Chapter 76: Chapter 75
"Master Satou!" Our arrival at the southern island, a stopover on our journey to Bolenan Forest, was met by Yuuneia, a young girl with striking black hair tipped in vibrant red. She embraced Satou tightly, then turned to call out to her older sister, Rei. "Sister! Come quickly!"
A blur of white and blue, a tiny figure with hair like spun snow tipped with azure raced towards us. Though seemingly younger than Yuuneia, Rei held a surprising age: older than even Mia the elf. She was a half-ghost, a rarity amongst races, and the sole survivor of the ancient Lalakie dynasty. Her life spanned millennia, reaching back over two thousand years.
"Welcome back, Satou. Good to see you, everyone."
"You too, Rei."
Despite Rei's characteristically tranquil demeanour, her behaviour on the island hinted at underlying loneliness. Her small hand clutched Satou's tightly, a desperate grip that spoke volumes. Yuuneia, once clinging to him, had been forcibly separated by Arisa.
"Can you stay awhile this time?" she asked.
"No, we're on our way to Bolenan Forest, I'm afraid."
I quickly added to Satou's response when I saw Rei's smile fade. "Why don't you come with us? We stopped by to ask you to accompany us on a tour of the elves' forest."
"Are you sure the elves won't mind uninvited guests in their territory?"
"It'll be fine."
With the blessing of Aaze, Aialize, the esteemed high elf of Bolenan Forest, and the approval of the elf elders, we were authorised to extend an invitation to the two following the Lalakie incident.
"But..."
"Don't worry. Aaze is in the elf village, and the World Tree's spirit light purifies miasma."
Rei's apprehension was likely fuelled by her heightened sensitivity to miasma, which often accumulated in crowded places and posed a significant threat to her well-being.
"Yuuneia, will you come, too?"
"I'd follow my big sister anywhere!"
Yuuneia's devotion to her sister was well known, so her answer came as no surprise. With the sisters now in tow, we continued our journey towards Bolenan Forest, aided by a series of 'Return' spells.
<0>
"Okay, we're here."
The journey to Bolenan Forest, including a brief stop at an island, required eight castings of the 'Return' spell. Unlike the more efficient 'Space Magic' teleportation spells, 'Return' had a limited range of two hundred miles, making it impossible to reach the forest in a single jump. The additional magic required to transport the group also drained Satou and my own MP reserves more than usual. Someone else was already there when we arrived at our tree house in Bolenan Forest.
"Hello, Miss Lua." Lua froze, looking startled.
As the high elf Aaze's dedicated priestess, she tended to her every need.
"Welcome back, Mr Satou, Miss Kura. You've got quite a crowd with you this time."
She was used to Satou and me suddenly appearing, so she greeted us with a calm smile. Judging by the open windows and the scent of fresh air, she was airing out our rooms today.
"We were hoping to do some training, so we'll be staying for a while, if that's all right."
"Of course. You're always welcome."
"'This time'? Come to think of it, didn't Rei say, 'Can you stay awhile this time?' too?"
"Mm."
Mia and Arisa started whispering behind us, but I ignored them.
"I'll contact Hiya and the others, then. Oh, and Nea was saying that she's managed to make vanilla extract."
"Yes, Miss Aaze told me that yesterday over Telephone."
The sound of Arisa and Lulu's voices drifted behind me, their conversation replaying the previous day's schedule. They were right; our time had been consumed by battling monsters in the labyrinth. While they fought, I stood on the outskirts, immersed in my research on golem magic. Satou, meanwhile, hadn't vanished.
"Stop! In the naaame of love!" Why was she singing?
"Stoppp?"
"The naaaame of love, sir."
Tama and Pochi started imitating Arisa, as usual.
"What is it?"
"Question: Why did she say 'this time'?"
"Why? Because Mr Satou comes by every ten days or so, and Miss Kura visits occasionally."
"When in the world...?"
"Mrrr."
Arisa shot daggers at Satou while Mia looked up at me accusingly.
"I come by to take some potions when we are running low and don't have the time to make some,"
My reason seems to stop the glares directed my way, but Satou, on the other hand, was having trouble even after he told them…
"I just came back to share when I found some new ingredients or recipes."
The labyrinth was a treasure trove of rare ingredients, with monsters like moss crab bees, dungeon fungus, monster pumpkins, ancient land beasts, and bloodred turtles. I'm sure Satou did talk with Nea to discuss methods of cooking them, but I doubt that was all he was up to.
"That doesn't add up..."
I heard Rei and Yuuneia murmuring to each other. With the way everyone is looking at Satou, you would think he was a husband being accused of infidelity.
"Oh yeah? Question two: What's this about Telephone?"
"Huh? Didn't I tell you?" Satou tilted my head. "My 'Telephone' and Miss Aaze's 'World Phone' work well enough over the distance between Labyrinth City and Bolenan."
"We didn't know that!" Arisa fumed at Satou.
"Oh, that's right. Nea's prototype is cooling in the refrigerator. Take a look when you have the chance." Possibly sensing the awkwardness, Lua generously changed the subject.
"She finished it already? Thank you very much. I'll definitely take a look."
