Lunos’ and F’s match is over, now it is time for the finals with me and F.

F’s match from a while ago was really exciting.

He should be a little tired but let’s start the match anyway.

At moments like these, it’s good to be a villain because I can do whatever I want. (TN: It’ll be really embarrassing when ya lose ya know?)

“It was a good fight and you won, Sir Fitzgerald! With this, you are selected to be the new head of the Imperial Guard Order. But the tournament isn’t over yet!”

Even when I said this in a loud voice there was just some sporadic clapping.

“You want to start that now? Wouldn’t Sir Fitzgerald be at a disadvantage?” I could hear the backbiting but decided to ignore it.

There’s no way I could win against F in a normal fight, you know! (TN: At least you know that much)

“Well, it is time to fight the final match at last, but I have a proposal for Sir Fitzgerald. For the final fight, how about we use our favourite weapons and not just some practice weapons?”

My words caused a commotion in the Stadium.

Because they don’t understand my intentions they seem puzzled.

Of course, I don’t have any particular ulterior motives.

I only want to only use my Oricalcum sword.

Honestly, I didn’t feel like using that against F at all.

It’s just a strategy to raise my winning chances at least a little.

“Be at ease, my intentions aren’t to hurt you, Sir. How about stopping our attacks 3 cm before they hit?”

“I don’t have any objections. I agree to Carlo-sama’s idea.”

F lowered his head.

I knew that F would say that.

“Well then, let’s start. Get mine and Sir Fitzgerald’s sword!”

Here it is, here it is, here it is.

My precious Oricalcum.

With this, I’m at least one step closer to victory.

First, my name was called.

The applause and cheering were again sporadic.

Isn’t that even less than last time? (TN: Well, duh)

Then when F’s name was called next, a great cheer exceeding my expectations broke out.

Looks like he completely got the favour of the audience.

Didn’t you support Lunos a while ago?

That’s why I hate groupies. (TN: un un u__u)

“Then, shall we begin?”

I tried to start the match immediately so that F can’t recover his stamina.

I was riding White King and F was also riding his favourite horse. Like this, we greeted each other.

The match began.

OK, so how should I attack him?

I have sparred many times with F so I know his attack patterns.

However, F doesn’t know my speed when using this Oricalcum sword.

I somehow have to use that.

First I rushed forward with my horse to close the distance between us.

We lightly struck our swords to get started.

F waited for me to take action like he usually did when we sparred.

Because F is an honest person he wouldn’t launch a surprise attack at his superior which is me.

That’s why I tried to take the chance and decisively attack him.

I controlled my speed to make it look like my usual speed.

I can’t let him know that my speed rose.

Who was that evil earl who said one should keep one’s trump card hidden until the very end? (TN: Shagia Frost from After War Gundam X)

I swung my sword from above, from the left side and from the right side.

However, F blocked all of my blows with accurate movements.

Even though I tried to use my glances to feint, but it completely had no effect.

Mmm, No gaps at all.

All right, then let’s use a competition in strength!

F blocked my frontal attack with his sword.

Then I steadily started to push.

“Oooooh!”

Remembering my previous match the audience raises their voices.

That’s right, I had strength even that gigantic b̲a̲s̲t̲a̲r̲d̲ couldn’t compare to.

Mmm, as I expected from F, he doesn’t move an inch.

Though I’m not getting pushed back I can’t push him back either.

Looks like we are equal.

Then my fatigue kept on piling up.

I thought about turning this into a contest of stamina for an instant but I decided against it.

I don’t know how much stamina F has.

I’ve never seen F being out of breath even though I was already wheezing when we were sparring.

It’s better to think that F has a lot more stamina than me.

F is too much of a cheat character in the first place.

He has good looks, a serious character, great skills in swordsmanship and a lot of stamina and strength.

This is unfair.

I have no right to actually say this, though because I created this setting myself.

Because it couldn’t be helped I raised my speed a gear.

I think it’s about the same speed as Lunos’ from a little while ago.

I’m going to do consecutive attacks with a speed exceeding Lunos’!

While I attack F my sword draws an afterimage.

One could hear the sound of the wind and metal violently clashing, creating sparks.

I’m not just simply attacking, I’m mixing in some feints, too.

In addition to swinging it with both hands, I’m suddenly changing my trajectory to the right side.

This is only possible with the Oricalcum sword.

It looks like F can’t keep evading for long anymore, but I can’t keep up this speed for a long time either.

I kept on attacking like that for a while but I couldn’t break F’s defence, then I created some distance between us riding White King.

“Uwaaaaaaa!”

The crowd which held their breath and stared until now gave out a loud cheer.

Among them, I hear some voices saying: “I thought the match a while ago was fixed but isn’t Carlo-sama actually really amazing?”

Hey, hey, did it look like that to you?

Well, I guess it was a little suspicious for me to push down that big and strong giant.

But honestly, I’m disappointed.

“As I expected. I’m proud to have someone like you as my subordinate.”

When I told him this, F praised me, too.

“Likewise Carlo-sama, your attacks are much more intense than usual. To be frank, there were several times where it got dangerous for me. As expected.”

Like I thought, I’m happy to get praised by F.

But the real thing has yet to begin.

This is the same pattern as the fight between F and Lunos a while ago.

This is all going according to my calculations.

My aim is the technique “Gonosen” which F showed a while ago.

This is what I always practised until today and now I shall use my attack here.

It is all my strategic arrangement.

Based on this speed F will aim to use the “Gonosen” counter.

With attacks much faster than he anticipated, F wasn’t able to use any counters.

I’ll jump at F and will attack him with my fastest, strongest blow.

But be careful not to get injured.

We were glaring at each other, searching for some kind of gap.

It was an exchange of invisible attacks. One couldn’t even relax for a moment.

Where could I land the best attack?

I slowly channel some magic power into the Oricalcum sword.

With this, both the attack power and speed should increase.

In fact, this is a special technique of the Hero called “Lightning Slash”.

The metal Oricalcum has amazingly high compatibility with magic power.

This is the Oricalcum sword’s unique and strong attack.

There’s no doubt about that because I wrote that special technique myself.

Because the name is embarrassing I won’t shout it out.

Alright, it won’t take long anymore.

The magical power should have accumulated enough now.

Now I only need a chance.

I fix my breathing and get ready to hammer down my sure-kill blow.

Alright, now!

At that time I tried to release my best blow on F.

I saw F moving at the same time.

The first attack came from F.

S̲h̲i̲t̲, it’s “Thunder” – –

Among F’s special skills “Thunder” boasts the highest speed.

Even if the opponent uses a sword attack exceeding the speed of sound this attack will still hit him first.

As to not hurt me he accurately hit my sword.

Both swords hit each other and s great shock attacks me.

Along with a loud, metallic sound, my right wrist couldn’t resist the impact and I let go of my sword.

My sword flew in the sky and I became empty-handed.

F just pointed his sword towards me.

I lost, it’s indeed a complete defeat to aim for my sword.

I raised both hands and admitted my defeat.

1. N/a

Next up is the second match of group A, mine and the gigantic knight’s match.

I entered the stadium on top of White King.

I’m fine, there’s no tension.

Compared to the speech a while ago this is no big deal.

When the gigantic knight’s name was called, different than a while ago, cheer rolled in.

Things like “Win~!” and “You can do itー!” could be heard.

Huh, wasn’t he supposed to be unpopular?

“Margrave Carlo de Medici!”

After that, my name was called but all one could hear from the gallery was the slight crackling of applause.

Indeed, this feels like courtesy clapping.

What’s with that? (TN: siiiiiiiigh)

I thought for a while then I got it.

Seems like this year’s tax increase is showing effect.

I’m losing popularity.

Besides, there might be some antipathy that that great mister showed up in a place like this.

That’s fine, I don’t have to be popular.

I’m a villain anyway. (TN: Thaaat sounds like sulking)

But Felicia might be watching here somewhere.

Now that I think about it, I don’t what her to see this unsightly side of me.

I want to show her my cool side! (TN: pls stop …. you make me cry for you and for me….)

“Carlo-sama, going easy on you isn’t allowed, right? I will follow your words and go at you with all my might.”

The gigantic knight barked at me and the cheers found its momentum again.

Even if he didn’t say it in a loud voice I would have heard it because I’m not that far away.

He shouted so that the audience could hear him, that conspicuous b̲a̲s̲t̲a̲r̲d̲, let’s show him.

Unfortunately, because this is a match I’m not allowed to wield my Oricalcum B̲a̲s̲t̲a̲r̲d̲ Sword.

My opponent has a Halberd this time.

I’ll just make use of the difference in reach, come at me.

The gigantic knight again rushed forward right after we finished our greetings.

At the same moment, he swung down his long Halberd.

I received it from the front.

Gakin! (TN: metal hitting against each other)

The moment a metallic sound erupted the competition in strength began.

The gigantic knight is quite a bit taller than me but because I’m sitting on White King there is no height difference.

My opponent steadily pushes from above but I block it well and won’t fall behind.

“UOOOOOO!”

A loud cheer arises from the audience for this intense competition in strength.

Beware, the cheat power of this author correction.

That’s not it!

“Hmpf!”

I gathered my strength and pushed back the Halberd.

Although my opponent staggered because of the impact I don’t dare to attack.

I will show you the overwhelming power difference between us, ignoring the physique and arm width!

“Haa, haa, haa”

The other party was already out of breath.

Hey, where did that energy from just now go? We’re not done yet!

Looking at my expressive expression the gigantic Knight seemed to feel fear.

He started to put more power in his Halberd swings.

Gaan! Kiin! Gakiiin!

From the top, from the bottom, obliquely, I parried all of my opponent’s Halberd swings.

It doesn’t matter how fast his speed is.

The audience fell silent as they were dumbfounded by this unimaginable turn of events.

“Heh, heh, heh” (TN: wheezing)

My opponents attack stopped.

It seems like he’s running out of stamina as a result of swinging around his Halberd in such an absurd manner.

I guess it’s my turn now, huh?

“Is it about time? Here I come”

The opposing knight’s eyes open wide in fear when I calmly say such things in a way the audience couldn’t hear it.

Letting out a shout I closed the distance between me and my opponent in one stretch with White King while evading his desperate attacks, slipped past his defence and exchanged exactly one blow with him. My sword point was at my opponent’s throat.

“I, I give up”

“The match is over! It’s Carlo-sama’s victory!”

The audiences fell silent.

Oops, did I go too far? (TN: tehepero ;9)

But did you see my cool side?

Did you see it, Felicia-chan?

Now it was the second match of group B, F’s turn again.

When F’s name was called, unlike a while ago, some shrill voices and cheers broke out.

Looks like he gained some fans in his previous match.

However, thunderous cheering roared when his opponent came out.

He’s also an incredibly handsome man with beautiful blonde hair.

Even though I’m also blonde, why is the treatment so different? (TN: Cause, ya know, personality maybe? He didn’t increase taxes? And didn’t you say you don’t need popularity?)

“Sir Lunos!”

When the opponents name was called the whole stadium shook by all the applause, cheering and foot-stamping.

It’s an abnormal popularity.

“Who on earth is this?”

Pikaru who was near me immediately answered my question.

“Sir Lunos is said to be Braham’s number one in terms of appearance and sword skills. Being born as a noble he behaves like a gentleman and defends the first place as the man one wants to get married to for years.”

He’s not wearing a helmet so they can see his face better.

I’ve decided, that guy’s an enemy.

Go for it, F. (TN: Ya know what would be fun? If Lunos is Felicia…. though he probably isn’t but still)

The two people help up their swords and greeted each other.

Lunos had a disgustingly elegant way of bowing.

Besides, I’m getting annoyed by those groupies going kyaa kyaa with just that. (TN: You go kyaa kyaa for a girl that sang two songs for you so come on. Both is annoying tho)

Felicia-chan can’t be charmed by such a man.

(TN: Heh, sure. Bet she’s his fiancée)

The weapon used are the standard knight weapons, the longsword and shield. Both sides use them.

