Clarifications:
-"Person Talking"-
-(Person Thinking)-
-
[Skills or Magic]
(JC: Author's Notes)
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Let's start
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I was in a state of shock. -(And how could I not be?)-
In front of me is a gigantic Dragon... A being that shouldn't exist, but what I'm experiencing now makes me believe anything is possible.
Besides, Ddraig told me he's also a Dragon; so they do exist.
-(But that's not the point! There's a damn Dragon in front of me!)- I thought desperately. -(A Dragon with gigantic teeth and claws, capable of cutting me to pieces!)-
-"Ddraig, I need your help"-
I whispered, nervously looking at the gauntlet, hoping the Dragon wouldn't hear me and that Ddraig would. But in the end, Ddraig didn't respond. I didn't know if it was because he didn't hear me or because he was ignoring me.
-(Ddraig, I really need your help!)- I thought hard in an attempt to get Ddraig's attention. -(According to you, you're also a Dragon, do something!)-
-
-(That voice again)- I'm pretty sure it's not [Great Sage]. -(Listen, I have a situation here involving a Dragon! So shut up, whoever you are!)-
-
-(I can hear you! But I can't answer you!)-
It was then that I thought, since it came from my head, maybe I could answer the voice with my thoughts.
-- That was the somewhat disrespectful response I tried to project in my head. -(Well, it's not like I'd hear it anyway; so you should be fine)-
-<... Ho, ho! So I'm annoying, aren't you brave?! It's been a long time since I've had company, so it may have gotten off to a bad start, but this one seems to be looking for death!>-
-(This is bad. He heard everything I said, and he didn't like it at all!)-
But hey, when I think of words in my head.
-(I can respond!)-
If I'd been taught that before, I wouldn't have to anger that voice in my head. Besides, I don't even know who or what that voice is.
-(Well, that's it. Time to throw in the towel)- So, I decided to apologize properly. -(What's missing, now I have to apologize to the voice in my head. I've already gone completely crazy...)-
-
-(I hope that worked)-
And suddenly, I laugh.
-
A perfect three-step laugh. It was simply breathtaking.
-(Has the anger passed?)-
-
-(Not caring who it is?)- I raised an eyebrow at that clarification. -(I don't even know who you are. I just know you're a voice in my head!)-
-
-
-(Right in front of me? But the only one right in front of me is...)-
I went pale when I realized who I was talking to.
-(All this time I was talking to the Dragon!)- I thought in a panic. -(And I called him annoying!)-
-"S-Sorry, I didn't know I was talking to you."-
This time I apologized with words. I no longer needed to think about my words, knowing that the owner of the voice was the Dragon.
-
-"U-Uh, w-well..."-
Obviously, I couldn't tell him I thought it was a voice in my head. That would have been embarrassing...
-
-"Sorry to bother you. I just appeared inside this cave."-
It's best to be as respectful as possible to this Dragon. The last thing I want is to be eaten by it.
-
-(No, I'm not a Majin)- I internally balked at that question. -(I'm not even close to being one)-
According to the explanation [Great Sage] gave me, Majins are beings born from magical energy. They are generally beasts and magical beasts that have evolved beyond their selves. Reproductive capabilities and true intelligence are considered their special characteristics. Above all, these tend to vary depending on the individual.
Among these, there are also the High-Class Majin. They are the most disorganized and diverse group. Giants, Vampires, and Demons are the High-Class Majin with the longest lifespans. Although these can also reproduce, they typically refrain. Harboring overwhelming magical energy, their flesh never decomposes.
And so, there's no need for them to leave offspring. Although perhaps if their numbers were to decrease due to a war or some great calamity, that might change.
Simply put, Majins are powerful beings…
-"I'm not a Majin, I'm just a normal Human."-
-(Well, not that normal...)-
-
-(Dragon's aura on me? It must be Ddraig, because from what I know, I'm not a Dragon)-
-"That must be because of this."-
I raised my one arm and showed the gauntlet so the Dragon could see it.
