The Spearmaster and the Black Cat - Chapter 384
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Chapter 384

Chapter 384 Kisaras Paper Dolls and Muus Training

Muu pointed the tip of the wooden spear at me.

You mean youre plenty motivated to go for it? I commented while cladding my legs with mana.

I jumped down from

. The instant the tips of my toes felt the ground underneath, I used them to powerfully kick off, das.h.i.+ng forward and closing the distance to Muu in an instant like a gale.

On the other hand, Muu wasnt perturbed by my actions at all. While silently moving the artificial arm with the embedded spear vertically, she rotated the spear, and stabbed the spears b.u.t.t end into the ground. At the same time, magic threads poured out of the holes in her prostheses, and affixed themselves to the ground, skillfully supporting her body.

The threads seemed to increase by the second as they spiral manifold.

Muus forelocks swayed, allowing the eye hidden behind her hair to peek out occasionally.

She extended her unarmed arm to the left side to keep her balance.

At least I thought that it was just to keep her balance, butalbeit only slightly, I sensed some kind of martial arts from her arm movements.

Immediately following, she tightly pressed the arm, which she had used to keep her balance, to her thighs side while straightening her back, adopting a posture of keen attention.

It appeared she was showing me her focus as a pupil. But, looking at her magic threadsshe seemed to have developed them in various smart directions. I had created her prostheses after looking at her thread manipulation skill, butmaybe I was wrong.

I think shes trying to concentrate on stances too muchshe might be able to become a spear user with her own individual style that capitalizes on the threads at her magically-created leg and arm or her own thread magic without using any prostheses.

While considering all that, I told her, Its been a short period of time, but youve visibly grown, havent you?

As usual, Muu-chan didnt answer. But, she was controlling her posture in her own way while revealing a tense expression. From her att.i.tude, I could acutely sense her strong desire to learn spearmans.h.i.+p from me and a certain kind of respect.

Thereupon, the Kisaras origami dolls I cant really tell whether theyre magic or sorcery who had been dancing around Muu, greeted me by bowing their heads. The tiny dolls were centered around a samurai and a ninja-like doll. At the same time, I could faintly hear Kisaras

singing.

Hyureya, sing, sing, insignificant, flying paper

Kisara smiled beautifully, and then descended while singing and holding her witch spear. The grimoire at her waist was glowing. The dolls, who were helping Muu, continued dancing, apparently in tune with the grimoire. Her magic extolment was quiet, butit strangely echoed in my ears.

Kisara sat down on the training grounds wall, and lovingly held the witch spear to her chest.

I wonder what shes doing?

Just when I pondered about it, the filaments extended radially from the hole in the spears handle, turned into a bundle, wound onwards while transforming into several lute-like chords, and connected themselves with the spears pommel.

Oohh, the spear has transformed into a stringed instrument!

The filaments seemed to be like dietary fibers to begin withand Ive seen them bundle up on many occasions, so I can come to terms with this.

The filaments, which didnt turn into chords, transformed into a strap connected to the spear guitar, and the strap automatically coiled itself around Kisaras shoulder.

Supported by the strap, the spear guitar now hung from her chest to her belly. Kisara looked like she was genuinely going to play a guitar performance.

Still, for the filaments to not only be able to be used for offense and defense, but even as a guitartheir utility is truly high.

The hilt of my Ganghis also got a similar tuft, but using it as an instrument is out of the question. Kisaras expression suddenly changed from a gently smiling one to one full of heart-rendering. Then her fingers began to pull on the strings.

Flying Witch Familiars, hyureya

Each time she plucked the strings, they vibrated alongside her

. It wa a melancholic tune as if combining the sounds of a guitar with a three-stringed guitar.

Next, the paper dolls, which had been repeatedly bowing around Muu, worked together. They all began to dance, matching the music coming from Kisara. At the same time, they released semi-transparent, thin mana waves at Muu.

The mana waves sure are a mystery, but Im overwhelmed by the melody. Its like a fusion between j.a.panese tasteful music and Western rock

The samurai and ninja doll, who were forming the core of the dance, lined up left and right of Muu, and adopted stances as if to teach Muu the correct forms. The other dolls entangled themselves around Muus wooden spear. Sticking a part of their paper to the handle, they dangled from it or twined around it, playing around by bending their own paper bodies. They looked very happy as they pulled all these stunts.

Its funnythe magic that combines

with the stringed music. No, I suppose its sorcery. Oh well, it doesnt really matter which it is.

Has Muu grown slightly thanks to the guidance of the dolls? Is this another power of Four Heavenly Witch Kisara?

