Chapter 73: Love at First SightRoxy's Perspective:I was awakened by a small sound.It is so dark and narrow around me.This space is extremely cramped.After dozens of transfers, the space I arrived in is as narrow as a cradle.There isn't even enough room for one or two people to turn over.The ceiling is very low, too.It is just about my height.With this height and such a narrow space...If I stay here, no monsters will be teleported over, right?I sit on the edge of this space, leaning against the wall, looking at what is in front of me.There is a Magic Circle there.A Magic Circle emitting a faint, pale blue light.A Teleportation Magic Circle.If I step on it with just one foot, I will be teleported to who knows where.It will probably be a monster's nest.A month ago, I accidentally stepped on it.It can be said that it was unavoidable.During a battle, I stepped back to avoid an incoming attack and tripped over a stone.I stumbled a step back.And stepped into the Teleportation Magic Circle.Although I had confirmed where the traps were before the battle, I still very easily stepped into that trap.Then, the place I was teleported to had a large number of monsters.There were 20, no, 30 of them.I am a mage.I consider myself quite excellent.Although I cannot use magic without incantations, I have shortened my incantation time, allowing me to cast magic faster than other mages.I am also used to fighting against large numbers of opponents.I didn't panic either.So, I quickly decided to annihilate the monsters.But it was no use... The monsters kept emerging endlessly.This is their nest; the probability of an Adventurerwho accidentally enters here surviving is almost zero.I understand that I am just doing futile work.Even though I was prepared to die, my heart did not want to die at all.So I am still resisting, while also harboring a faint glimmer of hope in my heart.Will Paul Greyrat and the others come to save me?Or have I been abandoned?After all, it has been over a month; no matter what, they must have presumed me dead...No... They wouldn't abandon me.They must still be searching for me, but this teleportation trap doesn't just teleport from one place to another.Instead, once a teleportation is triggered in one place, it goes through dozens of transfers to another location.So it is very difficult to find me.In any case... No one will come to save me.I held back my tears and fought desperately.At the same time, I could feel my mana rapidly decreasing.Just then, I suddenly saw a ray of hope.There are 6 Magic Circles in this wide room.One of them had no monsters emerging from it.Perhaps the place that Magic Circle leads to has no monsters.I took a gamble.I used all my mana to break through the horde of monsters and jumped into that Magic Circle.And the place I finally arrived at is this space.I managed to survive after all.It was truly lucky.As for water, I can keep creating it with magic, and there is still some food left in my backpack.I will recover my mana in this space and then find a way to escape....Time and time again.I leave this space, fight monsters until my mana is exhausted, and then flee back to this space to recover mana.Honestly, I might die.Even with mana, I will die.Monster meat is hard to eat, and meat from dungeon monsters has no nutritional value; my death is only a matter of time.How much longer can I hold on? A month? Half a month?How many monsters will I have to fight when I enter the Teleportation Circle next time?Next time...I am afraid there won't be a next time...For the first time in my life, I realized that "I am going to die."Surely my corpse will be eaten by monsters, and in the end, no one will remember me.Up until now, I have seen death many times.Having lived as an Adventurer until now, I thought I wasn't afraid of death.But that is not the case; after truly realizing the fact that I will die, I am trembling.Yes, I am going to die...I haven't done anything yet.There are still things I want to do.There are still dreams I want to realize.Yes, a dream.I want to be a teacher.I like teaching people things.Although I know I don't have the talent for teaching, I like it.I had originally planned to go to the Magic University to take the teacher certification exam after safely rescuing Zenith.I want to become a teacher at the school.I also want to experience ordinary happiness.That's right! If I become a teacher, I should be able to get married too.Although I don't have a great figure, I believe the reason no man has liked me until now is because of my profession.Adventurers can die at any time, so many people dislike this profession."Ha..."What am I thinking?I am going to die; none of those dreams can be realized...But... if I am going to die... I don't want to be eaten by monsters.Just stay in this space, leave a complete corpse, and warn those who come later...Just kidding, that's a really twisted sense of humor.I gripped my staff and stepped into the Teleportation Circle once again.The ordinary dungeon I imagined did not appear; it was still a monster's nest."Haha... what is this..."After fighting these damned monsters for two hours, I was exhausted.My head was spinning.This is the feeling of mana running dry.If I cast a few more spells, I will faint.An Iron Crawler was already approaching before my eyes.The heat from previously using Fire Magic had warmed the room, weakening the effect of Frost Nova.It's over.I don't want to die, I don't.I don't want this."No, don't..."I waved my staff ungracefully.Spider silk flew over and wrapped around the staff."I should have just died sooner... struggling for so long only to end up like this..."I muttered with my mouth, but my body was instinctively retreating.It must be very painful, right? I heard that these monsters eat people while they are still alive.Am I actually going to be eaten alive?If I had known, I would have just waited to die in that space... I regret it so much...Facing the monsters approaching before my eyes, I closed my eyes tightly.I waited for a while, but that moment did not come.Or have I already died instantly, and am I dead now?That's impossible.However, I can no longer hear any sound.Perhaps this is already the world after death.I opened my eyes tremblingly.And then, a scene beyond my imagination unfolded before my eyes.It was a world of ice.Whether it was the Zhu Xiong Spider, the Iron Crawler, or the Crazy Head, they had all turned into snow-white ice sculptures.The Crazy Head located deep inside collapsed with a "pop" sound.The skull embedded in its body fell to the ground and shattered with a "crack."It was completely frozen from the inside out.The power was completely different from the Frost Nova I used, which could only freeze the surface.I am afraid there are no living monsters left."...Eh?""Thank goodness."Walking over from the gap between the ice sculptures was a young man.The moment I saw him, I felt my heart racing.That is the man of my dreams.He seemed to have soft, brownish-gold hair and a gentle face.He was tall and wearing robes—even though he was a mage, he looked quite sturdy.He was dressed in black robes and holding a large staff, and he came to my side.He looked down at me with an expression of obvious relief."Eh? Eh?"Under the impact of such a huge reversal, I felt my head spinning."Teacher...? Teacher!"Teacher... Is he calling me?Could it be that he is...The answer did not appear in my mind, and I fainted.
Chapter 74: Love at First Sight 2Roxy's Perspective:When I opened my eyes, it all felt somewhat surreal."I really did survive, didn't I?"The ceiling of the inn, which I had grown tired of looking at, now seemed so comforting to me."Ugh..."Something was weighing down my right hand...I pulled my hand back and tried to climb out of bed.At that moment, a gentle male voice reached my ears."Master, are you awake?"After saying that, he helped me sit up without any hesitation.Looking at the gentle face before me—one that perfectly matched my preferences—and hearing him call me Master, a flood of memories returned, and my mouth fell open involuntarily.Master... Among all the students I have taught so far, the only one who could have grown up to look like this is..."Rudy...?""It's me. You've worked hard, Master."After saying that, Rudy gently hugged me.My heart was beating fast; I could feel that I must be blushing right now.Subconsciously, I pushed Rudy away."I... I smell terrible... My body reeks of monster blood and... sweat."After I said that, Rudy smiled, seemingly unbothered by me pushing him away.He really has grown up... The student who was once so talented that I even felt a bit jealous of him, has saved me today, over a decade later.Is this some kind of story from a novel? A romance between a demon and a human that transcends age?!Besides, what does Rudy think of me now? Aaaah... I should be thinking about how to save Zenith right now! I shouldn't be thinking about these things...Just as I was letting my thoughts run wild, a girl with green hair walked into the room carrying food.She and Rudy were chatting and laughing about something, but I couldn't really hear what they were saying.Green hair...I remember now. She is Rudy's childhood friend, Sylphie. I had teamed up with her before, but she has changed so much...Back then, she had a vibe that kept people at a distance, but now I can only feel gentleness... a gentleness reserved only for Rudy.The way she and Rudy interact is so natural, as if they were a married couple... Plus, Rudy is handsome, and Sylphie is so beautiful; they are a perfect match.Even with green hair, Rudy must surely love her, right?After Sylphie left the room, I stared blankly for quite a while."Master?""Ah... Rudy, I think I can get up now. I'd like to take a bath first.""Won't you eat something first?""Hmm... I'd like to bathe first. After all, I don't have much of an appetite while I'm still dirty.""Alright, I'll help you."Rudy helped me up, carried my change of clothes, and led me all the way to the bathroom.Afterward, he stood right at the entrance of the bathroom.Even after I went inside, he remained standing at the door."Rudy? Why are you standing there?""If you need anything while you're in there, Master, just call me."I opened my mouth, wanting to say something, but nothing came out.I would normally find this very embarrassing, but Rudy's attitude made it seem like he didn't see me as a woman.It makes sense, though. With a mediocre figure like mine, it would be strange if he had any other thoughts...Although Miss Sylphie also has a mediocre figure, she looks very mature, unlike me—I look like a child...Harboring such pessimistic thoughts, I stepped into the bathroom.While showering, my mind was filled with thoughts of Rudy.Ah, ah... It's all just so frustrating...After bathing and changing my clothes, I stepped out of the bathroom."Master, why don't you eat something first?""Hmm..."Rudy helped me back to the room, and he even offered to feed me.I refused, however. That would be just a bit too embarrassing, no matter how you look at it.While I was eating on the bed, Rudy told me about his experiences over the years.He spoke about them very lightly, seemingly to ensure I wouldn't worry."Rudy, you've worked hard."I reached out and patted his head.Rudy didn't pull away; he just smiled, just as he used to.Even though he makes my heart race, in Rudy's heart, I must just be the Master he respects."Knock, knock."Hearing the knocking, Rudy got up to open the door.The person knocking was Paul Greyrat.Paul Greyrat poked his head in to greet me first, and then he and Rudy started discussing something I couldn't quite catch.It must have been about exploring the dungeon.A few minutes later, Rudy sat back down beside me."Master, we plan to continue exploring in a week. You should just focus on recovering; since Sylphieand I have joined, the party is no longer short on mages."What is this? Am I being replaced?No... I understand; they are just worried about me getting hurt.But I still feel a bit frustrated; I just don't think it should be like this."Rudy, I can continue exploring.""Master... Father says that people who have experienced life-threatening situations in a dungeon might start to fear it, so you don't have to force yourself."I reached out and poked Rudy's nose with my finger."Rudy, I said I can continue."He smiled helplessly."How could a student not listen to their Master? I'll talk to Father, so please, just finish your meal first.""That's better."Although it seems like I won, thinking back on my actions just now, was I being a bit too flirtatious...?I have a feeling that my persona as a Master doesn't really hold up in front of the current Rudy...After finishing the meal, Rudy cleaned up the dishes and sat back down by my bed.Such attentiveness makes me feel a bit guilty, because I've actually mostly recovered. After all, in the dungeon, I only suffered from mana exhaustion and malnutrition; I didn't sustain any serious injuries.But... this feeling is very comforting.Hmm... There's no rule saying a Master can't like their own student, is there?Since I've confirmed that it was love at first sight, I should be a bit more proactive, even if it's very likely that Rudy won't like me back.Ah... but before that."Rudy, are you married?""Hmm? Not yet."Yes!"Is that so~ Then, would you like to go to the Marketwith me the day after tomorrow? I'd like to restock some potions and the like.""Of course."I clenched my fist under the covers, making sure not to let my expression look too exaggerated.Great! This should count as taking a big step forward, right?
