AIjh

Part 1

The carriage stopped, I waited until I heard that it was fine to go outside and stepped on the ground for the first time in a few hours.

The sun was setting, the world was dimly lit and the moon was shining brightly in the twilight vermillion sky.

We could hear the sound of a river flowing down nearby. This was probably a place where travelers used to cross the Garest Mountains. Unlike the surrounding area, trees had been cut down and there was an unnatural open space that was not only enough for us to park our carriage, but also enough to house up to 3 Party to camp here.

Of course, we are the only guest here today. And it had probably been a while since someone stayed here.

Sytry, who had been devoting herself into fieldwork with Liz, had her cheeks redden because of her excitement, and raised black fangs that were about thirty centimeters long and still covered with bits of flesh here and there, as if she was showing off her treasure.

"Please look at this, Cry-san! These are the fangs of a General-Class Troll! It's a valuable item that is rarely found even in this vast Garest Mountains! They're a bunch of rampaging kids and even Hunters have trouble with them, so they rarely appear on the market! Usually, they're found deep in the forest, but even if it's an old road, I can't believe they would attack us. It's an high-class product that is OK even if it was either boiled, grilled, or scraped!"

Trolls are a subspecies of Monsters that ranks alongside Orcs, Goblins and Oni1. Trolls have an abnormal huge body, strength and toughness making them one of the most formidable Monster of its subspecies. I didn't know that they appeared in the Garest Mountains, but those subspecies of Monsters operate in a fairly wide area and trolls' natural habitat should be the forest, so it wouldn't be strange if we encountered some.

At her side, Liz raised her arms in a satisfactory manner and stretched her back.

"Mmmh... Aaah...… Haaaa... Enduring everything for this was worth it! Even though there were hardly any Monsters when we were here last time. I knew it, Cry-chan is the best!"

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"... Well, you know... Because last time we were here, Oni-chan was with us."

"Anthem-Nii, do stand out... Well, even if Monsters does come out, Luke-chan and I will be fighting over it..."

I wonder what you think I did for you to say that...

Said Liz in a happy mood. A few meters away, the three men that Sytry hired were sitting on the ground, half-dead.

Their expressions were obstructed as they were looking downward, but blood was sticking on their armor and cloak, and their well-trained body didn't have any strength left. The gap between them and my childhood friends is terrible.

When Liz and the others just became Hunters, they would go limp after whenever they encounter an accident (Such as the appearance of a powerful enemy, natural disaster, etc…), but since when did they start to stop worrying about those things like this?

And should I feel relieved or sad that my childhood friend has grown up to be so strong?

"By the way... Onee-chan, you rampaged too much. Don't make a mess! You will cause trouble for the people coming after you!"

"Who cares 'bout that! The people coming after us will probably be Arnold, right? This road looks like a road that people rarely pass through, so isn't it fine? Cry-chan lifted the ban on fighting because he wanted this, right?"

"No, I didn't want this, though..."

In the first place, it is unlikely that Arnold and his companions will succeed in tracking us down. Rather, isn't it more likely that we will be ambushed in the Imperial Capital... After all, I have to bring back Luke and the others with me, one way or another.

Despite having a light conversation, Sytry's hands never stopped working. She started a fire, fed the horses that had been walking all day, and prepared the camp for tonight. Her moving without any pause showed that she was used to doing this on a regular basis.

However, Liz was most certainly not playing around either. While whistling, she kept an eye on her surroundings, but in the first place, Sytry doesn't like people interfering with her work.

When we were together in the Party, Sytry and Lucia were in charge of setting up the camp, while Luke, Liz and Anthem were in charge of hunting and keeping an eye on the surroundings. I was in charge of making sure that everyone was doing well. ... You could say that I had nothing to do.

"Cry-san, is Ti-chan..."

"She is sleeping. Seems like she was pretty tired."

She must have hit her limit. It seems that she loses consciousness from time to time, so it is better for her to take a good rest as Sytry and Liz are enough as additional escorts.

And about her nightmares... I can do nothing about it.

Sytry smiled as she took out a portable pot and a large knife.

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"Then... It has been a while since we were with Cry-san, so I am going to make something copious. I just got my hands on a lot of materials."

"True... I missed this a little..."

Until we added Eliza into the Party as a new Member, Sytry was the only one who was able to cook among us.

Sytry's cooking is excellent. It wasn't like that at first, but she quickly became very good at it.

The seasonings are something you can buy in a store and the ingredients are animals hunted on the spot or wild plants picked around... But, how do I say this, it really suits my taste. Since I don't leave the Imperial Capital that much, I didn't have a lot of chances to eat it, but it might have been worth it to go outside of the Imperial Capital just to be able to feast on her cooking.

Somehow, I felt deeply moved and sighed while squinting my eyes.

Before we had established a Clan ―― When I was adventuring with them as their Party Leader, I was always about to die because of the stress of dealing with Monsters and Phantoms, harsh environments and Treasure Shrines.

But still, if you tell me if I only had bad memories about it, it would be wrong. I was so talentless that nothing could hide it, but at that time, Cry Andrich was ―― Certainly a Hunter.

By doing this, I can remember the days when we were adventuring together, as if it was yesterday.

I was nostalgic for a while, but then I realized that Sytry was watching me, so I scratched my cheek and said.

"... As I am just standing there. I will go fetch some water."

"... Yes. Please."

"Ah, Cry-chan. I'm going too! Maybe we can catch some fish, right?"

