“The dark coloured crystal — huh?”

　While looking at the crystal held out in front of me I repeated that name unconsciously.

　The crystal filled with dark red seemed like a lump of blood.
　For some reason, when I looked at the crystal I felt severe aversion and yet I couldn’t keep my eyes off it.

“To be honest, there isn’t much I know about this crystal.
　……However, I can tell you to some extent what kind of effect that crystal has”

　Monica who placed the crystal on a table folded her hands in front of her modest chest.
　Her facial expression, which usually was quite lacking, warped into a bitter one so that even I, who was unfamiliar with her, could see it.

　──However, it was just for an instant, then Monica’s expression was as blank as it was a while ago.
　It was like that change in her expression was just an illusion.

　It’s not like I didn’t notice it. Sonia, who didn’t mention anything about Monica’s short change in expression, reached out towards the table.
　The crystal which gave off this eerie colour was back in Sonia’s possession.
　The crystal still emitted some weak magical power on her palm.

“I understood the gist of your business here. I don’t know where you found this, but the animals and demonic beasts in that area’s vicinity became more aggressive, right? Furthermore, these animals are strangely big and above all…… they possessed magical power.
　……Otherwise — No, that’s it”

　It seems like she was about to say something but instead Monica closed her eyes and shook her head, ending her words there.
　The continuation of those words worried me, but when she completely guessed the reason for our coming here it was clear we wouldn’t hear anything more.
“Yeah, that’s it. As expected of Monica-chan.
　However, this crystal is related to those violent outbreaks?”
“Yes, that’s right. Its body grows, the epidermis and body hair…… Even the blood and internal organs become black, furthermore, that evil magical power coiling around it – One could say that the crystal caused those changes in these individuals, one might call abnormal.”

　With Monica’s words, Sonia handed me the crystal.
　Let’s take a look, is what I’d like to say, however — honestly, I felt aversion towards that crystal.
　I don’t know the origins of that aversion but I simply didn’t like to touch it.

　Well then, what should I do? When I was thinking that I noticed Cheryl staring towards me.
　Our eyes meet and then a brief period of silence broke out.

“……Do you want to take a look?”
“Yes”

　Apparently, Cheryl seemed to be curious about this crystal. Cheryl gave me a simple nod.
　That thing didn’t seem to be very safe, but — Well, I didn’t notice anything immediately just after touching it, so it I should be fine handing it over …… right?

　When I held it towards her, Cheryl took the muddy, dark crystal into her hands.
　Having the origin of that repulsive feeling leave my hand I slightly exhaled.
　……Fumu, Monica as well as Sonia and Cheryl — Didn’t they get the same feeling from that thing?

　Cheryl, who received the crystal, held it up against the light, like Monica did, and changed the angle she held it in while observing — slowly and carefully.
　Seeing Cheryl who felt interested in that crystal, my expression relaxed unintentionally.

“……Well then, let’s answer what you are all interested in.
　First of all, as I said earlier, that crystal’s name is “Dark coloured Crystal” and is the cause for the animals’ ferocious behaviour. You got all that, right?”
“Yeah”
“Yes”

　I took my eyes of Cheryl and fixed them on Monica.

“That crystal’s effect is to harden the body and amplify magical power to be concrete. Depending on the individual, it’ll make them grow huge.
　As you know, it is very rare for a non-humanoid animal to be able to harness magical power. At this point, you can see that this crystal is a material beyond one’s wildest imaginations.”

　I glanced at Cheryl observing the crystal as Monica continues.

“However, from my personal view, the most frightening part about the “Dark coloured crystals” is — that it changes the host’s personality. No, one should call it rewrite rather than change.”

　Monica exhaled slightly while showing apparent sorrow in her eyes.
　When Monica mentioned the word rewrite I remembered the animals which became aggressive.

“Those who ingested the crystal will take on the same behaviour regardless of their individual differences, no matter if they were animals or demonic beasts.
　It’s not to defend its territory against intruders, nor to counterattack, nor out of hunger — they just start to attack living things indiscriminately.
　It’s nothing else. Just unchecked violence. Even if their opponent is stronger than themselves those crazed animals, even young ones, start to attack regardless of the other side’s numbers.”

　Monica talking about the terrors of that stone made me remember this unease I felt back then — namely, the lack of animal-like behaviour.
　Violence for violence’s sake, is it? Looks like my choice wasn’t wrong.

　Needless to say, those animals were abnormal.
　It’s the first time I encountered such pure murderous intent with no reason behind it.

“Animals corrupted by the crystal only think about spreading their murderous intent around them. If one leaves them alone its impact on the ecosystem won’t be small. Of course, people will get hurt as well. ……I don’t really recommend it, but there’s no other effective method other than exterminating them to bring peace to the area.”
“Hmm, it’s like that after all, huh?……Thank you, Monica-chan”

　In response to Monica’s words, Sonia let her thumb slide along her cheek.
　Both of them didn’t have very pleasant looks on their face. It was mentioned that Monica was doing biological research as a hobby, apparently.

　However, I feel like there’s more to that expression Monica showed.
　Before she hesitated to say something, like something she wasn’t able to talk about — that’s how it felt.

“Monica-dono”　　
“What is it?……Aah, you can speak comfortably. Sonia’s friends are mine as well.”

　As I worried about those words she said earlier I unintentionally raised my voice.
　Though I didn’t dislike using honorifics for girls who were younger than the me in my previous life, it still felt a little weird.
　Let’s say I’m grateful for that offer.

“Then, don’t mind if I do.
　……Earlier you were about to say something, right? If it isn’t anything difficult for you to say I’d like to inquire about that.
　Of course, if you don’t want to talk I won’t force you”

　Even though I changed my tone my serious attitude didn’t. I stared directly into my opposite’s still youthful eyes.
　Monica’s deadpan expression distorted again. First, it turned bitter, then sad.

“……Telling you is useless. It’s useless, because it’s just too hard to believe.
　Particularly for us of — the elven race”

　Monica grabbed her arm and trembled slightly.
　Not wanting to talk — it seems to be slightly different than that.
　Rather it might be the opposite.
From what it seems, the thing Monica kept silent about is considerably heavy.
　Even though it wasn’t long since I met that girl, but if she’s a friend of a friend I want to lend her my strength as much as I can.
　……That’s why that way of speaking is reserved for their elders, right?

