《The Banished Sage Who Escaped his Childhood Friend》 CH 1 C1~ I Banished Myself Haru are you fucking kidding me? You imbecile! You cretin! Coward! You freaked out at the sight of such a weak monster adn even failed to chant any magic what are you going to do? What were you thinking messing up with a small fry like that!? I thought that if it was a monster at that level even a talentless idiot like you could figure something out. Leticas brows twitched as she glared at me in front of her as if I was some absolute filth. Her name was Letica Platinum. She was a first class hero with the title of hero and also I once used to claim her to be my childhood friend.. In this world she is even claimed to be the goddess who had descended to the earth. Not only does she have strength far surpassing anyone else, but her heart too was known to be as benevolent as a true goddess. In addition, she also had the appearance that would not bring upon shame to the title of the goddess. If there are 10 men, almost nine of them will surely look back and fall in love with her. The adventurers of her party described Leticia as a sculpturally perfected beauty. But were things truly like that? The real face of the goddess and hero were not known but anyone but me. There was no benevolence or beauty in it. Her heart was as black as it could be. Ah, thats right. I understand. Harus cowardice far exceeds my expectations. I never realzed that you were such a big pile of shit, till now I thought that only your face looked like shit, but thats not the case. Its my bad. Im sorry, Haru. Your entirety is filth. Youre a small fry among small fry I didnt even think of a small fry king. sorry You are sorry? You cant just apologize like that. That monster almost scratched my face! Shouldnt in such a case, you should act as a shield and die instead! In reality, Letica looked like this. She is said to be kind like a goddess that descends from heaven, but that is a false mask. This girls personality is distorted like this. Only the outside mask of her is good and benevolent, so no one knows the true nature of Leticia except for me. But I wish I hadnt known of it either. Then I could have been exempted from this torture. She acts nice and friendly in front of others but Now that both of them are alone, Leticia is free to say whatever abuses she may want. I once complained to my colleagues about the current situation trying to remove the mask that she had placed on herself. Trying to unveil her filthy side to the world. But none of them believed that Leticia could do that. She is really, only the outside is a perfect hero, the inside is rotten. But the world would never believe. It wasnt like this in the beginning. But ever since she was chosen as a hero bit by bit I am sure she is just letting off her stress but Why dont you just say something without shutting up? Did you forget how to talk because your head is empty? I cant help it. Haru, Ill tell you the lines you should say. Im sorry I made a difficult mistake even with small fry, Leticia .. please forgive me.. Didnt I already apologize a second ago. All she wants is to watch me beg. Just because I am weak she does as she pleases. Look, say it fast. Otherwise, I dont know what Im going to do with my anger? Hey, are you listening? Haru !!! HARU!! Im listening eh Without being frightened by Leticias rant, I looked straight into her eyes. This is simply too much. I cannot let this continue any more. Of course, such a reaction was unprecedented. I was probably too scared of her strength before and also I sticked with her remembering old times but the limit have been crossed. Therefore, Leticia was a little scared. However, she immediately puts a proud smile on his mouth and says in a strong tone. If youve heard it, can you put it into action? I dont like being kept waiting. See, hurry up. Oh, dont forget to grovel like a dog.. No. Leitcas eyes shot out wide. What? What is it now? I dont follow your instructions anymore. Leticia was astonished as if it was the first time she had seen a bird talking. Indeed it was the first time. I grabbed my chest and the feeling of exhaliaration that came from rebelling itself was amazing. Are you insane? If you do not apologize, you will be banished from my party. So things are like this huh? Ive been a childhood friend of Leticia, and Ive known her since even in the earliest memories of my life. At first, she had a normal personality. However, we both walked the path of adventurers From the time she was chosen as a hero, Leticia began to change. She always denies my value and stigmatizes me as worthless. Not only that, but also swearing on a daily basis. Maybe she thought of me as a person to be stepped on.. Maybe by doing so, she released her stress from her work. With Leticia, Ive been traveling for over five years. I had Shown an obedient attitude as I was told, without refuting Everything has been done as Leticia says. Why did you I that? I think I believed in Leticia somewhere. No I think I wanted to believe it. Someday, she will return to the old gentle Leticia We might be able to laugh from the bottom of our hearts like in the past But such a reality was not possible after we had reached such a point. For her, I am no more worth than a meat shield. Leticias strength grows earnestly Power harassment was repeated almost every day. It didnt go back to the old days, but rather it was moving farther and farther away. But today my bottom line was crossed. [That monster almost scratched my face! Shouldnt in such a case, you should act as a shield and die instead!] Those words kept on ringing in my ears. I cant ignore all of this anymore. In the old days, Leticia never said it. Even if her entire jaw broke apart, she wasnt the type of girl who would say that. But there is no such Leticia in the world anymore. She is probably dead. The moment I realized that Indeed, I was stupid that it took me such a long time to realize. Lets stop. I cant continue latching onto any invisible strings of hope. Lets end it here. Not only for me, it is not good for the stranger in front of me either. So lets finish. Im today Ill break up with Leticia. Our friendship that had long cracked finally ends here. Hmph you fucking dared to talk back to me. Ill decide your punishment. Ill train you so that you cant think of such a playful thing. I wont follow your instructions anymore. Can you really say that? I have a generous heart and because of that I am allowing a trash like you in the party. If you speak cheeky I wonder if I should kick you out? OK, goodbye. eh? I was waiting for that line. In order to bring it to this development, I dared to make a mistake with a weak monster opponent. I dared to try it. The result is [Die for me.] The words kept ringing in my ears. It seems that I was unable to save the old Letica. She is already dead. As Leticia says, Im leaving the party. Thank you so far. Well, no, hey eh? Ill apply to unregister the party, so Leticia doesnt have to do anything. Oh yeah. Please report the monster subjugation yourself. Since I am gone, no one would be there to do it. No, so wait! Leticia shouts with a panicked expression, including impatience. It seems that she hasnt swallowed reality yet. What do you mean by Haru? Are you leaving my party? I dont remember allowing that. Nobody needs Leticias permission. You have to report to the guild when you organize the party so that you dont have problems later but Ive never heard of you needing permission to get out. Im not saying that! Haruls habit! You are going to go against what I say !? Are you serious !? Im serious !!??!? When I glared strongly, Leticia was frightened for a moment. I cant be with Leticia anymore. Ive been thinking about it for a long time Im completely determined today. Its impossible to withdraw. I and Leticia are strangers from today onwards. Well, what. With a serious face Why are you so angry? Did you get angry when you were told that you were a small fry? Ill apologize. You dont really understand anything. What, what For such Leticia for a stranger I dont remember having any anger. Why would I be angry at a stranger? I was just sad. Being told to die by a good childhood friend Im irresistibly sad and lonely. My long lost friend was finally confirmed to be dead. Goodbye Carrying the luggage bag I brought out in advance I turned my back to Leticia. Haru, are you serious !? Snall fish like you, you cant get out of my party! The world isnt that sweet. I decide what I do, not Leticia. Gut hey! Withdraw the previous statement right now! Ill forgive you now. If you cry and ask, you can come back to the party again! At this point, there is no way I would do that Im a hero! Getting out of my party its like turning me into an enemy! Do you think youll be unscatched after doing that !? No !? See you I started to move forward without seeing Leticias face screaming. Hey, Haru !? dont be a fool, this is why dont you just admit your mistake !? Haru !!!! Leticia was still screaming as before. I left the place while listening to the screaming voice of my former childhood friend. CH 2 C2~ New Life As soon as I returned to the city, I went to the Adventurers Guild all alone. The whole path was traversed through feet and I had never looked back. I had to report that I had left Leticias party or to be more specific the heros party. The guild of course encourages adventurers to form a party and fight in groups. The reward in such scenarios might be reduced, but the risk too can be reduced by forming a party. The guild thus provided several perks, such as the provision of items such as potions, so that more adventurers are motivated to work in groups. But in order not to abuse such a system, one must report to the guild that he has left the party as soon as possible.. Eh !? Traiter-san, did you leave the brave party !? When I informed the receptionist, she was terribly surprised. Its a convincing reaction. Its been the same party for over 5 years. Not many would get the chance of joining the heroes party. Of couse someone like me could only be considered lucky to have been at one. But that was the public view. Only I knew how bad an experience it was. I mean, I was banished by them. Expulsion ? I raised my shoulders. I made a lot of mistakes well, like that. Yes yes, I see. Ive certainly received the party withdrawal report. The receptionist probably guessed that she shouldnt ask deeply. The procedure went smoothly anyway. With the end of the procedure all of my ties with Letica were completely cut off. Im just another person from today. When I thought about it, I felt nothing but happy. It was indeed a well sought out release for anyone experiencing the same pain as I.. All I wanted to do now was to start from scratch and start my own adventure. But the path to that was much thornier than I had thought. And I want to make a request, but is there anything.. Any mission that even one person can do? Subjugation, collection, escort any kind is fine. Well, um Im sorry. There arent any requests for solos right now If youre attending a party, you can choose as much as you want. Well, then, cant it be helped? There was also a way for me to request to be accepted in a different party, but Such a thing would put me in the same vicious cycle all over again. This time it was Letica, the next time it would be someone else. The power harassment would never cease no matter which party I joined.. It was often told that it couldnt be useful for Leticia. She cussed me time and time again for that. But now that I look back at it, it might be true. I am among the weak after all. Im a fallen wizard who cant really do much. If so, why dont you team up with me? Huh? I turned back to find a red-haired girl. She seemed to be about 18 years old. She had long fiery red hair which reached to her waist. She had long and slender limbs. Her body too was slender yet she had clear and prominent curves. In addition, her face was so beautiful that anyone would just fall in love with it. Her appearance might be in complete contrast from Leticia, but even so she was a perfect girl. Im Alice Sprite. Feel free to call me Alice. Nice to meet you. Um nice to meet you. Im a Haru Traitor. I shook hands for the time being. Then move to the discourse space and listen to more details. Since the guild is also a place for adventurers to meet, such a discourse space is prepared. Isnt it correct to say that you are also looking for a party? Yes, thats right. Im not having a party right now. Thats why Im in trouble because I cant accept the request So, if Haru is okay, why dont you join with me? Thats really sweet of you. Though I would probably be holding you back. Thats why this doesnt sound like a good idea Im weak. Yeah Im weak. Leticia has often told me that its a coarse fish and cant be used, but thats not a misguided point. In that respect, Leticia is strong. She is also able to subdue a dragon alone. Is that so? But I overheard a glimpse, you were having a party with the hero, right? Ah thats right, but there are a lot of things its kind of like she was kind enough to let me join the party as a chore boy. I was beyond tired to make people believe in the true nature of Letica, so much so I had given up trying. No one would believe me in regards to her malicious nature. It was thus better to go with the floor and avoid such a topic. So, when it comes to being used as a force Im sorry to say it myself, but I wouldnt be of any help. It was better to accept my weaknesses upfront and avoid partying rather than being harassed using strength later. Hmm Oh, Alice ? Alice came to my face with a suspicious expression. She glared into my eyes as if trying to find for falsehood.. It doesnt look like you are weak, doesnt it? Rather, you feel stronger than I am, or rather its your aura that is much denser. I dont think it is what is Alices level? tilting my head I asked. 22 Im 7. You see, Im weak, right? I showed her the level marked on my adventurer card. I was aware that she was being considerate of my feelings but it was better to not lie about something like this, especially considering that such a lie could lead to ones death due to a moments or carelessness. The level represents the strength of the person. The higher the number, the stronger the power and the more experience you have gained. that? Whats wrong? Isnt that adventurer card old? Adventurer cards are magic cards issued by the guild. Its like an ID card, showing the owners level and occupation. My adventurer card has never been updated since I started my journey with Leticia. I didnt update at all For how long? Maybe it is over 5 years? Nani why? Why didnt you update it for so long? It costs a little money to update, but updating the adventurer card is rather essential. Above all, to grasp your power Is also suitable. Is that so but in my case, I couldnt update it for some reason. Because Leticia didnt allow it. Putting her harassment aside, it went without saying that being the chore boy of the group I had no choice but to follow the instructions of the leader. [Huh? Update the adventurer card? You dont need that. When a level 7 filth grows up, nothing happens. The filth remains a small fry forever. So you dont need to update the adventurer card at all Haru. Its just a waste of money no more, hahahahaha! ] She had said that and didnt give me the money to renew the card. The partys funds was completely controlled by Leticia, so there was nothing I could have done about it. Well I will like to update it when I have time? Right now, Ill give priority to talking to Alice, I am not in a hurry. It was true that I was embarrassed to update it in front of so many eyes. What if the results were far worse than anybody could have expected? That would certainly be a huge problem and embarrassment. Well, then Ill let you go this time, but why dont you try to organize a party with me? So you want to stick to me? Alice held poked her cheeks. Hmm What do you think? I feel like I can get along well with Haru. I wonder if you are compatible regardless of whether you are strong or weak. Thats the most important thing, isnt it? Oh yeah, its really important. I nodded. It was Leticia that had made me realize how important compatibility was. She had made me realize that no matter how much I tried, me and her certainly couldnt get along. We were destined to drift apart. Why dont you ask for a request once? A mission which seems easy to do with two people. So, if it seems to work, thats fine. If it doesnt work, thats also fine. How about it? Alice clasped her hands. Thats right OK, do you want to try it? So thats how both of us decided to form a party for a mission as a trial. DDDDDDDDDD The request I made was to subdue the monsters that appeared outside the city. The target is a dog-shaped monster called Hound Wolf. The recommended subjugation level is 5, so its not a big enemy. Even I who was level 7 could probably deal with it. It will be a good exercise to check compatibility with Alice. Huh! Alice smashes the Hound Wolf with a sharp sword. The swashbuckler, which has more power than it looks, cuts off the monsters body. However, there is more than one enemy. The remaining two. Immediately after launching an attack, one of them approaches Alice who cannot move. Bare fangs and jump while groaning Alice! Using a sword one size smaller than Alices sword I defended Alice as a shield, the short sword was able to stop the Hound Wolfs assault. Nice, Haru! I was able to gain time to reposition Alice. Alice gives a pleasant smile to us Then stare at the enemy. Sword dance! Alices sword technique has been activated. Showing a dancing movement, she chopped off the body of the Hound Wolf. Guru! The last one that was cornered rushed in with a rash. Eat this beast! I threw a throwing knife and stopped the Hound Wolf from moving. Double slash! Alices sword flashes twice and kills the last one. I was tasked to keep an eye on the surroundings After confirming that there are no more enemies, she put the sword back in the scabbard. All the while she showed me a very bright smile. You are amazing! Huh? What are you talking about? Im not doing much, right? Im just devoting myself to support. Thats not the case. I think its great enough to be able to use a sword even though you are a wizard. Above all, you defend me when I most need it, and even when I think its dangerous, you support me. Arent youl I mean, a master of support? I dont think there are many people who can move like haru Well Im used to it. When I was at Leticias party Ive always been supportive. Leticia never put me in front lines. The vanguard was always her one man show. At first I thought that she was worried about me and wanted to keep me safe, but she wasnt. Leticia didnt want to give me any credit. She wanted to have all the credit to herself. One cannot help but be amazed at Leticias bottomless desires. When did she get distorted like that the answer to that Haru had never found. Hull? Whats wrong? No nothing. Are you injured? Oh, this? Just lightly its not a big injury. Its hard to get suppurated. Ill treat you right away. But I cant use potions like this Its okay, Ill use magic. Huh? For some reason, while Alice stood completely astonished, I cast recovery magic on her not bothering for her reasons.. Heal A faint light wrapped around Alices wound and heals the wound as if it were playing in reverse. Shortly after, the wound disappeared completely. Now its all well and good. Whats wrong, Alice? You Whats wrong with this but what do you mean you? What is it? Why are you so surprised? You should be surprised too! Why can the wizard Haru use healing magic? Healing magic should only be used for priests and other limited professions! Wizards can only use attack magic. Its something that is common knowledge! Is that so? Thats right! Why dont you know such common sense? Why I dont know .. well. Definitely because of Leticia. I was denied by Leticia to have the general knowledge of an adventurer. [It doesnt make value for a small fry like you to know anything, its just a waste of time ..]. Thats what she had forced upon me. I couldnt argue because I was deprived of the opportunity to learn, so I just kept going. I dont know anything, but I didnt know that the wizard couldnt use recovery magic because of Leticia. There are many things I dont really understand about Haru. You were at a brave party, right? How did you spend your time? that is Can you believe me even if I tell you the truth? No one has believed me till now. What was the point of confessing at this point? It was then that I was at a loss for a reply. Gurururu !!! Another giant hound wolf appeared, quivering in anger. CH 3 C3~ Experiencing Freedom The hound wolf this time around was much larger than the previous versions. Two times No, maybe three times the size? Anyway, it was huge. Not only the physique, but also the claws and fangs were actually more than thrice the size.. This must be a lie what is a King Wolf doing in such a place For some reason, Alice had a pale face. But I couldnt even make out the reason behind her fears. Is it some kind of trauma that she faces just like me? Certainly I shrivel up at the thought of the hero. Maybe the same it true for her when it comes to the hound wolf? There was nothing to fear after all. Its just that Hound Wolfs parents have appeared. Haru, Ill manage to get some time, so run away right away! Huh? You are not an enemy at level 7! On the contrary, you will be killed in an instant. Um What is Alice saying? Why is so panicked? Why is she in such a hurry? Its huge, and at first glance it may look ferocious, but After all, its a hound wolf. Since its level 5, theres no reason we cant beat it. You dont have to panic? This is just a hound wolf. What? What are you saying Maybe you havent encountered a Houndwolfs parents before? If so, its not surprising. It certainly looks big and ferocious but its not so strong Yeah, Im really surprised that you dont know. It was because of Letica that my knowledge of the world of adventures was lacking. But Alice was a bona fide adventurer of level 22! How could she not know of such a thing? When even a chore boy like me knows it? You dont understand what ! Alice is in a hurry, but why? ah I see. I understand. Is this also a test to test compatibility? Can I calmly deal with the giant hound wolf without being surprised? Alice may be trying to identify that part. But the test is a failure. Because of Leticia, I dont seem to know many things But a Houndwolfs parents do come into my field of knowledge. Its certainly big and looks ferocious. But after all, its a level 5 hound wolf. As expected, even I at level 7 can beat it. Oh, is that so? Alice cleaned it up a while ago I think she is acting in such a manner to scare me off guard. Maybe this is also a test. Okay, Ill show you that I can do it a little. Haru !? Stupid! Stop acting tough, that beast is not your opponent at level 7! Youll be eaten up in an instant! Ill manage to get some time, so you go to the guild and ask around for someone Fire! Go! !! !! The air trembled. A flame that is even larger than the giant Hound Wolfs parent appears and swallows it all at once. It had no way to resist. Its bones burned up and turned everything to charcoal. Okay, Ive subdued it! I can do it unexpectedly but even then I should be careful and not let my guard down. When a small fry like me gets too high, theres but trouble waiting. Dont worry I already know that. I know you were trying to help me but that is unnecessary.. Alice? Whats wrong? What do you mean by this? Wow Alice suddenly makes a loud voice and is surprised. Whats the magic right now !? Do you know? Its a beginners fire magic - fire spell. I dont know !? Such a fire, I dont know! Ordinary fires produce palm-sized flames when they are at their best !? They dont produce flames larger than King Wolf and extinguish them in an instant. What it cannot be such a thing as a basic fire spell. It was likely explosion magic of an advanced grade of fire magic !!!? Isnt that right? I cant use advanced fire magic. Thats the fire of beginner fire magic. Ah, something is wrong with Harus common sense !? Alice was confused and scratched her head. At that point it didnt seem like acting anymore rather it seemed like she was seriously confused. Um Maybe Im wrong? But its really a beginners fire magic- fire cast You see, you heard it when I said it right? fire in my chanting? Thats right Then, could it be Harus basic Fire magic is as powerful as advanced fire magic? What, that isnt that a ridiculous amount of magic. Is this normal? Its not normal! I was instantly denied. Its not normal ? At least Ive never seen such a fire. Well Im convinced. If you can use such an unconventional fire, King Wolf will be no match for you. Um Ive been curious about it a while ago, but what about King Wolf? Its a monster that became charcoal there. Isnt this the parent of a Hound Wolf? No. this one is an evolved Hound Wolf, King Wolf. Level 30. It looks similar, but the strengths and abilities are completely different. Huh? I didnt know that. I had believed that I had knowledge in regards to this kind of monster but it seems like Alice and I were having a hard time in coming to common grounds. This is Houndwolfs parent thats it. Leticia said so. Ive encountered this one sometime. At that time, I was more aggressive than I am now and fought ahead of the game. Unlike the current me, the me of that time had yet to be broken by her abuse. As a result, I was able to defeat it But Letica coldly claimed that I was getting too ahead of myself. . Thats just a hound wolf. Ha Ha Just because its a parent and is slightly larger doesnt mean anything, its still a level 5 small fry. And you are so elated to defeat such a small fry hahahahaha! Seriously, one cannot be more stupid! That is what she had said. A particular piece of memory that was still fresh in my brain. Since then, I have warned myself not to get too ahead of myself. I was aware that I was weak. In such a manner, I came to recognize this as just a hound wolf. but Is this really a level 30 King Wolf? Is it a lie? I mean, what does your Fire spell really mean? Why is it so humongous? Didnt you go to the hero party? Didnt they say anything? No, I dont know Im only told that this is a normal fire. When did it first began? When I was first able to cast fire to create a huge flame. I was really happy. I was so happy that I was a little proud of myself. But, Leticia What? Its a childs play that even children can use. Well, its gross that Harus mental structure is the same as that of a child. Thinking you are some kind of hero just because you can cast some fire. Ha Ha HA Dont pretend to try to imitate me. I was told that. So I thought it wasnt a big deal. Hmm I dont know. I dont really understand Haru What is true and what is false was too obscure to me, because Leticia is imbued my brain with this and that I cant judge anything for myself anymore. I am too broken and tired. Until now, Ive believed in everything Leticia says Although now I walk alone away from her, the information in my head was not corrected, and I dont know how to make a proper decision. Lets put aside making a party for now, I am really worried about you Im also curious The two of us, look at each others faces as we were lost deep in thought. And the same thought flashes across our minds almost at the same time. Adventurer card! If you dont know your abilities, you can update your adventurer card. That way, youll get accurate information. Lets go now! Wait a minute. I have to peel off the material. Oh, thats right. Bad. The material of the monster not only sells at a reasonable price, but also proves the achievement of the subjugation request. The King Wolf has turned into charcoal, but you can get the material from the Hound Wolf. I separated it from Alice and collected the material. If you only have this, you can pay the renewal fee. Eh? But then Alices share Im fine. More than that, I cant help but worry about Harus ability. So dont worry, please accept it. Um I understand, thank you. Ill someday repay this favor. Its fine, right? No, its not. A smile spills out on my face almost naturally. This is not the case when I was with Leticia. I cant believe that I can even smile. This kind of feeling is something I would come to cherish. I feel very good now. Does this mean that from now on, I can move as I want and showcase my emotions as I want? Wouldnt that be a blessing from heaven? Until now, I couldnt do that It was for the first time that I felt freedom from the bottom of my heart. CH 4 C4~ Can I Talk? When I opened the door of the Adventurers Guild, Leticia was the first one who noticed me and stood up. As she recognized me, she stared daggers at me with a sharp, piercing gaze. It seemed that I had yet to completely get rid of her. I think she chased after me and gathered information here. Once she knew what was happening she waited since I would be coming back anyway. And I was angry at the very fact that she was waiting for me to come back Thanks to todays excursion I have come to value my freedom more than anything. I refuse to go back to the old days! I exchanged a glance with Leticia .. but I chose to ignore her in the end.. Im sorry. Id like to ask you to buy the material Without reacting in any was in particular, I slipped through the side and talked to the receptionist. What? Letica cried to her disbelief. It seemed that my rebellion was too shaky for her to bear. It seems that she didnt even think of the possibility that I would completely ignore