Thinking that he didn’t want to lose, Arnold continuously used his 《Wind Fang》 to take down enemies. Perhaps because they were afraid of the two peerless fighters before them, the remaining monsters ran off.
“Alright, that’s all of them.”
“Yeah.”
The two of them sheathed their weapons and returned to Muir. They found her with an expression of shock frozen on her face.
“W-what’s wrong,Muir?”
Muir responded while keeping up the same expression.
“U-uncle… my level has…”
It seemed that she was surprised at her own sudden growth in level.
“Hah? So that’s it. Well, that sounds about right. Even though you didn’t actively fight, you’re acting in our group, so the EXP of the monsters we defeat flowed to you too. Of course your level would rise.”
They had registered as a Party at the guild, so the monsters they fought in the 【Gree Caves】, as well as the ones they fought now, gave EXP to Muir. Since her level was quite low from the start, her level was raised by quite a bit.
“And didn’t you feel the level ups in the cave as well? Didn’t you notice?”
“N-no, I noticed it, but I thought I would check later. But the level up sound only sounded off three times…”
“Ah, it’s that. You jumped multiple levels at once. So having it sound out three times doesn’t mean you leveled up three levels.”
As proof, when Hiiro defeated the Red Boar, his level raised by four. But he only got a single notification.
“S-so that’s how it is…”
“Well, I also didn’t check. I think I leveled up in the caves too, and I also leveled up in the fight just now.”
Arnold and Muir checked their 《Status》, so Hiiro decided to follow suit. He had heard the sound in his ears as well.
–
Hiiro Okamura
Lv 40
HP: 228/770
MP: 150/1500
EXP: 75632
NEXT: 5890
ATX: 258 (320)
DEF: 200 (215)
AGL: 350 (352)
HIT: 192 (200)
INT: 309 (313)
《Magical Attribute》 None
《Magic》Word Magic (Single Chain Unlocked|Air Word Unlocked|Parallel Writing Unlocked | Double Chain Unlocked)
《Title》 Innocent Bystander, Other Worlder, Word User, The Awakened One, Ripper, The One Who Imagines, Killer of the Unique, Gourmet Bastard, One Who Follows His Own Path, Friend of the Fairies
–
Guild Card
Name: Hiiro Okamura
Sex: Male
Age: 17
From: Unknown
Rank A
Quest:
Equipment:
Weapon Piercer
Guard Red Robe
Accessory Fairy Bracelet
Rigin: 4112000
–
Arnold Ocean
Lv 41
HP: 160/595
MP: 30/249
EXP: 86038
NEXT: 7660
ATX: 394 (438)
DEF: 359 (375)
AGL: 328 (333)
HIT: 252 (254)
INT: 114 ()
《Magical Attribute》 Wind
《Magic》Fangs of Wind | Explosive Wind Claw | Blast Inversion
《Title》Friend of the Wind | Former Slave | Chef | Doting Father | Man of Burning Soul | The Man Referred to as a Pervert | Blade of the Wild
–
Guild Card
Name: Arnold Ocean
Sex: Male
Age: 37
From: Snyoll
Rank A
Quest:
Equipment:
Weapon Great Sword
Guard Plate Armor
Accessory Bracelet of the Wind
Rigin: 1132000
–
Muir Castrea
Lv 34
HP: 235/280
MP: 54/180
EXP: 48604
NEXT: 1001
ATX: 276 (279)
DEF: 237 (245)
AGL: 222 (225)
HIT: 188 (189)
INT: 101 ()
《Magical Attribute》 Lightning
《Magic》Fang of Lightning
《Title》 Friend of Lightning | Kidnapped | My Angel | Cutie Flower | Girl of Tolerance
–
Guild Card
Name: Muir Castrea
Sex: Female
Age: 12
From: Rince
Rank C
Quest:
Equipment:
Weapon Knife
Guard Traveler’s Clothes
Accessory Bracelet of Lightning
Rigin: 56000
Chapter 36: Demon King’s Resolve
Hiiro’s eyes widened as he saw a certain part of his status.
<<Double Word Chain (Unlocked)>>
As the result was as he predicted, his sense of expectation started surging uncontrollably within him. He wanted to test it immediately. However, for now his first priority was to ascertain its abilities.
<<Double Word Chain (Unlocked)>> MP Cost: 300
It has now become possible for Hiiro to chain two words. Compared to the single word invocation, this ability grant an exceedingly stronger effect when activated. Effective Range; Power of Influence; Versatility; even though all these aspects are exceptionally enhanced, there exists an adverse limitation. Depending on the word, words with incredibly short effective duration exist. Also, unless the image of the character is clearly imprinted in the mind when executing the skill, the word itself would not be able to be written.
