Chapter 64: Aisha, AcademyAisha's Perspective:"Are you really going to the Special Enrollment Class? Actually, I think Aisha could be with Norn...""It's fine, Brother. I want to go. Besides, it's free, isn't it?""But with your grades, the regular class would be free too.""I want to be a little [special], is that not allowed?""Alright..."This conversation took place after the entrance exam.Honestly, I might have been throwing a bit of a tantrum, because Brother has been neglecting me lately.Actually, I know the reason is that Norn is not as smart, so Brother needs to put in more effort to help her, but it's just frustrating.Carrying this frustration, I stepped onto campus.Arriving in the classroom, there were only about a dozen people sitting inside.Humans... Beast-kin... Hmm, I had read the materials before coming, so I recognized most of them.I went to an empty seat, put down my bag, and sat down.Just then, a foot was placed on my desk."Newcomer, you sit next to me without even saying hello, meow?"Meow?"That's right, it's so rude."The ones speaking were two female beast-kin.It seemed they were called Linia Dedoldia and Pursena.One is a cat, one is a dog, huh...Anyway, since I didn't want to cause trouble, I apologized."I'm sorry, I didn't know I had to greet my seniors. Um... good morning, seniors?""Hmph! Although it's very perfunctory, I'll forgive you this once. Go buy me some food during the lunch break.""I want some too~"Watching these two idiots singing in harmony, I nodded with a smile.If I told on them to Brother, these two would definitely be severely punished by him.But never mind, after all, I am a kind-hearted girl....During class, my mind was full of thoughts about Sylphie and Brother recently.I really like Brother, and I also really like Sylphie, although seeing Brother and Sylphie together makes me feel a bit... uncomfortable.But I still want to set them up.After all, if Brother can be with Sylphie while having Eris as a partner, that means it's possible he could accept me too, right?...And Brother is not a follower of the Millis faith.Hmm... speaking of setting them up, but how should I do it?From a bystander's perspective, I can tell at a glance that Sylphie likes Brother, and I can also tell that Brother has feelings for Sylphie.But how to actually do it, I don't know. I can only occasionally bring what Brother says to Sylphie to help her strengthen her resolve...Thinking about Brother and Sylphie, class ended just like that while I was daydreaming.But they were teaching very simple things, so it didn't matter.During the lunch break, I walked along the garden, preparing to head to the cafeteria to eat."Hey, newbie!"Suddenly appearing and blocking my path were Linia Dedoldia and Pursena."Looking at your attitude, it seems you aren't prepared to bring us food, meow?""That's right!"That idiot with the dog ears said while biting into a chicken leg."Doesn't Pursena-senpai already have food in her hand?"I pointed to the chicken leg in the dog-girl senior's hand.Linia and Pursena looked at each other, then revealed an inexplicable smile and spoke."That's her snack, it doesn't count as a meal.""That's really... I misunderstood. Then, seniors, please wait here for a moment, I'll go to the cafeteria and bring some for you.""That's more like it. If we don't see you when the lunch break ends, you'll have a hard time after school, meow!""A hard time!"Bidding farewell to the two idiot seniors, I headed to the cafeteria.Arriving in the cafeteria, I chose some food I liked.After eating and lamenting that it wasn't as good as what our maid makes, I spent money to buy two student meals and packed them to go.Arriving in the garden, the cat and dog seniors were still sitting there, as if sunbathing.The dog senior was still constantly eating something.Is she really not full?I brought the food to them."Seniors, this is the food I packed from the cafeteria.""Oh oh! We'll leave it to you from now on, meow!""Thanks!"No... no matter what, how can there be a saying like 'leave it to me from now on'...I shook my head and refused."I can only help you bring food today. Because from now on, I plan to bring food from home to school, and I won't be passing by the cafeteria.""What a pity...""Is that so, meow..."It seems they aren't that bad after all.I nodded and prepared to leave.Just as I turned around, that cat senior suddenly shouted."Wrong! You are our underling, what gives you the right to decide this, meow!""That's right!"These two..."Seniors, I never agreed to be your underling.""You're so young, you're in the Special Enrollment Class and you don't even have a backer, meow?""If you don't become our underling, you'll definitely get bullied!""No need, thanks for your kindness, seniors."Waving my hand, this time I had completely lost patience to continue chatting with them."Then don't blame me for attacking you, meow! I really need an errand-running underling right now, meow!""So arrogant at such a young age!"Even without turning around, I could feel that the cat and dog seniors were really planning to sneak attack me from behind and beat me up.I have always thought that I am not like Brother at all, because Brother always carries a kind of arrogance when talking to strangers. Perhaps that stranger might not notice, but I can.Recently, I realized that it was because I had too little contact with idiots before, so I couldn't develop the same arrogance as Brother.For example, now, after interacting with these two idiots, it's hard for me not to develop prejudice against beast-kin, just like how Brother discriminated against the Demon Race back then...Eh... I don't want to have such thoughts..."Oh? You dodged it, meow?""Unbelievable!"After dodging their attacks, I turned around and spoke."Seniors, if you lose, you will be my pets for the duration of school. If I lose, 100 gold coins, plus I will be your slave forever."After I finished saying this, they were obviously stunned."Play... playing for such high stakes, meow?""So... so scary...""What? Are you afraid?""Who's afraid of you! Accepted, meow!""That's right!""Good, then come on."After I finished saying this, the two of them immediately started moving.Beast-kin combat methods seem to be mostly melee? Ghislaine is a swordsman, they don't have weapons on them, so will it be cat claws and dog jaws?"Tiny sparks...""You dare to chant, meow?!""Arrogant!"After I started chanting, sure enough, they both rushed towards me.Fighting without thinking or observing, only relying on instinct—beast-kin who are completely different from Ghislaine, or perhaps Ghislaine is actually like this too, it's just that her combat instinct is more exaggerated...The moment they rushed in front of me, I spoke."[Icicle Field]"In an instant, both of them were frozen by me."Wh...what? It's not Fire Magic, meow...""The shortened chant is so exaggerated..."Actually, even if it were melee combat, it wouldn't matter. I just feel like they aren't my opponents.If I had a sword, I probably wouldn't have chosen to chant magic, but rather used the chanting to lure them into closing in on me.However, to deal with these two, it doesn't matter even if I don't have a sword."So, seniors are my pets now.""Heh... I won't admit it, meow! I am the niece of the Great Forest Dedoldia Warrior Chief Jueres, you wouldn't dare do anything to me, meow!""That's right! We have very noble status! We are princesses!"Stupid, arrogant, and didn't even think while fighting...Never mind, I'll just give them some [Brother-style] punishment as a warning."Alright, then I'll punish you a little. Don't bother me in the future.""Punishment, meow?""What is it..."I walked forward and grabbed one finger of each of them with my left and right hands.I remember when we were on the Demon Continent, Brother took me out shopping and we were followed. Although Brother had Eris take me first, because Eris was also afraid of getting lost, we didn't actually separate very far, so I overheard the conversation between Brother and the pursuer in the alley.I only remember that the pursuer didn't speak at first, and then I heard the sound of bones... no, it might have been the sound of an entire finger being ripped off, because the tearing sensation clearly carried flesh and blood.Just because of that one finger, that person screamed and revealed their client. Although after revealing it, it seems they were still killed by Brother.Anyway, I prepared to follow suit. Of course, I won't actually rip off their fingers, just scare them.If an accident really happens, it's fine~ If it's just one finger, Advanced Rank Healing can heal it, and I can do that too.I gripped and applied force."Aaaaaahhhhhhh!!""Ah ah, I was wrong! I was wrong! I'm willing to be your dog!"I continued to bend them down..."Ah ah! Master, meow! Master, meow!""You are my master! I will obey you forever! I was wrong!"After hearing 'master', I cast Healing Magic on them."Grant the power to stand up again to those who have lost their strength, [Healing]."At the same time, I dispelled the Ice Magic so they could move normally."Thank you... Master, meow...""Thank you, Master...""Hmm~ good, very good. Anyway, squat down first, I can't reach your heads."They obediently squatted down, letting me stroke their heads.Hmm... I'll just treat it as keeping a cat and a dog.It seems academy life will be more interesting than I thought~