her. Indee, such a thing would have been considered absurd a few days back. Even the receptionist was astonished/ Hound Wolfs fur and fangs were lined up in front of such a receptionist. I want to ask for a purchase. Im sure the guild also accepts it, right? Yes, thats okay, but The receptionist looked behind me as she exchanged glances with Letica. It was truly an unusual development for her. After all, to her the Hero Letica was still the kind hearted and benevolent goddess she had always known her to be. I think the receptionist cant ignore it since Leticia was worried. Ahhhhhhhhhhhh Harrruuuuu!!! The voice echoed from the bottom of hell. It made shivers run down my spine. Huh It was truly a hassle. Why doesnt she just leave me alone? Its very annoying. However, it seems that it cannot be ignored as it is. I looked back to the one who called out to me. what? you I think I had a very cold voice at that moment so much that Letica froze in shock. I have never made such a reaction, at least not to Leticia. Therefore, Leticia couldnt speak, seeming she was a little confused. However, it she was soon to regain her momentum. Hmm !!!!! So now you are courageous enough to ignore me, even though I care for you Haru? I dont know why you left my party Haru! You wont be able to survive. Youre too weak for this world! I just left your party. I didnt run away with any money or equipment, and I didnt cause any other problems either. I dont think theres any reason for you to complain? You are nuts! Haru is mine! You cant just silently do whatever you want without your master! Dont you know that much? Youre so crappy, stupid, and useless! !! It indeed caused me to shiver how she could spout so much poison with that kind of beutiful face of hers. Leticia was furious with a bloody momentum. I couldnt even understand half of the things which she claimed. I dont care even if I am weak? What !? Garbage like Haru is going to give me his opinion now? What are you going to say? Are you going to leave my party and keep saying something silly? No jokes! I cant forgive that! Haru is mine Is it okay for the hero to repeat such dirty words in a place where there are so many people? !? It seemed that I had touched her soft spot. It was always one of her secrets only I knew. Leticia flinched as she looked around in a hurry realizing how dire the situation was. But it was already too late. Adventurers gathered in the guild, as they overheard the hero who cussed and seemed to have a trashy personality. Her words were ridiculous and the staff couldnt help but be stunned. Ku ! Leticia regretfully bit her tongue to stop herself and bring her back into control. She was panic stricken and I knew she was in trouble. When I see such a face, it makes me soft, but Those emotions of adoration that I had once held for her had now become empty. We cant laugh like we used to. It makes my heart feel heavy whenever I am reminded of such a fact. Come to the square just outside the South Gate tonight, where Ill continue the conversation. Leaving that in a voice that only I could hear, Leticia left the Adventurers Guild with a rough footstep. The stunned adventurers and staff soon returned to me What was it now? These were the people who had refused to believe me before. What happened to them now?. That was the hero right now, right? Alice, who also returned to me, spoke softly. Did the hero have that kind of personality? Ah well, that really is a long story. Its not something I can explain in one word and truth be told I didn;t want to be involved with anything that was connected to Letica. Above all, its not a story where there are many people suffering. It had always been me. All I can do is cover my wounds and let it heal. The rotten personality that Letica had was only in front of me. With my disappearance her true self that had been hidden in front of others would never be able to resurface. For the time being, do you want to update my adventurer card? Well, if Haru says so, lets do it. Its helpful that Alice did not try to pursue it too deeply. I thanked Alice in my heart. DDDDDDDDDD After that, I updated my adventurer card It turned out to be ridiculous. Me, Alice, and the receptionist. Seeing the updated adventurer card, all three are stunned. My official level is 82. And the formal profession is a sage. It is a magical expert who can attack, recover, and even assist at the same time. Ive been told and cussed by Leticia almost every day, so I came to believe it. I thought that I was a level 7 dropout wizard Does that mean the truth is different? Level 82 What do you mean? Traitor has this kind of power I mean, the hero is definitely level 55, so hes higher than the hero ? A Sage is not a rare profession that only a few people can be but oh yeah. Im convinced. Figures that you can use recovery magic and you can cast ridiculous fire. The receptionist and Alice were surprised, but I think the one who was most surprised was probably me. At the same time, I was confused. From the very beginning, I didnt know anything But, Leticia was different. You knew that my level was really high and that my profession was a Sage. But why did you lie and do that ? Were you fearful of me, who is higher than you? So, is that why you repeated that kind of behavior? If that was the case, then that must mean that I was hoping for a false dream that could never be achieved. It means that there was no relationship of trust from the beginning. I thought Letica was amicable before and had changed over time. But it seems she was rotten to the core from the very beginning. It was my selfish belief that we could go back to the time that we were friends that had led to my current state. Our relationship worked out well at first. But Maybe, from the time we went on an adventure together No, before that. Since I used to play with her in the village as a childhood friend, maybe ever since then Leticia hated me and felt lonely Haru? I noticed that Alices face was close in front of me. Are you okay? Your complexion looks really pale. that is Lets go to the inn for the time being. Isnt it okay? Ah I cant do anything now it was tue that I felt no strength in my legs. As I was told, I moved to the inn with Alice. We took a room and we were completely alone. The silence was painful. Even if I disregard everything else, at the moment we were indeed a party. It would be unsightly of me if I didnt trust my partner and hid things from her. Do I have to explain it to Alice? Actually, I Dont say anything. a I was hugged by Alice. My head sunk into her chest, but it didnt make me feel uncomfortable Rather, I was able to calm down and feel at ease. You dont have to say anything to me now. So is Alice good with it? To tell the truth, Im really worried. Harus non-standard power and the hero I want to ask this and that. If But Ill stop now. why? You cant ask anything unreasonable from someone who is about to cry. Am I about to cry? It looks so. I see is that so Ive completely given up. I was banished from the party. But Still, Leticia is a childhood friend. Weve been together for a long time. Part of me probably wishes that all of this was a lie. Maybe somewhere in my heart I had hoped that she might realize her mistake once I left her behind. Bit I see now all of that was but a foolish hope. Even if she hadnt.. At least I had considered her a close friend. Losing something is really painful, its painful in the end, it hurts my heart. What if I cry? I dont know you can cry when its hard. It doesnt matter if youre a man or something like that you can leave it to your heart. So cry. Throughout the years that I was abused I had never cried. But in her warm embrace, I couldnt help but cry for a brief moment. CH 5 C5~ Hair Cut Welcome back, Haru. As soon as I returned back to the inn, the first thing that greeted me was Alices beautiful smile. But I couldnt help but get confused as I grimaced over the event. But it seems that only I found the situation unusual. Looking at me like that, Alice tilted her head at my mysterious reaction. Whats wrong? Oh no It was the kind of feeling that was impossible to explain. When was the last time when I was welcomed back ? For some reason, it felt very nostalgic. ThanksIm back Yes It was at that moment my legs lost all their strength. The exhaustion from the battle with Leticia may have come back to haunt me. THe world spinned around me and before I knew it I collapsed on as I was as my face threatened to slam on the floor Haru! But before I could get myself more injured, Alice took hold of me. Are you okay? What happened. You arent injured, are you?. Well its a long story. Yeah, thats fine. Im curious but Ill leave it to you if you want to share later. For now you just focus on taking rest. Is that really ok? Yes, definitely. Thank you I was already at my limit and was barely holding onto my consciousness finally my body found its release Good night Haru.. I fell asleep, embraced by Alices gentle voice. DDDDDDDDDD [Next morning.] Im sorry! After we moved to the dining room on the first floor, I bowed to Alice and apologized. Even though I was in the middle of forming a party together, I acted on my own instead. When I think Im back on it, I should have slept on my own To have the disposition of using the same room as Alice who was like a stranger I had just met. It was indeed careless of me. Wait! Why are you apologizing? But Alice was too astonished She had no idea why I was apologizing to her.. I explained the details to her, causing her to widen her eyes. But she shook her head. Dont you care? I asked almost unconsciously. If there is something that I dont like, then Ill rather say it upfront. So when I dont say anything, I dont really mind much of anything about it. So, dont worry. Even if you say so Lets talk about something more constructive. I didnt really know much about what she meant. Constructive? Lets talk about our party Ah! You seem to have completely forgotten about it with a face like that, havent you? she continued, thats really bad. Its true. Too many things happened so much that I forgot. I was being oppressed by Letica. But then I broke up with her. And after that I had to confront Leticia in a battle as well to the point of falling unconscious.. Hmph, I have been thinking about it since yesterday What do you think of it Haru? By the way, if its okay with you, then I want to be in a party with you. I yeah. I also want to be at the same party as Alice. Alice laughed as my voice stuttered confirming my thoughts. Both of us were trying to find out if we are a good match or not, but it is worthless. It was not about just a perfect match. It was just fun to be with Alice and as long as I was with her I could laugh naturally So, if possible, I would like to continue to be with her. It was a nice experience that I had not had the chance to cherish for years. It might be technically wrong for me to form a party with Alice for that reason alone. But However, for me personally? I think that it is an important point for us to be together. After all, just a day before I was at the best party with the strongest party mate possible. And yet I chose to banish myself from it. . Oh, thank you, I am happy that you feel the same.. Ye But is it really okay for me? I tilted my head not really sure what she was getting at here. Was it not good for us to party for some reason. Yes? Im a level 22 sword fighter which is quite a low rank. From Harus point of view, I dont think you would have any for a swordsman at my level. Alice is best, I answered immediately cutting her off. Alices eyes widened astonishingly. It may seem like an exaggeration, but I was saved thanks to Alice, so I hope you will continue to be with you. Thats what I feel. I see.I understand. Then, please take care of me from now on. Likewise We shook our hands as we shared a heart laugh together. DDDDDDDDDD One must strike when the iron is hot. We chose to do the same. After deciding to form a party, we immediately headed to the Adventurers Guild and reported to the management about it. Of course since the guild encourages individuals to form parties, they were more than accepting. There was no particular problem, and the party was officially formed after being accepted safely. Because its such a good event, why dont we try looking for a request? No I thought it was a good idea, but Alice rejected me immediately.. Since we have officially organized a party, there are many things other things too that we need to do. Likewhat kind? Huh? Dont you know? I couldnt help but sigh. I dont know Im sorry. I lack the knowledge that adventurers take for granted. By spending time with Alice, I realized that I lacked all forms of fundamental knowledge. So I have no idea what Alice meant when she said about things that must be done. Hmm Im sorry! I said yesterday that you dont have to force yourself to tell me anything, but Im curious. I am still wondering what happened to Haru. Id like to talk about it in the future, if possible. Thats right Yeah. I wanted you to know anyway, so its just right. You dont have to apologize. Thank you. Lets go back to the inn and talk. It seems Ill have to explain a lot about it today. Its a long story. When the troublesome routine for the day was decided and we were about to leave the Adventurers Guild I found you, Haru! The door of the Adventurers Guild banged open and it was Leticia who rushed in CH 6 [Tl NOte: Sorry I posted the wrong chapter for chapter 5. I apologize and its fixed now. Also we have now our own dark reading mode!] Most cities have high walls to prevent the invasion of monsters. But when you pass through the larger gate intercepting monsters, you would see a small square. It was created as a waiting area for people because of the occasional inspections by the authorities.. Amongst such a facility, there was a figure of Leticia in the square waiting for someone. You are late! When I realized the existence of this figure, my body became sluggish all on its own. I make a rattling footstep and approach while my shoulder moped down.. Slow, slow, slow, slow! How can you be so daring to keep me waiting. That not allowed for Haru! Didnt I tell you that you are my ugly servant. You cannot keep your master waiting? Im not Leticias servant. Huh !? I said it in the morning, could it be that you didnt hear it properly? Who do you think I am? I was given the title of hero, there are only seven people in the world who bore that title. I am the chosen one! Originally, you cant even meet me face-to-face, let alone make me talk to small fry like Haru! Do you understand that? Leticias verbal attacks were in great shape like always, probably because there were no people around and she could let loose without bothering about anything. After all, only I knew of her rotten side. Now that even the party members are not there, it has become more intense than when I was at the party. In the past, I was scared of this storm of rants and cusses and couldnt do anything But its different now. Ive already broken up with Leticia. I have to show that clearly not only in words but also in attitude and actions. Letica What? ? I called out her name without reacting to any rants. She was probably hoping for me to apologize but that was never gonna happen anymore. Leticia seems to be confused by the reaction that I havent seen before, and shes a little frustrated. You dont have to worry about me anymore what? Leticias eyes shot out wide.. But. I continued my words, no matter what. I cant be at Leticas party anymore. Why does that have to happen? I dont know what it means. I dont know either It seems that Leticia, who is the pivot of everything, doesnt understand anything which she has done to me. She posed as if she did not understand my intention at all, even though she made a big reaction to me leaving the party. It was like she could never come to believe that I could leave her party. Why did you become such a rotten person? In the old days, she was kinder and more intelligent than anyone else She was very straight with her words. I cant help but feel sorry about that However, as it has already passed, I keep my memories in the depths of my heart. I cant erase my memories conveniently, but Lets stop looking back. Lets finish it today. Im not going to travel with Leticia anymore, so Im out of the party. Can you stop getting involved with me from now on? Hey Leticias eyes narrowed to a sash. I too had a clear anger in my eyes It was an atmosphere that seemed to explode at any given moment. Even though I added a guy like Haru to the party with a benevolent heart, yet what does he give me back for that favor? Is even a small fry like Haru against me now? Dont do that. I cant hear you anymore. Dont be silly !!! Suddenly, Leticia was snapped. A loud voice seemed to echo in the city and my heart throbbed as it started beating like crazy out of fear. Gut !? Okay? Haru seems to be misunderstanding, so Ill tell you properly this time. Dont get your hopes high with leaving the party, thats not what Haru can decide. Its all up to me. ! It seems I cant do anything out of what you say Thats true! She had always done so. She blocks my objection and says what she thinks is right and convenient for her, as if it were truly what I must do. Haru has to do what I say! Thats the truth of the world! Otherwise, Haru Leticia ? Leticias face was distorted as she was lost in a daze. Maybe something was wrong, it was only for a moment. But immediately she returned to his anger and glared at me. If you still dont understand, Ill say it clearly. Haru is my property !!! !!! Am I the property of Leticia? Thats not right. Because Alice told me. Im me I dont belong to anyone else Should I believe in Leticia? Should I believe in the one who had abused me despite once being a friend? Or Should I believe in Alice? Should I believe in someone who was a complete stranger. Indeed, both of the options didnt seem right. But my answer is Do not be silly eh? Dont be silly! I shook off Leticias hand and smashed her shoulder pushing her away. I havent put much effort into it But the unexpected reaction seemed to be a shock to her, and Leticia just sticks to her back. I hit Leticia with a cry of my heart. I dispeled all the indignation that has accumulated for more than 5 years. I have to do what you say? I am your servant? All the decisions about me belong to you? I belong to Leticia? All that is just what Leticia says !!! Ah is Haru ? That Leticia, what are you going to do? Why do you think you can manage all of me? Thats funny. I have my will. I am not your toy or something else !!! Thats chi, chiga Its not different !? When you open your mouth, all I become is but a small fry and a useless support, didnt you keep saying that every day! Every single day? Did you think I wasnt hurt? If you think so then thats hardly the case, Im hurt too !!! I couldnt help but be bothered when my important childhood friend did that to me! It broke me beyond repair! But, I for Haru If you really think of me, leave me alone! Dont get involved with me! I I Somewhere in my heart, a warning was issued that it was overstated. However, once the feelings have heated up, they cannot be easily erased. For the first time, I rebelled against Leticia. And I had no idea when to apply the brakes I will run to the very end. I hate Leticia !!! !? I said it. I told her.. This completely cut the ties between me and Leticia. She is already another person and so am I. Thats why dont get involved with me anymore. From today, I and Leticia are strangers. If you make a mistake, dont call me. Then. And I was wondering if I should say the last words then goodbye and thank you for so far. I said such words of gratitude. But was there really any gratitude in my heart? I cannot forgive Laticia for what she did to me. Neither is it hard for me to erase my memories.. But there is nothing in the word that I truly hate. That was simply not in my nature. It was true that I was quite modest and that was the very reason that I was brought to this state. She was a childhood friend. We spent our childhood together and then became adventurers together I walked the same way. No matter how badly you are treated, your memories will not change. It s the worst memory, but It was only thanks to that, I was able to gain strength, such as reaching level 82 before I knew it. If not for anything I could thank her at least for fortifying me for pain. Thank you for that point I send the last words to the companion who once traveled with me. This is the end. Im on my way. Leticias way is of her own. Lets walk on each others own sought out paths. I thought so. That was what I felt. Wait! Leticia stands up. She was yet not prepared to give up. Her face was blue like ice and pale as white. I raided my eyebrows as I turned back to her response. If Haru leaves me I wont forgive you! Absolutely not Ill never allow it !! Did you not hear what I said? Its not your decision. Its up to me to decide who Im with. Still !!!! Leticia pulled out her waist sword, screaming to vomit blood. Haru is mine ! Hey are you serious? Ill cut off those limbs and hold you tightly within my arm so that you can no longer leave me and can no longer say anything silly again yes, thats the best thing to do. Seriously it looks like The killing intent overflowed from Leticia. It was the real deal. Probably she wont come to kill but it wasnt any better either. I held onto my cane as a measure of defence. To be honest I had expected it. I brought it just in case there might be such a development But who would have thought that reality would be so cruel? That the nightmares were part of my reality now.. I will slash them apart !!! If you can do it, try it CH 7 A fight was about to break between me and Leticia To be honest, I am not really sure if I can win this. My opponent is a level 55 hero. Not only that, but she has the experience of having survived fierce battles many times coming out alive of such life and death struggles. On the other hand, I turned out to be Sage at level 82 However, all I knew was only beginner tier magic. Even intermediate tier magic was something that I could never learn because of her. The high level of 82 was but for show. My actual combat prowess was actually questionable with those weak spells and lack of experience in battle. Not to mention that my heart starts throbbing in fear every time she glares at me. If I work it out straight, it will be difficult for me to win. But if my first shot connects. It might turn out to be a one hit KO like in the case of the King Wolf. Thats it! Fire! I Casted beginner fire magic. A flame that reached a diameter of 5 meters was born, and it raged like a dragon burning in night sky.. It attacked Leticia and spread a heavy flame around her. Huh !? Leticia jumped to the side, screaming in agony. She leaped at me with full power without thinking ahead. She dashed at me with full force charging head on with my casted fire.. Meanwhile, Fire landed where Leticia was. A pillar of fire rose in the sky making it enough to melt the hardest stone. Leticia somehow dodged it by a hair breadth. As Leticia realized the situation she was in, her face constricted into a frown Hey, Haru !!!! Are you trying to kill me !!!!? If that hit me right now, I wouldnt have any bones left !? Stop fooling around! Oh no sorry? It was Leticia who first said that she would cut off my limbs So Why am I receiving a terribly unreasonable rebuke right now? You are completely wrong in the head! Ill have to beat it up some sense into it !!! Leticia clenched her sword and ran forward. fast! ?? her movement was like that of the wind. In a blink of an eye, Leticia sneaked close to me making me fall under her reach.. Triple slash! Super high speed triple attack. This is an advanced sword technique that only those with a level of 50 or above can master. For her to suddenly deliver such a thing Apparently, Leticia is serious. Yet she would rebuke me about being unreasonable. Isnt her sword just sharp and murderous enough? I was wondering if there was a possibility for me to defend against it, but a moment of negligence could actually leave me crippled. Shield! Huh !? I cast defensive magic and formed a shield of light with magical power. The shield of light woven with magical power firmly accepted Leticias advanced sword technique. I wont let you go through a single blow. Seeing such a move, Leticia couldnt help but be stunned. Hey, whats that !? What Leticia doesnt know? Its a beginners defense magic. Is there any kind of beginner defense magic that completely prevents advanced sword skills? Even if you say that Ku, you stupid. I am aware of your measly amount of magical power ! No way, It could have defended against advanced sword technique. I was holding back knowing that you would have died if the attack connected. Hmm, but even so you were able to do something hard even though you are a small fry. I have to admit, but its impossible, impossible, and completely impossible for a small fry like Haru to beat me. So, If you are going to grovel down and cry and apologize to me for your foolishness, I might forgive you Fire! Pyaaaaaaaaaa !!!? The flame of cast swirls Leticia screamed and evaded again with all her might. Sorry Its regrettable that you have gone insane, isnt it !!!!? Dont you realize even thought I said it many times. Are you trying to go againstl me !!!? It was you who was said something like cutting off my limbs and making a fuss about it. Its different when its me! Leticia was proud enough to claim that. It was simply too unreasonable to go along. She is going to say something along the lines of I belong to Letica and whats her is hers to play with Come on, sword dance! Suddenly, Leticia performed a swirling sword dance. A super-fast slash was approaching towards me threatening my life. Shield! Kii Ii Ii! Why shouldnt it work !? Its strange !? Ive never heard of one to prevent advanced sword skills with beginner defense magic !? Even if you say that Haru is really being unreasonable because he had got some kind of weird form of magic and disguising it I would no longer be holding back!!! !? My back quivered. Leticia eases her expression And wears a cold and freezing murderous face instead. Maybe till now all she wanted to choff of my limbs. But now? I truly felt dead from her. She was coming to kill.. Until now, she wasnt really serious, she was watching how the situation unfold to make her judgements Haru I will apologize first. Im sorry if you die. Leticia But your selfish behavior is absolutely unacceptable Even if I have to kill you, Ill never stop there! Ill seriously take control of Haru !! Leticia held her sword. The terrifying fighting spirit is converging. Leticia may have decided what she had to do. There was no turning back for her Then Ill decide what I have to do as well. Then, Ill do my best too. Huh? I didnt know what would happen, so I wanted to preserve my magical power, but I dont think I should do that if I want to preserve my bright future. Eh no eh? Hey well, wait, Haru! You werent doing your best with the fire or shield that I just saw !? Ive never done my best because I was banned from training by Leticia. Im worried if it will work, but I have to do it! Cho, really !!!? Fire !!! With all the magical power, he chanted the beginner fire magic. At the moment, the world was dyed white as if everything else had turned pale in comparison to its glory. The glorious flames illuminated it all/ A violent roar. Intense heat wave. And a big flame. They became one and exploded. Pigya ah ah ah !!!!? A heavy flame wrapped Leticia. Heat and shock endlessly burs at her, the result of it will undermine the status of Leticia. The flame burned her soul. The explosion burst onto her body. The heat wave burned her heart. disperse The raging flames are gone Tattered Leticia was left behind. Maybe it was my victory. Was victory already ceased? That was enough ? Will it work out now? Um was that enough for you? Still I Haru will leave my side I cant let that happen I will never allow I will not allow it !!! Leticia, you Where does that obsession come from? If possible, I would like to talk to you once heart to heart But I guess there is no room for that anymore. Leticia said I had to be managed by you, right? Yes, thats right Haru is no good because hes a small fry ! But I beat you in the battle. Can we still say the same thing after seeing this result? that is Im not Leticias. Im I belong to myself! There was no reply from her side. Leticia seems to have no words and was just lost in a daze. Well, from today were not childhood friends or party mates anymore, were just strangers. Finally, saying such words I was prepared to part forever. I turned my back on Leticia and returned to the city. This time as I left, she made no screams. She didnt try to call me back. CH 8 [Leticia POV] Heal I used healing magic to heal my tattered body. Being a hero, I can use some forms of basic healing magic, though its not as effective as the magic of that of a priest or a saint. Harus stupid spell that was filled to the brim with magic power had caused a lot of damage. But I have recovered a little. The burning pain that was running through my body was now somewhat relieved compared to before. Though, I can still feel my body roaring in pain, but But I cant care about that now. Stupid No way I would allow Haru to leave the party For him to get out of my control I cannot allow that. I gritted my teeth as I chose to ignore the pain that rang in my body. Haru! baka ! I cant forgive you for doing such a