39.114◇ Heir of Sword, Approach (Revised)

Plath Laplatix – Gan Orgelews

The second daughter of a noble family whose ancestor is Laurite Gan Orgelews, The Light Hero.

The eldest son and daughter are already putting their skills to use at the Laurite Trading Company.

Only Plath became a soldier.

As a descendant of a hero, to run away from fighting and getting into a trading business was seen as a despicable act.

(But now, although I can’t say it in front of them – I respect them.)

This happened about a week ago.

Plath was surprised that it has only been a week since then.

That’s how dramatic the words she received were.

That’s how dramatic the days they spent together were.

Through the encounter with that person, Plath realized her own arrogance and decided to change herself.

She decided to call him party leader, or perhaps mentor.

Cross Kuronos – Nanolancelot

Since he is extremely reluctant to be called Cross-dono, Nanolancelot-sama, etc., she settled on calling him Kuro-dono, the same as before. Kuro ‘The Black Hero’, that’s who he is.

He was well-equipped but simple.

A white coat with blue lines woven with anti-magic material – ‘Blue Lantern Cloak’.

He wore a black easy-to-move-in shirt and pants – ‘Fleeting Black Robe of Haze’

He wore black shoes with white soles that supported his sturdy legs which could leave even the winds behind – ‘Sacred Shoes of The Moonlight’

(I’m sure that each one of them is sturdy and durable and that’s why they are being used so much, but they are cheap for a hero to wear.)

The royal capital, Giltias, is surrounded by five walls.

All of the walls – except the innermost one, which unfolded to encompass the royal castle – were called the Ring City Gate.

In other words, it was in a circular shape.

A circle that’s built outside a circle, that’s how Giltias looks.

Outside the castle, the section called the first perimeter is lined with noble mansions.

Outside of that, in the area called the second perimeter is a town for the aristocrats, called the nobleman’s town.

Further out in the third perimeter, many of their subjects have taken up residence.

In the fourth and final perimeter, a town for the subjects is built.

Of course, the shops in the fourth perimeter and the shops in the nobleman’s street are different, even if they are the same weapon and armor shop.

For example, in the nobleman’s street, some shops have received permission from the royal family to sell imitations of divine creation magic tools – replicas whose power and skills are inferior to those of the original.

Naturally, there are no such stores in the fourth perimeter.

This is not limited to weapons and armor. This is just a distinction rather than discrimination, but it is still a fact.

However, if a person as great as Kuro uses his so-called Heroic Privilege, he will be granted permission to pass into the noble town.

He can get better equipment there.

For the time being, only one of his weapons doesn’t need to be replaced because it is a sacred sword of the guardian of the country given by the third princess – ‘Kuroshi Musou’, but it seems that there was room for reconsideration for the armor and equipment.

(However, although I made the suggestion, I didn’t get a good response.)

On the way to the labyrinth, the three of them were walking side by side through the north gate of the fourth outer city gate.

They were going to the new house that had been completed in the afternoon, and they planned to round up the labyrinth raid before then.

When Plath asked him about his equipment and why he wouldn’t change it, he made a reluctant face.

It’s an unusual reaction for a man who is usually blunt about things.

Instead, Quinti Celestis – Claire Bedivia, the ‘White Hero’ with her golden hair that reflects the sunlight beautifully and her crimson eyes, answers her.

“Now, Kuro, has no money”

Perhaps it’s because Lord Claire Bedivia is only there to accompany Kuro, but she doesn’t try to interact with Plath much.

It’s an attitude that can be described simply as indifferent.

Furthermore, while Kuro and Plath are speaking, if they rush into a topic that she cannot participate in, she will distort her eyes and make a slight but surely moody face.

Honestly, it’s scary.

Plath, who is going to raid the labyrinth with the two heroes, has become the target of envy of the surroundings, but she is living with it.

(Such is the case with Claire Bedivia-dono.)

(As usual, she doesn’t even look at me, but perhaps because it was a topic that she could intervene in, she interrupted.)

She wanted to say something in return, but the large gap between them made it difficult.

“No, but Kuro-dono should have subdued two magical tool holders, correct? I heard that one of them was a guardian. If so, the reward is an amount that should be adequate for living out several years, right? “

“He spent it. When you spend money, it’s gone, okay? Don’t the highborn understand that?”

That was very harsh.

The fact that Kuro and Plath are together is probably too uncomfortable for her.

(However, I’ve heard that Kuro is Shiro’s lover…….)

Even at this moment, ‘White Hero’-sama seems to be an existence that cannot be measured by ethics and common sense.

(I can’t even begin to discern how I feel about it…)

“Of course, I know that money goes into circulation in the economy. What I meant to say is how that large sum of  money was spent.”

“Then you should have said so in the first place, no? Ordinary people are so sluggish.”

(That stung…)

(Especially the part about being an ordinary person…)

“No talk, no roundabout. No power. You, the attacker, face-Nyui.”

Kuro karate-chopped the head of Claire Bedivia-dono to keep her in line.

There wasn’t much force behind the attack, but Claire Bedivia-dono lost her cool.

“Hey, why, hit me? Kuro, are you mad at me? Did I do something bad?”

Instantly, at a level that could be described as a complete turnaround, her expression was filled with impatience.

Plath started panicking inwardly.

Karate-chopping a hero was too impolite.

(She is a native hero, not a visitor one.)

(The privileges she is given also exceed the visitor hero.)

(Although I heard they are friends)

The White Hero had a reputation in the military for being a capricious and unwieldy person.

‘The Hero of Dawn’ is dogmatic and arrogant.

‘The Crimson Hero’ is difficult to deal with, and even though she was a victim in the past, she had burned her followers.

‘The Hero of Divine Healing’ is curious and brilliant, but her attitude towards treatment changes depending on her interests.

‘The Hero of Haze’ is kind and gentlemanly, but he has a tendency to play with women, even though he already has a wife.

‘The Hero of Labour’ is loyal to his duties, but he is a battle-obsessed maniac.

It is said that the only decent person among the Seven Heroes was Sir Lucius Riffika – Gramlunate, the ‘The Hero of Blue’.

There is even a researcher who says that the humans called heroes, who are more than just human beings, have a human flaw in exchange for their power.

So much that sometimes the actions of heroes are beyond comprehension.

(At this very moment, it won’t be surprising if Claire Bedivia-dono, who is in a bad mood, attacks Kuro)

However, he doesn’t care about such things and starts preaching to her.

“Don’t speak ill of the person you’re partying with, even if it’s true. If you’re on a joking level, that’s fine, but you guys aren’t that close yet. Think about the fact that your words might hurt them when you speak. And if you wanted to hurt them, I’ll be pissed, you know?

“………… No. It’s not, it’s just a true statement, that’s all. Ordinary person, not a lie.”

“Hmm. I’ll tell you who I’m going out with. I’m going out with Shiro. I can’t be yours. Does that make you feel good?”

Claire Bedivia-dono looked hurt and put her hand on her chest.

“My chest, stings”

“The truth doesn’t mean it won’t hurt people. If there’s a chance of it hurting someone, you should think about it before saying it out. You should only choose to do it when you need to hurt them.”

“………… Are you preaching to me?”

“Oh? If you can’t even listen to your friends’ warnings and want special treatment, then get out of my face. I’m not going to try to be nice to you.”

Plath thought she was going to faint.

Claire Bedivia-dono is a person who can make even human beings [Disappear].

While the ability of “Black” is “Eating”.

The ability of “White” is “Voiding”.

Worsening her mood risks the possibility of you losing your existence.

The atmosphere was tense.

Plath stacked her outstretched palms together as if to cross them, praying to God.

It was worth it. A miracle happened.

Claire Bedivia-dono loosened the edges of her mouth happily.

“You’re talking to Quin, not the ‘White Hero’. Is that right, Kuro?

“Of course. If you’re not Quin, then who are you?”

She put her hand lovingly over the area where Black’s hand had touched.

“Kuro, after all, I love you. I want you, to be mine.”

“Nope”

“But I love it”

Then Claire Bedivia-dono turned to look at Plath.

“I’m sorry, I apologize. I said some terrible things.”

She lowered her head.

Plath rubbed her eyes as if she were seeing an illusion, but the scene in front of her remained the same.

“N- No, it’s a fact that this officer is an ordinary human,”

“But it stings. I’m sorry if I did something wrong. I apologize.”

“Ah……..Hai”

She could only return a nod.

Then Claire Bedivia-dono turned her attention back to Kuro.

“I was forgiven,”

“Yeah, well, you apologized properly. I’m sorry for being harsh.”

“If I forgive you, will you be mine?”

“That would be impossible”

…I think….

I Think Claire Bedivia-dono was not happy to be scolded like that...

But she was happy to be treated like an equal individual.

Everyone treated her as a hero, respected her, and sang her praises.

In the midst of all this, only the visitor named Kuro spoke to her as an equal.

To Claire Bedivia-dono, to herself, and to the now-deceased ‘Hero of Dawn’.

Some may see that distance as cheeky, like the ‘Hero of the Dawn’.

Even Plath was uncomfortable at first with the harsh words hurled at her.

But that’s how she’d come to the realization.

That’s why he’s so attractive to someone who was looking for it.

Unfortunately, I can’t deny that I, too, am attracted to it.

Because, for the sake of my honor, he scolded a hero without any hesitation.

Moreover, that wouldn’t have done him any good.

