Category: Original

LOTA CH41 — Forecasting Trouble

PunLeave a comment

This is bad. My assumption was right. That adventurer doesn’t have a single clue of Dae Sho’s background. I should’ve told Shen to leave one of his bodyguards alive, but alas what’s done has been done and considering the dire situation, her viciousness was reasonable. At least that’s how I like to think of it.

I’ve buried the dead to hide my tracks, but I’m not sure of the consequences that will happen to me for killing him. I need to be meticulous and be cautious.

And that’s why I’m here in front of this house that once must’ve been magnificent with its two-story tall and fancy bricks. Its unmaintained garden with its obvious wild tall grass however loses the house charm.  Professor Meyer’s house. Hopefully, he can tell me what I should be careful of and what to do next now that I’ve done something significant.

I knock on the door.

「 Who is it?! It’s nighttime for crying out loud! 」

「 It’s me, Professor Meyer, your student, Renald. 」

The door opens, behind it is Professor Meyer in his baggy white shirt.

「 What the heck are you doing here, Renal- 」

Midway he stops, his eyes widen, must’ve seen the obvious wounds.

「 Judging from the wounds that you’ve barely tended for, you must’ve come to me to ask for something very important. Come inside, this is no place to chat. 」

He opens the door widely and gestures to me to come inside. I follow his lead and come inside. What greets me in this place that seems to be a living room are numerous scrolls, stacks of papers, and weird ancient statues scattered throughout the room. Even on the floor. What a messy place. But that fits his character.

「 Forgive me for not being able to offer you adequate hospitality. 」he says, feeling a bit lost with the messy environment.

「 It’s alright, Professor. I’ve come suddenly without prior notice anyway. 」

The place was littered with many things that I’m sure that come from his research but thankfully the modest wooden chairs were unoccupied with his stuff. With a swift and careful motion of avoiding his littered things, I navigated and finally took a seat, to relax a bit after a painful journey.

「 So then, who causes these wounds of yours? 」He asks immediately as soon as we both sit down.

His finger tapping the table and eyes staring dagger at me. Annoyed and serious.

I should answer truthfully, without in a roundabout manner.

「 Dae Sho came after me a moment ago, wanting to kill me. I retaliated and in self-defense I killed him. 」

A look of surprise plastered his face.

「 His arrogance knows no boundaries indeed. 」He says, seemingly to himself,「 I’ve advised him from time to time to never be arrogant because there’s always bigger fish in the sea. But to think you’re the one who finishes him. 」

「 Are you angry at me? 」

「 Of course, not. 」He immediately replies,「 however, you know that he is THE young master of one of the largest clans in the Lungkin Dynasty, right? There’s a reason why I’ve become a history teacher in a human kingdom that doesn’t appreciate history. 」

Well, connecting the dots is easy enough with how obvious he is hinting at.

「 Were you in some sort of trouble over there? 」I ask, already knowing the answer, but there’s nothing wrong with trying to confirm my suspicion.

「 Sort of. 」he plainly says,「 something I don’t want to disclose too much, but do not worry, my problem doesn’t come from the Sho clan and even then my problem pales compared to the one that you are in right now, Renald. 」

He stares at me so seriously. The same one when caught his students sleeping in the middle of his class, showing how serious the matter is.

「 I strongly recommend you to disappear, 」he continues,「 away from the Veinard kingdom. Even better if it’s outside of the Concordis region. 」

「 I can understand laying it low for the time being. But to run away even outside of the Concordis region? Aren’t you overexaggerating this matter? 」

Suddenly, his fist bangs the table loudly, papers that were on the table are now flying to the air where they ultimately fall to the ground.

「 Renald! 」 He shouts, gone was his polite and calm manner,「 He is the son of the Sho clan! Famous for their vicious strength. Get on their good side, and you’ll be in heaven. Get on their bad side, however, and only hell will await you. 」

He withdrew his hand off the table, knowing he spoke out of turn.

「 I’m sorry if I sound too hostile, I am saying this out of the concern for your safety. 」

His eyes lowered, shame plastered in his expression.

「 It’s alright Professor, I know you mean well… 」

「 Have you done the best you could to hide your tracks, at the very least? 」He asks.

「 Yes. 」I say with a nod,「 I’ve buried him amongst his underlings. Hopefully, they won’t be able to figure out that it was me who did it. 」

「 How can you be so sure, Renald…?  」

Silence befalls this room, with me being reluctant to answer that question. I mean can the Sho clans connect the dots that a mere human was able to cause such a devastating environment? But if Dae Sho before the encounter reports back to his clan that I have the ancient swords they desire and that he will confront me, then I’m screwed.

「 Hmm… 」 he stops the awkward silence,  「 There is something that you are hiding from me, Renald. 」

His hand makes its way to his chin, pondering. Does he really want me to spill the beans?

「 But honestly, I like it that way. 」

His immediate answer calms my nerves. Thank god I don’t have to explain it was an ancient dragon who did it.

「 The more I don’t know, the more both you and I are safe. 」He continues,「 please do note because of that, however, I won’t be able to give you tailored suggestions that fit your current predicament right now. With that in mind, I still insist for you run away from the Veinard kingdom. I don’t know how well you hide your tracks but you must be very careful.  」

「 I understand…. 」I say reluctantly,「 But that means I have to leave my mother alone… 」

「 Being apart from your family is a shame indeed, but look at the bright side, Renald. 」His tone is higher, seemingly trying to cheer me up,「 This is a chance for you to have an adventure! To experience the wonders of the world and explore exciting, exotic, and new things that befit the drive of a young man such as you. 」

「 I see…. 」I can only reply plainly. I don’t like it but what else can I do?

But where do I go though? I only know the Veinard kingdom and other neighboring kingdoms such as Shiford, and even then I’ve never traveled outside of this kingdom. It would be traveling to the unknown and most importantly leaving mother behind.

「 If that’s all, then you should get going now. You need to heal up and rest. 」He says, forcing me to get out of my deep thoughts.

「 I will get going then, Professor. 」He’s right, I need to discuss this with my mother anyway, no need to hang around here much longer,「 hopefully this won’t be the last time we meet. Farewell Professor. 」

With my farewell done, I immediately head outside, and soon the cold night greets me with its evermore dark and chilly air. The area has very few manaritium lamps, and if they did it’s quite dim, further emphasizing the cool dark.

Then, as I thought about what path I should take to go meet my mother in the Alderhide mansion, Professor comes out of his house, quickly tucking his jacket.

「 Umm… why are you coming with me, Professor? 」I ask, confused.

「 I shall visit a friend of mine. 」He says nonchalantly, fixing his jacket, preparing for the cold night,「 a friend who’s an exemplary Wits magician, able to cast a spell that obscures some of my memories of what has happened tonight. 」

「 Huh…? What for? 」

「 For insurance. 」He says slowly,「 if by chance the Sho clan comes to me to ask some questions about the death of their young master, either in a friendly or hostile manner. What has happened tonight will not go to their ears. Ensuring both your and my safety. 」

The familiar stoic body is nowhere to be found and replaced with a droopy posture, seemingly being reluctant with whatever he’s doing.

