Chapter 69
“A-Anyway! It’s because of that that people started avoiding me.” [Elia]
The ojousama forcefully changed the topic.
I should just follow her here.
“Rumors sure are hurtful…” [Ryouma]
“It’s because there are people who actually believe those exaggerated rumors…” [Elia]
If one’s parents believe them, then the children who will accept it as truth too.
After all, children are always watching the adults. Although the latter usually doesn’t notice that.
“By the way…” [Elia]
“Yes? What is it?” [Ryouma]
The ojousama timidly asked me.
“Are you okay?” [Elia]
“What do you mean?” [Ryouma]
“About what I talked about just now… I’m a little concerned.” [Elia]
“Ahh…” [Ryouma]
I guess she’s worried that I would start acting differently around her.
“I’m fine.” [Ryouma]
“I mean it is true that I lost control of my magic and hurt another person.” [Elia]
But it’s not like you did it on purpose. And besides, I’ve also broken someone’s wrist. I’ve even killed plenty of bandits in the forest. That I did intentionally.
The ojousama also seems to regret what happened, so I’m pretty sure there’s nothing wrong with her ethically speaking.
And besides, I’ve seen magic countless times already, so I could just dodge something like that.
If it’s Ice Arrow, I could just deflect it. And if I clad myself in ki, it won’t have much effect on me even if it were to hit me.
So in conclusion, there’s no problem.
I told Elia that and she chuckled.
“I see. Then, Ryouma-san, I’ll have to ask you not to forget to meet me again in 3 years.” [Elia]
“I won’t forget.” [Ryouma]
“I’ll confirm that in 3 years. If you forget because of work or something, you better watch out cause I’m going to hit you with the magic I’ve trained for the past 3 years.” [Elia]
Eek! Scary! What is this girl saying all of the sudden.
“Ha ha ha, p-please don’t do that… By the way, where did you learn to talk like that?” [Ryouma]
I mean it’s a little bit different from the usual image of the ojousama, no?
“It’s how mother made dad remember a promise he forgot a long time ago.” [Elia]
“I-I see…” [Ryouma]
Thank goodness Reinhart-san is still alive…
“Besides, it’s not like my magic would work against you, right?” [Elia]
I did say that, but… Isn’t this and that different?
While I was thinking that, the ojousama started laughing as if she were teasing me.
“Oh, right. I just remembered something good. Sebasu!” [Elia]
“Yes, ojousama. How may I help you?” [Sebasu]
The ojousama suddenly called Sebasu-san and started whispering to him. Sebasu-san nodded, and in the next moment, he took out a small box from his Item Box.
The ojousama took that and gave it to me.
“Ryouma-san, please take this.” [Elia]
“What is this?” [Ryouma]
“It’s a necklace I got from my mother on my 10th birthday.”
When the ojousama opened the box, a beautiful necklace appeared. It had golden chains and a golden setting with a ruby the size of a fingernail inserted into it. Although the design was simple, it was surely expensive. Moreover, this ruby…
“Is this mana?” [Ryouma]
For some reason, I could feel mana coming from the ruby.
“Oh, you noticed? As expected. The ruby of this necklace is a magic gem.” [Elia]
“Magic gem, you mean those things used for lighting?” [Ryouma]
“Not quite. Those are spell stones, a magic tool, so to speak. Umm… Ryouma-san, you know of magic stones, right?” [Elia]
“Magic stones… If I recall correctly, those are found in places with high concentration of mana. Magic stones refer to the stones dug out from there that contain mana, right?” [Ryouma]
“Exactly. Mana stored in magic stones can be used to cast a spell. This mana can be used to help one in conserving his mana. Among those stones, there are some that are valued not as mere stones, but as jewels. They are called magic jewels. Magic ores are also a thing.” [Elia]
Magic stones can supplement one’s magic. Magic ores can be used to forge magic armor and weapons, as well as other miscellaneous stuff.
“As for magic gems, these can be used for anything. Be it to supplement one’s magic, or to forge a tool that could amplify one’s abilities, or as a decorative item. On top of being extremely convenient, the effects of these gems are much higher than usual, so not only are they super expensive, the production of these gems is also really low.” [Elia]
The ojousama said all of that in one breath, but…
“…So in other words, this is a super luxurious item?” [Ryouma]
“Exactly.” [Elia]
“Exactly? There’s no way I could take something this precious.” [Ryouma]
“I want you to have it!” [Elia]
“No, this is too precious…” [Ryouma]
As if I could accept something like this!
I firmly refused it, but the ojousama wouldn’t take no for an answer. In the end, Sebasu-san had to interject.
“The two of you please calm down. Ryouma-sama, the ojousama only wants you to keep the necklace for the time being, so you can give it back to her when you meet again next time.” [Sebasu]
“Oh, so she’s just lending it to me? But why?” [Ryouma]
“Ryouma-sama, you might not be aware, but it’s customary to give a friend you will be parting with for a long time something precious as a form of prayer to meet again. Word says doing so also makes it more likely that you’ll meet again. I don’t know what period or from who this practice first spread, but it’s something that has been passed since long ago. To this day, this custom is still practiced.” [Sebasu]
Ahh, I see. So, that’s what she meant.
“So you want me to entrust this necklace to me?” [Ryouma]
“Yes.” [Elia]
“…But this is something precious to you, right? Are you sure you’re okay leaving this with me?” [Ryouma]
“I wouldn’t have offered it in the first place if I wasn’t. Please give it back to me 3 years later.” [Elia]
Mu… If she puts it like that… Not to mention that it’s a custom for reunions… And if this is really what she wants, then…
“I understand. I’ll take care of it for you in the meantime.” [Ryouma]
“Really!?” [Elia]
“In exchange, I’ll absolutely give it back to you.” [Ryouma]
“Of course.” [Elia]
I accepted the box and stored it into my Item Box
I shouldn’t lose it if it’s inside my Item Box.
“Now then…” [Ryouma]
Since we’re following custom, I should give the ojousama something too.
…But what precious possession do I have? Money? Pelt? Stuff like that would just weigh her down. Building stones, ingots, waterproof cloths? Erm… I don’t think I have anything decent.