“Ah,” said Claire Bedivia-dono, while turning to Plath again.

“Earlier, continued.”

“Huh? I’m sorry, what?”

“Kuro, broke.”

“Ahh”

Plath nodded, and Kousuke excused himself, “That’s why I’m going earn some money now.”

“Reason, donation.”

“Donation?”

“Daltra, at war. There’s an orphanage. Kuro, and I donated it all, to the orphanage.”

Daltra is a rich country.

Parents don’t abandon their children very often.

But children lose their parents because of the war.

That is why the existence of orphanages is indispensable.

But sadly, they don’t have much money to spend on it.

Even the subjects of Daltra, who have a relatively high degree of citizenship, are not happy with this venture.

There are not many good people who are pleased to hear that their taxes will be used to raise children who have no parents.

The good people would donate their personal funds to the cause on their own.


………………….Wait.

Donation?

“Kuro-dono”

“……..What is it?”

Kuro averts his gaze.

However, that doesn’t mean that he’s in a bad mood.

“You have been making donations?”

“I’m not going to let their future be closed off because of not having parents. I’m not going to force myself to be hypocritical either. It would feel bad to ignore them after I found out that I could do something about them. I’m trying to live happily in this world, you know? But don’t get me wrong, this is for myself, okay?”

Somehow, he looked very cute.

He was a bit embarrassed.

This is the person who put Plath, whom he met for the first time in the ceremony, in his party. There is no reason why he can’t be kind like this.

But he doesn’t want to be viewed as kind.

 Cute.

However, Plath gently kept that feeling in her chest.

I don’t think I can get in the way of people like Claire Bedivia-dono.

That would not be what the descendants of a proud hero would do.

Therefore, please forgive me for this much.

Plath was just one step closer to Kousuke.

“… What’s with that face?”

“It’s nothing. Thank you for your guidance and encouragement today, Kuro-dono.”

The road to becoming a hero is a long way off.

It is not possible to use strong magic like them.

It is not possible to have a strong yet generous heart like Kuro-dono.

However, his back is worth following after as it shines as bright as that of the “Hero of Light”.

That’s what Plath truly thought.


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39◇Kosuke Kurono, Embark on (Revised)

The creaking of the wooden bed woke him up.

“Oh, I’m sorry, did I perhaps wake you up?…… Kousuke-san.”

“……n? No, it’s okay.” Kousuke says, rubbing his eyes. “Good morning, Econa.”

She smiled, loosening her clear, ice-sculpted like eyes into the shape of a smile.

“Good morning,”

It’s morning.

And it’s very early in the morning.

“Going to work at this time?”

A week had passed since then.

They are still sleeping in the [Shizukutei of Life].

It took a long time because Daltra wanted to build a new house for Kousuke instead of an existing one.

However, he has been told that the time for completion of this project can be greatly reduced with magical technology, and that it would be completed today.

“We’ll be done in the morning, right? Let’s go this afternoon, to the new house.”

“Yes…… b- but, Kousuke-san.”

“Hmm?”

“Your new house is a lot bigger than this place, right?”

“Yeah, so I’ll make a room for you there.”

He wasn’t sure if she’s happy, as her expression turned cloudy.

“…So, I won’t be able to sleep with Kousuke-san anymore?”

Kousuke got up from the bed and stroked her hair, combing it.

“Then maybe we should sleep together for the time being? But not forever. Let’s get used to it, little by little, so that you can sleep on your own someday. Is that all right?”

Econa grinned and failed to suppress her laughter.

Kousuke enjoyed her squishy cheeks with his hand.

However, that too will soon fade.

Econa took Kosuke’s hand, gently wrapped it in hers, and said in a sad tone.

“Kousuke-san is Shiro-san’s lover. It’s rude of me to do that kind of monopoly.”

Some people knew about Shiro’s relationship with Kousuke.

Because he was sleeping with Econa, he certainly didn’t do “That kind of thing” with Shiro.

Is it like having a child struggle between love?

It’s true that it’s hard for a man, but he didn’t want to blame it on Econa.

“Tentatively, no matter how many wives I have in the future, I won’t neglect you. That’s not the only thing. Do you remember what I swore to do?”

Econa was no longer sloppy and poor.

“………..Fufufu, ehehe~. I adore you, Kousuke-san.”

Econa’s lips touch the back of Kosuke’s hand.

“Would you like to have your breakfast, sir? I’d be happy to arrange it for you now.”

“Oh, then, please do.”

He strokes her head and she looks tickled by that action.

Then she leaves the room to make the food.

As a side note, Econa is no longer a slave.

Kousuke wanted it as a reward for the dedication of Sogles’s bracelet.

For example, it is not an uncommon story to prepare what the VIP of an enemy country wants in exchange for betraying his/her own country.

However, such asylum seekers are humans from enemy nations.

That’s why there an honorary subject system for such occasions.

The same is true of the treatment toward visitors.

In other words, they were not from the Daltra, but were still recognized as subjects by the royal family.

Normally, a slave is not made an honorary subject even if heaven and earth are turned over.

It is said that this is the first time since the founding of Daltra that a slave has been recognized as an honorary subject.

It’s probably because Kousuke is strong enough to defeat the “Hero of Dawn” and is the “Black Hero” that he was allowed to do so.

By the way, Kousuke was able to use “Black”, “Fire”, and “Dawn” in perfect form.

White, Blue (Ice), Crimson (Fire), and Divine Healing are only acquired and available, but their proficiency is far below that of the original wielders.

A good example of this was the fact that he could only use them in simple ways during his battle with Ryke.

Thankfully, he has got high magic aptitude, so he can expect to grow with training.

He got up, put on just his coat, and went downstairs.

About 40% of the bar was filled with customers

He exchanges greetings with familiar faces and sits down in front of the counter.

When he sat down on the empty seat that had been in place, two acquaintances who were already there approached and called out to him.

The big-breasted elf doctor, Elfi, and the stiff-as-nails glasses girl, Plath.

“Good morning, Kuro. You don’t have to worry about me. I’ve just been drinking since morning~”

He decided not to care.

Her proportions, which cannot be concealed by the white coat, are so impressive that he can only look at them for a moment.

“It will be troubling if you ignore this officer. I hope you’ll continue to work on the labyrinth capture today!”

Yes – for the past week, Kousuke had included her in his party as he promised.

Maybe it’s because Kousuke was a serious and a hard worker to begin with, it wasn’t a bad deal for him.

Whether she can be the hero she wants to be herself is a different story, but he’s willing to go along with her to the point where she can.

The master silently offers him some milk, and he shows his appreciation with a glance before drinking it.

“Oh, that’s okay. I’ll stay with you until you can take down a magic tool holder on your own.”

By the way, Plath quit the military.

It’s because you can’t go on a labyrinth conquest if you have military service.

It seems that she was scolded a lot by the main family, but now she is very much alive and kicking.

“I’m, coming too.”

Before he knew it, Quin was sitting next to him.

Kousuke consented without showing any surprise.

“Fine, but don’t use [White]. It won’t do any good for Plath’s training.”

Kousuke also devised ways to limit the magic used in order to gain as much experience as possible.

The mental pollution level that was used to activate [Black Night] immediately dropped after flirting with Shiro, but the result was not so reassuring either.

No matter how much happiness he felt, the pollution level would not go down to zero.

Perhaps that’s how the “irreversible pollution” would gradually accumulate.

Relying on [Black Night] without thinking should be avoided.

As one’s level rises, the power of [Black] will naturally go up as well.

At Kousuke’s words, Quin nodded with an “Un”.

and the next moment…

Kousuke’s arms were wrapped around the fluffy cleavage between her ample breasts.

“Lord Claire Bedivia!? Please don’t mess with our Kuro!”

Shiro, who had been mopping, ran up to them while holding the mop as if it were a weapon.

“Well, Shiro. It’s not like Quin has any ill intentions.”

“Yes, there is. I’m trying, to get, Kuro, from Shiro. What, do you think? Won’t you be mine?”

“Hey Kuro, I’ve been wondering, why do you call Lord Claire Bedivia “Quin”? That was before the ceremony, right? Isn’t that odd?”

Shiro’s eyes suddenly sharpened.

“That’s because, we are, close. We are, getting along well, when, we are together. We have, even kissed, right?”

“No, that’s not the right word. And it’s a bad and misleading way of saying it.”

“Kuro? What is this all about? What were you doing together?

Something that looked like killing intent gushed out of Shiro.

Kousuke became impatient and turned his gaze to those around him for help.

Elfi was pointing at them and laughing, Plath is looking down with a bright red face as if she misunderstood something, Master has remained unconcerned, Vinne continues to serve with giggles and laughter, and the guests around him are cheering it up as a Shuraba. (TL: Shuraba = Scene of Carnage – this term is used for love relationship fights)

Shiro and Quin were arguing over Kousuke.

Then, Econa appeared with breakfast in hand.

It was a semi-liquid, tomato ketchup-like condiment with a heart drawn on it.

Apparently, the symbol means the same thing in this world.

Shiro was looking at him as if he was a criminal who sinned, and Quinn didn’t look amused either.

Econa tilted her head.

Kousuke was really glad to be here. He was happy to be in this world.

Every day, he couldn’t wait to see tomorrow. (TL: Yah every day is a battlefield for him now Kekw)

This world is indeed a land where visitors can be happy.

But only at this moment…

He desperately wanted to escape to somewhere else.