Shes shown me her daggers for close combat and a summoning of crow familiars after a change of her wrists rosary marks, butmaybe these mysterious paper dolls belong to the same kind of magic?

Kisara is still singing, butsince Im curious, Im going to ask anyway.

Kisara, sorry for interrupting you in the middle of your song, but do you have a moment?

Yes, what might it be?

Kisara stopped playing her music and got off the wall. The strap extended downwards, letting the spear guitar dangle around her b.u.t.tocks as if to hide her lower body half.

So it automatically coped with her standing up, huh? It does look like she could still play her guitar while standing. She gives off an air similar to the famous guitarist Jimmy Page.

The dolls kept dancing even after the music stopped. It appeared they could operate as standalone units.

Are these paper dolls part of the Hundred Ogre Path?

Of course. Theyre the special

and

of the 88th Hundred Ogre Path. They were indispensable for the anti-magician wars against not only the first-grade magicians of the

General Sorcery a.s.sembly

, but also mist magicians and the Wizard Akieh Enigma.

Those two names have already made an appearance in Kisaras stories of the past.

Just like you have used those

in the mock battle against Rotalz, in addition to Muus training

Yes. On top of being able to create defensive layers and smoke screens, they also possess an effect that can gradually regenerate the wounds of their summoner in the shape of taking the wounds upon themselves. Although they dont hold a candle to Spirit-sama whos employed by you, Shuuya-samathey can independently act like the

which are currently dancing next to Muu. Especially the

Jubei and Chikata are quite capable despite their small size.

The samurai is Jubei, and the ninja is Chikata, huh?

That means the improvement in Muus movements is an effect of the

?

Correct. Using a part of the merit as Heavenly Witch who manipulates dolls, I can stimulate an activation of the acupuncture points to trigger the users internal mana from outside. Ive used this technique on Muu-chan.

So kinda like improving the flow of mana?

Does it make her mana manipulation smoother?

I think Muu-chans groundings are actually quite decent. Even right now, she seems to keep the threads from her prostheses holes and the strings of her magic book connected, steadily combining them.

The magic book connected to Muus threads certainly became smaller. The magic strings of the secret arts book, which have been favored or created by one of the Eight Spirit World Wis.e.m.e.n, are probably being absorbedinto the triangular pyramids growing out at the scars of her missing arm and leg. Though you cant see the pyramids because of the prostheses.

Even before the qualities of Muu and so on, the magic threads released by the tips of the pyramids at the scars are special, I think. Although its a magic book, the threads of the Spirit World Wis.e.m.e.ns secret art book is being taken in and fused with Fuus own threads.

Youre right. A combination with an item created by a Spirit World Wiseman isnt anything normal. I feel like I can understand why she was caught by Hoffmanns group. I dont know whether Muu-chans threads were the cause, but its clear that they didnt want to just drain her blood. Its not just that Hoffmann wanted to steal her threads like he stole my sealing skill, but there might be something else to her we dont know yet.

Kisara stared at Muu. Her eyes were stern as they peeked out of her black mask. But, a faint kindness also dwelt within them.

The other day you said some harsh things to Muu though

Even without being able to speak, shes trying to learn spearmans.h.i.+p from you, the great

. She must be brought up with proper discipline.

Those were words very befitting of a Heavenly Witch who represented the Black Witch Church.

Besides, I wanted to check Muu-chans resolve. During my childhood at the Black Witch Church, a certain mastertrained me in using these

, so

Ah, thats how it is. It sounds like the training at her church had been quite unrelenting. Ill imagine it as being similar to the

Training Path

in the Goldiba village.

Also, although she said this and that, Kisara had apparently been comparing her circ.u.mstances with Muus. After all, Kisara had been just another spear item under Hoffmanns rule.

A deep sadness gleamed in her eyes when she talked about her master.

gh. Muu bowed towards Kisara.

The paper dolls also bowed.

As I was thinking about the matter with the threads, Muu, it looks like the prostheses might not have been necessary, but what do you want to do?

Rh Muu furiously shook her head while breathing out like a beast.

And then she started to wrap her threads around the prostheses. In the end, her whole body became immobilized by her own threads, and she fell to the ground.

Haha, you dont need to worry.

I extended a hand to Muu whod turned into a bagworm, but Muu ignored my help with a glare. Her face clearly told me that she wouldnt hand over her artificial arm and leg, no matter what.

Its okay

I summoned Baldok into my right hand in preparation for our training.

In the first place, I gave you those prostheses.

Muu shook her head once more.

Theres no way Id take them away if you like them, is there?

Since its something she received from you, Shuuya-sama, Muu-chan wants to cherish them.