Because of my hunter lifestyle, I’ve adopted a way of thinking where I prioritize getting the ingredients or components of things I need. Unfortunately, these things can’t really be considered as precious.
Hmm… Don’t I have anything?
After thinking for a while…
“Dimension Home.” [Ryouma]
I took out a heal slime and a scavenger slime from my Dimension Home and handed them to the ojousama.
“Ryouma-san?” [Elia]
“I couldn’t think of anything good to give you, but after considering what’s precious to me, I figured I could give you my slimes instead. These two will surely be of help to you. Please take them with you.” [Ryouma]
The ojousama was speechless for a moment, but then in the next moment, she had her hands over her mouth as she did everything she could just to keep herself from laughing.
I guess it was weird, after all. Sigh… Why did I have to give her a slime anyway?
I know I didn’t have anything eels, but can you really give a slime as a gift?
Maybe I should’ve thought this over a bit more…
“Fu fu… Sorry, Ryouma-san. I just thought giving a slime was very much like you. Thank you. I’ll be sure to watch over them in your stead.” [Elia]
“Really? Thank you very much.” [Ryouma]
“No, thank you. Thank you for entrusting me with your precious monsters.” [Elia]
I placed the heal slime and the scavenger slime on the ground, then I removed our contract and allowed the ojousama to form a contract with them.
“Contract complete. I’ll be sure to treasure them.” [Elia]
“I’ll leave them in your care.” [Ryouma]
After that we chatted about slimes and magic, and then we ended up training magic.
“This is the ice magic I frequently use.” [Ryouma]
“‘The Ice Cube’ spell I can use, but I still can’t use your ‘Cooler’ spell.” [Elia]
As the name implies, Ice Cube is a spell that creates a cube of ice to be placed inside one’s glass, while Cooler is a fusion spell of wind and ice that summons a cool wind to freshen one up. Both spells are particularly useful for summertime.
“Mist Wash” [Sebasu]
“Ah, you did it.” [Ryouma]
Even Sebasu-san joined in on the topic of water magic. I tried teaching him Mist Wash, and as expected, he learned it after just a few tries.
“…Ho. The mana expenditure is a bit high, but it might just do well for removing stubborn dirt.” [Sebasu]
If he can use that, then he can might be able to use even harder spells.
Thinking that, I taught him Water Cutter, which was the true form of Mist Wash.
Ah, but although I say ‘taught’, all I really did was show it to him by casting the spell at a nearby a rock.
Sebasu-san looked curiously at the spell.
“Like this? ‘Water Cutter’. Hmm… Not enough. ‘Water Cutter’” [Sebasu]
After trying the spell out 5 times, Sebasu-san was able to execute the spell masterfully. He was already better than me right on the first try, but after the fourth try, the power behind his ‘Water Cutter’ was clearly a cut above mine. On the fifth try, he straight up went and cleaved the rock.
So this is what happens when a master water mage uses the spell.
After doing this and that, dusk eventually came, and we went back via dimension magic.
As I looked at the stores along the path back to the inn, I saw the adventurers that went to the marsh before and some doctors carrying some foul-smelling bags. They had gathered into a crowd and were quite lively.
“Welcome back, Ryouma-kun.” [Reinbach]
“Thanks for looking after Elia today.” [Elize]
“It’s nothing. I had fun too.” [Ryouma]
“And Ryouma-san taught me a lot of new spells. I can’t use them well yet, but I’ll do my best to learn!” [Elia]
“That’s great, Elia.” [Reinbach]
“Yes! He also lent me his heal slime and scavenger slime.” [Elia]
“Oh, really? Be sure to treasure them.” [Elize]
“Of course.” [Elia]
When we got back, everyone had already recovered from their hangover. We talked about the things that happened today, the things that happened after we meant, and all sorts of other stuff until it was late into the night.
And then…
On the day of parting.
At the stables behind the inn, the duke’s family, their servants, and their guards were all inside their carriage. They called out to me one after another through their window.
“Take care of your body.” [Reinhart]
“Don’t push yourself too much.” [Elize]
“Make sure to rest.” [Reinbach]
“If something happens, be sure to contact us.” [Reinhart]
“Drop by when you’re free, alright?” [Jill]
“Do your best, boy.” [Camil]
“Stay well.” [Zeff]
“Stay strong.” [Hyuzu]
“I pray for your good health and the success of your future endeavors.” [Arone]
Jill-san, Arone-san, and the rest of the guards had called out to me too.
“Everyone, ojousama, take care. Thank you for everything until now.” [Ryouma]
I bowed my head as I said that. It’s too bad I’m not very good with long speeches. I wish I could express my gratefulness better, but alas…
“Ryouma-san.” [Elia]
“Yes, ojousama?” [Ryouma]
“About that…” [Elia]
“‘That’?” [Ryouma]
What is she talking about?
“I’ve been thinking about it since you entrusted me with your slimes yesterday, and… We’re friends, right?’ [Elia]
Where is she going with this?
“Since that’s the case, please call me Elia.[1] My family and people close to me call me that, and besides… It’s not like you work for my family, right? …Don’t you think it’s strange for a friend to refer to me as ojousama?” [Elia]
“Ah~ …I understand.” [Ryouma]
Now that she mentions it, it is weird.
“Very well. If you’re alright with it, then please allow me to call you Elia. You’re okay with that, right… Elia?” [Ryouma]
“—Yes! Ryouma-san, until the day we meet again, I’ll be sure to work on my magic!” [Elia]
“Same here.” [Ryouma]
As Elia said that from atop the carriage, I replied.
“Do your best!” [Ryouma and Elia]
When our words overlapped, Elia and I laughed.
Soon it was the time to leave.
The first to go was the carriage of the guards, then came the carriage of the duke’s family.
As they headed toward my direction, they waved at me from the window of their carriage, and I waved back at them.
I watched as the carriage moved toward the horizon, gradually growing smaller and smaller, until it could be seen no more.
“Well then… I suppose I should get going then.”
I’ll drop by the store, then I’ll go to the mine, and there, my new life will begin.
Starting today, I won’t be living at the inn anymore, but at the mines.
The ojousama, no… Elia… Elia told me to do my best, so… Let’s do just that.
First, I’ll have to secure myself a house.
“No time to be dawdling.” [Ryouma]
As I encouraged myself, I started walking.