cheeky thing. Why wont you consider me. I cant forgive you! Haru is mine and mine alone. No one other than me shall touch him. No one is allowed to hurt him either.. Only I am allowed why? Why! Why .?.. Why am I so obsessed with Haru? Haru is a small fry weakling, and he is so useless that it went to the point of him being of no help The Heros party shouldnt even tolerate someone as crappy as him. But I had always kept Haru close to me. I had never allowed anyone to hurt him. I kept him by my side all the time. Is that the reason I want him?? why? Has it become a habit of mine? Ugh !? My heart hurts. It hurts so much that it feels like it would break. Why is it like this so suddenly It is whe I was thinking about Harul, that my heart started to hurt its his fault. I wonder if hes some kind of plague for me? Kuuuu I returned to the inn of the city, as my steps fluttered. My footing was uneven as I was having a hard time walking. But the burns on my body werent as painful as compared to the plague in my chest. It was a luxury inn but it seemed so empty. It had nothing to do with Haru. He has left me forever for the rest of his life. My friends who were drinking on the first floor panicked when they saw me in tatters. All I could do was clear out a fake smile as I told them that nothing serious had happened. I had tried to forcefully bring back the weakling called Haru, but he refused and it ended up in us against each other in a battle. And I lost I possibly cant talk about my loss to them. I went back to my room and removed all of my equipment. All I could do now after my loss was to fall back to bed. Had Haru been here I would have given him an earful. I stared at the ceiling lost in a daze. My heart still hurts. What is this why do I have a heartache whenever I think of Haru ! Maybe I was asking myself the wrong question. To be precise, why did I control Haru through all of these years? I had no answers.. The more I thought about it, the worse my heartache got. If Haru is the one who is causing it then dont think about him. I have to forget about Haru. After all, he is just a small fry. This time he happened to beat me, but it was just a fluke. He must have used something unfair. If we fight it out again, I will definitely win. Next time, the next time after the next time everytime, I should win. There is no reason to have such a weakling like Haru in my party. I dont need to think about him. After thisIf he tries to come back to the party, I will just ignore it. I wont be as benevolent to him the next time. I was kind enough to him yet he repaid me like this. That should be it It was at that point that I realized Why am I ! No matter what no matter how much I try to forget about Harul or to not care about him, I cant help but keep coming back to him. I just cant stop thinking about him. I just naturally start thinking about Haru every time. Even now. I have a terrible heartache and its all his fault that I am like this. Forgetting him would make things better and yet I cant help myself from reminiscing about Hull. Why is this Ah Something struck. Suddenly my thoughts become clearer. The heartache also disappeared. I remembered the truth, albeit temporarily. Stupid I am I cant help but think of this person all the time. The one who I love more than anyone else. Im sorry Im sorry Im sorry, Haru Tears spilled out of the dam unconditionally.. I did such terrible things to Haru. I hurt him and said bad things to him and laughed heartily at his every failure. It was the worst thing that I could do. Its but understandable for Haru to get angry, give me cold shoulder, and leave the party. Ive been doing terrible things every day Even after all of that if someone still stays at the party, he would be nothing less of a saint.. But Haru is an ordinary person. He might have tremendous talent, but still he is an ordinary person he was no saint. He Laughs and he cries just like everyone else does it was no wonder that he would be hurt by my actions.. I should understand that better than anyone else, but I But this is also for Harus benefit. No matter how terrible I might have been, it wasnt wrong. I do not deny my actions so far. Rather, I affirm that it was absolutely necessary. What were they necessary? that is If I dont control him Haru will die More than any treasure in the world. And above the highest honors of the world. Harus life is more important than anything else. He is my irreplaceable treasure. So no matter how much he dislikes it. I will continue as usual. I will continue to do horrible things to Haru, even if he is hurt. And I would continue to treasure him. I wont forget him. I pat myself as I place my palm over my heart. I I have no regrets! And I will never regret it! It is something that must be done! !! !! Wait, Haru Ill catch you again ! And this time Ill help you So then It was then, my physical strength and energy reached the limit My consciousness faded away and I flopped onto my bed as I fell asleep. CH 9 Welcome back, Haru.. As soon as I returned back to the inn, the first thing that greeted me was Alices beautiful smile. But I couldnt help but get confused as I grimaced over the event. But it seems that only I found the situation unusual. Looking at me like that, Alice tilted her head at my mysterious reaction. Whats wrong? Oh no It was the kind of feeling that was impossible to explain. When was the last time when I was welcomed back ? For some reason, it felt very nostalgic. ThanksIm back Yes It was at that moment my legs lost all their strength. The exhaustion from the battle with Leticia may have come back to haunt me. THe world spinned around me and before I knew it I collapsed on as I was as my face threatened to slam on the floor Haru! But before I could get myself more injured, Alice took hold of me. Are you okay? What happened. You arent injured, are you?. Well its a long story. Yeah, thats fine. Im curious but Ill leave it to you if you want to share later. For now you just focus on taking rest. Is that really ok? Yes, definitely. Thank you I was already at my limit and was barely holding onto my consciousness finally my body found its release Good night Haru.. I fell asleep, embraced by Alices gentle voice. DDDDDDDDDD [Next morning.] Im sorry! After we moved to the dining room on the first floor, I bowed to Alice and apologized. Even though I was in the middle of forming a party together, I acted on my own instead. When I think Im back on it, I should have slept on my own To have the disposition of using the same room as Alice who was like a stranger I had just met. It was indeed careless of me. Wait! Why are you apologizing? But Alice was too astonished She had no idea why I was apologizing to her.. I explained the details to her, causing her to widen her eyes. But she shook her head. Dont you care? I asked almost unconsciously. If there is something that I dont like, then Ill rather say it upfront. So when I dont say anything, I dont really mind much of anything about it. So, dont worry. Even if you say so Lets talk about something more constructive. I didnt really know much about what she meant. Constructive? Lets talk about our party Ah! You seem to have completely forgotten about it with a face like that, havent you? she continued, thats really bad. Its true. Too many things happened so much that I forgot. I was being oppressed by Letica. But then I broke up with her. And after that I had to confront Leticia in a battle as well to the point of falling unconscious.. Hmph, I have been thinking about it since yesterday What do you think of it Haru? By the way, if its okay with you, then I want to be in a party with you. I yeah. I also want to be at the same party as Alice. Alice laughed as my voice stuttered confirming my thoughts. Both of us were trying to find out if we are a good match or not, but it is worthless. It was not about just a perfect match. It was just fun to be with Alice and as long as I was with her I could laugh naturally So, if possible, I would like to continue to be with her. It was a nice experience that I had not had the chance to cherish for years. It might be technically wrong for me to form a party with Alice for that reason alone. But However, for me personally? I think that it is an important point for us to be together. After all, just a day before I was at the best party with the strongest party mate possible. And yet I chose to banish myself from it. . Oh, thank you, I am happy that you feel the same.. Ye But is it really okay for me? I tilted my head not really sure what she was getting at here. Was it not good for us to party for some reason. Yes? Im a level 22 sword fighter which is quite a low rank. From Harus point of view, I dont think you would have any for a swordsman at my level. Alice is best, I answered immediately cutting her off. Alices eyes widened astonishingly. It may seem like an exaggeration, but I was saved thanks to Alice, so I hope you will continue to be with you. Thats what I feel. I see.I understand. Then, please take care of me from now on. Likewise We shook our hands as we shared a heart laugh together. DDDDDDDDDD One must strike when the iron is hot. We chose to do the same. After deciding to form a party, we immediately headed to the Adventurers Guild and reported to the management about it. Of course since the guild encourages individuals to form parties, they were more than accepting. There was no particular problem, and the party was officially formed after being accepted safely. Because its such a good event, why dont we try looking for a request? No I thought it was a good idea, but Alice rejected me immediately.. Since we have officially organized a party, there are many things other things too that we need to do. Likewhat kind? Huh? Dont you know? I couldnt help but sigh. I dont know Im sorry. I lack the knowledge that adventurers take for granted. By spending time with Alice, I realized that I lacked all forms of fundamental knowledge. So I have no idea what Alice meant when she said about things that must be done. Hmm Im sorry! I said yesterday that you dont have to force yourself to tell me anything, but Im curious. I am still wondering what happened to Haru. Id like to talk about it in the future, if possible. Thats right Yeah. I wanted you to know anyway, so its just right. You dont have to apologize. Thank you. Lets go back to the inn and talk. It seems Ill have to explain a lot about it today. Its a long story. When the troublesome routine for the day was decided and we were about to leave the Adventurers Guild I found you, Haru! The door of the Adventurers Guild banged open and it was Leticia who rushed in. CH 10 Leticia rushed up to me as if to recreate the scene that had happened just a day before.. She was glaring daggers at me. Had she had some kind of power in her eyes, I would have already had a hole in my face. Guild officials who were aware of the recent uproar got really noisy whispering amongst themselves. Such unusual behavior by her happening twice around the same person. Couldnt have been a coincidence right? Meanwhile, Leticia grabbed onto my hand and I have something to discuss. Come with me. Leticia tried to pull me outside. As expected, it seemed that she wouldnt be repeating the same mistakes as she had done before. However, whether or not I obediently follow her is another story. Come on, walk quickly. What are you waiting for. Really, Haru is such crap I refuse. What?!? I dont know who you are But isnt it too unscrupulous for you to suddenly pull me around and tell me to go outside? Hey Haru, you, why do you pretend you dont know me !? Doing that Oh, is that because of what you told me yesterday? We are strangers from now on. Thats what I had told her but Leticia looked at me with regret in her shaking pupils, as if she remembered the words of the other day. Obviously, I have to be polite in tone UwU, thats because I lost last time UGhh ! It surprisingly seemed that Leticia was disciplined compared to her usual self. Or maybe she just didnt want to make a scene in front of the public eyes. Her benevolent mask was something she had kept up for quite a few years now. Huh I couldnt help but sigh. I turned towards Alice. Im sorry to delay our business. But can I talk to her for a moment? Its okay but can I be with you? Eh? Alice too? Im a party member, right? Then I cant leave Haru alone in a pinch. A sweet smile formed on her lips. And as if to mirror that a similar smile formed on my lips as well. No words could explain how thankful I was to her. AhThank you DDDDDDDDDD After that, I moved to the park with Alice and Leticia. The sun was overhead up the horizon, but there were no children adoninig it. It was as empty as ever. Why? Are things like this? I could only wonder It was convenient for me anyway, so I didnt dare to look for a reason. So? I turned to Leticia. If she had to say something it had to be now. Her mouth was left open in a daze with her face turning pale.. Why is Haru like that to me If you stick to the rottne attitude that youve always had, theres nothing for us to talk here. My decision was firm. I wasnt gonna look back.. If Leticia doesnt change anymore, if she continues to be a tyrant As I said the other day, I will too just become another person. I too would change. And after that we would forever be strangers. No matter what she says it wont change my mind.. No matter what she does I wont let her stop me. I will just ignore everything. Hmm !? Leticia seemed to be basking in regret with her downturned mouth as a sigh left from it. As she seemed to feel the seriousness in the air her face pinched up. I was wondering if abusive words would pop out of her rotten mouth again But surprisingly I didnt turn away and waited for it to come. There was this curiosity no it was something else that wanted to know about it. I understand why Haru left my party. Im not convinced and I still wont allow it, but I understand now what I have been doing Leticia? But anyway! Ill just accept the fact that Haru is leaving my part. party. Well, then were strangers. Thats it. Goodbye. I am done yet, you idiot! Dont decide on your own, Haru! Has this childhood friend transgressed to the point that she can now no longer live without ranting? Even if we are strangers? I couldnt help but be amazed I thought that there was a part of me that wanted me to listen to her words now and consider it, so I decided to listen to it. But she is struck in the same loop forever with no way out. The main thing is yet to come! Main thing? Haru might have left my party. Its okay I understand. So, then Ill join Harus party this time! What?! Words fell out of my mouth unable to make a sound as I stumbled on my step. Hmm, honor me! Im the hero, wont it be great grace if I join in a party like yours? You should shed tears, kneel, and thank God as if you were begging to him for his grace! Oh I see, Good bye Wait, didnt you listen to what I said? I dont have to agree to it now, do I? Gugagaga !!!! Leticia made a whimpering voice like a broken toy. I completely disregarded Leticias whimpering which the old me would have probably failed to do. Its strangely powerful and scary. Is it all good now? Alice asked. She had been watching patiently for a long time, and only opened her mouth for the first time when she knew that I was done with Leticia. What! Who are you? Im talking to Haru right now, so fuck off Leticia glared daggers at her with an intent to kill. But suprisingly Alice didnt even moved an inch. Im Alice Sprite. Adventurer. Nice to meet you. Eh? Ah yeah. Nice to meet you Alice smiled a friendly smile towards Leticia, who but barked like a mad dog. While Leticia seemed rotten and undeniably arrogant, Alice had a touch of a mature side to her.. Leticia seemed to be wanting to get rid of the poison called Alice, but even so Leticia responded to her handshake rather obediently. I thought that maybe I could understand the situation if I listened to the conversation between the two of you, but its still difficult and confusing. It would really be helpful if you could explain the general situation maybe? Maybe Did Alice open her mouth to act as a cushioning material to direct the topic away when she saw me and Leticia about to collide again? I thought it was so before. But now I am no longer sure of that. Welp, sooner or later I had to explain the situation to Alice anyway. I cant expect her to trust me as a party member otherwise. actually Thanks to Alice and her polite attention to me that never tried to judge anyway, I was able to explain to her my relationship with Leticia. It felt like a weight off my shoulders. Maybe Alice wasnt like the others and would actually believe it? Hmm, I see. After hearing the explanation, Alice nodded with a convincing face several times. Simply put, her tyrant is completely out of control, and she seems to be too particular about it directing it to Haru only? But its like even though I understand the situation it doesnt really make much sense. Why is she so fixated? Is there anything more to it than just wanting to bully? Alice muttered to herself. That was probably the first words that she spoke that seemed to judge the situation with a calm mind. Alice? Oh, Im sorry. I was thinking a little. Um can I call you Ms. Leticia? Okay, but Ill call you by your name, Alice. Yeah, nice to meet you Perhaps it was because we were the only ones and Leticia wanted to join our party in the first place. Leticia didnt hold back. She exposed her true character to Alice that was devoid of any outward masks. The benevolent and kind hero was nowhere to be found. As usual, the rotten persona looked natural for her quite in contrast to her hero self. First of all, I have a question If you join our party, what happens to your companions in your existing party? No problem, because Ive already separated from them. Huh !? Did I just hear something outrageous again? Everyone was over level 40? And you broke up from them? It would be ridiculous to hope for them to transfer all at once, isnt it? And, its not convenient for me to attend Harus party alone. you Why do you care so much for me? I dont understand and get confused. Who knows? Maybe she wants to join my party all alone so that she could abuse me all she wants without any barriers preventing her. She had to keep her angelic appearance in front of her previous party members after all. But in the end the question still persists. Why? Just why. Why me of all people? Alice was aware of my stupefied gaze. She turned towards me. Haru, leave this to me But You cant really talk because youre too emotional, right? Thats okay. You dont have to worry. Leave this to me. And I am a member of the party too so I can take care of this. I nodded. Now that I think about it. Alice has to have an equal say in regards to whether she wants the hero to join the pary. It was her party too after all. Okay, Ill leave it to you. As Alice says, Im not confident that I can talk calmly with Leticia. Leticia would be the same no matter what happens between us.. What is her purpose? What the hell do you want from me? Wasnt those years of tormenting enough? Im sorry. I cant figure it out and cant even take the trouble. I want Alice to do it. I am tired. Then the next question. If you join our party, can you stop harassing Haru from now on? An unscrupulous silence followed between the two of them. Hmm, it seems you have no reply. Do you have an answer? No comment HMm At first glance, Leticia seemed to be somewhat secretive? While Alice on the other hand seemed to have caught onto an inkling onto something as she pondered over it poking her cheek.. Then I would continue to ask. Why were you doing terrible things to Haru? No Comment Again, it was the same. Both of you used to be good friends, yet why did you have to do this? No Comment Again. What are you planning to do to him, if you are allowed to attend our party? No comment Again and again. I wanted to pull off my hair. But Oh yeah, I understand. Alice nodded, yeah, as if she was convinced Understand? What do you understand? Damn, what is there to even understand here. Contrary to my emotions her face bloomed to a reallly refreshing smile. Unfortunately. After the questions and getting a gist of it, the result did not end up with what you wanted. Its unfortunate but we cant let you join us. I pray for Leticias success in the future. Why !? She screamed at the top of her voice. After being refused to join the party, Leticia seemed unable to be quiet and shouted with a raging force. I somehow understood it now. that you werent bullying Harull just because you didnt like him or were sick of him. Neither of them was the actual reason. Leticia raised his brows seemingly suspicious of her claims. Is that so? Haru says that you have changed. But my hunch is that you have probably not changed at all, neither now nor in the past, but your priorities have changed, so you started to harass poor Haru. Thats how it seems to me at least. Really? Did Alice figure out something. If her priorities had changed If so what is the reason? But I cant let you join the party nor hurt Haru any more. Ill continue to do the same. I am sorry but I cant support this and let you do as you please. I have a duty to protect Haru as his companion and it goes both ways as Haru has a duty to protect me as well. And you Leticia are but hims enemy. Guu !!! Leticia is so angry that she tries to reach for the sword on her waist but she didnt pull it out Ill leave it here for today, but Haru is mine !!! She screamed as she stormed off. Leticia left, leaving behind such confusing lines, as she seemed to endure and control her anger at the very last minute. Good grief I thought I broke up with her, but it doesnt seem that easy. Whats wrong with her? Welp, lets devise some measures first. CH 11 Me and Alice stopped by the Adventurers Guild again. It was a pity. But I couldnt accept a guild request the day before because I got involved with Leticia. What should we do? Is there any request that Haru wants to take? Hmm, thats right .. I have. Oh, I remembered. Leave it to me right now. After you would probably be making bad decisions. My ears fliched Why is that? Because Haru doesnt know too much of the common sense of this world. Well, when you say it like that I cant really rebuke. I cant argue. Im not saying that for the rest of the future Can you leave it to me to decide which request to accept for now? Of course, I wont decide it on my own, and I will listen to Harus opinion too. It was a good suggestion. At least she took care of my feelings unlike a certain someone. Somehow whenever I am with Alice I never feel bad about anything and I would tribute it to he amiable personality. Okay, Ill leave it to you then. Thank you And I have another thing to ask What is it? Hmm What should I do about it? At the back of the guild the door leading to the staff room was slightly open. One could only wonder if it was on purpose but I knew the truth As from there, there is someone staring at me at all times, following my every movement and every action. The stalker didnt even move an inch as she stared at me intently. I couldnt even look back as it was too scary. But I knew who it was. Leticia. Um what is she doing? She couldnt make you agree to it easily, but I think she has no plans to withdraw I think she decided to fall back and monitor me from nearby, right? Hmm She has a pretty nasty personality. Its like she had become a stalker from the kind and benevolent hero.. I want her to just leave me alone. You dont have to worry about it. As long as she is just watching from a distance and not doing anything suspicious, it wont hurt you would it? Even if you say so Im really worried. One cannot let a stalker be and allow her to follow him at all times. As long as Alice was around, probably nothing bad can happen in public. But what if I am alone? I cant help with the unease in my heart. Someday, she would stop bothering us, dont worry. she continued paying no heed to Leticia Hmm, this one looks nice. Lets accept this request. Oh Alice pulled the request bill and headed for the receptionist. But at that moment, I felt like I could hear someone gnashing their teeth against each other.. DDDDDDDDDD A few days later. Im sorry Im still worried. I cant bear this anymore Thats rightits getting absurd. Since then, Leticia had continued to keep me under her surveillance. I couldnt help but have chills running down my spine. It was not just limited to the Adventurers Guild When walking in the city. When shopping at a store. Even when Im eating at the inn. Furthermore, even when I was sleeping, I felt like she was stalking me from somewhere How could I sleep like that? We were completely out of sleep. Je Im having lunch on the first floor of the inn right now Leticia was sitting at a table a little further away and staring at me. At first I thought I wouldnt care, but if she continues to do this, Im sure Ill go insane. Well ? What should I do? Speaking directly to Leticia doesnt seem to be very effective On the contrary, ther more we talked to her about it the more the situation seemed to be getting worse from there, I felt like it wasnt going to get better by words alone. So is there nothing we could do? I cant believe, the person who was awarded the title of hero was a stalker Do you want me to compare with patience? Until the other side gives up which I dont think is going to happen, this will continue to plague me at all times. I havent slept for days. Is it that serious? Im sorry. When I think about it, it cant seem to calm myself down, so Ill just cant fall asleep. I feel sorry for you. HaHaHa both of us could do nothing other than giving a dry laugh. Hmm better yet, why dont you go to places that Leticia doesnt know bam Wait. Thats it! Alice responded greatly to the spilled tweet. Cut it down, speak quietly! Or else Leticia will hear everything. Lets leave this city and go far away, and Leticia may give up I dont think it would be realistic for her to follow behind you in that case. She would be giving up in no time. That might be no, maybe thats the only possible option. Yeah. I feel that it is the most realistic idea. There is no reason for me to stay in this city neither a family nor a friend. I have nothing now. There were times when I thought that it would be better to start from scratch at a new place. But I hadnt really acted on that idea. But It might be a good idea. But what about Leticia? I think its difficult to sneak out of the city if I am being stalked at all times. Leave it to me. Is it okay to agree if I manage this for the time being? Oh, I do. I will leave it to you.. Okay, then Leticia! What!? What does she think she is doing? Before I knew it, Alice called out to Leticia. Leticia comes to our table, with somewhat quivering steps. Oh, if it is not Haru and Alice. Isnt it strange that we are meeting in a place like this. After all, Its not like I was following you or watching over you. Yes, yes. I like that cheap tsundere. Or maybe I mean, youre more of a yandere. Yand !? Anyway lets talk. Hey what? Maybe Haru was going to come back to me? I wonder if he finally realized who his master is. Alice shook his head. No, not at all Gigigigi ! Leticia naturally gnashed her teeth at my prompt response. It was Alice who spoke next. Would you like to duel again? duel? Youve had a duel with us before, right? Then, lets have another duel. So, this time well settle clearly and firmly. Dont complain about it this time. Hey Now you are making an interesting proposal. I thought you were only a female fox who was leaching onto Haruu, but it looks like you can talk of business too.. Ill praise you for that. Before I knew it, I was told that I was actually being fooled by Alice Why is that so? I am aware that she was a stranger a few days ago. But even so she had never hurt me till now. As usual, Leticias thought circuit is unclear. Were ready for tomorrow. Its better to be early in the morning. The place is the plain at the end of the south gate. Ill be the witness and the referee. Of course, I will no show any form of favouritism. I swear to God. I promise. How about something like this? Yeah yes, thats okay. That would work out. Its decided. Dont run away tomorrow, okay? Thats my line. Its impossible for a small fry like Haru to beat me. Ill prove that the last time was just a coincidence and a miracle. Haru, watch your neck and wait. You are my thing! HAhahaha Having been given a duel promise, Leticia was in a good mood and left the inn with a laugh. Im sure were ready for tomorrow. It seems unlikely that she would continue to monitor me after this. What are you going to do, Alice? As I said right now. But even if I win the duel, I dont think Leticia will listen to what I say obediently. It would be the same old loop. The promise of the previous duel was also violated I dont know if I can even win twice consecutively Its okay. she broke her promise first, so neither do we have any obligation or duty to keep ours. What? Are you going to cheat in the duel? Hmm, no we wont do that. But what Im thinking about DDDDDDDDDD [The next day.] Me and Alice Hmm, its a nice view Thats right. We were swayed by a carriage and were looking at the scenery leisurely. The destination was a different city. No way, I wouldnt have thought that we would ditch the duel and move to another city in the meantime If we hadnt done that, would you be able to leave the city safely and surely? Leticia seems to be too focused on you and was pretty straightforward, so I thought it would be relatively easy to