Chapter 75: Love at First Sight 3Roxy's Perspective:"Roxy? How are you resting?"The next day at noon, after going downstairs, I saw Elinalise sitting and chatting with a strange man from who knows where.After I arrived, she whispered something into that man's ear and then greeted me, and the man left with a blushing face."I'm mostly recovered. I'll be able to go exploring in a few more days.""Oh~ How about that little apprentice of yours? I see he seems very attentive to you."Rudy is very attentive to me?Indeed... he does value me...I pulled out the chair next to Elinalise and sat down."It's just because... I was his tutor when he was a child, so he respects me, that's all.""I see. Anyway, let's eat first, shall we?"Elinalise waved her hand to have the waiter in the shop serve the food.I looked left and right, only to find that apart from Elinalise, there was no one I knew in the inn."Hmm? Where are they?""Exploring the dungeon, but they won't go deep, don't worry.""I see. Miss Elinalise, you aren't going? You seem to be the only one who can handle defense, right?""Well, after your apprentice came, they don't really need me much. He can tell where monsters will pop out, and the battle ends almost the instant they appear, so I stayed behind to take care of you~""Hmm? Rudy has that kind of skill?""I don't know, after all, I'm not a mage."It seems Rudy has improved again over the past decade or so.Detection magic? I've never heard of it before...Could this be something he created himself? If so, it definitely wouldn't have a chant, and I probably wouldn't be able to learn it..."What are you thinking about?""Ah, I was thinking about Rudy.""Oh~ Do you like him?"I jerked my head up and explained with a blushing face."No, no, I was thinking about magic...""If you like him, just admit it. He's a good man, and it seems his favorability towards you is also very high. I feel like you could win him over easily."Elinalise kept nudging my waist with her elbow. No matter how I explained it, she didn't seem to listen.However... it is true that I like Rudy. Although "love at first sight" sounds fake, it seems to have really happened to me.Will Elinalise believe me if I say this... She probably would, right? After all, she can have "love at first sight" with any man.After the food was served, I held my knife and fork and asked weakly."Miss Elinalise... tell me, Paul Greyrat's partners all have quite ample chests. Rudy, as his son..."Elinalise looked at me, showing a smile I couldn't quite understand. She suddenly reached out and started groping me, nodding as she did so."Roxy~ Men, indeed, most of them like them a bit more ample, but..."She said this, and her hand suddenly touched my thigh."Eek!""But there are always exceptions~ Do you understand what I mean? A reaction like yours might make them even more excited."Excited?!What is she suddenly talking about? Although I've lived for nearly fifty years and have some confidence in my knowledge of physiology, I feel like what I know is just the tip of the iceberg, especially after being touched like that by her..."Besides, isn't Sylphie also not the type with an ample chest? I see he likes her just the same.""Hmm... Hmm? Ah... Does Rudy like Sylphie?""Well, they like each other. You can tell at a glance, right?""I... I see..."That's true. Looking at them chat, you can tell they are a perfect match, so I wasn't that surprised.Come to think of it, even if I were to get together with Rudy, it would be troublesome. After all, I'm about the same age as Paul Greyrat... Hmm... And I couldn't bring myself to interfere in someone else's relationship...My first love... is it over..."Roxy? What are you thinking about?""Nothing... just thinking about the dungeon.""You're too easy to read, aren't you?"Elinalise held her head, looking at me as if looking at a disappointing child.But there's no helping it. I finally found someone I liked, worked up the courage to ask him on a date, only to be told he and someone else were in love.Anyone would feel down encountering something like this, right? After all, I also want a lover, to build a happy family and such...Suddenly, my forehead was flicked.I looked up to see Elinalise looking down at me."Roxy, if you like him, just go after him.""But he already has someone he likes...""So what? They aren't married, and even if they were, so what? Rudeus Greyrat isn't a follower of Millis. With his abilities, it wouldn't be surprising if he married four women.""But... wouldn't that be destroying someone else's relationship... and I'm so old...""Don't worry, Roxy. Pursuing your own happiness is never wrong. Besides, if he gave up on Sylphiebecause of your pursuit, that would just mean he didn't love her that much to begin with, right?""That... that's true.""As for the age issue, look at me~ Men don't care about age. They only care about your appearance."As she said this, Elinalise gently pinched my chin with her hand."For a race like yours, whose appearance is almost eternally young to humans, men will only like you more."For some reason, in my heart, Elinalise transformed from a promiscuous woman into a relationship master.So she actually thinks about emotional issues too... I thought she was the type to put on her skirt and leave right after getting out of bed..."I... I have learned much...""Alright, I have a date with my kitty~ You should continue resting after you finish eating. Don't wander off, or I'll be held accountable by RudeusGreyrat.""Ah... okay..."After eating, I returned to my room.Going to the Market together is tomorrow..."Is it really never wrong to pursue one's own happiness..."
