The Spearmaster and the Black Cat Chapter 133

Chapter 133 Carelessness

Our impromptu party, Innocent Arms, makes a safe return to the surface.
We decide to postpone the appraisal of the looted items and head to the guild first.
I guess its just past noon.
Sunlight for the first time in three days.

Im looking forward to the item appraisal! Lets hurry to the guild! (Rebecca)

Nn. (Eva)

Rebecca happily pushes Evas wheelchair out onto the street. We proceed via the First Ring Road and its open-air market.
Those two have gotten quite close.
We pass through the bustling guild thats flooded with adventurers and line up at the reception.
After waiting a few minutes, all of us hand in our guild cards, the magic stones, and the items required for the requests.
We place the items we gathered onto the reception desk in individual piles, sorted by request.

This is an amazing amount. I will calculate the total, so please wait a moment.

Nya.

Although Rollo answers the receptionist from atop my shoulder, the beastwoman ignores it and prioritizes her work.
She jots down notes on paper while checking the materials and magic stones, then swiftly turns around.
I dont know if she was moving towards the guilds inner area with a skill, but she continues her work briskly.
After waiting for a bit,

Thank you for waiting. Heres your reward.

I receive the reward from the receptionist.
Its a bag filled to the brim with gold coins.
We got this much money without even selling the Black Sweetwater.
I look at my adventurers card after getting it back.

Name: Shuuya Kagari
Age: 22
Title: Dragon Slayer
Race: Human
Occupation: C-Rank Adventurer
Affiliation: none
Combat Occupation: Spear Warrior Chain User
Completed Requests: 30

I have thirty finished requests now. I feel a slight sense of accomplishment.
With this, I should be able to take the test for rising to B-Rank, but for now, I wont.
As Im looking at the adventurers card, I hear Rebeccas delighted voice.

Look at all that gold, fufufu. (Rebecca)

Rebeccas sky-blue eyes, theyre pretty. I feel like they are slightly wasted on her, seeing her showing an expression so filled with greed.
Now then, adventurers are queued behind us, so I think we should move to the waiting room.
There are many long, vertical benches open there.

Seeing as we are going to split the money, lets move to the corner over there? (Shuuya)

Youre right. (Rebecca)

Nn. (Eva)

Leaving the reception, we head over to the right corner.
A message board and several round, high tables have been placed there.
All of us gather around one of the tables.
I immediately place the gold coin bag on the table with a thud.
As I do so, the looks of the adventurers in the surroundings gather, but it cant be helped.

Theres also the Party Box, but lets stay in touch through this message board for now. (Rebecca)

Rebecca points at the message board.

That makes sense. Lets use it when we want to get in touch with each other or want to form a party? (Shuuya)

Nn, agreed. I will write next time. (Eva)

Well then, I have to split the reward money, dont I?
The coins have to be distributed to four people.

Well, given that we are going to split this among four people, everyone will get this much gold and this much silver. Do you guys agree? (Shuuya)

Youll take slave Viines share, wont you Shuuya? (Rebecca)

Nn, strange. (Eva)

Rebecca and Eva have questioning looks.
I suppose I, her master, should take her reward.
Once I turn my gaze towards her, Viine lowers her slender chin and says after nodding,

Master, you are supposed to take most of it. (Viine)

Well, if thats how things work around here, theres no point in arguing.

Got it. I will take Viines share. I will split it now. (Shuuya)

I divide the money.
Eva stores the money into a bag in her item box with a serious look.
Rebecca puts it into her backpack as well.
I put my shares into my item box as well.

Now my purse is full of money. Alls done, so lets get to the fun appraisal. (Rebecca)

Rebecca leaves the table while twirling her silver wand with a slender hand.

Aye, guess we will do just that. Or rather, Rebecca, dont drop that wand, okay? (Shuuya)

Humph, it will be alright~. (Rebecca)

She sticks out her tongue at me and winks.
Just like that, she abruptly turns away and starts to walk towards the guilds exit.
She comes close to bumping into another adventurer.
I wont care even if your money gets stolen.

Well follow Rebecca and go to Sulozas Old Sorcery Shop, okay? (Shuuya)

Nn. (Eva)

As you say. (Viine)

We leave the guild and head towards Sulozas Old Sorcery Shop where we appraised an item last time.
At that moment, I feel several presences following behind us.
Going for our money? I will ignore them for now.
Joining up with Rebecca, we hurry to the shop.

