Vol 3 Chapter 1 (2/2)

Do the Skull Faces appear that frequently?

There is a nearby sp.a.w.n spot called the Wraith Plains, but normally there will be more than a couple of them. Its not so bad when it is a p.a.w.n cla.s.s, but several individuals, which are higher ranked than a Jack cla.s.s, appeared; I heard it happened for the first time, too. Such an event has never occurred before.

Is that so. By the way, does the guild deal in information, besides monsters?

Information other than about the monsters? Well, it depends. There is a lot information about monsters and ruins that comes in, but you should inquire about that with people who specialize in information.

Indeed. Incidentally, may I ask what kind of information you have on Sacred Place?

If they had detailed information on monsters and ruins, they might have gotten their hands on some information on the city that fell after the Dusk of the Majesty, which was called Sacred Place, too.

There isnt a lot of information about the Sacred Place. Even though the guild investigated it, because the danger zone is not normal at all, its impossible to let someone go towards it just like that. About the information, it was decided to not disclose it to adventurers who are below a minimum of rank B. Im sorry, but showing it to you, s.h.i.+n-sama, with your current rank is

Ah, dont worry about it so much, I was just interested. I will come back to hear about it after Ive raised my rank.

As one would expect, she could not easily give out information on Sacred Place. s.h.i.+n thought of confirming this again with Schnee some other time.

Which reminds me, you said you are going away, right? Are you looking for a request towards the destination?

Yes, I intend to complete at least one request. Is there a request that is going to the Falnido area?

He could go and look at the bulletin board, but it was quicker to directly ask Celica for a good request.

Celica picked up a thick file from under the counter, and removed a piece of request paper from that.

Well, how about this request here? There is no request going to Falnido for the moment, but this is a request for going to Beirun, which is on the way.

Is it alright for Tiera to receive the request too?

Yes, if you form a party with 2 people, there will be no problem, because s.h.i.+n-samas rank matches the rank required. Here is the content.

He took a look at the presented paper.

Request contents: Cargo guards to Beirun

Client: Nack

Number of recruitment: Up to five people

Rank: E and above(Individual, party, both are acceptable)

Reward: 10 silver coins per person

Note/Remarks: Meals included

The departure is three bells(3:00 p.m.) this afternoon. Though two adventurers have already partic.i.p.ated, theres still time. Other than this, I still have available requests for several days

I will confirm with Tiera just in case. Can you hold onto this until she comes back?

Yes, I think its alright if she comes back soon.

n.o.body else came to accept the request, probably because of the time period. He continued chatting with Celica while holding onto the request. Tiera and Els returned before 10 minutes had pa.s.sed, and s.h.i.+n explained the contents of the request.

I dont mind. Then, its possible to finish our other task ahead of time.

Tiera didnt seem to have any problems either. They went out of the guild at once, and went shopping.

The ingredients were bought while walking along the street crowded with other shoppers. Bread was not a food to keep for a long time like dried meat was, but the strong point of the Item Box was that they could buy common ingredients. Basically, ingredients would not spoil if they were put into the Item Box, and they could buy various kinds of fresh food. Looking at the two people choosing fruits and fresh vegetables, no one would imagine that they were about to go on a long journey after this.

By the way, the luggage was already placed into s.h.i.+ns Item Box, hidden from prying eyes. Still, he didnt boldly use the Item Box publicly in the middle of the street.

They also bought the items necessary for the trip, like hooded cloaks, insect repellent and so on.

The shopping ended after 30 minutes because there was no limit to their luggage. They still had time until noon.

The Item Box is too convenient. I have time until the card is done, so what should I do after this?

Tiera didnt think it would be over this quickly; it was a little anticlimactic.

There is a place I want to go to, is that alright with you?

Its fine, where do you want to go?

Id like to go to the orphanage.

s.h.i.+n too, was worried about Thorias situation over the seat of successor. Sister Ras.h.i.+a had learned the skill Purification, and although the orphanage inheriting requirement had been cleared, the pig bishop* might have interfered with something when he felt that he was losing. *(T/N: s.h.i.+ns naming)

Orphanage? Ah, the place of the person who buys the cake.