「 I hope we can stay in touch, Renald… 」He says, pinching his nose, letting out what seems to be a forced smile, and longing eyes,「  but due to your circumstances, it would be best if we don’t contact each other. Maybe in the next few years. 」

He pats my shoulder and deep in his eyes a reluctant and longing look.

「 I wish you good luck and bid you farewell, my dear favorite student. I sincerely pray that this won’t be the last time we’ve met. 」

We walk on our separate ways. With no more words said and the night becoming slightly colder.

I turn back one last time, and the Professor has already left out of my sight.

 

…..

 

There it is across the horizon, the Alderhide mansion, a luxurious one for sure. Gigantic white pillars decorated in gold stand tall in front of the mansion that supports the roof, reminding me of classic greek architecture.

As soon as I’m in front of the gate, two guards greet me, looking a bit annoyed.

「 Excuse me, Sir. But, who are you? 」One of the guards asks.

「 Renald Alderhide. I’ve come to see my mother, Lady Heva. 」

「 Excuse me, Who…? 」

「 For crying out loud! 」I shove him in the face with my Alderhide nobility badge, 「 I’m the son of Lady Heva! Now make way and lead me to her! 」

Noticing my proof, the guards become quite startled, they look at one another and without a say, one of them lightly bows to me and leads me inside the mansion.

We walk for a considerably long time, seemingly to the far corner of the mansion.

「 Sorry for coming in late, mother. I hope I didn’t disturb you if by chance you’re sleeping. 」

「 Do you think I can sleep and sound when my son is out there doing dangerous tasks! Look at you, you even come here with injuries! 」

Mother grabs my hand, looking particularly attentive to the slash in my hand.

「 Why are you just standing there, guard?! 」She angrily looks at the guard,「 call in the maid! 」

The only response the guard gives is a deep bow and he immediately hurries out leaving the scene, calling the maid I presume.

「 Where is the rest of the family, mother? 」I ask, trying to fill in the void.

「 Oh you know, they are in the nobles gathering after the graduation ceremony.  」

Well, whatever they are doing is none of my concern. I guess this is the perfect time to tell her the bad news. Can’t delay it much longer.

「 Mother. 」

「 Umm… What is it, sweetie? 」

「 I’ve… 」Damn… I’ve just realized the news will hurt my mother… 「 I’ve… offended an influential and important figure. A young master from one of the Lungkin Dynasty clans. I must disappear and get away from this kingdom, mother. 」

「 S-sweetie, this… 」mother says, her expression confused, seemingly trying to comprehend it all,「 this is very… very heavy news… How did you even offend this person? 」

「 I know, thankfully I’ve just graduated. Right, mother? 」I say, trying to divert the topic.

「 Yes. That’s right. 」she says, letting out a forced smile,「 I know you will be on your own after graduation but not due to something like this… 」 Her forced smile fades away…

「 I’m sorry it has come to this mother. 」I grab both of her hands, looking directly into her teary eyes, letting out a small smile,「 I can still send letters to you once a while, I’ve just done that when I’m in the academy, remember? 」

「 Oh silly boy… You’re already talking about sending letters… Do you even know where you are actually going?  」

Ah. That’s right… I haven’t exactly thought of it…

「 I take your silence as no then. Maids! 」 She calls, clapping her hand to draw attention.

Then a maid comes, lightly bowing, her eyes to the floor.

「 Lead Renald to one of the available bedrooms. Possibly next to this room. 」

「 Yes, my lady.  」

「 I have something in mind for you to take care of your problems, but for now you should take a rest sweetie. And let the maids tend to your wounds.  」

I want to retort back but something in me wants to give in. Must because the injuries and battle fatigue has gotten to me by now.

As I got escorted by the maid to leave the room. I take one last look at mother. She smiles as she waves her hand slightly. The smile wasn’t forced but I sense deep grievance and sadness in it.

 

Previous Chapter — Next Chapter

LOTA CH40 — Shen, The Dragon Servant

KyoruSLeave a comment

 「 I have fought against all odds, facing thousands of dragons that could cover the entire sky. And just recently, I’ve slain the heretic who dares to hurt my master and daringly declare himself as my descendant. Yet at this time, I can’t do simple human behavior such as walking… 」She says faintly, failing to hide her obvious disappointment.

It was a rather hilarious sight. After her kowtow, she tried to stand up, only for her flimsy use of her legs to fail miserably as she fell down. The graceful image of hers was instantly ruined.

Now, within my arms lies the goddess that was once a dragon, Shen, grasping onto my neck. Her face inches away from me. Her radiant eyes glued at me, focusing solely on my very being. She looks up as she does, showing a gorgeous smile, one that seemingly never fades. Her enticing breast presses to my chest, where her cleavage is all open for me to see. I’ve somehow managed to not peek at it and put on a poker face.

I think this is what’s called princess carry.

「 Please forgive me for not being able to walk yet… 」

Even when ashamed and disappointed, there’s just something from her voice that entices me.

「 It’s alright, Naga… No, Shen. Your true dragon form never had limbs for you to experience, to begin with. 」

「 Doesn’t hide the fact that I’m being useless and burdensome to you, master~ 」

A shiver runs down my spine the moment she says master soo affectionately. This is bad.

「 It heavily embarrasses me, when I’m supposed to be dependable and strong. 」

「 Anyway… You don’t need to call me master. Just call me by my name, Renald. 」

「 Why master…? I do not understand. There’s joy from our bond whenever I call you master. A shiver runs down your spine. It excites you — it pleases you. 」

Damn, she’s observant.

「 Shen. 」I stare directly into her eyes,「 you’re my servant, aren’t you? 」

「 Of course, without a doubt! I’m your proud servant! 」

She lets out a wide smile, it was enough to light a blazing fire in my heart. But just like any other fire, too close and agony will strike. One that can already be felt.

「 Then do as I say. 」I retort back, plainly, but sternly.

「 If that’s your wish then… 」She says, her words trailing off,「 where are we going mas- I mean, Renald? There are still some stranglers left alive. 」

「 You need to go back to the Sky Palace, Shen. You’re in no condition to fight. Let me deal with the rest. 」

Although I say that, carrying Shen while going to Sky Palace would be an issue.

Then enlightenment hit me.

『 Lanuae Magicae 』

A somewhat standing magical circle is summoned in front of me, its inner circle has a mystifying force that slightly sucks you in. A teleportation portal to the Sky Palace.

What a convenient spell that comes at a convenient time. This unknown ability or power of mine has always been bugging me to death. And all I can do is not hopelessly stress about it. The only pattern I can deduce on this enlightenment mechanics is that it only happens when I do something novel with the Sky Palace ability.