They approached each other slowly and as soon as they lightly put their swords together the fight began.

They cross swords at a tremendous speed.

Whenever a shield clashes with a sword, a high-pitched metallic sound echoed through the stadium.

As expected of the one called Braham’s number one in sword skills, Sir Lunos is considerably skilled.

There’s no doubt about that because I myself sparred with F.

F’s shield blocks Lunos’ sword which came swinging down from the upper corner.

Lunos blocks F’s sword which he swung at the same time.

Their swords immediately clash in the air and scatter sparks.

To a common spectator, these highly skilled moves probably appear as only afterimages.

After the battle continued for a while, those two people took some distance from each other.

At that moment, whistles and tremendous praise were poured out from the audience seats.

“I’m surprised, Sir Fitzgerald. To think that there was someone like you in this territory.”

“Likewise, Sir Lunos. Your skills exceed the rumours”

Aaah, watching those handsome men praise each other isn’t interesting at all.

Lose, both of you!

With this wicked wish of mine, the match started moving again.

The flow completely changed from a while ago, they glared at each other, looking for gaps without launching an attack.

It seems like both of them are aiming for a one-hit K.O.

“Hah!”

After this state had continued for a while, Lunos swept down his sword with a sharp swing that was nothing compared to his previous swings.

Kiiiin!

At that moment the match was decided.

At the same time as Lunos’ sword was deflected F simultaneously thrust his sword towards the opponent’s throat and stopping shortly before hitting it.

Gonosen. (TN: the counter attack thing he used)

It’s one of F’s deadly skills.

First letting the opponent attack then swat up their weapon before performing a counter-attack at the same time.

Honestly, I couldn’t follow it with my eyes either.

“The match is over! Winner, Sir Fitzgerald!”

Lunos raised both his hands and the whole stadium broke out in cheers and started to chant F’s name.

Confetti dances in the air.

This was the moment a new hero was born. (TN: Different hero from the Hero of the novel)

“I lost, it’s my complete defeat. You’re worthy of being the next Imperial Guard Order’s head.”

“No, I was just lucky this time. Let’s spar again sometime soon.”

When the two men get off their horses and firmly clench their hands the heated cheers echoing through the stadium got turned up a notch.

How unpleasant, that story of friendship between those good-looking man no matter how I look at it stinks like lies.

More importantly, the tournament isn’t over yet, it isn’t over.

Please let me enter the Ikemen-club! (TN: handsome man)

1. N/a

Then a few days later the day of the Sword Fighting Competition to decide the new head of the Imperial Guard Order came.

We choose the Colosseum near the Saint Perrier cathedral in the centre of Braham as the stage.

With much effort, I was able to open up this competition to the general public and turn it into a big event.

“As per Margrave Carlo de Medici-sama’s order, I will resign from the seat of the head of the Imperial Guard Order and will be promoted to a General. For that matter, I decided to choose my successor from among the five Captains, and as a way to do it, I decided to make the one who does best in this Sword Fighting Competition the new head.”

On the occasion of the competition’s beginning the current head, Marcus gave an opening speech.

“In addition, Carlo-sama will also specifically participate in this competition! Even if you are fighting against your master Carlo-sama in a match I strongly recommend you not to go easy on him. Each participant should demonstrate their full potential on this occasion!”

Rumbling cheers could be heard from the jam-packed audience seats.

Because my participation was made a secret until now everyone seemed surprised.

Next up would be my opening speech.

Honestly doing something like this doesn’t match my character and I felt really tense because I don’t have any experience with things like that.

S̲h̲i̲t̲, I want to go to the toilet.

But there’s no time for that anymore.

Calm down, I’m Carlo, a shameless villain, I can do it.

“It’s good that you all were able to come. I’m Carlo. Today at this place the new head of the Imperial Guard Order will be selected. Enjoy the fight. As Marcus said a while ago, I’ll participate as well today. I won’t tolerate a person cutting corners while fighting me. If you’re defeated by me I’ll reduce your salary, so be prepared!”

Laughter could be heard from the spectator seats.

I’m relieved, seems like it was well received.

“With this, we shall start the Sword Fighting Competition. Marcus, announce the fighting order”

……Haa, I somehow said it.

To be frank, I was even more nervous about the competition.

On top of the stage Marcus announced … the tournament list we fairly put together.

I’m a seed in group A, with our excellent skills we were able to put F in group B.

F would only be able to fight me in the finals.

Gee, I’m glad that we are in separate groups.

Knight matches basically consisted out of sword fighting but also jousting.

The first round of Group A was a battle between a slender Knight using a slender long sword and a shield and a gigantic Knight wielding a long-hilted Halberd.

I’ll fight against the one who wins this round.

The way the slender knight swings his long sword felt smart and manly, an orthodox style.

He seemed to be in his late 30s having a moustache growing on his face he seemed to be a good guy.

He seemed to be quite popular because when he was introduced loud cheers could be heard.

His opponent, the tall knight, seemed to be more unpopular for some reason.

When he was introduced jeers could be heard everywhere.

Was it because he looked a bit rough?

Not only was his body big but his face also looked terribly rough.

Being in his late 20s he was considerably younger than his opponent.

He buzzingly swung around the long Halberd in an ostentatious way.

Looks like he was considerably proud of his strength.

The match finally began.

As soon as they finished greeting each other the gigantic knight rushed forward on his horse.

Considering his huge body he rode on a rather big horse.

Of course, it was still inferior to White King.

“Uraaaaaa!”

He swung down his long Halberd while letting out a loud shout from a long distance away.

The slender Knight blocked it with his shield but it seemed to cause some considerable shock.

Still, he somehow endured the shock and closed the distance to reach him with his own sword, but the gigantic Knight was rather good at handling his horse.

He skilfully handled his horse as to prevent his opponent from reaching his chest so easily.

The slender knight judged that fighting at this distance was disadvantageous, He immediately took some distance with his horse.

They looked angrily at each other for a while, a distance between them, but then the slender Knight suddenly charged forward.

The giant swung down the Halberd on the slender knight who charged towards him, but the slender knight used his shield to successfully divert it and reached his opponent’s chest.

That was really skilful.

A long-hilted Halberd is more of a nuisance in close-quarter combat.

However, the gigantic Knight was also considerably skilled he used the Halberd’s handle for close-quarter combat.

The battle had been continuing for a while, however at the moment the gigantic knight blocked the slender knight’s longsword with the Halberd’s handle, he smashed his shield against the gigantic knight.

This was the first time I saw someone use Shield Bash.

Then the gigantic knight staggered a little and the slender Knight used this gap to sharply thrust his longsword.

However, the gigantic knight fiercely blocked the thrust with his Halberd’s handle.

The shock created a little distance between these two people. This would be the perfect time to use the Halberd.

Without missing that chance the gigantic knight hit the slender knight who wasn’t able to successfully block leading to him falling off his horse.

“The match is over!”

The moment the referee, Marcus, shouted out his judgment the movements of those two people stopped.

It seems like in the knight’s jousting matches if one either falls off the horse or raises one’s hand to show one’s intention to surrender one loses.

The gigantic man triumphantly put up a hand, but one could only hear sighs coming from the audience.

Like I thought he is hated.

The gigantic man was selected as my opponent for the match.

As far as I could see just now he didn’t have any particular weakness.

The next match was the first round of Group B, it’s a fight between F and a Knight using a two-handed sword.

Even after F’s name was called the venue hardly go excited because he’s still pretty unknown after all.

Fufu, I look forward to the audience’s reactions after the match.

On the contrary, when the opposing knight’s name was called, there was quite a cheer.

He seemed to be a veteran knight in his late 40s.

He was slightly shorter than F who is 185 cm tall, but his chest gave off a sturdy feeling.

When the match starts both of them face each other to greet each other and then slowly close the distance between them with their horses.

I couldn’t see F’s expression because of the helmet but judging by his movements he seemed calm.

OK, F, show them what you’re capable of.

They reached a distance at which they could cross swords.

They held out their sword, lightly bowed to each other before moving away from their opponents.

The veteran handled the heavy two-handed sword with ease and heavily swung it down on F in a fast manner.

Moreover, he attacked F’s right side, which is hard to block with a shield, in an experienced manner.

However, F stayed unfazed and parried with his sword.

Then with that centrifugal force the opponent’s body tilted to the side creating gaps.

Not missing that chance F attacked.

The opponent was desperately trying to block it but the weight of their weapons was too different after all.

He somehow was able to block one of F’s one-sided sword attacks, but the match would soon reach its end.

F hit his opponent’s fingers making him separate his hand from the sword because of the shock.

You can’t swing a heavy two-handed sword with just your right hand.

With that in mind, F was going to hit his opponent’s neck but before he could reach it his opponent raised both his hands.

“The match is over! The victor is Sir Fitz-Morris Fitzgerald!”

Marcus’ sudden cheer could be heard.

Seems like I held my breath until just now because, I feel excessively light-headed.

When F slowly took off his helmet shrill cheers from the women in the front row could be heard.

Well, of course, they would, F is a super handsome guy after all.

Damnit, he won in terms of looks so I should at least win the match. (TN: You said you look forward to their reactions, remember. You got what you wanted)

Well, that might be difficult, though.

1. N/ax

I who returned to Braham gave back the horse I borrowed and reported to the adventurer’s guild.

Of course, I reported with “There wasn’t anything particular going on” though it’s a lie.

Even with that, the reward doesn’t change.

Yeah, I’m a bad guy if I do say so myself.

Then after we parted with Crescent Moon I took Pick to the hideout.

“Is this the head’s house? It doesn’t really feel lived in.”

I don’t live here.

“I hardly sleep here. Pick, as I said before you’ll be responsible for the communication between me you’ll go back and forth between this place and the other guys, so you go back and forth between this place and the Rabbit group’s hideout.”

“Understood. What should I answer when someone asks me about my relationship with you?”

“If someone asks tell them you’re Akatsuki’s little sister.”

“I’m the Head’s younger sister? Hehe”

Why’s she so pleased with that?

Even though she tried to stab me to death a while ago.

What a fast change.

“So, what should I normally do? Stealing is no good, right?”

“Stop committing crimes. You might get caught if you do that. Register at the Adventurer’s Guild, collect rumours about the adventurers and demon beasts while you do quests.”

“Ehehe, are you worried about me?”

“If you’re not here I’d have trouble with the communication. There, it’s the key to this place. However, you can’t stay here you’ll have to look for another place to stay on your own.”

“Head, I wouldn’t mind sleeping in the same bed though”

……That’s why I said, I don’t have that kind of hobby!

I don’t know your actual age but I can get myself over the fact that you look like an elementary school student.

And I don’t really want to be in a relationship with someone who tried to kill me a while ago.

I roughly explained this place’s traffic system to Pick and told her to tell Bass and Drum to give her two gold coins from the money I gave them as living expenses.

I almost spend the 20 gold coins I received from Pikaru, about 20 million yen, in one day.

Yeah, as expected of the villain Carlo, indulging in extravagant luxury. (TN: ………………………. I’m crying)

After Pick left I took off my mask, then with different clothes I left the house.

I didn’t forget to lock the door.

I made sure nobody saw me on my way back.

I intended to immediately return to the mansion but then there was a nice fragrance drifting out of a shop I happened to pass.

It seemed to be a restaurant/bar called “Fawn pavilion”.

It’s already dusk and I’m hungry, should I go home and eat?

“Are there any free seats?”

“Yes, there are some vacant seats at the counter. As long as you don’t want a table I can guide you.”

“I don’t mind. Guide me.”

I was guided to the counter in the back of the shop.

The shop is packed with customers. Seems like this place is pretty popular.

At the centre of the shop was a small, stage-like platform where a girl was singing songs.

“Felicia-chan, you’re the best!”

“You’re the cutest, Feliciaaaa~!!”

Those young men shouting like jaaa~jaaa~ in a loud voice, those are that girl’s fans, right?

They seem to have fun, but honestly, they are more of a nuisance to me.