"Prototype? You don't mean...!"
"You'll find out soon. We can have some after dinner tonight, so make sure you don't eat too much."
"At last! Ahhh, I wish dinnertime would come already. Don't you know the Song of Time, Master?"
"Of course not."
I understood her excitement. We had stumbled upon an extraordinary find during our travels along the sugar route. Nea and her culinary team were exploring ways to enhance its flavour.
"I've contacted Lady Aaze as well as Mia's parents. They'll be here soon."
Lua used Spirit Magic to send a magical messenger bird out the window as she spoke.
"Satou, is Lady Aaze the high elf you mentioned?" Rei asked in a small voice, tugging on my sleeve.
"That's right."
"Oh." Her expression held mixed emotions as she responded. "Satou, could I have some magic, please?" For whatever reason, she was wearing a forced smile. "I'd like to be in formal dress when I meet the high elf."
Satou nodded and used his hand to siphon some magic into her. She grew as she received the magic, changing from an elementary school-age girl into a beautiful and, frustratingly, grew into a well-proportioned woman, all in the blink of an eye. This wasn't a spell. Because of Rei's unusual half-ghost nature, she normally stayed in little-girl mode to conserve magic, but this was her true form. Rei's clothes also changed into the traditional garb of a Lalakie priestess. Her clothes and accessories were made of ghostly material, just like her body. Her priestess outfit was a bit revealing, though.
"Thank you, Satou." Rei smiled bashfully.
Suddenly, Aaze came flying into the treehouse room.
"Lua! What's this urgent business you? Satou!"
As Satou's gaze met hers, a radiant smile blossomed upon her face, illuminating it like a vibrant bloom in the springtime garden. Aaze didn't even notice the rest of us.
"I'm back, Miss Aaze."
"Welcome b-" Suddenly, she froze mid-sentence, and her smile faded. "Welcome...back...Satou." Her speaking turned slow and stilted. "Erm, is this girl...your lover? Have you come...to introduce...your wife to me?"
Satou's luck seemed to have finally run out as even Aaze was looking at him as if he cheated.
"No," I responded plainly.
"B-but...!"
Aaze's gaze fell on Satou's right hand, a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes. Rei still held onto it, her grip firm, even after Satou had used his magic to help her. He attempted to gently pull his hand away, but Rei wouldn't let go.
"...Um, Rei?"
"Oh, I'm sorry, Satou." Rei hurriedly withdrew her hand, then held it sorrowfully to her chest.
"Miss Aaze, this is Rei. The girl behind her is Yuuneia."
"Oh, Rei and Yuuneia? The girls from Lalakie, right? I remember! B-but I thought you said she was a much smaller child..."
Confused, Aaze looked at Rei's formidable bust with dismay as Satou quickly explained Rei's nature to her.
"It's an honour to meet you, O Holytree of Bolenan Forest. I am the last queen of the Lalakie dynasty, Reiaane Tuuwa Lalakie-or Rei, resident of Paradise Island."
Before Aaze, Rei knelt with graceful reverence, her voice clear as she uttered her name. Inspired by her, Yuuneia gracefully adopted a similar kneeling position. Tama and Pochi attempted to imitate their actions. However, fate intervened when Pochi's clumsy nature caused her to topple onto her snout. As fate would have it, this comical mishap triggered a playful tumble, sending the two of them rolling towards the room's far side. They might have even rolled out the door if Liza hadn't caught them.
"Please raise your heads. There's no need to be so formal. The pleasure is all mine. I am Aialize, high elf of Bolenan Forest. Any friend of Satou's is a friend of mine, so please feel free to call me Aaze." Miss Aaze introduced herself in a friendly tone, prompting the two of them to stand.
"Nice to meet you! I'm Yuuneia, a homunculus." She turned to Rei. "Sister, is this person Master Satou's lady friend?"
"...Yes, that's right."
Rei's confirmation sent a blush blooming across Aaze's face. Her hands flew to her cheeks, likely embarrassed by the term 'lady friend.'
"Mrrr. Just friends."
"That's right! She totally rejected Master already!"
"So she's not his 'lady friend!"
Mia and Arisa rejected Rei and Yuuneia's assumptions, emphasising the profound pain that truthful words could inflict. Satou's visage betrayed the emotional impact of their rebuke, etched with the anguish of a deep wound.
"You don't like Master Satou, Lady Aaze?"
"Of course I do!!"
Yuuneia's innocent question elicited a strong affirmation from Aaze, a response that soothed Satou's wounded heart. It was as if Aaze's words were a balm to his soul, providing him with a sense of comfort and strength that could sustain him for years to come.
"You've all grown quite a bit."
The initial flurry of introductions between Rei and Yuuneia subsided, allowing for a relaxed and friendly exchange.
"Wait a minute, Lady Aaze." Miss Lua flapped her hand in front of her face. "This sudden growth isn't nearly so trivial, don't you think?"
"Really? Since they're with a hero, I think it's only to be expected that things might be a little out of the ordinary."
Close by, Mia's elated parents descended upon her, showering her with abundant compliments. Their voices reverberated with pride and admiration, their words flowing effortlessly as they celebrated their daughter's achievements. Well, her mother's words were flowing freely, at least.