--
No wonder you're confused. Even I'm confused.
-"Yes. A Dragon is sealed inside the gauntlet."-
-
-(That makes two of us...)-
-
-"[Yes, I can, sir...]"-
-(Ah, you finally spoke!)- I couldn't help but look at the gauntlet with a bit of anger. -(Where were you when I asked for your help!? And what's with that respectful tone?)-
-
-"[I am Ddraig, the Red Dragon Emperor]"-
-(Strange, Ddraig didn't say it with pride.)- I couldn't help but notice that. -(Something's up.)-
-
The Dragon stared at me, waiting for my answer.
-(Is it necessary for me to introduce myself?)-
First of all, you must introduce yourself first, and then ask me my name; that's good manners. But since I'm asking, also to avoid the Dragon's anger, I introduced myself politely.
-"My name is Yukimaru."-
-
And there he goes with his high-pitched laugh...
-(Well, that introduction far surpasses Ddraig's.)- It was a bit long, but I'll get over it. -(Seriously, what is it about the Dragons with their proud performances? It must have to do with their low self-esteem)-
But I got straight to the point. -(Storm Dragon Veldora... a Dragon, huh? Fighting High-Class Majins for fun, isn't that a dangerous guy?)-
That would fit the taste of most people absorbed in manga, anime, and light novels. With everything I knew, there was no doubt that Storm Dragon Veldora is dangerous. The fact that he explained how powerful he is only makes this feel more sinister.
-(Now... What to do next...?)-
-"It's... It's like this. What an easy-to-understand explanation, thank you very much! Well, then I apologize!"-
With those words, I tried to say goodbye and turned around.
-
-(Ah, so close to escaping!)- I grumbled internally at my bad luck. -(Looks like I'll have to talk about myself... But wait. I appeared in a different world! If I said that, would he believe it?)-
In any case, if he realized I was trying to trick him... That would raise a death flag…
-(Oh well... Whether he believes me or not is not for me to decide)-
Having come to a decision, I discussed everything that had happened so far.
....
.....
...
....
.....
-"Well, that's the thing. Isn't it strange?"-
Without mentioning anything about my Abilities, I talked about everything. From the time I was tricked by the red-haired witch, to waking up in the cave, to the situations I've experienced in this strange world.
As I said this, it strangely didn't seem like a worrisome situation at all, but, well, it was pretty bad.
--
-"Huh? Method? And hey, aren't you supposed to be doubtful or surprised?"- I was a little surprised that this Dragon wasn't shocked by my story. -(What's with that answer? Isn't travel from another world supposed to be something really rare?)-
-
-"Is that so?... So there are those who have traveled from another world or have been reincarnated from a different world, huh?"-
-
-(I see. Other worlds...)- I didn't know if they're from my Earth or not, but meeting them didn't seem like a bad idea.
-"I see! In that case, I'll go see if I can meet any World Travelers. Maybe I'll find a compatriot among them."-
-
-"Ah, well."- I was disheartened by that. -(If I can't fight, then what?)-
With the short time I've been in this world, I can already see that it's very dangerous. It's inconvenient, but if I move carefully, I'm sure I'll find them someday. Probably.