I walk into the portal and a loud bang invades my eardrums as my vision turns black in an instant. Before my brain can begin to process it all, I’m already in the Sky Palace just in front of the throne, still carrying Shen.

「 Shen, how was the teleportation journey? 」

「 I sense nothing wrong if that’s what you’re concerned about. 」

「 No… It’s just that it seems abrupt. 」

Still carrying Shen, I move out of the throne room and move to one of the many available bedrooms in the Sky Palace. Where amidst my walk, another room appears that was once just a wall, right in front of the throne hall. Now’s not the time to explore it, however, I must take Shen to a comfortable room to relax.

As soon as I get inside the bedroom, I lay her down in the bed. Consciously forcing myself to not pay any attention to her spectacular figure that is more stressed and tempting now that she’s laying down on the bed. Still gazing at me with her glowing amethyst eyes, not even a second her eyes wander somewhere else.

I would like to withdraw and give some distance between me and her, but her hand is still grasping on my neck, leaving me in this half-kneeled awkward position.

「 Shen. Let go of me. You’re already in bed. 」

「 Such an impertinent thing to say, master~ let’s get to know each other better, now that I’ve finally awakened. 」

Her hands make their way upwards, holding up my cheek. I quickly dismay her hands, tucking them in the bed. I sit on the edge of the bed.

「 Shen. I remember that I’ve clearly told you to call me by my name. 」

Something deep inside me rises a forceful magical sensation.

「 I command you to call me by my name or any other, and never to use the word master. 」

「 Ah- y-yes, Renald… I will never use that word anymore. 」

Her smile fades away, distress clearly plastered on her gorgeous face. It slightly hurts me for her to be this way. But this is necessary.

「 B-but why, Renald?! You clearly liked being called that. Why deny something that feels good? 」

「 Because it is wrong, Shen. I am not going to abuse these dependencies of yours towards me that is due to the careless usage of my power. 」

All of her actions are exactly in line with what a person in love would do. But this happens due to my powers, not something that happens naturally.

「 I-I… 」

Confusion grows more and more in her. She’s… She’s breaking down.

「 How… how is it wrong? I… I do not understand. I love to be like this… 」

「 Shen. Think about it. 」I say slowly, trying to emphasize how serious this matter is.

「  You’re once an almighty divine dragon who made the entire dragon race bow down to your supremacy. Now… You’re bowing down to a lowly human. 」

「 My creator! 」She shouts, her eyes widen, her already fading smile is now gone,「 you might be a human, but you have divine powers no mortal being can have! You possess your own space dimension that operates with its own time with unmeasurable mana in the atmosphere. And not only that, you have the powers to manipulate the essence of souls to change it and bid it to your liking. 」

The essence of souls must’ve referred to my shadow minion ability and it might even include Shen summoning ability.

「 Yes. But look at you now, where is the proud and aloof dragon that I’ve previously known of?! This is… this is brainwashing! Your previous personality is gone! 」

「 Aloof, might not so, as I’ve seen the light and recognize the god that you truly are. But pride? Of course, I’m still proudful! Now my pride is being your most faithful servant! My creator! 」She says boldly, determination fires up in her eyes,「 that’s why I’m ashamed of my uselessness just a moment ago. One that I will rectify very soon. 」

She perks up at that.

Even when I restrict myself to use the word master, she easily finds another title that regards me as the higher being and stroke my ego.

「 Do you consider Naga, your past, and Shen, your current self as two different beings? 」

Her eyes wander slightly now, seemingly pondering over the question.

「 Forgive me for answering a question with another question, my creator, but to answer that question, is your current and past self to be different? 」

My past life and my current self huh…

Yoshinobu Ryo and Renald Alderhide. They are definitely different beings, both in appearance and personality. But not exactly so…

「 I would assume the answer is that they are different, however, your current self still has some resemblance to your past self. 」She answers the question herself,「 the same applies to me, my creator. It seems your worries are due to my change of character.  Even though I present myself to you this way as it befits me as your servant. 」

She stays quiet, must’ve been waiting for my response. But I decide to remain silent.

「 If that’s your worry… 」She says, not as confident as a second ago,「 then I can be a bit more like my past self, but of course I will still consider you as my revered god. 」

That’s fine and all, however, that doesn’t really answer her weird change. It just feels sudden and most importantly — too good to be true.

「 Maybe you are like this because you are in your human form… 」I say trying another attempt to reason with her weird change, 「 can you revert back to your dragon form? 」

「 Hmmm… It’s complicated, my creator. 」Her eyes wander slightly once more, pondering over the question.

「 Imagine a lake with a river that flows downstream, the river depletes the water in the lake continuously and gradually. Continuous rain, however, makes sure that the water in the lake never goes empty. The lake is my mana storage, the river is my mana usage in maintaining my dragon form, and the rain is your sky palace that supplies me with ample mana.

「  I was able to maintain my dragon form in the Sky Palace because the place is abundant with mana. However in the outside world with little mana. I was only able to use it shortly, subconsciously forcing me to transform to a human form after it got depleted.

「  If I don’t turn into a dragon, there will be no river to drain my mana. So the more I’m in my human form, the more mana is stored.

「 So, even if it is possible for me to revert back to my dragon form, it is heavily discouraged since it would leave you vulnerable when I need to unleash my ultimate powers. 」

「 I know… 」I say, I must insist her on trying it at least once,「 but try reverting back to your dragon form sometime after I’m away for an hour or two.  Maybe you will notice the changes in your personality. 」

「 My creator, I don’t know why, but my human form pleases you, does it not? 」

She says, her hand softly grabbing my hand, caressing it lightly, while still maintaining eye contact.

「 I sense excitement and joy from our bond. Your breathing becomes more ragged, your heartbeat quickens, especially when you benevolently carried me. I’m still clueless in the human way, but surely you prefer me in my human form, right? 」

「 Just take it easy for now, Shen. Take it easy… 」

Without another word, I left Shen alone in the bed. Giving up. This is all too much. I need to get away and process everything slowly.

『 Lanuae Magicae 』

I walk to the portal, without looking back.

 

…..

 

Finally, I’ve gotten away from her. Back to this war-torn environment that’s supposed to be horrifying. To think she, who’s now a beautiful and magnificent goddess, was once the dragon that caused this…

…So what if she’s pretty? Hah… Why am I like this? From princess to Hyledd, and now to her. Is it because of my teenager’s hormones? My libido is definitely way higher compared to my previous life. Maybe that’s why I’m being too emotional and attached.

But I’ve learned my lesson.

It’s better to never love or to be loved than to be betrayed.

That’s right, I need to calm down my mind, let go of my fluctuating emotions.

I need to be cold and indifferent. I don’t need such a whimsical concept such as love…

I walk to the source of the only mewling and grumbles of suffering. The only survivor of Shen’s slaughter-fest. One of the adventurers. Shit. He might have known nothing then.

「 No, no… Please sire, spare me life! 」

I glance at his wandering hand, seemingly trying to reach for his sword, inches away from his hand.

