Ouroboros Record ~Circus of Oubeniel~

Ouroboros Record ~Circus of Oubeniel~Chapter 076.5 - Extra : School Life/Forbidden Life

Author Note: This is a special side story commemorating the release of Volume 1 in the book edition. Chronologically, it takes place around the time of Episode 004.<o:p></o:p>

~~~<o:p></o:p>

Frederica Julianna von Castelbern couldn't believe her eyes at that sight.<o:p></o:p>

"...Excuse me."

"...Shitsurei shimashita."<o:p></o:p>

The Head's office of the Magic Academy's Alchemy Department. From its door, Tullius Shernan Oubeniel emerged with a slump in his shoulders and a dejected expression. However, this peculiar exchange student from the Arquell Kingdom was fundamentally unfazed by things. Always wearing a vacant smile, he navigated through his days with a detached demeanor. Even during the anatomy lessons that forced a portion of new students every year to lose their breakfast, he went through the dissections without showing any signs of discomfort, emitting only yawns. His callousness was so extreme that Frederica, who observed him heartlessly slicing the cadavers like cakes, found it harder to bear.<o:p></o:p>

Most of all, it was strange to see him coming out of the Head's office with a gloomy face. Professor Graumann, the head of the Alchemy Department, and Tullius were on very good terms. The two had hit it off early on, transcending the roles of mentor and student. They were often seen engaged in animated discussions, conversations that could range from perplexing and intricate to horrifyingly inhumane, quickly eroding anyone's eagerness to listen.<o:p></o:p>

Regardless, their close relationship was evident. Thus, seeing Tullius exit the office with a dark expression was quite baffling.<o:p></o:p>

(What on earth could have happened?)

(Ittai, nani ga atta no kashira?)<o:p></o:p>

Frederica couldn't help but feel intrigued. Was it some gossip-like interest typical of a young woman, or perhaps curiosity stemming from her own potential as an alchemist, as her mentor often preached? In any case, she found herself curious about the circumstances.<o:p></o:p>

Before she knew it, she had called out to him, halting him as he seemed to unconsciously walk down the hallway.<o:p></o:p>

"Why, Oubeniel. You seem to be wearing a rather unusual expression."

"Ara, Oubuniru. Zuibun to rashikunai hyoujou o shite imasu no ne?"<o:p></o:p>

Frederica regretted it as she heard the impulsive words that just left her lips.<o:p></o:p>

She had never liked this man. After all, this man named Tullius was the top student of the Alchemy Department, as well as the Academy's worst troublemaker. While he hadn't yet faced any severe consequences for his actions, the shadow of suspicion had been accumulating, growing darker by the day. Just recently, an incident had occurred in the Academy's library where the guards and librarians had collapsed during their shifts, sleeping for three days straight. While the connection was unclear, it was rumored that the sounds of writing had echoed from Tullius' room in the student dormitory during that time. Speculation had it that he had secretly copied forbidden magical books, which were strictly off-limits.<o:p></o:p>

With a trail of various incidents and suspicions, large and small, each time leaving Frederica forced to clean up the aftermath instead of her lazy professors and timid alumni. It was only natural that her aversion towards him had grown.<o:p></o:p>

Without showing any hint of noticing her regret, the troublemaker in question turned his gaze towards her without concealing his annoyance.<o:p></o:p>

"Hm? Aah, It's Frederica-san... It's rare for you to talk to me first."

"Nn? Aa, Furederika-san ka... Mezurashii ne, kimi ga boku ni hanashi kakete kuru nante."<o:p></o:p>

"Oubeniel, I don't recall giving you permission to address me by my first name."

"Oubuniru, anata ni watashi no fāsutonēmu o yobu koto o, yurushita oboe wa arimasen ga?"<o:p></o:p>

"Did I? Well, whatever. We're classmates, so it's fine, isn't it? I might bite my tongue if I call you 'Castelbern-san' anyway."

"Sou datta kke? Maa, ii janai ka doukyuusei nanda shi. Kasuteruberun-san, nante yobikata, shita o kami sou dashi ne."<o:p></o:p>

It wouldn't bother me at all even if you accidentally bit your tongue and died while saying it. That's what she wanted to retort, but Frederica was also a noblewoman and a lady. Suppressing the urge to use impolite language, she continued speaking.<o:p></o:p>

"I'm not comfortable with that. Being addressed by my name despite we're of the opposite sex makes it seem like you and I have an intimate relationship. I wouldn't want people to get the wrong idea."

"Watashi ga yoku nai no desu. Isei da to iu no ni na o yoba reru nante, marude watashi to anata ga shinmitsu na kankei no you dewa nai desu ka. Shuui ni aranu gokai o sarete wa komarimasu wa."<o:p></o:p>

"I don't think anyone would really jump to the wrong conclusions, though. The fact that you hate me is common knowledge around the Academy after all... By the way, have I done something to earn your dislike?"

"Betsuni gokai no shiyou nante nai to omou kedo ne. Kimi ga boku no koto o kiratte iru no wa, akademī demo shuuchi no jijitsu dashi... Tokoro de, boku tte nani ka kimi ni kirawareru you na koto o shita ka na?"<o:p></o:p>

"It's not just me, I believe most of the female students dislike you. After all, you're conducting some shady business reminiscent of street vendor prostitution within the sacred halls of learning."

"Watashi nomi narazu, joshigakusei nara mina anata o kiratte iru to omoimasu keredo. Nanise, shinsei na manabiya no naka de, zegen magai no akinai o shite iru ndesu mono."<o:p></o:p>

With a tone tainted by disgust, she conveyed her words.<o:p></o:p>

In spite of the short span since his enrollment, Tullius' extensive business was already well-known throughout the academy. Finery, elixirs, you name it. But above all, the most renowned merchandise was... slaves. At his word, slaves with valuable skills appeared from nowhere and were sold at remarkably low prices. Strong porters, adept swordsmen, and even mages were among the offerings. What's more, they all behaved obediently without the need for magical collars, which was quite astonishing.<o:p></o:p>

Among them, female slaves were particularly sought after. Despite being students of the magical academy, they were human beings. And human desires, including those of a physical nature, could not be easily detached. Being in their late teens added to the mix, and there were male students who struggled to suppress their desires towards women. Tullius catered to these individuals as well, providing slaves as outlets for their desires. For those female students with pure hearts, branding him as a lecher might not be too far from the truth.<o:p></o:p>

"From our perspective, not knowing when you might make a move on us leaves me on edge."

"Kochira to shite mo, itsu te o dasareru ka to omou to, ki ga ki de arimasen wa."<o:p></o:p>

When she hugged her arms as if protecting herself and shivered, Tullius furrowed his brows in apparent displeasure.<o:p></o:p>

"Why on earth should I do such pointless things?"

"Nan datte boku ga, sonna mudana koto o shinakya ikenain dai."<o:p></o:p>

"...Huh?"

"...Ha?"<o:p></o:p>