When I open the elegant, reddish-brown, wooden door a bell chimes.
Its oblong, cafe-like interior design hasnt changed.
As we enter, a rich-looking client leaves the store.
When we descend the stairs at the entrance, the shopkeeper faces us with a calm expression while fiddling with his monocle.

I see, so its the customers from the other day. Welcome.

Thanks. Wed like to get some more items appraised. (Shuuya)

Very well. The price is still five large copper coins per item.

Somehow I feel like it waspayment after servicelast time
Oh well, whatever. I hand over the items and the money.
For the time being, I passed him the map as well.
Everyone hands in their respective items as well.

Viine, give him yours as well. I will pay. (Shuuya)

Yes, Im sorry. (Viine)

With a slight delay, she hands in the sword with its conspicuous black scaled scabbard.
The shops owner equips the monocle and manipulates his mana.
Once mana passes through the monocle, its tip naturally narrows down, just like it did the other day.
The shopkeeper appraises the items silently, going through all the various items
When he shifted his attention to the last item, the ring, the shopkeeper leaks a groan.

This is

The ring has a big gem embedded in its center.
A design similar to a vortex of indigo-blue and white has been added to the gem.
The shopkeeper peeks at the blend of colors by firing a laser generated from the monocle.

Amazing

Whats amazing about it?
Everyone perks up due to the casual comment of the shopkeeper.
Rebeccas incredulous look is incredible; she creates fine wrinkles by bringing her golden eyebrows together.
Shes excited; her rough breathing comes out her nose giving her an aura that feels as if she could kill someone with her intense stare.
Shes slightly scary.
For a change, Eva stands up from her wheelchair, places her hands on the counter bar and shifts her gaze between the shopkeeper and the ring in alternation.
Even Viine, whos next to me, opens her silver eyes wide.

Once the shopkeeper finishes the appraisal, he suddenly takes off his monocle.
He looks in our direction with a serious expression.
His face with its conspicuous laughing lines breaks into a broad grin.

Did you possibly loot this item from a gold chest?

Aww, not quite. Its different. You know, as matter of factit appeared from a silver treasure chest! Amazing, isnt it? (Rebecca)

After bragging, Rebecca puffs out her not-existing chest, makes a victorious pose, and reveals a triumphant expression.

I see. A silver treasure chest, huh? That makes sense. All of the appraised items are high-ranking. Among them, this ring is outstanding Its a Unique Class item, but its a magic item you could even categorize as Legendary Class. Its name isMists Mirage. Only someone possessing the water attribute can equip it and moisture in the surroundings is necessary, but if those conditions are met, the magic ring will produce a mist clone of its owner upon use. It may be Unique Class, but it can be given a two-star appraisal certificate.

Hee? The ring has a name like that?
Besides, for it to be limited to water attributeis that fate?
I was correct in taking it for myself.

A mist clone sure seems amazing, but its limited to water attribute holders, eh? (Rebecca)

Rebecca mutters while looking at the ring.
Since Im bothered by the appraisal certificate thing, I try asking about it.

Is it better if theres an appraisal certificate attached to an item? (Shuuya)

Of course. Its convenient when youre going to sell it at an auction or such. An ability listing is written on a special parchment according to my appraisal skill and the monocles results. That will serve as the appraisal certificate. It costs a bit; do you want me to prepare one for you?

I guess Im fine for now since I dont plan to sell it at the moment.

Theres no need for now. I understood about the rings mist mirage. Can I ask you to give us the names and light explanations about the other items as well? (Shuuya)

I prompt the shopkeeper to continue explaining.

Got it. I will start with this magic item, the silver, demonic steel wand. Its name isSilver Rally Magic Rod. Its appearance is that of silver, but its an item made out of silver demonic steel which is a higher grade of silver. Its a silver-steel alloy with a quite impressive mana channeling ability. This wand itself bestows an increase in spell effectiveness. In addition, given that there are good quality magic gems with the wind and the fire attribute embedded in its tip, it allows the holder to shoot a ball of wind or fire without having to chant when mana is transferred into it. It should also increase the power of wind and fire attribute spells.

As if serving coffee, the shopkeeper places the ring and the silver wand, which he finished to appraise, on top of the counter.