In addition, should the writing of the two word be interrupted, the <<rebound>> will cause a 50% reduction in all status fields, as well as rendering the caster to be unable to use magic. All stats and abilities will be returned to normal after a 6 hour time lapse.
Hiiro: (This is another magic that has very strong abilities, but a nasty <<rebound>>, huh…)
If an attempt at writing two words failed or is interrupted, there seems to be a significant <<rebound>> effect in store.
Hiiro: (It reduces everything by half huh… Writing two words is something that takes time. Should I use it, I need to be extremely wary of my surroundings.)
Indeed, if someone disrupted Hiiro while he was writing, and if the opponent was a formidable foe, it wouldn’t be strange if such a penalty lead to immediate death.
Hiiro: (However, it is only this level of risk. As expected, it’s only natural as its effects are reasonable compared to the risk.)
Nevertheless, Hiiro was thrilled. It couldn’t be helped that he was looking forward to all the things he could do. He wanted to quickly set some time aside so he could be alone and try it out, or so he thought.
Arnold: “Ou~ Hiiro, did you also get something like a title?”
Hiiro: “Who knows, how ‘bout you?” (Hiiro)
Arnold: “W-well, I kinda think you’re completely to blame for one of these titles but, I want to have a thorough discussion with you about this. I got a title called <<Blade of the Wild>>”
Hiiro: “Hou~”
Arnold: “It seems that you can get any kind of <<Status>> correction. That’s what I got. How ‘bout you, Muir?”
Muir: “Ah, un. It’s just too amazing, I don’t quite know how to put it…”
When Muir read out her <<status>>, Arnold couldn’t hide his surprise as his jaw dropped with a pop.
Arnold: “I-it really rose, huh….your level…” (Arnold)
Muir: “U, un. I feel a little happy, yet a little sad ….I think?”
Her feelings must be in turmoil. Being at Level 34 would be the sign of an experienced adventure. However, the girl in question has never stood on the front lines and fought. And yet, the fact that she has reached that level would probably feel like reality has become faded.
However, the fact that her body had become lighter and that she could feel some sort of power inside of her made her calm.
Arnold: “Well, isn’t it fine? A level is a level. No matter how high your level is, I think it is better to be like Muir and be doubtful of your own abilities instead of getting arrogant and overestimating them.” (Arnold)
Muir: “R-really?”
Arnold: “Yeah, well, I doubt Muir will become overconfident, but just accept the reality for now. You will become useful if you work hard. Everything starts from here, is what I’m trying to say.”
Muir: “U, un!” (Muir)
Saying thus to Arnold, Muir returned a vigorous nod. Indeed, it has been decided that from now on, she herself will also fight. It is precisely because of this that she must think about how to become stronger in anticipation of the future.
Arnold: “We should be happy that our guild rank also increased. Yours rose as well, right?”
Hiiro: “Aa”
Muir: “Un!”
Arnold: “As I thought, forming a party in this place was a life saver, huh…”
Put simply, even if a person fights and the other members watch, their experience will undoubtedly rise.
Arnold: “Since it was thanks to Hiiro and Muir that the clay viper was killed, making a party was definitely a good choice”
Although Arnold was the one who made the killing blow, he believed that if he were by himself he would have urely ran. Thus, he gave them the credit.
Hiiro: “Anyway, I’m going on ahead. That’s…that, isn’t it?”
What Hiiro pointed his finger to was a huge gate that could be seen in the forest ahead.
Arnold: “Aa, that’s the entrance to the [Beast Kingdom: Passion].”
A few days before Hiiro and the others reached [Passion], the [Demon Kingdom: Xaoc] was wrapped in tension. This was due to a letter received a few days ago from the [Gabranth] (Peope of the Beast Kingdom).
The contents of the letter contained the conviction of battle. In other words, it was a declaration of war.
“…………….”
A large amount of soldiers of mixed ranks were lined up below the Demon Castle Terrace. Looking at this spectacle with a bitter face was none other than this Demon Castle’s Lord, the one presiding over the [Demon Kingdom: Xaoc]: Eveam.
With beautiful blond hair that fluttered in the wind, a youthful looking girlhad her slightly childlike facial features distorted as she was looking at the scene with her teeth gritted. Behind such a girl, her attendant, Kiria, who was silently watching over her until now began to speak.