An involuntary low voice escaped her. While it was reassuring that she wasn't being seen as such an object, being dismissed as pointless was also quite vexing. Whether he was aware of her feelings or not, the man before her continued with a confident tone.<o:p></o:p>

"Academy's female students are either from noble or wealthy backgrounds, or they're prodigies scouted by the instructors, right? Making a clumsy move could get you burnt. Even if my customer requested it, I'd decline. The risk is just too high."

"Akademī no joshigakusei wa, kizoku ya fuyuusou no ko ka, sou denakereba koushi-jin ga miidashite sukauto shite kita hizokko-tachi darou? Heta na tedashi wa yakedo no moto da yo. Tatoe torihiki aite kara shomou sarete mo, boku nara kotowaru ne. Risuku ga taka sugiru."<o:p></o:p>

"Is that so? Aren't you a male as well? Besides, you're hardly persuasive when you're the one involved in selling slaves trained for intimate activities. Your words are not convincing enough."

"Dou da ka. Anata datte dansei dewa arimasen koto? Dai ichi, dorei ni bouji o shikonde urisabaki nagara iwa rete mo, settoku-ryoku to iu mono ga tarinai deshou ni."<o:p></o:p>

"It's not like I'm the one doing it. I leave that to specialized dealers; it's more convenient and efficient that way. Plus, getting involved in such matters would take away from my research time. Before moving your hips, you need to move your head and hands."

"Betsu ni boku ga shikonde iru wake jaa nai yo. Sou itta koto wa senmon no gyousha ni makaseta hou ga raku dashi, hayai. Dai ichi, sonna koto ni kakazuratte itara, kenkyuu no jikan ga tarinaku naru janai ka. Koshi o ugokasu mae ni, atama to tesaki o ugokasanai to."<o:p></o:p>

Tullius' eyes, as always, lacked any warmth. They were the same eyes he used to handle daily chores, and the same eyes he used during human dissections. Whether he was talking to people or detaching from them, his expression remained unchanged, a face devoid of humanity. Seeing such a demeanor from him made it impossible for Frederica to like this man.<o:p></o:p>

"...Well, I suppose so. I'll let it go here and now. Even if there are various flaws in you as a gentleman, it's a bit too late to address that. But more importantly, what happened today? It seems you came out of the professor's room with an unsettled look on your face."

"...Maa, ii deshou. Koko wa nattoku shite oite sashiagemasu wa. Anata ni tonogata to shite iroiro to kaketa ten ga atta to shite mo, imasara to iu mono desu shi. Sore yori, kyou wa dou shita no desu? Naniyara, kyouju no heya kara ukanai kao o shite dete kimashita ga."<o:p></o:p>

Finally, she brought out the main subject. The reason Frederica initiated a conversation with this infamous man was exactly this. To her inquiry, Tullius, looking a bit gloomy, scratched his head and then began to speak.<o:p></o:p>

"Oh, that? To tell the truth, I got quite a scolding from the professor."

"Aa, sore? Jitsu o iu to kyouju kara oomedama o kuratchatte ne."<o:p></o:p>

A rare occurrence, Frederica blinked her eyes. This man, who often received affection from Professor Graumann and even had opportunities to dissect valuable specimens, being scolded by his mentor was not an everyday event.<o:p></o:p>

"See, the assignment from a little while ago. The submission for that has been delayed."

"Hora, kono aida ni dasareta kadai. Are no teishutsu ga todokoutte iru kudan de sa."<o:p></o:p>

"The previous assignment... Ah, you mean the creation of a chimera?"

"Kono mae no kadai... aa, kimera no sakusei desu ka."<o:p></o:p>

A chimera was a type of magical creature created by combining multiple organisms. For alchemists, it was one of the means of studying life creation and can also serve as a familiar to protect themselves when they lack direct combat abilities. Naturally, in the alchemy department of this academy, creating chimeras is one of the courses.<o:p></o:p>

"You haven't submitted it yet? Even though I heard all the seminar students have already turned it in."

“Mada teishutsu shite inakatta ndesu no? Zemināru no gakusei wa, mou zen’in dashi oeta to iimasu no ni.”<o:p></o:p>

"Yeah. Even I feel like I overdid it a bit. It's taking more time and money than I thought... I just need to assemble a couple more parts to finish it, but I ran out of funds. Thanks to that, I'm having Uni earn some money for me."

“Un. Ware nagara, chotto kori sugi chatte sa. Omotta yori jikan to okane ga kakatte irun da yo nee… ato wa pātsu o hitotsu futatsu kumikomu dake de kansei nanda kedo, shikin ga tsuki chatte. Okage de Yuni ni kaseide kite morau hame ni natteru.”<o:p></o:p>

Come to think of it, she hadn't seen the one who was always by his side――even waiting in the corridor during lectures――That slave girl. While the significance of having a guard was low within the academy, which has rules against physical altercations, it was quite unusual.<o:p></o:p>

"...I’m amazed. For the materials needed for the assignment's chimera, you could've just requested them and they would have been provided."

“...Akireta. Kadai you kimera no sozai kurai, shinsei sureba yuuzuu saremasu deshou ni.”<o:p></o:p>

In reality, even the creation Frederica had already submitted was made from materials provided by the academy. It was a familiar with bat wings attached to a cat, but this assignment focuses not on combat capabilities but on the precision and practicality of synthesis. Moreover, it was hard to believe that the academy's ethics would be so lacking that they'd have a student create a biological weapon.<o:p></o:p>

"Just to be sure, what kind of materials are you planning to use for your chimera? You're making a person as great as Uni-san go to such lengths for money, so it must be quite an ambitious project in terms of cost."

“Nen no tame ni ukagatte okimasu kedo, anata wa nani o sozai ni kimera o tsukurou to iun desu no? Yuni-san hodo no kata o kinsaku ni hashiraseru nante, soutou ni okane ga kakaru taisaku na no deshou keredo.”<o:p></o:p>

"For someone who hates me, you're quite favorable towards that girl, huh..."

“Kimi wa boku no koto ga kirai na wari ni, ano ko ni wa yakeni koui-teki da ne…”<o:p></o:p>

Tullius shrugged his shoulders.<o:p></o:p>

In truth, Frederica's feelings towards Uni were more akin to sympathy than favor. Uni was a girl who, in terms of appearance, education, abilities, and her devoted attitude, was too valuable to be kept as a slave. However, due to some twist of fate, she was bound by a collar to this cunning schemer who hid his manipulative nature beneath a spoiled exterior. It's hard not to feel pity in such circumstances.<o:p></o:p>

"Well, that's not really important. Let's get back to the topic of the chimera. The one I'm planning to create isn't anything grand, you know."

“Maa, sonna koto wa dou demo ii ka. Hondai wa kimera no hanashi dashi. Boku ga tsukurou to shite iru no wa ne, sonna daisoreta shiromono janai yo.”<o:p></o:p>

"Based on what you've been saying, it's hard to believe you're capable of anything less than grand."

“Ima made no hanashi kara suru to, daisoreta shiromono igai ga dekiru to wa omoenain desu keredo?”<o:p></o:p>

Upon his classmate's remark, the alchemist, who was anything but ordinary in terms of skill and character, let out a wry smile.<o:p></o:p>

"Don't interrupt the flow of the conversation... The chimera I'm planning to create this time is something like a textbook example――"

“Hanashi no koshi o oranaide kure yo… konkai seisaku suru no wa sa, kyoukasho ni mo notte iru you na mohan-tekina sakurei nanda――”<o:p></o:p>