Chapter 76: Date, FeelingsThe day of the date.We set off early and headed to the Market.Rudy is a very serious person; I could feel that while strolling through the Market with him.His personality is about the same as when he was a child, still just as serious and earnest....Perhaps I just like this mature and steady feeling of his?"Rudy, there's a restaurant over there. Shall we grab something to eat first?""Sure. Teacher, you go ahead and order; I'll go buy something at that stall over there.""Okay."I also discovered something that wasn't exactly friendly to me.Rudy... he hates the Demon Race.When passing by stalls or shops, his eyes never look at the stall owners. Even when they occasionally make eye contact, the disgust in his eyes is impossible to hide, even though he wears a smile.It's not fear, nor is it arrogance... Rudy... he just feels disgust.Of course, Rudy wouldn't treat me like that, but... Rudy's gaze reminds me a bit of the past, a bit like the way most humans look at the Demon Race when they curse them...No... I shouldn't dwell on it. It's not that I can't understand Rudy's feelings.Having spent several years on the Demon Continent, he must have seen many greedy demons, which is probably why Rudy has this view of the Demon Race...After ordering, I waited for Rudy to return, feeling bored."Sigh... forget about getting Rudy to like me; I'm not even sure if he doesn't hate me..."Lying on the table, my mind went blank as I thought about these random things.Even though I had already figured out that I needed to put Zenith first, I couldn't help but think about Rudy.This won't do..."Eek!"Suddenly, my face was frozen by something.Startled, I let out a sound and turned my head, only to find Rudy had returned with some kind of snack."Teacher, what are you thinking about?""I was wondering when Rudy would come back.""Hmm? I'm back now. Teacher, try this. It's made with Ice Magic... uh? Frozen sweet milk?""Mhm!"I took the snack Rudy gave me, picked up a spoon, scooped some up, and put it in my mouth.The taste was very good, but my mind was focused on Rudy's actions just now.Even though he is very mature and steady, he knows how to make a relaxing joke at the right time.It's so nice~ This is the kind of man I idealize. Before I knew it, I had almost forgotten about the discriminatory look Rudy gave the other demons earlier.After all, the Demon Race has many branches, doesn't it? As long as Rudy doesn't hate my race, it's fine. Besides, this feeling of being given "special treatment" makes my heart flutter."Teacher, how does it taste?""Hm? Ah! It's delicious."As I said that, I scooped up another spoonful and put it in my mouth.Rudy rested his chin on one hand, looking at me with a smile.Although I felt this should be some form of "romance," being stared at like this was really embarrassing.I scooped up a spoonful and held it out toward Rudy's mouth.I don't know why I did that, but when I shyly wanted to pull my hand back, Rudy didn't hesitate and took the spoon into his mouth.Well... this level of intimacy happened when Rudywas a child, so he probably doesn't mind, right?After the food arrived, we ate and talked about the labyrinth.At times like this, I would teach Rudy just like a teacher.I don't know if he really didn't understand or if he was just giving me face, but he listened very carefully."By the way, what are you doing at the Magic University now, Rudy? Are you a student?""I'm a teacher.""Hm? You can actually be a teacher there? But Rudyis indeed very capable, so it's normal for you to be a teacher...""It's not that I'm that capable; it's thanks to Roxy's recommendation letter. Besides, I barely teach any classes.""Hmm~ I would have to go through an assessment to be a teacher there myself. I know best whether my recommendation letter would have that kind of power."Rudy smiled and didn't say anything more.After we finished eating, we left the restaurant.In the Market, almost everything Rudy bought was books.Many books about Magic Circles, even though Rudydoesn't need to chant..."Teacher, what do you plan to do after this matter is over?"Rudy suddenly asked this question as we were walking.What do I plan to do... Actually, I didn't know before, but this near-death experience made me feel... perhaps stability and happiness are what I want."I suppose I'll go to the Magic University and become a teacher? It's something of a dream of mine."Of course, I also want to try marrying you.Though I couldn't bring myself to say that out loud."It's those people's honor to be Roxy's student.""Don't give me too much hope. With my physique, I'd probably just be mocked if I went to the university to teach, right?""No, they won't. The students at that school are of decent quality and wouldn't do such tasteless things. Besides, I think your physique is fine, Teacher. You're very cute."Cu... cute...Is that so? I guess! I am actually... well, quite cute... but..."Rudy, do you talk to all girls like this?"I said that, standing on tiptoe and pressing my finger against Rudy's nose."How could that be? I'm just stating the truth.""I... I see... Mhm..."Could it really be as Elinalise said? Maybe Rudyactually likes my body type!?I clenched my fists and lifted my head."Ru... Rudy! After this is over, how about I go to the Magic University in Sharia to teach as well?"Rudy nodded without hesitation and smiled."Of course, that would be great. When you get there, you can stay at my place, right? I bought a house near the Magic University.""Is... is that okay?""Teacher, I still remember what I told you. You will always be my teacher, and also my family. My home is, of course, your home."I feel like... something is wrong.Is Rudy's respect for me a bit too excessive...?How can this develop into the romantic scenario I want if things keep going like this...Right! Elinalise said, "As long as a man reacts after physical contact, it means there's still a chance."Let's try it!I suddenly grabbed Rudy's hand, and at the same time, I could feel my face quickly turning bright red.Rudy didn't make a big reaction; he just seemed startled for a moment, then realized and held my hand back.Does this count as a reaction? It counts, right!? I'll have to ask Elinalise properly when I get back!"Teacher?""Ah... I... uh... I just... wanted to hold your hand like we used to when you were little?""I haven't changed at all."Rudy said this, and he didn't let go of my hand.The rest of the so-called date consisted of Rudyholding my hand while we strolled through various stalls.Gradually, I wasn't as ashamed; rather, I had already put it to the back of my mind.It wasn't until we returned to the inn that we let go of our joined hands.Feeling my hand that had been held all afternoon, I recalled the things we did together.Even though there was nothing that could be called special, I was extremely happy...Sure enough... I like the current Rudy.
Chapter 77: ActionThe official exploration begins today.Well... saying I'm not nervous at all would be a lie, considering I almost died in the labyrinth two weeks ago.But now... perhaps it's because of Rudy? I can feel an unprecedented sense of security.Before the exploration officially started, I entered the labyrinth with Rudy, and Rudy has truly become even more formidable than I imagined.No matter where the monsters appear, he handles them with ease.This confidence also makes me a bit worried, because a mage should be more cautious... and Rudy's habits clearly don't resemble those of a mage.His confidence makes him more like a swordsman, as if he fears no surprise attacks; but perhaps it's also because of this confidence that Rudy is so powerful?After gathering, I noticed a newcomer in the party.Uh... does he look a bit like a monkey?After everyone arrived, Paul coughed twice."Let me introduce everyone to my former teammate, Geese, who will be serving as our Scout."Saying that, Paul looked at Rudy again."This way, Rudy won't have to keep Detection Magicactive all the time, and he can save some mana for emergencies."Rudy didn't speak, nor did he nod, seemingly accepting it.Rudy never turned off Detection Magic when exploring before; theoretically, his Detection Magicshouldn't consume that much mana.Hmm... but since we have a Scout, saving where we can is indeed the right way to think."But Geese, how did you suddenly end up here?""Hahaha, maybe it's divine guidance? I was originally helping you look for your family, and when I heard news here, I came to take a look, but I didn't expect you all to be so much faster than me.""I hope it really is divine guidance; that would mean Zenith must be here.""Be optimistic, Paul! With a lucky person like me around, Zenith will definitely be here.""Alright, the pleasantries end here; it's time to enter the labyrinth."After getting ready, we entered the labyrinth.Elinalise and Geese were in the front.Paul was in the center of the party.Rudy and I were responsible for the rear-left of the party, while Sylphie and Talhand were on the rear-right.The exploration progressed very smoothly, and we reached the fourth floor in one go.The monsters along the way barely survived for two minutes; rather, it's that Rudy and Sylphie are truly too powerful.The addition of two mages capable of Chantless Magic has certainly improved the party significantly..."Alright, let's take a break for a while."Paul called out from the front, and everyone found a place to sit down.Rudy and I sat together on a rock, back-to-back.Just as I was about to open my mouth to find a topic, Sylphie walked over.She tilted her head and spoke gently."Rudy, would you like to eat? Miss Roxy has a portion too."She said, taking out two lunchboxes filled with food, and handed one to me.After thanking her, I opened the lunchbox; the food inside was richer than I had imagined.It seems she made it all herself..."Does everyone have a portion?"Rudy asked, opening his lunchbox."Of course~ But the lunchboxes for Rudy and Miss Roxy were made by my own hands. It's the rear guard's meal time now; Paul and the others are keeping watch, and when we finish, it will be their turn to eat.""I see, thanks.""You're welcome~"After this conversation that felt like an old married couple, Sylphie returned to the rear-right of the party to eat.Well... how nice. Isn't this way of communicating the very image of ordinary happiness I imagined?Sighing in my heart, I picked up the food from the lunchbox and put it in my mouth.Delicious!A standard wise wife and good mother... cooking so deliciously... and being so gentle...If I were Rudy, I would definitely choose such a girl as a partner.No, no, no! I can't think about these things anymore; we're in a labyrinth right now! I must become more serious!"Clap, clap."I clapped my hands against my cheeks twice."Teacher? Is something