Generally speaking, I’m a figurine and 2-dimension-type otaku not an idol otaku type.

When I got the menu and was thinking about what I should order a fat man who wore pretty good clothes came over and started to whisper in my ear.

“I’m the owner of this Fawn pavilion, Fats. I saw you, Margrave Carlo-sama, from over there.”

“Aah, is that so? Don’t disturb me.”

“So it was like I thought. You’re not accompanied by attendants either, are you here incognito?”

“Something like that.”

“I feel honoured that you have come to our store. I’m embarrassed to have Carlo-sama eat at the counter. Please follow me to our private room. This way, please.”

“I am thankful, but I’m fine. Special consideration is unnecessary.”

“That’s not the case. Please, this way.”

I was overwhelmed by the owner called Fats and was guided to the private room in the back.

Although it’s small the furniture is excellent and isn’t this the so-called VIP room?

“Thank you again for visiting our shop today. I’m the owner Fats.”

“I’m Carlo de Medici. I’m sorry for troubling you. I just had an empty stomach.”

I’m honoured. We are proud of our calf stew, it’s our shop’s specialty.”

Beef stew is one of my favourites.

My mother’s stew with herbs was delicious.

“Then I shall try it.”

“Certainly, just a moment please.”

Fats left and as soon as I started to wait for my dish the door knocked.

I think it’s still too early for it to be done, but what could it be?

“You may enter”

“Excuse me”

It was the owner Fats and the girl who was singing on the stage just a while ago.

Behind them was a man holding a guitar-like string instrument.

“This girl Is Felicia, this store’s diva, and our pride. If you like she could sing one piece for you while you wait.”

As Fats said this, the girl called Felicia-chan lowered her head to me.

“It might soil your ears, but I would be honoured if you could listen to my songs like Carlo-sama”

I didn’t get a good look on her a while ago, but she’s a pretty girl with white skin chestnut coloured hair and lovely eyes.

To be frank, it’s rather embarrassing to let her sing for only me, but declining is too rude, so I gave my OK.

“Thank you. I shall sing”

After Felicia-chan bowed to me elegantly she started to sing to the string instrument’s sound.

A transparent and carefree singing voice, wearing an adorable and discreet smile, her eyes sometimes tinged with sorrow to suit the lyrics.

I was overwhelmed.

It’s a pity that it will end soon.

If that girl would be an idol of my original world I would have turned into an idol otaku, bought all her CDs and would have attended to every handshake event.

She’s too angelic, it’s dangerous.

“Thank you”

After Felicia-chan finished singing she again bowed deeply to me.

“How was it?”

To Fats’ question, I answered it was the best.

Because I couldn’t answer in any other way.

“Thank you. Then how about another piece?”

I couldn’t say no to Fats’ offer.

Felicia-chan sang another song only for me.

Besides, this time it included dancing, too.

Unlike the slow song of a little while ago, the next song was rhythmical and had a higher tempo. A good song.

I can see now why the older brothers from a while would raise their voices.

Felicia’s song and dance captured my heart and wouldn’t let it go.

Aah, I want a figurine of this child, too.

“Hah, hah, thank you”

After she finished her second piece my dish was carried in.

Felicia-chan again bowed deeply and left.

It was justified that he said they were proud of their calf stew, it surely was delicious.

But my head was filled with Felicia-chan.

I didn’t listen to Fats talking about the dish.

“How was it?”

After I finished eating Fats asked me that.

“Yeah, it was as delicious as you told me. I’ll stop by often from now on”

To meet Felicia-chan.

(TN: siiiiigh)

“Thank you”

I paid up and caught a glimpse of Felicia-chan singing on the stage across the hall when I left the small room.

Though Felicia-chan was in the middle of a song she greeted me with her eyes for an instant.

So that’s what it feels like to “get a reply”, huh? (TN: from a girl one likes, I guess)

It’s strange because this was enough to make me happy.

I was seen off by owner Fats and left the Fawn pavilion to return to the mansion.

I got scolded by Melissa for returning so late and not informing them I would eat outside, but I’m fine.

I fell asleep while feeling happy.

(TN: sigh pls don’t get hopelessly addicted to that girl)

1. N/a

(TN: Nousagi 野ウサギ = Japanese hare “Lepus brachyurus” that’s what it originally were but I like to use rabbit for that better)

“Uwaaa!”

My senior whose sword I knocked out of his hand, immediately turned around to run and began to scream.

My other senior who immediately understood the situation followed him.

The coordination between these two seniors of mine is wonderful as expected.

“Reus”

I call Reus, the Salamander child, in my heart.

I had the Oricalcum sword in my right hand and with my left hand, I quickly drew the seals.

Let’s show them that my practice with Knopf wasn’t for nothing.

“Fire Wall!”

A wall of flames emerged from the ground before my seniors when I pointed my left hand towards them.

The seniors in front of whom the firewall appeared wore the same surprised face at the same time.

Those aligned movements, kind of villain-like.

As expected of my seniors, I’ll study hard.

“The other day it was a magician and today’s companion is a magic warrior!?”

To my seniors, yesterday’s Carlo and today’s me are completely different people.

Well, it’s convenient for me.

Some of the others decided to follow them but were also stopped by a firewall.

I knock the weapons out of the still eager one’s hands, taking their fighting capabilities.

Looking in Crescent Moon’s direction it seems like she’s almost finished.

“Waaah”

The young girl among the men started to cry.

If adults are fighting close by it’s scary after all.

Did the seniors kidnap her from somewhere like Mirea-san and Lucia-chan?

Remembering that made me angry.

“It’s alright already.”

When I approached her to cheer her up I heard Crescent Moon’s voice just then. (TN: sigh)

“Akatsuki, don’t let your guard down!”

“Tch!”

At that moment the girl stabbed a knife towards me.

I barely avoided it.

You saved me, Crescent Moon.

“That fellow is a female Hobbit, not a child. Don’t be deceived by her appearance.”

“You said something unnecessary, you go̲d̲d̲a̲m̲n̲ amateur!”

She wore an expression of vexation and definitely not the one of a child.

“Aah~ Aah~ I failed. I lost, do whatever you want with me.”

The girl……No, that Hobbit threw away her knife and sat down while sulking.

The other men were gathered together in one place.

“We lost. It’s our defeat. Do with us whatever you like. Kill us, hand us over to the authorities or whatever.”

That is what my senior said. They completely gave up.

What manliness, Senior.

“I don’t intend to kill you or hand you over.”

When I said that my seniors looked at me doubtfully.

Crescent Moon seemed surprised, too.

“My name is Akatsuki. As you can see I’m a magic warrior working as a mercenary. You probably witnessed my skills.”

“Yeah, you’re amazing. We couldn’t even put a scratch on you.”

Senior answered my words.

“You all, become my subordinates.”

“What do you mean? What are we supposed to do?”

“I came here on a request by the guild today. Because there seemed to be suspicious people in this area we were tasked to patrol around here. You’re already being watched. It’s only a matter of time before you get caught even if I overlook this right now. Crescent Moon, what will happen if they get caught?”

“Those guys are kidnappers, right? I’m guessing you already attacked a caravan. They’ll definitely get hanged.”

Though I knew about that, everyone else is holding their breath at Crescent Moon’s words.

“That’s right, if you’re caught you’re done for. Before that, wash your hands of this job and become my subordinates.”

“No way, if we do that we’ll lose or means to earn our livelihood.”

My senior’s really good, everybody was nodding.

“For this to not happen I will give you a job. Surface work and behind-the-scene work. Surface work would be a horseman messenger connecting Braham and the castle town Rue Ann. I’ll put a station at the middle of the highway where you can tie your horses and carry messages and objects at high-speed. This is profitable by all means”

The post-horse system, in other words, a relay system.

For the circulation of information, speed is key.

If Carlo gets information a little faster than anyone else it will be a huge benefit.

“The behind-the-scene work is information gathering and acting as a thief like before.”

“Information, about what kind are we talking here?”

I answered the thin senior’s question.

“The information should include rumours about the Franz royal family and the nobles, the things popular in the castle town Rue Ann, agricultural methods and foreign trends, so every information available in castle town Rue Ann. If there where strange incidents or monster appearances I want you to report that, too. I’ll buy the information you collected with money.”

“Didn’t you tell us to wash our hands of being a thief?”

“I did. Keep your hands off Braham’s people and products. This is an order. I will kill the person who breaks this rule with my own hands. There are exceptions, though. You can attack the caravan’s not coming from this frontier town without a trafficking permission. Rather absolutely attack them.”

With the exception of the ones coming from this frontier territory a caravan from outside has to pay an importing tax, to be allowed passage they have to pay a toll.

By attacking caravan’s trying to get in without having paid that tax the smuggling rate should decrease.

“Is it really fine doing something like that?”

After all, my seniors are also afraid of being hanged.

“It’s fine. I have connections with an influential person in this frontier territory. That’s why I’m collecting information. If you’re useful to this frontier territory no one will ask after your crimes, rather you’ll get rewarded. So, how is it? Want to do it?”

Rather than having connections to someone influential, I’m the feudal Lord.

Crescent Moon, who stood to my side, smirked as she heard this.

“I’ll do it. I’ll become Akatsuki-sama’s subordinate.”

My muscular senior lowered his head.

“M, me too, I’ll also follow you. You can order me anything.”

After my thin senior lowered his head the hobbit woman and the other man also lowered their heads at once.

“Good. What’re your names?”

“Just call me Bass. Thank you for your consideration.”

So my thin senior’s name is Bass, huh?

I tried asking my muscular senior.

“I’m called Drum. I’ll be in your care.”

Drum and Bass, huh?

“Bass, Drum, take care of the others. Hobbit woman, your name?”

“I’m Pick. I don’t fall behind anyone when it comes to stealing and lying out traps. Master Akatsuki, best regards.”

She looked like a young, pretty girl of elementary student age, but she seems to be rather crafty and useful.

However, now that I think about it; because bass and drum came out does that mean she’s a guitar pick?

Or is it Pick from pick-pocketing?

No, seems like all the member’s names have something to do with Rock, a rather easy way to name characters.

I’d like to have a talk with the author, seriously…

“Pick, you’ll be responsible for the communication between me and those guys. You’ll go back and forth between me and Braham.”

“Akatsuki, are you actually a Lolicon……? Is that why you’re not making any passes at me……?” (TN: Lolicon = Lolita complex. Liking little girls)

I looked at Crescent Moon as she uttered some outrageous things.

That’s not it, I didn’t tell her to come because I had that kind of hobby!

“You guys, does your group have any kind of name?”

“We don’t have one in particular. Usually, people call use things like Highway thieves.”

There’s nothing exciting about that.

“Okay, then I will give your group one. From today onwards you’ll be the “Rabbit group”. Got it?”

That’s punishment for hurting Mirea-san.

It’s an uncool name.

“Rabbit group, you said?”

“It’s a fine name, isn’t it? You were happily jumping at me just now, so it, indeed, fits.”

My seniors seemed to be pleased.

What kind of hobbies do you have?

“Akatsuki, you’re a pretty bad person. I got a better opinion of you now.”

I was praised by Crescent Moon.

It’s a strange feeling, but it’s good that I come to seem more like a villain.

“Drum, Bass, use this as reserves. Buy horses and build a station. Report to Pick when you’re done”

I gave the remaining four white gold coins to my two seniors.

(TN: …. bye bye money… again….I feel like I got stabbed…)

“He, Head, is this fine?!”

“Amazing, white gold coins. That’s the first time I saw one……. Head, thank you very much. We’ll be in your care from now on.”

“Yeah, well then, I’m leaving. Pick, come with me.”

I decided to take Crescent Moon and Pick with me leaving the Rabbit group’s hideout.

Before I left I noticed a suspicious individual I saw for the first time, I got interested and tried to talk with him a little.

“What was your name again?”

“My name is Flute. I’ll be in your care”

……It’s not even a rock instrument.

That’s so half-assed!!!