“There’s no problem then”
“……Eh?”

　I broke my expression and smiled at her.
　Surprise mixed into Monica’s expression.

　I showed Monica, who finally wore a girlish expression, a grin with my canine teeth exposed.

“If you’re a friend of Sonia, I’ll believe you no matter how outlandish it might be. Can’t you just throw off some of that burden you carry?
　I can’t tell you the details, but even though I’m like an elf I’m not one. So there’s no problem regarding that”

　I’ve been keeping a serious attitude until now, so I tried joking around a little to relieve the tension.
　I kind of thought the girl needed that.

　That idea of mine seemed to work as Monica laughed — for the first time.

“Ahaha, what’s with this? That’s”

　Her original facial features had a certain youthfulness to them and, probably because of the contrast to her usual deadpan face she showed every day, that smile possessed a wonderfully splendid cuteness.
　Looks like what I said was very funny as Monica laughed with one hand in front of her mouth.
　Even though we, Sonia included, knew what I meant with “not an elf”, but this reaction is certainly quite normal.
　Recalling my own body’s absurdity I vowed to never talk about my real nature in public carelessly.

　After having laughed for a while, Monica fixed her eyes on me still with tears in them.
……Well, let’s keep silent about this teary, emotional breakdown.

“Yeah, weird….. But it feels like it’s been such a long time since I laughed that much. I calmed down a little.
　──Let’s talk. The “fact” — my father uncovered was the cause for his expulsion form the academic world.”

　Her expression was blank again — However, Monica raised her face with firm resolution.
　Monica, who emphasized the word “fact”, now wore a much more dignified expression than before.

“Please, try to believe me. Though you probably won’t be able to believe it — please try.”

　Those words were directed to all of us.
　Though I just met Monica, I felt like what she’s about to tell us won’t be a lie.

　Cheryl looked towards Monica like she usually did.
　Sonia — smiled and nodded firmly.
　Monica, who took in their gazes, now looked into my eyes.
　I nodded resolutely.

“Thank you, everyone.
　Well then, I’ll tell you. This crystal, has two more characteristics hidden in it.
　–In this country, what is it that makes the world turn?”

　That voice which was as balanced as a flat road started to shake, like it was tumbling down the mountain path of resolution.
　Monica put her hand on her chest as if to suppress the beating of her heart and opened her mouth.

“Apart from the ones I mentioned earlier, this crystal has two more characteristics hidden in it.
　──The first of these characteristics is “Residual”. Cheryl, could you lend me the crystal?”
“……Yes, got it”

　Cheryl, who had the crystal and looked at it from different angles, handed it to Monica.
　Monica held the crystal in her fingers so that everybody could see them again and extended her arm forward.

“What is, Residual?”
“If that crystal enters someone’s body it will cause similar symptoms to what I mentioned before.
　However, even if it enters someone’s body the crystal won’t get absorbed by it.”

　Not understanding what Monica said I frowned reflexively.
　The light in the talented woman’s eyes changed to a dignified one as she continued.

“That might have been a little confusing.……In other words, the crystal will stay inside the body basically.
　In the study, it is said that the crystal was mainly ingested through the mouth. If it’s food it’ll get digested and absorbed as nutrition by the body. If it can’t be digested……it will be discharged as a foreign substance from the body in one way or another.
　This crystal, however, neither gets digested nor ejected out of the body.
　However, inside the corpse of a host who showed similar symptoms to the ones mentioned earlier — that crystal was detected even after the host got killed.
　As long as one doesn’t completely destroy the crystal, it will remain inside no matter what”

　Monica let out a small sigh.
　……Looks like the real show starts from now on.
　I noticed that her atmosphere changed.

“If it was only that, then it would just have been some special material, but — the crystal grows.
　Through some method, it finds nourishment inside the host’s body. And it will always come out bigger than it was before the host took it in, sooner or later the crystal will find its next host. My father said that it would enlarge the host’s body in its process of growing, but for now, that doesn’t matter.
　──And now to the true terror of that crystal.……It’s the fact I was trying to conceal and over which the researchers banished my father”

　Monica dropped the crystal she held in her fingers on the table and closed her eyes.
　Even though her eyes were closed they were reminiscent of slight hesitation.
　However, she already made up her mind.
As if shaking off something her eyelids opened.

“Do you know a monster called — Tarisberg?”

　What emerged from Monica’s mouth — was the name of a monster no one among the elves wouldn’t know.

“Wha……Tarisberg, you said!?”

It was amazing how the atmosphere in this room changed instantly.
　Sonia loudly repeated that name and even Cheryl had her eyes wide open.
In this space which instantly reflected the tension, I chewed on that name.
　I was reborn as an elf roughly twenty years ago and even I knew the name as well.

　–Tarisberg. It’s because that’s the name of the monster which made Alma known as a hero.
　Tarisberg is said to be a big beast which suddenly appeared in the elven country after I died. To be exact, one should call them big beasts instead.
　Where it originated from was never discovered — this demonic beast which suddenly “appeared” was an existence, one could call the natural enemies to the elves.

　Originally, elves didn’t use personal combat as much…… as for martial arts, though it slowly got more known, it was still a rare, distant existence.
　I also noticed as I grew up as an elf, but it’s hard for an elven body to build up the necessary muscular strength which is the basis for martial arts. Additionally, because their affinity to magic is very strong, elves prefer long distance attacks centred on magic and the bow in a fight.
　Alma’s name getting known to such a degree and martial arts becoming part of physical education regardless of these matters, has something to do with a certain characteristic that monster had.

　──It invalidated processed magical power such as magic and sorcery.
　That’s what made Tarisberg the natural enemy of the elves.
　Tarisberg is not a name given to an individual, it’s a generic name given to giant beasts with the same characteristic.
Thus, the elves didn’t have a counter measure against these huge beasts.
　Magic didn’t work and weapons such as swords and bows couldn’t even put a scratch on their tough bodies.
If one had enough magical power in them one could use body strengthening magic.
　However, that also needed a certain degree of refinement and body strengthening which constantly consumed magical power wasn’t compatible with magic and sorcery attacks so there were only few who learned it.

　Moreover, that gigantic beast had a ferocity bordering madness, indiscriminately attacking any creature it came across.
　With no way to confront it, the elves’ corpses, including their so-called heroes, started to pile up and at that time someone from a foreign country appeared — Alma Shijima.