More of less. I thought of going there, just in case.

I understand. Im interested in the churchs building too. Lets go there now.

They faced toward the church, guided by s.h.i.+n. Did it look forward to meeting Millie? Yuzuhas tails moved cheerfully to express a happy spirit on top of s.h.i.+ns head.

Vol. 3 Chapter 1 Part 2

They walked on for several minutes, but the church was still not open and Ras.h.i.+a and Thoria were cleaning the surroundings. When s.h.i.+n and Tiera entered the church grounds, Ras.h.i.+a, who noticed, ran up to the two people.

Isnt it s.h.i.+n-san! What are you doing today?

I came to check up on the situation. Howd the matter in question turn out?

Well then, please come to the orphanage. Um, that person is?

Ah, My name is Tiera. Nice to meet you.

I apologize for not having told you this sooner. I am a sister in this church, and my name is Ras.h.i.+a.

To Tiera, who introduced herself while feeling a little nervous, Ras.h.i.+a replied with a calm expression. Was there any progress in the talks? The composure she showed now was not imaginable a few days ago.

Though Ras.h.i.+a was surprised about Tiera being an employee of Tsuki no Hokora, since that was the case, it was no problem to lead her into the orphanage.

s.h.i.+n thought the duties of the church might be delayed, but the church seemed to be closed today. When they arrived at the reception room in the orphanage, Millie was sitting on a sofa for some reason.

s.h.i.+n-nii!

When she realized that it was s.h.i.+n who entered after Ras.h.i.+a and Tiera, she jumped vigorously. Seeing the state of the girl who was clinging to him with a smile, s.h.i.+n expected the transfer problem to have been settled.

Yo, you seem to be happy.

The orphanage was not lost! s.h.i.+ns help. Thank you!

She seemed to be in a very good mood as her feelings, which were coming out, were reflected on her expression. For Millie, the possibility of the orphanage possibly being lost would be a big problem.

s.h.i.+n waited for Millie to settle down and then sat on the sofa, as he had decided to hear the whole story after Tiera had introduced herself again.

Thanks to s.h.i.+n-san it was settled that I would take charge of this church as the next priestess without any problems. The official announcement has not yet been publicized, but I think it will be alright unless something extreme happens.

The priest, who lives in the upper level district where the n.o.bles live, came to the Orphanage a little while ago; he had to confirm whether or not Ras.h.i.+as skill acquisition was authentic.

When she was asked how she acquired the skill, she answered that it was the result of training. In fact, because the priest seemed to remember that it was possible to learn skills through training, she didnt appear to be doubted in particular.

The children were pleased, too. Really, how can I thank you enough??

Since Ive already received the promised reward, please dont worry about it too much. Ah, this is a present.

Because he was worried that she would worry about it too much, he changed the topic by handing over the presents to Thoria. In the middle of shopping, they bought them from a peddler due to its unquestionable quality, though the peddler was surprised because s.h.i.+n purchased said present in large quant.i.ties.

Is it alright with this many?

Because Ive already bought them, Id feel rather troubled if they didnt get accepted. Look, Millie has already taken one.

Thoria, who reserved herself, was won over, while Millie, who was sitting and pressing Yuzuha to her chest, opened one of the bags filled with candy. When Millie took out an orange candy from it, she put in her mouth without hesitating.

Sweeet!

Im glad you like it.

Millies smile made everyone around her also smile.

When the reception room calmed down, the sound of a door opening was audible.

Sensei, is that true that onii-chan has come?

The one who appeared from the door was the girl who mobbed Yuzuha when s.h.i.+n came to visit before.

Thats no good, Melka. Because Im busy right now.

Ehh, but I want to play with onii-chan~

Sorry. Im having an important talk now. Ill play with you next time.

Muuuu, then can onee-chan, play?

Eh, me?

