to cry out but since itll become a big problem if Mooks-san found out, I held back. So as I lost strength, I became lax and sat on the floor. [Haa~ Im really glad. We were able to teleport safely] I was really relieved. Although I had to teleport due to Suous unreasonable request and we were cornered because of Suou, I am really glad that I succeeded. Owahh~ the floor is stained with blood my clothes, hands and feet are also bloody. I glanced at Suou, he too was covered in blood, but not as much as me. And so, it turned into two people in a state that could not be explained. HaaI cast purification magic on both of us as I let out a sigh. Im really glad magic exists in this world. Or else, it would have become really hard work. I became weary just imagining it for a moment. After the purification, I tried to stand up but my knee suddenly collapsed. [Haa!?] Drained as I was, I failed to get up, and instead I was about to fall headfirst to the floor. It was something I wasnt expecting, so my brain and body couldnt react at all. I saw the ground getting closer and shut my eyes. In the next moment, I felt shocked, but the shock was from Suou hugging me and not the shock of hitting the floor as I had expected. Dazed I thought that I would fall over, but that soon turned into astonishment. Because as soon as I acknowledged that he caught me in his arms, he was suddenly princess-carrying me!! [Wha!?] He moved as he carried me, but between the shock and not wanting to recognize myself to be princess carried, I would rather let it remain ambiguous . Then, *poof* he sat me down on the edge of the bed. Somehow, his movements seemed gentle. Well, I am still a childif he was rough on me, I would doubt his humanity. [Ththank you] After all, he did help me and despite his methods, he did carry me here, so I need to thank him! When I did so, Suou looked surprised. Was it so rare for me to thank someone?There is no reason to say it to this guy usually, but normally I do say thank you properly! [You dont need to thank me for something like this. More importantly, you use magic too much! Using magic and sorcery like that, even teleportation Im sorry about that, but dont overexert yourself like that. How is your condition? Do you feel strange anywhere?] Eh? What? Is this guy worrying about me?? Also, the moment when he said that there was no need to thank him, his ears turned red. Is he embarrassed? No way. moreover, this guy apologized! So he can properly apologize!! Im a little touched. It cant be helped because that I couldnt imagine it with him being so brazen. While thinking about various things, I checked the feeling in my hands and feet. Overall, my body does feel dull but its within an acceptable range. [Ahh. My body is fine. I think I was just tired just then. Teleportation is alsohm? Why were you in this room in the first place? Thats strange. If it werent for you, I would have easily teleported myself. Even saving the men in black was for my own satisfaction, so youno, I was only able to notice the magic circle and understand it, and then help them thanks to you. In that sense, I was saved because you were there. Thanks] I remembered now, thats right. Why was he in my room in the middle of the night at such a time, and moreover at the end of my bed! It is definitely strange. Its strange! But, if it wasnt for him I wouldnt have understood the effect of the magic circle. I wouldnt have even imagined such mental destruction. There was no doubt that even if I did notice it, I wouldnt have had enough time. I wonder how many of the men in black would have survived. Just thinking about it makes me shudder. As a result, I am glad he was there but its very complicated. Still, its true that I was saved, so I expressed my gratitude from the bottom of my heart while looking at Suous face. On the other hand, this guy moves normally even though he is wearing a bandage around his eyes. Despite that, how did he notice the magic circle? What is going on? [I was planning to leave this Kingdom while there is this uproar. So I came here thinking of placing a mark on you before I go] Just when I was feeling grateful towards you, you just had to ruin it!! [Haa? Mark?? Whats that!!] [Well, it felt like you would disappear while I was away from the Kingdom. I just dont trust you. Its fine if it was just needless anxiety on my part, but I trust my intuition. So I came to mark you just in case. More importantly, is your body really alright? Normally, if you use that much magic, its gets to a level where it is not strange even if the cells in your body collapses. But you just kept casting it. At the end, you were planning to let me escape while you buy me time?seriously what on earth were you thinking?] Im also scared of marks, but more importantly what did he say? The cells in my body collapsing!? Whats that? I am seriously scared. I never felt my cells collapsing until now, but it was, in fact, happening? No no no, it doesnt hurt at all. Normally, it would hurt if that happens, right? Ha! It cant be that the reason Im not growing because the cells that are supposed to make me grow are destroyed!! Ahh!! If its like that. [No, I think the reason your height isnt growing is simply because your growth is slow] hm? How did he reply when I didnt even say anything? [You said it aloud. You just did it again. As I thought, you are basically a fool] [Wha!? I dont want to be called a fool by a fool!] Wuu, wha what is it. But I wonder if my height is really unusual. If my growth is just slow then it should still grow? No, it will grow. If you believe in yourself the road will open! I am doing my best drinking milk as well!! [You didnt say it aloud this time, but you are probably thinking about something stupid. Haaleaving that aside, why arent you making use me?] Ahh? My wish to grow taller is something stupid!? Hmph this guy, just because hes height is tall! He suddenly hit my head when I was thinking this!! [What are you doing!? It hurts!!] When I complained, he let out a grand sigh. What on earth is it!! [Forget about your height for now. More importantly, answer my earlier question] More importantly you say!! Is what I thought, but I was being stared at so I averted my eyes. Umm~ the question earlier? What was it again?? This guy really likes questions. Moreover, he becomes annoying if you dont answer. [About what on earth I am thinking about? Im not thinking about anything in particular though?] [I certainly did say that, but the one after that. why arent you using me? Making use of me?] Ahh, he did say something like that as well. Use him he says~ I dont like it. [Dont use you, you say. Youre saying it as if youre an object. I hate that kind of stuff. You too, dont talk about using you or not and just do the things you want to do the way you like. I dont want to be used by other people as they wish. Id feel disgusted! Ahh~ it was a question wasnt it. Why I dont use you, its because I dont need to. I will do it myself as much as I can. Even more so if its about myself] [In order to fulfill what you want quickly, its better to make use of the things you can. You will be able to gain even more things easily if you do so. Yet you say you want to use only your own strength?] If you answer a question he asks another question, he is so bothersomeI want to run away! But, its my own room so I cant escape! Somehow, everything feels like a dj vu again. [Thats why I said it from the beginning, didnt I? I dont need it. I didnt think that I would have fun while gaining the things I want. If you dont suffer at least that much to get what you want, it means your own power isnt enough. If so, then you have to work hard for it! Its you who wants it. Even if you use someone to get what you want, and that was something above your ability, then you wont be able to handle it. Then theres no meaning to it anyway. Wait? But strictly speaking~? Well, its not like Im living by myself. This place is also Mooks-sans house. Sometimes, it helps if people help you. So, you can depend on someone. But, I dont think its something that comes naturally. Id appreciate it and I will thank them in any way I can. Its give and take! Basically, work hard by yourself first] Enough, Im tired. It should be enough with this answer! Sitting at the edge of the bed, Im falling backwards. This guy is after philosophyphilosophical anthropology? But, what is it that he wants to find out? I dont know what it is he is trying to achieve. [Wellthat is using someone is haa~. You are, as expected, still you C no matter where you are I feel like I understood a little bit of the meaning of those words] Suou was grumbling about something while deeply sighing. Why are you the one sighing!? When I couldnt accept it and was somewhat vexed, I heard a rustling sound from Suou. I got up, thinking that he finally felt like going home, but then I stiffened up. Because Suou who removed his eye bandage was on the floor sitting with his left knee on the floor and his right leg bent. this, isnt he kneeling!? Why on earth!?!? What in that