Vol. 4 Chapter 2 Part 1

Without taking too much time, Shin and the others reached the south gate of Bayreuth.

There was a long line to the gate, as usual, but it seemed to be better than before. Shin showed his adventurer card as the identification paper to the guard, and passed through the gate.

Though it was unknown until now, Schnee surprisingly had an adventurer card, too. It seemed like a C rank, because the color of the card was red.

Schnee, did you enter the guild?

Its for identification purposes only.

It seemed like she could ask for anything from Barlux, to have the card issued. Its function was for nothing more than identification purposes, instead of not being able to take requests, she also said she did not have any obligation to respond to any emergency requests and the likes.

Its like a special measure because of Schnees position.

And its because they were indebted to me for many things.

Schnee spoke with a grin on her face, and Shin felt sympathy toward all of the members of the adventurers guild.

As they entered the ramparts, without making any side trips, they headed toward the guild.

When the door was opened and they entered inside, similar with Falnido, Schnee and Tiera became the main focus.

Schnee with the dog ears, tail equipment, and active attire, which she showed in Falnido, made the males eyes present be glued onto her. Somehow it felt like the passionate eyes of some women were mixed in it, too.

Because it was routine for hooligans to pick on beautiful women, Shin quickly headed to the reception before someone came near.

Hello, Ive received the report about the summons from the guild.

Shin-sama, its been a long time. Please wait a minute as we convey the message. Cilica, please.

Yes yes~

It was the sisters, Celica and Cilica that were at the reception desk. When Cilica was called out by Celica, she disappeared out to the back at a quick pace. Though they were twins, their actions and personalities were not similar at all.

Do you know what kind of business they have with me?

No, we were not told about the details. Though its different for Els who has a high position.

Ah well, I just wanted to ask, please dont worry about it.

Actually, if its Shin-sama, I think youll be summoned before long though.

Eh, why is that?

Because Shin-sama is not an ordinary adventurer.

I see.

It was said because suddenly subduing a high-rank monster alone was an unthinkable thing to do, according to people in this world. So Shin being common was out of question.

Looks like your companions are all beautiful ladies.

Ugh, is that so? Though I cant deny itHey, but Yuzuha is a monster. Its just my adventurers acquaintances that are women

Ara, I never saw you talk with a man before though.

There is no such.. thing? Umm, yes, Wilhelm, I received a request together with Wilhelm before.

Eh!

For some reason, from Shins one word, the hall fell silent.

Shin-sama, is what you spoke just now true?

But it wasnt a regular request, more or less. Wait, why did everyone go silent?

While being conscious that eyes were focusing on him, Shin questioned Celica whom had an expression of someone who had just heard an unbelievable thing.

That man rarely joins a party with another person. Even though his fighting power is said to be S-rank, there are many rumors flying around. He seems unapproachable to everyone, too.

But rumors are unreliable, Celica continued with a small sigh. The authenticity of the rumors might be understood, because she was a part of the guild staff.

Well, that guy is misunderstood easily I guess.

The biggest problem would be his character. Wilhelm was not the type that wore a friendly atmosphere. Because the person himself behaved like that, if he didnt make any effort to solve someones misunderstanding, the rumors would not disappear.

Though Shin heard that Wilhelm always kept in touch with other adventurers, who graduated from the orphanage, listening to Celicas story, it was very likely that he only accepted solo requests.

Wilhelm-sama is very excellent person himself though.

Right?

To solo, unlike a party, one could only rely on oneself, when in case of an emergency. Thus, his sense of danger and techniques to measure the opponents abilities became higher than an adventurer of a similar rank.

Moreover, Wilhelm was a Chosen One, there was no need to state how excellent that is.

Shin-sama, preparations are done, please come now.

Understood. Then lead the way.

When Cilica returned, they stopped talking and went to Barluxs office.

Schnee and Tiera would be waiting in the hall. Yuzuha, who rode on Shins head before, was entrusted to Schnee.

When Shin entered the office, Barlux and an old man whom he didnt recognize, sat down on a sofa.

First of all, have a seat. It was faster than I expected.

Its because I originally was going this direction.

Shin answered Barlux while sitting on a sofa.

Of course, this was a lie. If he had heard the message near Beirun, then it fit it well timewise, so he decided to say so.

Im sorry for rushing it. Ah, this mage, who is in charge of jewel appraisal in our guild, is Arad. Its him that appraised the jewel of the Skull Face which you brought in before.

Im Arad Royl, pleased to meet you.

Without doubting Shins words, Barlux introduced Arad. (T/N: To refresh back who is Arad, referVol. 1 Ch 4 Part 1)

No matter how many branch offices there were in each country, they could not check where the adventurer received the message at one by one. Unless, the person was on the black list and under surveillance. Shin, under the present conditions, didnt have the guilds distrust towards him when that investigation was conducted. For Shins high prowess in combat, this also could be explained as a Chosen One category.

Im Shin. I hope to get along with you as well.

Shin also replied to the old man as politely as possible.

Since the story of the Skull Face already came out, he thought It is this after all, huh? while putting up his guard.

Though you already heard it from the message, Shin, you are being summoned by the royal palace.

For the time being, can I hear the reason?

For that, I will explain it to you.

When the reason was asked from Barlux, Arad took over the talks.

Before that, do you know the story, about where a sword flew into the kings castle?

Something flew inOnly to that degree.

Thats fine. It was actually a greatsword with a white blade.

A Greatsword, huh?

I know, was what Shin wanted to answer but endured it somehow. He happened to know too much after all.

Moreover, the greatsword pierced and stuck into the wall of the second princess Bayreuth kingdoms bedroom. It also caused a lot of clamour in the kingdom.