~~~<o:p></o:p>

In the adventurer's guild of the city of Gallerin, the capital of the Kingdom of Grandenburg in the St. Gallen Federation, Uni had come seeking work for the usual purpose of raising funds for the sake of her Master. However, she unexpectedly faced a certain situation.<o:p></o:p>

"...No jobs available?"

“...Shigoto ga nai?”<o:p></o:p>

"Yeah. Tough luck, Silver Wolf."

“Aa. Zannen datta na [Gin Oukami] no.”<o:p></o:p>

The old man at the guild reception, giving off an amused smile, responded to Uni who involuntarily furrowed her brows. He might have been a retired adventurer working for the guild, as he exposed his thick arms that were not quite suited for administrative tasks by rolling up his sleeves. He casually gestured with his thumb towards the bulletin board where requests were posted.<o:p></o:p>

"Maybe you've been so enthusiastic about taking on jobs that it rubbed off on others. Lately, even the local troublemakers seem to be putting more effort into completing requests... Well, I guess luck just wasn't on your side."

“Anta no shigoto nesshin-sa ni shokuhatsu sareta no ka nee. Koko no tokoro, kono machi no gon takure-domo mo irai no shouka ni sei o dasu you ni natte na… ma, meguri awase ga warukatta ndarou yo.”<o:p></o:p>

"From the looks of it, there are still jobs available at the E to D rank."

“Mita tokoro, E~D-kyuu ni mawasa reru shigoto wa nokotte iru you desu ga.”<o:p></o:p>

Casting a quick sidelong glance, Uni swiftly read the slips posted on the board and made a suggestion. However, her adventurer rank was C, and it wouldn't be considered commendable to snatch jobs from her lower-ranked peers. Naturally, the man at the reception wore a displeased expression.<o:p></o:p>

"Hey, hold on. That's a problem. Assigning lower-ranked quests to higher-ranked adventurers is a last resort for when quest completion is delayed. Right now, there's no need for that kind of emergency measure. We can't arrange that. The guild is here to introduce appropriate requests to suitable adventurers of the corresponding rank. That's the whole point."

“Oi oi, sorya komaru ze. Kai no irai o joui no bouken-sha ni mawasu tte no wa, kuesuto tassei ga todokoutta toki no tame no hijou shudan da. Ima no tokoro sonna hitsuyou ga nai tte no ni, assen wa dekinee yo. Tekisetsuna ranku no bouken-sha ni, tekisetsuna irai o shoukai suru. Sono tame ni aru no ga girudo tte mon dakara na.”<o:p></o:p>

"I understand that. However, can't we make an exception here?"

“Rikai shite wa orimasu. Desu ga, soko o magete onegai dekinai deshou ka?”<o:p></o:p>

"Hmm, let me think..."

“Uun, sou da naa…”<o:p></o:p>

In response to her repeated request, the man seemed to waver. After all, Uni was a promising asset for the guild. Her speed and success rate in completing quests were exceptional, and she possessed capabilities beyond the typical C-rank. She had even earned a nickname that would typically be reserved for higher-ranking adventurers due to her outstanding skills. Some level of flexibility was understandable.<o:p></o:p>

But…<o:p></o:p>

"Hey, old man. We’d like to take this request."

“Oi, oyaji. Kono irai o uketee nda kedo?”<o:p></o:p>

"Our party too. It shouldn't be a problem, right? Our rank matches the request."