wrong?""Ah... nothing, nothing, haha...""If you feel any physical discomfort, you must say so immediately.""I'm really fine!"After the break ended, we continued our exploration.Everyone's condition was still good, and we explored up to the sixth floor like this.The monsters on the sixth floor were a bit monotonous; we didn't even need to adapt flexibly.However, we soon encountered our first problem.Teleportation Magic Circle.This was a Magic Circle in a room, and there were two of them.Everyone was discussing which one to choose, while Rudy sat in front of the Magic Circle, thinking about something.Is he thinking...? I can feel a bit of mana flow.The mana flow is only a little; is Rudy using some kind of magic?Because I know nothing about Teleportation Magic, I remained silent the whole time.After about ten minutes of this, Rudy stood up."Both of these Teleportation Magics have issues."He said that and walked towards the center of the room.After pacing back and forth in the center of the room for a while, Rudy suddenly activated magic.An opening cracked in the center of the room, and hidden stairs could be seen inside that hole."As expected of my son, you really are something!!""Father, I'm just a mage, don't be too forceful."Paul was happily patting Rudy, and I just looked up at Rudy, feeling he was somewhat unreachable.Suddenly Rudy turned back, and our eyes met.I reached out, touched Rudy's back, and spoke."Good work."Rudy smiled and nodded at me, without saying anything."Alright, we're moving forward; everyone, stay sharp!""Oh!"At Paul's command, everyone nodded in response.Below the stairs was a Teleportation Magic Circle.It wasn't a trap; it was a Magic Circle that truly led to other rooms.And it was bright red.A bright red Magic Circle signifies special danger.The area ahead of this Magic Circle must be the deepest part of the labyrinth...The team members looked at each other."Alright, let's go!"Without hesitation, we stepped onto the Magic Circle.Ahead of the Magic Circle was a shockingly vast space.In a word, solemn and majestic.It was rectangular, a palace hall the size of a noble's riding ground.Several thick pillars stood in the corners of the room.The ceiling was so high one had to look up.The floor was paved with something like tiles, engraved with complex reliefs.In the depths of this gray palace, there was a monster.It was a gigantic monster."Hydra... first time seeing one..."This exclamation came from Geese.I was also seeing one for the first time... a giant dragon with nine heads, as if it were a creature that had walked out of a legend.Just as I was about to say something, I noticed the atmosphere was wrong.Paul wasn't shocked; he was staring intently at what was behind the Hydra, and Rudy was the same.I followed their gaze and discovered a mana crystal there.About two meters in size, a mana crystal shaped like a crystal.No... the shape doesn't matter... inside the mana crystal, there was a face I was very familiar with.Zenith.Miss Zenith is inside!"Zenith!"Before I could react, Paul had already roared, drawn his sword, and rushed over.And Rudy followed immediately, not considering himself a mage at all."Idiot! Too impulsive!"The shout came from Geese."Tch..."Elinalise clicked her tongue while sprinting to chase after Paul and Rudy.Then, Talhand also ran over."Miss Roxy, let's provide support!"Sylphie's voice brought me completely back to my senses, and I raised my staff, pointing it at the Hydra.First of all, I don't know if my magical attack power is enough, but the thing to do is clear: weaken the monster's mobility."Fist of the Silent Ice Man, [Frost Strike]!"The magic I activated surpassed Paul at top speed and directly hit the Hydra.Just as it was about to hit, a harsh sound like glass being scraped rang out."What..."This was definitely not the effect of magic hitting a monster; my magic was completely ineffective against it.Is it resistant to Ice Magic?Just as this question popped up, Rudy activated lightning magic; the lightning strike seemed like a product of nature.But even so, the Hydra was completely unscathed.Sylphie activated Fire Magic at almost the same time, but the effect was still not visible.No...Something is wrong..."Ooooh-ooooh-aaaah-aaaah!"Paul's desperate, hoarse shouts even reached my ears.The Hydra moved its snake-like necks, meeting Paul's attack.The next moment, one of the Hydra's heads flew into the air.It was severed by Paul's sword.So strong...Another head of the Hydra just lunged over.The next moment, it was also a severed head."Aaaaaah!"The Hydra lost two heads in an instant.Rudy was at the front of the battlefield, observing Paul's fight.I came to my senses and started focusing all my attention on my teammates.Since magic cannot be effective against the Hydra, the next step should be to find a way to enhance my teammates."Father! Calm down, the Hydra is Healing!"Healing?Rudy's words made me observe the heads that had just been severed.They were slowly recovering... no, it wasn't slow at all; one head had already grown back.Rudy's words did not calm Paul down; he was still swinging his sword wildly at the Hydra."Geese!"Talhand shouted.Geese started running.He passed by Talhand and moved behind Paul.He threw something he was holding in his hand at the Hydra.I heard a cracking sound, like 'ka-bang'.Then, with the Hydra as the center, something like smoke billowed up.It was a smoke bomb."Calm down! If you keep this up, everyone will die!"Geese shouted while restraining Paul's arms from behind.But Geese couldn't restrain Paul and was about to be thrown off in the blink of an eye.The next moment, Rudy activated magic to move the ground under everyone's feet backward for a distance.Paul calmed down quite a bit after being slapped by Elinalise."Retreat, to the previous Magic Circle!""Yes!"Everyone escaped safely from the Magic Circle.The most seriously injured was Elinalise.Blood was dripping from near her shoulder.I was just about to step forward to cast Healing Magic, but Sylphie had already healed her one step ahead of me.Next...Paul leaned against the wall, panting heavily.I don't know if it's because he hasn't calmed down or what, but Rudy was sitting in front of the Magic Circle, eyes closed, as if thinking about something."Father.""...That is definitely Zenith.""I know, how could I possibly mistake her?""That's true...""We've confirmed Mother's location. Next, we should formulate a plan, rest up, and search for information about the Hydra."Indeed, Rudy's logic was sound.But how would such words sit in Paul Greyrat's heart?The atmosphere grew heavy."I have an idea. Let's stop exploring for now and seek reinforcements. I know where Ghislaine is, and I can call her over. It would take at most half a year..."Before Rudy could finish, Paul Greyrat angrily interrupted him and grabbed him by the collar."What are you saying!? Your mother... Zenith is right before your eyes, and you're suggesting we wait half a year before taking action?!""Father... you aren't calm at all.""How can you expect me to be calm right now?! My beloved wife is behind that monster, and my son, whom I'm so proud of, is afraid? Huh?!"Suddenly, Rudy cast a spell.It was so fast that no one present could react in time.Paul Greyrat was frozen solid.But it only lasted two seconds, and after two seconds, Rudy dispelled the magic."Father, magic several times stronger and faster than this is ineffective against the Hydra. We have four mages in our party. Do you think your individual damage output will be enough?"Paul Greyrat gasped for air, as if he had just recovered."I can do it. As long as you have a way to suppress the Hydra's regenerative ability, I can definitely do it..."Hydra... regeneration...I feel like I've read about that in a book somewhere.Ah..."Um... I've read about it in a book. A demon dragon covered in scales of magic-absorbing stones. The book said it was sighted during the Second Human-Demon War and went extinct when the continent was destroyed. I always thought it was a fabricated story... but it seems it actually exists.""What about the regenerative ability? Was that described in the book?" After Rudy asked, he saw my helpless expression and understood, saying nothing more.The book certainly didn't mention anything about regeneration; just the magic absorption was troublesome enough."But... if we can fire at close range, then magic should be effective.""Is that so? That's good news...""Rudy? You aren't planning to cast magic right in front of the Hydra, are you? Your positioning at the front is already dangerous enough...""I'll play it by ear. Since Father can't accept waiting, we'll move on to formulating a plan."...Rudy's plan was simple and clear.Two mages would stand in the rear guard to provide support with magic at any time. Talhand gave up on magic to take on a role similar to Elinalise's, while Rudy stood in a position similar to Paul Greyrat's to deal damage.Rudy said that continuously applying Ice Magic or Fire Magic to the cross-section of the wounds should stop the regeneration, as he had once hunted an Ogre with similar Healing abilities.To deal damage with magic, one had to be at close range, and Rudy took on the role of staying at this distance, which was very unfriendly to mages.I had originally wanted to say that I could join him, but since Sylphie had already been refused when she wanted to stand in the front line, I couldn't bring myself to shamelessly say that my spellcasting speed was also very fast..."Rudy... be careful. At such a close range, a mage must look clearly before casting magic. There are no second chances...""Don't worry, Teacher. The Hydra's movements aren't that fast. I can at least react to them.""Hmm..."As we prepared to step into the Magic Circle again, I saw Paul Greyrat say something to Rudy.Both of them smiled. It seemed to be some sort of recognition from a father to his son?"Alright, let's head out again!"