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This chapter is translated by Japtem and edited by AkashiXIV & Icy Kitten on 15th August 2019.

They advanced in the dense fog guided by Gil, the tiger-tailed demi-human.

Their destination was Faea Belgaen. Hajime, Yue, the Haulia tribe, and Ulfric had been traveling while surrounded by the other demi-humans. Zam had gone ahead using [Instantaneous Movement].

After walking for a while, they suddenly arrived at a clearing. Although it wasn’t as though all of the fog had cleared up, the fog arched above the path, forming a tunnel through the fog. Crystals the size of fists were buried along the sides of the road, emitting a soft blue light that appeared to have the ability to ward off the fog.

Ulfric, noticing that Hajime had focused on the blue crystals, explained-

“Those crystals are known as Faedraean crystals. Although we know not the reason, fog and demonic beasts will avoid the area surrounding these crystals. They are also used to surround Faea Belgaen and within. These crystals are also used by the demonic beasts.” (Ulfric)

“I see. It would be depressing to live inside the fog all the time. I would at least want to live in a clear space with the thickness of this fog.” (Hajime)

It seemed there wouldn’t be any fog in Faea Belgaen. That was good news because they had to wait for ten days inside the Faea Belgaen before they could explore the [Great Tree]. Yue, who felt that the fog was depressing, seemed rather happy after overhearing their conversation.

In the meantime, a huge gate appeared before their eyes. It was made of thick trees intertwining to form an arch, while a pair of massive wooden doors spanned the 10 meter gap. A natural wall of trees extended from either end of the arch, never dipping below a height of 30 meters. Simply the entrance had given Faea Belgaen credit for being the only demi-human country in Tortus.

Gil gave the signal to the gatekeepers to open the gate, and the doors creaked as the path appeared. From the tops of the surrounding trees, piercing gazes were directed at the incoming party. Their agitation at the sight of a human was blatantly obvious. Had Ulfric not accompanied Hajime, the gatekeepers would surely have believed that Hajime was a threat. Perhaps the Elder came out himself because he had predicted such tension might appear.

After passing through the gate, it was a whole new world. The huge trees had trunks tens of meters in diameter. The trees had been hollowed out as dwelling space, and the windows of these tree-dwellings were overflowing with the light of lamps. Dozens of people were walking through the winding corridors that were cut into the trees as well as on the branches that formed bridges between the trees. Utilizing the thick vines strung around the tree, moving platforms brought people from the bases of the trees to their peaks. A large wooden aqueduct had been built along each of the tree-dwellings, enabling easy transportation of water.

Hajime and Yue were mesmerized, mouth gaping open. As they were fascinated by the beautiful cityscape, a sudden cough brought them back to reality.

“You seem to have taken a liking to our home, Faea Belgaen.” (Ulfric)

Ulfric’s expression loosened in joy. The surrounding demi-humans looked on with pride. Seeing their pride, Hajime praised the city.

“… It’s my first time seeing such a beautiful town. The atmosphere is good, and splendidly harmonizes civilization and nature.” (Hajime)

“Nn… it’s beautiful.” (Yue)

The demi-humans were surprised at Hajime’s unembellished words. They tried to hide their obvious joy at Hajime’s words, but their ears and tails gave them away.

The residents of Faea Belgaen watched Hajime’s party advance through the town, some with curiosity, others disgust.

“… I understand now. A trial to gain the [Age of Gods Magic], the Gods’ game involving civilizations…” (Ulfric)

Currently, Hajime and Yue were talking to Ulfric on the topics of the [Liberators] and the [Age of Gods Magic], and how he was from a different world. He explained that his goal was to complete the [Seven Great Dungeons] to acquire all the [Age of Gods Magic]s to return home.

Ulfric’s expression didn’t change after hearing about the plot of the gods. Hajime, curious as to his indifference towards the gods, received the answer that demi-humans would’ve been treated the same regardless of the gods’ movements. Faea Belgaen held no regard for the gods, only an appreciation of nature.

After Hajime’s stories were finished, Ulfric detailed the functions of the Elders in Faea Belgaen. There was an oral tradition that if someone came bearing the crest of the [Seven Great Dungeons] that they were to treat them hospitably, and if they were approved by the Elders, could be taken to the [Great Tree Ua Alt].

The creator of the [Haltina Sea of Trees] Dungeon was called Lyutilis Haltina. She had passed the knowledge of the [Liberators] respective names and country name Faea Belgaen to the next generation orally, forming a tradition that has continued since time immemorial. She had warned them to treat the one bearing the crest of the [Great Dungeons] with care because she knew what level of strength was required to pass one of their dungeons.

Ulfric had reacted to the crest on Orcus’ ring because before the [Great Tree] stood a stone monument in which seven crests were carved, one of which being Orcus’.

“That would mean I have the qualifications to see the [Great Tree]…”

From Ulfric’s explanation, the reason why he had invited Hajime into their nation was clear. However, not all demi-humans knew of this tale, so it would be necessary to tell them all soon.

When Hajime and Ulfric had ended their talk, an argument sounded from the floor beneath them. Hajime, Yue, and Ulfric were currently on the top floor, while Shia and the Haulia tribe were downstairs. Hajime and Ulfric looked at each other, then stood up at the same time.

Downstairs, a muscular bear-bodied demi-human, tiger-tailed demi-human, fox-featured demi-human, winged demi-human, and a hairy dwarf-statured demi-human were glaring at the Haulia tribe. In the corner of the room, Kam was desperately covering Shia. A fight had obviously broken out, as Shia and Kam’s cheeks were swollen.

Hajime and Yue, catching sight of this spectacle coming downstairs, sent a sharp gaze towards all of them. The bear-bodied demi-human began to speak with an anger-shaken voice.

“Ulfric… you *******! What is the meaning of this?! Why did you invite a human? The Rabbitman tribe as well. To have allowed the taboo child to come back… Depending on your answer, I may strip you of your title as an Elder!” (???)

He barely restrained his fury. His clasped fists were trembling. Ulfric, after all, had allowed their nemesis to walk amongst them. Moreover, he had given safe passage to the Haulia tribe, who had sheltered a taboo existence. Not only was the bear-bodied demi-human staring at Ulfric, but the other demi-humans as well.

However, Ulfric only thought of their words as passing wind.

“I only acted upon what tradition has taught us. All of you are also Elders of Faea Belgaen, so you should understand the importance of our visitors.” (Ulfric)

“To hell with tradition! Aren’t those tales just lies? Even after Faea Belgaen was founded, bearers of the [Great Dungeon]’s crests have not appeared even once!” (???)

“Then this time is the first. That is all. If you claim to be Elders, then follow tradition. The law requires such diligence. As Elders, we must set an example for our people to follow.” (Ulfric)

“So you are saying that this human youngster is qualified?! Someone so strong that we shouldn’t antagonize them?!” (???)

“That is so.” (Ulfric)

Ulfric answered matter of factly. The bear-bodied demi-humans couldn’t believe Ulfric’s words, glaring at Hajime.

The people currently gathered were Faea Belgaen’s Elders. In Faea Belgaen, those who became Elders all had high capabilities in some field. It seemed the Elders controlled all aspects of Faea Belgaen’s government.

Although Ulfric believed in the importance of tradition, the other Elders thought otherwise. Ulfric was from the Elven tribe, which even amongst demi-humans, had long lifespans. According to Hajime’s memory, their average lifespan was around 200 years, whereas other demi-humans averaged 100 years. Given their difference in lifespan, Ulfric and the other Elders surely had a difference in ideology.

“… Then allow me to test you!” (???)

As he finished, the bear-bodied demi-human rushed towards Hajime. The others were startled by his sudden movement. Ulfric, similarly stunned by the charge, widened his eyes in terror.

In an instant, the man was within striking distance. Two and a half meters of pure muscle swung at Hajime.

Even amongst demi-humans, the Bearman tribe was superior in their physique and physical endurance. But even amongst his tribe, the Bearman representative had strength a cut above the rest, capable of splitting the surrounding trees in two with his bare fists. Aside from the Haulia tribe and Yue, the other Elders all envisioned that Hajime would soon be nothing but a lump of flesh.

However, reality failed to meet their expectations.

DONn…

Hajime casually grabbed the Bearman’s fist, as though he was immovable.

“… That’s it? But since you came with the intent to kill, you’re prepared, right?” (Hajime)

Hajime used magic to reinforce his grip. Earsplitting fractures sounded as the Bearman’s fist deformed unnaturally. As danger loomed upon him, the bear-bodied demi-human desperately tried to distance himself.

“Guuu! Let go!” (???)

Although he was desperately trying to pull back, Hajime remained unmoved. Hajime had transmuted the metal plate in his shoes into a spike that drilled into the floor, securing his position. But the bear-bodied demi-human could only tell that Hajime was as solid as the earth itself.

Hajime silently poured in more magic power, his grip suddenly strengthening.

BAKI!

“Gh?!” (???)

The arm snapped. Even so, the Elder refused to scream. Hajime didn’t miss the moment that the man had stiffened in pain and astonishment.

His free arm thrust out with a palm, causing the Bearman to stumble. Hajime immediately dashed into the bear-bodied demi-human’s bosom.

“Fly.” (Hajime)

DOPANn!

His left arm swung, and upon impact, an explosion boosted its acceleration. The fist that was already plenty strong burst with explosive power.

The fist generated a shock wave, blowing the Bearman off his feet. The Bearman’s body bowed, and without even a chance to scream, burst through the wall. After a moment, a distant scream could be heard.

Hajime had used the recoil from the shotgun built into his left arm to generate his shocking explosive strength. In battle, he could also use this function to fire towards enemies behind him, using the recoil from Schlagen to balance his shotgun..

While everyone was at a loss for words, Hajime’s arm readjusted its form with whirring sounds, turning towards the other Elders with killing intent.

“Well? Who’s next?” (Hajime)

No one could reply.

Ulfric was somehow able to remedy the situation, saving the rest of the Elders from Hajime’s wrath. The bear-bodied demi-human’s internal organs were ruptured, his bones almost completely fractured, but his life had been saved by using their most expensive recovery medicine. However, his life as a warrior was finished.

Currently, the Elders: Zel of the Tigerman tribe, Mao of the Wingedman tribe, Lua of the Foxman tribe, Guze of the Dwarven tribe, and Ulfric of the Elven tribe were seated opposite of Hajime. Yue and Kam were seated beside Hajime, and Shia was seated along the other Haulia tribe members, who clustered behind him.

The Elders, except Ulfric, were stiff with tension. Their best fighter, the bear-bodied demi-human Elder called Jin, had been easily incapacitated after all. Having lost function in his limbs temporarily, Jin could not attend this conference.

“Well? What will you do now? Regardless, I will go to the [Great Tree], and if you don’t interfere, then I will leave you alone. You may be troubled as a nation antagonizing people whose intentions you have yet to judge. However, I am not the type of person who’d differentiate between the innocent and my enemies when I unleash a massacre.” (Hajime)

The Elders were stunned. Hajime’s words had indicated that he’d have no problem going to war with the demi-humans..

“For our incapacitated companion’s sake, is it possible for us to leave this encounter in the past?” (Guze)

Guze muttered with a groan, bitterness overcoming his face.

“Huh? What did you say? Wasn’t it that bear that came with killing intent? I only paid him back. The fault for having his limbs broken into such a state is his own.” (Hajime)

“Y-you! Jin was- Jin was only thinking of his country!” (Guze)

“And that’s why it’s okay to kill someone he had yet to speak to?” (Hajime)

“Th-that was…! But-” (Guze)

“Don’t you have our roles reversed? I am the victim while that bear is the assailant. Aren’t Elders supposed to remain impartial while judging crime? Isn’t that Elder of yours the one who assaulted me first?” (Hajime)

Guze probably got along well with Jin. Therefore, although he understood in his head that Hajime was right, he was unable to accept it. However, Hajime wouldn’t consider his feelings in this matter.

“Guze, although I understand how you feel, we must leave it at that. He makes a sound argument.” (Ulfric)

Guze, who had stood up in fury, could only sit down with a distorted expression at Ulfric’s admonishment.

“This boy certainly has one of the crests, and his ability accredits him with the accomplishment of completing a [Great Dungeon]. I have to admit that he has the qualifications as noted in our traditional law.” (Lua)

The Foxman Elder looked at Hajime with his slit eyes, then looked towards the other Elders for their opinions.

Mao of the Wingedman tribe and Zel of the Tigerman tribe, even though they had yet to express their opinion on the matter, gave their consent. On behalf of the other, Ulfric told Hajime-

“Nagumo Hajime, we of the Elders’ Council admit that you have the qualifications as specified in our traditional law. Therefore, our consensus is to not oppose you… however, our decision may not be enough…” (Ulfric)

“So it’s not absolute, huh?” (Hajime)

“It is as you say. As you know, we don’t think well of humans. There is the possibility that someone will disregard the notice from Elders’ conference. Especially the Bearman tribe, whose anger is not easily suppressed…” (Ulfric)

“So?” (Hajime)

Hajime’s expression didn’t change even after hearing Ulfric’s words. Hajime’s resolute gaze spoke of his determination to abide by his creed. Ulfric, understanding that, gazed back with the authority of an Elder.

“I want you spare those who attack you.” (Ulfric)

“… You are asking me to spare those who come at me with killing intent?” (Hajime)

“That is correct. Is that not possible with your level of power?” (Ulfric)

“If it’s someone around the level of that bear, I can’t say for sure. However, I will not spare anyone who comes at me with the intent to kill. Although I understand your feelings, I couldn’t care less about what you think. If you don’t want your brethren to die, then stop them seriously.”

The world of the Abyss had been ingrained in Hajime’s mind. He couldn’t predict what would happen if someone truly came at him, because he knew if he took it easy, a cornered mouse could still mortally wound the cat. Therefore, Hajime couldn’t accept Ulfric’s request.

However, Zel of the Tigerman tribe intervened.

“Then we refuse to guide you to the [Great Tree]. Even though it is written in traditional law, there is no need to guide someone we don’t like.” (Zel)

Hajime was dumbfounded. From the beginning, he had left it to the Haulia tribe to guide him. He had no intention of seeking help from anyone in Faea Belgaen. However, Zel’s next words clarified his intention.

“I don’t think the Haulia tribe will be able to guide you. They are criminals. They will be judged under Faea Belgaen’s laws. Although we don’t know what happened, you will be separated here. Their crime for harboring a demonic child exposed Faea Belgaen to danger. Their execution has already decided in another Elders’ Conference.” (Zel)

Shia trembled in tears having heard Zel’s words, while Kam and his tribe were thoroughly resigned. Even now, no one blamed Shia for their imminent death. That was just how deep their affection for each other was.

“Honored Elders! Somehow, please let my tribe go! Please!” (Shia)

“Shia! Stop it! We are already prepared. It is not your fault. No one here wants to stay alive so much that they would rather sell out a family member. We have already discussed this many times in the Haulia tribe. There is nothing for you to worry about.” (Kam)

“But Father!” (Shia)

Even though Shia desperately begged while prostrating, no help came from Zel.

“It has been decided. All of the Haulia tribe will be executed. Even if they gave you up, the Haulia tribe would still be banished for harboring the taboo child.”

Shia was crying while Kam and others comforted her. The decision that had been decided in the Elders’ Conference was the truth. The other Elders had remained silent. Their crime was too heavy, as they had endangered the entirety of Faea Belgaen by protecting Shia. Their strong familial ties only worsened the situation, as they had decided on the genocide of their tribe for their family member.

“And that is that. With this, your method to go to the [Great Tree] is gone. What will you do? Will you leave it up to luck now?” (Zel)

Zel threatened. The other Elders of council didn’t raise any objections. However, Hajime, showing not one ounce of bitterness in his expression, naturally responded.

“… Are you an idiot?” (Hajime)

“Wh-what!” (Zel)

Zel raised his eyes. Shia and her tribe also looked at Hajime reflexively. Yue, understanding what Hajime was thinking, kept an empty expression.

“As I said, I couldn’t care less about what you think. If you want to take them away from me, then you are trying to obstruct me.” (Hajime)

Hajime, glaring at the Elders, reached out his hand and put it on the crying Shia’s head. Surprised, Shia looked up at Hajime.

“If you want to take them away from me, I hope you’re prepared to bear the consequences.” (Hajime)

“Hajime-san…” (Shia)

Hajime would not allow anyone or anything to obstruct his way. He would not hesitate to wage war against Faea Belgaen, the stronghold of demi-humans, for the Haulia tribe. That resolution pierced into Shia’s heart, which had already sunk into the depths of despair.

“You are serious, right?” (Ulfric)

Ulfric glared at Hajime with a sharp gaze, permitting no deceit.

“Obviously.” (Hajime)

Hajime wasn’t shaken at all. His unyielding resolve could be seen. He had no respect for this world nor its inhabitants. Those who obstructed his way would have no mercy. This was the decision he had made in the Abyss.

“Even if I say there will be a guide provided by Faea Belgaen?” (Ulfric)

The execution of the Haulia tribe had been established in a prior Elders’ Conference, and if they decided to overturn this decision due to Hajime’s threat, the Elders would lose their prestige. Therefore, Ulfric had to remind Hajime of the guide Faea Belgaen had prepared in order to seek a result where neither confrontation nor the loss of prestige occured. However, Hajime made it clear that there was no room for negotiation.

“I’ll say it for the last time. My guide is the Haulia tribe.” (Hajime)

“Tell me your reasoning as to why the Haulia must guide you. If you want to reach the [Great Tree], anyone here could be your guide.” (Ulfric)

Shia peered upwards, looking at Hajime’s face. Shia kept staring at Hajime, and their eyes met only for a moment. She felt her heart slightly throbbed, her pulse rising.

“I promised them that I’d protect them in exchange for their services.” (Hajime)

“… A promise. Have you not already fulfilled your promise? Have you not protected them from the demonic beasts of the canyon and the empire’s soldiers? It is the Haulia who have yet to fulfill their promise. However, there should not be any problems if Faea Belgaen completes this promise in their stead.” (Ulfric)

“You’ve been mistaken. I’ve promised to ensure their safety while they guide me. Just because something better is on the way doesn’t mean I can just toss them aside. That would be…” (Hajime)

Hajime looked at Yue. Yue also looked at Hajime, then slightly smiled.

“… uncool, right?” (Hajime)

Ulfric could only shrug his shoulders in defeat.

Sneak attacks, surprise attacks, deceptive attacks, cowardice, despicable lies, bluffs, etc. were all acceptable on the battlefield. In order to survive, sometimes it would be necessary to use foul play.

However, he had to protect his honor as a man. If he couldn’t do that, then he’d be nothing more than scum. For the girl he met in the Abyss, he wanted to draw that line.

Ulfric could only let out a deep sigh. The other Elders’ faces looked around hopelessly. Silence enveloped the room. Before long, the exhausted Ulfric made a proposal.

“We shall make the Haulia tribe your slaves. Under Faea Belgaen’s law, those who have gone outside the [Haltina Sea of Trees] and did not come back, including those made slaves, were assumed to have died. Though there is a good chance we can win inside the Sea of Trees with the fog as our cover, there are people outside the forest who can use magic, so we hardly stand a chance. Therefore, we assume them to be dead so nobody will go after them and escalate the damage… it is impossible to execute those who are already considered dead after all!” (Ulfric)

“Ulfric! That’s!”

It was a complete sophism. Naturally, the other Elders’ expression turned into that of a shock. Zel unintentionally leaned over and raised his protest.

“Zel. You should understand. The amount of power that boy has shown. If you execute the Haulia tribe then he’ll be our enemy. In that case, how many innocent people would be sacrificed…… as the Elders, we must avoid that kind of danger.” (Ulfric)

“However, what about our reputation!? If the rumor that we yield to power and let loose an extremely powerful child got out, then the Elders Conference’s prestige would surely fall!” (Zel)

“However…”

As more Elders joined the discussion between Zel and Ulfric, the place became full of commotion. As expected, having reviewed the pros and cons of the situation, deciding to punish Hajimes group became a double-edged blade no matter which way they turned it. With the establishment of this bad precedence, the Elders Conference’s prestige would take a fall and there’d be various speculation such as approval with ulterior motives.

During this though, Hajime disregarded the mood and remarked,

“Aah~ even though it’s bad to say it now, isn’t it too late to realize that you’re not only overlooking Shia?” (Hajime)

Having heard Hajime’s words, the Elder’s discussion stopped, and their gazes’ fell upon Hajime.

“What do you mean by that?” (Ulfric)

Hajime slowly turned over his right arm’s sleeve then he did direct magic manipulation. As he did, his red-lined tattoo began to spread out across his arm. In addition, a spark came off from his right hand due to using [Lightning-clad].

The Elders’ eyes were opened wide. Invoking magic without a chant or magic circle was supposed to be impossible. They only thought that he was able to defeat Jin because his artificial arm was an artifact.

“I’m the same as Shia, being able to directly manipulate magic and use unique spells. Next is Yue. She is the one whom you’d call a monster. However, don’t your traditions state that, “Whoever the person may be, don’t be hostile to them”? According to your law, you must overlook my companions. Well, it’s already too late for Shia though.” (Hajime)

Although the Elders were stunned for a while, before long they began to whisper to each other. As they came to a conclusion, represented by Ulfric, he began to report the result of Elders Conference with a big sigh.

“Haa~… Haulia tribe’s taboo child, Shia Haulia, is now regarded as a relative to Nagumo Hajime, who is also a taboo child. Therefore, because Nagumo Hajime has passed the qualifications, we won’t be hostile to them, but they are forbidden from entering Faea Belgaen and its surrounding villages. In addition, if one were to lay their hand on Nagumo Hajime’s family, then everything would be their own responsibility. Is there anything else?” (Ulfric)

“Well, whatever. As long as I can reach the Great Tree I don’t mind. These guys are my guides, so there are no problems.” (Hajime)

“… I see. Then, hurry and leave. Although it pains our hearts to be unable to welcome someone who has passed the qualifications… ” (Ulfric)

“Don’t worry about it. There’s no need to say everything since I’m sure there are things that I don’t want to hear. Even so, to have such rational judgment, I can only be thankful about it.” (Hajime)

In response to Hajime’s words, Ulfric could only give him a wry smile. The other Elders had bitter and tired expressions. Rather than threatening them or holding grudges, ‘Quickly go away!’ was all they said. Having seen that, Hajime shrugged his shoulders and urged Yue, Shia, and her tribe to stand up.

Even though Yue’s expression remained unchanged throughout the entire conversation, having heard their talk, she didn’t say anything and only stood up to match Hajime.

However, Shia and her tribe still didn’t believe it was real, and there was no sign of them standing up in their stunned state. Up until a while ago they were prepared to be executed, and the sudden change left them wondering whether or not it was ok to let them live.

“Oi, when will you stop daydreaming? We’ve got to leave.” (Hajime)

Having heard Hajime’s words, they started to regain their senses. They hurried after Hajime, who had already made his way outside. Ulfric and the other Elders sent them off till the gate.

Shia asked Hajime in a flustered state.

“U-um, is it okay… for us to stay alive?” (Shia)

“? Didn’t you hear the talk a while ago?”(Hajime)
“W-well, even though I heard it…… somehow it doesn’t seem real to be able to go out of that kind of predicament suddenly…… it makes me feel like it was all an illusion…” (Shia)

Her perplexed expression was spread to the rest of her tribe’s members. That was because, for demi-humans, the decision of the Elder’s Conference is absolute. Yue continued to console Shia, who had steam coming out of her ears.

“…… it’s okay to honestly rejoice about it.” (Yue)

“Yue-san?” (Shia)

“…… Hajime saved you. That’s the truth. It’s okay to just accept and rejoice.” (Yue)

“……” (Shia)

Having heard Yue’s words, Shia glanced at Hajime, who was quietly walking next to her. Hajime then shrugged while facing forward.

“Well, I did promise you guys.” (Hajime)

“Uh……” (Shia)

Shia’s shoulders were trembling. In exchange to guide them inside the [Haltina Sea of Trees], Shia and her tribe were protected. It was the promise that Shia had desperately attached to Hajime. Originally, by using [Foresight], she saw a future where Hajime protected her family. However, that future wasn’t absolute. Depending on Shia’s choice of actions, it was subject to drastically change. Because of that, Shia was desperately trying to obtain Hajime’s cooperation. They were pursued by humans who discriminated against demi-humans, and Shia didn’t have any fortune to offer. Her negotiation materials were only herself as a woman and a ‘special ability’. Even so, when it was easily discarded, she almost cried without knowing what else to do.

However, she was somehow able to get Hajime to promise, and after talking with him, she had a gut feeling that he would keep his promise. That may be because even though she was a demi-human, she didn’t feel any discriminating glance from him. He had promised to protect her tribe, regardless of the race of their enemies. In fact, when he fought those empire’s soldiers without any hesitation, her anxiousness had all but disappeared.

For a while, her heart had been beating fast. Her face was hot, and a mysterious impulse kept jumping up and down as if something was stuck in her throat. Was it joy for her family’s safety or…

Shia tried to follow Yue’s advice to honestly be happy and left her current feeling behind. She then entrusted everything to her impulse to make the best of it, which consisted of her throwing herself onto Hajime.

“Hajime-sa~n! Thank you very much~!” (Shia)

“Uwaa!? What is it all of a sudden!?” (Hajime)

“Hmph…” (Yue)

‘I absolutely won’t be separated even if the bruise will make me cry!’ Her expression began to loosen and her cheeks were dyed in pink.

Yue watched while groaning in a bad mood. When she thought about doing something, she only held Hajime’s hand, and nothing special was done.

Having seen Shia explode with joy into Hajime, the Haulia tribe finally understood that they escaped with their lives, then started to share their joy with each other.

The Elders could only watch them with complex expressions. Many averted their gaze due to hate or discomfort.

While Hajime thought about everything that had happened, he gave a wry smile and kept moving forward.

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This chapter is translated by Japtem and edited by AkashiXIV on 10th August 2019.

Humans and demi-humans were walking together inside the [Haltina Sea of Trees].

Having seen that, the tiger-tailed demi-humans glared at Kam and his tribe as though they were traitors. They readied their double-edged sword and took a threatening stance. Tens of demi-humans surrounded them, filling the air with dense killing intent.