　Alma singlehandedly defeated that magic resistant beast and saved the elven country.
　Thus, Alma received the title of hero and martial arts got taught–
　It is said that the monster called Tarisberg became the most frightening thing to elves.

　The name which came out of Monica’s mouth was something like that.
　A terror-inducing monster with no equal. That’s what the name Tarisberg means.

“Could you give us an explanation in which way Tarisberg is related to this crystal?”
“Yes. That was my intention.
　……Earlier I said that this crystal would gradually grow bigger while changing its hosts, right?
　Then, one might think it would just keep growing endlessly, but that isn’t the case.
　The result of the crystal finishing its growth — that’s how it relates to Tarisberg.”

　I crossed my arms and closed my eyes.
　……Listening up to here one can certainly guess the continuation of those words without listening to the end.
　What happens when the crystal stops its growth — when it’s complete, so to speak?

“It can’t be……!”

　Sonia half stood up from her chair, leaned over and drew closer to Monica.
　She seemed to have guessed it as well but spoke hoping for her guess to be wrong.
　However, that’s–
“Yes, Tarisberg is the result. Whether it changes the host into Tarisberg or the crystal itself becomes Tarisberg isn’t known yet, because it’s such a unique creature –but the fact remains that Tarisberg will appear none the less.”

　Sonia probably also understood that those words were meant to deny that possibility.
　Having heard Monica’s words, Sonia dropped down on her chair with her face, having lost its usual composure.

　Seeing her friend Sonia in that state, Monica’s face twisted into a sorrowful expression.
　There was still something difficult to say.

“……And, this is difficult to say, but– I have never seen such a big crystal.
　I don’t know what’s happening in the mountains of Natosha, but if there are many crystals which have grown that large — a Tarisberg outbreak won’t be far off”

　After Monica squeezed out those words she looked down.
　Sonia muttered with a pessimistic smile on her lips.

“Haha……In Natosha……I see……”

　It hasn’t been a long time since I met Sonia.
　Still, from her usual self, I was unable to imagine her making such a frail expression.
　……I don’t have any particular feelings about it, but to elves, the name Tarisberg is something absolutely terrifying after all.
　When I looked, Cheryl also seemed slightly uneasy.
　When scolding their children elves seemed to tell them they’ll get eaten by Tarisberg — Looks like Chester scolded Cheryl like that as well, huh?

　When I patted Cheryl to relieve her tension she returned to normal.
　I entered the conversation while smiling.

“I see. Got it. –So, can you predict when the outbreak will happen?”
“It’s hard to say, in a few days? However, it’s possible for me to judge how far along it is to some extent.……Looking at this crystal, that time isn’t too far……”
Monica and Sonia grew gloomier over that fact.
　Fumu……Good grief, preconceptions are terrible things.
　The scar Tarisberg left behind was unexpectedly big to the extent that masters like Sonia were afraid of it.

　──However.

“Then, let’s return to Natosha at once. You said there isn’t much time left, right?”
“……Eh?”

　I was reflected in Monica’s and Sonia’s eyes when I casually said that.
　Their eyes became round with surprise.

“I heard that this Tarisberg thing will indiscriminately attack people. It’s only been a few days that I was in that town’s care, but I can’t just abandon it so easily, now could I?”
“Can’t abandon it……you say, that’s, it’s impossible. Even if we go back we’ll only return to see them getting killed before our eyes.……the corpses will only increase”
“……Hoh, why?”

　With the smell of tears mixed together with her shaking voice, Sonia cast her eyes down.
　However, I lacked knowledge about Tarisberg, so it was only natural to ask.
　Sonia’s eyes turned sharp.

“Why……you say, because it’s like that!? How should one fight a monster immune to magical attacks– Ah……?”

　In an instant, her voice strengthened and her eyes sharpened.
　Watching her with the corners of my mouth raised I saw Sonia having a blank expression float on her face as if she noticed something.

　Magic doesn’t work and sorcery will naturally fail.
　Both arrows and swords break confronted with that tough body.
A big monster against which you can’t depend on anything you know. The more there are the more troublesome it’ll be. It’s definitely an elf’s natural enemy.

　But the only thing I have — is this fist.

“Isn’t it fine? No matter the enemy this is the only thing I can swing.
　I think I’m quite suitable. My fighting technique is the Shijima style, same as Alma”

　In contrast to Sonia, I raised the corners of my mouth and showed my fist.
　A huge beast against neither magic nor sorcery nor weapons work, fine.
　It was a narrow-minded thought to only take people as opponents to aim to become the strongest.

“I’ll undertake a Giant Beast Extermination. What, this is part of my martial arts training as well”

　When I was young I did a lot of foolish things, defeating demonic beasts with my bare hands is much better.
　If it’s that legendary monster there won’t be a shortage of opponents.

“Slava-kun, you’re–……Thank you”

　Swallowing several words, Sonia took my hand and strongly clutched it.
　From that strong force I felt something.
　It’s something I want to do. I don’t ask for anything in return but — no matter how many times one gets reborn the feeling of being relied upon isn’t bad.

“Umu. If I can hear your words of gratitude, that’s enough to make it worth doing.
　……Well then let’s hurry back to Natosha, shall we? There isn’t much time, right?”
“Yes. Whether they scattered at the same time or someone was actively distributing them, usually, the crystal’s growth is roughly the same depending on the region. If there is a crystal of this size, then the appearance of Tarisberg should be near.”

　While squeezing Sonia’s hand and looking into Monica’s eyes, she gave me information after thinking for a while.
　The fact that she changed her expression from not far to near had some meaning to it.
“So, it’s necessary to hurry up, as I thought. Though I just returned to Alfareia, let’s depart.
　Monica. The things we talked about were really helpful.”
“……No. It’s me who should thank you.
　Please take care of Sonia.”

　When I stood up and expressed my intention to leave, Cheryl stood up at the same time.
　I shook hands with Monica, who closed her eyes.

　……Once more, our destination is Natosha.
　Let’s take a look at that Tarisberg with my own eyes.

“Alright, shall we go?”
“Yes!”
“Yeah”

　After we parted with Monica, I put my hand on the door.
　……This dark coloured crystal turns into Tarisberg, huh?
　Looks like the era I was sent into for my second life is rather complicated.