-
-(Huh? What?)- I didn't expect him to say that. -(Hey, this guy, no; this Storm Dragon Veldora... isn't he a good man (Dragon)? Can I really expect this miracle?)-
-"Huh? Really?"-
-
-(One condition... Eh. Sinister, but fair...)-
-"What kind of condition?"-
-
-(Is that all?)- I raised an eyebrow at that condition. -(And could it be... This dragon was lonely? The loneliness born of strength?)-
-"Is that all?"-
-
-(He was sealed for only three hundred years!? I would have gone crazy if I were in his place.)- I felt really sorry for him. -(Maybe I should visit him sometimes. No one in the world deserves to be alone forever)-
-"If it's okay with you, I'll happily accept!"-
-
-"I will!"- I smiled confidently. -"Even if it doesn't seem like it, I'm a trustworthy person."-
-
-"No, I can't,"- I shook my head. -"What kind of Skill is it?"-
-
-"Simple?"-
-
-"And how will this Skill help me?"-
-
-"Does that mean I'll be able to see the Magic around me?"- I asked, slightly confused, not seeing the use of that Skill. -(What will that really help me?)-
-
-"If light waves and dark waves."-
-
-"Wait, wait."- I stopped him suddenly, gaining a bit of insight into that Skill. -"Are you telling me that with that Skill, I'll be able to see all around me?"-
-
-(Damn, it's a very useful Skill!)-
-"It's certainly a useful Skill for battles and reconnaissance."-
-
In short, with that Skill I'll be able to protect myself from any danger lurking in this world. But I doubted I'd be ready for a fight. I'm a good fighter and a great swordsman, but I didn't have a sword with me to help with the latter.
-"Let's put combat aside for now. I'll just use it to watch my back."-
-
-"[He's right, you are boring...]"-
-(Hey, don't call me that. I'm not boring, just cautious)- I grumbled internally at his comments. -(And you, Ddraig, shouldn't support him. If something happens to me, it will happen to you too!)-
-
-"What...?! Can you even do it?"-
-
-(I see...)- I understood what he meant. If by chance I had been born blind, explaining light and darkness would have been difficult, but I didn't know if I could obtain that Skill, and it's not like I could refuse to try anyway. -(Maybe it won't be that difficult... Besides, I have a very useful Skill for learning. I'm sure something will come of this!)-
-"Please teach me!"-
-
I somewhat understood that. -(I think I can use the same principle as when I tried to awaken my Sacred Gear)-
-"How is this?"-
While sealing it in my body, I check the movement of magical energy.
-
-(This is quite simple. Feeling it is essential!)-
-"I get it!"-
-
-"Ah, I got it."-
-
Just by looking at his expression, I could see that he was also surprised and confused. Although I had to admit it was funny to see a Dragon confused.
-
-"Well... it's hard to explain what happened,"- I muttered, not quite sure what happened. -(Believe me, you're not the only one surprised and confused, but that's what the notification I received said)-
<
-(I knew it. I knew the Skill [Prodigy] would help!)-
<
-(Yes, of course, [YES]!)-
The moment I activated the Skill [Magic Perception], my mind was filled with information. I had never processed so much information at once.
Bit by bit, magical energy advanced, waves of light and darkness.
Having captured all the incoming information, I converted it into something I could understand.
And so, I can now see 360 degrees around me, without a single blind spot. The shadow of a rock, the landscape 100 meters away—all of it. If I direct my consciousness there, I can see it.
If a human's mind were filled with that much information... It might fry, but for some reason unknown, I wasn't affected.
And then...
<
-(Thank you, [Great Sage]!)-
-"Well... Somehow it seems I've succeeded. Thank you very much!"-
-
He's still surprised...
-
I looked to where Veldora was pointing, only to see the left wall of the cave.
-"On the wall?"-
-
-(Really? Don't tell me there's a secret room.)-
The only way I knew was to do what Veldora said. I approached the only stalagmite on the left wall and then moved it. It only took a little force to tilt the stalagmite like a lever.
I jumped in surprise when I heard a creaking sound, and then a section of the wall opened in two, revealing a room.
-"Wow,"- I murmured in amazement at what was across the room. -(I hit the jackpot!)-
On the other side of the wall was a room filled with various incredible things. Gold, silver, jewels, coins made from different minerals, swords, daggers, axes, shields, armor, books, fine fabrics; all of it was overflowing inside the room.
I wasted no time and went in to explore.
-"What is this place?"-
-
-(Hey, don't say that so casually! Especially when the things aren't yours!)-
I thought it would be best if I didn't take anything; I didn't want to mess with the person who sealed Veldora.
-(That person must be anything but normal, if he could stand up to someone like Veldora...)- Even as I thought about that, I couldn't help but look at the entire contents of the room with a greed I hadn't felt during my years of "rebellion." –(Although maybe...)-
-"Are you sure he didn't show up again?"-
I asked Veldora, seeking confirmation that the owner hadn't returned for his belongings.