Kiria: “Are you certain of this?”
Eveam: “…………..”
Kiria: “Should this continue, it would unmistakably turn into a war of total annihilation”
Eveam: “I know that!”
As if to deny Kiria’s words, Eveam forcefully raised her voce. However, after coming this fat, she herself was at a loss as to how to proceed.
Eveam: “To think that the Gabranth would move this fast….”
Kiria: “No, this was within my expectations.”
Eveam: “Ku…..”
Yes, she was not here because she had nothing left to do. She had also sent them a peace treaty similar to the ones they sent to the Humas (Human Race).
However, it was not even accepted by them. She had considered offering her own neck to quell the fighting, however, even then Kiria said that the beastmen would not stop.
As a result, she looked for other ways and tried various different methods to somehow establish conversation with them. However, it seemed to be a waste of time. A fool’s errand.
Incidentally, there was one message that successfully got through. This message being, ‘What are the Garanth trying to accomplish here?’ The reply from the Beastmen, however, could only be determined as ‘A decision has been made to eliminate the entirety of Evila.’ Only that single intention of Evila’s destruction was conveyed extremely clearly.
Eveam: “Why…did it turn into a battle…?”
Kiria: “It is most likely because it is the most effective method of persuasion.”
Eveam: “How!? Why do we have to determine everything with strength?! Power is naturally unequal! Isn’t it better if you use words that everybody possesses equally to debate rather than forcing people to submit with strength? If we talk things out, no blood will have to be spilled.”
Kiria: “…is that really the case?”
Eveam: “What…do you mean?”
In response to Kiria’s words of denial, the Demon Queen’s eyes widened as she stared at Kiria.
Kiria: “Words…are light”
Eveam: “-tch!”
Kiria: “Certainly, words are something that everyone has access to equally. However, in the first place, words are intrinsically empty in nature.”
Eveam: “Empty…?”
Kiria: “Yes. The heavy power of persuasion can be brought forth from those empty words. Not only can those words pass through a person’s ears, but they can also engraved into the minds of another. However, Eveam-sama, do you think such words without weight can avert war?”
Eveam: “T-That’s….”
Kiria: “Perhaps in a peaceful world without war, if it was a negotiation conducted with a trade business, then perhaps Eveam-sama’s method would be successful.”
Eveam: “…….”
Kiria: “However, this is war. People will undoubtedly die. War is not a trifle matter like a negotiations in trade. It is most likely the greatest obstacle you will face. Are you able to face that obstacle and carry all the burdens and consequences of your decision?”
Eveam: “That’s…..”
Kiria: “It is seems that you are still too naïve to become a demon lord. Thus, the will of the previous demon king will be succeeded by many. To begin with, the Evila is abundant and strong; a battle-hardened race. Showing such weakness to your own kind unlikely be able to quell their rage and anger those of your kind. Please take this into consideration…”
Eveam: “That’s enough.”
Kiria: “…”
Ivemu said as she grinded her teeth and clenched her fists so hard that blood started dripping from them.
Eveam: “I…just do not want to hurt anyone. Everyone is family to me. If that family begins to start fighting…how would that make anyone happy? But I…I’m powerless…”
From those strong willed eyes, a single tear slid down her cheek. She is the ruler of this land, and yet she was overwhelmed with the despair. Her anger towards the world was far outweighed by her feelings of frustration with her powerlessness.
Kiria: “Then, should we lower our weapons and surrender?”
Eveam: “..eh?”
Kiria: “It is possible that the Gabranth would understand our true motive.”
Although that proposal sounded rather attractive, Eveam could only frown anxiously. Looking at such an expression, Kilia remained indifferent as she continued.
Kiria: “However, in the case where that proves ineffective, the Demon Race of Evila may be laid to ruin without being able to do anything.”
Should they surrender, the Demon Lord will most likely be taken as a token of victory. Being stripped of her power and status, the Demon Lord would be imprisoned and sealed until ultimately being thrown before the populace to have them decide upon her fate.
In a more positive scenario, the complete annihilation of the Evila can be prevented. However, even then the possibility of the captives being executed is very high.
Furthermore, since the [Cruel Brigade] is too powerful to suppress, they will be a concern for the rest of the world should they be left alive. In order to take responsibility, they may be executed to serve as an example to the rest of the world.
But if she doesn’t surrender, a lot of blood will be shed. Even if Evila is victorious, there is a high possibility that the other side will not accept surrender until the bitter end.