Shin couldnt help thinking, Are you serious?. It was only natural that it became an uproar.

Fortunately, no one was hurt when it pierced the wall. The question is the greatsword. Its bestowed with a good attribute and the material used is excellent, in short; It is a very good sword. It seems to even rival the countrys treasured sword when put side by side, if I have to say so as an appraiser.

Thats amazing.

Its exposed! Who did it, that was definitely coming to light. While thinking about that, Shin inwardly arrived at the stage of resignation.

Perhaps after this, Shin might be questioned about the connection between his ability and the Skull Face.

Without hearing it to the end, Shin understood. Rather, he should know by the flow of the conversation. It was a common pattern. He didnt read all of those fantasy novels just for mere fun.

By the way, the jewel of the Skull Face you defeated, it was clad in a very strong magic power. It was quite a high-level one.

Thats right, I think.

According to what I heard, its level was 359. Its at the level where average adventurers would be killed during an encounter. However, for someone who was still at G rank at the time they were facing it, and far from escaping, rather it was actually defeated byyou, are you a Chosen One?

The calm air changed sharply, as Arad asked.

That is correct.

There is no answer besides that, Shin thought while nodded.

When Shin answered obediently, Arad dissipated the dangerous air, and returned to his original calm mood.

You even know the words Chosen One, huh?Well if its you, the Skull Face that held the large sword would be defeated. Perhaps, when the skill was used at the end of the battle, the greatsword was blown off to the place in question.

How do you know it ended up to there?

I havent lived a long time just for show. I also heard your weapon was shattered at that time.

Indeed, it was shattered. Only the hilt remainedBy the way, why is it that you think I was involved? I understand wanting to associate that greatsword to the Skull Face situation, but I dont think you are suddenly convinced from the evidence though.

Shin didnt think that the people of the royal palace would make a move just by that reasoning.

Of course, there was someone investigating the person behind it. Also, the Skull Face was examined immediately. The matter of the jewel was found out, and the investigation requests came out to examine that together with the greatsword. In the aforementioned greatsword, though there is only a little, there are the remnants of magic power left on the sword. Furthermore, it was matched with the magic power of the jewel. It didnt reveal how you did it though.

I see, so there is such method, huh?

It seemed to be a fantasy technique similar to our version of DNA analysis. The quality of magic power might be different in individuals.

Thats why once it was understood up to there, one thing after another was revealed. When the fact that you brought in the jewel came to light, the summons appeared.

Even for a guild, this kind of thing cant simply be revealed, right?

No, theres no way to deceive when its been exposed to that extent.

There was no reason for the guild to protect Shin. If seen from the guild, Shin was only a G rank novice adventurer at that time.

Of course the story was different when it was about a chosen one, there was a possibility that the royal family would be exposed to danger.

However, because Shin held the letter of introduction from Tsuki no Hokora, that situation ended without turning worse. Moreover, since Barlux had reported about the time when they had met, he had judged that Shin would not be the type of person who held hostility, at least toward the kingdom.

To begin with, to have malicious intentions toward the princess, who was in the upper rank of Chosen Ones, was way too careless.

Somehow, it was useful for the first time.

After hearing that story, Shin felt grateful for the letter of introduction for the first time.

And heres the main problem. Shin, the one that summoned you was none other than the second princess.

The second princess?

She seems to be interested in you; Shin, who knocked down the Skull Face which held the greatsword. Because she is a Chosen One, too.

So, is that it? She wants to fight against me?

It would be nice if it could be settled with only that.

From Barluxs remark, it indicated that it wouldnt happen.

Then whats beside it? Dont tell me, she wants me to take responsibility because I almost inflicted injuries to the royal family?

No, its not that. To tell you the truth, similar Skull Faces had appeared in the vicinity of the Wraith Plains. The princess also participated in its subjugation, but from that experience, she knows that even she couldnt afford to go easy if shes fighting solo, so she seems to want to persuade you into being one of her people.

Im saved if its going this direction, butwhats next?

Besides, what came to Shins mind was something like government service recruitment. Since there were people serving the country among the chosen ones, it might not be impossible.

Well, for that, I dont know it either.

Politicians, are only but the *evil spirits residing in the mountains and rivers. (T/N: This idiomatic expression[], literally means evil spirits of rivers and mountains)

It was a story that was not laughable on Shins side.

Okay, I understand the story for the time being. I can only keep going. Is there no specific time for the summon?

Shin asked Barlux.

For that, we will contact them from here. Thats right, how about 9s bells tomorrow, good?

Id like it. Ah, then what clothes should I wear? Because I didnt expect to meet the royal family.

Though Girard was also considered as royalty, they had the familiarity as friends, and because Shin was treated like a guest in Falnido, he didnt mind his clothes in particular. Because everyone around dressed in clothes that emphasized ease of movement, he couldnt use it as a reference in the opinion of a royal castle such as Bayreuth.

Dress code is not demanded, for an adventurer who is not a noble. You should keep your appearance neat though.

To begin with, the armed state can be said to be the uniform of an adventurer. And theres hardly a guy that possesses clothes similar to a noble.

Hearing Barlux and Arad talking, there seemed to be no regulations on that subject.

Is there anything else you want to ask? I think I can advise a little.

Arad asked Shin.

I dont have anything on my mind in particular. You might say, because its my first time like this.

It might not meet with your expectations. The next thing that we are able to say is, do not make a commitment due to such a place. Depending on the other party, because they might bring up again about your fault persistently for a moment, it might be depressing for you.

Haha, Ill be careful.