Liz quickly hugged my arm.

Sytry sighed in resignation at her sister, who hadn't changed at all since the old days.

§

After a few minutes of walking towards the smell of water, the view opened and revealed a large river.

Water is important for people, animals and Monsters. Without water, no living thing can survive. The only exception are the illusions from the past 『Phantoms (Illusions)』.

"Yattaaa! So beautiful... After all, this is what being a Hunter should be."

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Liz widened her eyes and happily looked around the riverside. Perhaps the timing was right, there weren't any Monsters in sight.

The river flow was much slower than what I had expected. As the sun went down, the water surface was glittering as it reflected the dark night and bright moon.

"Does the water look okay?"

"Un! Looks like there are lots of fish!"

Even if it looked beautiful, it doesn't necessarily mean that the water is drinkable. A Hunter who had absorbed enough Mana Material won't get a stomachache so easily, but it isn't the case for me.

When Liz replied cheerfully at my question with her eyes shining, she stepped into the water without any hesitation.

We were at the top of the mountain. The water temperature should be low, but that won't make a Hunter falter.

As if she was feeling good, Liz stretched out her arms.

"So coooold... As I've got some blood on me, I'm going to take a small dip!"

She started to take off her clothes right in front of me.

She threw the armor that was protecting her arms to the riverside and put her hands behind her back without any hesitation. She removed her clothes, which was initially only covering her chest, unbuckled her belt, raised her legs and threw off her short pants. Under the moonlight, Liz's beautiful skin (Although I can only see her back) was exposed. All that remained on her was a pair of black underwear that was covering a small area on her back.

She took off her clothes so naturally. No matter how much of a Hunter you are, you are still a girl, so you should be a little more modest.

Part 2

Without hesitation, her finger went to her back ―― Touched the hook of her black underwear that still remained and stopped.

It was a bit late, but I hurriedly warned her.

"... Liz, it's improper."

"... Eeeeh, come on. It's only Cry-chan and me, no?"

What kind of relationship do we have? Certainly I know Liz very well, to the point that I want to say that she was too unreserved with me.

If you want to wash off the blood on you, you can leave it on you. I didn't come here to see Liz striptease.

As I was wondering how to stop her, Liz suddenly turned her face towards me and smiled.

"But... I think I will refrain today. It's a little embarrassing to take it off while being watched, and it is an adventure we are having in awhile."

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She shyly, but at the same time with a somewhat charming expression, moved her hands up, untied her hair, and her pink-blonde hair hid her back.

Before I could say anything, she dove into the water.

Apparently the water wasn't that deep, Liz spun around while the water was submerging her up to just below her chest.

"Cry-chan too, come join me?"

"... No, I have to get some water..."

"I see... Too bad... I'll get some fish then!"

Liz vigorously dove into the water. Her legs, which even at a time like this, still had her 『Rise to Heaven』 on her, draw a parabola in the air.

... I guess Liz was a little more mature than when we were little.

While having an indescribable feeling, I dipped the water bottle I had received from Sytry into the water.

§

I had a lifelong debt to pay.

Weakness is a sin for a Hunter who works in a Party, one person mistake can lead to everyone's life or death. But Liz and the others never made me feel that way. And after I stopped adventuring with them, they never seriously questioned me about it.

This was the reason why I can still remember the events we had as barely fun incidents. Even the seemingly uncaring Liz was thinking about me.

"After all, it's fun when we are with Cry-chan... I'm glad I came..."

I sat down by the riverside and combed Liz's lush hair that had absorbed water with my hands. The wet hair I was touching with my right hand had a strange weight, but her hair was so smooth that you wouldn't believe that she had fierce fights on a daily basis. Whenever my finger touched her scalp, Liz's body, which was soaked in water up to her stomach, trembled a little.

"Un, it's fine. There isn't any stain. The blood seems to have come off."

"Thank you. If there was a strange smell, I may make a mistake in case of an emergency..."

She said in a very relaxed and sweet voice.

I have accomplished my goal, but it feels like a shame to go back immediately. I am not Liz' boyfriend or something more, but ―― Liz didn't say that we should head back, and it is good to do things like this sometimes.

The silence wasn't hard to bear. A nature that had been untouched for such a long time is so beautiful that you will never get tired of looking at it.

As we were both looking at the water, Liz suddenly said in a serious voice.

"Cry-chan... You know, I will become a stronger Hunter."

"... Aaah, I know."

I think you are already a strong enough Hunter, but there was a strong determination behind her words.

Strong, not self-conceited, never neglecting to study, and beautiful.

Liz is feared in the Imperial Capital, but at the same time, she had many fans. Within her, there is something outstanding, something that can win people hearts and minds.

When I stood up, Liz looked back at me. Her black lace underwear, which hid her chest and lower body at a minimum, was exposed in front of me.

I couldn't help but look at it, but Liz smiled without saying anything about it.

"Let's go back. Thank you, Cry-chan. It's been a while since we've been alone together... It was really fun."

Occasionally, Liz wants a peaceful moment.

Maybe, she was trying to regain something that was lost when she became a Hunter.

"Will you, come with me again?"

Of course.

I have a lifelong debt to pay. I was definitely one of the reasons why Liz and the others had to rush to become so strong. Had I been as talented as they were, they would have been more stronger and more 『Rightful』.

But, my lifelong debt wasn't the only reason why I wanted to be with them.