-
-(Well, it wouldn't hurt to bring a little... Or rather, all of it.)-
When I thought that, for a second, a small, sinister smile began to form on my face. I quickly shook my head to erase those thoughts and behaviors.
-"That was close... I almost fell into that state again..."-
Then I began to explore the room, and the first thing that caught my attention was the large pile of books. I read the titles and was excited to learn what these books were about.
-(This is…!)-
-"Books on Magic!"-
-(Yes, I'll be able to learn Magic!)-
-
-(Oops, I got so excited I screamed)-
-"[You'd better put these books away. It might help you on your journey, buddy]"-
-(Right, right. With Magic, I'll be able to defend myself from any danger in this world)-
I took advantage of the [Predator] skill and stored all the books in the room in my [Stomach].
It was at that moment that I saw something very remarkable...
It was an old-looking book placed on a pedestal. I slowly approached the pedestal and then picked up the book. Just by touching it and looking at its appearance, I could tell its cover was made of leather, and I couldn't open it because of the lock.
-(What kind of book is this?)-
<
-(I'm still not used to that... But it's useful to have [Great Sage] in these circumstances. But changing the subject, what are Skill Books?)-
<
-"So a book to remove Skills? Interesting."- Obviously, the owner of that place removed someone's Skill and sealed it in this book. -"But what Skill is sealed?"-
The best thing at that moment was to ask the person who had been there for three hundred years.
-"Hey, Veldora! I found a Skill Book! Do you know anything about it?"-
--
-(It seems he doesn't know either.)-
-"What if I open it?"-
-
-"Hey…"-
I couldn't help but groan at his comment. The good thing is, I think I have another way to obtain this Skill.
-"[Predator]"-
The all-too-familiar black fog enveloped and consumed the book. The fog disappeared seconds later.
<
<
I really hoped I wasn't mistaken at that moment…
-([YES], analyze it!)-
<
This time the analysis took a few seconds longer. -(Looks like this will take a while...)-
<
-(Oh, it doesn't seem like it)-
<
That simple notification showed me that [Predator] is a very powerful Skill.
-([Constructor]? It has a funny name. [Great Sage], please explain that Skill to me)-
< Shaping: Allows the user to mold an object into the desired shape.
Programming: Allows the user to input a set of instructions into a non-living object.
Enchanting: Allows the user to give a magical effect or ability to an object.>>
-"...."-
I was speechless at that moment...
-(Are you telling me I can build almost anything with this Skill? That's amazing!)-
-"[Interesting Skill...]"-
-"Is that all you're going to say?"- I looked at the gauntlet in amazement. -"Can't you see the potential of this Skill!?"-
- -(Oh, I forgot about Veldora!)-
-"Yes, I was able to open the book!"-
- I noticed a tone of surprise in his voice. -(Is it so surprising that I opened it?)-
-"Yes! He gave me a Unique Skill called [Constructor]!"-
-<[Constructor]? I know that Skill>-
-"Really?"-
- -(Well, that is interesting…)-
- I couldn't help but continue with the questions. -"What kind of inventions?"-
- -(Yes, he's definitely a World Traveler)-
But hearing him describe those objects as if they were something strange, I couldn't help but fear that the world I was in wasn't as advanced as my own. It would be amazing if it were like the fantasy worlds of swords and magic from many novels, but as a teenager living in the 21st century, it would be very difficult for me to get used to it.
-(Please don't let the world be like that!)-
- -"...Yeah... Everything's okay."-
It would be best if I relaxed. Then I had time to curse my luck when I got out of this cave.
-(I'd better keep inspecting the room...)-
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...
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.....
I had already looked through and stored all the gold, jewelry, and coins, as well as a wide variety of weapons in the [Stomach]. I was also talking with Veldora and Ddraig. -(I have to say, these two Dragons are very friendly)-
But I abandoned that thought when I noticed some rare ingots of a little-known rainbow-colored ore.