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38◇Guide, Falling (Revised)

Kousuke immediately made it so that Shiro’s wound was “never there” with the power of ‘White’.

“[White [Su]] – Hey, Shiro, are you okay……?!”

“Uh…… uhm.”

She opened her eyes slightly and met Kousuke’s.

“…… Kuro?”

“Yeah”

Letting out a sigh of relief, he raises her upper body

As their faces were close to each other, their eyes naturally met.

“…..Kono-…..”

“Huh? What is it?”

“….-BAKAYAROOOOOO!!!”  (TL: Kono Baka Yaro = You stupid fool)

She stated it clearly.

She headbutted Kousuke without any hesitation.

The shock was so great that Kousuke felt like his head was about to be torn to shreds, so he turned toward the ceiling.

“-! What the hell?! I’m bleeding from this… I’m bleeding from my nose!”

“I don’t know anymore, Baka!”

“I was able to beat the ‘Hero of Dawn’ without a scratch, but now you’ve injured me! Ah, wouldn’t you have been able to beat him even without my help? Is this how you treat your savior!?”

“I told you not to come, didn’t I?! Kuro could have died!”

Kousuke’s anger instantly faded when he saw Shiro crying.

She would hate to see Kousuke’s death more than her own.

“You’re the …… fool. There isn’t a single person in the [Shizukutei of Life] who could abandon you and live on happily. The same is true for me.”

Shiro buries her face in Kousuke’s chest.

“……What happened to that guy?”

“I killed him.”

“Because of me, Kuro, you became a murderer…… I don’t want you to be a murderer…I don’t like that…”

“It’s not your fault. I hated him from the start. He was a trashy scum.

“But ……! The reason you fought him was for my sake, wasn’t it?!”

…… Apparently, Ryke told her about everything.

“What are you saying? “Don’t fight for my sake?” Aren’t you a little too self-conscious?”

“Stop screwing around like that! That’s Kuro’s bad habit!”

I got pissed off.

It’s exhausting to face everything so seriously.

Relaxing in moderation is a necessary part of leading a good life.

But apparently this is not the case.

“Well, what about you then?”

“Wha- What do you mean?”

“You’re calling yourself a guide and a caretaker. “Visitors should be happy” is something like a catchphrase for you but… but were you, yourself, ever happy? Ryke trampled on your mother’s good intentions and left her to die.”

“But does that mean that Kuro had to murder him?”

“Yeah. There’s someone who has to be killed. If you let him live, he will have his revenge. I’m certain of that. And then someone might die because of me. Someone else could die because of my naivety, you know? I can’t have that. I don’t want to lose anyone I care about to a stupid mistake ever again.”

“….But…you finally came to this world, Kuro…you have- you should have become happy in it…”

“Don’t give up on me like that. I’m going to become happy. I’m already happy, to begin with.”

He put his hand on Shiro’s shoulder, raised her, and looked into her eyes.

“…I was planning to die…

…Because I hated myself…

…But you stopped me…

…I wouldn’t be here right now if it hadn’t been for you…

…I’ve met a lot of people…

…I’ve had some really nice encounters with people…

…I tried to remember what it feels like to be happy…

…Now I can remember what it means to be happy…

…My life, which was meant to end in vengeance, was collected and pieced together by you…

… I don’t think even God could do it…

…You’re important to me, Shiro.

If you are the person who makes visitors happy, I will be the one to make you happy.

In my second life, I want to walk alongside you.

I want to be together with you in this world.

I did what I had to do to make that happen.

And even though it was a bad thing, it was necessary.

And I don’t regret it.

I’m just happy that you’re safe.”

At those words, Shiro’s face crumpled with tears spilling out.

“……..Baka.”

Their faces came close together, and this time, instead of a headbutt, their lips touched each other.

Kousuke realized his mistake there.

Even though he was lusting after Shiro’s lips, now he could only taste blood.

……Nosebleed, I should have fixed that before I did it.

It’s also incredibly embarrassing to think that the lines I just said were also with a bloody nose…

Still, I won’t stop.

For ten seconds, or maybe even longer, he enjoyed kissing her, but Shiro eventually pulled away.

As if she’s not used to it, she lost track of the timing of her breathing and started to cough cutely.

It was ridiculously endearing.

“Normally, you can breathe in through your nose, you know?”

“Oh shut up! I know that! I know, but that’s in normal cases!”

“Okay then, one more time.”

As Kousuke approached, Shiro yelled out.

“You really don’t understand what an atmosphere is, Kuro……! And even the kisses taste like blood!”

“Well as far as that goes, it’s a hundred percent your fault, right? It’s a tragedy that your headbutt brought about, isn’t it?”

“…… Hey, what are you doing?”

Kousuke was rubbing Shiro’s tits.

“No, because I’ve never touched them before, and now this Ryke guy rubbed them.”

“So?”

“…… This is like, overriding ownership?”

“It’s not like I was his, but then again, it’s not like I’m yours either, Kuro.”

“…………N- No way…”

“Don’t look so desperate, baka.”

Chuckling, Shiro lifted the edge of her apron and wiped Kousuke’s mouth and nose.

“If you’re going to do it again, wipe off the blood properly.’”

Shiro was so cute, Kousuke could barely handle it.

“Can I take your clothes off?”

“I don’t want my first night to be in a dungeon.”

“…… It’s going to be a special night.”

“You mean a ‘special mistake’! Just no! You can get those things right in bed at …….”

“Then I’ll do just that.”

“N- No no, I didn’t give you the ‘OK’! We’ve only met for a week and I’m not a cheap woman!”

“You’re a virgin after all.”

“Shut up! Kuro is probably not a virgin anyway! Oh, I wish it were new for both of us!”

Kousuke counters Shiro, who shouts out in desperation, with a calm voice.

“When you die, all the damage to your body will get healed before you reincarnate, right? In other words, my body is brand new. Meaning I’m a virgin.”

“Stop with the not-so-funny visitors’ jokes!”

Shiro eventually laughs as she blurts that out, saying something about it not being funny.

“Hey, Kuro. Can I call you Kousuke? It’s just for the two of us, you know?”

“Well, I now have a lame new name: Cross Kuronos – Nanolancelot.”

“Similarly, I also have the name: White Howitt – Tia Igraine.”

“First time I heard about it”

“I usually go with Shiro after all”

“Rather that that, tell me your real name. I want to know.”

“…… Kako.”

“Huh? Kako? You mean Kako from ‘The Future and Past’?”

“No! Shirohara Sakako [Shirohara Kako]! …Lame! I don’t like it because it’s lame!”

“Eh? You’re Japanese? Even though you have silver hair?”

“I mean, that wasn’t unusual in the Japan that I came from.”

“That Japan sounds like a real eyesore.”

“It’s weirder if it’s all black! And it feels gloomy!”

“You’re right. There was also such a thing back in my world. Besides, it was definitely darker… without you, that is.”

Shiro’s face turned bright red.

“Kako, Kako, huh. But if you don’t like it, should I call you Shiro?”

“Yeah, I like it that way. I will call you Kousuke, though.”

“That’s okay. If you don’t call me that every once in a while, I feel like I will completely forget about it.”

Shiro smiled softly at those words.

“Thank you for coming to save me, Kousuke.”

“I’ll come and get you even if the evil gods come and kidnap you.”

“What’s that” is what she said with a wry smile, now approaching his face from the other side.

Naturally, Kousuke did not refuse it.

They embraced each other for a while.


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37◇ Black Hero, Predation (Revised)

Kuro remembered what Lucius told him.

“As you may have already noticed, I and Towa do not possess the color attributes.”

Kousuke was momentarily startled by this, but immediately remembered a certain memory and was soon convinced.

It was from the first time he had met Quin.

She had said.

“Magic attribute, [Black]. It’s the first time, I’ve seen, a color attribute, other than myself” she said.

That means that, before he arrived, there were no color attribute users aside from her.

“…As expected, you know about that. I’ve been appointed as [Blue] and Towa as [Crimson], but this is a far cry from the heroes who became the motifs, and is just the nation’s front”

Daltra is currently at war.

Even if it isn’t, it still calls itself a nation that holds God’s children.

It certainly seemed important to appeal to other nations that they had a lineup of heroes who were once led by a God.

Both Lucius and Towa were visitors, and although they had the natural attributes of [Water] and [Fire] respectively, they were feted as heroes because of their outstanding handling of them.

“That’s why there are those within the military and some noble families who call someone like me a false hero. That’s correct in a way. I don’t have the [Blue] attribute after all…….But what is required of a hero is symbolic value. Even if it is a false hero, if it can lead the nation to victory and save the people’s livelihood, there is no difference between it and the real thing. That’s what I think. And both I, and Towa, have the power to do so.”

That’s what he concluded, with an impassioned speech and a deep exhalation to quell his exuberant thoughts.

“I don’t know this woman called Shiro. However, in this short time, I have come to understand that she is loved by many. For me, even the visitors are someone who should be helped out and saved. Although I am in a position that knows about this crisis and is able to rush to the scene, in this situation where I cannot put that into practice, I cannot help but feel ashamed. That’s why I at least want to help you.

I am willing to share my ‘Power’ with you.”

Back to the present.

“…What the hell is this?”

Ryke looked around, as if in doubt.

It was a [Black] box.

The box-shaped field that envelops Kousuke and Ryke.