1. N/a

After having received the keys from the old landlady I first cleaned the hideout.

Crescent Moon muttered something like “Why did I say that” after having taken money from me and the old landlady, but I’m still fine.

After it looked somewhat clean I went to buy some necessities in the town.

First I had to buy furniture.

I got two beds, one for me and one for visitors, mine was a large double bed.

There might be someone sleeping with me in it in the future.

One should be prepared.

Additionally, I bought a desk, some chairs, a table, a shelf and so on.

I used a white gold coin to pay the cost of approximately five gold coins.

Only four of them remained.

Today I spend more than 15 white gold coins, that’s 15 million yen spend in one day.

Every time I think about that I feel seriously scared. (TN: Yeah, me too…)

I bought some everyday clothes for Akatsuki and then returned.

I got two sets of futon and pillows as well as curtains.

And also a black cloth to cover my blonde hair.

There wasn’t anyone to cook for so the amount of tableware was minimal.

After I brought in the furniture, it finally started to look like a home.

“Ahh~ Good work. Must have been rough for someone like you.”

I ignored Crescent Moon’s words.

“So, what are you going to do after this?”

“I intended to look around the guild a little. I thought I might find a reasonable quest maybe.”

“Oh, your first job, huh? I’ll also go with you. Whether I help you or not depends on the money, though.”

There it is, her favorite phrase.

For the time being, I went to the guild together with Crescent Moon.

I bound the black cloth which I bought around my head in a bandana style and covered my hair.

I tried looking at the bulletin board in the Guildhall.

Seems like I can understand the letters of this world now too.

This is author correction, too, yup.

“I’d like to do a reasonable quest which ends after half a day.”

Because the extermination or capture of stray dogs doesn’t really sound adventurer-like even if it sounds easy, I’ll pass.

“Then how about this one? Car……Akatsuki.”

Someday that fellow will end up calling me by my real name.

Which one, which one?

“Suspicious people were spotted on the way toward castle town, Rue Ann, please patrol around that area, huh?”

“Through the reward is only 20 silver coins, it should be finished quickly, right?”

Because my purpose for doing this isn’t money, in particular, the reward doesn’t matter.

It certainly is a reasonable one.

“I’ll help you, too. How about one gold coin as payment?”

Hey, hey, hey.

Your price is even higher than the reward of the quest!

One gold coin equals 50 silver coins.

“Does Akatsuki know where that is? I’ll teach you how to accept a quest and how to report back in. It’s tuition fee so it’s fine, right?”

You totally try to suck the money out of me.

I don’t know who of us is the villain here. (TN: Not you ^^)

I hopelessly took out a gold coin and threw it to Crescent Moon. She’s a character like that, after all.

“Thanks like always. That’s why I like you.”

This is different from a confession of love, right?

As is expected, even the virgin I am knows that.

After Crescent Moon told me how I went to the counter and accepted the quest.

It was such an easy process, tuition fee wasn’t even necessary. (TN: More carelessly spend money //sigh. It hurts)

Today I didn’t ride white king so I borrowed a horse from the guilds stable.

Crescent Moon seemed to have left her horse there, too.

“I think we’re there soon”

After we left Braham on horseback and rode for a while Crescent Moon started to speak.

Though there were some people going to and fro on the highway, there wasn’t even the shadow of a suspicious……Huh? ！

Didn’t that man on the horse suddenly turn around after he saw me?

It’s what I often saw on the news, the police “finding suspicious individuals during patrol duty”.

“Akatsuki, that man”

Looks like Crescent Moon noticed him, too.

I went before that man who suddenly turned around.

“Wh, what’s with you? Do you want something?”

“That guy’s……”

I see now, that guy is one of the friends my seniors have brought at that time.

“Shiiit!”

The man whipped the horse and ran away.

“Crescent Moon, let’s pursue them. But don’t let him notice you.”

“Catching all of them in one go, huh. Sure but that’ll be one additional gold coin.”

“Understood, so don’t lose them. Oh yeah, you also can’t kill them today.”

“Got it, leave it to me.”

We follow after him at a moderate distance as to not lose sight of him.

After a few minutes, the man got off his horse in front of a big house before rushing in.

Through, it is simple it was a big house and felt out-of-place in such a desolate area.

When we reached the side of the house we got off our horses too, then we witnessed approximately 15 men coming out of the house one after another.

Most of them were just some shabby men, but there were some young ones among them and even some girls.

And as expected, my seniors stood among them, too.

“Hey, you, you’re that magician’s companion, the mercenary Crescent Moon, aren’t you? What’s your business?”

One of my seniors, the thin one, started to talk to Crescent Moon.

I see, didn’t they recognize me because I’m wearing a mask and I didn’t use the same horse?

“Hey, Akatsuki, what should we do with those guys?”

Crescent Moon turned to me, completely ignoring that man.

“Like I told you before, capture them, and don’t kill them.”

“Eeeh, if it’s like this give me another gold coin.”

“Why? I just gave you one.”

“‘Cause it’s troublesome to catch them without killing them and their numbers aren’t low either, don’t you think?

“Aah, damn it, I got it already. There, another one.”

“Hehehe, I like you, Akatsuki.”

I’m not happy receiving such a confession.

“What did I hear? Catching us without killing us? Don’t joke around, you don’t have a magician today.”

Ehm Senior, I’m here, though.

We got surrounded by the men who grew excited.

I already drew my weapon.

Crescent Moon also pulled out her sword.

My seniors in front of us only had one-edged scimitars with a slender blade which was a little curved, but this wasn’t all today.

Crescent Moon held a short two-edged, thick, short Gladius in her left hand.

Fighting with a sword in both hands seems to be her original swordsmanship.

I also pulled out my sword.

The Oricalcum B̲a̲s̲t̲a̲r̲d̲ Sword.

While grasping it with both hands I looked at the sword’s blade.

What fascinating innocent, translucent brightness. Just looking at it make it seem like it was breathing.

Aah, it was worth it having paid that high price.

“You, What are ya doin? Ya going to kiss it, huuh?”

Senior tried to threaten us.

Sorry senior, I was just fascinated by the sword.

Like this, you could call it a demonic sword.

“I’ll go on ahead, Akatsuki”

Crescent Moon who seemed a little worried was about to cut down a man.

Her flexible movements made her look like she’s dancing.

She dealt blows to the men standing close to her left and right wonderfully.

The rest of them was left for me to take care of.

My two seniors were among them, too.

Let’s practice, seniors.

Swinging the Oricalcum sword felt incredible.

It’s easy to even use it with just one hand.

The usability and my increased sword skills obtain through my author correction add up to an incredible combination.

If I’m not careful I might cut them down with this momentum.

Fufufu, this night, my blade wants to drink some blood.

It’s not night, though.

I dodged senior’s swords, which came slashing down one after the other, then jumped and slide a little.

This sword’s lightness made me even faster.

I guess F would be able to put up a good fight.

“Wh, what the heck, that guy’s actually strong!”

One of my shrewd seniors raised his voice.

Crescent Moon seemed surprised by my movements.

“Akatsuki, you’re actually able to do it. I didn’t know you had such skill.”

Oh yeah, it’s Crescent Moon’s first time seeing my sword skills, isn’t it?

Still, for Crescent Moon to have room to watch me in the middle of a fight.

“Uwah!”

I parried another thin senior’s sword and just knocked it out of his hand.

My senior who lost his weapon gets ready to escape immediately.

As is expected, my senior’s ability to adapt is high.

1. N/a

One week later I visited the blacksmith Mohkan again.

Of course, without forgetting to put on my mask.

Mohkan is a dwarf and is called the legendary blacksmith for his skills.

When Kazuma reincarnated and came to Braham Mohkan was supposed to make him an Oricalcum sword.

Because I wrote that part I came to want it too and asked for it.

Still, ten white gold coins are expensive.

When I convert that into Japanese Yen it would be 10 million yen.

It’s not only expensive because of its rarity but also because of its superior performance.

By the way, how could Kazuma pay that much money?

Because I didn’t write about that, I don’t know it either. (TN: What the!? And no one complained? I don’t believe that.)

When I asked Pikaru to give me the money I felt disgusted but he gave it to me without complaining or saying anything at all.

Because I had other plans, too, I took 20 white gold coins, but was that a bad thing to do? (TN: casually taking out 162,300 Euro….)

Oh well, it’ll be all right with this year’s yield of the increased taxes, we had a good harvest after all.

I’m a villain anyway so I’m fine.

I again go to the liquor store and buy more of the “Hobbit Sake” for now.

Old man Mohkan was again grinding swords.

“Are you done with the thing I ordered?”

“Ah, it was Akatsuki after all. There, see, I have it. A B̲a̲s̲t̲a̲r̲d̲ sword made out of Oricalcum.”

Ooh, It’s done, huh?

How should I say it, it’s very white.

It seems much whiter compared to iron, steel and silver.

Moreover, it’s light.

It’s not a feeble lightness like that of plastic but rather a feeling of flexible, keen lightness.

I can swing it with one hand just fine.

“How is it? It’s light, am I right? Ordinary two-handed swords are meant to inflict damage with its weight, but this one is made to cut with its extreme sharpness. It depends on your skills, but if handled well it can cut through armour effortlessly.”

Amazing, it can cut that well?

Then this is totally like a Kitetsuken. (Cutting/killing iron sword lit.斬鉄剣)

Though it is said that even metal can be cut with this sharp Japanese sword when used by a master, but is it like that?

So I also have to polish my skills.

Still, how did the Hero Kazuma buy this sword?

Though I’ll come to use the Holy sword in the end, but until then I shall use Mohkan’s sword.

Because that sword has some special techniques ingrained in it I have to absolutely get it.

But I don’t think I can make that much money.

Well it can’t be helped, can it?

“Old man, I have a request.”

“Oh? What is it? Out with it.”

“Probably, approximately five years from now a man with a strange atmosphere around him with raven-black hair will come here. His name should be Kazuma. His age would be 17. If that guy comes here, would you present him a sword made out of the same Oricalcum?”

“Hey, hey, don’t say such absurd things! Do you think I give out such things so easily?”

“Of course I’ll pay the money. Don’t tell him about me just say it’s a present from you.”

“Well, as long as I get the money I don’t have anything against it. But are you serious about this?”

“Yeah, I’ll pay half the sum now. If the man called Kazuma appears, contact me. At that time I will pay the remaining sum, all right?”

“Are you sure that guy will come after 5 years? It’s hard to believe, you know? Let’s say he really comes, what do I say to him?”

“Oh yeah, well, something along the lines of the potential of a hero sleeps in you, I know what I’m talking about, I’ve been working as a blacksmith for a long time after all, so take this.”

“The sleeping potential of a hero, you say?”

“Please”

“Oh well, I don’t care, but are you able to pay? Together with the other costs, it would be 14 white gold coins, you know?”

14 million yen in Japanese Yen, is it?

My sense of money is becoming kind of strange, isn’t it?

But I am the strongest villain, Margrave Carlo de Medici.

I could care less about this kind of money. (TN: It hurts seeing this much money disappear. This is torture)

I took out the white gold coins from my pouch and handed them to Mohkan.

There were still six left.

“Who are you? For you to be able to pay this price so easily.”

“Don’t inquire any further about that. To contact me when Kazuma arrives hand in a request asking for Akatsuki to the adventurer’s guild. Understood everything?”

“I understood already, I don’t have to hear it again. When that Kazuma guy comes by I’ll make him a sword. Honestly, I still doubt it.”

Alright, with this Kazuma is able to obtain the sword.

Like this I’ll also get automatically informed about Kazuma’s arrival, killing two birds with one stone.

After that I chose an amour for the time I’ll be fighting as the mercenary Akatsuki.

The armour I chose placed great importance on agility and freedom of movement with just a Breast plate to protect the chest like Crescent Moon.

After long consideration, I decided against a helmet.

I paid up. handed Mohkan the Hobbit Sake I brought for him and left.

Next, I had to search for a house.