“W-we are…” (Kam)

Kam, drenched in cold-sweat, looked for an excuse. But before he could finish his thought, the tiger-tailed demi-humans caught sight of Shia.

“Isn’t that, that white-haired Rabbitman? … Bastards, so you’re the Haulia tribe! A disgrace to the entire demi-human race! For years, you’ve deceived us to raise a taboo existence, and now you have brought humans here! Treason! I won’t hear any more excuses! Everyone will be executed on the spot! Everyone, advan-!?”

DOPANn!!

When the tiger-tailed demi-human commanded an attack, Hajime’s arm flickered. A gunshot resonated as a flash grazed his cheek, devastating the trees behind him as the flash disappeared into the distance.

The tiger-like demi-human that was grazed froze in place, unable to understand what had injured him. If his ears were located at the side of his head like a human’s, it surely would have been blown off by that shot. The tiger-tailed demi-humans were stunned by the explosive sound and attack so fast that they are unable to react.

“… I can fire that attack tens of times in succession. I also know the exact location of all your fighters. You’ve already entered my kill-zone.” (Hajime)

Hajime’s voice covered the grounds as an extraordinary pressure descended. It was a result of Hajime’s skill called [Pressure], which applied physical pressure on the enemy.

“Wh,what…? No chant…” (???)

The tiger-tailed demi-human stuttered unintentionally after being shot by an invisible attack that required no chant as Hajime threatened the safety of his comrades. As he had threatened, Hajime easily drew Schlagen and aimed into the forest. He paled, as he knew that his subordinates were hiding in that precise direction. A sense of unease entered his mind.

“I won’t show any mercy to anyone who obstructs my way. Until the Haulia tribe has fulfilled their promise to me, their lives are under my protection. Don’t even think that you can lay your hands on even one of them.” (Hajime)

Aside from his [Pressure] skill, Hajime began to emit his killing intent. The tiger-tailed demi-humans, who were known as thick-headed warmongers, were drenched in cold sweat. They started to panic while their leader desperately tried to keep his calm.

This must be a joke! Ho- how could a human be this strong! He must be a monster!

As the tiger-tailed demi-human leader tried to regain his composure, Hajime continued as he reloaded Donner and Schlagen.

“If you retreat now, I won’t give chase. If you’re willing to remove yourself from my path, I have no reason to eliminate you. Now choose. Will you pointlessly become my enemy and be annihilated, or will you quietly go home?” (Hajime)

The commander of the tiger-tailed demi-humans was convinced that the moment he antagonized Hajime, that flash would be aimed at their heads instead. If that happened, there would be no chance for them to survive.

The tiger-tailed demi-human was Faea Belgaen’s Second Guardsman’s captain. His duty was to guard Faea Belgaen, and it was his pride to protect his brethren from intruders and demonic beasts. Therefore, the decision between retreating from this confrontation or laying his and his subordinates’ lives down weighed upon his shoulders.

“… Before I decide, I want to know one thing.” (???)

The tiger-tailed demi-human desperately remarked. Hajime urged him to speak.

“… What is your purpose here?” (???)

A straightforward question. However, depending on Hajime’s answer, he would determine whether or not the consequences of opposing Hajime outweighed the consequences of their retreat. For the tiger-tailed demi-human, it was impossible for him to allow anyone who would try to hurt the citizens of Faea Belgaen. He glared at Hajime with unyielding eyes.

“The depth of the [Haltina Sea of Trees]. I want to go beneath the [Great Tree].” (Hajime)

“Underneath the [Great Tree], you say? For what purpose?” (???)

The tiger-tailed demi-human thought that his purpose was to enslave demi-humans, but when he heard his purpose was the sacred [Great Tree], he was perplexed. The [Great Tree] for humans should’ve been just one of many places inside the [Haltina Sea of Trees].

“Under the [Great Tree] might be where the true entrance to one of the [Seven Great Dungeons] resides. I am traveling with Yue to conquer the [Seven Great Dungeons]. That is why we employed the Haulia as our guide towards the [Great Tree].” (Hajime)

“The real dungeon? Just what are you trying to say? The [Haltina Sea of Trees] is one of the [Seven Great Dungeons]. A dungeon where no one except demi-humans can advance without getting lost.” (???)

“Well, that would be strange.” (Hajime)

“… Why?” (???)

The tiger-like demi-humans dubiously asked Hajime.

“For one of the [Great Dungeons], the demonic beasts here are too weak.” (Hajime)

“Weak?!” (???)

“That’s right. For a [Great Dungeon]’s demonic beasts to be so weak would be tantamount to blasphemy. At the very least, the demonic beasts should be on the level of the [Orcus Great Dungeon]’s Abyss. Also…” (Hajime)

“What is it?” (???)

“The [Great Dungeons] are a place of trial that the Liberators left behind. A dungeon where only demi-humans can progress, you say? That can’t be called a trial. That’s why it’s weird for the [Haltina Sea of Trees] to be a [Great Dungeon].” (Hajime)

“…” (???)

The tiger-tailed demi-human was unable to hide his confusion after hearing Hajime’s response. The [Haltina Sea of Trees]’ demonic beasts’ were too weak? The [Orcus Great Dungeon] has an Abyss? The Liberators created the dungeons as trials? These were all unknown to him. If it was anyone else, he would have called “nonsense” on them.

But, Hajime had made these claims in this situation. Capable of completely overwhelming them, Hajime had no reason to lie in his eyes. Plus, his words were strangely convincing. If his true objective truly was the [Great Tree] and not the enslavement of demi-humans or Faea Belgaen, rather than meaninglessly throwing away his subordinates’ life, it would be better to allow Hajime to visit the [Great Tree].

The tiger-tailed demi-human had decided. But, he couldn’t just allow Hajime to wander around freely. This matter was in his hands, so he proposed to Hajime-

“… If you are not planning to harm my country and brethren, I can allow you to pass. There is no meaning in fighting you when your aim isn’t to endanger my people after all.” (???)

Having heard his words, a commotion broke out in the surrounding demi-humans. He had decided to overlook the human intruder!

“However, I need to consult the First Guardsman’s captain. I also must report to my superiors. The Elders might know something about your story. Until I receive word to allow your safe passage, I must have you stay here.” (???)

Drenched in cold-sweat after his demands, the tiger-tailed demi-human stared at Hajime. Hajime was considering his next move.

This was probably the limit for the tiger-tailed demi-human. Hajime had heard that the demi-humans would punish any intruder that dared step foot within their territory. Even now, they must want to punish Hajime and his party for their intrusion. However, the tiger-tailed demi-human knew that his subordinates’ lives would be lost in all certainty if he engaged Hajime. To avoid that fate, he had made that proposal so that he would be able to monitor Hajime while allowing his superiors to make the decision.

Hajime was a little impressed by his rational judgment under pressure. After considering his options of advancing after antagonizing the nation of Faea Belgaen or wait for safe passage, Hajime chose the latter option. If the [Great Tree] wasn’t the entrance to a [Great Dungeon], Hajime would need to continue searching for it. If they needed to continue searching for the true entrance after arriving at the [Great Tree], it would be more convenient to have permission from Faea Belgaen to do so. The risk of Faea Belgaen becoming hostile while he searched would always be present, but Hajime could accept such a risk. It would just become troublesome to search for the entrance while eliminating his pursuers.

“…I accept. But, you must make a report without changing even a single word, okay?” (Hajime)

“Of course. Zam! You heard it! Report his words to the elders!” (???)

“Yes, sir!” (Zam)

Under the tiger-tailed demi-human’s command, one of the shadows disappeared. After confirming Zam’s departure, Hajime returned Donner and Schlagen to their holsters while releasing [Pressure]. The atmosphere lightened. The tiger-like demi-humans, who previously looked at Hajime with fear, started to relax. Some of them even entertained the thought of attacking now that Hajime was unarmed. Hajime noticed, and fearlessly laughed.

“Between your attack and mine, whose do you think will hit first?” (Hajime)

“… Well, don’t make any sudden movements. We can’t help but be sensitive to your movements.” (???)

“I know~.” (Hajime)

Even though they were still surrounded, Kam and his tribe were finally able to sigh in relief. However, they could feel a severe and evil gaze directed at Hajime from behind them.

Yue had tried to take care of Hajime after the tension relieved. Shia, seeing Yue acting intimate with Hajime, was unable to endure their pink atmosphere. Shia jumped towards Hajime crying “Me too~!”, to which Hajime could only reveal a forced smile. Inside enemy territory, they had suddenly begun to flirt. Hajime could feel the mens’ envious glares piercing him.

After an hour, Yue was head-locking Shia while Shia gasped, “Give! I give~!”, when footsteps were heard, gradually becoming clearer.

Tension began to build again. Shia was crouching over in pain, pouting.

From the fog, several new figures appeared. An elderly man that was standing in the middle of the crowd drew their attention. His beautifully flowing blonde hair complimented his blue eyes that shone with great wisdom. His body was thin, as though a slight breeze was all it took to make him fall over. Wrinkles lined his dignified appearance, but his age only accentuated his beauty. Above all, his ears were long and pointy. He was from the Forest tribe, a so-called Elf.

Hajime was able to instantly guess that the man standing before him was an Elder.

“Fumu, are you that human? What is your name?” (Elder)

“Hajime. Nagumo Hajime. And you?” (Hajime)

The surrounding demi-humans frowned upon hearing Hajime’s informality with their Elder, resentment brewing in their hearts. With one hand, the Elder calmed them and introduced himself.

“I am Ulfric Heipyst. One of the Elders of Faea Belgaen. I have heard your request; however, before that, I must ask you a favor. Where did find out about the [Liberators]?” (Ulfric)

“Hm? From the Abyss in the [Orcus Great Dungeon]. It was one of the [Liberators]’ hideout, Oscar Orcus’ to be exact”

Without any hesitation, Hajime answered Ulfric who was intrigued by the topic of the [Liberators]. Ulfric was secretly astonished by Hajime’s response. The reason was that the title of [Liberator] and Oscar Orcus’ name was only known by a handful of the Elders.

“Fumu, from the Abyss… I haven’t heard Oscar Orcus’ name for a long time. Can you prove what you have said?” (Ulfric)

Ulfric asked Hajime that question because there was a possibility that the information was leaked by the upper echelons of Faea Belgaen. Hajime revealed a difficult expression. If he proved that he knew of this information based upon his level of strength, that would be too unbelievable. Yue, tilting her head, gave Hajime a suggestion.

“… Hajime, what about a magic stone from Orcus’ Abode?” (Yue)

“Ah! That’s right! If it’s that…” (Hajime)

He clasped his hand, and a magic stone with quality unobtainable on the surface emerged from the [Treasure Warehouse]. He then passed it to Ulfric.

“Th-this is…! A magic stone with such purity, never before have I seen such an object!” (???)

Even though Ulfric hid his surprise, the demi-human next to him unintentionally remarked his surprise.

“Now look at this. It was once a ring that Orcus used.” (Hajime)

As he was talking, he showed him Orcus’ ring. Seeing the carved symbol on the ring, Ulfric eyes flew wide opened. He slowed his breath to control his flying emotions.

“Indeed, you have certainly reached Oscar Orcus’ hideout. Although I now have many more questions pertaining to your tale, I shall permit you safe passage within Faea Belgaen’s lands. The Haulia as well.” (Ulfric)

The surrounding demi-humans were surprised at Ulfric’s words, including the Haulia tribe. Led by the tiger-tailed demi-humans, the guardsmen began protesting. It was only natural, however, for the demi-humans to protest. A human had been invited into Faea Belgaen after all.

“They must be treated as guests. They are qualified for such treatment. You have heard your Elder’s words, now perform your duties.” (Ulfric)

Ulfric calmed the surroundings with a stern look. However, Hajime was the one who began to protest now.

“Wait one moment. Why the hell have you decided on my agenda? My goal is the [Great Tree], I have no interest in Faea Belgaen. If you have no other questions, then I’ll be making my way to the Great Tree now.” (Hajime)

“… That is impossible currently.” (Ulfric)

“What did you say?” (Hajime)

Hajime believed that Ulfric was going to interfere, however, he immediately continued-

“The fog around the [Great Tree] is especially thick at this time, even demi-humans would get lost on their way. However, the fog follows a cycle, becoming thinner during certain times. The next chance will be in 10 days. I had believed that all demi-humans would know of this cycle…” (Ulfric)

Ulfric looked at Hajime as though he was an idiot. However, Hajime felt Ulfric’s gaze directed to someone behind him. Hajime finally understood what had been said and now glared at Kam. Speaking of Kam-

“… Ah!” (Kam)

Hajime appeared gargantuan as he glared at Kam.

“… Kam, do you have something to say… ?” (Hajime)

“Ah! We-well, what can I say? … Lo-look, a lot has happened, right? I just forgot about it… I’ve only been there once when I was a child, so I was not aware of the cycle…!” (Kam)

Kam, flustered, began searching for an excuse. Unable to take Hajime and Yue’s intimidating gaze, he found a scapegoat.

“… Shia! The others too! Why didn’t you tell me?! You know about the cycle, right?!” (Kam)

“What?! Father, you’ve misplaced your anger! I was… because father was so confident, I thought that time must have been near, you know…? … In other words, it’s father’s fault~!” (Shia)

“Th-that’s right! Even we thought, ‘Huh? Isn’t that weird?’ But Chief seemed so confident about it. We thought that we were wrong…” (Rabbitman 1)

“Chief, it was because you were so excited about such a random thing…” (Rabbitman 2)

Kam, looking to drag his tribe down with him, watched as his tribe averted his gaze, casually pushing the responsibility onto him.

“Yo- you lot! Is this how a family acts! Th-th-th-that’s it! Joint responsibility! We were all responsible for this! Hajime-dono, please punish all of us for our mistake!” (Kam)

“Ah! How dirty! Father is dirty~! Because it’s scary being punished alone, you dragged us into it~!” (Shia)

“Chief! Please don’t involve us!” (Rabbitman 2)

“Idiot! You’ve seen how Hajime-dono is. I will not be punished alone!” (Kam)

“Yo-you! How can you call yourself a chief!” (Rabbitman 3)

The Rabbitman tribe was known to have the greatest affection for each other among demi-humans, but just where did that affection go? As expected of Shia’s family, they were all shameless rabbits.

Hajime, about to burst a blood vessel, muttered a word.

“… … Yue.” (Hajime)
“Nn.” (Yue)

Yue stepped forward with her right hand raised, expression hidden. Noticing Yue’s menacing figure, the Haulia tribe’s expression cramped.

“Wa! Please wait, Yue-san! If you want to punish someone, just give it to father!” (Shia)

“Hahaha! We’ll always be together!” (Kam)

“The hell with together!” (Rabbitman 4)

“Yue-dono, please only hit the chief!” (Rabbitman 5)

“It’s not my fault, it’s not my fault, the one at fault was the chief!” (Rabbitman 1)

As chaos overtook the Haulia tribe, Yue only muttered.

“…[Storm Emperor]!” (Yue)

“ “ “Aaaaaaaagh~!!!” “ “ (Haulia tribe)

As those rabbit-ears flew into the sky, their screams permeated throughout the [Haltina Sea of Trees]. Even though their brethren were attacked, Ulfric and the surrounding demi-humans weren’t mad at all. In fact, they looked at the sky with amusement. From their expressions, it seemed the Haulia tribe’s shamelessness was widely known.

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This chapter is translated by Japtem and edited by AkashiXIV on 9th August 2019.

One of 7 Great Dungeons, the [Haltina Sea of Trees], was located within the country of demi-humans, Faea Belgaen. Thanks to the Magic Powered 2-Wheeled Drive pulling the two large carriages along with dozens of horses, Hajime and his party were now able to advance at a rather fast pace.

On the bike, Yue sat in Hajime’s lap while Shia sat behind him. At first, Shia was told to ride on one of the carriages, but she insisted on riding on the bike. Even though Yue kept harassing her, Shia kept clinging onto the bike like a zombie, so Yue finally gave up. Shia had finally met two people that were the “same” as her, so she wanted to talk about various things. However, much to Yue’s displeasure, Shia was hugging Hajime. Yue believed Shia had intentions of getting her hands on Hajime by using her shameful, lethal weapons.

Hajime, who was sandwiched between the ill-humored Yue and good-humored Shia, absentmindedly drove on.

In that state, Hajime heard Yue’s voice.

“… Hajime, why did you fight them by yourself?” (Yue)

“Hm?” (Hajime)

Yue was talking about the fight with the empire’s soldiers. At that time, Hajime fought them alone after stopping Yue from utilizing magic. Even though there would’ve been almost no difference if Hajime had just let Yue “insta-kill” the soldiers, Hajime had fought alone, and that made Yue anxious.

“Well, I just wanted to confirm…” (Hajime)

“… Confirm?” (Yue)

Yue asked him with a doubtful face. Shia, intrigued, rested her head on his shoulder.

In summary, Hajime had two reasons for fighting solo. One, Hajime had stopped Yue because he wanted to use this fight as an experiment. Even though it looked like he head-shot all of the soldiers, he had also shot at their armor. He thought that it’d be overkill to use rail guns all the time. It’d be too dangerous for him to use them in town because of their penetrating power. Though he had no problem turning thugs into dust, the bullets would also penetrate any nearby residential housing and possibly kill whoever was inside! Hajime didn’t want to become someone who indiscriminately killed unrelated people. Thus, it was necessary to understand how to control his power output, which he fine-tuned throughout this fight.

The other reason was to confirm whether he’d hesitate to kill humans. Even though he had been reborn in that hell, he had yet to experience killing a human. Therefore, he wanted to see how he would react after killing humans. The result was that he felt nothing. As expected, he had no qualms with removing anyone that obstructed his path.

“Even though I felt nothing when I killed those soldiers, when I think about how drastically I’ve changed, it makes me feel somewhat sentimental…” (Hajime)

“… Are you okay?” (Yue)

“Ah, there’s no problem now. This is the current me. I’m just glad that I’ll be able to fight properly from now on.” (Hajime)

Having heard Hajime’s story, Shia was surprised that this was the first time he had killed a human. At the same time, she admired Yue who was able to notice the slight change in Hajime’s mood. Once again, she felt lonely due to her lack of familiarity with Hajime and Yue.

“Un, about that! Can I hear more about Hajime-san and Yue-san?” (Shia)

“… Aren’t we talking about that right now?” (Hajime)

“I don’t want to know about what abilities you two have, but like why were you inside the Abyss? What are your objectives? What have you done until now? I want to know more about you two, you know?” (Shia)

“…. After you hear that, what then?” (Yue)

“Even if you ask me that, I just want to know… I, because of my circumstances, have brought a lot of trouble to my family. I hated myself so much when I was a child, but of course, everyone told me to cheer up and now I don’t mind it as much. Even so, I still feel like an oddball in this world. That’s why I was so happy when I met the two of you. To find people who were similar to me, it was an overwhelming feeling. Although it is selfish of me, I wa- want to become your companion… so can’t you tell me more about the two of you…?” (Shia)

It seemed Shia was embarrassed by her own words, as her voice became smaller and smaller, hiding her face behind Hajime’s back. When Hajime and Yue thought back to when they met Shia, they remembered how incredibly happy she was. When they left to save the Haulia tribe from the Hyverias, Shia had found out that they were capable of using magic manipulation. Shia must have been feeling anxious since then.

In this world, those who were capable of magic manipulation like demonic beasts would never be accepted. As such, it’s only natural to think that those who have been rejected and isolated from society would bond together. Despite that being said, for Hajime and Yue, they felt no sense of camaraderie with Shia. But, because it would help pass the time, Hajime and Yue started to tell their story.

The result is….

“Huuuuu~! Cruel, how cruel~! Hajime-san and Yue-san had it hard~! Compared to that, I was blessed… Uu~, I didn’t lack anything at all~…” (Shia)

She cried. As she continued sobbing about her misconceptions, she continued to wipe her face using the overcoat Hajime had lent her. She had thought her that her circumstances were worse compared to Hajime and Yue’s circumstances, which led to self-admonishment in her shame.

After crying for a while, Shia suddenly clasped her hand into a fist and declared with a resolute expression—

“Hajime-san! Yue-san! I have decided! I will join you in your travels! From now on, under this sun, Shia Haulia has promised to help the two of you! There is no need to be reserved. The three of us are now comrades. Let us overcome our hardship and find hope together!”

Hajime and Yue could only give her a cold look as she made her declaration.

“What did this weak and pathetic rabbit just say? You’d only be a hindrance.” (Hajime)

“…. Casually changing ‘I want to be a comrade’ into ‘I am a comrade’, what a shameless rabbit.” (Yue)

“Wh-why the cold look? Aren’t you moved? … And please call me properly by name!” (Shia)

The mood froze as Shia trembled in their cold gaze. Hajime continued—

“You, don’t you simply want someone to be your travel companion?” (Hajime)

“!?” (Shia)

Shia was stunned.

“Once your tribe is in safe hands, you wanted to leave them, right? And along we came, people who were the ‘same’ as you, so you decided to go with us? A Rabbitman with such an unusual hair color would surely find it difficult if they traveled alone, after all.” (Hajime)

“… even if you say that… I, I only wanted to…” (Shia)

Maybe because he had hit the bullseye, Shia sputtered out a few words in denial. The truth was that she was determined to leave her tribe once gaining Hajime’s agreement. As long as she remained with her tribe, they would never truly be out of harm’s way. Their current trip was an exemplary example. Who knew what trouble would find them next if Shia stayed. She felt that she should no longer endanger her tribe, despite if her tribe judged this as an act of betrayal.

At worst, she had resolved to go alone, but she knew that would make her tribe even more worried. On the other hand, if she said it was to repay Hajime and Yue for their services, it would be easier to convince her tribe to let her leave as she would be in safe hands. Shia despaired that her intentions were so easily read.

Of course, Shia was still interested in Hajime and Yue. Despite what Hajime and Yue felt about her, she felt a strong sense of camaraderie with them. In fact, Shia believed her encounter with Hajime and Yue was due to fate.

“But it’s not like I can blame you for thinking so. However, our objectives are the [Seven Great Dungeons]. The dungeon’s interior will be infested with monsters similar to those in the Abyss. You would probably die the instant you stepped foot into the dungeon. It is for that very reason I can’t allow you to go with us.” (Hajime)

“…” (Shia)

Hajime’s relentless remarks made Shia fall silent. Hajime and Yue, unconcerned about Shia’s feelings, continued to berate her with the reality of her situation.

From then on, Shia quietly sat on the bike with an unreadable expression.

After several hours, their party finally arrived at the border of the [Haltina Sea of Trees]. From the outside, not only could they see a dense forest, they could see a ghostly fog coming from the woods, seemingly ready to devour them.

“Well then, Hajime-dono, Yue-dono. Please do not leave our side from here on out. Even though it may be possible for you to advance by yourself, it would be a problem if you get lost in there. Our destination is within the depth of this forest, under the [Great Tree], is that correct?” (Kam)

“I have only read about it. The entrance to a real dungeon seems to be located there.” (Hajime)

Kam wanted to confirm their destination for the last time before they departed into the [Haltina Sea of Trees]. What Kam called the [Great Tree] was located within the depths of the [Haltina Sea of Trees]. Also known as the [Great Tree Ua Alt] by demi-humans, the area had become a sacred place that no one dared to approach. Kam had explained the significance of the [Great Tree Ua Alt] to them when they had been traveling in the [Raisen Great Canyon].

At first, Hajime had thought that the [Haltina Sea of Trees] was one enormous dungeon. However, if that were true, then the wandering demonic beasts they had seen should have been as strong as the ones inside the Abyss, making it impossible for demi-humans to live there. The [Seven Great Dungeons] all had unclear entrances, including the [Orcus Great Dungeon]. So when he heard about the [Great Tree] from Kam, Hajime had a new suspicion.

Kam nodded at Hajime’s response, then signaled to the other tribe members to build a formation with Hajime at the center.

“Hajime-dono, if it is possible, please erase your presence. The [Great Tree] is a sacred place, so I believe it unlikely to happen upon anyone. However, if we happen to encounter someone from Faea Belgaen, a large problem would arise.” (Kam)

“I see. I’ll do that then. Yue and I can do that to some degree.” (Hajime)

Hajime used the skill [Hide Presence] while Yue thinned her presence using the method she developed in the Abyss.

“!? That is… Hajime-dono, if possible, could you adjust your presence to match that of Yue-dono?” (Kam)

“Hm? … Is this alright?” (Hajime)

“Yes, that is enough. If you hid as much as you had, even we would have lost sight of you! As expected of such a capable man!” (Kam)

Although their specs were low on many fronts, the Rabbitman tribe prided themselves in their stealth ability and eyesight. However, Yue’s method for hiding her presence rivaled their own. Hajime’s skill, [Hide Presence], had even exceeded their capabilities. If it were anywhere else, they might have been able to maintain sight of him. But inside the ominous fog that always filled the [Haltina Sea of Trees], they would surely lose him, even with their Rabbitman tribe’s prided ability.

Having his tribe’s prized ability surpassed by a human, Kam could only smile wryly. Yue puffed out her chest, priding herself in Hajime’s ability. Shia was in turmoil.

“Shall we head out?” (Kam)

Under Kam’s command, their party advanced. Kam and Shia headed into the fog towards the heart of the [Haltina Sea of Trees], complex feelings arising in their hearts.

After a while, the road forward vanished, the fog thickening as they continued. However, Kam maintained his pace. It was as though he knew their precise location in this fog, clear on which way was the path forward. For whatever reason, only demi-humans were capable of navigating the path through the [Haltina Sea of Trees].

Suddenly, Kam gave the order to stop. They carefully observed their surroundings. Demonic beasts had enclosed on them. Naturally, Hajime and Yue also noticed them. The Haulia tribe drew their knives that Hajime had given them when they entered. Normally, during such encounters, they would just escape. But how could acting as Hajime and Yue’s guide through the [Haltina Sea of Trees] be considered a normal situation? Tension filled the air.

Hajime nonchalantly waved his left hand across his body. The faint sound of objects flying rang out.

DOSAa! DOSAa! DOSAa!