-([Great Sage], could you explain to me what these ingots are?)-
< -(Oh, please continue)-
< -(A unique material!)- I rejoiced internally at such a discovery. -(It's also obtained from Magic Ore. I collected a bunch in the cave. These materials will be very useful)-
-(But now that I think about it...)- I looked closely at my right side, where my arm once was. Then I looked at the gleaming ingots. -(Uhm... [Great Sage], is it possible to make a prosthetic arm with Magic Steel?)-
< -(And would it work?)-
< -(So it is possible! And now with the [Builder] Skill, it will be easier!)-
But I still needed a blueprint to visualize to create the prosthesis. Good thing I had an intelligent Unique Skill with me.
-([Great Sage] please create a blueprint for the prosthesis!)-
< -(As fast as ever...)-
In my head, I saw a sophisticated and complicated blueprint for the prosthesis, as if it were made by a professional. So I wasted no time and gathered enough Magic Steel for the prosthesis. I then placed my hand over it and used the [Constructor] Skill.
-"[Model]"-
The Magic Steel ingots then began to distort, eventually taking the shape of a very detailed arm. It was an exact copy of my old arm, except it was crystalline and multi-colored.
-(Yes, it worked! Plus, it looks amazing!)- I thought as I looked at the new arm in amazement. -(Now that I think about it, why don't we make this a little more interesting?)-
With a new idea in mind, I pulled out one of the many weapons in the room from my stomach. This weapon wasn't normal, not like a sword or a dagger. This weapon is a cannon; or more specifically, a Magic Cannon.
According to the Great Sage, the Magic Cannon serves as a normal cannon, only it uses the user's Magic Energy as ammunition. Although Veldora said it was a nearly useless weapon and difficult to use, as it consumes a lot of Magic Energy. That didn't worry me; if it would help me get an arm with a Magic Cannon, I'll take all the risks.
-([Great Sage], new plans please, but this time attaching a Magic Cannon to the prosthetic!)-
< -(Let's do this!)-
-"[Model]"-
The prosthetic and the Magic Cannon began to distort, then merged together and took on a new shape. It was still the same arm as before, only three times larger and the fingers more rectangular.
-"[Something seemed to go wrong, mate. It's still an arm]"-
-"Maybe on the outside, but inside is the entire mechanism of the Magic Cannon."-
-"[Oh, I see. But how will you activate it?]"-
-(Easy, my dear friend Ddraig.)- I smiled as I placed my hand back on the prosthesis. -(All it takes is...)-
-"[Programming]"-
With my ideas and the help of the Great Sage, we were able to create perfect programming for the prosthesis. The programming consisted of quick changes from arm to cannon and vice versa, with simple voice commands.
-(And that's it!)- I smiled with satisfaction. -(Time to test it!)-
I took the prosthesis and inserted it where my right arm had once been, to see that it fit perfectly.
-(Now for your business, [Great Sage]!)-
< I felt a tingling sensation throughout my body that only lasted a few seconds, then disappeared. Believing the process was complete, I closed my eyes and tried to lift the prosthesis.
-(Did it work...?)- I opened my eyes, then smiled happily as the prosthesis rose at my mental command. -(It rose!)-
And so I began to move it as if it were a normal arm. Everything worked perfectly; the elbow, the wrist, even the fingers. It was as if it were a part of me.
-"It's official, the Abilities are incredible!"-
- -(Oh, right, Veldora)-
-"I made a prosthetic limb out of Magic Steel!"-
- -(Is that all you're going to say!? And then I'm boring...)-
-(Also... I still have one more thing to try)- I smiled and held up the prosthetic limb. -(It's showtime!)-
-"Canyon Mode!"-
The prosthetic limb then began to rapidly change. The wrist bent, allowing the back of the hand to touch the arm, revealing a hole in the arm. Then the hand separated into two and settled on either side of the arm, which then began to rotate.