The ground, the walls, and even the ceiling were made up of writhing black. It was an [Execution Ground].

[Black] gushed out of the ground.

Only on Ryke’s side.

Kousuke, standing on the sandy beach while watching Ryke sink into the shallow water, was composed.           [ED: All this talk about the beach and water is figurative]

Ryke frowned slightly.

A moment later, he covers all his body with [Dawn].

“I see! [Black]’s ability is to swallow! So you’re going to swallow my magic from a long distance and reduce my power! Indeed, if you think about it, it was odd that you only ate my arm at that time. The correct answer is to make it larger and swallow my whole body. Why didn’t you do it? No, that’s not it, right? You couldn’t do it! So inexperienced! Even [Dawn’s Light] can’t be prevented without deploying more than one, so there’s no way they can eat me at once! Hence, you’ve taken measures to narrow the scope of your activity to keep me in contact with [Black] for longer! But, but! You’re so stupid! You should have stayed outside! That way, you could have still eaten some of my power! However, this is the end of the line. Begone, scoundrel!

[Dawn’s Light].

Rain of murderous rays of light.

Their number must have easily exceeded a hundred.

It has the power to fill up the inside of the box.

Kousuke looked at it and smiled.

“…[Black Eater [Predation]], [White Creation [White Groundwork]]”

A jet-black slash greeted the torrential rain of light rays.

“Foolish! Your [Black] can’t be compared to my [Dawn] at ……Impo…….ssible……”

Contact was momentary.

There was no competition.

The winner is the black.

To be precise, the winner is [Black] with a [White] included inside.

“No way, no way, no way! What have you done? Just now, that was Sir Claire Bedivia’s [White]! You’ve got them waiting outside this box! Shame on you, you coward! Don’t you have any sense of pride?”

……Well, I’m impressed by how he keeps fabricating so much just to justify himself.

…Well, it’s not unreasonable to be suspicious.

Kousuke is indeed inferior to Ryke in terms of level.

Although [Black Night] allows predation without regard to level, it’s not necessarily infinite, and even if it is, it’s clear that the mental pollution value would be disastrous if he relied on it.

So Kousuke borrowed power.

No, as Lucius said, a share.

In other words, he was given a share.

Ryke’s shock did not stop there.

He tried to challenge Kousuke to a close-quarters fight and failed.

[Black] that had already risen to just below his waist coagulated like ice.

There’s a mixture of [Blue] – or [Ice] to be exact, but its power is comparable to [Blue] – added in there.

“………… Lord Gramlunate’s power.”

And Ryke noticed that there was more to this.

The size of the box was shrinking, bit by bit.

“What ……you! What did you do?!”

Finally, fear appeared in his expression.

“Which is more painful to you… me explaining it or not? Tell me which one will make you suffer more; I will do just that.”

“…..Don’t get full of yourself, and get on with it!”

I wonder what happened to playing it ‘fair’. Just as he thought that, murderous rays of light homed in from behind him.

However, they all burned up before they could even touch Kousuke.

After that, they were swallowed up by [Black].

“[Fire]……No, unless you’re at Lord Syncentence Arthur’s level, something like burning my magic ……-! You bastard, if… no way! Something like that can’t be possible!!!”

“What? I’m starting to enjoy listening to your voice a bit, so tell me. What’s impossible?”

Ryke’s expression twitched as beads of sweat appeared on his face.

“–You ate it, the power of heroes!”

“Correct.”

Kousuke smiles dismissively.

Kousuke’s predation is not consistent in frequency, but he is able to take possession of the predator’s characteristics.

For example, the ‘Black Hero’ ate part of the Evil God and became the ‘Dark Hero’.

In other words, even though the Evil God is not dead, he is able to use the power of the Evil God.

In other words, even if the target does not die, the acquisition of abilities through predation can occur.

So, where does a part of the body/magic get its acquisition potential from?

In conclusion, it really doesn’t matter even if it’s something trivial.

So Kousuke ate the magic of the heroes many times, and furthermore, he swallowed their hair.

And then he got it.

“I am who I am. I’m but a [Black], [White], [Blue], [Crimson] and [Divine Healing] hero, thanks to everyone else.”

Ryke was shocked.

For him, this was unthinkable.

To Ryke, who was proud of his power, the event of other heroes giving their power to Kousuke was nothing short of an absurd event for him.

For Lucius, it was out of goodwill.

For Elfi, it was out of curiosity.

For Towa, it was out of a whim.

For Quin, it was out of friendship.

The reasons were different, but none of them objected.

Kousuke has embraced their powers and became powerful.

“…………Impossible. The power given by God? Using that power which was made to make yourself happy, for someone else’s sake? Just thinking about it creeps me out!”

With a *swoosh*, a ray of light pierces the same part that Shiro was hit at.

But it wasn’t Kousuke’s abdomen, but Ryke’s.

“That’s what I wanted to hear. “Creeps me out!” huh? Sorry, I forgot to tell you, but I already got [Dawn] too. Go ahead and feel disgusted please.”

Ryke still tried to kill Kosuke.

He tried to activate his magic.

However, it was unsuccessful.

The box has already been turned into a passage that is wide enough for only one person.

The [Black] which had been holding his feet to the ground dissipated.

“[Black] can choose what to eat. Smart, right? I’ve already devoured your magic. But it’s okay. Your physical functions are intact. Come on, let’s continue this Murderous Parade!”

“This is my loss.”

Ryke went on his knees with his head touching the floor. (TL: Dogeza’ed)

“I apologize for my rudeness! I’m so sorry! I swear I will never do anything like this again! Please, please, please forgive me!”

“I can’t.”

Kousuke kicked Ryke in the head.

His body was blown off and slammed into the [Black] wall.

At the same time, tentacles reached out from the wall and became the fetters that restrained his body.

“I know your character. Just as you gave in to Quin’s threats, you only flattered me because you recognized me as stronger than you. I don’t feel sorry. You will only behave like this in front of me and Quin. I think there’s a difference between a problem that can be undone and a problem that can’t be undone. I won’t say that murderers can’t be rehabilitated or anything like that. It’s not about hurting or killing someone, it’s about the way you think, and what you can and can’t do about it.”

“W- Wait, wait! I mean it! Serious apology! Whatever I can do to help! I will apologize! Even to Shiro!”

“Then bring Shiro’s mother back to life. Right At This Moment.

“……..”

“You can’t? What the hell. You’re just so crappy.”

“Yeah, but I’ll show my sincerity in any other way! I can give you all my private property! Or, if you think about it, killing me here won’t get you anywhere! I’m a hero! I’ve demonstrated a tremendous contribution to the development of the nation! And you, by the way, how about you? You have a bright future ahead of you, but you’ve only conquered one labyrinth! If you kill me here, I’m sure the royal family will not look at you favorably.”

“Oh, so you want me to forgive you for my own sake?”

“Yes. In addition, I swear to you that I will help you in the future! Y- Yes, yes, there was a slave in the [Shizukutei of Life] bar. Since I don’t think those scums can afford something like that, that thing must be yours, right? I was instrumental in the invasion of Giborne, but I have made friends with the slavers. If you wish, I will find the beauty you desire and will deliver her to you. That thing was a poor brat, but a mature Giborne woman is nice, you know? Maybe it’s because they grew up in the snow country, but their skin is clear and white, a dazzling beauty! Of course, I don’t care how you use it. I’ve broken a few bodies myself, but I haven’t had any problems because the contractor cleans them up nicely! Hey, there’s more! You have a magic tool! I have sixteen tools that I keep in reserve for the country, so if you don’t mind, they can be all yo-…”

“That’s enough.”

Ryke seemed to have taken that as forgiveness.

He let out a breath of relief along with a flirtatious smile.

“There’s one thing I’m going to correct you on, Ryke.”

“Oh, my mistake? If you say so, I will fix what is lacking. I swear.”

“Lucius has informed the Crown of your actions. Then he called the top brass and all the heroes except you, and they voted for “Whether or not we should get rid of the problem child”.”

“…….”

Blood drained from Ryke’s face.

“I participated too. And when I told them that I would inherit [Dawn], so there would be no problem such as a loss of strength, they all agreed. Because isn’t that right? [Black] has more mythology in it than [Dawn], and it has tremendous appeal.”

“………… ah, …… ah……. ah……”

“So, I’ve got a green light for executing you. So you see… killing you won’t hurt anyone’s feelings. So, for example, if I do this…”

He cuts off his right leg with a blade made out of light.

“And if I do this.”

He chops off his left leg.

“No one will get angry, and no one will come to help you.”

Ryke did not even scream.

That’s how desperate he was.

With tears streaming down his eyes, sweating profusely, and even drooling, Ryke pleaded for his life.

“…… Please, Kuro. Please forgive me.”

“At times like this, I try to imagine what it would be like to be in the other’s shoes and give my answer. You said you’d cut off my extremities and shove Shiro’s womb in my mouth. That wasn’t a joke, was it? You were really going to do that, weren’t you? If we were going to do a simple fight, it wouldn’t have gone that far. In a duel… yeah, something like that can’t be forgiven. But this isn’t the same, right? We’re killing each other, aren’t we? The only way to end this is for one of us to die, right?”

Kousuke remembered Shiro and called off any further questions and answers.

A section of the wall opens up.

“I’m leaving now.”

“……W- Will you forgive me?”