The girl called Melka promptly changed her target to Tiera when she was declined by s.h.i.+n. Was this because she was together with s.h.i.+n, or was it womens intuition? For the little girl, it seemed like Tiera was judged to be a person whom she didnt need to be cautious around. She had already caught the hem of Tieras clothes.

Um, because its my first time coming today, I dont know the games well

Play?

Kuu

Looking at Melka staring at Tiera, s.h.i.+n, while smiling wryly, thought Cant refuse that. With a lisping voice, and upturned eyes, this combo from the little girl required immense willpower to decline. She might be cunning depending on the person, but Tiera, who rarely came into contact with children, shouldnt be able to resist her.

Millie, come play too.

S-s.h.i.+n

Sorry, its impossible.

T-Traitor~

Tiera called for help from s.h.i.+n, but she was taken away by Melka along with Millie after all. Was she unable to just watch anymore? Thoria too followed them to save her.

Umm, will it be fine?

Well, maybe.

Ras.h.i.+a answered as if it was not necessary to stop it. Though it was another matter if it was something good or bad for Tiera, s.h.i.+n thought it would be a good experience for her to play with children.

By the way, Wilhelm is?

As usual, he went to investigate the bishop in question. Its unlikely that hes going to leave it as it is.

As expected, he understands it well.

As an adventurer coming from the orphanage, Wilhelm seemed to gather information in cooperation with fellow adventurers. This way, s.h.i.+n thought it was improbable for this fellow to be obediently lead by the hand.

s.h.i.+n-san also thought the same as Wilhelm?

Of course. Though I dont know why the bishop thought of taking over this church, as far as I know after having heard the story, I dont think that guy is willing to give up so easily.

But itd good if nothing happens.

Indeed, thats right. Please hand this to Thoria and Millie just in case though.

s.h.i.+n took out 2 small accessories from the Item Box and handed them over to Ras.h.i.+a. One of them was similar to the bracelet he gave to Ras.h.i.+a before, and the other one was attached to a light green colored string and was a simple wooden necklace in the shape of a diamond. If one was to say it in a nice way, it had a handmade feeling, and if one was to say it in a rude way, then it looked c.r.a.ppy.

This is?

It grants various magic skills. Just in case.

He then explained what kind of magics were bestowed upon it to answer Ras.h.i.+as question. Because he had already told her about the damage reduction effect of her own bracelet earlier, it was omitted. The necklace got the main explanation. Although it had a plain appearance, when Ras.h.i.+a heard what kind of material the string and wood were made from, her mind went completely blank for a short while. One of the reasons he chose this material was because it wouldnt stand out among the children in the orphanage compared to if it was a metal necklace.

What can I say. Just amazing!

About Millies necklace, it has the ability to block her ability. Hows it going with the bracelet I gave you before?

Im still wearing it. I dont think its a good idea for me to continue borrowing it, but Will asked me to wear it. Though Im intending to return it in the near future.

No, Im fine with it as it is. Since the safety of the church isnt settled yet, there is still the possibility of Ras.h.i.+a becoming a target, too. The danger will be minimized if you keep wearing it.

Rather than the problem of the continuation of the orphanage, the possibility of Ras.h.i.+a being aimed at was high. Therefore, besides the accessory for Millie, the bracelets for Ras.h.i.+a and Thoria had considerable abilities, too. They could even stand against a chosen one for a certain period of time.

Thank you very much for everything.

You dont have to prostrate yourself that much.

Though she was only half satisfied with the way she had shown her appreciation, the words were stored in her heart.

Please have lunch with us at the very least. You still have time, right?

Thats right. Shall we feast?

She probably wanted to pay back her feelings of grat.i.tude, even if just a little. He nodded to Ras.h.i.+a about lunch, and they proceeded to the square where the children were.

Tiera was surrounded by several young girls, maybe playing with dolls, since some beautiful handmade dolls were placed around her. Yuzuha, who was being mobbed earlier, was seeking refuge on top of Tieras head. Yuzuha seemed to have learned that no one could touch it when at that location.

In contrast to the young girls, who were happy and joyful, for some reason, the boys were looking at Tieras group from afar. Although the boys seemed to be kicking around a round ball that looked like a soccer ball, they glanced at the girls too much, especially toward Tiera.

