tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7867961474044130842024-03-19T10:46:32.353+08:00C.E. Light Novel TranslationsJust your light novels translations (from Chinese to Engrish) and stuff.zgmfx09ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16118153566717115367noreply@blogger.comBlogger455125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-1404843514090360652016-01-19T10:57:00.002+08:002016-01-26T11:44:20.388+08:00Why the new Aokana anime betrays all expectations So um...hi, it's D.M...uh...I'm one of the (ex?)editors on this blog that sometimes posts random stuff.<br />
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First off, I'd like to say that I'm sorry for the blog being inactive recently, and more importantly that I'm making garbage posts when many of you are probably excitedly waiting for new releases. For those that rushed over because you got an email notification saying that there's a new post and was hoping for a new release, you can probably stop reading right here because I'm wasting your time.</div>
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...however, I have a very important topic to discuss regarding the visual novel and recently released anime adaptation 「蒼の彼方のフォーリズム」(Ao no Kanata no Four Rhythm) and why the director of the anime completely missed the point of the story.</div>
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For anyone who have played Aokana, is currently watching the anime, or have the time to let me humor you, please read on...keep in mind that there will be minor spoilers.<br />
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**Update 01/25/16**<br />
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I just finished watching episode 3, and it's apparent that they'll never explain the rules of FC. For those who watched episode 3 without playing the VN, it's probably confusing as hell. Thus I make a proposal; should I make another post to explain what the rules are so that people can make sense of it?<br />
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I'm hesitant on making another shit-post because this isn't an anime blog, but if there's interest in such a post, I'd think about taking the time to write one as I really feel it's necessary. For those interested, please leave a comment saying so.<br />
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For those who've never played the game but are watching the anime, you would recall that the very first scene of episode 1 was a flashback of Asuka on a (nice) boat. You would immediately at that point recognize that Asuka is the main character and that the story is centered around her. What you probably didn't know is that the first scene in the VN was actually a much longer flashback centered around Masaya (the main protag) and it revealed 2 things: That he gave a wing shaped ornament to a girl and that he was an enthusiastic/talented FC player who lost his motivation after having lost to a boy(?) with a baseball cap. This blatant change of the introduction already indicates the anime director's intentions and foreshadows what's to come. Several minor changes in episode one continues, such as the fact that Masaya not present when Asuka starts her first FC match Satouin, but that can't be compared with what comes next.<br />
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There were 3 major points in episode 2 that completely destroyed the integrity of the series. The first comes from the fact that Shion and Madoka were already operating their FC club out of the abandoned bus. In the VN, it wasn't until Masaya was convinced to join that the club was officially formed. From that point, the lack of spare classrooms led them to the abandoned bus that they all pitched in to renovate and made their own.<br />
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The second by extension to the first is that they went shopping for FC-use 'gravshoes' without Masaya, because at this point of the anime he hasn't yet been convinced to join. This scene was important because it established each character's personality and style. It also established that Hayato (the shop owner) was acquainted with both Masaya and Aoi (Kagami-sensei). The most important part of the scene that this skipped over was that Masaya picked out Asuka's signature red gravshoes, the 飛燕四式 (Hien Mk.IV), which is the newer version of the gravshoes that he used when he was a young FC pro, and that he picked them out for her because on top of their overall good build and versatility, Asuka reminds Masaya of himself. There was also an in-depth explanation of the science behind the anti-gravity 'membrane' generated by the gravshoes and how they react to outside forces, but I won't bore anyone with that.<br />
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The fourth and by far most ridiculous change is that they haven't bothered to explain the rules of FC before showing the practice match between Misaki and Asuka. People I know as well as people in the stream comments have questioned whether or not using a shortcut is cheating because they hadn't explained that using a shortcut disqualifies you from scoring using the next buoy, and that the sole purpose is to cut off your opponent to score via tagging.<br />
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All of the changes listed have one thing in common, and it's that Masaya was cut out of scenes where he led important explanations or was integral to the scene itself. The director has steered this series in the wrong direction, and is focusing it all on cute girls because that's what sells anime. The readers who have played the VN to true end would know that this story is about Masaya regaining his motivation from seeing the growth of the four characters. However, what we get is an anime that focuses on Asuka and Misaki, the two popular girls in the series (the ending sequences features exclusively them), and Masaya being demoted from the main character to a side character. To those who thinks I'm overreacting by calling Masaya a side-character, you can refer to the <a href="http://aokana-anime.com/character/">official anime website</a> which lists Masaya under "other characters"<br />
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To put things in perspective, this story was so well received that it greenlit its anime adaptation within 2 months of its release, and was one of the most anticipated release to many people. To watch its adaptation be twisted into a moe anime is sickening and I must protest that the VN is nothing like what this anime will become. To those that have read on for this long, I appreciate that you even bothered and I sincerely hope this rant expressed to you my love for the original work as well as my frustration at the anime adaptation; enough so that anyone who hasn't played the original would consider doing so.<br />
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Thank you for reading.<br />
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Everyone's favorite shit-poster<br />
みんなが大好きなクソ野郎<br />
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- D.M.DrkMercenaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06183539257474116137noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-60670886973499485182015-10-12T06:04:00.000+08:002015-10-12T06:04:31.491+08:00Where We StandI've been away from the Seirei Gensouki translation for longer than I originally planned, and for various reasons. If you've been paying any attention at all to the chat box in the sidebar, you would know that I was forced to postpone further work until after getting a new computer and car since my old ones either broke down or have too many issues.<br />
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After quite some time, I was finally able to get them and have finished settling into my new computer as of two weeks ago. Why haven't I restarted translations yet since then? As mentioned before, there are various reasons for that, ranging from being busy with my own personal things such as college and writing my own novel (which I'm debating uploading online, but that's another story). The biggest reason however is Seirei Gensouki getting published. I am currently under debate over whether to continue translating the web novel version or switch to the light novel, but the biggest obstacle in deciding whether or not I will translate the light novel is raws.<br />
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I've been searching for the last few days and have been unable to find scans or a digital copy of the book that I can work with. Why not use a physical copy you might ask? Because it's not really practical for me to translate while having to hold a book open at the same time and that process would cause unnecessary wear and tear to the book, and I like to keep my belongings in as good condition as possible (many of my things even look the same as when I got them after 10+ years).<br />
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In any case, the main point is, I'm currently in search of raw scans or a digital copy of the book. Should I obtain them, I will spend a few days deciding whether or not I will indeed translate the light novel version or not. In the meantime, if I'm not able to obtain raws within the next 2-3 weeks or so, I will begin the translation rush that I promised quite some time back and work to catch up to or overtake Roxism ASAP.<br />
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Finally, since I've been having trouble finding raws (or maybe I just suck at it), if anyone has any raws they would like to offer (again, must be scans or a digital copy), then please contact me at seireigensouki@gmail.com.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13137507889278751188noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-44913069660960568902015-08-12T10:55:00.005+08:002015-08-12T10:55:59.153+08:00[Seirei Gensouki] Episode 4 - Interrogation<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Currently, Rio was in a jail cell in the royal castle.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After finding Kristina and Flora, the guards quickly took them into custody.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then for some reason, Rio alone was arrested and thrown into a jail cell, dumbfounded.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was then that Rio found out Kristina and Flora were the country’s princesses.</span><br />
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Three days had already passed since then.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Given only the bare minimum amount of sleep and food, Rio spent the most of his days being interrogated.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ever since coming here, Rio’s days were spent entirely in his jail cell.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Judging from how much time he probably slept, more than three fifths of each day was spent in interrogation.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Spit out what you know.”</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">On the third day, the same question was asked for the umpteempth time.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio started feeling disgusted at the words he’d grown tired of.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“It’s like I said already. I just happened to be passing by when I saw those gi- Kristina-sama and Flora-sama being kidnapped and then rescued them. That’s all.”</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As he was about to say “those girls” the interrogator’s expression became stern.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Realizing that and referring them respectfully, Rio testified the same thing while being fed up.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Quit lying. Aren’t you a spy?”</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The same chain of questions continued.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“No.”</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio promptly denied.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Alright, for the time being, it’s recognized that you really did rescue Kristina-sama and Flora-sama. Though it’s a difficult story to believe.”</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The interrogator began talking in a strangely theatrical tone.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“That’s why this interrogation has been done peacefully. However, if you keep making this troublesome, we’ll have to revise our methods.”</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A prison environment, a long, drawn-out interrogation, and an interrogator emitting a daunting aura.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To the interrogator who called this ‘peaceful’, Rio responded with</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">a certain kind of respect.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Heh? What kind of methods, exactly?”</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio smiled with a somewhat rebellious look in his eyes.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thereupon the interrogator smiled back while grabbing Rio’s collar.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He then slammed Rio’s face into the desk.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Gah!”</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The interrogator pulled up Rio’s head again, and slammed it back into the desk. Rio bit the inside of his mouth, resulting in blood.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He wanted to enhance his body to reduce the damage, but he couldn’t easily manipulate his magic power.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It seemed the handcuffs on his wrists prevented him from controlling the magic power in his body.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“It’s rather strange ain’t it? Even if they were just a bunch of thugs, a kid like you beat four armed adults. What’s more, you’re an orphan with no training. Even if it was a surprise attack, it’s inconceivable.”</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The interrogator shook his head, unable to understand at all.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“It’s like a lame, cheap play a plebeian came up with. Understand what I’m saying?”</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While sending Rio a glare as if he had killed his parents, the interrogator raised Rio’s head by the hair and then struck a fist into Rio’s stomach.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Kahah!”</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Seeing a small groan escape Rio’s lips, the man smiled in satisfaction.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He probably had a sadistic personality.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio’s face was warped with the pain from his stomach.</span></div>
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<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“His Majesty the King has conferred you the most possible consideration. After all, you did rescue both royal princesses Kristina-sama and Flora-sama. It’s a matter of course.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In that case, what’s with this poor treatment?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The rage inside Rio just kept piling up more.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“However, you’re also dangerous. Reason being as I’ve said until now, you’re suspicious. Way too suspicious. Being a little forceful is necessary to get you to talk. Understood?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Grabbing his head, he peered at Rio’s face from close up.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The pair’s gazes aligned, but Rio displayed a foolish smile.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Even if you say that, I don’t know what I don’t know.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio immediately replied without a single doubt.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was the truth after all, so there was nothing else to reply with.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Humph, seems it was useless to try and get a criminal to understand His Majesty the King’s feelings. Well that’s fine. I’ll explain simply so even trash like you can understand.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Saying that provokingly, the interrogator began caressing Rio’s face.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“In short, tell us who is the mastermind behind this incident. There’s one right? Some noble, for instance.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio sighed for the umpteepth time at the incorrect deduction.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Like I said, I don’t know. Ask the culprits, the-”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As Rio was still talking, the interrogator struck him in the face.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“The culprits are all dead. Killed. You’re the only one still alive.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio was confused upon hearing those words.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For a moment, he thought it was because of the damage dealt by his attacks.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, if there’s magic to heal one’s wounds, they should’ve used that in order to interrogate them, so he reconsidered.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Why were they killed?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“How should I know? They were poisoned. Seems there was poison in their food. Isn’t it great there was no poison in your food?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upon hearing the question, the interrogator told him the truth.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“...!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At those words, Rio suddenly felt a chill run through his whole body.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For the culprits to be so easily poisoned, the mastermind behind this incident would have had to infiltrate the royal castle.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But why was he not killed?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He then quickly realized even if Rio lived, it wouldn’t cause any problems.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was because Rio didn’t have a single connection to the mastermind.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Even if Rio were interrogated, it wouldn’t mean a thing to him.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That’s why they didn’t take the risk of poisoning him.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In that case, he wouldn’t have to worry about his life.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, that only applied in regards to those related to the mastermind.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If he messes something up, he might be killed by the country.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After all, although a suspect, this is a country that treats someone who rescued royalty in this manner.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At this rate, the torture would probably escalate.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It wouldn’t be odd if he were killed in the end.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Dammit. At this rate I’m seriously going to die…)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio’s irritation grew along with his anxiety.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In hindsight, it really would’ve been better if he hadn’t saved Kristina and Flora.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If he hadn’t jumped in, he wouldn’t be receiving this torture right now.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is the result of him acting on his emotions.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At the time he was severely conflicted, but it’s the selfish people who win in the end, is what he ended up thinking.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Hmph, well then. Gotten scared now? You won’t have to fear death as long as you talk, you know?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio snorted at the interrogator who said completely wrong things with a triumphant expression,</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“As if that’s true.”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Seemingly not liking that attitude, the interrogator struck once again.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Whose order was it? My boss’ opinion is that even if you don’t have a direct connection to those thugs, there should at least be an indirect one through the mastermind.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio was getting really fed up.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He was speaking as if it’d be inconvenient if that wasn’t the case.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio thought he might’ve gotten caught up in a power struggle within the royal court.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It would explain a lot of things if that were the case.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The fact that the courier men were poisoned, Rio wasn’t poisoned, and this stubborn interrogation was going on to elicit a confession.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He calmly analyzed the situation with the given information.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Most likely, there were those with things to gain and lose from this kidnapping incident.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">First, those that stood to benefit plotted this kidnap incident, and killed the culprits to erase the evidence.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And then those that stood to lose fell into a dilemma and were trying to get information from Rio.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If the king were the mastermind, then he would have to be a ruthless man who made pawns out of his own daughters, so while the possibility isn’t zero, it was still quite low.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ergo, those who would gain were probably influential nobles other than the king.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In addition, for the king to treat someone who saved royalty this poorly was difficult to believe, so the possibility of him being someone who had something to lose was also low.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In that case, most likely those who stood to lose were other influential nobles other than the king.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Which means he got himself caught up in a conflict between influential nobles.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Don’t screw with me.)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio displayed a smile tinged with madness in his mind.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The influential noble who stood to lose had the authority to have Rio forcefully questioned and is stubbornly having him interrogated.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In that case, as long as that person doesn’t think Rio is innocent, Rio won’t be released.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was difficult for Rio to dispel that doubt.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As long as this stubborn interrogation that treated everything as suspicious continued in this fashion, there would be no end to it until he screws up or confesses a bunch of lies.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(If this influential noble was having his influence weakened because of the incident, it should be easy to turn things around to a scenario where I’m saved.)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There was no other choice but to bet on that.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“What kind of man was this person who gave you the order? Aren’t you actually some lower-ranking noble’s kid? You received combat training there, am I wrong?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The interrogator relentlessly continued questioning ,while constantly provokingly slapping Rio’s cheeks with the pole in his hand.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“...peh”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio faced the interrogator and spat some saliva mixed with blood at him.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He wanted to dispel a little of the resentment he was feeling.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">His fate probably wouldn’t change just from defying the man.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He shouldn’t be able to kill Rio without any orders.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“...You brat!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Just as the enraged man was about to shout, the jail door opened.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Seeing the person who appeared from the door, the interrogator hurriedly corrected his posture.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I-Imperial Knight Vice-Captain!”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“At ease. How’s the progress?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The name of the man who appeared was Alfred Emar.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The second son of Earl Emar and the vice-captain of the imperial knights who protected royalty and the royal court.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Alfred waved his hand, saying that to the man as he entered the room, and glanced at Rio.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Yes. Even when using a little force, he still refuses to speak at all. His attitude is rebellious and possesses a tenacious mind that’s unbelievable for a child.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hearing those words, Alfred lightly tapped his hand against his lips and began thinking.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“And so, uhm...the imperial knight captain is...?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The interrogator asked, sounding as if worried about something.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“The captain is occupied with this incident. I came in his stead.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Along with those words, Alfred’s face seemed to be slightly coloured in amazement..</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After explaining the circumstances, Alfred motionlessly stared at Rio.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Hmm, so you’re the orphan that rescued the princesses.”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“...”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Alfred’s majestic voice reverberated throughout the jail.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He wasn’t even in his 30’s yet, but the pressure he released carried an overpowering sensation that no ordinary person could handle.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But Rio ignored Alfred’s question.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Such insolence!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Another imperial knight waiting beside Alfred came beating Rio while shouting.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shifting his body to ward off the blow as much as possible, Rio sent a cold gaze back at the knight.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“...!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The knight was pressured by Rio’s gaze and instinctively retreated half a step.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“It’s fine.It can’t be helped when speaking to a vagabond youngster.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Alfred gazed at Rio with evaluating eyes while Rio straightforwardly gazed back at Alfred.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I see…”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After gazing at each other for several seconds, Alfred slowly whispered something as he seemed to have realized something.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Fumu, bring that youngster to the training grounds outside.”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Understood! You heard him. Move!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The ordered interrogator forcefully pulled on the chain attached to the collar on Rio and handed the chain to another imperial knight.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio didn’t particularly resist and followed behind the man while being pulled along.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The jail was in an underground room, but the training grounds were outside above ground.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bertram Kingdom’s royal castle’s appearance was not that of a small castle surrounded by a sturdy stone wall, but that of a highly artistic palace with white stone as the basis.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, in order to defend against foreign enemy invasions, solid ramparts enclosing an expansive area and practical sections were constructed.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Extravagant and valuable articles were scattered everywhere within the castle walls. The place Rio was currently walking through was a wide corridor facing outside with pillars lined up at regular intervals and a scarlet carpet spread out on the floor.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While moving, the castle guards and servants scrutinized him.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The knight guiding him was moving along too quickly so he didn’t have a chance to carefully look around.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(This is like a monkey exhibit. No, even worse.)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The eyes that looked at Rio were mixed with sympathy and scorn.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was the same expression shown by the seldomly appearing richly-dressed residents walking around town.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upon meeting eyes, the servants quickly looked away.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“We’ve arrived.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Just like that, Rio was brought to the training grounds.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the area were nobles serving royalty and their knights gathering as curious onlookers with the whole matter quickly becoming like some sort of show.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And so, having a mock sword handed to him, Rio moved to the center of the training grounds where he had to confront an imperial knight.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He had to fight without knowing what was going on, but nothing would happen even if he asks questions.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He decided to focus on the fight in front of him right now.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fortunately the handcuffs that were preventing the movement of magic power were removed.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the worst case, he could now enhance his physical abilities and forcefully break through and run away.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But running can wait until after the fight.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After all, it’d be best if things can be solved peacefully.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Taking a stance with a mock sword, clad in light metal armour and a shield, Rio’s opponent gazed down upon Rio while looking down at him.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The distance between the two was approximately 10 meters.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The imperial knight didn’t move from that spot as if he was saying “come at me.”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In response, Rio simply gazed silently at the imperial knight.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio was simply standing there holding the sword without taking any particular stance, but a portion of the quick-witted, experienced people sensed that Rio wasn’t an ordinary kid.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But the imperial knight confronting him thought Rio had no will to fight.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Clicking his tongue at Rio’s behavior, he decided to charge in himself.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Haaa!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Closing in ahead with considerable speed, he attacked with all his strength as if to mow down Rio’s torso.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He was carrying a mock sword for training.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, from the power put into it, things wouldn’t end at just feeling pain if it hit.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feeling clear hostility, Rio decided to dodge the imperial knight’s sword.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The attack was easily dodged by taking half a step to the side.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thereupon the imperial knight’s face was coloured in shock.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And then those watching in the surroundings widened their eyes.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Enhancing his muscle and body strength with a minimal amount of magic power, Rio didn’t overlook the opportunity and instantly thrust the mock sword at the imperial knight’s throat.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The training grounds fell silent.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“W-wait! I simply let my guard down just now! I’ll do it seriously next time!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Realizing his loss, the imperial knight hurriedly voiced his protests.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Finding his behavior amusing, the silence came to an end as the people at the training grounds began sniggering.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Ku, ha, hahaha! To have lost to that child. The quality of the imperial knights sure have fallen. This can only be a disgrace.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Said one of the nobles who was watching the mock battle from a corner of the training grounds, with an unnaturally loud voice to let everyone hear.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Y-yes! Just as Duke Huguenot said. How outrageous, for one of the proud imperial knights to make that kind of excuse.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Moreover, the nobles around that man began jeering in agreement with him.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A group of nobles separate from them listened to that while making sour expressions.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio expressionlessly watched the spectacle.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Fool! Cool your head! Even if you let down your guard, a loss is a loss. A prestigious imperial knight should honestly accept his loss.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Alfred scolded the imperial knight that Rio had faced.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As one would expect, he calmed down after hearing the vice-captain’s words and lowered his head in frustration.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Alfred switched his gaze to Rio’s direction.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He seemed to be thinking something as he looked at Rio, but soon spoke.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Hmph, splendidly done. Boy. With this, the fact that you have the strength to have rescued Kristina-sama and Flora-sama has been proved.”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“What meaning is there in that?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio asked without hesitation at Alfred’s somewhat high-handed words.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Ah, you can personally receive His Majesty the King’s words of gratitude. There’s no greater honour. The evaluation of your affair will also be conducted then. A room will be prepared and you can leave jail.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He forcefully spoke completely one-sidedly.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As if not doubting a single bit that the king was an absolute being and was a target of fear and awe to everyone.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That kind of feeling.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Leaving jail aside, he didn’t need the king’s words.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“...I’m honoured.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Alfred slightly frowned at Rio’s response that didn’t carry very much gratefulness.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gazing at Rio with a look of despise, he spoke.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Hmph, for today you can return to your prepared room. A mage will also be prepared to treat your wounds from the interrogation.”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Thank you very much.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio felt dissatisfaction since Alfred and the one who injured him belonged to the same organization, but tentatively conveyed his thanks.