Weeell, rather than me going with them, this time it was Liz and the others who came with me, but that's not the right time to say it.

Just as I was about to reply to an embarrassed Liz with my usual smile, her expression that had been sparkling in front of me, clouded over.

She grumpily frowned and said in an accusing tone.

"Cry-chan... You know, I had to gather all my courage to ask you out. It was a nice atmosphere, right? No matter what... Isn't this too mean?"

"... Eh?"

Even though there was no wind, out of nowhere, I heard the eerie sound of trees and leaves rustling and scraping against each other. I quickly checked the surroundings, but there was no sign of any Monsters.

"Sure, I was wondering about it. Why would a bunch of Trolls, which normally live deep in the forest, showed up in such a large number at a place like this?"

Liz grabbed her hair and squeezed the water out.

"Why there weren't any Monsters near the riverside. Why it was so quiet. I did think about it."

She attached her gauntlet on her still wet body and put on her clothes and pants.

"But you know, isn't this timing too mean? Neee, I know Cry-chan's method, but isn't this way too mean?"

I can hear the sound of something crawling through the gaps between the trees. The sound was getting closer and closer.

It's something big. I know because of my experience. At a time like this, at a timing like this, what always appears is a troublesome Monster.

What's going to happen? As I stood there in confusion, Liz said with a sullen look on her face.

"Definitely… You will definitely make it up to me."

Part 1

In this world, there are dangerous places that you should refrain from entering as much as possible.

Treasure Hunters tend to forget, but for a normal traveler, mountains and forests that are not under the control of the country are at the top of the list.

In mountains and forests that are inaccessible to humans, there are an abundance of foods and valuable resources that could be harvested and sold at a high price if you bring it back to a town. However, there are dangers that can outweigh these advantages. There is a reason why those items will be sold at a high price when they are available.

It was because of the Monsters. Harsh terrain and carnivorous wildlife were also troubling, but they paled in comparison to the threat Monsters posed.

Compared to easily accessible plains, mountains and forests that are far from a town and humans reach, possess troublesome Monsters that would immediately be a target for subjugation if they were found near human settlements. Those Monsters have created their own ecosystem.

In addition, studies have also shown that at earth veins, which are the pathways for Mana Material, often pass under mountains and forests, and that tend to make the Monsters living there grow more powerful than their common counterpart.

Garest Mountains exist within the territory of the Empire, but were a land that was largely untouched.

The road that barely exists anymore was built a long time ago and has not been maintained for a long time, it was barely wide enough for a carriage to pass.

Compared to the maintained roads, the ground is uneven and just by sitting still in the carriage, you can tell that this road is the kind of road you would call a bad road.

In the midst of the violent vibrations, I wondered if this road would eventually disappear too, as I thought to myself while running away from reality.

Outside the carriage, there were a lot of angry shouts. I can't see the scene outside the carriage because the curtains were closed, but I can tell that they were fighting against a Monster.

I heard the cry and the scream of a mysterious Monster and the carriage shook greatly. The horse neighed and a metallic sound overlapped it.

Liz sloppily laid flat on her back, rubbed her exposed stomach and smile without any tension.

"Neeee nee, Cry-chan. What should I say to them next? Isn't there any good provocation? One that makes you want to fly here right away! Let's think of one together?"

... Incidentally, Treasure Hunters tend to forget the dangers of forests and mountains because ―― They are always exploring one of the most dangerous places in the world, even more dangerous than mountains and forests, Treasure Shrines.

Compared to Phantoms that appear almost infinitely and even when it was defeated, they leave nothing behind in most cases, Monsters that were certain to leave corpses and fleshes behind when they were defeated are probably better for your purse. It wasn't like I didn't understand their logic behind it, but I think one isn't better than the other, and we should be wary of both of them.

I changed my gaze from Liz, who was *gorogoro* laid on her back and rolling around without paying any attention to what was going on outside, to Sytry, who was sitting next to me.

"Err, well... Is that, is the outside fine?"

"I think there are no problems. Their classes are still low. Do you have any concerns about it?"

Sytry, who was sitting peacefully and smiling with her hands on her knees, looked thoughtful for a moment, but soon answered.

"... Eeeh. No, in that case it is good..."

While nodding plausibly, I frowned.

A few hours after changing course. I was immediately suspicious of having made a bad choice.

... This road… Isn't there too many Monsters?

Tino, who should have been able to understand my feelings, had fallen on her knees and laid her face down since the beginning of the first battle, and is now only trembling when there is a vibration from the carriage and doesn't even look at me.

The constant sounds of battle and screams is neither flattering nor good for your mental health. Just pretending that I was fine, was the most I could do.

The Garest Mountains seemed to be more inhabited by Monsters than I had imagined.

The carriage often comes to an abrupt halt, and from the shouts and screams coming from the outside, I can tell that the three people escorting us wasn't enough.

However, I had at least expected that Monsters would appear in the mountains and forests. But, it seemed that there were more than expected, but well, I had also expected such a possibility.

For me, the most unexpected thing is ――.

I looked at Liz, who was *gorogoro* rolling around and sticking her cheeks next to my knee as if she wanted to be pampered.

I looked at Sytry, who was reading a book while smiling.

I looked at Tino, who had entered into her world while holding her knees.

... Neee, why aren't you guys fighting?

No matter how many escorts you have hired, it was clear that they weren't enough. And Liz was definitely stronger than the escorts. Sytry was a rearguard, but it didn't mean that she can't fight.