Somehow a genuine feeling could be sensed from Arads words. He might have experienced it himself.

Old man Royl dislikes nobles. Though it doesnt apply to all nobles, well because there are such people too, you should really be careful.

I understand.

Shin replied to Barlux with a wry smile.

Actualy, like in novels and anime he had seen, he expected the existence of corrupt nobles that were only skillful at faultfinding.

Shin has not yet met a noble in this world. However, people raised in the privileged class who were only good at looking down at others, often existed.

Afterwards, Shin learnt about some etiquettes and left the office.

When he returned to the hall, there was a crowd in the corner of the hall.

Yeah, indeed, its as I expected.

Needless to say, at the center of the crowd was Schnee and Tiera.

Shin consented because he expected it to turn this way if the two people were left alone.

Hiss!!

Yuzuha was heard to be threatening.

The surrounding men that enclosed them, probably didnt know that they would become minced meat the moment that Yuzuha got involved.

Still, because it would be unpleasant to have casualties inside the guild, Shin approached the crowd before Yuzuha exploded.

Excuse me. Tiera, lets go.

Ah, yes!

Schnee, who perceived Shin approaching, began to walk out with Tiera.

Additionally, at the same time, a slightly intimidating air was given out by Schnee. Defeated by that pressure, the men that encircled them backed off for several steps. Schnee and the others weaved their way out through the space resulting from that, and escaped from the crowd.

Shin realized that the men who were following the two people with their eyes, were also paying attention to him. Shin felt the pressure that he had never felt in real life.

(The day I receive this kind of stare finally comes.)

If he was very thick-headed, he might of not been aware of those envious eyes. While feeling depressed, Shin had an indescribable mood.

Did they invite you two to a party?

Half of it was for a party invitation, the other half was a tea break invitation.

So did you accept any of it?

There are none.

That evaluation from Schnee, spoken while having a perfect smile, was indeed sharp.

Her eyes stated that its not even worth considering.

To have such a good matching level with Master, there are virtually none.

Tiera said in an amazed way.

From the start, Schnee never thought of joining others except Shin.

Its only natural. Leaving that aside, how was the talk?

Schnee asked.

For the time being, Ive heard about the subject. Before I explain, lets move to another place. Here is a bit

It was not the kind of conversation done in an attracting attention situation.

Their moving destination was Bear Point Pavillion. When Shin stayed there last time, he had confirmed that the soundproofing was reliable.

Welcome! Ara, Shin-san. Long time no see.

Its been a long time. Are there 2 rooms available?

We do have vacant rooms, butbefore that, come here for a bit.

Hmm? Ah, whats the matter?

The poster girl, Tsugumi, pulled Shin until they were near the counter.

With a suspicious face, Tsugumi started talking in a lower volume.

Hey hey, who are those beautiful woman?! There are many beautiful people among the elves, but the beast people next to you, they belong on a different level!! What kind of magic did you use!?

While skillfully shouting in low voice, Tsugumi kept on talking without pause.

Tsugumi, without any adverse effects, was called a beautiful girl herself. However, Schnee and Tiera, seen from Tsugumis point of view, were on another whole different level.

Various things happened and I cant say the details.

Eh~

Dont Eh me. You shouldnt pry into customers affairs.

But, you just became an adventurer no more than a month ago, how did you get entangled with such two beautiful women? Im not worried or anything, but something is wrong.

Hey! Hey! Though I understand your feelings, this is no good, you know?

Che

Dont sulk!

Was it because of a lack of entertainment? She seemed to have a fancy about this sort of story.

Were Shin and the others common adventurers, he could talk about story that they came across each other by chance. However, there were circumstances for Shin and Schnee, so he couldnt reveal the detailed contents.

Sigh, I thought I could listen to interesting stories again after such a long time.

Dont joke around.

Contrary to his way of talking, Shin was amazed at her state, which didnt seem to be very disappointed.

Did she not have the motivation to ask about it persistently? After Tsugumi returned to the counter, she waited on customers normally.

Shin rented a single room for himself, and a twin room for Schnee and Tiera. Because he didnt know how much time it would take due to tomorrow, he handed each one Jul gold coin for the time being. He also had Tsugumi to speak up if it started to run out.

It was just at the right time so they had a lunch, and then, they gathered in Schnee and Tieras room afterward.

and well, thats what I was told. I probably have to fight and so on, I think.

When he spoke about the discussion he had with Barlux and Arad, Schnee nodded as she consented.

I see. There was such a thing happening before our reunion, huh?

A sword that flew into the royal castle, what have you done

Im not doing it because I like it, okay.

Kuu? Shin is amazing~

Tiera was astonished and Yuzuha, who might not understand it well, tilted its head.

According to Shins words, its possible for the country to invite you, whether or not you enter the government service. Or, its possible that its recommended that you set up a marriage with a high nobility to some extent.

I understand about the government service, but marriage?

Yes, if the second princess in question grasped the Skull Faces fighting power accurately, she should be convinced that Shins ability is among the upper class of Chosen Ones. Because the power of a country is said to be proportional to the number of Chosen Ones, I expect she will actively try to win you over.

After the story about the princess, may I refrain from the marriage meeting? I dont mean for things to go like this right away.

Shin didnt have the intention to enter government service or being tied with marriage.

And he didnt have the motivation to talk about how to decline such a plan and so on from the beginning.

I think theres no problem if you decline to enter the government service. There are not many people who become knights from adventurers.

Is that so?

There are many people who hate being bound by rules. Also, viewing from the party members, because the recruitment is a loss for them, they refrain from doing it.

The types that entered the government service, from adventurers, were the people who were solo and people who didnt join a party as a fixed member.