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thus Rio was finally able to leave jail.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Receiving healing and taking a bath, he was then guided to his room.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Inside was a girl who was some years older than Rio.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">She was somewhere in her late prepubescent years. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, the girl’s beauty boasted a radiance that even a famed artist would never be able to recreate even in a lifetime.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Described in a single phrase, it would be “perfected beauty.”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The girl bowed deeply to Rio who entered the room and spoke after an exquisite pause.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Pleased to meet you. I am called Aria Governess. Employed in this royal castle as a court lady apprentice and currently appointed to be of your assistance, Rio-sama. I look forward to serving you.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The girl said with a blank face without a glimpse of emotion.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was an unfaltering, lovely voice.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Why thank you, treating one as myself so courteously. I am called Rio.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Respectfully bowing, Rio returned the greeting seemingly without having taken note of the girl’s beauty.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio’s stance was that as long as the other party bears a courteous attitude, he would also treat them with a courteous attitude.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The same goes for the opposite.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While his gesture didn’t conform to this country’s way of showing manners, Rio’s considerably respectful attitude had Aria’s eyes coloured over surprised, although it was ever so slight. It wasn’t something noticeable without suitable powers of observation, but Rio noticed it.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It seemed that even though she appeared expressionless, she still has emotions.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“While in the royal castle, I will be serving beside Rio-sama. Feel free to command me anything should you have a request.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, Aria was quite skilled and didn’t show any further interest towards Rio.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Then for now I have just one question. Will I be able to leave the royal castle shortly after receiving the words of His Majesty the King?”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I apologize. I do not know anything about that matter. Your audience with His Majesty the King will be tomorrow. How Rio-sama will be dealt with will be announced at that time.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In short, there’s a chance that from tomorrow on he will continue to be in a state of house arrest.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio felt disappointment at the expected answer.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But it wasn’t bad compared to when he was in jail.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I see. Thank you very much.”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“No, that is simply my duty. If you have no further questions, shall I bring your meal?”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“That would be wonderful. By all means, thank you.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Having not eaten anything decent for several days, Rio displayed a smile suitable for his age as he replied.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Nothing to do anyway. Let’s just eat as much luxurious food as I can as my consolation.)</span></div>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While bearing something grim in his mind, Rio thought about the royal court’s cooking that was probably being delivered.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2015/08/seirei-gensouki-episode-3-kidnapping.html"><< Previous Chapter</a> // <a href="http://currently%2C%20rio%20was%20in%20a%20jail%20cell%20in%20the%20royal%20castle.%20after%20finding%20kristina%20and%20flora%2C%20the%20guards%20quickly%20took%20them%20into%20custody.%20then%20for%20some%20reason%2C%20rio%20alone%20was%20arrested%20and%20thrown%20into%20a%20jail%20cell%2C%20dumbfounded.%20it%20was%20then%20that%20rio%20found%20out%20kristina%20and%20flora%20were%20the%20country%E2%80%99s%20princesses.%20%20three%20days%20had%20already%20passed%20since%20then.%20given%20only%20the%20bare%20minimum%20amount%20of%20sleep%20and%20food%2C%20rio%20spent%20the%20most%20of%20his%20days%20being%20interrogated.%20ever%20since%20coming%20here%2C%20rio%E2%80%99s%20days%20were%20spent%20entirely%20in%20his%20jail%20cell.%20judging%20from%20how%20much%20time%20he%20probably%20slept%2C%20more%20than%20three%20fifths%20of%20each%20day%20was%20spent%20in%20interrogation.%20%20%E2%80%9Cspit%20out%20what%20you%20know.%E2%80%9D%20%20on%20the%20third%20day%2C%20the%20same%20question%20was%20asked%20for%20the%20umpteempth%20time.%20rio%20started%20feeling%20disgusted%20at%20the%20words%20he%E2%80%99d%20grown%20tired%20of.%20%20%E2%80%9Cit%E2%80%99s%20like%20i%20said%20already.%20i%20just%20happened%20to%20be%20passing%20by%20when%20i%20saw%20those%20gi-%20kristina-sama%20and%20flora-sama%20being%20kidnapped%20and%20then%20rescued%20them.%20that%E2%80%99s%20all.%E2%80%9D%20%20as%20he%20was%20about%20to%20say%20%E2%80%9Cthose%20girls%E2%80%9D%20the%20interrogator%E2%80%99s%20expression%20became%20stern.%20realizing%20that%20and%20referring%20them%20respectfully%2C%20rio%20testified%20the%20same%20thing%20while%20being%20fed%20up.%20%20%E2%80%9Cquit%20lying.%20aren%E2%80%99t%20you%20a%20spy/?%E2%80%9D%20%20The%20same%20chain%20of%20questions%20continued.%20%20%E2%80%9CNo.%E2%80%9D%20%20Rio%20promptly%20denied.%20%20%E2%80%9CAlright,%20for%20the%20time%20being,%20it%E2%80%99s%20recognized%20that%20you%20really%20did%20rescue%20Kristina-sama%20and%20Flora-sama.%20Though%20it%E2%80%99s%20a%20difficult%20story%20to%20believe.%E2%80%9D%20%20The%20interrogator%20began%20talking%20in%20a%20strangely%20theatrical%20tone.%20%20%E2%80%9CThat%E2%80%99s%20why%20this%20interrogation%20has%20been%20done%20peacefully.%20However,%20if%20you%20keep%20making%20this%20troublesome,%20we%E2%80%99ll%20have%20to%20revise%20our%20methods.%E2%80%9D%20%20A%20prison%20environment,%20a%20long,%20drawn-out%20interrogation,%20and%20an%20interrogator%20emitting%20a%20daunting%20aura.%20To%20the%20interrogator%20who%20called%20this%20%E2%80%98peaceful%E2%80%99,%20Rio%20responded%20with%20a%20certain%20kind%20of%20respect.%20%20%E2%80%9CHeh?%20What%20kind%20of%20methods,%20exactly?%E2%80%9D%20%20Rio%20smiled%20with%20a%20somewhat%20rebellious%20look%20in%20his%20eyes.%20Thereupon%20the%20interrogator%20smiled%20back%20while%20grabbing%20Rio%E2%80%99s%20collar.%20He%20then%20slammed%20Rio%E2%80%99s%20face%20into%20the%20desk.%20%20%E2%80%9CGah!%E2%80%9D%20%20The%20interrogator%20pulled%20up%20Rio%E2%80%99s%20head%20again,%20and%20slammed%20it%20back%20into%20the%20desk.%20Rio%20bit%20the%20inside%20of%20his%20mouth,%20resulting%20in%20blood.%20He%20wanted%20to%20enhance%20his%20body%20to%20reduce%20the%20damage,%20but%20he%20couldn%E2%80%99t%20easily%20manipulate%20his%20magic%20power.%20It%20seemed%20the%20handcuffs%20on%20his%20wrists%20prevented%20him%20from%20controlling%20the%20magic%20power%20in%20his%20body.%20%20%E2%80%9CIt%E2%80%99s%20rather%20strange%20ain%E2%80%99t%20it?%20Even%20if%20they%20were%20just%20a%20bunch%20of%20thugs,%20a%20kid%20like%20you%20beat%20four%20armed%20adults.%20What%E2%80%99s%20more,%20you%E2%80%99re%20an%20orphan%20with%20no%20training.%20Even%20if%20it%20was%20a%20surprise%20attack,%20it%E2%80%99s%20inconceivable.%E2%80%9D%20%20The%20interrogator%20shook%20his%20head,%20unable%20to%20understand%20at%20all.%20%20%E2%80%9CIt%E2%80%99s%20like%20a%20lame,%20cheap%20play%20a%20plebeian%20came%20up%20with.%20Understand%20what%20I%E2%80%99m%20saying?%E2%80%9D%20%20While%20sending%20Rio%20a%20glare%20as%20if%20he%20had%20killed%20his%20parents,%20the%20interrogator%20raised%20Rio%E2%80%99s%20head%20by%20the%20hair%20and%20then%20struck%20a%20fist%20into%20Rio%E2%80%99s%20stomach.%20%20%E2%80%9CKahah!%E2%80%9D%20%20Seeing%20a%20small%20groan%20escape%20Rio%E2%80%99s%20lips,%20the%20man%20smiled%20in%20satisfaction.%20He%20probably%20had%20a%20sadistic%20personality.%20Rio%E2%80%99s%20face%20was%20warped%20with%20the%20pain%20from%20his%20stomach.%20%20%E2%80%9CHis%20Majesty%20the%20King%20has%20conferred%20you%20the%20most%20possible%20consideration.%20After%20all,%20you%20did%20rescue%20both%20royal%20princesses%20Kristina-sama%20and%20Flora-sama.%20It%E2%80%99s%20a%20matter%20of%20course.%E2%80%9D%20%20In%20that%20case,%20what%E2%80%99s%20with%20this%20poor%20treatment?%20The%20rage%20inside%20Rio%20just%20kept%20piling%20up%20more.%20%20%E2%80%9CHowever,%20you%E2%80%99re%20also%20dangerous.%20Reason%20being%2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ccupied%20with%20this%20incident.%20I%20came%20in%20his%20stead.%E2%80%9D%20%20Along%20with%20those%20words,%20Alfred%E2%80%99s%20face%20seemed%20to%20be%20slightly%20coloured%20in%20amazement..%20After%20explaining%20the%20circumstances,%20Alfred%20motionlessly%20stared%20at%20Rio.%20%20%E2%80%9CHmm,%20so%20you%E2%80%99re%20the%20orphan%20that%20rescued%20the%20princesses.%E2%80%9D%20%E2%80%9C...%E2%80%9D%20%20Alfred%E2%80%99s%20majestic%20voice%20reverberated%20throughout%20the%20jail.%20He%20wasn%E2%80%99t%20even%20in%20his%2030%E2%80%99s%20yet,%20but%20the%20pressure%20he%20released%20carried%20an%20overpowering%20sensation%20that%20no%20ordinary%20person%20could%20handle.%20But%20Rio%20ignored%20Alfred%E2%80%99s%20question.%20%20%E2%80%9CSuch%20insolence!%E2%80%9D%20%20Another%20imperial%20knight%20waiting%20beside%20Alfred%20came%20beating%20Rio%20while%20shouting.%20Shifting%20his%20body%20to%20ward%20off%20the%20blow%20as%20much%20as%20possible,%20Rio%20sent%20a%20cold%20gaze%20back%20at%20the%20knight.%20%20%E2%80%9C...!%E2%80%9D%20%20The%20knight%20was%20pressured%20by%20Rio%E2%80%99s%20gaze%20and%20instinctively%20retreated%20half%20a%20step.%20%20%E2%80%9CIt%E2%80%99s%20fine.It%20can%E2%80%99t%20be%20helped%20when%20speaking%20to%20a%20vagabond%20youngster.%E2%80%9D%20%20Alfred%20gazed%20at%20Rio%20with%20evaluating%20eyes%20while%20Rio%20straightforwardly%20gazed%20back%20at%20Alfred.%20%20%E2%80%9CI%20see%E2%80%A6%E2%80%9D%20%20After%20gazing%20at%20each%20other%20for%20several%20seconds,%20Alfred%20slowly%20whispered%20something%20as%20he%20seemed%20to%20have%20realized%20something.%20%20%E2%80%9CFumu,%20bring%20that%20youngster%20to%20the%20training%20grounds%20outside.%E2%80%9D%20%E2%80%9CUnderstood!%20You%20heard%20him.%20Move!%E2%80%9D%20%20The%20ordered%20interrogator%20forcefully%20pulled%20on%20the%20chain%20attached%20to%20the%20collar%20on%20Rio%20and%20handed%20the%20chain%20to%20another%20imperial%20knight.%20Rio%20didn%E2%80%99t%20particularly%20resist%20and%20followed%20behind%20the%20man%20while%20being%20pulled%20along.%20%20The%20jail%20was%20in%20an%20underground%20room,%20but%20the%20training%20grounds%20were%20outside%20above%20ground.%20Bertram%20Kingdom%E2%80%99s%20royal%20castle%E2%80%99s%20appearance%20was%20not%20that%20of%20a%20small%20castle%20surrounded%20by%20a%20sturdy%20stone%20wall,%20but%20that%20of%20a%20highly%20artistic%20palace%20with%20white%20stone%20as%20the%20basis.%20However,%20in%20order%20to%20defend%20against%20foreign%20enemy%20invasions,%20solid%20ramparts%20enclosing%20an%20expansive%20area%20and%20practical%20sections%20were%20constructed.%20Extravagant%20and%20valuable%20articles%20were%20scattered%20everywhere%20within%20the%20castle%20walls.%20The%20place%20Rio%20was%20currently%20walking%20through%20was%20a%20wide%20corridor%20facing%20outside%20with%20pillars%20lined%20up%20at%20regular%20intervals%20and%20a%20scarlet%20carpet%20spread%20out%20on%20the%20floor.%20%20While%20moving,%20the%20castle%20guards%20and%20servants%20scrutinized%20him.%20The%20knight%20guiding%20him%20was%20moving%20along%20too%20quickly%20so%20he%20didn%E2%80%99t%20have%20a%20chance%20to%20carefully%20look%20around.%20%20(This%20is%20like%20a%20monkey%20exhibit.%20No,%20even%20worse.)%20%20The%20eyes%20that%20looked%20at%20Rio%20were%20mixed%20with%20sympathy%20and%20scorn.%20It%20was%20the%20same%20expression%20shown%20by%20the%20seldomly%20appearing%20richly-dressed%20residents%20walking%20around%20town.%20Upon%20meeting%20eyes,%20the%20servants%20quickly%20looked%20away.%20%20%E2%80%9CWe%E2%80%99ve%20arrived.%E2%80%9D%20%20Just%20like%20that,%20Rio%20was%20brought%20to%20the%20training%20grounds.%20In%20the%20area%20were%20nobles%20serving%20royalty%20and%20their%20knights%20gathering%20as%20curious%20onlookers%20with%20the%20whole%20matter%20quickly%20becoming%20like%20some%20sort%20of%20show.%20And%20so,%20having%20a%20mock%20sword%20handed%20to%20him,%20Rio%20moved%20to%20the%20center%20of%20the%20training%20grounds%20where%20he%20had%20to%20confront%20an%20imperial%20knight.%20He%20had%20to%20fight%20without%20knowing%20what%20was%20going%20on,%20but%20nothing%20would%20happen%20even%20if%20he%20asks%20questions.%20He%20decided%20to%20focus%20on%20the%20fight%20in%20front%20of%20him%20right%20now.%20%20Fortunately%20the%20handcuffs%20that%20were%20preventing%20the%20movement%20of%20magic%20power%20were%20removed.%20In%20the%20worst%20case,%20he%20could%20now%20enhance%20his%20physical%20abilities%20and%20forcefully%20break%20through%20and%20run%20away.%20But%20running%20can%20wait%20until%20after%20the%20fight.%20After%20all,%20it%E2%80%99d%20be%20best%20if%20things%20can%20be%20solved%20peacefully.%20%20Taking%20a%20stance%20with%20a%20mock%20sword,%20clad%20in%20light%20metal%20armour%20and%20a%20shield,%20Rio%E2%80%99s%20opponent%20gazed%20down%20upon%20Rio%20while%20looking%20down%20at%20him.%20The%20distance%20between%20the%20two%20was%20approximately%2010%20meters.%20The%20imperial%20knight%20didn%E2%80%99t%20move%20from%20that%20spot%20as%20if%20he%20was%20saying%20%E2%80%9Ccome%20at%20me.%E2%80%9D%20In%20response,%20Rio%20simply%20gazed%20silently%20at%20the%20imperial%20knight.%20%20Rio%20was%20simply%20standing%20there%20holding%20the%20sword%20without%20taking%20any%20particular%20stance,%20but%20a%20portion%20of%20the%20quick-witted,%20experienced%20people%20sensed%20that%20Rio%20wasn%E2%80%99t%20an%20ordinary%20kid.%20But%20the%20imperial%20knight%20confronting%20him%20thought%20Rio%20had%20no%20will%20to%20fight.%20Clicking%20his%20tongue%20at%20Rio%E2%80%99s%20behavior,%20he%20decided%20to%20charge%20in%20himself.%20%20%E2%80%9CHaaa!%E2%80%9D%20%20Closing%20in%20ahead%20with%20considerable%20speed,%20he%20attacked%20with%20all%20his%20strength%20as%20if%20to%20mow%20down%20Rio%E2%80%99s%20torso.%20He%20was%20carrying%20a%20mock%20sword%20for%20training.%20However,%20from%20the%20power%20put%20into%20it,%20things%20wouldn%E2%80%99t%20end%20at%20just%20feeling%20pain%20if%20it%20hit.%20Feeling%20clear%20hostility,%20Rio%20decided%20to%20dodge%20the%20imperial%20knight%E2%80%99s%20sword.%20The%20attack%20was%20easily%20dodged%20by%20taking%20half%20a%20step%20to%20the%20side.%20Thereupon%20the%20imperial%20knight%E2%80%99s%20face%20was%20coloured%20in%20shock.%20And%20then%20those%20watching%20in%20the%20surroundings%20widened%20their%20eyes.%20%20Enhancing%20his%20muscle%20and%20body%20strength%20with%20a%20minimal%20amount%20of%20magic%20power,%20Rio%20didn%E2%80%99t%20overlook%20the%20opportunity%20and%20instantly%20thrust%20the%20mock%20sword%20at%20the%20imperial%20knight%E2%80%99s%20throat.%20The%20training%20grounds%20fell%20silent.%20%20%E2%80%9CW-wait!%20I%20simply%20let%20my%20guard%20down%20just%20now!%20I%E2%80%99ll%20do%20it%20seriously%20next%20time!%E2%80%9D%20%20Realizing%20his%20loss,%20the%20imperial%20knight%20hurriedly%20voiced%20his%20protests.%20Finding%20his%20behavior%20amusing,%20the%20silence%20came%20to%20an%20end%20as%20the%20people%20at%20the%20training%20grounds%20began%20sniggering.%20%20%E2%80%9CKu,%20ha,%20hahaha!%20To%20have%20lost%20to%20that%20child.%20The%20quality%20of%20the%20imperial%20knights%20sure%20have%20fallen.%20This%20can%20only%20be%20a%20disgrace.%E2%80%9D%20%20Said%20one%20of%20the%20nobles%20who%20was%20watching%20the%20mock%20battle%20from%20a%20corner%20of%20the%20training%20grounds,%20with%20an%20unnaturally%20loud%20voice%20to%20let%20everyone%20hear.%20%20%E2%80%9CY-yes!%20Just%20as%20Duke%20Huguenot%20said.%20How%20outrageous,%20for%20one%20of%20the%20proud%20imperial%20knights%20to%20make%20that%20kind%20of%20excuse.%E2%80%9D%20%20Moreover,%20the%20nobles%20around%20that%20man%20began%20jeering%20in%20agreement%20with%20him.%20A%20group%20of%20nobles%20separate%20from%20them%20listened%20to%20that%20while%20making%20sour%20expressions.%20Rio%20expressionlessly%20watched%20the%20spectacle.%20%20%E2%80%9CFool!%20Cool%20your%20head!%20Even%20if%20you%20let%20down%20your%20guard,%20a%20loss%20is%20a%20loss.%20A%20prestigious%20imperial%20knight%20should%20honestly%20accept%20his%20loss.%E2%80%9D%20%20Alfred%20scolded%20the%20imperial%20knight%20that%20Rio%20had%20faced.%20As%20one%20would%20expect,%20he%20calmed%20down%20after%20hearing%20the%20vice-captain%E2%80%99s%20words%20and%20lowered%20his%20head%20in%20frustration.%20%20Alfred%20switched%20his%20gaze%20to%20Rio%E2%80%99s%20direction.%20He%20seemed%20to%20be%20thinking%20something%20as%20he%20looked%20at%20Rio,%20but%20soon%20spoke.%20%20%E2%80%9CHmph,%20splendidly%20done.%20Boy.%20With%20this,%20the%20fact%20that%20you%20have%20the%20strength%20to%20have%20rescued%20Kristina-sama%20and%20Flora-sama%20has%20been%20proved.%E2%80%9D%20%E2%80%9CWhat%20meaning%20is%20there%20in%20that?%E2%80%9D%20%20Rio%20asked%20without%20hesitation%20at%20Alfred%E2%80%99s%20somewhat%20high-handed%20words.%20%20%E2%80%9CAh,%20you%20can%20personally%20receive%20His%20Majesty%20the%20King%E2%80%99s%20words%20of%20gratitude.%20There%E2%80%99s%20no%20greater%20honour.%20The%20evaluation%20of%20your%20affair%20will%20also%20be%20conducted%20then.%20A%20room%20will%20be%20prepared%20and%20you%20can%20leave%20jail.%E2%80%9D%20%20He%20forcefully%20spoke%20completely%20one-sidedly.%20As%20if%20not%20doubting%20a%20single%20bit%20that%20the%20king%20was%20an%20absolute%20being%20and%20was%20a%20target%20of%20fear%20and%20awe%20to%20everyone.%20That%20kind%20of%20feeling.%20Leaving%20jail%20aside,%20he%20didn%E2%80%99t%20need%20the%20king%E2%80%99s%20words.%20%20%E2%80%9C...I%E2%80%99m%20honoured.%E2%80%9D%20%20Alfred%20slightly%20frowned%20at%20Rio%E2%80%99s%20response%20that%20didn%E2%80%99t%20carry%20very%20much%20gratefulness.%20Gazing%20at%20Rio%20with%20a%20look%20of%20despise,%20he%20spoke.%20%20%E2%80%9CHmph,%20for%20today%20you%20can%20return%20to%20your%20prepared%20room.%20A%20mage%20will%20also%20be%20prepared%20to%20treat%20your%20wounds%20from%20the%20interrogation.%E2%80%9D%20%E2%80%9CThank%20you%20very%20much.%E2%80%9D%20%20Rio%20felt%20dissatisfaction%20since%20Alfred%20and%20the%20one%20who%20injured%20him%20belonged%20to%20the%20same%20organization,%20but%20tentatively%20conveyed%20his%20thanks.%20%20Thus%20Rio%20was%20finally%20able%20to%20leave%20jail.%20Receiving%20healing%20and%20taking%20a%20bath,%20he%20was%20then%20guided%20to%20his%20room.%20Inside%20was%20a%20girl%20who%20was%20some%20years%20older%20than%20Rio.%20She%20was%20somewhere%20in%20her%20late%20prepubescent%20years.%20%20However,%20the%20girl%E2%80%99s%20beauty%20boasted%20a%20radiance%20that%20even%20a%20famed%20artist%20would%20never%20be%20able%20to%20recreate%20even%20in%20a%20lifetime.%20Described%20in%20a%20single%20phrase,%20it%20would%20be%20%E2%80%9Cperfected%20beauty.%E2%80%9D%20The%20girl%20bowed%20deeply%20to%20Rio%20who%20entered%20the%20room%20and%20spoke%20after%20an%20exquisite%20pause.%20%20%E2%80%9CPleased%20to%20meet%20you.%20I%20am%20called%20Aria%20Governess.%20Employed%20in%20this%20royal%20castle%20as%20a%20court%20lady%20apprentice%20and%20currently%20appointed%20to%20be%20of%20your%20assistance,%20Rio-sama.%20I%20look%20forward%20to%20serving%20you.%E2%80%9D%20%20The%20girl%20said%20with%20a%20blank%20face%20without%20a%20glimpse%20of%20emotion.%20It%20was%20an%20unfaltering,%20lovely%20voice.%20%20%E2%80%9CWhy%20thank%20you,%20treating%20one%20as%20myself%20so%20courteously.%20I%20am%20called%20Rio.%E2%80%9D%20%20Respectfully%20bowing,%20Rio%20returned%20the%20greeting%20seemingly%20without%20having%20taken%20note%20of%20the%20girl%E2%80%99s%20beauty.%20Rio%E2%80%99s%20stance%20was%20that%20as%20long%20as%20the%20other%20party%20bears%20a%20courteous%20attitude,%20he%20would%20also%20treat%20them%20with%20a%20courteous%20attitude.%20The%20same%20goes%20for%20the%20opposite.%20While%20his%20gesture%20didn%E2%80%99t%20conform%20to%20this%20country%E2%80%99s%20way%20of%20showing%20manners,%20Rio%E2%80%99s%20considerably%20respectful%20attitude%20had%20Aria%E2%80%99s%20eyes%20coloured%20over%20surprised,%20although%20it%20was%20ever%20so%20slight.%20It%20wasn%E2%80%99t%20something%20noticeable%20without%20suitable%20powers%20of%20observation,%20but%20Rio%20noticed%20it.%20It%20seemed%20that%20even%20though%20she%20appeared%20expressionless,%20she%20still%20has%20emotions.%20%20%E2%80%9CWhile%20in%20the%20royal%20castle,%20I%20will%20be%20serving%20beside%20Rio-sama.%20Feel%20free%20to%20command%20me%20anything%20should%20you%20have%20a%20request.%E2%80%9D%20%20However,%20Aria%20was%20quite%20skilled%20and%20didn%E2%80%99t%20show%20any%20further%20interest%20towards%20Rio.%20%20%E2%80%9CThen%20for%20now%20I%20have%20just%20one%20question.%20Will%20I%20be%20able%20to%20leave%20the%20royal%20castle%20shortly%20after%20receiving%20the%20words%20of%20His%20Majesty%20the%20King?%E2%80%9D%20%E2%80%9CI%20apologize.%20I%20do%20not%20know%20anything%20about%20that%20matter.%20Your%20audience%20with%20His%20Majesty%20the%20King%20will%20be%20tomorrow.%20How%20Rio-sama%20will%20be%20dealt%20with%20will%20be%20announced%20at%20that%20time.%E2%80%9D%20%20In%20short,%20there%E2%80%99s%20a%20chance%20that%20from%20tomorrow%20on%20he%20will%20continue%20to%20be%20in%20a%20state%20of%20house%20arrest.%20Rio%20felt%20disappointment%20at%20the%20expected%20answer.%20But%20it%20wasn%E2%80%99t%20bad%20compared%20to%20when%20he%20was%20in%20jail.%20%20%E2%80%9CI%20see.%20Thank%20you%20very%20much.%E2%80%9D%20%E2%80%9CNo,%20that%20is%20simply%20my%20duty.%20If%20you%20have%20no%20further%20questions,%20shall%20I%20bring%20your%20meal?%E2%80%9D%20%E2%80%9CThat%20would%20be%20wonderful.%20By%20all%20means,%20thank%20you.%E2%80%9D%20%20Having%20not%20eaten%20anything%20decent%20for%20several%20days,%20Rio%20displayed%20a%20smile%20suitable%20for%20his%20age%20as%20he%20replied.%20%20(Nothing%20to%20do%20anyway.%20Let%E2%80%99s%20just%20eat%20as%20much%20luxurious%20food%20as%20I%20can%20as%20my%20consolation.)%20%20While%20bearing%20something%20grim%20in%20his%20mind,%20Rio%20thought%20about%20the%20royal%20court%E2%80%99s%20cooking%20that%20was%20probably%20being%20delivered.">Main</a> // Next Chapter >></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13137507889278751188noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-65586688234879021062015-08-12T10:55:00.003+08:002015-08-12T10:56:47.320+08:00[Seirei Gensouki] Episode 3 - Kidnapping<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Important note before reading. The word I had previously translated as "mana" has now been changed to "magic power" because of an explanation that occurs later on in the story. Chapter 2 has been edited appropriately.</span></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If one walks along the complex streets, turns around the corner and enters the back alleys, they could find the red-light district.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Along the way, the guards were in a fluster, but the red-light district was the same as always.</span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-4008dc0c-1fc2-38d5-fd32-911436144064" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The red-light district was not far away from the marketplace and the plebeian district.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At that place, as the sun began to set, women selling away their virginity and men buying them became a commonplace sight.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sweet talking and price haggling could be heard here and there while walking along the street. </span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The public order in the red-light district seemed bad but in reality was decent.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Reason being that the customers also included nobles.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Most establishments were high-quality brothels operating under permission from the country.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Among those were a small section of illegal brothels which, under a tacit understanding, were all located close to the slum district.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio stepped into the area.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Compared to the legal red-light district, the area had considerably less people and not a single person could be seen outside attracting customers.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio cut across that place at a quick pace. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was not a very pleasant place.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Within less than a minute, Rio arrived at the slum district.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Release me!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thereupon Rio encountered a troublesome scene. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There were four men wearing rough, light leather armour with cheap one-handed swords hanging by their waists.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Causing a ruckus for some reason, the men had the appearance of a group of rogues. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Among the men, two of them each carried a sack.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One of the two sacks thrashed around greatly, as if something living was inside.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“What...is this!? Where am I? Who are you? Release me! Do you think you will get away so easily for this behavior? Father will not forgive you!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As Rio was wondering what was going on after seeing the struggling sack and the men, a voice that belonged to a very young girl could be heard from inside the sack.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Tch, she woke up. Such a pain in the arse! Quit strugglin’ dammit!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The man carrying the sack shouted with a loud voice.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thus, as if it withered up, the thrashing of the sack quieted down.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“You idiot! Keep it down!”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Y, yes. Sorry aniki.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The man who was called ‘aniki’ also shouted in a loud voice, but the man who was berated meekly apologized.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Among them, it seems the man being referred to as ‘aniki’ was the leader.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Keh, reckoned it strange to get ten gold for some simple courier job, but just as I thought, seems it ain’t any decent package.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The man called ‘aniki’ grimaced as he clicked his tongue before gazing at the sack containing the girl with an annoyed expression.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Hehe, either way, ten gold is just too good. With that much, all of us could spend several months just drinkin’ and bangin’.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The men all showed smiles dyed in lust.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The leader also flashed a similar smile.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In this country, a plebeian family could live for two months on a single gold coin if spent economically.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Incidentally, the coin exchange rate is 10 small copper coins for 1 large copper coin, 10 large copper coins for 1 small silver coin, 10 small silver coins for 1 large silver coin, 10 large silver coins for 1 gold coin, and 25 gold coins for 1 magic gold coin. </span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“In any case, wonder what kinda fella’s inside? From the size and weight, it’s prob’ some brat girl.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Seemingly unable to restrain his curiosity, the man carrying the sack asked the leader.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Prob’ some noble or merchant girl. ...Hey, open it up and see.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It seemed the leader also held some interest and ordered the sack open with a vulgar smile.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“That alright?”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Hmph, the guy didn’t say nothin’ bout’ not opening the sack. Shouldn’t be any problem just taking a quick look at the brat’s face. Almost at the spot anyway.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The leader snorted at the subordinate’s inquiry.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“You keep watch for any people passing by. Though I doubt that’s any worry all the way out here.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The leader ordered to one of his men not carrying a sack, who then replied “Lemme see her face too,” before starting to keep watch of the area.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, from Rio’s perspective, the person wasn’t properly keeping watch at all.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Now then…”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After checking that there weren’t any people around, the man carrying the sack roughly dropped it to the ground.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Kya.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With a soft sound, the girl inside the sack let out a scream.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Hehe, would’ve loved to have some fun with the fella in here if she’s old enough.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Smiling after hearing the girl’s scream, the man impatiently untied the hemp cord keeping the sack shut.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After about ten seconds, the man completely untied the rope.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And thus, upon seeing the girl inside, the men let out voices of admiration.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The girl who appeared was a kid about the same age as Rio.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With sparkling violet blonde hair, light blue eyes and a slightly unyielding expression, she was a beautiful girl with an appearance like that of an angel.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">From her looks and the dress she was wearing, she exuded a high-class atmosphere.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">From her appearance, Rio instantly came to the conclusion that the girl was most likely a noble.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There was no mistake that the supposed noble’s daughter was in the middle of being kidnapped.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, why were a bunch of worthless rogues given the role of delivering her?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Was the security of noble mansions really bad enough to let someone get kidnapped by these kinds of thugs?</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Ah, gave the order ‘cause I wasn’t able to hold back no more. Seems we got involved in some pretty dangerous case.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The leader had an annoyed expression as he scratched his head.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Finding out that a noble had been kidnapped, he finally realized how grave the matter was.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Well, no helpin’ it now that we’ve brought ‘er all the way here. Won’t get the rest of the reward money ‘til we bring ‘er to the agreed spot either. Let’s hurry up and move. Close it up again.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Unfortunately for the girl, the man didn’t put a stop to the crime. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The girl glared harshly at the man.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Well, that’s the case. Be quiet and get back into the sack, ‘kay?”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“No! <Flame Shot> ….gaha!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As the girl held out her hand chanting something, magic power slowly began emitting from her palm. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But before that magic power could manifest itself as magic, the leader kicked her away.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Kah...kah…”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Seeing the girl getting kicked towards him, Rio fell into shock.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At the same time, his interest was pulled towards the magic the girl tried to cast.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The girl had attempted to utilize the same light Rio used to enhance his body and physical abilities using a method unknown to him</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Before the girl’s hand, some kind of geometric pattern-like figure was about to appear.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Tch, let my guard down since I reckoned her a brat, but turns out she can use magic, eh. As expected of a noble’s daughter. That was close.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The unfamiliar term “magic” reached Rio’s ears.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Wu....”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Seeing the girl bent over in pain clutching her stomach, one of the men spoke.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Uhm, she ain’t dead, right?”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Should be alright. Groaning, after all.”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“They might not give us the money if they find out she’s injured…”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Ah? ….Ah, well, when the time comes, right?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At the leader’s arrogant attitude, the men put on insincere smiles while worrying.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As the group of thugs was having its indecent conversation...</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(What should I do…)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While holding back the impatience in his heart, Rio questioned to himself.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The girl wouldn’t die just from that kick.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But was it alright to just abandon her?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hypothetically, what would happen if he jumped in to save the girl?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It’s easy to tell that things wouldn’t turn out well.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There were four enemies. Judging from their presence, Rio estimated that their ability wasn’t much.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Still, he would definitely be no match for them.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What’s more, all of them carried weapons.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While he was unarmed.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The enemy would probably take Rio’s life without hesitation.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Even if he had seriously trained in ancient martial arts in his previous life, Rio has never killed a person before.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In other words, the armed enemies would come at him all at once with every intent to kill while Rio would have to fight unarmed.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Furthermore, if he ends up getting cut by those cheap swords, there was a very high chance of succumbing to illness from even the slightest scratch.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Those who don’t hesitate to kill are comparatively strong.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio remembered those words from his grandfather who was his master.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The matter would come to an end on its own if he just kept watching.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">She probably won’t have a pleasant fate, but the girl will just get taken away and that will be the end.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio had heard rumours of illegal brothels in the area that deal in little girls and gather up a rather sadistic bunch.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The girl just might be being taken to that kind of place.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But it had nothing to do with him.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Watching her off here would leave a bad taste in his mouth, but there’s no need to risk his precious life for a complete stranger.