The mask aside sneaking out the sword and armour every time I had to leave the mansion is too troublesome.

Therefore I decided to rent a hideout for Akatsuki apart from Carlo’s mansion.

A remote place away from prying eyes where I can come and go whenever I want.

It can be on the small side, for now, it might be used for different things later so it can be expanded.

Because I didn’t really know where to find such a place I decided to go to the guild first and look for Crescent Moon.

When I entered the guild I saw Crescent Moon drinking alone in a corner.

It was an inconspicuous place at the edge of the guild but I was able to immediately find her because of her red mask.

“Yo, Car……Not, I mean Akatsuki. What’s the matter?”

“Actually I want to rent a hideout. I came to ask you if you might know of a good place.”

“Is that mansion no good?”

„Wouldn’t my identity be found out if I enter there with this appearance?”

“Ahaha, I don’t care either way. I think I know just the right place for you. I’ll guide you there for a gold coin.”

You’ll charge me?

Well, it couldn’t be helped so I handed her the gold coin and proceeded to follow after Crescent Moon.

“What do you think about this area? Even though this place isn’t very popular the security isn’t bad.”

I see, it was a long, narrow alley branching of a busy street.

The people here only showed little worry.

“At the end of this street, there should be an unoccupied house. The owner is a granny I know. As long as you pay her money she won’t pry into your business. Do you want to meet her?”

She said that that grandma lives close by.

So I went to meet the old lady together with Crescent Moon.

“Oh my, isn’t that Crescent Moon? Long time, no see. What brings you here today?”

“Granny, you were searching for an inhabitant for the unoccupied house at the end of the street, right? I brought someone interested. This is Car……Akatsuki.”

“I’m Akatsuki. Nice to meet you.”

“Crescent Moon, that man wears a mask like you, right? I don’t even know his identity, how suspicious. Do you have money?”

“I guarantee I’ll pay well. Regarding that everything is alright.”

“Is that so, as long as you pay up properly I won’t complain.”

I didn’t even see the inside yet or heard any of the important matters.

“I am sorry, but could you show me the insides?”

“Aaiiyo, just wait a minute.”

After the old landlady got the keys for the house we went together to the unoccupied house.

The insides of the 2-story house were rather spacious.

On the first floor were a large living room with a fireplace, a kitchen, a toilet, a bath and two other rooms

It was a contemporary styled 2LDK house.

I give it a lot of points for having a bath.

Looks like water can be drawn from the well in the back.

On the second floor, there are three small rooms.

And additionally, there seemed to be another small room in the attic.

“This is good, isn’t it? How much is the rent?”

“How about two Yuroa gold coins a month? I will clean once a week.”

“Expensive, isn’t it? How about three gold coins for two months?”

“Don’t even think about it. I’ll make a loss that way. How about one gold coin and 40 silver coins a month?”

A rent of 180,000 yen with weekly cleaning, is it?

It’s cheaper than I thought honestly, but I squandered a lot of money today.

The cost of half a year would be 1,080,000 yen or 10 gold coins and 40 silver coins.

It’s inconvenient that one silver coin equals 2,000 yen next to the 100,000 yen of one gold coin.

So can’t you lower it a little more?

“How about, with weekly cleaning included, paying one Yuroa white gold coin for half a year? If it’s no good I’ll go search for a different place.”

“You got a good head on your shoulders, don’t you? I don’t dislike such people. That’s fine, can you pay right now?”

What a relief, there isn’t something like security deposit or key money in this world.

To be honest I worried about that.

I saved 40 silver coins or 80,000 yen.

I handed the old landlady one white gold coin.

With this, there were just 5 white gold coins remaining.

“Seems real. There doesn’t exist such a good imitation.”

“Granny, you told me you’d pay me, right? I brought a good customer so please pay the fee.”

“Hmpf, can’t be helped. Here you go.”

The old landlady handed over two gold coins to Crescent Moon.

“Hehe, I made a lot of profit today. It should be like that every day.”

Didn’t you make me pay you a while ago!

Do you get this much every day!?

1. N/a

I went to the town, Braham.

We met at an inconspicuous place in the town.

When I arrived at the promised place Crescent Moon was already waiting there.

“I kept you waiting, Crescent Moon.”

“No, I arrived just a moment ago, too.”

After having exchanged some words I followed Crescent Moon and we entered a nearby shop.

Somehow Crescent Moon was really familiar with this shop.

“Welcome – -”

When I open the door and enter the shop, the heavy voice of a short, old man sitting within the shop greeted us.

In the shop, various masks were on display.

“There are plenty of kinds here, you don’t have to worry about the information leaking out. After all, I recommended the shop.”

Crescent Moon was right, there were so many kinds one could spend hours to count every single one.

“What kind of mask would be good? First of all, we have to cover that big scar of yours.”

That’s right, I have to cover the scar on my cheek.

For that, I would need a slightly bigger mask.

Because the full-faced ones look like Jason’s, I rejected them. (TN: It’s Jason form Friday the 13th))

There were also helmet types, like the ones used in American football, but because I would look like that useless third son of the end of the century, I rejected them. (TN: A reference to one of Hokuto no Shinken’s characters Jagi)

It has to be one that covers the upper half of my face till the nose, made out of metal and coloured silver after all.

The holes for the eyes need to have a sharp, villain like feeling to it.

There was just the right mask here.

“Doesn’t this one look pretty good? Isn’t that fine?”

As Crescent Moon said so, we decided on that one.

The material it was made of was a silver alloy called Sterling silver.

It had some decorations making it stylish.

It was a little expensive with a price of 3 Yuroa gold coins but a villain has to care for his appearance, right?

I brought plenty of war funds so it’s okay.

It had a leather strap attached so that I could wear it on the spot and take it home.

Meaning I immediately put it on.

If you asked me why I immediately put it on, it’s because we are going to register at the adventurer’s guild after this.

So I, too, will be able to join the adventurer’s today.

I’m getting excited.

When I entered the guild building it seemed like a bar at first glance.

A large number of adventurers were talking noisily.

Deep inside were some counters where you had to report your finished quests apparently.

Most of the adventurers had a dubious, rough feel to them, like Pikaru told me.

“You can register there.”

I and Crescent Moon go to the counters in the back.

Some men sitting at a table across the room seemed to be familiar with Crescent Moon and called out to her.

“Crescent Moon, pretty rare seeing you with a friend. Never saw his face here. But wearing a mask, huh?”

“Is he your new lover? Next time keep me company in bed as well”

Crescent Moon pressed on without paying any attention to those vulgar voices.

“This is the registration counter”

At the counter sat a very unmotivated looking Onee-san. (TN: older sister…)

“Does this person want to register? Then please fill in your name, preferred weapon, magic abilities, age and occupation on this formー”

Name. Name, huh?

I didn’t think about that.

I can’t write Carlo.

Let’s fill in the rest first.

It’s an iron rule to first fill in the things you are able to answer while taking an exam.

My preferred weapons would be two-handed swords like a B̲a̲s̲t̲a̲r̲d̲ Sword, but I’m also fine with one-handed swords.

I’m most skilful in fire attribute magic.

Let’s keep it a secret that I completely lack control.

Let’s make me a little older, 25 years old.

My occupation is mercenary, I guess.

Last but not least the name.

Hmm, maybe, as a silver masked villain, something like “Hi〇mes”. (TN: Hilmes or Hirumesu from Arslan Senki)

Though I don’t have any burns, but a scar on my cheek.

Then should I become “Fake Hil〇s”?

No, no, no, like I thought, that’s really bad.

This is so hard.

“Lord silver mask” would be adventurer-like, right?

Well, then, as a masked character and rival of the hero it has to be……”Ch〇r”? (TN: Char Aznable from Mobile Suit Gundam)

As I thought if we’re talking about masked characters he would be number one.

“Let’s see how skilled you really are Hero!” saying stuff like that.

But, as expected, that’s a little…

Then how about “Red Comet”? That’s a proper name, right? (TN: Char’s nom de guerre)

However, nothing on me is red and I don’t really want to say “I’m the Red Comet” myself.

Ah~ troubling, this is troubling!

“Hurry up! Can’t you see the line behind you?”

While I was worrying myself to death, I got surprised by someone shouting at me from behind.

When I looked back I saw an angry guy looking like a high-schooler.

He had a very hot-blooded feel to him, the type I can’t deal with.

This is bad, if I don’t hurry up then…

What should I do, what should I do, what should I do?

I hastily wrote something down.

I wrote “Akatsuki” (TN: Dawn)

Guwaaaaaaaa

I became Akatsuki, what should I do?

The identity of the mysterious masked mercenary “Akatsuki” is Carlo.

I don’t know about something like thaaat!

“Oookaay, Akatsuki-san, the documents are fiiiine. Please wait for 30 minutes for the registration documents to be processed.”

The unmotivated Onee-san received the documents.

The guy behind me after giving me a death stare walked towards the counter.

“Didn’t you say you were looking for a guy named Akatsuki? Is it fine to name yourself like that?”

Crescent Moon, please don’t ask me.

After approximately 30 minutes the adventurer card was finished.

It’s the birth of the marvellous masked mercenary, Akatsuki.

I already gave up.

“If I gain enough fame under the name Akatsuki the real one might hear about it and show up, right?”

“I see, so you thought about that.”

Though Crescent Moon looked at me with admiration, I feel like this will never happen.

Just my author’s intuition.

Once I was ready to try to dive into the dungeon I promised her to contact her.

After we left the guild Crescent Moon and I parted, leaving me to walk through the city alone.

The mysterious masked mercenary, Akatsuki.

I headed towards the blacksmith.

In fact, there was a legendary blacksmith in this town of Braham.

He’s the dwarven blacksmith who will forge the Hero’s sword in the future.

This is reliable because I wrote that.

On the way, I buy a special liquor called “Hobbit Sake” at the liquor store.

That blacksmith is stubborn, but he loves this liquor.

There’s no doubt about that either because I wrote it.

I asked a person for the way and arrived at my objective, the blacksmith.

There was a short man with a long beard hitting metal hard inside a hut.

This should be the legendary blacksmith, Mohkan.

“I’m looking for a man called Mohkan.”

“I’m Mohkan, what’s your business?”

“I want you to make a B̲a̲s̲t̲a̲r̲d̲ Sword.”

“Sorry, but I have a lot on my hands right now. Come back later.”

This person is stubborn after all.

He isn’t likely to take over an order so lightly.

That’s where the liquor comes in.

“Here, it’s nothing special but please take it.”

“Hey, hey, isn’t that my all-time favourite? You’re giving that to me?”

“Yeah. Drinking it will make one forget their woes.”

“Thank you. So, what kind of sword was it that you wanted?”

Mufufu, one-hit K.O.

“A two-handed sword like a b̲a̲s̲t̲a̲r̲d̲ sword, but I can use one-handed swords, too.”

“Hoh, that’s rare in this age. Are you also able to use magic?”

Right, in fact in this world it is mainstream to either use a one-handed sword and a shield or two-handed swords.

Because it’s extremely rare that a magical warrior would cast magic while wielding a sword at the same time.

One has to have at least one hand free to cast magic, after all, so one can’t hold a shield.

“So, what about the material? Bronze would be the cheapest after that would be iron. Steel is a high-quality product.”

“If I wanted stuff like that then I came to the wrong place. It has to be Oricalcum, right?”

“You. You know about that?”

The legendary metal, Oricalcum.

Alongside Mithril it’s a rare metal of the fantasy world.

It’s not only extremely hard but also has a superior toughness and it is known for its good compatibility with magic.

The Hero will also have an Oricalcum weapon made later on.

“I just heard some rumours. You have it, right?”

“I have it, but it’s expensive.”

“I don’t care. How much is it?”

“I’ll hand it over for 10 white gold coins”

Dowaaa!

The legendary white gold coin and even 10 pieces.

In other words, it’s 100 gold coins, converted in Japanese yen that would be 10 million yen.

I was surprised, but I desperately tried not to show it on my face.