What a bold move. I must return the favor.

「 You see, I’m not a smart man. You might even say that I’m a fool. So you better, better… Not do anything that will make me regret it afterward due to my stupidity. 」

「 AAHHHHHH!!…. 」

With a swift swing of the sword at his wrist, blood spews out from his hand. Unfortunately, the strike can’t get past the bone so I wasn’t able to completely cut off his hand. Tch. At least I left a very deep cut at him.

「 With that said, you better answer my questions truthfully and faithfully. 」

Now then, time to clean up some mess first. Prepare a burial to hide their bodies while at it. I have a bad feeling that trouble will catch up after the death of Dae Sho.

 

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LOTA CH39 — Purpose Epiphany

KyoruSLeave a comment

The serpentine dragon flies up to the sky, causing every single spectator to hold their head up high, looking up to the sky, as the dragon returns the favor and looks down to them. The dragon lets out a mocking smirk, belittling them down below.

That is if anybody else besides me is still alive.

The thundering hail of thorny ice chunks finally passed, leaving a scene of Dae Sho’s obliterated underlings.

The ground, neither dirt nor grass, is soaked in the thawing ice and the fresh spilled red blood.

Even the once few standing trees have fallen, leaving the only thing that sticks are towering spiked ice. The kind of ice that came from the arctic that’s been hardened and frozen for millennia.

When Naga is summoned to this existence, the first thing it does is shower the plane with a storm of spiked ice.

One spell… One spell and it had managed to turn the table of the battlefield to our side and transformed the environment into a cold and brutal icy tundra.

No time to lose. Still laying down, I grab my vitality potion and quickly drink it. A never seen before a hideous grin spread over Naga’s face as it looked down towards the result of its rampage.

『 YOU ARE, ALL OF YOU, WEAKLINGS 』

The voice is deep, heavy, and resonant. Unlike the kind voice, I’m used to when I converse with the dragon, this one expresses such deep malice and hatred.

Even when its malice is not directed towards me, I still shiver.

『 I FORGOT HOW DECREPIT THE TIAN KIND CAN BE 』

My body starts feeling better, the stinging pain is becoming more numb, thanks to the vitality potion for sure. But blood is still seeping out, although a little less. I rip the cloth on my arm and start wrapping a makeshift bandage, trying to ignore the monstrosity outside.

『 EVEN YOUR TRUE PROUD ANCESTORS ARE NOTHING IN THE FACE OF MY WRATH 』

After finishing taking care of myself, I look around the battlefield once more. Dae Sho somehow is still alive — on the outside at least — as his face is going through a myriad of different emotions.

His eyes watching the dragon with wide, frightened eyes. Cold sweats drench his face.

Only he stands amongst the spiked hard ice. His underlings must’ve been finished, as they are not in sight.

Quiet mewling of pain and appalling are what’s left of them, maybe on the ground.

He looks shocked — frozen, his legs barely moving, one step back at a time. Retreating. All of his movements are stiff as if he’s a robot.

『 Kem! 』

A sudden spell cast. Puffs of white huge smoke surround him. A quick flash of his running silhouettes is what’s left. Running away in a flash.

The dragon swiftly chases him, leaving out of my sight.

『 WHERE ARE YOU RUNNING TO, LITTLE DRAGON? 』

Yet, even when I can’t see them, the dragon’s toying attempt can still be heard, forcing me to imagine what kind of fate lies in wait for him.

『 YOUR ANCESTORS MUST BE PROUD OF YOU FOR RUNNING AWAY LIKE THE LITTLE INSECT THAT YOU ARE 』

The ground trembles. Quick flashes of light spring out to the sky randomly.

『 WHERE ARE YOUR BOLD WORDS AND PROUD DECLARATIONS OF YOUR LINEAGE THAT WORTHS NOTHING 』

I want to move, but my body is too tired out.

『 COME SAY THOSE WORDS AGAIN SO I MAY LAUGH AS I HUNT YOU 』

All I can do is stay here and wait for Naga’s victory.

I wish I could see their fight… To make sure everything is going well. It doesn’t fit me to stay in here helplessly.

『 FOOLISH TIAN, DO YOU REALLY THINK THIS VENERABLE ONE NEEDS TO CHASE YOU DOWN? 』

A Magic circle appears on the ground, a huge one, right in front of me at that.

Then Dae Sho and Naga appear right in my own eyes.

How?! Teleportation magic?!

『 SURPRISE 』

Dae Sho’s once confident smirk immediately shifts back to the same frightening face. But amidst resignation, I start sensing defiance as rage sparks upon his face.

『 Fen! 』

Another sudden spell cast. The same burst of fire that decimated half of my shadow minions, blasting from the human-sized magic circle that hovers in front of him. The fiery red beam lances out with more heat and more than enough volume to cover the dragon, fed by his desperation, lit by his hope.

The Naga counters it with a small chuckle, as it pushes through like it is nothing, basking in its searing touch.

A swift tail smacks Dae Sho. Unseen to the eye, as I only notice it after I hear the smacking sound and the tail in Dae Sho’s former position.

It knocks him far to the edge of my sight, where a chunk of ice stops his flight. An earth-shattering impact. Releasing a shout of deep pain as he hit the spike, leaving a huge crater on the vertical ice, as he ultimately falls to the ground.

『 KOWTOW BEFORE ME FOOL 』

Somehow despite his worn-out state, Dae Sho is still able to move slightly, now kneeling and his head touching the ground, kowtowing.

「 W-w-w-why… Why are you doing this?! What has this lowly one did to anger the great ancestor! 」

Ancestor? Definitely, the wrong question to ask, as Naga releases a deafening roar, causing the ground to shake for a second.

『 DO YOU KNOW WHO THIS VENERABLE ONE IS, LITTLE DRAGON? 』

 「 M-m-my ancestor! 」Amidst his plea, he raises his head, looking directly to the dragon right in its eyes, forcing a smile「 Of course! Y-your my ancestor! My esteemed ancestor! 」

『 WRONG. I AM NAGA. YOUR ANCESTORS ETERNALLY HATED THIS SUPREME ONE 』

Out of nowhere, a frozen spike pierces Dae Sho’s abdomen. Shock and agony are clearly plastered on his face.

The ferocious smile that spread across Naga’s dragonic features that display its inhumane rows of teeth sends shivers to my back.

「 M-my family…… will never forgive this….. a-vaaa..ngeee… 」

The body slacks, laying flat on the floor, painting the dirt bright red as rivers of blood flows out from his mouth and from the huge gaping hole in his stomach.

The foe that I, despite using my all to fight, barely avoided dying to, was defeated in an instant — and in a toying manner. As if it was a tiny, insignificant matter. When it took me all my might to fight him.

With vengeance taken, the dragon seems to spare no time as it immediately dashes towards me. Its head that soared up in the sky is now lowered, closing down to me, touching the ground.