　That’s why it’s fun.
　Oh heavens, please throw more hardships at me.
　Feeling like my resumed martial arts training will become a steep path, the corners of my mouth slightly curved upwards.

1. N/a

“……It was beyond my expectations that I’d return so quickly after departing.”
Seeing this familiar cityscape which I left behind just a few days ago, I muttered in a somewhat bitter voice. Thinking that I received a new life as an elf in this world only to be about to set foot in a town I didn’t plan to return to anytime soon I could only laugh in self-derision.
　However, interestingly I felt nostalgic though it’s only been a few days and life in Natosha felt more concentrated.

“But……I like, the town”

　Well, Cheryl seems to be happy and the me now, other than in my previous life full of ties, I don’t hate the crowds anymore, so it’s been a good decision to revisit Alfareia.

“No, I’m sorry for having bothered you with this. But……It’s been a long time, hasn’t it? There are many people here as usual.”

　However, there’s one thing that’s different from when I left this town a few days ago.
　It’s the existence of Sonia. The martial artist who uses wind magic and crossed fists with me in Natosha.
　As she didn’t want to expose her beautiful, real face to the public eye she was wearing her bird mask today.
　Giving her a side glance I noticed that this mask was slightly different from the one I smashed in our bout, it seems like she had some kind of fixation and possessed multiple similar masks.

“So, didn’t you say we were heading to the research institute?”

　I thought we shouldn’t loiter around the town entrance forever so I urged us to move indirectly.
　I’m not really in a hurry, but, whether that is a reaction to my previous life’s last years, I have a hard time keeping still.

“That’s right, let’s not talk while standing so how about we find place to sit down? How about a coffee shop?”

　Sonia, having noticed my state, suggested a detour and pointed to a coffee shop.
……Fumu, there’s also some truth to what Sonia said.
　In other words, we aren’t really in a hurry and my throat feels dry…… companions and a drink. At such a meaningful time this is more than welcome.

“Coffee shop? Is there……Tea……?”

　Cheryl also showed interest in Sonia’s words again.
　That reminds me, Chester had a hobby of making tea.
　Perhaps she did it because of Cheryl as well, whose eyes were sparkling although her face looked the same as usual.

“If it’s a coffee shop they should have it. Cheryl likes tea, right?”
“I love it. Next to Slava-kun, Grandpa and fighting”

　As one could see, Cheryl still seems to like tea. That old man’s grandchild liking his hobby, he’d die of happiness.
　……However, I can’t let him hear this because that guy would misunderstand it.
　The moment that sentence reaches his ears he’d attack me while shedding bitter tears of blood.

“Aah, I see……But let’s not say that in front of Chester, okay?
If he asks you just say you love it.”
“……? Got it……”

　I’m not sure……. if that’s fine, but it’s not a bad idea to set up some precautions for the time being.
　If that guy hears that directly from her mouth he might say something like: I’ll kill you and after that, I will die as well.

“Okay, how about that coffee shop over there? I thought it was quite delicious, the last time I came here.”

　While I was praying for Cheryl to not tell Chester that sentence in that order Sonia pointed towards a coffee shop with an open terrace.
　It was a good shop with a classy atmosphere. Just by looking at its outer appearance one could expect something great.
As no one really objected we headed to the shop and sat down after being guided by a waiter.
　Both the customer service and atmosphere were really good. When I was in the human country, I didn’t really see any coffee shops. This is also a fresh and good experience.

“Eehm……Three cups of tea, please”

　When I told him my order, not breaking his smile even after seeing Sonia’s strange appearance, the waiter disappeared into the depths of the shop with light steps.
　……How professional. It takes some guts to look at someone with such a strange appearance without batting an eye.

“……Well then, where do we go?”

　Sonia, who saw off the waiter, let her voice resound in our minds through her mask.
When I nodded instead of replying Sonia removed her mask and put up a finger.
　While thinking that she removed the mask, after all, I concentrated my consciousness on Sonia’s words.

“I said it before, but it’s a research institute. There are a great many research institutes here in this elven country. It’s one of them”

　Sonia’s long beautiful fingers which lay to her side intertwined with her other hand.
　Sonia’s eyes above her crossed fingers were narrowed and looked like she was in deep thoughts.

“Though that place mainly studies the mountain creatures, but I kind of got acquainted with someone because I helped with her work. I intended to rely on her.
　Though her speciality is mountain creatures, but she’s a very knowledgeable child brimming with curiosity and I think she’ll be a big help this time.”

　I see, was that nostalgia in those eyes as well?
　Sonia’s state, who happily recalled an old friend, made me recall Chester suddenly. While sweeping that fearless smile out of my mind I wait for Sonia’s words to continue.
　……Certainly, that man is suitable to be called my best friend, but why is it so frustrating to admit that.
“Besides, Slava-kun might be interested in her because she’s an interesting person.”
“Hoh? Can that person…… do it?”

　I directed a fearless smile towards Sonia who was throwing a mischievous smile back at me.
　However Sonia looked somewhere and laughed after all.

“No, I think she probably wouldn’t be too far behind Cheryl in close combat, I think”

　Apparently, my expectations seemed to be off.
　I felt a little disappointed but Sonia continued happily.

“But, that child is my master in magic–that might be a bit too exaggerated. As a teacher she’s quite capable.”
“She taught Sonia magic, huh? I see, she surely has caught my interest”

　However, Sonia piqued my interest in a different way. There’s also Sonia’s personal talent, but in front of the creator of such powerful magic something like that would be useless, I certainly can’t suppress my curiosity.

“Well, that child’s character is quiet considerably as well
though.……Ah, Miss, over here”
The clerk carrying three cups of black tea on a tray seemed perplexed seeing Sonia without her hood and mask calling her over with her hand raised.
　Yeah, it certainly is unexpected that such a beautiful girl hides behind that bird mask.
　My apologies, I received the tea while sympathizing with the clerk.
　After Sonia expressed a smile to calm down the woman, then when she asked about Cheryl, it seemed like she just placed the cup on her lips.