From today onwards I’ll be starting a life that’s a little different from what I’ve lived so far.
[1] – Specifically emphasized by the author. For those not in the know, no suffix plus first name basis denotes a greater degree of intimacy. That being said the reason for the emphasis could be something else.
In a certain place within the divine realm, in a place where a certain god in the form of a lanky man was standing, appeared the three gods.
“Ah~… I’m so tired…” [Kufo]
“You finally came back.” [Fernoberia]
“What are you doing here, Fernoberia?” [Gayn]
“It’s rare for you to leave your domain.” [Rurutia]
The god who was standing in that place was none other than the God of Magic, Fernoberia.
And the three gods were Rurutia, Gayn, and Kufo.
“I was actually brought here by force, though I’m also a little curious.” [Fernoberia]
“By force?” [Kufo, Gayn, Rurutia]
Suddenly, four gods came out of nowhere and surrounded them.
“W-What is with this situation?” [Kufo]
“Why are we being surrounded?” [Rurutia]
“Can you explain what’s going on?” [Gayn]
Tekun was the one to step forward.
“Why don’t you ask yourselves? I’m sure you know what we’re here for.” [Tekun]
“What are you so angry for!?” [Rurutia]
“Calm down for a moment, Tekun-san. If you approach them like that, we won’t be able to talk.” [Willieris]
“You heard her. Cam down and drink a cup of wine or two.” [Grimp]
The ones who asked Tekun to calm down were none other than the goddess of the land, Willieris, and hte god of farming and livestock, Grimp.
These two gods had a gentle personality. Willieris looked like graceful middle-aged woman, while Grimp was a middle-aged man who always carried a hoe. They were married to each other.
In order to calm Tekun, Grimp went and shared a cup of wine with Tekun.
Meanwhile, Willieris started explaining.
The goddess of the land and the god of farming and livestock had perfect coordination.
“The reason we’re here is because we heard that the three of you went to the otherworld to play. Tekun was the first to catch word of that. He gathered all of us in anger because he also wanted some free time to himself.” [Willieris]
Fernoberia interjected.
“Tekun asked Willieris and Grimp to come to get me to use my powers to look for you.” [Fernoberia]
“Oh, right, you used your divine powers to prevent Tekun from entering your domain…” [Rurutia]
“It’s because outside of crafting, he’s a rough, irresponsible, alcoholic who never shuts up. He’s a nuisance.” [Fernoberia]
“Hey! I can hear you, you know!?” [Tekun]
“Besides, you rarely have any need of me, and you’re also not the only one banned from my domain.
But let’s put that aside for now. What are the three of you thinking going into another world to play when we gods have a policy of not interfering with each other’s world.” [Fernoberia]
“Wait a moment! Who did you hear that from?” [Rurutia]
It was Tekun who answered.
“Don’t play dumb. I heard everything from Ryouma, who said that’s what Kufo told him. And although I feel bad for using it, but I read his mind at the time, and he wasn’t lying.” [Tekun]
When Kufo heard that, he face palmed as he muttered to himself, “Dang! I told him not to tell humans about it, but I didn’t mention anything about the other gods…”
In any case, they all decided to sit down and talk. Chairs appeared from nowhere as they each took their respective seat and gathered into a circle.
“Now, can you start talking? Or better yet, just take me with you!” [Tekun]
“I don’t know f you simply went there to play, but we can’t just ignore it if you’re frequently visiting another world.” [Willieris]
“Please talk to us.” [Grimp]
“Hmm… Actually, we’re investigating the situation of the earth god.” [Gayn]
“We talked about it before, remember? The earth god interfered with Ryouma’s life for some reason.” [Kufo]
“That we did. That was certainly not proper behavior for a god. I was shocked when I found out about it.” [Fernoberia]
“Anyway, we went there to investigate that matter.” [Kufo]
“So you didn’t go there just to play?” [Tekun]
“We haven’t talked to Ryouma about the earth god yet, so I had to fool him somehow.” [Kufo]
Tekun’s anger calmed down a little at that.
“So, that’s what it was.” [Tekun]
“Tekun, do you only get mad when it comes to playing around?” [Fernoberia]
“Frequently visiting another world is a problem in and of itself, though?” [Willieris]
Fernoberia and Willieris were taken aback at Tekun’s reaction.
After pulling himself together, Fernoberia asked.
“Are you sure it’s okay to be visiting that world so frequently?” [Fernoberia]
“There shouldn’t be any problems…” [Gayn]
“It sure is a pain having to go there so secretly…” [Kufo]
“We still haven’t figured anything out, but something is strange… We’ve found several people like Ryouma who’s lived an unfortunate life. Of course, the degree of misfortune was a different, but still… Even stranger the earth god didn’t seem to be using the luck he’s stolen.” [Rurutia]
“We thought the earth god was using the good fortune he took to give something to his adherents, but after investigating the matter, it turns out he’s not doing anything with it. He just keeps on taking and taking.” [Gayn]
“The management of the world was terrible too. I know the humans of that world have developed all sorts of technology and are pretty much independent, so there’s not a whole lot to do, but the fact that we were able to sneak in so easily was just absurd. It felt stupid putting in so much effort to sneak in when the door was basically wide open.” [Kufo]
“It was so easy we thought it was a trap or something, but in the end, there was nothing. If a demon king from another world came, the earth god probably wouldn’t be able to respond in time.” [Gayn]
“That bad? If so, then is he even still doing his job?” [Fernoberia]
“Perhaps not…” [Gayn]
“Besides, what’s the point of stealing people’s happiness? We gods don’t have a use for it.” [Grimp]
“That we don’t know.” [Rurutia]
“Technically, one could use it in place of faith to maintain one’s godly powers when people aren’t worshipping anymore, but so long as the world is safe, one shouldn’t lose his power.” [Kufo]
“I was thinking that too. It’s true that the Japanese have less faith than the people of this world, but the people of the other countries of that world were pious. The world itself had no problems too. The natural environment of the world is slowly being destroyed, but it’s not that serious enough to threaten one’s power. That’s why we’re borrowing mana from that world.” [Gayn]
“It’s certainly curious. But if that’s the case, then there really is no point in stealing people’s happiness. Just what is that earth god stealing it for?”