“No, I’ll eat you slowly. The space will get smaller and smaller, and [Black] will prey on your flesh bit by bit. By the way, I’ve partially dulled your brain functions with [Divine Healing]. That’s why you won’t be able to pass out from the pain, and the substances in your brain that relieve the pain stopped being released. Enjoy your suffering until your life extinguishes. That’s how I plan on sending you off. This is your punishment.”

“What?! Wait for me, Kuro! I can be useful! I won’t let it cost you a dime! From now on, I pledge my allegiance to you personally, not Daltra! So!”

“Hey, Ryke.”

“What? Say whatever you want.”

“Do you think we’ll ever be given a third life?”

“…………”

“If you reincarnate again, come and take your revenge on me. I feel happy just by having the thought of killing you for a second time. So, you know, come on. I’ve heard enough. You’re going to die here this time.”

Kousuke closes [Black] with a big smile on his face.

The last thing he saw from Ryke was his despairing face. He felt better, and a little refreshed.

It’s not much different from when he killed his sister’s killer.

Killing a scum doesn’t make him feel great.

But the minute the scum is gone, the damage that they can deal gets suppressed.

Well, that’s fine I guess.

Kousuke pushed Ryke out of his thoughts and rushed to Shiro.


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36◇Conqueror, Revisit (Revised)

Kousuke accepted Lucius’s suggestion.

Ryke must not be expecting this either.

He took off his cloak and was about to leave when Econa held out her hand.

“I’ll take it, Goshujinsama.”

“Yeah, please do.”

“Oh, um, …….”

Econa looks up at him somewhat uneasily.

“What’s wrong?”

“…You haven’t forgotten this morning’s oath… right?”

Kousuke’s expression naturally relaxed.

“Yeah, I’ll come back no matter what it takes. I’ll never break my vow and never leave you alone.”

He thought about stroking her head, but he didn’t.

Instead, he hugged her as if to replenish his energy.

“Ittekuru.” (TL: Ittekuru = I’m off )

Econa whispered in Kosuke’s ear so that no one could hear her.

“Itterasshaimase…… Kousuke-san.” (TL: Itterasshaimase = Have a safe trip / Have a good day.)

Kousuke’s chest warms up to such a simple thing.

He places his lips on Econa’s forehead, kissing it, and quickly let go.

He stands up, leaving Econa with a bright red face.

Looking at the barmaster, he nods back.

Taiga and the other guests also push Kousuke forward.

Clara, the tsundere serving woman, said, “Bring …… Shiro back with you. You must not die either.” A rare honest word of concern.

Elfi, Lucius, and Towa.

He had already talked to the other heroes.

Quin has gone already.

After hearing Lucius’s story earlier, the regular army stationed in front of the dungeon had called for help.

The soldiers, including Reis, were seriously injured when they tried to stop Ryke from dragging Shiro.

As long as they didn’t die, Quin would be able to save them.

Leaving the tavern, Kousuke kicks the ground.

The cobblestone ground was destroyed by Kousuke’s leg strength and flipped up.

‘I’ll have to pay for it later’ He was out of the town in an instant while having such thoughts.

He arrives at the entryway at a speed that leaves even the wind behind.

Reis and everyone else was there.

So was Quinn.

“I’m sorry, Kuro-dono…… As expected, we couldn’t even stop him….”

Kousuke laughs at Reis, whose expression is twisted in frustration.

“There is no shame in it. ‘Even if the enemy is a hero, if they have made a mistake, we will stand against him.’ That bravery of yours is the greatest strength of all.”

Kousuke saluted, and followed by Reis, the soldiers also returned the salute in unison.

“…… Kuro is, liked, by all kinds of people.”

Quin says, somewhat sadly.

“It wasn’t like that in my previous life.”

“I like you too, Kuro.”

“…… I see.”

“Kuro, what about you?”

“I told you. I think of you as a friend. We can get along with each other all we want.”

“Friends…”

“Yeah.”

Quinn puts her hands on her chest, then tilted her head back.

“Until a while ago, that was a nice word… ‘friend’.”

“…………Quin.”

“Now it stings. Is it because of Kuro?”

“Maybe.”

“But I like it.”

Quin touched Kousuke’s cheek with her lips.

“Angry?”

“No, but I can’t respond to that……”

“That’s…… okay. Friends, for now. I can be patient. I’ve been patient, haven’t I? I’ve been patient. Being a hero, because I’ve been doing it. But I can be patient, my friend. And that’s okay. If you’re not angry, then it’s okay.”

She blurted out.

“Itterashai” (TL: Itterasshai = Same as Itterasshaimase)

“I’ll be right back.”

“I’ll wait. If you’re late, I might sleep.”

“Got it.”

He smiled back and ran off.

The inside of the labyrinth was filled with the corpses of demons.

All of them must have been pierced by a light ray.

They were full of holes.

Thanks to that, he immediately arrived at the Guardian’s room.

Ryke and Shiro were there.

Their reactions were contrasting.

Ryke’s lips lifted tauntingly.

While Shiro looked at him with a face as if she was about to cry.

”Hahahaha! Even though I asked you to, I’m amazed that you came to your death for such a woman. Are you that thirsty for a woman, or have you been seduced by these tits?”

Ryke grabbed her neck with his right arm and squeezed her breasts with his left arm.

Shiro’s face, red with humiliation, twisted in anger.

“I’ll tell you one thing, Ryke.”

“Go on, I will hear out your will. What would it be?”

I, Will, Kill, You.”

With a swoosh, a light ray pierced through Shiro’s stomach.

Kuro’s murderous intent explodes instantly.

Almost every skill in his board was activated.

Ryke still didn’t let go of Shiro, so he can’t make a careless move.

“I’ll tell you one thing. It’s a story about a stupid woman.”

“Don’t speak anymore. It will stain my ears with your filth.”

“Shiro’s mother, I think her name was Kouko. Yeah, Kouko. She was a foolish woman. She followed me around the labyrinth when I didn’t even need her, and she was attacked by a magic tool holder, which she deserved. And then, you know what that stupid woman said to me? At first, she was all pompous about being a guide, and then the moment her life was in danger, she pulled out a ‘Help me!’ or something like that on me! I couldn’t stand it anymore; I was laughing myself to death. I knew that no matter how powerful I was, I was indeed no match for that magic holder on the first day of my visit, and so, I watched that woman die from a distance. Well, that was fun! She was shouting her husband’s or someone else’s name incessantly, and spitting out words of apology for leaving her daughter behind, or something like that. Kukku, ahahahaha!”

Shiro was crying while biting her lower lip.

It was cut and bleeding.

It’s hardly a blessing, but the wound in her abdomen is from the heat of the light ray, so it’s just burnt up a little.

I can’t say that she absolutely won’t die from bleeding out but, it probably won’t happen.

The time for this fight is short… but it is enough.

“Do you know why I didn’t kill this woman, Kuro?”

“Old people can’t talk for long. It’s a gift to keep it short and clear.”

Ryke’s face burned in anger.

“I’ve been thinking about how to make your composure disappear. I’m going to give it a go. I will attack you until your magic wears off, cut off your limbs, and then I will fuck this woman. When I’ve had enough, I will drag her womb out of her body and shove it into your dirty mouth. Then I will kill you both.”

“Have you been fantasizing about that for a long time? Scary.”

“Don’t act so tough, “Black Hero”! I won’t let my guard down! Your future is fixed – it’s your death! Fear not, at least do your best to prolong your short life by even a second!”

“Hey, are you still talking? It’s time to get started. I’m not interested in your story or anything.”

That’s when Ryke finally pushed Shiro away.

He’s a prideful guy, and he wants to beat the shit out of Kousuke with his own skills.

“I’m sorry to say that your second life ends here, right after your rebirth.”

“Ah yes, yes. Shut up already, and talk with your magic, old man.”

Kousuke couldn’t take it anymore.

He bared his killing intent.

“………… no.”

Shiro muttered.

Kousuke ignored that.

“[Black Night]”

Thus, the curtains to the murderous act opened once more.


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35◇ Hero of the Dawn, Madness (Revised)

“Kuro!”

It was Lucius who called out to Kousuke in a very urgent manner.

He runs up to him while ruffling his long blue hair.

The surrounding attention turned toward him, but he ignored it

“I’m sorry……But there is bad news.”

“What’s going on?”

As there was a possibility of the “Hero of the Dawn” Ryke retaliating against Kousuke, Lucius moved his subordinates as soon as possible.

He sent them to the [Shizukutei of Life] bar – but it was already too late.

“Too late…? What the!? What happened to Shiro, Econa, and everyone else!?”

Lucius placed a hand on Kousuke’s shoulder as he closed in on him to calm him down.

“I sent a subordinate who can use healing magic just in case, so there are no deaths so far. But we’re short on manpower and if we don’t hurry, things might get out of hand. That’s why I’ve sent Quin ahead of us. We need to get a move on. It will be a little inconvenient for us, but we’ll probably get there faster if we run as fast as we can.”

“…..Understood.”

Kousuke nodded and jumped out of the premises.

In addition, Towa and Elfi followed him.

“It’s impossible – Towa can’t stay at a party with no acquaintances. I don’t really get it, but I’ll follow you.”

“Do you want me to, um, nurse a confused child gently, I wonder?”

Reports from his subordinates confirm the fact that one of the serving girls has been kidnapped.

Probably, no, it’s definitely Shiro.

…I should have killed him back then.