　Following that, I took a few breaths of the tea as well, letting the fragrant amber enter my mouth.
　……Fumu, it’s a nice fragrance. The slight astringency is pleasant.
　However──

“……Grandpa’s tea is more delicious”
“Hey, that’s not something one should say. ……Well, I agree though”

As I said this in a low voice it seems like Cheryl’s and my opinion regarding tea was the same, as I thought.
　Initially, I thought there was something missing, but as I rarely got to enjoy this kind of luxury good, originally, I only had one object to compare it to.
　This tea is very delicious as well, however — I feel like it’s somehow not sufficient after all.
　……This irritation might be caused by a weird kind of sense of defeat to that guy.
　Should I also look for a hobby like that? While thinking there is no benefit to that I let some tea flow into my mouth. It certainly is delicious but it’s still lacking something.

　We, who left the coffee shop, slowly moved towards the research institute Sonia told us about.
　Unlike Alfareia’s townscape I usually saw, it turned into a dreary place with lesser shops but there seem to be a lot of research facilities scattered over the area.

“Eeehm, it certainly was around here…. Ah, found it, there it is.”

　Sonia who was carefully observing the area while walking took off her bird mask.
　It seems logical to find a building one hasn’t visited for a long time with their eyes, though she might just have done it because of the lack of traffic.
　Still, it’s not like there weren’t any people other than us and every person we met turned back to look at Sonia, without exception. As expected, it goes without saying but it certainly seems inconvenient to live without the mask.

　Aside from that. The “research institute” in front of which Sonia stopped was larger than any of the ones standing around here.
　I looked around the area to check but only this building felt out of place, there’s no building it could be confused with.
“……Big”
“It seems to be a research institute directly under the country’s control. Though it seems like it’s mostly used to store books and documents — Hm, are you there, Monica-chan?”

　Sonia unreservedly rang the bell installed at the research institute’s entrance gate while murmuring — probably that acquaintance’s name.
　The name Great National Research Institute is a name to be daunted by, however for her to be able to call someone inside of that place without an appointment…… This girl might unexpectedly be a big shot.
　They probably added resonance magic to the bell. Despite the bell only emitting a small sound which didn’t even seem to reach the institute the door behind the gate opened after we waited for a little while and a girl appeared.

　Looking about 15 or 16 and having black hair, which was rare for an elf, she was an impressive girl.
　While shaking her long, jet-black hair, the girl, who wrapped her petite body in a light looking, long-sleeved garment, stepped forward.

“Do you need something? There weren’t any visitors scheduled for today.
　……Also, who are you people? Do you have anything with which you can prove your identity?”

　When the girl stopped in front of the closed iron fence gate she observed us doubtfully.
　Though I said doubtfully — but her expression didn’t really change. The reason I mentioned it was because it got barely transmitted from her voice.
　However, asking for our identity and needing an appointed to visit, this seems to be a different person from Sonia’s acquaintance.
　Given her young appearance, could she be an assistant of this research institute?
　Did she come in “Monica’s” stead? While I was silently doubting, Sonia raised a light voice sounding like a musical instrument.

“Come on, Monica-chan, it’s me, Sonia. Don’t tell me you forgot about me?”

　Somehow, this girl in front of her seemed to be “Monica” looking delighted about their reunion.
　Maybe that acquaintance was just a one-sided thing. Just one word of that black haired girl… was able to destroy these doubts I was harbouring.

“……Sonia? You were an elf. I thought you were a new variation of sub-humans for sure. That mask was one reason”
“Eeh~? How mean, but I guess this is the first time I showed you my real face, isn’t it?”

　Aah, I see. That certainly is a slightly strange girl is what I thought.
　However, the same thing can be said about Sonia — us, as well.
　An elven boy with the mind of an old man.
　A half elven, half Majin girl who occasionally had some destructive impulses.
　An elven girl who always wears a bird mask.
　And, a researcher who was convinced that the bird mask wearing girl was such a creature.

　……Well, she seemed to hold a great sense of pride.
　How many times did I gulp down a sigh about to flow out?
　Suddenly, I felt exhausted and dropped my shoulders.

“……So, those people are?”

　The girl called Monica, who probably noticed some figures behind Sonia, asked about our identity.
　Her suspicions about Sonia seemed to have been cleared, but this is unmistakably the first time she met us.
　It can’t be helped that one would be cautious to some extent.

“Hm, aah, shall I introduce you? This is Slava-kun, who is a martial artist in training, and his friend Cheryl-chan.
　I had a match with Slava-kun and I lost.”
“Heh, you beat Sonia? Though you look rather young, that is a considerable thing, isn’t it?”

　As Sonia introduced us I together with Cheryl lowered my head.
　Contrary to her voice, her expression didn’t change much more than Cheryl’s.
　She had a good looking face, but it seemed like a mask.

　Somehow, I got the impression that it’s the opposite of Sonia.
　A girl who doesn’t show her emotions on her face and Sonia who is rich in emotions while hiding her face.
This adds to my curiosity on how those two got to know each other.
“……Well, it’s fine. There’s no reason to reject you if you got introduced by Sonia.
　Anyway, you brought something troublesome again, didn’t you? I’ll ask for more details inside.”

　When the girl called Monica moved her finger the gate opened automatically.
　Perhaps the gate itself is enchanted. When we passed through the gate it closed again without anyone operating it.

　Following that swaying black hair, I stepped into the research institute and let my gaze move from left to right observing the long corridor while maintaining the minimum amount of composure.
　This certainly seemed to have cost some money to make. The great number of doors indicated that there was the same amount of rooms.
　Still, it placed emphasis on functionality and its calm and modest appearance left a favourable impression.

　……However, it was somewhat different from what I thought.
　As it’s a national research institute I imagined a place where a large number of researchers wrapped in enchanted clothes busily moved about.
　I didn’t detect any signs of life in here. It can’t be that everyone is out — or that’s what I think, but if it isn’t that what’s with this?
　Monica, not knowing whether she noticed my inhibitions, continued walking without breaking her constant rhythm.

“We’re there. I’ll listen to your story in this room. Sit where ever you want.”

　After walking for a while, Monica stopped in front of an impressive door, opened it and invited us inside.
　……Looking at it, it resembled a dining room in Chester’s residence — or rather, this is a dining room, well, anywhere is fine.
　Sonia entered first and immediately sat down on a chair, following that Cheryl and I sat down close to her.

　Monica pulled her chair to face us.