『 My Master. My Creator. Are You Alright? 』

The dragon’s voice carries an unmistakable tint of reverence. The once fierce dragon, who decimates his foes so easily, is now looking at me with its eyes that shine meekly. Its devilish and mocking smile is now replaced with a rather concerned one.

A rather abrupt change.

「 What’s up with you… Don’t worry, I’m fine… 」I say, mustering any last bit of energy I have within me.

I like to think I’m not in critical condition, but even with the help of the vitality potion, it is undeniable that I’ve lost lots of blood…

A mysterious purple light starts to emit from within the dragon’s body. It grows brighter and brighter, engulfing the dragon until it disappears inside. Worry grows more and more. I don’t know why it’s happening, but my gut feeling tells me that nothing good comes from it.

Yet, the dragon reacts with indifference, as it remains still and its attitude still the same, as if it accepts its fate.

The light brightness becomes too much to the point it stings, forcing me to close my eyes.

After a certain while the light slowly dims out, and when it is safe and the light is gone I open my eyes again. The view that greets me is jaw-dropping.

The humongous and mighty dragon is nowhere to be found, in place of it is a girl. No, a girl is not the proper word. Goddess would fit her more — as her beauty is out of this world.

Traces of the replaced dragon are apparent on her. Two bright brown horns grow out on top of her head, sharply pointing upwards zigzaggingly. Extending from the bottom that slips out from her dress is a dragon-like tail, with the same color as her hair, slightly smaller than her leg in terms of size. That’s where the dragon traits end.

Her human body is filled with tantalizing curves, as if God personally sculpted his ideal woman, wearing a one-piece purple dress that doesn’t shy away to hide her perky large beast. Her enticing, amethyst eyes gaze at me over her puffy, heart-shaped lips. She has a dainty nose and silky straight hair with the color of new bloom lilac that flows to her waist.

Her entire being radiates a bewitching aura, a mix of royal elegance and gracefulness, but with a sharp, powerful undertone. Hidden in plain sight. As her appearance would captivate anyone in her wondrous beauty.

「 Th-this grea— this one greets its creator, it’s master. 」

A feminine voice comes from her, forcing me to acknowledge her existence, reinforcing the reality where she’s not a mere illusion. Her voice carries the same depth and power, but they are greatly overshadowed by charm, grace, and intoxicating lullaby-like sound.

The girl from a seiza position bows down, lowering her upper body all the way until her chest presses against her lap. Her palms lie flat on the ground, forming a triangle directly under her face, copying Dae Sho’s kowtow. A truly revenant prostration showcasing the utmost reverence and admiration towards me…

「 Who… who are you? 」

Out of disbelief, that’s the only thing I can say. I know deep inside who she might be, but I refuse to believe in such a concept.

「 It’s me, master. The dragon you’ve summoned — your creation. 」

「 The dragon I know was never this submissive. 」I reply with curtness.「 And never adopted a human form… 」

There’s definitely a mistake.

「 This one depleted all of her reserved mana in maintaining her true dragon form and in casting her arsenal of magic spells, which subconsciously forced me to transform to my human form. This lowly one didn’t realize her true place as your creation. Sadly, this lowly one’s foolish dragonic ego obscured her true purpose in coming to her second existence, as your creation.  」

「 True purpose…? What are you trying to say? 」

「 Remember, my master, when you told this one to look from within her soul? To think hard of my own existence?  」

「 Yeah… 」I say as I recall the event where nothing unusual happens,「 what about it? 」

「 An epiphany strikes me — undoubtedly thanks to your guidance, my master.

「 I’ve realized, after pushing aside my foolish arrogant pride that deep within my soul I’ve finally had something that no sentient beings ever had and also what I’ve always craved for — a purpose. Insects had the instinct to survive, but they didn’t have the sentient mind to fully appreciate when they succeeded in their goals. Dragons could be born to fulfill some role assigned by their clan, but that was a purpose they were given.

「 I’ve come to realize, I had been reborn with a purpose, my body, my mind, my existence had been reincarnated around that purpose, for that purpose, by that purpose. You unconsciously gave me my life’s purpose. To serve you, to please you — to worship you. 」

All of this thanks from a talk out of whim? It’s undoubtedly weird how she can change her personality so easily. So many inexplicable things have happened and coupled with the recent intense fight, I can’t muster any brainpower to reason about what’s happening…

「 My master. My creator. 」She calls softly — affectionately, 「 please bestow your newly awakened servant a name. 」

「 Isn’t your name in the first place Naga? What’s wrong with your name? 」

「 That is this one’s previous life’s name. 」

In all honesty, I’m not sure what to make of all this. An almighty dragon is now submitting to me, especially more so in her womanly human figure. It would be a lie to say I hate it, but also one if I said I fully liked it.

I want to tell her that all of this is unnecessary. That she doesn’t need to prostrate and debase herself toward me. But, her prostration form looks excruciatingly stoic, as if she’s iron-willed in submitting to me. And with me being in a slightly critical condition combined with the devastated war-torn environment, we need to move and get away from this place quickly.

I should just get this over with as soon as possible and talk about this epiphany of hers more later.

「 Fine then, if that’s your request. Your name from now on will be Shen. 」

She loves to boast the title ‘God amongst dragons’ so proudly, so might as well name her from that aspect. Inspired by the Chinese word for god or deity — Shen.

「 My master… 」she says, sounding deeply ecstatic, 「 please allow this awakened servant to reaffirm her place once more by bearing witness to my oath of servitude. 」

「 What…? That’s unnecessary… 」I say, clearly shocked with what’s happening.

「 I-I insist… Please… 」

She quivers unexpectedly, still in her prostration position. Looks like I have to give in.

「 Fine… Make it quick. 」

Her quiver stops and somehow an aura of serenity and devotion comes out from her.

「 I, with the new name bestowed by his grace — Shen — solemnly pledge myself before Renald Alderhide, my creator, my lord, my master.

「 I am to fight bravely even in staggering odds on his behalf.

「 I am the guardian that defends and protects his very being.

「 To serve him; to please him; to worship him; to fulfill his commands.

「 I pledge my heart and soul to the servitude of my master until the end of times.

「 I am Renald Alderhide’s servant, and furthermore, proud to be. 」

As soon as she completes her oath, the familiar sensation of the soulbond between me and her disrupts and transforms to a gleaming thread with the exuberance of a purple diamond. Similar to the strength of the diamond, the bond becomes ever-more rigid, unbending, and feels more complete, eternal — flawless than ever before. I used to hope that the soulbond before maybe… just may be able to be cut off, but now it is truly out of the question and irreversible.

The girl raises her upper body remaining in a folded sitting position as she gazes so seriously at me. As if she’s focusing all her senses into capturing my existence.

Her expression, embarrassment? shyness? wonder?

Even in her myriad of emotions, she looks adorable and dainty, leaving no trace of the once ferocious ancient dragon that toys with its foes until finishing it with a heartless death.