A black emotion crept into his chest

“I’m sorry, Kuro. It’s my fault. I should have restrained him. I tried to make him save face, but my naivete led to this. I don’t know how to apologize…”

“It’s not your fault. I’m grateful for your kindness in sending your subordinates, but I’m not going to blame you. I’d appreciate it if you would just go back on that promise you made earlier.”

“Promise…Oh, the promise that I told you to leave him to me…? I suppose it’s inevitable at this point. But I hope you’ll at least allow me to lend a helping hand.”

“That would be very reassuring.”

Lucius smiled powerlessly.

Although it was a struggle to pass through the circular street gate, he broke through it using a Hero’s authority.

They arrived at [Shizukutei of Life] at twice the speed of a carriage.

The outside of the restaurant was not so bad, but the scene inside was horrible.

Food and liquor were scattered about and equipment was destroyed.

Quin was standing there.

Although bloodstains remained, they were all alive and unharmed.

“I made it so that, “No Harm was done”. Later, I’ll fix the store, itself. Can I take a, break?”

Quin says languidly. Thanking her briefly, Kousuke goes around to make sure everyone is okay.

“Goshujinsama!”

Econa came running up to him.

Kousuke hugged her tightly.

“I’m sorry…I made you go through something bad. It was all my fault.”

“Ah, no, not at all!……. But Shiro!”

The other guests stand up and shout.

“That fucking bastard! Hey, Kuro, you’re going to kill him, right? We will join you!”

“Yeah, you kidnapped our signboard girl! I can’t cool down unless I turn it into a bloodfest!”

“I’m completely sober! I don’t care if he’s a hero! Let’s all pay our respects!”

Be Quiet!!!

A big shout.

In an instant, the chaotic atmosphere cooled down.

That was true even for Kousuke.

Because it was the Barmaster himself who shouted.

“Kuro.”

The Barmaster looked at Kousuke as if glaring at him.

“That bastard once—”

“I’ve heard about Shiro’s mother. I heard about a similar incident that occurred in the past too.”

“…… I see. To be honest, we can’t do anything regarding this. Heroes are out of our league.”

“Yeah, leave it to me. I’ll get Shiro back. I’m gonna beat Ryke. Everyone’s shares too! So, please leave it all to me!”

Halfway through, Kousuke was speaking loudly in the tavern for everyone to hear.

The faces, who had restored their composure after the Barmaster’s shout, showed their approval through silence.

“Kuro.”

A giant body came forward.

It was Taiga.

“The bastard said that he will wait in [Zest], in the guardian’s room. He said that If you don’t come alone, he’ll kill Shiro.”

“I have a feeling that’s what that old man would do.”

He probably thinks that if it comes down to Quin, he can’t win no matter what he does.

Such a pathetic hero…

However, Kousuke, who was almost killed, cannot laugh at this.

He is in a position where he has to obey the scum.

Just then, a message came to his Glass.

It was from Shiro.

{… don’t come. Kuro can’t win after all. So please don’t come. I don’t want to see an unhappy Kuro}

Kousuke laughed, and immediately, he replied.

{Be quiet and wait for me. I’ll come right away and send that idiot flying,}

Nevertheless, Ryke must have learned from the earlier match.

He will pay attention to other attributes as he fights.

Furthermore, the biggest problem is the presence of a hostage.

Even if they are of the same heroic rank, Kousuke is the last in line.

The level difference is simply too much.

There are many things in the world that cannot be overturned with thought alone.

That’s the reality.

Then you need to add more than just your thought.

Will [Black Night] be enough?

I can’t say for certain.


“Kuro, I think I’ve come up with a way for us to cooperate. Mind hearing me out?”

Lucius broke interrupted his chain of thought with a serious look on his face.


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34◇Crimson Hero, Smile (Revised)

“Sir Syncentence Arthur, I’m sorry for my rudeness earlier. I beg your pardon.”

Originally, the procedure would have taken some time, and the treasure sword should have been presented at the platform in the premises, but the third princess rewarded it to Kousuke on the spot, saying that everyone wouldn’t be able to relax if she was there, and thus she left early.

In fact, the air relaxed and the party-like atmosphere returned to the premises at once.

That’s how much they were in awe of the royalty.

Both the aristocrats and the military.

Now it was mainly the aristocrats who were beginning to dance around the center.

The third princess’s attendant also gave Kousuke a sword belt, so his treasure sword was now on his hip.

Kousuke was greeted by more people than he could remember.

After that, the sight of Towa leaning against a wall, sipping her juice, came into his view, and then he called out to her.

She looked at Kousuke in displeasure, but when she received an apology, she let out a sigh.

“Tch. Well, if you’re reflecting on it, then that’s fine. Towa is not the type to hold a grudge.”

“Thank you very much.”

“Kousuke.”

For a moment, he was thrilled, but then he quickly remembered that he had called himself that.

“It sounds like a Japanese name. Are you from the world where Japan exists?”

“Ah, yeah, it’s …….”

“No need for honorifics. You just need to pay attention to your choice of words, not your language. But still, Japan huh. It’s the same for Towa.”

I know.

“Yeah, I know. I mean, you look like a Japanese.”

She laughed; the corners of her mouth curled up.

“What’s your last name? Mine is Kurono, you know. Come to think of it, your new name also has a “Kurono” sound in it. Maybe it’s just a coincidence.”

“…… Mine is Kuroki. With the meaning of “Black Wood”.”

A lie.

But, Towa doesn’t notice it.

“Ah, so that’s why. They try to keep it as close to the original name as possible. Towa has the “Croysis” part of the name, right, Kuro? But for you, I don’t know what happened to the “Kousuke” part of your name.

“Yeah, you’re right.”

“Towa likes her name, so I’m glad it stayed the same. Ah, and what should I call you? Do you want to be called Kuro like how others call you?”

“Please do as you wish, Crimson Hero-dono.”

“Stop it…….Ah, are you perhaps doing that because Towa told you not to call her Towa? Hmm, well, okay. You can call me Towa, Kuro.”

“…… Why all of a sudden?”

“Because you seem to get along with everyone, so Towa is kind of the only one who is a stranger, like she’s not in the group. Of course, by “Everyone”, I mean Lucius, Quin, and Elfi, okay?”

“I know that much.”

“You know, Towa doesn’t have memories of her previous life.”

He thought his heart was going to stop beating.

“…… Elfi,” he said.

“Oh, did you hear it already? My knowledge from that world didn’t disappear, you know? So I do remember things about Japan, but it doesn’t feel real to me. Well, they are the memories the former Towa wanted to seal, so I don’t really want to remember them. Perhaps I have met Kuro before, but I don’t remember.”

“…… Maybe we crossed paths or something.”

“Hey, we might have at some point. Did you know? Daltra is the only place with a lot of Japanese visitors.”

“…… Yeah, I’ve been thinking about that possibility.”

“And what is this possibility you speak of?”

“Perhaps the temple in the land near Daltra, or maybe Giltias, is connected to Japan. So those who were unhappy in Japan will appear there.”

“Oh, I see. If there’s a connection between the territories, it certainly explains the occasional non-Japanese visitor. In other words, the foreigners who died in Japan’s territory.”

“I also thought that Japan wasn’t the only country that was selected. Maybe other countries have more visitors from outside of Japan.”

“Oh, it seems to be that way, actually. And what was it… a parallel world? Some people come from something like that. Because Towa met a Samurai before. It was the first time in my life that I heard the first-person “Sessha” in person……No, it’s the first time since I’ve been reborn. Um, this is where you start laughing.”
(TL: Sessha = I  – A word that Samurai used to say “I”. It is really old and rarely used.)

It was a tasteless visitor joke.

“I wish I had some joking skill in my status too.”

“Hey! You just made fun of Towa, didn’t you? What a cocky little rookie! Let’s end it here.”

Contrary to her words, she seemed to be enjoying herself.

“Give me a break, Senpai.” (TL: Senpai = Senior)

“I’ll let you off the hook, Kohai. How old are you, Kuro?” (TL: Kohai = Junior)

“Eighteen.”

“Towa too!”

I know…

“What’s your birthday?”

“October 10th.”

“Yeah, so is Towa’s……. It’s a weird coincidence. It’s like we’re twins with all this stuff.”

We are twins…

…Of course, I’m not going to tell her that.

“Then, isn’t it be strange that my face isn’t more good looking?”

“Fufu, what~ what~? Does that mean Towa is a super beautiful girl? I know that though~”

She’s supposed to be drinking juice, but she looked as merry as if she was drunk on alcohol.

“Towa is not good at dealing with men.”

Kousuke desperately held himself from crying.

He knew that the old Towa was never good at dealing with men.

In other words, even after losing her memory, her instinct probably still remembers that the one who inflicted so much pain and suffering on her, causing her death and loss of memory, was a lowly, vulgar male.

“What’s the word… perverted look? I don’t like people who see me with that look. I burned a guy who followed me around once. Oh, I didn’t kill him, I think…?”

“…… but you and Lucius were able to speak normally.”

“Can you imagine Lucius looking at a girl with sexual desire?”

“No, I can’t.”

I’ve only met him for a short time, but I can’t imagine him looking like that.

“I know. But basically, all men do it – they look at any woman sexually. Like grading me or something. Isn’t that right? Well, it’s not that girls don’t do it when they look at a guy, either, but at least they don’t suddenly look at him sexually.”

“I don’t say it out loud, but I guess I do think about it – ‘pretty or not?’”