"Welcome back, Mia. You've grown ever so much! Why, that's terribly amazing! You must have worked very, very hard. You're a hard worker. You are! Did you hurt yourself at all? You're all right? You will stay awhile now, won't you?"
"Good job."
"Mm. Worked hard."
Mia beamed with delight as her parents affectionately patted her head. Her childhood friend, Goya, appeared, but upon learning of Mia's remarkable growth, he vanished abruptly. Despite his age, I couldn't help but send him a silent message of support.
"Yo! I heard Satou and friends are back!"
"It's master, sir!"
"Heya, Pochi! You've gotten awful strong since you've been away, haven'tcha?"
"Hee-hee, sir."
Miss Portomea, Pochi's teacher, arrived at the head of the elf teachers. Her striking beauty, cascading waves of hair and delicate features contrasted sharply with her forthright and confident speech.
"Have you been well, Tama?"
"Aye-aye!"
"I can tell already you have grown much stronger, Pearl!"
Shishitouya, the elf samurai, gently stroked Tama's head. Though undeniably male, his long hair and delicate features gave him a distinctly feminine air.
""Spellblade."
"Yes, Master Guya."
Gurgapoya, the helix-spear user, inspected Liza's "Spellblade" usage.
"Good."
"Thank you very much."
His short but sincere compliment put a proud expression on Liza's face.
"Excellent 'Spellblade' form. If you can just shorten the time it takes to invoke it and eliminate any magic leakage, it will be perfect."
"Agreed."
Liza's other teacher, the spriggan short-spear user Yusek, discussed the finer points of 'Spell-blade' with Guya.
"Praise."
"I am proud to receive my teacher's praise, I declare."
Amidst the bustle, Nana found herself the object of praise from Miss Gimasarua, an enigmatic Magic Swordsman known for her short sentences similar to Mia's. However, her other mentor, Mr Keriul, a diminutive yet imposing dwarf and Master of shield uses, was conspicuously absent from the proceedings.
"Hey, Satou. You've all grown quite a bit." Finally, Hishirotoya, the verbose elf and head of the teachers, arrived to offer his praise. "Have you learned to do chants, too, Satou?"
"I'm sorry, not quite yet..."
"Ah-ha-ha. No need to apologise." Hishirotoya, or Hiya for short, smiled. "Are you practising, though?"
"Yes, every morning and evening."
"Well, all right, then. Humans grow quickly. Keep it up for ten years or so, and you'll be able to do it in no time."
"Miss Nea, it's a pleasure to see you again,"
"Miss Nea, I've learned lots of new dishes during our travels!"
"I can't wait. Let's make some later, shall we?"
"Yes, please!"
Nea, a skilled self-defence instructor, trained the girls who formed the rearguard. However, her passion for cooking often took centre stage, leading to lively discussions about food with her friend Lulu.
"I want a teacher, too," Arisa grumbled.
"Mm. Aaze."
Mia's gaze fell upon Miss Aaze, not only my Spirit Magic mentor but also a highly proficient magic user across all disciplines, including the art of Space Magic.
"Mm, I dunno. Miss Aaze seems like the type to ignore theories and stuff and just use magic based on feelings or whatever, don't you think?"
"How cruel!"
When Arisa's harsh assessment appeared to hurt Aaze's feelings, Satou pulled her toward him to comfort her.
"You are much too close." Before the Arisa could move, Lua, the priestess, pulled Aaze and Satou apart. "You should speak to one of the elders about Space Magic. They love magic theory, so they'll talk to you about it for years if you let them."
"Miss Lua, could you introduce me to a Fire Magic teacher, too?"
"Any one of the elders can use the four basic elemental magics well enough to teach others. You could have them help you with that along with Space Magic."
"Hooray!" Arisa pumped her fist triumphantly when Lua agreed to introduce her to the elders.
"Satou, candy!"
"Gimme candy!"
Tiny fairies, with wings shimmering like stained glass, alighted on Rei and Yuuneia's heads and shoulders. I presented the sisters with two small pouches, each filled with sugary treats, for them to share with their newfound companions. It didn't work out, though.
"W-wait a second!"
"Hurry it up!"
"I want candyyy!"
Impatient, a few fairies couldn't resist the temptation. They plunged their heads into the sack, eager to see what was inside, without waiting for Rei.
"K-Kura…"
When Rei cried for help, I stepped in to assist. To calm the excited fairies, I gently lifted the one perched on her chest and placed it atop my shoulder.
"Wait your turn, or none of you gets any more."
"I'll line up!"
"Yeah, me too!"
"Candy puh-leez!"
The winged fairies quickly fell into line.
"Cut that out!"
"Master Satou, are these little things people?"
"That's right. So be gentle with them, please."
Yuuneia tugged playfully at a fairy's leg, oblivious to the creature's distress. Satou intervened swiftly, his concern evident. Her actions, though innocent, were jarring in their disregard for the fairy's fragility, like a child unconcernedly manipulating a delicate toy.