Chapter 65: A Sudden FriendThe snow drifting outside the window signaled that winter had fully arrived in the northern part of the Central Continent. It had been half a year since I enrolled.There were quite a few ways to keep warm in this world, though aside from magic, everything relied on coal or charcoal.I got out of bed, washed up, and ate the breakfast prepared by the maid.Norn and Aisha did not have classes today, but I still had to go to the academy because some students had a practical examination.As I was preparing to leave, Sylphie's voice came from behind me."Rudy, this~"Sylphie handed over a scarf. She looked a bit shy, and her long ears were slightly flushed.I was momentarily stunned and did not reach out to take it, instead speaking softly."What is this...?""I knitted it myself. Since winter is here, you know.""Oh... thank you... um, do you need anything? I can bring it back for you this afternoon."Sylphie rested her index finger on her chin, thought for a moment, and then smiled."Then I~ hope Rudy will wear the scarf I knitted properly~ and come back early for dinner."Saying this, she leaned closer and gently wrapped the scarf around my neck.Warmth? Comfort? Or some other feeling... I could not quite put it into words.This perhaps was not a physical sensation, but an emotional one.It was just that I did not know what to call this feeling.Sylphie was not like Eris, who would suddenly show a cute side that made my heart race; she just stayed by my side, which was enough to make me feel... warm."Yeah, I will..."Standing at the entrance, Sylphie watched me leave with the virtuous tenderness of a wife.It was a bit frustrating, but I could not reject Sylphie's gentleness because I liked this feeling.Perhaps I asked what Sylphie needed just because I wanted to repay her in some way... that way, I could lie to myself and pretend that Sylphie's feelings for me were just those of a childhood friend.No... I knew very well that Sylphie liked me.Over the past half year, Sylphie had never avoided showing her affection for me.She did not hide her feelings and openly showed her affection toward me.And me? I was unilaterally enjoying Sylphie's gentleness without even responding to it.I felt a bit disgusted with myself....Arriving at the campus, after showing my face, I headed toward the practical examination grounds.I had been working at this school for over a month now, and I had finally grasped how it operated.If I had to describe it, it was like a university from my previous life. Hmm... a more relaxed university.I arrived at the practical examination site, and the students were already in position.Actually, many of the students seemed older than me, but they probably just categorized me as someone who looked young, so they were still quite respectful toward me.By the time the examination ended, it was already afternoon, and my work was done. The workload was supposed to be lighter, but I had not expected so many unexpected incidents during today's examination."Time to go back."I stretched and headed toward the school gate.In front of me was a girl wearing a school uniform. Black hair...Although I had not really seen her before, that did not mean she did not exist.Just as I was thinking that, the girl in front turned around and spoke."Rudeus Greyrat."What was this feeling... I felt a sense of dread... like a fear buried deep in my memories."Who are you...?""Forgotten me? Or perhaps this will help you remember."As she spoke, she took a mask out from her chest.That mask... it was... The Dragon God! Orsted!This name that filled me with dread echoed in my mind again. That is right, she was the black-haired girl who was with the Dragon God back then!But... I was his subordinate now, was I not? Did this girl's appearance mean he was finally going to give me a mission?Take a deep breath... After calming down, I asked."I remember now. Do you have a mission to give me?""No.""Huh?""I just remembered who you were. I did not expect you to be a teacher at this school. Our meeting really is quite a coincidence.""I will take that as a compliment. May I ask your name?"The girl in front of me thought for a moment."I have two names. Do you want to know my real name or my fake name?""Does this question have some deeper meaning?""No, wait... maybe there is, but for you, probably not.""Is that so? Then please tell me your real name."She spoke. It was a language I had not heard in a long time in this world.But it was not my native language; I just happened to know it."Nanahoshi Shizuka.""You... this is...""Hmm? You have heard this language?!"She grabbed my shoulders as if she had suddenly gone mad, questioning me intensely."Your language... are you from Japan...?""Yes! I was transported here from Japan. You! Are you... were you also transported here from Earth?""Yeah... looks like we have a lot to talk about..."...Someone from Japan, transported both soul and body. Perhaps because of her physical body, she could not use magic. After she met the Dragon God, she followed him, so..."What about you? Where are you from? What was your name on Earth?!""Where am I from... If you had not appeared, I would have almost forgotten my hometown after being washed over by over a decade of memories. I am not from Japan, but I am from Asia. You understand that, right?""Oh! I think I get it. What is your real name?""Is it necessary to know?""Of course!""XXX. So, now that you know, are you going to call me by my real name?""No. So, do you have any clues?""Uh... you are jumping around a bit. What clues?""Clues to return to Earth, of course! I have been researching, and I have discovered that there is Teleportation Magic in this world. It is very likely we can use that magic to return to Earth!"Nanahoshi Shizuka said this and stood up excitedly. It seemed she had been suffering quite a bit from not being able to talk to anyone about this for so many years."Sorry... I never looked for clues to return to Earth... because I was already dead on Earth."Hearing me say that, Nanahoshi Shizuka froze, then calmly sat back down."I am the one who should be saying sorry...""But I will help you. If you need anything, just ask me.""Really? You do not need any reward or anything?""A reward, huh... If you really do make it back, could you say hello to my mother for me?"Perhaps the topic was a bit heavy; Nanahoshi Shizuka wiped away her smile and nodded seriously."Alright, the atmosphere is a bit too heavy."I took the initiative to break the heavy atmosphere and asked."So, how should I help you?""Mana! I just need mana to conduct experiments over and over again. You understand, right? A failure or two does not mean it is a failure, and a success or two does not mean it is a success. So I need hundreds, maybe even thousands of experiments, and these experiments require a huge amount of mana.""No problem. My mana capacity is quite absurd. Except for that one time I attacked Orsted with everything I had, I have never run out of mana in my life.""With you saying that, I am relieved! Want to go get a drink tonight? Of course, my treat!""Are you 18 yet? I do not drink with minors.""What 18? 20 is the age of adulthood, okay! Do not worry, counting my previous life and my age in this world, I am long since an adult. To celebrate meeting a fellow countryman from Earth here, we must have a good drink tonight!""A fellow countryman, huh... Do you need me to speak Japanese with you? I am proficient in quite a few languages, and in this world, no one will be suspicious regardless of what language I use.""Can you? Thank you, uh... XXX!""Let us just use our names from this world. I imagine my name is quite a mouthful for you to pronounce."After the sun went down, Nanahoshi Shizuka and I went to a tavern to drink and eat meat.She spoke in Japanese, saying things that no one around us could understand, pouring out the hardships of these years.Not growing, not metabolizing... Perhaps time could not take her, unless there was some external force.I encouraged her, saying she would definitely find a way back, but she seemed to be drunk—quite badly, in fact."Rudeus! Look at this! My research results! Returning to Earth with Teleportation Magic is not impossible! There is definitely a way!!"Nanahoshi Shizuka yelled and took out her blueprints, slamming them onto the table.I just glanced at them and felt the complexity. To be honest, Magic Circles were not my strong suit, as I rarely used incantations or drew Magic Circles."That is why I am saying! People in this world are all pieces of shit! None of them have any brains! With such convenient magic existing, why do they not research it?! Is this really reasonable? Do you not think there is something wrong with their brains?"She was completely drunk, and as she said this, she pointed at the people nearby.The people nearby noticed and looked over at us."Haha... she said you Adventurers work too hard and need to take care of your families more..."I explained to the Adventurer she had pointed at. Fortunately, the language Nanahoshi Shizuka was speaking did not belong to this world. Although they were half-skeptical, I managed to fool them.After an hour of such commotion, she passed out.I thought to myself that I would never come to drink with this person again.If it were my previous life, this kind of person would definitely be the type I hated the most.But meeting her now... I felt a bit moved, and I did not hate it. I might have changed quite a bit...I picked up Nanahoshi Shizuka and left the tavern. It was still snowing outside.I draped my coat over her and asked."Where do you live?"The only response I got was the sound of her sleeping and the smell of alcohol....There was no choice; I started walking toward my home.It would definitely be wrong to send a girl who was this drunk to an inn, especially since she was a fellow countryman.By the way, was it not supposed to be your treat... In the end, I was the one who paid.