“Yeah, that’s it! It’s like an unconscious classification. When a guy looks at me with vulgar eyes, even if it is only for a moment, it makes me feel sick”

“A man is is all about his face and general body shape, but for a woman, it’s her breasts, ass, and legs. I’m sure you’re not the only one who finds it repulsive.”

“I know, you’re not too self-conscious, are you?”

“Yeah.”

“But Lucius and, uh, Kuro… you don’t look at me like that.”

Well, of course.

No matter how cute she is, she’s my sister.

“I’m not into…… small breasts.”

“Aha-ha, I’m Japanese, so I wonder if I can say that more than three times in the face of Buddha.”

She seems angry.

It’s a complicated feeling.

Talking to my sister as if she is a stranger, that is.

“So you’ve never been with a man before?”

“No. I wonder if I’m going to be late to the party. I don’t like men, but I do want a baby. If I have to, I’ll marry either Lucius or Kuro.”

“I’ll think about it when you get…… bigger.”

“I wonder if I should challenge you to a duel. I don’t want guys who are looking for women’s breasts anyway. It’s too late to apologize afterward, you know. It’s too late to apologize later. Okay? How about five more seconds? I don’t mind accepting an apology, though, okay?”

Kousuke couldn’t help but laugh.

The future of going out with his sister is impossible, but…

And it’s funny because it’s impossible.

“Oh, I’m sorry about that.”

When he apologized, Towa smiled with satisfaction.

“Then maybe I should forgive you. Towa isn’t the type to hold a grudge, after all~.”


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33◇ Cross Kuronos – Nanolancelot, Honor (Revised)

There are eleven nations on the Arkrea continent.

The Secluded Nation – [Hekromethane].

Located at the southern end of the continent, it is a mysterious country from which information does not flow because of its closed state.

The Information Nation – [Larkjord].

This is a parliamentary state where a supreme assembly of wisemen, known as [Sages], determines the fate of the country.

The Neutral State – [Roel Vinaf].

It is the youngest of the nations and has only been independent of Arxbaona for forty years. It is located between Daltra and Arxbaona, and is therefore the main battleground for skirmishes.

The Religious State – [Gedundra].

Although it is the smallest of the nations, it is the birthplace of Arkrea’s [Mythological Church] and still has a strong authority.

The Traditional State – [Giborne].

It resides in the mountainous region to the north, and although it is outnumbered, it has survived the invasion of Daltra.

The Illusory Nation – [Facarone].

It is presumed to be due to some kind of magic, but it has a mysterious territory that cannot be reached even though it can be seen and recognized as being there.

The Militaristic State – [Arxbaona].

It is the second-most powerful nation after Daltra. Ruled by the military, it has pursued an expansionist policy in recent years.

The Commercial State – [Faldo].

A nation that has paved territories and makes enormous national profits through trade. Many countries rely on its routes, and it cannot be invaded easily.

The Magical Nation – [Ersod Shallal].

It’s a nation that discriminates between those who have magical aptitude and those who do not. An empire reigned by the head of state called the ‘Magic Emperor’.

The Technological Nation – [Melect].

It is called the heaven of artificial magic tool development. There are many excellent engineers, and the patent fees from their inventions are enough to cover the management of the country.

The Nation of Heroes – [Daltra].

The nation built on the plains, having the greatest number of heroes, visitors, and soldiers.

The age of myths.

God had a child with a human before falling asleep.

The child, a demiGod, was made King by the heroes and formed a nation with mankind.

And of the eleven nations, Daltra and Arxbaona simultaneously claim that they were the ones founded in the age of myths.

They say that their King is the descendant of the Son of God.

The royal family of Daltra and Arxbaona, each had the power to prove it.

It’s a part of God’s power, known as [Miwaza].  (TL: Miwaza = The Work/The Technique (Of the Gods) )

Both nations are able to use it.

Normally, you would think their blood must have separated somewhere.

However, such a simple conclusion could not be reached.

Firstly, they say that the enemy nation is the heir to the power of the Evil God.

Secondly, they adamantly claim that their nation is the one that carries the bloodline of God.

Such was the beginning of the conflict akin to a tussle between kids.

And now, both Daltra and Arxbaona are waging a war to expand their lands.

So Kousuke, in other words, was recognized as a kind of national power, or a piece of military power.

The third princess, Ein Tifine Manafolu Fifnus O’Flutosefi.

The fact that the nobles do not expose their face, skin, or appearance in public is a common occurrence since ancient times, seen in various places even in the world where Kousuke was from.

Their holiness, or divinity, was thought to be sullied and damaged by the eyes of the mundane.

In fact, it could be said that it was convenient for them to reign as symbols rather than as individuals.

All in order to make the people think that they are extraordinary.

Humanity is nothing but an accumulation of impurities.

The third princess was no exception to this norm.

“Raise your head, Kuro.”

As the third princess said this, the attendants, who were poised on either side of her, said

“Be honored, Visitor, and shed tears at the glory of this audience!”

Slowly, he raised his head.

She was wearing a robe.

Gloves.

Long socks – which may be like stockings

And a mask.

He could see what she looks like, but he couldn’t really tell.

It must be Perceptual Distraction magic.

Kousuke didn’t know how to speak with a noblewoman of her status.

Speaking of which, he is a junior high schooler, and the respectful speech in the world of delinquents is just a “ssu” added at the end of a word. (TL: this is like アザッス(Azassu) which is the short form of ありがとうございます (Arigatougozaimasu) which means “Thank you very much!”. This is mostly used by young people in JP.)

However, the person standing in front of him is undoubtedly a member of royalty.

He could even be beheaded for talking out of line.

“…I’m honored to meet you, your highness.”

He thought he was a bit late in responding, but it seemed to be all right.

“I apologize on behalf of the royal family for the rudeness of sending someone young like me, and not my father, the King, to honor your military service.”

“I can’t thank you enough for this opportunity, your highness.”

“Do not be so tense. It’s not like I’m trying to eat you or anything. You have done an excellent job of offering the magical tools to the kingdom. I praise you.”

“I’m extremely honored.”

Kousuke was getting impatient, thinking that he was about to run out of his repertoire of polite language.

“Fumu. I don’t like formalities either. Ui.”

The attendant to the right of the third princess, called Ui, holds out a decorated sword to the third princess as if to offer it to her.

“Everyone at ease, except Kuro.”

Everyone stood up.

A bit of a spectacle.

He didn’t know how old she was, but she probably was a young girl.

A girl. A girl who has complete control over the place.

“In the name of I, Ein Tifine Manafolu Fifnus O’Flutosefi, I bestow two rewards upon you.”

“One, the name.”

“You are henceforth a subject of Daltra. Accordingly, I have prepared a name for you.”

“Henceforth, you shall take the name Cross Kuronos-Nanolancelot.”

I see, since you’re recognized as a subject, it’s not strange to receive a name from the country.

“Two, the treasure sword.”

“I am presenting you with a national treasure that has been rendered indestructible by [Miwaza].”

“The inscription on it is …… in a foreign language, so please forgive my poor pronunciation of the name – [Kuroshi Musou].” (TL: Kuroshi Musou = Black Warrior/Peerless Black Warrior)

The third princess places her hand on the hilt and belly of the sword and holds it out to Kousuke.

“I, Cross Kuronos-Nanolancelot, shall humbly receive it.”

He received the sword.

The venue was filled with thunderous applause.

This is how Kousuke, both in name and reality, becomes a hero.


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32◇ Third Princess, Arrival (Revised)

“……You mean, Twilight was Kuro’s sister, right?”

Quinn says to Kousuke who is immersed in self-loathing.

“It’s not “was”. She is my sister.”

His voice was so rough that it even surprised him.

“…… No. Sorry. You didn’t say anything wrong…”

“It’s okay, I’m fine. So, Kuro, what do you, want to do?”

“What do I want to do…?”

What do I want to do? I wonder.

That’s right.

Didn’t I just say it to Plath?

Set a goal and choose your means.

Set a new goal.

Your thoughts will become clearer.

The raging waves of emotion calm down.

What is it you wish for?

To be remembered for who you are? No.

To be reminded of the tragedy? No.

To be blamed? No.

I am the older brother.

Towa is my beloved little sister.

I don’t love her because I want to be loved.

I love her because I love, and cherish her.

I admit it. I admit that I am weak.

I’m relieved that she didn’t blame me.

I’m scum.

But that doesn’t make my feelings for my sister any less important.

I just want what’s best for her.

Is it unfortunate to be happy while being oblivious to your previous life?

…No, she has a memory that she doesn’t want to remember.

So, is she, who has forgotten everything, a stranger to you?

…No, she’s still my sister.

So, what is it that you wish for?

It’s simple.

To rebuild a relationship with her, not as Kou-chan, but as Kuro.

To stay by her side as a friend, even if I’m forgotten for the rest of her life.

To do everything in my power to make her happy in this world.

Once he decided, his next action was simple.

There was no need to hesitate from the beginning.

My little sister is alive.

She is alive…!

She can grow up and get old.

She can marry and have children.

She can love and be loved.

She can be happy.

Well, all the better.

“Thank you, Quin. I’m gonna be okay.”

“……Yeah. That’s, good, but… Am I, being helpful, to Kuro?”

“Yeah, you’ve helped me out big time.”

“Okay, Kuro, will you help me too?”

So, what you’re asking me to do is, to help you stop being a hero?