"Yuuneia! You must handle larvae with great delicacy, I advise." Nana also came running over when she saw how Yuuneia was handling the fairies.
"Delicacyyy?"
"It's like a food, sir."
Tama and Pochi echoed Nana's words, their playful mispronunciations a familiar sound. I let their endearing mistakes slide, finding no need to correct them.
"Yes, ma'am."
With a forlorn gaze, Yuuneia relinquished her grip on the fairy. Freed from its perilous entrapment, the fairy gracefully soared through the air, its delicate wings glimmering, before landing upon my shoulder.
"That one's crazy, mister." I handed it some extra candy for its troubles.
"Dinner is ready, everyone!"
The aroma of spices filled the air as a procession of house fairy brownies laden with steaming dishes arrived alongside Nea's team of elf chefs. The long table quickly overflowed with a feast of seven distinct curries, accompanied by a colourful medley of vegetables, meats, and an assortment of side dishes. It was clear that the curry craze Satou had ignited in the elf village was still burning bright.
<0>
"Whoo-hoo! Chocolate parfaits!"
Arisa's eyes widened at the sight of the decadent chocolate desserts that followed dinner, her excitement reaching a fever pitch.
"There's cake, too." Nea smiled at Arisa as she placed a chocolate cake on the table.
There were also bite-size pieces of cut chocolate. Unfortunately, the lava cake they were working on wasn't ready yet. Nea said they were getting close; hopefully, they'd be able to make it while we were here for training.
"Hoo boy, I'm gonna gain weight..."
"Squishyyy?"
"So round, sir."
Arisa's eyes widened at the decadent array of chocolate desserts, her stomach already rumbling in anticipation. She let out a dramatic sigh, slumping forward and exaggerating her already full belly. Tama and Pochi, mirrored her gesture instantly, lining up beside her.
"Excuse me! I'm not really that chunky!"
"Nyah-ha-ha..."
"Run for it, sir!"
"Run away!"
"She's gonna eat us!"
Arisa pretended to be furious, and Tama and Pochi ran away giggling, followed by the winged fairies.
"Go ahead and dig in." At Miss Nea's prompting, everyone started reaching for the desserts.
"Bittersweeeet?"
"It's bitter but sweet and tasty, sir!"
Tama and Pochi appeared to have eaten the dark chocolate, which was for more mature taste buds. I pointed them toward the sweet milk chocolate, which Sara and Lulu seemed to enjoy more which earned even higher praise like "Yummyyy!" and "Delicious, sir!"
"It's very good."
Liza savoured the bitter bite of dark chocolate, her jaw working steadily as she chomped on a thick, unyielding piece. Rather than letting it melt slowly on her tongue, she preferred the satisfying crunch, her expression a testament to her enjoyment.
"Hero Kura, the chocolate cake is delicious, I report."
Nana, her fork a blur, savoured each bite of her cake, generously sharing crumbs with the fluttering fairies who danced around her. It was clear the treat was a delight for both Nana and her winged companions. Pearl must really like the cake, too as her cheeks are so stuffed she looks like a chipmunk.
"Sister! This is delicious! Almost as much as that strawberry cake."
"It really is. This is wonderful, Lady Nea."
"Hee-hee, thank you."
Yuuneia's eyes twinkled with delight as she praised the chocolate cake. At the same time, Rei, her sister, mirrored the sentiment with an equally radiant gaze of gratitude towards Nea, the baker.
"It really is delicious. Can you show me how to make this later, Miss Nea?"
"Yes, of course."
Leave it to Lulu to already want to learn how to make it.
"Cake."
"The parfait is delicious, too. It has a nice, crispy texture on the inside."
"Gimme."
When Mia leaned over, Aaze fed her a bite of her parfait. The distinctive crunch of the cornflakes contributed to the advertised 'crispy texture.' Upon indulging in a bite, I experienced a harmonious blend of delicate sweetness and a subtle hint of bitterness that dissolved effortlessly in my mouth. The smoothness and richness far exceeded my previous taste test. The quality rivalled that of premium chocolates typically reserved for Valentine's Day. Aaze meanwhile savoured her parfait, oblivious to the tiny speck of chocolate clinging to her cheek.
"Excuse me, Miss Aaze."
Satou gently removed the chocolate smear from her cheek with her finger, then delicately used a handkerchief to wipe it clean. Instinctively, he almost lifted the chocolate to his mouth, an ingrained habit from tending to younger children, but he swiftly corrected his action and used the handkerchief to dispose of the remaining traces.
"Why, y-"
Arisa was ready to scold him but stopped mid-sentence when she saw the handkerchief.
"Grrrr..."
That growl didn't come from Arisa.
"I've made a grave mistake."
"If we'd just held off on that last helping of curry..."
The elf teachers, already stuffed from the curry, seemed unable to appreciate the chocolate desserts.
"So, have you come back to relax for a while?"
"No, actually..."
Mr Hiya inquired about the purpose of our visit, prompting me to explain the circumstances.
"Hmm. Retraining, eh?"
"Would that be all right?"
"Of course."
The elf teachers agreed to my request right away.
<0>
"First, could you show us the results of your training in the labyrinth?"