“Uchi no pāti mo da. Kamawanai yo na? Ranku wa irai to tsuriatteru nda kara yo.”<o:p></o:p>

As if carefully timed, the other adventurers began tearing off the job postings and handing them over to the counter. The bulletin board displaying the requests was swiftly cleared and neat.<o:p></o:p>

"It's really bad luck, huh, Silver Wolf... That's why. Let's give up for today."

“Hontou ni meguri-awase ga warui na, [Gin Oukami]... ttsuu wake da. Kyou no tokoro wa akirame na.”<o:p></o:p>

"Well, there's no choice. Excuse me then."

“Shikata arimasen ne. Dewa, shitsurei itashimasu.”<o:p></o:p>

With a slight bow, Uni exited the guild building through the doors.<o:p></o:p>

Given the circumstances, she might have to consider hunting some stray monsters or selling materials for rewards to make ends meet. That's what Uni was contemplating when she suddenly halted her steps at the sight of a group of adventurers walking towards her.<o:p></o:p>

"Huhehe... We hit the jackpot."

“Fuhehe… tairyou tairyou.”<o:p></o:p>

"Yeah, it was tough, but now we can live comfortably for a while."

“Iyaa, shindokatta kedo, kore de shibaraku wa asonde kuraseru ze.”<o:p></o:p>

"We're getting rich, and the citizens won't have to fear monsters. Nobody's losing here ...Hihi."

“Ore-ra wa moukatte, shimin wa mamono ni obiezu ni sumu. Dare mo sonshinai ze… Hihi.”<o:p></o:p>

Carrying bloodied leather bags bulging with contents, they boasted loudly, unaware of their surroundings. From their demeanor, it was clear. Most likely, they had returned from a spree of hunting nearby monsters. With this, there was little chance for Uni to have a satisfying hunt and earn a decent income even if she were to head out now.<o:p></o:p>

(...A peculiar turn of events.)

(...Myou na nariyuki desu ne.)<o:p></o:p>

Appropriate-level quests were already taken, and as soon as she tried to accept lower-level quests against guild regulations, the lower-level adventurers swooped in to take them. And now, just as she was about to head out for some monster hunting, this happened. She was not as fortunate as to brush off these series of events as mere coincidences.<o:p></o:p>

While contemplating this, the group passed by her. Uni met their gaze. The adventurers who had just returned from their hunting spree glanced at her with a mocking smile in passing. Before being an adventurer, Uni was an enslaved servant of lower status, and her appearance—delicate and dressed in a maid uniform—set her apart in an odd way. Because of this, she had often faced condescension not just from her peers but sometimes even from clients.<o:p></o:p>

Yet, what she felt now was different from the usual disdain arising from preconceived notions. To put it in words, it was a sense of superiority, as if they were looking down on her with a certain satisfaction.<o:p></o:p>

(I see. So, that's how it is.)