“Honestly, I would have wanted to serve you some appetisers in the parlour, but, you see, that place is rather cramped.
　Well then, let’s start with self-introductions. My name is Monica Renfield.
The only researcher of the National Institute of Biological Research.”

　After declaring this without faltering with her spine stretched, holding a dignified form, Monica let out a small sigh.
　……What, looks like my senses weren’t mistaken back then after all, huh?
　When I didn’t detect any signs of life I thought my senses had grown dull, but those were just unfounded fears as it seemed, which made me feel relieved.

　However, there’s only one researcher at the national research institute?
　That’s what I’m rather interested about.

“This girl, though she is like this, she’s very able. For the sake of supporting this child the country established this research institute in name only…… Well, it is a research facility on the paper though.
　Though it’s a biological laboratory, her main job is the development of magic tools. Ah, biological research seems to be that girl’s hobby.”
“Scandalous. I more or less do work fitting the name”

　I almost racked my brain over this, but thanks to Sonia’s explanation she saved me the effort.
　Fumu, the country made up that name to support the girl. This certainly is pretty exaggerated.

“I’d like to introduce myself once again, as well. I’m Sonia Alven. Natosha’s Sky Gazer”
“I know you already…… is what I want to say, but this is the first time I saw your real face. Unexpectedly, I was slightly surprised.”

　Despite saying she was surprised there wasn’t any change in her expression or intonation.
　Actually, when I saw Sonia’s face for the first time I was pretty surprised.
　Well, I didn’t even know that there’d be a woman of the same calibre nearby.

　As I was distantly observing those two who came close to the image of the word friendship, unexpectedly, Sonia’s and Monica’s eyes locked on me at that time.
　I guess, they want to tell me it’s my turn next.
Well then, how should I do this? The girl named Monica should be older than me as an elf. It might be better to keep a minimum amount of courtesy.

“I am called Slava Marshal. I met Sonia in the middle of my martial arts training, we got along well and are now acting together”
“That sounds rough.
　Yes, nice to meet you……what’s the matter, Sonia?”

　Apparently, my polite speech hit her weak spot, as Sonia tried to stifle her laughter which nearly managed to gush out.
　……It’s nothing to laugh about. Well, I myself feel a sense of incongruity, however — I don’t think it is funny to be polite to a person you meet for the first time.

“Kuku……No, it’s kind of refreshing”
“You’re weird Sonia. Well then, that one’s –”

　However, Monica didn’t ask anymore, probably because she was used to the person called Sonia.
　Anyway…… that said, Monica fixed her eyes on Cheryl.
　Cheryl, who stared back at her with round eyes that still had some childishness left in them, gave a small nod.

“Cheryl Prime. Half Majin and half elf.”
“Cheryl-chan, is it? Nice to meet you”

　As they both weren’t people of many words they ended the conversation with a bow without prolonging the conversation.
　Well then, this is the end of our greetings.
　Can we finally get to the main point? I gave Sonia a signal with my eyes.

“Uhm, shall we get to the main point then?”
“Yes, please do”

　Sonia who nodded in my direction took out the crystal in question out of a pocket attached to her clothes.
　Just then, Monica’s look changed.
　That look seems like she did know something, as we thought.
Monica watches the crystal which was taken out and gives Sonia quiet instructions through hand movements.
　Give me the crystal. Sonia, who understood her silent demand, moved the crystal from her fine fingers.

　Letting light shine through the crystal she received, it remained cloudy as expected.
　The crystal let some light from the chandeliers attached to the ceiling shine through it dying Monica’s silver eyes red.
　The dark red light which dyed Monica’s eyes seems to drip out of the crystal like blood.

“……As I thought, this is”

　Monica’s sharp eyes kept narrowing.
　Her first change in expression as far as I saw. The situation might be more serious than I thought. That’s the feeling I got from these eyes.

　Monica straightened her expression before long and fixed her eyes on us.
　The crystal which was exposed to light was handed over to us so that we could look at it.

“That’s the first time I saw such a big crystal.
　This doesn’t have a fixed name yet, but we researchers, out of convenience, call it”

　She paused to breathe in a little.
　Instead of exhaling, Monica told us … that things name.

“”Dark coloured crystal” –”

　The calm voice of the orderly girl sounded through the dining hall illuminated by inorganic lights.
　Wondrously, my — no, our eyes got stolen by that crystal. We were able to very naturally accept that name for some reason.

1. N/a

Dark and moist murderous intent was directed towards me.
　The moist air which originally wrapped around the trees now got corrupted by the bloody smell of a beast.
　In front of me, there was a heavily breathing, gigantic boar, which is the origin of this smell, blocking the road.
　Its eyes harboured a strong murderous intent which made me doubt they belonged to an animal for an instant.

　It wasn’t hunger nor was it anger caused by invading its territory.
　It was a black emotion not directly connected with instinct which was unnatural for an animal to possess.

　–It certainly is appropriate to call this strange.
　I stroked my chin, inside the mountains Sonia asked me to visit.

　The gigantic boar let out a muffled roar as the prey before it was moving.
　That gigantic boar, letting out a strong murderous intent, kicked the ground, making it shake in the process.
　With its big body overflowing with magical power it starts to run with a violent force packed with all its speed and mass.

　That massive body smashing trees in its way while charging completely looked like a chariot.
　On the other hand, I thought it pulling a carriage would be great.
　That, however, depends on if one could even tame this incarnation of raging violence.

　It seems impossible for me.
　This is what one would call a reckless charge. I don’t know —
Whether out of instinct or desire– its only purpose was to cause destruction, but if it doesn’t desire to communicate it wouldn’t even feel the pain caused by one’s tries to train it.

　The gigantic body of the boar drew closer while pushing away the broken trees’ branches.
　I glanced at it before I kicked the ground.
　I jumped over the three metor high, massive body of that boar while twisting my body to form a lax circle.
　After I landed without making any sound like a feather the boar stopped its charge before I saw it running towards me again.

　It was definitely targeting me which reminds me of Sonia’s words she directed towards me before I entered the mountain.

“The mountain’s wildlife is acting strangely, was it?”

　I repeated those words I heard while watching that enormously big body approaching.
　While having my thoughts wander to a far-off place, I locked my eyes on the approaching, big boar and let my body overflow with magical power.
　However, that large boar didn’t care about that and ran towards me with that large body, not hesitating at all.

