I proceed to an alley, which is diagonally opposite, while following the trail of blood.
However, the bloodstains, which are clinging to the road, had become sporadic.
I use— Grasping Perception.
But, there are reactions of magic sources all over. Honestly, I don’t know.
Since there are homeless people and those who live under panel sheet roofs in the alley, there are too many magic source reactions.
… It can’t be helped.
Now that it has turned out like this, shall I use “that” since it’s fine even if I get apprehended by vampire hunters?
<Inhalation of Odour TechniquePheremone’s Touch>
Once I use this, I end up shifting my nose unintentionally.
With a *sniff sniff*, I immediately perceive the odour of a woman’s sweat.
— I notice several. Oh, found it. The dense stench of blood.
The reaction of a woman. Moreover of a young and fresh woman.
The source of the smell comes from down the alley on the right.
It’s not like there’s a borderline, but I run towards the origin of the smell.
Over there? Inside the deserted house.
Was it originally some store or such? There are beams all over inside. It’s sturdy for the interior of a building.
“Rollo, we have to be careful from here on out. You don’t have to reply to my instructions once we enter inside.” (Shuuya)
“N, nya.” (Rollo)
After instructing Rollo, we head to the inner part of the first floor.
According to <Inhalation of Odour Technique> the smell of blood becomes even more intense.
Mia-san, who might have the blood of a virgin, seems to be feeling fear.
There was a magic source, meaning Mia-san is alive.
The stinking sweat of five men and one woman.
A voice resounds over there.
“Ahahahaha.”
“Ouch—” (Mia)
“Do you feel frightened? Former guild leaderrr.”
“Oi, Danhill. Don’t injure her too much. Leader, no, that woman is merchandise. Be careful.”
“Akoos-san, is it wrong to have some fun with this woman before handing her over ~ssu?”
“Idiot—”
— The sound of something being broken was audible.
They are on the other side of this wall. I invoke <Conceal OneselfHide>.
I make eye contact with Rollo and give her instructions with my fingers.
I had Rollo move to the opposite side by going around from the other side.
I travel along the wall.
The place where the voices are resounding is a dim passage.
The voices were clearly audible.
“Ouch ouch. Won’t it be fine even without you kicking me, Akoos-san? It hurts ~ssu.”
“Shuddap. Why are you trying to make a move on her? For what reason did you think that we kidnapped her? You low-life. This woman can be sold for a lot money. I made a promise to Jane who is a leader of 【Owl’s Fangs】. That she will be handed over in good condition.” (Akoos)
“With that aforementioned whip-using “female” leader?”
“That’s right. As proof of that, I was given this owl brooch and taught the code The owl will fly if it’s hungry.” (Akoos) (E/N: Well that’s some stupidity right there)
“If it’s hungry…”
“Tack, what will you do if this talk falls through because of you? Won’t we end up being unable to join 【Owl’s Fangs】?” (Akoos)
“T-That’s right. Sorry.” (Tack)
“Humph— Including you, everyone is “garbage.”” (Mia)
It’s Mia-san’s voice.
“You are a stupid girl. Wasn’t 【Scales of Gaia】 crushed by that garbage? Well, at first there was an obstacle, but matching it with the surprise attack this time, it’s become a huge success.” (Akoos)
“… At first?” (Mia)
“Yes, at that time we were obstructed by the extremely powerful magic spear user, but…” (Akoos)
“So that’s how it was… you are garbage after all.” (Mia)
“Hmph, you are babbling. You put on airs albeit being a female greenhorn who doesn’t even notice getting betrayed. It’s laughable that such a piss-stinkin’ lass was a guild leader.” (Akoos)
“…” (Mia)
“What’s your problem? For those eyes to contain a haughty self-importance at such time now.”
“Is that so? Will you traitors be happily welcomed by 【Owl’s Fangs】? Traitorous sleaze-bags— ugueh.” (Mia)
A dull sound can be heard.
It sounds like it, but was she hit?
Damn! Mia-san is…
“Oiii, I told you to shuddap. Do you want to run around down-town stark naked?”
“Gu, geho, cough…” (Mia)
“Eehh, even you, Akoos-san, aren’t you hitting her?”
It’s clearly understandable that it’s a subordinate-ish voice.
“Ah, it’s fine. Her stomach can’t be seen, right?” (Akoos)
“But didn’t you hit her face some time ago?”
“I’m special.” (Akoos)
“Well, then let me be special as well, please. I want to rape this woman.”
“Puh, are you a dog in heat? Anyway, now’s not allowed.” (Akoos)
“Now, it is, roger.”
These guys…
I approach the direction of the sounds.
I started to search for the enemies in order to make a cleared ring from the wall.
It’s a narrow room. Two men are likely standing outside.
Inside Mia is tied to a thick beam with a rope.
There are three men, who tortured her, around her.
Dealing with the two guards in an instant, we will finish off the three inside at the same time?
It depends on Rollo’s timing.
I also check the enemy’s possible field of vision.
— I can kill them.
Mia-san is in an unladylike state.
There were traces of her being beaten and blood was flowing from her nose.
Her chest clothes are torn off and her nipples can be seen.
Her skirt has been shredded to pieces.
Her beautiful face… anger gushes forth from it— she is enduring it, isn’t she?
I stormed in.
A horizontal sweep— with the Magic Spear. The head of a guard is sent flying.
Before the disconnected head falls to the ground, I draw a dagger from my chest belt and approach the other guard from the side. While pinning the chin of the target after stabbing the dagger into his chest, I thrust the dagger into his neck and lowered his body gently on the ground.
My hand is drenched with blood, but I don’t let any single sound leak.
The two guards went down within a soundless assassinationsilent killing.
Cancelling <Conceal OneselfHide> at this point, I advance.
I cast <Magic Hand guided by Thought>.
I knock off the man, who was next to Mia-san, with a mana fist.
At the same time I shoot <Chain>.
The chest of the reddish-brown haired bastard is pierced by the chain.
The remaining man had his skull pierced by Rollo’s tentacle sword.
For caution’s sake I check the man whom I beat down with <Magic Hand guided by Thought>.
That man died after having his head and neck pierced by splinters of wood.
In a hurry I return to the location where Mia-san was tied to the beam.
“— Mia-san, are you alright?” (Shuuya)
“Aaaaah, Sh-Shuuya-san—” (Mia)
Did Mia-san feel relieved? Tears start to burst out from her eyes.
After cutting the rope which bound her body, I gently hugged Mia’s body.
Since her clothes are in pieces, I cover her with one of my larger leather clothes.
“I will give you a potion now. Drink it.” (Shuuya)
“… Yes.” (Mia)
I take out a healing potion from my item box.
Since Mia’s hands were trembling, I raised it and made her drink it.
It can’t be said that the shape of her mouth is seductive.
Is it the effect of the medicine? The blood, which trickled down from her mouth and nose, stops and her injuries heal up.
“Thank you. It’s easier now.” (Mia)
“That’s great. At any rate, a betrayal by Akoos, huh?” (Shuuya)
Due to my remark, Mia glared at Akoos, who died after being pierced in the chest, and reacted coldly.