It was here that the god who hadn’t said anything until now opened her mouth.
“…It doesn’t really matter, does it? We don’t steal people’s happiness, so we don’t know if there’s a use for it, but that doesn’t mean there’s no use for it, right? Isn’t that enough? If that god picks a fight with us, I’ll just crush him.” [Kirillel]
“Kirillel, you’re saying stuff like that again… As usual, you’re all brawns and no brain. Seriously, women like you…” [Fernoberia]
The goddess who had opened her mouth was none other than the goddess of war, Kirillel. Her body was well built, and she donned an armor, while a sword hung by her waist.
Although her body was strong, it was also supple, and there were plenty of parts that were womanly.
She was like a guy, but she was definitely a goddess.
“Who’s all brawns and no brains!? I can use my head too!” [Kirillel]
“You can when it comes to fighting.” [Fernoberia]
“So? That doesn’t change the fact that I can use my head! That’s at least healthier than someone like you who shuts himself in his domain!” [Kirillel]
“Our bodies can’t breakdown. Health is irrelevant.” [Fernoberia]
These two gods were the exact opposite of each other. As such, whenever they met, they would argue like this.
The other gods have long gotten used to it. Before the conversation completely stopped, Gayn interjected and asked Kirillel a question.
“Let’s put that aside. Why are you here? Tekun couldn’t have possibly called you, right?” [Gayn]
“What are you talking about, gramps? I’m the god of war, you know? Where there’s conflict, there’s war. Thus, where there’s conflict, so am I! When I felt Tekun’s anger and heard that you and the others went to another world to play, I thought a little spanking was in order!” [Kirillel]
“Not needed!” [Rurutia]
“Good heavens! Please don’t joke about something like that!” [Kufo]
“You’re a god too, so a spanking would be pretty dangerous!” [Rurutia]
“Don’t worry, I won’t do anything this time. I understand that the earth god is acting weird and that it’s because of that guy that weird stuff happened to the soul of that guy, Ryouma.
As such, going to another world because you’re wary of the earth god is a valid excuse, right?
Of course, I don’t think the earth god would try to encroach into our world unless given a reason.” [Kirillel]
Kirillel was the most skilled among the gods when it came to fighting, so she was responsible for protecting the world from otherworld intruders or executing enemies.
She is also responsible for handing out heavenly judgement on humans that are about to bring a great catastrophe upon the world. Although, that’s an extremely rare situation.
This time she was here to judge the actions of the three gods. Although alone, Gayn and the others couldn’t possibly stand up to her. Moreover, if she really wanted to and if she were willing to pay the price, she could destroy Gayn and the others even though they were all gods.
Of course, this wasn’t an issue that Gayn and the others would be destroyed for. Still, if they did received punishment, it would still hurt, so it was a great relief for them to hear that Kirillel wasn’t going to punish them.
“That’s really bad for the heart…” [Rurutia]
“I think my life just shortened…” [Kufo]
“Please don’t scare the elderly so much…” [Gayn]
“The likes of gods don’t need to worry about lifespan or heart, no? Anyway, since I’m not needed, I’ll be going now. There are some people still fighting, so I’m actually quite busy.” [Kirillel]
“Oh, sorry for this.” [Tekun]
“It’s not like you called me. I just came on my own, right? Also, Gayn, Kufo, Rurutia, please limit the times you go to earth, okay?” [Kirillel]
“Right…” [Gayn]
“Okay.” [Kufo]
“We’ll talk it out with you from here on.” [Rurutia]
“You’re not stopping?” [Tekun]
“Eh, but I still haven’t…” [Rurutia]
Rurutia cut off her speech midway.
Tekun didn’t miss that.
“Haven’t? Haven’t what?” [Tekun]
“It’s nothing.” [Rurutia]
“Our investigations haven’t gotten us any results yet.” [Gayn]
“Right, right.” [Kufo]
Gayn and the others acted cool on the surface, but then Willieris asked a question.
“Are you still hiding something?” [Willieris]
When she said that, a dangerous aura started emanating from Tekun again.
“You guys are really investigating the earth god, right?” [Tekun]
“That’s right.” [Rurutia]
“But of course.” [Kufo]
“We definitely investigated the earth god.” [Gayn]
“It seems you are indeed still finding people whose happiness is being stolen, so that part is not a lie… But let me rephrase the question. Did you do anything else other than investigate the earth god?” [Tekun]
When Tekun asked that, Gayn and the others stiffened and they immediately looked away.
“Well? Kufo, Ryouma-said you went to earth to sightsee.” [Tekun]
“That’s… Well, we were looking for people whose happiness was stolen, so we did end up seeing the world. I just called that ‘sightseeing’ to fool him.” [Kufo]
“In other words, if you felt like it, you could sightsee?” [Fernoberia]
Kufo shook when Fernoberia said that.
“Hey, you were leading me on!” [Kufo]
“Kufo, you basically just admitted that you could go sightseeing while looking for humans whose happiness has been stolen.” [Grimp]
When Grimp said that, Tekun turned to Gayn.
“Gayn, I heard you were into something called ‘idols’.” [Tekun]
“Idols are people who entertain the earthlings by dancing and singing. They can usually be seen projected on the box called ‘TV’. You can easily see them while walking around the city, so it’s not like I purposely went out of my way to see them.” [Gayn]
“Singing and dancing? We have that in this world too. There’s no reason to go out of your way to—[Tekun]
The dangerous aura around Tekun grew weaker when he heard it was just singing and dancing, but then in the next moment, Gayn’s eyes became sharp.
“Don’t compare it with the songs and dances of this world!! The idols of earth are cute and hardworking!! They make you want to cheer them on!!” [Gayn]
“Y-Yeah?” [Tekun]
Gayn looked so menacing that Tekun couldn’t help but take a step back. Not long after, however, Gayn knew he messed up.
When Willieris saw that, she spoke.
“I guess that makes it clear that you were in fact seriously watching these ‘idols’.” [Willieris]
Tekun turned to Rurutia next.
Rurutia knew she couldn’t fool them anymore, so she answered before he could ask.
“I needed to prepare myself before working on Earth, so I treated myself to some deserts.[Rurutia]
After that Tekun’s angry voice and the screams of the three gods resounded throughout the divine realm.