This is a question of a man’s pride.

“I don’t care, make it. I’ll pay you 10 gold coins today for now.”

“Sure, that’s fine. It’ll take one week to complete so come pick it up by then. Don’t forget to pay the remaining money.”

1. N/a

“Welcome back, Carlo-sama. Those people are?”

I put Mirea-san and Lucia-chan on White King and returned together with Crescent Moon to the mansion.

I asked the maid, Reina, who greeted us to call the butler, Pikaru, and the head maid, Melissa.

“So you were a feudal lord? I’m surprised.”

The masked mercenary, Crescent Moon, was dumbfounded and looked at me.

Looks like she knew that this was the estate of the feudal lord Carlo.

“Feu, feudal lord……?!”

After she heard that Mirea tensed up.

Did it surprise her?

“Sorry, I didn’t tell you, I’m the feudal lord Carlo de Medici. Melissa, please take care of those two. They are injured.”

I left Mirea-san and Lucia-chan, who were really grateful, with Melissa and went over to my office together with Crescent Moon.

As we entered the room Crescent Moon came closer to me.

“Hey, you’re the lord, right? You’ll hold your promise and pay up, right? You won’t say things like I don’t have money or I won’t pay now, right?”

I saw two round mountains as I lowered my gaze because she was that close.

What splendid roundness, those are the miracles the earth is made of.

I wondered whether they are pushed up or natural products.

I, who is a virgin, can’t distinguish between those things.

“Hey, are you listening?!”

Aah, I was preoccupied with those mountains so I didn’t hear it.

Why are you climbing that mountain? Because there’s a mountain there.

“You, give me a break!”

“Carlo-sama, you called?”

Just when Crescent Moon started to get seriously angry, Pikaru entered.

“Pikaru, I’m sorry but could you bring me five Yuroa gold coins? For helping me take care of the villains which attacked me I promised her a reward.”

“Certainly, I shall promptly get it.”

After Pikaru lowered his head and left, Crescent Moon suddenly was in a good mood.

“If you pay up that’s good. But I’m surprised, feudal lord-sama. You’re willing to pay the exact price.”

“You said you were Crescent Moon? You’re working as a mercenary, right?”

“That’s right. I work as a lone mercenary. Like I said before I’m the famous “Crescent Moon Mercenary.”

“You’ll do anything as long as it is profitable?”

“Yeah, that’s right. If feudal lord-sama wants something to be done which can’t be told to other people I’ll do it. As long as the price is right, that is.”

Yeah, no matter how I look at it, it’s just like Akatsuki’s character.

Soon Pikaru came back with a small pouch.

“I’m sorry to have kept you waiting”

When I gave her the small pouch I received from Pikaru, Crescent Moon checked the gold coins inside.

Carlo isn’t such a stingy villain that he would hand over fake money.

“Pikaru, I want to have a talk with this person. Leave us alone for a while.”

“Is that really all right?”

“You don’t have to worry. Tell the others not to enter here for a while.”

“Certainly”

When Pikaru left Crescent Moon suddenly grew cautious.

“Listen, even if I said I’m a woman who would do anything for money, I won’t do that kind of stuff”

What kind of stuff?

Though Carlo is a villain, the person inside is a virgin so I won’t do anything.

Ah, there are no people inside of me. (TN: Badum tss.)

“I know, I don’t have such intentions. I wouldn’t do anything to inconvenience a woman.”

What would those inconvenient things be? I wonder when I will be free. (TN: of being a virgin, I guess)

Though I pretended to be tough, I fret about such philosophical problems inside.

“Is that so? Well, I guess. So, what do you want from me?”

“Yeah, do you know a man called “Akatsuki”? He’s a mercenary wearing a mask like you.”

“A mercenary called Akatsuki? He has the same mask as me? That guy smells like and imitation. I never heard of such a guy.”

Like I thought, you don’t know him, huh?

This Crescent Moon is an Akatsuki-like character then.

I wonder where I made a mistake, well, as long as those mountains are there, it’s fine.

Those mountains are really wonderful, someday I’d like to view that scenery more in detail.

Somehow I completely felt like a wanderer today. (TN: Mountain man lit.)

“That’s fine, too. Crescent moon, I plan to enter a dungeon soon. At that time would you lend me a hand?”

“Will you pay the proper price? If so, then it would be my pleasure to go together. There’s no customer that pays as well as you.”

Crescent Moon answered joyfully.

It seems like she is thinking about the profit she would make.

“There’s something I want to ask about, is there a way for someone to register as an adventurer without getting noticed? My position is kind of annoying.”

“I see, it’s unavoidable to attract attention if someone like you registers as an adventurer. Hmm……”

While Crescent Moon thought she seemed troubled for a while.

“I got it, why don’t you wear a mask like me? If you use a fake name it should be fine. There are even mercenaries that do this. They don’t really check that in detail.”

I see, like this, I don’t have to worry about Pikaru finding out.

Besides, wearing a mask is very villain-like and isn’t it kind of cool, too?

“Good idea, let’s go with this. Good Idea, indeed. You have my thanks.” (TN: The second idea was in katakana)

“That’s good! If you can’t go, I won’t make any money either.”

Crescent moon laughed cheerfully.

She really likes money.

Let’s ask her later about why she wants to earn that much money and what she uses it for.

Also, the reason for her wearing a mask covering her real face.

Would she get angry if I ask unnecessary things?

Crescent Moon will accompany me when I register at the adventurer’s guild.

Looks like she wants to introduce me to her favourite shop to buy masks.

It’s customer service, she said.

After Crescent Moon left head maid Melissa brought Mirea-san.

Her left hand was miserably covered in bandages.

Lucia who was exhausted seemed to have fallen asleep.

I was relieved.

“Carlo-sama, thank you for saving mine and my daughter’s life this time.”

Mirea-san deeply lowered her head and thanked me.

“Don’t mind it. I was just passing by coincidently. How’s the condition of your wounds?”

“Thank you, I had the doctor treat it. I’m relieved that I can soon move it around again like before.”

“That’s good. So, what do you intend to do after this? You said that you would go to your relatives, right?”

“That’s what I said, but, Carlo-sama”

Mirea looked at my face with an earnest expression.

“Would it be alright to employ me here? I’m hurt now, but I’m really good with housework. Of course, I will do my best until my wounds have cured. Lucia would help out too. Please employ me and Lucia.”

Ehm, that’s a little troubling.

I didn’t expect such a development.

Not knowing what to do I looked at Melissa.

“Carlo-sama, I think this would be advantageous. After having talked to them I could determine that both of them had a good personality and mind, what’s more, the situation they are in deserves sympathy. With just me and Reina we can’t perfectly care for Carlo-sama, so I thought about searching for a new maid anyway.”

“I see, if Melissa says so, then it should be fine. But there is one condition. Lucia-chan has to properly go to school. I’ll pay for it. She can help out in her free time. If you agree to that condition you can work here.”

“Ca, Carlo-sama, not only are we allowed to work here but Lucia can also go to school……Thank you very much. I will serve you with all my heart”

Oh, Mirea-san started to cry.

Looks like she was just that concerned, was she that happy that Lucia-chan could go to school?

Though this isn’t really villain-like, but child education is important.

Well, I’ll just act more like a villain from now on.

“Well then, Melissa, prepare a room for Mirea and Lucia and buy some necessities. Subtract the money spent from Mirea’s salary.”

“Thank you, Melissa-sama, please take care of us from now on.”

Because I’m a villain I’ll have it deducted from your salary.

(TN: Pff, like they would care about that lol)

1. N/a

I was on my way back from my magic lessons with Knopf.

Though I improved, my control of “Fireball” still isn’t good enough.

Originally I didn’t have any motoric skills.

While I was riding White King two women ran in my direction.

They seemed to be desperately running away from someone chasing them.

I went down from White King and called out to them.

“What’s the matter?”

“We are being chased, please help us!”

One of them seemed to be in her early 30 and the other one was a girl looking like an elementary school student. They looked like mother and daughter.

The mother like person’s left arm was covered in cut wounds.

Both of them were rather beautiful, though their bodies were covered in dirt, probably because they desperately ran away.

The girl’s knees were covered in blood. Seems like she fell on the way.

Then two men on horses arrived here.

Both of them had a dangerous atmosphere around them having their swords in their hands.

They seem like scoundrels.

“What’s with you? Hand over those two.”

“Don’t get in our way, if you do you’ll get hurt!”

They threatened me from their horses, probably because they were cautious of me who suddenly appeared.

If I had a sword this would be no problem, but I don’t have one right now.

The mother like-person took the girl’s hand and took cover in my shadow.

“Are you listening? I told you to get out of the way!”

“You, that’s some good clothes. Let’s catch him and ask for ransom.”

What refreshing villains, I should learn from them.

But I’m the villain of all villains, Margrave Carlo de Medici.

I can’t be done in by those guys.

But unfortunately, I don’t have a sword right now.

The two men holding swords came closer on their horses.

Now, what should I do?

At that point, I remembered I practised magic today.

I call Reus in my mind.

I form the seals with one hand and form an image in my mind.

It’s the 160 km/h fireball I was practising just recently.

“Fireball!”

I cast the spell and swung my arm at the same time.

The fireball flew out with the same force as I imagined and then it grazed one of the villains and flew to somewhere.

This happened during practice as well, as I thought I got some problems with my control.

I wonder if this is the fastball’s fate as well.

“S̲h̲i̲t̲, that guy’s a magician!”

“Retreat! Hurry up!”

The villains who saw this ran away at full speed.

Yup, being quick to run is certainly villain-like.

I’ll study hard, seniors.

“Thank you very much”

When she had tears in her eyes while thanking me, I became embarrassed.

The only thing I did was throwing a fireball.

While I listened to their story I heard their names. The woman’s name was Mirea and the girl was her daughter Lucia.

As I thought, they were mother and daughter after all.

She lost her husband to illness and got attacked while she was traveling from the Ruan Kingdom to Braham to visit relatives.

They were kidnapped and their kidnappers seemed to have intended to sell them.

That was really villainous and atrocious, seniors.

“You’re injured, huh?”

“No, this isn’t a big deal.”

The wound on Mirea-san’s arm seemed to be shallow, but if left alone it will fester.

It’s possible that tetanus exists in this world.

Anyway, I decided to take those two people to the mansion.

Head Maid Melissa will surely be able to do something.

It’s my Special move “Leaving it to someone else”.

(TN:Heey, that’s mine already!)

I put those two on White king and grabbed the reins from behind them.

I saw this in movies, but it’s actually pretty hard.

But this is more like a two-seat motorcycle.

Well, that widow is kind of, a little, you know.

Oh well, I can’t bring myself to do anything strange in front of one’s child.

Like this, we were on our way to return to the mansion, but then my seniors returned.

Good grief, you even brought your friends.

That attitude to never give up and that cowardice to not hesitate to attack a single person with a large group.

What charming ruffianism.

I’ll study hard, I admire you, seniors.

Seniors and their friends have a total number of 1, 2, 3,……Seven people.

I don’t really feel any danger because I could just hit them with a fireball and close off the road with a firewall, but that’s troublesome.

That’s rather flashy and I want to treat Mirea-san’s injuries as soon as possible.

“We’re surrounded, what should we do?”

Mirea-san and Lucia-chan are frightened.

Well, that’s to be expected. Being surrounded by bad guys like this is scary.

Though White King’s speed can’t be compared to those horses, but I can’t do that with two more people here.

“Hey, that guy’s a magician. Don’t be careless.”

“That’s right, he suddenly threw a fireball a while ago. I splendidly avoided it, though, hehe.”

My two seniors tried to warn their friends since a while ago.

Senior didn’t avoid it, I missed, I’m sorry for my bad control.

“Hey, magician, hand those two over. If you do we’ll spare your life”

Exactly what a villain would say.

Even if I hand them over you’ll kill me nevertheless, that’s smart seniors.

The seven people surrounding us gradually came closer.