Yaay, after seeing the magic gems embedded, I was sure it was something like that. (Rebecca)

Rebecca picks up the silver, demonic steel wand and peeks at the two magic gems inserted at its tip.
Her face is all smiles.
She raises the silver wand as if holding up a trophy.

Fufufu, finally, I too have got my hands on a wand that can cast chantlessly. Its an indispensable weapon for those of the Sorcerer* and the Wizard class. Im really happy. It even possesses spell efficiency increase. For me, this is the best wand. (Rebecca)(T/N: Both seem to be higher ranks of Guidance Sorcery users)

Her blue eyes are sparkling.
She appears to be truly delighted. Her happiness is infectious.

Indeed, its an excellent wand. Next up is this black, single-edged sword and the black scaled scabbard it came in. Its a Unique Class with the nameBlack Snake. The blade has been enchanted with a spell through magic characters of poison. I dont think it will inflict disease when it cuts, but instead will have an acid effect.

As he talks in a casual manner, the shopkeeper places the single-edged sword, back in its scabbard, next to the Mist Mirage Ring.

Black Snake, huh? Viine, this sword is yours. (Shuuya)

Okay, but are you positive about bestowing such a gift upon me? (Viine)

Its fine. Dont make me say it a second time. (Shuuya)

I shall receive it gratefully! (Viine)

Hee, how kind and yet strict (Rebecca)

Rebecca whispers while squinting.

Rebecca, Viine is Shuuyas slave. (Eva)

Y-Yeah, I know. (Rebecca)

Eva supports me with a quiet voice.
Rebecca glares at me with a sullen expression after getting rebuked by Eva.
Hey, heymy behavior is correct here, okay?
Why are you getting in a bad mood over it?
As if interrupting my mental retorts, the shopkeepers somber voice resounds.

The next item is this one. Although it looks like a gold bar on a first glance, its a mineral calledhard golden magic orePlumdormite. If its refined, it turns into a useful metal with a high mana channeling capability that surpasses both spirit magic ore and demonic silver ore.

I knew. (Eva)

Eva replies with an expression telling everyoneThats nothing newwhile looking at the mineral on the table.

Next is the short-sleeved piece of clothing that was made out ofdemonic silver threadSilver Rallyandspirit copper threadOgalkappa. You can call this a defensive wear unique to labyrinths. Even more than its anti-magic defence, it has high physical damage resistance. Its an excellent piece of protective gear.

The shopkeeper places the armored shirt that is shining silver back down.
So this is an item unique to the labyrinth, huh?

Hee, it cant be made? (Shuuya)

Yes. The technology to manufacture metal into such a thin fabric doesnt exist anywhere. Even if you take it apart and examine it thoroughly, it will be impossible since the gauge of the wire is too fine. You would need an excellent blade to cut it, and if you dont go as far as tearing it up, a hole wont be even open up. Of course, if someone with mastery abilities comes at it, it will be torn like garbage, but

Thats awesome.

Shuuya, are you going to wear that? (Rebecca)

Rebecca looks back and forth between me and the short-sleeved shirt with a curious expression.
Certainly, this piece of clothing is not my size.

Since its too small for me, I will sell it, store it away for now, or (Shuuya)

I let my gaze wander across the rest of my party, which is made up of females.

I guess I will have Viine wear it. (Shuuya)

Eh? (Rebecca)

M-Master, thats (Viine)

Nn, I understand since its Shuuya. (Eva)

Rebecca is surprised, Viine reveals a reserved expression, and Eva agrees and nods for some reason.

So you are really giving it to her. I might get envious. (Rebecca)

Rebecca says with reproachful eyes.
Its fine though.
I need Viine to survive and work for me from now on.

Nn, envious. But it only makes sense for a master who bought a slave to make them stronger. Its indispensable for a high-class combat slave. (Eva)

It looks like Eva is jealous as well.

Certainly you are right there. I believe I know reeaally well that Shuuya is soft-hearted and strong as well as a lewd, lustful man to the extent that he invited me, who is hated, into the party. (Rebecca)

Just what does she know.

I dont know what you think you know about me, Rebecca, but I bought Viine for a large amount of money. So dont complain about my actions. (Shuuya)

At that moment an angry Helme appears in my vision.
Holding a syringe in her hands, shes pointing its tip at Rebecca.

Thats right! If you are going to complain about His Excellency, I will deal with you! (Helme)

Helme, its alright, dont get angry. (Shuuya)

Okay (Helme)

Huuumph. (Rebecca)

Rebecca has a dissatisfied expression and puffs up her cheeks.