dialogue would link to this situation?? I dont understand it at all!! CH 32 I sat on the edge of the bed as Suou kneeled in front of me. I never asked him to kneel. I never said it! What on earth does this guy want to do. Honestly I dont understand nor do I want to understand. I have a feeling that its going to be too troublesome. [Hey! Why did you take off the blindfold? Wont I die if I look at your eyes!?] Although it is only a rumor, they do say that there isnt any smoke without fire; Im sure theres probably something. But since I dont know what that is I became needlessly more scared since human beings feel anxiety and fear of things they dont understand. [Didnt I tell you that it was okay? The blindfold was only to make the rumors seem true. Nothing will happen even if you look at my eyes now] I did look at his eyes at that time and indeed nothing happened. Time passed and nothing happened so what he said is probably true. I slowly turned my eyes back to Suou. As expected nothing happened as I looked into his eyes. Suou eyes are a very beautiful crimson color. I liked it to the extent that if there was nothing to do I would like to keep looking at it. I quite like those eyes of his. [Nowyou say, does it mean you can consciously do something with it?] He also said it at the Chiefs office but now means that there are times when he cant as well. Though I dont know if it depends on time or if its up to his will. If it is the latter, I would be really scared! [Ahh, its fine right now. Though there might be some effects from now onwell it should be alright] Hm!? You shouldnt take off your blindfold if theres going to be some effects from now right? Its not good. Unconsciously, I averted my eyes, and when I tried to quickly sneak back he suddenly took my two hands and gripped them on my knees. My eyes that were averted suddenly stiffened unintentionally, as I was surprised. I couldnt turn my eyes away from Suous serious eyes. Was there something important he had to say? [Please tell me your name] [Huh?] From the first encounter until now he had treated me rudely calling me either brat or just hey you, so why is he asking now? Is it something he had to ask so seriously? [This memory of grief engraved in my left eye will probably become something meaningful it if is of use to you. This magic power asleep in my right eye will also become a strong power to continue on the path of hope if its together with you. I swear on my memories and blood of Philight inherited from the founderfrom now on I will be your Wait a second!?tsk] This guy, he just clicked his tongue right now!? Wait, was I wrong to interrupt his speech? No, I didnt do anything wrong at all! This guy just suddenly started to blabber on about something indiscernible that felt extremely scary on his own!! [YouYou! What the hell are you saying? What is Philight? Swear what!? What are you swearing about! Dont tell me! Just stay quiet now!!] I put all my strength and flung his hand off mine, and this time I retreated back. I somehow made some distance and glared at Suou. When I thought he was asking about my name, he suddenly started talking about his left eye and right eye and swearing on his blood and memorieswhats with that? So scary! I really dont understand. I want to escape! Its fine to run away right!? Unintentionally, I almost used teleportation but I stiffened at Suous words. [I will die the moment you run away from here without listening to me and telling me your name] What did you say!? Will you be satisfied if I just tell you my name and listen to you? No, that cant be. There is absolutely no way he will be satisfied with just me telling him my name. Moreover, you will die if I run away, such a light life!? But this guy will probably really die if I run away. I cant even laugh as I could strangely feel that its true. [Are you an idiot, no wait you are an idiot. I have a bad feeling so I will absolutely not tell you my name. I also dont need any oath. Thats why there is no need for me to listen to you! There is only one thing I wish and thatsCfor you to quickly get out of my room and return to your inn, thats all!] While slowly rubbing his hand that was flung off by me, Suou intently gazed at me. He didnt show any signs of returning at all. If there was a change, it was that the air around him, suddenly becoming cold as he listened to me speak. This, this isnt good. It feels like an extremely bad air. Although I dont know what or how bad it is, at any rate, it is bad. [If you do the things you need to do, any wish will soon come true. First, you need to do the things you want to do before everything else.] At the same time, Suou took something out his chest with quick movements and continued on with flowing movements. Although it seemed like I was about to be impressed by the beautiful movements, I didnt have such leisure. Instantly, I leaped forward from the bed and grasped both of his wrists tightly. A firm sound rang from the impact of clasping his wrists and the shock ran through my whole body and to the bed as it creaked. Suou was holding a dagger and the edge of the dagger stopped right at the nape of his neck. No, I am stopping it. As we both tried to struggle for the dagger, the dagger started to shake. [What on earth are you thinking!? Let go of this! Right now!!] [If you did what you want, our talk wouldnt have continued, no matter how many hours we spent. No matter what happens I wont let you go. You will become my master. For that I will do anything] !? Its fine if the conversation doesnt continue! What, you wont let me gomaster!? That would be a lot of work and you say you will do anything but shouldnt there be a limit? In a sense, isnt this a threat? [You are saying whatever you want again. Haa. I feel exhausted; are you doing this on purpose? But, if this is a threat, then I guess it means that you have a certain importance to me] I unconsciously become stunned as he smiles at my words. So he can smile so gently and happily like thisthis idiot. Im also stunned at the words I said without thinking but more than that I couldnt say anything to Suous expression. I probably would have been even more stunned if we werent in this struggle. But dont poke at my sore spot! Hes a really irritating guy. He is still the most irritating and troublesome guy Ive ever met, but somehow I cant leave him be and its true this is a threat to me. Seriously, what is with this guy. Only, I feel that it would be regretful not being able to see those beautiful eyes, but would you say this is the reason for feeling this kind of attachment? No, there is definitely no way I feel attached to this idiot! [Your and my perception of importance is probably different, you know? If its the importance you are talking about then I dont feel it. If its about whether something is important or not, you probably merely think to the extent that you dont want that something to die. Thats why, can please stop already and move away!?] It came out a bit awkward! Thats why I would like it if you quickly let go of that dagger. Our struggle with the dagger was still ongoing. Out of desperation, I glared at Suou while I said that although it came out awkwardly. From now on remember to make facial expressions! [Importanceit certainly is like that, but that doesnt matter right now. For you to become my masterCthat is everything to me. If it doesnt happen then its the same as being dead] What is this I wonder, suddenly I feel really irritated. [I definitely wont become your master. Who would want to become the master of a guy who treats his life so lightly! Giving me such a despicable threat and saying its the same as being dead, go and die somewhere I wont know! In the first place, I have my hands full which just my own life. How would I take responsibility for another persons life? If you are looking for importance from people then Im out of the question. Find someone else! Would you normally risk your life to for guy like the one you just met today? Why is it me? Isnt anyone else fine?] [No! I want you!! When I first saw you I doubted my eyes. I have never seen anyone as beautiful as you. When I say beautiful, Im not only talking about your outer appearance. I thought about it as I looked and talked with you, it cant be anyone else but you. If you become my master then this life of mine would also have some value!] [Haa? Dont joke around! Life had value from the start! The most important!! Even if I become your master it doesnt change! Its not something that changes just because you follow someone!? Also isnt there something wrong with your eyes!? Think of a better reason. Well, though no matter whatever reason you come up with its useless. Im going to go to Tournons. Right now I am devotedly involved in doing what I can for that purpose so I really have my hands full. I can do things for myself. In other words, I can only do things for myself. I cant afford to take responsibility for another persons life] I said something ridiculous since you said it with so much desperation. There is nothing that has no