 

[Click this for a link to the image if the image above is corrupted]

 

 

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LOTA CH38 — Struggle To The Bitter End

KyoruSLeave a comment

「 Don’t be an idiot and try to resist Renald! 」Dae Sho shouts, with a tinge of mocking,  「 we’ve outnumbered you ten to one. I would like to settle this peacefully. 」

He says so, but action always speaks the loudest, and what it’s showing is the opposite. Their hands are not withdrawing away from their swords, gripping tightly to it, their posture ready and on high alert. They are not going to hold back.

I keep moving behind, creating as much distance as possible from them.  I whisper my chant. Then my long-awaited minions’ arrival comes.

In this evening light, where the sun slowly falls down, leaving the sky with a tiny glimpse of the faint sunlight. Darkness comes sooner than natural.

Rows of my shadow minions come to form, inhumane soldiers ready to fight as ever in position. Spears aligned pointing straight at them. A total of around twenty shadow minions has been summoned.

My ego and pride rise to the sky-high, as I see the twist of turns their expression has now become.

「 Wh-what?! 」

「 Dear Goddess! What kind of demonic magic is this?! 」

Their minds overloaded, seemingly trying to comprehend this absurd summoning of the unknown hostile beings.

「 Calm down, men. 」Dae sho hands race to the air, halting his underlings. Chin raised high,「 my father has always taught me to never underestimate my opponents, even if they are weak humans. Now, I can see his lesson has come to fruition. Fascinating indeed, this magic of yours. 」

He moves forward, taking his time as he steps to the front.

Why is he so confident? Wait, don’t tell me… He’s going to cast a spell?!

 

All of you spread out to the sides!

 

In a split second, I roll to the other side while catching a glimpse of a magic circle hovering over Dae Sho’s hand.

『 Fen! 』

A devastating burst of white fire comes out. Enlightening the field. As if napalm was dropped. Fire brighter than the sun. Larger than what I’ve ever seen before, leaving nothing but dust and ash. Only six of my shadow minions survived. Shit.

「 Don’t give the human any breather, all of you deal with the monsters! 」

「 Go get’em lads! 」Shouts one of the adventurers.

Calm down, Renald. Even with more than half of my shadow minions decimated, the situation is still salvageable, I mus-

『 Zan! 』

A streak of white sword’s slash trail comes at me in a flash from quite the distance. My body Instinctively tries to parry it, its razor-sharp flash signaling its menace.

*clang!*

An unexpected force hits the sword and knocks me off out of balance. Even in this considerable distance of ten meters, it can reach out to me. Does that mean it is some sort of long-range sword slash? It’s even much more powerful compared to a normal sword slash.

Dammit, I’m not given the time to arrange their fights in an effective formation. All of my attention that should’ve gone to the shadow minions is forced to be put on Dae Sho.

『 Ig—

『 Zan! 』

I stop my chant and dodge to the right. Its slash naked to the eye, as I feel an excruciating pain flowing in my cheek. A graze or wound to the cheek. My unoccupied hand goes to feel the cheek. It’s wound half a centimeter deep, and blood flows as much as its sting.

Fuck I need to focus. I almost got myself killed.

『 Zan! 』

Another from the left, my body and sword tilted to the left.

『 Zan! 』

Another from the right, my body and sword tilted to the right.

『 Zan! 』

A quick horizontal slash from the right, sweeping to my abdomen. I jump behind quickly. Almost losing my balance.

『 Yen! 』

My mind, body, and sword already prepare for another magical sword slash, yet what comes is a darkish purple magic beam, seemingly corrosive with its mystical nature, sprouting out from his hand that hovers a magic circle.

『 Sapelo! 』

A small golden invisible magic barrier appears right in front of me. Barely in the nick of time to cover me from the burst of the darkish purple corrosive magical beam.

「 Haah… Haah… Haah.. 」

Everything goes by so quickly. I’m out of breath already.

In this short amount of time, fighting foolhardy, I’ve finally come to understand Dae Sho’s way of fighting, his fighting style — an unrelenting speed and constant pressure.

Not good on my side. I need to deal with him as soon as I can. I can’t even see the condition of the battlefield with all of my attention placed on him.

「 Out of breath already, human? 」

His katana lowers to the ground, smiling mockingly. His hand sweeps his somewhat long hair, letting out a smirking smile as his chin rises up high, as he belittles me naturally with his lowered gaze.

His haughtiness radiating from his body is at an all-time high now.

My shadow minions without my lead won’t hold out for much longer, I need to do something to finish this quickly!

It’s all or nothing.

『 Ebrest! 』

Faint small white clouds surround his head, engulfing his attention to it, obscuring his sight. Flickers white stars, then, appear, indicating that he’s fully distracted. Can’t believe I’m using wits magic for offensive usage.

I swing my sword to the bottom right, aiming at his shoulder, putting all of my energy into it, desperately hoping that this one attack will finish him which leads me a step closer to surviving this hostile encounter.

At last, rather than the sense of cutting flesh, a hard wall stumps the sword’s impact. Fuck! There’s hardened steel armor beneath his slim figure?!

「 Ughh, well struck, human. But you should’ve aimed for the head! 」

「 AHHH! 」

A wince of pain unconsciously comes out of my mouth. Shortly following with excruciating pain in my hand.

My sword flew out of nowhere, escaping away from my grasp.

Its strong momentum causes me to lose my balance and ultimately fall to the ground.

I look at my hand and although it’s still intact in one piece, a wound in the palm where all of the pain is centered. A deep slash with white bone on the bottom. Blood trailing down to my arm.

My sight unconsciously darts towards the rest of the battlefield, showcasing how grim the situation is.

His dragonkin bodyguards are still in decent shape with small wounds here and there. And that one magician is surprisingly still alive unscratched, but the other adventurers aren’t so lucky. None of my shadow minions are standing, only small patches of black dust are what’s left of them. Their death causes me to lose hope.

I can’t die like this. I haven’t repaid my debts to my mother!

There’s got to be another way. Can I summon more shadow minions with the lives of the recently defeated adventurers?! Wait, no, I need to be the one who personally takes their lives.

「 Quite a shame, human. I expected a better fight than this. 」He walks slowly at me, really taking his time.「 Especially with those shadow underlings of yours that you had. But that unsurprisingly doesn’t change your fate, as your superiors — the dragonkin — tramples the lowly human race, even to this age. 」

He brandishes the sword so close at me — toying with me.

「 Now then… Where are the ancient swords?! Spit it out! And I might actually consider sparing your worthless life. 」

The tip of his blade digs into my neck. Its stinging pain flows as much as the blood that seeps out from it.

I ain’t fucking giving up. I need something. Another spell cast. One last chance.

「 Just accept your fate already, human. Don’t be stubborn. 」

He moves another step, stepping heavily on my moving hand.

I wince in pain once more, grimacing that my last chance to direct a spell at him failed.