-(Yes, it worked!)- I held up the Magic Cannon with a smile. -(I have an arm with a Magic Cannon!)-
Then I tested if I could return it to normal.
-"Arm Mode!"-
The prosthesis then changed again, returning to its previous arm form.
-(I know I said it before, but I'll say it again! This is amazing!)-
Now with a new arm and with great satisfaction, I continued inspecting this room.
-(Maybe I'll find even more impressive things!)-
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...
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-"Well, this can only be a coincidence."-
Among all the things I found in the room, I found something I obviously needed at the time. Between my hands was a glass cylinder with a colorless liquid inside; but that's not what caught my attention, but what was floating in the liquid.
The object inside was round, golden in color, and had various technological patterns.
When I asked [Great Sage] what it was... This is what he replied...
< <>
I didn't know whether to be grateful that this was in the room or terrified by the sheer coincidence.
-(I literally needed a new eye and I just got it! Just out of nowhere!)-
I quickly concluded that something strange was going on in this room, but I took advantage of the situation anyway. I opened the cylinder lid and took the eye out to put it on.
It felt very strange. -"Ugh~"-
After blinking a few times, I could notice something.
-(The eye is working perfectly.)-
But there was a problem.
-"What are those lights?"-
As [Great Sage] said, it seems I can see Magical Energy with the Magical Eye. It felt strange to see normally with my eye and see that with the Magical Eye.
-(For now, I think I should cover it up.)- I decided to avoid discomfort. -(And an eye patch will do.)-
The good thing is that I had a wide variety of fabric in this room. Then I looked at the fine fabrics in the room, then at my dirty clothes.
-(What if...?)-
....
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...
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I left the room, now completely empty. Then I closed it again, moving the stalagmite. Then I stood in front of Veldora.
- -"Yes, do you like them?"-
- Currently, he was wearing the black jeans, but now updated; a black T-shirt, under a long white coat with fur on the collar and sleeves, and black sneakers. Obviously not forgetting the black eye patch covering the Magic Eye.
I have to honestly say that I like the new look.
- Veldora looked closely at the coat he was wearing.
-(What? Doesn't it suit me?)-
I know white stands out a lot with black and vice versa, but I honestly thought it looked good on me.
-"Is there something wrong?"-
- -"Levitation Coat?"- I widened my eyes slightly at that statement. -(Don't tell me this coat lets you fly!)-
- -"Ha, that's incre-!"-
- -"Huh?"- The cheer I felt a second ago disappeared at the same time. -(Did you really just tell me this amazing artifact is junk?)-
-"Uh, Veldora, no offense, but I think you're mistaken."-
- - (Oh? Is that right? Okay, now I get the bad news.)-
Honestly, I wouldn't want to run out of Magical Energy too quickly, especially if I'm mid-flight...
-(But...)-
-"You know what, I'll probably keep it."-
- -"You mean this katana?"-
At my waist was a black katana sheath, which revealed the katana handle, which was also black. I took the sheath and then unsheathed the katana, revealing its black blade.
-"I found it sitting on a pedestal,"- I explained as I placed the katana in front of me. -"I liked it among all the weapons there."-
I have to say, I really love this katana, and I think it suits my style.
- -"Huh?!"-
-(This katana belonged to the person who sealed Veldora!?)- I looked at the katana in my hands with a scared look. -(I think I have to give this back...)-
- I raised an eyebrow in interest. -"Special?"-
-(I see. Looks like I found an ancient treasure.)- I thought with a smile. -(Kuroma, huh? It means Pure Black, a very fitting name for it. But I still don't understand what's special about this katana.)-
- -(Mythic Grade?)- I blinked, not understanding. -(Oh, what do you mean by that?)-
< -(Damn, that came out of nowhere,)- I thought after being startled by the [Great Sage's] sudden response. -(I'll have to start getting used to this, but that doesn't matter for now. I have a very powerful weapon in my hands!)-
Just hearing that it's Mythical Grade makes it sound strong.