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But was that really alright?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As Rio was thinking that, coincidentally, purely by chance, the girl and Rio’s eyes met.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The girl’s face was warped with fear and anger while Rio suddenly felt like running away.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Just then, the sack another man was carrying began to move about.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Because of the sudden movement, along with his mind being on the girl who had fallen over, the man ended up dropping the sack.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Ah.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The sack fell to the ground, accompanied by a damp sound, as if there was something soft yet heavy inside.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Kya.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At the same time, from inside the sack, the voice of another girl likely around the same age as the girl that was kicked could be heard.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Tch, hope she ain’t hurt. Hey.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With an annoyed voice, the leader ordered the man who had carried the sack.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The ordered man opened the sack with a bitter smile.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A moment’s opening. If he was going to do it, now was the time.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Dammit!)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio instantly clad his whole body in magic power, and with a speed unfitting for a child’s body, shot out like a bullet.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While being shocked at the never before experienced acceleration and the burden brought with it, the enhanced body did not feel like that of a child’s at all.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In order to quickly end the fight, Rio began suppressing the enemy.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Wha-”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The leader, who noticed Rio’s advance a moment sooner, attempted to pull out his sword.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But at that moment, Rio preceded him by diving into his chest and flicking away the sword.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Gwha!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He then immediately took his arm, pulling as if dislocating his joints, and threw him.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was a moment that splendidly displayed the techniques fostered in his previous life that he had never used in live combat before.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio’s brute strength enhanced with magic allowed him to throw a large man almost twice as big as himself.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The man who didn’t know how to cushion the fall collided with the ground, letting out a dull sound.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(I can do this!)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio continued on moving his body.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Eh?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He hammered a jump kick into the abdomen of the still stunned man beside him, and made use of the force and his body weight to drive his opponent into the ground.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Gah!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After making sure the man was unconscious, Rio prepared to take on the other enemies.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“This damn brat!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Seemingly in a rage from their allies being taken out, the two remaining men came at Rio at once.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If the girls were taken as hostages, Rio would have no chance of winning.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The more people you have, the more options you can choose from.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio feared that.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, the men were drowned in their emotions and forgot to choose the best option possible.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Die!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A widely swung 50 cm long one-handed sword came slicing towards Rio’s shoulder.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dodging half a step to the side, Rio faced the man’s chin and shot a sharp palm strike at it.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That cleanly decided it and took the man’s consciousness.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Y-you brat!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The last man swung his sword in a panic.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The sword was unable to hit Rio.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dodging the crude sword swings and easily diving into the man’s chest, Rio twisted the man’s arm, forcibly disarming him, then throwing him, knocking out the man.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Ha...ha…”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He did it.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He ended up doing it.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">His body moved before he realized it.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Going as far as risking his life, saving a girl who had absolutely no connection to him.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He didn’t even move around that much and yet his breathing wouldn’t calm down.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">His body was hot and his heartbeat was so loud it reverberated throughout his entire body.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Loud to the point of wanting to scream to shut it up.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Judging by the force he felt from his blows, he shouldn’t have killed them.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He didn’t have any clear killing intent either.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But several bones should have been broken or internal organs damaged.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Would they be able to survive in this world with that amount of damage?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It wouldn’t be strange if those injuries became fatal and they died.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Images of defeat appeared in his mind one after another.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio began to feel guilt at the fact that he might’ve dealt them potentially fatal wounds.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What was he doing without being prepared to kill a person?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He calmly did something that might lead to murder.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It couldn’t be helped.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">They’re certainly not dead.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That’s why he didn’t kill anyone.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As rationalizations came to mind one after another, he began to feel disgusted with himself.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There’s no helping with what’s been done.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At the very least he should have saved completely innocent girls.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As his face warped with complex emotions, he suddenly remembered about the girls and just then felt their gazes.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There were two girls whose appearances closely resembled each other.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It seemed the girl who was still in the sack moved over to the girl that was kicked.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Their hair was a violet blonde colour, and with facial features closely resembling that of each other, Rio judged they were probably sisters.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Incidentally, the girl who woke up first, started struggling, and came out of her sack was probably the older sister while the girl who got out of her sack afterward was probably the younger sister.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Are you...alright?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With his breath still rough, Rio timidly called out to the two.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thereupon, the girl who was probably the older sister gave Rio a sharp glare.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">She should be around the same age as me yet she’s letting out an unbelievable presence.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Is what Rio absentmindedly thought.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Floating before her hand, clutching the area where she was kicked, was a glowing geometric pattern.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Is that...also magic?)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Kah, gah, save us, faster!”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“O-onee-sama. You just started casting <heal>. Don’t strain…”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Not listening to her little sister’s words of restraint, the older sister came over to Rio and slapped him.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Eh?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A dry sound resounded throughout the area.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He had no clue what was going on with this sudden turn of events.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Why was the girl before him mad?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Why was he who had saved her hit?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Amidst the confusion, he slowly began to feel the pain on his cheek.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“You were watching us from afar the whole time right? In that case, rescue us sooner!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Once more, another slap came towards Rio’s cheek.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This time he reflexively grabbed her arm first and defended against it.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thereupon the girl’s lovely face was warped with frustration, then she slapped with her other hand.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“…”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He began to feel anger towards the hysterically violent girl for her unreasonable actions, but he couldn’t imprudently injure her.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Release me! Dirty! Stinky!”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“O-onee-sama, he rescued us, so you shouldn’t get that angry, okay?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The younger sister rebuked the rioting older sister.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It seemed that girl also thought Rio was smelly as it showed on her face.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Seeing that, he received a big shock.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That being said, at the younger sister’s words, the older sister finally faced Rio and stopped being violent.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Even if he knew the other party was a young girl, treating him unreasonably from the very beginning caused rage to begin boiling inside Rio.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Even more so because he was in such turmoil.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He involuntarily ended up glaring at the older sister from under his ruffled bangs.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“U-uhm, thank you very much for rescuing us.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Perhaps having sensed Rio had become ill-humoured, the younger sister came over to Rio and lowered her head.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“No, it’s alright.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Unable to ignore the girl who properly thanked him, although saying little, he replied.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Somewhat sulkily moving his gaze away from the girls.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“What is with that behavior?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Seems like the older sister couldn’t stand Rio’s behavior.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“O-onee-sama!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fearing the atmosphere becoming dangerous again, the younger sister rebuked the older sister.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Humph, in accordance with Flora, I’ll forgive you.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It seemed the younger sister’s name was Flora.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Flora was relieved to see her older sister calm down, only for the older sister to immediately pour oil onto the fire once more.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Beggar, guide us to the noble district. Also, those men...let’s see. Take two of them along with us.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio was dumbfounded at the smooth, commanding tone of voice.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“You hurled them around. You can do at least that much, right!?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Seemingly not liking Rio’s behavior, the girl pressed on with her tone becoming somewhat hysteric.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Probably because she had just been released from her panic and her mind was still upset, she was in a state of irritation. However, Rio didn’t have the leeway to realize that.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I-is that how you ask people for favors?”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">From the standpoint of the girls, it was a necessary request and Rio understood that.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, due to the over-the-head order, he felt rebellious.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He wanted to have her sympathize with him a little.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“U-uhm, excuse me! I also ask of you. Uhm, I’ll definitely request father to reward you!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio’s current impression of nobles was the worst.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thanks to Flora, it just barely didn’t fall any lower.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">These two girls surely lived their lives without a single discomfort.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Anything they desired was given to them.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Their cuteness was so dazzling compared to his shabby self, his self as Haruto aside, his self as Rio couldn’t look directly at Flora.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“...Alright.”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio reluctantly agreed.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Thank you very much!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio immediately got to work.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tearing up the sacks the girls were stuffed in, Rio bound the men.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He took all their weapons and items of monetary value.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was a bit unwieldy to carry, but in his current situation, even the smallest bit of money was needed.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Since earlier he’d been acting criminal-like, but now decided to go all out.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He had no clue what happens to the possessions of criminals according to this country’s laws, but he figured there was no problem taking anything worth money for himself.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Humph, how greedy…”</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Said the older sister, apparently called Kristina, while looking down on him.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He felt some displeasure, but he had already built up some resistance, so he pretended not to hear and continued working.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After the work was done, Rio’s group passed through the red-light district and headed to the marketplace.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Along the way, the adults in the red-light district showed their curiosity and stared at them, but sensing it was something troublesome, not a single person called out to them.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Arriving at the marketplace, Rio’s group encountered guards who immediately found and took Kristina and Flora into custody.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2015/01/seirei-gensouki-episode-2-awakening.html"><< Previous Chapter</a> // <a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2015/01/seirei-gensouki-konna-sekai-de-deaeta.html">Main</a> // <a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2015/08/seirei-gensouki-episode-4-interrogation.html">Next Chapter >></a></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13137507889278751188noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-71441166936694998692015-06-20T12:34:00.000+08:002015-06-20T12:34:47.740+08:00Still Alive!Honestly, I didn't think people would actually be asking about what happened to me. As so, here I am to update people on what's going on with the Seirei Gensouki translation.<br />
<a name='more'></a>First of all, translation is still ongoing. I have <b>NOT </b>dropped the project. I've simply been busy between college, social obligations, keeping up to date on new information, Internet and my laptop being unstable, and other things leaving me without a substantial amount of time to translate. Recently having to go overseas for a wedding with no Internet access did not help and I still have yet to finish catching up on everything I missed while away.<br />
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Next, the current progress on the translation. Chapters 3 and 4 are already 100% translated and are currently going through editing, translation check, and quality check. I actually could have released these two chapters a long time ago, but my pride refuses to output anything without trying to make it as professional quality as I possibly can. This may change in the future, but the current process for each chapter is as follows: TL -> first run edit by me -> additional edit runs by assistant editor(s) -> TLC and QC by me -> release.<br />
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In the interest of attempting to reduce the amount of time required for each release, Asololo, Vol, and Sekibane (new guy here who the staff of this site know over on Skype) are assisting me with the editing process. Asololo as a full time editor for the series and Vol and Sekibane whenever they have time.<br />
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While I'm here, I'll attempt to clarify a question I seem to be getting a lot. I am well aware that Roxism HQ is also translating Seirei Gensouki. Before I started my translation, I notified them that I was going to start my own from scratch and they acknowledged that. At the time of those events, they only had around 4-5 chapters released. Right now the current situation is essentially as follows. Roxism HQ does the faster, but low quality (I recall hearing that it's machine translation based, but I haven't confirmed that for myself, nor have I actually read their translation) while my translation is slow, but I try to make it as high quality as possible.<br />
<br />
I'm sure some may be wondering why I decided to start up my own translation of Seirei Gensouki when someone was already working on it, and there are multiple reasons. One of the biggest reasons is for a sense of unity. I'm most likely going to be translating several terms differently from how Roxism translates them, so if people read back and forth between the two translations, there would be lots of confusion. Another reason is for a sense of completion for myself. It just doesn't sit well with me if I skip over translating certain parts. Another reason is quality. I'm of the belief that quality is better than quantity. Having heard from several people that Roxism's translation isn't exactly the best, and I had plenty of interest in Seirei Gensouki, I decided to attempt at doing a high quality translation to help appease those that also prefer quality over quantity.<br />
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To finish up this little status report, my current plans for Seirei Gensouki is as follows. Chapters 3 and 4 will be released when they're finished as soon as possible. After that, there will be a lull in progress again for an indeterminate amount of time as I attempt to clean up the loose ends of various real life obligations. Once I'm able to take care of them, I'll start doing a bit of a TL rush (minus the weekends when I have little free time) and attempt to get as many chapters out as I can while summer vacation is still ongoing, though I will most likely pause translation of Seirei Gensouki once I've completed work on the first arc of the story to work on a secret project.<br />
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Also, for those those impatient ones, I will be adding a status condition for chapters that have yet to be released to the content page. Don't expect it to be updated very frequently though as I'm not able to work on the translation very often in my current real life situation.<br />
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With that all said and done, Kyureki signing out.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13137507889278751188noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-55579204967678062642015-05-05T23:21:00.002+08:002015-05-05T23:28:47.366+08:00[Mushi Uta ] Fan Art -- Anime Crossover CollectionIt's Quiz Time!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOMnaQvYGFlmN7W_htU3zudB81kEA_feGjTTxSHEFIO8FKIeOP-GwXq21nTKmo4wCC3_F7EBjDRsCWUn3WiQ1tUUdf9TX2abVqSzMf18X8vpN2pFrQYj1eniwBq4vuqY16Y1O-68kRMfuJ/s1600/50055172_p2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOMnaQvYGFlmN7W_htU3zudB81kEA_feGjTTxSHEFIO8FKIeOP-GwXq21nTKmo4wCC3_F7EBjDRsCWUn3WiQ1tUUdf9TX2abVqSzMf18X8vpN2pFrQYj1eniwBq4vuqY16Y1O-68kRMfuJ/s1600/50055172_p2.png" height="640" width="288" /></a></div>
For full length and other crossovers, click read<br />
Can you recognize them all?!<br />
For each picture, name its anime title, OP/ED(if applicable) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGJd_HyShbfmTvseEZLDryOsitcUye4ZCJhSbMN-zDO4lSmbs1T0Ndr0gEkAaUsTZtTl_EothAf7lcQJgVOUerpNLnXLCQu74HnuIZ9n-5Dni9FoGyu2IvUeEL3qr1Lxx6QylmieWC1nds/s1600/%E6%A4%8E%E5%90%8D%E6%A8%B9-05.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGJd_HyShbfmTvseEZLDryOsitcUye4ZCJhSbMN-zDO4lSmbs1T0Ndr0gEkAaUsTZtTl_EothAf7lcQJgVOUerpNLnXLCQu74HnuIZ9n-5Dni9FoGyu2IvUeEL3qr1Lxx6QylmieWC1nds/s1600/%E6%A4%8E%E5%90%8D%E6%A8%B9-05.png" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNd4VZ7pnTS9D7ahHwPZKLlyEgVVCBFeVqoPuNmAIl1tYQ8JI8cN2RY_etXYpOaZAldyFjEw96_HyWYSasRjz1ZOOrnsE1EVkkqvXIuCXMEfomP-7d6f3J0o4caqyW8hfhDOysHIyjQpiZ/s1600/5623511020120525122254023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNd4VZ7pnTS9D7ahHwPZKLlyEgVVCBFeVqoPuNmAIl1tYQ8JI8cN2RY_etXYpOaZAldyFjEw96_HyWYSasRjz1ZOOrnsE1EVkkqvXIuCXMEfomP-7d6f3J0o4caqyW8hfhDOysHIyjQpiZ/s1600/5623511020120525122254023.jpg" height="400" width="288" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Artist: 椎名樹 (1~9)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Artist: 冬の流ying (10~11)</div>
<br />
<br />(I tried to maximize the first two as much as possible, if you would like to see a clearer version, let me know and i can direct you to the office source) Winghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11481201187303784651noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-31250431711454288812015-04-14T23:21:00.001+08:002015-04-14T23:21:50.174+08:00[Mushi Uta v4 ] Chapter 1.04: Chiharu Part 2Sorry guys, dying here from projects and exams.<br />
<br />
P.S: If you play MH4U and see me (Wing), remember to say hi =D. Currently G3<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
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Version: 1.01<br />
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<![endif]--><br /><br />1.04 <br /><br />Chiharu Part 2 <br /><br /> <br /><br />After parking her bike in front of the Urban Tower, Chiharu couldn’t help but widen her eyes in disbelief. <br /><br />“Woah --- Did a typhoon or earthquake happened here or something??” <br /><br />In front of the corridor connecting the Tower and Dome, the ground had split deeply into two. It looked as if a bulldozer had plowed its way through, the Tower’s wall was also destroyed, a large hole through the side. Even though she herself had suspected a natural disaster, if that was really the case, wouldn’t her who was living in the vicinity know about it then? <br /><br />The surroundings were gradually turning dark. It could be that yesterday night it was dark when she was leaving the Dome, which was why she probably didn’t see the ruined area. <br /><br />“Could it be that the construction has restarted? Or maybe they are planning on re-paving the road…” <br /><br />After locking her bike, Chiharu walked towards the Dome. <br /><br />The Dome’s entrance was the same as yesterday; unlocked, and as such she successfully entered without any problem. Chiharu was humming through her nose as she walked into the lobby and walked up the stalled escalator. <br /><br />Although the ruined situation outside was incomprehensible, the lounge paradise on the second floor remained unchanged. <br /><br />The trees glistened its greenness amidst the darkness of the night. <br /><br />The soil was as soft as one’s bed. <br /><br />And --- <br /><br />“I’ve come back, to see you!” <br /><br />Just like yesterday, a long-haired teenage girl was lying on the ground sleeping. For some reason, Chiharu could not help but bear a mysterious nostalgic feeling towards her. <br /><br />She kind of felt that she know the reason why. <br /><br />“I have a lot of question that I want to ask you… but seeing that cute sleeping face of yours right now, how could I bring myself to wake you up~~” <br /><br />Chiharu showed a smile, and lied down next to the teenage girl. Turning her body a hundred eighty degrees upward, she then smiled before continuing with a whisper. <br /><br />“Hey, let me tell you something about myself… I… don’t have the memories of five years ago… the memory of my childhood.” <br /><br />She had spoken a secret that she hadn’t told anyone else beside her mother. <br /><br />“I believed I shouldn’t have forgotten these memories. I felt I’ve done something horrible to someone, that’s why I can’t help but feel guilty about it even now --- I can’t just forget all about it, and live happy ever after… I still have things to do… that kind of feeling.” <br /><br />Chiharu continued her confession with that unknown someone. <br /><br />--- <i>Right? I must have forgotten something really important…</i> <br /><br />Lying on the ground, Chiharu raised her head to look at the teenage girl opposite of her. <br /><br />“Hey, do you possibly know… who I am?” <br /><br />The only response the sleeping teenage girl gave was her soft breathing. <br /><br />Chiharu chuckled, as she subconsciously gave in her body to dream-land, and closed her eyes.<br />
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Winghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11481201187303784651noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-28803098864785943522015-03-17T05:22:00.000+08:002015-03-17T05:22:58.251+08:00Overlap Summer 2015 ProjectFirst of all, apologies to those that have been waiting for me to release the next chapter of Seirei Gensouki. Lots of stuff has been preventing me from working on it such as hardware failure lasting all the way through the rest of my winter break and currently midterms (which I'm procrastinating from studying for just writting this post >_>). <br />
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Anywho, the point of this post is about the Summer 2015 Project by Overlap that was announced a couple days ago. For those that don't know about it, <a href="http://over-lap.co.jp/narou_project/">here's a link for you</a> if you read Japanese. If you can't, well the gist of it is that a whole slew of webnovels from Syosetsuka are being commercialized such as Arifureta Shokugyou de Sekai Saikyou (it's project 2 in the link with sketches of Yue by TakayaKi) which is hosted on Japtem. I for one am very excited about this news because World Teacher is included among those entries. <a name='more'></a><br />
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World Teacher is a webnovel that is just so chock full of things that I'm a complete and utter sucker for (honobono, strong non-blood related family ties, a MC that agrees very well with my own personal beliefs, and more). On top of that, the commercialization of the novel is going be illustrated by Nardack. NARDACK! I'm practically foaming at the mouth at this and can't wait to see images pop up. Without a doubt I'm going to be purchasing the novels if I'm able to. <br />
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With the rant over, I'll wrap this up with one thing. My midterms will be over this week, so once I've gotten through that, I'll have a week of spring break. As such, I plan on getting that chapter 3 of Seirei Gensouki out sometime during this upcoming weekend and will attempt to get another chapter out after that before I head back into college again. <br />
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Kyureki signing out.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13137507889278751188noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-47413060702883759992015-02-12T08:07:00.000+08:002015-04-14T23:22:51.086+08:00[Mushi Uta v4 ] Chapter 1.03: The OthersSorry for being inactive past months, was addicted to Shigatsu wa kimi no uso (Caught up on both Anime/Manga) nearly lost my eyesight from tears, and now addicted to Dying Light. Soon I'll die from schoolwork overload but who cares, Kao-chan FTW! PLEASE GOD! MAKE HER LIVE!!! don't make her become the 2nd Mari Hanashiro D= <br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<br />
1.03 <br />
<br />
The Others <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Near Nishito City’s train station there was an upscale hotel known as the Nishito Imperial Hotel. On its highest floor, there was a suite. <br />
<br />
The interior of the suite consisted of a bedroom and two living rooms combined together, making it very spacious. Within the suite, every piece of furniture was a foreign-made high class good, and the sofa was so soft that it could almost swallow up to one’s waist. <br />
<br />
Munakata Kaiji was a manager of multiple urban and resort hotels. He had almost up to eighty percent of shares of this Imperial Hotel. In other words, he is the owner without the actual title. Due to the sudden visit of such important higher-ups, the hotel hastily prepared this room for his stay. <br />
<br />
“……” <br />
<br />
In the living room near the door, many people could be seen enveloped by silence. <br />
<br />
A middle-aged man with his hair pulled back that had a mix of white hair, sitting on a one-person size sofa, was Munakata Kaiji. He was a successful business man who had single-handedly shaped his fortune, not even with the help from a secretary or a driver. He was wearing a famous brand suit, playing a glass of liquid with his hand. <br />
<br />
Separated by a table, sitting alone on the opposite side of a three-person size sofa was Anmoto Shiika. She was classified as a Hishu level one ranked Mushitsuki by the Special Environmental Preservation Bureau for being the only Mushitsuki to ever recover from the Fallen state. She was wearing a one-piece dress that Munakata had asked the hotel to prepare, holding her head down low as if she was afraid to look up. <br />
<br />
Around the table, there were two other people. <br />
<br />
Sitting on a two-person size sofa, a teenage boy around the age of fifteen or sixteen --- Kandori Yoichi. He was wearing a casual outfit T-shirt paired with jeans, and was staring at Shiika with a weak smirk. <br />
<br />
And lastly, a slender teenage girl wearing a school uniform who was leaning next to the heater with her arms forked in front of her chest --- Sugitsu Matsuri. Different from Yoichi who arrived here yesterday from another city, she was a local high school student. Her traditional Japanese-style hair and slender eyes were very unique, but her clenched lips emitted a rather sinister impression. <br />
<br />
On the other hand, He --- Shirotani Reiji was sitting on the sofa placed at a distance, staring out the window. He crossed his arms behind his head, before letting out a long yawn. This awkward atmosphere that was going on right now didn’t bother him the slightest. <br />
<br />
“Well… Where is ‘she’? Isn’t she the one who wanted to see (Fuyuhotaru) the most?” <br />
<br />
Munakata’s calm words interrupted the ongoing silence, yet his gaze still remained focused on the glass. <br />
<br />
“She said she couldn’t bring herself to face (Fuyuhotaru).” <br />
<br />
The one who replied was Yoichi, he tilted his head curiously looking at Shiika while shrugging his shoulders as he said that. <br />
<br />
“Even if that’s not the case, it’s impossible to gather all of the officials in such a short period of time. Wasn’t the initial gathering location much further west than this? Why did you choose to stay in such a half-ass city like this?” <br />
<br />
“I am really sorry that this is a half-ass city huh, you’re free to GO anywhere you like you know?” <br />
<br />
“Ah sorry sorry, I didn’t mean it like that. By the way, where is your sister?” <br />
<br />
“I couldn’t get in touch with her, the time was too rushed after all.” <br />
<br />
“In a few minutes, I will explain to you the reason why I have asked you all to come here. But first, let me start off with the introductions.” <br />
<br />
Munakata’s hand waved quickly in front of Shiika: <br />
<br />
“She is Anmoto Shiika, (Mushibane)’s new leader --- (Snowfly).” <br />
<br />
Not just Yoichi and Matsuri were stunned dumbfounded, Shiika herself was surprised speechless, staring blankly at Munakata. <br />
<br />
“W-What..?! Ha? Wait a sec!” <br />
<br />
“W-What do you mean by that, Munakata-san! New leader?!” <br />
<br />
“U-Um…! Me…?...” <br />
<br />
“Shiika-kun, they are the remaining officers that (Mushibane) has left now. They represent many of our members’ opinion and perspectives, although there are some more who didn’t manage to come. And not only Mushitsuki, but ordinary people included.” <br />
<br />
Munakata did not look at the confused trio as he continued. <br />
<br />
“As for me, I’m one of (Mushibane)’s supporters, mainly responsible for providing financial assistance and facilities, in other words, you can think of me as a sponsor –“ <br />
<br />
“Munakata-san!” <br />
<br />
The one who shouted was Yoichi. He put away the smirk he had, showing a furious expression as he tugged at Munakata’s shirt. <br />
<br />
“We will be very troubled if you just go on without us! Indeed, we’ve received a lot of assistance from you, but there’s no reason for us to let you do as you wish. Who, and when was it decided that this brat will replace (Ladybird) and become our new leader?!” <br />
<br />
“She’s not a brat, (Shinika). She should be in the same age as you, (Ladybird), and (Aijisupa), but older than (Harenshisu) by a year.” <br />
<br />
“It’s not the problem of age, but rather the reasons why you would consider her becoming our new leader. Do you mind telling us those reasons first?” <br />
<br />
Matsuri interrupted the conversation from the side. Despite being polite in formality, her tone was sharp and straightforward. <br />
<br />
Amidst the explosive atmosphere, only Shiika was blankly staring into the space. After she finally came to her senses, she was looking back and forth between Munakata and the other two in panic. <br />
<br />
“…Tsk!” <br />
<br />
On the side, Reiji lightly sucked his teeth. <br />
<br />
To him, the issue of becoming the new leader or not was completely irrelevant; he had already known that it would cause an uproar. What pissed him off was the attitude of Shiika who behaved like a very ordinary teenage girl. <br />
<br />
Within him, he questioned his friend who had long passed away. <br />
<br />
<i>Is she really the (Fuyuhotaru) that you’ve mentioned… Rina? </i><br />
<br />
“In order for me to explain, I need to confirm the current status of (Mushibane) first. (Snowfly), this was originally intended to brief you as well, so please listen carefully.” <br />
<br />
“…O-Okay.” <br />
<br />
“Right now, (Mushibane) is an organization consisting of three hundred Mushitsuki and one hundred ordinary people. Last Christmas --- the battle at Hashiba City against the SEPB, as well as the unauthorized attack of (Vihookumosu) at Housawa Town has caused us to lose many of our members. Our numbers now are significantly reduced compared to our peak period. But none of those were the real issue.” <br />
<br />