The boys are kind of quiet, huh?

No no, thats a normal reaction.

s.h.i.+n said while holding his laughter, to Ras.h.i.+a who looked puzzled. She apparently didnt know why the boys didnt approach the girls.

What do you mean?

They are probably too embarra.s.sed to approach because of how beautiful Tiera is.

Though there was a boy who was mixed in with the girls, when s.h.i.+n looked at him, the boy appeared to be at the age of a child who had just started kindergarten. The boys, who were watching from a distance, were equal to children approaching p.u.b.erty. When one reached that age, it became difficult to freely talk to an older, beautiful onee-san. That didnt mean that everyone displayed the same behavior, but s.h.i.+n, who had similar experiences, understood the feeling of wanting to talk but being too embarra.s.sed to do so.

Tiera-san is indeed beautiful, even from my point of view as a woman, but I dont think its that hard to call out to her.

Well, I can understand, because I also experienced similar things as a boy, but its not strange if you dont understand it, Ras.h.i.+a.

Speaking of similar patterns, there were children in kindergarten who were in love with their teacher, and primary school children who were interested in the onee-san type.

He had a wry smile when he recalled the good old memories as an adult. The world was different, but similar things seemed to happen everywhere. He told the frowning Ras.h.i.+a not to worry about it, and called out to Tiera who was beckoning him.

Tiera, who noticed it, kept evading the eyes from the girls that seemed to be reluctant at parting, and came over to s.h.i.+n.

s.h.i.+n, how could you abandon me?

No, hold on, I just thought that it would be impossible to reject them.

Thats certainly, it was impossible to refuse that. *Sigh* I guess it cant be helped, huh.

Leaving that aside, because Im treating you to lunch, I want to take out some ingredients. How about it?

Thats good. Well, since I promised to make Yuzuha-chan some inarisus.h.i.+, how about I make it for the children of the orphanage as well? May I borrow the kitchen?

Even though the sun was already high in the sky, there was still enough time. There was no problem if they overstayed a little.

Tiera also had the Cooking skill since it was taught to her by Schnee. The eyes of the children were nailed to the inarisus.h.i.+ which was soon displayed on a plate.

Im sorry. Youre the one who ended up making it, even though it was me who suggested it.

Dont worry about it, since Im the one who wanted to do it. Although I said one thing or another, it was fun playing with the children.

The church seemed to be a place for a tranquil heart, as there were children who could approach without being timid. Even from s.h.i.+ns point of view, he had a feeling that Tieras expression had become softer than before.

Lunch ended and s.h.i.+n and Tiera wanted to help put things in order, but Ras.h.i.+as words of, I cant have you do that caused them to excuse themselves.

They left the church and returned to the guild. Because it was already past noon at that time, Tieras guild card should have been made.

The bar inside of the guild was crowded with adventurers having a meal. They went towards the receptionist area to avoid the crowd, and called out to Celica. Were there few adventurers receiving requests at this time? They were able to talk without even waiting.

This is Tiera-samas guild card. Please check it.

There seems to be no problem. Thank you very much.

Tiera confirmed the card functions without any problems. s.h.i.+n also took out his own guild card at this point.

While youre at it, can you please register us as a party.

Understood. In regards to the members, there are only two people, right?

Yes, thats correct.

In the case of a fixed party, it seemed that the guild required a party name, but they decided to not do it this time.

They were seen off by Celica and Els and left the guild. Their destination was the shopping street again.

This time, they bought preserved foods due to the acquaintances theyd be traveling with on their trip. Because they would be in the presence of others during this trip, the Item Box couldnt be used lightly. However, since the rations were made into cards and taken along, it didnt change the quant.i.ty compared to the normal preparation for a trip.

Besides that, it might not even be necessary since there was the remarks column in the request that stated that meals were included, but it was for emergencies. Save for a rainy day, save for a time of need was thought, and they kept shopping.

Its time to go now.

As they arranged the necessary items they bought, s.h.i.+n called out to Tiera.