Welcome back, Big Brother~ Why are you so late today? The maids have all gone to rest... Oh? Who are you carrying on your back, Big Brother?""Welcome back, Rudy."Aisha and Sylphie came to greet me not long after they heard me enter the house; Lilia must have already gone to sleep.Although it's a bit greedy to ask, what about Norn? Is she asleep too?If she isn't asleep but didn't come out to greet me, I would feel a bit sad as her older brother."I'm back. The person on my back is my... uh, friend?""Why is that a question? The maids have all gone to rest, so I'll go prepare a room for her.""Sorry for the trouble, Aisha.""Just don't tell me she's your girlfriend, Big Brother~"After saying this, Aisha turned and walked upstairs, while Sylphie approached me.She brushed the snow off me, unbuttoned my coat one by one, took away my jacket and scarf, and then carefully removed the trench coat draped over Nanahoshi.Then, Sylphie leaned in close—so close that I could smell that unique, warm scent of hers.Sylphie sniffed my cheek and spoke gently."You've been drinking? Should I go make you a bowl of hot soup to sober up? It'll warm you up a bit, too.""Yeah... Thanks."After Sylphie left, I carried Nanahoshi to the second floor. Aisha had cleaned the room much faster than I expected; she had already finished preparing it just as I went up.After settling Nanahoshi, I returned to the first floor.Sylphie was still in the kitchen preparing hot soup, and Aisha was following behind me.Naturally, the two of us sat on the sofa in the living room."Big Brother~ Did you go drinking with her?""Yeah.""Wow~ Did you invite her?""She invited me. Don't get the wrong idea, it's because..."How should I explain it? Because we are fellow countrymen?Objectively speaking, Nanahoshi is indeed a beauty, so it's normal for Aisha to be curious.I remember a book I read in my previous life said, "A half-truth is still the truth.""It's because I promised to help her with her experiment that she invited me.""Oh... I see..."After a brief silence, Aisha spoke up again."Big Brother~""Yeah?""What do you think of Sylphie?"Aisha's words made me unconsciously turn my eyes to Sylphie's back as she cooked the soup.What do I think? Of course, she's great."She's a very good girl.""Sylphie must really like you, Big Brother. Haven't you noticed?""Yeah, I've noticed."Aisha pinched my cheek as if she hadn't expected me to answer that way."Wow~ So Big Brother is the type to string along the women who like him?""I...""I'm just kidding."Aisha's hand, which had been pinching my cheek, stopped and turned into a gentle caress.Her tone became somewhat serious."I know what you're thinking, Big Brother, but... indecisive Big Brother is so lame~ Don't you like Sylphie?""I can't respond to her feelings; that would be a betrayal of Eris.""Huh? I've never heard that you're a follower of Millis, Big Brother. Eris isn't either. Is Sylphie a follower of Millis?""No.""Then why is it a betrayal? Eris isn't a Millis follower, and neither are you. Even if you married Sylphie, it wouldn't be a betrayal of Eris.""Yeah... but I..."I didn't know what to say and paused for a moment.Aisha interrupted my silence."Big Brother, then think about it this way.""Hmm?""If Sylphie were to be married off to someone else, what would you do?"Although I really want to say that as a man, if Sylphie could truly find happiness, I would bless her.But... I looked at Sylphie's back as she simmered the soup.Just imagining it for a moment caused a sharp pain in my heart.This pain in my heart was not fake.It was real, as painful as if a snake were constricting my heart."I'm afraid I would be very miserable, and I wouldn't be able to accept it.""Exactly~ Big Brother has always been someone who doesn't care about anything other than his family and loved ones; I can see that much.""So...?""So, be bold and accept and pursue Sylphie, Big Brother? Eris isn't a petty person. If you write her a letter, she certainly won't blame you."Is that so...?Can my feelings for Sylphie be accepted in this world?Even though I already have Eris, can I still greedily like Sylphie?I'm really arrogant.Even if Eris agreed, would Sylphie agree?The fact that her husband has two wives.But, I have indeed figured a lot of things out."Thank you, Aisha. I think I've figured some things out.""You're welcome~ Who else is going to be your little sister?""Yeah... Seeing such a lame side of me must have shattered your image of me, right, Aisha?""Big Brother has always been a cool person in how he handles things; it's just that he seems a bit clumsy when facing the person he loves. But I like even this clumsy side of you. Aisha has always been watching you."After saying this, Aisha cupped my face and kissed me on the cheek.This is really...Has Aisha matured to this point? She can already help me solve my problems.Without overthinking it, I smiled and patted her head."What are you two chatting about? Time for soup~ I also prepared a late-night snack for Aisha. Do you want some, Rudy?"Hearing Sylphie's call, Aisha and I exchanged a smile and walked toward the dining table."I'll pass on the late-night snack; I ate too much at the tavern.""Is that so? Then Aisha and I will eat it. Rudy, just enjoy your soup~""Yeah."I held the hot soup and watched Aisha and Sylphiechatting about their daily trivia as I drank it.Accept it... Yeah.I like Sylphie, and she likes me too.After downing the soup, I rested my chin on one hand and watched Sylphie and Aisha talking and laughing.Confession... I'll leave the confession for a bit later. First, I'll write a letter to Eris.Then, I'll put down some of the heavy thoughts from before and try to enjoy this happy daily life in front of me."Rudy? What are you looking at?""Hmm... I was just looking at you two and wondering how long this happiness will last.""It will last forever."Sylphie said this to me with a smile.She really is a good girl, so wonderful that I feel it's a bit unreal."Big Brother~ Don't overthink things. Your face is so red; you're really not good at drinking.""Yeah... Well, I'm going to go to sleep. Thanks for the hot soup, Sylphie; it was delicious.""If you like it, you can have it anytime.""Yeah, I really, really like it. Good night, Sylphie, and Aisha.""Ah... Good night...""Good night, Big Brother!"I returned to my room.I lay on the bed and stretched out my limbs completely.After figuring out my feelings for Sylphie, I feel a sense of relief."I really, really like her..."
Chapter 67: Early Morning, SchoolEarly morning. Although I didn't have work today, I still woke up as usual.Walking out of my room, the maids had already started preparing breakfast."Good morning, Master.""Good morning. Is breakfast ready yet?""We were waiting for you to wake up. What would you like to eat, Master?""Hmm... let's keep it simple. Milk, bread, and a fried egg.""Understood."Before I knew it, my relationship with the maids had become quite good.Perhaps it's because I treat them well? They are always very thoughtful in preparing ingredients according to our habits, and they can make almost any food one can think of.Sitting at the dining table, I took out the research data on Teleportation Magic that Nanahoshi Shizuka had been clutching in her hand all the way yesterday.It was obscure, difficult to understand, and a bit baffling. Furthermore, my eyes actually felt a bit blurry when looking at these diagrams now.However, I know why I find it so difficult; it's because I never thought about studying Magic Circles...While I was looking at the research diagrams, breakfast was served.The food in this world isn't very diverse, but fortunately, I'm not a picky person.I'm already very satisfied to be able to drink hot milk on a winter morning."By the way, next time you go to the Market, please help me buy some books about Magic Circles.""Understood.""Is the living fund I gave you still enough? Books seem to be quite expensive.""It's still enough. If anything, you gave us too much at the beginning, Master.""Is that so? That's good. Oh... by the way, help me get a pair of glasses. I heard that glasses in this world have added magic? Any household glasses that can make my vision clearer will do.""Understood, but such magic items would require a large amount of gold coins.""About how much?""Perhaps around 20 gold coins.""Alright, go find Aisha later to get it. After all, she is the one managing the money in the house now."The maid nodded and then left.While the maid went to busy herself with other things, I drank my hot milk while looking at the diagrams.Nanahoshi Shizuka has been in this world for many years now; these diagrams are the result of her research..."Brother, good morning.""Brother... good morning."Aisha and Norn, with sleepy eyes, arrived at the dining table at the same time and sat down, with Lilia following behind them.They had classes today."Morning. Have you told Philli and Milia what you want to eat yet?""We did. Sister Norn was too shy to say~""W-where... I just didn't know what to eat..."Watching these two little ones bickering as usual, I could only smile and continue looking at Nanahoshi Shizuka's research diagrams."Young Master Rudeus, what are you looking at?""Mother Lilia, just calling me Rudeus is fine.""I'm not used to it, so just humor me.""Alright. I'm looking at... my friend's magic research. By the way, Mother Lilia, why are you up so early too? You can sleep more; sleeping until noon or afternoon is fine.""Being too lazy won't do. Besides, Domi still needs to be fed breakfast.""Are you the one feeding Domi now? I remember that being the maids' job, right?"I turned to look at the maids, but they shook their heads helplessly. Just as I was about to ask something, Lilia spoke up."It's something I want to do myself; just consider it an old woman finding something to do.""Mother Lilia is still very young. I think no one on the street would think you are my mother; they would only think you are my older sister."Lilia just smiled, picked up a basket of something, and walked toward the courtyard."Brother is up really early.""Brother, are you teaching a class today?"After their bickering ended, Aisha and Norn spoke almost at the same time again.I don't know if I should call this telepathy or what, but in any case, they really are sisters."I don't have to teach today; I just woke up naturally.""Sister Sylphiette must have thought you would sleep in late, which is why she didn't get up to make you breakfast~""Yes... Sister Sylphiette... if Sister Sylphiette knew Brother was up this early... she would definitely have made breakfast for Brother..."Although I don't know what's up with these two little ones, they seem to really like Sylphiette.Wait... why does it feel like they like Sylphiette even more than they like me?Before long, their breakfast was also served.Both of my younger sisters have good table manners. 