” ” ” KIiiii!?” ” ” (Monsters)

Screams rang as three bodies hit the ground. Three panicked monkey-like creatures around 60 cm tall with four arms, each with sharp claws, agilely rose from the ground and charged at them.

Yue held up her hand, aiming at the one furthest forward, muttered-

“[Wind Blade].” (Yue)

A blade of wind appeared and rushed forward, slicing the creature in two without resistance. Quietly, the creature fell to the ground.

The other two split up. One of them approached a child while the other aimed its four claws at Shia. Shia and the child froze in place. The nearby adults cried out in fear, but their worries were for naught.

Hajime once again aimed his left arm and flickering whispers sounded as the creatures collapsed with countless numbers of 10 cm long needles extending from their heads.

What Hajime just used was a Needle Gun equipped on his artificial left arm. He felt inspired by the scorpion-esque creature he had fought in that hell, and so created the Needle Gun. To fire, it required [Lightning Clad]. Though it was not on the level of Donner and Schlagen in terms of firepower, it was still lethal, as the needles carried poison. It only had an effective range of 10 m, but the Needle Gun was silent and hidden: a secret weapon. Because they were inside the [Haltina Sea of Trees], Hajime decided they couldn’t afford the attention Donner and Schlagen would have brought.

“Th-thank you, Hajime-san.” (Shia)

“Onii-chan, thank you!” (Child)

Shia and the child thanked him. Hajime gestured them not to worry about it. The boy looked at him with sparkling eyes, but Shia suddenly dropped her shoulders when she recalled how pathetic she had acted.

Kam wryly smiled at her. They continued on after being urged by Hajime.

Afterward, all the demonic beasts were quietly handled by Hajime and Yue. The troublesome demonic beasts of the [Haltina Sea of Trees] proved no problem for them.

However, after several hours had passed since they entered the [Haltina Sea of Trees], their travel was interrupted by an innumerable number of presences that quickly surrounded them. The killing intent they felt was incomparable to that of demonic beasts, leading Kam to restlessly confirm their location.

“You are… why have you brought in humans?! Tell us what tribe you’re from!” (???)

The Haulia tribe appeared to have lost all hope as that voice resounded. Shia’s face paled.

When Hajime and Yue discovered who it was, they immediately felt that their situation had become troublesome.

A muscular demi-human with tiger ears and tail had appeared.

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This chapter is translated by Japtem and edited by AkashiXIV on 26th July 2019.

Hajime, Yue, and the Haulia tribe advanced within the [Raisen Great Canyon].

Several demonic beasts tried to attack them but to no avail. Those that tried to assault the Rabbitman tribe had their heads blown off with a flash without exception.

Every flash was accompanied by a gunshot. The Rabbitman tribe looked around dumbfoundedly, as the demonic beasts’ corpses littered the ground like flowers in a flower field. Awestruck by his power, the Rabbitman turned their gazes upon Hajime.

Especially one child in particular. They were looking at Hajime as though he was a hero from legend.

“Fufufu~, Hajime-san. The little ones are watching, you know~? Why don’t you wave at them?” (Shia)

Shia immediately tried to tease Hajime, who was already in a bad mood due to that child’s innocent gaze.

A vein popped out of his head, and Hajime silently fired his gun.

DOPANn! DOPANn! DOPANn!

“Awawwawawawawagh!?” (Shia)

With Hajime aiming at her feet, Shia frantically jumped around to evade them, making it look like she was tap dancing. Shia’s father, Kam, revealed a wry smile at this spectacle while Yue looked at her with expressionless marvel.

“Haha, so Shia and Hajime-dono are already that close. It looks like Shia has already hit that age, huh? Father will feel a bit lonely, but if it is Hajime-dono, then I can be relieved.” (Kam)

Even though his daughter was still being shot at, Kam celebrated this occasion as though it was Shia’s marriage day, a tear forming in the corner of his eye. The other tribe members also looked at her with a warm gaze, although she was screaming “Help me~!” all the while.

“Wait, all of you. How did you come to that conclusion looking at this situation?” (Hajime)
“…. Unbelievable.” (Yue)

It was as Yue said. It seemed that the Haulia tribe was rather lacking in the common sense department. However, who was to say it didn’t apply to all the Rabbitman tribes…

After walking for a long time, their group finally arrived at the entrance of the [Raisen Great Canyon]. There was a finely built staircase for as far as Hajime could see, even with [Far Sight]. The stairs were built by cutting alongside the cliff face, zigzagging every 50 meters. The [Haltina Sea of Trees] was around half a day’s walk after exiting the [Raisen Great Canyon].

When Hajime gazed up towards the rim of the canyon, Shia uneasily asked.

“Do you see any of the empire’s soldiers?” (Shia)

“Hm? What can I say… there’s the possibility that they’ve been annihilated already…” (Hajime)

“Th-that is… suppose that the empire’s soldiers are around, Hajime-san…, what will you do then?” (Shia)

“…? What do you mean by that?” (Hajime)

Hajime tilted his head because he couldn’t understand what Shia was trying to ask. The ears of the Haulia tribe here perked up because of her question.

“Unlike demonic beasts, the enemy this time will be the empire’s soldiers, the human race, you know? A human like Hajime-san…… are you sure you will be able to fight them?” (Shia)

“Failure rabbit, haven’t you already seen the future?” (Hajime)

“Yes, I have. Hajime-san was confronting the empire’s soldiers…” (Shia)

“Then what’s the problem?” (Shia)

“I wanted to confirm your resolve. In order to protect us, the Haulia tribe, from the empire’s soldiers, you have to confront other humans. Are you truly okay with that, with fighting against other humans…?” (Shia)

Having heard Shia’s words, the surrounding Rabbitmen nervously looked at Hajime. The children couldn’t understand the significance of what was happening, but they could guess from the serious atmosphere something drastic could happen.

However, despite such a serious atmosphere, Hajime casually replied.

“What’s wrong with that?” (Hajime)
“Eh?” (Shia)

Hajime continued to talk, ignoring Shia’s confusion.

“Like I just said. I have no problem with fighting other humans.” (Hajime)

“Th-that…! You’re from the same race, you know?!” (Shia)

“Didn’t your tribe also get chased out by the same race?” (Hajime)

“That is… well if you put it that way…” (Shia)

“… You’re wrong about my intentions, however.” (Hajime)

“Intentions?” (Shia)

Shia tilted her head while the surrounding Rabbitmen looked confused.

“Listen, I am employing your tribe to be my guide through the [Haltina Sea of Trees], so I’ll be troubled if any of you die. It’s not like I sympathize with any of you, or have the kindness to do that. Moreover, I won’t be protecting you guys forever. Did you forget that?” (Hajime)

“Ugh… I remember…” (Shia)

“That so? I’ll protect you until my business in the [Haltina Sea of Trees] is over. I only act in my self-interest. It doesn’t matter if it’s demonic beasts or humans, if they try to obstruct my path, they will be eliminated. Simple as that.” (Hajime)

“I- I see…” (Shia)

Shia could only reply in a disappointed fashion towards Hajime’s remark. Even if she saw Hajime confronting the empire with [Clairvoyance], that future wasn’t absolute. Other futures seemed more probable to her, one of them where they became slaves under the empire, living a life worse than death. Shia blamed herself for the possibility of those futures, even if she knew everyone else wouldn’t blame her for not preventing them. Thus, she had resolved to ascertain the most likely future that would take place.

“Haha, it is good to clear any misconceptions. Please leave it to us to guide you through the [Haltina Sea of Trees].” (Kam)

Kam laughed cheerfully. Rather than acting under a naive sense of justice, Hajime treated this as a give and take situation, giving him a renewed sense of security. His face said it all.

Their party had gradually reached the stairs. Hajime went ahead of them to scout the situation. When they had escaped from the empire’s soldiers before, the Haulia tribe hadn’t gotten the chance to eat or drink anything. Unexpectedly though, the Haulia tribe remained on their toes, as though they were still in pristine condition. The rumor that demi-humans, who were unable to use magic, had higher physical strength and endurance seemed true.

At long last, Hajime’s group had escaped from the execution ground, the [Raisen Great Canyon].

When they peered over the cliff-

“Oi, oi, seriously? There are survivors! Even though I was reluctant to stay here on the commander’s orders, it turns out I can bring back a good souvenir~.” (Random Soldier)

There were around 30 imperial soldiers. Behind them, there were many carriages and tents set up. All of the soldiers were dressed in Khaki-like uniforms and equipped with either a sword and shield or with a spear. They turned towards Hajime’s group in surprise.

However, that only lasted for an instant. Their eyes immediately shone with delight when they saw the Rabbitman tribe.

“Platoon leader! The pale-haired Rabbitman is also there! Isn’t she the one that the commander wanted?” (Random Soldier)

“Oh ho! It looks like we hit the jackpot. Your orders are to kill everyone but the pale-haired Rabbitman!” (Platoon Leader)

“Platoon leader~, there are some women in that group. Can’t we have a taste of them? We’ve waited here for 3 days! Please overlook it~…” (Random Soldier)

“Geez. Just don’t keep all of them. If it’s only two or three, then it’s okay.” (Platoon Leader)

“As expected of platoon leader! You really do look out for us!” (Random Soldier)

For the empire’s soldiers, the Rabbitman tribe wasn’t a threat in their eyes, they only focused on which of the women in the group they wanted to toy with later while they advanced. Seeing those soldiers, the Rabbitman tribe could do nothing but tremble in fright.

Among those clamoring soldiers, the man called the platoon leader finally notice Hajime’s presence.

“Ah? Who are you? It looks like… you’re not a Rabbitman.” (Platoon Leader)

Hajime, deeming it impossible to just avoid this confrontation altogether, simply responded-

“Aa. I’m human alright.” (Hajime)

“Haa~? Why is a human together with Rabbitmen? You even came from the canyon. Oh, are you a slave merchant? How did you hear about these Rabbitmen? What a great business spirit you have to even come out here yourself. However, these Rabbitman belong to the empire, so please move aside.” (Platoon Leader)

The platoon leader made the most obvious assumption about Hajime’s circumstances, thus believing that he had the authority to order Hajime around.

Of course, there was no need for Hajime to listen to him, as that platoon leader’s assumption was way off the mark.

“I refuse.” (Hajime)

“… Did you just say something?” (Platoon Leader)

“Are you deaf? I said I refuse. These guys are mine now. I won’t give you even one. I recommend you to pack up and go back home now.”(Hajime)

He thought what he heard was a mistake, but that man was defying an imperial order. The platoon leader grimaced in fury.

“… boy, mind your words now. Is there something wrong with your head to not recognize who we are?” (Platoon Leader)

“I know who you are. Is YOUR head on right?” (Hajime)

The platoon leader glared at Hajime. The other Soldiers also glared at Hajime, creating a tense atmosphere. As the platoon leader scorned Hajime, he suddenly noticed a petite figure behind Hajime’s back. Even inside that tense atmosphere, Yue’s beauty shone just as brightly, immediately enchanting the platoon leader. He smirked lustfully.

“Ah~, I see. I finally understand now. You’re nothing but a naive, ******, little boy! Let me teach you the horrors of this world. That young miss over there, now isn’t she a little beauty? After I chop your limbs off, I’ll play with her in front of your eyes until I’m satisfied, then sell her over to the slave merchants after I finish you off!”

Hajime creased his brows in utter wrath. Even the expressionless Yue couldn’t help but express extreme disgust that anyone could tell. Yue extended her right hand, prepared to eliminate the trash that dared violate her presence.

However, she was stopped by Hajime. Dumbfounded, Yue could only hear Hajime say-

“In conclusion, you are my enemy, right?” (Hajime)

“Ah?! Do you still not understand your situation! You ******* should be trembling on the ground seeking forgive-!?” (Platoon Leader)

DOPANn!!

The irritated platoon leader was unable to finish his sentence. Reason being that his brain was no longer operational. With a big hole in the middle of his forehead, his brain leaked out from behind his head, and he collapsed just like that.

The other soldiers could only stare dumbfoundedly at the platoon leader’s corpse.

DOPANn!

One gunshot was heard, but six of the empire’s soldiers collapsed. In actuality, Hajime had shot at six soldiers scattered across the field, but due to his insane stats, abilities, and weapons, the six gunshots resounded as one.

Naturally, after seeing their leader and comrades collapse, the soldiers panicked and turned their weapons towards Hajime. Even though they didn’t understand how they died, they understood who had killed them. Their personality aside, as expected of the empire’s soldiers, their capabilities on the battlefield was the real deal.

The soldiers immediately charged forward while the mages in the rear started to chant. However, something had rolled into the backline while they charged. It was a black, cylindrical object. What could it be? Though they were puzzled, they never stopped chanting, when suddenly-

DOGANn!!

The “grenade” had exploded. Moreover, shrapnel had consumed the backline. Compared to the ones on Earth, it’s power was undoubtedly far stronger. It was only able to be created due to this world’s unique ores.

In one move, 10 soldiers had died. Their hands and feet had been blown off their bodies, their organs splattered everywhere. Seven audible voices could be heard screaming in pain.

Hearing the explosion behind them, the seven soldiers who had acted as the vanguard immediately stopped their charge. While turning back in confusion, the vanguard was suddenly left with one man. Blood sprayed all around him. In shock, he fell to his knees. He looked to the sky in disbelief. It was no wonder. In only an instant, his companions were annihilated. These were elite warriors. Elite warriors who had complained about being stationed in the middle of nowhere. He looked around only to find himself feeling alone in a living nightmare of disassembled bodies.

He suddenly heard an aloof voice coming from behind him.

“… As expected, there’s no need to use [Lightning Clad]. The usual bullet and firing mechanism was enough. The [Combustion Stone] is REALLY convenient though.”

That soldier turned towards Hajime in fright. Hajime tapped Donner on his shoulder as he slowly approached the lone vanguard. His figure with his fluttering black coat made him look like a grim reaper.

“Hiii! Do-don’t come any closer! I don’t want to die! So-someone, help me!” (Random Soldier)

That soldier pleaded for his life. His face distorted in fear and piss leaked from his crotch. Hajime looked at him coldly, then slowly open fired in succession.

“Hii!” (Random Soldier)

That soldier prepared for a death that had yet to come. Hajime had shot the soldiers who had been severely injured by the grenades. When he noticed he had yet to die, the last surviving soldier timidly surveyed the battlefield, only to find he was truly alone in this disastrous scene of annihilation.

The gun’s muzzle finally aimed at the stiffened soldier. His body shook, and with an unbecoming expression, he once again begged for salvation.

“I-I implore you! Please don’t kill me! I-I’ll do anything! Anything!” (Soldier)

“Is that so? Then, please, tell me what happened to the other Rabbitmen. Even though there should be a lot of them here… have they been transported to the empire?” (Hajime)

Hajime, as self-centered as always, only asked about the circumstances of the other Rabbitmen because it would be bothersome to go out of his way to rescue them.

“Wi-will you spare me if I tell you?” (Soldier)

“You, do you think you are in any position to demand anything of me? It’s not like I need this information. Would you like to die this instant?” (Hajime)

“Ple-please wait! I’ll tell you! I’ll tell you! They’ve probably been transported because we already reached the quota…” (Soldier)

A quota was fulfilled. In other words, after having captured enough able-bodied Rabbitmen, the others must have been killed. After hearing that, bitterness painted the Rabbitmen’s faces. Hajime took a peek at their expression. He immediately looked back at the soldier, killing intent manifesting in his eyes.

“Wait! Please wait! I’ll tell you anything! The empire’s secrets, anything you want! So please!” (Soldier)

Having noticed Hajime’s killing intent, the soldier desperately pleaded for his life. The answer to his desperate plea was…

DOPANn!

One bullet.

The Rabbitmen all sucked in a breath. Due to Hajime’s completely unforgiving behavior, fear of Hajime had awoken in them. Who knew if Shia also felt the same, but she timidly asked Hajime all the same.

“Wo-wouldn’t it have been okay to just overlook that one person…?” (Shia)

Hajime glanced at her with such astonishment that Shia could only feel as though she had said something inappropriate. It looked like the Rabbitman tribe could even forgive the people responsible for the enslavement and genocide of their tribe. When Hajime was about to speak, Yue immediately said-

“… Once they’ve drawn their weapons, even if the opponent wasn’t strong, they’ll become an inconvenience sooner or later…” (Yue)

“Th-that is…” (Shia)

“… How dare you shame Hajime when he protected you and your tribe…” (Yue)

“…” (Shia)

Yue was furious. Even though they were currently protecting them, she wouldn’t forgive anyone who harbored negative feelings towards Hajime. Even though they hadn’t intended to disgrace their savior, the Haulia tribe felt ashamed.

“Fumu, Hajime-dono, I sincerely apologize on behalf of my tribe. We do not blame you for your actions, it is just that we are not accustomed to such a sight…” (Kam)

“Hajime-san, I am sorry.” (Shia)

Having heard Shia and Kam apologize to him on behalf of their tribe, Hajime could only wave his hands to tell them he paid it no attention.

After that, Hajime went to where the empire’s horses and carriages were and told the Haulia tribe to hop on. Even though it would only take them half a day to walk to the [Haltina Sea of Trees], since they could use horses and carriages, they should use them. He took out the Magic Powered 2-Wheeled Drive from his [Treasure Warehouse] and linked it to the line of carriages. And so, the party continued their trek towards the [Haltina Sea of Trees].

Yue had used wind magic to drop the empire’s soldiers’ corpses into the canyon before they left. What remained of the battlefield was nothing but a field stained with blood.

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This chapter is translated by Japtem and edited by AkashiXIV on 25th July 2019.

Screams echoed inside the [Raisen Great Canyon].

The figures of desperate Rabbitmen fleeing to hide behind rocks could be seen. Looking around, Hajime could see 20 Rabbitmen hiding behind rocks. If combined with those still fleeing, there would be around 40 people.

In the sky, flying demonic beasts, that were rare even inside that hell, were glaring at the frightened Rabbitman tribe. The flying demonic beast’s appearance was similar to what gamers would call a wyvern. Their wingspan was around 3-5 meters with sharp claws and fangs, equipped with a sharp thorn at the swelling end of their long tail, similar to mace.

“Hy-hyveria….” (Shia)

Over Hajime’s shoulder, Shia’s trembling voice could be heard. It seemed that those Wyvern-like creatures were called “Hyveria”. There were six of them circling in the sky, waiting for a chance to catch the cowering Rabbitmen.

Finally, one Hyveria took action. After adjusting its position in the sky, the Hyveria dove towards one of the large rocks where some Rabbitmen were hiding and struck the rock with its swinging tail. A deafening sound resounded, and the remains of the pulverized rock flung the screaming Rabbitmen in all directions.

Looking upon its helpless prey, the Hyveria heavily landed where the rock was before and roared at the frightened Rabbitmen in its presence. A Rabbitman could be seen shielding a child from the fangs of the Hyveria that encroached upon them.

Seeing this scene, only despair could be seen on the other Rabbitmen’s faces. No one knew which of their family members would be the Hyveria’s next meal. But that concern was unnecessary.

DOPANn!! DOPANn!!

Two flashes were seen, and the overlapping echoes of gunshots could be heard in the canyon. One of the shots was aimed at the back of the attacking Hyveria’s head. With a hole ripped through its brain, the Hyveria stopped mid-roar and fell on its side before the shielded child.

At the same time, the whistling sound of an object falling caused the Rabbitmen to look up. Without any time to be surprised, the Rabbitmen saw one of the Hyverias without its arm, blood bursting from its shoulder while it writhed in pain. The Hyveria tumbled to the ground, skidding across the earth, causing the Rabbitmen to collapse onto their knees from the collision.

“Wh-what is….” (Rabbitman 1)

The man who tried to cover the child could only mutter simple words in confusion while looking at the incomprehensible scene that took place before him.

When he heard the unfamiliar sound of a distinct explosion, he could only see a flash pass by. Suddenly, the Hyveria collapsed, causing the earth to tremor. When he finally came to after the miniature earthquake, it was dead already.

Seeing one comrade dead and the other collapsed on the ground, the other Hyveria roared in unparalleled rage. The cowering Rabbitmen covered their ears in response to the frightful roar. For comparison, the quality of sound resembled that of a jet engine. However, in the distance, a voice could be heard, and they turned their eyes to the source. What they saw was a black vehicle traveling in their direction, with 3 figures riding it at high speed.

Of the three, one of them was someone they knew all too well. In the morning, she had suddenly disappeared. She was the reason they were in this mess in the first place, as they went out to find her. The girl felt that it was her fault that the tribe is in the state they are now. She tried to conceal her feelings with outward cheerfulness, but her expression showed her inward anguish. Then, she suddenly disappears. So the Haulia tribe had no choice but to carefully search for the girl, even if the tribe would be annihilated before finding her.

That was the girl waving at them from the back of the black vehicle. Cheerfulness could be seen on her face. The Rabbitmen looked at her with disbelief.

“Everyone~, I have called for help~!” (Shia)

When they heard her voice, they had no choice but to believe it was real.

” ” “Shia?!” ” ” (Haulia Tribe)

Hajime made an irritated expression while driving the magic bike at high speed. When Shia saw her family in the distance, she immediately stood up and started waving her hands wildly. Even though standing on the bike was fine, Shia had leaned her body onto Hajime, and with her lethal weapons bouncing up and down, they continuously hit his head. Because of that, his aim shifted and the second Hyveria didn’t die.

Hajime gripped Shia’s arm in anger, who was still jumping up and down. Shia noticed his actions and tried to question him. Even if she couldn’t see Hajime’s face, she had an ominous premonition, so she timidly asked.

“Uummu, Hajime-san? What happened? Why are you grabbing my arm?” (Shia)

“… Because you’re so energetic, I thought I’d give you a job.” (Hajime)

“J-job…? W-what should I do?” (Shia)

“It’s easy. Just distract those starving demonic beasts. Easy, right?” (Hajime)

“!? Wha-what are you-! Ah, don’t lift me~! Don’t swiii-nnnn-gggg meeeeeeee~!!!” (Shia)

Shia, who’s smile was twitching, was easily lifted by Hajime, who had more than 10.000 in his strength stat.

Hajime, who was driving the Magic Powered 2-Wheeled Drive with one hand, started drifting to the side, threw Shia into the sky with a devilish grin.

“Go! Failure Rabbit!” (Hajime)
“Iya-aaa~~!!” (Shia)

The rabbit-eared girl flew in the sky with high speed. Shia’s scream echoed in the canyon. The Rabbitmen screamed, “Shia!” while looking upon this unbelievable spectacle with their eyes nearly popping out of their sockets. The Hyveria also roared, trying to catch the prey that came right for them, but Shia just flew passed them, right before their eyes.

Because Shia had caused a distraction, Hajime wouldn’t miss this opening. Those flying Hyveria had become “sitting ducks”. Four gunshots could be heard simultaneously, penetrating through the four Hyverias’ jaws in the same instant.

Unable to react, the Hyveria carcasses fell to the ground. Even though the Hyveria are known to be dangerous and troublesome demonic beasts with hard to resist attacks and stronger than the Daihedoa that attacked Shia, they dropped to the ground like flies. Looking into the dead eyes of the Hyveria that fell before them, the Haulia tribe stiffened.

Gradually, they heard a girl’s scream becoming increasingly closer and clearer.

“A-aaaaah~! Help me~, Hajime-sa-~n!” (Shia)

Hajime, who drove through the Rabbitmen tribe that started to frantically run around in an attempt to catch her, and splendidly caught the falling Shia while drifting to a stop. After that, he dropped Shia onto the ground with a-

“Failure rabbit.” (Hajime)
“Uu~! Be gentle with me~! I want you to treat me like Yue-san~!” (Shia)

Shia protested while pouting. It wasn’t like Shia loved Hajime, though. It’s just that, when she was in a time of desperation and isolation, Hajime appeared like a beacon of hope to her, creating a mysterious sense of trust in him. Even though he was without mercy, he hadn’t betrayed his promise to her. She felt secure around Hajime, and seeing that Hajime cherished Yue, hoped that she too could be treated well.

Having been tossed around so much and harassed by Yue’s kicks on the way here, Shia’s miserable scraps for clothes made her appear very pitiful. When Hajime saw Shia’s appearance, he reluctantly pulled a coat out of his [Treasure Warehouse] and draped it over Shia’s head, not wanting to be held responsible for her appearance. After doing so, he felt absolutely no responsibility whatsoever for his treatment towards Shia.

However, Hajime’s sudden action made Shia happy. Something was suddenly placed over her head, and when she saw it was a coat, she started to laugh. She immediately put it on. It was a similar white coat that Yue wore; the coat that Yue had originally made for Hajime to form a pair-look.

“Mou~! Hajime-san is just not honest at all, huh~? You gave me clothes similar to Yue’s…! Could it be because of my “womanly appeal”? That’s bad, you know~? I’m not that~ cheap! Please treat me more affectionately~!” (Shia)

Shia teasingly said while looking at Hajime with a seductive gaze. Irritated once again, Hajime silently pulled out Donner, aimed at Shia, and fired.

“Hakyun!” (Shia)

The bullet that was fired was a non-lethal bullet covered with a rubber-like substance from a demonic beast. But because of the firepower behind the bullet, Shia was still shot back and fell to the ground rolling back and forth in pain. She complained, “My head~… My head~…”, but as expected, her unnatural endurance kicked in and she immediately got up. The Rabbitman tribe immediately started to gather around her in worry.

“Shia! Are you okay!?” (???)
“Father!” (Shia)

The one who called out to her was a middle-aged, rabbit-eared man with short, dark blue hair. It was clear who the rabbit-eared man was. This spectacle gave him a surreal feeling, especially after seeing how the Hyverias were taken down. After calming down, Shia immediately began to explain to the Rabbitman tribe what happened while she was gone and the promise Hajime had made to her. Knowing that they had been saved, the entire tribe looked towards Hajime.

“Shall I call you Hajime-dono? I am Kam Haulia, Shia’s father and also the chief of the Haulia tribe. I cannot thank you enough for helping Shia and our tribe escape this precarious predicament. To even go as far as helping us flee from the empire, as a father and chief of my tribe, I wish to express my humble gratitude.” (Kam)

Kam, who introduced himself as the chief of the Haulia tribe, immediately bowed down to him. Behind him, the other Haulia tribe members mirrored his gesture.