Munakata gazed at the glass near his hand, while continuing on to explain with a calm tone. Shiika obediently listened to him quietly, Yoichi and Matsui could not help but back down and shut their mouths on the side. <br />
<br />
“Tachibana Rina ---“ <br />
<br />
As he spoke those words, his brow lightly bent. Yoichi and Matsuri’s expression both hardened. Shiika sorrowfully bit her lips lightly. Out of everyone, only Reiji didn’t have any change of expression, he was still upholding an indifferent expression. <br />
<br />
“Everything happened because of the loss of (Ladybird). Perhaps since the moment we’ve lost our founder, who was also our hope, (Mushibane) had already lost its purpose. Tell you the truth, when I heard the news of her death, I’ve come to realize that everything was over. It was … our defeat.” <br />
<br />
A solemn silence enveloped the entire suite. Yoichi lowered his head quietly, while on the other hand Matsuri was trying to hold in her tears. <br />
<br />
“To be honest, after that I felt nothing really mattered. In the past, (Mushibane) was divided into East, West, South, and North, four different areas and was each assigned a leader directly by (Ladybird). After losing (Ladybird), these people have been doing things on their own, and it didn’t take long for us to fall apart into the state we’re in right now. However, I did not intend on stopping them, other people probably think the same.” <br />
<br />
No one objected, which meant they all agreed with what Munakata had said. <br />
<br />
“Shirakashi Ubuki --- Even when this SEPB member offered a deal, I was not interested in the slightest. But only one person wanted to take action, and it was him --- (Aijisupa).” <br />
<br />
Four pairs of eyes immediately focused onto Reiji. He didn’t pay any mind to them, continue to accept their gazes with his indifferent expression. <br />
<br />
“I’ve been wanting to ask about that guy, just who the hell he is? I’ve never seen him before.” <br />
<br />
“Me too.” <br />
<br />
Upon hearing those two, Shiika turned to look at Reiji in surprise. She seemed to have accidently mistaken Reiji as one of (Mushibane)’s officials. <br />
<br />
“He is not one of (Mushibane)’s. From what he has said, it seems like he is one of Rina’s childhood friends, and is also a Mushitsuki. When he was searching for Rina’s whereabouts, it was me who decided to come in contact with him. Which was during the time when I was intending on ignoring Shirakashi Ubuki’s deal.” <br />
<br />
After letting out a breather, Munakata placed the glass cup onto the table. <br />
<br />
“ --- He is very strong. In my opinion, if he were to go to SEPB, he would at least be ranked as a level three.” <br />
<br />
“!” <br />
<br />
Yoichi’s and Matsuri’s expressions immediately changed, what took place right after was the feeling of worth. <br />
<br />
“You said he is Rina’s childhood friend? And also very strong? How do you expect us to believe such suspicious statements? Even if that’s the case, why didn’t he join (Mushibane) in the past then?” <br />
<br />
Facing Yoichi’s question, Reiji pondered. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
--- I’m … going to Ouka City. <br />
<br />
Rina, who he hadn’t seen more than a year, suddenly came back to Akamaki City one day leading a group of teenage boys and girls who he had never seen before and said that to him with a smile. <br />
<br />
--- Are you doing okay? <br />
<br />
After Reiji asked that question, Rina only replied with a soft lonely smile. <br />
<br />
“… I wonder… Why didn’t I join then…?” <br />
<br />
Speaking his unanswerable-question directly out of his mind, the duo’s expression grew even more furious. <br />
<br />
“Even if you didn’t join us, why didn’t you go save her if you’re so strong then?! Didn’t you two grow up together?!” <br />
<br />
Matsuri pressured onward with a sharp tone. <br />
<br />
---Hey, you see… I… probably gonna die tomorrow… <br />
<br />
Ever since Rina went away to study at one of Ouka City’s high schools, the chance of Reiji meeting her grew even less. But even so, they would occasionally call each other and chitchat. <br />
<br />
The time was Christmas Eve, on the other end of the phone Rina suddenly blurted out that line. Although Rina had often joked around Reiji in the past, he had never heard of her joking with such weak tone before which is why Reiji thought she was being serious. <br />
<br />
--- That’s why, I need you to do me a favor. <br />
<br />
--- No problem, just what do you want me to do? <br />
<br />
Rina tried to continue in her usual tone as Reiji agreed. She was not surprised by his straightforward reply. <br />
<br />
Because it was also the only “contract” they had between them. Reiji intended to do everything he could to fulfill her wish if one day Rina asked him for help. Rina was also aware of that. <br />
<br />
“If that time her request was for me to go help her, I’d definitely go.” <br />
<br />
Reiji replied absentmindedly. <br />
<br />
Rina’s wish. <br />
<br />
If the content was assistance, she would’ve said so long time ago. But even until the end, Rina did not rely on Reiji. <br />
<br />
“But her last request was not that.” <br />
<br />
In the suite shrouded by silence, Reiji’s monologue rang extraordinarily loud. <br />
<br />
“By the way, although I would stay by Anmoto Shiika’s side, I have no intention of helping her. What she would do after succeeding Rina --- that’s my only interest.” <br />
<br />
“W-What…?! I can’t accept this! You left Rina to die, and now you’re saying you don’t have the intention of helping (Fuyuhotaru)? Munakata-san, you want him to become our ally?” <br />
<br />
“(Aijisupa)… you’ve lent us your aid in taking back (Snowfly), I thought you would continue to support her in the future.” <br />
<br />
“It was because they got in my way from seeing her. Now that I’ve seen her, all I care about is what she will do next. Regardless of dead or alive, I only care about the ending.” <br />
<br />
“… You bastard..!” <br />
<br />
Matsuri blurted out a mouthful of hatred mixed with disgust. She un-forked her arms, turning around to face Munakata. <br />
<br />
“Munakata-san, this is enough. I’ve heard that (Fuyuhotaru) was (Ladybird)’s friend, that’s why I have no objection to protecting her. But letting her become our leader, and also allowing that bastard over there to join us, I definitely won’t agree.” <br />
<br />
“Same here, I’m sure others would feel the same.” <br />
<br />
Munakata looked to Yoichi and Matsuri, before glancing back at Reiji. It was an expressionless machine-like gaze that one couldn’t possibly figure out what he was thinking --- only after working together for the past few days, Reiji then noticed that Munakata would never direct his gaze at Shiika. <br />
<br />
“Can you give me some time? Three days will be enough.” <br />
<br />
Munakata’s tone still remained calm, it didn’t waver in the slightest. <br />
<br />
“Before that, let’s first let (Snowfly) make her decision. Only till now did I realize the most important crux of this problem seems to be on her.” <br />
<br />
“Huh? Munakata-san, what are you saying? Who agreed on this matter?! We (Mushibane) are the one choosing!” <br />
<br />
“(Harenshisu), can please you take out the data and put it here?” <br />
<br />
Munakata stared at Matsuri, she seemed to be troubled. But since Munakata once again repeated “Please”, she reluctantly raised her hand. <br />
<br />
Out of nowhere, a tiny round insect climbed onto Matsuri’s slender fingertip. The insect flapped its wings and took flight, before landing somewhere near the entrance of the suite. <br />
<br />
“..!” <br />
<br />
Shiika could not help but gasp. <br />
<br />
The insect’s body continued to swell up while making sounds of its expansion, until it became a big monster that could almost block the entire entrance. One could not tell whether its shells which were glowing with a rainbow-like aura were made out of steel or hard rock. Its short stocky legs unsuited for mobility and its rubber-like mouthparts were wriggling. Foliage plants and umbrella stands were crushed by the monster, even the dresser in the corner was cracked by its pressure. <br />
<br />
“She is (Harenshisu). Her (Mushi) is capable of fusing the solids it swallows with its body, and then regenerate the solids based on its original structure back out when needed.” <br />
<br />
Before Munakata could finish explaining, the ground beetle-like (Mushi) spat out an object from its mouth. Matsuri unwrapped the object covered in silk fibers and took out a silver briefcase. <br />
<br />
She then rudely placed the briefcase onto the table and opened the cover. Inside the briefcase there was a thick stack of documents about a few inches tall. <br />
<br />
“This is the data of (Mushibane)’s Mushitsuki and its supporters. In addition, although it’s not much, but there is also confirmed intel on some of SEPB’s members. (Snowfly), (Aijisupa). I hope you can memorize this data within the next three days.” <br />
<br />
“Ehh…” <br />
<br />
“Although this is like a process of when you’ve succeeded, I don’t think I’ll be able to make an evaluation off from this alone, or even let our comrades accept. Nonetheless, it’s better than doing nothing.” <br />
<br />
“U-Umm… I…” <br />
<br />
“I will try to convince our other comrades within the next three days. Meanwhile, I want you to carefully consider your decision on whether or not you have the will to become (Mushibane)’s new leader. After all, back at Ouka City I did not have the chance to speak to you in detail about this.” <br />
<br />
After saying those words, Munakata stood up. The giant ground beetle returned to its tiny size as Yoichi and Matsuri planned on leaving. <br />
<br />
“(Aijisupa), I have something to tell you, can you come out for a sec?” <br />
<br />
“…” <br />
<br />
Reiji breathed out a lungful of air and stood up without saying a word. <br />
<br />
Just when Yoichi and Matsuri left the room, and Munakata and Reiji were about to leave as well --- <br />
<br />
“Munakata-san, please wait.” <br />
<br />
Shiika asked the other party to stay. <br />
<br />
“— Is there anything not clear to you?” <br />
<br />
Munakata stopped moving, yet he didn’t turn to face Shiika, he didn’t even turn around. <br />
<br />
Shiika remained seated on the sofa, squeezing her fists on top of her knees. She slightly pinched her lips as she made up her mind to continue: <br />
<br />
“How do you see me?... Munakata-san.” <br />
<br />
“…I resent you.” <br />
<br />
After a brief silence, Munakata replied with a low tone. One of his white hairs fell down onto his forehead. <br />
<br />
“(Shinika) and (Harenshisu) said they hate (Aijisupa) for what he had done. But for me, the most resentful person is you. You certainly hold the same --- no, even more strength than Rina, yet you did nothing. The one who really left Rina to die --- was you.” <br />
<br />
Shiika clenched her fists even tighter, her gaze wandered from wavering. But very soon, she showed a weak smile and raised her head: <br />
<br />
“I see… Thank you, for telling me the truth…” <br />
<br />
“But after seeing you at Ouka City, I finally understood. What Rina was thinking, and why she would be friends with you… as well as the fact that only you could save us, I understand it all now” <br />
<br />
“…Eh?” <br />
<br />
“However, feelings are not something that can be easily cut apart, please forgive me in that aspect.” <br />
<br />
After saying that sentence, Munakata quickly walked to the doors. <br />
<br />
“…” <br />
<br />
Leaving behind the confused Shiika, Reiji followed Munakata out of the door. <br />
<br />
After leaving the suite, they saw the other two were waiting for them in the hallway. However, Reiji suddenly grabbed Munakata’s shoulder in front of the doors. <br />
<br />
“What is wrong?” <br />
<br />
“You just said, you ‘understand’ right?” <br />
<br />
Reiji subconsciously infused more strength into his hand that was grabbing the other party’s shoulder. <br />
<br />
“Rina said so before, that woman has something that Rina and I don’t have. You know what ‘it’ is right?” <br />
<br />
“Of course, I’ve lived many more years than you for a reason --- (Shinika) and (Harenshisu), come over here for a sec.” <br />
<br />
<i>This guy… </i><br />
<br />
Reiji’s expression distorted in displeasure. Judging from Munakata’s attitude, he could tell that Munakata didn’t want to have excess conversation with him. Munakata knew very well that this was the best method of making Reiji stay. <br />
<br />
That’s right, Reiji still had to stay by Shiika’s side --- until he understands the meaning behind Rina’s final request, as well as fulfilling her wish. <br />
<br />
“(Aijisupa), you said there’s someone following after us ever since Ouka City. Could you tell us what kind of person it is? This level of request shouldn’t be a problem right?” <br />
<br />
“… It’s a woman.” <br />
<br />
Reiji answered honestly. Although he disliked Munakata’s attitude, there was no reason for him to bite him back. Since after all he asked nicely rather than forcing him to answer, there was no reason for Reiji to reject. <br />
<br />
“To be precise, it’s something of an appearance of a woman. When I noticed it, it immediately disappeared. In that instant I saw the figure of its long hair and slender body. Even during the period when we were waiting in Ouka City for the chaos to calm down, it was lurking around us.” <br />
<br />
“Anything else we should be aware of?” <br />
<br />
“I can’t guarantee it’s a human.” <br />
<br />
“…What do you mean by that?” <br />
<br />
“Have you ever seen any human capable of catching up to a car’s speed on highway? At least I don’t know any.” <br />
<br />
Aside from Reiji, the trio changed their expressions. <br />
<br />
“Hm, maybe you didn’t know because you’re not interested in Mushitsuki. If it is a Fusion type Mushitsuki, it’s possible… Nonetheless, we should immediately gather all the officials.” <br />
<br />
“Or it is possible that this guy might be lying.” <br />
<br />
“Impossible. He just wants to stay by (Snowfly)’s side, there’s no need for him to lie to us.” <br />
<br />
Munakata said that line with certainty, before turning around to face Reiji. <br />
<br />
“We will take that into account, thank you --- Oh, (Aijisupa). I’ve prepared a different room from (Snowfly) for you…” <br />
<br />
“No need.” <br />
<br />
“Perhaps to you … it might seem unnecessary.” <br />
<br />
Upon hearing that line, Reiji then realized what Munakata was trying to imply a second later. <br />
<br />
“You think I would lay my hand on that brat…?” <br />
<br />
“Didn’t I tell you she’s the same age as you? Even though she doesn’t seem like it… But nonetheless, you should be careful to not make her unhappy, if you don’t want to die that is.” <br />
<br />
For the first time ever, Munakata showed a wicked smile. Reiji replied with a displeasured expression. <br />
<br />
“You old perv.” <br />
<br />
“People often call me that. -- Let’s go, (Shinika), (Harenshisu)” <br />
<br />
Even though he was probably trying to make a joke, his smile seemed to have dumbfounded Yoichi and Matsuri. Taking the duo that was at loss, Munakata walked toward the elevator on the other end of the hallway. <br />
<br />
“…Tsk.” <br />
<br />
<i>Can’t get too careless around him. </i><br />
<br />
Reiji sucked his teeth, and returned back into the suite. <br />
<br />
In the suite, Shiika was spacing off absentmindedly, she seemed to be thinking of something. But suddenly she came back to her senses, and gazed at the briefcase that was filled with documents in front of her. <br />
<br />
“……” <br />
<br />
That pitiful look on her face looked just like a kid who’s trying to come up with ideas to get rid of a plate of green peppers that they didn’t like in front of them. Reiji let out a stressful sigh. <br />
<br />
<i>…Is she, really that Anmoto Shiika you speak of? </i><br />
<br />
Questioning his old friend who had passed away, he returned back to the sofa facing the window. Since there was nothing to do, Reiji tilted his legs and closed his eyes. <br />
<br />
“…U-Um… (Aijisupa)-san.” <br />
<br />
Shiika nervously spoke out to him. <br />
<br />
“T-These papers… We… have to memorize them in three days…” <br />
<br />
“That stuff, one hour is enough.” <br />
<br />
Silence fell. The shocked expression of the teenage girl, even after he closed his eyes, clearly surfaced within his mind. <br />
<br />
“O-One… hour…” <br />
<br />
Near Reiji’s ears who had entered dreamland, Shiika’s “One hour… One… hour” whisper continued to ring repeatedly.<br />
<br />
<br />
< <a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2014/11/mushi-uta-v4-chapter-102-others.html">Previous</a><br />
<a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2015/04/mushi-uta-v4-chapter-104-chiharu-part-2.html">Next</a> ><br />
********************************************<br />
Thank you for reading~<br />
Feel free to leave comments for any questions or feedback~
Winghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11481201187303784651noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-61526839280037767602015-01-07T08:00:00.001+08:002015-01-07T08:00:47.415+08:00[Mushi Uta] Fan art!Drawn by our lovely Asololo-kun, give him a round of applause please! <br />
<br />
(From Volume 3)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtS4O6b8YG4NK7G-oAFYwEYQlLmwCTsKle57kvKdvkUbwQ9VS-fWT5WdkwQTVgmec1DxjmBmT1D8Pog7WTS1Bqir-ZNFnCluenmJx9hIerV71xdzref8lU2m-NOWzZHedhoy6eUVPvX4zD/s1600/IMG_00000184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtS4O6b8YG4NK7G-oAFYwEYQlLmwCTsKle57kvKdvkUbwQ9VS-fWT5WdkwQTVgmec1DxjmBmT1D8Pog7WTS1Bqir-ZNFnCluenmJx9hIerV71xdzref8lU2m-NOWzZHedhoy6eUVPvX4zD/s1600/IMG_00000184.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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You said I could do anything with it xDWinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11481201187303784651noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-12815656630624697652015-01-06T16:42:00.002+08:002015-01-07T14:32:46.306+08:00Seirei Gensouki Progress ReportAs some of you may have already noticed, my translations of the first two chapters of Seirei Gensouki have now been released and the content page has been made. As I stated before in my previous announcement post, I'll have zgmfx09a add it to the project page and sidebar the next chance I get (I haven't seen him at all lately due to our schedules). Thanks goes to Kiydon for helping me with a few of the lines that were troubling me, in particular a certain section in Episode 2.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>As for when my next release of Seirei Gensouki will be, it depends mostly on my mood really. In truth, I could have gotten Episodes 1 and 2 released several hours ago, but the holiday laziness started hitting me pretty hard making it difficult for me to even open up my translation documents. That said, my mood tends to be on the whimsical side and I do like this series enough that I'm trying to make it my goal to get the next chapter done within the next week, so you readers shouldn't have to wait too long hopefully. At my current pace, expect to see Episode 3 within the next 4-6 days.<br />
<br />
Until then, Kyureki signing out!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13137507889278751188noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-63917480947901685722015-01-06T16:30:00.000+08:002015-08-12T10:57:07.563+08:00Seirei Gensouki ~Konna Sekai de Deaeta Kimi ni~ Main/Content Page<u>Story Synopsis</u><br />
<u><br /></u>
<u><br /></u>
Amakawa Haruto, a young man who died before reuniting with his childhood friend who disappeared five years ago. Rio, a boy living in the slums who wants revenge for his mother who was killed when he was five years old.<br />
Earth and another world. Two people who have completely different backgrounds and values, but for some reason, the memories and personality of Haruto who should've died resurrected in Rio's body.<br />
As the two are confused over their memories and personalities fusing together, Rio (Haruto) decide to live in this new world.<br />
For some reason, along with Haruto's memories, Rio awakened an unknown "special power," and it seems that if used well, he can live a better life than he does now.<br />
But before that, Rio encountered the princess kidnapping incident of the Bertram Kingdom he lives in.<br />
Saving the princesses, Rio was accepted into the state managed Royal Academy. Being an orphan in a school for nobles, it was an extremely destestable place to him.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<u>Raw Source</u><br />
<a href="http://ncode.syosetu.com/n1094bz/">http://ncode.syosetu.com/n1094bz/</a><br />
<br />
<u>Chapters</u><br />
<u><br /></u>
<u><br /></u>
Arc 1 - Waking up in Another World<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2015/01/seirei-gensouki-episode-1-past-life.html">Episode 1 - Past Life</a></li>
<li><a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2015/01/seirei-gensouki-episode-2-awakening.html">Episode 2 - Awakening</a></li>
<li><a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2015/08/seirei-gensouki-episode-3-kidnapping.html">Episode 3 - Kidnapping</a></li>
<li><a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2015/08/seirei-gensouki-episode-4-interrogation.html">Episode 4 - Interrogation</a></li>
<li>Episode 5 - Audience [TL 0%]</li>
</ul>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13137507889278751188noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-91534695463077488012015-01-06T16:22:00.000+08:002015-08-12T10:49:11.153+08:00[Seirei Gensouki] Episode 2 - Awakening<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Year 991 of the Holy Calendar.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-56e29c30-be53-8ff9-5d62-58f0165cf902" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Existing on the continent Euphelia was Bertram Kingdom.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In a corner of the slums within Bertram Kingdom’s royal capital, holding back the feelings of regret in his chest, a boy awoke with a start.</span></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">"Haa, haa......"</span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-9b5d90c2-1fcd-7ee5-c0f8-b8699d2834d9" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After waking up, as if to distract himself from the inescapable anguish, the boy tightly grasped his chest.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thereupon, he realized that his entire body was drenched in sweat.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">His body was hot.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It felt as if his body was flaring up from the inside.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But strangely, that heat felt as if it began to permeate throughout his entire body.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(What is this......)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He couldn't understand why, but he understood that the unpleasantness was slowly fading away.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Having collected his composure, he began looking around the area.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Doing so, in the gloomy and dirty alley, crudely built buildings lined up beside each other came into sight.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A rotten smell attacked his nose, the unpleasantness of it making him knit his eyebrows, and thanks to that stench, his mind slowly awakened.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But when did he fall asleep? He couldn't remember.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With a thump, he laid down back on the ground.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He knew his clothes would get dirty, but he wanted to lay down a little longer.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Laying on his back gazing above, the clearly blue skies were reflected in his eyes.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Did I get drunk and fall asleep on the roadside?)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Not having fully woken up yet, he dimly thought of that, but he didn't remember drinking anything.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The buildings around him were not Japanese style wooden houses and completely unfamiliar.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The boy felt strangely out of place.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Moreover, his physical condition wasn't very good. Perhaps because he fell asleep in the cold alley, all of his joints were sore.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(!?)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upon rising to his feet, he realized the biggest irregularity, and a scream arose in his mind.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That's right, what the boy saw were the hands and feet of a child.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I should be a college student.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">No, I should be an orphan.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(What's going on?)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The boy became confused at his overlapping memories.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Doubting himself, the boy carefully gazed at his hands and feet.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was not the clean skin of a child living in the well-fed Japan.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">On top of his limbs becoming thin from malnourishment, his skin was dry, rough, and covered in grime.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thinking back, he had no memories of ever taking a bath before.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Seriously...?)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Reflexively, he was repulsed by his own filthiness.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The only thing he was wearing was a worn-out hemp outfit.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Of course, he had no shoes.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Nevertheless, he should probably be thankful he at least has something to wear.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He didn't know what kind of face he had, but he could tell that his long, dirty hair was black.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gazing upon his ragged clothes and bone-like limbs, his confused mind was on the other hand trying to making sense of the situation.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The boy's name is Rio and is also Amakawa Haruto.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Memories of having lived in this world for seven years, and also memories of having lived as a Japanese for twenty years.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feeling lightheaded from hunger, in order to confirm the unusual situation he found himself in, he sat down on the ground and began putting his brain to work.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Amakawa Haruto's memories, he can more or less recall up to just before dying.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio's memories of how he's lived until now he can remember normally.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He still couldn't understand why he lost consciousness in this alley, but decided to leave that aside for now.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Comparing Amakawa Haruto's and Rio's memories, he came to the conclusion that his current location was not Earth.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The orphan Rio did not have a good education, but he knew the name of the country he lived in.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Taking into consideration the level of civilization, the spoken language, and various other factors, the conclusion he came to is that this isn't a country on Earth.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He probably had been reincarnated.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(It's hard to believe though... No, there's still a chance this is a dream?)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, Rio thought the possibility of it being a dream was low.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For a dream, his consciousness was too clear.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">His mind was calm and it didn't feel like his thoughts were hazy.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Furthermore, the joint pain as if he caught a cold strongly asserted that this is reality.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">An unknown country in another world. A world with a class system where kings and nobles gain special privileges. A world with towns that have orphans, vagrants, and countless slaves. A world without any mechanically produced goods borne from science. A world with monsters.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This wasn't a dream, and also, this wasn't Earth.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio was currently in a slum district within the royal capital of Bertram Kingdom.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that conditions were the worst. At this rate, his life wouldn't last very long.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The fact that he had lived until now was due to good luck.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Excluding the luckiest orphans who live in an orphanage, orphans living in the slums fished for food scraps, become thieves, or if they're lucky, become manual labourers for pocket change wages and buy cheap stale bread. Those were pretty much the only ways to obtain food, so becoming malnourished was a matter of course.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio of course also survived living in such a way.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bluntly, it wouldn't have been strange if he fell over and died at any time.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For now, he wanted to get some proper food, but what should he do?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Weak orphans form groups as a matter of course, but because black hair is a rare sight, it seems Rio would always be left out of any orphan groups.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Because of that, cooperating with an orphan group would be difficult. There was no other choice but to do something about this situation on his own.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(If possible, I'd like to get some kind of job but...)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In this severe society, finding a person who would be willing to hire an orphan would be impossible.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If that was so simple, orphans wouldn't exist in the first place.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Even if they found someone, the chance of working for considerably low wages was very high.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In that case, what could he do? He began recalling what skills he has that would be of use in this world.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Speaking of skills, there's most of the things he learned in his previous life.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">First, being able to calculate is a huge advantage. Luckily this country also uses the decimal system.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Other things that might be useful are ancient martial arts, cooking, and other daily life knowledge learned in his previous life.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio began going through ways to make use of those skills in his head.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But, without any social status or connections, it could only be said that making use of those skills would be extraordinarily difficult.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That said, nothing will be solved just staying here.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Nothing will start if he doesn't do something himself.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While enduring his hunger pangs, Rio walked out into town to look around.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thereupon, Rio realized another change that occurred since his memories awoke.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What he realized was that an extremely small, faint light was spilling out from within the bodies of the people walking in town.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At first he thought it was a hallucination, but after focusing his eyes and looking again, it seems that wasn't the case.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The amount of light differed from person to person, but for most people it was very faint. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Since awakening his memories, after passing by hundred, thousands of people he became able to fairly accurately figure out the average level.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then, looking at his own body, before he knew it, he noticed the same kind of light spilling forth.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was a considerably large amount compared to other people..</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">No, rather it was to point where it was constantly overflowing.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">No matter how many other people he looked at, there was nobody with an inexhaustible light flooding out from their body.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Like steam that was evaporating from boiling water, from Rio's body a pale light spilled forth.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What’s more, the light slowly increased in intensity.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At the same time, he became gradually aware that due to the light, his perceptions began to change.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was as if all of his five senses expanded greatly.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Touched by the light, he felt as if he was beyond the world, and that he could reach out and grasp anything.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He felt that his gaze became endless. There was nothing that he could not see with these eyes.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(It might be bad if this continues…)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He wanted to leave his expanding perceptions as is, but he began thinking that if it spread any further, the people around him might notice.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He might not be the only one who could see this light.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ignoring that possibility was too dangerous.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The overflowing amount of light coming from Rio was clearly abnormal after all.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In any case, hurrying to a place with few people around, Rio rushed through the pedestrian traffic to a back-alley and sat on the ground.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The overflowing light was still getting brighter, but his body didn’t seem to change at all.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There was no need to be worried.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">His mind calmed down thinking that.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio began meditating, clearing and resetting his mind.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For the ancient martial arts his grandfather drilled into him to come in handy at this kind of time, you never know what’ll happen in this world.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After who knows how long, before he knew it, the hustle and bustle of the people on the street no longer reached his consciousness.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Realizing that his mind had calmed down, Rio felt some kind of powerful energy overflowing from his body.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It densely filled his body even more than the blood flowing through his veins.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It identity was the pale light, magic power.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Magic power existed in the center of the body and spilled out from countless invisible holes.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio instinctively realized that and imagined how to control magic power.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Strangely, he felt that he could pull it off.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(I can do it……)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Believing so, although slowly, the amount of light overflowing from his body diminished.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It had a similar trick to killing off his presence.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was not exactly the same, but he realized the similarities.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Realizing that, Rio managed to control his magic power all at once.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Now, there was not a single bit of magic power spilling out from his body.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was an intuitive thing so he couldn’t really explain it if asked, but he somehow knew.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A thin smile arose on Rio.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, the question of what exactly is this light came up.