11-year-old sisters, huh...Right, Norn seems to have some romantic troubles... that little brat... if Norn really likes him, I'll go gather some information about him next time."Brother~ do teachers have the power to change school rules?"Aisha threw out an inexplicable question, and I answered with a wry smile."I don't think a teacher has that kind of ability.""Brother, try harder! Make the school build a stable so I can ride Domi to school every day.""Aisha... the school is so close, why ride a horse? Being too lazy isn't good."It was Norn, who was eating, that answered Aisha."Sister Norn, I'm not lazy; I just feel that Domi hasn't been needed by anyone for so long, it must be lonely!""That's just quibbling..."Although she asked me, it ended up with the two of them bickering.Domi, lonely?I think it's quite happy all day long; after eating grass and carrots in the stable, it runs around in the backyard and makes weird noises from time to time.The younger sisters left after finishing breakfast.The maids cleaned up the dining table, and I remained sitting at the table studying the diagrams.It's hard to imagine how Nanahoshi Shizuka got to this point. Can she really experiment with Magic Circles to this extent even though she cannot use magic?Time passed quickly, and I only understood a little bit.The sound of a door opening came from Sylphiette's room.Sylphiette walked into the living room, but she didn't seem to notice me at first.She was wearing a white nightgown, her green hair was a bit messy, and she was rubbing her eyes and yawning, seemingly preparing to go to the bathroom to wash up.Looking at Sylphiette, whom I don't usually see like this, I smiled and greeted her."Morning, Sylphie."Sylphiette turned to look at me as if she had heard a sound she shouldn't have.She froze for several seconds, and her face turned visibly red to the tips of her ears."M-morning..."After saying that, she immediately walked toward the bathroom.Ten minutes later, she came out and walked to my side.Her spirit was refreshed, and her hair was no longer messy."Rudeus... so there's no class to teach today?""Yeah. What do you want to eat? Shall I make it for you today?""Hmm... I like anything Rudeus makes...""I haven't cooked for Sylphie before, have I? How can you be sure you'll like it?""Because... because Rudeus is amazing."Sylphiette said this with a smile, then pulled out a chair and sat at the dining table, waiting obediently."Alright, I will do my best to make you feel that I am all-powerful."I said that, but I only fried some bacon and eggs and heated up a cup of milk.It was about the same as my own breakfast.When I brought the breakfast to the table, I discovered that at some point, Nanahoshi Shizukahad gotten up and was watching me in the living room.Her gaze was a bit resentful; I think I've seen this look before... I've definitely seen it.Those hungover uncles from my past life had this exact expression when they woke up the next day..."Good morning, Nanahoshi Shizuka.""Good morning, Rudeus... can this kind of hangover be cured with Healing Magic?""I haven't tried it, but it works for seasickness, so a hangover should probably work too.""Then help me.""Alright."Because my Healing Magic isn't very strong and I need to be close, I stood up from the dining table.Just as I was about to walk over, Sylphiette also stood up from the dining table."Rudeus, shall I do it?""Hmm? Ah, sure..."For some reason, I felt that although Sylphiette's tone was gentle, her attitude was firm.She walked toward Nanahoshi Shizuka, placed her hand on her abdomen, and directly used non-chanting Healing Magic."Oh! Much better! Thanks. My name is... Nanahoshi Shizuka. You?""You're welcome. My name is Sylphiette, and I am Rudeus's childhood friend.""Sylphie, huh? A very nice name."After the introductions on both sides, there was a bit of an awkward silence.This is when I should speak, right?"Nanahoshi Shizuka, what do you want for breakfast? Bacon and eggs?""Sure, thanks."In short, both of them sat at the dining table.Sylphiette and her could be considered chatting happily, right?They seemed to be chatting about things related to the Magic University.After a while, I brought Nanahoshi Shizuka's breakfast over as well."Oh, it smells delicious.""Of course. By the way, don't you have school today?""Hmm? Ah... although I am a student, you can understand it this way: it's similar to a graduate student or something from my past life? Although my education level in my past life wasn't that high.""Hey...""Ah..."Nanahoshi Shizuka is more scatterbrained than I thought, or perhaps she trusts me too much."Graduate student...? What is that?"Sylphiette asked.Nanahoshi Shizuka nudged me with her elbow.Well, since Sylphiette hasn't been to school and doesn't know about the Magic University, it should be fine to just say anything.Holding this thought, I started babbling nonsense."Well, simply put, it's someone in the academy who is very smart and amazing, but has nothing to do.""I see. Nanahoshi Shizuka is amazing."Fortunately, Sylphiette didn't ask any further. If she asked about "past life" again, how would I explain it to her?After this topic passed, the things they chatted about were quite normal.For example, people at the Magic University, what they teach, or some of Sylphiette's adventure experiences.After breakfast, Nanahoshi Shizuka suggested returning to the Magic University, and Sylphiettefirmly demanded that I take her there.Walking out of the house, although I was dressed warmly and had a scarf, I still felt cold.On the way, I returned Nanahoshi Shizuka's research diagrams to her and asked her many questions about Teleportation Magic.Nanahoshi Shizuka answered many of them one by one, but there were also many questions that even she didn't understand."But... I didn't expect you to be married so soon, Rudeus.""Hmm? I'm not married.""Isn't Sylphiette your wife?""Not... yet.""I see. But it should be soon, right? She likes you so much.""How long have you been chatting with Sylphie? You're already sure she likes me?""A woman's intuition?""What kind of reason is that?"After taking Nanahoshi Shizuka back to the Magic University, I went to her laboratory.Although I was scheduled to start helping her the day after tomorrow, since I was already here, the magic experiments began.The magic experiments lasted until the afternoon, and after they finished, I bid farewell to Nanahoshi Shizuka.I walked toward Aisha's classroom and took a peek at the door; she was just about to finish class.The sharp-eyed Aisha spotted me immediately. After putting her textbooks into her desk, she pounced on me."Brother~ let's go home together!""Yeah, let's go pick up Norn."I took the opportunity to pat her head.At this moment, I saw two beast-folk... the two beast-folk females who were dominated by Aishalast time were staring at me.Uh... I don't know how to put it, but I really wish I hadn't seen that scene last time.Arriving at the door of Norn's classroom, Norn was saying something to her deskmate. As they were talking, the boy walked away on his own.Hey! This rude brat! Feeling a bit annoyed, I was just about to grab him, but I was interrupted by Norn's voice."Brother?"I subconsciously pulled back my outstretched hand and waved at Norn instead."Sister Norn, come out quickly.""Oh, okay."Many students in Norn's class looked at me...?It was strange, but it didn't really matter.We left the campus, and for some reason, I was pulled by Aisha toward the Market.Along the way, we bought many things.Norn likes books and some girl's accessories.Aisha likes strange things; I think as long as it's something novel, she likes it.In short, we bought a lot."Brother~ come pick us up whenever you don't have work from now on."Aisha acted spoiled and hugged my arm."I... I also like it... when Brother comes to pick us up..."Perhaps seeing Aisha like that, Norn, who usually doesn't act spoiled, said this too and held my hand.Just go pick up my sisters when I don't have work...This isn't something that requires much thought."Of course, if you like it, I'll come whenever I have time.""Yay! I love Brother the most!""I, I... too."A warm feeling. Perhaps if I had a sister in my past life, I would have had this same feeling too?"Brother? What are you thinking about?""I'm wondering who is cooking tonight.""It should be Mother and Sister Sylphiette, because I acted spoiled with them yesterday and said I wanted to eat their cooking."It was Norn who responded to Aisha."Aisha is too willful...""But Sister Norn also really wanted to act spoiled with Brother and Sister Sylphiette~""Don't talk nonsense!""Fine, forget it if Sister Norn won't admit it.""It's not that I won't admit it, I just..."Listening to the little ones bickering has become a routine.