Lined up in front of Mr. Hiya and the other elf teachers, Satou's group nodded. We were in a wide-open wasteland outside Bolenan Forest, thanks to the forest fairy Dryad's fairy ring teleportation. Miss Aaze and Lua had come along, too. Once the girls gave their affirmation, Mr. Hiya turned to Aaze.
"Lady Aaze, produce a spirit for training, please."
"Is a behemoth all right?"
"No."
A behemoth was a pseudo-spirit resembling a cross between an elephant and a hippopotamus. Still, it was level 50 and the size of a destroyer ship. It was probably a bit too strong for a practice battle. One of the taciturn elf teachers rejected Aaze's choice.
"If you'd prefer one with a physical body, perhaps a spirit of the wasteland or the sand?" Lua suggested.
"That sounds more like it." Hiya nodded. "Could you, Lady Aaze?"
"Of course!"
Aaze uttered the incantation of 'Spirit Magic'. The once-barren ground surged with life as the chant reverberated through the desolate wasteland. Rocks and dirt coalesced, fusing together into a colossal golem-like behemoth. Its presence radiated an unmistakable air of sentience, eclipsing the lifeless constructs born from my own 'Create Earth Servant' spell. This spirit was level 40, so it should have the same strength as the areamaster.
"I've transferred command to you."
"Thank you."
Taking over the wasteland spirit from Aaze, Hiya tested out his control momentarily before having the spirit face Satou's group.
"Now, will you follow me? Your training area has been set up,"
One of the elders came to collect my group. Because of the level difference between my group and Satou's, we decided to train our groups separately. Pearl, Mia, Sara, Nana, and I were led to a small opening where a few elven elders were waiting for us.
"Center,"
One of the elders points to the centre of the opening while the other uses their magic to conjure up a large plant monster with a pretty cute little face. Strangely, no one else agrees with me, and a few even give me a 'Are we looking at the same thing?' look. Is it that strange to find something cute about a ten-foot-tall, muscular tree monster.
"Assessment. Begin,"
The elder in charge didn't give us much warning before he started the battle.
"Your bark is worse than your bite, I mock,"
Luckily, Nana was alert to block the tree monster's fist and even push the monster off balance as the ground creaked beneath her, thanks to her 'Body Strengthening'.
"…Sacred Javelin!"
"…Paralyze Water Hold Mahi Mizu Shibaru!"
Before the monster could recover, Sara and Mia knocked it over and restrained it. They certainly have gotten stronger. There was a time when I would have had to save them from such a foe. Now it looks like I won't have to lift a finger. Pearl was so strong now that she could take down this spirit single-handedly. She certainly finished it off after using 'Warp' to get close and slicing the tree monster in half with a 'Spellblade' infused slash.
"Good," The elder nodded. "Stronger."
At first, I thought he was completely my group, but instead, he was signally the summoning of an even more powerful spirit. A few elders used a joint chant to summon a giant slime-like spirit this time. They really aren't holding back this time. The last monster was only level forty, while this one is ten levels higher.
"Begin,"
It's so fast. As soon as the elder signed the start of the spar, the slime shot forward with incredible speed. Pearl knows 'Warp' and 'Blink'; while Nana only knows 'Blink', she would have no trouble keeping up with the slime along with Pearl. On the other hand, Mia and Sara on the other hand… maybe I should be trained to learn 'Blink' too in emergencies.
Still, despite the monster's speed, my group managed to defend themselves. But it must be a bit too much for them. As with the king's fiery bunny, it doesn't take long for them to be overwhelmed. It started with Nana's feet getting tangled in the slime, and things really fell apart when it knocked Pearl back.
"""Help!"""
Before long, all of them were tangled up in the slime's body. It was hard to look at Sara and Nana as the way the slime held them was pretty lewd. At least the elders were quick to release them. At least no one appears to be hurt by this defeat.
"You," As my group picked themselves up, the elders approached, pointing at Nana. "Dodge."
I wish they would speak more, but from the sounds of it they were telling Nana not to try and block everything. Nana nods, but I will explain it to her later if she doesn't understand.
"You," Pearl was next. "Timing."
"Yes…"
I think he was trying to tell her to time her attacks better with everyone else.
"You," He pointed to Sare. "Area attack."
"I understand,"
While Sara's was easy to understand. Learn some wide-area attack magic. While her spells pack a punch, I haven't seen her use one with a wide effect area other than healing magic. It might do her some good to learn a few new spells.
"Mia. Spirits."
"Time,"
"Mm. Others,"
So they want Mia to use 'Spirit Magic', and I think they were talking about having everyone else buy her time to chant. I really wish they used more words when they talk.
"Training. Pearl, Miu,"
An elderly elf steps forward and leads Pearl away. She is surprisingly light on her feet, and I was surprised to see a shortsword under her robe.
"Big… Nana, Gia," Nana away quickly, followed by a dwarven shield user. Still, I can't help but notice his gaze when he called Nana 'Big'. "Sara, Kana."
Finally, Sara is led off by another elder. I suppose I should make myself busy, too. After asking around about people who could help me, I was led over to a small workshop not too far from the training grounds. It was a large hut filled with golems used for training and construction.