deceive her. That was really cruel though. Just because someone is straightforward to be taking advantage of that Somehow the Alice now is like a villain of a fairy tale. Oh, excuse me, Please. Call me a genius girl with a brain. Should you say that yourself? Talk about self proclamation Ehehe Her smile was too bright for me. I couldnt help but smile along. Well, even if you are villainous, you are still a beautiful girl. Somehow I blurted out. What happened? Did she got mad? If you can say that kind of thing all of a sudden, you are likely to be a mess. I wonder Leticias actions come from a desire for possessiveness and exclusivity. I wonder if these two things are related? What are you talking about? I was more confused than I could possibly be. Desire? Exclucivity? Leticia is but someone who is rotten to the core. There was no point brooding over a reasoning that I dont even understand. Come on, what are you talking about? Alice was completely out of focus. She seemed not to be able to hear me anymore. Anyway I was able to shake off Leticia and set out for a new city. I dont know though how long this blissful freedom would last I couldnt help but feel unease. All I want now is to enjoy my freedom. Alice She was finally able to hear. what? Lets do our best together Yes, of course What is waiting for me in this new world? I feel a burning excitement in my chest It would be only later that I did realize that I was fated to meet Leticia again who was once my childhood friend. CH 12 It was early in the morning. Im waiting on the plains just outside the south gate, but Haru has no signs of showing up at all. Hmph, he is really courageous to keep his master waiting. That bad dog still needs to be retrained properly. I have to give him a mindful today. I told Haru that I wanted to join his party, but the truth was that I really missed him But thats just a temporary suffering that I have to face. Eventually, Haru will come back to me. Because thats what is supposed to happen. Thats what is written in our fate. Well, I wont forgive him easily though. To have let me suffer just because you wanted to fool around? Ill give you plenty of mindfuls to put you back on track. But to realize that I have to win todays duel. Last time I fell unconscious but Yeah, thats probably something wrong. Something might have been mixed in my food. This time I was extra careful. Because something like that couldnt be happening right? As a hero, it is impossible for me to lose to that failure of a wizard Haru. Haru is just a level 7 small fry wizard. On the other hand, I am the chosem hero of level 55. Not to mention the experience I have built up over the years. Something that Haru could never match up to. It should be an easy victory for me, now that I am on my prime. Last time, I lost, probably because Haru played some tricks. Well, I know. Who am I fooling here but myself? Haru isnt really a level 7 small fry wizard. I had checked it a really long time ago, so it may have changed now He must have a really high level. Might be even above me. No. That is not acceptable. Unacceptable. It is something that my pride wouldnt allow to even think it twice But thats a trivial matter. Whether Haru is strong or not has nothing to do with it. As long as I win the duel everthing should be fine. But it would really problematic if the world were to know that Haru has tremendous power. If that happens, more people will try to rely on Haru. Haru is a really stupid person. He would just try to do his best for everyone. If that happens that? What will happen if he does so? Um Ugh I cant think. Both my head and heart hurts. Is it food poisoning again? When I try to think deeply about Haru, my head hurts. I have to stop thinking. and Haru is mine Only my desire to possess him is what remained behind. Anyway Harus guy is really slow, isnt he? Its not any more early in the morning morning, its quite late now. Hmph, considering him its understandable. After all, Haru is a mess. He cant even keep his promise properly and is already late. Hes really useless to the point of laughable. After all, he cant really do anything without me. Harus independence is as much as a bird living on the ground despite being out of the cage never being able to fly. It s simply impossible. After all, he is useless without me. I have to control and train him properly when he gets back to me. But isnt it too late? DDDDDDDDDD How long will you keep me waiting !!!? The morning is already over The day has passed The sun had sunked below the horizon And now its night. In the pitch black darkness, I was alone in the plain. Naturally, there is no sign of Haru ever appearing. Haru, no way Is he lost? Its somewhat possible Hes a really fragile guy that needs to be taken care of just like children. Its possible that he got lost on his way to come here and went to a completely different place instead. The meeting place is just was to pass through the south gate and then to walk straight I wonder if Harus head is like a lizard that he cant even understand that much? No, its rude to the lizards to compare him with them. Im sure hes more like a gecko. [TL: I dont really know what this gecko thing is. Biology wasnt my strong suit. Here is the original in case you mught know : äȡK͡] Even so this is so bad. Stupid Haru! It was getting chilly at night. I wrapped my arms around myself as I still waited in case he might really find his way here. AChhoooo! I couldnt help but sneeze as the cold got the better of me. What should I do ? If I wait like this, Ill catch a cold. But this time I have to win the duel and bring Haru back to me If he thinks that I have become afraid of fighting and have left when he come to find me.. that would be certainly not good. I would cause a bug misunderstanding. I dont like it As I wondered what to do I was locked in a dead lock and couldnt move on to the next course of action. Should I try to ask my party mates By the way, who were they anyway? They were some adventurers of high rank of level 40 or higher, but I dont really remember much other than that. And I am not really particularly interested either. I dont even remember their name. Well, thats okay. Its Haru I want. Its really getting late though Maybe he is flirting with that woman, right? Haru is totally empty from the head, so if someone says something sweet to him, hes likely to be be swept away. And he is at the inn with that woman Ugh! Ahhhhh, Im just making up a lot of crap !!! Thats cant be happening. Haru is mine. That is fate. I swept my sword in the air as it hit and I wiped out the slime that came near me with a single blow. Huh. That was a little refreshing. Ah It was then that I realized that there were water droplets on my cheeks. I looked up at the night sky, it had began to rain. The downpour was getting heavier and heavier Ah, its cold but I want Haru I was drenched by the rain and my clothes got soaked as I waited and waited DDDDDDDDDD Achooo, Kehokeho ! A sneeze. Memories flashed across my eyes. What happened? I was drenched in the rain and immediately caught on a cold. My body being too hot to move I fell asleep or rather unconscious on the plans itself under the rain It was only then that I realize that I had made a promise. Cough Haru ! Cough, Cough !!! While coughing, I vaguely think of Haru. Huar is mine. That is my firm belief. But what were Harus opinion ? The relationship between that I and Haru share is Uh Shit I pulled my drenched hair. The phrase that catching a cold weakens one heart is indeed true. I learned it today the hard way. Haru were childhood friends so I I want to be with Haru whatever I do no matter how much you dislike me Its just you I want. Then Such sweet words spilled out of my mouth as I muttered them unknowingly. Indeed, that was what I wanted. But those words of confession melted into the air and disappeared without being heard by anyone. CH 13 Phew! Its such a relief. We havent arrived in the city yet. It would take some time as we picked up a distant city so that Leticia has no chance of ever finding us. But even in a week only half the path was traversed. But the road ahead seems to be better and off of any dangers. Maybe we will arrive in a day or two. Waaah. The vibration of the carriage seemed to cause drowsiness. I am a victim of it myself. And now it was Alice next door who yawned. Im sleepy Isnt it okay to sleep? But then I wont be able to sleep at night. If I move around a lot in the morning, I can sleep soundly irrespectative of anything else but here thats not the case when I am in the middle of a carriage trip like this, I dont get much of an opportunity to move around. So thats it? Yead Yawns Hey, Haru. Lets talk something? Maybe that would help. Even if you say that I cant think of it. I was oblivious to the whole world because of Leticia. But now? Now that I am free. I dont even have any topics to discuss. My knowledge is just that limited. I have something to ask you then, is it okay? There was indeed something that I wanted to inquire and it was probably something more than driving off sleep. Yeah, please do. How did you spend her time at your previous party? Ive only heard that you had left that party for some reason, so Im wondering what youd been up to. A few days ago, it was Alice who asked me the same question. But now it was my turn instead. Ah Her face flushed up all of a sudden. She looked awkward as she sluttered in her seat. Was it something that I shouldnt ask? Thats a Secret ? What is that? Thats certainly not fair. It was a joke, its not big enough to tell. I just broke up with the previous party for a reason and then I found Haru when I was looking for a new party. Thats it. Is that so? thats right Hmm? Somehow, it felt like Alice was lying. There was no basis to it, it was just a hunch, but I could felt like that. What was it that she was hiding? To the point of lying about it in order to hide it. But, I dont really want to force her to reveal it, so I ended the discussion here. Leticia, I hope that you can handle yourself well. Thats right. Alice laughs and I laugh too. It would be a sight to watch once Leticia realizes that she was made a fool of. But, even in such a situation, I cant help but ended up thinking about Leticia. Ironic isnt it? For some reason, I cannot completely ignore her. Whenever she had called me out at the very least I had heard what she had to say for old times sake. I cant just throw away the memories of the past. I am just not that kind of person. And somewhere in my heart, I may be hoping for conversion but not the Letica of today. I wanted to talk one last time to the old Leticia. Ugh, its annoying. Im so hyppocitical. I am not sure about anything myself. Why does these things have to happen to me? I How should I deal with Leticia? Haru! Alices sharp voice rang out as I was lost in a daze. As I followed her line of sight, my eyes fell upon another carriage at the end of the highway. In addition, there were multiple shadows that looked like monsters surrounding it on all sides. What should we do Lets help! As expected of you. I flet that you might just say that! Alice and I got off the carriage and ran together towards the monsters. DDDDDDDDDD My name is Anju Autumn. A daughter and saint of the lord of the fortified city of Arland. God has given me a mission to save powerless people, and I have been encouraged for the same every day. The mission this time is to quell the plague that has occurred in the villages under the jurisdiction of Arland. But when I arrived at the village, the village was already to the point of no return. However, thanks to the efforts of my friend and escort Nine Sinfonia and his subordinates, we succeeded in successfully quelling the plague. Me? My power is not a big deal. All I provide is a little but of help. After completing the mission, we were about to return to Arland, but what! We were attacked by monsters on our way back home. It was dangerous as it was to be attacked during travels but Our the opponent was a level 45 death ant. Although it looked like a giant ant, its power was strong enough for even experienced adventurers to fail against its plight. It was not easy to get rid of. Whats more? Death Ants act in groups. We were surrounded by over 10 death ants oh my God. Yes, I could only pray to my God as I prepared myself for my death. For even he was unlikely to save me today. Gyaa !? An escort soldier collapses on Death Ants fangs. It was over. Ku Sacred Breath! I tried my best as I hastily healed the wounds of all of the escort soldiers using advanced healing magic. However, in the meantime, other people were also getting hurt we were being push back by the horde of monsters. Fairy Circle! I had to use all of my cards to save everyone. So, I used advanced healing magic with a wide range to heal the wounds of all of my companions at once. But no! The enemys attack was tremendous and my recovery cannot catch up. So much for being a saint. Lady, we will act as a decoy! In the meantime, please escape to Arland! Nine, dont say that! Ill never forgive you for saying such things. We will all live and go back to Arland together! But for us to win is A monster is heading this way! Twin bolts! Nine skillfully manipulated the daggers in both hands and tore the Death Ants head. Nines level is 33. Although there are differences among indivisuals, and the same went for Nene. She has solid power and experience, and she can also use powerful advanced skills. However Gee! The wound on Death Ants head closed and regenerated in the blink of an eye. Was it all but futile? Not only does it have a high attack power, but it also had an amazing regenerative power that it would not die unless one destroys the core in the center of its torso Indeed, What a terrifying monster! As sooon as I had encountered such a monster my destiny had been but sealed forever. But I wont let the Nine die! Nine, take your subordinates and fall back behind me! Lady !? What on earth are you going to do? You are a saint, thats not even a close combat class to fight as a vanguard, how can you attack it No way ! No way can I attack it I will use self-destruction magic. Thats the only attack magic that the saint has to self destruct themselves to support their teammates. A self-destruct magic that showers a heavenly wrath instead of giving someone life. Quite in contrast to the saints usual skills. With it I can help everyone escape. Dont do that! Dont do that! If its a sacrifice that is needed, it should be us, not the lady !!! Thank you, Nine. You are a very kind person. And you are my dearest friend. Please let me help my friend in need this once. Lady !!!! Nine was suppressed by another escort soldier. They also understood that there was no other way for everyone to escape alive. Or probably they chose to be selfish and want to live? Either way it worked for me. I headed to the flock of Death Ants Focus my magical power on my forehead my mana was ready to redirected into the spell Death Ants began flocking towards me as I waited for the right moment. Finally, the last thought that came to my mind. I wanted to eat the pan cakes made by Nine again. But I had made up my mind and began channeling the spell for self-destruction Fire! Huh !? Suddenly, a huge flame flew. The flames raging like creatures swallow a swarm of death ants. However, Death Ant is highly resistant to fire. There is also a report that it withstood a heat of up to 3000 degrees, so defeating Death Ant with fire magic is It cant it shouldnt but why? The Death Ants were screaming in pure agony. The body, which was supposed to have a strong resistance to flames, burned out in the blink of an eye. Soon after, as their bodies failed to keep up with the damage and couldnt regenarate the nucleus was also burned out The swarm of Death Ants was wiped out with the rising ashes. What on earth what ? Did someone help me? However, defeating Desant with flame magic How much mana would be needed to make that possible? Was it even possible? Even using advanced fire magic usually does not produce such a result. What kind of magic is this now? Are you okay!? the voice of a man resounded in my ears Ah As I looked back I found a man as tall as me. Staeling a glance of that that person, I felt a strange sensation in my chest. CH 14 Are you injured? Even though I politely called out to the girl who was serving as a vanguard, there was no response from her. Was she okay? I couldnt help but be worried. I thought I had made it in time but I stared at her waiting for a response, but none came around. Hello? Ah The girl shouted, as if her soul had just returned to her body. Um what is this feeling? Its a mysterious feeling that I have never tasted before but suprisingly its very comforting. what? Ah Im sorry. I was a bit surprised, and maybe you were the one who helped me? I wonder if thats the case. I havent really done much. I had observed a lot of fights before through the years that I spent supporting Leticia and her party members. Even though my knowledge is highly insufficient, I can somehow make guesses in these kinds of scenarios. The surge of mana that was being emanated from the girl was indeed strong enough to defeat all of the ants despite of my assistance. I just happened to steel her kill as I acted wtihout thinking much. Thats not it! Without your magic, I would have what kind of magic did you use now? It even killed a fire-resistant Death Ant even though it has the appearance of fire magic Hmm? Isnt it a normal flame spell? Flame? Are you referring to that beginner fire magic flame? Yes. I can only use beginner tier magic. Um oh, I see. That must be a joke. You must have your secrets. I was too smitten as I was on the verge of death that I couldnt help but ask. I need to calm myself down. Thank you for your aid. Youre a very kind person. Why do I feel like there is some kind of misunderstanding here? Young lady! Haru! When I tried to correct the misunderstanding, two voices shout out interjecting us with one of them being Alice along with another one. A unknown woman rushed in there. Lady, are you okay !? I saw a tremendously huge flames, but thpse flock of Death Ants Im fine. This person helped me. Thank you for helping the young lady Ive seen your advanced fire magic explosion, albeit from a distance. Im sure youre a well-known wizard. No, Im not a big fish at all. I mean, its not an explosion, its just a flame. Eh? Beginner fire magic? Yes She tilted her neck to the side I see, youre good at joking. Her face bloomed to a smile. Maybe because she felt that I was a humerous and amicable person? Ugh Why wont anyone believe me ? He really cant think of anything but that joke. Alice who had rushed in too with the woman smiled along with her. Who are you? A question was directed towards me. But it was an unimportant concern at the moment. I looked around as Alice followed my gaze. We will introduce ourselves later. First, lets treat the injured. Oh! Thats right! It was as Alice said. We must first take care of the injured. High heal! The girl like me seemed to be able to cast recovery spells. She healed the injured one after another. She was fully engrossed in providing her support. While, she treated the injured, me and Alice kept on guard and were on the alert to face any dangers in the viciniy just in case. It would be ridiculously disadvantageous if the group were to be attacked during their treatment. OK. It looks like there are no monsters near here. I think their treatment is over. Lets go back to great them. I followed Alices suggestion as we returned back to the highway. Ange sama No, no! Please be firm, keep your consciousness strong and open your eyes! The soldier had his chest dyed oozing with a lot of blood he had lost too much. The girl was desperately cried out with tears. Sacred Breath, Sacred Breath !!! The girl could only cast advanced recovery magic over and over again. But, it was of no use. The fallen soldier did not rejuvinate. His face was distorted in pain probably death would have been a better release. but the girl didnt want the soldier to die. Occasionally he vomited blood as his body jerked up lifelessly. They were wounds beyond the reach of healing magic It must be a fatal injury. Why, why ! I want to help but its not working. If I cant help then, why am I a saint !!! Its not the ladys fault. Its all the monsters fault. The lady needs not to be bothered I dont care! The girls sorrowful cry distorted her face hiding it behind her tears. Me and Alice were no exception to the rule. I could only watch at the scene sorrowfully as my unconsciously welled up in salt water. A life that is about to fall. And a girl who sheds her tears since she cant stop it. Its a painful sight making my heart to burst. Ah Alice made a small voice as she suddenly came up with it. Hey. Maybe Haru can help? eh? Just what Is it true !? The girl rushed onto me as she clinged onto me tight. Can you really help him !? No, hey wait, wait. I cant do that. I dont have any special potions, and healing magic? I can only use basic beginner tier heals. I see No, its too early to give up. Harus sage magic might help. Dont be crazy. How can I heal an injury that even advanced healing magic cant heal? The biggest drawback of yours is that you have a low self-esteem. Anyway, just give it a try. Dont you want to help this person too? Well, thats true Its okay. Haru will surely be able to do it. Alices gentle words somehow pushed my back. I understand. Ill try as much as I can. But, Im not confident at all But regrets that you never tried are much worse than regrets where you tried but failed. I dont want to regret not trying it out even though I knew it wont work. I held my palm over the dying soldier. Converging mana I casted healing magic. Heal! A faint light wraps around the soldiers body Heals a body full of wounds. His pained stricken face turned into a gentle one. Soon after, I heard a sigh of relief. Ah, God ! Thank you, thank you! Such an absurd thing a wound that couldnt even be healed by the young ladys Sacred Breath was was with healed a beginners healing magic Basic heal ? Its impossible but I cant help but be glad. The cheers of the other soldiers who were watching the situation suddenly rose. The girl who had shed the most tears also shed more as she was pleased with the soldiers safety. Hmm Im glad it went well. Amazing, Haru! Alice cheered for me. Wwere you that sure that it would work? I wasnt sure, but if flame can give you that much ridiculous power. It wouldnt be strange if your healing magic had a ridiculous effect as well. Hmm but I cant really do that much. No, you are alreayd amazing enough. You are just not aware of it. But Im a small fry. It was not only Leticia. Everyone along with her had told me the same. Alice might be saying otherwise but I think she is doing so just to cheer me up. Well I wonder when will you be more confident? But, it can also be said that this is too part of you. Alice smiled and patted my head, as she shook her head teasing me. It was like she treating me like a mess. DDDDDDDDDD "thank you!! Oh no Two girls bowed their heads at the same time, and I couldnt help but get a little afraid at their sudden outburst. Am I supposed to have saved that soldiers life ? Probably a coincidence. The girl had applied advanced healing magic many times in advance, it must have taken some time for them to take effect and it only worked out later My beginner healing magic was just a light push on my back at the end. I think its like that. Otherwise, I wouldnt be able to help a dying person. Yes. That could be a compelling explanation. After all wasnt there a reason why they were differentiated as beginner and advanced? Thanks to you, I think I can return to Arland without anyones death. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. He is my subordinate and he is like a family. I am deeply grateful for you saving his life. Welcome I havent really done much, but Oh, excuse me. My name is Anju Autumn. Im the daughter of the lord of the fortified city of Arland, and Im an adventurer. My profession is a saint. Anju introduced himself with a smile. She was a girl who looked best when she smiles the most unlike her previous state. She was probably the same age as me. Though she had a somewhat young face But she is a ridiculous beautiful girl. The body is thin and short. She was dressed in expensive garments and it looked good on her. If shes the daughter of a lord and a saint at that, then its somewhat understandable. Im Nine Sinfonia. Young lady Anjus exclusive maid. Nine picked up her skirt and bowed gracefully. Wait? Isnt she two or three years older than me? She had an appearence of an intellectual, cool beauty. Along with Anju, she looked like her elder sister. As she said it herself she was a maid. Owing to that she wore maid clothes. However, her skirt has been shortened, the sleeves too had been shortened. My closest guess would be that it has been modified to make it easier for her to move. Is she a maid who is also in charge of battle? Im a Heru Traitor. Im an adventurer. Im Alice Sprite. Im also an adventurer and Im in the saem party as Haru. That can I call both of you by your first names? Thats ok Yes, of course Thank you. Mr. Haru, Ms. Alice. Please, call us by our names as well. Um is that okay? If I may ask, arent you the daughter of the lord Dont worry. You are our lifesaver. We cant be rude to you. I havent really done anything, haha. Alice smuled again. What was with this deja vu? Then Anju and Nine. Its nice to meet you. Yes, thank you. Anju smiled with a vibrant smile with her cheeks dyed with a slight tint of red. CH 15 To prevent monsters and other dangers of the world, there are some cities that surround the entire city with huge walls. The city of Arland was the same. Its defence carried the will of iron. Although it was exposed to war several times in its history, it had never fallen. Therefore, the city beared such a name. The fortified city of Arland DDDDDDDDDD Three days later. Upon arriving in Arland, Alice and I, guided by Anju and Nine, went straight for the lords mansion. I was thankful to her for inviting me and soon I was guided to the guest room decorated with gorgeous furnishings and elegant flowers. It was a bit too much for me Haru, are you nervous? Ive never been in a place like this before Is that so? Thats unusual. If you were traveling with Leticia, I think there should have been many opportunities like this. That may be true, but [Haru, youre waiting outside. Be quiet like this, and await for my return. Eh? You want to come along with us? Thats impossible. If they allow a small fry like Haru in the mansion, that houses sensibilities and qualities would be suspected by their people. It might ruin their reputation.] I was always told that, and I had no option but to wait outside in the chilling cold. I hadnt put much thought to it because I never deserved being invited to such a mansion but Anyway, it couldnt be helped, could it? Therefore, it is the first time for me to enter such a luxurious mansion. I dont know why, but I think tears are about to come out of my eyes. I dont know why? Why must it be? Is it because of pollen? Its all this mansionss fault! I got angry for some reason. Even I was not aware of my situation. Why? Why does it have to be this way? Thank you for waiting The door to the room opened, as Anju, who had changed into plain clothes, walked in. Behind her was Nine. She was in the the same old maid outfit. Although I have a lot of things to say, but first I must apologize to the two of you. Even you are our benefactors we had made you wait for so long Now, dont worry. If youre the daughter of a lord, youll have a lot to do, especially if youre a saint. Alice replied with a shrug. She still had the bright cheerful smile that could put the ones around her at ease. Its indeed considerate of you to say that. Well, then Anju sat on the sofa just opposite to us facing me I couldnt help but squirm a little in my embarrasment to be invited to such a luxurious place even though the sofa is more than comforrtable. That these are my casual clothes, how do I look in it? Noticing me squirming in discomfort she asked. Huh? It was unusual. Why are we suddenly talking about clothes? That Alice sitting next to me punched me with her elbow. Ah thats right. I was too confused and I forgot to reply. Um yeah, I think it looks good on you. Its cute. Thats right !? Ehe Anju looked very happy after being complemented. Well, I certainly couldnt have said anything bad anyway irrespective of what one wears. No one can be uglier than I am. Lady. you should maintain your composure Huh !? Thats right. When I was in front of Mr. Haru, my mouth opened without any control of mine He he, I think thats funny isnt it? The young lady who is confused by her undiscovered feelings is indeed very cute. I heard Nine whispering something to Anju. I turned to Alice. But she seemed to be clueless about it. Was I the only one who heard? And, what does Nine-san mean? So allow me to introduce myself once again Thank you very much for saving us from such a dangerous plight. I am deeply grateful to you for saving my life and helping my servant recover from death. I shook my head. Oh no no That wasnt what had happened. She is mistaken. There is no price to be exchanged for life, but I hope you will accept this as a greeting at least. Anju put forth a leather bag on the table. chunk There was a jarring sound as soon as it hit the table. I couldnt help but check it now, the contents inside were gold coins. This