...The battle began.This time, we didn't lose our footing right from the start like last time; everything proceeded according to plan.We cut off the first head. If it regenerated even after being covered by Fire Magic, we would retreat."Aaaaaah!!"Paul Greyrat wavered for a split second before cutting off the first head.Rudy, who was not far behind Paul Greyrat, immediately cast Fire Magic.After being covered in flames, it indeed did not regenerate.This was very morale-boosting news."Oh, oh, oh, oh!! Don't leave my back, Rudy!""Understood."The Hydra roared, and three heads attacked simultaneously.Was it unable to control more than three heads?Elinalise parried one head, and Talhand held off another.Then, Paul Greyrat quickly slashed again, cutting off another head, and Rudy immediately used magic to burn the cross-section of the wound.Hmm?Talhand was injured from blocking."The power of the gods is the mellow grain—[Healing]!"I cast Healing Magic on Talhand, while Sylphiecontinuously healed Elinalise.I really don't know how much mana she has."Rudy, the third one is next!"Paul Greyrat shouted and slashed directly at it.That's three heads down... At this rate, we can do it!Paul Greyrat and Rudy's coordination was simply too perfect; they completed the head-severing and Fire Magic application almost instantaneously."Elinalise, watch out!"Sylphie shouted and cast a wall of earth magic to block one head.Elinalise reacted and parried one head, while the remaining three heads were heading straight for Talhand."Oh, oh, oh, oh!! Come on!!"Talhand raised his shield to hold off one head, while the head that had been blocked by Sylphie's earth wall reacted and also rushed toward Talhand.After holding off two heads, Talhand didn't have enough strength and was knocked flying.While being knocked away, one of the heads bit Talhand's leg and flung him into the air."Oh, oh, oh, oh!""Talhand!"Paul Greyrat rushed over and cut off the head that was biting Talhand's leg.Rudy immediately cast magic to burn the cross-section of the wound."Thanks, I'm saved.""The power of the gods is the mellow grain—[Healing]!"I cast Healing Magic, allowing Talhand to regain his fighting strength.At this moment, the Hydra's movements seemed to change again.It started to stagger backward as if it were afraid."Rudy, what now?"Paul Greyrat asked very calmly."Wait a moment... I feel like something is wrong..."After answering, Rudy stared intently at the Hydra.Seeing that we had no intention of pursuing, the Hydra suddenly raised its heads, as if looking down on us.Something seemed to be brewing in its mouth... Was this some final trump card?"The breath attack is coming! Everyone, get behind me!"Rudy shouted this, and everyone quickly hid behind him.Before the Hydra could spew its flames, Rudy cast a spell.It was Ice Magic, Ice Magic with so much mana that it filled me with awe.The Ice Magic directly froze the head the Hydra was charging its fire in, and at the same time, it formed an ice wall in front of Rudy."Just misfire and blow up, you beast!"Rudy swore; it was the first time I had ever heard him do so.But the misfire didn't happen; the breath attack lasted for two minutes before ending, and even Rudy's Ice Magic was almost completely melted away by it.The space was filled with water vapor, hot enough to be unbearable, and visibility became very low due to the mist."Father, now!""Right!"The Hydra seemed to have lost some strength after breathing, and Paul Greyrat rushed straight up.Although our formation hadn't changed much from before, almost everyone was now right in front of the Hydra.Another head—after Rudy cast his magic to burn it, only two heads remained on the Hydra."Don't let your guard down. Continue to execute the same tactics as before until the Hydra is completely dead!""Yeah!"The remaining two heads looked left and right.A scene that defied belief occurred.Both heads rushed toward Geese simultaneously."What's going on!!"After being startled, Geese threw a smoke bomb on the ground and began to flee.The smoke screen spread instantly.By the way, wasn't the amount a bit much? Did Geese panic and use all the smoke bombs he had on him?"Geese!"Paul Greyrat shouted and rushed into the smoke screen, and I heard the sound of blood spraying everywhere.Subsequently, I heard the sound of Fire Magic again.There should only be one head left now.I was in the smoke screen and couldn't see anything.Experience told me that the best thing to do now was to stay still.I could hear the Hydra's roars and the footsteps of three people running.Geese, Paul Greyrat, Rudy... Right!"Rudy, use Detection Magic!"I shouted this and immediately got a response.But the responding Rudy sounded somewhat unconfident."I've had it on the whole time..."Rudy's voice was very close, but the Hydra's voice was also extremely close.So, where are they now...Just as I was still thinking, someone ran past me.It was Geese...That means... the Hydra..."Teacher!"Rudy's shout came from beside me.To the left...Then, directly in front of me...Ah... the situation seems very bad right now...It doesn't just seem bad, it is very bad!!!!The smoke screen thinned out slightly, and I saw a dragon head with its bloody maw agape.Ah... I'm going to die.Such thoughts echoed in my mind.At this moment, I felt my left side being forcefully shoved by a hand.I was pushed and fell to the right. Did the Hydra's impact miss... me?When I came to my senses, the Hydra's last head had already been severed.It wasn't done by Paul Greyrat, but by Rudy.The Ice Magic that cross-cut the Hydra didn't look like anything human mana could achieve; it had almost covered the entire dungeon room.Was the person who just pushed me Rudy?In my mind, a very terrifying thought was echoing."Rudy!!"I shouted loudly and cast Wind Magic to disperse the smoke screen.The smoke screen dissipated, and Rudy was still standing there."That's... great...?"Looking at Rudy's appearance, I felt as if my eyes had lost focus and become a bit blurry.
Chapter 78: Aftermath, Confession"Rudy, use Detection Magic!"Roxy's shout came from right beside me.Actually, I had never turned off Detection Magic.But just suddenly, the range of Detection Magicshrank.It happened the moment Geese dropped all his smoke bombs.Just like that, without any warning..."What's going on..."This was the first time I had encountered such a situation, so it was inevitable that I panicked a little.I could only sense everything around me, not over a large area.And the only person beside me was Roxy.When my magic sensed the Hydra, I realized it had already rushed right in front of Roxy.What should I do? Cast a spell? Would it be in time? Besides, I rarely used Wind Magic; could I control the force well enough?No, there was no time to think at all.She was right on my right, very close.Two seconds? Perhaps one?In that amount of time, I didn't have enough time to think and make a rational judgment.Instinctively, I reached out my right hand and pushed Roxy with all my might.I didn't know if I could save her, nor did I know if I would die because of it.But when the Hydra whizzed past me, I knew I had made the right choice.Realizing I had saved Roxy, since it was right in front of me, I cast Ice Magic and sliced off the Hydra's last head directly.Just as I was about to breathe a sigh of relief, an abnormality in my body made me freeze in place.Hmm...? What is this feeling? It hurts so much!?This pain didn't appear out of thin air; by the time I realized it, the pain seemed to have existed for a long time."Ah..."I looked down and found that my right hand, which should have been holding the arrogant water dragon king, was gone.Serves me right, that was the most intuitive thought in my mind.If I could have used Wind Magic more calmly, I wouldn't have ended up like this.With my current Healing Magic, I couldn't regenerate a severed arm.A gust of wind blew by, and the smoke screen dispersed.Everyone was looking at me.Roxy covered her mouth.Sylphie stood frozen in place.Elinalise and Talhand turned their heads away.When Roxy and Sylphie came to their senses, they rushed to my side, cast Healing Magic on me, and began to bandage me.Roxy was using her magic, and as she used it, tears flowed down."I'm sorry... If only I could have been more careful...""It's not your fault, and besides, being able to save you with just one right hand is a huge bargain.""I'm sorry... I'm sorry... If it weren't for me insisting on coming to the labyrinth... Even though I was completely useless..."Anything I said now was useless; in Roxy's eyes, this was just temporary comfort.She must think I would hold a grudge against her in my heart, but apart from the pain, I didn't have any other sensations.Losing a right hand would only be an inconvenience in daily life for me; Zenith had already been saved, so from now on, I just needed to live a normal life.I thought optimistically, then was suddenly hugged.The people hugging me were Sylphie and Roxy.They didn't say anything, just held me like that.I reached out, wanting to pat their heads, but I only had one hand, which was a bit awkward."It's really fine, I'm a mage, it's just one hand.""Rudy, I really, really want to scold you right now, but seeing you like this, I can't bring myself to do it.""Is Sylphie already able to lecture me now? Haha.""I don't want to joke with Rudy right now..."Paul and Geese walked up in front of me, staring at me blankly.Paul seemed to want to say something; he opened his mouth but didn't speak."I'm sorry, I deserve to die!!!!"Geese shouted, kneeling down in front of me.Indeed... looking at Geese before me, I was very angry.The anger wasn't because I had lost this arm, but because if I hadn't lost this arm, Roxy would have been killed by him.As an experienced Adventurer, why would he make such a move at a time like this?I didn't respond to Geese, but looked at Paul."Let's go save Mother first; that is the most important thing.""I know."Paul nodded, walked up to me, and patted my left shoulder.He opened his mouth slightly, wanting to say something."I...""No need to say much; this wasn't just Father's decision alone.""Sorry... You make me proud."Then Paul turned around and walked towards Zenith.After rescuing Zenith, we recovered the Hydra's materials and also retrieved the arrogant water dragon king."Let's go back."