Mmm, what should I do? As I thought I have to do something with magic, but when I thought that someone suddenly called out from behind me.

“Hey, I’ll help you if you are in trouble. Although it depends on the money.”

When I turned back I saw a swordsman wearing a red mask on top of a horse.

For some reason, that person didn’t seem like one of senior’s friends.

Still, I’m sure I heard that line somewhere before.

“Hey, did you hear me? How much are you willing to pay for your and those women’s life? Depending on the price I’ll help you.”

Mmm, Where was it?…….

……

……

……

Ah, I got it!

Those were the lines of the mercenary “Akatsuki” (Dawn) an unidentified masked person and ally of Carlo who would do anything for money.

Whatever he says he adds his favourite sentence “But it depends on the money. “

“I’m the crescent moon mercenary. I, “The Masked Crescent Moon Mercenary”, am known for my strength. So, what will you do?”

Huh? They are both mercenaries and the mask is also the same, but the name is different.

By the way, there’s a bigger difference, but, oh well, it should be fine, right?

“You said you were Crescent Moon? I’m Carlo. If you drive them away I’ll say you five Yuroa gold coins”

Regarding the five Yuroa gold coins, in Japanese Yen that would be 500.000 yen. (TN:4.408 USD , 4.130 Euro)

If I paid that much he would definitely go for it if it was the character Akatsuki.

“Just driving them away for five gold coins? Don’t you want me to catch them or kill them or something?”

“Yeah, just driving them away is fine. Even if you kill them, I don’t really care, but the pay will stay the same.”

“That’s easy work, then. That’s not a lie, right? I’ll kill you if you say you can’t pay afterwards.”

“I didn’t lie. I’ll pay you later in my mansion, so please”

“Okay, got it! You b̲a̲s̲t̲a̲r̲d̲s̲, this crescent moon will be your opponent!”

After the swordsman, Crescent moon, gave his name he drew his sword and faced the seniors.

Then one of my senior’s friends started to panic after hearing our conversation.

“This is bad, I’ve heard about the red masked mercenary called crescent moon. I heard rumours that as long as the amount of gold is right, she would do anything and even though she is a woman …… she’s supposed to be awfully strong.”

……Yeah, that’s right.

Akatsuki and Crescent moon, the names are different and Akatsuki is supposed to me a muscular macho man while Crescent moon is a woman.

Besides, she only wore a breast amour directly on her skin and two bulges could be made out. Splendid.

While I think was thinking about such Crescent moon was going around fighting, they are swaying together with her actions.

Meanwhile, the masked mercenary sent away my seniors in no time.

Why running away my seniors left the words “We’ll remember thiiiis!” properly, my senior’s really are the role model villains.

I should follow their example.

“I chased them away as promised. Give me the gold coins.”

“Like I said, I’ll pay you in my mansion. If you understand come.”

1. N/a

After having learned how to use fireball from the Cat-girl, Knopf, I had her teach me some more fire attribute magic.

First I learned the spell “Light”.

It’s a very basic spell to create fireballs to float in the air. But it has many uses for example when one stays in a dungeon for the night or as a substitute for heating if one controls the brightness and heat.

I can use it for a long time because it consumes little magical power and it’s convenient for moving around.

When I see the fireball flutter around so smoothly it makes me feel like some kind of ghost will pop out from somewhere.

(TN: Ya know, cause that kinda looks like a Will o wisp)

The next spell was the “Firewall” spell.

It’s a simple spell that only produces a firewall which burns at a high temperature, but it can continue to burn for a certain period of time even if you aren’t around it. If you use it well it can be effective for cutting off escape roads and enclosing your enemy.

It can be immediately put out by water magic.

The third one was the “Flame shield” spell.

It enables me to make an invisible shield made out of flames from my palm.

It can’t defend against physical damage like sword attacks unlike a common shield, but it reduces the damage of magic attacks by a fixed quantity.

However one has to be careful when one’s opponent is a water magic user because they can naturally make the shield disappear.

The last one was the “Fire Sword” spell.

It coats normal weapons like common swords in flames, adding a magic attribute to it and increasing the damage dealt by physical attacks.

Furthermore, it seems like it has quite the huge effect on the undead like zombies and skeletons.

It gets destroyed if one sets up a defence with water magic.

I seemed to have succeeded in everything which should be impossible for someone of the beginner level and I was looked on coldly again by the Cat-girl.

Well, if a person who tried their best to learn magic watched this they would get irritated.

But this is the author correction, I’m really sorry that I learned it so easily.

In the end, all the magic spells I learned are extremely weak against water attribute magic.

It’s rather convenient if I think about the Hero Kazuma forming a contract with Undine, the water spirit of the four major spirits, enabling him to use water magic.

After finally being defeated by the hero I’ll reform myself and help him defeat the Demon king after all (planned) because I’m the villain Carlo de Medici.

I’ll boldly use nothing more than fire spells in the fight against the Hero, let’s resolve ourself to lose boldly.

Actually, there is one more, it’s Carlo’s unique spell which doesn’t belong to any of the 4 attributes. How could I forget about that?

Though it’s very convenient, oh well, I’ll steadily think about that later.

“Thank you, Knopf, I was able to learn magic thanks to you.”

“Good for you, right, Carlo-san? So, what are you going to do from now on?”

“Yeah, I’ll come over from time to time to learn magic so I’m in your care.”

“Don’t decide that on your own. Why did Carlo-san want to learn magic in the first place? Even though you’re a noble.”

“I thought I might go look around the dungeons a little.”

“Ah, so it was that, huh? If that’s the case I have a request, Carlo-san”

What Knopf said surprised me.

Her cat ears twitched in a worried way.

“It’s my first time seeing one of the four major spirits what’s more a Salamander’s child. Regarding my request, would it be fine to take me with you when you go into the dungeons? I want to look at Reus state after he matured.”

It’s convenient for the party to have a magician, but the researcher Knopf wants to go into the dungeon.

She can’t use any high-ranking spells of the four systems, but I appreciate it.

After all, I would have invited Knopf to be my ally anyway if I went to the dungeon.

For that time it seems like Knopf registered as an adventurer in the adventurer’s guild already.

Adventurer Registration……What should I do?

I’ll definitely get caught by Pikaru right away if I do something big like that.

I left Knopf’s windmill and mounted White King.

On my way home towards the mansion, I came across a field with various plants growing on it.

When I took a look incidentally, I saw some familiar shrubs.

I looked down from White King. Isn’t that Thyme?

A kind of herb used in meat dishes.

Cultivating and using herbs in cooking was my mother’s hobby and because I was made to help her with it I am rather knowledgeable, too.

With those you’re able to accent the food’s flavour to make it shine, with some, you can even substitute certain things!

When I look around the vicinity in an excited manner I spotted a tree I recognize.

That was the Sage tree.

If you have this you can even make sausages!

Furthermore, if you look closely at the grass growing around here you can spot Italian parsley and basil in there.

This field seems to be a Herb garden.

To me who is frustrated with this world’s flavour of the dishes this is a gold mine.

But isn’t this too convenient, me coming across a field which incidentally grows all kinds of herbs and it’s just the right season?

Is this a kind of author correction, too?

Before I even noticed it time flew by while I was absorbed in picking up those herbs.

In that time I’ve become very hungry.

I haven’t eaten lunch either.

I’ve decided to come back here with White King and entrust the task of earnestly harvest them to someone else.

Melissa and Reina greeted me as I arrived at the mansion.

I seemed to have worried them because I took my time to return.

I also was somehow able to deceive Pikaru.

So I was saved from a sermon.

Anyway, when I told her that I felt hungry Melissa immediately cooked some rice.

I heard the menu was something like grilled salted fish or bird meat.

Here it comes again, the saltiness.

“Melissa, I’ll cook lunch. Inform the kitchen”

“Absolutely not, a gentleman entering the kitchen! Pikaru-sama will get angry again if you do something like that.”

“If you keep it a secret it should be fine. There’s a dish I want to make.”

Today there are herbs.

I’ll have Melissa and Reina learn how to use them.

Even though Melissa was unwilling she approved of it somehow after I begged.

Excellent, now I can enjoy a wider variety of dishes.

“Still, is Carlo-sama able to cook?”

Reina asked curiously.

Well, she has a point. A nobleman wouldn’t cook himself.

I can’t just say, “because I had to help my mother, I can”, though.

“When I was outside there were dishes I found delicious, so I memorized the recipes.”

Was I able to deceive her?

When I entered the kitchen I first prepared the bird.

I opened up the chicken’s thighs and cut them into easy to eat pieces.

Then I seasoned it with salt and pepper and let it steep so that the flavour can be absorbed.

Meanwhile, I bake some bread before crushing it into bread crumbs.

I also grind the cheese into fine cheese powder.

I put the cheese powder, salt and pepper, finely chopped up basil leaves and the bread crumbs together and mix them with some olive oil.

I put the chicken thighs on top of an iron plate covered in olive oil and spread the bread crumb mix on the chicken’s skin.

Besides that, I place some peeled potatoes next to it. It has to stay in the oven approximately 30 minutes.

Unlike a gas oven ,it’s difficult to heat this oven.

With this, I somehow managed to complete grilled, fragrant spice chicken with bread crumb coating.

(TN: This is torture … Now I’m hungry 鶏もも肉の香草パン粉焼き T_T)

“Carlo-sama, how skilled! It doesn’t look like this is your first time cooking at all.”

“It looks delicious as well. What a nice fragrance.”

Both Melissa and Reina were surprised at my skill.

It turned out pretty delicious, huh?

“There’s also a share for you. Anyway, I’m hungry so let’s eat here together as it is.”

“That, such a thing like eating together with Carlo-sama. We shall receive it later so-”

“I don’t care. If this precious food cools down it will taste bad. This is an order, let’s eat together.”

This is one of villain Carlo’s outbursts of selfishness. (TN: heeeh~ oh really?)

A meal eaten alone isn’t as delicious.

Moreover, I wanted to see those two’s expression when they eat this.

“Okay then, let’s dig in.”

“Though I might lack manners, I shall eat. Reina, eat some, too.”

“Yes, well then, I’ll have some.”

Like this, we ate together at the small desk, inside the kitchen.

“This is very delicious! It’s fragrant and……”

“The meat is very juicy and those herbs on top of it have a really nice fragrance.”

Yep, yep, I’m content that you are that pleased.

Using cheese powder and the basil I picked up made it delicious.

I did a good job if I do say so myself.

“This can also be applied to pig and cow meat. I’ll teach you some other things later so make this from now on.”

“Certainly. I’m rather happy that my repertoire of dishes has increased~.”

With this I made one step forward towards improved eating habits.

1. N/a

“Then, tell me about fire magic first.”

“Sure. One has to borrow the power of a spirit to create fuel and heat to let fire magic take effect as I said before. Therefore one has to call a fire spirit. Try it.”

Knopf starts to meditate with her hands facing up.

She breathed slowly and seemed to concentrate.

“I close my eyes and imagine fire spirits in the atmosphere and call one. Usually, it’s in the form of a dwarf.”

I do the same thing and close my eyes with my palm’s facing upwards.

Fire spirit, come here, Fire spirit-chan, come closer……

However, there weren’t any signs of it at all.

“Is it no use? It can’t be that difficult. Maybe you lack talent?”

Thunk.

I’m not able to do anything, I remembered the hard reality of not having talent I was blessed with and became blue.

Ah, I’m useless, huh? Even in the world, I created as an author I’m useless, huh?

I unintentionally switched back from Carlo to my original self.

“I, it’s okay even it failed this time. How about you try to imagine a flame on your hand this time?”

Knopf hurriedly tried to encourage me and nearly fell over.

I took it to heart and tried to do what she told me somehow.

Then the image of a bright red lizard suddenly came out.

“Uwaa!?”

When I opened my eyes in wonder an approximately 3 centimetre tall lizard appeared on my palm.

Its bright red colour was just like the image but its eyes were kind of cute.

Overall it was just blurred and there was no sense of touch.

“How is it? Did you feel something?”