“— Yeah, that’s right.” (Mia)
I won’t talk about his subordinates…
“However, even if it’s only you, Mia-san, it’s great that I could save you. … Everyone was killed.” (Shuuya)
“Eh? S-Such a, no way…” (Mia)
Once she hears my words, Mia-san opens her eyes widely and her pupils repeatedly dilate and constrict.
I nodded silently.
While her body trembles, both her legs fall to the ground with a *flop*, she sheds large tears and… she sinks into a stricken state.
“I-It’s a lie. A lie, lie lie, why…” (Mia)
I can’t find any words to offer to Mia-san.
Though it will be painful, if I don’t speak.
“I saw through the end of Deyma. Even Victor, by the enemy’s leader… the allied young men are probably all dead as well. However, it’s also the destruction of the opponent 【Owl’s Fangs】. I finished off the two leaders. There’s no one who will become an enemy of 【Scales of Gaia】 in this city any more.” (Shuuya)
I don’t know whether it will turn into a consolation, but…
Once she heard my words, it developed into an even bigger weeping.
Mia-san sobs while bending her trembling body. She hits the ground…
It’s probably the defeat of her heart which felt depressed, gloomy and anguished.
I was unable to do anything but watch her quietly from the side for a while.
After some time passes, her weak panting abates.
Was Rollo worried? She licked Mia-san’s arm.
Although ((such emotions)) were affixed to her expression, she cast a gentle look at the black cat.
After she stared at Rollo, she gazed at me with upturned eyes.
However, her beautiful eyebrows are ruffled and her eyes have cooled down.
While standing up, she starts to talk furiously bit by bit.
“… Shuuya-san, I’m thankful that you rescued me. However, why did you intervene in the conflict?” (Mia)
“That is—” (Shuuya)
Mia-san doesn’t allow me to talk.
“— If it’s you, you should have been able to run away by ignoring the conflict, I believe. There should be no necessity to leap into a conflict of the dark society and even go as far as expressly exposing your own life to danger. … It’s wrong for you… for you the “adventurer”… to join in a conflict in the darkness in order to save me.” (Mia)
“Nya?” (Rollo)
Rollo’s voice feels like she’s saying 『What are you angry for?』.
However, even if you tell me that…
“But…” (Shuuya)
Mia-san furrows her eyebrows and looks at me while scolding me with an expression she didn’t show until now.
It appears that she doesn’t want to let me speak.
“— For you, there might be some wish or stimulus you can’t gain as adventurer. But, you aren’t a person from our dark side.” (Mia)
That’s natural. I’m not in a dark guild.
I’m not a human either.
Yes, rather than something like a dark guild, I’m of a new race, which are monsters possessing a far deeper dimension of darkness.
Though that’s not something I can tell her.
“… That’s true.” (Shuuya)
I answered her calmly.
“Y-You are an adventurer! A normal adventurer! It’s unfair! It’s no good! You are not allowed to end up being involved with the wickedness of the dark society!” (Mia)
“Nnnn, nyao.” (Rollo)
Rollo gives an answer or something like that.
However, unfair to be an adventurer? Somehow she’s merely in a state of being jealous.
This is the person I rescued?
Well, currently it can’t be helped.
She’s venting her anger, I guess.
This is for her sake.
Do I listen a bit for the sake of her heart not breaking?
“… Certainly, that might be so.” (Shuuya)
“Even though there were people I should protect, people for whom I should be responsible… in the end I wasn’t able to save them…” (Mia)
The hands and body of Mia-san tremble.
While tears accumulate in her eyes, she glares at me.
“… In the beginning you said “I want to save you,” Shuuya-san, didn’t you?” (Mia)
“I did.” (Shuuya)
“If you can save me, please save everyone… Victor, Deyma, all of them!!” (Mia)
Sorry, dead people are impossible.
There might be a resurrection spell in this world, but I don’t know it.
If Sol lived, they might have revived as existences like Theta.
“…” (Shuuya)
Even if she asks me the impossible, Mia-san continues to speak.
“However, there’s no way that you can do that, is there? Everyone, all of them ended up dead.” (Mia)
“Certainly, but—” (Shuuya)
Mia-san “once again” overlaps her words with mine.
“— You saving me is just because you want to feel good.” (Mia)
She’s trying to offend me. But, it’s just as she says.
The fact of me not wanting to watch women getting oppressed is in the end excessive complacency.
“… That might be true.” (Shuuya)
“Yes, if you ended up letting me die without helping, your feelings as an adventurer, no, you would lose your own pride. That’s why you try to not take responsibility for anything.” (Mia)
Haha, this time it’s a really wicked straight punch.
It can be called a <Thrust> of words that is distinctive and filled with sarcasm.
Nevertheless, I’m lost for words. It’s completely right. “Trying to not take responsibility”, huh?
She might have said that unintentionally, but for the irresponsible me that’s a pinpoint critical hit.
“… That’s correct.” (Shuuya)
While she sheds large drops of tears, Mia-san once again looked at my face while showing a mystified look.
“… Shuuya-san, w-why don’t you blame me?” (Mia)
Changing from attacking me, she asked with a frail voice this time.
“Nya.” (Rollo)
Rollo purrs while sitting on the ground like a doll.
Honestly, my heart was pierced by those stabbing words of her, but it made me consider my irresponsibility, in a good and bad way.
… I have received it as medicine of words.
That’s why I will listen now.
Once I become unable to tolerate it, I will clearly say so though.
“… That is for your sake, Mia-san.” (Shuuya)
“Such a thing, even if I die, it will be fine. For such a me… someone like me, the worst guild leader, the worst woman. The one who forced everyone into an inescapable situation is me. Stuff like don’t tell me to not die, mentioning such a convenient thing at the end… after all, the one who guided all of them towards death under the pretext of revenge for father, mother and Totoka-neesan is me myself.” (Mia)
It’s an echo of her sorrowful thoughts.
“However, at that time and place those were your words as the leader of a dark guild. I guess it was inevitable. If I was in a similar situation, I would likely have used words close to that.” (Shuuya)
“… Then, what’s a good method for the person, who was saved, to compensate those who died? Can you really save me even after such feelings?” (Mia)
Mia-san weeps at that point.
“It doesn’t have the meaning of outcrying and anger.”
A paragraph from Macbeth pops up in my mind. (T/N: Not sure about the concrete phrasing in Macbeth)
No, is it a bad omen to remember Macbeth here? I recall the statement of the sleepwalking lady to be like 「Vanish, this abominable spot…」 during the scene of her washing her hands. (T/N: Same as above)
Lady Macbeth’s mind ends up falling ill…
Phew… as I was only told complaints for a bit, my thoughts ended up derailing.
As she was unable to endure any longer, she, who is sobbing, doesn’t attach “-san” to my name any more.