I took the mountain road over a road with Arnold in it because I thought that if those girls were here, my safety would be guaranteed.

The usual Liz would never have stayed still when there was all those noises outside the carriage.

When I was wondering when she would go out, I lost the timing to point this out. Was there any reason for this?

The carriage swings loudly again, and you could hear a faint cursory scream from outside.

... I have been thinking about it for a while now, but Black-san and his friends... Aren't they a little bit pitiful.

Even if there was some kind of intent behind it, it was very uncomfortable for me, as I am a person with common sense.

But if there was no one talking about it, doesn't that mean that I am the only one who doesn't understand the situation?

I hesitate a little, but I gather my resolve and check with Sytry.

Part 2

"... Neee, Sytry. It is about the situation outside..."

"Yes. I think it is very efficient to be able to test the performance of the three people together! As expected of Cry-san!"

With a shy smile, Sytry responded with a disarrayed answer.

Maybe her attitude is correct for an Alchemist, and her pursuit of efficiency is mind-boggling, but I think it is just too much.

"... It may be their job, but... What if they died?"

"? Etto..."

It is true that a Hunter is always next to the death door, but our situation was a little different.

As Sytry was confused she thought for a few seconds, put a finger on her lips and tilted her head.

"Look for... The next one?"

"It looks like you don't understand what I meant..."

"Eh...? I-I am sorry. Umh... By any chance, did you have any other use for it?"

"..."

I remove my gaze from Sytry who showed her unique sensitivity and looked at Liz, who was *gorogoro* lying and rolling around.

Clear, pale pink irises, looked up at me with curiosity. She was dressed in her usual combat outfit, and on her swinging legs, her 『Rise to Heaven (Highest Roots)』 which she always wear, shined a little bit.

"What? Looking at me so much... Ah, do you want to pat my stomach? Hereee."

.

Liz showed me her exposed, suntanned skin while tracing it with her fingertips... I am not going to pat you.

I straightforwardly asked.

"... You know, Liz, don't you want to fight?"

"Mmmh... Of course I want to fight? It is nice to lie down, but this makes my body grow dull."

Then why ――

Liz laid down, lifted her head up a little, put it on my lap and laughed.

"But... I will endure it. No violence, right? Aren't I a good girl? Neee, aren't I a good girl? A good girl, right?"

... I see. I now remember what I said a few days ago.

No, I certainly prohibited violence. Training was prohibited.

But, you know,... It was to enjoy your vacation ―― I invited Liz and the others because I wanted to travel with them, but half of the reason was also for them to be an escort.

"... No, well, it is an exception when you are dealing with Monster, you know."

"... Eh?"

Liz stared in wonder.

My decision to prohibit violence, is in this case a prohibition to resort to violence when dealing against humans.

Or rather, what I wanted to prohibit was, to put it simply ―― Fighting. Don't pick a fight with regular citizens, Hunters or your disciple, was what I said you know.

I truly want you to enjoy your vacation, and it is also true that I don't want? you to do anything dangerous, but I don't think it is fair to stay leisurely in the carriage when the group of escort you hired are being under attack and (probably) outnumbered.

Not only Liz, but Sytry also, was unusually looking at me with a blank look.

No, maybe I didn't use enough words to say it, but if you use common sense... Hmmm? Did Liz think I said to not resist even if she were attacked by Monsters? There's no way I would. What kind of play is that?

Tino raised her head cautiously and kept staring at me. I put away my own flaws aside and said in a badass manner.

"Defeating Monsters isn't violence. It is an extermination. Isn't that right?"

As if to prove that my words were right, the carriage came to a stop and shook drastically. Liz's eyes lit up.

"!! Cry-chan, I love you! I'm offfff!"

Maybe she had endured too much, she even forgot to take Tino with her before jumping out.

The carriage creaked loudly just from her movement, and it was then followed by a yell that wouldn't lose to the swearing I heard so far.

"Hey, you fucking small fries! Stop taking it easy, get out! Just go protect the horses!"

"... Cry-san, I am sorry. Looks like Onee-chan... Had accumulated a lot of anger."

The sound I heard coming from outside becomes much more intense than before. I am sure Liz is rampaging as much as she wants.

Sytry looked a little embarrassed. Weeell, it is also because I gave weird instructions...

"Ehm... Can I also, see the situation outside? I may be able to get some materials... As there are some materials that rarely appear without Cry-san being here."

"Aaah, sure, of course. Go ahead."

Sytry bowed and jumped out of the carriage with the same feelings as her Sister.

Well, now the outside will be quiet soon. When I yawned, I made eye contact with a pale Tino.

"Master, could it be that... The real thing will begin from now on?"

"? No, there isn't any real thing happening... Right, Tino really should get some sleep soon. It will be terrible if something were to happen."

"!? ... Yes..."

With a quivering voice, Tino closed her eyes while holding her knees.

Are you sure you want to be in that position? Apparently, Tino has a lot of reservations when she is with me.

There should have been something in my luggage that can cover her.

With the constant sounds of battle coming from outside as BGM, I put my hands on my luggage that was piled up in a corner.

However, what exactly are materials that rarely appear without me being here...?

In the end, Liz and the others didn't return to the carriage until the sun had set and Sytry had decided on a good place to camp.

Part 1

Liz stood in front of me as if to protect me and picked up a stone lying on the ground.

Her line of sight was looking at the depths of the forest at the other side of the river. I also squinted my eyes and looked over there, but I could only see the darkness and nothing else.