“Rather than feel, there was a red lizard on top of my hand.”

Because Knopf asked me I answered her truthfully.

“Like I said, it’s fine, so you don’t have to act tough. You didn’t feel anything, did you? You can’t fool me so please tell the truth.”

Knopf was smirking at me disgusted.

Her cat ears were moving angrily too.

I didn’t particularly lie, though.

“Even if you’re telling me that it’s still on top of my hand. Can’t you see it?”

“Eh, Are you sure?! A lizard, you say, it can’t be, is it a Salamander?! I mean this is your first time and it should be impossible”

You, you’re a salamander?

However I look at it, it looks just like a small lizard.

“You, I wonder if I can make you appear.”

At that moment, the blurry outlines became clearer and I felt it touching my palm.

Uuuh, it feels a little ticklish, it kind of has a reptile feel to it.

“It’s the truth……”

After Knopf saw the lizard she looked surprised with her mouth wide open.

Come on, Cat-girl, your drool will flow out!

“This certainly is a salamander’s child. It’s still small. But to suddenly call a salamander……”

Knopf still seemed like she didn’t believe it yet.

She stared at the lizard for a while longer but then turned towards me in the blink of an eye and began to talk with a serious face.

“Magic, if one excludes light and darkness, consists out of four elements, Fire, Water, Wind and Earth. Those are the four major elements that is what is being said. Fire, Water, Air and Earth.”

The theory of four major elements got supported from the ancient Greece/Rome to the Islamic world and the European Middle Ages.

“For those four major elements, there exist four spirits and one governing them. The water Undine, the wind Sylph, the earth Gnome and the fire Salamander.”

Ooh, in my novel the hero forms a contract with the spirit Undine and uses water magic.

Speaking of Undine, was that the name of one of those four spirits?

I imagined it as something like TinkOrbell.

As the author, I am sorry for my lack of research.

“As Salamander is the fire spirit of the four spirits it’s quite the high-ranked spirit. One can’t just call Upper-rank fire spirits like the flame demon Ifrit or the Phoenix or the Salamander that simply.”

When you think about it, this is also author correction, I’m really sorry in various ways.

“Though it’s still like a child right now, but I think it will gradually grow if it steadily absorbs magical power. Seems like it got used to you.”

Yeah, no matter how I look at it seems like it got attached.

It was sitting very peacefully on top of my hand.

“The problems start here. As I said before a little while ago, you can use stronger spells if you form a contract with a high-ranking spirit. But it also has its disadvantages.”

disadvantages?

“Yeah, the magic of other systems becomes unusable if one forms a contract with a spirit. That’s the reason for me researching the combination of low-ranking magic to achieve equal power. You don’t have to form any contracts with high-ranking spirits for that and the magic of the four systems can all be used.”

I see, it’s like that, huh?

“What do you want to do? You are able to use fire magic if you form a contract with this Salamander. After it grows bigger I believe you are able to use considerably strong magic. But on the other hand, you can’t use any magic of other systems.”

Mmm, this is rather troublesome, isn’t it?

But honestly I don’t really want to learn that much magic and it might be good that Carlo as the rival of the Hero, who uses water magic, is able to use fire magic.

I’ll be defeated by the hero anyway so why not have bad elemental compatibility.

“Knopf, what should I do to form a contract with this fellow?”

“It’s easy. You have to name it. If a spirit receives a name the contract is established. Do you want to form a contract?”

“That’s right, just being able to use fire magic is enough. I don’t want to become a magician.”

“I see, if that’s the case please name this child. I guess it will be alright as long as it’s nothing too weird.”

Mmm, a name for a lizard, huh?

This is a Salamander and in Japanese that would be a fire dragon.

Speaking of fire dragons, yeah, it has to be Rioreia…… something like that.

(TN: Rathian in the English version. A wyvern from monster hunter)

“I’ve decided. You are Reus, the fire dragon Reus. How’s that?”

(TN: shortened form of Rioreus. Rathalos in the English version. A wyvern from monster hunter)

When I said that the lizard turned over and disappeared just when I thought that it was shining a little.

“Did it fail?”

“I think it’s different. Call its name”

“Reus!”

When I called its name the lizard appeared on my right shoulder.

“See, looks like it likes it. The contract was successful.”

“I see, then you are Reus from today onwards. Take care not to get hunted by a hunter.”

(TN: Cause ya know it’s a monster in monster hunter lol)

Knopf wasn’t able to understand this reference.

“One usually isn’t able to see them, but spirits are always around us, Carlo-san. Because that’s the case they will even come out if you just call them in your mind.”

I see, so it’s something like a mobile pet?

She said it grows up by absorbing my magical power so it’s fine not to feed it.

“Now that you have a spirit let’s practice fire magic, shall we? Let’s start with the incantation for “Fireball” first.”

First, we went outside to practice magic.

Using fire magic in a wooden hut is rather dangerous after all.

Even though I don’t really understand this stuff I try to imitate Knopf’s actions.

“Like I said before, you borrow the spirit’s power to create fuel for the fire to burn in the air. Then you draw the seals with one hand and concentrate.”

Well then, I close my eyes to concentrate, Reus, please lend me your power…….

Was the seal like that?

Then I should create a ball of burnable material in the air.

Something like a ball of flammable gas?

“If you’re ready, imagine adding heat to it, burn the fuel and aim towards your target while casting “Fireball”. That stake over there should be a good target, right?”

Reus, that’s enough.

I imagined adding heat to the ball and throwing it like a fastball.

That’s right, a straight with over 160 kilometres per hour!

“Fireball!”

As soon as I moved my arm a flame ball was flying like a fastball towards the target stake and hit it.

As for the stake, no trace remains of it.

“Again, this, suddenly producing a fireball of such speed, that’s impossible”

Rather than surprised, the cat girl looked at me with amazement.

Again, I’m sorry in various ways.

1. N/a

A few days later Melissa came over.

“Carlo-sama, it’s regarding the distantly related magician we talked about the other day.”

“Yeah, how was it?”

“Carlo-sama should contact her to inform her about the date you are able to take lessons. Even today would be possible if it is convenient for you.”

“Unfortunately, I am busy today so I cannot act as a guide for you.”

“It’s fine, I am no child after all.”

I’m able to go learn magic alone this way.

Because if Pikaru finds out about this he’ll start to nag again so I’ll do it secretly.

It seems like Melissa’s magician relative lives in a windmill out-of-town.

I saw the windmill after I rode White King for a while.

After I tied White King to the stake in front of the windmill I knocked on the door of the hut.

As soon as the door opened a child came from the inside.

The girl looks like she is 14 or 15 years old.

She wore a grey robe with a hood attached.

“I’m called Carlo. I’m here to visit the magician Knopf.”

“Please enter”

I entered the windmill under the guidance of the girl.

Inside were a lot of wooden gears turning with a gakkon gakkon sound.

Heh, so it looked like this inside of a windmill, huh?

“Please, have a seat”

I sat down on the sofa the girl prompted me to sit on.

Test tubes and beakers were scattered throughout the hut and it had a laboratory atmosphere to it.

However, there is no sign of another person being inside this hut.

“Is Knopf away? Then I shall come another time.”

“I’m Knopf. I heard everything from Aunt Melissa.”

I was seriously surprised by that girl’s words.

Melissa said she is young, but no matter how I look at her this is too young.

Is it possible to change your appearance with magic?

“Are you surprised by my young appearance? Even with me being like that I believe I’m older than you.”

This self-proclaimed Knopf brought some food while saying that.

Then I saw those fluffy cat ears.

“I’m half human, half cat person. I’ll be 30 this year. Because the average life expectancy of the cat people is approximately 150 years it seems like I am able to look this young for my age.” (TN: The author used katakana to write cat person so not my crappy naming sense)

A mix of cat humans, the “Cat People”, and humans, did I write about such characters?

The Cat People I wrote had a more cat-like face and grew whiskers.

In that respect, Knopf, being a half, has the face of a human and cat ears.

……I can’t help but be interested whether she has a tail, too.

Speaking of which, Melissa, you should have told me!

Even before telling me that she’s young or an oddball.

Is this not as important here? Is it different?

“I see, I was disrespectful. Then again I’m Carlo. Please take care of me.”

“I’m surprised that Carlo-san doesn’t dislike me for being a sub-human.”

I see, in this world there are a lot of tribes of different races the cat humans included, those races are called sub-humans.

Even if the person is half human they seem to be put in the category of sub-humans as well.

Those sub-humans are discriminated against by humans all the time.

That is the setting I made.

“I don’t particularly care. Is that why you live in this windmill out-of-town?”

“There is that, but it’s also convenient for executing experiments as well. Ah, I shouldn’t speak this way.” (TN: She spoke in an informal way)

“I don’t mind. I’ll tell you now, you don’t have to use formal speech with me.”

“I’m saved. It’s hard for me to keep being formal.”

Knopf showed a relieved expression and laughed.

Her cat ears twitch when she laughed and made me want to touch them.

“What kind of magic do you want to learn?”

“What kind of magic can Knopf use?”

“Hmm, let’s see……”

After Knopf thought for a while she began to talk.

“Do you already know that magic is divided into six basic systems? Fire, water, wind, earth, light and darkness.”

Yeah, I know this already, because I set it up like this.

This is just the standard for fantasy, right?

Well, I can’t say that so I nodded.

“Of these Light and Darkness are a little different, but the other four kinds, Fire, Water, Wind and Earth are of the same system.”

Yeah, those four kinds are called spirit magic and can be used by borrowing the power of spirits.

Light and Darkness use a different kind of power other than God, Demons, and Spirits.

This is also according to my setting.

“To activate magic of these four systems one has to borrow the power of spirits. For example, using the same Fire magic system to use the elementary spell light ball “Light” and the flame ball “Fireball” it’s fine to borrow the power of low-grade spirits in the vicinity. However, to use more powerful magic like fire tornado, fire storm or explosive flare, one as to form a contract with a higher ranked spirit before being able to use them.”

That’s correct as well.

Therefore in order to use higher ranked magic, it is necessary to find a stronger spirit and form a contract with it.

“But I’m doing research on how to increase the strength of lower grade magic. Those can be explosive, too.”

What did you say?

Did I describe a method like that in my novel?

“Do you know what is needed to set a fire? Fuel, heat, and oxygen. If those three things are in one place I can ignite a fire without having to use fire to make it burn.”

Hey hey, that’s rather chemical.

Do they study such things here in this Fantasy world?

“For example to use the fire magic “Fireball” you create heat and fuel with the spirit’s power. Using one’s mental strength moves the ball towards one’s opponent.”

There’s such a mechanism, huh? I want to study it.

“What do you think will happen if I create pure oxygen using wind magic and add it to the fireball?”

Hey, hey, that’ll be dangerous.

I heard it will explode and even metal like iron would burn with such a high concentration of oxygen.

“It’ll explode. By the way, even things that normally don’t burn will burn if the oxygen enriched fire is used.”

Like I thought.

“I sprinkled fine metal dust created with earth magic all over a room and when I threw a fireball in there it surprisingly caused a chain of explosions.”

That’s a dust explosion. (TN: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dust_explosion)

“It’ll even cause an explosion if you treat a rock made with earth magic with a high-temperature flame and then hit it with water magic.”

What you are describing is a phreatic explosion and that’s also very dangerous. (TN: That’s what happens when a volcano erupts https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phreatic_eruption)

“With that in mind, I’m researching whether one can achieve the same effect as a more advanced spirit magic with the combination of various kinds of lower grade elementary magic.”

Ehm, this Knopf-chan seems more like a mad scientist rather than a slightly odd person.

“Therefore I can’t use highly advanced spirit magic but if it’s lower ranked spirit magic I can use all four systems. Though I’m slightly weak with water.”

As I thought because you’re a Cat-girl you’re weak against water, huh?

“That’ll be enough. I want you to teach me the usage of fire, wind and earth magic.”

“That’s fine, then with what do you want to start?”

1. N/a