 

『 My Master. My Creator. Please Summon Your Dragon. 』

 

A sudden desperate plea comes to my mind, that of the dragon.

「 Ancient history dictates that us dragonkin is the superior being even in our current humanoid form as power and strength run in our very blood. If it gives you small comfort, I don’t feel any gratification from winning this fight. As it is natural for me, a dragonkin to win against a human. Lest I would shame my great ancestors if I lost to a mere human. 」

My only choice is the dragon now, but should I really use such a nuclear way?

No, I must survive. Screw the consequences.

「 As your one and only lord; heed upon your creator’s call… I summon thee…『Naga』 」

 

『 My Master. Promise Me. That No Matter What I Do Next, You Will Continue Treating Me The Same As Before. 』

 

「 I promise… 」

A thunderous earthquake shakes the earth, startling everyone including me. Dae Sho especially, his eyes darts everywhere to the surroundings. He must have felt how absurd this whole thing is.

A faint surge of power surrounds the area, tensing everyone with its dominant pressure.

「 Wh-what’s… happening. What did you do, human?! 」

A massive magic circle appears out in the sky, hypnotizing the spectators to pay attention to this never-seen-before spectacle. An unknown and bizarre phenomenon, causing the start of all kind’s biggest fear — the fear of the unknown.

『 AT LONG LAST I DESCENT UPON THIS GODFORSAKEN WORLD 』

The voice that came is another earthquake, a thunder that strikes out of nowhere, something primal with inhumane malice, trembling them as it ignites their deepest subconscious fear.

『 TO REMIND ALL OF YOU WHO’S YOUR ONCE TRUE SUPERIOR 』

The dragon’s head emerges first from the massive magic circle. Bestial and Demented. None of its once elegant features is apparent. Its eyes threaten to kill as its eyebrows lower as it can get.

『 WHERE DRAGONS COWER IN THE WAKE OF MY WRATH 』

The rest of the body comes out, hovering up in the sky. Its purple lilac scales cover the body combined with its gleaming crown lights even brighter that pales the honeyed evening light, bewitching people with its archaic divine aura that contains unmeasurable power. A divine, ancient, and almighty being.

『  I AM NAGA. GOD AMONGST DRAGONS. 』

Its long wavy serpentine body moves just a little, but that alone is enough to release a powerful freezing wind of the winter, giving me the chills. Asserting them that the dragon didn’t come out for a friendly chat.

『 AND I HAVE COME FORTH TO OBLITERATE YOUR, PITIFUL, INFERIOR, EXISTENCE. 』

 

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LOTA CH37 — Graduation

KyoruSLeave a comment

Blue sky, a perfect protecting dome that plays with the sunlight on this fine beautiful day, promising to be the canvas to a peaceful and bright outlook towards life. A perfect day to be outside. What a coincidence that today is the graduation ceremony of Bosart University.

Groups of students stand in the beautiful field just beside the campus. Instead of the classic square cap that I’ve worn in my previous graduation, this time I’m wearing a cone baggy cap, similar to that of a mage.

On the grandiose stage adorned with golden and jewelry ornaments with bountiful flowers gather important figures such as the head of Bosart university and the deans of each department who one by one give boring speeches. Leaving me no choice but to grumbly pass through it with my mind somewhere else.

Next up is what seems to be an announcement of honor students, as one after the other gets called up and goes to the stage.

Just another mundane procedure of graduation ceremony. This whole thing sure takes a long time…

「 In the《School of Wits Magic》we have Renald Alderhide. With his great talent and no small amount of determination and hard work, he was able to master a legendary spell and achieve advanced level mastery in just three years from scratch — the first in the history of the《School of Wits Magic》academia. 」

Another wave of claps comes through with multiple eyes staring at me…

My name just got called. That means I have to come to the stage.

Why are they even over-exaggerating my achievements? It must’ve been purely to raise the other students’ morale or something. I mean it’s just achieving an advanced level of magic, not really a novelty.

Whatever, just follow along with the program.

I walk to the stage, where I stand side by side with the other students who apparently excel in their respective schools of magic.

Instructor Smush comes to me with other teachers approaching other students besides me. In front of me, she attaches a golden badge of the《School of Wits Magic》to my chest.

「 You might not notice it Renald, but I’m very proud to be a mentor to such a talented student. 」

Without even giving me a chance to reply, she already goes away, following other teachers in leaving the stage.

Soon shortly followed by all of us as we make our way back to the field. Surprisingly, after I’ve finally gotten back in my original position, she still stays on the graduation podium, standing with a straight back and proudly.

「 Today, in this beautiful clear weather I, Vivienne Veinard, the second royal princess, is incredibly honored to address the graduates of Bosart University that the Veinard can rely on should the need arise. My heart goes out to all of you who have worked for this achievement and waited for this day for years. Countless hours have been poured into perfecting the art of magic and many more in other fields. 」

Hmmm… Another dull speech. When will this ceremony be over…?

The boredom causes me to daydream…

「 We Veinard have been the spearhead of the prosperous humankind. We pioneer new frontiers and reach new heights never before imagined, bestowed by our knowledge and wisdom that is what makes us humans. And so as the representation of the Veinard Royalty, we’ve declared to open our campus door, to accept admission to all human kingdoms in the Concordis-sphere. 」

This major news is like a grenade thrown in the middle out of nowhere. Most are shocked as the field now is filled with countless whispers, with an equal number of students leaning towards one another, discussing the major change that’s about to happen to the Bosart University.

「 Times are changing. 」She continues her speech, not minding the ruckus,「 this is a small step towards a more united front of the great Humankind. Thank you and may Goddess Maria bless us all. 」

Cheerful hand claps of numerous graduates and spectators congratulate her speech, she ends her speech with a simple bow with her two hands daintily lifting the skirt.

And then with some last few words from the Head of the Bosart University, the graduation is drowned with loud magical fireworks, along with cheers of hooray and joyful screams.

The perfect rows and columns of students standing up become a mess as the ceremony is over and scrambles.

I follow along with Elras and Aaron in walking away to the sideline, where most students’ parents and families are waiting.

Hmm… Strange.

I remember when I received my degree I was ecstatic. Dreams and big hopes of a great degree flow to my mind, as I daydream and wonder about the desired future that what was once was soon reachable.

Now… I don’t really feel anything. Only a single thought that it’s finally over. A burdensome mandatory task is finally dealt with.

「 Reinhardt-sama, 」Aaron calls,  「 Have you reckoned before the princess’s shocking announcement? 」

「 Surprisingly no, 」Elras replies, seemingly a bit disappointed with himself,「 a loose alliance with the whole Concordis kingdoms, or maybe a closely knit alliance with a few of our neighbors? That’s within expectations, and what our kingdom usually does. But this kind? I don’t know if this is for the good or for the worse. One thing for sure, something worldwide is brewing. I have some ideas, but with how this recent event proves how wrong my speculation was, I might definitely be wrong. 」

I don’t have much to say with how clueless I am in regards to the kingdom’s politics, but even then I knew that the Veinard kingdom doesn’t act hostile with neighboring kingdoms, although they aren’t exactly friendly with them either. Neutral but likes poking other kingdom’s affairs. And they are allowed to act that way thanks to its sheer scale compared to other kingdoms.