value in life. Everyone is important. Although there may be exceptions but that isnt the problem right now. But, butI know my face the best. It is a very mediocre and normal face. Its in the middle of okay. Its on the top of the bad list! I can only hear sarcasm if an ikemen compliments on my appearance! Ikemens explode!! [Jokes and everything aside I am serious. Its like that in my surroundings. If you ask the people around me they will say I have no value. Even my clan will probably shun me. There was probably no point in me being born. Also, my eyes arent weird. Your surroundings are always wrapped in a warm light. It is probably magic but it is very comforting. Also, you yourself are also very warm. You recognize me as myself, converse with me naturally, worry about me and say your thanks. Ive never felt so happy. There is no one who is as warm and beautiful inside and outside like you. I wont be settling down in any country permanently, here or anywhere else, so dont worry. I will follow you wherever. Besides, its not that I want you to take responsibility for my life. My life is my own. If I were to use my power in this life, I want to use it for your sake] [Nodoesnt that make you feel the burden of your life? Am I wrong? I dont understand. Its not only you who has no reason for being born, its like that for most people. Really, you are a guy who thinks too troublesomely. Haa~. So, the light around me? Can you see the magic power? I havent seen around me before so I dont know, and I also dont know about the warmth. Well fine. So thats what you mean by outer appearance] No, well I knew it already. But, why is it that I got a little bit of a shockwuu. [What about your surroundings? Are you talking about your environment? I guess clans are really strict. Though I dont really know. At any rate, all the things you said are all ordinary things, right? Even if you say its warm although I only did normal things. Saying you only want me, since its about being your master, shouldnt there be more to it? Also, its normally scary if you are going to follow me everywhere, so please stop. I also dont need you to use your power for my sake, use it for yourself] [I cant use my power unless I have a master, so currently I cant use it for my own sake. Well, that doesnt matter. You say its ordinary things but its not for me. More than anything, you gave me a name. I am sure I told you at that time take responsibility] When Suou shows an expression that looks like he is about to cry, he forcibly smiles, and I end up not being say anything. What feelings does one have to hold to show such an expression, that I dont know. I dont think this expression is just a lie for the oath. I did think that he just wants to use the powers he isnt able to unless he has a master, but its hard to ask the Suou right now. [Even if you say name, I only made up a name to call you? To take responsibility for that, isnt it weird? Moreover, isnt it that you just want to use the powers you cant use unless you have a master?] Its only a name I made to call him because I didnt like the name Latu. It shouldnt be such a big deal to take responsibility foralthough that is what I think, looking at Suous expression it feels like it isnt. Also when I said that he just wants to use the power he cant use unless he has a master, Suou clearly looked hurt. Looking at his expression, I gulped. Honestly I dont know what I should say or what I should do. I am refusing him but he doesnt get it, what on earth should I do?!! CH 33 (TL: I am so sorry I can only do mtl TT^TT This is my first time doing this so if you find any major mistakes or grammatical errors, which I''m sure there will be plenty of with my technical level, please let me down gently. This story was dropped by the original author for a long time so there is likely no hope of it ever finishing, but I thought I should at least publish the rest of the chapters that were released. Enjoy the reading ^^) In a room that is still dark and silent before dawn, two men are engaged in a close-range confrontation on the edge of the bed, holding a dagger between them. What kind of scene is this? I was tired, and Im still tired now. Why did it come to this!? You shouldnt know my circumstances. I understand that you hadnt thought deeply, and that you only gave me a name because you didnt want to call me Latu knowing the meaning. You confirmed my real name and gave me the name Suou... and that made me happy. Its understandable if you think of me in terms of power. Among those who came before, there were certainly individuals like that. But Im not like that. You have no choice but to believe this, but until I met you, I was fine without power. However, after meeting you, I didnt run away from myself, and I wanted to be the me I desired. ... What do you want me to say? No matter how much you ask, the answer is already decided. I grip Suous hand tightly. Suou didnt relax, the tip of the dagger was still on his neck. Because you are like that, I want you to become my master. I want to release my right eye and use everything I have, including my left eye, for you. Heavy! Its too heavy!! Why is this person fixated on me to this extent? I heard the reason earlier, but it doesnt seem like the balance between their desire and the reasons behind it are quite right. I dont understand what he means by right eye or the left eye... And, come to think of it, I have no idea what kind of power would be unleashed, which is terrifying in itself. Haa. For now, remove this dagger from your neck. And then, start by telling me your story. Its unrealistic to become a master without knowing anything. You wouldnt like it either, would you? Becoming a master so lightly... At the very least, give me some basic information. I dont understand what you mean by the right eye and the left eye, and its scary. Let me listen to your story and think... just a bit! Let me think. No, even if I think about it, the answer remains the same. I feel like Im falling into a trap here. It might be better to firmly decline. I know I shouldnt give them hope, but if they still wont understand even after I say no clearly, What should I do? Normally, that would be the case, but if its you its fine. Well, I understand your perspective, so Ill tell you. I dont have any intention of letting you go. If youre willing to listen, that means youre prepared, right? Upon saying this, Suou relaxes his grip on the dagger. On the other hand, Im left speechless. Im willing to listen, but Im not prepared for this! Shouldnt I have just not listened to begin with!? But in the current situation where not listening wouldnt work either, I thought it would be better to listen and then decline to someone who wont understand otherwise. At first, I thought this might be a casual conversation, but it seems heavier, and I didnt expect it to be like this. Oh no... I think I made a mistake!! I dont know where I went wrong, but I definitely messed up, right!? Me!! As I stand there dumbfounded, Suou sheathes their dagger and kneels in front of me. Im surprised theres kneeling etiquette here as well. Even though Im trying to escape from reality, Suou mercilessly continues the conversation. First, lets start with a brief discussion about the clan... the bloodline and secret techniques that flow within me. Im begging you, please tell me the bare minimum. I dont need any more information than necessary. Yeah, I dont need it! I dont want to hear more heavy stories than necessary. Its probably not a mistake to feel that the more I listen, the less Ill be able to escape. I cant afford to make any more mistakes!! Ah, well, the situation is complicated and troublesome. I dont intend to burden you with our sides problems. Do you remember the discussion we had during the day about the Closed-Eye Clan? This clan is known as the Philight. Although things might have changed a bit now. Over the years, the clan, due to their unique abilities, has been sought after by those in power, who stripped them of everything imaginable. The name Closed-Eye Clan was given during the harshest period. Does that mean those in power were using your clan? Yeah, thats right. They sought the secret techniques of the Closed-Eye Clan and used them for their own gain. People around them saw the effect of that power and grew fearful of it. The members of the clan were continuously exploited for their value, and it became natural for them. They couldnt walk any path other than the one dictated by their value to others. A clan that has no self and can only live through the Lord. So, without losing hope, they continued to seek new masters... and Ive lived my life thinking they were a bunch of fools. That didnt change even after inheriting the mark of the left eye, or rather, I had to think that way to survive. But after meeting you I was able to learn about and accept myself. Suou gently touches his closed left eyelid. The fingertips used were trembling faintly. The tribal chiefs all held their own and continued to resist, so that they wouldnt be overwhelmed by