Chapter 68: The Other Side"Rudeus Greyrat, discovered to have magical talent at age three, became a Water Saint-level Mage at age five, and became the tutor of Eris Boreas Greyrat at age seven. At age 10, he was transported to the Demon Continent due to the Displacement Incident. He spent over two years bringing his younger sister, Aisha Greyrat, and his student at the time, Eris Boreas Greyrat, back to the Central Continent. Along the way, he earned money through Adventurer quests, which led to him reaching A-Rank. After sending his student, Eris Boreas Greyrat, back to her hometown, he returned to the Central Continent with his younger sister to resume his activities as an Adventurer, with the goal of finding his mother, Zenith Greyrat. During this period, he rose to an S-Rank Adventurer, while his younger sister became an A-Rank Adventurer. Not long ago, he came to the Magic University for employment due to his father's suggestion and the recommendation of his teacher, Roxy."Ariel looked at this somewhat surreal investigation report, deep in thought.She tapped her fingers on the desk and asked the handsome man beside her."Luke Notos Greyrat, is all of this verified?""Yes, there is no falsehood.""Hmm...""Furthermore, there is a rumor.""Oh? Let's hear it."Luke Notos Greyrat cleared his throat."It is said that when Rudeus Greyrat was in Rikarisu Town on the Demon Continent, because his younger sister was threatened, he unleashed Saint-level Magic that caused devastating damage to the western district of that town, resulting in over a thousand deaths and over 2,000 injuries.""Oh... what is the source of this information?""It comes from a Minotaur of the Demon Race, but no one believed him; they all said he was crazy.""Hmm, let's just assume it's true for now."Ariel put the documents down from her hand.She closed her eyes, pondering about this person, Rudeus Greyrat.What is needed to win him over? What is he lacking?Money? Women? Status? Or..."Family, huh...""Lady Ariel?""Family. If we are to make Rudeus Greyrat one of our own, family is the only entry point.""But didn't you say to treat that rumor as true?""Correct. Let us organize our thoughts. He is not lacking money, not lacking women, and seems to have no interest in status. However, he would fly into a rage because his younger sister was threatened, causing over 3,000 innocent people to suffer, even though his younger sister was not harmed.""Yes, I feel he is a ticking time bomb.""That's not right, Luke Notos Greyrat. People who expose their weaknesses so thoroughly are the easiest to deal with. All he wants is to protect the ones he loves; it couldn't be easier to use him.""Do you mean... to use his younger sister to threaten him?"Ariel shook her head and said to Luke Notos Greyratwith a smile."Luke Notos Greyrat, you shouldn't have been this foolish before, right?""Apologies.""Hmm~ It is not a threat. Both of his younger sisters are attending this university, which is a huge advantage for us.""Should we have them join the Student Council?""Not them, but her—Norn Greyrat."Ariel lightly tapped Norn Greyrat's photo on the file with her finger."Why? Wouldn't it be better to bring Aisha Greyratinto the Student Council as well?""Hmm..."Ariel picked up another report.It contained information regarding Aisha Greyrat."Her... I feel she might be even harder to deal with than her older brother.""I have also seen her file. Although she is a genius, she is only 11 years old.""Luke Notos Greyrat, what stage is your swordsmanship at now?""Intermediate.""Intermediate, huh... This Aisha Greyrat had already mastered the Advanced Rank of three sword styles by the age of 10. Her magic, taught personally by her older brother, also reached the Advanced Rank. She might even be at the Water Saint-level by now, right?""It is possible.""Do you think a genius like that wouldn't know what we are trying to do?""But she is only 11 years old...""Luke Notos Greyrat, you do not understand geniuses. Aisha Greyrat is absolutely not as simple as what we see in the files.""It is my foolishness. So, should we act now? How do we get Norn Greyrat to join the Student Council?"Ariel curled the corners of her mouth.A genius older brother and a genius younger sister, with herself, an ordinary person, caught in the middle, wanting to prove herself but unable to—what does a person like that want the most?The answer is simple."I remember there is a child of a noble who supports us in Norn Greyrat's class? Have him approach her first, ask Norn Greyrat for advice, and acknowledge her.""Understood. Should we start the operation immediately?""Yes, go notify him now."After saluting and saying goodbye, Luke Notos Greyrat immediately left the Student Council and began the operation.The real beginning is only now... Rudeus Greyrat, a mage like this must be used by me.This is the only chance, I must succeed...
Chapter 69: Holy Land of SwordsLocated in the far west of the Northern Lands, the Holy Land of Swords.This is a place where you can hear the sounds of bursting energy and the clashing of wooden swords.People on the paths mostly wear training robes, or self-selected clothing that serves as training gear, holding wooden swords and towels in their hands.And Eris Boreas Greyrat is single-mindedly swinging her sword."Eris! Eris!"The woman calling out so excitedly, wearing a kendo uniform with her dark blue hair tied up, is Nina."What is it?""There are letters for you, two of them! One is written by that Rudeus you think about every single day, and the other is from someone called Sylphiette.""Quick! Give them to me!"Eris happily took the letters.After tearing open the envelopes, Eris stared at the letters for a long time."What's wrong? What did Rudeus say?"Nina asked somewhat nervously, although she didn't know what she was nervous about.No, perhaps it was because she had previously investigated Rudeus and learned of his excellence, so Nina was a little afraid that Rudeus would abandon Eris, who was working so hard for his sake.Although they had conflicts before, they are truly friends now, and Nina has always placed herself in the position of an older sister to take care of Eris, her somewhat clumsy younger sister."Eris? What does it say?"Eris frowned, and after a few seconds, she spoke."I... I don't remember how to read these characters... Do you know how to read, Nina?""Didn't you say Rudeus was the teacher who taught you how to read? Did he not teach you?""You're so annoying! There are many characters I haven't learned, some I just can't read! I still know a few, like this one."After reading out the characters for the sender, Rudeus Greyrat, Eris looked at Nina with a sense of self-satisfaction."Ha... you just recognize your own man's name, don't you?""Nina, read it to me.""What? I can't read.""What the! Rudeus said that if I couldn't read, it would be troublesome if something happened!""That's rich coming from you, as if you can read. In the end, you can only write your own name and your man's name."Just as they were bickering, Isolte walked over."I heard everything. Stop arguing, I'll read it.""Mm, sorry for the trouble."Regarding Isolte's suggestion, Eris honestly handed the letter to her. Isolte looked at the paper and first started to read it through carefully herself.Her expression gradually became stern; although not to the point of anger, she was clearly unhappy."I am a follower of Millis, so I don't know what to say... Eris-san, I will read it to you.""Mm!"Isolte cleared her throat."To Eris,""It has been almost four years since we parted. I hope you haven't forgotten me; I still love you.""The purpose of this letter... is a very scummy one, because while I love Eris, I have also fallen in love with another woman.""Of course, falling in love doesn't mean I will pursue her. Humans are not animals; it is because of the existence of reason that humans are called humans.""The purpose of this letter is to seek Eris's consent. If you do not agree to me taking another wife, I will restrain myself.""By the way, the person I have fallen for is named Sylphiette. I took you to see her after your tenth birthday.""Finally, I wish you success in your training. If you have time, remember to write me a reply. I hope you still know how to read.""Love, Rudeus."While listening to the first half of the letter, Eris's expression was not very good, but when she heard the name Sylphiette, her expression relaxed a little.After reading it, Isolte stole a glance at Eris, and seeing that her expression was not angry, she spoke up."Well... as a follower of Millis, I should be very resistant to this kind of thing, but... it is a fact that your man did not betray you.""Indeed, I am quite surprised, because in the rumors I've heard about Rudeus, he is a relatively cold person. I didn't expect him to actually write to Eris to seek consent for something like this."The two spoke kindly, fearing that if Eris was in a bad mood, she would drag them into sparring again."Oh, there is another letter, from Sylphiette... Ah! It's written by the person your man fell in love with!"Isolte took the letter and began to read."To Miss Eris,""After so many years since the Displacement Incident, I have finally met Rudeus again.""He has become more handsome, stronger, and also gentler...""I like him, so I will pursue him. I wonder if Miss Erisstill remembers our promise from when we were children?""I heard a lot about you two from Aisha. I am very envious... or to be precise, perhaps it is jealousy?""Rudeus likes you and has rejected countless women for your sake. That's so nice... It would be a lie to say I'm not jealous.""Back to the point, I will pursue Rudeus! Although I don't know if he likes a woman like me who lacks feminine charm, I will work hard for his sake. Writing to you is also because of our promise.""Finally, I wish you success in your training.""Your friend, and perhaps your future family, Sylphiette."After reading it, Isolte stole another glance at Eris.Finding that her expression remained calm, she spoke with relief."Uh... what is your promise?""If Rudeus likes it, we can become his wives together and support him together.""I see... Although as a follower of Millis I am a bit resistant, I will still bless