The ojousama forcefully changed the topic.
I should just follow her here.
“Rumors sure are hurtful…” [Ryouma]
“It’s because there are people who actually believe those exaggerated rumors…” [Elia]
If one’s parents believe them, then the children who will accept it as truth too.
After all, children are always watching the adults. Although the latter usually doesn’t notice that.
“By the way…” [Elia]
“Yes? What is it?” [Ryouma]
The ojousama timidly asked me.
“Are you okay?” [Elia]
“What do you mean?” [Ryouma]
“About what I talked about just now… I’m a little concerned.” [Elia]
“Ahh…” [Ryouma]
I guess she’s worried that I would start acting differently around her.
“I’m fine.” [Ryouma]
“I mean it is true that I lost control of my magic and hurt another person.” [Elia]
But it’s not like you did it on purpose. And besides, I’ve also broken someone’s wrist. I’ve even killed plenty of bandits in the forest. That I did intentionally.
The ojousama also seems to regret what happened, so I’m pretty sure there’s nothing wrong with her ethically speaking.
And besides, I’ve seen magic countless times already, so I could just dodge something like that.
If it’s Ice Arrow, I could just deflect it. And if I clad myself in ki, it won’t have much effect on me even if it were to hit me.
So in conclusion, there’s no problem.
I told Elia that and she chuckled.
“I see. Then, Ryouma-san, I’ll have to ask you not to forget to meet me again in 3 years.” [Elia]
“I won’t forget.” [Ryouma]
“I’ll confirm that in 3 years. If you forget because of work or something, you better watch out cause I’m going to hit you with the magic I’ve trained for the past 3 years.” [Elia]
Eek! Scary! What is this girl saying all of the sudden.
“Ha ha ha, p-please don’t do that… By the way, where did you learn to talk like that?” [Ryouma]
I mean it’s a little bit different from the usual image of the ojousama, no?
“It’s how mother made dad remember a promise he forgot a long time ago.” [Elia]
“I-I see…” [Ryouma]
Thank goodness Reinhart-san is still alive…
“Besides, it’s not like my magic would work against you, right?” [Elia]
I did say that, but… Isn’t this and that different?
While I was thinking that, the ojousama started laughing as if she were teasing me.
“Oh, right. I just remembered something good. Sebasu!” [Elia]
“Yes, ojousama. How may I help you?” [Sebasu]
The ojousama suddenly called Sebasu-san and started whispering to him. Sebasu-san nodded, and in the next moment, he took out a small box from his Item Box.
The ojousama took that and gave it to me.
“Ryouma-san, please take this.” [Elia]
“What is this?” [Ryouma]
“It’s a necklace I got from my mother on my 10th birthday.”
When the ojousama opened the box, a beautiful necklace appeared. It had golden chains and a golden setting with a ruby the size of a fingernail inserted into it. Although the design was simple, it was surely expensive. Moreover, this ruby…
“Is this mana?” [Ryouma]
For some reason, I could feel mana coming from the ruby.
“Oh, you noticed? As expected. The ruby of this necklace is a magic gem.” [Elia]
“Magic gem, you mean those things used for lighting?” [Ryouma]
“Not quite. Those are spell stones, a magic tool, so to speak. Umm… Ryouma-san, you know of magic stones, right?” [Elia]
“Magic stones… If I recall correctly, those are found in places with high concentration of mana. Magic stones refer to the stones dug out from there that contain mana, right?” [Ryouma]
“Exactly. Mana stored in magic stones can be used to cast a spell. This mana can be used to help one in conserving his mana. Among those stones, there are some that are valued not as mere stones, but as jewels. They are called magic jewels. Magic ores are also a thing.” [Elia]
Magic stones can supplement one’s magic. Magic ores can be used to forge magic armor and weapons, as well as other miscellaneous stuff.
“As for magic gems, these can be used for anything. Be it to supplement one’s magic, or to forge a tool that could amplify one’s abilities, or as a decorative item. On top of being extremely convenient, the effects of these gems are much higher than usual, so not only are they super expensive, the production of these gems is also really low.” [Elia]
The ojousama said all of that in one breath, but…
“…So in other words, this is a super luxurious item?” [Ryouma]
“Exactly.” [Elia]
“Exactly? There’s no way I could take something this precious.” [Ryouma]
“I want you to have it!” [Elia]
“No, this is too precious…” [Ryouma]
As if I could accept something like this!
I firmly refused it, but the ojousama wouldn’t take no for an answer. In the end, Sebasu-san had to interject.
“The two of you please calm down. Ryouma-sama, the ojousama only wants you to keep the necklace for the time being, so you can give it back to her when you meet again next time.” [Sebasu]
“Oh, so she’s just lending it to me? But why?” [Ryouma]
“Ryouma-sama, you might not be aware, but it’s customary to give a friend you will be parting with for a long time something precious as a form of prayer to meet again. Word says doing so also makes it more likely that you’ll meet again. I don’t know what period or from who this practice first spread, but it’s something that has been passed since long ago. To this day, this custom is still practiced.” [Sebasu]
Ahh, I see. So, that’s what she meant.
“So you want me to entrust this necklace to me?” [Ryouma]
“Yes.” [Elia]
“…But this is something precious to you, right? Are you sure you’re okay leaving this with me?” [Ryouma]
“I wouldn’t have offered it in the first place if I wasn’t. Please give it back to me 3 years later.” [Elia]
Mu… If she puts it like that… Not to mention that it’s a custom for reunions… And if this is really what she wants, then…
“I understand. I’ll take care of it for you in the meantime.” [Ryouma]
“Really!?” [Elia]
“In exchange, I’ll absolutely give it back to you.” [Ryouma]
“Of course.” [Elia]
I accepted the box and stored it into my Item Box
I shouldn’t lose it if it’s inside my Item Box.
“Now then…” [Ryouma]
Since we’re following custom, I should give the ojousama something too.
…But what precious possession do I have? Money? Pelt? Stuff like that would just weigh her down. Building stones, ingots, waterproof cloths? Erm… I don’t think I have anything decent.
Because of my hunter lifestyle, I’ve adopted a way of thinking where I prioritize getting the ingredients or components of things I need. Unfortunately, these things can’t really be considered as precious.