“… It’s impossible to save everything.” (Shuuya)
“What does that…?” (Mia)
“Nothing in particular. These are common words, but I can at least tell them to make your thinking a bit easier, Mia.” (Shuuya)
“Easier for me?” (Mia)
She asks visibly pretending to be tough with a tearful voice.
“Yea, a part of your subordinates has been eliminated, Mia, but they should have died with a desire to protect and save you while being fully aware of 【Scales of Gaia】’s disadvantage. The leader Victor stopped you at the very end, didn’t he? Didn’t he want you to run away by chance?” (Shuuya)
“Really…?” (Mia)
It might be different.
But I won’t say that.
It’s none of my business, but I want to release her from the chain of negativity.
Even if I might become a hypocrite.
“That depends on your feelings. Shouldn’t you live happily, even if it’s just a bit, in the future from now on to compensate those friends?” (Shuuya)
“… Me being happy? And then living normally?” (Mia)
She furrows her brows a bit and asks with a baffled feeling.
“That’s right. You know that it’s whitewashing. But, if you live ordinarily, it might become a farewell gift to those who died…” (Shuuya)
Even after hearing my words, Mia doesn’t change her grim expression.
However, without minding that, I continue to talk.
“If you divert from your path to get revenge… that’s also fine. But it might not please those who died.” (Shuuya)
She shakes her head.
“— At this point in time it’s impossible for me to live normally. If I consider the wishes of the people who risked their lives for 【Scales of Gaia】… I won’t be able to sustain my heart by spending my life care-freely.” (Mia)
In the middle of talking about herself, Mia directly looks at me.
The stagnated colour of hatred dwelt within the depths of her pupils which were overflowing with her tears.
Well, that’s only natural.
“But you know… it’s said Hating people means personally drinking poison…” (Shuuya)
“… You are remonstrating me by repeating something from some priest? That’s fine. You don’t understand. Our readiness.” (Mia)
Uh, did I bungle it?
Certainly, it might be impossible to try comprehend and guess the feelings of others for me.
No, that in itself is foolish and presumptuous thinking.
However, there’s something even this me can say.
“… What you want to say is only this much? It’s true, I never had any subordinates. Currently I’m a simple adventurer. Half-assing my daily life as adventurer, I went beyond it and walked my feet into a dark guild. In my case you might even say that I crushed it underfoot…” (Shuuya)
At that timing, I take a break and express my mind while putting strength into my gaze.
“Like that, I wield my power thoughtlessly and immerse in a sense of justice by saving people in a half-assed manner. Just as you said, my actions are for making me feel good. I think about something impolite like wanting to be popular by saving beautiful women. It’s completely for my own satisfaction. I’m probably a hypocrite.” (Shuuya)
Though it’s too masochistic, Mia should be able to judge after listening properly.
“H-However…” (Mia)
I don’t have any intention to let Mia speak. Now it’s my turn.
“— While leading a non-committal adventurer life, I have joined in on the killing. I’m completely an outsider party. Therefore, even you might regard me as half-crooked, Mia? Certainly, that half-assed hypocrite is me. However, that half-assed hypocritical bastard saved you. And, I will save you from now on as well. No matter what dark guild it might be, if they stand in my way, I will crush them. … As expected I think I will negotiate if the opponent is a nation, but if it’s for my beloved woman or my friends, I intend to go wild without hesitating to even cause a genocide even if the opponents might be common people.” (Shuuya)
“… S-Such a thing. This is our battle. The fight of my friends of 【Scales of Gaia】 who died.” (Mia)
I understand Mia’s feelings.
Even I, if my subordinates, friends or family was killed, I would definitely get revenge.
However… something like revenge without strength…
Do you call that plainly harsh?
“Your battle? Don’t get conceited. In the first place, what are you able to do by yourself? Although you might say that the branch of 【Owl’s Fangs】 was crushed in the previous fight, that’s something I did.” (Shuuya)
Did Mia receive a shock? Opening her eyes widely, he mouth flaps open and shut.
“…” (Mia)
“Besides, I have told you a few times, 【Owl’s Fangs】 has started meddling with me since before I got involved with this case. Therefore it’s also my battle. Also, before Deyma died he told me that he leaves the rest to me.” (Shuuya)
She talks in a state of being dumbfounded while her lips quiver.
“I-I want to take full responsibility as leader. I want to defeat 【Owl’s Fangs】…” (Mia)
The words she says are splendid, but there’s no ambition in them any more.
“I guess so? Therefore, I will help— no, that’s impossible. I can’t believe that 【Owl’s Fangs】 will stay silent in the current situation. They will likely search for me and come attacking. Each time they do, I will turn the tables on them. If they are obstinate, I will go crush them.” (Shuuya)
“That’s not allowed. Because, because, I’m from a dark guild. Shuuya-san, you are an adventurer.” (Mia)
She’s quite particular about that, isn’t she?
“Are you still fixated on that? Don’t take it to extremes, even if you are a serious-chan. You probably have the pride that it’s about your dignity, but even for me, telling you that I want to protect a woman like you is my little justice!!” (Shuuya)
Oops, I got passionate. I ended up speaking my mind in a loud voice in order to cut her caustic words. How embarrassing.
However, is it the effect of my loud voice…? Mia stops crying. Energy returned into her eyes.
“… Fufu, haha, ahahaha.” (Mia)
When I thought that she would laugh a bit at that part, Mia trembles and bursts into laughter while smiling broadly.
“What’s wrong?” (Shuuya)
“No, sorry. Somehow I got it. Your gentleness since the first time I met you hasn’t changed. It’s a part of the man called Shuuya-san.” (Mia)
“Whether I’m gentle or not is—” (Shuuya)
In the middle of my words, Mia hugged me.
“Umm, what’s it all of a sudden…?” (Shuuya)
She lowers the outer corners of her eyes and returns to a kind expression.
“Thank you… I calmed down greatly. Accepting all of my forced, vilificated, dark wrath… and scolding me, it made me happy. It gave birth to a warm light within in my chest. There’s already no 【Scales of Gaia】. As former guild leader… I want to live my life without having to feel ashamed.” (Mia)
I don’t mind something like that, but…
Your tits are hitting me, Mia-kun.
I wonder whether it’s alright to return her hug with a tight squeeze in this case?
“… Ah, no, well, it’s okay.” (Shuuya)
“You are truly an open-hearted, gentle person. It’s completely as if you are a gentle tiger who boasts of a fierce god-like strength.” (Mia)
Saying that, Mia placed her face on my chest and hugged me strongly and powerfully.
I know of it even if it’s above the armour and overcoat.
The— instant I earned the sensation of her boobs being crushed.
Is it because of the eroticism once tension gets alleviated? A trial in my brain is proclaimed in a hurry.
I, who turned in several miniature-me’s, cause a showdown between angel and demon forces within my brain.
The angel group is…
“Separate from her and remonstrate her gently. That will show her the behaviour of a man among men as a gentleman.”
Is what they calmly say.