you both."Nina did not speak, she just found it incredible that both women were so devoted to that Rudeus."Eris, do you want to write a reply? I can write it for you."Eris did not answer, she just stared blankly for a while before speaking."Do you think... Rudeus will still like me? The way I am now... I don't have a bit of feminine charm."Eris looked down and examined herself.Muscles all over her body, and she had grown quite a bit in height. Although her chest was quite full, would Rudeus really like her as she is now?"He definitely likes you! He has rejected so many women for your sake, and even when he fell for that Sylphiette, he wrote to you to seek consent. In his heart, you must be the most important, which is why he wrote you such a letter."Regarding Nina's words, Isolte nodded in agreement."It's rare for Nina not to be such a blockhead.""Ha? What did you say!"Eris ignored their bickering and just smiled.Noticing Eris's unusual behavior, the two stopped arguing."I want to write a letter to Rudeus.""Hmm? Let me be clear, if you don't agree, you just don't agree. Rudeus wrote to you to seek your consent. If you don't agree, he definitely won't pursue that Sylphiette.""Mm... I want to agree. Rudeus hasn't found another woman in all the time I've been gone, I feel very sorry for him...""Why do you feel sorry about that? Weren't you training for his sake? It sounds like you went and found another man.""But Rudeus is excellent... I'm just working hard to be worthy of him, and now... how should I put it... Ah, I'm clumsy with words and can't say it.""Well... if that's what Eris-san thinks, then I have nothing more to say."Isolte didn't say anything more about her own advice, while Nina suddenly spoke up."So, how is the relationship between Eris and that Sylphiette?""Mm... it was okay, I guess. But I've almost forgotten what she looks like; too much time has passed.""I thought that with Eris's personality, you definitely wouldn't allow your man to like another woman.""Rudeus can like other women, as long as I am as important to him as I was before. Besides, when we parted, I even told him to go find other women... as long as he doesn't forget me, that's fine.""Our genius Eris-sama changes completely every time she mentions her man~""Isolte! Help me write the letter!"Today, the Holy Land of Swords is peaceful as wel
Chapter 70: A Halted Routine"Rudeus, are you troubled by something lately?"In the Laboratory, Miss Nanahoshi asked inexplicably.Troubled by something? Hmm..."It's not really a trouble, per se.""Then it must be a trouble. Tell me about it~"My collaboration with Miss Nanahoshi had been going on for over two months, and before I knew it, we could already be called "best friends."During experiments, we would always chat about our past lives, and I could feel that Miss Nanahoshihad a deep obsession with returning home."Come on, tell me. Why the silence?""Like I said, it's not really a trouble... Let me ask you something first.""Hmm, go ahead and ask.""What would you think if your boyfriend, after falling in love with you, went and fell in love with another woman, and then wanted both of you to become his wives?""Break up with him, of course. I'd definitely call him a scumbag first before breaking up."Yeah... that's the perspective a modern person should have...Before I knew it, I had actually started thinking that [marrying two wives wouldn't be such a big deal]."Rudeus, do you want to marry two wives in this world?""Maybe.""I'll kill you, you know? You're still not satisfied with a girl as good as Sylphiette? She comes to the Laboratory to bring us food all the time. If you make her sad and I end up not being able to eat the food she makes, I won't forgive you.""Yeah... but I think... I don't want to make either girl sad."Miss Nanahoshi put down the blueprints in her hand and finally looked up at me.Her eyes were full of shock, and she stared at me for a good while before speaking."You're serious? There's another woman you like?"I mean, did you not believe anything I said earlier...I nodded."Yeah."Miss Nanahoshi was silent for a while, thinking for a good long moment before speaking."Maybe what I said earlier was a bit off. Let me correct myself.""Hmm? Go ahead.""Rudeus, you're different from me. You've been living in this world for 17 years, haven't you? Your growth in this world is real, so you don't actually need to care about the rules from your past life. You are a person living in this world.""Ha... but you just said you were going to kill me earlier?""Yeah, but I thought about it, and Rudeus, you're someone who can't go back. Why be bound by the rules of your past life? Besides, isn't a harem every man's dream? You can easily achieve that in this world.""Maybe that's true."No need to be bound by the views of my past life, huh...After Miss Nanahoshi set up the Magic Circle, I once again poured my mana into it."That's why, honestly, sometimes I'm quite envious of you.""Hmm?""You were born into this world, you have a place to belong, family, and people you love. But when I came to this world, it was like I was invisible—no one remembers me, no one cares."As Miss Nanahoshi spoke, the teleportation experiment continued.Her expression was very calm, leaving me not knowing how to respond.If she had also been reincarnated instead of being directly teleported here, perhaps her desire to return wouldn't be so intense."Of course, I'm not saying this to play the victim. I just want to say, if you think your choices will make you happy, then go ahead and do it.""Is that so... Thank you. Want to go out for a drink tonight?""Sure, you're buying.""Of course, just don't get too drunk.""Don't worry, you know me, right? Come on, the last two Magic Circles! Pour all the mana you have into them!""Oh, right!"...Miss Nanahoshi's tolerance for alcohol was still not great."Rudeus, let me ask you something!""Hmm?""How old were you when you died in your past life?"Perhaps because she was drunk, she spoke carelessly, seemingly without caring about my feelings."24, I think. I've kind of forgotten, but it was just after I graduated from university.""Wow~ that's really tragic. Your life had only just begun.""Yeah? It should have just been the beginning..."Miss Nanahoshi didn't say anything else, just pushed the drink in front of me."Drink up!"I downed the drink in front of me in one gulp."What about you? How old were you when you were transported here?""16! 16 years old! My life hadn't even started yet!""I see. We're quite similar."Actually, I could pretty much guess her age. After all, she said that after coming to this world, her body stopped growing. Given her appearance, her age was likely not over 20.A 16-year-old girl, arriving in a strange world, with no friends, no family, and not even a single person she knew. When she first arrived, she probably couldn't even communicate.What kind of loneliness must she have endured?"No! We're nothing alike! Rudeus, you must have been the type of person in your past life who could make many girls like you.""Hmm? Why?""It's just a feeling... You're certainly like that now, aren't you? You're already considering marrying two women!"Miss Nanahoshi, acting like an old man, slammed her glass on the table and said that loudly."It's embarrassing to say, but I never dated anyone in my past life.""Oh? Why? Was it because of your looks? Or your family background?""Looks... just average, I guess. My family background was just an ordinary family.""Hmm? Then how could no girls have liked you? I think your personality is actually fine."Miss Nanahoshi said this while reaching out to pat my back forcefully, looking even more like an old man."It was an environmental issue, I suppose. In my country... no, I should say, in my social circle, feelings of liking someone weren't easily spoken aloud. So, I didn't know who might like me, and at the same time, I had never fallen in love with anyone either.""So you guys were even more reserved than Japan?""It was just the environment. If you went to a wilder school, you could just pay money and the schoolgirls would flock to you.""What, that's just the same thing! Hahahaha."After paying the bill, I once again carried the drunk Miss Nanahoshi back home.When I arrived home, I was greeted by the ever-gentle Sylphie.Perhaps because it was really too late this time, even Aisha had gone to bed."Why are you drinking again?""I was chatting with Miss Nanahoshi... about the past.""How was it? Did you have fun?""Yeah.""Then that's fine."After Sylphie brushed the snow off me, she went to prepare some hangover soup.At this moment, Miss Nanahoshi on my back started squirming restlessly.She lifted her head and suddenly said,"Sylphie! Congratulations... getting married so soon..."Like she was talking in her sleep, she fell back asleep after saying that.Leaving Sylphie and me to exchange an awkward glance for a moment."Pfft... Miss Nanahoshi looks so cute when she's drunk.""If possible, I wish she could be a bit quieter."After carrying Miss Nanahoshi to the guest room and settling her in, I returned to the living room.At this time, Sylphie had also brought the soup over."Thanks.""No need to thank me."I held the soup, not knowing what to say.Two weeks ago, I received a letter from Eris. Erissupported my choice.But honestly, I didn't know how to express my feelings to Sylphie."How is it? Is it good?""It's delicious."I was just content with the status quo, greedily enjoying Sylphie's gentleness.Is it really okay to enjoy Sylphie's gentleness without taking responsibility?"Oh right, Rudy, there's a letter for you today.""Hmm? From whom?""I didn't read it, so I don't know."I took the letter and opened it.[To Rudeus,I have found information regarding Zenith, but it requires conquering a Labyrinth. The progress is too slow right now. Come quickly to the Labyrinth Cityto help me. I am waiting for you at the Adventurers Guild there.Paul Greyrat]It was so brief, so brief that I could feel Paul's urgency.Labyrinth City... it's a bit of a distance, and I have no experience in conquering a Labyrinth."Rudy? What's wrong?""Ah... it's nothing. Tomorrow... tomorrow, let's talk about it once everyone is up.""Is it that important?""Yeah..."Content with the status quo, huh...