Hmm… Don’t I have anything?
After thinking for a while…
“Dimension Home.” [Ryouma]
I took out a heal slime and a scavenger slime from my Dimension Home and handed them to the ojousama.
“Ryouma-san?” [Elia]
“I couldn’t think of anything good to give you, but after considering what’s precious to me, I figured I could give you my slimes instead. These two will surely be of help to you. Please take them with you.” [Ryouma]
The ojousama was speechless for a moment, but then in the next moment, she had her hands over her mouth as she did everything she could just to keep herself from laughing.
I guess it was weird, after all. Sigh… Why did I have to give her a slime anyway?
I know I didn’t have anything eels, but can you really give a slime as a gift?
Maybe I should’ve thought this over a bit more…
“Fu fu… Sorry, Ryouma-san. I just thought giving a slime was very much like you. Thank you. I’ll be sure to watch over them in your stead.” [Elia]
“Really? Thank you very much.” [Ryouma]
“No, thank you. Thank you for entrusting me with your precious monsters.” [Elia]
I placed the heal slime and the scavenger slime on the ground, then I removed our contract and allowed the ojousama to form a contract with them.
“Contract complete. I’ll be sure to treasure them.” [Elia]
“I’ll leave them in your care.” [Ryouma]
After that we chatted about slimes and magic, and then we ended up training magic.
“This is the ice magic I frequently use.” [Ryouma]
“‘The Ice Cube’ spell I can use, but I still can’t use your ‘Cooler’ spell.” [Elia]
As the name implies, Ice Cube is a spell that creates a cube of ice to be placed inside one’s glass, while Cooler is a fusion spell of wind and ice that summons a cool wind to freshen one up. Both spells are particularly useful for summertime.
“Mist Wash” [Sebasu]
“Ah, you did it.” [Ryouma]
Even Sebasu-san joined in on the topic of water magic. I tried teaching him Mist Wash, and as expected, he learned it after just a few tries.
“…Ho. The mana expenditure is a bit high, but it might just do well for removing stubborn dirt.” [Sebasu]
If he can use that, then he can might be able to use even harder spells.
Thinking that, I taught him Water Cutter, which was the true form of Mist Wash.
Ah, but although I say ‘taught’, all I really did was show it to him by casting the spell at a nearby a rock.
Sebasu-san looked curiously at the spell.
“Like this? ‘Water Cutter’. Hmm… Not enough. ‘Water Cutter’” [Sebasu]
After trying the spell out 5 times, Sebasu-san was able to execute the spell masterfully. He was already better than me right on the first try, but after the fourth try, the power behind his ‘Water Cutter’ was clearly a cut above mine. On the fifth try, he straight up went and cleaved the rock.
So this is what happens when a master water mage uses the spell.
After doing this and that, dusk eventually came, and we went back via dimension magic.
As I looked at the stores along the path back to the inn, I saw the adventurers that went to the marsh before and some doctors carrying some foul-smelling bags. They had gathered into a crowd and were quite lively.
“Welcome back, Ryouma-kun.” [Reinbach]
“Thanks for looking after Elia today.” [Elize]
“It’s nothing. I had fun too.” [Ryouma]
“And Ryouma-san taught me a lot of new spells. I can’t use them well yet, but I’ll do my best to learn!” [Elia]
“That’s great, Elia.” [Reinbach]
“Yes! He also lent me his heal slime and scavenger slime.” [Elia]
“Oh, really? Be sure to treasure them.” [Elize]
“Of course.” [Elia]
When we got back, everyone had already recovered from their hangover. We talked about the things that happened today, the things that happened after we meant, and all sorts of other stuff until it was late into the night.
And then…
On the day of parting.
At the stables behind the inn, the duke’s family, their servants, and their guards were all inside their carriage. They called out to me one after another through their window.
“Take care of your body.” [Reinhart]
“Don’t push yourself too much.” [Elize]
“Make sure to rest.” [Reinbach]
“If something happens, be sure to contact us.” [Reinhart]
“Drop by when you’re free, alright?” [Jill]
“Do your best, boy.” [Camil]
“Stay well.” [Zeff]
“Stay strong.” [Hyuzu]
“I pray for your good health and the success of your future endeavors.” [Arone]
Jill-san, Arone-san, and the rest of the guards had called out to me too.
“Everyone, ojousama, take care. Thank you for everything until now.” [Ryouma]
I bowed my head as I said that. It’s too bad I’m not very good with long speeches. I wish I could express my gratefulness better, but alas…
“Ryouma-san.” [Elia]
“Yes, ojousama?” [Ryouma]
“About that…” [Elia]
“‘That’?” [Ryouma]
What is she talking about?
“I’ve been thinking about it since you entrusted me with your slimes yesterday, and… We’re friends, right?’ [Elia]
Where is she going with this?
“Since that’s the case, please call me Elia.[1] My family and people close to me call me that, and besides… It’s not like you work for my family, right? …Don’t you think it’s strange for a friend to refer to me as ojousama?” [Elia]
“Ah~ …I understand.” [Ryouma]
Now that she mentions it, it is weird.
“Very well. If you’re alright with it, then please allow me to call you Elia. You’re okay with that, right… Elia?” [Ryouma]
“—Yes! Ryouma-san, until the day we meet again, I’ll be sure to work on my magic!” [Elia]
“Same here.” [Ryouma]
As Elia said that from atop the carriage, I replied.
“Do your best!” [Ryouma and Elia]
When our words overlapped, Elia and I laughed.
Soon it was the time to leave.
The first to go was the carriage of the guards, then came the carriage of the duke’s family.
As they headed toward my direction, they waved at me from the window of their carriage, and I waved back at them.
I watched as the carriage moved toward the horizon, gradually growing smaller and smaller, until it could be seen no more.
“Well then… I suppose I should get going then.”
I’ll drop by the store, then I’ll go to the mine, and there, my new life will begin.
Starting today, I won’t be living at the inn anymore, but at the mines.
The ojousama, no… Elia… Elia told me to do my best, so… Let’s do just that.
First, I’ll have to secure myself a house.
“No time to be dawdling.” [Ryouma]
As I encouraged myself, I started walking.