The demon group is…
“Embrace Mia’s body closely as is and push her down YO. If things go well, you might end up doing her YO. It’s GO, it’s Sato Hiro ○ YO.” (T/N: Last part refers probably to Sato Hiromi, a J-Pop singer. He sang songs which seem to have “GO” in their lyrics, but I don’t understand the reference too well here as I don’t know the singer at all)
Is what they scream severally.
The influence is completely split in two.
— Eei, yea, I will squeeze her tightly.
The judgement is guilty. The referee’s fan easily falls towards me being in the wrong.
“Ah—” (Mia)
I ended up hugging Mia.
“You are soft.” (Shuuya)
“Yes…” (Mia)
If it continues like this, it might really go according to the brain trial.
Let’s talk calmly about… something different here.
“… However, I’m not gentle. I just didn’t want you to die, Mia. Originally I’m a monster who likes blood.” (Shuuya)
Yes, originally I’m not a human. If it’s this place, it belongs to the humans, doesn’t it?
“Noo, for me you really are a gentle tiger, Shuuya-san.” (Mia)
“Just now you mentioned fierce god-like tiger or such, what’s that about?” (Shuuya)
“Yes, that’s a book of a story I love very dearly. Didn’t you see “The gentle tiger who boasts of a fierce god-like strength” when you came to my room? It should have been in a bookshelf in my room. A male tiger repels a monster and a bear to protect the female tiger. He ties the knot with the female tiger and creates a family with her. It’s such a wonderful story.” (Mia)
Family… is that some kind of flag?
I can’t mention that though.
“Hee… you were a diligent worker who is also a bookworm?” (Shuuya)
“Yes, until my father and mother died, we lived in 【Labyrinth City Pelneet】. Since I went to the Magic Academy for the sake of becoming an adventurer, my scores were quite excellent, although that’s what I’m saying myself, and I dived into the labyrinth many times as well?” (Mia)
“Was that so…?” (Shuuya)
Ah, that’s why…? Was that Mia’s reason for persisting in her view of being an adventurer to such an extent?
Comparing the adventurer me with herself, she couldn’t easily forgive me getting involved with a dark guild even though I’m an adventurer?
She dreamed of a life as adventurer.
In reality she didn’t want to succeed something like a dark guild?
“… Please don’t make such sad-looking expression. However, you are right. I know what you are thinking about, Shuuya-san. Yes, I wanted to become an adventurer. However… everything changed when father, mother and Totoka-ane, who took care of me in my childhood, were killed. When I got the notice that “both your parents were killed,” I returned to 【Holkerbaum】 in a hurry so that I could be protected by the personnel of 【Scales of Gaia】. And, remembering that my family was killed at that time… I was overwhelmed by my emotions and cursed everything. The ones who saved and supported such me were the leaders of 【Scales of Gaia】. It was Victor and Deyma…” (Mia)
A drop of water flows down from Mia’s eyes.
Why did the ordinary her become the leader of a dark guild?
If it’s now, I understand it well. The store, which was left behind by her family, the subordinates who stayed and the dark guild which her father left behind.
She wasn’t able to abandon the lives of the subordinates who encouraged and supported her.
Is that why she succeeded even if she was teased as an amateur?
She’s a far too diligent child that has a sense of responsibility.
“However, everyone of that 【Scales of Gaia】… I was unable to protect them… I-I wanted to protect… e-everyone—” (Mia)
Mia ended up crying once again. I hug her strongly and tightly.
Holding her without saying anything, I stroke her black hair.
I will lend you my chest as long as you want…
My erotic mood is blown away completely.
For a while Mia wept while raising her voice.
“Well then, crying ends here— for the time being, wear this leather cloth.” (Shuuya)
I look at Mia’s tear-stained, sad face. I wiped away her tears with my thumb.
“Ah— yes.” (Mia)
It’s a matter of course that I turn the other way while she changes her clothes.
“Is it alright now?” (Shuuya)
“Yes, I finished changing.” (Mia)
“What will you do from now on?” (Shuuya)
“… I want to return to the store.” (Mia)
“Got it. Let’s go?” (Shuuya)
I return to the store of 【Scales of Gaia】 while taking Mia along.
Because there was a lot of stones and soil, the fire of the store went out.
However, the store’s foundation is scorched and has lost its shape.
Mia recovers the cash box from her own room which barely escaped being burnt completely.
The books, which were in such quantity inside the room, have been completely burnt and disappeared.
I discover what can be considered to be a part of a book’s front cover.
“Fierce god-like strength—”
The cut-off piece has become black in the middle.
Only this much was saved from getting burnt.
“It was this book, but… it ended up getting burnt.” (Mia)
“Yea…” (Shuuya)
“… Everyone really died…” (Mia)
“Are you alright?” (Shuuya)
“Yes, since I made my emotions burst out just now, it’s less of a shock than I thought.” (Mia)
Even while saying that, Mia shows a clouded expression.
I realize that she’s subduing the negative emotions which are dwelling in the depths of her eyes.
She goes around and indifferently looks for luggage that seems usable.
Fortunately she finds the treasure chests, which look sturdy, besides the cash box.
Some of those treasure boxes had an abundance of different potions, a light-brown robe, a leather armour, a wand which had a magic gem of fire attached to it and a hair clips.
Mia faithfully handed me a potion trying to return it to me, but I decline it while telling her that I don’t need it.
“Did you finish your retrieval?” (Shuuya)
“Yes, the title deed of the plot is safe as well. However, since I don’t have the money to rebuild it, I will abandon it.” (Mia)
“Closing up shop, huh?” (Shuuya)
“Yes, to begin with there weren’t any masonry craftsmen since they were head-hunted away. Since there’s no merchandise remaining either… I will close the store. It’s the end of 【Scales of Gaia】.” (Mia)
Is that so? Which reminds me, there weren’t any clerk-like people.
“Going out of business? That’s regrettable.” (Shuuya)
“Yes, I will put on this equipment then.” (Mia)
“Oh, the leather armour— Got it.” (Shuuya)
I face the back once again.
“— I’m done.” (Mia)
Once I turned around, there was a black-haired beautiful magician.
Gathering her long hair into one plait, she lets it flow down on top of her robe.
I see. Even if she gathers her hairstyle into one, it’s lovely.
“Shuuya-san, what are you nodding for?” (Mia)
“Ah, no, it’s nothing.” (Shuuya)
“Fufu, you are weird, Shuuya-san. I will return this to you.” (Mia)
She neatly folds the leather cloth she wore and gave it back to me.
“And— Shuuya-san, I really thank you very much for helping and saving me.” (Mia)
“No, well, that’s true, but don’t mind it.” (Shuuya)
Even if I tell her that, it’s unreasonable, isn’t it?
“When I reach the point where I can earn money properly by myself, I will return this favour to you.” (Mia)
“Yea, but, will you be able to search for me that easily?” (Shuuya)
“Since I will track down Shuuya-san, who bet on his little justice, at that time without fail, please resolve yourself for it. Well then—” (Mia)
Once Mia mentions it with an honest smile while saying words which had a touch of sarcasm, she turns around after bowing and briskly walks away.
Haa, good grief.
Chasing after the back of her, who turned around, I grab her arm.