But, while I didn't know what was going on, I was sure that something was happening.

Even I, whose Hunter's instincts are dull, can clearly feel the presence of something disturbing. From my experience so far, there are only a limited number of troubles that can occur in this kind of situation.

It was either a Monster or a Phantom. And moreover, judging from Liz's expression ―― It was probably one not compatible with Liz, one where physical attacks aren't very effective.

Even High-Level Hunters who had extraordinary powers have their strengths and weaknesses. This is why you are in a Party, they are here to cover those parts for you.

"... Argh! This feeling, I haven't felt this way in a long time!"

Said Liz in a grumpy mood. It wasn't my fault but I feel a little sorry about it.

The fact that Liz, who always has the tendency to be reckless and rush head first, hasn't immediately jumped at him, suggests that the other side is a very tough opponent.

We weren't here because someone put on a request. If it was me, I wouldn't deal with a Monster that I wasn't good at, moreover with a handicap called me.

And, unusually this time ―― We weren't in a situation where we were surrounded.

While keeping my eyes fixed on the depths of the forest, I said in her ears.

"Liz, we are running away. There's no point in fighting it."

I have 『Barrier Rings (Safe Rings)』 but Liz doesn't.

Barrier Rings basically only protect the user. In fact, if you push it to its limit, you can extend the range of the barrier, but will you still need to get in close contact to protect other people.

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"We can escape, right?"

"Eeeeeh... Wasn't violence not violence if it was against Monster, no?"

... It isn't my fault that a monster appeared. I am sure Liz understood that, but it didn't mean that she agreed with it. Looks like she is very upset that the mood earlier had been disturbed by it.

Instead of facing the monster, I tried to persuade Liz who was sulking.

"Well, you know... It depends on the time and place. I have said it many times, but this time I am planning to refrain from fighting as much as possible."

"... It's too late for an explanation noooooooooow!!"

Liz took a big swing and threw the stone.

The stone flew. The launch left a loud sound and the strong impact shook my entire body. The stone threw from the slender arms of a High-Level Hunter drew a straight line and hit a tree on the other side of the river.

The tree, which wasn't particularly thin, snapped and fell. If it was against a regular Monster, this mean of attack is perfectly plausible.

Are you planning to fight...?

Liz looked back at me who had squinted at her roar.

"... Mmmh, if that's what you want, Cry-chan, let's run? I'm a little worried about Ti, but Syt is also here, I think we will somehow be able to handle it."

Somehow… Be able to handle it, is it?

"Come on, let's go? What I did just now wouldn't even slow that thing down."

Liz walked next to me in a nonchalant manner. I take her right hand.

Her steps stopped. She should have been in the water until a moment ago, but her skin is smooth to the touch and extremely hot. When I squeezed her hand with all my might, Liz squeezed back with little force.

The tree rustling sound doesn't stop. Even though there was no wind I couldn't hear the monster cry, I could only feel its strong pressure.

"Cry-chan..."

"What?"

"... I will use my right hand when we are running, so grab my left hand instead?"

"... Okayyy"

I changed the hand I was holding. I can feel her body heat. It's alright, I have Liz with me. I also have Barrier Rings.

As usual, without showing it on my face, I started to pray to god, and Liz finally showed a small smile, pulled my hand and ran off.

§

"Haaa… Haaa... Aaah… I feel like I have been holding your hand like this before too."

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"Hmm... What's wrong? Saying this out of the bluuue!"

After the sound of trees falling, an impact shook the ground. As I was in the middle of running away from reality, Liz was laughing and her eyes were shining while holding my hand.

Nothing was left in our way after we ran through. There were only just a bunch of trees that had been cruelly cut down and overlapping on top of each other, making a simple barricade.

The one who cut down the trees wasn't the monster but Liz. I don't know how useful it will be but it is better than nothing.

Every time she made a large swing with her right arm, a small object was thrown and the trees on either side fell down.

It has been a while since I saw her use 『That』. And I have seen it many times ―― But even from a close distance, it was like she was using some sort of magic.

Actually, Liz's 『Rise to Heaven (Highest Roots)』 isn't a weapon. Her weapon is her right arm.

"Doing things like this, is unexpectedly, pretty thrilling and funnn! Usually, all you need to do is run to run away!"

Indeed, if Liz had been alone, she would have been able to escape by simply running away.

I am dragging her feet. Behind us, there wasn't any sound of it pursuing us, but its presence was still there.

I wonder if there is anything that I can do too... At that moment, my eyes caught sight of the 『Dancing Glow (Mirage Form)』 that I was wearing in my right hand which Liz used to pull me.

It was a Relic Treasure that I had just acquired, it allows me to freely create illusion within a meter. It wasn't useful during a battle, but it might be able to stop it in its tracks. No, there is no doubt that it will be better than doing nothing. At least it should be able to draw its attention.

What should I create ―― I desperately think while running.

Monsters are also living beings, it won't probably attack something stronger than itself.

From a simple look, both Liz and I look fragile. Due to that, we are often targeted. This assailant might not have attacked if he had been facing Anthem.

There was a limit to the size of the illusion I can create. I made a quick decision and created the most terrifying thing I saw during the last few days ―― I created an illusion of Arnold.

An illusion of an angry Arnold emerged from the darkness of the night.

Liz, who had been running while checking behind her, opened her eyes at the illusion that appeared out of thin air.