What? Your expression bothers me. If you have something you want to say, let it out. (Shuuya)

Its not something I should say, but Shuuya, you and Rollo-chan are plentifully powerful, so is it really necessary to have something like a slave? (Rebecca)

Ugh, shes sternly staring at me with her blue eyes.
I suppose I have to tell her my true intentions after she made her stance clear here

Yes, it is. If its just about proceeding through the labyrinth, Rollo and I will certainly be able to do so by ourselves. However, I dont know what awaits us down there. Besides, I think you understand from forming a party with us today, but its exactly because Viine was present that we could open that treasure chest, no? (Shuuya)

Although I didnt know that Viine would be able to open treasure chests.

Ah thats true as well. Im sorry for asking something weird. (Rebecca)

Rebecca meekly apologizes while glancing up at me with her hands clasping her silver wand to her chest.
She continues to stare up at me while seeming uneasy.

No, dont mind it. I know what you want to say, Rebecca. That is, how to say itits the truth that I wanted Viine because shes a beautiful woman. (Shuuya)

I spill my real thoughts while laughing awkwardly.

Pfft, you are lewd after all! (Rebecca)

Nn, Shuuya is ecchi. (Eva)

Your Excellency, you are certainly ecchi, but it doesnt change the fact that you are a great, supreme being. (Helme)

As if joining in with Rebecca, Eva says something like that while breaking into a smile.
I ignore Helme.

Given that it is as you say, I wont deny it. But you know (Shuuya)

Hearing my words, Rebecca smiles faintly while saying,

I told you I understand. Im just teasing you a bit. (Rebecca)

Its true that Shuuya is ecchi, albeit strong. (Eva)

In contrast to Rebecca, Eva replies with a serious face.

Aye. Thats only natural. (Shuuya)

I avert my face in order to dodge the issue, becoming defiant now.

Pfft, or rather, just where are you looking? Your face and words are not in sync. Ahahaha. (Rebecca)

She has cheekiness to laugh; dont look down on me But, its cheerful laughter without any malice. Shes a beautiful person.

Nn, Shuuya is gentle, but he has a side like that as well. Eva chuckles.

Eeh? Even Eva

Right, Eva? (Rebecca)

Nn. (Eva)

Rebecca and Eva nod at each other and burst into laughter.

The shopkeeper clears his throat. I will explain the next item then.

The shopkeeper deliberately coughs as if telling us Stop flirting here! Once I turn my look his way, he opens the oblong box.

This is something I know without even having to appraise it. Its theviolet-blue aromatic flamePurple-blue Incense, or for short, Bruin. Its a high-class item appreciated asunusual, mainly by royalty and high-ranking nobility. Its an item that releases a special scent from the violet flame generated by the crystal. The scent is nice and capable of calming people.

Once he finishes the explanation, he shuts the lid and places it on the counter.
High-ranking nobles, huh? Ah, now that he mentions it, I smelled one in the fireplace in the room where Marquis Chardonnay called me for a private meeting at the dinner party.

Next is this map, but since I dont possess the skills to decipher it, I dont know anything more than this being a simpleMagic Treasure Map.

The shopkeeper puts down the map while saying so.

My question is: whats aMagic Treasure Mapin the first place? (Shuuya)

Eh? You dont know? (Rebecca)

Rebecca is astonished about me not knowing about the map.

Viine stays silent.

Shuuya, disappointing. (Eva)

Even if you say something like that, I dont know the things I dont know.
Looking for help, I turn towards the shopkeeper. He slowly nods as if saying Leave it to me.
As expected of a die-hard shopkeeper. It looks like he will give me an explanation.

Magic Treasure Maps are maps that indicate where you can find treasure chests in the labyrinth. The maps have levels ranging from one to five. The higher the map level, the more likely it becomes that a decent item can be found in the treasure chest. Though the monsters that appear when you start digging it out will become stronger as well.

Level, huh?
Moreover, monsters appear when you dig it up?

Its not a commonplace treasure map that points to somewhere outside the labyrinth, on the surface, is it? (Shuuya)

Yes, of course not. The magic treasure maps are only limited to Labyrinth City Pelneet.

Which reminds me, they are selling magic treasure maps at the plaza in front of the labyrinth. There were adventurers who shouted something along those lines.