...After resting at the inn for a few days, Zenith woke up.She was very listless.What is this? What's the situation?A vegetable?Zenith's every action was like the vegetative state I knew from my previous life; perhaps she had consciousness but could not control her own body.Is that so?"It's me, Paul."Paul hugged Zenith excitedly, but there was no response.Everyone seemed to have expected it, but no one said anything.Paul still held Zenith tightly.Holding someone who wouldn't respond.My back was patted, and I turned my head to see Elinalise."Rudeus, you are a very rational person, so I will only say these words to you now.""Mm.""Zenith like this... is probably beyond saving. I have lived for several hundred years, and I have seen many such cases...""Mm.""I'm telling you this because I want to use you to make Paul accept this; he should know it in his heart, too.""Mm."After deciding on the return journey and some subsequent matters, I returned to my room and collapsed onto the bed.Make Paul accept it?Make him accept it... how could he possibly accept it?I couldn't even accept that the once lively and cute Zenith had become like this.Becoming someone who only says "mm", who only nods.Becoming someone without intelligence, who has lost the ability to speak.Becoming... a useless person.No successful treatment cases?As for Healing Magic, I also know nothing.Until now, I can only reach the Advanced Rank, and even that is barely.With me like this, if I study Healing Magic, can I save Zenith?In the end, does she still have memories? Even if she is saved, will she still remember us?No... take action.Don't think about what comes after, just act first.That's what I've always done.First, search for cases, look for treatment methods others have used, and eliminate them one by one.Then go find similar patients, ask their families if there have been any changes after continuing like this for years.Then... then...Then what should I do?What on earth should I do..."Knock knock."The sound of knocking interrupted my chaotic thoughts."Come in."The people who came in were Roxy and Sylphie.They were carrying food, and the expressions on their faces were undisguisable worry.But for some reason, seeing them, my heavy mood felt much better."Rudy, you haven't eaten today, right?""Mm.""Eat a little?""Mm..."At Roxy's strong insistence, I was fed.Surely Roxy doesn't like this either; she might just be driven by guilt.Sylphie was telling me some words that Zenithwould respond to.After dinner, they didn't leave either; they sat beside me as if they wanted to say something.After a period of silence, Roxy took a deep breath and spoke."Rudy.""Mm?""Although saying this might be hypocritical and disgusting... but, I will become your right hand; please let me live by your side."Looking at Roxy, who was bowing her head, I didn't know what to do.Should I respond to something?Just as I was thinking, Roxy spoke again."Rudy, I love you..."Unaccountably, I was confessed to."Actually, the first time I was saved by Rudy, I fell in love with Rudy. Is this... love at first sight?""Is that so...""Mm... Saved by Rudy again, and even caused Rudysuch a severe injury, I know... confessing now feels a bit hypocritical... but I just want to say it out loud.""Mm..."Is Roxy really in love with me, or is she driven by guilt?Even if she loves me, I'm afraid I no longer have the ability to respond...That's not right, is it? Is that really what I think?In these few weeks of being together, I wasn't unaware of Roxy's feelings; I'm not that dense.Even if there are still many things to do next... I should try to respond to Roxy and Sylphie's feelings.Zenith has already been found; I don't want to let my feelings be ignored anymore.I opened my mouth, just about to say something, but was preempted by Sylphie."Let us support Rudy together, okay?"She held Roxy's hand.Support...Roxy blushed and nodded, then looked at me.Sure enough, Roxy also loves me.Before, it was just a vague feeling, but at this moment, I was certain.So, isn't what I need to do obvious?Even if I get beaten up by Eris later, I won't regret it.It's time to take action.After making up my mind in my heart, I took a deep breath.Don't think too much.I love Roxy, and I also love Sylphie and Eris.Likewise, they love me too.Take action, use the way of expression I can manage, and prove that I love them too."Mm?!""Rudy?"I hugged Roxy, and at the same time wanted to hug Sylphie.But one hand wasn't long enough, so I could only hug Roxy and press my forehead against Sylphie's forehead.Right now, using words is inevitably a bit inadequate.Although there are troubles, these troubles are also important to me.Even if words are inadequate, as long as they can feel the love, that is enough.Taking a deep breath, I slowly spoke."I will try to treat Zenith; before that, can you wait for me?""Eh eh eh?!"It was Roxy who exclaimed.And Sylphie was crying.Our foreheads were pressed against each other, and I could clearly see her tears."Rudy... I've been waiting for these words for so long...""I'm sorry.""Um... um... this... is this?"Roxy was flustered, not staying still in my arms."This is a proposal, you know. Didn't Roxy just confess to me earlier? Could it be that what Roxymeant by "love" isn't the same thing as what I understood?""I... like!? I love Rudy very much! No, I am in love with you!"After Roxy said this, she closed her eyes and hugged me tightly."We will be waiting for Rudy, you know. My and Roxy's lifespans are long.""Yeah... we will always support Rudy...""Thank you, my fiancées."
Chapter 79: The Journey HomeThe journey home. Because we didn't want others to know about the Teleportation Circle, the choice of route was entirely arranged by Paul.Along the way, the care I received from Sylphie and Roxy could be described as meticulous.Although I lost my right arm, I might actually be happier now than I was before? Of course, that's if Zenith hadn't ended up like this..."Not bad."Paul's voice suddenly came from behind.I turned my head and saw that he had already climbed onto the carriage."Hmm?""You're becoming a bit like your old man.""Haha...""So, are you going to marry both of them?"Paul looked toward the distance, where Roxy and Sylphie were picking fruits by the lake.What was he thinking? He was my father, after all."What if I said there's also Eris?""Hmm? That young lady?""Yeah.""Oh my... I won't say anything, but once your mother wakes up, she'll definitely give you an earful, hahaha..."Paul's laughter at the end sounded somewhat lonely, which was truly hard to watch.But I couldn't bring myself to promise that "I will be the one to cure Mother," because, at the moment, I hadn't thought of any solution.I hate being the kind of person who gives others hope without any basis."When we get home, I'll buy a house and hire some servants to help take care of Mother, or should we all live together?""Do you still have enough money?""Of course, I have enough funds to buy a house.""Then please, help buy one... I'm sorry that your father is such a useless guy.""It's just money.""Haha..."Paul laughed awkwardly. It had been a long time since I'd seen that confident expression he used to have.What was he feeling right now? Guilt? Embarrassment? Or something else...?"When is the wedding? Since you intend to make three ladies your wives, you need to start preparing quickly.""It's still too early for that...""Hey, hey, don't be an irresponsible man. That's what you lectured me about before.""Yeah, it's precisely because I want to take responsibility for them that I'm postponing it...""Rudy, what are you thinking about?"Paul suddenly became much more serious.Should I tell him?The journey home had already been going on for two months.Looking at Paul's behavior lately, he should have already accepted the fact that Zenith might never wake up.Although he might still be holding onto a glimmer of hope.Hmm..."I want to get married after I cure Mother.""Hmm... Huh? Are you serious?""Yeah, although I say that, I don't have any leads right now, so please, Father, don't get your hopes up too much.""I understand... but... I still hope you can get married as soon as possible. While I'm happy you have such thoughts, I don't want to see my son living his life up to now just running around for his parents."Paul scratched the back of his head with an awkward smile.So that's what he thought?...He was right. Up until now, most of my actions had been for Zenith. It could be said that from the Teleportation Incident until now, I had been acting for Zenith's sake.Of course, I wouldn't complain about that. Acting for one's own mother is not something worth complaining about.But what would Paul, as a father, think?His own son had lived up to this point, having been knocked unconscious by him to become a tutor for the sake of the family, and after the Teleportation Incident, having chosen to trust his son to go find other family members first. In the years since reuniting, his son had been running around for his wife until now, and even lost an arm.His guilt was only natural."Yeah, I will make them happy."There were many thoughts in my heart, but all I said out loud was this simple sentence."I just hope more that you can be happy, Rudy."I was stunned that Paul would say something like that.In the silent and somewhat awkward atmosphere, Sylphie and Roxy returned to the carriage, holding the wild fruits they had gathered."Alright, I won't disturb you all anymore.""Okay."Paul jumped off our carriage and walked toward the carriage where Zenith was sitting."Rudy? What did Paul talk to you about?"Roxy asked while feeding me a wild fruit.It was a bit sour..."We talked about the future, and I told him I would marry you both.""Eh...?"Roxy's hand, which was feeding me, suddenly stopped in mid-air.Her cheeks also turned red quite quickly.By comparison, Sylphie's reaction wasn't as big."Rudy, did Uncle Paul agree?""Yeah, he said he wishes us happiness.""Hmm? Will Rudy make us happy?""Of course."I reached out and wrapped my arm around Sylphie's waist, rested my chin on Roxy's forehead, and kissed it."Geez, Rudy is getting more and more practiced. Did you get used to having a girl on each arm during your time as an Adventurer?""Indeed... Rudy is really... a bit of a flirt..."It was one thing for Sylphie to say that, but did Roxy-sensei actually agree?Was I really acting that flirtatious?"Rudy, when will we be able to see Eris?"It was Roxy who asked this question."Do you know Eris too?""Yeah, Sylphie told me a lot about Eris, and plus, I've heard many rumors about her before, so her image is already set in my mind.""Uh... what do you plan to do when you see her?""Nothing special. Since she is Rudy's first wife, that makes Sylphie and me concubines, right? There are some matters that need to be clarified..."I looked down at Sylphie, and she seemed to be thinking the same thing.Is this considered a feudal mindset of this other world?I sighed in my heart and spoke up."There is no first wife or second wife. Your status in my heart is the same. When Eris returns, we'll hold a wedding for all four of us together.""Eh? Eh?""Rudy..."Roxy and Sylphie's reactions were shocked, and also very cute.I really hated that I didn't have two hands right now so I could hold them both in my arms."My love for you is equal. Do you not like this approach?""I like it... I do like it... But won't Eris be angry?"Roxy twirled her hair with her finger and muttered."She will agree, don't worry. Eris isn't as fierce as the rumors from years ago suggest anymore.""Oh..."It seemed Roxy had accepted it."Rudy~"Sylphie, in my arms, called my name, suddenly looked up, and closed her eyes.Ah...Instinctively, I leaned in and kissed her."I love you, Sylphie.""I love you too."After finishing the kiss with Sylphie, I looked at Roxy, who was blushing beside me.Upon realizing I was staring at her, she became restless and somewhat eager."Ah... um... well... I haven't... brushed my teeth in the last two days... Ah... of course, I'm not saying my breath smells! I just..."Not letting Roxy stutter any further, I pulled her in with my arm and kissed her directly.The taste of the wild fruit...