(Naruhodo. Sou iu koto desu ka.)<o:p></o:p>

As soon as she thought this, she started walking again. She wasn’t heading to her hunting grounds with a resigned determination nor to report her lack of success to her master, Tullius. But her destination was a tavern well-known as a gathering place for adventurers.<o:p></o:p>

~~~<o:p></o:p>

On that day, the tavern in Gallerin known as "Sparrow's Nest" was bustling with a full house of customers. This establishment was renowned as a tavern catering to adventurers. Naturally, most of the patrons were adventurers who called Gallerin their base.<o:p></o:p>

"Cheers to the renowned Hero of Gallerin, the mighty “Iron Maul,” big bro Margus!"

“Garerin kitte no yuusha, [Tettsui] no Māgasu-aniki ni kanpai!”<o:p></o:p>

"Hahaha!"<o:p></o:p>

Roughly clanging their tankards of foaming ale, these men looked every bit as robust as their actions. Among the ruffian adventurers of this town, the man known as a prominent figure, Margus, a B-rank adventurer, and his group of underlings were gathered.<o:p></o:p>

"Well, thanks to your help, big bro, we made it through this time."

“Iyaa, konkai wa aniki no chikara zoe no okage de tasukarimashita ze.”<o:p></o:p>

"Absolutely. It was quite exhilarating!"

“Honto honto. Jitsu ni tsuukai!”<o:p></o:p>

"Thanks to that outsider, we've been on the rise lately..."

“Ano yosomono no okage de, koko no tokoro agattari datta kara naa…”<o:p></o:p>

Among the henchmen's praises, Margus, seated at the center of the group, licked his lips with a glass of champagne, his demeanor relaxing.<o:p></o:p>

"Hmph. Of course. The top adventurer in this city ish me, there'sh no one else. I can’t allow that Arquellian slave girl to act all high and mighty foreverr."

“Fun. Touzen yo. Kono machi no bouken-sha no toppu wa, ore-sama o oite hoka ni hai nee. Ano Arukēru-jin no dorei onna gotoki nya, itsu made mo dekai kao o sasenee ze.”<o:p></o:p>

"Hell yeah, that's the spirit!"

“Kaa, shibireruu!”<o:p></o:p>

"Here we go, with the strength of a hundred men!"

“Iyoo, hyakunin riki!”<o:p></o:p>

Amidst the cheers of the crowd and the taste of the exquisite wine that even nobles would envy, "Iron Maul" Margus reveled cunningly in his intoxication.<o:p></o:p>

This gathering was essentially a celebration, a banquet. Its purpose was to get back at the new adventurer who recently appeared in the city of Gallerin—a C-rank pretender who called herself the "Silver Wolf" Uni and flaunted her two names, all the while being a female slave. This event involves mobilizing factions and recruiting small-timers who can't defy threats to monopolize requests brought to the Gallerin Guild or subjugation of monsters in the vicinity. It was a celebration of the success of the first stage.<o:p></o:p>

"With this, that arrogant woman should have realized who's the boss here."

“Kore de ano namaiki na onna mo, dare ga koko o shimete iru ka sasshita deshou naa.”<o:p></o:p>

"Well, well, she has a silver collar around her neck after all. It's doubtful whether she has the brains to figure that out."

“Iya iya, nani shiro gin iro no kubiwa-tsuki da. Sono hen o sassuru otsumu ga aru ka dou ka, utagawashii mon da ze.”<o:p></o:p>

"Heheh. Her head's probably as light as her ass!"

“Hehe. Atama no hou mo shiri souou ni karui tte ka!”<o:p></o:p>

The henchmen around him spewed vulgar words, denigrating a woman who wasn't present there. As they claimed, that day's events were merely a warning. Just like wild beasts leave their scent or markings on trees to mark their territory, Margus had shown only a glimpse of his power. In the process, he had lent a helping hand to his subordinate adventurers, achieving the dual purpose of letting them taste the sweet rewards of the completed requests taken from Uni and collecting a portion of the rewards as a fee.<o:p></o:p>

Naturally, from the lower-ranked adventurers who received Margus's assistance, he collected a percentage of the request rewards as a commission. Although high-ranking adventurers raiding low-level requests went against the guild's policies, there were plenty of loopholes if you used your head a bit. However, it was likely impossible for someone who was an outsider and a member of the slave class…<o:p></o:p>

Margus chuckled at his established power in that city.<o:p></o:p>

(Well, if she can’t figure out the scheme this time, I'd just invite her there and explain it carefully. Of course, after receiving a proper tuition fee.)

(Ma, konkai no shikumi ga sasserarenai you nara, koko ni yobidashite teinei ni oshiete yaru to suru ka. Chaanto jugyou-ryou mo itadaita ue de na.) <o:p></o:p>

He envisioned the face and physique of that wolf-like female, who disrupted others' territories and was flirtatious with men. Just imagining how her composed expression would distort under his control filled him with more excitement than the alcohol ever could. After all, there was a prevalent rumor that she managed to deceive a young nobleman, her owner, into equipping her with high-level gear. Being a female slave, she might also have proved to be promising in that regard...<o:p></o:p>

Thinking these thoughts, he tipped back his glass and realized that it was already empty.<o:p></o:p>

"Hey, girl. Where's the drink? Pour us some more."

“Ou, nee-chan. Shaku wa dou shita shaku wa.”<o:p></o:p>

"Yes, right away..."

“Ha-hai. Tadaima…”<o:p></o:p>

Trembling both in voice and body due to the imperious tone, the barmaid started pouring more drinks.<o:p></o:p>

After all, adventurers were creatures that killed monsters—monsters in human form. They were beings akin to humans with an otherworldly aspect. If they upset them or made a mistake, they could bear the brunt of the intimidation that they usually directed towards monsters. While the guild's rules stated that adventurers should not commit indecent acts against ordinary citizens, the power of alcohol could make one forget such norms and rationality. Considering this, it was not unreasonable for a vulnerable barmaid to be frightened.<o:p></o:p>

Margus, fueled by the sense of superiority as a powerful figure, continued to empty his glass at an even faster pace, using this as a new source of amusement.<o:p></o:p>

"Gahahaha... This really is good booze."

“Gahahaha… hontou ni ii sake da.”<o:p></o:p>

"It's wonderful to see you enjoying it so much."

“O-tanoshimi de irareru you de, naniyori desu.”<o:p></o:p>

"Oh, yeah. Fine drink, delicious snacks, and a lovely lady. It's like living for these kinds of gatherings, you know?"

“Masani. Takai sake, umai tsumami ni kirei na nee-chan. Kou iu seki o kakomu tame ni ikite iru tte kanji ga suru ze.”<o:p></o:p>

With the woman's voice, the drinks were poured just as the previous ones were emptied. The man's spirits lifted even more.<o:p></o:p>