In that case, I suppose its useless unless we find an owner of the {Deciphering Skill} to find the treasure on this magic treasure map Shopkeeper, is there a good place to look for someone who has that skill? (Shuuya)

Rebecca whispers Isnt there one close-by?, but I look at the shopkeeper while pretending to not have heard her.
The shopkeeper nods and quickly provides an answer.

Yes, there is. Theres an organisation called Magic Treasure Map Excavation Society. Either you directly ask there, accept the dispatch of a magic treasure map excavation team at the guild or you possess connections with someone possessing that skill. Or you go to famous bars where a great number of adventurers gather, such as the Bar of Newcomers or the Round Table Bar, and search there for someone possessing a map deciphering skill.

Magic Treasure Map Excavation Society.
There was something like that?
It looks like there are many people possessing map deciphering skills.

Do you know the location of that excavation society? (Shuuya)

Its right around the corner, next to the adventurers guild.

Next to it, he says? So thats why Rebecca told me that they are close-by. Although she has mentioned it, I may have ignored her a bit.
Which reminds me, there was a signboard with a map and treasure trails, wasnt there?

Aah, over there, eh? (Shuuya)

Shuuya! Youre going to get that map deciphered and challenge the labyrinth, right? (Rebecca)

Seemingly angry for being ignored, Rebecca raises her voice at me.
Rebecca-san loves her treasures. Thats probably why.
I guess shes interested. She jumps on the topic with fervor.

Yeah. Its a rare map after all, so although its not like I will go right away, I plan to do so sooner or later. (Shuuya)

If possible, Id like to be invited to the party when you start, okay? (Rebecca)

Nn, Shuuya, I want to go as well. (Eva)

I had planned to invite the two to begin with.

Thats only natural. I look forward to our future hunt, you two. Well then, the appraisal is done, so lets pick up our items and leave. (Shuuya)

Nn. (Eva)

Yeah. (Rebecca)

I store the appraised items on the table back inside my item box.

Well then, shopkeeper, until next time. (Shuuya)

See ya. (Rebecca)

Bye. (Eva)

Yes, thank you very much.

We leave after looking at the shopkeepers refined smile.
We go back to the First Ring Road.

Everyone, what are you going to do next? (Rebecca)

Rebecca asks as she puts her hands on her hips while puffing out her chest proudly.

Im going to look around the market. (Shuuya)

Nn, return to the restaurant. (Eva)

I see. Im heading back home as well. (Rebecca)

Both of them are returning home, huh?

Got it. Then are we breaking up the group for now? (Shuuya)

Shuuya, before that, theres something Id like to speak privately about with you. (Eva)

Oh? Eva has a serious expression.

If you are going to speak with Shuuya, feel free to? Afterward, my home is close to the market so I can guide you there on my way home; would you like me to? (Rebecca)

Oh, Rebecca, sorry, if youre willing to wait Id love if you showed me the way. (Shuuya)

Sure. (Rebecca)

Rebecca nods.

Then, Viine and Rollo, you stay here. Eva, is the alley over there fine with you? (Shuuya)

I turn to look in the direction of the alley on the right.

Nya.

As you say! (Viine)

Viine acknowledges and bows her head.
Rollo gets off my shoulder and moves to Viines feet.

Rebecca, see you. (Eva)

Yeah, lets join up again. Until then, we can stay in touch through the Party Box or the guilds board. (Rebecca)

Nn. (Eva)

Eva bids farewell to Rebecca with a smile, turns her wheelchair around, and leaves.
I chase after her, leaving Rollo and Rebecca behind.
Entering the alley, Eva waits for me just inside.
I dont sense any presences behind me, and theres no one I can see in the vicinity. I cant find anyone with Grasping Perception either.
As Im paying attention to the surroundings, Eva makes her wheelchair transform.
She swiftly turns around in the Segway mode and moves further inside the alley.
I follow her in a trot.
Around the middle of the alley, Eva stops, turns her wheelchair around, and looks in my direction.
Since some time ago, shes had an awfully serious expression on.
I wonder whats going on.

Shuuya, you are my lifesaver and an important friend. Therefore I will warn you. (Eva)

Warn? Her violet pupils are focusing on me intensely.

Warn? About what? (Shuuya)

Once I ask, her eyes tremble.
It looks like shes hesitating a bit.