so much? Maybe its about a years worth of an average adventurers earnings ? And Im preparing for a feast today, albeit a little. If you would allow, please stay at our house tonight. Ah I was shown gold coins and then I was asked of an disadvantageous request all of a sudden. Is this what it feels like to be auctioned? If things really have gone this far, it really makes me sad somewhat. Haru, dont try to turn it down, okay? Alice pierced my airs in a whisper. Remember that Anju is the daughter of the lord. If you refuse to do this, youll end up crushing her reputation. The correct thing to do here is to accept it. I see. You saved me there, I was about to decline since I felt unconfortable here. thats totally like Haru. Alice smiled bitterly. Well, I dont know much of common sense. Even the pack of gold coins in front of me I wasnt sure if it is something that I should accept. Is money really that important? I moved my gaze from Alice to Anju. Thank you. If thats the case, please take care of us. Yes, Im glad to here that. Lady, Haru, Alice. Lets have a cup of tea. As our discussion was over, Nine brewed some tea for him. How could she prepare it so fast? It seems that it was not only in battle but she was also versatile in housework. I got some delicious sweets prepared Would you like to chat with me until the feast is prepared? she spoke with her cheeks a bit flushed. Oh, Nine please be with me. Yes, Im sorry Nine came rushing in leaving behind her work. I could only wonder what they were whispering this time around. Probably something about sweets. And true to that Nine prepared them. Then we all we did was enjoyed the tea and those sweets. We introced ourselves to each other. Apart from that, we talk about hobbies, favorite foods, etc. Even though the party wasnt over yet, the dsicussion was a lively one and we had a really good time, something which might have seemed like a dream before. DDDDDDDDDD [Alices POV] Fu When I returned to the room prepared for me, I sat on a chair and just took a moment of relaxation. The feast continued until a while ago Somehow, we were more welcomed here than I had expected. The food and sake were pretty good, and I just ate too much and drank too much. Thanks to that, Im now too full. Its no wonder this was kind of welcome one gets for helping the lords daughter hmm? Even so, it felts a little exaggerated a bit too extreme. What were they aiming to do? Are they trying to make a good impression on us, or were you trying to win our favor? The idea of ??having a feast with them was Anjus, but it seemed that the various people from the Autumn family were also involved in it As a result, I ended up settling down to my current shape. I wish that there is nothing unusual going on and I am just over thinking Knock Knock yes? I heard a knock on the door and stood up. But when I opened the door, all I found was Anju. Im sorry for disturbing you late at night. Had you fell sleep ? I shook my head. Yeah, its okay. I was resting for a while because I ate too much and drank too much. Whats bring you here? Everythings fine? That I have something to ask, is it okay now? Um yeah. Please. I invited Anju to the room and made her sit on the chair making her comfortable as we faced each other. I was not at all sure what she wanted with me. So what happened? Yes. Well, I want to know something about Haru-san. Haru? This is weird. What does she want to know about Haru? BUt my question was answered even before I could ask. What do I mean, I am not sure I want to know about Haru-san I dont really understand why I think that way Anyway, I want to know! Ah Anju, who talked vigorously and all gibberish seemed not wanting to back down. Her cheeks had flushed with a slight tint of red, as she showed a strong passion for Haru? Is it possible that she fell in love with him, after they went together through a dangerous situation? Is that the case? hmm. If thats the case then I somewhat understand her feelings. For, I bore the same feelings. But what kind of thing should I talk about? Um I want to hear about Haru-sans childhood! Childhood? Thats a bit troubling. Well, when I was little I muttered under my breath unheard by her. Ah Speaking of which, Alice just recently made a party with Haru, didnt she? Then that would be difficult for you to know it was true. In the chat on the tea table, we had explained our circumstances to her. She knew about my relationship with Haru as of now, but Hmm well I would be the one to face a loss if I tell you about it. But I can understand Anjus feelings as being in a similar situation as a girl and also being in a similar position as mine well, is that okay? Anjus eyes brightened up. She didnt understood much. But it seemed like Alice had some information of her interest. So, do you know? Keep it a secret from Haru, okay? I Well, Im actually Harus childhood friend. CH 16 Haru doesnt know about it, but both of us had once been friends in our childhood. But unlike Leticia who had spent her entire life with him, I had met him for a little while I spent a year together with him, when I was still a little fledgeling. If you spend a year of childhood together with someone, you can call them a childhood friend, isnt it? Though what was unusual, was the fact that Leticia had completely forgotten about me, even though she had been with Haru at all times despite time and place. But its not just her. I think even Haru has forgotten about me. Or rather, Between that time and now, everything about him has changed whether it be in appearance, voice or anything else. Alice is Harus childhood friend? But why do you keep that a secret ? But first promise to me you wont tell about this to Haru. Or else, I wont tell you anything about Harus childhood. Consider her feelings, that was quite the bargaining chip I weilded. But Well, that is Probably it would be difficult for her to keep it a secret from him? I kind of admire her for having such a pure heart. She was a saint indeed. Ah, its okay. And Im sorry but I cant talk about Harus childhood. Haru was so cute when he was little He He. Ah, but I cant tell you about something like that Oops, Anju wont promise to keep it a secret, so I cant tell you anything. No, I promise! Ill keep it a secret, so by all means tell me. Anju seems to be excited, and she seemed to have given up on her honestly. I knew it He He. he bargaining chip I had could certainly do wonders. Promise? Yes! Then, first well. Ill talk about when little Hull had once wet his bed and refused to get out of the futon in order to hide it. Wow, thats wonderful! Such a thing I and Anju held Harus dug up Harus dark secrets of the past until late at night. If Haru were to find out about this, he might get really angry. Hehe. DDDDDDDDDD Next morning. Alice and I were having breakfast in the Autumn family along with Anju as the host. Is the breakfast to your liking? Anju asked. Yes, thank you Alice replied before I could even say anything. But you already repayed us yesterday, right? There was no need for such an extravagant breakfast I had thought about it overnight, and I came to the conclusion that it wasnt enough Without you guys, we would all have died there. The lady says she wants the opportunity to properly reward you. Nine also seemed to be supportive of Anjus claim. But the question was what came after this? Haru-san and Alice-san, do want me to do something ? or do you have anything you want? I cant say that I can make any wish come true, but I want to help as much as possible in the name of the Autumn family. Something I want hmm? Even if you say, its kind of hard for me to figure out what I want right away. What about Alice? Anju turned her head to her but I was so lost in thought I didnt realize what happened there. Something, especially for me , I muttered almost unconsciously as I was lost in a daze uncaring of the surroundings. Probably the question itself to be answered provided much more value to me then it being fulfilled. I didnt even knew what it was that I wanted. That right it really doesnt matter. Even if its unreasonable, just say it Um Neither Anju as an individual nor the Autumn family can afford to give exhorbitent money even to a lifesaver. Good intentions on their part and also the responsibility to save the face of the house. Its a problem that involves both, so I didt want to simply turn it down. Neither did I want to ask anything absurd. But, I cant think up of a request important to me Oh, thats right. Is there anything? Anju ears perked up. If thats the case, can you teach me some magic? Magic ? All I know are three basic magic spells. "three? Anju, Nine And for some reason, even Alice was shocked as their eyes threatened to pop out. The way to learn magic is basically to have someone teach you. There are other ways, but its a hassle, so Ill omit the explanation for now. At least for me those were the only alternatives. One usually asks their friends at the party to teach them, or pay someone to teach. I got a reward yesterday, so the latter method is fine but But, if Anju and Nine teach me, various problems will be solved at once. That Haru-san is a level 82 sage, isnt he? How can it be that you can cast only three spells? Welp well, there are various reasons for that. I might have explained my unusual situation here, but Im not talking them about Leticia. If one doesnt do it carefully, one can incite a lot of hate for himself if he goes around speaking bad about the hero. I would be grateful if Anju and Nine could teach me, so what about it? Yes, I am okay with that is Nine okay? Of course, I will teach you the magic that you want to learn. The transaction was finally sealed and closed. It made me somewhat happy even if it wasnt a proper one, it was my first. However, Alice alone had a face that did not seem to be happy with how things turned around. Her face had turned grim as her lips persed. Whats wrong, Alice? Maybe Alice wants to ask for another request? Oh yeah. Thats not the case Alice looked serious and murmured to herself in a small voice. What happens if you learn intermediate magic even though it is already this powerful beginner tier magic? DDDDDDDDDD After having breakfast, we went out of town to practice our magic and to fulfill my request. The Adventurers Guild in Arland did have a training ground but For some reason, Alice decided to move out of the city, vehemently opposed to training their. [Training in the city is ridiculous!] Thats what she cried. But I dont understand. Why did Alice disagree to it? Then, I will teach attack magic to the best of my abilities even though I am afraid that I am hardly qualified. And the young lady will teach recovery magic respectively. Please take care of me. I may be able to learn new magic. With that in mind, I was very excited to the point that I couldnt hide my joy. After all, the last time I learned magic was five years ago. Moreover, there were only three beginner tier magic that I could learn before I really wanted to learn more magic [What? You are doing something unnecessary again? She stepped on the book I was holding onto. Whats the chore boy thinking he is going to acoomplush, memorizing magic? A small fry like you wouldnt able to learn anything. How about you learn to split wood instead and make yourself a bit more useful?] I was told that she never allowed me to even pick up a book. All of them were destroyed. When I think back to it, she would have wanted me to remain weak to oppress me more. But its different from now on. Mastering all kinds of magic will only make me stronger! And become a top-notch adventurer! Um Haru? Dont get too motivated, okay? If you get too motivated, it could turn out to be ridiculous. What do you mean? Alice sighed. Well leave it. For the time being, just take my words as an advice. What was Alice worried about? Sometime she was beyond strange. Then, lets start with attack magic. I will be the instructor, though I am bit afraid. I learned the composition of the intermediate fire magic Flare Blast from Nine. Learning magic was like assembling a puzzle. Convert the piece of magical power into the optimum shape and combine it with other things. If you fail to mold the piece, stop there. Even if you spend too much time, the generated pieces will collapse and end there. Accurately knead the magical power and assemble it. Its a rather delicate task. and it feels like that. So thats it First of all, lets practice. When it comes to intermediate magic, it will take about a month to learn. However, Haru-san is a level 82 wise man. Perhaps it can be learned two weeks or so Flare Blast !!!? The magical power converged on the palm is released. A huge swell of flames runs through the earth, climbs the hills and explodes. One small mountain has disappeared. Oh! Is this the power of intermediate fire magic! As expected, its intermediate. Its a completely different league from beginner tier. In this case, I too could be a force in battle Alice? And Anju and Nine Whats wrong, everyone. Eveyone had that stupified face as I had got lost in my own celebration and mutterings. Thats why I had an unpleasant feeling he uses beginners tier magic. What kind of disaster will he cause if it gets to an intermediate level Alice held onto his head as she seemed to be hung up over something. You learned intermediate magic instantly ? No, no you cant. No matter how smart you are, it should have taken at least a week doesnt this easily break the world record? Nine was stunned and Wow, thats amazing ! Haru-san Anju had his eyes shimering for some reason. This may be I did it not work out? If the current power isnt enough, I can probably practice some more? Thats not true !! Alice and Nine screamed together. CH 17 That night, Alice and I were indebted to the Autumn family. There is no problem with money since we had just recieved a lot of it, and I was thinking of finding an inn in the city But, Anju and Nine told me not to think much about it and sleep at their place, and I decided to take onto that favor. To be honest, I thought it would feel somewhat lonesome to say goodbye to Anju and Nine, so Im happy to be together with them. But, I cant afford to disturn them forever, so I have to go out tomorrow. However, that night. I have a request Anju, said with a stern expression on her face. What could I and Alice do but listen? We listened to what she had to say after making a face quite in contrast to her usual self. Please continue, young lady. No need to be reserved. Thank you, Nine Nine brews tea for all of us to drink at the table. Only the four of us were in the room. By the way, Anjus father the head of the Autumn family, I have never greeted him before. Anju said that he is indebted to me, and would like to meet me once But couldnt because he is very busy now. I dont understand. How busy can one be to not find a moment in two whole days? But probably I shouldnt think much about it. He is the lord of the city after all. What do you mean, what kind of request? As I have told you before, my profession is a saint. A saint is a chosen rare profession that only a limited number of people can be. One day, the future saint seems to receive an oracle claiming their talent in the field. Those who are chosen in this way can undergo rigorous training and become true saints. They are the true recovery magic experts. It is said that even the dead can be resurrected by a saint who is extremely powerful. But, now Im just an apprentice. Im in the middle of training. Ive heard that you have to practice hard, but what exactly do apprentice saint have to do? Oh if you dont mind, can I ask you so? Yes, its okay. The training of the saint is to go on a pilgrimage to the tombs of successful and reknowned heroes in various places. Somehow, When I heard the word hero, I reflexively frowned. Anju goes on explaining without noticing my shift in my appearance. It may sound simple, but in fact, pilgrimage is a very tough nut to crack, with 70% dropping out. They might have been powerful herous once but its still a dead body closed inside a lid, isnt it just a visit to a grave? Why is it considered so hard? Successful heroes who are said to have saved the world have always been respected and revered by many people just like a God. It was considered blasphemous to make the graves of such heroes in the city with other people. It was insisted that they should be buried in the mountains where God descends and in a place full of nature where spirits appear and thus they were made so. I frowned. Well, I can somewhat understand what you mean. In short, the people of the past have built the heros graves in ridiculously unexplored regions. That made the pilgrimage extremely difficult is that right? Yes, thats correct. I think it is a bad fate that the heroes had to face The resoning was very unnoying and unconvincin. If heroes were like deities, doesnt that mean that many people will want to visit their graves? Not to mention that even heroes have friends and families. They are no different than normal people. To have built their graves so far away was certainly cruel. They didnt think about their feelings at all. But maybe I understand now what Anju was getting at. Maybe you are asking me to Yes. If you woud like. Would you accompany me on my pilgrimage trip as my escort? I would like to ask you too. Could you please protect my young lady? Anju and Nine both bowed together in sync. Saints pilgrimage trip ? I think its very important for Anju, the daughter of the lord of Arland. If she couldnt become a true saint, it would be bad for the people Her failuer or success wouldnt affect the city alone. The saint acts under the oracles dream, so to speak, they are a messenger of God a shrine maiden. Sometimes, the actions of a saint can even save a city, if not the world. Roughly speaking, they are like the heroes who have been scaled down in importance a little. Id like to know if you are okay with me though Why, is something wrong ? I wonder if Im okay? I dont think I have the qualifications to escort a saint No no no no! They shook their hands and necks sideways, as if Alice and Nine were in sync now while Anju stood in a daze. If Haru is not even then I am not even sure who would be! Im already worried that your attack power is simply too high to involve in this task. Isnt Harus self-esteem a bit too low !? What level would I be if Haru claims that he is incompetent and has no power? For some reason, they denied me in a haste. Hmm. Are they trying to cheer me up, even though I am a weakling? As I thought, both Alice and Nine are kind. But well lets do as much as we can. What about Alice? Yes, I have no complaints. Well then! If were okay, Ill accept the request. Thus, I and Alice decided to accept Anjus request. To be the pilgrimage escort of the saint. I think its a pretty difficult request, but Only by receiving such a request can you gain strength and experience as an adventurer. Fighting mosters could hardly be considered as valuable experience. Not to mention that Nine and Alice would be coming along as well. I have to pat my back and wish myself good luck. By the way, how long does a pilgrimage trip take? Im afraid I cant let it take too much time. I am kinda in a hurry. If it takes too much time in this, I may be overtaken by Leticia. That would certainly be bad. Thats okay, because the next pilgrimage site is east of this Arland, it would take about a day by horse-drawn carriage. One day by carriage to the east We would be back on the road you came from, but it shouldnt be a problem it its for about just a day. At this point, I could only be optimistic. There was no telling what Leticia could do. DDDDDDDDDD Leticia left the city she was staying in and was swayed by a carriage. The purpose, of course, is to find Haru. Haru ! I cant forgive you for not only fooling me into a duel, but also fooling me and running away from me I cant forgive you! This grudge that I couldnt get rid of Ill release it all on you together when I find you. Leticia roared like a stray dog. She had been howling like that ever since, gritting her teeth and gnashing them against each other. The coachman was wondering what was going on, but at this point I couldnt afford to worried about the eyes of others. Ahhh ! Leticia frustratedly hits the carriage floor with her toes I bit my nails. Its was my habit. When things go wrong or when Im worried, I just bite my nails. Im wondering if I could get rid of it someday, but I cant seem to fix it because its my childhood habit. Ah customer What! We will arrive in Arland in about a day. Yes? Thank you. Knowing that I was about to arrive, I could somehow feel my head cool a bit. Its was no coincidence that I chose Arland as my next destination. Its impossible for Haru to escape from me. For I can use magic tools that I had once put in his equipment to keep track of Harus whereabouts anytime, anywhere. I can use it to pinpoint Harus approximate location. Kukku Wait, Haru! I was stupid to run away from me, even the bones Ill carve it into all my souls and teach you! Ha! Goho, Geho! Seeing Leticia laughing and coughing, the coachman began to cry. He had picked up a strange guest and he still regrets it. CH 18 To the east of Arland is a mountain called Crest. The altitude of the mountains was not so high, and in the old days, mountaineers often visited there. But now no one tries to approach. Even monsters avoid Crest Mountain. The cause is a dragon. The king of the sky, who came out of nowhere, decided that the mountain was his root castle. Regardless of humans or monsters, those approaching are mercilessly executed. It had formed my own area. Thats why. We asked Anju to explain about Mt. Crest, which was also a pilgrimage site. No matter how harsh it is, the journey is not a big deal. The problem is the mountain-based dragon that is hard to get past by. It seems that this guy has dramatically increased the difficulty of the Crest Mountain pilgrimage. Is it a dragon ? Isnt that opponent too tough? It may be not possible for me after all. Yeah I think the dragon as an opponent is tough, even if the opponent is as insane as someone like Haru Eh? I am confused. What do you mean by insane? Both your magical power and your self-evaluation is insane. Alice replied with a twitching nose. Mmm Im not entirely convinced. But now its not something we must brood on. We have already reached the foot of the mountain. There is a workaround. I can use sleep magic, so Im going to put the dragon to sleep. Wow, its amazing that Anju can use sleep magic. At first glance, it may seem like a useless magic. However, it is a fairly powerful magic that puts the other party to sleep and makes them defenseless without any questions asked unlike its other alternatives. Since it can be used for crimes, there are very limited opportunities to learn it from someone else. Oh no Im not a big deal compared to Haru-san. I think Haru-san is much more amazing. Thats not the case. I can only use beginner tier magic, just the output is high. Anju is more amazing. No, I am No, Im What should I do If both them are out of self recognition, thier talk wont go any further than this. Alice twisted her face/ That is also the charm of the young lady. I felt like I was being told something rude again. Haru and Alice we ask you to escort us in case of emergency. When sleep magic does not work or if the dragon were to wake up I would like to ask you to deal with other unexpected situations Okay, leave it to us. In case of emergency, Haru will do his best. Alice nodded with a smug. Oy! I dont want to leave it to me I think Harus magic can scare the dragon even if it is unable to defeat the dragon. In the meantime, we would evacuate Anju and finally, youll evacuate after her. Hmm well, Ill do something about it, you dont have to worry. I remeber it well. Alice had once put her life on the line to help me evecuate. Was she planning something along those lines? If thats the case I would certainly like to scold her. Um I understand. For the time being, Ill try as much as I can. I dont know what I can do with the dragon, but For some reason, I accepted the request. I want to do my best so that I can do it properly. DDDDDDDDDD After that, we started climbing. The mountain used to be visited by many climbers, so there is no sudden difference in elevation and it is relatively easy to walk. I was able to climb up without getting tired. If only it didnt have a dragon. Anju whispered to herslef. It was strange, we were being wary of the dragon but shouldnt there be other beasts as well? Maybe he is hunting well and has cleared the monsters in the area. Even a dragon cant live without eating. If so, we have to hurry now. If we encounter a dragon, then I will do my best to protect Anju. Huh She came to a halt sudeenly staring at me. Anju? No, no. Nothing. Instead of saying what was wrong, she refused to meet my gaze. Uh, why? I was very excited by Haru-sans previous words My face seemed to be burning hot. Anju? Are you okay? I walked up to her to check her temperature. Ah, no. Please dont get too close to me now Oh no. Eh. do I smell bad or something like that ? Well, thats not the case! But for some reason, my heart keeps beating loud. At that point I hadnt realized, but it was like Anju and I had turned into sweets for the other two. Is it okay not to stop? Alice sighed. Im cant let it stop, because the lady is so cute. Alice and Nine had a warm look at me. Despite this, we arrived at the entrance to the tombs of the heroes. A small cave was created by hollowing out a part of the mountain. As we proceed through it, we saw a large stone door. It seemed to be made quite sturdy, and it seemed unlikely that it can be moved unless someone was of the size of a giant. How can I open such a door ? Huh, rest assured. If I, the saint, touch the door When Anju touches the door, the engraved pattern shines. The door opened with a heavy rattling noise. In this way, the seal is automatically released. I see, its convenient. Is this okay with us? Yes. Once the seal is released, it will remain for one hour. However, please note that after that time, the seal will restart and we will be trapped. Im confident that if Im trapped in a place like this, Ill go crazy Before that, you would have to be starved to death The pilgrimage of the saint seemed to be scary. While holding such an impression, we went to the other side of the door. The inside was surprisingly large. A casket was placed in the center of a wide space vertically and horizontally. That was probably the grave of the heroes. Anju moved in front of the casket and silently kneeled. She put your hands together and closed her eyes. And she prayed in her current position. The entire room shines a faint light in response to her prayers. Countless particles of light float in the air. From some of them got sucked into Anjus body. It was a very fantastic sight to behold I forgot about the passage of time and watched as she prayed. Fu Shortly after, Anju stood up with a small sigh. Is it about 10 minutes in time? Even so, she looks very tired with beads of perspiration accumulating on her forehead. Thank you everyone. The prayer went on smoothly oh. As soon as she said that she lost her strength in her legs. Hold On! I cried I hurriedly stepped forward and supported Anju, who was about to fall. Are you alright? Ha Yezzz! What happened? Somehow your voice is really strange Anju covered her lips with her fingers Yes, I dont know even myself. I mean, Haru-sans face is so close to me that Um but above all you look safe. Judging that it would be okay, I gently let go of Anju. I cant stay in close contact forever. Whats wrong, Alice? For some reason, Alice had a pinched look on her face that stared at me with a piercing gaze. Nothing.. Why do you have a face like that ?? Its nothing. Nothing at all Haru has never been so kind to me. He did something like that She was murmuring something, but I dont understand the meaning. It was gibberish and hidden under her breath. whatever. Now lets rejoice that the pilgrimage has ended successfully. Im sorry to trouble you. Lets go. In Anjus words, everyone was out of the room. When she touches the door again, it closes with a loud noise. In addition to the automatic type, it seems that there is also a function to close it when the saint touches it again. By the way, can I ask? Yes, what !? If you have any questions to ask Haru-san, I will answer anything, I! For some reason, Anju, who was asked a question, came with tremendous momentum. You said that you can become a true saint when you make a pilgrimage, but what does that mean? Um pilgrimage has many meanings, but the easiest thing to understand is that you can learn new magic. Ah, magic Magic that can only be used by saints is a little special learning method In this way, by visiting the graves of the heroes, you will be endowed with power. So thats it Is it magic for the saints what exactly is it? Im interested as a wizard myself. Anyway, with this the request has been fulfilled I said but my voice was soon cut off. Who are you? When we went outside, a thick voice came down from above. Looking up we saw the visage of a huge dragon. CH 19 Its claws were strong enough to tear iron like thin paper. Its defensive scales would make all kind of weapons and magic seem like play things. With its wings spread open, it flies in the sky at a speed that exceeded the speed of sound. That was what being a dragon was all about. It is claimed to be one of the ultimate creatures that greatly surpassed that of any other humans and monsters