"Is that so? Then, may I assume that you are satisfied?"

“Sayou ni gozaimasu ka. Dewa, go manzoku itadaketa to omotte mo yoroshii no de?”<o:p></o:p>

"Yeah, very satisfied. It ish a delight for an adventurer~"

“Aa, manzoku manzoku. Bouken-sha myouri ni tsuki raa~”<o:p></o:p>

"In other words――there are no regrets left, yes?"

“Tsumari――mou kui wa nokotte inai no desu ne?”<o:p></o:p>

"Noo, not yet. For the next round, I'm planning to arrange something even more entertainingg."

“Iyaa, mada mada. Tsugi no seki nya, mou hitotsu saikou no sakana o youi suru te hazu nande naa.”<o:p></o:p>

"Quite intriguing. May I inquire for the sake of learning?"

“Kyoumi bukai desu ne. Kougaku no tame ni ukagatte mo?”<o:p></o:p>

"Recently, there's this female adventurer, or should I say slave, called Uni the “Silver Wolf” who came from Arquell. I'm planning to summon her here next."

“Saikin, Arukēru kara watatte kita [Gin Oukami no Yuni] toka iu onna bouken-sha, iya sa dorei yo. Kondo wa soitsu o koko ni yobitsukete yaru yotei de na.”<o:p></o:p>

"...I see, is that so?"

“...Sou datta no desu ka.”<o:p></o:p>

"Yeah. So, we’re about to show that insolent little female slave who's been disturbing our territory a bit about how the world works. Oh man, I can't wait to see what kind of expression she'll make. I'm really looking forward to it!"

“Aa. De, ore-sama-tachi no nawabari o arasu konamaiki na medorei ni, choi to seken tte yatsu o oshiete yarou to iu shukou sa. Iyaa, donna tsuraa shite kureru mono da ka, ima kara tanoshimi de shikatanai ze!”<o:p></o:p>

Margus chuckled merrily as he looked at the barmaid's face to confirm her reaction.<o:p></o:p>

Her smile was like…<o:p></o:p>

"I see. Then, please behold to your heart's content."

“Naru hodo. Dewa, kokoro yuku made goran kudasaimase.”<o:p></o:p>

...an almost expressionless face, a far cry from what's expected in the hospitality business. Witnessing that, he froze audibly.<o:p></o:p>

"............................Huh?"

“............................E?”<o:p></o:p>

Black hair, green eyes, a face lacking too much in human-like qualities, and an overly pale complexion. Above all, she wore a maid outfit and a silver collar—Uni, the “Silver Wolf.” The woman who shouldn't be here at this moment was gazing at them with an emotionless, mechanical expression.<o:p></o:p>

"Y-You!? Why are you here――"

“Te-temee!? Nande koko ni――”<o:p></o:p>

"You're saying quite odd things. I came here to fulfill your request to see my face. Also, this gathering’s purpose was to invite me here, is it not?"

“Zuibun to kimyou na koto o aoimasu ne. Kao ga mitai to no go-youbou deshita node ukagatta made desu ga. Sore ni, konkai no go shukou mo watashi o shoutai suru tame datta no deshou?”<o:p></o:p>

The woman who had suddenly appeared spoke without a hint of a smile in response to the bewildered Margus.<o:p></o:p>

(Shit! This damn novice...! B-But you had miscalculated the trap. How many of my men do you think are here――)

(Kuso! Fu-fuzakeyagatte kono ama…! Da-daga shikake dokoro o yomi ayamatta na, baka-me ga. Koko ni wa ore no shatei-domo ga nan nin iru to――)<o:p></o:p>

The man's gaze flickered briefly as he glanced towards his companions. Or rather, attempted to glance.<o:p></o:p>

However, the forces he had relied on were...<o:p></o:p>

"U-ugh..."

“U-uu…”<o:p></o:p>

"Ouch... It hurts..."

“Itee… Itee yoo…”<o:p></o:p>

...in pain and incapacitated.<o:p></o:p>

Before he knew it, all of them were already lying folded on the floor of the tavern. Of course, this was Uni’s doing. While Margus and his companions were heavily intoxicated, Uni had swiftly taken down his henchmen and then switched places with the tavern girl who was pouring drinks. It was an astonishing feat of speed.<o:p></o:p>

"――Im-impossible...!?"

“――Ba, baka na…!?”<o:p></o:p>

"Well then, shall I proceed to fulfill my own purpose?"

“Sate, sore dewa watashi no hou mo youken o hatasu koto ni itashimashou ka.”<o:p></o:p>

Amidst Marcus's trembling shock, Uni remained composed as she reached for her waist. She reached for the hilt of her weapon, a dagger.<o:p></o:p>

"Don't underestimate me!!"

“Namerun ja nee!!”<o:p></o:p>

Anticipating her move, Margus grabbed his own weapon, which had been propped up on the table, and swung it. His weapon was a War Hammer named "Iron Maul," the namesake of his title. It might appear roughly made at first glance, but in truth, it was enchanted with three spells: Acceleration, Hardening, and Weight Increase. A direct hit could crush a giant's skull like a melon with this super-heavy bludgeoning tool.<o:p></o:p>

A heavy impact was transmitted from the handle, bearing down on his abdomen.<o:p></o:p>

(Heh, hehe... I was surprised for a moment, but she’s not that impressive.)

(E, hehe… choi to odorokasareta ga, akke nai mon da ze.)<o:p></o:p>

Originally, it was a single strike swung to crush monsters. A weapon designed for that purpose. A delicate woman like her would hardly stand a chance. It was a bit regrettable to see her beautiful serene face marred like this――he thought, but just as he was about to swing the hammer back…<o:p></o:p>

"W-What...?"

“Na, nani…?”<o:p></o:p>

It wouldn’t move. As if the weapon, worn and wielded like an extension of his own body, refused to respond at all. The crude warhammer, intended to be brought down upon Uni's face, remained immobile in the exact position he had aimed for. No matter how much he pushed or pulled, the heavy hammer wouldn't budge.<o:p></o:p>

"...I'd rather you not cause too much commotion. While clashes between adventurers usually lead to death, any damage to the civilian requires proper compensation."

“...Amari abarete moratte wa komarimasu. Bouken-sha doushi no arasoi wa shi ni son to wa ie, minkan e no higai wa souou ni baishou shinakereba narimasen kara.”<o:p></o:p>

There was no trace of pain, just a calm voice that reached him. The strike of the hammer hadn't hit, it hadn't made contact. It had been frozen in mid-air just before impact. Delicately, Uni's slender hand was gripping around the midsection of the handle, holding it firmly. The girl's slender arm, just one of them, was exerting a strength that completely surpassed the burly man's both arms.<o:p></o:p>

At this point, finally, Marcus realized. He realized what kind of monster he had provoked in jest. And he didn't know. He didn't know how much blood this creature in the guise of a maid had already taken from her fellow adventurers before coming to this country.<o:p></o:p>

And as he pondered this, a silvery flash was released in his field of vision. That was the last scene recognized by Marcus, the “Iron Maul,” as a human.<o:p></o:p>

TL Note: “As a human” … hohoho I think I know what would happen.<o:p></o:p>