I possess an understanding, a skill to read the outer layer of a persons mind. (Eva)

Whoa? Read? You mean you know what Im thinking? (Shuuya)

For real? Thats an incredible ability.
A skill to read the thoughts of others. How amazing.

Nn, I will only know when Im touching someone. (Eva)

Only when touching (Shuuya)

That is Evas actions until now cross my mind.
The time when I saved her during our first meeting, when I was treated to a meal, or when she distributed pieces of her French bread

Shuuya, did that frighten you? (Eva)

Eva looks sad and averts her gaze, staring off to the side.

No, it doesnt. Rather, I admire it as amazing Here, touch me and try to read* my thoughts. (Shuuya)(T/N: Written as English Reading)

Eva moves closer and extends her hand as if requesting a handshake.

Reading? (Eva)

Correct, try reading my mind. Here, take my hand. (Shuuya)

Nn! (Eva)

Eva grasps my palm with a strong determination.
Its the first time in this different world, a handshake.
Although she has a slender hand, it seems as if theres a hard bean in her palm.
How cute, a bean-chan.
Eva laughs with her cheeks reddening.
Ah, shit!
I didnt think that shes amazing or anything, only that shes cute.

Ah, sorry. Did you readhardorbeans are cuteor such? (Shuuya)

Nn! (Eva)

Eva nods with an unconcerned smile.

But, with this you understand, right? That Im not scared. (Shuuya)

Certainly, its easy to grasp. (Eva)

Eva stops holding my hand at that point.

But, well, is it really alright to tell me about such important, hidden ability? (Shuuya)

Fine. Rather than that, about the warning, you want to hear? (Eva)

Uh, I want to hear it. (Shuuya)

Got it. Its about your slave. That dark elfs heart isstillnot fully obeying you, Shuuya. However, I could sense a large amount respect and confusion. Rebecca and I have respect, but there is vigilance and complaints in her mind. (Eva)

Whoa, certainly, there are occasions I can think of.

Thats a definite fact? (Shuuya)

Nn, it seems so on the outer layer, the deep level is impossible. (Eva)

She cant read the deep psyche?

I understand with regards to Viine. But I just bought her a little while ago. It might be inevitable for her to harbor hostility towards me. (Shuuya)

Nn, but, I wonder what shes going to do to (Eva)

As for that, it will be fine. You dont have to worry. Even without the slavery magic,Ijust have to surpass Viine in everything. After all, shes nothing more than a single, excellent woman. (Shuuya)

(Eva)

Apart from staying silent, Eva stares at me.
How about confirming it by touching me, if you want? Thinking that, I extend my hand.
Eva shakes her head. It looks like she agrees, even without checking.

As expected of you, Shuuya. I wont mention it anymore. (Eva)

But, thank you, okay? Your ability is a secret, right? (Shuuya)

Nn, secret. The ones knowing about are only you, Lily and Dill. (Eva)

So few people! Is she trusting me that much?

I feel honored then. I wont tell anyone else. (Shuuya)

Nn, I know. (Eva)

Eva shows an angelic smile.
Its healing power is wonderful.
Besides, she disclosed her precious ability for my sake.

I will return to the restaurant. (Eva)

Okay, thats right. See you. (Shuuya)

Nn, if I have free time, I will send you a message via the Party Box or the guilds board. (Eva)

Roger. (Shuuya)

Eva nods while speaking and leaves the alley.
Her back is leaning against the wheelchair, but it looks big.

Well then, I guess I will go back as well. (Shuuya)

I return to the place on the ring road where everyone is waiting.

Sorry for keeping you waiting. Lets go? (Shuuya)

Ha! (Viine)

Nn, nya.

Viine immediately runs up next to me.
Rollo returns on my shoulder without changing into her Horse Lion size.

So, what did you talk about with Eva? (Rebecca)

Rebecca asks with a flustered expression as we begin walking.
Although it was just a glance, I look at Viine for a second.
Since I dont have any intention of telling her the truth, I fabricate a suitable lie albeit feeling sorry for Rebecca.

Ah, it was something private. I told Eva about the location of the inn Im staying at. Also, were planning on exchanging messages through the Party Box. (Shuuya)

Something like that (Rebecca)

Rebecca proceeds through the ring road while showing a doubtful expression.