　The distance between us melted in the blink of an eye, at that time the boar tried to crush this boy’s body by ruthlessly stomping on it.
　I focused all my magical power in my feet and kicked the huge boar’s face.

　The large boar got forcibly bent into a perpendicular position.
　An earth shattering crushing sound could be heard as the boar’s massive built mowed down many trees.
　With is head pointing into a different direction than its body the gigantic boar stopped moving.
　I glanced at the motionless boar at the tip of my kicked-out foot and retreated it.

　I walked towards the large boar which became a motionless corpse and crouched down.
　Those eyes which were fitted in that big body were filled with something like insanity as it died.

“– I see, this certainly is strange”

　It wasn’t an act out of instinct such as hunger or to protect its territory or off springs. If it went on a rampage because of pain then it would have shown some reaction to the wood piercing its body.
　In short, there was no reason behind its actions. Or rather, it did it because it wanted to– it gave the impression that it let itself get led by its destructive impulses.

　Another thing I don’t understand is how it could have such an unexpectedly large body different from normal boars.
　The blood flowing out of the large boar changed its colour to the same murky black its magical power, which one should rather call miasma, had.
　I’m not even sure if one can still call this a boar.

　There’s this one thing, however, I absolutely cannot understand.
　That’s– this, magical power.

　In the first place, it’s really unusual for non-humanoid creatures to be able to handle magical power.
　There exist countless species in this world but there have been very few species, except humanoids, who were confirmed to be able to harness magical power.
　They were mostly part of the dragon species whose population is really small, so just hearing that some wild boar inside this kind of mountain was able to harness magical power no one would believe that.
……And such unbelievable things are said to happen all over the world, including the mountains near Natosha.
　I wouldn’t have believed it either before seeing it with my own eyes, however– seeing that large boar, it seems the rumours were true.

　However, that’s not the only thing I don’t understand about this.
　As I mentioned before, that magical power’s…. It’s nature.

　It felt unprecedentedly evil and rough as if it was malice itself.
　Even a person with malicious intentions would have trouble to produce such wicked magical power.
　For a beast with low intelligence to possess something like that lets one realize the magnitude of this matter.

　──However, I didn’t really know what to think about this.

“……Lets meet up with Cheryl and Sonia for the time being.”

　I stood up in order to head towards the meeting place I agreed upon with Cheryl and Sonia who acted separately.
　I wouldn’t call it uneasiness, but I left the place feeling like something will definitely happen.

　As I finished exploring I subdued several wild boars which also turned violent as well as some other monsters — then I headed towards the location Sonia designated.
　It was a river located in a relatively shallow part of the forest. It’s filled with pure water which strongly reflected Natosha’s nature.
　　As the trees became fewer and it gradually grew brighter my goal came into view.
　Cheryl and Sonia already sat down on a rock near the river.

“Huh, you’re already here? Have I kept you waiting?”

　To not alarm those two I approached them while calling out to them.
　Cheryl who was scooping up some water and Sonia who was watching her with a smile turned around at the same time.

“No, not at all, we just got here as well. Fufu, this kind of exchange always seemed fun”

　For some reason Sonia was very happy.
　I relaxed my facial muscles and started to laugh while she was shaking her head and trying to cover her slightly reddened cheeks.
　……That reminds me, she wasn’t wearing her mask which she wore until a while ago.

“You took off the bird mask?”
“In the mountains there aren’t any people who’d care. Thanks to you I feel a little better.”

　While stretching, Sonia gave off a sense of liberation.
It was just a casual gesture but due to the location it seemed very picturesque.
　If one is a girl with Sonia’s facial features no matter what she’d do it would attract people’s attention.

“If it’s Sonia, it might be like that.……So, what are your search’s results?”
“Ehh? That’s all? I thought…… there’d be more”
“Mu……”

　……However, I’m getting used to it.
　Sonia directed a fearless smile towards me with that vermilion colour still present on her face.
　Ever since we shared that hot bath, I’m troubled by her aggressive attacks.
　In a sense, for me who spent more than 100 years single, she might be an opponent more powerful than Chester.

“No, it suits you — sounds strange, doesn’t it? Well, you’re very cute?”

　Still, without breaking eye contact I opened my mouth as I was thinking.
　Even though they were just plain and awkward words, Sonia seemed satisfied, maybe because my honest feelings were conveyed.

“Hmm~? Ufufu~, well, that’s good enough for now, I guess~”

　Sonia turned her face away to hide that loose smile while pretending to be unaware of the reddish tinge present on her face getting stronger.
　Good grief, if you’ll get all flustered like this yourself, why do this to begin with?
　Why use such a suicide bombing attack…. though me, who used “Cherry blossoms (Trail made)”, saying that would seem rather rude, wouldn’t it?

“I, isn’t it enough already, one shouldn’t make fun of the elderly. Besides, how about Sonia starting to talk about this times exploration. Let’s report quickly.”

　Looks like I can’t help but hide my embarrassment again, after all.
I don’t think I can keep covering it up and I think Sonia has already noticed, but– Well, it’s a matter of pride.

“I got it, I got it. Well then, shall we start talking a little more seriously?……Cheryl-chan”

　When Sonia turned her head her face regained its dignified, strong brilliance.
　Fumu. Did you organize your thoughts or– is the report’s content important?
　Cheryl, in response to Sonia’s words, tilted her head slightly and took something out.

　Cheryl held it in both her hands and showed it to me.
　She probably wants me to look at what she had in her hands.
　I took what I was shown out of Cheryl’s glossy hands.
　……This is──

“A crystal”
“Yes, Cheryl-chan found it”

　A completely dark red crystal.
　This was a strange colour for a jewel to have and it gave off a strong brilliance unusual for a stone as well.
　It seemed like the solidified blood of a dragon– as if regrets were mixed together with a ruby.

“This is?”
“I don’t know. However, this colour is worrisome, isn’t it?”
“Colour……Ah, I see, that’s how it is, huh?”

　As I questioned Sonia an idea immediately formed in my mind and I immediately stopped the interrogation.
　That’s because that colour which emitted such malice seemed familiar to me.

“It really does look similar. Those crazy animals — No, should I call them monsters? It resembles the magical power they gave off”
That’s right, it’s that magical power that shouldn’t exist which I saw just now.
　Magical power coloured like blood which seemed like malice itself. This crystal had a similar colour.