While pondering the circumstances as such, no matter whether she advances or withdraws, blood will still be spilled. Eveam’s face distorted into an expression of suffering as she gritted her teeth. Seeing such a face, Kiria lowered her head respectfully.
Kiria: “I, Kiria, have made such insensitive remarks. Please designate the appropriate punishment for my insolence.”
Eveam: “It is fine. What Kiria has told me is accurate and indisputable. There is no need for such a punishment.”
Kiria: “…very well. Then, I shall add one more thing in closing.”
Eveam: “Eh?”
Kiria: “Rest assured that I, Kiria, will follow Eveam-sama no matter where you may go.” (Kilia)
Eveam: “Kiria…forgive me.”
For a short while, silence enveloped the atmosphere. However, in response to Kiria’s words, Eveam’s once gloomy face suddenly lifted.
Kiria: “Have you decided?”
Eveam: “Aa, I will protect [Evila]! Kiria, I want you to lend me you strength.]
Kiria: “…as you desire.”
A strong will dwelled in those eyes. There was no more time for deliberating. There was no more time for hesitation. Therefore, all that could be done now was to use the remaining time to fulfil her objective.
Eveam: “I will not allow my family to be slain!”
Stepping across the firm floor of the Terrace, Eveam headed outside with Kiria following behind her.
Chapter 37: Capital of the Beast Kingdom Passion
“What is wrong?” Aquinas, First Guard of the Demon Queen’s Cruel Brigade, said.
Right before him was the Demon Queen Ivemu, who let out a sigh.
He heard about of her decision, but he didn’t what the purpose was. The queen, Ivemu started at him intently and said, “I have a favour to ask from you, Aquinas”
Kilia was also beside the queen staring intently at him.
“I have a few more concerned, but it look like you have already made your decision” (Aquinas)
There was a glint of determination in her eyes, it was clear that whatever she planned to do has to do with the impending war.
“What is your favor?” (Aquinas)
“Well, it is…”
…………………………
…………………
………………
…………
……
Aquinas listened silently and soon after widened his eyes in surprise. To think that the queen would say something like that.
“I see, that is something that you will definitely be able to do, your majesty” (Aquinas)
Aquinas accepted the favor like a bitter medicine. If that is the solution his majesty struggled to bring about then it is fine with him.
“Actually, this is something that fits your personality” (Aquinas)
This is also one of the method that Aquinas himself has considered before.
“Will you have no issues protecting this secret?” (Queen)
Her personality of trusting others is both her weakness and her strength. That personality remained with her ever since she was young, and she never lost it since.
Even so, Aquinas believes that it is a great responsibility to everyone around her.
“How is it Aquinas?” (Queen)
The queen wasn’t sure herself, but she felt she was able to make a connection and pass on her intent to him.
“Your decision won’t resolve anything?” (Aquinas)
“Nonetheless, that is my decision” (Queen)
“……………….” (Aquinas)
Aquinas returned the queen’s gaze. He knew, dejectedly, that whatever he says from this point onward will not change her decision.
Interesting, what happens to the queen as she go about this mission, will be something to look forward to, Aquinas thought.
“Alright, please give me orders” (Aquinas)
In response to those words, Ivemu took a sharp breath. Because if he says something like that, then it is clear that he agrees with her and will go along with her decisions.
“You are the Demon queen right?” (Aquinas)
Ivemu felt happiness from those words. Kilia was also faintly smiling behind her; she also rejoiced with the response.
“……I understand, please work with me, Aquinas” (Queen)
Aquinas bent down on one knee and said.
“With pleasure” (Aquinas)
With this perhaps, the Beast-kin, Gabranth, and the Demon-king Evila can start getting along. It is not sure, but lets celebrate it for now.
———————————————————————————————————
Capital of the Beast Kingdom, Passion. At the center of this city is a gigantic tree named, “Tree of origin, Aragon.” The whole city seems to expand out from there.
It was completely different from a man-made city. All the houses were made out of trees. The residents just hollowed out a tree and lived in there.
There was also a sparkling stream flowing through the city. There were even small fish swimming casually in it. The city seems to be built in complete harmony with nature.
As there was district named “The King Tree,” this was where all the royalty lived, with their castle like dwellings made out of several large trees bunched together.
Nearby, there were numerous residents and travelers who was making offerings and prayers to the “Tree of Origin, Aragon.” The last king of Gabranth, selected that tree as a symbol for the Gabranth and built the city around it. To the Gabranth, the “Tree of Origin, Aragon” is a sacred entity to them.