their own abilities. It was for the successors and the future of the clan that they did so. Above all, it was for the sake of being themselves, to fulfill their desires. Every time they felt like they were being swallowed up by loneliness, they lived with the hope of meeting someone who would accept them and live happily together. Especially for those with the Memoria mark, a master is a special and indispensable existence. While I mocked those ancestors, deep down, I secretly envied them. I have no value. I have always been despised by my clan and those who serve it. Ive been considered worthless, someone who isnt needed and can even cease to exist if inconvenient. That was the norm, even after gaining my left eye; I realized how useless I was and how much of a burden I was. I felt like my very existence was a mistake. And thats precisely why I couldnt admit these feelings of envy. Suou speaks expressionlessly and matter-of-factly, but blood flows from the hand he is clasping. If I were to gently apply healing magic, their eyes that seem on the brink of tears would meet my gaze, reflecting a sense of helplessness. Suou closed his eyes momentarily, then opened his eyes again after regulating his breathing. Those eyes are so strong that they almost make me shiver, and I unintentionally straighten my back. I experienced warmth for the first time. And it was you. I dont want to go back to not knowing, and even if I could go back, I wouldnt. Within the Philights abilities, theres a unique power that only appears in the direct descendants. This power allows those born with the same hair and eye colors as mine to control beasts and magical creatures. This ability is channeled through both eyes, which is why, by the ancient ancestors wish, its sealed in both eyes, especially the right eye, through the Seal of the Ancients. This seal is released when a pledge to a master is made and certain conditions are met. This seal is inherent from birth and prevents the use of magic and sorcery due to its influence. Those who dont know this situation see me as useless. And the mark of the left eye is called the Memoria mark, an emblem of knowledge that includes memories passed down from the ancient ancestors, inherited by the clan chief. I realized the spell that was cast upon the dogs at the royal castle due to the knowledge contained within this Memoria mark. Having inherited the mark of the left eye myself, I learned about the seal on this right eye. Even though its about the clan, these two seals were highly classified matters. Who knows about it? The patriarch, his master, and the successor; if there was anything left, it would be the one who owns the power that leaked it. ... Can I just pretend I didnt hear anything? Manipulating beasts and magical creatures is an incredible ability, isnt it? Would that make him a tamer? Ive never heard of such a thing in this world! I dont recall reading about it in Renka either!! Furthermore, if you dig deeper, the one who heard it... My mind starts to spin into overdrive, and as soon as it stops, my blood drains from my face. Seeing my reaction, Suou puts on a grin that wouldnt be out of place on a wicked magistrate. Have you realized it? You who have heard the story must either become my master or kill me. There are no other options. Why is it only these two choices!? And theyre both terrifying options! There has to be something else. Like pretending I didnt hear this and looking for alternatives, or looking for... something, anything! Or you giving up!! When I say it, Im laughed at in a dismissive manner. Why am I the one being made a fool of!? Clearly, youre the one at fault here, right!? I cant do that. I will make you my master no matter what. If not, its as good as being dead. How many times do I have to say it for you to understand? There are things in this world that I dont want to understand. And youre not understanding either, right? How many times do I have to say that I have no intention of becoming your master!? I value myself above all. Id kill people if it meant I could keep living. Do you want me to kill you!? No, what I want the most is for you to become my master. If that cant happen... well then. I told you, I experienced warmth for the first time. I dont want to go back to not knowing, and even if I could go back, I wouldnt. If I went back, I wouldnt be the same me anymore. And besides, you said, You should do what you want to do in your own way. Id be happy to make that happen. I didnt say anything like that... Did I!? I mean, I didnt intend for it to sound like that. Right!? More importantly, youre not like an imprinted chick, so dont go around believing there are genuinely good people out there. Dont delude yourself. Yeah, you should see more of my true nature and realize Im not worthy of being your master! Im an idiot, just like you said. Instead of swearing allegiance right away, its better to take some time and think rationally! Its not too late to make a pledge after that. Yeah. Calling it imprinting... Thats a clever metaphor. Truly fitting for the one who is to be my master. Because of your nature, if I were to wait, youd likely disappear, wouldnt you? Theres no reason for me to let you commit such folly. ...Give it up already. Do I need to stab myself again, this time not in the neck, but perhaps in the chest? Whether you pledge now or after waiting, its the same thing. So, its only natural that you pledge right now. Whats the point of doing something meaningless? Gulp. When someone as usually cheeky as you starts using polite language, its really scary! And that last sentence, his voice got super low. So, you... you shouldnt take it so lightly... I start saying, but stop midway. Suou, who suddenly stood up, grabbed my shoulders with tremendous force. Now, meeting you has made it anything but light. Right now, its just a matter of staking my life on it. If you accept me, I will become the me I desire to be, and my life will become even more precious. Looking at Suous earnest eyes, I somehow lost my strength. Oh... its no use, I feel really tired for some reason. Where did I go wrong? The fact that Im not even seriously trying to escape is proof that its already hopeless. Killing is out of the question, I cant run away, and I dont even feel like I can run away. If your oath is taken and the seal on your right eye is removed, wont your abilities go out of control? Wont there be harm to your surroundings or to yourself? I havent experienced it myself, so I cant say for certain, but based on the knowledge from the Memoria mark, there shouldnt be any issues. In case of emergency, one of the conditions for releasing the seal is that there must be someone who can stop it. In this regard, I believe you would be capable. If youre worried, you could cast a spell on me after the seal is released. You should be able to seal my right eye, I think. Huh? But if I seal your right eye, wouldnt that mean your wish wouldnt come true? Well, in that case, maybe you dont even need to pledge? You... hah. Im not making the pledge because I want power. Its because I want you to become my master. Besides, even if the secret technique of the right eye is sealed, I believe Ill still likely be able to use magic and spells. Even without that, Ive trained in various martial arts and swordsmanship. Im literally offering all of myself to you. Offering all of myself... I wonder if its like this when you get married? I wouldnt know, I dont have memories of having a lover or a spouse, but either way, it feels heavy, too heavy. This isnt a joke, after all. Haah~ Why did things end up like this? CH 34 I look up at Suou, who still has a firm grip on both my shoulders. His gaze remains tense, and theres no way I can think hes joking. Indeed, its not a joke for Suou. The thought of it sent a cold chill down my spine. I would like to confirm one thing. Most likely, because of the master-slave relationship that comes with the oath, well become master and servant, right? Is that something that can be undone? That would require the death of one of us. Right! ... Yeah. As I suspected... I had a feeling, but hearing it directly makes the impact much stronger, causing me to interrupt. However, I dont know if its a master-servant relationship. The image that comes to mind is one of gratitude and servitude, but its different, isnt it? Above all, in that case, theres no land or benefits to give Suou. Money, perhaps? If thats the case, wouldnt being an employer linked to financial matters be more fitting than a master-slave relationship? Huh? An employer? Just a quick question... The master youre talking about, its not some employer tied to financial matters, right? Mid-sentence, Im met with Suous cold gaze and cant help but offer a wry smile. You really are an idiot. Huh? This makes things more complicated. Frankly speaking, its scary. Yeah, theres no way I could become the master of someone so intimidating! Perhaps I should stop struggling in vain and just make up my mind. Its odd... Why did things end up like this? I should be