I proceed to an alley, which is diagonally opposite, while following the trail of blood.
However, the bloodstains, which are clinging to the road, had become sporadic.
I use— Grasping Perception.
But, there are reactions of magic sources all over. Honestly, I don’t know.
Since there are homeless people and those who live under panel sheet roofs in the alley, there are too many magic source reactions.
… It can’t be helped.
Now that it has turned out like this, shall I use “that” since it’s fine even if I get apprehended by vampire hunters?
<Inhalation of Odour TechniquePheremone’s Touch>
Once I use this, I end up shifting my nose unintentionally.
With a *sniff sniff*, I immediately perceive the odour of a woman’s sweat.
— I notice several. Oh, found it. The dense stench of blood.
The reaction of a woman. Moreover of a young and fresh woman.
The source of the smell comes from down the alley on the right.
It’s not like there’s a borderline, but I run towards the origin of the smell.
Over there? Inside the deserted house.
Was it originally some store or such? There are beams all over inside. It’s sturdy for the interior of a building.
“Rollo, we have to be careful from here on out. You don’t have to reply to my instructions once we enter inside.” (Shuuya)
“N, nya.” (Rollo)
After instructing Rollo, we head to the inner part of the first floor.
According to <Inhalation of Odour Technique> the smell of blood becomes even more intense.
Mia-san, who might have the blood of a virgin, seems to be feeling fear.
There was a magic source, meaning Mia-san is alive.
The stinking sweat of five men and one woman.
A voice resounds over there.
“Ahahahaha.”
“Ouch—” (Mia)
“Do you feel frightened? Former guild leaderrr.”
“Oi, Danhill. Don’t injure her too much. Leader, no, that woman is merchandise. Be careful.”
“Akoos-san, is it wrong to have some fun with this woman before handing her over ~ssu?”
“Idiot—”
— The sound of something being broken was audible.
They are on the other side of this wall. I invoke <Conceal OneselfHide>.
I make eye contact with Rollo and give her instructions with my fingers.
I had Rollo move to the opposite side by going around from the other side.
I travel along the wall.
The place where the voices are resounding is a dim passage.
The voices were clearly audible.
“Ouch ouch. Won’t it be fine even without you kicking me, Akoos-san? It hurts ~ssu.”
“Shuddap. Why are you trying to make a move on her? For what reason did you think that we kidnapped her? You low-life. This woman can be sold for a lot money. I made a promise to Jane who is a leader of 【Owl’s Fangs】. That she will be handed over in good condition.” (Akoos)
“With that aforementioned whip-using “female” leader?”
“That’s right. As proof of that, I was given this owl brooch and taught the code The owl will fly if it’s hungry.” (Akoos) (E/N: Well that’s some stupidity right there)
“If it’s hungry…”
“Tack, what will you do if this talk falls through because of you? Won’t we end up being unable to join 【Owl’s Fangs】?” (Akoos)
“T-That’s right. Sorry.” (Tack)
“Humph— Including you, everyone is “garbage.”” (Mia)
It’s Mia-san’s voice.
“You are a stupid girl. Wasn’t 【Scales of Gaia】 crushed by that garbage? Well, at first there was an obstacle, but matching it with the surprise attack this time, it’s become a huge success.” (Akoos)
“… At first?” (Mia)
“Yes, at that time we were obstructed by the extremely powerful magic spear user, but…” (Akoos)
“So that’s how it was… you are garbage after all.” (Mia)
“Hmph, you are babbling. You put on airs albeit being a female greenhorn who doesn’t even notice getting betrayed. It’s laughable that such a piss-stinkin’ lass was a guild leader.” (Akoos)
“…” (Mia)
“What’s your problem? For those eyes to contain a haughty self-importance at such time now.”
“Is that so? Will you traitors be happily welcomed by 【Owl’s Fangs】? Traitorous sleaze-bags— ugueh.” (Mia)
A dull sound can be heard.
It sounds like it, but was she hit?
Damn! Mia-san is…
“Oiii, I told you to shuddap. Do you want to run around down-town stark naked?”
“Gu, geho, cough…” (Mia)
“Eehh, even you, Akoos-san, aren’t you hitting her?”
It’s clearly understandable that it’s a subordinate-ish voice.
“Ah, it’s fine. Her stomach can’t be seen, right?” (Akoos)
“But didn’t you hit her face some time ago?”
“I’m special.” (Akoos)
“Well, then let me be special as well, please. I want to rape this woman.”
“Puh, are you a dog in heat? Anyway, now’s not allowed.” (Akoos)
“Now, it is, roger.”
These guys…
I approach the direction of the sounds.
I started to search for the enemies in order to make a cleared ring from the wall.
It’s a narrow room. Two men are likely standing outside.
Inside Mia is tied to a thick beam with a rope.
There are three men, who tortured her, around her.
Dealing with the two guards in an instant, we will finish off the three inside at the same time?
It depends on Rollo’s timing.
I also check the enemy’s possible field of vision.
— I can kill them.
Mia-san is in an unladylike state.
There were traces of her being beaten and blood was flowing from her nose.
Her chest clothes are torn off and her nipples can be seen.
Her skirt has been shredded to pieces.
Her beautiful face… anger gushes forth from it— she is enduring it, isn’t she?
I stormed in.
A horizontal sweep— with the Magic Spear. The head of a guard is sent flying.
Before the disconnected head falls to the ground, I draw a dagger from my chest belt and approach the other guard from the side. While pinning the chin of the target after stabbing the dagger into his chest, I thrust the dagger into his neck and lowered his body gently on the ground.
My hand is drenched with blood, but I don’t let any single sound leak.
The two guards went down within a soundless assassinationsilent killing.
Cancelling <Conceal OneselfHide> at this point, I advance.
I cast <Magic Hand guided by Thought>.
I knock off the man, who was next to Mia-san, with a mana fist.
At the same time I shoot <Chain>.
The chest of the reddish-brown haired bastard is pierced by the chain.
The remaining man had his skull pierced by Rollo’s tentacle sword.
For caution’s sake I check the man whom I beat down with <Magic Hand guided by Thought>.
That man died after having his head and neck pierced by splinters of wood.
In a hurry I return to the location where Mia-san was tied to the beam.
“— Mia-san, are you alright?” (Shuuya)
“Aaaaah, Sh-Shuuya-san—” (Mia)
Did Mia-san feel relieved? Tears start to burst out from her eyes.
After cutting the rope which bound her body, I gently hugged Mia’s body.
Since her clothes are in pieces, I cover her with one of my larger leather clothes.
“I will give you a potion now. Drink it.” (Shuuya)
“… Yes.” (Mia)
I take out a healing potion from my item box.
Since Mia’s hands were trembling, I raised it and made her drink it.
It can’t be said that the shape of her mouth is seductive.
Is it the effect of the medicine? The blood, which trickled down from her mouth and nose, stops and her injuries heal up.
“Thank you. It’s easier now.” (Mia)
“That’s great. At any rate, a betrayal by Akoos, huh?” (Shuuya)
Due to my remark, Mia glared at Akoos, who died after being pierced in the chest, and reacted coldly.