we have seen. Such a dragon from that brought chaos was now in front of me. It seemed that it was waiting at the exit of the heroess grave all waiting for us. Why was it so against someone coming to this place? Why was it so crazy about it is it natural? As I thought about it, it made a loud noise alerting everyone around me. There was no longer any reason for us to not notice it. You aim for my absence and infiltrate my territory? I cant forgive you. You should make up for that folly with your death! Anju! Huh sleep! Anju was caught off guard at the dragons sudden appearance. She chanted sleep magic in a haste. I hope this works What are you hoping to do with such childish tricks? Oh Damn Its not working! ?? Thats it !? You dragons have strong magic resistance, but they shouldnt be resistant to sleep magic but why? Its a stupid question. Dont compare me with the likes of those weaklings. But Ill be polite enough to answer it to make you realize of your powerlessness. Im an ancient dragon that ranks high among the dragons. Human magic doesnt apply on me. Is it the ancient dragon the legendary dragon, which is said to be the only one in the world Struck by fear and losing the last bit of her fighting spirit, Anju fell to her knees with her eyes turning blank. Ku, young lady! Nine charged with a twin sword to protect Anju. Wind slash! The twin sword technique exploded. An ordinary monster would have been cut off before it even knew what had happened. Its such a fast and sharp blow. However, Its useless, little one. Now !? The dragon did not move from its spot. Meither did it try to defend, nor did it try to dodge. But even though Nines twin swords connected yet before we knew it, it had broke apart. It couldnt even break through the tough scales of the dragon. Not able to bear the sheer difference in strength it dissipitated in thin air. Neither weapons nor magic work on me. Humans, be struck with despair with your pitiful power. Then, how about this !? Alice asked as she threw something about the size of a palm. It flew in front of the dragon, Boom! !! !! It exploded. And as soon as it exploded, it emitted a blinding light in all directions. It was a flash bomb. It was mainly used as a tool to render ones opponent blinded for a short period of time. for monsters it was used to scare them off. Nine, Anju! Haru, lets run away now! No, no. Huh? When the light cleared up, the dragon stood where it was not moving an inch. It seemed to be as calm as it had ever been. Thats unusual shouldnt the dragon have at least taken a step or two back? Is my knowledge of flash bombs is also insufficient? It was as if it was ridiculing Alices move, claiming that no matter what we did it had to be useless. Is thats all about it, huh human? Lie a special flash bomb that scares away even monsters of level 60 and above ? Why are you still okay You are naive. To think that you believed that it would actually work. In front of my power what use are such petty skills the power of the ancient dragon. My power is not something that can fall under human estimation. How could you think of me as the same likes as you. You are powerless while I am strong. Come on now, the time is ripe, begin to despair. The dragon spread its wings wide. With its insurmountable pressure all of us seemed to be ants in its face. Pushed down by that pressure alone, I cant help but lose my will to fight. However. I cant give up here. I cant fall down. Anju believed in me and made a request. Then, I have to live up to that expectation. I dont want to betray someones feelings! My glare hit the dragons eyes as it threeatened to pierce it. So you dont want to give up? Hmm are you still going to resist me? For a humans I have to say, you have a lot of courage. But but its just futile? Hmm but its interesting anyway. Human, make one bet with me if you so want to oppose me. The dragon didnt lie. The others were already wobby in their knees unable to stand and had resigned to their fate. Probably when it asked them to despair he wasnt just joking. I turned towards the dragon. Bet ? What kind of bet? Attack me with all your might. If you can color me surprised, then Ill let you go. But if even your full power doesnt reach me, then as a punishment for invading my realm, I shall tear your body and soul into pieces. It seemed that Anju and the others werent the only ones with expectations with me. But for them to think so highly of me like this All right It probably doenst matter what their reasons are. Cause I have to at least do what I can. The chances of winning against a dragon are equal to zero. Not to mention, I dont think I can even put up a hair to its might. but I dont want to give up anymore. I dont want to give up hoping for things to work out and leave it to the flow of time. Ever since I had left the heros party, I had chose my destiny myself, even if it was death that awaits me! Lets go! Haru, do it !!! With Alice cheering me on, I felt like I was getting stronger. I began casting my magic as I converted it into mana. Flame !!! Oh !!!? A heavy flame wrapped the dragons body. Unlike the twin blades of before the flame spell seems to have reached it at least. And that was probably because the very nature of the fire spell which was different from Nines attack spell. Flames raged around burning its body. The surrounding vegetation burned out in an instant and turned to ask. The heat wave spreads and the atmosphere as it fluctuated in density. and The flames had already subsided The dragon stood calmly at the center of a field of ashes without even a scratch. DDDDDDDDDD [Dragons POV] Hot Hot Hot I thought I was about die! !! !! I sigh a relief so that humans will not get caught. I bet that I should do my best on a whim What is this person? Is he really a human? How is it possible for him to be able to exert such power? Even if I was told that he was the Demon King, I would be entirely convinced. After all, my scales were about to melt. Not only that, I took a lot of damage from those flames. Did I just lose about half of my vitality? Seriously who is this person? Ugh No! the human cried. On the surface, it seemed that I havent been damaged at all. The human could only cry and despair to his powerlessness. In fact, its quite funny that he is acting like this so much so that I want to rub it on his face. But I cannot admit that I was cornered by a human opponent. If I admit it, then my pride would be completely shattered. I keep pretending as if nothing happened. Thats about it, human? that is Then, its my victory. I shall crush your life and your soul. But I was about to say that that I would miss him after his death since I had a good fight with him. But I was cut off by his exclaimation. Ah! He seemed to have caught upon something as he nodded in realization. I want to try again! Are you sure you want to do it again !? I spoke, Are you going to earn time? I cannot accept such stupidity No, its not that. If I think about it, I wasnt doing my best right now. What? That was totally out of my expectation. I was acting shrewd till then. But as soon as I heard his absurd claim, I couldnt help but spill out my actual voice of shock. I recently learned intermediate magic I had just mastered it until recently, so I forgot about its existence. So let me play the bet again here. Huh? Wasnt the current attack itself, at its best? What could be there stronger than that? If I receive such a thing head on wont I just die? Human. I accept your courage and you must be wanting to leave this place. So I tried to chase him away by throwing a hook but Lets go! This time, Im at my best! You can leave this place No, wait!? Are you listening to what I am saying? Please dont ignore it !!!? But all of my words seemed to have gone to deaf ears as the man was shouting to himself as if cheering himself up. I will pour in all of my mana this time around Now, this has to work out ! No, thats bad. Please dont. Wait! Wait, wait, wait !? No, wait !!!!? Whats that enormous amount of mana !? Its so ridiculous that Ive never even seen such to be possesed in a dragon! Its like multiplying it up Damn It turned out really bad for me, isnt it !? Flare Blast !!! No, ah, ah, ah, ah, ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh I screamed and tried to avoid it with all of my might even though I had made that bet. Dragons pride? I didnt know of such a thing! CH 20 Im really sorry, I got ahead of myself. Um The dragon was bowing in front of me. I wonder if Im possibly dreaming ? But no matter how much I think about it, but its not a dream anymore. I am sorry I lied. Im actually an ordinary dragon Im somewhat a little magically resistant than the others, and theres nothing special about it Still, humans were scared and it was easy too fool them, so I just got ahead of myself and threatened ever since I came here. Im sorry Um I dont really care about the details. I turned around and stole a glance at Alice and the others. It seemed that none of them had any idea as to how to deal with the current situation. And they couldnt help but smile bitterly. No one here is angry at you, so please raise your head. Oh I feel so nostalgic. Even though I am resistant to magic, my power actually never grows and has become stale. And I couldnt seek anyones help about it. There arent many people like you, even among the dragons. I didnt understand much as to what she meant. But in regards to the question that followed Can I ask you for your name? Haru. Haru Traiter I am Sana It is just me? Or she had a human-like name? We were assuming tiles like Dragin of the Crest Mountain and all of such but it seemed it was unnecessary. I wonder if name giving on birth is any different between humans and dragons? I decided! What? What? Master! Please make me your disciple! Eh !? I almost fell over at this sudden proclaimation. I cant hide my surprise from this sudden change of development. A dragon wants to be my disciple As expected, this is abnormal, isnt it? A least I have never heard of a human teaching a dragon. Everyone was equally stunned. Alright, this seems unusual. I was worried that my knowledge of the world was too limited for me to judge something like this. But it seems that such was not the case. Good. Um why do you want to be my disciple? Im embarrassed to say this But Ive been growing up close to the humans, I had met many of them. But my master is different. He was not scared of me even though I posed as an ancient dragon, he is heading for his goals with all of his strength. I couldnt help but be impressed. It seems that lately I have been misunderstood a bit too much. I dont have any goals for now except for escaping from Leticias reach. Far away from her. Even if you say that Im not in a position to take a disciple. I dont even have a lot of power no, maybe I have. To think about it objectively, since I won the power match with the dragon, then I can at least say that I am stronger than Sana. But, I couldnt be confident because I am still being struck down by Leticia the painful memmories still plagued me day and night. I couldnt sleep in peace. I was strong and won the duel yet she refused to give up and continyed to stalk me. I couldnt help but run away from her. Someone who couldnt even overcome his own past wasnt suited to be a teacher. On the other hand it was indeed true, that by traveling along with Alice as adeventurers the thorns in my heart had somewhat come off But even if I am able to overcome my shackles somewhat, I strongly insist that I am not in a position to take a disciple. Even if I am stronger than Sana. All I know are the four types of magic spells one of them being learnt recently. I had no combat technique to speak of. Such a person like me cannot teach things to others. There was nothing to teach in the first place. Thats what I wanted to tell Sana so I want to learn how to weild that spirit possessed by my master! I dont care about power or anything like that. Please tell me the secret behind the strength of your heart! Sana was not convinced. Even if you say so I was in trouble. I have no intention of taking a disciple. But she was the type that doesnt pull back so easily. Um you see, Im a human and youre a dragon. Isnt it somewhat inconvenient for us to spend time together? Well, that seems to be proper excuse. I cant really move around in the city with a dragon could I? Is it a size issue? Then its okay! Huh? Sana raised her head up and took a step back. And then she raised both of her hands in the air. Hai! In the brink of a moment she was surrounded by a blinding light. After a while, when the light dissipitated and the view returned to normal the dragon had disappeared and left a young girl. If I am like this, then there is no problem, is there !? What was the girt talking about. Sana, is that you? Yes, I am Sana! Ive transformed myself with magic! Now I can stay with you! A dragon can do anything it seems. Um What should I do? There is no reason for me to decline. Even though I was incompetent she was following me along with her own will. I am neither a master or prepared to take in a vessel, but even if I were to say that, she wont be convinced I dont feel good to refuse Sana anyway, I think it would be a little too harsh on her if I were to refuse her after so much pleading. What should i do? I turned to Alice for help, But she went blank under my gaze. go for it she muttered. Sorry Haru. I have no clue what to do here. No way, Alice! Sigh I was denied any help. It was a hassle, so she likely felt like leaving Sana to me. Master, please! Make me your disciple! Even if you say that Ill do anything! So please take me with you!! She began to cry cliging onto me. I dont think this is going in the right direction Its impossible I will do anything. If you want it I would even do that! What!? My jaws fell off slack. No there was something wrong here. You may not be attracted to my body, but I will do my best to serve you! I will accept any kind of plays! If I cant be your student, then I will be your slave! Please! UwU, master! Thats even worse than before! I cried. How could Sana say something ridiculous like that with a teary face? This aint happening. It was then What?! There was a squeak and the sound of someone stumbling upon behind me. I turned behind to check Haru? What are you thinking making a young girl like that your slave ? she asked as her face seemed to turn pale. It was Leticia. CH 21 Haru? What are you thinking making a young girl like that your slave ? she asked as her face seemed to turn pale. It was the first time that something Leticia said actually made some sense! I had the same question. Just what was this dragon thinking? Leticia !? Why are you here !? I knew that she might be catching up to us, but this was simply too early! Also, its even wierder for her to find us at such a timing! ?? Sana is a dragon, but right now she looks like a little girl. What would happen if word of this were to get out? People would think that I am turning little girls into my slaves Ugh, I wouldnt even be able to show my face anywhere if that were to happen. Thats my line! Haru! You tricked me into a duel for this? For fooling a small child and bringing her to a place like this? What were you planning to do with her ! No No No! Leticia shook her head in disappointment. Fufufu, that kind of guts I will have to hit you hard to fix it! You lolicon! Ugh What should I do. The usual swearing of Leticia now sounds like a ridiculous theory that might actually be believed. Being her hero her words would have weight wont it? If she were to spread it around everywhere it would pummel my reputation to dust. Was it so natural to misunderstand? She was unaware of the match between me and Sana, so she had misunderstood me as a ridiculous brute. Um you are misunderstanding, Leticia. Im not even thinking about doing anything to her. Hey where is the room for misunderstanding in that kind of situation? No way to have forced it to the point where the little child voluntarily accepted it? Leticia turned to Sana in a panic demanding for answers. But that was the worst thing that could happen. For Sana wasnt sensible enough to understand the situation. Yes, thats the gist of it Dont be ridiculous! You cant tell such a fat lie! I cried in a desperate attempt to protect my dignity. No, its true! I want to be masters disciple, so Ill do anything Sana claimed with flushed cheeks as her voice gradually disappeared. Wait! Why are you acting all embarrased like that! But it seemed that Leticia had caught onto something else. Huh? Harus disciple? Leticia muttered. Oh No The situation was getting out of my control Leticia looked at the little child with a look of disdain Say isnt that child a dragon !? My eyes widened. I just couldnt help it now. So you do understand ? It has horns and also a tail. You know what she is once you look properly. Sanas transformation was a little halfway. It seemsed that the dragons in the world were to supposed to have perfect transformation ability But, Sana may be still immature. Leticia was knowledgable when it came to these kind of things. But she was the same Leticia as usual. Rotten and cussing at me whenever she got a chance. Seeing her, Sana tilted her neck mysteriously. Why is there a hero in such a place? Its suspicious. Come to think of it, Sana doesnt know anything, does she? Ah Im being chased by her or so was what I had heard somewhere. Its just a coincidence! she cried. It was a hunch on my part, but I was more than convinced of it. Leticias claims werent as convincing though. Chasing after master? Oh, I understand! The hero is also a fan of my master, isnt she !? Huh !? Youve become a stalker because you like my master too much. But youre too stubborn when youre told not to follow him You cant do that. You have to think about the inconvenience of the other people too. Why is stupid Sana saying something like that? I mean, this is bad! Like really bad She might be a child and her cheekiness must have lead her to such a conclusion but If you say that to Leticia, what kind of reaction will she make I turned towards Leticia in a hurry. I have to stop her or else Sana might be in danger. But I found her too flustered to move. Its not like I like Haru or anything !? Hah, huh !? Youre surely joking with me saying something like that! Impossible! impossible haha ??!? I was struck in a daze. No way It was the first time, that I had seen Leticia in such a state. Her usual domineering self was nowhere to be found. Hey, Nine. Is that what is called a Tsundere? No, young lady. As far as I can judge from the behavior, Yandere is probably more suited to her. I see, it was a good learning experience. Anju and Nine had such a conversation. They had the luxury to do that Id like them to help me if they can, but I guess is it too difficult? Well, I dont care about the details. Im Sana. Lets get along with each other as friends who like master. Not at all, I dont care about Haru! Again, you cant tell such a lie. If I look at your behaviour, I can easily understand it. Dont take the dragons eyes for nothing. Surprisingly, Sana was taking the lead in conversation. Leticia was way too flustered to give proper replies. I thought that, the stupid child may not be able to keep up with Leticias domineering attitude. But I was wrong. It was then that I realized how much rude I was being by thinking of her as stupid. But I guess it couldnt be helped.. More than that, to accompany the saint in her pilgrimage I wonder if you are trying to act like a hero now !? I cant forgive it! Are you going to stop me? I couldnt help but raise my brows. Is she paranoid because I am doing what she should have done? Haru is bad, because hes been fooling around over and over again. I dont even understand what she even wants now Oh, hurry, Haru! If we enter the room in the back first, Leticia wont be able to get in our way! Huh? Alice? For some reason, Alice says that as if she was impatient. I dont understand her either. We had already completed the pilgrimage, didnt we? Ha Ha thats good! If I occupy the room, Haru wouldnt be able to fulfill his request and would fail. You should regret that you didnt make it in already, and you should reflect on it a little! Oh, hey !? Leticia! I cried but no pleas reached her. Leticia pushed us away and disappeared alone into the cave. But the pilgrimage is over I turned to Alice. Alice waved at her with a cheerful smile. Okay. Hopefully Leticia will be trapped in that room. But since she is a hero she should be fine. She will be able to break through because shes a hero, but even that would take some time. Lets get back to Arland for now. Ah Alice is so smart. Arent I? It was me who smiled now. Alice just seemed to be too good when it came to Leticia. CH 22 C22~ Countermeasure Meeting As soon as we returned to Arland, instad of going to the adventurers guild to report, we went to Anjus mansion on our feet. I felt somewhat sorry to use her house as if it were an inn, but we dont want anyone to hear our conversation from now on. The walls of the inn were thin and it was easy to leak information there Needless to say, we had to discuss something important, As a result, Anjus mansion was selected as the perfect abode. In response to this, Anju suggested that we should stay at her house tonight. She was a gentle child. I somehow wanted to return this grace properly. Thats why. I confessed to Anju and Nine the part I had been hiding from them until now my relationship with Leticia. Needless, to say they would have their questions about the relationship between the hero and me. And since they had already witnessed it all, I shouldnt try hide it They also wanted to know the situation, so they decided to heed to my confessions. Oh, this house is quite large. Ill pass it passes in quality for my resting place. By the way, Sana too came with me. I hope that she didnt though. For the hero to have done such a thing Anju frowned when he learned of Leticias true face. They were different than the people who I had confessed to before. At least they believed me unlike the others Nine, who was behind her, had a similar face. I broke up with Leticia and left the party, but for some reason Leticia is obsessed with me and chased me to this point. I dont know what she is even thinking about at this point Isnt it because she wants to make use of Haru-sans power? How can that be true Sigh I hadnt realized it until recently. But I am strong. Dragon I can win in a battle against someone like Sana. As everyone said, my power is out of the standard. I hadnt really felt that way, but I was able to recognize it to some extent. I was able to build up a bit of confidence on it at least. It seems that I myself aint able to come to tabs with my strength. But I dont think Leticia relies on my power. Rather it was the opposite. I feel like she was forcing me not to fight at all. She was overly protective in a rotten kind of way. Did she get jealous of Harus power? As far as I can tell, Hull seems to have more power than the hero. She must have got jealous of that and thus treated him badly. Isnt there a possibility that I think Nines reasoning might be correct, but its still a mystery as to why she would be obsessed with Haru. Hmm Everyone nodded their head. Im was already confused at the mysterious Leticia and I dont know what she is thinking. But What are these guys thinking about? They are equally mysterious. Isnt that hero just wanting to possess my master to herself? Suddenly, Sana said such a thing. She was the only one not that mysterious but she was incredibly stupid. What do you mean what do you mean? I couldnt help but ask twice. Is that something like wanting to keep a punching bag? If its Leticia then it could be possible. Sana shook her head. No. Its different. She wants you in a romantic sense, like she wants to make you her own thing. What? Sanas words were enough of a shock to make my pupils to turn over. Leticia is trying to monopolize me in a romantic way No no. Thats not possible. If she had that kind of feeling, she wouldnt have treated me like trash. Regretable, even if the master has such ridiculous power, hes still a long way off when it comes to the path of love. She is saying it with such a face as if she is good at it. When it comes from a little girl like her it feels even more unreal. I was a little frustrated. Women change people when love is involved. Sometimes they become kind and sometimes they become scary. Changes vary from person to person. But, it might sometimes seem impossible for these changes to be too much since most suffer minor changes. Various changes Anju butted in seemingly intervening the adult talk, Is that in the case of Leticia then, is her feelings for Haru so strong, that she has a strong desire of wanting to posses him for herself? I think so, thats the case. When asked by Anju, Sana nodded with a confident look. When I tried to say that all of this were stupid claims , I noticed that Alice and Nine also nodded in sync as they seemed to be completely convinced. Its not an impossible theory. It must have been that out of that desire, that she had done such terrible things to Haru. I remember hearing that common for people like her who are called Tsundere. Maybe it wasnt because she was jealous of Harus talent that she tried to hold him down not allowing him to weild his power. She was afraid that Haru, who had became stronger, would leave her behind one day. Therefore, she felt compelled to tie him up. Everyones reasoning went on and on, but Im not convinced. What was behind Leticias actions was love Even if I were to believe all of that, what should I do? If so, should I forgive her? Should I accept her feelings? Such a thing Lets keep this topic aside for the time being. Suddenly, Alice butted in like that. We dont know about the hero, but weve just finished the pilgrimage, so its a good idea to take a break, right? Thats right Im sorry. I should have been aware of that You are as tired as we are. Lets take a break. I want to eat good food! I hear that all human food is good! Hmm, I see. Sure, its about time for dinner Nine, can you prepare? Yes, young lady. In this way, a break was organized Did Alice tell them to take a break, noticing that I was in trouble? I couldnt help but think about that. ** After having a meal, I took a bath and was guided to the room as I was. It seems that the conversation was at least over today. Fu I opened the window and took look at the night view of the city. It was very beautiful, but I wasnt able to mersmerize on it probably because I were actually deep in thought. Even till date I am not able to get over those abuse. Leticia with me? I cant believe such a thing. It cant be possible. Its hard to believe that the cussing and ridicule that Ive been facing until were actually out of love. but What if everyones reasoning is correct? What if there was love for me at the root of Leticias actions? At that time, I Haru, is everything good? Looking back, Alice stood behind me before I knew it. Im sorry. No matter how many times I knocked, I didnt get a reply, so I entered without asking. Oh, oh okay. I was a little troubled, so Is it about Leticia? Alice asked. Sigh. Yeah. Actually, I am not sure how to respond to it, but what should I do Sometimes I think that it would have been better, no I would have been rather glad and it would be much easier for me, if everything about Leticia is malicious. Those words came out of my mouth almost naturally. It was strange. I felt like I could share anything with Alice without the least bit of worry of being ridiculed. If at all she had save me time and time again. Haru is really kind Why lead you to that conclusion? For some reason, Im not trying to think about Leticia at all. Why should I care about someone who is a completely stranger let alone someone who treated you so badly. But Haru is different. Ive done terrible things to her without even blinking an eye, I might have to reflect on it. Thats not the case Im just indecisive and I just cant make a decision I think thats your kindness is what drives you to that state. You cant help but think even about your enemies. Is that so? I should have decided to break up with Leticia. I should have declared it. But when a little possibility came up, that foundation was already shaken I dont want to forgive Leticia. But is that really the right thing to do? Yet, Alice says I am kind. I am You dont have to rush to find an answer. Haru is a little too impatient. Think about it slowly. Is that possible? Yes, it is. Alices words make my chest a little lighter. Thank you. I think I feel better now. youre welcome So what about to Alice? What are you doing here? Haru had a worried expression on his face, so I just came to see. It seems that the reason why the discussion about me and Leticia that had broke out was interrupted was due to Alices consideration of me. If thats so Thank you. Alice is always helping me. Then, could you treat me with delicious rice next time? Okay, lets go eat. I was easily accepted I wonder if I should choose the one that is extremely expensive? Ill have to refuse you politely. Ahaha Talking to Alice like this is a lot of fun. It feels like Im back to my childhood days when everything seemed to be so much fun yet it became hell ever since Leticia changed. Wait Whats wrong? No, its strange I feel like I have talked to Alice a long time ago. Thats ! Well, maybe we have? Yeah, no. Isnt it just a misunderstanding? Is that so ? Something is struck in my memory threatening to resurface but I cant seem to