“Please, raise your head. Don’t forget: after escaping the empire, you’ll be our guides into the [Haltina Sea of Trees]… Also, how can you trust us so easily? Demi-humans and humans don’t have good relations with each other, after all…” (Hajime)

Forget about Shia, in this world, demi-humans were discriminated against worldwide. In fact, it was a human empire that had cornered the Haulia tribe. Despite that, they had bowed down toward Hajime, who was clearly a human and even accepted Hajime’s help. Even though this was their only choice for survival, hadn’t they made this decision too quickly? Hajime started to doubt them whilst concealing his concerns.

In response, Kam answered with a wry smile.

“Shia trusts you, and so by extension, we trust you as well; because we are a family…” (Kam)

Hearing his answer, Hajime was astonished, admiring their naive solidarity. For a tribe to leave their nation for the sake of a single girl, then trust a human they knew nothing about, they must be a foolhardy group that threw caution to the wind; they were kind to a fault.

“Ehehe, it’s okay, father. Even though Hajime is unmerciful towards women, unconcerned with others, cruel enough to use others as bait, he will surely keep his promise! He is not like those scum that tramples over other’s hopes! He will protect us for sure!” (Shia)

“Hahaha, is that so? So he’s a shy one, isn’t he? If that’s so, I will believe in him.” (Kam)

Hearing Shia and Kam, the other tribe members murmured in agreement while looking at Hajime with warmth in their eyes.

Hajime, irritated enough to pop of blood vessel, started to pull out Donner when he was suddenly ambushed.

“… Nn, Hajime is a shy one… even in bed…” (Yue)

“Yue!?” (Hajime)

Their dialogue had given the demonic beasts enough time to begin gathering around their current camp, and so it would be troublesome if they continued to linger any longer.

Thus, they began their march towards the exit of the [Raisen Great Canyon].

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This chapter is translated by Japtem and edited by AkashiXIV on 24th July 2019.

“I refuse.” (Hajime)

Hajime’s frank response resulted in silence. With an expression as though she couldn’t comprehend what was said, Shia’s mouth gaped open with a stupid expression as she puzzledly looked at Hajime. Ignoring her, Hajime started to pour magic power into the Magic Powered 2-Wheeled Drive and a loud shout of protest could be heard.

“Wa- wa-wait! Why?! No matter how you think about it, your response should have been like, ‘How pitiful! Don’t worry!! I’ll do something about it!!’ with a reliable smile, you know! You had a sudden encounter with a bishoujo and you just ignore it! Eh, ah, don’t ignore me and keep going! I won’t let you go, you know~!!” (Shia)

Ignored, Shia jumped to cling onto Hajime’s leg again. From the serious and pitiful atmosphere from a while ago, her shameless rabbit mode was back in action.

Glaring at Shia, who didn’t show any sign of releasing his leg, Hajime released a sigh.

“You know…. What merit is there for me if I help you out?” (Hajime)

“Me-merit?” (Shia)

“Having been chased out of Faea Belgaen and pursued by the empire, you’re nothing but a heap of trouble, aren’t you? Assuming you and your tribe escape from the canyon, what’s next? Won’t you just get caught by the empire again, or will you flee to the mountain from there? Rely on me again, right? First, it’s to escape the canyon, next it’s to protect you and your tribe from the empire’s soldiers, and then it would be to escape from there to the northern mountain range, right? See, nothing but trouble.” (Hajime)

“Uuuu! Tha-that is true…. … bu- but!” (Shia)

“The two of us have a goal right now. We don’t have the time for something so cumbering and labor intensive.” (Hajime)

“That can’t be!! …. … But, even you should be able to see the reason to help us!” (Shia)

“…. That, you keep saying that, don’t you?… Is it related to your peculiar skill that you sought us out?”

Hajime was unable to understand the part of Shia’s tear filled story. Why did Shia stray away from her tribe? Hajime asked whether there was a connection between their encounter and her skill.

“Eh? Ah, yes. It’s called ‘Clairvoyance’. While I’m using it, I can predict what will happen in the future based upon the actions I take, to a certain extent. Also, it will automatically activate right before danger strikes. But, the future that I see isn’t absolute…! Tha-that’s right! I am useful, you know! With ‘Clairvoyance’, we’ll know if there is any danger! I used it a while ago! I could see you helping us! In fact, that’s how I met you!” (Shia)

In summary, Shia’s ‘Clairvoyance’ can predict a future based upon her choice of action at that moment. Not only does it require a large amount of magic power to activate, but she will be exhausted after one try. In addition, there are times when it’ll automatically activated, whether she wanted it to or not, when the situation is dangerous for Shia. Although this automatic function also consumes a large amount of magic power, it seems that it only consumes 1/3 the magic power of its manual usage.

Apparently, Shia left her tribe in order to find Hajime. She found a future where Hajime would protect her and her tribe. After that, she left her tribe behind in order to find Hajime. She was too excited at the prospect of finding Hajime that she carelessly ran alone into this dangerous place.

“If you have such amazing skill, how did the empire find you and your tribe? If you could predict when danger would strike, heck, you shouldn’t have been found out in Faea Belgaen, right?” (Hajime)

When this point was brought up by Hajime, Shia averted her eyes with a pained groan.

“Hii~!!! It was unusable at that time…” (Shia)

“That means you already used it before they found you… What the heck did you use it for?” (Hajime)

“That… I was anxious about my best friend’s love life…” (Shia)

“Isn’t that the same as peeping! Why the heck did you use such a precious skill for something so trivial?!” (Hajime)

“Uu~! I will seriously reflect on that from now on, okay?” (Shia)

“As expected, it’s useless. If you ask why I won’t help, it’s because YOU are useless. What a failure of a rabbit…” (Hajime)

Hajime looked away in astonishment while Shia, who was crying, kept clinging to him. As Hajime prepared to leave Shia in the dust, an unexpected hero came to Shia’s rescue.

“…. Hajime, take her along.” (Yue)

“Yue?” (Hajime)

“!? I knew you were a nice lady from the start! I’m so sorry for calling you flat-che- Guuufuuuu!” (Shia)

Hajime was dumbfounded when he heard Yue advocate for Shia, while Shia looked up at Yue with a thankful yet tearful expression. She happened to begin saying those forbidden words once again, only to receive divine punishment once again.

“…. Just as a guide around the [Haltina Sea of Trees].” (Yue)

“Aa~. I see.” (Hajime)

It is said that only demi-humans won’t get lost on the path to the [Haltina Sea of Trees], and if the Rabbitman tribe would guide them through, then that would be reassuring. Though there were some measures that Hajime could think of to resolve the situation when he got lost, it could be said that these measures weren’t foolproof. At worst, he planned to kidnap some demi-humans to guide them along the path, but if some demi-humans willingly decided to guide them through, that would be for the best. However, Hajime hesitated to agree because Shia had only a bundle of trouble so far.

Yue broke his hesitation.

“…. It’s okay; we are the strongest.” (Yue)

That’s exactly what Hajime had said in that hell. They had decided to not hold back their strength for this world. When they covered each other’s backs, they were the strongest. Hajime could only give a wry smile in response to Yue.

With help from Rabbitman tribe, it would surely be easier to search around the [Haltina Sea of Trees]. Avoiding the empire’s soldiers and nation of Faea Belgaen would be for the best, but it’s not like they were busybodies. If the encounter was unavoidable, Hajime decided to “kill” these obstructions to his path.

“Oi, be grateful, you trash rabbit. I’ll make you our guide through the [Haltina Sea of Trees]. Your reward will be your life .” (Hajime)

Without a doubt, Hajime had surely roleplayed as a yakuza. However, despite his word choice, Shia rejoiced that Hajime, who could easily kill the beasts of the [Raisen Great Canyon], promised to escort her tribe out of danger.

“Tha-Thank you very much! Uu~! What a relief~. Seriously, what a relief~…” (Shia)

Shia cried with joy. However, she immediately stood up because there was no time to lose.

“Uummu, I look forward to working with you! Wh-what should I call you…?” (Shia)

“Hm? Now that you mention it… I am Hajime. Nagumo Hajime” (Hajime

“…. Yue.” (Yue)

“I see, Hajime-san and Yue-chan. Hajime-san and Yue-chan… Hajime-san and Yue-chan… Hajime-san and Yue-chan…” (Shia)

Shia said their names several times to remember it. But, Yue, in dissatisfaction, interrupted her.

“… Failure rabbit.” (Yue)

“Fue!?” (Shia)

Shia was puzzled by Yue’s informal speech, because she thought Yue was younger than her due to her appearance. When she heard that Yue was a vampire and much older, she immediately apologized by prostrating before Yue. For Yue, it wasn’t like she hated her. Though for some unknown reason, Yue could be seen hatefully staring daggers at a certain asset of Shia’s!

“…For now, the failure rabbit can sit on the back.” (Hajime) ¹

Hajime, used to Yue’s ability to read his mind, irritately instructed Shia to hop on, resulting in Shia’s confusion. It couldn’t be helped, however, because there were no two wheeled vehicles that moved by using magic power in this world. However, because Shia understood it was some kind of vehicle, Shia slowly sat behind Yue in the end.

Although the Magic Powered 2-Wheeled Drive only had tandem seats that were made using a certain demonic beast’s leather, Yue and Shia were able to sit together because Yue only took up a small amount of space. Shia was surprised by the softness of the seat and started leaning forward onto Yue, pressing upon Yue her weapon.

Yue, who felt uncomfortable by Shia’s sudden action, slipped away by moving to Hajime’s lap. Her petite figure fit perfectly between Hajime’s arms. Yue couldn’t stand the feeling of Shia’s weapon upon her back. Hajime revealed a wry smile after guessing the reason why Yue switched seats while Yue wore a bitter expression.

“Eh?” (Shia)

Shia, confused about what had just happened, clung to Hajime’s waist with a happy expression. Hajime acted as though nothing had happened and just drove along. But it’s not like he had no reaction at all. He’d be lying if he didn’t.

Without noticing the conflict in Hajime and Yue’s mind, Shia asked Hajime a question over his shoulder.

“Uummu, even though travelling faster is better, what kind of vehicle is this? Moreover, Hajime-san and Yue-san are both magic-users, right? Even though magic shouldn’t be able to be used here…” (Shia)

“… I’ll explain.” (Hajime)

While saying so, Hajime increased his magic power output and accelerated the bike. The vehicle moved smoothly, and over Hajime’s shoulder, Shia’s thrilled scream could be heard. The ground and cliff face seemed to blur as they accelerated.

“Kyaaa~!” (Shia)

At the bottom of the canyon, Shia clung tightly onto Hajime while closing her eyes due to the wind. After getting accustomed to the speed, Shia gradually became more and more excited. When Hajime suddenly curved around a boulder, Shia squealed excitedly.

On the way, Hajime started to explain why they could use magic, how the bike operated, and how Hajime’s left arm and bike were similar to an artifact. Shia opened her eyes wide in astonishment.

“Eh?? Then both of you are able to directly manipulate magic and also capable of using unique magic…” (Shia)

“… Something like that.” (Hajime)

“… Nn.” (Yue)

For a while, Shia’s mind was blank from surprise. Suddenly, she buried her face into Hajime’s shoulder, starting to sob.

“… What is it now? You went from being an annoying rabbit to a depressed bunny, and now you’re a sobbing mess… You’re truly a failure rabbit.” (Hajime)

“… Failure rabbit.” (Yue)

“What do you mean? I’m not a failure! … It’s just that, when I think I’m not alone anymore, it somehow makes me happy…” (Shia)

” “…” ” (Yue)(Hajime)

It seemed that because her ability was similar to the demonic beast’s, she always thought she was the only one in this world with this ability. Her family raised her for 16 years and called her a family member. Although protecting her ultimately brought danger upon them, causing them to flee Faea Belgaen for her sake, they still loved her. Despite their love… no, because of their unique love for her, she felt isolated and alone; she was different from everyone else.

Hearing Shia’s words, Yue silently began to think. It seemed like her expressionless face was turning pale. Hajime was somehow able to understand Yue’s feelings. In all likelihood, Yue’s circumstances early on were probably almost the same as Shia’s. Both of them were capable of magic manipulation and using unique magic and skills, without being able to call anyone “kin”.

But there was a definite difference between them. While Yue did not have a family that loved and accepted her, Shia did. That gave Yue a rather complex feeling mixed with envy. From Shia’s perspective though, Yue was “kin”, someone she could finally say was truly like her. It was a complicated matter.

Hajime decided to pat then stroked Yue’s head in an effort to comfort her. Hajime, who was raised in a rich country like Japan with affectionate parents, only to be forsaken in an alternate world by his friends and teacher alike, still felt that his solitude couldn’t be compared to that of the Vampire Princess, Yue. Thus, he couldn’t say anything that could ease her pain. He could only show her that “now”, she is not alone.

Even though Hajime had completely changed from the boy he was when he first arrived in Tortus, he still had enough of him left to look out for those he cared about. Rather, if he hadn’t met Yue, that part of him would have also disappeared. Yue stopped Hajime from falling into the depths of depravity and hatred. Because Yue appeared, Hajime could retain his humanity. As proof of that, Hajime decided to keep their promise to Shia: to protect the Haulia tribe from empire’s soldiers. Of course, Hajime didn’t forget that the compensation was that they’d guide him and Yue through the [Haltina Sea of Trees] to Faea Belgaen.

Whether or not Hajime’s feelings were fully expressed in his action, Yue loosened up and leaned against Hajime’s chest, as though she wanted to be spoiled.

“Ummu~? Did you forget about me? Didn’t I tell a sob story? I even revealed my poor broken heart to you, you know!? I also want to be comforted, you know? To be spoiled, you know? Even so, even though I did all that, why did you guys suddenly go into your own world! Even I’m lonely! Don’t leave me out! Even though, you two-” (Shia)

” “Silence, failure rabbit!” ” (Yue)(Hajime)

“Huuuuu~……” (Shia)

Hajime and Yue instinctively rebuked the whimpering Shia, who suddenly made an enormous ruckus. However, for Hajime and Yue to create their own pink space and leave a girl crying alone could be called cruel. Adding in that she got yelled at, Shia was truly pitiful. But, her endurance was her strong point. In her mind, she thought, first I must make them call me by name~. After all they are the “kin” that I have finally found. I won’t let them go~!

Meanwhile, Yue and Hajime’s yell echoed in the canyon. They then heard several demonic beasts’ roars in the distance. Apparently there were several demonic beasts in front of them.

“!!! Hajime-san! We will arrive soon! Those demonic beasts’ roars are close; close to father and my tribe’s hiding place!” (Shia)

“Gaawd~! Don’t shout right next to my ear! Hang on tight, because I’m going to increase our speed!” (Hajime)

Hajime poured in even more magic power, and the bike started to accelerate even further. The scenery truly blurred into a mirage.

After 2 minutes, they saw dozens of Rabbitmen under attack by flying monsters.

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This chapter is translated by Japtem and edited by AkashiXIV on 21st July 2019.

“Please help my tribe!” (Shia)

Rabbit-eared girl Shia Haulia’s voice echoed in the canyon. Apparently, this rabbit wasn’t alone and her tribe was also in a similar predicament. She was very desperate, and though Yue kept increasing the strength of her kicks, she showed no sign of letting go despite the shoe marks on her cheek.

Because she was so desperate, Hajime couldn’t help but use… … his [Lightning Clad].

“ABABABABABABABABABABAABABABA!?” (Shia)

Although he adjusted the voltage and current to be non-lethal, he believed that she probably wouldn’t be able to move for a while. Shia’s rabbit ears straightened out and her hair produced smoke. When Lightning-Clad stopped, she fell over in convulsions.

“Geez, what a shameless rabbit. Shall we go, Yue?” (Hajime)

“… Nn” (Yue)

Hajime started pouring magic power into the bike.

But before he could leave-

“I, I won’t let go~” (Shia)

Shia got up like a zombie and clung onto Hajime’s leg. Surprised, Hajime immediately stopped injecting magic power into the bike.

“You’re just like a zombie. Although it was non-lethal, how did you manage to get up? You scared me for a moment.” (Hajime)

“… Creepy” (Yue)

“Uu~what did you say! I also have something to say, you know! Kicking and then electrocuting me, that was so cruel! I’ll sue you, you know! As an apology, please help my tribe!” (Shia)

In her anger, Shia demanded their aid with unexpected composure. Though Hajime thought about dragging her on the ground as he drove onwards, when he thought that she wouldn’t let go anytime soon, the image of a blood-stained rabbit-eared girl who continued to cling to his leg gave him the chills.

“Geez, what is it? I’ll hear you out, for now, so let go. Hey, don’t casually wipe your filthy face with my coat!” (Hajime)

When he said that he’ll hear her out, Shia’s face started to brighten with a smile and she casually began wiping her dirty face with Hajime’s coat. What good etiquette. Irritated, Hajime hit her once again and she let out a cry while crouching.

“Hyun! I-I was hit again! Even father has never hit me before! Look at me well, I’m a beauty! And with these proportions, … wait … can it be that you’re into guys?! So that’s why you’re not affected by my beauty! Guuhuu!?” (Shia)

Because he heard an improper remark, Hajime gave her a heel-drop to the head. Veins could be seen popping out of his forehead.

“Who’s ****, you annoying rabbit! Now that you mention it, how do you know about that? Yue and you, where the heck did you learn that from? Well, let’s put that aside for now. Though I don’t know where that seduction gag came from, the reason I refused your invitation is that there is a higher level bishoujo beside me. Look at Yue’s dignified form and tell me how you could seduce me!” (Hajime)

While saying that Hajime stole a glance at Yue. Upon hearing his words, Yue covered her blushing face with her hands while shaking in excitement. Her hair that reflected the sunlight shone with starlight. Her bisque doll-like skin now dyed in faint red was capable of charming anyone without exception.

She wore a pure white dress shirt and black mini-skirt decorated with frills, and a long, light gray coat with an azure blue ribbon tie adorning her head with short boots and knee socks. All of it was made from Oscar’s clothing collection and demonic beast materials gathered by Yue herself. Considering the beasts were from hell, it also provided high defense for the wearer.

Hajime wore similar clothing composed of a black coat lined with red, black pants and a white dress shirt. This was also made by Yue. At first, Yue made him white clothes to give themselves a pair-look, which of course looked quite embarrassing because of his white hair made him all-white. Hajime felt it was unpleasant, and so settled with his current style.

Shia could only flinch and groan when she saw Yue’s beauty. But there was one thing that needed to be corrected: this was his subjective view that removed body proportion from the picture. In that sense, Shia wouldn’t lose in terms of being a bishoujo.

With long and straight snow-white hair tinted with a blue highlight and clear-blue eyes, white eyebrows and eyelashes, and her white, supple skin made her figure feel alluring. Her legs were also slender and long. Her rabbit ears and tail that occasionally twitched added to her cuteness. If furry-lovers (kemona) saw her, they would surely unconsciously shed a tear of joy.

Above all, there is one thing that Shia had that Yue lacked: her big boobs. Her ragtag clothes emphasized her profound weapons. They were truly a weapon that couldn’t keep silent. They would shake violently every time she moved. They shook violently, not just bounce, for confirmation.

In short, her confidence in her figure and beauty was not strange at all. It could be said that Hajime was the strange one; before, he would surely jump on the chance to meet a rabbit-eared beauty.

Even so, Shia’s pride was damaged. And in her ignorance, the forbidden words were said-

“Bu-but! If it’s a comparison of size, it’s my win! Don’t you see that girl is flat-chested!” (Shia)

Her shout echoed in the valley. Yue, who was trembling in embarrassment suddenly got off of the bike with her expression hidden behind her bangs.

Hajime could only mutter a few words in prayer while looking at the sky and silently gesture a prayer to the heavens. Shia, rest in peace….

At that time, a slope steeper than the [Raisen Great Canyon] could be seen peering above Shia.

Yue’s whisper-like voice can be heard by the trembling Shia’s ear.

”… Have you said your prayers?” (Yue)

”… I’m sorry…” (Shia)

”… …… Just die!” ‘Storm Emperor’” (Yue)

“Aaaaaaa—-!!” (Shia)

Suddenly, a tornado appeared and swallow up Shia, launching her high into the atmosphere. Her scream echoed in the canyon on the way up. After 10 seconds, Gusha!¹ She fell in front of Hajime and Yue.

Her body convulsed although her head buried in the ground. It was completely gag-like. Though her figure was extraordinary, she could only be described as a failure. Having only worn tattered clothes, she could only be called garbage. With her body stuck in the ground, her clothes hung towards the ground, revealing what would cause all mankind to die from a nosebleed.

Yue seemed to express a feeling of a “job well done” while walking back to Hajime. With him sitting on the bike, she pensively looked up at him.

“…. Do you like them big?” (Yue)

It truly a problematic question. If Hajime said “yes” then he would suffer the same fate as that regrettable rabbit that was still convulsing. But if he didn’t, he would be lying to Yue. Both must be avoided.

“…. Yue, it’s not about the size. Who the partner is, is the most important.” (Hajime)

“….” (Yue)

For now, instead of decisive “yes” or “no”, Hajime answered vaguely. Yue narrowed her eyes in consent, then proceeded to silently sit on the back seat.

In secret, Hajime broke out in cold sweat trying to find some topic to break the silence, but nothing came to mind. Hajime’s brain was truly useless.

However, his eyes glanced at Shia who was currently trying to free her head from the ground while her body trembled as both hands gripped the earth. Having failed to break the silence, he tried to make this their topic.

“She’s moving… truly a zombie. Her endurance is truly unnatural…” (Hajime)

“…………Nn” (Yue)

After a long silence, she answered, and that relieved him. At the same time, Shia pulled out her mud-covered head with a “pop”.

“Uu~ Those cruel eyes. Even though I didn’t want to be seen like this…” (Shia)

With tear-filled eyes, Shia patted her tattered clothes and muttered some unknown words while crawling closer to Hajime. It was truly like a horror film.

“Haa~, how high is your endurance? It’s not normal you know…. What are you?” (Hajime)

With Hajime’s suspicions, Shia sat up and finally told her tale. She made a serious expression while sitting in front of Hajime and Yue who were on the bike. It was late, but-.

“Let me reintroduce myself. I am Shia Haulia from Haulia Rabbitman Tribe. The truth is….”

Finally, Shia began her story.

Shia and her tribe, the Haulia Rabbitman tribe, one of the hundred Rabbitman tribes, used to live quietly in the [Haltzena Sea of Trees]. Members of the Rabbitman tribe have excellent hearing and stealth skills, but their stats are low compared to other demi-human tribes, and because of that, they are ranked lower compared to other demi-human tribes. They are gentle and dislike fighting, and treat the entire tribe as one family. In addition, rabbit-eared women generally had excellent figures, different from an elf’s beauty. Because they are cute, they are often caught by the empire to be enslaved, as they are in demand.

One day in the Haulia tribe, one of Rabbitman tribes, a girl was born with an abnormality. Even though Rabbitmen normally have dark blue hair, that child’s hair was white with a blue hue. Moreover, she had magic powers that demi-humans shouldn’t have: the ability to directly manipulate magic and a peculiar skill.

Of course, the tribe was greatly puzzled. Here was a child that couldn’t be born to the Rabbitman tribe, no, that any demi-human tribe. The baby had powers similar to a demonic beast, and so would be discriminated against in any tribe normally. However, she was born into the Rabbitman tribe that shared a deep connection as a clan of a hundred. So the Haulia tribe decided to raise the girl.

However, if her existence were to be found by the demi-human country of Faea Belgaen, she would be executed for sure. That is how much they despise demonic beasts. The law of this nation was that as soon as a demonic beast is found, it must be annihilated; any citizen seen allowing a demonic beast escape would be exiled. In addition, any demi-human capable of using magic would be discriminated against by humans and demi-humans alike. If a tribe was capable of wielding magic, they would’ve been eradicated by both demihumans and humans alike.

Therefore, the Haulia tribe hid the girl and raised her in secret for sixteen years. However, her existence was exposed. Because of that, the Haulia tribe escaped out of the [Haltina Sea of Trees] before getting caught by Faea Belgaen.

The plan was to go to the northern mountain area for the time being because they could produce products from the mountains for a living. Although it was uncivilized, it was better than being caught by the empire or a slave trader.

However, their attempt to flee was crushed by the empire. Even though they escaped the [Haltina Sea of Trees], they were immediately found by the empire’s soldiers. It was unknown why the soldiers were there, but after encountering one squadron, the Haulia tribe had no choice but to run away to the south.

Though the men tried to obstruct the soldiers to buy the women and children time to run, the difference in battle potential between the trained empire soldiers, who could use magic, and the gentle, peaceful Rabbitman tribe was too great. By the time they noticed, half the tribe was already captured.

The rest kept desperately running away to avoid annihilation and arrived at the [Raisen Great Canyon], and entered as it was their only path to avoid enslavement. Indeed, the empire’s army didn’t enter. The tribe decided to wait here until the army retreated. The tribe was hoping that the empire’s soldiers would withdraw before the monsters attacked.

However, the empire’s soldiers didn’t try to withdraw at all. They decided to wait at the canyon entrance, positioning themselves by the staircase down into the canyon. They waited for the Rabbitman tribe to come out when they were tired of being attacked by demonic beasts.

And that was what happened, the demonic beasts attacked them. After being attacked, they couldn’t wait for the empire to retreat anymore. Between escaping the canyon or fleeing from the demonic beasts, the Haulia tribe decided to escape further into the canyon. That was why they jumped into the depths of hell…

“…. Of the 60 people that entered the canyon, only 40 are left. My tribe will be annihilated if this keeps up. Please help us!” (Shia)

From the start, Shia tried to appeal to Yue and Hajime with regret and bitterness. Shia was the same as Yue and Hajime, an exception to this world’s norm. She was atavistic, like Yue.

After finished listening to her story, Hajime answered frankly without any change in his expression.

“I refuse.” (Hajime)

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This chapter is translated by Japtem and edited by ModLord, Icy Kitten & AkashiXIV on 21st July 2019.

Their view was filled by the light from the magic circle; the air definitely felt different, although nothing could be seen. It was clearly different from the air at the depths of hell. Sensing a breeze, Hajime’s cheeks began to loosen.