We will head south like this. (Rebecca)

Roger, if its south, thats the location of the arena, is it close to that? (Shuuya)

Exactly, the arena is relatively close to the market. (Rebecca)

I see, over there, huh? (Shuuya)

Yeah, my home is in the same direction as well. (Rebecca)

Rebeccas home appears to be in the southern part of the city.
Leaving the ring road thats very crowded with people, we enter an alley and continue to head south.
For a while, we advance in a straight line through the alley.
As we do, I once again sense presences, several magic sources, tailing us while maintaining a fixed distance.
Rebecca hasnt noticed it.
For most of our trip shes been happily walking while messing with Rollo whos on my right shoulder.
Viine stays silent and watches us.
It looks like she hasnt noticed our tails either.
It appears that her search skills arent as excellent.
And so, we continue to advance while Im paying attention to our rear.

The free market, a part of the flavor street, is right around the corner. (Rebecca)

As Rebecca says, a plaza can be seen at the end of the alley.
It seems to be quite spacious.
At that moment, people enter the alley we are using from the plaza.
Passersby?
Thereupon, I feel the magic source responses closing in all of a sudden from the rear.
At the same time, the guys at the front, who I believed to be passersby, draw their respective weapons and run towards us.
Four from the front, three from behind. A pincer attack, huh?
Spreading my overcoat, I extend my hands to each side while exposing the violet dragon scale armor.
I summon the Magic Halberd into my right hand.

Your Excellency, am I up as well? (Helme)

No, I think it will be alright. (Shuuya)

Yes. (Helme)

I still wont reveal Helme.

Rebecca, stay on standby and stay safe. Viine and Rollo, you attack the enemies coming from behind. (Shuuya)

Ha! (Viine)

Nya.

Viine and Rollo answer immediately.
Rollo transforms into a black panther with a puff of smoke.
Viine draws her new weapon, the Black Snake, from its scabbard and adopts a combat stance that shows the eerie green light of its blade.

These guys, what are they up to? (Rebecca)

Rebecca prepares her silver wand while looking frightened.

Who knows? They are probably thugs. (Shuuya)

When I say that, the four thugs that ran up from the front silently stop moving and keep out of my striking range while holding their swords in aseiganstance.

Since the four of them are covered by dark brown robes with hoods, I cant tell their faces.

What business do you have with me? (Shuuya)

You are theLancer, correct?

Thats right, so what about it? (Shuuya)

We will have you die

The four attackers assault me with their swords all at once.
They are small fry that dont even use a shred of Magic Combat Style.
I will crush them head on.
I advance in order to get into my spears combat distance faster.
I strike forward with the Magic Halberd and lightly repel a longsword; I keep up the flow of motion and stab the red spear into one of the robe wearers chest now that his sword was out of position.
First one down.
As the first man goes down easily, the second and third man release diagonal sword slashes towards my neck as if trying to cut anxinto it.
While pulling back the Magic Halberd stuck in the enemys chest, I dodge the sword blows with a paper-thin difference by making asmall rotation using the sole of my footStepwork.
Immediately after dodging, I focus on my muscles, pull back my right arm, position the red ax blade horizontally, and release the tension all at once
I unleash the side-swing skill {Powerful Flash}.
The weapon traces the shape of a red folding fan like a raging fire tearing through their flesh.
Their torsos are split apart in an instant.
The four body parts dance in the sky and create bloody street art on the walls.
The other enemy, who was outside the spears range, prepares his longsword, but seeing that terrible scene just now, he freezes for an instant.
That gap is fatal.
I use {Throwing} towards the stopped enemy as if I was in a javelin throwing contest
The Magic Halberd thrown by both the power of my physical strength and the skill plunges through the air like an arrow while creating a spiral wind.
It easily pierces the dark brown robe and penetrates his body as well.
The bloodstained Magic Halberd stabs into the wall behind him.
With this, all the guys who were in front are down, huh?
I extend a {Chain} towards the Magic Halberd stuck in the wall, entangle its violet metallic staff part with the chain, and have it contract.
I recover the Magic Halberd at an abnormal speed and grasp it with my left hand.
If this was done by a normal person, they would get stabbed to death without even a chance to catch hold of it instead.
I imagine a warrior fleeing the battlefield.
While feeling a slight chill down my spine, I turn over and head back to where everyone else is.
It looks like the rears fine as well.
The three people wearing dark brown robes have been defeated.