remember. Since, Haru seems to have resolved his problem, so Ill go back to my room. Good night Haru. There seems to be something wrong there Alice Yes? Oh no nothing. Good night. Yeah, good night I wish her good night with a bright smile I wonder if that would help her. Is it just in my mind or does Alice looked somewhat lonely? CH 23 Ha Finally I was able to catch onto some fresh air. I returned to my room as fast as I could and closed the door behind me A sigh of regret left my lips as I leaned against the door. But with my legs giving out I slipped down against it and sat on the floor staring blankly at the ceiling. That was dangerous It was hard for me to control my emotions. I almost nodded. I was on the brink of accepting Harus suspicions. I almost admitted it. We were friends in our childhood too, when we were little and used to spend our time together just like now I was about to say that. Gulp But thats no good. If I do that, Ill end up digging Harus traumas. Thats no good. I have to keep it a secret. DDDDDDDDDD Did I meet Haru about 10 years ago? At that time, I was very weak, and I was traveling with my parents in search of a place to recuperate. Then, we arrived at Harus village and chose to stay there as a I got treated. There seemed to be nothing particular or contrasting in his village But, the water and air were clear and very beautiful. Even, a small amount of dust which flew up in the cities by horse-drawn carriages seemed to be poisonous to me, who was weak. So I had to recuperate in a village where Haru was born. It was the perfect place which my parents had chose for me to stay during the medical treatment phase. And a little while after we moved to the village I met Haru. On that day, I was unusually in a good physical condition so I was asked to take a walk outside of the house. If I dont move my body once in a while, my physical strength will continue to decline, so I was allowed that much. I used to take a walk about once a week. So, I was very much looking forward to it. The feeling of the wind going wild, and clashing against my skin. The Warm sunshine. The chirping of the melodious birds. All of them were fresh and it was really fun just to take a walk. It was then Haru tumbled no he rolled down in front of me. Though, I didnt knew who he was at that time. He was a stranger. My house was near the mountain It seems that he was exploring the mountain misstepped, and rolled down. I was really scared at that time. Was he okay? I didnt know. Out of nowhere, a strange boy rolled down from above. However, Haru was extremely calm, contrary to me who was in a panic Who are you? Would you like to play with me? What did he say? I was surprised, but I didnt have any friends because of my illness, so I was happy to play with Haru. Then, Hull always came to see me once a week when it was the day where I could move out of my house and when I could play. It was an enjoyable day every week, but one day, I had a fever and fell asleep. That day too Haru came to my house and stood beside me. I would have felt bad since I couldnt go out as promised on that day. But he came just to be accompany me, so that I dont feel sorry. Occasionally, Leticia accompanied us too. But Leticia didnt seem to like Haru being with me and didnt show up often. Her bullish personality hadnt really changed since then, it had only worsened. That was how, I spent a year with Haru. It was just once a week actually, so it may be much less if converted to days But those were really some fulfilling days. I wondered if such emotions of spiritual fulfillment had an effect on my body, but I gradually became more energetic. But the god of fate really is capricious and sometimes cruel. On that fateful day, I went out to play with Haru as usual But for some unknown reason, he spit up blood and collapsed. Panicked. I had a seizure that had never happened since I met Haru. Fortunately, the place where I fell down was inside the village. Immediately an adult noticed me and treated me, helping me to survive. However, Haru blamed himself, believing that I was driven to a dangerous state, because he had taken me out. My parents did not blame Haru or that was what I was told. They were rather thankful that I was always able to laugh when with him. Of course, I dont blame Haru either. I think it all of it happened because the timing was bad. But Haru felt that it was his fault. He kept blaming himself, blame, blame I felt so responsible for it, that I was worried that he would break. At this rate, Harus heart would have really broke apart. We were only kids at that time around. It was almost scary how he blamed himself for all of it. With such anxiety, I decided to ask my parents to erase Harus memory. I decided to have everything about me erased. My parents were doing a lot to treat me, so they knew a lot of treatment methods. I also knew how to deal with cases like Haru I knew that it was best to erase the burden on the mind by erasing the memory with medicine and magic. Without hesitation, I asked Harus memory to be erased. Of course, it was harsh for me to be completely forgotten by him. Its also painful to have to leave the village because meeting me even by chance might trigger his memory and he might remember everything that happened between us. But if Haru can smile again. I will do anything. And we erased all of his memories of me. I left the village and Haru regained his peaceful life or so was what I had thought. That was the past I had chosen to bury behind. A record of only one years friendship between Haru and me. However, afterwards I managed to get rid of my illness. Then, I changed the color of my hair to make it look different. After that, I went to see Haru. The year I spent with Haru was the brightest of all, Ive ever lived. Also, I want to spend such days again. I thought so But, Haru was already working for Leticia. Ive never been as disappointed as I had been once I found out this. But I was not giving up. I wanted to see Haru again. Even if he doesnt remember me, I would like to meet him once again and thank him. Without Hull, my will would have been broken halfway and I wouldnt have been alive now. I wanted to look for Haru for that alone And I was able to find that chance. no. Maybe it was fate. Haru was tattered because of Leticia when I met him again I had do something about it. I had to do it. That was my chance at gratitude. This was probably fate too. With that in mind, I chose to be with him. I was not going to reveal the old days, and I think its okay to forget it. I just want Haru to laugh. With that in mind, I decided to do my best. DDDDDDDDDD Although I couldnt help but think about Leticia as I sat in the room assigned to me. Whats wrong with Leticia? Maybe not a lot, but Ive played with Leticia several times too. When she was little, she wasnt a tyrant, as Haru claimed. Although bullish, she was a kind girl. Why had it changed? Did she become obsessed with Haru and changed? That shouldnt be strange. Hmm Im was behind the scenes so far, and I want to take the initiative. I want to help Haru, but I cant think of a good plan. Leticia is probably Yandere or something strange is happening with her Im scared because I dont know what to do. THere are times when I lose sight of the means and am driven by the purpose alone causing Haru to be driven to more confusion. Both he and I are confused as to what to do with Leticia. And, Haru doesnt even know what he wants I dont know what is going to happen but Harus smile is my priority. I wont allow anyone to take that smile away. CH 24 Go! !! !! A roaring thunder struck down the slopes of Mt. Crest. The ground was scooped out and vaporized as if a meteorite had crashed down. Ho, ho Wasnt that a little overkill? Leticia appeared from within the rising smoke. Leticia was trapped in a grave. She had burst open through her shackles breaking it free. She had forcibly created an escape route to the outside. It was powerful enough to evaporate the mountains and create craters. The tombs of numerous heroes looked beyond repair. Years of heritage was demolished by a single hero. But Why why do you make a grave in such a place? Make it somewhere suitable at least! This place doesnt need a grave, that is why I destroyed it Leticia didnt seem to care about it all. Rather, it was quite the opposite. Haru you! Not just Alice, but also two other strange women too and somehow you enslaved a child, that lolicon If the truth were to be dug up, Haru was not trying to enslave Sana rather it was quit the opposite. Sana had forced herself on him. But Leticia had already forgotten about that fact. The impact of the word slave and also from a young girl like that was so great that she couldnt remember anything else. She had only put the word slave to her memory As a result, the false perception that Haru was trying to enslave a small girl was imprinted in her brain. Her simple minded approach was one the of the many drawbacks that Leticia had. Haru, you are mine. But you have done such stupid things to me over and over again Ill never forgive you! Ill drill into your brain what your position is. Leticia body burned with her rage and anger, But what should I do? But her rage disappeared in the brink of an eye as she tranquility returned to her face. Can she reclaim Haru just by chasing him like this? Its difficult By Harus stubborn attitude, it was clear that Leticia would be continued to be rejected. But whether she would allow it or not, was a completely different matter altogether. I mean, Harus mine, so why did he suddenly go against me? Leticia could help but think. She kept thinking and thinking until the sun rose above the horizon and the next day had already arrived. That womans work I wonder? That woman, her name Alice. She may have infused Haru with something unnecessary in my absence. Also, there were those two women who I have never seen before. They seemed suspicious too. There is a high possibility that they are filling up his ears with something to make Haru go against me. Yeah yeah, it must be! Had Leticia known about the facts she would have realized that her theory was full of holes But, Leticia did not deny her idea. Rather, she strongly affirmed on it with the reasoning that she cant possibly think of anything else that would work out here. She had a strong sense of belief in her skills as a hero. This is also one of the drawbacks that Leticia had. I should put off punishing Haru for now First of all, should I have to cut him off from those women. Haru broke up with me only because of the women that are around him. Otherwise, Haru couldnt possibly be with any other women but me. So, if I eliminate the women around him, Harus thinking will change. Yes thats it! She had come to the conclusion. Her resoning was nothing but brute forcing through it, but unfortunately no one could possibly correct her mistakes. She was all alone. But when it comes to it who should I start with? There were already three women around Haru. Alice, was an adventurer. There was also another women dressed like a priest whom I have never seen. And a third woman who was dressed in a maid outfit who was seemed to be suspicious. Hmm? As their visages flashed across her mind Leticia chanced upon something unusual. Leticia thought of Alice. That woman havent I met her somewhere? It was supposed to be my first meeting with her, but I feel like I had exchanged words with her before. Hmm strange Maybe I should put off dealing with her for now Did Leticia conscience allowed her to show consideration for her former childhood friend? Or was it just a whim on her part? Either way, she chose to exclude Alice from her target least at least in the near present. In that case I think its better to aim for the other two. Huh, but what should I do? CH 25 C25~ Reliable Friends [Next morning] After having a meal, we all got together and began brainstorming for measures against Leticia. It seemed that I myself couldnt come up with a good idea on what I was to do and everyone was getting worried. While everyone was here Sana was all alone I think that was for the best. Sana was leisurely reading a book sitting in the guest room. It was almost scary. Sometimes I hear her scream I dont like it! Or Recent humans are so illogical!. But I dont understand. What on earth are you even reading ? Anyway. Everyone other than her was worried about me But before all of that, I was starting to question my current situation. Um are you guys really fine with it? I couldnt help but ask. Whats wrong, Hull? Did you come up with something? It is not like that I shook my head. If you think about it carefully, Anju and Nine have nothing to do with my problem. Sanas presence was also irrelevant to this issue so she had made the right choice. but even if such was the case, I had involved two people in this before I knew it And I took it for granted that I would be able seek their help. Thats no good. Even involving Alice was already too much but since she was in my part it was understandable, but I got Anju and Nine involved too, who had literally nothing to do with it Thinking objectively, something like that cannot be forgiven. But when I told them the same. Haru-san, I understand that you are very kind, but please dont speak as if you are all alone in all of this. I am helping you for the sake of my lady but thats not all. Haru-san. I want to help you as I am grateful to you. Hmm Im glad to here that, but I cant afford to rely on both of you forever I say that, but Ugh. I cant decide. Isnt it rude to say that their participant is irrelevant even though we have already come this far? Both Anju and Nine are kind. And now that I think about it, I did save the two of them. After defeating Sana I was somewhat able to come in tabs wih my strength. Thats why they want to help me But how can I get them involved in my personal circumstances of that ? But at the same time it was rude to keep a distance from them. Ugh, why am I like this? I hope that someone solves my dilemma for me. Let me see? I dont know what to do and I am totally confused. What should i do? Hey, Haru. Alice called out to me in a gentle voice as just what I had completely lost my way. You dont have to worry so much, right? What? Im just thinking I understand. It all over your face. So, its easy to understand. Anju and Nine. The two of them nodded with persed lips. I turned towards Sana. Master is definitely not good at lying, isnt he? It was a little shocking for Sana of all people to say so. Isnt it fine if I solve it myself rather than involving others and causing them trouble? After all, I had come so far alone. No one had banished me from the heros party. I had banished myself. Besides arent I strong as they say? Thats right, but she continued. Its not a bad thing to rely on people. People cant live alone, so its a given than they would hold hands. If you think its okay to work it out yourself, then take that back. Isnt it rather rude to try to do everything yourself and keep others away? And arent we friends already? friend I feel heavy Those words fell over my palpitating heart. I had none of them. The so called childhood friend had already given me enough traumas for me to shiver out of nowhere at every minute stimulus. Because Im a friend, I would never ask for anything in return. If you are in trouble, Ill help you unconditionally I cant leave you alone. Yes, thats right. Yeah it was as Alice said. Ive just met them but I think Anju and Nine are friends. I think I am at wrong for wanting to keep them away. I was at wrong. Sorry, I was wrong. Yeah, its all right, Alice smiled. I dont care. Same as the young lady. I will always be with my master! Everyone accepted me with a smile. To respond to them with the best smile that I could wield. To protect their trust. I will do my best. However, this must be done properly. I stand in front of everyone Then I bow down my head. I I dont know how to deal with Leticia. So please help me everyone. Thank you! I raised my face and checked up on everyones expresssions. Everyone turned looked at each other Nodded in sync. Then smiled again. "of course Ill do it! It may be a little exaggerated to say, but At this moment, I felt that our hearts were united. DDDDDDDDDD Then, lets think about the countermeasures again. I asked Alice for her help. But then The door was slammed opened with a thundering noise. Im sorry. One of the maids who worked at the mansion showed up. She seemed to be in a hurry and forgot to knock. Whats wrong? You are being impolite. Nine glared at her causing her to flinch. Nine-san appeared to be the head main of the house, and she is strict. She does not tolerate the mistakes of her subordinates. Decorum must always be maintained. Im sorry, but its an important matter The main looked left and right for an escape. What happened? Seeing the maids rush, it seems that something happened, and Nines voice becomes a little softer. With her poking, it seemed that the main was able to regain her composure. And the maid told us the reason behind her haste. The Adventurers Guild has issued an order to detain Anju. CH 26 Detention Order? It was no wonder that I was confused when I heard those words. The Adventurers Guild is not only responsible for the citys mission list, but also for maintaining its security. It was officially supposed to be the knights of the lord that were supposed to maintain security But there are places that the Knights alone cannot reach. Aside from the big crimes, small incidents happen countless times every day. The Knights cannot afford to deal with each one of them. However, if you have a guild who have more than double the number of adventurers as knights can easily deal with it. So the Adventurers Guild also plays a role in maintaining the security of the city. Its power and authority being relatively large. Ocassionally they might even want to detail knights when they find them guilty for any kind of crime. This time around the situation and the exercise of authority were no different. But why Anju? She shouldnt have done anything to be detained Stupid !? A restraint order for the young lady What was the basis for the guild to make such a decision !? That Her pupils flickered left and right as she seemed to be reluctant to saying it out aloud. Her eyes had been specifically pointing towards me. It may be difficult for her to talk in front of my presence. It doesnt matter, talk. Rather, it may be better to consult Haru-san and the others. Yes, I see that, according to the Adventurers Guild A party visited a certain armor shop. The party bought enough to please the owner. And at the time of accounting [Im the daughter of the lord of Arland, Anju, the saint! You should be happy. You can advertise your small fry store as somewhere I had came to buy. Oh yeah. Send the bill at my mansion, okay see you. ] It was reported that the culprit left the store without paying. The owner of the shop seems to have recently moved to Arland and doesnt know much about Anju. However, since the culprint was a saint, the owner was convinced that the culprits claims were true. But today. When he had requested for the payment, he had to only go home empty handed. He felt that he was deceived and thus submitted a damage report to the Adventurers Guild. If the saint of the land commits a fraud, it will lead to a rather bigger problem. Thats why, the investigation was carried out immediately and it had continued until now. Sure, Ive heard from the other maids that a merchant had came with such a claim, but its not possible. The young lady hasnt been shopping for the past few days, and she was traveling with Haru-sama and Alice-sama. I was there too. Yes, I said that, but probably because of multiple complaints, the Adventurers Guild didnt listen and even issued a detention order. From the guild. People have been dispatched, and they are already here It was exactly then Ill have to trouble you here. It was a large adventurer, about 30 years old, who entered the room without hesitation. Grinning while messing with the stubble on his chin with his fingertips. Who are you? I dont remember inviting someone like you to the Autumn family. Hey, its a grumpy maid. Should I laugh at this a little more? I will consider you as a suspicious person and eliminate you! Out of nowhere, Nine picked up her twin sword. I wonder if its hidden somewhere inside her clothes so she can pick them out whenever she wants. She ran at the speed of the wind and swung the twin blades at the grinning man. For the time being, it seemed that she had adjusted the trajectory, and was attacking from the blunt side of the blade. However, Oops, thats dangerous What !? The man pinched the twin swords with both hands and two fingers and shoved them away. What a dynamic visual acuity and reflexes. Besides, his power too is incredible. To face off an acrobat like Nine-san with such a cool face This man is quite capable. Well, calm down. I didnt come here to fight. What are you playing around with ! I heard that the Adventurers Guild issued an order to detain the young lady! If you were dispatched from there, you would be buying the animousity of the young lady! I do not want to fight I wont let lay even one finger on my lady! When Nine let go of the twin swords, as she switched her armament to just an empty fist. With a swiftly flowing movement, fist and kick and then again fist were alternately delivered. Its was very smooth and skilled attack, that appeared as if she was spinning like a top. However, it still doesnt do any good to the man. It was useless. He caught every one of them and avoided them in mere millimeters. Hey, stop this at least listen to what people have to say! What!? The man quickly became impatient and decided to fight back. Its was a sharp blow in between an accurate gap between her attacks. Thats bad! Shield! What !? The magic shield I deployed blocked the mans fists at once. Oh fuck, what is this !? The man fist collided as they were squashed against the magical shield. It was like hitting an iron wall with him hitting it with full force, so the reaction too would be equally convincing. Tuuuu what is this? Magic ? Did your just do it? Oh, thats right. Its amazing not only to develop magic in such an instant, but also to aim between me and the maid, so precisely and the strength is outstanding. Brother, arent you quite the unique one here? Um maybe? I understand that Im a little weird because everyone kept telling me this and that. However, its embarrassing to admit that Im the only one who is weird I accept that I am a little stupid. Nice the world is so big. To meet someone as strong as brother. By the way, can you please step back? Eh? I dont want to fight either, as long as you dont touch Anju and Nine Then, what would you say if I were to force the saint and that maid to be restrained? At that time, I will stand against you with all of my might What!? With a firm determination in my heart, I strongly said it. Then the man quivered. Well, whats this pressure !? Why am I trembling !? Are you seriously going to act upon your current words? Answer! I see. I lost. I wont do that, I swear. If its so, then okay When he stops glaring, the man sighs while wiping his sweat. Fuuuu I was scared. To think even before the fight I gave in theres a guy who can make me think that I stand no chance the world is really wide. And, I dont like it. It feels like an overestimate Because I havent done anything yet at all. My brother seems to underestimate himself. Ill have to ask you to correct that misunderstanding, I havent seen a monster like him. Oops, my bad. I just wanted to say that you are amazing. Well, my choice of words were bad. Im sorry. Hmm, I was about to complain but Since he had honestly apologized, I cant really complain anymore. Surprisingly, he was a good person ? So I want to get back to the main subject, is that okay? Are you going to detain Anju? Then I Ah, wait, wait. Listen to me first. lets listen Even if she is detained, they are not arresting or interrogating her by any means. I dont know much but I feel like theyll be watching over her while they clear the charges. CH 27 C27~ Terrible Possibility What do you mean? As a guild representative, I dont think its really the crime of the saint, because we knows her personality and achievements more than anyone else. Is that so? Then why did they issue a detention order? Since there was a complaint, I cant dismiss it from a one-sided point of view without evidence. So I send someone to the saint. It might be wrong but we had to show them that we are carrying out the required processions, to prove that the guild isnt taking sides. So thats it It looked like there was no lie in his words. Even if I try to find faults with his reasoning, I cant really find anything strange. Can I trust him? Arent you a little too laid back? Alice, who was listening to the conversation next to us, asked a question. Does the guild think that the same thing would happens repeatedly even when you keep a watch on Anju? Thats right. I feel that the possibility of that is high. What is the basis? If it was a a normal scam or theft they wouldnt bother to deceive the name of the saint. Its normal to think that there is some motivation behind such actions? I dont know if its a grudge or some other reason But, whoever it is hell repeat it again. Thats what the guild thinks. So thats it. Its a convincing enough if you were to ask to me. Though I wouldnt recommend anyone to rely on my faulty knowledge. I mean hmm. When I heard the mans story, a suspicion popped into my head. Maybe ? Thats why, for the saints surveillance period I was dispatched as a human resource to clear the suspicion. Oh, bad, I didnt introduce myself. Im Jin Dinsleif. An adventurer who is mainly active in this city. Man Jin presented an adventurer card. The information is written exactly as he just said. I hear its difficult to forge an adventurer card, so Im sure hes not lying. We have the right to veto, but I think its better to accept him so that we clear out suspicion I see. Lets welcome Jin as a guest of the Autumn family. Are you sure you want to have him, young lady? Its more of a problem to refuse here. It doesnt feel good to be monitored, even to clear the suspicion but Ill put up with it. Dont worry. Watching doesnt mean youre stuck all day long. When you go out, youll accompany me at home, just tell me what you were doing at night. Is that all right? Thats right. As someone from the guild, I hardly doubt the saint. Its okay as long as I am there for a good lookout. I dont think I can peep during a bath with my brother being there. So you can just ignore me completely. It doesnt matter even if you do something erotic. What !? Anjus face turned red due to his sharp remarks that seemed to have no decency. If you dare to look into my ladys bath, then your neck will fly off, so be careful. Oh, oh Nine threatened Jin, pulling out the twin swords out of nowhere again. It seemed that he couldnt prevent it this time, perhaps because she was exerting more power than usual to protect the chastity of her lady. Women are scary when they get angry. Im reluctant, but as long as the young lady approves, we will treat Jin as a guest of the Autumn family. I will say again. Im reluctant, but Ill show you to the guest room for the time being, so you can leave your luggage there. But even then. Im still reluctant. Hey, how many times do you have to say that youre reluctant. Do you really have to hurt uncle so much? Im saying it so that it hurts, so I couldnt be more glad. Nine, shes tough to deal with Well, given what I claimed earlier, I cant afford to defend Jin at all. Then, thank you for taking care of me from now on. Jin laughed lightly and was taken out of the room by another maid. Fu Suddenly, I get a little confused. I took a light deep breath and calmed down. Its Leticia, Anjus fake Yes Its probably just my intuition But isnt these two incidents connected? Oh, did Haru think so too? Alice turned towards me. That means you thought so too It seems that Alice and I have arrived at the same answer. That it seems that we have the same thoughts. Similarly, I think so too. There seems to be no objection between Anju and Nine. Wow, its so dangerous! Humans sure are illogical! Only Sana kept reading books at her own pace unconcerned of what was happening around her. Yeah, lets leave her alone. I think Leticia is the culprit in this case Leticia? Everyones voices overlapped perfectly. I thought we were on the same page Were they thinking of something else? Sigh The first thing that was an immediate giveaway were the criminals words that came as a testimony from the owner of the armor shop. It might be possible that only I noticed it since I am her childhood friend. But it was very Leticia-ish. Selfish, arrogant and rotten. Also, its just like her to call the shop with phrases like small fry shop etc. And the timing when the incident happened. Immediately after Leticia appeared, Anjus fake made an appearance too. The timing was too good to be ignored. I think its no wonder that she had something to do with it. But why are you doing something like faking to be Anju? Thats a mystery Even if she does that, Leticia wont really benefit from it. Hmm? Dont you understand that? A feminine voice resounded out of nowhere. Sana, who was reading a book, suddenly turned her gaze toward us. It seems that she was listening to everything all along. Quite the stupid eavesdropper she was. Eh? Do you understand Sana? I understand. After all, I am your disciple that you can count