And now, Shin is in a party with us, so if you put that as a reason, it would be difficult to reject it.

Then, the problem now is the marriage, huh? Its obvious that if I decline this without a good reason, then troublesome things will come about.

Regarding that, should I pretend to be your fiance?

Ah, I can be that guy who is already engaged to his partner, huh?

Schnee expected that a new fiance wouldnt be pushed onto a person who was already engaged.

It was certainly not bad as an excuse. Though, it wouldnt be assured that a noble would give up so easily.

Its unreasonable to force it too much, so its their loss if they continue to offend you. In some cases, Tiera too, if she pretended, they at least wont even think of tempting her as your woman.

Uhm, me?

Tiera asked.

Ara, you dont like it?

No, if its about pretending, Im good but

If it is only pretending, Tiera was also okay with it.

Kuu! Then Yuzuha and Shin can become a couple too!!

Wait, Yuzuha, its not like that! Ill be killed by society!!

However, when Yuzuha announced its candidacy, to an extent that it even transformed into its female human form, because of a you-know-what misunderstanding, Shin hurriedly put a stop to it.

Anyway, Yuzuha could only turn into the little girl mode after all, rather than the figure of the voluptuous beautiful woman from the game era. To dabble with a little girl could be considered to be on the path to becoming a pervert at full speed.

This time it is just pretending, only pretending. Its not real, okay?

Kuu? You are not mating with Schnee?

Hey! You must not say such a thing with that appearance!!

Mattiiinnn!?

To the unexpected word that came out from Yuzuhas mouth, Shin was at his wits end and Schnee had stiffened.

Though Yuzuhas original knowledge was sealed, it was not strange even if it knew. However, it was different when it was in its young fox mode, when such a word was spoken in the little girl mode, he strongly felt that there were problems in various ways.

For the mating word, it might be due to its strong animals sense from its nature.

And, other than Shin, who was denying it with all his might, Schnees face was dyed in red.

For the time being, lets calm down.

Though Tiera was the one who spoke out, she was the calmest in that situation.

Dawn of the next day.

Letter from Barlux and all kinds of permits were received at the inn, and Shin finished preparing for his summons at the castle.

As a result of a discussion between Shin, Schnee and Tiera, for the time being, Shin would go to the royal castle to see the other partys attitude. If he conveyed that he had both a party and a fiance, the other side should not consider it unusual; However, he couldnt be careless.

Then, Im going. Ill leave Yuzuha with you.

See you soon. If there is anything, contact me with Mind Talk.

You have to hold back when you fight, because itll be terrible if you hurt the princess.

It will be fineprobably.

Seriously, you really have to watch out, okay?

After such an exchange with Schnee and Tiera, Shin left the Bear Point Pavilion.

Since the other party was said to be royalty, Shins attire was one of the originals from the game era, ceremonial attire from Kalkia which was currently called a Sacred Place.

You might say it looked like a ceremonial military uniform that combines practicality and glamour; it was a wonderful item. The accessories rank was not too expensive and it was treated as a set equipment.

Partly because Kalkia was originally the first base, after starting an adventure, one could buy it in the arms shop for beginners. Naturally, its performance was also low.

What Shin put on was a formal dress that was a red associated with captains. Besides that, there was also a piece of clothing that was colored a blue specific to vice-captains and other low rank clothing which had slightly less performance than that of an ordinary soldier and so on. When these items came together, it was referred to as a set.

Now then, what will happen now?

While checking the map displayed at the edge of his view, Shin faced the gate in the inner wall.

The Kings castle was located in the center of the Bayreuth kingdom and it was surrounded by the houses of the rich, such as nobles, wealthy merchants and the like. Though it seemed to be a general residential area originally, a wall around it was erected as the population rose, and the living area was segregated off except for those of higher social status.

The boundary that separated the living district between nobles and ordinary people was the inner wall Shin headed towards. Because it was originally an outer wall, it was reinforced sturdily. Was there a powerful magic user? The degree of reinforcement was top class.

As for Shin, he only prayed that the day when the inner wall was invaded would never come.

Well, I think it wont fail here though.

As he walked for a while, a gate smaller than the one on the outside wall came into view.

Like the outside wall, the inner wall also had south, north, east and west gates. And the comings and goings were checked.

There were a lot of people with high status who lived there and a person with a clear position, to a certain extent, could pass through without an identity check.

Although that was the case, there was a suspicious looking D rank adventurer there now, and if not for the request he received, he would have been turned away at the gate. In the letter that had arrived from Barlux this morning, there had been a permit to enter the inner wall attached to it.

Good, enter.

Spoke the soldier who was guarding the gate after he compared the permit alternately with another document.

When the permit was accepted, Shin stepped inside the inner wall.

This is a quiet upper-class residential area, huh?

There were almost no pedestrians, unlike the outside. The only people walking appeared to be servants from their clothes. Most people traveled on horse-drawn carriages. Of course, there were no stalls and so on. It was so quiet that it felt like he was in a completely different country.

(3, 4, 5,8 people, huh?)

On his way to the royal castle, Shin felt the glances directed to him.

Hidingskills of both martial arts and magic were used, surrounding Shin as he moved while his observers maintained a certain distance. The colors displayed on his map were green, so they didnt seem to be hostile for the moment.

Theres no sign of them making a move, huh? From what Ive heard of the princess, I have a feeling that she wouldnt think of doing something like this.

From Barluxs story, he had the impression that the princess was likely to come over directly rather than hiding and watching.

Though it was just his assumption, there might be other forces that were moving.

Ah, I want to go back

They were certainly Shins true feelings.