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Right now, he knew that it made his senses sharpen.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And more or less everyone released magic power from their bodies.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In that case, it wouldn’t be strange if there was some kind of method to make use of it.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Amount. Quality. Method. What are the conditions?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For the moment, Rio decided to take a look at the magic power inside of him to see if that would answer any of his questions.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After investigating various things, he understood that, although slowly, magic power moves according to the imagination and it’s possible to gather it in a specific place.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, he didn’t know what happens after doing that.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There isn’t enough information.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After confirming there weren’t any people nearby, Rio decided to let out a large amount of magic power from his body and see what happens.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Suddenly, it occurred to him that if it’s energy from his body, then maybe he can use it targeting himself.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Such as reinforcing his physical abilities.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Vaguely imagining his physical abilities enhancing, a change occurred in Rio’s body.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(......My body is light.)</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was as if power was overflowing in Rio’s body.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As a test, he gathered his strength and jumped, and even though his body is that of a child, he managed to jump as high as a pro basketball player.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The effects of physical enhancement might depend on the imagination.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In that case, instead of vaguely this time, Rio tested what happens when he had a clear image of his body strengthening.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Removing the brain’s limits, acquiring more than 100% of his physical abilities, his body was clad in magic power.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Now then, was that thinking correct?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Just as Rio imagined, his body was strengthened.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In order to confirm the effects, he started moving his body.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thus, he was able to move in a way that couldn’t be considered normal.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Strengthening any further might be a little bad……)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It seemed that using too much magic power when performing enhancement put stress on the body.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Any more than this might cause damage to his muscles and bones.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">His body probably couldn’t keep up with his strengthened abilities.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In that case, if he strengthened his entire body... Thinking so, he imagined his muscle fibers and bone strength enhancing.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Suddenly, the burden on his body was reduced.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It seemed that was right too.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio was satisfied with the results of this time’s experiment.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, enhancing his physical abilities and body won’t fill the stomach.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A loud grumble rose from his stomach.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was an interesting subject, but in his situation where he needed to obtain food, training any further wasn’t a good plan.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Looking up at the sky, the sun was already descending.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It’s going to start getting dark soon.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It would be pointless trying to obtain food honestly without any money.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Worst case, he would have to prepare himself for the possibility of not eating anything today, however he wanted to set some kind of goal.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For his livelihood from here on out and to find a way to obtain money, Rio walked out from the back-alley.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Walking unsteadily through the marketplace, suddenly a large building was reflected in his eyes.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio couldn’t read the letters written on the building, but he knew that the building was the Adventurer’s Guild.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There was only one way to become an adventurer.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, Rio can’t become an adventurer at his current age.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">According to the Adventurer’s Guild rules, it’s only possible to work starting from 12 years old.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He knew about the age limit after having overheard a conversation between a former adventurer and some other orphans.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A 12 year old doing manual labour would’ve been illegal in Japan, but this world had a lot of jobs with no age limits in the first place.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It’s because in this world where simple manual labour was the most common job, even children were a splendid work force.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But in the case of adventurers, there were a lot of jobs that couldn’t be solved through child manual labour, so an age limit was enforced.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, Rio thought to himself.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Speaking of an adventurer’s work, although vaguely, the image of going out on adventures and selling materials obtained came to Rio’s mind.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In that case, maybe he can go collect things of value and sell them himself.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If it’s just selling, then it doesn’t have to be with the Adventurer’s Guild.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shopkeepers can be business partners too.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After that, Rio decided to look into what kind of things shopkeepers would want to buy.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He focused on quickly acting upon what he thought of.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Following the map of the royal capital in his head, Rio headed to the marketplace.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Hey brat, what are you looking around for? Hurry and disappear!”</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As Rio was in one of the shops looking at the goods, the sales clerk noticed his sharp gaze and shouted a warning at Rio.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Seeing an orphan in the market, shopkeepers would be wary of them stealing instead of working, so the treatment of orphans in the marketplace was not very favourable.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There were orphans that had some money, so they wouldn’t especially raise the prices for orphans, but in order to not have anything stolen, the salespeople would be wary of all orphans.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">An orphan looking around at the goods in the storefront would immediately look suspicious.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Because of that, he couldn’t openly survey the goods being sold at the storefronts.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At this rate, it didn’t seem like he’d be able to find a way to maintain his livelihood from tomorrow on.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In that case, he’d have to go fishing for food scraps.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio thought to himself that it couldn’t be helped, however Amakawa Haruto strongly objected.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thus, Rio made use of one of the ancient martial arts techniques he learned in his previous life.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As if melting into the surroundings, he killed his presence.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Because Rio’s presence became so thin, the sales clerks that were wary of him were no longer very conscious of him and didn’t look his way.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Good……)</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While having killed off his presence, he gazed around at the goods lined up at the storefronts.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What are they selling? Where would I be able to obtain it? While thinking those things, he slowly walked.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Using this skill, he could easily steal something and run away.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, he refrained from doing so.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Amakawa Haruto’s morales as a Japanese was preventing such actions.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While walking around like that, he understood that there were a lot of different goods displayed.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Among those, the things Rio kept an eye out for were medicinal plants and vegetables; vegetation type things.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Asking a salesperson at a shop with those kinds of items lined up with as much courtesy as possible about where he could find them, although the salesperson was wary, he gave in to the slightly insistent request and told him.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It seems that on the outskirts of town, a lot of it was cultivated in the fields, but there were also some that grew wildly.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It seems those plants grew outside of the town’s area of authority, so they were normally harvested by groups of adventurers.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Adventurers often harvested them to sell for some pocket change, but for a single child to do so would just lead to them falling over and dying. While giving him a look of pity, the salesperson gave him that warning.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To the sales clerk’s advice, Rio gave him a courteous smile and gave him his thanks.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There would be risk to his life, but that wouldn’t change his mind.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He has a technique to enhance his physical abilities and body after all.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Since he had learned ancient martial arts in his previous life, he won’t have to run away from a fight.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In that case, there’s no way he won’t go.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, the day was already ending.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">No choice but to abandon hope of eating today.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Without going to fish for food scraps like usual, Rio returned to the slum district.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Intending to distract himself from the hunger, he decided to recall all the shocking events and new experiences that happened today.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The biggest thing was his previous life’s memories awakening.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ever since his memories awakened, Amakawa Haruto’s consciousness had main control, but Rio’s memories and consciousness were still there. It seems their two consciousnesses were fusing into a single one.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There were times when both consciousnesses surface at the same time, but instead of conflicting, it seemed they were blending together.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That’s why Amakawa Haruto could naturally accept that he had lived as Rio.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And Rio who had lived as an orphan could accept that he’s Amakawa Haruto.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Amakawa Haruto lived holding onto what he left undone in his previous life, his goal of finding his childhood friend.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Putting aside the feasibility of that being possible in this situation, that’s what he wanted to do.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But for now, he had to survive as Rio.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio had a goal he must accomplish in this world.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio did not live in the slum district at first.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio’s father was an adventurer. His mother was also an adventurer.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The two of them came from another country and traveled the world together</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio’s mother temporarily retired as an adventurer when she was pregnant with him.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Of course, earning money then depended on his father.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio’s father who had easily finished requests with his mother partnered up with another adventurer made a blunder.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And then quickly died.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio’s mother raised him without being discouraged from her husband’s death.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Economizing the money that the two of them had saved up, she managed to raise her child.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, that only continued up until Rio was five years old.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio’s mother was a foreign beauty.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And even though she had a child, the men around her that sent vulgar gazes her way were young.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Taking Rio as a hostage, a male acquaintance from his mother’s adventurer days raped and killed her.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio witnessed the violation of his gentle mother in his home.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rio remembered that moment, the culprit’s name, and his features.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The reason Rio never gave up surviving even while slurping up food scraps was because he swore to one day carry out his revenge.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That’s right, the reason Rio survived even if he had to slurp on food scraps was for revenge.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That thirst for revenge was even now quietly burning inside him.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But on the other hand, Amakawa Haruto had a negative view on revenge.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Suddenly, the memory of the time his mother was raped was shrouded in fog, and Rio knitted his eyebrows with an annoyed expression.</span></div>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Strongly shaking his head, Rio increased his walking speed.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2015/01/seirei-gensouki-episode-1-past-life.html"><< Previous Chapter</a> // <a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2015/01/seirei-gensouki-konna-sekai-de-deaeta.html">Main</a> // </span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13137507889278751188noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-5402870615508595242015-01-06T16:18:00.000+08:002015-08-12T10:48:41.330+08:00[Seirei Gensouki] Episode 1 - Past Life<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Amakawa Haruto was a college student living in Tokyo.</span></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The season was summer.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The sun shone brightly in the clear blue skies.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">From the asphalt all around, the heat haze that rose from it made it feel as if the air itself was melting.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the midst of that wicked environment, Haruto, with a cool expression, was commuting to his college's campus walking on a gentle hill.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Along the way, a group of college girls who were walking nearby saw him and began secretly talking amongst themselves.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Although hard to approach, Haruto was tall and handsome.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Also, because he was trained in ancient martial arts, his physique was good.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Because of all that, Haruto became a little famous amongst the commuting college girls.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Haruto however, had absolutely no interest in those kinds of rumours.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It's not because he was homosexual.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But in the 20 years since he's been born, he never had a girlfriend either.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Haruto had a person that he liked.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That girl is Haruto's childhood friend.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But his feelings never came to fruition.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The girl that Haruto yearned for disappeared from his reach.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">His childhood friend’s disappearance happened five years ago.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And the last time Haruto had spoken to her was ten years ago.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Perhaps because Haruto met her before he was old enough to understand everything, it was not long before he came to like the girl. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Playing with her everyday, falling in love with her before he noticed it was simply a matter of time.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But, the young Haruto's parents had a divorce, and Haruto was taken along to his father's home in the countryside.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At that time, the two of them made a promise.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That someday the two of them would meet again and marry.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was without any binding power, a fleeting childhood promise.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Since then, Haruto dreamed of marrying her in the future, vowing to do his very best.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With enough effort, his wish will come true. Believing in that on no real basis, he studied zealously, learned agriculture, household chores, helped out around the house, and learned ancient martial arts at his grandfather's dojo.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I want to meet her.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In order to meet her, he never once stopped.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I'll work hard in anything. The more I grow, the sooner I'll be able to reunite with her. Haruto seriously believed in that.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Perhaps because Haruto's feeling had reached his father after having continued working so hard, Haruto was allowed to go to a famous high school close to where his childhood friend lived.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At that high school, Haruto had a shocking reunion.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Coincidentally, his childhood friend ended up entering the same high school.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ba-bump, his heart began beating faster, and it was then that Haruto felt it.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Without a doubt it's her.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">She's grown up now but there's no mistaking it.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">She was in the distance, but he could tell. She was very important to him after all.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Glossy black hair that reached the back and fascinated people's eyes.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Small face with orderly looks.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">White skin that seemed as if covered in snow.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Short, but balanced figure, and carrying a graceful, trim ambiance.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A girl that painted such an image.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Haruto was overjoyed at his fated reunion with her.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And at the same time, cursed fate.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Next to the girl was a boy that Haruto didn't know.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Haruto became scared.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What if those two are dating?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thinking that, he was unable to call out to her.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And thus, as he worried over it, Haruto's childhood friend disappeared.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Since then, Haruto drowned in regret.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After she disappeared, Haruto finally realized the mistake he had made.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">His heart seemed like it would break.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A bitter scream that couldn't even be called a voice resounded from his body.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But, he didn't give up.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He refused to give up.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He couldn't give up.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Because he hadn't even conveyed his feelings yet.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Holding onto the faint hope that he might meet her in Tokyo, Haruto left his hometown and entered a college in Tokyo.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, even now he has yet to find any news about her whereabouts.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Three years since coming to Tokyo.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There was never a day where he forgot about his beloved childhood friend.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The police also looked into the disappearance incident of his childhood friend, but the truth of the matter is still wrapped in mystery.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After his college lecture, Haruto was returning home on a bus that stopped near his house.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There were very few people who rode on the bus at this time. Currently, including Haruto, there were only three passengers on board.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was completely silent inside the bus.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As the bus drove along, Haruto was gazing at the scenery that flowed by.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At that time, the bus suddenly started moving violently.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A strong impact hit the bus, sending it flying, and Haruto's consciousness instantly turned black.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">".......te..." (TL note: This line was left untranslated due to the raws being ambiguous here. If there’s a future scene that reveals what is being said here, I’ll correspondingly change this.)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The moment before completely losing consciousness, a beautiful voice saying something seemed to resound in Haruto's head.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">"Next in news. Today, around 3:30 pm, in Tokyo, ○○ prefecture, there was a traffic accident as a mid-sized truck and a bus crashed into each other on the road. In this accident, three passengers on the bus died while the two drivers were gravely injured with one of them later succumbing to his injuries."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2015/01/seirei-gensouki-konna-sekai-de-deaeta.html">Main</a> // <a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2015/01/seirei-gensouki-episode-2-awakening.html">Next Chapter >></a></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13137507889278751188noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-63418185281979241562015-01-02T15:58:00.000+08:002015-01-07T08:29:08.924+08:00New Project - Seirei Gensouki ~Konna Sekai de Deaeta Kimi ni~As the title says, I've finally decided on what webnovel I'll be working on. Seirei Gensouki ~Konna Sekai de Deaeta Kimi ni~ (Mythical Spirit Chronicle ~On this world where I met you~). I'll have <span itemprop="name">zgmfx09a add it to the project list along with all the required pages and links the next chance I get. </span>Someone else has actually already started translating this webnovel on <a href="http://zmunjali.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">their own blog</a>, but I've asked for and recieved his permission to translate this series on my own from the beginning again. <br />
<br />
With that said, unfortunately, I won't be able to do a New Years release since it took me much longer than I expected to decide what webnovel to translate (there were a lot of factors to keep in mind such as the current status of the novel, translation difficulty, etc.). However, I've already finished translating the first chapter and it is now in the editting phase. I'll try to get that done as well as finish more chapters in time for a release tomorrow, but if I am unable to do a release tomorrow, then releases will have to wait an additional 3-4 days as I'm usually busy on the weekend no matter what time of year.<br />
<br />
edit: I can't believe I forgot about this. Here's a translation of the synopsis for Seirei Gensouki.<br />
<br />
Amakawa Haruto, a young man who died before reuniting with his childhood friend who disappeared five years ago. Rio, a boy living in the slums who wants revenge for his mother who was killed when he was five years old.<br />
Earth and another world. Two people who have completely different backgrounds and values, but for some reason, the memories and personality of Haruto who should've died resurrected in Rio's body.<br />
As the two are confused over their memories and personalities fusing together, Rio (Haruto) decide to live in this new world. <br />
For some reason, along with Haruto's memories, Rio awakened an unknown "special power," and it seems that if used well, he can live a better life than he does now.<br />
But before that, Rio encountered the princess kidnapping incident of the Bertram Kingdom he lives in.<br />
Saving the princesses, Rio was accepted into the state managed Royal Academy. Being an orphan in a school for nobles, it was an extremely destestable place to him.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13137507889278751188noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-61816295271377909872014-12-25T14:23:00.000+08:002014-12-25T14:23:28.346+08:00Christmas Greetings~Holiday greetings to all of you denizens of the internet! Along with this jolly (or not so jolly) time of the year, C.E. has something new to introduce to you all!<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
I'm Kyureki. Some of you may or may not recognize me from the chat box in the sidebar. As of a couple days ago, <span itemprop="name">zgmfx09a (aka Justice, or I like to call Justy) has graciously allowed me to join the staff here. As a new member of this group, I'll be working solo on a new project. As for what the new project is, I won't be saying what it is yet. Why do you ask? Because I haven't fully decided yet! All I can say right now is that I'll be translating one of the various works from <a href="http://syosetu.com/">Syosetsuka ni Narou</a> (where light novels such as Mahouka, Only Sense Online, Mushoku Tensei, Tate no Yuusha, and many more originally came from). With that said, I'm still only an amateur at translation, not to mention I'm still learning Japanese, so my translations will only be roughly 90% accurate, but I will ensure I bring as much quality as I possibly can to my translations. And so, I look forward to taking my first step into the translation community~</span><br />
<br />
P.S.: My translation speed will vary depending on real life obligations and mood (nothing that followers of this blog shouldn't be used to though). Be warned that I may end up dropping the new project at any time should life throw me too many curve balls.<br />
<br />
P.S.S: I will try to get a release in for New Years, but don't hold your breath. Whether I actually do a release or not at that time will depend on what the holidays throw at me.<br />
<br />
P.S.S.S.: If you were expecting a Christmas release when you first saw this post, well too bad. I was originally going to do one, but the holidays have been keeping me busier than I expected.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13137507889278751188noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-27574877070583725052014-11-29T21:43:00.002+08:002014-12-15T00:11:21.663+08:00Kono Koi to, Sono Mirai clinched 9th in このライトノベルがすごい! 2015And totally deserved it. Congrats to Morihashi Bingo.<br />
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Vol 2 is out, and Nardack scores yet again. If I am to make a guess, Mirai's probably reading Shinonome's book (which she did in vol 1).zgmfx09ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16118153566717115367noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-35451683816846819082014-11-27T15:15:00.000+08:002015-01-04T18:17:08.428+08:00Mismarca DroppedThe translator, Kiydon, is dead. He's far too busy for his own good, but well, that's that. Guess some of you were expecting this, but for those who were holding on, sorry to disappoint. Hope somebody else picks it up, but until then, we'll all have to wait. -_-Asololohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07582496210469329683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-5499081848567859642014-11-11T12:17:00.002+08:002015-04-14T23:23:43.262+08:00[Mushi Uta v4 ] Chapter 1.02: The OthersIn other words, Harukiyo just called Kakkou a dumbass. lol<br />
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Enjoy~<br />
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Version: 1.01<br />
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<br />
1.02 <br />
<br />
The Others <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>--- Damn it…! Am I the only survivor in the entire team?!.. </i><br />
<br />
“Uraghh…” <br />
<br />
(Kanata) --- A level three-ranked member of the Special Environmental Preservation Bureau, Central Headquarters’ special task force ‘Annihilator’, was groaning alone in the pitch darkness. <br />
<br />
Last night, in order to retreat from the Urban, he had used up all of his energy and was forced to spend a night in the corner of an alley. It seemed like it would take some time for him to recover to a state where he could walk normally. Although he didn’t need immediate medical attention or a decent hideout, he still needed to find a concealed place to treat his wounds for time being. <br />
<br />
Fortunately, he found a bankrupt pharmacy in Nishito City’s shopping district. After using brute force to destroy the lock on the backdoor, he broke into the pharmacy. He then scattered all the kits that he found in the store onto the floor, before finding some painkillers and bandages which he then used to crudely treat his wounds. <br />
<br />
Using the medicine kits as a mattress, (Kanata) laid himself down. While he was wiping sweat from his face, a rough grating came from rubbing his beard. With such an untidy appearance like his messy hair and unkempt beard, he didn’t look like a nineteen year old teenager, which he was, in anyone else’s perspective. <br />
<br />
Staring down at the hand stained with sweat, he noticed there was a red colored stain akin to blood on it --- Due to the fact that he couldn’t feel half of his face anymore, he had already forgotten there was a deep scar from his cheek up to his ear. <br />
<br />
“Uh…” <br />
<br />
In addition to the injury on his face, every time he breathed he could feel the wound to his abdomen aching faintly. Although on the surface it looked just like a normal cut, he could tell it was not an ordinary wound due to the reason that he was feeling both his energy and blood slipping out of him rapidly. <br />
<br />
The special task force to which (Kanata) belonged to, the Annihilator, was a confidential elite squad that only mobilized under Vice-Director Miguruma Yaeko’s direct orders. And only during the event of rebellion or treachery occurring within SEPB would MIguruma issue orders to them. Just as their squad title suggested, their goal was not to recapture the targets, but rather complete annihilation; elimination. <br />
<br />
Miguruma had issued an order. <br />
<br />
Its content was to eliminate Horizaki Azusa who had escaped from the isolation facility. To annihilate the named teenage girl, a special team of six, all of whom ranked beyond level six, was established. He had already expected the opposite party to be quite a strong foe since the start. However, he still strongly believed that this team would very soon complete the task and return --- that was what he had thought at first. <br />
<br />
He had never though the outcome would turn out like this. <br />
<br />
Come to think of it, he was already suspicious of this mission before he departed. Before Annihilators was established, he was working as an assassin in the dark taking care of suspicious personnel within the bureau. His instinct had been telling him that something was not right. <br />
<br />
“..Fuck…!” <br />
<br />
Recalling it now made his anxiety burst out even more. <br />
<br />
--- Hey (Kanata), did you know that your team’s mission was the same as (Kasou)’s team? The annihilation of failed subjects from a certain experiment! <br />
<br />
Appearing before (Kanata), who was prepared and almost about to leave the Central Headquarters, was a teenage boy with a bizarre smile (maybe a girl). He remembered that the boy was that suspicious level one ranked --- Harukiyo’s comrade, Harukiyo called him Ume. <br />
<br />
--- From a… certain experiment? <br />
<br />
--- She’s one of the survivors that was revived from the Fallen state! It looks like Centi was already taken care of by (Kasou). <br />
<br />
--- How’s that possible, (Fuyuhotaru) should’ve been the only one who recovered from the Fallen state. <br />
<br />
--- Yeah you’re right, but “how” were they revived then? Ah, that’s not right, it should be “why” were they revived? <br />
<br />
(Kanata) then laughed it off with two words “So stupid”. As expected from a weirdo, he didn’t make any sense. Why were they in the Annihilators in the first place anyway? And why is Miguruma letting them do things as they wish? <br />
<br />
After that, (Kanata) sarcastically mocked Ume: <br />
<br />
--- If you’re so concerned about it, why don’t you tell that Harukiyo guy to join this team as well then? <br />
<br />
--- I’m not a single-cell organism like (Kakkou) that gets cocky after defeating a mere “fragment” --- that’s what Harukiyo said. <br />
<br />
<i>Those guys are really weird after all, it’s as if they’re organism living in a different dimension than ordinary people; I can’t understand a thing they said. </i><br />
<br />
In the blink of an eye, his team grasped the whereabouts of Horizaki Azusa. <br />
<br />
In his team, there was someone who was capable of tracking a specific individual from their smell. Azusa first headed towards Ouka City, and then moved from there to Nishito City. Her sudden change of direction from East to West had no coherence at all. Everyone in the team, including (Kanata), believed that she was following someone. After catching up to Azusa at Nishito City, (Kanata) and rest of the team executed their assassination without any hesitation. <br />
<br />
And then --- <br />
<br />
“Damn it…!” <br />
<br />
He subconsciously cursed out loud, which caused his wounds to ache in great pain. <br />
<br />
By the time (Kanata) came to his senses during the assassination, he was the only one left standing out of entire his team --- <br />
<br />
He was probably also the only one who had witnessed the whole event from start to end. <br />
<br />
And it all happened when Azusa turned her head around to look at them, who began their ambush, with an evil grin. <br />
<br />
When he noticed that the teenage girl’s pupils were filled with pitch darkness, an uncomfortable sound suddenly echoed next to his ears. <br />
<br />