doing my best just to live my own life. As you know, Im not a noble or anything. Even if I become your master, I cant offer you land, status, or money. Furthermore, am I really as warm as you think? Im a thirteen-year-old kid. Im already struggling just to survive, but Is that okay? I look into Suous eyes, trying not to miss anything from his reaction. Yeah. What I seek isnt land, status, or money. Its hope for me to continue living as myself. I cant possibly believe that I could be that hope for him, though. ...Im willing to become your master. However there are conditions. I could see Suou holding his breath at my words. His expression seems tense. What is it? My life is mine to protect, so I will protect myself. Naturally, your life is also yours to protect. No matter what happens, you have to be able to protect yourself, even if Im in danger. Thats... Im not done yet. Shut up and listen Your abilities wont be sealed. Ill believe in you for now, but in the event you go berserk, Ill seal those abilities in any way necessary. Next... Live as yourself. Dont say stupid things about the meaning of your existence or anything foolish like that. Cherish the present. Im not going to carry your life on my shoulders just because I became your master. If you seek your own value, then do it yourself, and enhance that value. Even before it comes to me or anyone else, be someone you can be proud of, someone you can respect. Oh, and one more thing! I have no idea what to do as a master, and I dont really feel like a master either. The master-slave relationship is impossible for me. How about equals? Like comrades? Yeah. Even servants would be fine... but thats a joke! Dont take it seriously!! As of now, thats about all that comes to mind. If theres anything else you want to add, let me know and Ill do the same. If youre still okay with these conditions, Ill tell you my name. Although you probably already know it. But I guess I have to say it myself, right? As I speak, Suou lets out a wry smile. I can accept... When youre in danger... understood. Being equals... Haah, understood. I accept all the conditions. Normally, conditions like these would be out of the question. Youre always yourself no matter what. Seeing Suou about to complain, I glare at him. I''ve already compromised enough. I cant bring myself to listen any further. I dont know why youre sighing. Its me whos supposed to be frustrated, isnt it? Seriously how did things end up like this? My name is Asnord. Why isnt the flow of magic responding strongly to your name? Huh? My name is definitely Asnord. Magic reacts to names!? Thats news to me. In terms of previous life knowledge, could it be something like a true name? Scary! While lost in thought, Suou kneels before me. Yeah, I admit it! Theres a stunning handsome guy with deep crimson eyes kneeling in front of me. Im about to cough up blood!! Thats undoubtedly your name... But still, the magical response seems a bit dull. Huh? I did answer properly though? Its the name that my parents from this life who arent here anymore gave me. Suou tilts his head, but he seems to have accepted it somehow. Well, Im not lying, so if he has an issue with it, thats his problem... but if he didnt accept it wouldnt that mean I wouldnt have to become a master!? I wish he hadnt accepted! Ah, its too late now. I, Azelkath Philight, who inherits the blood of Philight passed down from the progenitor, pledge my memory and oath to the blood. At this moment, I Azelkath Philight, now granted the name Suou by my lord, swear to dedicate all that I possess and live together in harmony with my master, Asnord. As the words leave his mouth, patterns appear in Suous eyes. Just as they appear, the depths of those patterns within his pupils start to glow like flickering flames, radiating a deep scarlet. In this mystical enigmatic phenomenon, I cant help but widen my eyes. Suddenly, Suou stands up, his left hand circles around the back of my head, pulling me closer. (Summary: At this point in time Suou pulls Asnord in for a deep kiss. Very much confused and panicked Asnord tries to struggle out from underneath and bites Suous tongue in a desperate attempt to resist. However, this does nothing to deter Suous advances. In the end, Asnord inadvertently ingests a mixture of blood and saliva which initiates the pact process. This is where the translation picks up again. Overall the scene carries a powerful sense of non-con, and its evident from Asnords intense struggle that hes uncomfortable with the situation.) Simultaneously, the rooms door blew open with a deafening sound, but I couldnt spare any attention for it. Suou confirmed that I had swallowed and released my mouth. Even while pulling away, he licked away the tears that had streamed from the corner of my eyes, but I didnt have the capacity to care about that right now. Because as soon as I swallowed, the back of my right eye heated up and a throbbing pain shot through it. Az! Are you alright!? Damn it!! Get away!! Cradled against the warmth of his shoulder due to the intense heat and pain, I managed to look up, finding Mooks-san there. After a sharp intake of breath at the sight of me, he turned back to Suou standing behind him. Az...! What the hell is going on with you!? Ugh... Pushing Suou aside, Mooks-san had approached me while glaring at Suou. Suddenly with a groan he fell to his knees. !? Mooks-san!? Are you okay? The heat and pain in my eyes havent subsided yet, preventing me from assessing Mooks-sans situation. I hold onto Mooks-sans hand., still on my shoulder. Its frustrating that I cant heal even though I want to. Then Suous voice reaches my ears. Aznord and you are both fine. Aznord will calm down once the Pact Ceremony is complete. You were affected by the magic due to looking into my eyes. It should settle down quickly since it was only for a moment. I apologize; once the Pact Ceremony is complete, I should be able to adjust it... When everything is done, Ill wear an eyepatch. What?! There was no mention of a Pact Ceremony! I didnt sign up for this much pain! That damn guy!! He affected Mooks-san too! But I understand its temporary, and that brings me some relief. Still, Ill definitely undo this ability seal!! As I direct my anger towards the source of all evils, the source unexpectedly comes closer to me. And its looking at me in astonishment. Why?! You! Whats happening inside your body?! Youre trying to purge my magic?! This kind of reaction has never been recorded before. If you get rid of it, the pact wont mean anything anymore. My magic is special; I draw the Pact Mark on your right eye with it. That mark signifies the completion of the Pact Ceremony, so dont remove it! Please! When I look up at Suou, I see his crimson eyes glaring intensely. White patterns are shimmering within those eyes. There must be similar patterns in my right eye. Suous expression is desperate, and I understand that this situation has taken an unexpected turn. Then, in an instant, he embraces me tightly, trembling. I let go of Mooks-sans hand and, instead, wrap my arms around his shaking back. The pain starts to echo in my head, and I cant help but close my eyes and lean into Suous chest. When I concentrate on my burning right eye, I sense something moving there. Its not the magic I usually feel, nor is it mana. This must be what Suou refers to as Suous magic. Gently focusing my consciousness on that magic, I try to anchor it. I want to fix Suous magic onto my right eye. I decided to become the master through Suous pact, at least for now. I cant go back on my decision once its made. Besides, if this Covenant Rite doesnt go well, Suou might cease to be himself. I dont know why, but I can easily imagine that. I dont want to see Suou crumbling. With strong determination, I visualize myself forcefully intervening and anchoring Suous raging magic. I accept Suou; theres no way Suou would be harmful to me. There were no lies in that sad smile. As I do this, gradually the movement of Suous magic begins to settle down. As the writhing magic calms, the heat and pain also subside. I dont know how much time has passed, but the heat and pain cease. I gently open my eyelids and when I look up at Suou, there are beautiful crimson eyes moistened with tears. CH 35 When I saw the tear-filled deep crimson eyes, I couldnt help but smile wryly. I lightly patted his back with my hand, and once again, I met the wet eyes to confirm. The fever and pain have subsided. The rampage of magic has also subsided. How is it? I should have been able to stabilize it with my senses. Although I had also calmed down, when I looked up, Suous eyes were still as bright as before, and the patterns were gone, returning to the usual deep crimson eyes. Ah. The ritual of the oath was successfully completed. Im really relieved. After that single sentence, I was embraced tightly once again, but it was only for a moment. Thats because I was pulled away by Mooks-san. Youve confirmed it, right? Then you dont need a hug, right? Ive also calmed down, and its good that Az seems