Though he couldnt return now since he had come this far, he disliked unpleasant things. With that state of mind, Shin stepped forward to the royal castle.

Excuse me, I received a summons from the second princess and so, came here. Can you pass that on?

Ive heard the news. Please present your permit.

Shin talked to the palace guard, that was defending the castle gate, to obtain permission to enter.

As for the story, it seems to have been well circulated. The palace guard checked the permit Shin received from Barlux again and then put him in the guards office which was located beside the gate. It seemed that the palace guard didnt intend to open the gate for Shin alone.

I will call your escort now. Please wait for a while.

Okay, I got it.

Because he had nothing to do, he looked around to kill time.

The maintained road extended to the inside of the castle. One could get off from a wagon that entered inside without getting wet even in the rain.

After waiting for a while, he saw a mounted figure coming in his direction. A person in red armor was taking the reins. The person stopped the horse in front of Shin and dismounted.

Excuse me. You are the adventurer Shin, correct?

Yes, I am, and you are

I amGadras Jarre. I have been ordered by princess Rionne to greet you. Ill be your escort, so follow me.

I understand.

Shin nodded and followed after Gadras.

Shin, while walking, checked Gadrass stats.

Gadras Jarre Level 188 Dark Knight

Level 188. Shin remembered that numerical value. He heard it when the first time he met Barlux, the leader of the knights might be him.

As for Gadras main job, Dark Knight was one of the advanced level jobs that derived from a knight. Moreover, the armor he wore was a lower end Unique grade Scale Horn Armor. It was occupational equipment that required suitable stats and level, and a tiny presence of sharpened valor was emitted from it.

No matter how much Shin was regarded as an upper class Chosen One, he kept thinking about how someone who was considered a part of the kingdoms strongest force came to pick him up expressly.

Did they want to indirectly convey that he was worthy of it?

Or, was it because an ordinary soldier couldnt hold him down if he acted out violently?

It was impossible for Shin who was not familiar with this class of people to read into the thoughts of these royal nobles.

Shin followed Gadras obediently, but somehow they hardly passed by anyone.

You, are you actually of a noble family lineage somewhere?

Gadras asked out of the blue.

No, Im just a commoner you can find anywhere

If Schnee and the others were to hear that from Shin, Are you in any position to say that?, would probably be the reply he would get.

Is that so? Ah, just call me Gadras. I became a knight from an adventurer, so to be humble myself doesnt match with my nature.

Then, Ill call you Gadras-san.

Well, thats fine I guess. Lets return to the topic at hand. When I was summoned to the castle for the first time, they were shocked by my armor. As an adventurer raised as a commoner, you should also pay attention to your attire properly. There are many ignorant people, so your clothes can be easily misinterpreted.

It seemed like it wasnt necessary to come dressed in formal attire.

Did I make a mistake? Shin thought, but decided to heed Barluxs advice for the time being.

Its because I heard that you should maintain a neat appearance from the guild master. Actually, I was worried if this was fine.

Well, its not a bad thing to choose clothes according to the destination. And I think its rather nice.

Since its my first time coming to a castle, I prepared it in a hurry.

As they walked while having such exchanges, Gadras stopped in front of a door. As Shin looked at the door, he noticed that the grade of ornaments was different from the others.

Princess Rionne is in here. You dont need to be so tense too, because the second princess is not the kind of person who demands formalities from an adventurer.

Ill do my best.

Gadras knocked on the door, and reported that Shin had arrived.

Before long, the door was opened from inside. When Gadras and Shin entered inside, the door was closed immediately.

Shin wondered whether there was a female maid, but it was a male knight who opened and closed the door.

Feyzel Adith Level 172 Paladin

As for his appearance, he had the look of a mild-tempered man with blond hair and blue eyes. His main job was a Paladin. This man might be a Chosen One too.

On that subject, Wilhelm also said there were more Chosen Ones than the ones publicly announced.

Since he couldnt stare at the man too much, he turned his attention to the front right away.

There was an elegant table and a fancy chair in the center of the room. A beautiful woman was sitting on the chair. Fine golden hair was tied at the back of her head, but it still reached all the way down her back. Her deep crimson eyes, which looked like rubies, stared at Shin. Her figure was pleasant too, even a certain part of her seemed to rival Tiera.

Only her clothes were far from the image of a princess. For the upper half of her body, a leather type armor covered from her chest to her abdomen. In addition, a white jacket was worn above it. And for her lower half, there were red hot pants and boots that went up to her knees with a similar color.

Speaking of the jacket, because it wasnt buttoned, Shin could clearly see her cleavage pushed up by the leather armor from his location. This was totally different from the princess he imagined.

Rionne Strail Bayreuth Level 230 Magic Swordswoman(T/N: I may have stated her main job as Dark Knight before.)

Although her name and level were displayed, Shin understood that excluding him, she was the strongest in that room simply from the presence she emitted.

Shin guessed that she probably wore those clothes for combat. Apparently, a match seemed inevitable.

Thanks for coming. Im Rionne Strail Bayreuth, this countrys second princess. My best regards.

Im the adventurer, Shin. Thank you for inviting me here today.

He bowed his head while introducing himself.

Oh my! This is turning into a serious talk. I dont really care for etiquette, so you dont need to worry about manners. Feel free to call me Rionne.

Then, Rionne-sama it is

Though Shin thought isnt it bad? for the princess to not care about courtesy, but still, Shin avoided pointing it out.

As she frequently appeared in the downtown area, her activities as a princess would put adventurers to shame. Theres also such a thing, Shin convinced himself.