I’ll leave it to the experts.

「 Congratulations sweetie! 」

Mother comes holding a flower banquet, looking very lovely. She runs out, arms wide open, and goes straight at me.

She comes quite forcefully, having to withstand her passionate platonic love, and even with flowers in her hand, she is still quite impatient enough to hug me tight.

I smile a bit forcefully and wave back to Aaron and Elras, where they return the gesture and give me time and space with my mother, as they go to their respective families that are waiting for them too.

「 Thank you, mother, for the flowers… 」

Honestly, I’m not a big fan of flowers, and I’m not sure how to reciprocate. But it’s the intention that matters right?

「 With this, you’ve truly become a real adult! What’s left is for you to find your special someone! 」

Special someone huh…

I’ve given up on finding one. Even if my love towards my mother is a platonic love that still leaves a gaping hole inside my heart, it will do.

It saddens me, even in her happy attitude I can still sense some guilt beneath it. Our last conversation must’ve weighed her down.

「 Excuse me, young lord! 」

Then out of nowhere, I look at that shout that seems to be addressed towards me. The housemaid in my dorm. She seems to come here in a rush with the apparent sweat that builds up around her normal features.

「 Yes? What’s with the rush? 」

「 Forgive my unsightly appearance young lord, 」she bows slightly, her hands holding the letter reaches out to me,「 a representative from the《Adventurers Creed》recently comes to the dorm and wants to give the young lord a letter containing an emergency quest they hope you can respond as soon as possible. 」

I take the letter, open it, and begin to read its content.

An emergency quest in subjecting a very recently discovered kobold nest three hours walk, outside of the city. The kobolds have an explosive growth rate, and many were spotted in the area, thus leading the guild to ask for as much support as possible. The ultimate goal is to destroy the nest, but thinning their population is also fine, apparently. Lone adventurers without an established party will be put into a team chosen by the guild. There’s already a meeting point if I can respond to the guild’s call.

The adventures guild that I sign up for huh… Strange… I know I’ve signed up to the guild in preparation for what’s to come after graduation as I can’t depend too much on Elras name, but this seems to come out of nowhere. Well, it does give a huge reward for this kind of quest.

「 You did a good job. You can go back now. 」

The housemaid replies back by bowing slightly and immediately heads back to the dorm.

「 Mother, it seems that I’ve just received an emergency and sudden quest. It should be relatively quick and short, but I have to prepare immediately. 」

「 Sweetie, you’ve just graduated! This calls for a celebration! Not a dangerous quest. Can’t you postpone it to at least tomorrow? 」

「 I’m sorry mother. The guild calls for me and it’s an emergency quest. Due to its nature, it is always sudden, although in return they give a higher reward. Could you please give me this one chance? This is a responsibility of mine I need to fulfill, as I’ve become an adult like what you’ve said, mother. 」

「 Finee…. 」She says, seemingly giving up without hiding her displeasement, 「 make sure you be careful and after the quest is over, to go back to me alright? I’ll be waiting for you in the Alderhide mansion. 」

I hurry back to campus and ride a horse provided by the guild to the main road, accompanied by the bewildered expressions of passersby.

The reason is apparent. A graduate in fancy getup seemingly fleeing from the university.

And perhaps I am.

Though kobolds are nothing to scoff at if left alone for too long. Even if it plays into my hands, I’m doing the right thing here.

A heavily fortified gate comes into view. Guards are doing searches, but just for those entering the city.

Nonetheless, a youth in stand-out clothes at full speed is apparently suspicious enough to make an exception.

「 HALT! 」One guard shouts at me while his colleagues align their spears to make sure I turn into a pincushion should I try to run past them.

「 In a hurry are we? Why don’t you show us some identification and tell us why you need to leave the city, huh? 」

I don’t know whether he thinks I’m a thief or is just being sadistic, but I don’t have the time for either.

「 I’m on a guild mission, so shut it and make way! 」

Having the badge thrust in his face luckily makes him come to his senses. 「 Le-let him through. 」

Out of the city, the road is still well-maintained, but as I navigate towards the meeting point, stony paths take over and force me to slow the horse.

At the side of the road, lies a group of adventurers, some on horseback. Swords on their hip and one of them wears the classic baggy hat — a wizard hat. Strange. That would indicate that he is a proficient magician. With magicians being rare enough, especially in《Adventurers Creed》it would be overkill for this quest. The party consisted of six people too, a bit too much for thinning out kobold’s population.

「 You must be Renald Alderhide. 」One of them says, putting up a neutral face, 「 come. We must hurry. I want this to be done before sunset, although that would be impossible from the looks of it. 」

Their horses neigh as they start moving, all of them already on the move.

What the…

No introductions or some sort of briefing on the quest? Probably as we go I guess…

 

…

 

We are already quite far away from the city, our surrounding is a thin forest, with few trees, leaving considerable open space for maneuvering. Now on foot as we are nearing the nest. We should arrive soon towards our destination. The sooner I can be done with this strange party, the better.

The party is, to mildly put it, quite a bit off. The others rarely talk with one another, so our trip is filled with a heavy silence. I understand and even expect some awkwardness since this is a loosely formed team, but this is too much.

「 Hello Renald. It’s been a while. 」

Unexpectedly, what comes to view is Dae Sho with his bodyguards. How the hell is he here?

「 I wish there is a better way to settle this, human. But time is running up for me, and you don’t do much to help me anyway. 」

「 Why are you here? What do you want Dae Sho? 」I ask, quite pissed with his roundabout attitude.

「 You know what I want. Stop being clueless and put up an innocent front. Where are the ancient swords? 」

He’s still on about the swords? I thought he gave up already.

「 I will be extra nice to you and still give you the last opportunity to give me your ancient swords and return with your pockets heavy with money. 」

「 You are still on about the swords?! I’ve told you on and on that, I’m not giving it to anyone else! 」

His face explodes with fury, his hand gripping the sword at the side of his hip.

「 First, I insist on buying your swords with no small amount of money. Second, I’ve tried to avoid using violence by ransacking your place in the hopes to find your hidden swords. Now, you leave me no choice but to cripple you, human! 」

He brandishes his sword, looking awfully similar to the distinct slightly curved single-edge sword I’ve known of in my past life. A katana. A fucking katana. To think it exists in this world too. I would’ve appreciated its craftsmanship if it weren’t pointing right in front of my face.

His underlings brandish their weapons too, including “my party”, all pointing their weapons at me. Their faces belittling and mocking me.

Shit. It’s a setup. I should’ve known!

I move ever more slowly backward, brandishing my swords. My mind is already set with the incantations that will provide me the reinforcement I direly need, preparing for the worst.

 

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