Chapter 80: An Unexpected AcquaintanceAisha's POV:"Boss, do you have any orders for today, meow?""Any orders, I say~"After school, the two idiots were fawning over me.Brother has been gone for four months now...Before, I always had them follow Brother whenever they had the chance, just to see if there were any new women around him or anything like that.But that was only within the academy. If they went outside the academy with their tracking skills, they would definitely be discovered by Brother and killed on the spot."There's nothing today.""Oh! Has Boss's brother not returned yet, meow?""It's been so long, I say..."I shot them a sideways glance, and they immediately didn't dare to say anything else.I didn't tell them what Brother went to do, but it seemed they had guessed most of it themselves.Although I firmly believe that Brother won't run into any accidents."If you don't want to be ordered around by me, then leave the classroom within five minutes.""Okay, meow! Ah! Of course, it's not that I don't want to be ordered around by Boss! I just have urgent business, meow!""Me too, I say!"Having said that, the two clowns left the classroom.Shaking my head, I finished packing my things and left the classroom as well."Come to think of it... Norn should be done with class too."Although I don't like Norn that much, I still need to maintain a good surface relationship.Recalling the location of Norn's classroom, I headed in that direction.Just as I arrived at the classroom, I found Nornstanding at the door, along with two strangers.Well, not exactly strangers... I know those two people.Ariel Anemoi Asura and Luke Notos Greyrat.The princess and her knight?What is this about? Is it because of Norn Greyrat's surname? Or something else?Recalling Brother's attitude toward nobles, I always feel that Norn getting involved with them isn't a good thing.I observed for a while and noticed that Norn seemed to be chatting with them quite happily."Huh..."Forget it, I'd better not interfere with Norn's affairs. After all, I'm the younger sister; why worry so much?With that thought in mind, I left the school.In the past, I would have gone home with Brother at this time, but now that Brother is away, the journey home feels so boring.When passing by the Market, nothing came to mind that I wanted to buy."Excuse me, how much is this?"A somewhat familiar voice rang in my ears.Turning to look, it was a girl with black hair who was buying skewers at a stall.Because black hair is rare, I had a deep impression of her.I remember... her name was Miss Nanahoshi, right?A lovely face, a nice figure, and she's a woman who gets along very well with Brother.Although I don't know what happened, Brother considers this woman very important. Brother, who almost never drank, once went on a heavy drinking spree for her sake, and even carried her back after getting drunk.Hmm... I should go say hello.Thinking this, I walked over.And she had just finished paying, so our eyes met directly.She was a bit hesitant."Uh... ah... um...""It's Aisha, Aisha Greyrat. Today is the first time we've officially met, Miss Nanahoshi.""Yes, I'm very sorry for not greeting you when I was at your house before.""It's fine."Silence.A somewhat awkward silence.I really don't know what to say to her..."Uh... want a skewer?""Yeah, thanks."I took the skewer.I often ate skewers like this back when I was an Adventurer... I feel a bit nostalgic."Your brother should be coming back soon, right?""How could he? The journey there alone takes half a year. He probably hasn't arrived yet, right?""Hmm... he didn't say...""Huh? Say what?""Nothing, haha..."Watching her awkward laugh, I had already guessed it.It seems it's about the journey.Miss Nanahoshi is a bit more oblivious than I imagined.We walked side by side, not knowing where to go."How did you meet my brother, Miss Nanahoshi?""We just hit it off, that's all. And as it happened, your brother was willing to help me.""Help you? What is it about?""Hmm... researching Teleportation Circle Magic.""Teleportation Circle..."Combining what she said earlier, it's probably that Miss Nanahoshi gave Brother the coordinates for the Teleportation Circle, or she used this magic herself to teleport Brother a long distance?Hmm..."Can I help you?""Really!? You're willing?""After all, you're Brother's friend. Miss Nanahoshishould be considered Brother's only friend.""Ah... well, considering that guy's personality... uh... haha. But it's really great that you're willing to help me. Do you need any compensation? But I'll say this in advance, all I can offer is money."What's wrong with Brother's personality? Isn't it perfectly fine?Although I retorted in my heart, I can understand why Miss Nanahoshi would say that, because Brother's arrogance toward strangers is no lie, especially toward the Demon race and nobles."I don't need any compensation.""Oh, oh! You two siblings are really alike. Then let's do tomorrow. Come to this address after school."Miss Nanahoshi gave me a slip of paper with the address of her Laboratory drawn on it."Yes, I will arrive as promised.""Mm-hmm, see you tomorrow then.""See you tomorrow."...The next day.In the Laboratory, I was a bit exhausted.This kind of mana output is really hard to keep up with."Good work. Let's stop here, shall we?""Mm...""But it's truly astonishing... Aisha, to think you have this much mana capacity?""It might be because I've been learning magic from Brother since I was little.""Oh, oh~ So starting to use magic from a young age might increase mana capacity..."Miss Nanahoshi muttered to herself.I turned my head left and right, looking at her messy Laboratory.Does Brother have to output this much mana every day...However, having confirmed this, I feel that there is absolutely no possibility of Miss Nanahoshi and Brother becoming lovers.Even though they get along very well."Aisha, do you want to go eat together? Are you an adult? Can you drink alcohol?""I'm not an adult yet.""Then let's go eat together? Of course, it's my treat!""Okay, let's go together."...In the restaurant, Miss Nanahoshi was gossiping about Brother's love life.Although she doesn't oppose Brother taking two wives, she isn't exactly supportive either."By the way, Miss Nanahoshi, can I see the experimental blueprints for your Magic Circle?""Huh? Of course."I took her blueprints and looked at them for a while.Although I don't know that much about Teleportation Magic Circles... these blueprints probably have some problems.It's just an intuition, but this problem might be the reason for Miss Nanahoshi's failure.Hmm... this Teleportation Circle looks very delicate and flawless, but...Is it the symmetry? While perfect symmetry can stabilize a Magic Circle, Miss Nanahoshi is taking too much for granted. A so-called Magic Circleshould be [Linked].I don't know how to describe it, but a Magic Circle is connected piece by piece. Miss Nanahoshi's Magic Circle can activate, but it won't have any effect.Why didn't Brother notice? Brother must have looked at it too...Hmm... it's very likely because Brother doesn't even need to chant when using magic, let alone use a Magic Circle, which is a slower method of activation.That's true. I saw Brother reading books about Magic Circles before; he must have started cramming only after helping Miss Nanahoshi."Miss Nanahoshi.""Hm?""This Magic Circle of yours might be a bit too naive.""Mm-hmm? What's the problem? Let's hear it!""First of all..."I explained my thoughts clearly to Miss Nanahoshi, but she didn't have a sudden epiphany or understand anything.She seemed to have understood from the beginning that a Magic Circle is created by [Linking]."Hmm... actually, I understand that too, after all, I've been researching for so long. But just connecting them like a circuit board, there's always one place that won't connect.""Circuit board...? Let's put that aside for now. When you say it won't connect, Miss Nanahoshi, what exactly is the problem?""Hmm... let me give you an example. This table can probably only hold half of my research blueprints... anyway..."Miss Nanahoshi placed the blueprints on the table and explained the principles of how these Magic Circles link."Is that so... so it can't connect here, which causes the Magic Circle to fail to activate, right?""Yes.""Then what if we do this?..."We discussed for a long time in the restaurant until night had completely fallen.Recalling that Miss Nanahoshi seemingly doesn't even know how to infuse mana, she certainly isn't a mage, and she doesn't carry a sword either. It's too dangerous for her to walk at night alone, so I simply brought her back home.Come to think of it, this is the first time she's come to our house at night without being drunk."Aisha!"She suddenly grabbed my left arm with both hands."Hm?""Are you interested in researching Teleportation Magic with me!? You are a true genius!""Uh... I'll help out at the Laboratory when I have time. Is that okay?""Of course it's okay! I'll pay you a salary. Believe me, the pay is definitely a hundred times better than what your brother gets as a teacher.""Miss Nanahoshi... you're too excited...""How can I not be excited right now! Your theory has so much potential! As long as there is a little progress in the experiment tomorrow, I'll be more likely to go... go back..."Digging into personal privacy isn't my interest, especially since Miss Nanahoshi was clearly quite dejected at the end.Hm?Brother goes to the Laboratory every day.If I go help every day, will I be able to be alone with Brother every day? Of course, not counting Miss Nanahoshi..."Will Brother still come to your Laboratory every day after this?""He should. He comes to help me whenever he's free, unless he's occasionally taking his sister home.""I'm very willing to help you, Miss Nanahoshi. As long as Brother is present, I will come.""Oh, oh!! Don't worry, once he returns, I'll lock him in the Laboratory!""That won't be necessary..."And so, Miss Nanahoshi and I have thoroughly gotten to know each other.