Her beautiful appearance was princess caliber, but she didnt exude the dignity of someone from a royal family. Was this a positive or negative for the royal family? It seemed opinions could differ on this matter.

Princess, I wouldnt do that in the first meeting. It will cause a misunderstanding. (T/N: Having a boy call a girl by her first name is typically done only by those in a relationship.)

He is a person who we may soon fight together with as a companion. Wouldnt this be better than creating a strange barrier between us because Im from the royal family?

Shin, its unfortunate, but this is how the princess is. Please dont worry about your social status and act casually.

YesI, will do my bestI guess?

Shin thought rather than a princess, she should be called a sociable adventurer.

Gadrass tone too, for some reason, became less formal. Apparently, this seemed to be their usual way of exchange between lord and retainer.

When Shin fleetingly glanced at Feyzel, while feeling at a loss, he saw that the man stood upright like one of the rooms furnishings as if saying its of no concern to me.

Um, for now, I want to ask you the reason why I was summoned

Muu! You dont have to use formal words, you know?

Well, for some reason, thats kind of..

Just because the person in question permits it, it didnt mean that the surrounding people would accept it in the same way.

Even if the princess has no bad intentions, since there was an observer there as well, it would be troublesome for him if someone later said he acted too familiar.

Well, theres no helping it if Shin said so. Now then, the reason why I invited you today, I think you may already heard it from Barlux, but its the matter of the Skull Face. It was the one that was level 359 and wielded this.

As she said that, Rionne opened a huge case that was located under her feet.

Wasnt that a job for a maid? was what Shin thought, but unfortunately, there wasnt a single maid in that room. Incidentally, there wasnt even any tea prepared.

What Rionne took out was the greatsword, which had belonged to the Skull Face that Shin had previously defeated. It should be too heavy for a woman, but Rionne lifted it with one hand like it was nothing.

That is certainly the one the Skull Face had at that time. I remember the decoration and the aura covering the blade.

Because it was a pretty memorable opponent, he also remembered its weapon well. Secretly, he activated his Appraisal skill, which he forgot to do so during the battle. For the first time in here, Shin found out that it was a Legend grade greatsword. There was an inscription on it too which seemed to say Muspelm.

Yea, the Skull Face had considerable skill, I believe?

Thats right. If my weapon was a bit more fragile, I think I wouldnt have been able to do anything but run away.

It was able to rally with this greatsword thats equivalent to our countrys treasured sword, Wazamono, huh?

She may have heard the story about how the swordSeveral Stroke, which Shin had equipped at that time, had become only a hilt.

As for Muspelm, it was a 2 mels sword with a thick blade. If the other sword was not as good as Wazamono, it would be unthinkable for it to be able to exchange blows directly.

I obtained that katana by chance in the middle of my journey. I think its performance was at least Rare grade though.

Actually, it was only a reinforced Normal grade katana, but Shin lied because he didnt know what the value of a maximum reinforced weapon was in this world.

As for the matter of whether or not it was possible for a Rare grade to exchange blows with Muspelm, it should be believable since it ended up getting broken from the excessive force.

So now youre just using an ordinary weapon, Shin?

No, I received an escort request towards Beirun earlier and we exterminated some bandits on the way. Since one of the bandits was using a Magic Sword as a weapon, Im using that now.

As for the bandits belongings, the property rights basically moved to whoever subdued them.

Since its possible that his current weapon would be examined, he used that excuse to add credibility to his story.

I see. If its a Magic Sword, then it may be a good fit for you.

Its good if thats the case. But Ive almost never used it after I obtained it, so I cant say for sure.

You can get used to it, right?

Probably.

Right, this is the flow of events that usually precedes a fight.

Shin exchanged words with Rionne while thinking that. The weapon from the monster, in addition, the monsters skillsthough it took the flow of a natural conversation, if combat-related talk continued in this way, it was obvious that the final result would be Lets have a match.

Fumu

?

Against his expectations, Rionne who nodded once, fell silent.

As for Shin, he had the hesitant reaction of a What should I do? decision.

Well, is something wrong?

No, well, you are different after all, Shin.

Different?

Shin couldnt figure out the flow of the conversation, so the question was reiterated.

Adventurers that suddenly stand out like you, are usually Chosen Ones. Though Gadras was like that too, when it was judged that his ability ranked in the upper class, it was customary for him to be invited to the royal palace.

Well, thats understandable.

However, there are groups who use Chosen Ones to attempt assassinations from the inside.

Thats also dangerous, right?

Then, is it fine to suddenly let me meet the princess? Shin wanted to ask.

But, he didnt interject because she wasnt finished with her story.

Though I had my suspicions about you, I thought it would probably be fine.

Eh? I dont remember having said anything that would clear myself from doubt though.

Of course, its because of my intuition.

Ehh

A monotone sound came out unintentionally.

That too, seemed like it couldnt be helped. Shin had never heard of someone determining whether an opponent might bring harm to the country by relying solely on intuition. What would she do if it hadnt worked out?

Ah, a monotone sound came out!

That cant be helped. Moreover, if its like this, people wont be convinced by such things since there is no concrete evidence.

No problem. I have the Intuition skill. I was born with it and my intuition never misses a thing. Besides, even though I may appear this way, I am one of this countrys princesses. Ive developed my ability to judge character!

With a smile, Rionnes words were heard by Shin and he tried to recall the effect for Intuition.

It should only be a battle support skill. If anything, he had a feeling that it was suitable to say it was just a womans intuition.

(CouldIntuitionpossibly enhance a womans intuition?)

Shin unconsciously wondered about such a thing.

You might say the biggest deciding factor is that you hold a letter of introduction from Tsuki no Hokora.