Chapter 71: Preparation for Departure"So, that's the situation. I'm preparing to head to the Labyrinth City."Early in the morning, after everyone finished breakfast, I gathered them in the living room and recounted the contents of Paul Greyrat's letter.After I finished speaking, everyone fell silent."Big Brother… you'll succeed, right?"Norn was the first to speak."Of course."If there was one problem with this mission, it was the journey.Even if I traveled quickly, it would take half a year to get there. If I ran into any trouble or got lost, it might take even longer; it could be said to be quite troublesome."Big Brother, I want to go too! If you won't let me go, then you absolutely must take Sylphie with you!"Aisha proposed while raising her hand."To be honest… I was actually planning to go alone. Aisha, you still have to study, and Sylphie is a mage like me, so she wouldn't be of much help to me.""What is that supposed to mean! Then just take me; my swordsmanship is already as strong as Eris was back in the day.""No. Let's end the topic of taking people with me. Does anyone else have anything to say?"Sylphie raised her hand and then spoke."Rudy, I don't think I'm as useless as you think, you know?""Sylphie… you know that's not what I meant…""Rudy, take me with you? I have several years of experience adventuring on my own, at least."Her tone was gentle and calm, but just like before, I had a feeling that if I refused, something bad would happen.However… even if there was only the slightest possibility, I didn't want anything bad to happen to Sylphie.I knew this way of thinking was arrogant, almost like keeping her locked up in the house… even though we hadn't officially confirmed our relationship yet."Sylphie… I… I'm afraid of you getting hurt. Although I know you're strong and experienced, but…"After I said that, Sylphie's cheeks turned red to the tips of her ears, but she still said stubbornly."My master is Rudy, you know? So… how should I put this… please trust me, okay?""…Fine. Since Sylphie has put it that way, how could I refuse?""Alright, alright! Then it's decided; Big Brother and Sylphie are going together."Aisha clasped her hands together and decided the participants for the trip to the Labyrinth City."Ahem…"This ill-timed cough didn't come from anyone in the living room, but from Nanahoshi, who had just come down from the second floor."Sorry, I didn't mean to eavesdrop…""It's fine. Do you have any opinions? Regarding us going to the Labyrinth City."Nanahoshi thought for a moment, muttering to herself."Labyrinth City… is it on the Begaritt Continent?""Yes.""Hmm… Oh! Rudeus, come to my Laboratory once you've finished your family meeting. It will be helpful to you. I'll go wait for you at the Laboratory."After saying that, Nanahoshi left my house directly.So, the next step was to prepare the things for the trip.I had gotten used to this leisurely life…After organizing the list of items needed for the trip and handing it to the maid, I spoke up."Aisha, Norn, go to school first, okay? I also need to go to the Laboratory.""Mm-hmm! We'll prepare a big farewell gift for Big Brother when we come back in the afternoon!""I… I will also prepare a charm for Big Brother…"I unconsciously reached out and patted the heads of my two cute sisters."Master Rudy, is there anything you'd like to eat tonight?""The usual is fine. This trip isn't very dangerous, and I have Sylphie with me, so you all making such a big deal out of it makes me a bit embarrassed."Lilia smiled gently."Then we'll have the usual."Was it because I had been living too comfortably these past few months? That's why I was afraid.Afraid that the trip would ruin these times, afraid that the people I loved would get hurt.If it were a few years ago, I probably wouldn't have felt this kind of timidity.Just as I stepped out of the house, Sylphie's voice came out."Rudy, be careful on the road.""I know."...Arriving at Nanahoshi's Laboratory, she was sitting there looking at a blueprint."What was the thing you said earlier that would be helpful to me?""It's this."Nanahoshi handed the blueprint to me; it had a map drawn on it… unlike a normal world map, it had markings on it."What is this?""Here, here, and here are marked as Teleportation Circles. If you use the Teleportation Circles, it will only take a month to get from Sharia to the Labyrinth City."Nanahoshi pointed at the teleportation points on the map, explaining them to me one by one."A month…! But, where did you get this thing?""The man who killed your sister? Although he said not to show it to others, you are considered his subordinate, right? So it should be fine to give it to you.""I see. Thank you, really…"Nanahoshi waved her hand."Words of thanks are meaningless, aren't they? Coming back early to drink together is what I want. Besides, if you're not here, my experiments will stall for a long time, which is troublesome.""I see. Then I will definitely be back within half a year.""Want to go eat something at noon? Aren't you saying goodbye to your family in the evening?""Sure. I'll go explain the situation to the principal first, then we can go to a tavern for a meal at noon. Ah! And you are not allowed to drink.""Hmm? Why go to a tavern if I'm not drinking?""…I don't want to carry you back in the middle of the day.""Huh? Is my tolerance that bad?""You didn't even know that?"...After finishing lunch and saying goodbye to Nanahoshi, I returned home.I didn't go inside the house, but instead walked directly toward the courtyard.I arrived at the stable and looked at Domi, who was now ridiculously fat.This guy… it does nothing but eat and sleep every day, and even though the courtyard is so big, it doesn't run. Aren't horses supposed to love running?Can it even pull a carriage now? No, no… carrying a person might be a problem.Speaking of which, isn't being too fat bad…While I was thinking about these random things, I heard a gasp behind me."Big Brother? Why are you back so early?!""Hmm?"I turned around; it was Aisha who had gasped."I should be asking you that. Don't you have classes this afternoon?""I took a leave of absence.""Hmm? Why?""Norn is back too. We were originally planning to prepare a surprise for Big Brother, to decorate the house before Big Brother came back.""Well, now that I've found out, what are you going to do?""It's fine~ Norn, Sylphie, and Lilia are preparing it. Big Brother can just chat with me~ After all, wouldn't it be awkward if Big Brother went back now?""That's true."Aisha walked over and patted Domi's head.Domi was very well-behaved in front of Aisha; as expected, it knew who its real owner was.I looked down at Aisha.She had grown up… she was much taller than before.I could imagine that Aisha would definitely be a beauty just like her mother.Speaking of which, Aisha is 11 years old now, which is the age where one can start dating in this world.What should I do if she ever brings a boyfriend home one day… This question was a bit important to me.After all, I have two younger sisters. What if both of my sisters get tricked by some strange man from who knows where?"Big Brother? What are you thinking about?""Ah… the route. I was thinking about the route for when I depart.""Geez~ Don't think about that today.""Alright."Aisha patted Domi, as if speaking casually."By the way, how are things between Big Brother and Sylphie now?"To be honest, I didn't know what the situation was either.I had been making up my mind, but then I was impacted by Paul Greyrat's letter, and I threw that thought to the back of my mind."It's still the same as before, I guess. After all, there are more important things right now.""That's true~ By the way, Big Brother, what would you do if I found a man?"Hmm? Here we go?I was just thinking about it, and although I didn't have an answer, the person in front of me was Aisha, not someone else.So, I should just say what was on my mind."If that man isn't as excellent as I am, I will make you break up with him, and don't even think about dating until you are an adult.""Eh~ But everyone at the academy is dating at my age.""Those nobles have disgusting views on dating. I won't allow you to date that kind of person.""Big Brother, you're so controlling.""You can think of it that way. No matter what you say, I won't allow it. Father isn't here, so I have an obligation to supervise and protect my younger sisters."Yes, Paul Greyrat is not here.What I am doing is only right.Aisha didn't seem to mind what I said and smiled."Big Brother, let's go for a walk, shall we? In about an hour or so, they should be ready.""Mm."I wandered around the Market with Aisha for a good while and returned home when the sun was about to set.They had decorated the house to look a bit like a birthday party from my previous life."Welcome back!!"I pretended not to have noticed their decorations and looked at them in surprise.Speaking of which, I had discovered Eris's surprise for me before too… I don't know if that's good luck or bad luck."Big Brother, Sylphie, take a seat. You are the guests of honor today."After Aisha pulled me to take a seat, Norn handed the charms to me and Sylphie."Safe travels…""Thank you.""Norn, don't be like that. You're making it sound like Big Brother and Sylphie are going on a suicide mission! Geez…"After Aisha finished saying that, she also handed the charms she had prepared to me and Sylphie."Have a safe trip!"I patted Aisha and Norn's heads, and smiled as I exchanged glances with Sylphie."Thank you all."...After the farewell surprise ended, I lay back on my bed.I touched the charms that Norn and Aisha had given me."I should get a good night's sleep."