*Dong… Dong…* <br />
<br />
It was a heavy and loud sound, akin to bell. Immediately after, the surrounding air became sticky and cloudy. <br />
<br />
<b>---“The other “vessel” whom seeketh the “King” hast already lost its purpose, which is bad enough… This “vessel” hast yet to fulfill its purpose, if thou desirest to standeth before me, do not blame me for being merciless… </b><br />
<br />
Coming out of the teenage girl with dark eyes, was a hoarse voice close to that of an elderly person. As the teenage girl raised one of her hands, numerous caterpillars could be seen crawling onto her shoulders. <br />
<br />
Dark mist that came out of nowhere shrouded their surroundings, followed by a string of screams. His team members’ (Mushi), as if they were dissolved by the mist, slowly began to lose their original shape. <br />
<br />
After “devouring” the (Mushi) herd, the mist then gathered onto the teenage girl before disappearing. (Kanata) was probably the only left who even heard the teenage girl making a “swallow” sound. His (Mushi) was also the only one who managed to keep its form, while on the other hand everyone else had instantly became Fallen and collapsed lifelessly. <br />
<br />
(Kanata) then shouted uncontrollably, and ordered his twin-head house centipede to attack the teenage girl. The house centipede’s jaws packed a force that was enough to raise an entire truck and chew it to pieces, but half of its power was absorbed halfway by the clouding mist, causing its speed to greatly decrease, allowing the teenage girl to easily evade the attack. <br />
<br />
The dark mist then wrapped around the teenage girl’s hand, inflicting a severe wound upon (Kanata)’s body. <br />
<br />
<b>--- It will still taketh some time before I can reacheth the “King”. Myn child, whom standeth by the “King’s” side, will surely standeth before me because of his dream… but before that happens; myn child, who’s destined to protect his “King” cannot be lost from myn hands… </b><br />
<br />
It seemed like those words were not for him. Leaving the collapsed (Kanata) behind, Azusa left without even taking a glimpse at him. <br />
<br />
Although (Kanata) didn’t know who Horizaki Azusa really was, the biggest mystery was what happened after that. <br />
<br />
Despite being wounded, he still tried to catch up to Azusa, but “something” blocked his way when he arrived at Urban. <br />
<br />
And that --- was a white cat. <br />
<br />
(Kanata), who was burned blind from rage, couldn’t stop himself from wanting to kick this little creature aside and continue his pursuit. Not just the cat, but any existence that stood in his way would be eliminated. <br />
<br />
However, (Kanata) received an unexpected counter attack. The white cat dodged his attack and scratched his cheek with its claws, and as if it was luring him, it headed into the inner part of the tower and even intended to sacrifice itself to burn him with gasoline on the roof. <br />
<br />
And then --- <br />
<br />
--- Kufuu. <br />
<br />
The cat laughed. <br />
<br />
The emotion he had numbed from being immersed in battles --- Fear, finally took over him, and he thought that he finally become insane. <br />
<br />
“Just what the hell is up with this mission anyway…?! And what possibly exists in this city?!” <br />
<br />
(Kanata) let out a shaking roar from anger. <br />
<br />
The target of assassination --- Horizaki Azusa; if what Ume said was right; she was one of the survivors who recovered from Fallen. <br />
<br />
Without doubt, she was looking for someone in this city, because she had mentioned a keyword “King”. <br />
<br />
The strange white cat that he encountered after Azusa, was that creature related to her by any chance? Or was he just getting involved in something completely unrelated? <br />
<br />
All in all, (Kanata) survived. Despite being almost delirious, he still lived. <br />
<br />
In addition, he had already figured out Azusa’s ability. As long as he doesn’t get close to the mist, he would be able to minimize the damage he took to a minimum. And after pulling a good distance between her, he would then attack with all his might and finish her in one hit --- that should guarantee his victory. Judging from the fact that she dodged his attack, the mist was not capable of blocking a physical attack. <br />
<br />
<i>I definitely won’t let her escape next time</i>. <br />
<br />
It’s my duty to carry out the mission given by Miguruma. <br />
<br />
“…” <br />
<br />
Duty. <br />
<br />
That’s right, battle itself had become (Kanata)’s duty. <br />
<br />
Ever since childhood, he had been fighting almost every day in the alleys. Due to him defeating all kinds of opponents in different situations, he had been hired by the local gang as a bodyguard when he became a teenager. His merciless and unique fighting style was feared by his enemies. <br />
<br />
But then, due to the local police’s interference, the gang disbanded. When he realized that he had nothing left if he were to lose his place to fight, he was at loss of what to do. <br />
<br />
--- Can someone … give me a place to fight… or else I’ll… <br />
<br />
That dependence desire had become his dream. <br />
<br />
After becoming a Mushitsuki, he never lacked battles. The Central Headquarters ordered him to obliterate all the rebels, and he was then promoted to the Annihilator formed by Vice-Director Miguruma. <br />
<br />
--- From now on, I will give you my love. That’s why; you have to love me back as well. <br />
<br />
Miguruma Yaeko, whom had given him battle, was like a goddess come to life. <br />
<br />
As long as (Kanata) continued to fight, Miguruma Yaeko would acknowledge his existence, and continue to fulfill his dream. <br />
<br />
That’s why he never had any doubt towards his duty and missions. <br />
<br />
Until recently-- <br />
<br />
-- Kufu.. <br />
<br />
He seemed to have heard that cat’s laughter echoing next to his ears. <br />
<br />
That white cat – might have possibly been created by his illusion (hallucinations?), yet its laughter lingered in his ears as if they were imprinted onto his eardrums. <br />
<br />
The figure of it laughing proudly despite being fatally injured --- it looked just like a hero who had fulfilled its purpose and duty. <br />
<br />
A hearty expression without any trace of regret. <br />
<br />
That cat seemed to have a reason to fight. <br />
<br />
But for what? Or for who? <br />
<br />
If it was fighting for someone’s sake --- if that was the duty entrusted to it by someone, would that cat feel satisfied then? <br />
<br />
On the other hand, how about (Kanata) himself? <br />
<br />
Fighting… getting hurt… before moving to the next battlefield, will there be an end to his dream? <br />
<br />
“What the hell is up with that cat… I don’t get it…” <br />
<br />
(Kanata) muttered to himself as if he was sleep talking. <br />
<br />
He tried to kill off this weak emotion rising from within him, and reminded himself to forget about the cat and just focus on completing the mission. <br />
<br />
His wound was pretty deep even though he had already stopped the bleeding; he was incapable of moving like normal. It seemed like he had to find a way of contacting the members situated in this city for assistance when he could move more freely. <br />
<br />
<i>Next time, I will definitely kill Horizaki Azusa. </i><br />
<br />
But, there might be a chance where he gets killed instead. <br />
<br />
--- Kufu. <br />
<br />
When it’s his time to meet his end, and accept his death, would (Kanata) be able to laugh out loud with honesty just like that cat? <br />
<br />
“Forget about it… That cat… has nothing to do with me.” <br />
<br />
Murmurs kept on coming out of his mouth. <br />
<br />
He touched his cheek, and recalled Miguruma Yaeko’s smile. <br />
<br />
“As long as I continue to fight, that person will give me a new battlefield… and then the next one… and the one after that…” <br />
<br />
(Kanata)’s mutters continued on, until his wounds caused his body to heat up and he passed out. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
--- Right now, Horizaki Azusa had used up a lot of her power. <br />
<br />
That’s most likely the reason why she didn’t finish him off. The darkness which enveloped her as she moved to Urban seemed as if it was ready to disappear. <br />
<br />
Azusa would most likely rest her body in this city. And judging from the words she said before she left, there seemed to be something standing in her way to her goal. Most likely, she would rest for the time being and move accordingly, looking for an opening. On the other hand, (Kanata)’s body was fairly weak as well, but he had confidence in his recovery ability. He concluded that he would be able to regain his combat strength within a few days. <br />
<br />
By the time (Kanata) fully recovered, it would be time for his showdown. He must finish her off before she could fully recover. In addition, taking into consideration that she might escape, he must prepare something like bait as well… There’s still plenty of time to solidify his plans. <br />
<br />
After a few days, he will definitely defeat Horizaki Azusa --- That’s what he swore within himself. <br />
<br />
“I’ll definitely fulfill my duty… That’s why; please give me another battlefield to fight… Vice-Director Miguruma…” <br />
<br />
Amidst the darkness, next to the assassin’s ear, as he muffled his breathing, there was the echo of a cat’s laughter.<br />
<br />
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< <a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2014/10/mushi-uta-v4-chapter-101-chami-part-1.html">Previous</a><br />
<a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2015/02/mushi-uta-v4-chapter-103-others.html"> Next </a>> <br />
<br />
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Thank you for reading~<br />
Feel free to leave comments for any questions or feedback~
Winghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11481201187303784651noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-6205383472262677672014-11-09T22:05:00.002+08:002014-11-09T22:05:26.179+08:00Working! (Manga) Has EndedI feel shortchanged. Where's the delicious Inami X Souta love-love scenes? Seriously.<br />
<br />
Gimme Working!!! please.zgmfx09ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16118153566717115367noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-73658865770634772382014-11-03T22:40:00.000+08:002014-12-30T22:26:24.799+08:00[Shinonome v1] Chapter 8<i>It has been a long while. Enjoy.</i><br />
<i>********************</i><br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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<b>One day, Romiemarigana successfully sneaked out of Eason's room. She was careful not to get caught, or they would bring her back to the room. She began exploring the building.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Finally, she found Eason. Despite her urge to run towards him, Romiemarigana suppressed it and hid herself in a corner to look at him.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Just then, a woman appeared before Eason. Romiemarigana did not know the woman's name — she observed the two speaking intimately. From her happy expressions and her feminine charms, it was obvious to anyone that she loved Eason.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Not just the woman, Eason looked delighted as well.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Romiemarigana could only watch in silence.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>At the same time, it felt as if there were a sound coming from within her body.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>It was the sound of her world gradually shattering into pieces. A heartbreaking sound indeed.</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Nishizono Yūko</b><br />
<b><Romiemarigana's Expanding World></b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
***<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
From that day on, Shinonome and I hardly spoke to each other for about a week.<br />
<br />
It might be due to the approaching exam dates. My grades aren't exactly stellar, so I'll fail rather spectacularly if I don't put any effort into studying. Should that happen, I'll have to take the make-up exams.<br />
<br />
We do have to continue our shift during the exam periods, but Shinonome and I never really spoke at the library either. As for those cold text messages of hers, I chose to reply with equally stiff answers.<br />
<br />
On the day when the exams were all over, while we were at the classroom, Shinonome walked towards me and called me by my name — something she has never done before.<br />
<br />
"Minami-kun."<br />
<br />
"...... Huh?"<br />
<br />
"Are you free today?"<br />
<br />
Due to the stares of our classmates, this isn't exactly the place for me to speak coldly to Shinonome.<br />
<br />
"Mmm."<br />
<br />
I stood up after a brief reply. Seeing me get up, Shinonome returned to her seat and picked up her bag. I was already done packing up, so I grabbed my bag and walked out of the classroom together with Shinonome.<br />
<br />
Shinonome was all quiet, so I chose not to speak as well. We walked silently on our way towards the station.<br />
<br />
Shinonome stopped in her tracks when we reached the shopping street.<br />
<br />
"Are you free...... tomorrow?"<br />
<br />
Tomorrow's Friday, but school will be taking a break as we were done with the exams. Of course, there's no need to perform our librarian duties as well.<br />
<br />
"Yeah, I probably am."<br />
<br />
For a brief moment, I wanted to tell her I'll be busy. In the end though, I replied to her honestly. I guess I hesitate whenever it comes to lying.<br />
<br />
"Are you interested...... in meeting up tomorrow?"<br />
<br />
Shinonome followed up with a rather hesitant question. Similar to how she approached me and initiated a conversation earlier, Shinonome coming up with a request is just an incredibly rare event.<br />
<br />
"I guess......."<br />
<br />
I couldn't answer her with an honest "Sure." Deep inside me, I was actually a little happy that Shinonome made a move first.<br />
<br />
"Well then...... As for the time, I will message you the details later."<br />
<br />
With that, Shinonome resumed walking. I stopped her immediately.<br />
<br />
"Where will we be going?"<br />
<br />
Shinonome's response was to move her eyes away from mine. With her head lowered, a mischievous smile appeared.<br />
<br />
"It's a secret."<br />
<br />
My eyes were locked on Shinonome for a while, who continued walking after her reply. I then snapped back to reality and caught up to her with a quick jog.<br />
<br />
"I'm sorry for not speaking to you recently."<br />
<br />
I said to Shinonome when I caught up to her side.<br />
<br />
"So were you really...... avoiding me?"<br />
<br />
"Yeah...... A little."<br />
<br />
"...... Did I do anything...... wrong?"<br />
<br />
It's hard to explain things to her clearly. I guess she did do something, in the sense that her actions caused me to be restless and uneasy. I'm not blaming her though; that was just me getting all worked up on my part.<br />
<br />
"Not at all."<br />
<br />
I murmured. After a moment of hesitation, I added,<br />
<br />
"I was just feeling down for a bit."<br />
<br />
"I see......"<br />
<br />
That was when Shinonome stopped walking. From the faint ringtone that was coming from inside her bag, it seemed like there was an incoming call.<br />
<br />
I stood stiffly at the side, looking at Shinonome while she spoke on the phone. From the few familiar terms which I faintly caught, the call should be from her editor. It felt like something similar had happened before. That was when I wondered — how was it going for Shinonome's novels?<br />
<br />
The last time I asked, Shinonome mentioned she was doing a draft or something, so that probably means there should be some sort of progress, right? As I made up my mind to ask her about that after she was done with the call, Shinonome hung up the phone and kept it in her bag.<br />
<br />
"Sorry, Minami-kun...... My editor happens to be around, so I want to discuss a few things with him."<br />
<br />
Shinonome apologized before I could even speak. It's not like I could hound Shinonome about her novel.<br />
<br />
"Ah, I see...... Guess this is where we part then."<br />
<br />
"Mmm...... I will text you tonight on the plans for tomorrow."<br />
<br />
"Got it."<br />
<br />
"Well, see you then."<br />
<br />
I looked on as Shinonome walked along the shopping street with dainty steps and into the coffee house. Hey, we could have walked together — I thought to myself. However, I stopped myself immediately just as my legs were about to move.<br />
<br />
If Shinonome and her editor were seated next to the windows, that would mean I'll be walking past them right before their eyes. That would feel really awkward, so I changed direction and entered a small alleyway just before the shopping street.<br />
<br />
"What on earth am I doing?"<br />
<br />
I muttered subconsciously.<br />
<br />
It was all just me getting toyed around with by Shinonome. The roller-coaster of emotions I'm experiencing, or the fact that I was walking sneakily in some alleyway.<br />
<br />
It never felt like this back when I was in love with Arumi-san.<br />
<br />
I was way too naive back then, so all I did was to dance around her. I would never get angry at her, nor would I feel any embarrassment.<br />
<br />
So that means I'm more mature than I used to be, resulting to all these various emotions which I haven't experienced before.<br />
<br />
I wasn't quite sure if that's a good thing or not.<br />
<br />
What exactly should I be doing?<br />
<br />
If I love Shinonome— If I love her, I should be satisfied just by being next to her regardless of the situation, instead of getting angry with her, right?<br />
<br />
So I just have to get Shinonome to love me, right? To look at me happily and say,<br />
<br />
"I love you."<br />
<br />
Do I want her to say that? But if that's the case, then Shinonome won't be Shinonome anymore. The Shinonome Yuuko I love is someone who's slightly different from others; a girl whose thoughts I cannot read. Since this is Shinonome we're talking about, does this mean I'm doomed to have her toy with me around with my mixed emotions for all eternity?<br />
<br />
The phone in my pocket was vibrating. It was a message from Arumi-san.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">"Keisuke and I will be going to our university gathering, so I'm sorry, but Eita will have to have dinner by yourself. I have prepared some food in the fridge, so you just have to heat them up. The rice should be ready by the time you reach home."</span><br />
<br />
"Hmm......" If that's the case, they probably won't be back home early tonight. Stuff like this happens occasionally, and they would always return home late. To be honest, I'm quite suspicious about the whole 'gathering' thing, but I'm not in the mood to reach the bottom of such things.<br />
<br />
Before, when I received messages like this, it always felt like I would die from sadness. But now, I'm incredibly calm.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">"Got it. Have fun."</span><br />
<br />
And I can even reply her with stuff like this.<br />
<br />
That just shows how much I have grown. Come to think about it, I more or less have Shinonome to thank for that.<br />
<br />
Back at home, I stared blankly at the TV. After a while, I grew bored of the shows that were airing, so I made my way to Keisuke's room instead. As I looked at his room with all the messily placed books lying all around, I picked up Shinonome's favourite <Eréndira> once more.<br />
<br />
I flipped through the book briefly, but it was way more difficult than I have imagined.<br />
<br />
I felt a little guilty to take yet another book when I haven't even started on <Nine Stories> which I had borrowed from Keisuke, However, what I wanted to read right now was not a "short stories compilation", but Shinonome's favourite book.<br />
<br />
I laid on my bed and began working on the first chapter of <Eréndira>.<br />
<br />
Just as I had expected, I couldn't understand it. Similar to the short stories written by Shinonome, the only thing appearing in my mind were a series of blurry images. Still, having known that this is Shinonome's favourite novel, I pressed on.<br />
<br />
I had no idea if the story is fiction or based on facts, but it somehow feels similar to Shinonome.<br />
<br />
An unfathomable girl who is a little disconnected with the rest of the world, someone whose thoughts I can never understand.<br />
<br />
Then there's me, who has fallen in love with Shinonome.<br />
<br />
This feels like the sort of story you can expect to find in a short stories compilation, isn't it? Though it's nowhere near grandiose enough to be woven into a novel, but there should be enough to give birth to a rather intriguing story, right? I chuckled to myself on my bed.<br />
<br />
***<br />
<br />
The place to meet, as designated by Shinonome, was a station built into a giant shopping complex. Most of the time, I'm the one who would arrive earlier, but Shinonome was already there waiting for me when I walked out of the ticketing gates.<br />
<br />
"You're very early."<br />
<br />
Reason I said that was because I arrived ten minutes ahead of the agreed time.<br />
<br />
"I left home slightly earlier today...... because there is something I wanted to see."<br />
<br />
While explaining, she turned her head towards the direction of the shopping complex. One can find plenty of bookshops in the mega-complex which had just opened up a year ago, so she's probably referring to them. I replied nonchalantly with a "Right."<br />
<br />
"Well then, where are we heading for today?"<br />
<br />
I directed the question towards Shinonome, as she had not mentioned about our destination in any of her mails yesterday. Shinonome lifted her eyes bashfully and answered,<br />
<br />
"Urm...... If you can accompany me while I am shopping......"<br />
<br />
"Shopping? Sure. Books?"<br />
<br />
I then thought to myself — she probably wanted to buy a ton of books, so she's looking for someone to help her with the bags as she won't be able to carry them all herself. I mean, speaking of 'Shinonome' and 'shopping' hand in hand, the only thing which came to my mind was books.<br />
<br />
However, Shinonome shrunk a little as she shook her head slowly.<br />
<br />
"No...... I am thinking of buying clothes......."<br />
<br />
"Klo...thes?"<br />
<br />
For a brief moment, I frowned as I tried to work out what Shinonome was trying to say. However, what she mean't soon dawned on me.<br />
<br />
"Oh, so you're referring to clothes. You wanna buy clothes huh...... not bad."<br />
<br />
Even I find that response to be really silly.<br />
<br />
"I am not too familiar with fashion, so I was thinking...... of getting Minami-kun to help me with the selection......"<br />
<br />
"Eh? Picking your clothes...... but I'm totally clueless about fashion as well......"<br />
<br />
To be honest, she was putting a great deal of pressure on me. But Shinonome was urging me with, "Come on, let's go," so we began shopping.<br />
<br />
So it seems like the 'something I wanted to see' Shinonome was referring to were clothes. That probably meant she some ideas in mind. I followed Shinonome, visiting a few stores. All of them were selling female clothing, so it's natural for all the customers to be girls.<br />
<br />
There were a handful of guys around, but all of them looked like they were there to 'accompany their girlfriend'. That made me feel out of place.<br />
<br />
"...... So which store do you prefer?"<br />
<br />
Shinonome popped the question out of the blue when we were done browsing a few stores.<br />
<br />
"Eh?"<br />
<br />
The reason for that weird response of mine was because Shinonome had never once sought my opinion while she was browsing the stores. It didn't feel like she had mentioned anything along the lines of "This looks pretty nice" or "Which one is better". All Shinonome did was to pick a few clothes up and placing them back on the rack before moving on to the next store.<br />
<br />
I thought she was not pleased with the designs, so I said nothing while following her footsteps.<br />
<br />
"Though you're seeking my opinion...... but I'm not too sure which store's better."<br />
<br />
Upon hearing my answer, Shinonome tilted her head with a troubled look.<br />
<br />
"...... Urm, how did you buy the dress you're wearing now?"<br />
<br />
I asked Shinonome out of curiosity. Shinonome, fidgeting, answered with,<br />
<br />
"Well...... The magazine request for a photo-shoot...... so I bought them online."<br />
<br />
"Ah......"<br />
<br />
I understand the situation now.<br />
<br />
Shinonome doesn't possess the experience of 'buying clothes from a store'. Either that, or she didn't spend much thought on the clothes whenever she bought them. That is just the sort of person she is.<br />
<br />
As for me, I'm not someone who is particularly fussy with what he wear, so in a sense I'm kind of similar to her. All that mattered to me was that the clothes fit, and maybe I would pay some attention to whether they looked decent on me. There are times where I couldn't be bothered and end up seeking the store assistants for their opinions.<br />
<br />
"OK, I got it. Let's walk through the stores once more."<br />
<br />
I grabbed the hand of the hesitant Shinonome and headed straight to the stores which we had visited earlier. I may not be an expert when it comes to fashion, but I should be a tad bit better than Shinonome; at the very least, I know what to do while shopping for clothes.<br />
<br />
"What sort of clothes do you have in mind? Summer wear?"<br />
<br />
We were in that time of the year where the stores were transitioning into the summer fashion, so it was easy to find summer wear at just about everywhere. However, Shinonome shook her head.<br />
<br />
"Well...... I am interested in more mature styles."<br />
<br />
That was kind of vague. Similar to Shinonome, I'm no expert when it comes to fashion. At times like this, it is best to go out of the way and engage an expert.<br />
<br />
"...... Pardon me~"<br />
<br />
The female store assistant who was observing us at a distance away approached us with a professional smile on her face. Shinonome moved herself warily behind my back.<br />
<br />
"Do you require my assistance~?"<br />
<br />
Asked the assistant. I turned around and pointed at Shinonome behind me.<br />
<br />
"Yeah...... She's looking for something that's more towards the mature side. Do you have any recommendations?"<br />
<br />
Upon hearing my request, the assistant fixed her eyes on Shinonome.<br />
<br />
"Let's see...... How about going for a set~?"<br />
<br />
"What do you think?"<br />
<br />
Shinonome remained silent, her only response was tilting her head.<br />
<br />
"Please wait for a moment, I will select a few pieces for you to try on."<br />
<br />
After a while, the assistant returned with a few clothes in hand.<br />
<br />
"These are the more recent styles. The colors are on the dark side, so they should look more mature on you~"<br />
<br />
The only one interacting with the assistant, who was speaking with a drag at the end of her sentences, was me. There was no "Mmm" or "OK" from Shinonome. Shinonome took the clothes passed to her and compared it over her body shyly, before looking at me with a helpless expression.<br />
<br />
"I...... am not too sure, so please pick for me, Minami-kun......."<br />
<br />
Even if you ask me, I'm not too sure about stuff like this as well — but I swallowed my words, reason being that she's depending on me right now. It doesn't feel that bad to be in such a situation.<br />
<br />
"Why don't you try them?"<br />
<br />
"Eh?"<br />
<br />
"Try them on! She can, right?"<br />
<br />
The female assistant answered with a smile.<br />
<br />
"Definitely! The changing room is empty~"<br />
<br />
The assistant pushed the confused Shinonome towards the changing room.<br />
<br />
"In any case, why don't you try one of the sets for now? It will be much easier for me to provide my thoughts."<br />
<br />
upon she heard my explanation, Shinonome finally relented.<br />
<br />
"Okay......"<br />
<br />
It was an answer which sounded like she was on the brink of tears. Shinonome stepped into the changing room and pulled the curtain. A chair was placed before the changing room, making it look like some sort of 'waiting seat'. There's no point wandering around the store filled with only female customers, so I sat myself on the chair.<br />
<br />
There were two changing rooms situated side-by-side. The other room was not used, so the curtain was left opened.<br />
<br />
As for the curtain which was drawn shut, that's where Shinonome was in — and I could hear the rustling sounds of clothing coming from within. I drew a deep breath.<br />
<br />
Shinonome's changing on the other side of the curtain right now. I couldn't keep still as my imagination ran wild; I was shaking my leg subconsciously. A bystander would probably think of me as a boyfriend who was irritated with his girlfriend shopping, hoping everything would be done in a flash so that he could leave.<br />
<br />
Then came another rustling sound from the curtain, followed by the sound of a piece of clothing falling onto the ground.<br />
<br />
Was that her skirt? My thoughts run wild once more. I took another deep breath.<br />
<br />
Shit, this can't do. My mind's slowly drifting towards the endless world of perverseness, despite me being in a place as stylish as this. If there's any psychic nearby reading my thoughts, he would definitely see me as a pervert.<br />
<br />
Come on, hurry up and be done changing, Shinonome. I can barely hold on much longer — and I mean that in a lot of different ways.<br />
<br />
While I was busy with my thoughts, I heard Shinonome clearing her throat from behind the curtain. She then asked softly,<br />
<br />
"Urm...... Is Minami-kun around?"<br />
<br />
"Y-Yeah...... Anything wrong?"<br />
<br />
"I-I am done changing......"<br />
<br />
"Ah, really? And?"<br />
<br />
"Is it...... weird......?"<br />
<br />
Despite her question, Shinonome remained hidden behind the curtain. There was no way I'd know.<br />
<br />
"Well...... I wouldn't know if you don't show yourself."<br />
<br />
The curtained moved slightly when I gave her my answer. Shinonome's face appeared through the small opening.<br />
<br />
"Promise me you won't laugh...... even if it looks weird."<br />
<br />
"I probably won't......"<br />
<br />
"If you cannot promise me that, then it would be better if I don't show you. I don't think it suits me that much......"<br />
<br />
I stood up in a hurry when Shinonome was about to draw the curtains shut.<br />
<br />
"I won't, I promise I won't laugh at you."<br />
<br />
Shinonome pressed her fingers against the curtain and pulled it open as if she had given it all up. She then stood before me while remaining in that position.<br />
<br />
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<br />
Wearing a sheer white blouse and black skirt, Shinonome achieved her aim of looking more 'mature' than she usually does; just as she wanted. The glean of her fair skin lit up my eyes.<br />
<br />
"H-How is it......?"<br />
<br />
Asked Shinonome nervously. My voice went a pitch higher than normal.<br />
<br />
"Eh? Ah, pretty good. Yeah."<br />
<br />
Shinonome's eyes were filled with surprise.<br />
<br />
"Is that really...... what you think?"<br />
<br />
"Mmm, yeah. They really do look good."<br />
<br />
Despite my reassurance, Shinonome continued looking at me suspiciously for a brief while before putting on a smile.<br />
<br />
"Mmm, alright. I will buy this set then."<br />
<br />
"Eh? But there are others, no?"<br />
<br />
"There are...... but this will do."<br />
<br />
Hearing our conversation, as the female assistant who picked the clothes walked towards us.<br />
<br />
"What do you think~?"<br />
<br />
Shinonome ignored me, who was struggling with an answer, and said without hesitation,<br />
<br />
"I will take this."<br />
<br />
"Really? Thank you very much for your patronage~"<br />
<br />
Shinonome continued speaking to the assistant, who was talking to us without any emotion in her voice,<br />
<br />
"Also...... Can I wear this set right away?"<br />
<br />
The female assistant looked at Shinonome in surprise when she heard her request.<br />
<br />
The same applied to me as well. Upon noticing my gaze, Shinonome flashed me a shy smile.<br />
<br />
***<br />
<br />
We then made our way to the cafe.<br />
<br />
"I would like to discuss something with you."<br />
<br />
Said Shinonome. I guess anything can happen in this world. As we made our way to a nearby cafe, Shinonome carried the bag containing the clothes she wore just moments ago as though she were hugging a teddy bear or something. Knowing very well what the bag was holding, I knew it was nothing heavy, so I said,<br />
<br />
"Allow me to take that for you."<br />
<br />
Ignoring Shinonome's protest, I took the bag away from her hands. Shinonome thanked me softly. However, I'm not too confident I did that purely out of goodwill.<br />
<br />
Part of the reason was me not wanting others to see me as someone who 'nonchalantly allows his girlfriend to carry something that huge'.<br />
<br />
We found a slightly old cafe. While we were waiting for our items to be served to us, Shinonome's attention shifted to the clothes she was wearing.<br />
<br />
"Do I really not look weird?"<br />
<br />
I assured her with "Not in the slightest", but then I wondered about her sudden desire to buy a set of new clothes; moreover, her emphasis was on more mature styles.<br />
<br />
The reason I didn't ask was because I was afraid of her answer.<br />
<br />
A possibility came to my mind.<br />
<br />
Could it be—<br />
<br />
It was just a guess, but could it be for Keisuke? Once the suspicion appeared in my mind, I could no longer shake the thought away.<br />
<br />
Shinonome visited my house, resulting in her falling for Keisuke, As such, she would do anything to close the gap between her and an older Keisuke — that explains the sudden actions taken by Shinonome.<br />
<br />
I know very well it was all just my paranoia, but I can never shake away the inferiority complex I hold towards Keisuke, so there was no way I could avoid thinking the way I did.<br />
<br />
Before long, Shinonome was already asking me about my family. And she was picking up pace.<br />
<br />
"Does Arumi-san visit Minami-kun's house often?"<br />
<br />
"Ah, yeah...... She has been coming ever since my brother's in high school. It's been five years, I think."<br />
<br />
"So that means she has been going out with your brother ever since then?"<br />
<br />
"Yeah. Makes me wonder what's so great about my elder brother for them to be steady for that long."<br />
<br />
I blurted my true feelings accidentally. Shinonome tilted her head when she heard that.<br />
<br />
"Really? Your elder brother is an exceptional person. I think they are a great pair."<br />
<br />
Sigh.<br />
<br />
I tried my best not to heave a sigh, picking up my nearly-empty coffee cup instead. There wasn't much coffee remaining inside, but there's no way I could hide the frustration within me if I didn't distract myself with something to do.<br />
<br />
I don't want to listen to words like that.<br />
<br />
I don't want to admit the fact that Keisuke is 'exceptional'.<br />
<br />
"I wish...... I can become someone like Arumi-san."<br />
<br />
Murmured Shinonome softly.<br />
<br />
There was a loud 'thud' when I rested the cup onto the setter.<br />
<br />
"Ah, sorry......"<br />
<br />
I apologized to Shinonome and lowered my head. From the way she was cowering, it seemed like she was frightened by the sudden sound.<br />
<br />
Someone like Arumi-san huh — I thought to myself.<br />
<br />
So she likes Keisuke that much, huh?<br />
<br />
Despite us shopping for Shinonome's clothes and coming to the cafe - basically behaving exactly like how a pair of lovers would - it just seemed like we were separated by an invisible wall or something. A wall which I couldn't overcome, no matter what actions I take. No matter how hard I tried to scale up the wall, Shinonome's words would always be there on the other side to shove me down.<br />
<br />
"Urm......"<br />
<br />
Shinonome finally spoke with an apologetic voice,<br />
<br />
"I am currently working on a scene in the novel...... As such, there is a place where I would like to visit, so...... do you mind accompanying me?"<br />
<br />
"...... Sure, no problem. I mean, that's the reason we were 'going out' in the first place, right?"<br />
<br />
Given the way she made her request, there was no way I could reject her. That has always been the sort of relationship between Shinonome and I. I'm just Shinonome's pretend boyfriend for the sake of her novel — that fact was yet again forced onto me.<br />
<br />
Shinonome was looking at the window behind me. The sun was setting. That was when I realized how long we had been out.<br />
<br />
"Let's go."<br />
<br />
Said Shinonome as she stood up.<br />
<br />
"Right now?"<br />
<br />
I asked. It's already too late for us to head somewhere else. I did go out with Shinonome several times before this, but most of the time, we would split up at about dinner time. The daylight lasts slightly longer since it's summer time, but it would be better if we save this for another day, right?<br />
<br />
"Now is the perfect time."<br />
<br />
The tone of that sentence was weird, considering it came from Shinonome. It sounded like she was pushing me, so I stood up as well.<br />
<br />
Shinonome mentioned nothing about where we will be heading next.<br />
<br />