Right

Under the current situation, it was the strongest piece of identification.

That letter of introduction is impossible to replicate and Schnee-dono would never hand it over to a group plotting an assassination. As for a letter of introduction carrier, its almost certain that their theft countermeasures are not ordinary. Therefore, a story of someone stealing a letter of introduction is unheard of until this very day. In fact, this acted as something like a final confirmation.

I see, then the main question is?

So its come to this. Let me say it without beating about the bush. I want you to fight with me!

Not that, princess! Youre supposed to tell him about government service!

Gadras promptly interrupted Rionne who had challenged Shin for a match.

Somehow, this turned out differently from their briefing session.

What are you talking about, Gadras? Either way, for his true ability, how can I judge it accurately if we dont cross swords?

Even if you yearn for it, you could wait a bit longer before saying it. What kind of place is it for a princess to challenge an adventurer with something like, Fight with me!?

A lady-like princess is the elder sisters responsibility!

R-Responsibility

Gadras seemed to have it hard with one thing or another.

Since its the wish of the princess, I dont want to decline, but if possible I would like to ask for a weapon used for training purposes.

Though Shins weapon was not lacking, still, it was unclear as to how long it would be able to keep up a rally directly with a Legend grade weapon.

Okay, I understand. Ill lend you a weapon used by our knights. It doesnt matter if you destroy it.

Well, thats fine. Though, I want you to forgive me if that sword breaks in the middle of the fight.

While saying that, Shin kept secret about the even more dangerous items that lay in his Item Box.

Then, lets head toward the training ground immediately.

The princess began to walk triumphantly.

Contrary to her personality, she walked elegantly without pause. If one only saw her movement, everyone would think that she had a graceful character.

Without taking the huge case, she held theMuspelmin one hand.

Princess

Its tough, isnt it?

You understand?

Shin felt sorry for Gadras who dropped his shoulders.

Shortly after Shin and the others left the room.

Feyzel, who had remained in the room, let the tension out of his shoulders as he felt the presence of Shin and the others go away.

He seemed to be tense and before he noticed it, he felt that his muscles had become quite stiff. He took a deep breath and felt somewhat better after taking a short break.

Im so tired.

Other than Feyzel, a males voice suddenly echoed through the room that should contain nobody else.

Yeah, indeed.

Feyzel, who began to talk, replied without any surprise. The owner of the voice was Feyzels co-worker.

Are you feeling nervous about the other party as well?

Yeah, as expected from a letter of introduction carrier.

A slightly tired smile appeared as Feyzel answered.

Feyzels role was to obtain the other partys information with his own skills.

You saw it, didnt you?

I saw it. But perhaps, his stats might be falsified.

That person was the most abnormal among all of the people who had come in so far. Feyzel continued, and waited for a response from the owner of the voice.

To that extent?

Im sure about it. That person, named Shin, has a level of 200. Job of samurai. However, if I were to really say my impressions of when we faced each other, I would have rewritten the information.

Feyzel was a Chosen One that specialized in uncovering the ability of the other party, therefore he was sure of it.

Rionne and Gadras didnt notice the abilities of Shin, but Feyzel felt exactly a fragment of the power leaking out from his body. In fact, the right answer was beyond the level he stated.

Though I failed to obtain any sufficient information, I can only say this. He is strong! Even more so than we imagined.

Since you say it to that extent, I should report this matter to the King.

Please do so if possible, Id be saved the trouble if you convey it. Also, dont make any needless trouble, I guess? Like what you did to Wilhelm, if you make a foolish move, it will be terrible. At least, I dont want to fight him.

Understood. I must not make an enemy of an upper class Chosen One.

By the end of those words, the voice was already inaudible.

Apparently, it seemed to have gone to report.

Good grief! I want to go home today already!

I feel like I am dead instead of living.

Muttering so, Feyzel left the room.

Shin, Rionne and Gadras visited the training grounds that the knights used.

I want to confirm something. For the time being, were not going to fight next to soldiers that are training, are we?

No, it wont go well if we were to fight there. Today, half of the soldiers are out for practice and the rest have other work thats not in the training ground. Though some may sneak a peek, it cant helped with so many people. Or, is Shin the type that does not want to be seen by people when he fights?

To tell you the truth, I want to refrain from exposing my abilities expressly. At the guild, we fought in an empty training center.

I see, youre a cautious one, arent you?

Isnt that how an adventurer should be?

Unlike knights, adventurers often traveled alone. And in case of emergencies, they would have one or two trump cards prepared, Shin thought.

Well, if I had to say it, most adventurers try to show off their power to gain fame. If their talent is recognized, then they can also enter government service like me.

Gadras, who was a former adventurer, answered Shins question.

Thats how it is, huh?

Of course there are also guys like you who dont reveal their hand and hide their trump cards.

Although it didnt seem to be unusual, somehow people like Shin appeared to be in the minority.

Personally, I dont prefer the types like Shin. People who think that they can act that way, even if theyre powerful, I dont like them for some reason. By simply having power, you must think about how to properly use it.

The obligations of a person with power, huh?

Its the duty of the strong. When I notice a strong person with power, I often think, What kind of influence does their power have on themselves and their surroundings? Even though what I hope to see doesnt always happen.

Since Im from the royal family, Id say that I tend to think that way, Rionne continued and smiled wryly.

From the beginning, for royalty, their existence would significantly affect people with their actions. In some ways it could even be said that both royalty and chosen ones were somewhat similar.

That was why Rionne was taught by the royal family to live the ideal life of a person with power. At the same time, she also noticed the existence of the unreachable status known as a princess.