Chapter 72: ReunionTwo weeks after setting off, we arrived near the first Teleportation Circle.The surroundings were a forest. When we reached the vicinity of the Teleportation Circle, we encountered quite a few monsters, but none that could pose a threat to Sylphie and me.Sylphie has abundant experience as an Adventurer, that is beyond doubt. Sometimes her observation of monsters and the environment is even better than mine.Thus, our journey was going quite smoothly."Rudy, is this the place?"Sylphie pointed at the Teleportation Circle that seemed to have a [Dragon] emblem."It seems to be here. Let's search the area a bit more; it would be troublesome if this isn't the only Teleportation Circle.""Mm."After some searching, we confirmed that this was the only Teleportation Circle in the vicinity.Sylphie and I stood inside, then channeled our magic power.After feeling the Magic Circle activate, I closed my eyes....When I opened my eyes again, the ground beneath my feet was a desert. It seems this is the Begaritt Continent.Although the environment could be called harsh, compared to the Demon Continent, it's nothing.After confirming our location on the map, Sylphieand I headed towards the Labyrinth City."Rudy, do you need a drink of water?""Thanks."Sylphie thoughtfully used Ice Magic to chill the water before handing the waterskin to me.After drinking it all in one gulp, I handed the waterskin back.Sylphie didn't mind, and drank the remaining water directly from the spout.After walking for an unknown amount of time, night fell.We built a fire, used magic to construct an earthen fortress, and sat by the campfire eating dinner."Rudy.""Hm?""I've always wanted to go on an adventure with Rudy like this.""How does it feel now that you're experiencing it?"Sylphie held her broth, took a sip, and seemed to be thinking about something.After a while, she spoke up."It's just like I imagined. Rudy really is amazing.""Is that so? But... I'm not as amazing as you, Sylphie. Adventuring alone for five years isn't something I could do. Besides, I didn't do anything on the road just now, did I?""Perhaps from your perspective, Rudy, you didn't do anything, but from mine, you were clearly very skilled. You're amazing."Looking at Sylphie's smile, I couldn't help but think.Could I do it? Adventure alone for five years?In my mind, I recalled the days on the Demon Continent.Enduring the greedy and vile Demon Race, enduring the terrible environment, enduring everything about the Demon Continent...If it weren't for the company of Aisha and Eris, I fear I would have turned into a racist extremist who indiscriminately attacks the Demon Race with magic.Indiscriminately... well, that's not quite right. If Roxy-sensei were in front of me, I certainly wouldn't feel any disgust."Rudy?""Hm? Sorry, I was spacing out. What did you say?""I was asking, does Rudy like Miss Nanahoshi?"Hm... hm?How did the topic suddenly jump to the level of a girls' gathering?"If you mean the kind of liking friends have, then yes, indeed.""Wouldn't you want to marry her, Rudy?""No. Miss Nanahoshi... she has things more important than finding happiness in this world.""Is that so? That must be tough, Miss Nanahoshi."After the topic ended, I set up detection magic and trap magic.The map Miss Nanahoshi gave us hasn't had any issues so far, so we should be able to reach the Labyrinth City in about two more weeks.I laid down and closed my eyes, but felt warmth beside me.I turned my head toward the source of the warmth; it was Sylphie.I don't know when, but she had laid down beside me and was staring at me fixedly.The distance was quite close, so close that Sylphie's breath could gently brush against my face."What's wrong?""Rudy, you're handsome.""Uh... what's this suddenly about?""Nothing, I'm just suddenly envious that Eris could see Rudy's sleeping face and profile every night."For a moment, I didn't know what to say.Sometimes when we are alone, Sylphie is suddenly this proactive, proactive to the point where I don't know what to do.That's not right... I should know what to do. I had already made up my mind.Eris agreed too, I'm not the type of indecisive man, right?I took a deep breath."Sylphie... uh...""Hm?"How should I say it?I love you? And at the same time, I also love Eris, and I hope both of you can become my wives?Is that it? Is this really the right thing to do?Suddenly, a hand gently caressed my face.Sylphie and I locked eyes."Rudy, I don't need you to promise anything."What does this mean?I'm understanding Sylphie less and less. Sometimes I wish she were as simple as Eris.But if she were like that, she wouldn't be Sylphie."I..."Speak up. Just doing this would be a relief.Regardless of whether Sylphie agrees to me having two wives, I should express my feelings..."It's okay, Rudy. You just need to follow your own thoughts; don't be led by the atmosphere of being alone together."Sylphie pressed a finger against my lips, making me swallow the words I wanted to say."Rudy, good night?""Ah... good night..."I'm understanding Sylphie less and less.Maybe she doesn't like me? Did she realize I wanted to confess and that's why she did that?There's a bit of irritation, but it's highly unlikely that's the case.What Sylphie wanted to express must be something else...It's just that I don't understand her heart....This desert has dangers different from the Demon Continent.Perhaps because the monsters here aren't as strong as those on the Demon Continent, they choose to ambush.For example, giant lizards hiding in the sand that petrify you if you look into their eyes, and something like an ostrich with claws as sharp as blades.Or the succubus that appears at night to seduce men.But fortunately, I have the skill of Magic Detection; otherwise, I wouldn't have the confidence to dodge them all.After three weeks of traveling through the desert, we arrived at the Labyrinth City.At the Adventurers Guild, I reunited with Paul Greyrat.There were no touching embraces or small talk.Paul Greyrat just smiled at me and then started explaining his plan."That's the plan, but there is one more thing I must tell you.""Hm?""Your teacher, Roxy, accidentally stepped into a teleportation trap during a previous exploration and is currently missing."When Paul Greyrat said this, his face was full of guilt.Although this news was a disaster for me, I believe Roxy-sensei won't just die like this; after all, she is my teacher.The most important thing to do now is to calm down, formulate a plan, head to the labyrinth, and then search for Roxy-sensei..."Mm, I understand. Can we set off for the labyrinth this afternoon?"Paul Greyrat nodded."Sure, but your reaction really exceeded my expectations.""Why do you say that?""I thought you would grab me by the collar and ask why this happened.""Father, Roxy-sensei is much stronger than you think. She is my teacher, after all.""That's true, hahaha."After storing our luggage at the inn with Sylphie, we resupplied and prepared to head to the labyrinth.Before entering the labyrinth, I roughly understood the party composition.Before Sylphie and I arrived, Paul Greyrat was almost solely responsible for the damage output.That dwarf, Tallhand, although a mage, almost never needs to cast magic, so his main task is to support Paul Greyrat.And Elinalise is the tank. If Roxy-sensei were here, they would be a very reasonable party.Perhaps we need another swordsman? Like Eris..."Rudy, have you ever entered a labyrinth?"Sylphie, who was by my side, asked me this."No, I never entered one even when I was an Adventurer.""Then I can be considered your senior, Rudy? After all, I've entered a labyrinth with Uncle Paul Greyrat and the others before.""Then I'll really have to rely on you to take care of me, Senior Sylphie.""Leave it to me~"I smiled, and then saw Paul Greyrat walking towards us.He explained the route for entering the labyrinth this time."Our resources should last for about a week in the labyrinth. Is it okay to take the route where Roxydisappeared last time?""Mm, I have detection magic; I'll try to find Roxy-sensei.""Good, then it's settled."After Elinalise and Tallhand nodded in agreement, we began our adventure in the labyrinth....On the first day of entering the labyrinth, I was still assisting Paul Greyrat and Elinalise just like in my Adventurer days, while Tallhand and Sylphietransformed into firepower mages.On the third day of entering the labyrinth, the party seemed to be getting more and more comfortable; even when groups of monsters appeared, they were wiped out in less than five minutes.On the fifth day of entering the labyrinth, because the party didn't seem to need my assistance anymore, I used all my effort to cast detection magic to search for Roxy.On the seventh day of entering the labyrinth, I found... a small figure, one I would never mistake.