"Kiya, Doa, Sotorineya," The elder who guided me over spoke as we approached a group of three elves gathered around one of the elves' golems. "Train." Gesturing to me, the elder adds. "Approved."
"Mm."
With a nod, the elder leaves, and my training begins. Yes, what I asked for was training to help me hone my golem-creating skills. I can create the basic shapes of humans and animals, but the elf golems I have seen look so much more than anything I could make.
<0>
"I nearly got it…"
Two days later, I have nearly made a multi-legged golem, but getting all its legs to move right is just as difficult as you might have imagened. I lost count of the amount of golems that collapsed, tripped or couldn't take more then a few steps. Still, I learned a lot, and my teachers also taught me how to imbue my golems with magic, making them even stronger. It's not that different from how to do it with weapons and armour.
"Here…"
With the advice of my teachers, I change one of the legs and get my golem working. It's only a small body with six legs, but now that I have a good idea what I am doing I should be able to make a better golem next. But first I want to try something out.
"Perfect,"
The enchantments on the golem's feet are working just as planned. I make my golem walk up the wall and onto the ceiling before recalling it to my side. It worked perfectly.
Now, let's experiment a little…
<0>
"Mmmm."
"Hero Kura, you shouldn't skip meals, I advice,"
Two days… no three days… maybe four days later, Mia and Nana walk into the workshop. Has it really been so long? It feels like it was only yesterday when I started playing around with my teachers, creating and experimenting with golem designs.
"Master, we brought food,"
"We should all eat together outside since it's a nice day,"
Pearl and Sara were there too, with Pearl approaching carrying a large blanket while Sara held a basket. I don't know what's inside, but it makes my mouth water and my stomach growl. I can't remember the last time I ate something… maybe I have gotten a little carried away.
"What's this?"
Sara was the first to notice my newest creation. It was pretty hard to miss. A large golem twice the size of the average man and at least ten times stronger. Made of mithral and at an impressive level of seventy, this golem was pretty strong before I started to enchant it.
On the golem's body, I gave it the ability to use 'Body Strengthening' and both resistances to physical and magical attacks. As for the golem weapon, this one is armed with a large war hammer that I enchanted to have the ability to stun opponents. Finally, the golem's shield can project a 'Flexible Shield' as strong as Nana's in front of it. Making this golem was a lot of work, but I am proud.
"Hero Kura, please let me fight this golem, I insist,"
"It does look strong,"
Pearl and Nana quickly challenged my creation, but I shot the idea down.
"After you can defeat that slime," I told them.
I had enough material to make a few of these golems, so there was no harm in letting them destroy one. I might even be able to rebuild it after the fight as long as the materials aren't too badly damaged.
<0>
"It looks like we have both been busy,"
Satou lets out a whistle as he views my golem. Still, he is underappreciating his own work. Floating shields and multiple swords and sets of armour ready for testing. Satou really has done a lot over the last few days. I was even more impressed when I heard Satou also created three new spells and modified five others. Not to mention that this stuff is only the prototypes, and yet they are so powerful. I'm unsure whether I should be fearful or excited about seeing the finished products.
"Master which of this new gear is for who?" Arisa cut in as Satou looked my golem up and down looking impastiant as she pinched Satou's side.
"Oh, right… Lulu, here's your new equipment. There's a Magic Gun that fires real bullets and a laser gun made with Brightlight Pearls."
The first was designed for adversaries with strong resistance to magic, while the second targeted swift-moving foes. Both featured a straightforward wooden stock and boasted a long, rifle-like design. Still, the design was interesting enough to grab the elves' attention.
"Huh, what interesting weapons. Mind if I test one out?"
"Of course, go ahead."
Mr. Hiya tested out the sniper and real-bullet gun.
"You might want to change the materials for the focus in this laser gun, no? You should ask Aea if she has any suggestions."
"I will, thank you." Satou nodded.
"These weapons are for Lulu, yes? Then I'll teach her how to shoot. It would be best if she could use Wind Magic or Light Magic, but even Practical Magic can be helpful with aiming. She should study that, too."
"Yes, sir! I'll do my best!" Lulu clenched her fist, agreeing to Mr. Hiya's unexpected offer.
Pochi and Tama were next to get their new gear. Both of them received swords that drained the MP from their opponents and gave it to them. It mainly allowed them both to use 'Spellblade' more easily. Everyone else just received bracelets that projected a floating shield in front of them which were pretty strong.
<0>
"Looks like the magic alloys really made a difference," Aea said, looking at my Golem MK2.
I joined Satou the next day during his lessons with Aea. Aea had educated me on the key effects and combinations and even provided me with an extensive collection of data from the elves' experiments. With that knowledge, I felt confident in my ability to create a diverse assortment of magical metal alloys. Two days after that lesson, I finished my golem's second version.
The enchantments and stats are still the same as the first golem, but thanks to the magical alloys, this version is lighter, faster and more durable. Controlling this golem is also easier as it moves so much better now. Now, I just need to figure out how to get this golem to hear, and I should be able to use it easily. But for some reason the elves looked shocked when I asked them for help in this matter. They even were nervous when they asked me how much I would improve this golem.