　Besides, this crystal itself emitted weak but evil magical power.
　It was really weak that one would miss it if one wasn’t careful but– as I thought, this doesn’t seem unrelated.

“That’s right. Though it was concealed by the disgusting demonic beasts’ magical power, but, as you said, I can feel the same energy from it.
　You did great, Cheryl-chan. If it wasn’t for you, I’d surely overlooked this”
“……! I’m great?”
“Yeah, great, Cheryl”

　I patted Cheryl’s head as her eyes seemed to sparkle, trying not to dishevel her hair.
　Then Cheryl span round and round, spreading her flowery skirt.
　Now that I think about it, recently she started expressing herself through movements to make up for her lack of facial expressions.

　Cheryl, who expressed her joy for a while, got closer to me and took my arm.
　She took me to a nearby rock and sat down.
　She seemed to tell me to sit down as well. As I didn’t have a reason to refuse, I placed my buttocks on that rock.

“～♪”

　Naturally, we sat on the same rock.
　Cheryl who got praised by Sonia and me seems to be in a good mood.
　Her satisfied and comfortable looking face was very cute.
　I carefully reached out my head to her head.

“……Hm”

　However, Cheryl seemed to like being patted so she accepted happily.
　Truthfully, she seems to love it. I’m horrified because recently I started to understand that fellow, Chester’s feelings.
　Oops, my thoughts were just deviating from the topic. Let’s get back to the main subject.
“So, as for my report, but– What’s the matter, Sonia?”
“……Nothing really-”

　……Mu? Now that Sheryl also calmed down I called Sonia to get back on topic but I got a displeased answer in return.
　Did I do something bad?……Things like a woman’s heart, I don’t get them.
　I have no idea how a “woman” such as Sonia is thinking probably because I was surrounded by young girls like Seria and Cheryl up until now.
　I kind of understood how to handle Cheryl, but I wonder if I will learn in time.

“……? Well, fine. Well then, my turn, but to tell the truth, nothing much happened.
　I killed a big boar, a deer and two snakes which attacked me.
　However, this is my personal opinion, but– those demonic beasts weren’t very animal like is what I thought. I had the impression as if their actions weren’t driven by instinct but by a clear malicious intent.”

　I recalled those attacking animals’– no, demonic beasts’ evil eyes.
　Even now I was still worried about the fact that I got attacked with the intent to kill without any reason whatsoever.

“We didn’t encounter any violent animals, but malice, huh……?”

　Sonia put the back of her hand under her slim chin.
　Like the moon hiding behind clouds, her emotions seemed to be hidden somewhere behind those beautiful lips.
　Sonia, who seemed to be deep in thought, breathed some words rather than saying them from time to time.

“Yeah, as I thought, I have to go to that place, don’t I……?
　Hey, Slava-kun, have you decided on your next destination yet…….?”

　Before long she seemed to have collected her thoughts, then Sonia propped up her face with her hand and asked us.
Those words which carried a certain sense of fear…… seemed to implicate she indirectly hoped we haven’t decided yet.
　To tell the truth, I haven’t decided yet — I didn’t really think about anything after the match with Sonia, after all.

“No, I haven’t decided on one yet. I hadn’t planned anything except when I heard from a friend that there is a strong fighter in Natosha.”
“I see! Then that’s really good!”

　When told that our next destination was yet undecided Sonia’s voice lighted up, proving that my theory was right after all.
　Our destination being undecided is good and convenient, meaning — you want us to go somewhere.

“Actually, there’s a place I want to take that crystal to.
　I have an acquaintance in a research institute located in Alfareia. If your destination is yet undecided why don’t you come back with me to the capital which would also serve as information gathering?…. Is what I was wondering”

　Sonia, whose eyes were moist, asked this of me with upturned eyes. Perhaps, she wants me to accompany her there.
　……When hearing something like this how could one refuse? A girl’s upturned eyes probably are some kind of secret eye technique.
　However. It’s true that our destination isn’t decided yet and this might unexpectedly be a good suggestion.

“Fumu……That might be a good suggestion. A place where a lot of people gather certainly is the best for gathering information.”
“Then!”
“Yeah, it’s a good idea to go back to Alfareia one more time. Thank you, Sonia.”

　When I smiled widely and turned to her, Sonia’s face was dyed in deep red.

“I, I don’t think it’s very nice to surprise attack people like that……”

　Sonia twisted her body while trying to hide her cheeks which became bright red as she was taken by surprise.
I shouldn’t have said anything too weird but — I don’t know about that. I should learn more about a woman’s feelings to avoid angering her so suddenly, huh……

　Putting that aside, it’s good that we decided on a destination.
　I didn’t think I would come back right after I said my good-byes, but life is like that sometimes.

“Then, shall we leave? Personally, I’d like to hurry up a bit……”
As she tried to change the conversation’s direction with something like impatience, soft laughter spilt out of my mouth.
　As the smile on my face inflated my cheeks, Sonia turned to face the other way.
　It seems like, even though she’s good at attacking, she’s quite bad at receiving.
　I obtained some good information but let’s get on with the talk.

“If that’s so…… then lets depart tomorrow. I want to adapt to Sonia’s circumstances. Is that alright with you Cheryl?”
“Yeah……I, like the city”

　I more or less tried to get Cheryl’s approval as well, however — it seems like there was no part in her wanting to deny.
　She seems to like the city a lot, so it is an even better idea to return to the city if Cheryl can enjoy herself as well.

“Well, because there’s nothing but nature here in Natosha. Well then, let’s strike while the iron is hot and leave tomorrow, shall we? Towards the capital Alfareia!”

　By obtaining our approval Sonia’s voice gained in brightness and she loudly declared as such.
　Even if she begs to differ, she’s also a young elf. Watching these events unfold, swinging between joy and sadness, is pleasing to watch.
　An immediate goal has been decided as well so for now I’ll just sigh.

　──However, a crystal emitting a very small amount of magical power and monsters becoming violent and possessing magical power, huh?
　Their correlation has yet to be proven, I, however, quietly believed in the correlation between these two things without anything for the time being.
　Unexpectedly, this second life I received might take place in a troublesome age without my knowledge.
　Feeling the beginning of something, I looked up at the sky.

1. N/a