on. I dont remember her being a disciple I felt like I was being forced onto it. Can you tell me what you think at least? Arousing curiousity and leaving like that is no fair Thats an easy thing to do. Master, that hero is jealous of Anju. jealous? She didnt like the fact that my master was close to the saint, so she tried to deceive master by using the saints name as an alias, so that master would grow to despise the saint. that is I was about to refuse that theory but You are right! An affirmation flew out from an unexpected place. It was Alice. Her face had turned grim with a serious expresssion as if she had wholeheartedly accepted Sanas ridiculous story. You might think its impossible for something like that to be her motivation, but its not impossible with Leticias personality. Or maybe she couldnt have done anything else but this. Thats right. Isnt Sana really smart to see through the whole incident in almost the first shot Sana? But I was the one who had figured out that it was Leticia I wanted to complain. I felt like I was being underestimated for the first time. That? I dont know if I am being praised or judged. Alice seemed to be pushing Sanas reasoning. Anju and Nine I see if you ask me, thats right. Ive only seen it for a while but Leticia seemed to be very particular about Haru. She took that reasoning to consider the young lady as an enemy and eliminate her. Dragon is right. I have no idea of ??anyone else with any motivation to harm my lady other than her I think this is the only possibility. Everyone seems to agree with Sanas reasoning. that? Am I the only one who really thinks its too absurd? But after they reasoned out, everyone seemed sooo right. I cant refute that girls have sharp points I mean, its amazing. How come I am the only one who cant understand Leticias reasoning? For the time being, lets move in the direction that Leticia is suspicious. How about? "No objection With everyones approval, our future policy was decided. CH 28 Alice, Sana and I went out into the city to find Anjus imposter. While on the other hand, Anju and Nine were caught up in a home arrest. As Jin says, it was not okay for them to move around suspiciously and be accused of stranger things. But, It felt so wrong So, I was trying to clear up this unjustified suspicions with my own hands After all, if its really was Leticia then it was my fault too that they were detained like this. Please be patient. I promised her that I would do something about it. At that time, I was driven by emotions and somehow tightly squeezed Anjus hands. But, Anju had a face that was as red as a tomato Was she angry at my careless act? Should I apologize to her later on? Haru you cant do that. Master Thats not good. When I shared my thoughts to the two of them for some reason they were against my opinon. Anyway. It looks like it wont be easy to find her We checked some inns. I also went around the stores and asked, but I couldnt get any information about the imposter who claimed to be the saint. Isnt the culprit really cautious? Or was it the lack in our ability to collect information? I still dont know which one it was that was causing us to fail In some of the stories that I had read.. there were saints like worship us! Were saints! They were all like that but Anju is really kind. Sana mumbled to herself probably assuming that we were paying ears too. Shouldnt being saint be quite a convenient thing ? I dare to ask, why is Sana so familiar with human stories ? I was probably the last person who should be asking this since I hadnt read any because of Leticia. Originally, I was interested in human beings. Sana says If it came to a dragon like her, it seemed that there are almost no people approaching her because of her power. Especially if she were to pose as a legendary ancient dragon Sana seemed to have been rather lonely. No matter how strong she is, she is still a normal girl. I cant stand seeing others to be that way I guess she began to read stories written by people in order to learn about them. And I couldnt help but be fascinated. Finding them interesting Sana couldnt help but keep reading them to satisfy her excitement and curiosity. And probably that was the reason why Sana became very interested in humans. She wanted to get closer to humans somehow. She wanted to talk to them about various things. With that in mind, it appears that she chose the Crest Mountain near Arland as her base castle. However, on the contrary, everyone was afraid of her and fainted as soon as they caught sight of her. Then master appeared there and I thought. This must be fate! Oh Sana was having a hard time too. Fuyaaah !? Sana struck out a strange voice as I stroked her head somewhat sympathesizing her. In some ways she had her own yearnings too just like me Her face had flushed out turning red. Ah, that master? Its like you are treating me like a dog Ah Im sorry. No, dont stop! When I tried to get my hands off, she cried not allowing me to stop. First that slave thing and now this? I was wrong to have sympathesized with her. Rather, I want you to stroke more! It feels so good to be stroked by master! Is that so? Yesu! Then pat, pat. Funyaa. The dragon was like a cat. Even though I had thought that she was stupid, by talking to her more I was able to learn more about her. Probably What am I thinking about? How can I think something like this? I think I was struck at a crossroad again. Can I and Leticia possibly understand each other through proper discussion? Maybe we can go back to the our old days? Suddenly, I thought about that fantasy. Master? No, nothing. But Is it a even possible now? Where are you, fake? Well if our guess is correct, it wont end in one go. Youll have to repeat the crime again. All she is doing is targeting small stores. The big ones are being avoided. Say so, as Sana supplements. I also follow them. And I think its highly likely that people who have just arrived in this city will be targeted. Master, why is that? If you are a long time resident of the city you would more and less have an idea of how Anju looks like at least, as shes the daughter of the lord and also a saint. Given that, its hard to think of anyone being deceived. She will only target the ones recently moving to the city. And, I think there are many ways for her to collect information about them considering her connections. All she would have to do is go to a guild and ask them to provide her with the migration list. I see, master is cool! I didnt think so much. In that case should we also look up the addresses of the new immigrants living in the city? We dont have enough connections. Were not heroes, were ordinary adventurers. No one would help us with such information. I dont think ordinary adventurers will blow the mountains away with flare blasts. I dont think ordinary adventurers will make dragons give in with mere flare blasts. Two people can put up a pout. Sigh. You misunderstood me. Thats not what I meant Anyway, Diverted the story Recently, their words come out almost at the same time. Were they surprisingly compatible? Lets rule out the possibility that our reasoning is right. Of course, its possible for us to be wrong but if we care too much about that, well get stuck. First of all, I think its better to move on the premise that the reasoning is correct. If the reasoning is correct Leticia is the culprit, right? Yeah, so Im trying to find Leticia instead of trying to find another fake crime scene. Leticia is a hero, so she is widely known. But even if that were the case Not all the general public knows about her But it was a different matter if it was someone from the Adventurers guild or an adventurer. So the best option was to just ask the Adventurers Guild. Do you disagree? No No OK, lets gather information at the Adventurers Guild. So we went to the Adventurers Guild in Arland. It was quite big, unlike the one at the old town. When I open the guild door feeling somewhat anxious Oh, its the hero! Leticia was already present at the guild being showered by praise. CH 29 So what do you want with me? After successfully finding Leticia. I took her out of the guild for us talk in solitude. Surprisingly, Leticia followed without a word. I dont know but Somehow she has a fearless smile. Also, I dont know why, but Im full of confidence too. It was not too long in the past where her very presence was enough to shrivel me up. But now I dont feel as scared I used to be. Maybe Haru wants to come back to me? No. Its not that. ugu! When I answered immediately, Leticia face restored to her pinched expression. Was I listening things? I almost heard her muttering words like that woman has to be defamed more. This kind of attitude. Her current dialogue. With all of this, I was almost convinced. Anjus imposter is definitely Leticia. Whats her motive? Was her motive exactly what Sana says, or was it not? There was something I dont understand well First of all, there was no doubt about Leticia being the culprit. Ill ask you without beating around the bush. Is it you who is faking to be the saint and doing scummy acts? Fake? Scam? What? Leticia pierced me with her sharp gaze. Despite her bullish attitude, she wasnt giving away anything concrete here. Dont you pretend not to know. Theres a bad guy whos imposting one of my friends. Isnt that you? Stupid, I dont know about who this saints imposter is! Is there evidence in the first place? Evidence. If you were to point at me, show me the evidence first. Ugu thats Isnt it wrong? If not, dont blame me out of nowhere. Can you even say something like that to the hero without any evidence? I will sue you for defaming me, and I wonder if you can get away from it. Leticia had a pretty obnoxious face. She seemed to have a proper understanding of her overwhelming advantage. How was it that only Alice was able to trick her everytime? Was there something in her voice that did the trick? I was almost certain that Anjus imposter was Leticia. But there was no evidence. Leticia was on the right track, so I think shell probably keep repeating these crimes again. It would probably be perfect to develop a strategy to catch her, but it might not necessarily work. Considering the possibility of failure, I want to settle things here as much as possible. And the way to do that was There is certainly no evidence. And, I cant afford to blame Leticia for it. Isnt it? she shrugged appearing as calm as ever. But I think Leticia is infinitely suspicious, or rather, I dont think there can be anyone else guilty of this crime other than Leticia. Huh? How can you say such a silly thing? Didnt you just admit that there was no evidence? So, can you tell me that? You might be right, but Im pretty sure in my stance. Stupid! if you say that, show me the proof, show me the proof! But if you dont, please dont say anything so silly. Leticia seemed to be irate, which was also reflected in her facial expression as her lips turned into a white sash. She folded her arms and tapped against her elbows with her fingertips. What?! Is that all? I thought Leticia would be a little more reactive? Where are the cussing words that come out of her mouth like rain from the sky? I dont need any proof, because I clearly know that Leticia is the culprit. How can you that !? As far as the evidence is concerned the circumstances that we share are enough of a proof for me to believe it. Huh? Just because of our circumstances? Is that enough for you to treat me like a criminal? Haru, you, are you messing with me? No, I am not playing around. Leticia is the culprit. There can be no other answer. Hey ! Even if you are mine, but if you say anything silly again Then I will make it really painful for you! I couldnt help but smile to her outburst. That had always been the case. That ! Leticia bit her lips at the last minute holding herself. I was glaring at her at all times with a piercing gaze not letting her any leeway at escaoe. Was it about time? Logically speaking, it can be no one other than Leticia. Why!? The criminal is someone who despises Anju and seeks benefit from harming her. The only one with such a motive could be Leticia. You were jealous and wanted to get rid of the girl near me. Huh Harus stupid !? It doesnt matter who is near Haru! Its not like I care about it or anything. She cired strongly denying it. But I chose to ignore her for now. Therefore Leticia decided to use Anjus name as an alias and commit a scam to dwindle her name in mud. She looked for a store that didnt know Anju well, and then without paying she laughed out loud like Ha Ha Ha, while leaving the store, isnt that right? The culprit was not laughing like that stupid! It was just completely normal. Normal! Haru is stupid! Alice and Sana who were following the conversation till now looked at eahc other. !?. However, Leticia seems to be unaware of her remark and continued to throw a tantrum. So why can Leticia assert something like that. Its as if she had already seen that scene in person? Ah Leticias face turns blue as she finally realizes her mistake. Sweat poured down her forehead. Well, now thats no biggie! I just happened to over hear it from the others its just a coincidence. Yeah, maybe. I nodded. Huh? For her ridiculous claim to be so easily acceptedLeticia couldnt help but be suspicious. But the conversion has already reached its conclusion. What, what does that mean? I said this before too right? A bad guy is imposting one of my friends. Do you remember now, what you had replied? I never said that a saint was being impostered. So? How do you know that the victime is a saint? Uh The case is a pretty touchy in itself. So, the case is stil hidden from the public so as not to upset the people of this land. Its a top secret investigation carried out by the guild. And yet, why does Leticia know that the victim is a saint? THere can be only one answer for that. It is because Leticia herself is the cirminal You! You put me in a trap from the beginning Well I dont think you can escape anymore? Ugugugu ! Leticia bit her lips unable to do anything to help it. She was aware that the tables had already been flipped. Still, was the reversal permanent? I had put some thought into this and for that By the way Alice. Yes, its perfect. Alice took out a palm-sized magic tool. It was a magic tool that can record ones voice. Ive recorded the conversation everything that happened till now. Thats a good enough proof. Ugh !? Well would you accept your crime now? I turned towards Leticia with a sober expression on my face. Leticia gritted her teeth with regret as she looked always Ahhh! Why is this happening! My plan was to eliminate that woman! She made the big statement admitting her crime. Do you admit it now? Yes, I admit it. Why did you do this? I couldnt help but sigh in disappointment. Well even if I did say that she did it out of jealousy just a moment ago. But that was just something absurd Sana had came up with. I am having a hard time buying that. If possible I want to have a heart to heart conversation with Leticia herself. Its not what you think it is! It was just on a whim. I didnt like her somehow, so I thought Id cause trouble for her. Apparently, she is not going to talk about her motivation. Well, should I leave the investigation around that to the Adventurers Guild? Youve been scamming at multiple stores and caused trouble. First of all, you need apologize to the store owners. Leticia turned to me wide eyed. What? I didnt do that. Are you still going to lie after all of this? Ive scammed in one store well, I admit, but thats it. Im not fooling around in multiple places. Leticia, herself seemed to be totally confused Probably because I have known her for so many years butshe didnt look like she was lying. How can that be? CH 30 C30~ Dark Clouds For the time being, we had put handing over Leticia to the Adventurers Guild on hold. We took her back to Anjus mansion instead. For the time being, we have caught one of the suspects. Hmm Yeah? Isnt that child a hero? What do you mean? Jin asked. Haru-san, since you caught her red handed so our speculations were true. No, thats correct but the situation has got a little more complicated. what do you mean? Ill explain it now. We all moved to the guest room and I explained it there. We thought that Leticia was suspicious and searched for her. We found her and also acquired the proof that she was the real culprit. But, according to Leticia, she had scammed only one shop quite in contrast to the reports. As we explained them the situation, Anju, Nine, and Jin naturally had troubled faces. Its surprising enough that the hero is one of the culprits Jin whispered to himself. As Haru says, its a really complicated situation. If we were to believe her story, then that means that there are other impostors who are defaming the name of the saint Yes. As Nine says, the problem was there. Was Leticias scam a trigger for all of it? Or was it bound to happen and the timings just happened to overlap? I dont know that One more person. Or there could be multiple criminals. But, what was their intention? What purpose do they have? I dont know that, and I have no idea They are even trying to deceive the name of the saint. Im sorry to say but I think Leticia isnt lying. There must be others who are trying to taint the saint. And the purpose is unknown maybe the aim is to hurt the young lady. Or maybe theyre aiming for the seat of the saint. Anjus face turned grim as she shared her speculations. I couldnt help but raise my brows. This kind of information was new to me. Thats quite an omnious theory Is it even possible to take down Anju from being a saint and someone else to replace her? Yes, there is. Is that so I didnt know. My lack of common sense was clearly getting the better of me. Yet I chose to follow along. As I explained before, a saint is not a profession that anyone can become. Only when one recieves an oracle and completes a pilgrimage journey can one become a true saint. Now as I am It would be more fitting to say that I am an apprentice saint who holds the qualification to be a true saint in the future. Yes Yes This is not something that anyone can be. Firstly, one must go to church every day to receive an oracle. Then, by going through many trials, they will be recognized by the people around them. Only then will you become a saint apprentice, you see. Then, what does it mean when you are pulled down? The number of apprentices for saints are limited, thats because the church only allowed so many. If anyone could have taken the name of the saint, then the authority of the church would have been destroyed. There are in total 12 saints. They comprise of seven true saints, and the remaining five are on a pilgrimage trip like me. I see, I somehow understood it. Only 12 people can be saints. If there are vacant seats due to retirement or death, new candidates for saints will be added. In that way, the number of saints would always be 12. That would be the case. Then there is a possibility that the person who is aiming for the position of a saint is another criminal, isnt it? Yes, unfortunately I cant think of any other motive, so its likely. Anjus face turned pale. Perhaps she is saddened such a person is posing to serve God. But when it comes to those aiming for the position of the saint, the number of suspects jumps up to quite a high number. Who should I doubt not to mention that we arent even sure that my theory is correct in the first place Hmm, we dont have enough information. It was a headache. I can make some guesses, but We lack any ground to stand on. We wont be able to arrive at the answer just by making guesses. Hmm I understand everything, but we dont have enough information. Im sorry, but I cant stop watching over the lords daughter with this much information. Its better to wait as it is. Jin says that but Its a good resoning, but Is it just in my mind? Am I just assuming things? It seemed to me that Jin wanted to be near Anju for some reason. Oh! I came up with a good idea! Sana, who was watching over the situation, said with a smile. Why dont we seek for Leticias cooperation? Huh !? Sanas outlandish idea made Alice and her friends shake their heads claiming it to be impossible. But I thought the opposite it might be a good idea. Eh !? CH 31 The only way I could think of was rather complicated. Leticia will continue to deceive others as Anjus imposter. But we would make her move in such a way that she would be easily recognizable as a fake. What would happen then? What was the purpose? The other criminal was bound to contact Leticia. He might want to make use of her. Or he might want to stop her since she was coming in his way making it obvoius to the public that she was an imposter and not Anju herself. Either way, Im pretty sure that well get in touch with the actual criminal. At that time, we would have to do our best to expose the other partys identity And he might even be detained depending on the circumstances. Thus, by doing so, we will gather information and make steep progress towards our goals. Hehe I thought it would work but When I explained what I had in my mind everyone started chuckling. Sana squinted her eyes in an equal disappointment of her idea being rejected. No was it? Nope, thats not the case. Rather, I think its a really good strategy. But I was surprised. Haru-san is not only good at magic, but he is also smart. For you to say so I dont think thats the case Rather it was Sana who first proposed it. To think that you could think of such things in such a short time. I respect Haru-sama. No.. no you are getting it wrong BUt for some reason even Sana followed along with them. Master is vwise! Im proud to be a disciple of master! I dont remember accepting you as my disciple Somehow, I felt like I was always being moved around like this as I was. Haru is being praised Fu! Thats so funny. Leticia laughed in a mocking tone as she deemed everyone stupid. She was probably the only one today who had thoughts aligned with mine. But why does she looks like she is in a pinch? Well how about we go along with it for now? You have to prove your innocence right? Yeah , Leticia whispered giving in. After following our conversation, Leticia pondered for a while as she made a mess oru of her hair enterwining them with her fingertips. It was one of her old habits. When she thinks hard about something, she often messes with her hair. There are still some things about her that havent changed. It makes me recall of the old times. Somehow, I feel complicated. Who could it be stupid enough to try to imposter the saint , Leticia whispered to herself. You should talk for yourself, right? Sana asked. Ugh !? Sanas words pierced Leticia leaving her in a daze. Judging from her reaction maybe it is true that she had tried to defame the saint on a whim? Are you okay? I couldnt help but ask. I am not aware of what her motivations are but we needed her for this. Yes, Yes I am okay !? More than that, for there to be another criminal! You want to get rid of him, so you want me to cooperate? Is that it? Yes, thats it. Can you help? I asked with a soft voice. No matter our past and her current status, I was the one making a request here. I couldnt afford to act as if I am entitled here. OK Huh? Thats it, I said I am okay with it. Everyone, including me, was equally surprised. For better or worse we considered Leticia to be an enemy. No way, she would have accepted it so easily unless.. Is it raining tomorrow? No, my guess is that it might snow. Lady. There is a possibility that a haze will fall I was confused I am not sure why they suddenly started discussing some out of context topic but smoke seemed to be coming out of Leticias head as they continued to ignore her. Why !? I already said that that I would cooperate obediently, so please be at least a bit happy there !? Whats with that rude attitude !? Should I stop cooperating !? Leticia roared at all of them. All I could do was watch as I wasnt really too sure about these events. But then Sana had to drop the bomb I see tomorrow it would snow and also Leticia will be banished from the guild. What !!!! Leticia screamed After that she kept barking and barking I had stopped following their conversation. I sighed. I was a little tired. Talk about being lazy. Haru, I have some conditions for cooperating! Lets listen what you have Keep my crime a secret from everyone. Is that it is Leticias finally feeling guilty of her fraud? Thats it. Lets blame the other criminal for everything, including my scam, and my fame will be preserved. It was certain that Leticia had tried to defame Anjus name and had committed a scam, albeit only once. Once it becomes public with enough proof, the loss of her authority is inevitable. In order to avoid that, she wants to impose all our sins on the bigger criminal. Okay, I have think about it. Hey what do you mean you would think about it, Haru? Just do that I sighed as I turned to the others. Leticia is an important figure in the guild and also its not too hard to save her from this. So at this point, lets compromise a few things. I had to ask the others for their confirmation especially Anju Hmm, thats like Haru! You really understand that you are mine and must heed to my words. Leticia continues with her barking as she grinned to herself. while I simply ignored. And also, I would like to say that it doesnt really matter even if we dont take the strategy you just recommended. What do you mean? Now that I look back at it, I think that I have already been contacted by the actual criminal. It was just that I hadnt realized it back then. What !? I stumbled in shock as I couldnt help but be suprised. I didnt think it had already gone that far. But if that was the case it could be a big opportunity. Can you tell me? Its okay I will tell you but hmm. What should I do? I want to cooperate, but I want to have some kind of reward. Its boring to reveal it just as it is honestly. Leticia looks down at me with a smirk on her face. I have seen that kind of smirk many a times during the days that she had tortured me as she looked down on me. And honestly I cant help but think that its a disgusting smile. Well, you want to have a cooperative relationship with me? You want me to tell you? But, you see is that really the right attitude for you to request something from me? Dont you understand? You must grovel on the floor and beg me for it. I remember now. When I was trapped with her, I had to grovel for even the most basic things. My old memories resurfaced as my face turned pale. You know what!!! Alice tries to move forward as she howled, but I swept my hand in front of her stopping her from doing anything unnecessary. I gave her visual signal to leave it to me. After a hesitant pause, Alice returned to her original position. If thats how you want to play, then I would play along too. Hey what are you going to do? Was it during the summer seven years ago? ? On that day, Leticia drank a lot of water because it was humid. And she slept as she was And she woke up in the middle of the night because she wanted to go to the bathroom, but she was too scared and couldnt go to the bathroom alone. She had recently read a horror story too so the after effect was there. What should I do? What should I do, its too much? Yes, I should take it out of the window. You must have been having thoughts like that Hey, uh Stop Stop Stop Uuuuuuu !! Leticias face turned to a bright shade of red, as she waved her hands in front of me trying to cover up my words with a lid. She grabbed my collar pulling me around. Haruuuuu! What are you saying !? How can you trample on the dignity of a maiden !? Thats because Leticias attitude is too bad. She is playing a bad game, so I had to play along. By the way, I still have a lot of stock penting up in my belly. As your childhood friend, I have a lot of privilege. Guuuu If you are not going to cooperate, then why dont I keep going? On a cold winter day, Leticia was wearing a skirt, but she her head got stuck into a pile of snow and her p Ahhhhhhh !? I see, I understand, so stop !? Otherwise, Ill cast advanced tier magic here !!!? Cough Cough It looks like Ive gone a little too hard on her. She had almost turned teary. However, I succeeded in making her to back off on her unslightly demand. Leticia sits back in her chair and utters some of the best information I could have got, all the while she kept whimpering that she was being blackmailed. Basically, Harus reasoning is correct. In this case, the criminal was trying to kick Anju out of the saint candidate. I just happened to have the same timing. How are you so sure? The other person said that way, so she asked if I could we could have a cooperative relationship. What did you answer? Ive put it on hold. I told her that I cant give her an immediate answer because her purpose is ugly. Hmm Did you hear the name? Yes, of course. The other persons name is Rona Falun, the great priest of the church of Arland, that is the one in this city. That !? Anju responded more strongly than anyone else to the name Leticia had uttered. She was so surprised that she put her hand on her mouth gasping for breath. She shook her head in desperation unable to believe it. Perhaps Anju and Rona were close friends. At least that was the conclusion I had reached from Anjus reaction. However, I cannot help but want to confirm it. It may be terrible for me to ask, but Still, I have to clarify everything. Anju are you acquainted with Rona Falun? Yes she muttered in a fanit receeding voice. Anjus face had turned blue at this point. Rona is my childhood friend