"!? Ha... Hahahahaha... What's that!? Cry-chan, it's so funny! It's perfect!"

"Haaa… haaa...? I was in a rush, so I could only remember his face."

It was Arnold's head that was projected into the darkness. Moreover, perhaps because his scary face was the most memorable, only the front was made with precision, while the back of his head had no hair on it.

Apparently, I still didn't have enough training... Even though I could recreate Eva or Liz in no time.

Arnold's floating head in the middle of a dark night was straight from a horror show, but there wasn't any reaction from the other side. There wasn't any scream or sign of it stopping.

While running, I turned his head and I made him face us. Liz was laughing hysterically while running.

"... Is he shy? I think it's pretty well done."

At least, his face is well made. But the body part is, well...

"Hahahahahahahahaha. Yes, indeed. That's perfect! Next time, when we meet, we should definitely show it! I'm sure he will be happy!"

"... No way."

I can already see how he will react to it. Why should I go out of my way to make him angry.

§

Thanks to me running desperately, we reached the camp without it catching up to us.

My heart was *bakubaku* pounding like crazy. It has been a while since I ran so desperately.

Sytry-chan greeted us with a gentle smile. The luggages that had been on the ground earlier had disappeared, and only the bonfire was shining brightly.

Perhaps the horses had sensed the presence of a Monster, the horses tied to the carriage began to neigh noisily.

I apologize for bringing trouble to you even though all I did was to just fetch some water.

"Haaa… Haaa… Sorry, Sytryy. We have to run."

"It has been a while, but I was prepared. We are ready to go at any time. Ah, thank you for the water. I will take care of the bottle of water."

She took the bottle of water from my hand and got into the carriage.

I had wondered why the luggage wasn't there, but did she feel the sign of trouble? coming from this distance... As usual.

I grabbed Sytry's hand, who had gotten on the carriage first and pulled me into the carriage.

The first thing I saw was Tino, who was sitting upright and confused. Apparently, the noise had woken her up.

Without entering the carriage, Liz climbed on top of it and shouted.

"Syt, it's your favorite 『Pote Drakos (Lost Giant Demon)』! Did you call it here just to make your guess true?"

"I didn't. I didn't call it! If someone did call it, it would be Cry-san!"

It wasn't me either...

Part 2

The carriage began to move at a tremendous pace.

When Sytry leaned out of the window and only let her upper body out, she pulled a potion from her waist, removed the cap and threw it at the fire.

The bottle of potion *kurukuru* spined in the air while spraying liquid all around and flew into the bonfire.

For a moment, sounds disappeared. The impact shook the entire carriage and my body floated for a moment. I hold Sytry, who fell backward due to the impact.

The darkness cleared out and hot air came in. I released Sytry and, in a hurry, took a peek at the outside from the window.

The forest was burning. The flame from the bonfire swallowed the sparse trees around it and a large amount of white smoke flowed into the sky.

The fire was strong, I don't think it will be naturally put out. It was clearly overkill. If we get caught, we will become criminals. We won't be found out though.

While frightened, Tino looked at me with a begging look.

"Wha… What's going on, Master...?"

"It's an explosion potion. It will serve as some diversion."

I frowned at those unpleasant words.

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Diversion? Just now, did she just say diversion? Does she mean that all this is just good for a diversion? Why is it that I always have to face off against powerful Monsters!

Sytry continued with a calm face. I envy you so much for always being able to stay calm.

"At times like this, not having Lucia-chan with us, really makes us lack fire power. The fire power is just so different ――"

"Can we escape?"

"Let's see... If the Monster is the 『Pote Drakos (Lost Giant Demon)』 as Onee-chan said ―― We have two means to do it, a right one or a high risk one."

So you even have two options... And, what kind of Monster is a 『Pote Drakos (Lost Giant Demon)』?

Perhaps the horses were desperate, the carriage was moving at a tremendous pace. But, however, the footings weren't good and the horses were pulling heavy loads, so there was a limit to their speed and stamina. I really regret not taking the Platinum horses that Eva had prepared for us.

Of course, the right thing to do is to do the right way. There is no point in taking risks.

Perhaps realizing my decision from the look on my face, Sytry *pachin* clapped her and said while facing the ceiling.

"Onee-chan, throw Gray-san! He will be the decoy!"

"Uiii. Good jobbb, see you later if you survive!"

"!? What are yo ―― Gugaaa ――"

!?

Before I could stop it, there was the sound of something being kicked and a scream overlapping. Perhaps because the carriage became lighter, the speed had slightly increased.

Sytry added an explanation to Tino, whose face turned pale as she realized what was going on.

"It is because the 『Pote Drakos (Lost Giant Demon)』 is very tenacious... But they have the habit to torment their prey so escaping from it is easy if you have a decoy. In villages near the habitat of a 『Pote Drakos (Lost Giant Demon)』, there are always fairy tales about fairies seeking a sacrifice. Isn't it interesting?"

It isn't interesting at all.

My palpitations became stronger and an intense dizziness hit me.

"Sytry!? How could you ――"

"Eh...? No… Ah, there is no need to worry. Risking their lives is one part of their jobs."

When I flared up, Sytry puzzlingly stared at me for a moment and then quickly smiled and said.

It's true when you are an escort, you may risk your life, but... Don't you feel pity? Isn't your response too flat?

Is it possible, that without me knowing, this is the natural course of action for a First-Class Hunter? If that's the case ―― A First-Class Hunter is heartless.