"A-already?"
"Well, I've only actually made five kinds so far."
At least Satou was there to shock them and talk about something else. I can hear him now casually saying how he pulled off something that should have been impossible if the elf's expressions were anything to go by.
"Five kinds?!"
"You learn at a remarkable pace."
The elf teachers were good at compliments, but I have a feeling a certain someone's words were worth more to Satou then all the teachers combined.
"That's amazing, Satou."
"No, not at all. It's only because Miss Aea is such a good teacher." Aaze joined in on praising putting a big smile on his face.
I'm sure Satou would be bathing in Aaze's praise all day if Arisa hadn't turned up with a request.
"Hey, Master. While you're making equipment, could you maybe make a fridge for the orphanage, too?"
"Didn't we install a spare one there already?"
"Yeah, but that thing's way too small. It'd be best to have a fridge and a freezer, and the fridge should be able to hold around five tons."
"Hmm. I'm a little low on ice stones, but maybe I can use wind and water stones?"
I'm sure Satou could think of something.
"Hero Kura, I wish to challenge this knight, I declare,"
"It seems like it will be a good test,"
Nana and Pearl quickly approached me when they followed Arisa into the room. After they had spent a moment admiring my golem, they were eager to fight it. I doubt they are ready, but it can't hurt to test my golem on them.
We took over part of the training grounds with the elf teacher's permission. When we told Mia and Sara what was happening they were just as willing to join in the battle. So here we stand, me controlling the golem against my friends.
"…"
I really need to figure out how to make this golem hear things. I didn't even realise the match started until Mia and Sara shot at me with fire rods. It didn't hurt, but having flames in my face made it hard to… oh, so that was their plan. I wonder if the elf teachers taught them to blind their opponents or if they came up with it alone.
"…"
I'm sure Pearl was yelling as she knocked the golem off balance with a strike to its upper body while Nana targeted the ankles. It's not enough to make me fall over, but it does knock me off balance. It was almost dangerous for me as Mia and Sara launched a magical attack. Still, thankfully, I managed to regain my footing and block the spells just in time.
"…"
"…"
"…"
My group are defiantly strong and smart as they keep up the fire buring in my face and attack from blind spots. I should probably add some kind of detection enchantment to help counter this kind of attack later. At least my golem can endure the beating they are giving it, allowing me to counterattack whenever I manage to spot one of my friends.
My friends must have noticed the lack of damage they were doing as Mia backed off and started a chant while Nana and Pearl kept me busy. It must be an impressive spell because Sara has left the battle to transfer some of her MP to Mia. Part of me wanted to stop Mia, but I decided against it, wishing to see what this spell was.
"…"
It took too long, but Mia finally casts her spell and Nana and Pearl jump away. A huge magic circle appeared directly in front of Mia… Aaze… I've seen this before when she… I couldn't finish my thought before a creature resembling a cross between an elephant and a hippopotamus tackled me.
A Behemoth! How could they be so reckless?! Sara is out for the count after using so much of her MP, and Mia looks like she can barely stand. I'm impressed they managed to summon a spirit as strong as a Behemoth but they shouldn't have attempted it until they gained a few more levels.
I waste little time in ending the fight, knocking the Behemoth onto its hind legs and smacking it with my golem hammer until it dissappeared. After that, my group admitted defeat.
It was an understatement to say I let them know how I felt about that stunt with the golem. Even Aaze, Mia's mother and a number of the elf teachers lectured them about their use of Behemoth. In the end, Mia was forced to promise to never attempt to summon a Behemoth outside of training with Aaze until she reached level sixty.
<0>
A week has passed since the battle with the golem and Golem MK3 is done. With the elf's help, I manage to enchant the head giving it hearing and the ability to use a 'Space Magic' spell to detect its surroundings. The only downside is that this golem now consumes MP like crazy, forcing me to install a Blue Coin Furnace with Satou's help.
But my golem is the last thing on my mind when I reach the training grounds. Before my eyes, a behemoth and a sand giant were locked in close combat. But it wasn't mine or Staou's groups they were fighting. It seems some of the elf teachers were having some fun while the others lectured our friends on the sidelines.
"Master!" Liza cried happily. "You won't believe it, sir! I finally mastered it!"
Liza proudly announced that she had succeeded at learning 'Spellblade Shot'. A technique in which the user fired the energy cloaked around their blade at a target.
"That's amazing, Liza! I'll make whatever kind of meat you want for dinner tonight."
"Thank you, sir!" Liza's face broke into a huge smile.
Pochi and Tama were just as excited to tell Satou the results of their training.
"Tama learned a dagger barrage...?"
"Pochi learned a secret move, sir!"
"Me too!"
They both showcased the techniques for their new moves. While the erratic movements didn't provide much clarity, there was no doubt that their skills were impressive.
"You must work hard to master them."
"Aye-aye!"
"You too, Pochi."
"Yes, sir!"
Tama's teacher, Mr. Shiya, and Pochi's teacher, Miss Poa, offered uplifting words, prompting the two to respond with their signature salute. Beyond them, I saw Arisa chatting with a 'Space Magic '-using elf elder.