Chapter 81: Older BrotherAisha's Perspective:"Speaking of which, shouldn't Rudeus be back soon?"It had been three months since I started helping Miss Nanahoshi, and my brother had already been gone for seven months.I poured magic into the final Magic Circle."Is that right? It's only been a little over half a year, hasn't it?""Well... your brother has quite a few tricks up his sleeve, doesn't he? Don't you often say your brother is a genius?"Miss Nanahoshi didn't seem very good at lying.Then again, it might just be because in her eyes, I'm just a very clever, well-behaved child, so she doesn't keep her guard up around me.Nodding, I stood up from my seat."Are you heading back?""Just about. See you tomorrow, Miss Nanahoshi.""Mm, see you tomorrow."After saying goodbye to Miss Nanahoshi, I returned home.I told the maids what I wanted for dinner, greeted my mother, and went straight to bed.What is this feeling...Hmm... a feeling I've never had before.I miss my brother. I miss him even more than when he first left.Is this loneliness? Am I feeling lonely now?"Ahhh! No, I can't be like this!"Getting up, I grabbed my sword and walked out into the courtyard.My swordsmanship hadn't improved in a long time, and neither had my magic.Because apart from the Dragon God, I hadn't encountered an opponent that I felt was impossible to defeat, so I had started to comfortably enjoy life...Although my brother said he had joined his ranks, I still don't trust him. After all, it's hard to trust someone who once killed me.But as I am now, even if I met the Dragon God again, I would probably be killed in an instant...Swinging my sword, I recalled how I died the last time I met the Dragon God."It felt like... I died without seeing anything at all..."Even my brother couldn't hold him back for even a second. Is such an opponent truly someone that can be defeated?Such an existence, is his opponent that Hitogami? That god who doesn't dare show his face and is always acting mysterious?Hm? Perhaps he doesn't dare show his face because of the Dragon God's existence? That would make sense..."Aisha?"A voice broke my train of thought. Turning around, I saw Norn had returned home."Welcome back, Norn.""Mm, I'm back. Are you practicing your sword?""Yeah. Why is Norn back so late?""Well... I joined the Student Council and was handling some matters there, so I'm late.""The Student Council..."I remember that princess and her knight were in the Student Council, so that's why I saw them together last time?"Is there a problem?""I don't have a problem with it, but my brother really hates those royals and nobles. It would be better if Norn didn't get too close to them.""Princess Ariel is a very good person. If my brother met her, he wouldn't hate her either."That's hard to say. My brother's attitude toward royals and nobles is the same as his attitude toward the Demon Race..."Well... if Norn thinks it's fine, then that's good.""It's fine. Dinner will be ready soon. Aren't you coming inside?""You go ahead. I'll check on Domi and then come in.""Okay."Putting my sword away, I walked toward the stable.Domi was still lying there, carefree. Months had passed, and it didn't seem anxious about my brother's disappearance, even though my brother often fed it.I picked up the bag of carrots in front of the stable."Domi~ Time to eat carrots."Hearing my call, it reluctantly got up.When I finished feeding the last of the carrots, a few raindrops fell.Sure enough, seeing that it was raining, Domistarted to get excited.I don't know why, but it loves rainy days."I know, I know. I'll open the door for you. If you get tired from running, you have to come back to the stable on your own."As soon as I opened the door, it excitedly ran out.To think it likes rainy days, what a strange horse.After sighing, I went back into the house. After taking a bath, I had dinner with Norn and Mother.Lying back in bed, I studied Miss Nanahoshi's Teleportation Magic Circle for a while before falling asleep....In the early morning, perhaps right before the sun rose, I heard a commotion.A commotion, but a familiar one.I rushed to get out of bed and ran downstairs.It's my brother! Mother had already welcomed my brother and his group back.I rushed over and hugged my brother."Welcome back!!!""I'm back."My brother patted my head, which left me a bit dissatisfied.Shouldn't he give me a big hug at a time like this?Looking up, just as I was about to question my brother, I noticed his right arm was missing."Brother... your arm...""There was a little accident, but it's just a small problem.""How can this be a small problem! Did you bring the severed arm back? I heard that high-level Healing Magic can restore severed limbs. We should go to the capital of Millis and find someone like the Archbishop..."Before I could finish, my brother touched my face, interrupting me.He said in a gentle tone:"Aisha, it's fine."It's my fault.If I had been more insistent and gone with him...I was too naive. I always thought my brother would never have any problems.But in the end, my brother is just a mage.He can die if he takes a fatal attack...It's me..."Aisha, it's really fine."Perhaps noticing my expression, my brother repeated it."Mm..."My brother's repeated words brought me back to my senses.At the same time, I secretly made up my mind. If there is a next time, if there is any action that might be dangerous, I must go with him...After collecting my thoughts, I began to carefully observe every member who had returned.At this moment, I noticed a blue-haired... girl? standing next to my brother.Wait, it's actually a member of the Demon Race! My brother actually brought a member of the Demon Race home?!"Next, I will explain the current situation."Father's words interrupted the commotion in the house....Father has changed so much, it makes me feel a bit like he's a stranger.Well, it's been nearly ten years since I've seen Father after I followed my brother....The situation wasn't that great.Mother Zenith was actually...Looking up, Norn was hugging Mother Zenith and crying.My brother's expression was very serious, and Father looked very remorseful."It's good that everyone came back safely, isn't it? It's been such a long journey, why don't you rest first?"The person who said this was my brother, the person who should have said it the least."Yeah... mm..."Father still looked remorseful."Then we'll be going back first. Paul, go ahead and catch up with your family."The group behind my brother nodded in unison."Aren't you staying for the night?"My brother spoke up, trying to keep them.It seems they were partners who rescued Mother together."Heh, I'm going to a brothel to relax.""I also have to go catch a man, I can't hold it in anymore."After saying that, they left.I walked to my brother's side and found that the blue-haired girl was still there.She was even holding my brother's hand.Hm? This..."Alright, let's leave it at that for now. Uh... Lilia, could you help Zenith take a bath?"Father said this to Mother Lilia, looking a bit awkward.Mother Lilia nodded with a smile."Mm, I also want to catch up with big sister Zenith.""Mm..."After Mother took Mother Zenith away, Father kept looking at me and Norn.From the time they returned until now, I hadn't said a word to Father...What should I do now?At this moment, my back was patted by my brother."Go give Father a hug. He's also very tired.""Mm..."I stepped forward and hugged Father.And Norn, seeing my example, also walked over nervously and hugged Father."Long time no see... Norn, Aisha..."By the time I realized the tone was off, Father was already teary-eyed.Yeah, I was too selfish... Father worked very hard too, and I had been forgetting about him.I don't know why, but I cried, and Norn cried too.After hugging for a while, Father patted our heads."I must smell terrible, right? I'll go take a bath first. Rudy, do you want to bathe with me? It's been a long time since we've bathed together as father and son.""No way. Why are you being so sentimental?""Haha, I guess so. By the way, how many bathrooms are there in this house?""Three. You use the one on the third floor. Mother Lilia and Mother are using the one on the second floor.""Okay. Are you really not bathing with me?""No.""You're so cold."As Father went up to the second floor, my brother turned to talk to the blue-haired girl and Sylphie.They also prepared their clothes and walked toward the first-floor bathroom together.Now only Norn, my brother, and I were in the living room."Brother, who is that blue-haired girl?"Norn nodded on the side, also very curious."She's my teacher, and also my fiancée.""Eh?!""Ah!?"Exclamations came from both Norn and my mouth at the same time.I was surprised that my brother would actually like a member of the Demon Race."Bu-bu-bu... what about Sylphie?"Norn stammered."Sylphie is also my fiancée, and Eris too.""Three!? Did they all agree?!""Mm, they all agreed. Eris... will also agree.""Oh Millis, my brother is truly in love with them, please do not cast down punishment!!"Norn suddenly clasped her hands together and began to pray devoutly.But in my heart, I felt this was a good thing."How could that be? There's no need for Aisha to have that kind of anxiety."My brother said, pulling Norn into his arms with one hand.Then he tapped my forehead with his nose."You are also my most important sisters.""Wuu... Brother, you just said not to be sentimental..."Norn curled up shyly, reaching out to push my brother's face."Exactly, aren't you embarrassed, Brother?"When the clothes were taken off, the sight of my brother's severed arm made me freeze for a good while.Even though the wound had healed, I could feel what kind of monster my brother had encountered at that time.I reached out and touched the severed arm."What's wrong?""Does it still hurt?""Not at all. What's wrong? Why that expression all of a sudden?""I just feel so bad for you, Brother.""I'm actually a bit embarrassed when Aisha says that."My brother scratched the back of his head with his hand."With you like this, Brother, you won't be able to leave Aisha for the rest of your life, right?""It's just an arm, why do you make it sound like I'm paralyzed?"My brother said, starting to put hot water into the wooden tub.