to be okay as well. However, even though I anticipated it to some extent, its truly surprising that it led all the way to the oath already. By the way, you there! What on earth are you doing to Az?! Even if theyre 13 years old, doing something like that to a child who looks like theyre under 10...I understand there may be appearance-based cases where they are actually older, regardless, even if not solely based on that, they would still be considered a criminal if theyre not of legal age! ... Even if they were of legal age, I feel like it would still be a problem based on appearance. A 23-year old who looks like a child under 10 years old... Thats a crime, isnt it! Definitely? Good~ it seems that there is at least a recognition of sex crimes in this world as well. Huh? But is it safe for a 23-year-old to appear as 13? Is it better not to think deeply about this? Well, even if I think about it, nobody would attack someone like me. Just thinking is pointless. By the way, towards the end, you were muttering something, but I couldn''t catch it. I wonder what you said? However, this time, it was surely necessary for the oath. My eyes were stinging and burning so much. There must be a connection! Cant be helped. No choice but to go along with it. No way around it. Yeah, otherwise, my first this and that, spanning past lives and this life, would be considered taken by a man. That cant happen. This is often said to be life-saving! It was helping a person! Yes, thats right, definitely not just my first this and that! Hearing Suous words that followed, I felt a bit relieved. It cant be helped. Generally the ceremony of the oath is completed with just the name. However, with his name, I felt uneasy about the amount of magical reaction it evoked. So, just to be sure, I incorporated the exchange of bodily fluids as well. Saliva with blood, and finally tears were obtained, but even then, it was all for the removal of the pattern. It was absolutely essential. While I didnt originally plan to perform the oath today, I realized that if I were to do it later, it would be the same as if I did it now. It seems my master has a tendency to cause trouble and then disappear if you take your eyes off of him for a moment. So I decided to firmly catch hold of him. My intuition is usually right, after all. In fact, within this short time, I understood what you said: You are after all, you, no matter how you look at it. As I desperately tried to heal myself, Suou calmly talked while putting on an eye patch. It sounded like they were making fun of someone, but maybe its just my imagination? Hm? After confirming that Suou had finished putting on the eye patch, Mooks-san seemed relieved. Do you understand? This one causes all sorts of trouble, without even knowing how much. So, what did you do wrong this time? Just to make it clear, Im not talking about the oath with this guy. Dont try to divert the topic, got it? You werent in this room until just now, were you? To be more precise, you suddenly disappeared from this room where you should have been sleeping and came back just now, right? Hm? When, where, with whom, to whom, in what way, what did you do? Explain everything, including why the situation ended up like this. Right now! Amazing... its more than the 5W1H!1 But now is not the time to be impressed! How does everything become known? Let me tell you, he even noticed when I snuck in. Although he might have been expecting me to come, hes known everything from start to finish, from the moment we were in the room. You let your guard down way too much in your own territory. If you keep doing that, youll be defeated by enemies in no time. Well, I dont have any enemies! Regular people dont usually get attacked, right?! Youre supposed to let your guard down in your own room, right? Isnt that how it works in your own room?? Huh? Its different!? But... maybe I should have set up a soundproof barrier in the room while this guy was here. It might have been the same after our return. I was talking quite thoughtlessly. Its too late to regret it now, though. Dont reflect meaninglessly on your own, spit it out already! I dont know why, but even though I didnt say anything... I flinched and covered my mouth, and Suou laughed at me with a smirk. What youre thinking didnt come out of your mouth, but its written all over your face. You... once someone gets inside your head, they really mess you up. Do you need correction? Ugh, I instinctively cover my face. But its probably too late for that now. Mooks-san hit my head. It made a dull sound and was subtly painful. Come on, Spit it out! Tears well up in my eyes as I looked up at Mooks-san, but he glared back at me with a really intimidating expression. Ungh... this is another situation I cant escape from. Lately, Ive been feeling like Ive been giving up too easily, but if I try to deceive now, the situation will only get worse. Thats the one thing I want to prevent! Moreover, with this incident, they probably found out that I can use magic, and Ill have to apologize for that too. Ungh, my stomach hurts... tears are coming. And so, having given up, I explained the events that had happened until just now, reluctantly recounting everything. It feels more like I was forced to spill the details due to the overwhelming pressure than actually explaining. ****** Thats the situation. Im sorry I didn''t say anything about being able to use magic until now. In the now-silent room, I finished speaking. Mooks-san had been listening silently throughout, without interrupting. Finally, I quietly got off the edge of the bed and went over to Mooks-san, who was sitting in a chair, bowing my head and apologizing. Well, thats not a big deal. I knew. But more importantly, Eh?! You knew?! Huh?... Are you explaining that right now? Mooks-sans unexpected words made me raise my head and exclaim. After all, I was keeping it a secret! When did he figure it out? How? When did you find out? I asked hesitantly, only to receive yet another shocking response. Mooks-san looked exasperated. From the beginning. You might not remember, but after your injury healed when I found you, your health took a nosedive for a while. It was worse than the injury you had when I found you. We didnt even know the cause. It lasted for about half a year, until you were around 7 years old, I think. You were bedridden, remember? As Mooks-san spoke, memories came flooding back. I vaguely recalled something like that happening. During that period, my consciousness had been hazy, and I didnt remember much. I just remembered the pain and how it reminded me of my past lifes struggles with illness, which was terrifying. I even suspected that my memories of my past life were being triggered, affecting my physical state. I dont remember much, but I do recall being in poor health during that time. I found out during that time. On the slightly better days of your health, youd practice magic while lying in bed, right? You tried to hide it, practicing when I wasnt around, but I must have sensed something. You were caught in the act when I unexpectedly returned to check on you, you know? ... Certainly, I felt like I was wasting time just lying in bed, so I practiced magic. Ive been caught since the very beginning! What have I been doing?! Later, when your health seemed to recover, you snuck out when I wasnt home, right? I happened to see you while walking in town for work, and I secretly followed you. And what did you do? You went outside the main gate, then ventured into the woods, and guess what? You entered a cave and started practicing magic. I was dumbfounded for various reasons. Incredible... everything is completely exposed. I couldn''t help but bury my head in my hands and crouch down. Its so embarrassing and pathetic! Back then, I couldnt use detection magic, and I wasnt even conscious of sensing people nearby, so even if someone was close, I probably wouldnt have noticed. Well, you seem like you wanted to keep it hidden, so I observed silently. In any case, I thought it would become apparent during the 10-year-old examination. So, when the detection stone didnt react I was surprised. Az was surprised too, it seems. As for your magical abilities, nobody besides me is likely to have noticed. I havent told anyone either, so dont worry. Even though they say not to worry... I really appreciate that they kept it confidential, but ugh, thats not the point. I just cant seem to recover at all. Everythings falling apart for me. Why didnt you notice you were being followed-? Try to notice. What am I even doing... As I fretted alone, I felt a vigorous pat on my head. With teary eyes, I looked up to see Mooks-san laughing heartily. What are you talking about? I havent trained so weakly that a 6 or 7-year-old kid could notice me! Well, you might notice now, but only when youre focused, and thats limited to when youre taking requests. Theres a big difference between when youre fired up and when youre not. This incident is probably the same, right? Though Mooks-san was laughing heartily, their demeanor