The sight that came into view after the light settled was…

A cave.

“Wait, what?”

Without any further thought, Hajime, who believed that the other side of the magic circle was the surface, unintentionally inserted a tsukkomi at the sight that wasn’t any better. Honestly, he was extremely disappointed.

After feeling a tug on his shirt, he turned his head towards Yue and she comforted him with reassuring words.

“… It’s a secret passage… it’s not uncommon for it to be hidden” (Yue)

“A- ah, is that so? It certainly is. There is no way that the entrance to the Abode of Traitors wouldn’t be hidden, right?” (Hajime)

Hajime felt considerably ashamed to not realize something so simple. He pulled himself together while scratching his head. Without the aid of the Green Light Stone, Hajime and Yue advanced through the pitch-black cave without any problems.

On the way, although there were many doors with seals and traps, the Orcus Ring would react at every instance, canceling their activation altogether. The two of them were cautious at first as they continued but soon lost interest as nothing happened. Their uneventful advance continued until they finally saw the light at the end of the tunnel. It was the sun; the light which Hajime, for the past few months, and Yue, for the past three hundred years, had sought after.

Hajime and Yue came to a stop; they grinned. Exchanging glances, they simultaneously ran towards the light that they yearned for.

As they approached the light that was gradually growing larger, they could feel and breathe the air from the surface. It was different from the stagnant air of hell, being cool and refreshing. Hajime never knew how delicious fresh air could be until this moment.

Feeling renewed and gratified, Hajime and Yue both jumped into the light and reached the long-awaited surface.

To the humans who lived above the ground, the place that Hajime and Yue entered was hell on Tortus: an execution ground. An unknown number of powerful and brutal monsters lived there. As if that weren’t enough, magic could hardly be used where they were standing. An average of 1-2 kilometers deep, 900 meters wide, while spanning 8 kilometers from the [Gruen Great Desert] in the west to the [Haltina Sea of Trees] in the east, the great scar that divides the north and south of the continent, the people named;

The [Raisen Great Canyon]

Hajime and Yue were currently outside of the cave at the bottom of the Raisen Grand Canyon. Although they were at the bottom of the canyon; bright, warm light poured down from above. The fragrance of the earth mixed with the wind tickled their noses.

Compared to the kind of place it could have been, this place was surely the paradise known as the surface. While they were in a daze looking at the sun above their heads, Hajime and Yue’s facial expressions of shock and awe gradually turned into a smile. Even Yue, who was expressionless by default, could be seen smiling in broad daylight.

“We… made it back…” (Hajime)

“…Nn” (Yue)

After a moment of silence, the two were finally hit by the euphoric realization that they no longer stood in hell. They turned away from the sun, glanced at each other. With all their might, they embraced each other.

“Alriiight~~!! We’re ooouuuut~!”

“Oouuut~~!!”

While hugging, Hajime spun Yue around. In that brief moment, an unsuitable laugh could be heard resounding from the place the people called hell. In their joy, they even stumbled on even ground, which they felt excessively humorous, as both of them continued rejoicing and laughing.

At last, when the two’s laughter settled down, they found themselves … … surrounded by monsters.

“Haa~ these guys are really dense, aren’t they?… … If I remember correctly, we can’t use magic here, right?”

Hajime leisurely rolled out his shoulders while pulling out Donner and Schlagen from their respective holsters. Hajime, who had made an effort to study before his fall into hell, knew that if this place really was the [Raisen Great Canyon], then magic could not be used.

“… I know. It’s no problem though if I just use more power.” (Yue)

The reason magic could not be used inside the [Raisen Great Canyon] was because the magic power used to formulate magic would be dispersed by the canyon. Even Yue’s magic was not an exception. But Yue, who was once a Vampire Princess and still holds considerable magic power, also possessed an external magic tank: a part of the Magic Crystal Series. In other words, Yue is saying that she can just annihilate them all before her magic gets dispersed.

“With sheer power… How high is the efficiency?” (Hajime)

“…Around 10 percent.”

It seemed that in order to use elementary magic, high-class magic power is needed. The casting range would also be shortened significantly in response.

“Ah~… Then I will do it. Yue, just focus on defending yourself.” (Hajime)

“Ahh… …but-”

“It’s okay. The right person for the right job. This place makes it hard for magic users to fight, right? Just leave it to me.”

“Nn… …okay.”

Yue reluctantly withdrew. Even though they had finally reached the long-awaited surface, it was hard for her to accept that she was excluded from the first battle. Her pride seemed to have been damaged. She curled her lip in displeasure.

Looking at Yue’s sulking appearance, Hajime prepared to fire Donner and Schlagen while making a wry smile. Without looking up, Hajime pointed the gun muzzles at the gulping monsters and spontaneously pulled their triggers.

Without realizing the sudden attack, two of the surrounding monsters’ heads burst open and left scattered remains, resulting in death without resistance. The guns’ reverberating sound echoed in the canyon. The monsters froze in place unable to understand what exactly happened. Since magic displayed 10% of its effect here, even “Lightning Clad” could be used, allowing the rail gun to be fired without any trouble.

To the dumbfounded monsters, Hajime revealed a bold smile.

“Now then, I wonder how the monsters from hell compare with you guys … …Let’s find out.” (Hajime)

Quickly assuming his Gun Kata stance, killing intent filled Hajime’s eyes. When the surrounding monsters saw those eyes, they unconsciously retreated one step back. Even if they didn’t notice it, their instinct surely felt it; that they had made a “monster” their enemy.¹ An ordinary person would faint just from standing in the pressure of Hajime’s killing intent.

At last, one monster couldn’t hold the tension anymore, letting out a roar while lashing out.

“Graaaaa!!”

DOPANn!!

As the gunshot resounded, the bullet cut a straight line through the air. The monster didn’t even have the time to respond before its head was flying in the air.

What happened next couldn’t even be called a fight. It was a slaughter-fest. The monsters couldn’t even take one step in any direction before their head got blown off. The monsters’ corpses littered the view for as far as the eye could see. Only five minutes had passed.

Putting Donner and Schlagen back into their holsters, Hajime looked at the mountain of corpses in the surrounding while tilting his head down, his expression unseen.

Yue approached Hajime from behind with small steps.

“…What’s wrong?”

“No, it’s just a little disappointing… The monsters at [Raisen Great Canyon] are famous for their brutality. I almost thought that this was a whole different place.”

“…Hajime is a ‘monster’ after all.”

“Cruel aren’t you? Well, it just means that the monsters in hell were just too strong.”

Hajime said while shrugging his shoulder, and averting his eyes from the monsters’ carcasses as he had lost interest in them.

“Now then, I think we can climb this cliff but… …should we? Speaking of the [Raisen Great Canyon], there should be one of the Seven Great Dungeons around here, right? After all this trouble, why don’t we head toward the [Haltina Sea of Trees] and search for it along the way?” (Hajime)

“…Why the [Haltina Sea of Trees]?”

“Well, after getting out of the canyon, you don’t want to cross the desert, right? If we’re by the [Haltina Sea of Trees], there should be a village nearby.” (Hajime)

“…Nn.”

Yue nodded to Hajime’s proposal. If they used Hajime’s skill “Air Walk” or Yue’s Wind Magic, they could easily climb the cliff. However, there was a need to investigate the Raisen Grand Canyon. Looking at how weak the monsters were, it seemed like the canyon itself couldn’t be counted as a dungeon. If that was the case, there should be an entrance to a dungeon somewhere nearby.

Hajime poured magic into the [Treasure Warehouse] on his middle finger, and took out a Magic Powered 2-Wheeled Drive from it. Yue, straddling the vehicle dashingly, clung to Hajime’s waist. Aside from not being powered by gasoline, like on Earth, the vehicle required magic manipulation to directly move the parts that were connected to the wheels, so the engine was silent, like an electric automobile. Below the vehicle frame, a mechanism was installed to level the road with transmutation as they advanced, making it truly a comfortable ride. Hajime thought that the sound of a roaring engine would have felt more romantic, but he didn’t have the knowledge required to reproduce the sound. The speed was dependent on how much magic power was poured in, however the magic power efficiency inside the [Raisen Great Canyon] was terrible, so it could not be used for a prolonged amount of time.

The [Raisen Great Canyon] comprised of, in a sense, two cliffs that extend straight from the east to the west of the continent. There were hardly any bypasses, therefore by advancing along one of the cliffsides, it would eventually lead them to the [Haltina Sea of Trees] without getting lost. Because Hajime and Yue didn’t have to worry about losing their way, they carefully searched for the entrance of the dungeon, while casually traveling on the Magic Powered 2-Wheeled Drive. In the meantime, Hajime’s hands had continued to move, though seemingly never releasing the steering wheel, killing the crowd of monsters that were trying to attack them.

A while after beginning to drive the Magic Powered 2-Wheeled Drive, a monster roar could be heard not far from where they were. It seemed considerably powerful. It was at least on a danger level higher compared to the monsters they had first encountered. Based on the sound of the roar, it seemed like they would have to confront it within another 30 seconds.

Driving the Magic Powered 2-Wheeled Drive around the protruding rocks on the cliff face, a large monster appeared. It was a tyrannical monster with two heads: a “Two-Headed Tyrannosaurus”-like monster.

But the one they paid attention to wasn’t the “terrifying” monster, but a girl with rabbit ears running away from it with a half-crying face.

Hajime stopped the Magic Powered 2-Wheeled Drive to get a good look at the suspicious-looking, “about to get eaten” rabbit-eared girl.

“… What is that?”

“… a member of the Rabbitman Tribe?”

“Why are they in this place? Does the Rabbitman Tribe inhabit this place?”

“…”

“Then, what is it? Was she dropped here as a criminal? Isn’t this place also used as an execution ground?”

“…Bad rabbit?”

Hajime and Yue inclined their heads while carefreely talking about the rabbit-eared girl. They seemed to have no intention of helping her, particularly because they knew the [Raisen Great Canyon] was used as an execution method. Rather than helping a stranger, they thought that it would be bothersome and so didn’t have any real interest in doing it.

The aftereffects of Hajime’s change in mentality were displayed brutally. The circumstances were different compared with Yue. He felt no sympathy towards the rabbit-eared girl, her situation didn’t even move Hajime’s heart. If he extended a hand to help now, there would be no end to it. The present Hajime had already deserted the world to its fate.

However, it seemed that the rabbit-eared girl had detected the carefree Hajime and Yue. After being blown away by the Two-Headed Tyrant and falling into the shade of a boulder, she hurriedly stood back up to run away, all while staring at Hajime.

Once again, the Two-Headed Tyrant swung it’s claw at the rock where she was hiding, blowing it up. Grumbling while rolling across the ground, she escaped from the fierce killing attack while using that momentum to roll… towards Hajime.

Though there was some distance between them, the desperate shout from the rabbit-eared girl echoed through the canyon and reached Hajime’s ears.

“Heelph me~e! Hiiiiii~~? I’m dying! I’m dyiiing! Help mee~, pleasee~!”

She ran desperately while floods of tears flowed down her face. Right behind her was the approaching Two-Headed Tyrant that wanted to eat the rabbit-eared girl. At the current rate, the rabbit-eared girl would be eaten even before she could reach Hajime.

As one would expect, even after being directly asked for help, Hajime responded-

“I refuse!”

“…It’s bothersome.”

As expected, they refused to help. They didn’t even feel disturbed refusing someone’s desperate screams- no, pleas. Instead, they felt it was extremely bothersome. Seeing Hajime avert his eyes from her pleading gaze, she sensed that Hajime didn’t want to help her, and from her eyes, even more tears overflowed. Just from where did those tears come from?

“Waiiit~, don’t leabe me behi~ind! Pleasee~!!”

The rabbit-eared girl raised her voice even more.

Even so, Hajime still didn’t feel any incentive to help her at all. The rabbit-eared girl would get eaten without fail… right? Only if the Two-Headed Tyrant didn’t ignore the rabbit-eared girl and direct his killing intent at Hajime and Yue.

“Gruuaaaaaaa!!” (Monster)

Hajime keenly reacted to its killing intent.

“Aaaah?” (Hajime)

Just now, his path forward was denied. An obstacle stood in his way- the enemy stood in HIS way! Hajime’s body reacted to the Two-Headed Tyrant’s killing intent, to the enemy who dares stand in his way!

When the Two-Headed Tyrant caught up with the rabbit-eared girl, one of the heads opened its jaw. The rabbit-eared girl looked behind her, and upon seeing countless sharp fangs before her eyes, the words, “Ah, it’s the end… …” could be seen in her eyes.

However at that moment,

DOPANn!!

The sound of a dry explosion that she had never heard before resounded within the canyon. A line could be seen passing through the two rabbit ears standing up due to fear. One of the approaching heads was pierced and pulverized right before her eyes.

The Two-Headed Tyrant’s body crashed to the ground following the loss of its head, sliding across the ground, causing a miniature earthquake.

The rabbit-eared girl once again got blown away from the impact of the Two-Headed Tyrant’s body. The place she was headed towards was Hajime.

“Kyaaaaaa~! He-help, please~e!” (???)

While falling toward Hajime who was before her, the rabbit-eared girl’s hands were stretched out towards him. Her clothes were in tatters, leaving her body very exposed. With her awful crying face, it was like a film scene where the man would catch her without fail.

“Are you stupid?” (Hajime)

However, the man was Hajime. In an instant, he poured magic to the Magic Powered 2-Wheeled Drive to magnificently evade the rabbit-eared girl.

“Eeh~!?” (???)

The rabbit-eared girl’s shocked shriek could be heard until she fell before Hajime’s eyes. She twitched while lying face down with both arms and legs extended out. She didn’t pass out, but it seemed like she couldn’t move while enduring the pain.

“…Amusing.” (Yue)

Yue looked at the shameful sight of the rabbit-eared girl over Hajime’s shoulder, holding a slightly cruel expression. Meanwhile, the living head of the Two-Headed Tyrant ate the remains of its dead head. Then regaining its balance, now appeared like a normal Tyrannosaurus Rex from the side.

The now “normal” Tyrannosaurus Rex let out a roar with fury and anger in its eyes. The rabbit-eared girl jumped at the sound, unexpectedly able to do so. Desperately trying to stand back up, the rabbit-eared girl, once again teary-eyed, unexpectedly hid behind Hajime.

She seemed motivated to rely on Hajime until the bitter end. Well, she would die on her own, and seeing that Hajime had knocked down one of the heads on his own, her reliance on Hajime seemed natural.

“Oi, kora! You rabbit-eared gag-like existence! Why the hell did you make us your meat shield without permission?! Don’t drag us into it; be a man and defend yourself!” (Hajime)

The rabbit-eared girl desperately clung to the hem of Hajime’s coat. Hajime glared at her with annoyed eyes from the bottom of his heart. Yue, who was sitting on the back seat, kicked the rabbit-eared girl in irritation.

“N-no way! You will abandon me if I release it, right!?” (???)

“Isn’t that natural? Why should I help an unfamiliar annoying rabbit?” (Hajime)

“Kuuu! Which part of it is natural! Even you should have a good heart right! Don’t you feel guilty inside for abandoning a helpless, beautiful girl?!” (???)

“I left my feelings of guilt behind in the depths of that hell! Furthermore, who calls themselves a beautiful girl!” (Hajime)

“Th-then if you help me… …I- I will listen to one request from you! Anything!” (???)

The rabbit-eared girl leaned closer while blushing with upturned eyes. Cunning. A truly cunning action. If her face wasn’t sullied by her tears and dripping nose, it would surely be charming. Actually, if you looked at her closer, her appearance was indeed fairly good; a pretty girl with white hair and blue eyes. If it was any normal man, they would swoon over her even in this appearance.

But the one in front of her was no ordinary man.

“I don’t need that. Other than that, move your filthy face further away. It’s dirty.” (Hajime)

Brutal as always.

“Fi-filthy!? You say I’m filthy! That’s too much! I firmly oppose that! I-” (???)

“Gwugaaa!” (Monster)

“Hii~! Help~!” (???)

The moment she raised her voice to oppose Hajime’s words, the Tyrannosaurus Rex let out an infuriated roar, as though demanding the attention of Hajime, and bent its body in preparation to charge.

The rabbit-eared girl raised a miserable shriek while trying to get in between Yue and Hajime. Annoyed, Yue continued kicking the rabbit-eared girl as she desperately clung to Hajime’s coat, getting herself covered in shoe marks.

As if feeling ridiculed by that scene, the Tyrannosaurus Rex glared at Hajime and the others with fury in its eyes, and finally, charged.

Immediately, Hajime raised his hand and locked Donner onto the Tyrannosaurus Rex’s forehead. In less than 0.1 seconds, the processes of aiming and firing were completed. With one gunshot, a straight line pierced the between the Tyrant’s eyes.

After convulsing a bit, the Tyrannosaurus Rex slowly fell sideways, making tremors as its body hit the ground.

The rabbit-eared girl reflexively let out “Hue?” sound like an idiot, and timidly shoved her face between Hajime’s armpit to see what became of the Tyrannosaurus Rex’s fate.

“It’s dead… that Daihedoa, with two blows…” (???)

The rabbit-eared girl opened her eyes wide with surprise. It seemed like that Two-Headed Tyrant was called a “Daihedoa”.

The dumbfounded rabbit-eared girl stared stiffly at the remains of the Daihedoa, all the while being abused by Yue and clinging to Hajime’s coat. Since a while ago, the long rabbit ears were brushing against Hajime’s face. With a seriously fouled mood, Hajime elbowed her on the head to drop her down.

“Enough!” (Hajime)

“Hebuu!! … My head~ my heaaad~” (???)

Letting out a groaning sound, the rabbit-eared girl used both her hands to hold her head while writhing on the ground. After looking down with a cold glance, Hajime poured magic power into the Magic Powered 2-Wheeled Drive as though nothing had happened.

Sensing the beginnings of their departure, the rabbit-eared girl who was rolling on the floor suddenly jumped up with frightful vigor.

“I won’t let you get away~!” (???)

She clung to Hajime’s waist. As she had proved before, she was considerably resilient.

“Thank you so much for helping me! I am from the Haulia Rabbitman Tribe. My name is Shia! Please save my tribe!” (Shia)

And, considerably shameless.

Hajime glanced to the side at the rabbit-eared girl named Shia Haulia. It was in this manner, right after getting out of that hell, Hajime found himself with another troublesome matter. He let out a deep, profound sigh.²

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• [Vol 2] Chapter 1 – Raisen Grand Canyon and Miserable Rabbit
• [Vol 2] Chapter 2 – Shia Haulia’s Circumstances
• [Vol 2] Chapter 3 – Contract Completed
• [Vol 2] Chapter 4 – Haulia Tribe and Encounter
• [Vol 2] Chapter 5 – Empire’s Soldiers
• [Vol 2] Chapter 6 – Shia’s Feelings and Haltina Sea of Trees
• [Vol 2] Chapter 7 – Haulia was Shameless as Expected
• [Vol 2] Chapter 8 – Elders’ Conference
• [Vol 2] Chapter 9 – The Only Way to Survive
• [Vol 2] Chapter 10 – Shia, Grand Battle of One’s Lifetime
• [Vol 2] Chapter 11 – Haulia’s Sudden Change
• [Vol 2] Chapter 12 – Hajime’s Failure
• [Vol 2] Chapter 13 – The Great Tree’s Secret
• [Vol 2] Chapter 14 – In Brook Town I
• [Vol 2] Chapter 15 – In Brook Town II
• [Vol 2] Chapter 16 – In Brook Town III
• [Vol 2] Chapter 17 – Great Dungeon of Raisen?
• [Vol 2] Chapter 18 – Miledi Raisen I
• [Vol 2] Chapter 19 – Miledi Raisen II
• [Vol 2] Chapter 20 – Miledi Raisen III
• [Vol 2] Chapter 21 – The Person Inside the Golem
• [Vol 2] Chapter 22 – Raisen Great Dungeon and The Last Trial
• [Vol 2] Chapter 23 – You did well

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This chapter is translated by Japtem and edited by Icy Kitten on 19th July 2019.

3 days later, the imperial envoys finally arrived.

Currently, Kouki, the dungeon clearing members, leaders of the kingdom, and a delegation of priests led by Ishtar were out in full force to receive the five envoys, who were standing in the middle of the red carpet opposite King Erihid¹

“It was good of you to come, sir envoys. Do well, therefore, to make certain of our heroes’ surpassing valour.”

“Your majesty, you have our thanks indeed for accepting this sudden request for an audience. That said…may we know the identity of the Hero?”

“Mm. We will introduce him first. Sir Kouki, would you step forward?”

“Yes.”

The unveiling of Kouki and the others followed immediately after the formal salutations between the king and the messengers, with the King calling him to appear before them. Despite the fact that not even two months had passed, his look was utterly fearless, quite unlike when first summoned.

While they were not here, if the palace maids, noble ladies and Kouki’s fans in the stay-behind group saw him now they would without a doubt start going red in the face and releasing heated sighs of fascination. Those who had made advances on Kouki already numbered in the double digits…but due to his extreme denseness, their approaches were just those of “warm and friendly people” to him. A naturally dense hero was walking the earth.

After this the heroes were introduced, starting from Kouki.

“Oh, so you are the heroes. Quite young, I must say. Pardon my rudeness, but did you truly break through the 65th floor? If memory serves, a monster known as the Behemoth appears there…”

While scrutinizing Kouki, the messenger also took in Ishtar’s open manner, and cast a suspicious gaze upon him. One of the envoy’s bodyguards also looked the Hero up and down in an appraising manner.

Being discomfited by their gazes, Kouki answered them.

“Well, may I speak? As to whether we defeated it…ah, would you like to look at a map of the 66th floor?”

Kouki proposed various proofs, but the envoy shook his head and allowed a smile to drift onto his face.

“No, thank you. There is a quicker method than that. Would you have a mock battle with one of my guards? That way, I would be able to see your strength immediately, Sir Hero.”

“Well, I don’t mind, but…”

Kouki looked back at the king, slightly puzzled. Having caught that look, the king himself turned to Ishtar for his approval. He nodded. With Ehit’s authority behind him, it would have been an easy matter to convince the empire to accept Kouki as humanity’s leader, but a real battle was the quickest way to make the meritocratic empire truly recognize him as such.

“Very well. Sir Kouki, show them your strength as you desire.”

“It’s decided then. Well, we will impose upon you to prepare a location.”

So it was in this abrupt manner that the mock battle between the hero and the envoy’s bodyguard was decided.

Kouki’s opponent could not be a more ordinary person. He was neither particularly tall nor short, bereft of any notable features, and had a face one could easily lose sight of in a crowd. At first blush, there was nothing “strong” about him at all.

He held his large edgeless sword downward casually – a stance that may as well not have been one at all.

Kouki was a little angered by this. He would give this person a taste of his spirit with the first blow, and make him devote himself seriously as well.

“Here I come!”

Kouki came in like the wind. His swift “High Speed Movement” narrowed the space between them at once as he swung his bamboo sword down with a powerful whipping sound. If this was an ordinary warrior, he would have had trouble even perceiving it. Of course, Kouki intended to stop just before hitting. But there was no point worrying about that. Rather, it was Kouki who was going to get a taste of ‘proof’ from the outcome.

CRACK!

“Guh!”

The one blown away was Kouki. The bodyguard readied his sword after that swing, glaring at him. At the instant where he had stopped his simulated attack and relaxed, his opponent had casually knocked his sword upward, causing him to be pushed back.

“Haaa…Hey, hey, hero, is that all you’ve got? Everything? What happened to your motivation?”

Rude words that ill-befit an ordinary face came from the bodyguard as his expression showed first astonishment, and then gave way to rising disappointment.

Indeed, Kouki had made such a casual thrust from the front because he had judged the bodyguard based on his appearance, and he had clearly been repulsed in his present state. Having come to a realization about himself due to this experience with his opponent, he was once again angry – but this time the anger was self-directed.²

“I’m sorry. Please take care of me once more.”

This time Kouki’s eyes were serious, even as he apologized for his poor manners. Seeing him like this, the bodyguard made a displeased face and said,

“There are no ‘next time’ on the battlefield.”

Nonetheless, he resumed his natural stance, indicating that he would continue.

Letting out a battle cry, Kouki charged.

Enhanced by “High Speed Movement”, the bamboo blade swung diagonally down, upwards, and then forwards in a thrust. The swiftness was such that wavering afterimages were left behind in Kouki’s wake.

But even against such a storm of the sword-blows, the guard seemed to dodge using only the bare minimum of movements, looking for a chance to counterattack. Even when he lost track of Kouki’s movements and was attacked in his blind spot, he could still fend the hero off.

The guard’s movements caused Kouki to remember something – Knight Captain Meld. There were already considerable differences in their specs, but so far he had been unable to surpass him in a mock battle. The reason for this was an overwhelming difference in combat experience.

Most likely, the guard was the same, having stood on many battlefields before this one, and his combat experience could fill up the gap in their specs. In short, this person was on the same level as or even above Meld.

“Hmm. I guess at this level of physical ability an ordinary man wouldn’t be your match. Still, there’s something missing. You didn’t have any affinity for battle originally, right?”

“Huh? Um, yes, that’s true. I was a mere student at first.”

“And now you’re the ‘Apostle of God’, huh.”

Ishtar and his associates from the church snorted in displeasure at the guard.

“Hey, hero. Prepare yourself, I’ll be going at you from here on out. Don’t go easy on me, or you might get killed.”

So declaring, he charged. This charge was not a high speed movement similar to Kouki’s level. Instead, it felt almost slow…and yet,

“Tch?!”

As the guard approached his blade seemed to leap upwards from below, causing Kouki to retreat in alarm. But like an attracted magnet, the blade maintained the distance between them, moving in like a whip as it struck.

The sword’s trajectory was irregular and the movements hard to perceive, and while the use of “Foresight” allowed him to momentarily put some distance between them, he was unable to fully break away. Even when he tried to use “High-Speed Movement” to break off in one go, his opponent would foresee it, and launch pre-emptive strikes such that he could not activate it. Gradually, impatience began to show on Kouki’s face.

“Pierce, Wind Strike.”

At the murmured aria, a cluster of wind formed and struck him squarely in the leg.

“Uwah?!”