“— Yeah, that’s right.” (Mia)
I won’t talk about his subordinates…
“However, even if it’s only you, Mia-san, it’s great that I could save you. … Everyone was killed.” (Shuuya)
“Eh? S-Such a, no way…” (Mia)
Once she hears my words, Mia-san opens her eyes widely and her pupils repeatedly dilate and constrict.
I nodded silently.
While her body trembles, both her legs fall to the ground with a *flop*, she sheds large tears and… she sinks into a stricken state.
“I-It’s a lie. A lie, lie lie, why…” (Mia)
I can’t find any words to offer to Mia-san.
Though it will be painful, if I don’t speak.
“I saw through the end of Deyma. Even Victor, by the enemy’s leader… the allied young men are probably all dead as well. However, it’s also the destruction of the opponent 【Owl’s Fangs】. I finished off the two leaders. There’s no one who will become an enemy of 【Scales of Gaia】 in this city any more.” (Shuuya)
I don’t know whether it will turn into a consolation, but…
Once she heard my words, it developed into an even bigger weeping.
Mia-san sobs while bending her trembling body. She hits the ground…
It’s probably the defeat of her heart which felt depressed, gloomy and anguished.
I was unable to do anything but watch her quietly from the side for a while.
After some time passes, her weak panting abates.
Was Rollo worried? She licked Mia-san’s arm.
Although ((such emotions)) were affixed to her expression, she cast a gentle look at the black cat.
After she stared at Rollo, she gazed at me with upturned eyes.
However, her beautiful eyebrows are ruffled and her eyes have cooled down.
While standing up, she starts to talk furiously bit by bit.
“… Shuuya-san, I’m thankful that you rescued me. However, why did you intervene in the conflict?” (Mia)
“That is—” (Shuuya)
Mia-san doesn’t allow me to talk.
“— If it’s you, you should have been able to run away by ignoring the conflict, I believe. There should be no necessity to leap into a conflict of the dark society and even go as far as expressly exposing your own life to danger. … It’s wrong for you… for you the “adventurer”… to join in a conflict in the darkness in order to save me.” (Mia)
“Nya?” (Rollo)
Rollo’s voice feels like she’s saying 『What are you angry for?』.
However, even if you tell me that…
“But…” (Shuuya)
Mia-san furrows her eyebrows and looks at me while scolding me with an expression she didn’t show until now.
It appears that she doesn’t want to let me speak.
“— For you, there might be some wish or stimulus you can’t gain as adventurer. But, you aren’t a person from our dark side.” (Mia)
That’s natural. I’m not in a dark guild.
I’m not a human either.
Yes, rather than something like a dark guild, I’m of a new race, which are monsters possessing a far deeper dimension of darkness.
Though that’s not something I can tell her.
“… That’s true.” (Shuuya)
I answered her calmly.
“Y-You are an adventurer! A normal adventurer! It’s unfair! It’s no good! You are not allowed to end up being involved with the wickedness of the dark society!” (Mia)
“Nnnn, nyao.” (Rollo)
Rollo gives an answer or something like that.
However, unfair to be an adventurer? Somehow she’s merely in a state of being jealous.
This is the person I rescued?
Well, currently it can’t be helped.
She’s venting her anger, I guess.
This is for her sake.
Do I listen a bit for the sake of her heart not breaking?
“… Certainly, that might be so.” (Shuuya)
“Even though there were people I should protect, people for whom I should be responsible… in the end I wasn’t able to save them…” (Mia)
The hands and body of Mia-san tremble.
While tears accumulate in her eyes, she glares at me.
“… In the beginning you said “I want to save you,” Shuuya-san, didn’t you?” (Mia)
“I did.” (Shuuya)
“If you can save me, please save everyone… Victor, Deyma, all of them!!” (Mia)
Sorry, dead people are impossible.
There might be a resurrection spell in this world, but I don’t know it.
If Sol lived, they might have revived as existences like Theta.
“…” (Shuuya)
Even if she asks me the impossible, Mia-san continues to speak.
“However, there’s no way that you can do that, is there? Everyone, all of them ended up dead.” (Mia)
“Certainly, but—” (Shuuya)
Mia-san “once again” overlaps her words with mine.
“— You saving me is just because you want to feel good.” (Mia)
She’s trying to offend me. But, it’s just as she says.
The fact of me not wanting to watch women getting oppressed is in the end excessive complacency.
“… That might be true.” (Shuuya)
“Yes, if you ended up letting me die without helping, your feelings as an adventurer, no, you would lose your own pride. That’s why you try to not take responsibility for anything.” (Mia)
Haha, this time it’s a really wicked straight punch.
It can be called a <Thrust> of words that is distinctive and filled with sarcasm.
Nevertheless, I’m lost for words. It’s completely right. “Trying to not take responsibility”, huh?
She might have said that unintentionally, but for the irresponsible me that’s a pinpoint critical hit.
“… That’s correct.” (Shuuya)
While she sheds large drops of tears, Mia-san once again looked at my face while showing a mystified look.
“… Shuuya-san, w-why don’t you blame me?” (Mia)
Changing from attacking me, she asked with a frail voice this time.
“Nya.” (Rollo)
Rollo purrs while sitting on the ground like a doll.
Honestly, my heart was pierced by those stabbing words of her, but it made me consider my irresponsibility, in a good and bad way.
… I have received it as medicine of words.
That’s why I will listen now.
Once I become unable to tolerate it, I will clearly say so though.
“… That is for your sake, Mia-san.” (Shuuya)
“Such a thing, even if I die, it will be fine. For such a me… someone like me, the worst guild leader, the worst woman. The one who forced everyone into an inescapable situation is me. Stuff like don’t tell me to not die, mentioning such a convenient thing at the end… after all, the one who guided all of them towards death under the pretext of revenge for father, mother and Totoka-neesan is me myself.” (Mia)
It’s an echo of her sorrowful thoughts.
“However, at that time and place those were your words as the leader of a dark guild. I guess it was inevitable. If I was in a similar situation, I would likely have used words close to that.” (Shuuya)
“… Then, what’s a good method for the person, who was saved, to compensate those who died? Can you really save me even after such feelings?” (Mia)
Mia-san weeps at that point.
“It doesn’t have the meaning of outcrying and anger.”
A paragraph from Macbeth pops up in my mind. (T/N: Not sure about the concrete phrasing in Macbeth)
No, is it a bad omen to remember Macbeth here? I recall the statement of the sleepwalking lady to be like 「Vanish, this abominable spot…」 during the scene of her washing her hands. (T/N: Same as above)
Lady Macbeth’s mind ends up falling ill…
Phew… as I was only told complaints for a bit, my thoughts ended up derailing.
As she was unable to endure any longer, she, who is sobbing, doesn’t attach “-san” to my name any more.