Hearing Kisaras comment, Muus cheeks became faintly red and she cast her eyes down.

Looks like Kisara hit bulls eye.

At that point, Helme approached, Kisara, Im going to introduce them to you. These are His Excellencys new reserve troops.

Yes, Ive heard about them.

Helme introduced the orcs to Kisara. The filaments of her witch spear instantly reverted from being chords to their usual state, unwinding. The dolls near Muu moved independently. The filament now looked like thin white hair or fine white noodles.

And once the grimoire at Kisaras waist shoneRotalz appeared from the sky with an intense impressiveness. Electric-circuit-like, white patterns had manifested on his jet black torso. Since those patterns were flas.h.i.+ng like electrons pa.s.sing through the circuits, it looked quite pretty.

There existed a whale-like depression on his torso, but Kisaras kick didnt seem to have caused much damage.

Kisara, the usual training?

No, youre wrong. Spirit-sama kindly introduced the orcs, which Shuuya-sama brought with him, to me.

Apparently she was going to introduce Quema and Solobo to Rotalz as well.

Hoh, the newcomers he brought with him to the main building, huh? Rotalz stared at the orcs while commenting.

The ball of fire located in the center of his forehead was dazzling. Quema and Solobo felt shaken when looking at the huge frame of Rotalz, visible by their trembling fangs protruding out of their mouths. Because of Solobos grim face, I couldnt determine whether he was angry or discomposed, though.

Nyaa.

Nyao.

Alray and Hueremy meowed at Helmes feet. Since they were doing it while watching the orcs, they might be considering them as potential prey.

Nn, nyaa

Rollo extended a tentacle towards Kisara, touching her cheek with the pad. It looks like shes pa.s.sing on her emotions.

Oh, Rollo-samayou want to play with Rotalz? Or do you want to play with everyone? Ah, you understand that the pigs are no food. You ask if theyll be delicious if you lick them? Hehe, certainly. But, Shuuya-sama brought them here. Right, Spirit-sama?

Indeed! Rollo-sama, you mustnt eat Quema and Solobo!

Solobo doesnt understand since he doesnt speak the language. Rollo-san probably asked whether itd be okay to lick them

Id like to also introduce the members of Red Tiger Storm, but somehowright now they should be receiving various explanations from Quiche and exchange information with her. I guess I should look forward to Quiches negotiation skill and charisma as village chief.

Later I also need to introduce them to Professor Domidon and his a.s.sistant Mie-san. And also Higlia, the other wolfmen, Moga, and Nemus

I feel like it might turn into a battle out of surprise when they see Solobo and Quemaoh well, Ill handle things when it comes to that. Given that they both have surrendered to me, Ill properly follow up on them.

Well, even though Im thinking about all that, right now Ive got Muu to take care of. I look at her while consciously focusing on a stern gaze.

Muu, Ill lightly perform the stances of the Wind Spear Style, so make sure to watch. Lets start from the first stance, Flame Style.

After lowering my center of gravity, I s.h.i.+fted to a thrusting motion, showing Muu a flurry pf

of the Flame Style, which was a basic stance of the traditional Wind Spear Style. In the middle of it, I kept slowly demonstrating the movements of my lower body as Ive inherited them from Master to Muu.

With my center of gravity low, I thrust Baldok forward. As if showing off the red spears point, I stabbed, stabbed, and stabbed. After the series of three thrusts, I swiftly pulled Baldok close to my chest while tilting the red spear.

Muus eyes were completely entranced by the red ax blade patterns. I wonder whether shes staring at the skull mark thats composed out of countless capillary-like threads.

I smiled while watching Muu, at the same time drawing a half circle on the ground with my right foot, and thus s.h.i.+fting my stance sideways and retreating.

After meeting Muus eyes and nodding at that moment, I returned the right leg back to its original position (logically also returning the body to its previous posture) while imagining a low kick as I twisted my waist. Simultaneously I performed a kachiage with Baldoks Magic Dragon Gem. 1

Next I turned in the opposite direction. After tilting Baldok to the left, I s.h.i.+fted my body sideways, retreating. I repeated the earlier steps, just in reverse this time. That was the basic set of movements.

At the end, I jumped. Moving Baldok overhead, I s.h.i.+fted to arching my body backwards like a shrimp. And then I added the power ama.s.sed in my body to Baldok, swinging it down in one breath.

The red ax blade crashed into the ground, cleaving it open. Crimson embers scattered from the crack. The ax bladesskulls look like theyre laughing, but Im sure its just my imagination.

gh.

Even as a cloud of dust billowed up, Muu exhaled roughly in excitement as if saying that the dust didnt matter to her at all. She immediately began to copy my motions, butthe movements of her wooden spear were clumsy.