I am not a Saint either. If there was a time when I encountered an absolutely desperate situation and came the time when I could only, possibly choose between my childhood friends' life and the escorts I had just hired, I would choose the former without hesitation.

However, ―― Right now, there was too little guilt on Sytry's expression.

While I was like this, the carriage kept on moving forward.

I know very well that Sytry isn't a bad girl, but this is just too cruel.

From time to time, it is said that a First-Class Hunter will lose his or her humanity in proportion to how strong they become.

It is a good thing to be strong, but as a person, you can't lose what's important. And as a Leader, I had a duty to make sure that Sytry doesn't become someone worthless like that.

"I wanted you to use the right method."

"? Etto... This was the right way, though... Please rest assured, there are two more decoys."

"... In that case, let's choose the high risk method. Stop the carriage. We are picking Gray-san back."

Even if that will lead to taking risks ― I didn't want Sytry to become someone who would, without hesitation, give up on people. I wouldn't be able to see their parents in their eyes after they believed in me and allowed us to become Hunters.

Sytry widely opened her eyes at my serious tone. Her irises, which were the same color as Liz's, showed a hint of agitation for a moment, but soon her eyes became as kind and as gentle as usual.

Without asking any questions, she looked up at the carriage's ceiling and said quickly.

"Sorry, Onee-chan! I made a bad decision, after all, go pick Gray-san back!"

"Eeeh… It's really cramped here when he is there... Damnit, such a hassle..."

While complaining, Liz jumped down from the carriage.

With her leg strength, she would easily catch up with the carriage even with a man on her back. There was the possibility that the Monster had already eaten him ―― But Liz wouldn't have misread the situation.

No matter how many times I lived it, when unexpected things happened in succession like this, my mind turned into chaos. I lose my sense of reality. It feels as if I was looking at a nightmare.

Sytry *pekori* bowed her head and apologized in a small voice.

"I am sorry, Cry-san. That was… I had thought that was a very good move with almost no disadvantages..."

I know. Sytry isn't a bad girl. It's just that she couldn't afford it. As she had been standing on the battlefield all her life as a Hunter ―― No matter how talented one is, it must have been a burden heavy enough to wear one's heart out.

"Sytry, it's fine. I didn't want to scold you... I am not one who could do that. But, I want you to remember... Life is precious ―― It is heavier than most risks."

"Yes. I should have known how difficult it was to replenish humans ―― I am sorry. I just thought, if there were three of them, losing one was fine..."

I wonder if what I just said had really reached Sytry's heart?

I am not talking about the difficulty of replenishing something, but... What replenishment are you talking about?

The carriage shooked and I heard Liz's voice. Looks like she successfully picked him up. Thank god... I am so glad.

When Sytry had confirmed this, she smiled shyly.

"It has been a while since I have been able to travel with you, Cry-san. Well, while it is embarrassing to say, I may have been too ecstatic. I will be more careful."

When I am here... Is it not good when you are with me? Will Sytry sacrifice people when I am here with her?

... It's useless, I can't gather my thoughts. I will have to calmly think about Sytry's ethnicity another time. Maybe if she eats delicious food, gets into a hot spring and gets some rest, she might return to her old self.

"For the time being, what is the high risk method...?"

"Etto... Use Monsters as a decoy instead of using someone. Monsters can't be controlled, so it isn't foolproof... But there are plenty of Monsters living around here, so I think it will probably be fine."

Using Monsters as a decoy, eh... Is it really going to be fine? Well, it is a lot better than abandoning humans.

As I gulped down my saliva in anxiety, Sytry carefully took out a white potion I had seen the other day ―― Dangerous Factor.

Part 2

The one who called us out was a tall, mature man with a sharp look in his eyes. Maybe he had been out shopping, he was carrying a paper bag in both hands.

His clothes were made of cloth, but his appearance and muscles all over his body showed that he was a warrior ―― Moreover I understand that he is a High-Class one. His skin was tanned and his long gray hair was tied in a bun. Considering his age, he was probably a much more experienced Hunter than Ruda.

He isn't as intimidating as Absolute Shadow, but he isn't an ordinary person.

"... Who the hell are you?

Gilbert replied bluntly. There wasn't any malice in it. Ruda, who had known him for a certain amount of time, understands it. Gilbert ―― Just doesn't know any other attitude except this one.

However, it doesn't necessarily mean that they will get it.

For a moment, Ruda nervously tensed up, but the man didn't seem to care about that. He just looked at Ruda and the others as if he was inspecting them and his mouth relaxed into a smile.

"I'm sorry if I was abrupt. I just overheard your voice... We, too, had business ―― With "Infinite Variety".

"... For now, can you tell us your name? You are in the same line of work, right? I am ―― Ruda Rumbeck. And you are?"

It is still too early to be relieved, but it wasn't as if we couldn't communicate with each other.

"Kukuku, right. These days, I haven't had a lot of opportunities where I'm asked my name, sorry about that. As you had guessed, I work in the same line of industry. I am Hay Laria. Led by Arnold-san, I am the vice-Leader of "Lightning Dragon's Mist (Fallen Mist)", Hay Laria."

The man replied with an intrepid smile to Ruda, who was wary when introducing herself.

§

It was just a coincidence that Hay Laria heard those words.

Fighting against the Lightning Spirits in the town of Elan. Then a fierce battle with numerous monsters, including Orcs, had put "Lightning Dragon's Mist (Fallen Mist)" in a bad state.