Once a year, the “Origin festival” takes place at the center of the town. Lots of people come from all around the world, especially children. At that time, if you climb the Tree of Orgin, you’ll receive a blessing from the tree.
It is believed that the blessing from the Tree of Origin, Aragon, will make the climber a strong, honourable, and respectable person. Such rituals has become a tradition. Generally, it is for the Gabranth children, but in the past there has been humas who has climbed the tree as well.
The Tree of Origin, is greatly revered by the Gabranth. Any other race who even touches the tree will be incur the ceaseless wrath of Gabranth.
“Well, that is what they say, either way never touch the tree in your human form” (Arnold)
With how intense Arnold gave the warning, Hiiro who is currently disguised as a Gabranth using the word ability [Copy], made sure to note is down as something to be careful of. That is to never touch the tree in his human form.
“I see that is how it is. It is certainly a very large tree, but that is not the only reason right?” (Hiiro)
While walking, hiro looked up at the tree; it was clearly over 200 meter tall, a ridiculous size for a tree. But Hiiro is unsure if you should appreciate a tree just because of its size.
“That is is not all. I’ve heard that if you are sick with a disease or injury, if you just touch the tree it will heal it. If you have baby that doesn’t stop crying, if you bring the baby into the vicinity of the tree it will stop crying. There are other mysterious rumor about what the tree has done or is capable of.”
“Huh, is that it?” (Hiiro)
“Is that it. If anyone came to this city they will all be stunned by the magnificence of the Tree of origin. It would be crazy not to appreciated it.” (Arnold)
“That is mainly for the Gabranth right, but I’m human being.” (Hiiro)
“…Well, that is true” (Arnold)
That was all, but Hiiro thought there was more to it. Either way, the Tree of Origin, Aragon, definitely something that the Gabranth would boast about.
Instead of hearing rumors about a tree, he wanted to know more information about what he wanted to do here.
“That aside, you came here with a purpose right, to meet that someone?” (Arnold)
“Right, yes, I’ve received their treasured honey from those people, so I have to at least fulfill their request.” (Hiiro)
“What, isn’t that the whole of point meeting the were-bears in the village?”(Arnold)
“Yes, that was the point, but if they don’t get the honey won’t they be in a bad mood” (Hiiro)
Arnold thought that bringing the sweet honey would create a better mood for negotiations.
“Still, the Gabranth has already started marching to war. Are you sure the were-bears aren’t already out hunting with that group?” (Hiiro)
The city seem to have a lot less people than usual. It is highly likely that all those that can fight have already set off with the vanguard in preparation for war. Currently, there is a high chance that only the minimal defence force is in this area.
“Hmm, I wonder…” (Hiiro)
“Hey, what do you mean? Do you mean the civilians?” (Arnold)
Unlike adventurers, ordinary citizens do not have enough strength to participate in a war. They are likely to continue living their ordinary lives.
However, Arnold shakes his head in denial.
“Well, certainly ordinary citizens don’t usually participate in a war, but many of us hunt and fight on a daily basis to fulfill their needs.” (Arnold)
“Is that true? Isn’t was a job for the soldiers?” (Hiiro)
“Everything is voluntary, but the Gabranth is a warlike race and they usually gather without anyone asking.” (Arnold)
(TL: Updated March 3, 2015, this should now be completely correct)
“That is the case but they responded?” (Hiiro)
“Probably…The army made a desperate request…” (Arnold)
“So what? If someone rejected the request wouldn’t that be the end of it?” (Hiiro)
“Yes, that would be the end of that. But there is also another problem.” (Arnold)
“What?” (Hiiro)
“That aside, lets finish one task first.” (Arnold)
“You are so full of yourself. So what is next? What kind of person are we meeting?” (Hiiro)
Muir looked at Arnold for a response. But for some reason Arnold was trembling as he was thinking of a response.
“What is wrong?” (Muir)
Seeing Muir ask that question, Arnold let out a side and said aloud.
“That person….is my master”
Chapter 38: Arnold’s master
Before the party stood a residence similar to those in the area. However, it was much smaller than others. It also had a door but unlike the other houses, it looked rough and scratched up. Overall, it looked like an abandoned old house.
Arnold went up to the house and knocked on the the door, and frowned when there was no answer. There was a chance that the resident is pretending not to be home, mainly because it would be troublesome to deal with whoever was on the other side of the door.
With a light push the door opened with a creaking sound; the door was unlocked.
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