Are you alright? (Shuuya)

Im okay. Viine and Rollo-chan finished them off in a flash. (Rebecca)

But, wh (Shuuya)

At the instant, I heard the sound of Pheew, and the visibility on my right vanishes.
Gah!! It huuuurts, a sharp pain travels through my face, my eye socket.
After a long while my blood dances in the air.
This is an arrow? Guwaah!
My head is hit by yet another strong arrow impact.
I fall to the ground from the blow.

Eeh? (Rebecca)

Master! (Viine)

Nyago!

Everyone comes running up to me in shock.
While theyre distracted, a black, wave-like cloth engulfs Rebecca.

Kya! (Rebecca)

Rebecca is wrapped up by the dark cloth and ends up enveloped by it.
The black cloth wriggles like a creeping shadow and swiftly moves towards a back alley with Rebecca in tow.
It disappears in the opposite direction of the market.
I quickly pull out the one and then two arrows that stabbed into my right eye socket and neck.
I dont care about the blood surging out.
My vision recovers immediately, but its bright red as its covered in blood.
Next, I take out a potion from my chest strap and splash it over my face and neck as if taking a shower.
In reality, I dont need something like a potion though.

Rollo, Im fine. Theres not a moment to lose! Chase after that darkness cloth, and, as soon as you find it, come back here at full throttle! (Shuuya)

Nyaa.

Rollo immediately transforms into her Horse Lion size and vigorously dashes through the back alley.

Master, your wounds on your face and neck are (Viine)

Ah, its fine, its fine. This is a high-level potion after all. (Shuuya)

Saying that, I throw the empty jar on the ground.
At any rate, the previous arrows; they were outside the range of my Grasping Perception. It took me completely by surprise.
Though I wouldnt have been hit if they didnt take my eye first
Well, I guess that is just an excuse
By no means did I expect them to use a two-staged strategy.
The initial small fries were nothing more than disposable pawns.
Putting me off my guard, they damaged their target by performing a precise archery attack outside my Grasping Perception range.
Or they might have aimed at obliterating me.
In that gap, they abducted Rebecca who has the lowest combat ability, huh?
They thoroughly made use of a two-staged and then three-staged pattern.
That darkness cloth, which kidnapped Rebecca, is a special item.
I feel like I have seen that somewhere before.
Oh well, it means that the enemy is cunning.
At that moment, I look at the corpse of a small fry who charged at us first.
This dark brown robe, a brooch has fallen out of the pocket.
Looks like they are members of the dark guild Owls Fang.
A move by the remnants or even some other organization.
Were some of the leaders still alive?
I thought they had died in their own ways in the disputes with other dark guilds, but
My thinking was too shallow. Even though I had so many intentions to move in order to not inconvenience my friends. I might have felt slightly relieved after crushing Eribol and the headquarters.
I suppose I should have gone at it with the mentality ofif you cut off the branches, the tree should wither and fall apart.
As Im indulging in such foolish thoughts, Rollo returns.
It seems that she already discerned their location.

Nyao.

She extends a tentacle to my face.
FoundGoing to huntSmellSaveSimpleFoundHuntChaseSimple
She transmits various emotions to me.
Haha, simple, eh?

Now then, I guess we are going to rescue Rebecca. (Shuuya)

Ill have to apologize later.
She uses a different tentacle to twine around my waist and carries me to her back with its bushy, black fur.

Give Viine a ride as well. (Shuuya)

Nya.

She twines a tentacle around Viines waist and forcefully places her in front of me.

Ah, kya! (Viine)

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Viine, dont faint again, okay? If you are scared, then close your eyes and hold tightly onto me. (Shuuya)

Y-Yes (Viine)

Just as told, Viine embraces my chest.
Ooh, ekiben style.1Although its through our armor, I can clearly feel the sensation of her boobs wobbling.
This is nice, really nice.
With that, it looks like my nether region is going to turn into a Mount Everest, but since we have to rescue Rebecca, Im capable of lowering my ero power to almost zero.

Rollo, go ahead. (Shuuya)

RollodeenHorse Lionsilently grows two tentacles from her nape and stretches out upwards to where the walls are.
She moves her body by contracting them all of a sudden. We start moving as if running through the air.
Her limbs, which have an obsidian hue, move lively while shes growling.
Kicking the side wall kicking the ground we run through the air.
How amazingly fast.
Even as her body trembles, Viine strongly hugs my torso as if forcing it down.
RollodeenHorse Liondashes through Labyrinth City Pelneet at a speed surpassing a roller coaster.

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