Caught in mid-step, Kouki’s leg swung outward and his balance was broken. In that instant, a fierce bloodlust pierced him. The guard’s cold gaze met his, and he swung his blade downward with an unbelievable pressure.

He’s going to kill me, Kouki suddenly realized.³

Indeed, the guard could not help but think this way. If Kouki could not keep up with his attacks, his intent was to kill him rather than allow a boy who knew nothing of killing to become humanity’s leader. This would certainly invite censure from the likes of the church, but to put incompetent allies on the battlefield was much harder to stomach. As such, this might be the better choice, or so he felt.⁴

But the swing would never happen.

BOOOOM

“Guh!?”

The exact same scenario occurred as it did previously, but this time it was the guard getting blown away. Bounding away several times with both hands to negate the momentum, the guard looked at Kouki. His whole body was emitting a pure white aura, and he swung his sword to face his opponent while taking up a stance.

At the moment when the guard let fall his blade, Kouki’s survival instincts had kicked in and activated his “Limit Break”. This technique caused all his parameters to multiply three times – a ‘technique for a pinch’ unique to a protagonist.

However, his face was hardly composed. Desperately repressed fear from being so close to death was in his expression as he held his sword.

Seeing this, the guard’s fearless grin resurfaced.

“Hey, that’s a slightly better face. Compared to that wimpy one from before, that is.”

“Wimpy face? I’m frightened. Were you trying to kill me just now? Wasn’t this a mock battle?”

“So what? Did you think that in a real battle, we’d just go “okay, it’s over”? You’d end up dead like that. You’re supposed to stand above us humans and lead us – are you even aware of that?”

“I’m aware…of course I will save everyone!”

“What can a kid who’s afraid of getting hurt do? Someone who doesn’t even have bloodlust in his sword shouldn’t talk big. Well then, are you ready? I said it at the start…that you’ll die if you go easy on me!”

Once again, the guard advanced, an abnormal feeling of bloodlust coming off him, putting pressure on Kouki, who gathered strength in his legs, his face twisting painfully as he did so.

But he did not charge. A barrier of light had fallen between him and Kouki.

“This much will do. At this rate, it’ll stop being a mock battle and become a killing duel instead. You have overstepped yourself with this joke, Lord Gahard.”

“Tch, I’ve been found out. As shrewd as ever, old man.”

Ishtar, having erected that shimmering barrier, proceeded to pour a wet blanket on “Lord Gahard” the guard, who cursed inaudibly in response, sheathed his sword in his shoulder-mounted scabbard, and took off his right earring.

The air around the guard turned a misty white, and when it finally cleared again, there appeared a totally different person.

It was a man who looked to be in his forties. His silver hair was cropped short, and his blue eyes were reminiscent of a wild wolf. His figure was slender but highly muscled, his clothes wrapping tightly around them almost to the point of bursting.

On seeing him, a commotion broke out.

“Lord Gahard!”

“Your Imperial Highness!”

Indeed, this man was Gahard D. Hoelscher, present Emperor of the Hoelscher Empire, in disguise. Seeing this, King Erihid furrowed his brows and asked:

“Just what were you intending, Emperor Gahard?”

“There, there, King Erihid. I apologize for not introducing myself. However, a little play-fighting was the quickest way for me to make sure. This is of great importance to our future battles. Please excuse my rudeness.”

Though Gahard excused himself this way, his expression was hardly apologetic. “Well, fine”, Erihid seemed to indicate with a sigh.

Kouki was totally stunned. Somehow, this emperor was kind of flighty, and his ‘surprises’ seemed to be treated as the norm too.

With that, the mock battle ended, and at the dinner that was arranged the empire gave their official words of recognition to the hero. For the time being, it seemed like the objectives of their visit had been met.

But that night, when a subordinate asked him about his real intentions in a room, the king gave a bothersome answer.

“Meh, he’s no use. Just a kid. A mouth that believes unswervingly in stuff like ideals and justice. His rash strength and charisma are a bad combination, and he’s the type who would get killed for his ideals. But we can’t neglect him since he’s the “Apostle of God”. All in all, he isn’t good.”

“So, you intended to kill him during that match?”

“What? No. I just thought I might fix his cowardly attitude with a beating. I wouldn’t have killed him even if the Pope hadn’t intervened.”

It seemed like the Emperor did not regard Kouki and the rest of the heroes to be worth his attention. This was not unreasonable. Up until a few months ago they had been mere students; in peaceful Japan no less. They did not have the readiness on the battlefield that a seasoned warrior would recognize.

“Well, the war with the demons may pick up the pace soon. We’ll see about it then. For now, let’s prioritize tactfully keeping ourselves from being involved with that kid…and to watch out for the Pope.”

“As you will.”

He had no intention to reveal his real estimation, however, and the very next day Kouki and the other heroes would see him off when he returned to his country; with his business finished, there was no reason to stay any longer. Indeed, he seemed a very flighty Emperor.

By the way, there was an incident in which the emperor came across Shizuku during her morning training, and being pleased with her he requested rather earnestly that she become his lover. Upon her polite refusal, he just gave his usual plucky laugh and a “well, I’m not in a hurry” as his reply, indicating that this matter wasn’t of great importance to him. At that moment, he caught side of Kouki and laughed through his nose at him. Kouki for his part got the feeling that they would never get along, and was momentarily displeased by this.

It also goes without saying that Shizuku’s sighs increased.

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This chapter is translated by Japtem and edited by Icy Kitten on 19th July 2019.

If we go back in time a little…

Around the time when Hajime defeated the Hydra in their mortal battle, the party of heroes had temporarily aborted their dungeon clearing and returned to the Kingdom of Hairihi.

The clearing speed had fallen due to a lack of the comprehensive intelligence they had on the floors up till now, and also due to the strength and trickiness of the monsters. As such, intense member fatigue had resulted – the conclusion was to take a break and rest.

But though the rest town of Horuado would have been good for recuperation, someone was sent to meet them: they had to return to the palace. An envoy of the Hoelscher Empire had come wanting to meet with the heroes.

Why was an empire meeting with them so late?

By nature, almost no time had passed between the arrival of the God Ehit’s oracle and the summoning of Kouki and company. For this reason, the empire –which was an ally, and did not itself conduct the hero summoning– would not be able to meet the heroes right after they were summoned.

However, it had been thought that the empire had not moved even after knowing of the heroes’ summoning. This was because the empire had been founded 300 years ago by famous mercenaries, becoming a ‘holy land’ for adventures and sell-swords with its meritocratic system.

For them, talk of a group of heroes suddenly appearing and leading humanity was unconvincing. The Church was also in Hoelscher, and as such it was not an exception to having believers, but they were less devout than those in Hairihi. Most of its people were either mercenaries or were involved in the business, and as such there were more who valued profits over faith. If anything, this was just a story; it would hardly make earnest believers out of them.

Based on that, it was possible that they had made light of meeting up with Kouki and the rest just after their summoning. Of course, they were not against openly showing an obeisant attitude towards God in front of the church. While Haihiri would have been happy to patronize such a meeting, the empire –particularly His Imperial Majesty– had not been interested, and as such had not been involved.

However, the fact that this raid on the [Orcus Dungeon] had succeeded in breaking through the 65th floor, beating out the previous record, piqued the interest of the empire. So they sent word that they would like to meet, and both the church and Hairihi were quick to agree.

After this news was meticulously relayed to Kouki and company on the carriage, they arrived at the palace.

The carriage entered the palace, and upon their descent from it they saw a figure of a boy coming towards them. He was around ten, with blonde hair and blue eyes. The atmosphere around him was similar to Kouki’s, but with much more mischief in it. This was Randell S. B. Hairihi, Prince of the Kingdom. His air could be likened to that of a dog with flapping ears and wagging tail as he rushed up to them calling in a loud voice:

“Kaori! You made it back! I’ve been waiting!”

Of course, Kaori was not the only one there, for the returning expedition was present in full force. To them, it was easy to imagine what Randell’s feelings were just by looking at his attitude – apart from Kaori he saw no one else.

In fact, Prince Randell had been making aggressive approaches towards Kaori since the day after they had been summoned. That said, he was only ten. In her view, he could only be recognized as an emotionally attached child, and there was no sign of her feelings ripening beyond that. For a person as innately kind as her, he would be like a cute younger brother.

“It’s been a while, Your Highness.” ¹

The imaginary tail wagged furiously up and down at her small smile, as Randell instantly turned red. Despite that, he managed to make a masculine expression before making another ‘approach’ toward Kaori.

“Ah, it’s been a long time indeed. When you said you were going to the dungeon, I felt as though I had died. Were you hurt? If I were stronger, I would never let you do such a thing…”

Randell bit his lip in annoyance. Even though Kaori refused to only be protected, the heartwarming feelings of the boy still caused her cheeks to soften.

“Thank you for your concern. But I’m alright, you know? I wish to do this.”

“No, Kaori isn’t suited for fighting. Th-, there should, you know, be safer things you can do.”

“Safer things?”

Kaori inclined her head at his words, and at this he turned an even deeper shade of red. Observing this amusing exchange from the side, Shizuku could only smile wryly as she considered the young man’s valiant ‘approach’.

“Mmhmm. For example, how about being a maid? You can work exclusively for me, starting today.”

“As a maid? I’m sorry, but I’m a healer…”

“T-then, going to the Medical Institute is fine too. There’s no need to go to dangerous places like the dungeons or the frontlines right?”

The Institute was a state-run hospital, situated right beside the royal palace. In short, Randell hated being apart from Kaori. However, the feelings of the young boy would not move Kaori’s obstinacy.

“No, I won’t be able to heal them immediately if I’m not on the frontlines. Thank you for worrying about me.”

“Uu…” Randell groaned softly, realizing that he could not move Kaori’s determination.

“Your Highness, Kaori is my precious childhood friend. As long as I am around, I will definitely continue to protect her!”

From Kouki’s viewpoint, he was being one-hundred-percent-beneficent in comforting a younger boy, but those were not the right words for that moment. In the eyes of the lovestruck Randell, this was translated as such:

“I won’t let my woman leave me. I definitely won’t hand Kaori over to anybody!” ²

The hero and the healer snuggling up intimately – that was a likely picture in his mind. His expression twisted in annoyance, Randell levelled a ‘you are my mortal enemy’ glare at Kouki. To him, they looked like lovers.

“What are you saying? You think nothing of sending Kaori into dangerous places. I won’t lose to you! Kaori being with me is the better decision.”³

“Umm, well.”

At the hostile words that Randell spoke, Kaori was at a loss and just smiled weakly, while Kouki was speechless. Shizuku, seeing Kouki like this, could only sigh.

Before Kouki could say anything more to aggravate the already growling, angered prince, a cool but authoritative voice rang out.

“Randell. Behave yourself. Can’t you see Kaori is troubled?”

“B, big sister! …B, But!”

“No buts. Even though everyone is tired – to detain them in this place…who is it who isn’t thinking about others?”

“Ugh…B, but!”

“Randell?”⁴

“E..errand! I remember, I had an errand to run! Excuse me!”

Refusing to admit his error, Randell turned on his heel and fled. Seeing his back fade from view, Princess Liliana spoke with a sigh.

“Kaori, Kouki-san, I’m sorry about my brother. My apologies on his behalf.”

Liliana lowered her head as she said that, causing her beautiful, straight blonde hair to flow downward.

“Mm, don’t worry about it, Lili. Prince Randell was just concerned.”

“I agree. Still, I don’t understand why he got angry…I didn’t say anything rude that I had to apologize for.”

Kaori and Kouki said this as Liliana smiled thinly. Understanding well the sibling love between an older sister and her younger brother, Kaori sympathized with Liliana to some extent for having a brother completely ignorant of her feelings. Above all, it was important that the ‘mortal enemy’ knew that she was separate from this matter.⁵

By the way, the meetings between Randell and his ‘mortal enemy’ would cause a big stir…but that’s another story.

Liliana was a talented lady of fourteen years. Golden haired and blue eyed, she was both beautiful and popular amongst the people. Earnest, but not too obstinate, and good at reading the mood, she was even able to interact openly with the servants.

She, as a princess and as a person, had been quite anxious as to the state of Kouki and the other summoned students. This was due to a sense of guilt about dragging them into problems of her world, which should have been their concern.

For that reason, she took the initiative to get to know the students, and it had not been long before they became well acquainted. She got along especially well with Shizuku and Kaori who were around the same age as her, by this point they had dropped all honorifics, electing to speak casually with one other and even giving each other nicknames.

“No, Kouki-san. There is no need to worry about Randell. He just tends to be a bit reckless. More importantly…Once again, welcome back, everyone. I am heartily glad that you all returned safely.”

Saying this, Liliana smiled gently. Even those classmates who were standing close to beauties like Kaori and Shizuku all blushed when they saw her smile. There was a refined elegance of royalty in her that the two of them did not have, something that most young women could not compete with using beauty alone.

In fact, Nagayama’s group and the delinquent group were also crimson from having their hearts stolen; even female members were slightly dyed in the cheek. For ordinary modern day students, the aura of a bona fide Otherworldly Princess was too much. Those who could bear it, like Kaori and those already close to the princess, were abnormal in this regard.

“Thank you, Lili. Your smile has blown my fatigue away. I too am glad to see you,” Kouki said such affected lines with a refreshing smile. Though it has been repeated often, Kouki did not have any ulterior motive in saying this. He was truly glad to be alive, and to meet a friend once again – he was just pathologically unaware of the effects his words and actions had.

“R, re, really? U, um…”

As a princess, Liliana was used to the compliments and flattery paid by the gentry, imperial envoys and the people of the cities and towns. As such, she had trained herself to become adept at looking past these masks and discerning their true intentions. Thus she could see that there was no such thing in Kouki’s words. Unused to such experiences outside of her family, Liliana’s cheeks too went red, and she became flustered and unable to respond.⁶

Kouki, as usual, just continued laughing and smiling, not realizing at all the effects his behavior had. And as expected, this caused Shizuku to sigh deeply. Someone worrisome had taken the stage, and yet the person himself would resolutely fail to notice it.

“Um, anyway, thank you all for your hard work. Preparations for the meal and baths have already been completed, so please make yourselves at home. The imperial envoys will take a few more days to arrive, so you needn’t worry about that.”

Having recovered her balance, Liliana urged them thus.

While Kouki and the others were unwinding the fatigue accumulated in the dungeon, the groups who had stayed behind heard of Behemoth’s defeat, and jubilant shouts went out amongst them. After this, the number of people who returned to the frontline increased. Aiko-sensei’s title of “Goddess of Fertility” also became a topic at this point, which caused her to writhe⁷ quite a lot.

Kouki and the others slowly rested their bodies, which had been exhausted from the raid.

But inwardly Kaori was restless; she desired to return to the dungeon.

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This chapter is translated by Japtem and edited by Icy Kitten on 12th July 2019.

Two months had passed since Yue showed Hajime the dignity of a senior, and various breakthroughs were made that night. As for Hajime, who continued enhancing his body and heart against the crazy monsters in the abyss, lost to Yue’s onslaught. He decided to take it seriously and accept it.

Hajime was aware of Yue’s feelings, and on top of that, he did promise to take her with him. His reason for withstanding her approach was his stance on not allowing something take his attention until he achieved his objectives. Now he had conquered the dungeon and established a secure base. His goal was partially achieved when he discovered information and a plan to return home, so now his mind was allowed to think about other things. His fragile reason couldn’t oppose Yue’s approach. Moreover, his reason didn’t exist anymore.

The two of them made full use of the base. If anyone saw from the side they would likely yell: “Riajuu should explode!!”¹ everyday. Far away, a Hannya mask floated around a female student. Her best friend had been frequently frightened by the situation, but that’s another story. These were the preparation for the bloodshed in the near future.

“…Hajime, does this feel good?”

“Yeah, it does.”

“Hehe…Then, here?”

“Ah, that’s good too.”

“Then, I’ll make you feel even better.”

Currently, Yue was giving Hajime a massage. They weren’t doing anything erotic. Hajime’s left arm was the cause of this, and they did it on a regular basis because his body had yet to become fully used to the prosthetic he was using.

His prosthetic arm was an artifact, and it could feel like a real arm with the direct manipulation of magic. The arm had a pseudo neural mechanism, so it allowed Hajime to feel things as if it were his real arm, although not as effectively. This was achieved by sending magic signals to his brain to trick his senses. For its appearance, the arm had a silver luster with black lines running along it. On certain parts of the arm, there were magic formations and patterns engraved on it.

The arm was fitted with a large number of gimmicks. He had designed it similar to the items in the studio that were Orcus’ works, but Hajime added some of his own original elements into it. A lot of special ores made with Creation Magic were used. If it was out in the world, this artifact would no doubt be an article of rare beauty that would be a national treasure. Of course, ordinary people couldn’t use it because you needed direct magic manipulation to operate it.

In two months their abilities and equipment were enhanced; they weren’t anything like their previous selves. Hajime’s current status.

Nagumo Hajime		17 Year old	Male
Class:	Transmutation Artist (Synergist)	Level:	???
Strength:	10,950	Vitality:	13,190
Resistance:	10,670	Agility:	13,450
Magic Power:	14,780	Magic Resistance:	14,780
Skills:
Transmutation • Mineral Appraisal • Precision Transmutation • Mineral Enquiry • Mineral Separation • Mineral Fusion • Replica Transmutation • Compression Transmutation • Magic Manipulation • Magic Emission • Magic Compression • Remote Control • Iron Stomach • Lightning Clad • Divine Step • Air Walk • Flicker • Grand Legs • Light Speed • Air Claws • Night Vision • Far Vision • Perception • Special Perception • Magic Perception • Special Perception • Heat Perception • Special Perception • Hide Presence • Phantom Step • Poison Resistance • Paralysis Resistance • Petrification Resistance • Panic Resistance • All Elemental Resistance • Foresight • Varja • Grand Arm • Coercion • Telepathic Communication • High-Speed Magic Recovery • Magic Conversion • Vitality • Healing • Limit Break • Generation Magic • Language Comprehension

Levels showed the current degree of growth and the limit was 100 for a person. However, did his body change too much after eating so much demon flesh? The level stopped changing but his stats kept going up. Finally, it displayed ??? for his level.

Hajime’s growth after he consumed demon flesh was very abnormal, especially when you thought about his initial values and his growth rate. When his body went into its alteration it seems his growth limit also increased; just like his stats increased. He guessed that the Status Plate was no longer able to measure his limits.

By the way, the limit of Kouki’s Hero class was 1500 for all stats. He could temporarily triple his stats with “Limit Break”, but it still abysmal compared to Hajime’s stats. Moreover, Hajime could quintuple his stats with his skill and magic manipulation.

For comparison, the normal humans of this world had stat limits of 100-200. If they had a class then it could be 300-400. The Devils and Demi-humans, depending on the tribe traits, could range from 300-600 as their limit. If a Hero was cheat, then Hajime was more or less a monster. This wasn’t really a mistake though, because his body and mind had changed…

In regards to new equipment,

First, Hajime obtained a storage device that he dubbed “Treasure Box”.

This was a ring type artifact that Orcus kept. There was a 1 cm red jewelry attached to the ring, and this jewel could make a space where it could store items. In short, it was like a hero’s tool bag. Hajime didn’t know the exact size of the space, but it was a considerable size. There seemed to be free space still after putting in all the equipment, tools, and materials. Anything can be deposited or withdrawn by just pouring magic into the formation on the ring, and withdrawn items could be placed anywhere within a 1 m radius.

It is an extremely convenient artifact, especially useful for the one armed Hajime. If the ring could transport anything to any place then Hajime thought he could use it to reload. When he tested it, it was half a success. As expected, it didn’t have the precision to directly transfer the bullet into the magazine. The limit was that the transfer had a certain range it could align the bullet’s orientation. He might be able to use it when he became more skilled with the transmission.

Hajime decided to train to load a magazine with this transferring skill in the air. The important note is he was reloading in the air, and Donner was a revolver that had a cylinder that swung out. Naturally, because the exposure of the cylinder was less than that of a top break revolver, it would require a superhuman technique to reload in the air. He wanted to use it in actual combat, not as a street performance, so it became more difficult. Hajime thought about remodeling it to a top break style but decided against it because it weakened the intensity in the trial.

After intense training for one month, Hajime had mastered this aerial reloading. He was able to do this solely because of his skill “Light Speed”. This Special Magic had the ability to raise the user’s cognitive functions. With this, he was able to slow the world down in his mind and aerial reloading became possible. There was a large burden to his body when he used it, so he couldn’t use it for very long. However, it was perfectly fine to use it for his fast reloading.

Next, Hajime manufactured “Magic 2-Wheel Drive and 4-Wheel Drive”.

Literally, these were 2 and 4 wheels driven by magic. The two-wheel was an American-like Motorcycle, and the four-wheel was designed like a military vehicle Hummer type. He used the tar shark’s resilience skin for the wheels because of its excellent elasticity. Taur Stone was the basis for all the parts. In the studio storage was Azantium Ore, at least that’s what Oscar’s book called it. Surfaces of the parts were coated with this ore, known as the world’s hardest ore. Even Donner’s maximum output probably wouldn’t be able to pierce through that durability. There was no complex structures like engines. The vehicle was driven by Hajime’s own magic or the magic stored in the fragment of God’s Crystal. Speed was proportional to the amount of magic.

In addition, there were devices fitted to the bottom of these two vehicles. When magic is poured into these devices, it starts to level the ground with transmutation magic. This would allow them to travel off-road in most places. Also, the vehicles were fully loaded like some spy car. Hajime was a boy. He was passionate about anything related to military. When he was too absorbed in it, Yue would pout, but her mood would improve when he spoiled her in various ways.

“Devil Eye” was another tool he developed.

Hajime lost his right eye when he fought the Hydra. His whole eye was evaporated by the heat of the Aurora attack, and he couldn’t get it back with sacred potion because he had lost it before he drank it. Yue was worried about it, so she devised and made “Devil Eye”.

Even with Creation Magic, it was not possible to make a normal “eyeball”. However, using Creation Magic, she was able to apply “Magic Perception” and “Foresight” to the God’s Crystal. The Devil Eye was successfully created and it gave a very unusual but special sight.

Using the same pseudo nerves used in the artificial arm, the Devil Eye could send images to the brain to perceive. The Devil Eye did not grant normal vision though, Instead it could recognize the flow, strength and attribute of magic by color. He could see the core of the invoked magic.

The magic core is what maintains and operates invoked magic. After invoking the magic, the magic is operated by the magic formation; he knew that. However, he had never thought about how the formula was linked with distant magic. None of the books and instructors had even mentioned anything about it. Hajime was probably the first person to realize its existence. Even Yue the magic expert didn’t know anything about it.

The normal “Magic Perception” was the same as “Perception”. It was only able to perceive a vague sense of number and location. Monsters that could hide their senses affected the effectiveness of the skills. With the Devil Eye though, he would be able to know what magic and how strong the magic the opponent is using. Hajime could even destroy the magic if he was able to pierce the core of the magic. However, shooting it would be like putting a bullet through a pinhole; it would require immense accuracy on Hajime’s part.

God’s crystal was used because it could retain these skills better than other materials. Hajime guessed that the reason was its ability to contain a vast amount of magic. Since he was still inexperienced with Creation Magic, he wasn’t able to grant three or more skills to a single item. With the God’s Crystal potential, they may be able to install far more magic into it when he obtains the required skill; at least, Hajime hoped.

Because they used the God’s Crystal for the Devil Eye, it constantly gave off a pale light. Hajime’s right eye constantly shined. There was no way to stop the glowing, so Hajime reluctantly put on a black eyepatch made of thin cloth.

White hair, artificial arm and an eyepatch. Hajime had completely became a Chuuni character. Calm down left arm! His figure seemed to say. When he saw himself in the mirror he despaired and entered an orz ² state. He stayed in bed for a whole day, and Yue tried to comfort him through various methods… neither of them wanted to talk about it.

About new weapons, Schlagen was revived after it was destroyed by the Hydra. The gun was strengthened using Azantium ore. Since he no longer had to worry about carrying it, he lengthened the barrel to 3 m. A scope was created with “Far Sight” installed and attached to the gun. This increased its maximum effective range to 10 km.

Hajime remembered the struggle he had when he was chased by the horde of raptors. The result was him developing a gatling railgun: Metsurai, which fires 30 mm caliber rounds at 12,000 rounds per minute through its 6 barrels. The barrels were created from special ores that had cooling effects installed by creation magic, but it still couldn’t be used for more than 5 minutes continuously. If it overheated, it would need a 10 minute cooling period.

For surface supremacy, Hajime developed a rocket and missile launcher: Orca; purely because it was his interest. In the back was a 12-round rotary magazine for continuous fire, and it had an elongated barrel. He also had various kinds of rockets.

He even created another revolver to pair with Donner: Schlagen. Hajime could use both now that he had his artificial left arm. Using both at the same time, Hajime would be able to use Gun Kata³ as his basic tactics. With Yue as the typical rear guard, he often used close combat to efficiently cooperate with Yue. However, Hajime could be an all-rounder if he was properly equipped.

Other various equipment and tools were developed. However, contrary to being fully equipped, the God’s Crystal was finally depleted of its sacred water. Only 12 tube containers were left of the sacred water. They tried to pour magic into the God’s Crystal, but failed in extracting sacred water. Maybe after many years of concentration it would flow again.

Throwing away the God’s Crystal would be a waste. It had saved his life…his lucky stone. Good luck piled up with good luck, and he would be dead if he didn’t arrive at this crystal. Hajime was extraordinarily attached to it because of that. Loneliness was unbearable to a survivor and painted a visage on his belonging. It was about the same as giving it a name and admiring it.

Hajime used the crystal’s ability to contain enormous amount of magic; to make necklaces, earrings, rings and other accessories with transmutation. He gave them to Yue. She was able to use very powerful magic. Her most powerful spells consumed a lot of magic, and just one shot would leave her depleted. If she was able to stock up her magic in a battery, she could use those superlative magic in rapid succession and not get magically exhausted.

He named the accessories set “Magic Crystal Series” and gave it to Yue. Her reaction at that time…

“…A proposal.”

“Say What?”