Eh, but its not time yet.

No, Im taking Tsuki no Hokora with us.

He couldnt leave Tsuki no Hokora as it was, before the departure.

I completely forgot about it.

Thats not good, forgetting about it, at least.

I normally wouldnt think about forgetting a House, you know!

That was quite natural. It was crazy to think that a Housecould be considered a personal property item.

S-Sorry. Look, am I not the owner of Tsuki no Hokora? So its only natural to think that it could be carried.

The old generation is weird after all. Or is s.h.i.+n particularly strange?

Thats cruel!?

Tiera voiced the question without hesitation with a teasing smile. While receiving the mental damage, s.h.i.+n took out a light blue crystal from the Item Box.

Whats that?

Its a Crystal Stone. Youve never seen one before?

That is a Crystal Stone? That one is big and clearly processed, something which I am seeing for the first time right now.

This item is bestowed with Metastasis magic. I can move to a registered point in an instant if I use it. It a disposable one, but with this we can move to Tsuki no Hokora without any effort.

Thats right. The things that s.h.i.+n pulls out are all unique.

Thats rude.

Did Tiera go beyond being amazed, and arrive at the acceptance state? s.h.i.+n clearly said that we could move in an instant with the metastasize-crystal. .

There were a lot of mages who have tried to reproduce the magic up till now, but they werent able to get even a little foothold on it.

This mystery, among the secrets of the old generation, was a.s.sumed to have already been lost.

No one would be able to expect things would came out from said item with a pop.

s.h.i.+n, I want to check one thing.

Ah, ok, what is it?

Maybe, just maybeis it possible to manufacture this?

Tiera had glossy eyes. It was completely different from the mood from a while ago, and s.h.i.+n couldnt hide his bewilderment.

Still, he understood that the item he took out appeared to be the stuff that defied common sense, again.

Please tell me, before I answer your question, but what would others think about a Crystal Stone with the metastasis ability?

Metastasis, itself, is considered a lost magic.

I see.

s.h.i.+n understood with those words. If that was the case, he could see why Tiera would be surprised. Even from s.h.i.+ns experience so far, the Crystal Stone was thought to be quite valuable.

But he frankly found the lost part in Tieras sentence hard to believe. He was certain that it could have been spread out to the general public, but it seemed like such a thing was likely to have been concealed. It would not be surprising, if even the country and the organization were secretly covering it up.

Then I will also answer, yes, its possible to manufacture it. If, and only if, you have sufficient materials.

Sigh, I guess so. For one of Rokuten, a Crystal Stone with metastasis is easy to make, huh?

As she settled with a sigh, Tiera too, seemed to begin to understand what sort of people belonged to the Rokuten guild.

Ahh, though it seems bad when you are dispirited, may I transfer us now?

Yes, do it.

He took the defiant Tiera to an open place with no signs of life. Together with Schnee, he had confirmed that it was usable without problems. It was possible to use it soon after having woken up in this world, but he would rather not take the risk. Unlike other tools, it was unknown what would happen if it failed, so he couldnt bring himself to use that item.

When s.h.i.+n let magic power flow into the Crystal Stone to act as a detonator, the magic stored inside the stone activated itself. Their vision distorted, and shelves that lined up with goods came into view in the next moment.

The two people were certainly in Tsuki no Hokora.

T-Thats a strange feeling. And, how are you going to carry this place?

Lets go outside for a moment. Then we can start on that conversation.

s.h.i.+n went toward the door as he mumbled a bit. Because s.h.i.+n turned his back, Tiera didnt see that s.h.i.+ns mouth continued moving.

It was the familiar woods outside of the store as they exited it. s.h.i.+n glanced around as he surveyed the surrounding area.

There was a green marker which was not there when he came to Tsuki no Hokora before, glowing on the map screen.

Whats the matter?