The carriage they bought is damaged, they used up most of their consumables including potions and the members of their group are still physically and mentally exhausted. Their weapons were either worn down or destroyed due to the fight, so it needed to be maintained or replaced.

The town of Elan and the town of Gula had given them rewards, so they weren't that much in financial trouble, but there were several things in this world that can't be solved with money alone.

As the Vice-Leader, Hay was going around the town to replenish their supplies and gathering information that could lead to "Infinite Variety's" destination in order to help the situation as much as possible.

It was at that time that he heard the name of "Infinite Variety".

The group he was talking to was a group of six young Hunters. They were probably Mid-Level in terms of ability. Since they weren't wearing the symbol of "Footprint of the Beginning", they weren't a Member of that Clan.

He hesitated a little, but decided to call them out.

Something was needed in order to change the situation. And whether that Party in front of him, who had said the name Infinite Variety, was an enemy (Although, from what Hay could see, that was very unlikely) or an ally.

Right now, the situation of his Party was close to the worst situation.

Their supplies were exhausted and they were physically and mentally exhausted due to several fierce battles.

Logically speaking, it wouldn't be very wise to start a fight with a High-Level Party in such a situation.

However at the same time, Hay can understand his Leader's thought which can't let them back off as Hunters.

Arnold was now starting to lose his cool due to repeated provocations during the travel. However, he is by no means misjudging what was the most important thing.

Hay and Arnold have known each other for a long time. They have known each other since the very beginning, since before Arnold became a Hunter and formed his own Party.

Up until now, they have always worked in tandem, with Arnold making the calls and Hay supporting him.

The man who is called Arnold Hale is an extremely talented Hunter. Blessed with talent, bravery and courage, he has a slight impulsive side, but he has the capacity to listen to the words of his friends. He probably understands more than anyone else that the current situation isn't good for the "Lightning Dragon's Mist".

But at the same time, the situation wasn't at a point where it was easy to back off.

He had been threatened, made to fight against Monsters, and had even been provoked for doing it. If they retreat like this, seen from the outside, "Lightning Dragon's Mist's" reputation will not only be hurt, but a bad aftertaste will also linger inside the Party.

It was Arnold's charisma that made "Lightning Dragon's Mist" a powerful Party. "Heavy Thunder Strike" had to be the strongest man. He had to be brave and courageous.

The fact that he ran away without fighting would surely create distrust within the Party and would one day create a big crack.

More than anything, what was needed to resolve the situation was 『To reach an agreeable point』.

Something had to be done to have an agreeable point between the Explorer Association, outsider Parties, Party Members and Arnold himself.

The quickest way to do this is to cross swords with Infinite Variety. If he wins, that's fine. If he loses, Arnold will accept it as a lack of strength on his part. The Party Members wouldn't feel dissatisfied with a Leader daring to take on a superior opponent.

To Hay, he would like to say that he wouldn't doubt Arnold's victory, but the opponent was too fearless. He nonchalantly and naturally avoided Hay and the others' pursuit, and they had no idea how he was able to instigate the horde of Orcs.

However, as the Vice-Leader, he just has to trust the Leader and do his best for the Party.

The fact that he was able to meet "Infinite Variety's" acquaintance was the luckiest thing since the start of this trip. If they were hostile against "Infinite Variety", they could fight together, and if they were his ally, Hay could use it to shake him a little.

Hay listened to their story while walking. At first, they seemed to be wary, but perhaps it was a good thing he revealed himself first, or perhaps because they were in the same boat, they soon seemed to open up and told him their purpose.

"I see... Gladys' territory... A noble... We heard that he was on vacation, but to think that he would treat a noble's request as a vacation..."

"He was supposed to be in this town, but it was a miss..."

Ruda frowned as if she was in trouble at Hay sincere and shocked words.

A letter delivery. It was fortuitous that he learned their destination. Even in the case where they can't retrace his step, if they ambushed him there, they will be able to meet him at some point.

While having a conversation, Hay thought of their next course of action in his mind when Gilbert, who was walking next to him, spoke.

Unlike Ruda, Gilbert seemed to not care about their request and seemed more interested in talking about Hay and "Lightning Dragon's Mist (Fallen Mist)".

"Eeeh, to think that a Level 7 Hunter would be after that guy too. Ossan-tachi1, Level 7 is really strong right? I saw, that battlefield. Is it true that you fought with only one Party?"

"Ah, that rumor is true. It wasn't what you call an easy win though. I had experience fighting against many opponents, but it was the first time I fought against that many."

The Fire Spirit at the end was especially the worst. It had scorched the entire plains and burned away hordes of rampaging Monsters, but it was responsible for more than half of the wounds suffered by "Lightning Dragon's Mist (Fallen Mist)".

Even among magic, using Spirits is one of the Highest Level of magic that Mages possess. Especially when it isn't just about borrowing its power, but summoning the Spirit itself to fight, the difficulty to do that is even higher. Infinite Variety doesn't seem like a Mage so I doubt he could do that, but if he could do it, then the fight for honor would be very tough.

Involuntarily Hay frowned but noticing that he had been seen, he feared he might lose this chance meeting.

"Right. I won't know unless I ask my Leader, but... At any rate, we are going to the same place. Would you like to go with us?"

If we are with his companions, he will have no choice but to do something about it.

Arnold might not agree with it but this isn't the time to choose the means.

At Hay's suggestion, Ruda and Gilbert looked at each other.