"Miss Arisa, you must never use the spell you learned today against other people, understand?"
"Of course! I'll only bust it out to beat really powerful monsters or demons!"
From the sound of things, Arisa had picked up a dangerous 'Space Magic' technique. Later, she told us it was a brutal spell that dismantled the target at a molecular level. It's hardly surprising that her teacher had advised her against using it on people.
"Master Satou, I would like you to increase the following speed of the Floating Shield, I request."
Nana was the next to come back, having completed her instructions.
"I thought I made it pretty fast. Is it still too slow?"
"If I move quickly with 'Body Strengthening,' my movements are slightly hindered, I report."
Satou had her demonstrate for me and saw that there was a bit of stress on the item that served as a reference point for the Floating Shield, slowing Nana's movements slightly.
"I can't fix it right away, but I'll take care of it as fast as I can."
"Yes, Master Satou."
Behind them, I saw Mia and Sara looking exhausted. I heard their lessons were tough, but I didn't think they would look so bad. At least Pearl looks to be in good spirits as she runs over.
"Master," Pearl is so happy she even nearly tripped on the way over. "Master. I managed to pass the tests so quickly they couldn't make new ones in time."
"Mm. Talented," Pearl's teachers nodded beside her, looking just as tied as Mia and Sara.
"Great job,"
I will have to come up with some kind of reward for her… and the elf teachers, who look like they are about to collapse for putting in the extra effort.
"Master! Miss Nea and I made some chocolate desserts like bonbons! We'll have them after dinner tonight. Please don't eat too much, okay?"
"Sure. I'm looking forward to it."
"Master Satou!"
Yuuneia ran up and latched onto Satou's arm as I turned back just in time to catch her interrupting his conversation with Lulu. Behind her, I saw her sister, Rei and the elf who'd been teaching them self-defence, Nea.
"Satou, we got our novice self-defence certificates from Lady Nea."
"That's great, Rei. Good job, both of you."
Satou gently stroked the heads of the proud-looking sisters, and they shut their eyes contentedly, reminiscent of two purring cats.
<0>
After the battle with the sand giant training was coming to a close. As we progressed, we needed to revise our estimated return date, so I made a single trip back to Labyrinth City. Aside from that, everyone else and I have been diligently working in Bolenan Forest.
Aaze appeared somewhat downcast as we departed the tree house. Still, when Satou assured her he would return soon, her expression brightened. She waved us off with a smile. As we were leaving, Aaze inquired whether Rei and Yuuneia would be interested in living in Bolenan Forest. However, they declined, expressing that Paradise Island was their true home.
"See you soon,"
"Please come visit us again anytime."
"We will, of course."
Carrying an abundance of sunflowers and tropical fruits bestowed upon us by the two, the rest of the group and I activated the 'Return spell' to journey back to Celivera.
"Phew. Feels like we've been away for a while." Arisa stretched.
"I wish to plant the sunflowers at the orphanage, I declare."
"An excellent idea..." Liza nodded.
I also nodded. They were simple to cultivate, and sunflowers perfectly complemented the cheerful expressions of children.
"...They can be an emergency food supply."
Okay, Liza's reason was a little different from mine.
"We still have some time left before our return date. Should we just head back to the mansion for now?"
After Satou asked the question the girls exchanged glances before Arisa took a step forward to be the spokesperson for the group.
"We want to fight! So we can really prove the results of our training!"
"All right, then. If you want to test out your new techniques, we can go to a place with a lot of fairly strong spawn enemies. Does that sound good?" They nodded, and Satou quickly opened up his map while I started preparing potions for the group. "How about beetles, like the kind Jelil was fighting? Or the butterfly and moth area? That area has a pretty decent spawn rate, but we'd need a way to deal with their powder."
The army ant region and the soldier mantis region were also strong contenders, but each of their area masters possessed frustrating special abilities.
Hmm. Jelil's basically our rival. Let's pick the same place as him to compare our strength!"
"I agree. Beetles will be an excellent target for my spear."
"They're a good enemy, sir!"
The others all agreed with Arisa's suggestion. The kin monsters in that location, such as the storm stag beetle and the thunder stag beetle, were noticeably more formidable than those found in other regions. The area master, the elder lance beetle, wielded both Lightning Magic and Wind Magic, albeit lacking any particularly troublesome unique abilities. Therefore, it wouldn't pose a problem if the girls chose to take on that challenge as well.
Nearby the lair of the elder lance beetle, there was a region inhabited by creatures known as Evil Anemones, which were immune to magic, and mud statues, which could withstand physical assaults. This presented an ideal opportunity to truly put their training to the test.
"Oh, that reminds me. Weren't Zakorin and his pals going after an areamaster when we first came into the labyrinth? Think they beat it already?"
"That would make sense, time-wise."
Satou went to check but paled slightly for some reason.
"What? Another situation?"
"These guys just can't keep themselves out of trouble."
I feel that there will be another way everyone could test out their training. When Satou used 'Return' to teleport our whole group to the closest seal slate, My hunch was proven right.