~~~<o:p></o:p>

A few days later, at the Gallerin Magic Academy.<o:p></o:p>

"Oubeniel did it again, another outrageous thing..."

“Ōbuniru no yatsu, mata tondemonai mono o…”<o:p></o:p>

"I thought it was strange that he was late with his submission."

“Aitsu ga teishutsu okure nante, okashii to omotte itan da yo.”<o:p></o:p>

The students of the alchemy department exchanged whispers, their gazes fixed on a single point. Their focus was on the chimera crafted by Tullius, submitted late despite the assignment deadline.<o:p></o:p>

"Well, how embarrassing. I kept you waiting and could only provide something textbook-like..."

“Iya haya, o-hazukashii. O-matase shita ue ni, kono you na kyoukasho doori no mono shika youi dekinakutte…”<o:p></o:p>

He scratched his head as he said this, but for Frederica, who had seen his creation, it felt like he was being overly modest to the point of being impolite.<o:p></o:p>

(T-True... Certainly, it's something that's in the textbook as an example! But in cases like this, you wouldn't say it's textbook-like, right!?)

(Ta-tashika ni… kyoukasho ni o-tehon to shite notte iru mono desu keredo! Kou iu baai, kyoukasho doori nado to wa iimasen wa yo, futsuu!?)<o:p></o:p>

While enduring a headache, Frederica examined the creature brought to the practice field.<o:p></o:p>

The chimera was clearly distinct from the creations of other students. It boasted a robust physique and emitted a powerful magical aura that could be felt even from a distance—a fierce and valiant monster. It could easily be considered a frontline-grade familiar capable of withstanding actual combat.<o:p></o:p>

No, the true point to note wasn't there. It was the organisms that had been combined to create the chimera. The creature Toorius had crafted had the body of a lion, with another head branching out from its shoulder area, resembling that of a goat. It had wings reminiscent of a raptor spreading from its back and, to top it off, a snake's head extending from its tail.<o:p></o:p>

Combining the body of a carnivore with the neck of an herbivore, adding wings for flight, and even incorporating elements of reptiles as ectothermic animals—indeed, it was a chimera that appeared as an example in textbooks. However, that ideal was described as "A top-tier alchemist should create a chimera like this," implying that it's a level of creation achievable only after decades of dedicated study and mastery in the field. Certainly not something a student would create as a project.<o:p></o:p>

(What an absurdity... In a way, it's like imitating the accomplishments of historical figures learned from biographies.)

(Nan to iu hijoushiki na… Itte mireba, denki kara mananda rekishijou no jinbutsu no gyouseki o, sokkuri to maneta you na mono dewa arimasen ka.)<o:p></o:p>

While she had thought she had grown accustomed to this exchange student's eccentricities, it seemed that there were still deeper layers to uncover.<o:p></o:p>

Now then, what kind of evaluation would Professor Graumann give to this outrageous submission? Frederica, along with the other students, awaited the professor's appraisal with expressions full of curiosity.<o:p></o:p>

"Hmm, considering the delay past the deadline... I'd say around fifty-five points."

“Fuumu, kijitsu o sugite matasareta koto mo kami sureba… go juu go ten to itta tokoro ka.”<o:p></o:p>

The master of the absurdly disciple predictably handed down an absurdly low score.<o:p></o:p>

"Hmm, so it's still a no, huh?"

“Uun, yappari dame deshita ka.”<o:p></o:p>

"While I do acknowledge your ability to synthesize a chimera of this caliber at your age, there are still glaring issues. Although it might be a potent familiar, as a living being, it remains fragile. In terms of completion, I'd say Castelbern's creation is superior."

“Sono toshi de kore hodo no kimera o gousei dekiru ten wa sunao ni shitatameru ga na. Ikansen, kouzou ni ara-sa ga nokotte oru. Tsukaima to shite wa kyouryoku demo, seibutsu to shite wa zeijaku ni sugiru noda. Kansei-do to iu ten dake mireba, Kasuteruberun no sakurei no hou ga mashi ja na.”<o:p></o:p>

Graumann stated while stroking his gray beard.<o:p></o:p>

Even if it was said, the chimera Frederica had created was essentially a winged cat. It was hard to believe that her own creation was better than this monstrous concoction. It was like praising someone's homemade knife for being sturdy in comparison to a disposable mass destruction weapon. Who could genuinely be pleased by such a comparison?<o:p></o:p>

However, it seemed that Tullius was not entirely dissatisfied with the professor's evaluation.<o:p></o:p>

"Indeed, I might have gotten too carried away with unnecessary details."

“Tashika ni, chotto iranai bubun ni kori sugimashita ka ne.”<o:p></o:p>

"You have the lion's mouth spewing flames and the goat's mouth expelling corrosive bubbles, right? Oubeniel, even though usually you are efficient, you have a bad habit of occasionally indulging in unnecessary romanticism, huh. If you're making a weapon out of the breath attack, wouldn't it be more functional to focus on one or the other?"

“Shishi no kuchi kara wa kaen no buresu o, yagi no kuchi kara wa youkai-eki no awa o hakun jaro? Ōbuniru yo, omae wa fudan kouritsu-teki na kuse ni, tokiori muyou na roman ni hashiru no ga warui kuse dearu na. Buresu o buki ni suru naraba, dochira ka Ippon ni shibotta hou ga kinou-teki dewa nai ka.”<o:p></o:p>

"Well, you see, I thought that since it had so many heads, it might be more interesting to have a variety of weapons... Also, I believe a bit of romance is essential to mastering alchemy."

“Iyaa, sekkaku atama ga nan-ko mo arun desu shi, sore nara tayou na buki ga atta hou ga omoshiroi ka to… Sore ni, boku wa renkinjutsu o kiwameru no ni roman wa fukaketsu da to omotte iru mono deshite.”<o:p></o:p>

"And because of that romanticism, you end up submitting assignments late... Well, whatever. Let's consider the chimera creation practical exercise a pass."

“Sore de kadai no teishutsu ni okurete oreba sewa ga nai wai… Maa, yoi. Kimera seisaku jisshuu mo goukaku to shite okou.”<o:p></o:p>

Even after coming this far, to receive the same passing grade as the other seminar students, it was quite strict. Perhaps it was the professor's way of showing expectations for Tullius. However, for an average student who was being compared to him, she had a complex feeling.<o:p></o:p>

"Sigh... I messed up. Stumbling during the material collection phase and falling behind really hurt. If I had gathered everything earlier, I could have adjusted it carefully. I guess it's true that when you're poor, you become dull."

“Haa… shippai shita naa. Sozai atsume no dankai de tsumazuite okureta no ga itakatta. Hayame ni soroete okeba, jikkuri chousei dekita noni. Hinsurebadonsuru tte yatsu ka naa.”<o:p></o:p>

"...Normally, I don't think you can just acquire distant creatures like lions, though."

“...Futsuu wa shishi nado to iu enpou no ikimono, choutatsu dekinai to omou no desu keredo.”<o:p></o:p>

She pointed out to Tullius, who returned to the line of students with a dejected expression. He simply nodded as if it were someone else's problem.<o:p></o:p>

"Well, lions are pretty expensive, after all. I practically spent all my funds on that. As a result, I don't even have a budget left to buy slaves for the brains I need to control it."