From today onwards I’ll be starting a life that’s a little different from what I’ve lived so far.
[1] – Specifically emphasized by the author. For those not in the know, no suffix plus first name basis denotes a greater degree of intimacy. That being said the reason for the emphasis could be something else.
In a certain place within the divine realm, in a place where a certain god in the form of a lanky man was standing, appeared the three gods.
“Ah~… I’m so tired…” [Kufo]
“You finally came back.” [Fernoberia]
“What are you doing here, Fernoberia?” [Gayn]
“It’s rare for you to leave your domain.” [Rurutia]
The god who was standing in that place was none other than the God of Magic, Fernoberia.
And the three gods were Rurutia, Gayn, and Kufo.
“I was actually brought here by force, though I’m also a little curious.” [Fernoberia]
“By force?” [Kufo, Gayn, Rurutia]
Suddenly, four gods came out of nowhere and surrounded them.
“W-What is with this situation?” [Kufo]
“Why are we being surrounded?” [Rurutia]
“Can you explain what’s going on?” [Gayn]
Tekun was the one to step forward.
“Why don’t you ask yourselves? I’m sure you know what we’re here for.” [Tekun]
“What are you so angry for!?” [Rurutia]
“Calm down for a moment, Tekun-san. If you approach them like that, we won’t be able to talk.” [Willieris]
“You heard her. Cam down and drink a cup of wine or two.” [Grimp]
The ones who asked Tekun to calm down were none other than the goddess of the land, Willieris, and hte god of farming and livestock, Grimp.
These two gods had a gentle personality. Willieris looked like graceful middle-aged woman, while Grimp was a middle-aged man who always carried a hoe. They were married to each other.
In order to calm Tekun, Grimp went and shared a cup of wine with Tekun.
Meanwhile, Willieris started explaining.
The goddess of the land and the god of farming and livestock had perfect coordination.
“The reason we’re here is because we heard that the three of you went to the otherworld to play. Tekun was the first to catch word of that. He gathered all of us in anger because he also wanted some free time to himself.” [Willieris]
Fernoberia interjected.
“Tekun asked Willieris and Grimp to come to get me to use my powers to look for you.” [Fernoberia]
“Oh, right, you used your divine powers to prevent Tekun from entering your domain…” [Rurutia]
“It’s because outside of crafting, he’s a rough, irresponsible, alcoholic who never shuts up. He’s a nuisance.” [Fernoberia]
“Hey! I can hear you, you know!?” [Tekun]
“Besides, you rarely have any need of me, and you’re also not the only one banned from my domain.
But let’s put that aside for now. What are the three of you thinking going into another world to play when we gods have a policy of not interfering with each other’s world.” [Fernoberia]
“Wait a moment! Who did you hear that from?” [Rurutia]
It was Tekun who answered.
“Don’t play dumb. I heard everything from Ryouma, who said that’s what Kufo told him. And although I feel bad for using it, but I read his mind at the time, and he wasn’t lying.” [Tekun]
When Kufo heard that, he face palmed as he muttered to himself, “Dang! I told him not to tell humans about it, but I didn’t mention anything about the other gods…”
In any case, they all decided to sit down and talk. Chairs appeared from nowhere as they each took their respective seat and gathered into a circle.
“Now, can you start talking? Or better yet, just take me with you!” [Tekun]
“I don’t know f you simply went there to play, but we can’t just ignore it if you’re frequently visiting another world.” [Willieris]
“Please talk to us.” [Grimp]
“Hmm… Actually, we’re investigating the situation of the earth god.” [Gayn]
“We talked about it before, remember? The earth god interfered with Ryouma’s life for some reason.” [Kufo]
“That we did. That was certainly not proper behavior for a god. I was shocked when I found out about it.” [Fernoberia]
“Anyway, we went there to investigate that matter.” [Kufo]
“So you didn’t go there just to play?” [Tekun]
“We haven’t talked to Ryouma about the earth god yet, so I had to fool him somehow.” [Kufo]
Tekun’s anger calmed down a little at that.
“So, that’s what it was.” [Tekun]
“Tekun, do you only get mad when it comes to playing around?” [Fernoberia]
“Frequently visiting another world is a problem in and of itself, though?” [Willieris]
Fernoberia and Willieris were taken aback at Tekun’s reaction.
After pulling himself together, Fernoberia asked.
“Are you sure it’s okay to be visiting that world so frequently?” [Fernoberia]
“There shouldn’t be any problems…” [Gayn]
“It sure is a pain having to go there so secretly…” [Kufo]
“We still haven’t figured anything out, but something is strange… We’ve found several people like Ryouma who’s lived an unfortunate life. Of course, the degree of misfortune was a different, but still… Even stranger the earth god didn’t seem to be using the luck he’s stolen.” [Rurutia]
“We thought the earth god was using the good fortune he took to give something to his adherents, but after investigating the matter, it turns out he’s not doing anything with it. He just keeps on taking and taking.” [Gayn]
“The management of the world was terrible too. I know the humans of that world have developed all sorts of technology and are pretty much independent, so there’s not a whole lot to do, but the fact that we were able to sneak in so easily was just absurd. It felt stupid putting in so much effort to sneak in when the door was basically wide open.” [Kufo]
“It was so easy we thought it was a trap or something, but in the end, there was nothing. If a demon king from another world came, the earth god probably wouldn’t be able to respond in time.” [Gayn]
“That bad? If so, then is he even still doing his job?” [Fernoberia]
“Perhaps not…” [Gayn]
“Besides, what’s the point of stealing people’s happiness? We gods don’t have a use for it.” [Grimp]
“That we don’t know.” [Rurutia]
“Technically, one could use it in place of faith to maintain one’s godly powers when people aren’t worshipping anymore, but so long as the world is safe, one shouldn’t lose his power.” [Kufo]
“I was thinking that too. It’s true that the Japanese have less faith than the people of this world, but the people of the other countries of that world were pious. The world itself had no problems too. The natural environment of the world is slowly being destroyed, but it’s not that serious enough to threaten one’s power. That’s why we’re borrowing mana from that world.” [Gayn]
“It’s certainly curious. But if that’s the case, then there really is no point in stealing people’s happiness. Just what is that earth god stealing it for?”