“… It’s impossible to save everything.” (Shuuya)
“What does that…?” (Mia)
“Nothing in particular. These are common words, but I can at least tell them to make your thinking a bit easier, Mia.” (Shuuya)
“Easier for me?” (Mia)
She asks visibly pretending to be tough with a tearful voice.
“Yea, a part of your subordinates has been eliminated, Mia, but they should have died with a desire to protect and save you while being fully aware of 【Scales of Gaia】’s disadvantage. The leader Victor stopped you at the very end, didn’t he? Didn’t he want you to run away by chance?” (Shuuya)
“Really…?” (Mia)
It might be different.
But I won’t say that.
It’s none of my business, but I want to release her from the chain of negativity.
Even if I might become a hypocrite.
“That depends on your feelings. Shouldn’t you live happily, even if it’s just a bit, in the future from now on to compensate those friends?” (Shuuya)
“… Me being happy? And then living normally?” (Mia)
She furrows her brows a bit and asks with a baffled feeling.
“That’s right. You know that it’s whitewashing. But, if you live ordinarily, it might become a farewell gift to those who died…” (Shuuya)
Even after hearing my words, Mia doesn’t change her grim expression.
However, without minding that, I continue to talk.
“If you divert from your path to get revenge… that’s also fine. But it might not please those who died.” (Shuuya)
She shakes her head.
“— At this point in time it’s impossible for me to live normally. If I consider the wishes of the people who risked their lives for 【Scales of Gaia】… I won’t be able to sustain my heart by spending my life care-freely.” (Mia)
In the middle of talking about herself, Mia directly looks at me.
The stagnated colour of hatred dwelt within the depths of her pupils which were overflowing with her tears.
Well, that’s only natural.
“But you know… it’s said Hating people means personally drinking poison…” (Shuuya)
“… You are remonstrating me by repeating something from some priest? That’s fine. You don’t understand. Our readiness.” (Mia)
Uh, did I bungle it?
Certainly, it might be impossible to try comprehend and guess the feelings of others for me.
No, that in itself is foolish and presumptuous thinking.
However, there’s something even this me can say.
“… What you want to say is only this much? It’s true, I never had any subordinates. Currently I’m a simple adventurer. Half-assing my daily life as adventurer, I went beyond it and walked my feet into a dark guild. In my case you might even say that I crushed it underfoot…” (Shuuya)
At that timing, I take a break and express my mind while putting strength into my gaze.
“Like that, I wield my power thoughtlessly and immerse in a sense of justice by saving people in a half-assed manner. Just as you said, my actions are for making me feel good. I think about something impolite like wanting to be popular by saving beautiful women. It’s completely for my own satisfaction. I’m probably a hypocrite.” (Shuuya)
Though it’s too masochistic, Mia should be able to judge after listening properly.
“H-However…” (Mia)
I don’t have any intention to let Mia speak. Now it’s my turn.
“— While leading a non-committal adventurer life, I have joined in on the killing. I’m completely an outsider party. Therefore, even you might regard me as half-crooked, Mia? Certainly, that half-assed hypocrite is me. However, that half-assed hypocritical bastard saved you. And, I will save you from now on as well. No matter what dark guild it might be, if they stand in my way, I will crush them. … As expected I think I will negotiate if the opponent is a nation, but if it’s for my beloved woman or my friends, I intend to go wild without hesitating to even cause a genocide even if the opponents might be common people.” (Shuuya)
“… S-Such a thing. This is our battle. The fight of my friends of 【Scales of Gaia】 who died.” (Mia)
I understand Mia’s feelings.
Even I, if my subordinates, friends or family was killed, I would definitely get revenge.
However… something like revenge without strength…
Do you call that plainly harsh?
“Your battle? Don’t get conceited. In the first place, what are you able to do by yourself? Although you might say that the branch of 【Owl’s Fangs】 was crushed in the previous fight, that’s something I did.” (Shuuya)
Did Mia receive a shock? Opening her eyes widely, he mouth flaps open and shut.
“…” (Mia)
“Besides, I have told you a few times, 【Owl’s Fangs】 has started meddling with me since before I got involved with this case. Therefore it’s also my battle. Also, before Deyma died he told me that he leaves the rest to me.” (Shuuya)
She talks in a state of being dumbfounded while her lips quiver.
“I-I want to take full responsibility as leader. I want to defeat 【Owl’s Fangs】…” (Mia)
The words she says are splendid, but there’s no ambition in them any more.
“I guess so? Therefore, I will help— no, that’s impossible. I can’t believe that 【Owl’s Fangs】 will stay silent in the current situation. They will likely search for me and come attacking. Each time they do, I will turn the tables on them. If they are obstinate, I will go crush them.” (Shuuya)
“That’s not allowed. Because, because, I’m from a dark guild. Shuuya-san, you are an adventurer.” (Mia)
She’s quite particular about that, isn’t she?
“Are you still fixated on that? Don’t take it to extremes, even if you are a serious-chan. You probably have the pride that it’s about your dignity, but even for me, telling you that I want to protect a woman like you is my little justice!!” (Shuuya)
Oops, I got passionate. I ended up speaking my mind in a loud voice in order to cut her caustic words. How embarrassing.
However, is it the effect of my loud voice…? Mia stops crying. Energy returned into her eyes.
“… Fufu, haha, ahahaha.” (Mia)
When I thought that she would laugh a bit at that part, Mia trembles and bursts into laughter while smiling broadly.
“What’s wrong?” (Shuuya)
“No, sorry. Somehow I got it. Your gentleness since the first time I met you hasn’t changed. It’s a part of the man called Shuuya-san.” (Mia)
“Whether I’m gentle or not is—” (Shuuya)
In the middle of my words, Mia hugged me.
“Umm, what’s it all of a sudden…?” (Shuuya)
She lowers the outer corners of her eyes and returns to a kind expression.
“Thank you… I calmed down greatly. Accepting all of my forced, vilificated, dark wrath… and scolding me, it made me happy. It gave birth to a warm light within in my chest. There’s already no 【Scales of Gaia】. As former guild leader… I want to live my life without having to feel ashamed.” (Mia)
I don’t mind something like that, but…
Your tits are hitting me, Mia-kun.
I wonder whether it’s alright to return her hug with a tight squeeze in this case?
“… Ah, no, well, it’s okay.” (Shuuya)
“You are truly an open-hearted, gentle person. It’s completely as if you are a gentle tiger who boasts of a fierce god-like strength.” (Mia)
Saying that, Mia placed her face on my chest and hugged me strongly and powerfully.
I know of it even if it’s above the armour and overcoat.
The— instant I earned the sensation of her boobs being crushed.
Is it because of the eroticism once tension gets alleviated? A trial in my brain is proclaimed in a hurry.
I, who turned in several miniature-me’s, cause a showdown between angel and demon forces within my brain.
The angel group is…
“Separate from her and remonstrate her gently. That will show her the behaviour of a man among men as a gentleman.”
Is what they calmly say.