Still, shes earnestly trying to study my spearmans.h.i.+p. Seeing her att.i.tude, I became pa.s.sionate

But, for someone like me to teach other spearmans.h.i.+p, huh? Master AchillesIve still got a long way to go as a naive beginner, butI feel like Ive understood a fraction of your feelings.

While recalling the figure of my respected Master, I created the Ra Kelada symbol at my chest.

Seemingly curious about the gesture, Muu stopped her training, and curiously stared at me.

The meaning behind this?

fh. Muu nodded repeatedly.

This is the Ra Kelada. Its a kind of charm handed down by the Goldiba. Its an expression to show your grat.i.tude or a nostalgic feeling of your homeland. You also use it for praying to Divine Beast-sama for their divine protection, I repeated Master Achilless words to Muu just like that.

I wonder how hes doing at the moment

While thinking about that, I averted my eyes from Muu to hide my sadness and embarra.s.sment. Led by Helme, the two orcs were greeting Kisara.

Solobo was still pouring mana into the umbrella in his hand.

Are the eight face patterns on his magic umbrella signifying the faces of the orcish G.o.ds? It looks like hes currently giving an explanation about his umbrella, Garasasa, butobviously his words dont get through to Helme and Kisara.

Solobo spread his big arms. It appeared he was attempting to explain the umbrellas ability as a s.h.i.+eld or projectile. With his exaggerated gestures, he was doing his best to communicate through body language. Kisara, whod seen all kinds of exercises, somehow understood his body language, and smiled.

Apparently interpreting that smile as contempt, Quemaglared at Kisara. But, as soon as Rotalzs voice roared, Whats with that cheeky look?, Quema looked my way with her fangs trembling.

Shuuya-dono, please help us

I feel like Ive heard Quemas voice, but I limit my response to a smile. Though its not to the extent of Higlia, Quema is kinda like a princess, who represents a small clan, as well in a way, right? Although shes surrendered to me, her pride seems rather high.

But, if she learns of Four Heavenly Witch Kisaras strength, whom Rotalz obeys, Quema might obediently follow her words as well. Also, she hasnt explained about the bone flute in her hand either. I guess its only natural since I havent brought it up either.

At that point, Helme, whod been next to the orcs, turned her back towards everyone, apparently intending to oppose Solobos body language. Capitalizing on her tight waist, she showed off one of her prized Helme poses. And then, while shaking her b.u.t.t seductively and releasing water sprays at her feet, she twisted her waist with a whoosh, pulling off a magnificent spin.

Swinging her arms on the left and right side, she spread out ice, coming from her fingertips, in front of her. Using that ice, she began to slide as if doing speed skating.

While repeatedly spinning and jumping full of vigor, she declared, Since His Excellency has no time right now, Ill pew-pew in his stead!

Helme released water from her fingertips, continuously drawing magic printing-like characters on the ground with her ice. Given that Kisara could understand Helmes words just fine, I felt like itd be pointless for Helme to do some pew-pew.

Oh well, Ill leave them to their own devices.

I s.h.i.+fted my eyes to the nature of the Sea of Trees and Cydale, which was sprawling beneath the knoll. Just when I wondered whether I should enjoy the scenery while smoking a magic cigarette

nh.

I heard Muus rough breathing from behind. It was a breathing as if she was telling me to look at her.

Whats up? I asked while turning around.

Muu smiled. Moreover, she did a Ra Kelada at her chest. It was a childish, innocent smile. Almost as ifshe was encouraging me.

Did Muu read my emotions from my face?

The figure of Lefa, who I thought of as a little sister, overlaps with Muus. I hope that Lefa is doing fine

At that moment, tears unconsciously overflowed from my eyes.

Thereupon, bt, Muu nimbly hopped over to me on one leg, and hugged me.

Haha, what a cute girl. I stroked Muus hair.

Did they show on my face?

nh. Muu nodded.

Looking closely, Muu was on the verge of tears herself.

Sorry.

Muu shook her head.

Alright, lets do a bit more training, okay?

s.h.!.+

Oh? Just now I felt like I heard a Sh. Did she attempt to say master (s.h.i.+shou)? Or maybe my name (Shuuya)? Anyway, if she can talk, shes probably going to talk to me sooner or later.

Im no child counselor, but I stared at Muu. Her running around while holding her spear was heartwarming. Her body being supported by the threads was still as clumsy as before. And then the paper dolls gathered around Muu. Jubei and Chikata imitated Muus actions.

Are you ready?

rh. Muu lifted up the spear that was taller than her.

What a nice smile.