Yue jumped at the first time hearing Hajime unintentionally using Kansai dialect with his Tsukkomi.

“It prevents magic exhaustion. I thought this would surely protect Yue from now on.”

“…It is a proposal.”

“No, that’s wrong. Just new equipment.”

“…Hajime, you’re shy…”

“…Recently, you’re not listening to people.”

“…Even shy in bed.”

“Will you stop!? Seriously, such a thing!”

“Hajime..”

“Ah, What is it?”

“Thanks…I love it.”

“Oh.”

Please, really explode already! These two were creating their own atmosphere. They were ready for everything in a lot of ways.

Ten days after that, Hajime and Yue were setting off for the surface.

While they were activating the magic on the third floor, Hajime told Yue in a quiet voice.

“Yue…My weapons, and our powers are heresy on the surface. The church and countries will not remain silent.”

“Nn…”

“They will demand our weapons and artifacts. There is a high possibility they will coerce us into participating in their war.”

“Nn…”

“This may be a dangerous trip that turns the world against us. No matter how many lives you have, it might be insufficient.”

“And you say this now…”

Hajime wryly smiled at her words. He gently stroke her fluffy hair, and she stared straight at him.

Yue squinted her eyes from the pleasant feeling. He took a moment’s pause, and stared back at the sparkling red eyes. Hajime put his wish and resolution into words, as he inscribed it into his soul.

“I will protect Yue, Yue will protect me. So we are the strongest. All will be mowed down, and we will cross worlds.”

At his words, Yue grasped both hands in front of her chest tightly; almost like a hug. Her expressionless face vanished to reveal a blooming smile. And answered like always,
“N~!”

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This chapter is translated by Japtem and edited by Icy Kitten on 7th July 2019.

The magic formation shone faintly and filled the room with a mysterious light.

A young man was standing in front of Hajime. After focusing in on him, they noticed that he was wearing the same robe from the chair, presumably the same man.

“I see you have arrived here after overcoming my trials. My name is Oscar Orcus, the person who created this dungeon. If I said one of the Traitors, would you understand?”

Seems like the person speaking was Oscar Orcus. The creator of the “Orcus Dungeon”. Hajime was surprised but kept listening.

“Ah, please don’t ask questions. This is just a recording, unfortunately, and it wouldn’t be able to answer your questions. For whoever may reach this place, I will impart the truth of the world and what we fought for… this is the leftover message. So please, I want you to listen… We are traitors… but we are also not.”

Then Orcus started his story. This story was much different from the known history that the church taught and what Yue explained to him; it shocked him.

A tale of the battle between the Mad God and his descendants.

During the first year after the Age of Gods, the world was filled with strife. Humans, Devils, and Demi-Humans were constantly at war with each other. The reason for their wars varied. Territorial expansion, ethnic values, greed, and many others. The biggest reason was “Enemy of God”. During that time the races and countries were finely divided. Each race and country would worship their own god. For their god’s oracle, they continued to wage their war.

After hundreds of years of countless battles, there came people who wanted to end this war. The group was called “Liberators” during those days.

They all had a common connection. All of them were direct descendants of the gods that were followed in the Age of Gods. The leader of the “Liberators” had, by chance, found out the real intentions of the gods. The gods had urged the wars with the intention of having the people be the pieces in their war game. When he found this out, the leader set out on a mission. He gathered like minded people who would not stand for the gods manipulating the people and driving them to war for their games.

They located the place where the gods resided, [World of Gods]. Within the “Liberators”, there were seven who held ancient magic, and with their powerful strength, challenged the gods. ¹

However, the plan failed before the fighting began. The gods were the puppet masters of the people, and they had gotten people to recognize the “Liberators” as the enemy of god that wanted to bring destruction to the world. People were made to be their enemies. There were complications in the process, after all, and they couldn’t wield their power against the people they were trying to protect. When the “Liberators” were defeated, they were labeled as “Traitors”, the traitors who forgot the grace of god and wanted to destroy the world.

At the end, their group had been dwindled to the seven strongest. They were now the world’s enemies, and they judged that they were not strong enough to strike down the gods. Each of them scattered around the continent and created the Seven Great Dungeons to hide in. The dungeon was a trial to find a worthy person to hand over their powers, and with it accomplish what they could not.

Orcus released a gentle smile after his extensive story wrapped up.

“I don’t know who you are ,or what reason you arrived here for. I will not coerce you into killing God. However, I wanted you to know what we stood for.

…To you, I grant my powers. You are free to use it as you will. Please do not use this power to satisfy the evil in your heart. Our conversation is at an end. Thank you for listening. Now your free will won’t be under supervision.”

After he finished what he said, the recorded image of Orcus disappeared. Something invaded Hajime’s mind at the same time. His mind ached with a throb, but endured it quietly because it imprinted knowledge of a certain magic.

Soon, both the pain and magic formation settled. Hajime slowly exhaled.

“Hajime…are you okay?”

“Ah, I’m fine…kind of. I just heard something immense.”

“…Okay…What do you want to do?”

Yue asked what he wanted to do, after he heard Orcus’ story.

“Yeah? Nothing in particular? Being summoned without permission and asking us to fight in a war was bothersome. I don’t even know what’s going on with this world. Looking for a way to the surface and going home, that’s my only goal… Are you bothered by it, Yue?”

The previous Hajime would probably do something. However, his values had changed and it allowed him to ignore Orcus’ plight. This world should have its own people deal with their problems, but Yue was a resident of this world. Since he couldn’t leave her alone, he had to consider what she wanted. He couldn’t cut off Yue like he did Orcus, because their relationship was a lot closer. Hajime asked her for her thoughts, but after a slight hesitation she shook her head.

“My only place is by your side… otherwise I don’t care.”

She snuggled up to Hajime and took his hand. Yue tried to convey her true feelings as she grasped his hand. In the past, she had devoted everything for her country, and then got betrayed by those she trusted and not a single person attempted to save her. For Yue after her long imprisonment, this world was just a prison to her.

Hajime was the one to save her from that hell. That’s why being beside Hajime was her everything.

“…Is that so.”

Hajime was slightly embarrassed. He cleared his throat to try to disguise it, and told Yue what he gained from the magic circle.

“Ah, I also learned some new magic…Age of Gods magic it seems.”

“…Really?”

Yue had an expression that said she didn’t believe him, but it was expected. The magic that was used in the Age of Gods was lost to the modern world. It was transition magic that summoned him and the others here, and that was the power of Age of Gods magic.

“It seems like this magic formation on the floor can fiddle with your brain and teach you to use it.”

“…Are you okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. This magic… It’s like it was meant for me.”

“…What kind of magic is it?”

“Well, I think it’s called Creation Magic. You can add magic into minerals with it, and the added magic can give special properties to the minerals.”

Yue jaw-dropped at Hajime’s explanation.

“…You can make artifacts, can’t you?”

“Ah, I guess I can do that.”

Creation Magic was used to create artifacts during the Age of Gods. Like this magic was made for a “Transmutation Master”. The truth was, Orcus’ class was “Transmutation Master”.

“Why don’t you learn it too, Yue? Enter this magic square and it will explore your memories. Orcus said something about a trial and you may learn it if it judges that you passed the trial.”

“…I don’t use transmutation…”

“Mah, that’s true but…its magic from ancient times right? It wouldn’t hurt to learn it.”

“…Okay, if you say so.”

Yue walked to the center of the magic formation just like Hajime advised. The magic formation glew brilliantly as it searcheed through Yue’s memories. Now, at the moment of truth of its verdict…

“You have arrived here after overcoming the trials. My name is Oscar…”

Orcus appeared again. There was a spoiled feeling. Hajime and Yue ignored Orcus’ story and kept talking to each other.

“Did you learn it?”

“Yeah, but… making artifacts is difficult.”

“Yeah, it seems that Ancient Magic might have affinities and suitability.”

While the two were talking with each other, Orcus continues his story again as he smiled to nobody. It was very surreal. Hajime thought he saw the corpse look sad, but wrote it off as his imagination.

“Ah, for the time being, this place is ours now, so do you want to bury the corpse?”

Hajime didn’t have any compassion.

“Yeah… let’s fertilize the field.”

Yue didn’t show him any compassion either.

Even though there was no wind, Orcus’ body hung its head.

Orcus’ body was buried at the end of the field, and a gravestone was erected there. As expected, treating him like fertilizer was too pitiful.

When they finished with the burial, Hajime and Yue went to the sealed rooms. They had received a ring that Orcus had worn. On the ring was an engraved pattern that was crosswise in the circle, and the pattern was the same as the seals in the library and studio.

First, they headed to the study.

Their first purpose was to search for a way to the surface. Hajime and Yue unlocked the seal on the bookshelf and checked for anything notable. They discovered the designs for the whole cavern. Although it wasn’t to the degree of a blueprint, where everything was listed, it was a memo of where certain buildings would be placed.

“Bingo! There it is, Yue!”

“Un!”

A voice of delight escaped from Hajime. According to the building plan, the magic formation on the third floor was also connected somehow to a formation on the surface. The magic wouldn’t activate without Orcus’ ring, though that was no longer a problem to these graverobbers.

When they examined the plan more, there was an independent golem in the studio that maintained this dwelling periodically. The light from the globes on the ceiling had the same property as natural sunlight. This meant that crops and other things that rely on sunlight could also be grown. It seemed that, the reason this place felt so clean, even when no life was here, was because of the golem.

The studio acted as a storage for all the artifacts and materials Orcus had made during his lifetime. These items were stolen… no, transferred to them. There were quite a lot of devices.

“Hajime… this is…”

“Yeah?”

Yue had been investigating the other documents while Hajime checked the plans, and brought him one of the books. The book was Orcus’ memoir. Inside the memoirs were written the daily lives of former comrades, especially about the seven core members of the “Liberators”.

Within the passages, one of them was related with the Dungeons the other six made.

“….In other words, it’s that? If we conquer the other dungeons, we would obtain the creator’s Ancient magic?”

“…Maybe.”

According to the memoirs, just like Orcus, the other six “Liberators” were prepared to teach their Ancient Magic to those that conquer their dungeon and reach the final floor. Unfortunately the magic they had was not listed.

“…Maybe we found a way home.”

Just as Yue said, there was a possibility. The transition magic that summoned Hajime from his world was also Ancient Magic.

“Looks like we have a guideline from now on. To conquer the Seven Great Dungeons when we return to the surface.”

“Yeah.”

Hajime loosened his cheeks as he got the guideline. He instinctively patted Yue’s head, and her eyes narrowed joyfully. ²

They were looking for more information, but they weren’t able to find any data that showed the exact locations of the dungeon. Currently, the confirmed dungeons were “Grand Gruen Volcano” around the Great Gruen Desert, and “Haltina Sea of Trees”. The rumored dungeons were “Raisen Great Canyon” and “Schnee Snowfield”. They had no choice but to investigate all of them.

Satisfied with their search of the study, the two moved to the studio.

There were a lot of small rooms in the studio and they could open them all with Orcus’ ring. Inside them were various never seen before ores and work tools. Theory books crowded the area and it could be mistaken as a paradise for Transmutation Masters.

Hajime folded his arms and pondered as he looked over the studio. When Yue saw him in that state, she looked puzzled and voiced it.

“…What’s up?”

After being lost in thought for a while, Hajime proposed to Yue.

“Umm, that is, Yue? Can we stay here for a bit? I want to quickly get to the surface, but… there are many things to learn and this is the best base. When thinking about conquering the other Dungeons, I want to prepare as much as possible here. How about it?”

Yue had been sealed underground for 300 years and she didn’t want to lose a second in getting to the surface. However, after becoming speechless at Hajime’s proposal; she immediately approved.

“…Anywhere is fine if Hajime is there.”

That’s how it is? Hajime tried to hide his embarrassment at Yue’s surprise declaration.

Both of them decided to train and equip themselves as much as possible here.

Omake

Evening of that day, the sun in the ceiling had changed into a moon and gave off a pale light. Hajime let his whole body relax as he soaked in the bath. After falling into the abyss, this was the first time he had loosened up. A bath was often said to cleanse the mind.

“Phew, this is the best.”

A voice that was unthinkable for the current Hajime’s nature came out. When he loosened his whole body, he suddenly heard footsteps. The completely off-guard Hajime shivered. Even after he said he would enter alone!

Of course, the one to make the sounds and enter the bath was…

“…Ah…feels so good…”

Yue immediately sat down near Hajime, stark naked.

“…Yue-san, didn’t I say I’ll enter alone?”
“…I refused.”
“Wait a minute! Why do you know that meme?!”

“……”

“…At least cover your front. There are plenty of towels.”
“I’d rather you look.”

“……”

“…Eh?”
“Umm… you know they’re touching me.”
“Yes they are.”
“And again, why do you know that meme?! Fine, I’ll go!”
“I won’t let you go!”
“Wa-Wait! Ah, Ahhhhh!!!”

I will leave the rest to your imagination.

Omake 2

Kaori’s side.

“What’s this? Suddenly I feel very irritated…”

“Kaori!? There is a Hannya behind you!”

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This chapter is translated by Japtem and edited by Icy Kitten on 7th July 2019.

Hajime felt his whole body being wrapped by something warm and soft. It was a very nostalgic feeling, almost like a bed. A cushion was gently catching his head and back. The softness of feathers wrapped his body. His dozing consciousness was thrown into confusion.

(What is this? This is supposed to be the dungeon…Why is a bed…?)

He was fumbling around as his consciousness was not fully awake yet. However, he couldn’t move his right hand. It was wrapped in a soft feeling that was different from the bed. His palm was also wedged into something warm and soft.

(What’s this?)

Hajime moved his hand while his mind was still blank. He felt a certain elasticity between his hands and it was squishy when he touched it. Just keen on the feel somehow and it became a habit to keep touching…

“…Ahn..”

(!?)

For some reason a seductive gasp could be heard. At that moment, the first visage of his consciousness came back to him.

Hajime noticed as he raised himself in panic, that he really was in a bed. The bed had a pure-white sheet, it felt luxurious, and it even had a canopy. It seemed the bed was on a stone pavement in a terrace atrium. A refreshing breeze blew by Hajime’s cheeks and the canopy. His perimeter was surrounded by pillars and a thin curtain. He thought it was right out of a scene from a Pantheon Shrine. The whole space was filled with a warm light that he hadn’t seen in a long time.

He was confused, wasn’t he just in a life and death battle with a Hydra just moments ago?

(Where is this? Don’t tell me… that this place is the afterworld?)

In this place that felt so solemn, an ominous thought crossed his mind. Hajime’s thoughts were interrupted by an amorous voice next to him.

“….Hn…Hajime…Au…”

“!?”

When Hajime was confused, he turned over the sheet. While not wearing a single thread of clothing, Yue clung onto Hajime’s right hand and slept completely naked. He finally noticed that even he was naked.

“Indeed…this is the morning surprise…that’s so not right!”

The confused Hajime did a Tsukkomi on himself for his stupid thoughts. Yue started to wake up a little.

“Yue, wake up. Yue.”

“Hn~…”

When he tried to wake her up, she curled up and shook her head to fret. His right hand was stuck between Yue’s thighs and it was approaching a dangerous place.

“Ku …Don’t tell me this is really the afterworld…is it Heaven?”

Even as Hajime was saying those stupid things, he tried to free his right hand, but everytime…

“….Hn …Hn…”

Yue panted seductively.

“Ku, calm down me. No matter how old she is, her appearance is still of a child. It’s impossible for me to get excited! I am absolutely not a lolicon!”

Hajime tried to persuade himself of this, while his expression was on the brink of looking like a pervert. He gave up trying to free his right hand, and instead tried to wake up the cause but no luck.

Gradually, he started to get irritated. Hajime could not swallow the situation and confusion, and he had a blue vein popping out on his forehead at her leisurely sleeping there.

His irritation culminated…

“That’s enough, get up! You natural erotic vampire princess!”

He invoked his [Lightning Clad]. Electric discharge started to gather in his right hand.

“!?Aghhhgahh!”

Yue was shocked by the discharge. She released Hajime’s arm and finally opened her eyes, while she twitched a little.

“…Hajime?”

“Yeah. It’s Hajime-san. Sleepyhead, wake up…”

“Hajime!”

“!?”

She woke up and widened her eyes when she saw Hajime. The next moment, she was jumping towards him, In the nude. Hajime trembled.

Yue buried her face into Hajime’s scruff, and he noticed she was sniffing. He decided there was no helping it, and just stroked her head with a smile.

“My bad, seems like I worried you a lot.”

“Yeah …I was worried…”

It seems she didn’t want to stop hugging him for a while. He held onto her until she was satisfied because she did take care of him. Hajime continued to stroke her head gently.

When Yue calmed down after a few minutes, Hajime had her cover her body with a cover, then asked about what happened.

“So, what’s happened since then? Where is this?”

“…After that…”

She said that after the battle, she felt dizzy from her magic depletion and snuggled up right next to the collapsed Hajime. Then the double doors in the room automatically opened. Reinforcements? Yue stayed vigilant but nothing ever came. When she started to recover bit by bit, she decided to enter the door.

The sacred water continued healing Hajime little by little. Still, he was in a dangerous state with all his serious injuries. His body had escaped death, but she didn’t know how long he could hold out against the poison. Both of them would be finished if a new monster appeared. Therefore, she had to check it out.

And just past the doors entrance,

“…Abode of the Traitors.”

Inside was a vast space with a good looking house in the center. She confirmed it wasn’t dangerous, and after searching for a while, she found a bedroom where she took the unconscious Hajime to. Recently, the God’s Crystal extract was decreasing considerably, but Hajime had kept drinking the sacred water.

The sacred water finally beat out the toxins, and it was able to display its usual restorative prowess.

“…I see, you took care of me. Thanks, Yue.”

“Hn!”

When Hajime conveyed his words of thanks, Yue’s eyes brightened up with joy from the bottom of her heart. She was expressionless, but her eyes said it all.

“By the way…why am I naked?”

He was curious. There was still the surprise he wanted to rid himself of. ¹ Hajime didn’t dislike Yue…he just wanted to prepare his heart. Inwardly, he just muttered to himself.

“…You were dirty… so I cleaned you…”

“…Why… why did you lick your lips?”

Yue had a bewitching smile, like when she sucked his blood, and licked her lips. For some reason his body shivered.

“Why was Yue sleeping next to me? And also naked…”

“…Fufu…”

“Wait, what are you laughing at? Did you do something? Don’t lick your lips!”

While Hajime was questioning her intensely, Yue did not answer and just stared at Hajime with a voluptuous look.

Hajime questioned her for a while, but she had a happy expression as she stayed silent. He decided to give up on the questioning and explore the abode. Yue handed him some high-quality clothes she found. It was men’s clothing, and most likely belonged to the traitor. Hajime confirmed his good health, then dressed himself with the clothes and prepared his equipment. There might be some traps or tricks, so he prepared himself just in case.

When his preparation was also complete, he looked back and found Yue dressed. Yue was…

…she was in a one piece cutter shirt.

“Yue… just what are you aiming for?”

“?… This size doesn’t fit.”

Oh, a men’s size would surely not fit Yue’s petite 140 cm height. However, her appropriately sized breasts and pure white legs were on display. Her image was so sensational, contrary to her childish appearance, because of the way Yue held herself and acted. Hajime was troubled on where to keep his eyes.

He wasn’t sure if she was aiming for that or if it just came natural. Hajime just knew she was terrifying in a variety of ways.

“…If it’s natural, then it’s quite frightening…”

Leaving the bedroom, he was amazed at the sights around him.

As soon as he stepped out, sunlight rushed to blind him, although it was fake due to them being underground. There was a globe that had a cone-shaped body connected to the ceiling, and it was floating there shining. He felt slightly warm because it didn’t feel artificial like a fluorescent light, causing Hajime to unintentionally call it the “Sun”.

“It looks like a moon whenever it turns to night. ”

“Seriously…”

The sounds of rushing water also attacked his ears, and he noticed at the back of the room was a waterfall. A large quantity of water ran down that wall from the ceiling and joined the river to flow into the back cave. The cool wind was full of magic particles that blew from the waterfall, providing Hajime with a good feeling. When he took a closer look at the water, there were fish swimming there. It was possible the fish flowed in from a terrestrial river.

Some distance from the river, there was a big field. Nothing seemed to be planted there right now, though it spread throughout the surrounding. It could be an animal pen, although there were no signs of animals, there were enough resources here to be self sufficient. Lots of varieties of plants grew around here too.

Hajime was on the opposite side of the river and field. He wanted to walk to the building adjacent to the bedroom, but something was stopping him. The construction felt like it had been processed and wasn’t for someone to live in.

“…I checked around a bit, a majority of the rooms don’t open..”

“I see…Yue, don’t let your guard down.”

“Okay…”

The stone house was white and its texture was like lime; All of it felt so clean. In the entrance, there was a light sphere that was at the tip of a pedestal projecting from the ceiling. Hajime was dazzled with it because he had been in the dark for so long. There seemed to be 3 stories, and there seemed to be an atrium at the top.

First, they wanted to look at the ground floor. Even after finding a fireplace, soft carpet, living area with a sofa, kitchen, and restroom, there was no sign that this place had been neglected over the years. There was no sign of life…but it had the feeling of returning home after a trip. Hajime thought it had an air that told him it hadn’t been used in a while. People didn’t live here, but it was still being maintained…

Hajime and Yue continued their exploration with caution. When they went up to the middle floor they were outdoors again. There was a hole in this huge place, and a sculpture of a lion was enshrined in deep water there. Next to the sculpture was a magic formation. When he poured magic into the formation, warm water jumped out of the lion’s open mouth. The lion seemed to be able to arrange water from anywhere in the world.

“A bath! Amazing! How many months has it been since I had a bath?”

His cheeks loosened instinctively. The first time around, Hajime couldn’t care about the dirt that was on his body. But now, since he was worried about itching, he gave in. Water was gathered using a huge magic formation he formed, and he covered his body in water.

After all, Hajime was Japanese. He was no exception to having a desire for a bath. After he secured the area, he couldn’t help himself from smiling.

Watching Hajime, Yue said…

“…Want to enter… Together?”

“…Let me take it easy alone.”

“Mu…”

Yue kicked the warm water with her bare feet. Hajime refused because, if they entered together he wouldn’t be able to relax. Her face showed how dissatisfied she was.

Both of them soon discovered a study room and workshop on the second floor. However, there seemed to be seals that prevented them from opening the doors in those rooms. With no other choice, they continued their search.

The two headed to the third floor’s back room. There was only one room on the third floor. When they opened the door into the interior, there was a 7-8 m wide exquisite and delicate magic formation engraved on the floor in the center of the room; the design was something they had never seen before. As a rather splendid geometric patterned formation, it looked like art.

However, something else was more noteworthy. On the other side of the magic formation was a corpse sitting in a regal chair. It had already been skeletonized and there was a stunning black robe embroidered with gold on its body. There was not a single stain on it, and it seemed to be an object from a haunted house.

The corpse hung its head, while leaning on the chair. It had been decayed in that posture. What did this person think of, in this room with only a magic formation? Why did it choose this place, instead of the bedroom or living room?

“…That’s suspicious…What do you want to do?”

Yue was also wondering about the corpse. This person was probably one of the traitors. No signs of suffering could be seen on the figure that rested on the chair, so it seemed like the figure was waiting for someone.

“Well, if we want to reach the surface, I think this room is the key. The seals in the library and studio resisted my transmutation…so we have to investigate. Yue wait here, and if anything happens I’ll leave it to you.”

“Okay…Be careful.”

Hajime stepped forward towards the magic formation. The moment he stepped into the center of the magic formation, a snow-white light blinded them suddenly and the room was dyed with light.

Due to the intensity, Hajime closed his eye. Something had invaded into his head immediately after, and he went through the time he fell into the abyss like a revolving lantern.

The light soon settled and Hajime opened his eyes; and standing there… was a young man in black clothing.

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This chapter is translated by Japtem and edited by Icy Kitten on 7th July 2019.

Although there was no question that the Aruraune was dead, Yue was still hurt. After that event, she sucked Hajime’s blood until he fainted. That was successful enough to put her back into a good mood, so they continued their journey.

Their journey continued until they had descended 100 levels from where Hajime first started. Before each level, he would check his equipment and supplies. As always, whenever Hajime would work, Yue would stare at him. She was really watching Hajime rather than the work. Even now she was watching him work from his right side while relaxing. Her expression did not suit the atmosphere of the dungeon.

They lost track of how many days had passed since they met, because there was no sense of time underground. Recently, Yue was displaying a more comfortable expression. She was even acting a little spoiled.

Whenever they were resting at the base, she would especially get glued to him. If he laid down, she would cling to his arm while they slept near each other. Yue would embrace him from the back when he sat down. When she fed on his blood, she would cuddle him from the front. She would stay there even after she was done with the feeding. With a content expression, she would rub her face on his chest.

Hajime is a man. Yue with her 12 years old appearance was charming and should not easily invoke lust, but she was older than that. Since Hajime was the one being bewitched from that glimpse, it was troublesome. Still, they were in the dungeon, the tension in there helped him bear with it. When they returned to the surface, he didn’t have much confidence in resisting her advances with her adult mode. There may not be the meaning to impart…

“Hajime…as careful as usual…”

“Hmm? Ah, because it’s the 100th floor next. I thought there might be something there. The upper dungeon is believed to have 100 floors… just in case.”

When Hajime passed the 80th floor of this place, he thought there was a possibility that the place they were in was no longer the usual “Orcus Dungeon”. He had the same feeling as when he fell into the abyss. Judging from what he sensed as he traversed this level, this was certainly a basement a way off from the usual labyrinth.

Firearms, martial arts, special magic, weapons, and transmutation. After polishing these skills, Hajime had confidence in himself. He wouldn’t be taken down easily. However, this place was scary enough to kill him even with his abilities.