She felt obligated to fight and swung her sword day and night, to control her power. She learned more about military knowledge than etiquette or her studies. Looking at her hand, which held the sword, no one would ever think that that was the hand of the countrys princess.

Its difficult, isnt it?

Though Im telling you about someone elses problems, I guess even you can commiserate, huh, Shin?

Its because I dont serve the country, isnt it? Again, I have my own way of doing things as an adventurer. Besides, its tiring to think about such things around the clock, so I do everything moderately. If not, then you wont feel relaxed, right?

Shin didnt mean to deny Rionnes thoughts.

In fact, it was important to act with such thinking in mind. However, different people have their own viewpoints and capabilities. If there was a person who had their own way, without noticing it existed, there would also be a person who acted their own way and yet noticed it existed.

As for what would happen as a result, only God may know. Of course, it was unreasonable for Shin to entrust everything to the heavens, so he moved and thought accordingly. Whether or not it went smoothly, it was hard to say.

Im a bit jealous, for you to be able to say that.

Well, when something bad happens, the troublesome ones usually dont change though

If you enter the military, you may be able to decrease the troublesome things a little, you know? Though I cant say it will be as a General, I can promise you a reasonably high position.

An additional bonus comes along in various other ways instead, huh? Im terribly sorry, but Ill still have to decline.

Shin evaded the casual invitation from the second princess smoothly.

He didnt have any intention to enter a military which would restrict his movements. For Shin, who lived in a world without a class system such as nobles and royal families, their ideas were beyond his understanding.

Although he was familiar with the meaning of a fantasy system in games and manga, he didnt understand it in this world.

Thats too bad. Its not easy to encounter an upper grade Chosen One. So, it seems like weve arrived?

Rionne shrugged while stating her disappointment, she probably thought that Shin would have agreed.

And then, she stopped in front of a somewhat ordinary door.

Here?

This is because you requested a fight that no one will see. So we will borrow this place.

Saying that, Rionne pushed the door open.

Inside, there was a transition point similar to what Shin saw in the adventurers guild. (T/N: metastasis point had been changed to transition point)

So we are going to teleport?

Thats right. Didnt you also do so in the guild?

Their destination, after transferring right away, was a round open space about 100 mels in radius. It was different from the place where Shin fought against Barlux.

Its constructed differently from the guilds training ground, huh?

Its been said to be made with a battle between Chosen Ones in mind. Besides, theres no one here so we can fight as much as we want. Actually, even if you didnt say anything, I was planning to fight you here anyway, Shin.

Although it was a test of strength, even if a chosen one used only a tiny portion of their power, there was no guarantee that this tiny amount would be the same amount as that of an ordinary soldier. But, it seemed this place would be alright, if that was the case.

It was decided, huh?

I couldnt find any other place for our purpose, except this. The transition point is a technique from before the Dusk of the Majesty, and we havent been able to completely solve it yet. What was it made for? To tell you the truth, its not known yet. But its pretty sturdy, so its thought to have been a training ground in the past.

I see, Shin thought.

He thought it was strange because he was told that transposing magic was lost, but a transition point had been set up here like it was perfectly normal. To manufacture a transition point, the technique of transposing was needed.

(HmmI wonder if this place was for some guild house originally.)

If one said guild in this world, it would usually refer to an adventurers guild.

However, there were many players guilds and their corresponding guild houses that existed during the game era. The structures and styles varied according to the guild. Some made castle, while others used a shop. There were no similar guild houses.

And, a transition point was standard equipment for a guild house. As for the royal magic library that Shin had visited before, the unusually high level barrier skill was understandable, if it too was installed by a guild. Perhaps, that was also just equipment repurposed from a guild.

Lets begin now. First, you should choose a weapon of your liking. Do you need a change of clothes?

No, theyre fine as is.

Just like the match with Barlux, they didnt battle immediately.

Several mels ahead of Shin, there were swords and spears that were previously prepared. It could be said that they were used for training because they were made from iron and had edgeless blades. However, if it was swung with the strength of a chosen one, the damage inflicted may not be small.

Then, Ill take this.

Shin chose a standard one-handed sword from among the weapons.

It was maintained properly, but its quality was not so good because it was for training. As for Rionne, she chose a thick-bladed greatsword. The blade was almost 2 mels in length, similar to Muspelm, and she swung it around like a branch from a tree.

When I see that in person, something feels out of place.

Such a thing would never happen if it was in the game.

It was different if it was a monster, but the scene of a sword that was about the height of a body, being swung by a womans slender arm was very strange to see in reality.

Speaking of the person in question, it seemed like she intended to warm-up. Shin heard the sound of air being cut through every time the greatsword was brandished. Since its no use to keep watching forever, Shin too, lightly swung his sword and relaxed his body. With their preparations completed, they got ready with their weapons in the center of the training ground.

This is a fight to check your ability, so Ill let out some of my power to an extent!

Please go easy on me.

Shin replied with a wry smile, to Rionne who was fully motivated.

Gadras played the role of referee. Points would be given to each of them, and if he judged the blow would cause a fatal injury he would end the match.

Of course, even if it was said to be a fatal injury, they would stop just before the blow landed. After all, with the ability of these two people, doing that would be a piece of cake.

Alright, lets begin!

Rionne stepped forward when Gadras shouted.

With her greatsword on her right shoulder, she approached Shin using the most direct path, with Shin doing the same. Facing against the greatsword coming from a diagonal direction, Shin prepared to swing his sword from his waist. If he rallied directly, theres no doubt that Shins sword, which was inferior in strength, would break. Thus, he aimed to strike at the flat part of the gr