I followed Shinonome in silence. We were gradually heading towards the alleys; it looked like Shinonome wanted to move away from the hustle of the city. I just couldn't see any place nearby we could visit. There are no gardens, no cinemas, much less a theme park. There were only stores with flashy billboards or drinks pavilions with hanging red lanterns.<br />
<br />
"Where are we going?"<br />
<br />
I asked, unable to hold back any longer. Shinonome stopped and turn around to look at me.<br />
<br />
"It's just right ahead."<br />
<br />
Replied Shinonome. Looking at the path before me, I failed to think of any place which Shinonome might be heading to.<br />
<br />
I followed Shinonome in silence as Shinonome resumed her steps. For some weird reason, I recalled the fantasy scene I read in a novel yesterday — I was worried about getting thrown into some bizarre universe without me realizing it.<br />
<br />
Looking up, the cloudy sky was dyed red by the setting sun. It probably was just me, but the air felt kind of wet. It's not going to rain, is it? Come to think of it, the weather forecast for the morning news predicted a light shower in the evening. I didn't pay it much attention back then as I had expected us to part by dinner time.<br />
<br />
Shinonome was showing no signs of stopping. My head was hung low while we were walking, but I decided to look up just then. I failed to realize this earlier, but we were surrounded by buildings which even I could tell were those so called 'love hotels'. As it was still relatively early, the neon lights weren't lit up just yet, but you can be sure their colourful flashes will pop out all over soon enough.<br />
<br />
Just as I was wondering how on earth did we end up walking to a place as awkward as this, Shinonome suddenly stopped in her tracks.<br />
<br />
"Well......"<br />
<br />
As she turned her head around, her expression was one which I had never seen from her; it was a complicated expression mixed with feelings, with a touch of melancholy and shyness.<br />
<br />
"Urm, well......"<br />
<br />
Shinonome scanned the 'love hotels' around us.<br />
<br />
"I would like to visit one of these."<br />
<br />
It took me a few seconds to register her words.<br />
<br />
"...... Eh?"<br />
<br />
I understood what she meant, but I couldn't digest it.<br />
<br />
"...... What, did you just say?"<br />
<br />
I asked in reflex. Shinonome lowered her head and repeated her sentence.<br />
<br />
"I would like to visit one of these......"<br />
<br />
"Here......"<br />
<br />
I took another look at our surroundings in an attempt to find out if there was any other place that Shinonome could have meant with her words. However, no matter how hard I look, the only buildings that were around us were 'hotels'. And they were no ordinary hotels.<br />
<br />
"...... We...... can't?"<br />
<br />
Shinonome's voice was trembling slightly.<br />
<br />
"No, it's not like we can't......"<br />
<br />
"I-I have never entered any of these places, but I am dying to know what's inside...... so......"<br />
<br />
True. I had never stepped into one either. Though I understood what sort of place it is.<br />
<br />
"But...... urm...... really?"<br />
<br />
"I honestly...... just wanted to take a look inside...... but I can't go in alone...... so......"<br />
<br />
"No no no, that's not what I meant......"<br />
<br />
I knew very well what Shinonome was saying — this is just part of her 'material gathering'. She mentioned that when we were leaving the cafe, so it's not that strange if she wanted to see this place with her very own eyes, especially if we're talking about Shinonome.<br />
<br />
Still, this isn't really the right thing to do, isn't it?<br />
<br />
"Let's forget about this if you don't like it......"<br />
<br />
"It's not a problem of me liking it or not."<br />
<br />
"If it's about money...... I can be the one paying for it."<br />
<br />
"That's not the issue either......"<br />
<br />
Shinonome grabbed my hand just as it was about to scratch my head. I took in a deep breath; her hand felt slightly clammy.<br />
<br />
"Just a quick look at what's inside, then we'll leave......"<br />
<br />
Shinonome walked determinedly towards the 'hotel'. With my hand in hers, I followed her footsteps meekly. The shady hotels around us were pulling in customers rather aggressively. A few men in bow ties were looking at us with enthusiasm; they probably found our conversation to be rather amusing.<br />
<br />
There was a old soap opera I watched where a scene was about a woman rejecting the man's invitation to stay at a hotel. Shouldn't that be how things usually go? What we have here though is the total opposite. That's probably the reason why they were looking at us with laughter in their eyes, right?<br />
<br />
***<br />
<br />
As we passed through the entrance of the nearest hotel, which was shrouded by some trees, we were greeted by a rather glamorous space. Just as we were standing there wondering what we should do next, a couple in suits walked out of the elevator arm in arm. As they passed us, I could hear the woman whispering to the man, "Not bad, they look so innocent." I lowered my head in embarrassment.<br />
<br />
"So, what should we do now......"<br />
<br />
Asked Shinonome as she held my hand. I had no idea what our next step should be, but since this is a hotel, there should then be a check-in counter somewhere, shouldn't there? I took a look around us and realized there was something located next to the entrance which seemed kind of like what I was searching for. However, there was no one manning the place. The counter was roughly an elbow's length, and had an opening which sort of looked like a peeping hole.<br />
<br />
We walked towards the counter. Next to the counter was an enormous board; pasted on it were the pictures of the rooms and their respective numbers. Some of the pictures were lit up by lights behind them, while others were not. Next to the pictures were buttons, which were lit up in the same condition as the photos beside them.<br />
<br />
"Please press the button of the room you are interested in."<br />
<br />
A voice boomed suddenly from the back of the counter — it seemed like there was someone on the other side of the wall. That was when I understood; at places like this, things can be done without any face-to-face interaction.<br />
<br />
"...... W-What now?"<br />
<br />
This time round, it was my turn to throw the same question at Shinonome.<br />
<br />
The unlit rooms probably indicate that they were 'in use'. For the ones which were still lit up, the interiors looked more or less the same — or so it seems from the photos anyway. The price were not too different as well.<br />
<br />
"...... Minami-kun, you choose."<br />
<br />
Shinonome replied softly, so I pressed a button closest to the edge with hesitation. The light on the board went off, and a piece of paper was dropped to the opening below. I picked it up; the room number was printed on it.<br />
<br />
"Please head straight to your room."<br />
<br />
Came the voice from the counter yet again. How on earth did he see us — I thought to myself. Perhaps there are cameras installed somewhere? In any case, it wouldn't do for us to stand around and do nothing.<br />
<br />
"L-Let's go......"<br />
<br />
With my initial resistance outside of the hotel blown out of the water, I pulled Shinonome by her hand and walked towards the elevator. Shinonome responded with a firm grip.<br />
<br />
Once we were in the elevator, I pressed the button leading to level 3 (since our room number was 307). As the elevator ascended in silence, Shinonome heaved a loud sigh and said,<br />
<br />
"I am so nervous......"<br />
<br />
"Me too......"<br />
<br />
I murmured and gave a wry laugh — I felt relieved all of the sudden. As the lift finally came to a stop, we resumed our way towards the room.<br />
<br />
We were holding hands the whole time.<br />
<br />
Led by the flashing lights, we stepped into the room which was located the deepest in. We first removed our shoes at what looked to be the entryway before taking a nervous look at the interiors of the room.<br />
<br />
"It's so...... ordinary......"<br />
<br />
I was expecting a more gaudy interior, but upon stepping into the actual room, I realized they chose to take on a more simplistic style.<br />
<br />
"Yeah......"<br />
<br />
Shinonome scanned the room and nodded.<br />
<br />
I noticed I was still holding onto Shinonome's hand, so I let go of it gradually. My palm was wet, though I wasn't sure if it was due to Shinonome's perspiration or mine.<br />
<br />
In the room was an LCD TV of unknown dimension, a two-person sofa which was facing the TV and a small glass table. At the corner of the room was a large bed. When I saw the two pillows placed on the bed, I directed my gaze away from how real everything seemed to be.<br />
<br />
I sat onto the sofa and looked towards Shinonome. She remained rooted on her spot, looking around her aimlessly with a hapless expression on her face.<br />
<br />
"I-In any case...... why don't you take a seat?"<br />
<br />
I suggested, patting the seat next to me. Shinonome walked towards me in silence and did as I said. That movement of hers and the way the air flowed in the room caused a faint scent to whiff up my nose. Ah, it was the scent of shampoo.<br />
<br />
My arms were spread wide apart, resting on the back of the sofa — my left hand was so close to Shinonome, I could basically touch her with the slightest movement.<br />
<br />
Should I just hold her by her shoulders at a place like this?<br />
<br />
Just as I was about to move my hand, Shinonome reached for the remote which was placed on the table. She then pointed it towards the TV and pressed the switch.<br />
<br />
What was showing on the ridiculously huge screen was a naked couple entwined together. From the way it was filmed, it was obvious we were not watching a scene from a soap opera, but full fledged porn. I had no idea why they chose to air the show out of the blue, but one thing's for sure: a rather risque scene was repeating again and again before our very eyes.<br />
<br />
Shinonome was totally frozen in the pose of pointing the remote towards the TV.<br />
<br />
I hurriedly snatched the remote away from Shinonome's hand and pressed the button frantically to turn the TV off.<br />
<br />
"That got me...... the TV turned on and......"<br />
<br />
I forced a smile as I spoke. However, Shinonome's eyes remain glued to the screen.<br />
<br />
"Right, since we are here to gather some materials, shouldn't we check out what the bathroom is like? Yeah?"<br />
<br />
I stood up from the sofa and walked towards the bathroom. Shinonome was still sitting on the sofa, but with the way things are right now, it'll be mental torture to have Shinonome next to me. This works just fine with me.<br />
<br />
Pushing the glass door aside, the bathroom looked way smaller but more exquisite than I had imagined. Just as I was thinking that there was nothing out of the ordinary to be found in the bathroom, a strange-looking chair came to view when I lowered my eyes.<br />
<br />
"Whoa......"<br />
<br />
I exclaimed in reflex.<br />
<br />
It was a...... really perverted chair. I possessed the relevant knowledge since I had seen it in manga and on the internet, but I had no idea it actually existed.<br />
<br />
"...... Anything wrong?"<br />
<br />
A sudden voice came from behind me. Turning my head back, Shinonome was walking towards the bathroom. I shut the glass door in haste.<br />
<br />
"N-Nothing. It was just an ordinary bathroom. Really ordinary."<br />
<br />
Shinonome tilted her head in suspicion, but she pursued the issue no further.<br />
<br />
Just as I was about to invite Shinonome back to the sofa, Shinonome stopped walking and began looking around. There should be nothing weird around us, so what now? Shinonome asked,<br />
<br />
"Can you hear something?"<br />
<br />
"What?"<br />
<br />
"A sound."<br />
<br />
"...... A sound?"<br />
<br />
My attention was focused to my ears, but I couldn't pick up any strange sounds. The most I could hear was faint music coming from the cable TV located outside our room.<br />
<br />
"Is there a window somewhere?"<br />
<br />
As she said that, Shinonome stepped forward. I followed suit.<br />
<br />
The window next to the bed was hidden by blinds which looked strikingly similar to the walls.<br />
<br />
Upon opening the blinds, I understood what Shinonome meant by 'sound'. Just to make sure, Shinonome unlatched the window and opened it slowly.<br />
<br />
It was raining.<br />
<br />
It was close to precipitating just a moment ago, but now it was raining way heavier than expected. Since it's currently in the evening, the rain may stop soon enough. However, when I popped my head out of the window to look at the sky, I could see the thundering clouds enveloping above us. It looks like the rain won't be stopping anytime soon.<br />
<br />
Both of us didn't bring any umbrella along; moreover, the station is of a considerable distance away from the hotel. We would end up soaking wet should we leave the hotel right now.<br />
<br />
Shinonome shut the windows and pulled down the blinds.<br />
<br />
She then turned around to look at me, who was getting all disappointed due to the rain. With a tilt of her head, she said,<br />
<br />
"It looks like we have no choice but to stay here...... till the rain stops."<br />
<br />
That caused me to draw a deep breath.<br />
<br />
The rain won't be stopping in just five to ten minutes time. An hour if we're lucky, but it may be much longer if we're not. It looks like we don't have much of an option.<br />
<br />
In other words, Shinonome and I will have to spend our time together in this room.<br />
<br />
Alone.<br />
<br />
Shinonome walked to my side and sat gently onto the bed. The springs of the bed creaked from her movement. When she heard that, Shinonome began bouncing herself on the bed.<br />
<br />
"...... This bed is really old."<br />
<br />
An innocent smile appeared on her face as she said that. The rare childish expression and behavior from Shinonome made her look incredibly cute.<br />
<br />
I stood next to the window and swallowed a few gulps while Shinonome continued bouncing on the bed with a laugh. I finally decided to make my move and stood before Shinonome. At the moment Shinonome realized my presence and looked at me—<br />
<br />
"Ah......"<br />
<br />
I pressed Shinonome down, sprawling on the bed as though I were a blanket. The springs of the bed creaked once more.<br />
<br />
"M-Minami...... kun......?"<br />
<br />
There was fear in Shinonome's whimper. I couldn't bring myself to look at her. My hands were pressing down on hers, my breathing rugged.<br />
<br />
Shinonome attempted to escape from my grasp, but I strengthened my grip to stop her from doing so. My ears were filled with the repeated gulps of my throat, my heart was racing in an incredible speed. The deep thumps continued to reverberate in my body. "Shi...... Shinonome!"<br />
<br />
My tongue was tied when I called out her name. I had no idea what I should be doing right now.<br />
<br />
Shinonome said nothing, only to heave painfully twice. From my hands, I could feel Shinonome's pulse increasing — was it due to fear or nervousness? I couldn't tell.<br />
<br />
My mind was filled with many thoughts, all sticky and gooey like lumps of paint swirling together. Can I? I can, right? I mean, we came all the way here. We are 'going out', and isn't this all for the sake of Shinonome's novel? I don't think Shinonome will reject me. She would probably take it all in silence even if she doesn't like me.<br />
<br />
Bouts of question and answer sessions were playing in my mind. I ended up moving closer and closer to Shinonome's face. What should I do? What are the things which I have to do? I don't have the slightest clue; the only thing I felt was my desire to kiss Shinonome.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHGl1sV7AsKnpAgEvKS_7s2hpZc1TY39kn05_zohvuGRTwHs7NI7a9AZjLZoFxfThEhMmFVPl356YyUXg21tGDIPeQWYHRRXYQhf38bNsFWpzuw8eKK1VBJn7JLv_9ZKG4buho3-oWjg0A/s1600/%E6%9D%B1%E9%9B%B2%E4%BE%91%E5%AD%90%E3%81%AF%E7%9F%AD%E7%B7%A8%E5%B0%8F%E8%AA%AC%E3%82%92%E3%81%82%E3%81%84%E3%81%97%E3%81%A6%E3%81%84%E3%82%8B0139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHGl1sV7AsKnpAgEvKS_7s2hpZc1TY39kn05_zohvuGRTwHs7NI7a9AZjLZoFxfThEhMmFVPl356YyUXg21tGDIPeQWYHRRXYQhf38bNsFWpzuw8eKK1VBJn7JLv_9ZKG4buho3-oWjg0A/s1600/%E6%9D%B1%E9%9B%B2%E4%BE%91%E5%AD%90%E3%81%AF%E7%9F%AD%E7%B7%A8%E5%B0%8F%E8%AA%AC%E3%82%92%E3%81%82%E3%81%84%E3%81%97%E3%81%A6%E3%81%84%E3%82%8B0139.jpg" height="640" width="402" /></a></div>
<br />
A surprised expression appeared on Shinonome's face when she realized my intent. She bit her lips gently. As I closed in, she shut her eyes as though she were about to get splashed by an incoming bucket of water.<br />
<br />
So can I or can't I?<br />
<br />
I pondered to myself as I remained in a position where my face was only a few millimeters above her lips.<br />
<br />
Can I? Really? Why? Because she likes me?<br />
<br />
We are doing this for our 'material gathering' — that's what Shinonome would probably say. She cares nothing about what I think; even if it's something she hates, will she take it just for the sake of 'experience' and her novel?<br />
<br />
I stared at Shinonome. Her body was totally stiff and petrified. With her eyes closed shut, she looked just like a child who was about to cry.<br />
<br />
I moved my head slowly, pulled my neck to the side and plonked my face past Shinonome's cheeks onto the bed.<br />
<br />
Just reject me if you don't like it.<br />
<br />
I heaved a sigh while thinking that.<br />
<br />
"Minami-kun......"<br />
<br />
Shinonome called out to me next to my ear with a hoarse voice.<br />
<br />
I didn't answer her. Instead, I was rattling on and on in my mind as if I was mumbling a curse.<br />
<br />
If you hate it that much; if you're so afraid that you have to bite your lips, if it hurts you to be doing such things with me, you can simply tell me as it is. How will I possible know what you're thinking if you choose to remain silent? There's no way I can remain in a zen-state when we're all alone in this room.<br />
<br />
With that, I slowly moved my body away from Shinonome.<br />
<br />
Shinonome sat up and looked at me in surprise. I sat beside her and heaved a sigh.<br />
<br />
"...... Sorry."<br />
<br />
I'm fully aware that Shinonome had no such intentions in mind. The reason we came here wasn't because she 'wanted to do that', rather, it was simply out of curiosity. The reason she chose me to play pretend couple was simply out of coincidence because I stumbled upon her true identity as an author. These were the conclusions I reached no matter how I look at it.<br />
<br />
"I went...... overboard with my actions."<br />
<br />
I added on with an awkward laughter.<br />
<br />
The reason I went out with Shinonome wasn't to harm her, but to help her out with her 'material gathering'. I cannot ruin Shinonome just because of my feelings and desires.<br />
<br />
The only option was to defuse the awkward atmosphere and the various feelings in a joking manner.<br />
<br />
"Sorry...... I won't do it again."<br />
<br />
I apologized once again. I was unable to look straight at Shinonome, but it felt like she was shaking her head. The only thing I could do was to lower my head in silence, aghast at myself for not being able to exercise self-control.<br />
<br />
Shinonome said nothing, so I could only feel her gaze. It felt like her gaze was reproaching me. I was afraid of confirming that fact, afraid of seeing Shinonome's expressions which were on the other end of her gaze. I lowered my head to avoid her.<br />
<br />
"Let's...... stop."<br />
<br />
That was what Shinonome finally said.<br />
<br />
"Thanks to Minami-kun, I went to lots of places...... so you don't have to force yourself any further. I'm sorry."<br />
<br />
"I wasn't...... forcing myself."<br />
<br />
"But......"<br />
<br />
Shinonome was unable to continue her words. Perhaps she was thinking of how to phrase her sentence in a way which won't hurt me.<br />
<br />
"Sigh, whatever. With the material on hand, you should be able to come up with a novel, right? I had fun as well, so let's end everything with this, okay?"<br />
<br />
I brought up the suggestion faster than Shinonome did. I didn't want her to say anything that could hurt me, so the least I could do was to end the relationship myself.<br />
<br />
Silence fell between us once more, but I said not a word more.<br />
<br />
Finally, Shinonome murmured,<br />
<br />
"Mmm...... I understand. Thank you very much for all this time."<br />
<br />
We then waited for the rain to stop without saying anything else. The rain ended surprisingly quick, as though it were urging us to head home immediately. That pissed me off.<br />
<br />
The fee for the room was split between us. After depositing the cash into the billing machine located at the side of the entrance, it thanked us with a mechanical "Thank you for your patronage."<br />
<br />
That pissed me off even more.<br />
<br />
It felt like it was thanking us for not doing anything and leaving the room in pristine condition.<br />
<br />
After leaving the hotel, Shinonome and I walked towards the station together. We then parted and boarded our respective trains without speaking a word.<br />
<br />
When I reached home, the sky was clear with the moon peeking out from behind a cloud — everything felt unreal.<br />
<br />
"This is fine."<br />
<br />
A scene which symbolizes a happy ending, leaving only me to wallow in pain.zgmfx09ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16118153566717115367noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-5488753180923461872014-10-25T17:30:00.001+08:002014-10-25T17:35:25.486+08:00Heart Break Detective Momose, and この恋と、その未来I am still not dead. Freaking busy, but still not dead. Changed job, and current job is way busier than my last job.<br />
<br />
I'll try to get a chapter done this weekend.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>But oh well, just wanna let you guys know. Oh yeah, Nardack is a god-tier illustrator. Also, Heart Break Detective Momose and この恋と、その未来 are pretty awesome.<br />
<br />
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<br /></div>
Heart Break Detective Momose is well, just as its title suggest, about Momose playing heart break detective in her school's detective club. The series has a very good closure in 3 volumes, plus a great romance to boot.<br />
<br />
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<br />
Kono Koi to, Sono Mirai is the latest LN by Morihashi Bingo. It's about Mirai, a butch who identifies herself as a man trapped in a woman's body (she even visits the psychiatrist and stuff in order to obtain a proper certification on her condition). And then there's our MC, who's assigned as her roommate (and they're living in a boys hostel) and tasked to help her live the life of a guy as much as he could without giving her identity away. Sadly though, that kind of defeats his purpose of studying in a boarding school, since his aim was to live a life away from women thanks to his 3 elder sisters (he's a fag, because seriously, look at his sisters).<br />
<br />
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<br />
Well, putting aside the puzzling point of how Japanese girls can magically hide those boobs of theirs when they are reverse-crossdressing, our dear MC gradually falls in love with Mirai (as expected). Sadly, Mirai sees herself as a guy still, and told MC explicitly he's the only one she can count on, and hopes they can stay as friends forever. That huge friendzone card.<br />
<br />
It's frustrating, because volume one leaves the readers hanging just like that. Urg. I want volume two asap.<br />
<br />
That's it for now, hopefully I can get my ass working on the remainder of the chapter later. For now, allow me to take a much needed snooze.zgmfx09ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16118153566717115367noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-10774018520741336452014-10-22T06:51:00.000+08:002014-10-31T06:22:21.002+08:00[Mushi Uta v4 ] Chapter 1.01: Chami Part 1 Thank you Asololo-kun for motivating me, can't wait to see your work! -wink-<br />
<br />
Enjoy~<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<![endif]--><br />
<br />
1.01 <br />
<br />
Chami Part 1 <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Right after she walked out from the stairs onto the Urban Tower’s roof, rather than being welcomed by a breeze of fresh air, she was confronted by the strong irritating smell of gasoline. <br />
<br />
“Argh, the smell of gasoline stinks –“ <br />
<br />
Konomura Chami complained emotionlessly as she surveyed the surroundings. <br />
<br />
But in fact, it was not an issue. Compared to the scenery before her, which akin to a ruin, it was not that big of a deal. Undoubtedly, a battle had happened here before. <br />
<br />
Chami’s short hair swayed in the wind. Although the irritating smell was blown away by the breeze, it only lasted a moment before the overwhelming stench returned. <br />
<br />
Since she went back to her room and changed before coming here, Chami right now was wearing her casual outfit; knee-length shorts covering full length stockings, and topped with two long-sleeved T-shirts. Although Chami was often mistaken as a junior high student due to her petite figure, her eyes were not the same as other sixteen years old teenagers; they were glistening with sharpness. <br />
<br />
“It looks like… that white cat was fatally injured here…” <br />
<br />
The one who was muttering behind her was (Konoha). She belonged to the Special Environment Preservation Bureau, Central Headquarters’ Combat squad, a level four ranked member. She usually lived in HIgano City, the city that was next to Akamaki City. In order to make “reports” to Chami, she had come to Nishito City today. She was wearing a pair of skirt-pants paired with a T-shirt and jacket, a simple outfit just like Chami. <br />
<br />
“You don’t say. We’ve been following the traces of battle all the way down from the first floor. This is the end, and the traces stopped here as well. They can’t possibly continue the chase through the sky right? How can cat flies? Idiots should just shut up.” <br />
<br />
“…” <br />
<br />
After taking a glance at (Konoha) who swallowed her words and backed down, Chami continued to derive other possibilities. <br />
<br />
<i>---… It might be due to my ability, but (owl) itself was very clever to begin with. Not only can it understand my orders, it had been carrying out the mission that I pushed onto it of monitoring Ayukawa Chiharu for the past five years… like an idiot. It wouldn’t make sense for it to suddenly give up just like this then… If that’s the case then, Ayukawa Chiharu must have come here to Urban on her own. But why would Chiharu come here then --- </i><br />
<br />
Within Chami’s brain, various speculations continued to flow through as she walked from the entrance of the roof. <br />
<br />
<i>After coming here, it fought with someone… Judging from the traces of destruction, there should only be one enemy, and he was quite a powerful Mushitsuki as well. However, it was not the enemy who started attacking first. If (owl) wanted to escape, it could have just escaped through a hole that’s its size. There’s only one reason --- that would make (owl) to attempt defeating this man, and that is this man will endanger Chiharu. In other words, the enemy might have been targeting Chiharu, or might have done something in result of endangering Chiharu.</i> <br />
<br />
Chami suddenly burst into smirking. <br />
<br />
<i>--- Hehe… that tiny brain is quite an impressive one huh, is it trying to burn the enemy with this? But it seems like its plan had failed, and was countered-attacked. The last place where it was attacked ---… </i><br />
<br />
As Chami walked towards the small hut built for water-pumping, she noticed that both the water-pumping machinery and the water tank had been destroyed. Everything in the surrounding area was soaked in mixed combination of gasoline and water, slowly flowing into the still-functional pipe system used for pumping. <br />
<br />
“…!” <br />
<br />
In that instant, Chami showed a serious expression for the first time. <br />
<br />
<i>---I-Is this… also part of its plan? Did it purposely lead him to attack this place?? No, it must be coincidence that it happened right?… but, if this were really its doing… does that mean the opponent was that strong to a point where he can’t be defeated other than this plan…? </i><br />
<br />
Chami suddenly turned around with a shocked expression. She walked past (Konoha) to the other side of the roof to overlook both Urban tower and Dome. <br />
<br />
--- Let’s walk through this god damn life together! <br />
<br />
Chami then made a “Hmph” sound with her nose. <br />
<br />
From the traces of battle, Chami could strongly feel (owl)’s will, and its loyalty to her, and at the same time a sense of anxiety. She turned around to stare at (Konoha). <br />
<br />
“Don’t you dare to fail my order!” <br />
<br />
“…?” <br />
<br />
<i>--- Without your master’s permission, me, don’t you go and die as you please! </i><br />
<br />
Passing by the baffled (Konoha) who was frowning, Chami left the small hut.<br />
<br />
It seemed like she had generally understood the situation right now.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi26NP_-NzoQS-fhdhyiJ-t9rjDa6ogEBAb7S5JfPrh4XUIYS0EUc8J-SKCxwYkD7D1C_riUOBLJq93LgU4AqKiTGppWoDQtTpd5_Jn0BKXk9sEbdBwvecU4XIpTKM3CQB3o7sYJRjjaCuW/s1600/img0073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi26NP_-NzoQS-fhdhyiJ-t9rjDa6ogEBAb7S5JfPrh4XUIYS0EUc8J-SKCxwYkD7D1C_riUOBLJq93LgU4AqKiTGppWoDQtTpd5_Jn0BKXk9sEbdBwvecU4XIpTKM3CQB3o7sYJRjjaCuW/s1600/img0073.jpg" height="640" width="436" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
In conclusion, Ayukawa Chiharu had come here yesterday. <br />
<br />
And then encountered the other party who might become her enemy --- No, she “almost” encountered should be correct. Judging from the usual expression of Chiharu who she saw in school today, it didn’t seem like the expression of someone who had just experienced a life-threatening event. <br />
<br />
Judging from the trail of human blood (determined by (Konoha)) continuing from the first floor, the opponent seemed to be seriously wounded beforehand. After finishing off (owl), he temporarily retreated. <br />
<br />
“…What a shitty mission from the start to the end, even though nothing had happened in the past five years…why ---” <br />
<br />
She walked down the escalator while cursing out loud. <br />
<br />
Konomura Chami, a level ten ranked member aliased as (Owl) who belonged to Special Environmental Preservation Bureau South West Division. In the ranking system of SEPB, a level ten ranked was the lowest rank they had which was higher than No-Rank. <br />
<br />
Five years ago, the mission that was ordered to Chami was most suitable for such a low ranked member. <br />
<br />
Monitor a figure named Ayukawa Chiharu. <br />
<br />
And that was it; no reason was given, not to mention what kind of danger would be involved. At that time Chami had just become a Mushitsuki; she was given this mission without even receiving much training herself. This mission, obviously, was a neglected task that no one cared about. <br />
<br />
In the reports that Chami had to write regularly, under the section where she wrote about Chiharu’s actions, she always put “No Abnormality”. The next report was also “No Abnormality”, and then the next one as well. This “No Abnormality” had continued for five years straight. <br />
<br />
And the order that was sent back was always the same as well, “Continue the mission”. “Continue the mission” --- It seemed like even if she were to fake the report she wouldn’t get found out. The higher-ups didn’t even bother to confirm anyway, they only know to mechanically issue the same order. <br />
<br />
Chami used her ability to push this mission onto one of her slaves… a cat named (owl). If she didn’t do that, this mission would really make her go crazy from boredom. As expected from a shitty mission given from a shitty organization. <br />
<br />
The shitty organization --- also known as the Special Environmental Preservation Bureau. Judging from their incompetence, they probably haven’t found out about this yet. <br />
<br />
This period of the past five years, had given Chami who originally could only somewhat influence a cat, the time to infinitely grow and improve. Would she, who’s ranked as one of the lowest ranked Mushitsuki, be able to turn the tables around on them and strangle them, or has she already set foot onto this fate that will eventually lead to her death? <br />
<br />
“Fine, I’ll just have to do this shitty mission myself then! Back to you, shouldn’t you start reporting to me what had happened in Central recently?” <br />
<br />
Chami walked down the escalator and issued an order to (Konoha), which was behind her. Due to the fact that (Konoha) had just arrived here at Nishito City yesterday, Chami hadn’t had the chance to hear her important report yet. <br />
<br />
“I only listened up to the part where you said after defeating (Ladybird), (Kakkou) had also defeated (Shinpu), one of (The Original Three).” <br />
<br />
(Konoha) who was following after Chami did not make any noise; she began to softly make her report. <br />
<br />
“(Fuyuhotaru) has escaped from the Central Headquarters…” <br />
<br />
“What?!” <br />
<br />
“At the same time, under Miguruma vice-director’s direct order, three special task force squads were established…” <br />
<br />
“Three squads? Why would she purposely divide the system of commands? Miguruma Yaeko is really an idiot?..” <br />
<br />
“… I was assigned to the pursue squad of recapturing (Fuyuhotaru)… In addition, I was also given an order of the same priority, and that was to take back the “CD” --- Although I don’t know its content, I do know the person who snatched the “CD” away … It was (Centi)…” <br />
<br />
Chami who was walking down the escalator suddenly halted, forcing (Konoha) who was following behind to stop as well. <br />
<br />
“Are you trying to bluff me? Wasn’t (Centi) one of (Mushibane)’s cadres who had already become a Fallen? Where did you get that information from?” <br />
<br />
(Mushibane) is a resistance organization created to revolt against the SPEB who captures Mushitsuki. Its founding leader, a teenage girl named (Ladybird), had already died in a battle against a member of the SEPB, (Kakkou). <br />
<br />
“It seemed (Centi) was immediately captured afterwards… however, I “saw” a girl who was escaping with that “CD” having a talk with the squad leader tasked with retaking the “CD”, (Kasou)… And for some reason, that girl ended up escaping together with (Fuyuhotaru) to Ouka City… on the way, (C) and (Fuyuhotaru) had also made contact…” <br />
<br />
“The battle-maniac (Kasou) and the Central Database’s (C)? If the missions were that important that she had to use these high-ranked members, I guess they were the real deal then. It seemed like that “CD” was quite an important item. The fact that girl was able to safely deliver it to (Kakkou), one of the protagonists of this battle, without getting snatched away by others --- I don’t know if that person who delivered the “CD” understood or not just how impressive it was to able deliver it to “him” personally --- So then, have you confirmed the content of the “CD” yet?” <br />
<br />
“…” <br />
<br />
(Konoha) clenched her lips as she lowered her head. Upon seeing this, Chami sucked her teeth angrily as she forcefully grabbed her shirt’s collar. <br />
<br />
“You dumb shit! You didn’t even get the most important Intel, the content of the “CD”, what the heck were you doing?! “ <br />
<br />
“…” <br />
<br />
“You said there were three special task force squads --- recapturing (Fuyuhotaru), and retaking the “CD”, what is the last one then?” <br />
<br />
“… As a level four ranked member, I was unable to achieve that Intel…” <br />
<br />
“Tsk, you’re really useless huh? For what did you think I taught you how to work in the dark, and even raised your rank to level four ranked? I won’t ask you to get up to level one or level two… but shouldn’t you at least try to get up to level three?” <br />
<br />
(Konoha) bit her lips as she silently endured Chami’s lecture. Chami’s expression darkened, and then she pushed (Konoha) away: <br />
<br />
“Why don’t you say something huh? You damn gloomy woman, you disgust me.” <br />
<br />
“…When… will you be able to… find out…” <br />
<br />
(Konoha) muttered while trembling her shoulders. As if she couldn’t hold in anymore, she stared straight back at Chami through her slender front hair. <br />
<br />
“I’m…not your slave… It’s because you said you will help me find that person’s enemy… you said you will help me find that fifth level one ranked… that’s why I’m cooperating with you…” <br />
<br />
She protested with her soft and trembling voice. <br />
<br />
From behind (Konoha)’s back, a cloud of faint red mist appeared. The cloud of red mist, which only Chami could see, gradually formed a shape of a queen bee. <br />
<br />
That --- was a part of Chami’s (Mushi), which she injected into (Konoha) in the past. <br />
<br />
There were three forms of (Mushi) in total, which were Minion type (also known as separation type), Special type, and Fusion type. Mushitsuki were formed after coming into contact with (The Original Three). Depending on which “Original” that one encountered, the form of their (Mushi) would also be different. <br />
<br />
The Separation type (Mushi) like (Konoha)’s that activated ability on its own --- were created by an existence known as (Oogui), <br />
<br />
(Mushi) like Chami’s that had no physical form were known as Special types. It was a type that produced more supernatural ability in contrast to the other two types. Those that were turned into Mushitsuki by an existence known as (Shinpu) had these kind of (Mushi). <br />