changed completely with the last sentence, and the atmosphere grew heavy. If it had been someone other than melike a knight or a spy, or even related to the mastermind of this incidentit would have been bad. Though you havent been fully targeted yet, its only a matter of time. Thats why I even turned a blind eye to the oath with one of the closed-eye clan members... sigh. Seeing Mooks-san so downcast, I couldnt say anything. Is this indicating that my crisis management is really lacking? But this incident should only outwardly be about me assisting Suou. Would that be enough to draw attention and make me a target? Its evident how much youve been through. Asnold... even if poison was coursing through you, you helped mea closed-eye clan memberin that situation. Moreover, you took on those seven dogs. Theres no way you wouldnt draw attention. Even without that, you stand out in relation to Suzuela Trading Company. There are other factors too... Should I really impose a ban on going outside? Both of them piled on, and I instinctively took a step back. Am I really standing out too much? From my perspective, Im just doing my best every day to make the Twanonus Resettlement Project a success. Asnold? Mooks-san called me in a low, low voice, and my face twitched. Um, well, Ill be even more careful to not stand outl? No, that wont do. Why does your tone sound questioning at the end... Oh, Mooks-san hung their head. Is Suou also looking off into the distance? Its hard to tell with the eye patch, but it seems like he''s looking at the ceiling. But I dont know what else to say... I have no idea what to do in this situation! Translator notes: 5W1H- Otherwise known as the questioning method or the method of the Five Ws, It is an acronym in which every letter corresponds to a question: what, who, where, when, how and why. This technique allows you to understand a situation, to discern a problem by analyzing all the aspects -Google CH 36 Well, for now, lets put that aside. There are so many things I want to confirm. Look, both Az and you, take a seat somewhere. Prompted by Mooks-san, I sat down on the edge of the bed first, while Suou pulled a chair near and took a seat. Confirming this, Mooks-san also brought a chair closer to the bed and started speaking. What should I start with first? From the beginning... first of all, how were you able to sense the abnormality with those cloaked figures? Premonition? Ow, that hurt!! Before I could finish saying everything, Mooks-san hit me on the head!! Dont joke around with your answers. Yikes, I was hit! When I cautiously turned my gaze towards Mooks-san, his triangular eyes had become even sharper, and I couldnt meet his gaze. Super scary... Mooks-san was in work mode! But I wasnt lying... No, really, its not a joke. Personally, I truly felt that way. There was a disturbance in my body, as well as in the magic around my body. It felt really uncomfortable, almost like a premonition. Ive never felt anything like this before, so I woke up suddenly from my sleep. Huh? Oh... well, sorry about that. So why do you think thats connected to the cloaked figures? After explaining in a somewhat disjointed manner, was my explanation too simple? Ugh... I forgot they know about my magic now, so I was subtly trying to cover it up. Ah... now that I think about it, how pointless was that? "I thought it might be because they were using some sort of spell on the cloaked figures. In fact, when I investigated the magical energy I used on them, it became really chaotic. Magical energy wouldn''t react like that unless something was wrong, like if the spell was removed or the target had died. So, I thought something had happened. That''s why I used that magical energy as coordinates and used teleportation magic to infiltrate the royal castle. The rest is as I explained earlier." Mooks-san seemed lost in thought for a moment, then turned his gaze towards me. Is that spell you mentioned referring to the protective magic you talked about earlier? No, its not a protective magic. Its more like a curse that brings bad luck. "You mean you used two types of magic? Did you use it when you encountered them today? If so, the protective magic doesn''t make sense, does it? Considering the situation you described, you''d typically use a different attack magic instead of a curse that brings bad luck. Unluckiness and protection are completely opposite in nature. When did you even cast it?" "..." I was speaking without thinking, but I''m starting to feel like this isn''t good. There were still things that could go wrong with what I said... they should realize that if they think about it. Oh, but if I try to cover up one thing, I''d have to cover up many others to make the story fit, and if I keep explaining, I''ll definitely slip up. In my case, I''ve already slipped up once... no, multiple times. No, I havent done anything wrong, have I!? I should just speak honestly... but I have a feeling Ill get scolded. What should I do? "Az? Can you honestly tell us everything? When, where, and who did you cast the magic on? If something happened when you cast it, confess that too." I''m feeling a weird sense of dj vu!! And did they already find out that something happened when I cast it? Are they fishing for information!? When I cautiously glanced at Mooks-san again, I felt an unspoken pressure that wouldn''t allow any evasion. "When you encountered those lackey dogs, you didn''t seem to use any magic. Also, I just remembered, didn''t you mention encountering those dogs before?" Oh nooo! What is this person saying!? Why bring up something irrelevant at such an inconvenient time! I want to sew this person''s mouth shut. Without thinking, I glared at Suou, and a large hand grabbed my head, turning it towards a different direction. Naturally, my gaze followed the new direction. There were those incredibly frightening triangular eyes... "Don''t waste your time with pointless thoughts. Just tell the truth. If you try to hide anything, I''ll not only restrict your missions but also revoke your agency registration on the spot." "!?!?! I''ll talk. I''ll talk, of course!! I was planning to talk anyway! I''ve never even thought about trying to deceive anyone!" What a terrifying abuse of authority! My place of work! There''s a dark cloud over the Towanonus Resettlement Plan!! "What should I even start with? Um, first of all, as Suou said, I did encounter those cloaked figures before. However, only four out of the seven. I cast the curse after the previous encounter. I figured out it was the four out of seven due to that curse. And then..." "Wait a moment!?" Suddenly, Suou grabs my shoulder, surprising me. Mooks-san also looks at Suou and, like me, appears startled. "You mentioned encountering them before. When was that?" Despite my irritation from earlier, I answer honestly due to their expressions. "Huh? It was about three weeks ago, I think?" "Three weeks ago..." Not only Suou but even Mooks-san seems lost in thought at my response. "You said you cast the curse after encountering them before, right? Specifically, what kind of curse was it? And how many people did you cast it on?" While still gripping my shoulder, Suou is the first to speak, and I''m being questioned again. The grip on my shoulder seems stronger now, and it''s slightly painful. "Like I mentioned earlier, it was a curse of bad luck. I cast it, saying ''May you fail at your job~.'' As for the number of people, there were 17 people there at the time, so I cast it on all 17." Speaking of which, Suou suddenly slumps into a chair, making a rattling sound as he does, and holds his head, muttering something. What on earth is going on!? As I''m thinking this, Mooks-san grabs my head again, forcing our gazes to meet. Not only does my head hurt from being grabbed, but my neck is also being twisted painfully!! "Are you telling me that this ''three weeks ago'' happened to be the day I couldn''t go home?" "Yes, that''s right... oh..." Oh... now that I think about it, I hadn''t mentioned giving Kei-san and Ani-san a lift to our house. I was going to report it afterward... but I hadn''t even done that. This is bad. It''s something I shouldn''t have done. And if I had reported it properly, wouldn''t we not be in this situation right now? It''s a classic case of too little, too late, a case of reaping what you sow. "What''s going on? Is there something wrong?... Well, first of all, the fact that you encountered those cloaked figures three weeks ago is news to me. What happened... no, what were you involved in? Did you help someone?" Mooks-san asks with a serious expression. And he''s quite specific. That''s what makes it even more terrifying! "Oh, well, about four years ago, I think there was a person I found injured and treated at the agency. I''m pretty sure his name was Kei. Do you remember?" "Ah. I remember." "Well, about three weeks ago, after finishing a subjugation request and heading home, I accidentally bumped into Kei-san and his brother near the slums. Those two were covered in wounds. While I was