Theres a rat. I think its time to tease that guy a little.

s.h.i.+n said that while looking at the trees or at the rat? Tiera had a question mark floating above her head. Though she wanted to retort that he might be looking for a rat in the wrong place, the opponent was s.h.i.+n. Common sense wouldnt work anyway, so Tiera stopped questioning it.

s.h.i.+n finished the preparation, stopped talking to himself, and held up his hand toward Tsuki no Hokora.

Storage!

Simultaneously with those words, Tsuki no Hokora began to glow faintly. The light extended out to cover the whole store, and in the next moment, the lights were converging into a single point.

It stayed in the air for only a few seconds and then slowly flew and settled in s.h.i.+ns hand afterward. When the light disappeared, a necklace with a crescent moon shape was grasped in his hand. It s.h.i.+ned silver and seemed to be more valuable than its poor artwork showed. The transparent glow was proof that it was not ordinary silverwork.

This is?

Yes, this is Tsuki no Hokora, carry mode.

You really can carry it! As expected.

Tieras doubt was answered while he put the necklace away into the Item Box.

Did she tire of getting surprised? Or did she grow accustomed to it? Tieras words contained pure admiration.

There was no reason to stay forever in a place that had gone, although Tiera looked at the place where the former Tsuki no Hokora was for a while, so they decided to head toward the departure place on the request. It was just the right time. s.h.i.+n knew this because of the time displayed in the menu screen. Furthermore, it was because he was wearing a wrist.w.a.tch-like item.

The other two possible applicants had already arrived. Because of that, he planned to have a conversation for a little while. They would partic.i.p.ate in the same request for some period of time, so there was no loss in deepening their friends.h.i.+p.

When they entered the country in the direction of the east gate from the Tsuki no Hokora site, in a corner of the plaza before the east gate was where the departure point was located, the wagon upon which the luggage was already loaded had arrived. A group of two people who appeared to be a Dragnil and Lord race were standing on the side.

Excuse me, this is Nack-sans wagon, correct?

Hmm? Thats rightOh, both of you adventurers are joining us, right?

It was the Dragnil who responded. Probably because he had thought words similar prior to joining, they served as confirmation and he therefore called out to him. The blue scales that were covering its whole body gave out a really strong impression. Judging from the deep voice, it was probably a male. The longsword on his waist and the chest protector were made with some kind of skin that stood out. If he didnt put on that much protective gear, he was probably the type who played around with speed. Or maybe, he probably didnt need much protective gear because the scales were hard enough?

Yes, we will be going together, although its sudden. By the way, Im s.h.i.+n. This here is Tiera who is made a party with me.

I am Tiera. I hope to get along with you.

Yea, my name is Gaien. It is my pleasure to get along with you along the journey. And this one here is

Tsubaki, best regards

The one who had introduced herself with a few words was a girl with crimson hair that reached her back along with red eyes. The red eyes, which were transparent in contrast to the hair which was darker in color, were observing s.h.i.+n and Tiera.

Her height was considered short. At least one fist lower than Tiera. Probably about 150 cemels. Though the features were in order, it would not be strange if someone said that she was a high school student only by appearance. However, he had a painful experience because of judging from appearances in the THE NEW GATE.

Since she could work as an adventurer, he judged that they wouldnt have any problems. He was positive that she should at least have an E rank ability.

Gaiens level was 187, and Tsubakis level was 133. If one judged it only by the level, Gaien might be an A-rank adventurer. The sword on his waist didnt seem to be for decoration.

As for Tsubaki, her level already exceeded rank E.

Oh! Did additional faces appear? I am Nack the merchant. I hope we get along until Beirun!

When they introduced themselves to each other, a dwarf showed up from the shadow of the wagon and started talking. Apparently, this person seemed to be the client of the request. The muscular body which differed from the usual Dwarf, was wrapped in well-tailored clothes, which gave off the feeling that something was wrong. They properly exchanged greetings, and boarded the wagon in order.

Everyone has gotten aboard. Its a little early, but lets depart!

Nacks voice was cheerful while the whip slash was heard from the driver seat, and the wagon started to move slowly.

As the wagon with 5 people pa.s.sed through the east gate, it began to advance straight north, to Beirun.

Afterwards, the news of the disappearan