That is why he prepared as much as possible. Hajime’s current status…

Nagumo Hajime		17 Year old	Male
Class:	Synergist	Level:	76
Strength:	1,980	Vitality:	2,090
Resistance:	2,070	Agility:	2,450
Magic Power:	1,780	Magic Resistance:	1,780
Skills:
Transmutation • Mineral Appraisal • Precision Transmutation • Mineral Enquiry • Mineral Separation • Mineral Fusion • Replica Transmutation • Magic Manipulation • Magic Emission • Magic Compression • Remote Control • Iron Stomach • Lightning Clad • Divine Step • Air Walk • Flicker • Grand Legs • Air Claws • Night Vision • Far VisionPerception • Magic Perception • Heat Perception • Hide Presence • Poison Resist • Paralysis Resist • Petrification Resistance • Varja • Magic Penetration • Coercion • Telepathic Communication • Language Comprehension

His status has continuously climbed after consuming his first demon meat, though he had not received much Special Magic. The stats did not increase anymore from normal monsters, but the boss or high-level monsters still did. Just like the other demons that didn’t get Special magic from eating other demons, and his stats were getting harder to raise in his state.

When Hajime and Yue finished all their preparations, they went to the staircase that led them down.

The level they stumbled upon, was a very large space supported by a vast number of pillars. Each of the pillars was 5m in diameter, and each had spiral designs and vine patterns engraved onto them. The arrangement of each row of pillars was very uniform, and was even spaced out evenly. There was about 30m to the ceiling. Unlike the usual rough ground in the dungeon, this place had beautiful flat ground, and the room gave off a solemn atmosphere.

They stepped into the room while they admired it. All the pillars started to shine faintly then. This got them to regain their caution. Pillars lit up sequentially towards the back of the room.

Hajime was vigilant for a while, but they decided to advance because nothing was happening. They advanced while making full use of their senses and perception skills. After they progressed 200m, they found a dead end ahead. No, not a dead end, but a huge door. The double door was 10m tall and had extravagant sculptures engraved onto it. Particularly, some of the patterns drawn were the same as the ones on top of the octagon system.

“…This looks amazing. By any chance…”

“Abode of Traitors?”

He had a feeling this was the room with the last boss. Hajime’s instincts were sending him warnings, while there was no reaction from his perception skills. The fight ahead would definitely be a troublesome one. Yue seemed to feel it too because there was sweat on her forehead.

“Isn’t this the greatest? We finally reached our goal.”

Hajime disregarded his instinct and put his bold smile on. He had no choice but to keep going, no matter what was behind there.

Yue eyed the door with an expression that told him she was prepared for it.

The two finally walked past the last of pillars and advanced towards the door.

At that moment, a huge magic formation nearly 30 meters wide appeared between them and the door. Crimson light emitted from the magic, and it pulsated.

Hajime recognized this magic. He couldn’t forget it, since it was the same magic that triggered because of the trap that day and caused him to fall into the abyss. But the magic formation for the Behemoth a measly 10m in diameter. Compared to the magic formation from last time, this was 3 times larger than that, a lot more complex and detailed.

“Hey hey, what’s with this size? Is it really the last boss?”

“…It’s fine…We won’t lose…”

As expected, Hajime smiled. Yue tugged on one of his arms tightly with a determined expression on her face.

Hajime nodded at Yue’s words, and glared at the magic formation. Seems like they wouldn’t be able to advance if they didn’t defeat the monster that came out of that magic formation.

The formation shone more and more until it finally burst. Hajime and Yue both held up their arms to prevent the light from blinding them. When the light disappeared, the boss awaited them.

A monster over 30m in length, 6 heads with long necks, sharp fangs, and dark red eyes. Comparable to the Hydra of the myths.

“”””””Kuruuaan!””””””

Those six pair of eyes stared at Hajime as it gave off a strange roar. It seemed to want to bring judgment upon the intruders who didn’t know their place. A fierce thirst for blood, that would have stopped an ordinary man’s heart, was flung at Hajime.
One of the heads with a Red Crest on it opened its mouth as flames emitted from it. The flames were already on the scale of a massive wall.

Hajime and Yue jumped to the right and left to start their counterattack. Hajime fired Donner at the Red Head, and the bullet sent it flying.

When Hajime pumped his fist in the air at his victory, one head with a white pattern shouted. White light wrapped around the crimson head and restored it fully, like time had been reversed. The white head appeared to be able to use healing magic.

Yue had launched an ice shard at a Green Head and blew it away. However, the result was the same as the Red one, the white head cast its spell and healed it.

Hajime started to speak with Yue through the “Telepathic Communication”, while he tsked.

(“Yue! Aim for that white head! Or it’s endless!”)

(“Okay!”)

The head with a blue pattern shot out a gravel of ice from its mouth. Hajime and Yue were aiming for the white head while they avoided the shot.

Bang!

“Scarlet Spear!”

A flash of light and a blazing spear shot towards the white head. However, the moment when it was about to hit, the yellow head quickly went into the line of fire and bloated. The head shone yellow and took both of the attacks head-ons. After the attack settled, there was an unscathed yellow head glaring at them.

“Tsk! A shield. That head shields the healing head, a nice balance.”

Hajime threw an incendiary grenade over the heads. At the same time, he fired Donner at the White Head with full power. Yue helped by firing off her “Scarlet Spear” in rapid succession. Her “Azure Sky” may have surpassed the yellow head and hit the white head, but she would be easy prey after using such a strong spell that would exhaust her. She may be able to recover fast if she drank blood, but the heads were probably not going to allow the chance. Unless the number of heads could be halved, she couldn’t use her best spells.

The yellow head was tanking all their attacks. But soon it was showing signs of damage in its previously flawless head.

“Kuruan!”

The white head took to healing the yellow head at once. The head performed its healer role perfectly. However, at that moment the incendiary grenade exploded over the white head. Tar at 3000 degree centigrade was scattered around. When it poured onto the white head, it screamed in pain.

Don’t miss this chance! Hajime sent this message telepathically. They planned for a simultaneous attack, but before they could execute it, a scream sounded. Yue’s scream.

“Noooo!!”

“!? Yue!”

He quickly tried to rush over to her, but was intercepted by wind blades and fireballs fired by the green head and red head respectively. Yue was still screaming, Hajime wondered what was going on with his teeth clenched. The black head, he realized it had done nothing this whole time.

No that’s wrong, it had already done something.

Hajime fired Donner at the black head, while he dodged around with “Flicker” and “Air Walk”. With the sound of his firearm, the black head that was staring at Yue was blown away. Yue collapsed at the same time. He could see that her face was pale even from a distance. The blue head opened its big mouth and stretched its head towards Yue to swallow her.

“Like I’ll let you!!”

Hajime prepared himself to get damaged in the storm of wind blades and fireballs as he used his “Flicker”. A potentially fatal attack was avoided with the use of Donner and “Air Claws”. At the last moment, Hajime arrived between the blue head and Yue. But there was no time to counter, so he quickly triggered “Vajra”. Hajime could not use this skill while moving. That’s why he stood before Yue to block that attack. The magic covered his body at the same time the head bit him.

“Kururu!”

“Guu!”

While raising a low growl, the blue head swallowed Hajime whole. When it tried to close its jaws, Hajime leaned forward and braced his legs to prevent it from closing. He pushed Donner against the head’s upper jaw and pulled the trigger.

The blue head erupted from the blast and bits of its brain flew off. Hajime used his “Grand Kick” on the motionless head. Then he threw a flash grenade and sonic grenade at the Hydra.

“Sonic Grenade” was developed from a demon that could emit ultrasonic waves that they met on the 80th level. The demon had a special organ inside its body that generated these sounds to attack. Hajime didn’t get any special magic for defeating this monster, but he was able to use its special organ as materials for his new grenade.

Those two grenades covered the Hydra in intense light and ultrasonic waves. Hajime carried Yue and hid behind the pillars with the chance those grenades provided.

“Hey! Yue! Get it together!”

“…”

She didn’t react to his words with her paling expression and trembling body. What the heck did the black head do to her? While he cursed, he slapped Yue’s cheeks. Hajime called out for her telepathically and gave her some sacred water. After a while, light began to dwell in her hollow eyes.

“Yue!”

“…Hajime”

“Yeah, it’s me. Are you alright? What happened?”

Yue confirmed Hajime’s existence with blinking eyes. She extends out her small hands and touched his face. A relieved sigh escaped her lips as she realized that Hajime was really in front of her, and tears began to collect at the edge of her eyes.

“…What a relief… I thought I was abandoned… alone in the dark again…”

“Ah? What are you talking about?”

Hajime was perplexed at her state. Yue said she saw a scene play out where Hajime had abandoned her and resealed her. When she saw that, a strong sense of insecurity struck her. She became bound by fear then it paralyzed her body and mind.

“Tsk! A debuff spell? Seems like the black head can induce panic into its opponent. Ðamn, that monster has a good balance of skills!”

“…Hajime.”

Yue watched Hajime curse at the troublesome enemy with her anxious eyes. It was a frightening scene, being abandoned by Hajime. He was the person to risk his own life at unsealing her after 300 years. He, who didn’t treat her differently after she told him she was a vampire, and allow her to feed off of him day-by-day. It was unavoidable that her heart yielded.

The only place for Yue was beside Hajime. How nice it was when they promised to return to Hajime’s hometown together. She didn’t even want to imagine being alone again. Therefore the planted nightmare was stuck in her head and ate her up. Hajime stands up at the sign of the Hydra recovering from the confusion. Yue detained him involuntarily when she grabbed his clothes.

“…I…”

She was shaking with an uneasy expression that was close to crying. Hajime finally understood what nightmare she saw and what she was currently thinking. In his usual manner, he was able to perceive her feelings. Either way, he had promised to take her to Japan. There was no reason to pretend not to know.

He would probably be able to comfort her with words, but there was no time for that. If he said some half-hearted words, she would still fall prey to the black head’s magic. There was a possibility that Hajime would mess up, but at that time he would follow Yue. While he thought of that excuse, Hajime scratched his head and squatted in front of Yue to meet her eyes.

And then…

“?…!?”

Hajime inclined his head and kissed Yue.

Their lips only touched a bit, but Yue had a dramatic reaction. She just seriously stared at Hajime.

He averted his eyes bashfully and led her to stand with his hand.

“We will kill that beast and survive. Then, we will reach the surface and return home… together.”

Yue stared at Hajime in utter amazement, then her usual deadpan expression broke down to gently display a beautiful smile.

“Yes!”

Hajime cleared his throat to gather himself and informed Yue of the strategy.

“Yue, I’m going to use Schlagen. It can’t fire continuously, so please cover me.”

“…Leave it to me!”

Yue was suddenly full of motivation. Her quiet mutters were gone, and in place was a voice full of ambition. All the anxiety before vanished completely.

It seems like there had been a breakthrough in various ways. Hajime recalled his usual lack of independence, and when he thought about the future, maybe he acted rashly. However, the Hydra performed an explosion. The beast roared as it pelleted the area Hajime and Yue were at with fireballs, wind blades, and ice shards.

The two jumped out of the shadow of the pillar and started their counterattack.

“Scarlet Spear! Imperial Cannon! Frozen Rain!”

The trigger for the magic was activated rapidly, and the magic built up at an impossible speed. An ice tornado accompanied a spiraling spear, with vacuum blades whirling around it, and a sharp needle pelted the Hydra all at once. She had aimed for the gap when they attacked and launched it towards the red, green, and blue head to force the yellow head to act. But the yellow head didn’t move as it noticed Hajime aiming for the white head and raised a roar.

“Kuruuan!”

Then a nearby pillar waved and it transformed into an impromptu shield. This yellow head seems to be able to use a skill similar to the scorpion’s, though the scale was smaller.

Yue’s magic hit the stone walls, blasting through the vanguard of walls. The magic directly hit three of the heads.

“””Guruuuu!!”””

Three of the heads screamed and wriggled. When the black head’s eyes caught Yue’s it started to use its debuff magic.

Uneasiness welled up in Yue again. However, Yue remembered her kiss with Hajime before she was crushed by the uneasiness. Then, her body got a passionate feeling and it washed away her anxiety.

“…It doesn’t work anymore!”

In order to cover Hajime, Yue was casting spells rapidly and was emphasizing the number of spells rather than the power.
While the red head received healing, blue head and green head resumed their attacks, and Yue contended with them by herself. They tried to counter each other.

While the three heads were occupied with Yue, Hajime approached the beast with a dash. He was going for a single killing blow, because it would be troublesome if the beast had emergency measures it had yet to use. When the black head realized its magic didn’t work on Yue, it looked for Hajime. The pain, hunger, and anxiety of his time in the abyss rose inside his chest. But…

“So what?”

It was past the time that he endured long ago. Feelings from those days were not a big deal now. Hajime blew away the black head with Donner.

The white head tried to recover the head in a split second, but before it could Hajime jumped into the air using his skills and aimed his Schlagen.

Just as he had assumed, the yellow head stood in the way of the shot for the white head.

“Then break together!”

Hajime formulated a spark in the Schlagen with his “Lightning Clad”. The bullet was a full metal jacket, the Taur Stone being covered by the Shtar ore from the scorpion. Shtar ore had a high affinity to magic and it suited “Lightning Clad” well. All the compressed combustion powder was ignited with the spark.

Bang!!

The red bullet was electromagnetically accelerated through the 1.5m barrel with a tremendous explosive sound. This gun was 10 times more powerful than Donner’s maximum output. With his simple calculation, this rifle was 100 times more powerful than a normal anti-matter rifle. This was a monster weapon that was not possible without this world’s special ore and magic.

When it was fired, the bullet made a red trail like it was a thick laser. Once, they thought Kouki’s spell that was shot at the Behemoth was the trump card, but this made that look like child’s play. Yellow head met the bullet directly as it burned through the air.

Although the yellow head had a defense like “Vajra”… but the bullet reached the white head like there was nothing there. The bullet penetrated through everything like nothing as it blasted through the wall in the rear. Vibrations violently wracked the whole level as if an earthquake had happened.

What was left were two necks that looked like they never had a head to begin with. The open wound had been cauterized by the heat and made it seem like it never had those two heads. Debris was littered everywhere, and no one knew how long that bullet kept going, only that it left a huge hole in the wall.

The other heads did not think that almost half of its heads could be extinguished in a single moment. Even Yue was staring at Hajime in utter amazement and had forgotten her enemy. When Hajime landed flat on the ground, there was smoke rising out of Schlagen’s barrel as the round was ejected. When the shell fell to the floor, the three heads regained its senses. All three pairs of eyes glared at Hajime, but their previous opponent was not someone to lightly take their eyes off of.

“Scorching Heaven!”

Once the Vampire Princess —an existence which caused her own people to fear her due to her talents and ultimately sealed her— poured her power into the spell, it was like turning Heaven’s vengeance against the hydra.

Immediately after, electric discharge started to gather around the 3 heads and soon, 6 lightning spheres surrounded the heads. The discharge soon lengthened and connected all the spheres together, forming a huge lightning globe in the center.

Zing!!

When the globe burst, it rained down lightning of great power within the confines of the 6 smaller spheres. The three heads tried to run, but the surrounding lightning spheres were acting like walls. As the wrath of God poured down from the sky, flashes and thunder filled the room.

Helpless, the three heads screamed in agony as they were charcoaled and erased by the superlative magic that lasted more than 10 seconds.

Like always, Yue collapsed into a sitting position after using that strong of a spell. She was breathing heavily as her magic power was exhausted and on her expressionless face was the eyes that conveyed satisfaction; she gave Hajime a thumbs up to show her satisfaction. Hajime returned the gesture with his own thumbs up and smiled. He began to walk while he carried the rifle on his shoulder. What remained of the Hydra were left behind him as he made his way to Yue.

Just after that.

“Hajime!”

Yue’s desperate voice sounded out. As he wondered what was up, he followed her line of sight. From the Hydra’s remains rose a seventh head that glared at him. Hajime stiffened unintentionally.

However, the seventh silver head shifted its gaze to Yue and it let loose an aurora without any preparations. Like the Schlagen shot, the aurora shot towards Yue in an instant. She couldn’t move because of magic exhaustion.

The moment the silver head turned to Yue, Hajime had jumped out as his body was attacked by chills.

Just like with the blue head earlier, Hajime was able to jump into the line of fire to save Yue. This time the results were different. The aurora was swallowing Hajime whole. Yue’s body was blown away by the aftereffects of the hit, even if it wasn’t a direct hit.

Soon the aurora calmed down, and Yue sat herself up as her whole body was in pain. She searched for the figure of Hajime, as he had been swallowed by the aurora after he forced his way through to take the attack.

Hajime had not moved from the place he blocked the attack. He was in an imposing stance as smoke blew from his whole body. On the floor was the wreckage of the melted Schlagen.

“H-Hajime?”

“…”

He was unresponsive. His body just shook and fell forward.

“Hajime!”

Yue quickly rushed over to him, ignoring her aching body as she was driven by uneasiness. Because of her magic drain, she couldn’t gather any strength and fell. With a suppressed impatient feeling, she took out her sacred water and drank. Her vitality returned slowly and she rushed to Hajime this time.

Blood gradually began to puddle under Hajime’s stomach. The attack had penetrated Hajime’s Vajra and did a lot of damage. If he had not used the Schlagen as a shield, he most likely would have died. Luckily, his Schlagen was a weapon made from the shell of the scorpion that endured Yue’s “Azure Sky”.

When she turned him on his back, Hajime’s condition was severe. His fingers, shoulder, and flank were burned and festering. Some of the parts even had bone exposed. The right side of his face was burned and his right eye was bleeding. There wasn’t much damage to his legs, it was a blessing in disguise.

Yue was going to give him sacred water, but the Hydra wasn’t going to allow that. The beast was shooting innumerable balls of light, 10cm in diameter this time. Its intensity could be comparable to a gatling gun.

She quickly held Hajime and exerted all her strength to hide behind the pillars. Balls of light were shot one after another at the pillars, and caused the pillars to be shaved down. They had less than a minute left. Each of the light balls was loaded with terrifying energy.

Yue quickly dropped the sacred water onto Hajime’s wound, and tried to get him to drink another one. However, Hajime didn’t have the power to swallow it, so he choked on it and spit some out. To get Hajime to drink it, Yue placed it in her mouth and kissed him. She forcibly made him drink it.

But the sacred water was not able to restore the wounds. Usually, the restoration began immediately, it seemed like something was inhibiting it.

“Why!?”

Yue took out all the sacred water on hand as she began to panic.

The factor that was inhibiting the restoration was the poison in hydra’s aurora; the poison melted his flesh. It usually would have melted a being without resistance. However, the sacred water’s restoration was faster than the dissolution speed of the poison. The speed was slow, but with Hajime’s enhanced body it would just take time to heal, but the right eye had evaporated with the aurora light. He would not be able to get it back because the sacred water could only restore, not regenerate.

Soon the pillar will be crushed, and it did not seem Hajime will be able to move until then. Yue stared at Hajime with a determined expression as she kissed him. She took Donner and stood up.

“…This time, I’ll save you…”

After her words of determination, she jumped out from behind the pillar. She only had a little magic and the sacred water was used up. With the body of a vampire that relied on body strengthening, she could only use Donner and her unreliable “Auto Regen”.

The silver head glared at Yue. who had jumped out of the pillar it was bombarding. Since her magic reserve was low, she employed a hit and run strategy rather than fighting it with magic. That was because she couldn’t fire Donner as skillfully as Hajime. Yue was originally not good with close quarter combat, so she was instantly driven into a corner.

Finally, one of the balls hit Yue on the shoulder.

“Agh!”

Groaning in pain, she endured it and resumed running after regaining her momentum. The moment she stopped because of the pain would be the time she collapsed. Her “Auto Regen” began, but it was slower than usual. The poison seemed to be effective against her regen. The vampiress’ magic reverse was cut again. In this situation, the magical power used to enforce her body would disappear soon.

Yue tried to approach the Hydra but the density of the barrage prevented her from going forward. She wouldn’t be able to shoot Donner if she couldn’t get closer. A plan was needed to close the distance between her and the beast. However, the barrage was merciless and it finally cornered her.

In desperation, she pulled Donner’s trigger to try to break the situation. Yue used a lightning spell to substitute the need for “Lightning Clad” acceleration. Count it as beginner’s luck, but the bullet went through the gaps of the barrage and hit the silver head’s temple.

However…

“Eh?”

Her voice leaked unintentionally. The blow should have some power even if she didn’t have sufficient acceleration, but the silver head did not suffer much damage. Shadows of despair fell over her expression, but her defeat meant Hajime’s death. She gritted her teeth and prepared to evade again.

However, such a pattern couldn’t continue on forever. The silver head’s eyes shined and another aurora was shot that jarred the surrounding space. Yue’s evasion route was limited by the light ball barrage so she chose to get blown away by jumping into the light bullets. This allowed her to avoid the aurora.

The price for that was a light bullet to the abdomen and a slam into the ground.

“Uu…Uu…”

Her body couldn’t move, but if she didn’t move, she would be hit by a barrage of light bullets. Yue knew this and struggled desperately, but her body didn’t listen. Her regeneration was too slow. She started to shed tears, unaware. It was mortifying, so unbelievably mortifying. Can she not protect Hajime by herself?

After the head had confirmed its victory over Yue, it roared and shot a barrage of light bullets.

The bullets of light approached Yue, but she did not close her eyes. To show that at least it hadn’t defeated her heart, she glared at the head. Soon, her whole vision was being taken by the flash of the bullet. If it hit directly, death was a certainty. She tried to apologize to Hajime for failing to protect him, as she said that she would go first.

For an instant… a gust of wind blew.

“Eh?”

Yue realized that she was in someone’s arms and the bullet struck to the side. When she looked at the person, she couldn’t believe her sight. It was unmistakably Hajime. He was breathing heavily from his wounds and one of his eyes were shut, but he gave Yue a tight hug.

“Don’t cry, Yue. It’s your win.”

“Hajime!”

She embraced Hajime filled with emotions. Most of his injuries had not healed. He was standing with pure willpower.

Hajime gazed at the silver head. The head glared back while making a bullet of light float in the surrounding. It threw the bullet so there would be no more discussion about who escaped death.

“So slow…”

Hajime did not move until the last moment, he fell down and evaded the bullet.

The head narrowed its eyes and started to attack with numerous light balls.

“Hajime, run away!”

Yue told Hajime with a desperate expression, but Hajime was indifferent. He even embraced and danced in rotations with Yue. They unsteady fell and avoided the bullets of light. When a light ball avoided Hajime, she seemed to have misunderstood.

Her eyes widened.

“Yue, suck my blood.”

His silent eye and quiet voice urged her. She normally would have hesitated to take his blood when he’s in a critical situation. Hajime embraced Yue and exposed his nape while dodging the light bullets.

“Your magic is the last resort… Do it, Yue. We will win.”

“…Okay!”

His strong words dwell within her, and she nodded. She believed in him and buried her face into his nape with her fangs. Yue’s body was rapidly healing when Hajime’s blood flowed into her. The two of them were dancing around and avoiding the storm of light bullets while in each other’s embrace.

Now, the world grew dull in color from his view. In the monochrome world, all things moved slowly. Only Hajime was moving as usual.

Hajime looked. The scene of Yue fighting by herself while his wavering consciousness tried to hold on. She was fighting desperately with his gun in one of her hands. When she fell on the ground and the beast started to emit the aurora to finish her off.

Fierce anger filled Hajime. What does he have to do? Would he be satisfied just sleeping here? To permit such unreasonableness to take his partner in such a place? Was he going to yield to such a beast?

Nay! Absolutely not! Anyone who threatened his, no, their survival, was an enemy,

“Kill!”

At that moment, Hajime felt a spark run through his head and awakened one of his skills. The final derivation of “Divine Step”, [Light Speed]. By expanding the cognitive functions, it increased the efficiency of all the skills associated with “Divine Step” dramatically. Hajime had once again, “exceeded the wall”.

Hajime arrived next to Yue in an instant with this skill and gently dodged the bullets of light.

Eventually, Yue finished sucking his blood and completely regained her powers.

“Yue, when I give the signal, cast “Azure Sky”. Until then, put your heart and soul into evading.

“Okay… and Hajime?”

“Me? Spadework.”

Hajime dropped Yue off behind the pillars and ran towards the silver head.

He dodged the incoming barrage of light and fired off Donner while using “Flicker”. The beast wasn’t able to stomach being hit again by the bullet so it dodged them. Bullets from Donner ended up making holes in the ceiling.

Hajime kept changing the area he shot at, but all the bullets only made holes in the surroundings. A taunting glint was apparent in the silver head’s eyes. Yue was becoming uneasy but she believed in him. She waited for the signal to cast her spell.

He jumped into the air with “Air Walk” and fired off Donner. His delicate steps which had not been possible before was now possible after awakening “Light Speed”. Hajime jumped around in the air near the ceiling, dodging the barrage.

Irritated, the silver head gave off an aurora attack carelessly. Naturally, Hajime dodged it easily with a grin. Hajime got ready to play his cards. The head became stiff while it did its aurora attack. Then he reloaded Donner and shot at 6 different places. An intense explosion and shock occurred on the ceiling. After an instant of silence, it began to collapse in one go. The debris was 10 m in diameter and weighed dozens of tons. That large mass crushed into the silver head.

Hajime opened a hole in the ceiling with Donner, and prepared a grenade while he evaded. He made parts of the ceiling fragile with his transmutation. Then he shot at the 6 places and caused them to explode.

His attack did not disappoint. If just simple debris could defeat this monster, he wouldn’t have that much trouble. Hajime approached the trapped and crushed silver head with “Flicker”. Using his transmutation, Hajime quickly changed the debris into restraints. At the same time, he created an impromptu blast furnace around the Hydra. He threw pouches containing incendiary grenades into the furnace and shouted.

“Yue!”

“Okay! “Azure Sky”!”

A pale sun appeared in the blast furnace and melted the silver head that was restrained. There was a chain explosion inside, and the power broke through its defense. The damage the silver head had suffered was not negligible.

“Guuruaaa!!”

The silver head let out a death throes. It tried to violently run away and shot off light bullets randomly. Walls started to break but Hajime was there to repair them to prevent its escape. The Hydra tried to use its aurora attack but the silver head melted in the high heat and was unable to shoot it.

Hajime’s perception could no longer sense the hydra, as it disappeared from his senses. This time he was convinced of its death and collapsed backward.

“Hajime!”

Yue crawled to him as her body had lost all its energy.

“Indeed… I’m spent…”

Hajime let consciousness slowly fade away as he felt Yue embracing him.

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