The demon group is…
“Embrace Mia’s body closely as is and push her down YO. If things go well, you might end up doing her YO. It’s GO, it’s Sato Hiro ○ YO.” (T/N: Last part refers probably to Sato Hiromi, a J-Pop singer. He sang songs which seem to have “GO” in their lyrics, but I don’t understand the reference too well here as I don’t know the singer at all)
Is what they scream severally.
The influence is completely split in two.
— Eei, yea, I will squeeze her tightly.
The judgement is guilty. The referee’s fan easily falls towards me being in the wrong.
“Ah—” (Mia)
I ended up hugging Mia.
“You are soft.” (Shuuya)
“Yes…” (Mia)
If it continues like this, it might really go according to the brain trial.
Let’s talk calmly about… something different here.
“… However, I’m not gentle. I just didn’t want you to die, Mia. Originally I’m a monster who likes blood.” (Shuuya)
Yes, originally I’m not a human. If it’s this place, it belongs to the humans, doesn’t it?
“Noo, for me you really are a gentle tiger, Shuuya-san.” (Mia)
“Just now you mentioned fierce god-like tiger or such, what’s that about?” (Shuuya)
“Yes, that’s a book of a story I love very dearly. Didn’t you see “The gentle tiger who boasts of a fierce god-like strength” when you came to my room? It should have been in a bookshelf in my room. A male tiger repels a monster and a bear to protect the female tiger. He ties the knot with the female tiger and creates a family with her. It’s such a wonderful story.” (Mia)
Family… is that some kind of flag?
I can’t mention that though.
“Hee… you were a diligent worker who is also a bookworm?” (Shuuya)
“Yes, until my father and mother died, we lived in 【Labyrinth City Pelneet】. Since I went to the Magic Academy for the sake of becoming an adventurer, my scores were quite excellent, although that’s what I’m saying myself, and I dived into the labyrinth many times as well?” (Mia)
“Was that so…?” (Shuuya)
Ah, that’s why…? Was that Mia’s reason for persisting in her view of being an adventurer to such an extent?
Comparing the adventurer me with herself, she couldn’t easily forgive me getting involved with a dark guild even though I’m an adventurer?
She dreamed of a life as adventurer.
In reality she didn’t want to succeed something like a dark guild?
“… Please don’t make such sad-looking expression. However, you are right. I know what you are thinking about, Shuuya-san. Yes, I wanted to become an adventurer. However… everything changed when father, mother and Totoka-ane, who took care of me in my childhood, were killed. When I got the notice that “both your parents were killed,” I returned to 【Holkerbaum】 in a hurry so that I could be protected by the personnel of 【Scales of Gaia】. And, remembering that my family was killed at that time… I was overwhelmed by my emotions and cursed everything. The ones who saved and supported such me were the leaders of 【Scales of Gaia】. It was Victor and Deyma…” (Mia)
A drop of water flows down from Mia’s eyes.
Why did the ordinary her become the leader of a dark guild?
If it’s now, I understand it well. The store, which was left behind by her family, the subordinates who stayed and the dark guild which her father left behind.
She wasn’t able to abandon the lives of the subordinates who encouraged and supported her.
Is that why she succeeded even if she was teased as an amateur?
She’s a far too diligent child that has a sense of responsibility.
“However, everyone of that 【Scales of Gaia】… I was unable to protect them… I-I wanted to protect… e-everyone—” (Mia)
Mia ended up crying once again. I hug her strongly and tightly.
Holding her without saying anything, I stroke her black hair.
I will lend you my chest as long as you want…
My erotic mood is blown away completely.
For a while Mia wept while raising her voice.
“Well then, crying ends here— for the time being, wear this leather cloth.” (Shuuya)
I look at Mia’s tear-stained, sad face. I wiped away her tears with my thumb.
“Ah— yes.” (Mia)
It’s a matter of course that I turn the other way while she changes her clothes.
“Is it alright now?” (Shuuya)
“Yes, I finished changing.” (Mia)
“What will you do from now on?” (Shuuya)
“… I want to return to the store.” (Mia)
“Got it. Let’s go?” (Shuuya)
I return to the store of 【Scales of Gaia】 while taking Mia along.
Because there was a lot of stones and soil, the fire of the store went out.
However, the store’s foundation is scorched and has lost its shape.
Mia recovers the cash box from her own room which barely escaped being burnt completely.
The books, which were in such quantity inside the room, have been completely burnt and disappeared.
I discover what can be considered to be a part of a book’s front cover.
“Fierce god-like strength—”
The cut-off piece has become black in the middle.
Only this much was saved from getting burnt.
“It was this book, but… it ended up getting burnt.” (Mia)
“Yea…” (Shuuya)
“… Everyone really died…” (Mia)
“Are you alright?” (Shuuya)
“Yes, since I made my emotions burst out just now, it’s less of a shock than I thought.” (Mia)
Even while saying that, Mia shows a clouded expression.
I realize that she’s subduing the negative emotions which are dwelling in the depths of her eyes.
She goes around and indifferently looks for luggage that seems usable.
Fortunately she finds the treasure chests, which look sturdy, besides the cash box.
Some of those treasure boxes had an abundance of different potions, a light-brown robe, a leather armour, a wand which had a magic gem of fire attached to it and a hair clips.
Mia faithfully handed me a potion trying to return it to me, but I decline it while telling her that I don’t need it.
“Did you finish your retrieval?” (Shuuya)
“Yes, the title deed of the plot is safe as well. However, since I don’t have the money to rebuild it, I will abandon it.” (Mia)
“Closing up shop, huh?” (Shuuya)
“Yes, to begin with there weren’t any masonry craftsmen since they were head-hunted away. Since there’s no merchandise remaining either… I will close the store. It’s the end of 【Scales of Gaia】.” (Mia)
Is that so? Which reminds me, there weren’t any clerk-like people.
“Going out of business? That’s regrettable.” (Shuuya)
“Yes, I will put on this equipment then.” (Mia)
“Oh, the leather armour— Got it.” (Shuuya)
I face the back once again.
“— I’m done.” (Mia)
Once I turned around, there was a black-haired beautiful magician.
Gathering her long hair into one plait, she lets it flow down on top of her robe.
I see. Even if she gathers her hairstyle into one, it’s lovely.
“Shuuya-san, what are you nodding for?” (Mia)
“Ah, no, it’s nothing.” (Shuuya)
“Fufu, you are weird, Shuuya-san. I will return this to you.” (Mia)
She neatly folds the leather cloth she wore and gave it back to me.
“And— Shuuya-san, I really thank you very much for helping and saving me.” (Mia)
“No, well, that’s true, but don’t mind it.” (Shuuya)
Even if I tell her that, it’s unreasonable, isn’t it?
“When I reach the point where I can earn money properly by myself, I will return this favour to you.” (Mia)
“Yea, but, will you be able to search for me that easily?” (Shuuya)
“Since I will track down Shuuya-san, who bet on his little justice, at that time without fail, please resolve yourself for it. Well then—” (Mia)
Once Mia mentions it with an honest smile while saying words which had a touch of sarcasm, she turns around after bowing and briskly walks away.
Haa, good grief.
Chasing after the back of her, who turned around, I grab her arm.