“Maa, sasuga ni raion wa takaku tsuita yo ne. Are de shikin ga arakata tonjatta kara, seigyo-you no noumiso ni tsukau dorei o kau yosan sura nakunatchatte.”<o:p></o:p>

"...Huh?"

“...E?”<o:p></o:p>

Frederica's wry smile froze. <o:p></o:p>

What did this man just say? Using brains for the control system? Does that mean... the chimera he created, the familiars assembled from beasts, were using human brains for control?<o:p></o:p>

"Oubeniel, you――"

“Ōbuniru, anata――”<o:p></o:p>

"Well, if Uni hadn't come through at the last minute, it definitely wouldn't have been ready... Hm? What's wrong, Frederica-san? You're making such a scary face."

“Iyaa, dotanba de Yuni ga kumen shite kite kurenakattara, kakujitsu ni maniawanakatta ne… N? Doushitan dai, Furederika-san. Sonnani kowai kao o shite.”<o:p></o:p>

"――No, it's nothing."

“――Ie, nan demo arimasen wa.”<o:p></o:p>

Facing a complete lack of guilt in the man's tone, she choked back her accusatory words. She had known for a long time what kind of person Tullius Shernan Oubeniel was. During a previous presentation on pharmacological research, he fervently argued for human experiments on slaves as evidence, leaving everyone except Professor Graumann pale. Even then, in response to criticism from others, he casually muttered, "How a master treats their slave is their own freedom, isn't it?" with a puzzled expression.<o:p></o:p>

Surely, pressing the issue now would be futile as well. That's why she only asked,<o:p></o:p>

"Just to be clear, about the brains used for that chimera. They weren't improperly taken from their owners, were they?"

“Nen no tame ni kiite okimasu keredo, ano kimera ni tsukatta nou. Mochinushi kara futou ni ubatta mono de wa nai no desu yo ne?”<o:p></o:p>

"...You're quite the worrier too. Don't worry, it's not like we extracted brains from random ordinary people. Apparently, they were provided by someone who wouldn't face any consequences even if they were killed."

“...Kimi mo shinpai-sei da ne. Daijoubu, betsuni soko ira no ippanjin kara noumiso o tekishutsu shita wake janai yo. Koroshite mo tsumi ni naranai aite kara teikyou shite morattarashii kara sa.”<o:p></o:p>

"I see."

“Sou desu ka.”<o:p></o:p>

In that case, there should be no problem. At the very least, the professors evaluating the creations of this man won't mind, and the authorities of this country won't consider it a crime. Utilizing human corpses for magical purposes. If that were considered a crime, then this academy wouldn't have a department like Necromancy. No consequences for killing or dismembering anyone except those with citizenship among nobles, clergy, or commoners. Truly, it's a harsh world, thought Frederica.<o:p></o:p>

"By the way, what should I do with that chimera after it's submitted? It's a pretty large creature, and it's not easy to keep in the dorm rooms."

“Tokorode, ano kimera tte teishutsu shita ato wa dou surun darou ne? Anna ni ooki na ikimono, ryou no heya de kau no wa muzukashii shi.”<o:p></o:p>

"There’s no way I would know."

“Shirimasen wa yo, sonna koto.”<o:p></o:p>

She replied curtly and turned on her heel, distancing herself from Tullius.<o:p></o:p>

Frederica Julianna von Castelbern detested Tullius Shernan Oubeniel. He was unreasonable and lacked empathy, yet his alchemical skills were like a nightmare come true. The chimera filled with childish ideas, with a human brain embedded in it, exemplified Tullius' nature perfectly. He was selfish, willing to hurt anyone as long as he didn't get hurt in return. Selfishness and self-centeredness were his essence.<o:p></o:p>

If left unchecked, wouldn't this man, with his alchemical abilities, bring negative influences not only to the alchemical department but to the academy and even more people? Such concerns couldn't be dismissed as mere exaggerations.<o:p></o:p>

(Truly, this man... I wish he would just die already.)

(Hontou ni kono otoko… hayaku shineba ii no ni.)<o:p></o:p>

She sincerely wished for a swift demise for the man who had chosen the path of alchemy in pursuit of immortality.<o:p></o:p>

By the way, the chimera that Tullius submitted ended up becoming the responsibility of all the alchemy department students.<o:p></o:p>

“It was a poorly made creation even by Oubeniel’s standards, but precisely because of that, it can serve as a valuable teaching material in its own way. Of course, for those who haven't mastered chimera creation to this level, it can also be a living guidepost," said Professor Graumann.<o:p></o:p>

For Frederica, chimera creations involving human brains and such were incredibly unsettling, so she didn't get too involved. However, other students from Graumann's seminar were quite enthusiastic about taking care of the chimera, viewing it as a rare living specimen that came close to their ideal chimera.<o:p></o:p>

But all their efforts were in vain. Just as the professor predicted, the chimera deteriorated and died within about two months. According to a student who was responsible for feeding it, the chimera had a poor appetite and its death seemed like a semi-starvation. However, whether it was due to Tullius' creation flaws or a more indirect form of suicide driven by the will of the person whose brain was used as a chimera material, remained unknown even long after its death.<o:p></o:p>

~~~<o:p></o:p>

Tullius: <o:p></o:p>

"――So something like that happened, but you didn't know about it, Due?"

“――tte na koto ga attan da keredo, Dūe wa shiranakatta no?”<o:p></o:p>

Due: <o:p></o:p>

"My operating base was on the western side of St. Gallen after all. Even though it's the capital city of the alliance, I'm completely unfamiliar with places like Gallerin in the east."

“Ore no katsudou kyoten wa, zankutogaren demo nishigawa datta kara naa. Meishu no outo to wa ie, Garerin nante higashi no kotaa karakkishi da ze.”<o:p></o:p>

*Author Note: This is just an afterthought.<o:p></o:p>

~~~

TL Note: Sorry I took quite a while ... Busy with school, as always. The life of a 12th-grader is though. I would be very grateful if you would be so kind to support me~~ This way I can make faster releases.