surprised, the cloaked figures were chasing them, and I ended up helping them. I''m really sorry! Mooks-san was busy with work, so I let people into the house without asking. I didn''t say anything afterward, and I''m sorry!" As I suspected, having someone enter their home without permission and secretly at that, is probably unpleasant. And I''m sort of a freeloader. As I apologize profusely, Mooks-san pats my head. This time, he''s really gentle. I exhale involuntarily and feel relieved by his warmth. "You don''t need to apologize that much. ...You saved two lives, right? What you did was incredible. Really, truly amazing... But not reporting it is not acceptable. However, at that time, even I was quite busy. Ah, so, what was the situation like back then?" While pondering something, Mooks-san lets out a momentary sigh and seems to be convincing himself of something. I tilt my head at his behavior, but then he prompts me to continue explaining the situation from back then. After finishing my explanation, not only Mooks-san but even Suou is drooping his head. "The mystery is solved. You were the cause behind the strange behavior of those dogs that suddenly changed. If 17 out of 40 people were to fail, it would be a disaster. It''s odd for it not to happen. Your magical power''s effectiveness can be believed because I''ve seen it with my own eyes. I feel foolish for having considered it might be some kind of trap... sigh." Suou mutters while gazing at the ceiling. The strange movements of those cloaked figures that Suou found eerie were actually my doing. I can''t confirm the effect of the curse, and I was somewhat satisfied after casting it, almost forgetting about it. I listened to the story as if it was unrelated to me when we were in the director''s office... but it turns out it was my doing. Truly, the magic and sorcery of this world are amazing. You really have to use them with caution. Feeling determined on my own, both Mooks-san and Suou let out sighs, one after the other. "You truly manage to get into unbelievable situations. Both three weeks ago and this time. In either case, if you weren''t there, it could have turned into the worst situation imaginable. I get chills down my spine just thinking about it. No, if the events three weeks ago hadn''t occurred, would this current situation even have happened? Sigh. It''s just that you''re not aware of it... Seventeen people. Not just the mastermind, but those two must have caught our attention as well. It''s quite troublesome..." "Are those two you''re talking about Kei and Ani, the ones Az mentioned earlier? Are they troublesome characters?" Suou reacts to Mooks-sans words. "...Yeah, it''s those two. But whether to call them troublesome or not..." While watching Mooks-san, who seems slightly uncomfortable and is holding his head, Suou presses him. I take the opportunity to ask a question that came to mind. "Those two, I understand you know about Kei-san since you treated him at the agency, but do you also know about Ani-san?" Although Mooks-san seems flustered for a rare moment after my question, he quickly responds. "I know them because they occasionally come to the agency with requests. Considering Ani-san''s Kei-dono''s younger brother, there''s no doubt." "Oh, I see. Ani-san comes with requests as well, so Ani-san also knew about Mooks-san. Mooks-san himself accepts the request, so the two of them are upper-class nobles after all. Suou, you can relax. Unlike the mastermind, those two are good nobles. They care deeply about the country and its people. They''ve even sworn on the country to make it a place overflowing with smiles and national pride. Isn''t that right? What''s wrong?" Before I can finish speaking, Suou makes a loud noise as he flips his chair backward and stands up. His expression is one of complete astonishment, even visible through his eyepatch. His mouth is hanging open widely... and it''s even moving as if to say "ahh." Beside him, Mooks-san is also seated but looking equally astonished... "Huh? What''s going on with both of you? Oh! Upper-class nobles wouldn''t normally make such an oath in front of commoners. Moreover, calling it ''national pride'' and swearing to it is quite significant. Did they really swear it? With their right hand on their chest!! Wouldn''t it be nice if all nobles were like those two? When I mention the two, they both turn to me, seeming as if they''re looking at something unbelievable. What''s been going on since earlier? "Hey... Mooks. If my guess is correct, when Az mentioned upper-class nobles, he meant... Suou! ... Oh... I see. That''s right. No wonder then, why would a mere baron be involved with a marshal? It was strange, but considering Az''s story and the potential accusations, it''s only natural. Ignorance is bliss, and... Wait a moment... Can I talk to you for a moment?" Mooks-san and Suou exchange a look, and both head towards a corner of the room and start talking in hushed tones. What''s with them talking about something they don''t want me to hear right in front of me!? It''s like full-fledged bullying, you know! What''s going on!? Although I was planning to ask them when they returned to their original positions, seeing how exhausted they both look, I can''t help but feel worried. "Just to confirm, do you know the name of the king?" Mooks-san, who has returned, asks the question. And for some reason, it''s about the name of the king, unrelated to our conversation. Why? Well, I''ll answer it. "I know that much. It''s King Magnaldo, right?" It''s such a delicious-sounding name, I can''t forget it! I won''t forget it!! "Do you not know his full name?" This time, Suou interrupts with a side comment. Seeing his somewhat exasperated expression annoys me a bit. What''s going on? Is he making fun of me? "I don''t know, I''m not interested. I''ve never seen him or met him, and I probably won''t in the future. So, just knowing he''s King Magnaldo should be enough, right?" "I see... Have you never seen him during festivals, ceremonies, or parades, or when you were on extermination missions? Oh, I guess you haven''t seen him or met him... Ahahaha." This time, Mooks-san showed a strangely convinced look, and then he gave a dry laugh. What''s going on, really? Am I doing something wrong? Could it be that just being tea friends with upper-class nobles... No, could it be that they''re not just upper-class nobles, but also hold important positions?! I didn''t even consider their positions!! Now that I think about it, they did mention ''chief''... Could it be that they appear in parades and such too? Oh no, just thinking about it makes my stomach hurt. While I''m battling stomach pain on my own, the two of them seem to have calmed down and started talking. "For now, I''ll show up at the agency and then head to the royal castle. They''ll definitely summon me. Suou, what about you?" Looking outside, I can see that the darkness of the night is fading, and the faint light of the morning sun is beginning to shine. Streaks of light run through the purple sky, and it''s quite beautiful. "I''d like to stay by his side, but I''m going overseas." "Overseas?" Unintentionally, I find myself joining their conversation. While it''s scary to be told they want to stay by my side, it''s unexpected that Suou wants to go overseas. "Huh? Ah, well, for now, I need to take care of the places Ive been using as bases, even if they were temporary. I''ll finish what needs to be done quickly. Also, I need to adjust this right eye. Knowledge alone isn''t enough to control and use it. I''m going to give myself hands-on experience in combat, including magic and sorcery. Once that''s done, I''ll be back. Don''t worry; you''ll be fine as long as I can find the pattern in your eye, no matter where you are." I can''t feel relieved at all. Is he embedding a GPS in my right eye?! Terrifying. This means I won''t be able to escape for the rest of my life, doesn''t it? "Well then, I''m off. Az, for now, you''re prohibited from leaving for a week. If you go out for anything other than shopping or essential matters, I''ll cancel your agency registration. Don''t worry; I''ll inform the Suzuela Trading Company as well. From what I''ve heard, they''ll be happy to give you a break based on today''s situation. From what I''ve heard, you''ve used quite a bit of magical power. Rest properly. Right now, you''re excited and unaware, but you''re surely tired. Don''t use any magic for a week." He gently strokes my head and gives me a pat at the end. "...Understood." I can''t say anything anymore. I can''t say anything. Now, as I watch the two of them off from the entrance of the house, I find myself letting out a deep sigh. Authors Note: Thank you very much for always visiting.To those who have given feedback, bookmarked, and shared their thoughts, thank you once again!! I''ve long given up on the brisk pace of the story (laughs). I can''t help but write when I care about the protagonist, and I apologize for that. Nevertheless, I would be happy if you all enjoyed it even just a little bit.