It was here that the god who hadn’t said anything until now opened her mouth.
“…It doesn’t really matter, does it? We don’t steal people’s happiness, so we don’t know if there’s a use for it, but that doesn’t mean there’s no use for it, right? Isn’t that enough? If that god picks a fight with us, I’ll just crush him.” [Kirillel]
“Kirillel, you’re saying stuff like that again… As usual, you’re all brawns and no brain. Seriously, women like you…” [Fernoberia]
The goddess who had opened her mouth was none other than the goddess of war, Kirillel. Her body was well built, and she donned an armor, while a sword hung by her waist.
Although her body was strong, it was also supple, and there were plenty of parts that were womanly.
She was like a guy, but she was definitely a goddess.
“Who’s all brawns and no brains!? I can use my head too!” [Kirillel]
“You can when it comes to fighting.” [Fernoberia]
“So? That doesn’t change the fact that I can use my head! That’s at least healthier than someone like you who shuts himself in his domain!” [Kirillel]
“Our bodies can’t breakdown. Health is irrelevant.” [Fernoberia]
These two gods were the exact opposite of each other. As such, whenever they met, they would argue like this.
The other gods have long gotten used to it. Before the conversation completely stopped, Gayn interjected and asked Kirillel a question.
“Let’s put that aside. Why are you here? Tekun couldn’t have possibly called you, right?” [Gayn]
“What are you talking about, gramps? I’m the god of war, you know? Where there’s conflict, there’s war. Thus, where there’s conflict, so am I! When I felt Tekun’s anger and heard that you and the others went to another world to play, I thought a little spanking was in order!” [Kirillel]
“Not needed!” [Rurutia]
“Good heavens! Please don’t joke about something like that!” [Kufo]
“You’re a god too, so a spanking would be pretty dangerous!” [Rurutia]
“Don’t worry, I won’t do anything this time. I understand that the earth god is acting weird and that it’s because of that guy that weird stuff happened to the soul of that guy, Ryouma.
As such, going to another world because you’re wary of the earth god is a valid excuse, right?
Of course, I don’t think the earth god would try to encroach into our world unless given a reason.” [Kirillel]
Kirillel was the most skilled among the gods when it came to fighting, so she was responsible for protecting the world from otherworld intruders or executing enemies.
She is also responsible for handing out heavenly judgement on humans that are about to bring a great catastrophe upon the world. Although, that’s an extremely rare situation.
This time she was here to judge the actions of the three gods. Although alone, Gayn and the others couldn’t possibly stand up to her. Moreover, if she really wanted to and if she were willing to pay the price, she could destroy Gayn and the others even though they were all gods.
Of course, this wasn’t an issue that Gayn and the others would be destroyed for. Still, if they did received punishment, it would still hurt, so it was a great relief for them to hear that Kirillel wasn’t going to punish them.
“That’s really bad for the heart…” [Rurutia]
“I think my life just shortened…” [Kufo]
“Please don’t scare the elderly so much…” [Gayn]
“The likes of gods don’t need to worry about lifespan or heart, no? Anyway, since I’m not needed, I’ll be going now. There are some people still fighting, so I’m actually quite busy.” [Kirillel]
“Oh, sorry for this.” [Tekun]
“It’s not like you called me. I just came on my own, right? Also, Gayn, Kufo, Rurutia, please limit the times you go to earth, okay?” [Kirillel]
“Right…” [Gayn]
“Okay.” [Kufo]
“We’ll talk it out with you from here on.” [Rurutia]
“You’re not stopping?” [Tekun]
“Eh, but I still haven’t…” [Rurutia]
Rurutia cut off her speech midway.
Tekun didn’t miss that.
“Haven’t? Haven’t what?” [Tekun]
“It’s nothing.” [Rurutia]
“Our investigations haven’t gotten us any results yet.” [Gayn]
“Right, right.” [Kufo]
Gayn and the others acted cool on the surface, but then Willieris asked a question.
“Are you still hiding something?” [Willieris]
When she said that, a dangerous aura started emanating from Tekun again.
“You guys are really investigating the earth god, right?” [Tekun]
“That’s right.” [Rurutia]
“But of course.” [Kufo]
“We definitely investigated the earth god.” [Gayn]
“It seems you are indeed still finding people whose happiness is being stolen, so that part is not a lie… But let me rephrase the question. Did you do anything else other than investigate the earth god?” [Tekun]
When Tekun asked that, Gayn and the others stiffened and they immediately looked away.
“Well? Kufo, Ryouma-said you went to earth to sightsee.” [Tekun]
“That’s… Well, we were looking for people whose happiness was stolen, so we did end up seeing the world. I just called that ‘sightseeing’ to fool him.” [Kufo]
“In other words, if you felt like it, you could sightsee?” [Fernoberia]
Kufo shook when Fernoberia said that.
“Hey, you were leading me on!” [Kufo]
“Kufo, you basically just admitted that you could go sightseeing while looking for humans whose happiness has been stolen.” [Grimp]
When Grimp said that, Tekun turned to Gayn.
“Gayn, I heard you were into something called ‘idols’.” [Tekun]
“Idols are people who entertain the earthlings by dancing and singing. They can usually be seen projected on the box called ‘TV’. You can easily see them while walking around the city, so it’s not like I purposely went out of my way to see them.” [Gayn]
“Singing and dancing? We have that in this world too. There’s no reason to go out of your way to—[Tekun]
The dangerous aura around Tekun grew weaker when he heard it was just singing and dancing, but then in the next moment, Gayn’s eyes became sharp.
“Don’t compare it with the songs and dances of this world!! The idols of earth are cute and hardworking!! They make you want to cheer them on!!” [Gayn]
“Y-Yeah?” [Tekun]
Gayn looked so menacing that Tekun couldn’t help but take a step back. Not long after, however, Gayn knew he messed up.
When Willieris saw that, she spoke.
“I guess that makes it clear that you were in fact seriously watching these ‘idols’.” [Willieris]
Tekun turned to Rurutia next.
Rurutia knew she couldn’t fool them anymore, so she answered before he could ask.
“I needed to prepare myself before working on Earth, so I treated myself to some deserts.[Rurutia]
After that Tekun’s angry voice and the screams of the three gods resounded throughout the divine realm.
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