“I thought you were supposed to be thinking for yourself”

“I’m not good at ……thinking…………”

She looks down, dejected.

“We can’t have everything. There’s a limit to what I can do to help.”

“I, see…”

“But I’ll help you as much as I can as a friend. Just like how your words helped me out, I will help you just as much.”

Quin looked up and, for some reason, she reached out for Kuro’s cheek.

“Eh. What’s up?”

“……I don’t know, but… Suddenly I felt like touching it.”

She let go of his cheek and stroked his chest.

“It feels weird, Kuro, what about you?”

“……………… I’m not sure about that.”

“So passionate~.”

Elfi had already regained her smile.

She got herself a new drink.

“Are you done talking?”

Then Lucius joins them.

His smile is tinged with fatigue.

It seems that Towa, who has a strong sense of pride, has recognized the other heroes as “Comrades”.

If that’s the case, his hardship is understandable.

It’s inevitable that Lucius is fed up with it.

“Kuro, if you don’t mind, could you apologize to Towa for the previous thing? I believe that it would be better to at least say hello, if not apologize. I’m sorry if this is a rather impertinent statement.”

“No, you’re right. I’m going to apologize. Will you come with me?”

Lucius smiled and nodded, in a way that would make nine out of ten women fall in love with him.

“Of course! Now come on, let me show you the way.”

And then, Plath came in.

“Kuro-dono! We have finally found you, sir.”

“Oh, Plath. Where have you been? Think of the disappointment of being abandoned by a familiar face at a party like this.”

“What an unreasonable thing to say……. Didn’t you start the fight with Sir Kilparomides and force this petty Officer to back down?”

She was right.

“It’s about time for Her Highness to arrive, so don’t wander around too muc-“

Plath’s words stopped.

Lucius, Quinn, and Elfi kneeled on the spot.

Pulled by Elfi, Kousuke also took a knee and somehow mimicked their gesture.

Left knee down, right knee up, right hand in the salute position, left hand around to the back, head hanging down.

Daltra’s most respectful form of salute.

The only people who you have to take such a pose for are those who belong to the royal family.

Plath, the only one who had her back to the new participant, turns around fearfully.

“I’m already here, Lord Gan Orgelews.”

Kousuke noticed that everyone on the campus was in the same position, in the same manner.

Slightly later, Plath followed suit.

The third princess has arrived.


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31◇ Hero of Divine Healing, Theory (Revised)

Once again, his mind went blank.

But this time it was forcibly interrupted.

“Kuro! You’re the guest of honor, so enjoy the party with the booze and the booze and the booze to your heart’s content! Look, the waiter is over there, let’s go take them all!”

With that, Elfi takes Kousuke by arm.

“Elfi. Towa will be lecturing the newcomer now. I believe it would be wise not to get in Towa’s way.”

“Ara? I’m superior to you, aren’t I? Afterall, I’m your doctor. So I’ll be taking this one.”

Towa turned away quickly, looking reluctant for a moment.

“Do as you please. I’ll give him a sermon some other time.”

“Wha- Wa- wait a minute, Elf—”

Elfi pulls her bewitching lips toward Kousuke’s ear and lets out an audible breath.

“I didn’t expect you to be ‘Kou-chan’.”

“……..Where did you hear that?”

No.

From the current conversation…I see, it’s all coming together.

Towa, or in this case, Twilight?

She apparently doesn’t remember me.

Elfi said she is Towa’s physician.

Which means that Towa is a patient in need of Elfi’s attention.

And Elfi knows my nickname.

…This is where I should do as she says.

“…What’s up with that new guy? If Lucius had disciplined him before Towa came, Towa wouldn’t have been this unpleased. Do you mind if I demand an apology?”

“I’m surprised too. He was a far cry from the man we just met. And if my head is enough to get you in a good mood, let’s lower it as much as you want, my lady.”

“That’s enough. Moreover, juice. Find me some column of that stuff, and bring it to me.”

“As you wish.”

They heard the conversation between Lucius and Towa as they moved away.

They plunged into the crowd from the military side of the room. Elfi forces her way into the place.

She snatched two champagne glasses from the waiter and handed one to Kousuke.

The liquid that filled the glass was amber in color.

Bubbles rose to the surface and popped.

In contrast to Kousuke, who couldn’t bring himself to drink it, Elfi drank it in one gulp.

“Phew~. By the way, Quin, what are you following me for?”

That’s right.

Kousuke was taken away by Elfi.

Towa began speaking with Lucius.

Meanwhile, Quin had attached herself to Kousuke.

“It’s fine. I mean, what’s wrong with, being together with, your friend? It isn’t strange, is it?”

“’Friend’ is not such a convenient word you know~?”

“Elfi, is the one, who is acting, a little too familiar, with, Kuro.”

“That’s because we’re close friends~”

“I’m a close friend too. I’m close friends with you. We’re close friends, right? Kuro?”

“I’m about to have a very important talk with Kousuke. So, go away for now.”

“You can’t tell, me what to do. You have no right, Elfi.”

Quin’s eyes glowed maniacally.

“Maybe. But what I’m about to speak of is something I don’t want outsiders to hear. As for Kuro, he might come to dislike you if you stay here.”

Instantly, the madness fizzled out and she looked up at Kousuke anxiously.

“Really…? Will Kuro hate me? I don’t want that…”

The reason why Elfi is interested in Kousuke is because of her intellectual curiosity.

But what about Quin?

There is only one thing that comes to mind.

It was the conversation they had when they first met.

She wants to quit being a hero, is what Quin said back then.

Kousuke casually affirmed this, but given her circumstances, it was a near-impossible task.

A problem that she couldn’t tell anyone about.

Every human being wants to be understood.

More precisely, we want others to understand, and then respond the way we want them to.

Naturally, it’s hard to find someone who truly understands, because the issue has nothing to do with them.

And because it’s this difficult, when you find such a person, that empathy becomes of tremendous value.

For Quin, Kousuke is the only one who affirms what she wants.

He is someone who understood her.

It’s natural, in a way, to have an obsession or a fondness for him.

However, that is not important right now.

“No, it’s fine. Anyway, let me hear what you have to say.”

Then Quin looked at Elfi with a slight but triumphant look on her face.

“My, win.”

“I’m not trying to compete with you~”

Elfi chuckled, but then made a serious face.

“Normally, I wouldn’t be one to blurt out information about a patient.”

It seems there is a concept of confidentiality in this world as well.

Though I don’t know if it’s strictly enforced by law or not.

Anyway, she’s aware that she’s violating the rules and etiquette, but she kept her voice down and starts talking about Towa.

“About Towa…It was five years ago that she appeared. The place she appeared in was not the [Temple of the Forest] in Giltias, but the [Temple of the Hills] in the city of [Zainkanfus], which is located just north of here.”

Kousuke was slightly relieved.

Because, if the guide was Shiro, she might have possibly been hiding the truth from him.

He was strongly ashamed of himself for suspecting Shiro even for a moment, and continued to listen.

“When she showed up, Towa was in a state of panic.”

No wonder.

Visitors come to Arkrea in the state before their death.

So, Towa appeared in this world defiled, stripped naked, and with her body dead cold.

It was almost impossible to stay calm in that situation.

The person who examined her after she was brought in was Elfi.

Since a person with a high Status, on par with a hero, was having mental disorders, the person in charge of treating him or her must be a top-notch magician.

In other words, Elfi.

She spent a long time healing Towa.

In the midst of it all, she says that she heard about her past life, at intermission.

That’s where she heard the nickname, Kou-chan, too.

That Towa used to call him Big Brother, she said.

And then, Towa asked Elfi to help her forget the past.

She said she wanted to forget the past.

Ah, naturally.

That’s what anyone would do when they have gone through something like that.

No one would want to remember such a horrible event.

“You see, you can’t erase memories, not with human magic. Or rather, there is no memory-erasing spell. There is “Loss of memory” as the cost of using “White” magic, but that is just a cost for using that power. The nature of that is different from magic effect. What I can do with magic is to lock the said memories. “

“Lock it?”

“Yeah. Memory is just information. Human beings store this information in certain parts of the brain, sorting it into different categories. I put a key on each of them to block out the option of ‘Remembering’. Although all of the memories are still in her brain, they will never surface in her consciousness.”

A safe, for example.

A safe with a large amount of money in it.

Suppose you stole the said safe.

But what if you don’t know how to open it?

The money is certainly there, but you can’t use it.

I see. So that’s how it is.

“So, I’m the one who has the key. However, that doesn’t mean it’s perfect. If Quin wanted to, she could just pretend that “My key didn’t exist”. Also, there are burglars who can invade through the door.”

He understood what she wanted to say.

The only person who knew the number on the safe was Elfi.

But, like Kousuke, contact with someone who knew about Towa’s past might break it open.

Instead of challenging the lock from the front, there should be a way to open it with a drill or the like.

An unintentional comment from her brother might reveal everything she had locked in the box.

The reason Elfi had taken Kousuke out earlier was not for Kousuke’s sake, but Towa’s.

“Well you’re a doctor, aren’t you?”

Perhaps taking that as sarcasm, Elfi shook her empty glass emphatically.

Kousuke wanted to kill himself again.

Hearing Elfi’s story – he was relieved.

He was glad that he could avoid the reality of being blamed by his sister.

The worst.

It’s really, really inexcusable. I’m the worst.


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