<br />
At last, the Fusion type (Mushi) was a type that would fuse together with its host and grant them superhuman ability. Due to the fact that there was less than a handful who became Fusion type, its creator (The Third One)’s existence was full of mystery. <br />
<br />
“…” <br />
<br />
Chami swung down her right hand across (Konoha)’s cheek. A crispy sound of “Pa” echoed throughout the tower. <br />
<br />
“……!” <br />
<br />
“Who said you could talk back? Even if I were to ditch you here, I wouldn’t feel a thing.” <br />
<br />
(Konoha) pressed her cheek as she stared with murderous intent back at Chami. The shape of the red queen bee floating around (Konoha) began to gradually swell as well. <br />
<br />
Chami’s ability --- was to inject her (Mushi) into an opponent’s body when they were mentally shaken. Chami’s (Mushi) – the queen bee then would continually and gradually expand the most inner desire of the opponent’s mind. The overwhelming desire that surpassed their emotional limits would then deprive them of their rationality. To Chami, it was a breeze to take advantage of those who had lost their cool. <br />
<br />
Her ability could only pollute one’s mental state, or increase their emotion. In the field of mental domination, her ability was nothing but a trivial trick. Because she’s incapable of strongly dominating her opponent, Chami was ranked as the lowest level ten ranked. <br />
<br />
However, Chami’s true “strength” wholly depends on how she uses this ability. Taking those who couldn’t think straight as her allies, and furthermore, without them noticing, she slowly turned those into puppets who couldn’t do anything without her. <br />
<br />
The Special Environmental Preservation Bureau only focused entirely on (Mushi)’s ability, rather than Chami’s unique talents. To her, it was the most intolerable insult she ever had. <br />
<br />
“Just what can you do all by yourself huh? Tell me about it! To someone like you who could only see objects under specified condition and three dimensional coordinate, what else can you do huh?” <br />
<br />
Chami’s merciless scolding made (Konoha)’s shoulders tremble even more; the emotion that the teenage girl bore was “Anger”. Behind the expression that faced down, there was always a storm of anger that was barely suppressed. <br />
<br />
After seeing (Konoha)’s reaction, Chami concluded that further stimulus would be dangerous. If an opponent’s emotion consumed their rationality, it would result in mental disability. In other words, they would go insane. If not induced properly, she might turn this opponent into her enemy. This was one of the weaknesses of Chami’s mental pollution ability, which was also one of the reasons why she was ranked level ten. <br />
<br />
<i>--- I can’t let (Konoha) break right here, she still has some value. </i><br />
<br />
“I will definitely let you meet that fifth level one ranked Mushitsuki who took your lover’s life. Sooner or later, I will approach the center of (Mushi)’s mystery. And as soon as I dominate SEPB, I will be able to let you see that person.” <br />
<br />
Dominating all Mushitsuki, and standing at their peak --- that was Chami’s goal. <br />
<br />
The existence of (Mushi) was still filled with mysteries yet held immeasurable power. If she could take control of the SEPB, and rule over the Mushitsuki army, it was not impossible to reach beyond that; that’s right, even this country is possible. <br />
<br />
Chami thinks that for this to happen, she must first find out what are (Mushi). Conversely, the answer to that question would be the key to dominating all Mushitsuki. <br />
<br />
“Didn’t you swear loyalty to me? Now is not the time to feel regret. If you were to stop here, you would lose everything, am I right?” <br />
<br />
“…..” <br />
<br />
(Konoha)’s over-clenched lips were becoming almost purplish blue, but the queen bee that was enveloping her gradually dissipated in front of Chami. <br />
<br />
However, Chami’s (Mushi) had never completely disappeared from (Konoha)’s body. Even in normal times, the sharp stinger would constantly stimulate her emotion of “Anger”. <br />
<br />
(Konoha)’s shoulders were still shaking, but she was not moving from her spot. <br />
<br />
“… Fine, this is it then. Our relationship ends right here right now. From now on, just do whatever you want.” <br />
<br />
“…..!” <br />
<br />
(Konoha) instantly tugged Chami’s clothes as she were about to turn around. <br />
<br />
“I don’t have… anywhere to go… So… I’ll listen to … you. <br />
<br />
Chami stared coldly back at the teary (Konoha). <br />
<br />
“Don’t you dare to talk back to me from now on.” <br />
<br />
“…” <br />
<br />
“Go investigate the contents of the “CD”, right now.” <br />
<br />
“…H-How…?” <br />
<br />
“Can’t you use that stupid brain of yours once in a while? There must be someone who saw the content already right? Use any method necessary, find that person.” <br />
<br />
After leaving that sentence behind, Chami left Urban. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
She walked across the streets, moving towards the residential area. <br />
<br />
By the time she arrived at her destination it was already near evening. Rendered by the hue of sunset, Ayukawa Chiharu’s house was emitting a rather peaceful atmosphere. <br />
<br />
“……” <br />
<br />
Chami turned around and moved towards the building on the opposite street. After walking up the stairs, she reached out to one of the lining doors. <br />
<br />
The door was not locked. <br />
<br />
After pushing it open, she was welcomed by a breeze of cold air. <br />
<br />
There were a refrigerator, TV, and a chair by the window. She took off her shoes, and walked into the apartment. Deep inside the room there was a bed, and on the bedding multiple pure white furs glowing in the sunset could be seen. <br />
<br />
“ …!” <br />
<br />
In that instant, Chami suddenly noticed Chiharu appearing next to her room’s window, so she hurriedly hid herself. It seemed like she happened to be right on time when Chiharu usually comes home. <br />
<br />
Chami then sat on the bed as she casually looked at the scenery out the window. How many years has it been since she last entered this room? She thought to herself. All of (owl)’s daily necessities were taken care of by a teenage girl named Sugitsu Aya, one of Chami’s underlings as well as her classmate. <br />
<br />
“The “CD”… and (Centi) who’s supposed to be a Fallen…” <br />
<br />
Chami murmured to herself. <br />
<br />
When Mushitsuki’s (Mushi) were killed, its host would lose all their emotions and memories and become empty living corpses --- Fallen. It was known that if one were to become a Fallen, they would never be able to become normal again. <br />
<br />
Aside from one exception --- (Fuyuhotaru). <br />
<br />
If what (Konoha) said were true, then that means apart from (Fuyuhotaru), there were other Mushitsuki awakened from the Fallen state, which means (Fuyuhotaru) was no longer special anymore. And the secret to that revival must have hidden in the contents of the “CD”. <br />
<br />
However, it was impossible for Chami to look at the content of that “CD” personally. To protect Intel from leaking, the magnetic discs that the SEPB uses were designed to only maintain the content of the data for no more than few days. <br />
<br />
“…?” <br />
<br />
Chami’s gaze suddenly fell onto a pile of paper lying next to the bed. <br />
<br />
Those were the arrest warrants distributed by the Central Headquarters. Theoretically speaking, every division of SEPB should’ve received these, but since Chami didn’t care the slightest about the content, hence she gave these to Aya to pass on to (owl). This room was tentatively loaned by the SEPB as a hideout so she occasionally used this place to store such documents. <br />
<br />
Horizaki Azusa --- the name of a teenage girl with an attached photo was on the list. Although on the cover she was a long-haired beauty, Chami only noticed now that her danger level was ridiculously high. As the reason of capturing was not listed, she didn’t pay too much attention as it was usual for Central Headquarters’ warrant. <br />
<br />
It was Intel not important to her. Right now all she could think about was how to discover the mystery of (Mushi), and how to take over the Central Headquarters. <br />
<br />
That’s right, to Chami, even the mission of monitoring didn’t matter anymore. These past five years, she hadn’t paid any attention to it; the organization who ordered this mission might probably have forgotten about it already. <br />
<br />
“…” <br />
<br />
Chami shifted her gaze onto the chair by the window. <br />
<br />
The reason why she hasn’t come near this room, was because of (owl)’s attitude from the last time she visited. <br />
<br />
The usual cold white cat suddenly purred happily, even going as far as making its unpleasant laugh as it rubbed itself on her intimately. To Chami --- it was very unpleasant. <br />
<br />
Chami had a couple of servants, and (owl) was just one of them. <br />
<br />
When she saw that the cat, whom had been given the same pronunciation as her, was dead, she wasn’t particularly shaken. <br />
<br />
The time has finally come --- that was what she thought to herself. <br />
<br />
Deep inside, she knew that she was just a small fry that no one cared about. With her little trick, the most she could do was just play some dirty shadow-work in the dark. In terms of a movie, she would most likely be the so-called Villain A or Passerby A, something like that. <br />
<br />
On the other hand, those that were in the “center” were ridiculously strong. From the Central Headquarters, (Kakkou), (Fuyuhotaru), and (Harukiyo)’s views --- they probably couldn’t care less about such trivial existences like Chami. <br />
<br />
But then, on that day, Chami ignited her ambition. <br />
<br />
--- Let’s walk through this god damn life together! <br />
<br />
Someday, Chami would die. <br />
<br />
She might die without even making the first step towards her ambition, and without anyone knowing. At most, the protagonists of this story would regard her as a part of the plot, while continuing to dance gorgeously in the “center” of the stage. <br />
<br />
This kind of B-rank side story was the kind that no one cared about, or even knew about. Unable to predict her death, and despite losing all her pawns she intended to realize her ambition. But that cat -- was the start of her screenplay. <br />
<br />
“This…feeling of regret… is really troublesome…” <br />
<br />
But now, thinking about the fact that at the end of her screenplay that no one cared about, there wouldn’t be that cat next to her anymore, troubled her. <br />
<br />
“Loyalty…huh… What am I to say… There’s no way (Konoha) would have such a thing! It was obviously me forcing her, making her do things for me…” <br />
<br />
Chami flashed a grin, as she caressed the white fur which was left behind on the chair. <br />
<br />
“I guess… you’re probably the one… who swore loyalty to me from the bottom of their heart…”<br />
<br />
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< <a href="http://cetranslation.blogspot.com/2014/09/mushi-uta-v4-chapter-100-chiharu-part-1.html">Previous</a><br />
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Thank you for reading~<br />
Feel free to leave comments for any questions or feedback~ Winghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11481201187303784651noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-30055853560896008572014-10-11T13:19:00.000+08:002014-10-11T13:19:37.998+08:00G no Reconguista is the future.........?I know I haven't been around lately (busy with work) but I seriously need 2 minutes to rant.<br />
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For those who follow Gundam or anime in general, you would know that two new serious are airing this season; build fighters try and G no Reconguista. Those who've seen Reconguista and are familiar with Gundam would say "oh, that looks a lot like Turn A Gundam," and it is a lot like it except for 1 important detail... It's supposed to be at least 1,014 years after Universal Century...making it at least 1,071 years after Gundam Unicorn.<br />
<br />
Now I don't mind them trying out weird things in a new Gundam series...but I have a huge problem with them saying that humans a thousand+ years after Unicorn evolved into hilariously awkward people with zero signs of Newtype potential (at least so far) that would break into interpretive dance suddenly for no reason.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirKQgyifsjQJnWdtxcTGiD8jDARBQri7aq7z330hyATHWzfQCuFdrQyuSVdn7Mapp0CEDh2lmI0bHbSSgvGEJnv3Dk0fN88E9GH0_bsHUAnWa3grJ23SiJl4epgMUW7VBSHaAoMZyPAduo/s1600/derp.gif" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirKQgyifsjQJnWdtxcTGiD8jDARBQri7aq7z330hyATHWzfQCuFdrQyuSVdn7Mapp0CEDh2lmI0bHbSSgvGEJnv3Dk0fN88E9GH0_bsHUAnWa3grJ23SiJl4epgMUW7VBSHaAoMZyPAduo/s1600/derp.gif" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Forget Newtypes...the 3rd guy couldn't pilot himself out of a paper bag.</span></i></div>
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Above that, they suck at designing mobile suits. Look at these relics from U.C.:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoD9jh-J1iBSbG_QUYe0ol3cAX5gNg2xpQTHK8cPcN6NHg4DUxOoBv9Yfymy7N9YEhGLjffJpUNRoYCKuwJAqjwKx9cn29g0tmYMraHzmc_IPSn2YsuUh-76fvHNEZw0ilfWZFg1XicPRr/s1600/Gundam_Reconguista_in_G_old_suits_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoD9jh-J1iBSbG_QUYe0ol3cAX5gNg2xpQTHK8cPcN6NHg4DUxOoBv9Yfymy7N9YEhGLjffJpUNRoYCKuwJAqjwKx9cn29g0tmYMraHzmc_IPSn2YsuUh-76fvHNEZw0ilfWZFg1XicPRr/s1600/Gundam_Reconguista_in_G_old_suits_2.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPu_0JTfIm1o8c_wYQw6fXqVqOhTkmmsiP4PYJGtjPRZxjEkmd8Q4j2y7B-f4CFoCOrZnDOc5QeqGmAaGXSM7AIE5M6HXMj83tEMRdZxTgesfAF0o9qVZGIi66vhC0BnVbTYDPFJ2L4Nt/s1600/Gundam_Reconguista_in_G_old_suits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPu_0JTfIm1o8c_wYQw6fXqVqOhTkmmsiP4PYJGtjPRZxjEkmd8Q4j2y7B-f4CFoCOrZnDOc5QeqGmAaGXSM7AIE5M6HXMj83tEMRdZxTgesfAF0o9qVZGIi66vhC0BnVbTYDPFJ2L4Nt/s1600/Gundam_Reconguista_in_G_old_suits.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now imagine if they had a thousand years to develop futuristic mobile suits with technology far superior than from UC, F91, and Victory. They would have amazing looking mechs right? Wrong...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi9mP6QdaFNShzAhrqdLe4cFy96_QhE7guTDqomzbOXedrLZR_MXJFfG1jMgz1LZGh3F-riHNuYsc9BbltpEez6C5KoobaKRsAEbKJljOJq0DHNO8ktl7O8HlxMG6s8tHUaAX1VNO7hdNu/s1600/Gundam-G-no-Reconguista-Mecha-Designs-Rekuten.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi9mP6QdaFNShzAhrqdLe4cFy96_QhE7guTDqomzbOXedrLZR_MXJFfG1jMgz1LZGh3F-riHNuYsc9BbltpEez6C5KoobaKRsAEbKJljOJq0DHNO8ktl7O8HlxMG6s8tHUaAX1VNO7hdNu/s1600/Gundam-G-no-Reconguista-Mecha-Designs-Rekuten.jpg" height="320" width="272" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Apparently CRT face here is the best they can come up with.</span></i></div>
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Now some people would argue with me now, saying "oh just because the mechs look stupid doesn't mean they aren't technologically advanced." </div>
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.......Ok fine. Maybe I'm quick to judge. Maybe G no Reconguista suits have a built in feature that's not only exclusive to this series, but is essential to how wars are fought in the future.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcHb_njkKDHRfVZr-p0BVlMeH6dgjytmyM_LsO_RaWFhPwNOXZF6D2u7P1XY8XA8loW6RUnsG7KXx0aQAIEay7kqNJ479fWgdwIAH4ipEex5A6UcVw5Kht8_PFKZk6KIA28biAIumtsR_i/s1600/toilet.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcHb_njkKDHRfVZr-p0BVlMeH6dgjytmyM_LsO_RaWFhPwNOXZF6D2u7P1XY8XA8loW6RUnsG7KXx0aQAIEay7kqNJ479fWgdwIAH4ipEex5A6UcVw5Kht8_PFKZk6KIA28biAIumtsR_i/s1600/toilet.gif" /></a></div>
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I can't...</div>
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is....is that a.....</div>
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......<b>FFFFFFFFFFFFKING TOILET?!?!?</b></div>
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DrkMercenaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06183539257474116137noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786796147404413084.post-54596816224770431832014-09-02T00:02:00.002+08:002014-10-31T06:23:58.994+08:00[Mushi Uta v4 ] Chapter 1.00: Chiharu Part 1 In Mushi Uta, when you see someone with "ordinary" tag, they are not ordinary at all lol. <br />
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Enjoy<br />
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<br />
1.00 <br />
<br />
Chiharu Part 1 <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Hey, how’s it going for you these days? <br /><br />For me – Ayukawa Chiharu, it’s a blast! I feel like I’m really living the summer of my youth! <br /><br />My family is getting along together well, and I’ve made many friends at school! Even though I would occasionally do some part time jobs, I’m not really short on cash… Ah – But I really want to buy that new phone that just came out; guess I have to work for it. <br /><br />Nonetheless, hooray for being a high school girl! <br /><br />By the way, I’m currently being involved in a situation that’s common during youth. <br /><br />When you hear the word “Youth”, what would you think of? <br /><br />Studying? <br /><br />Hanging out late at night? <br /><br />No-no, it’s gotta be this! <br /><br />Romance! </i><br />
<br />
“Ayukawa? Are you listening?” <br />
<br />
Chiharu, who had been daydreaming all along, suddenly came back to her senses. <br />
<br />
The time right now is noon. <br />
<br />
During this period of the last few days before spring break, students’ lesson ended before noon. Half of the students had gone home already, while the remaining half should be working hard for their club activities. <br />
<br />
As for Chiharu, she stayed behind in her classroom, second year H class. Her other classmates had already disappeared; there were only Chiharu and another male student in the room. <br />
<br />
When she received the letter telling her to stay behind after school this morning, she had already figured it would be something like this. Nonetheless, when the time came to face it, she still couldn’t help but feel uncomfortable. <br />
<br />
“Ah…Mm…Umm…” <br />
<br />
On the other hand, the male student was intently staring straight at Chiharu who was showing a wry smile. <br />
<br />
“I like you, Ayukawa! You’re not going out with anyone right now right? If that’s the case, please go out with me!” <br />
<br />
<i>--- “If that’s the case” huh… </i><br />
<br />
Chiharu’s expression was becoming more and more indecisive. Although it was not her first time being confessed to, she still couldn’t get the hang of it. Most likely in the future she would have trouble with it again and again. <br />
<br />
“After the new semester begins, we will change class right? I was afraid that we might be assigned to different classes… That’s why; I want to express my feeling right now before it’s too late.” <br />
<br />
It looks like he is serious about this… what should I do?! I’m a real sucker against these kinds of thing! <br />
<br />
“Well… In conclusion, sorry, I can’t go out with you.” <br />
<br />
Chiharu replied straight away. It was because she felt that she should reply with her most honest reply for a serious question like that, rather than a half-assed one that would give someone the wrong idea. <br />
<br />
“Why?! Do you have someone you like?” <br />
<br />
“Well…Unfortunately, not even one. Even though romance is one of the biggest events of youth ---“ <br />
<br />
“I-If that’s the case…!” <br />
<br />
“I can’t go out with you with “If that’s the case” attitude. I don’t even know if I will fall in love with you or not, but I’m giving you my word for it. I can’t do that. So yeah, I’m sorry..” <br />
<br />
Right after she spoke those lines, she immediately repented with a “Shit! I screwed up again!” voice that echoed through her mind. <br />
<br />
Despite being indecisive and confused in her head, her actions were as clean and sharp as surgical knifes. And in addition, the worst part about her was that she would not regret her actions. <br />
<br />
Just as she expected, upon hearing Chiharu’s strike-out reply, the male student was shocked considerably. He forcefully squeezed out a weak smile, trying to hide his embarrassment and disappointment. <br />
<br />
“Is that so… Mm… You’re right. Sorry, let’s forget what I said and pretend this never happened before. If we’re able to be in the same class next semester, please treat me like usual!...” <br />
<br />
“Mhm.” <br />
<br />
Chiharu replied with a smile and a nod, but deep in her heart, she was stinging. If she were to listen to him and completely forget about this, would he feel satisfied?... She herself knew the answer to that question very clearly. She thought to herself, “I must remember this as much as possible.” <br />
<br />
After watching the male student leave the classroom, Chiharu laid her head down on her desk and sighed. <br />
<br />
“Wahh---~! Why can’t youth be a little easier to live through?!” <br />
<br />
The profile of Chiharu, who was sighing deeply, was faintly reflected on the surface of her wooden desk. <br />
<br />
The length of her long hair was almost about to break Nishito Sousei High School’s regulation. The difference between her two big eyes when she’s sleepy and sober was very obvious, but she never had completely opened them before. In addition, Chiharu had a weird habit of humming song with her nose, according to her friends, the expression she had while doing it looked just like “a cat’s face”. <br />
<br />
“Hey--oh!” <br />
<br />
She suddenly pushed herself up, and stood straight up. She believed that the male student who confessed to her definitely wouldn’t want her to feel bad like this, right? She then tried changing her mood by walking out of the classroom. <br />
<br />
While leisurely walking next to the windows, she subconsciously began to smile and started humming through her nose. Sport club students ran past Chiharu one after another on the other side of the windows. <br />
<br />
<i>---… Anyhow, just think how peaceful these days are! A youth filled with some troubles is quite good actually! </i><br />
<br />
Chiharu murmured to herself joyfully. <br />
<br />
Chiharu, being an ordinary high school girl, had three strange quirks --- <br />
<br />
The first one was what happened beforehand, the “straight-forward” action quirk. In simpler words, her actions defy what her mind thinks. Despite being at a loss of what to do at mind, her body would always take the first action her instincts pick. <br />
<br />
The second one is nose humming. Whenever she noticed this, she was always already smiling and humming leisurely. It had happened countless time already when she subconsciously did this while running towards class and getting scolded by the teachers. <br />
<br />
And the last one was quite a difficult quirk to explain, the closest one would probably be “soliloquizing”? Yet rather to herself, it seemed as if she was talking to someone else, in the form of a letter or diary in which she always used either “Hey” or “Dear” to start for many years. But the problem is that who is this “Someone”; even she herself doesn’t know. Rather than calling it a diary, it was more like a bunch of letters that had no recipient. <br />
<br />
All in all, they were just some trivial habits that people might have; there’s nothing wrong about me --- that’s what she always thought to herself. <br />
<br />
“Good afternoon --- Hello --- Excuse me~~” <br />
<br />
Sliding open the door to the classroom used by the student council, several familiar faces appeared in her view. <br />
<br />
“Just one greeting is enough, Ayukawa-senpai.” <br />
<br />
The one who replied with a wry face was the secretary, a freshman named Tsushima Ayumu. <br />
<br />
“Heyy~ Tsushima-kun, what’s that?~” <br />
<br />
Upon seeing Ayumu opening his lunchbox, Chiharu tip-tap-toe’d next to him. <br />
<br />
“How~~ nice, it looks sooo delicious! Hey, Tsushima-kun, right now there’s a vice president you respect so much starving from hunger, don’t you have anything you want to say to her? Hmm??~” <br />
<br />
Chiharu put both of her hands on the table as she peaked at Ayumu with a greedy expression. Ayumu became slightly flushed as he replied with a give-up tone: <br />
<br />
“If you don’t mind, please have some..” <br />
<br />
With her hand turned into a fist, Chiharu smirked with a “Heh” --- Even though he might not seem like one, the fact that Ayumu was a rather playful boy with girls --- was already known by Chiharu, and Ayume was also aware that Chiharu had noticed this. That was why Ayumu always obeyed Chiharu obediently. <br />
<br />
“Ah..W-Wait…Why you taking my nugget as well?! T-That was the last one!!” <br />
<br />
“Ahh---! Why did you give it to vice president but not me?! When I asked you earlier you didn’t give<br />
me!” <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyuqpGO2hkBIphFJbYjkUY6BvNB8vIrR9jodQWK71ZHN_bD-y_E-g-XhzAsZlL1PjchYEoCYKMt04_jcPSm40jTwDV7uySriWRNNmybN0oRx8sHJbF8Va-bWV655Sjmu0XfiD3Ju2IQnbe/s1600/img0061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyuqpGO2hkBIphFJbYjkUY6BvNB8vIrR9jodQWK71ZHN_bD-y_E-g-XhzAsZlL1PjchYEoCYKMt04_jcPSm40jTwDV7uySriWRNNmybN0oRx8sHJbF8Va-bWV655Sjmu0XfiD3Ju2IQnbe/s1600/img0061.jpg" height="640" width="436" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The one, who interrupted from the side, is a freshman named Nota Saori. She is also a member of the swimming club, a girl with a healthy image. Chiharu had already noticed her feeling towards Ayumu, hence she took a moment to reflect on her behavior just then. <br />
<br />
“Well..T-That’s… That’s because Ayukawa-senpai is different from you, she’s a senpai!” <br />
<br />
“Yup, it’s just the difference in seniority, that’s all. By the way Nota-san, you don’t have to go to your club today?” <br />
<br />
“I skipped it today!” <br />
<br />
“Mm, easy and simple explanation, very good… Kanadome-kun is also present huh, so admirable!” <br />
<br />
The teenage boy named Kanadome Naoki, who was currently playing on his phone while relaxing his feet on the table on the other side of the room, raised his head. On him, many accessories prohibited by the school’s dress code could be seen. Just judging from this alone, presumably there’s no other student more unfit for the title of student council committee more than him right? However, whenever there’s a meeting to be held, he would always attend and do his work; in other words he was still a commendable staff member. <br />
<br />
Including the president who seemed to be busy with his club activities, other committee members were absent as well. Nonetheless, this group of four usually took care of the daily activities of the council by themselves, so there shouldn’t be any problem. <br />
<br />
“It’s alright… More importantly, the main reason why we came today is to listen to Ayukawa’s report right?” <br />
<br />
“Hm? What report?” <br />
<br />
“Weren’t you confessed to by one of your classmates? What’s the result? Are you guys gonna go out?” <br />
<br />
Naoki smirked wickedly as Chiharu widened her eyes in surprise. <br />
<br />
“H-H-How did you know?!” <br />
<br />
“S-Senpai, what do you mean by ‘c-confessed’?!” <br />
<br />
“Tsushima-kun, why are you so excited all of sudden for?” <br />
<br />
“The guy who confessed to you was my friend. I heard from him that he was going to confess recently, combined that with the fact that you’re late for the meeting today; hence as a detective I came to such conclusion!” <br />
<br />
“D-Don’t scare me like that… I thought I was being watched by a secret organization or something for a moment.” <br />
<br />
“Well? So what’s the result?” <br />
<br />
“No comment, this is a private matter between the involved parties only. Okay, let’s finish up the rest of these so we can go home!” <br />
<br />
Chiharu coughed lightly as she divided a stack of documents on the table into even piles. To get ready for the taking over by the next generation of student council committee members starting next semester, they’ve been working to categorize all the documents. <br />
<br />
“Since you’re going to reject him anyway, just stop acting like you won’t.” <br />
<br />
“…If you knew the answer already, then why did you even have to ask?!” <br />
<br />
“Nah, that was just an assumption. So you rejected him huh?” <br />
<br />
“Kanadome-senpai, nice one!” <br />
<br />
“Tsushima-kun, just how’s it ‘nice’…?” <br />
<br />
After that, the four of them continued working on categorizing the documents while chitchatting from time to time. After the conversation stopped, Chiharu subconsciously looked out the window, gazing at the students from track and field club jogging on the court. <br />
<br />
<i>-- Mm, such youth is not bad right? </i><br />
<br />
Unconsciously, Chiharu’s “soliloquize” habit appeared again. Talking to ‘someone’, who she doesn’t know even exists, let alone how they looked. <br />
<br />
<i>--- But… somehow… how should I put it… even though it is weird to think like this… I can’t help but feel… guilty… It’s as if the life I’m having right now shouldn’t belong to me--- </i><br />
<br />
“This shouldn’t be the last of your work right, Ayukawa?” <br />
<br />
Naoki’s sudden words caused Chiharu to turn to face him; he seemed to be denying what she had said earlier. <br />
<br />
“Eh? What do you mean?” <br />
<br />
“Stop acting silly, I’m talking about running for candidate for next semester’s student council president. I know at least three people that wanted to nominate you.” <br />
<br />
“Sorry, that’s impossible. I don’t think I’m suitable for the task.” <br />
<br />
“Why not? Even this semester as well, if only you’re willing to run, the president’s chair will no doubt be yours.” <br />
<br />
“Ahaha, it really makes me happy hearing you say that, but what’s impossible is impossible.” <br />
<br />
This time, it was her “Straight-forward” quirk. Although deep down she felt really happy about their feelings, Chiharu still flat-out rejected them. <br />
<br />
<i>--- I just can’t help but feel … that I can’t become a “protagonist”… Mmm… there’s really something weird about me right?.</i>. <br />
<br />
Once again, she talked to the air. <br />
<br />
“If that’s the case, then how about being vice president again? That’s okay with you, right?” <br />
<br />
“If lucky enough, but when that time comes, I’ll definitely drag you guys along with me by pushing my problems onto you, are you fine with that?” <br />
<br />
“Yeah, no problem, it’s a deal then!” <br />
<br />
“Sure, sure.” <br />
<br />
“I-I… will also try to apply to join the student council committee again… even though my swimming club’s coach might gossip about me for it…” <br />
<br />
Under this pace of working while chitchatting, time passed by almost instantly. In addition to events, such as Chiharu and Naoki going out to buy lunch, which had interrupted them many times, the time they spent on this task took longer than expected. <br />
<br />
At last, when the sky started changing color, Chiharu finally let out a complaint. <br />
<br />
“Ahh~~ I can’t take it anymore! There’s no way we can finish it today! Just look how many we have left! Are you guy taking it seriously?!” <br />
<br />
“The funny thing is, even though we’re all supposed to have the same amount of work, Ayukawa-senpai, who complained first, has the most leftover mm?” <br />
<br />
“…” <br />
<br />
“Looks like we won’t be able to finish it today, let’s continue tomorrow, tomorrow it is.” <br />
<br />
“Uu… I agree…” <br />
<br />
The option of leaving the task for tomorrow to finish was accepted by everyone after a moment of brief discussion. <br />
<br />
After parting ways in front of the student council committee room’s door, Chiharu walked out of the school gate with her bag. <br />
<br />
The reason why she chose to attend this high school was because it was so close to her house, it only takes fifteen minute from her house to the school. She started humming while walking on the way back home, and before she knew it she had already arrived in front of her house’s door. <br />
<br />
Chiharu tried to open the main door, but it was locked. She then remembered hearing her mother saying that there will be a town meeting today, hence she will be back late. Her father was also away for work, and wouldn’t be back home until next week. <br />
<br />
She took out the key from her book bag and opened the door. <br />
<br />
“I’m back!” <br />
<br />
She took off her shoes as she called that line out. Chiharu had no siblings, naturally no one answered back. <br />
<br />
She then walked up the stairs into her room. It was a very monotonous room that had neither any sign of puppets nor posters. She had once invited the members of the student council, the four who were present at the meeting today, into this room of hers for a meeting (just an excuse to party). And at that time, Naoki bluntly spurt “What an uninteresting room”, followed by Ayumu’s honest statement “It is indeed rare to have such ordinary room for a high school girl”. After that, there was also Saori asking them “It sure sounds like you two have gone to a lot of girl’s rooms huh?” All in all, it was really a plain and monotonous room. <br />
<br />
Although there were some pictures hanging on the wall’s billboard, those were all the pictures taken back when she was in junior high or in high school. For some reason --- there was not a single picture taken before that. <br />
<br />
“Mm…?” <br />
<br />
Just when Chiharu was about to pull over the curtains to get changed, her eyebrows frowned. <br />
<br />
Through the window of a room of the building opposite of her house, she could feel a shadow flash past. Most of the rooms had their shades pulled down except that one room on the second floor that was always surrounded by darkness. In addition to the fact that she had never seen that room light up even once, and not to mention there was no curtain, she had always thought that no one lived there. <br />
<br />
<i>--- A ghost…? </i><br />
<br />
A chill ran down her spine, causing her to hurriedly pull over the curtain. She took off her uniform before reaching her hand to open the drawer, but her hand suddenly stopped midway. <br />
<br />
“A ghost…huh… could the girl I saw from yesterday really be a ghost?” <br />
<br />
She could not help but recall the teenage girl who fell asleep in the garden from yesterday. <br />
<br />
<i>Come to think of it, what was that instinct-like feeling that I had? </i><br />
<br />
It was during after school when she was strolling on the streets that she came across the teenage girl. <br />
<br />
The couples that were chatting on the streets, the office workers going home from work, and the sale person chasing after customers --- all these people seemed to have not noticed this teenage girl’s existence. Generally speaking, if there is a girl in hospital-like clothing walking on the street, there will be at least people turning around to look right? <br />
<br />
And yet, only Chiharu caught a glimpse of her figure. At that time, she could not help but have this thought --- <br />
<br />
She had found someone familiar. <br />
<br />
Yet after seeing that girl’s face, this thought instantly disappeared from her mind. <br />
<br />
However, there was still something bugging her, and that was this teenage girl’s stumbling pace. <br />
<br />
Although this nostalgic feeling had no reason --- No, there might be some. It might sound very contradictory at first, but Chiharu thinks that there’s got to be a reason behind all of these. <br />
<br />
She sneakily followed after the teenage girl, and arrived at “Urban”. The teenage girl, who walked into Dome, stopped in the middle of the lounge surrounded by trees before --- “Pata” --- collapsing and falling asleep out of the blue. <br />
<br />
During the period Chiharu was guarding by her side, the other party didn’t seem to have any sign of waking up. <br />
<br />
At that time, she couldn’t help but think what was wrong with her. It didn’t seem like anything that she needed to contact the police about, and it didn’t feel right calling an ambulance as well. More importantly, when she’s by her side, she felt very comfortable, and didn’t feel like doing anything else. <br />
<br />
After spending almost two hours day-dreaming, the teenage girl finally showed signs of waking up. Chiharu naturally hid behind the bushes. <br />
<br />
The only thing Chiharu could do was quietly see her off. <br />
<br />
“…” <br />
<br />
The hand that was latching onto the drawer’s handle suddenly let go, in place it reached for a skirt and a shirt, paired with a collar-less cardigan sweater that were in the closet. Whenever Chiharu wore casual clothing, she would always wear a hat. She was reaching her hand towards that dome hat before suddenly reaching for a duck hat. <br />
<br />
It seemed like her body had made the decision before her mind could. She then walked down the stairs, humming a song through her nose at the entrance while tying her boots. <br />
<br />
After putting away the house key, she left the house. Mounting the bike that was parked in the backyard, Chiharu raised her head high: <br />
<br />
“The so-called youth is all about adventuring! You feel the same way, right?!” <br />
<br />
Blooming a bright smile as she said that to someone nonexistent. <br />
<br />
In the far distant sky of Nishito City, Urban Tower could be seen standing, reflecting the orange sunset.<br />
<br />
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The first dig of a big-ass trap/foreshadowingWinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11481201187303784651noreply@blogger.com4