-"I have an amazing Katana!"-
- -"Huh?"-
-(Oh, come on! Just when I found something great!)-
- -"Yeah, you're right."- I couldn't help but agree. -(Maybe with a little effort and time, I'll be able to return this Katana, I mean, to Kuroma; to its prime)-
- Now I was curious about something...
-(This Dragon... It doesn't seem like it can even move a muscle. Did it really stay like that for three hundred years?")-
-"By the way, Veldora, you mentioned that you were sealed. How exactly did it happen?"-
- Somehow, the way he said "defeated" sounded more proud than anything else. Honestly, it didn't seem like swords or spears, or even magic, could even hurt this guy, but...
-"Was he really that strong?"-
-(What possible beast could be stronger than him? The outside world is scarier than I thought!... Probably...)-
- Hero...
I'm quite familiar with the term from games. Recently, the "I end up in the position of a hero" plot line has been popular, but I don't remember them being that OP. In this world, it seems they're really strong.
- -"No idea."-
Although it seems my world holds some very supernatural secrets, I still wouldn't know how to answer, but I knew someone who would.
-"What are you saying, Ddraig? Are there people that strong in our world?"-
Ddraig was silent for several seconds.
-"[...No... There aren't]"-
-(How strange. I'm sure Ddraig was afraid when he said those words)- It wasn't difficult for me to recognize the tone of fear in Ddraig's voice. -(Maybe it's nothing)-
- -"When you say he was summoned, do you mean summoning something through magic?"-
- -"Huh? Weapon?"-
- -"What's up with that?! Are the summoned people not recognized as humans?!"-
-(I see... It's very hard to accept these stories compared to those in my world.)-
-"In that case, are World Travelers treated like slaves?"-
- -"In other words, forced labor is only limited to the case of summoned people."-
--
- "That's to be expected... Sorry."-
Rather, for a Dragon, he was very knowledgeable. Anyway, just talking seems to make him happy, and he answers any questions.
So for now, the Dragon and I continued our conversation; about how the Hero fought and how strong he was.
- -"...."-
-(Did he lose because he was distracted by the woman's beauty?)-
-(I... I don't know what to think about that)- Although I had no right to an opinion, after all, the same thing happened to me. -(Damn red-haired witch...)-
-"So... were his looks all he had?"-
- He exclaimed happily. I understood the story, but this Dragon seemed to like humans. He calls them small and trash, but he seems to have never killed any of them; at least not those who haven't earned his wrath.
According to Veldora, at that time, three hundred years ago, after a certain incident, a city turned to dust. Because of that incident, the Hero was sent away, and Veldora was sealed. By the Hero Skill [Eternal Imprisonment].
-"And you don't have anyone to help you? Friends, family?"-
- The way you said it, it was obviously a lie...
- -(Oh, it seems there's trouble in the family)-
--
-"I know how you feel"-
- -"I'm an orphan. When I was born, I didn't know my parents. I don't even have a last name. That makes me feel a little lonely."-
I've always wondered: What would it be like to have a family? What would it be like to be hugged by your mother? What would it be like to learn from your father?
-(I bet it's amazing)-
-"[I have to agree on that...]"-
-"Huh? You too, Ddraig?"-
-"[Yeah. The moment I hatched, I was completely alone. Although it's normal for the Dragon race to abandon their children to fend for themselves, it's still a bit lonely]"-
-(I see... I never thought Ddraig would have gone through the same thing)-
- We laughed at that. The best way to overcome a problem is to laugh at it.
-(Though maybe...)-
-"You know, there's no need for us to just continue..."-
I doubt I can understand the Dragon's feelings, but at least I can say that he's not a bad Dragon, and well, I like him. Because of that, I'm not afraid of him anymore. So...
-"Why don't we become brothers, like a family?"-
-(Ouch... that was quite embarrassing.)-
- -"Ah... well, if you hate him so much..."-
- -"Eh, then? Umm... What are you going to do?"-
-<... Let's see... Well, if you insist... I can consider it...>-
Somehow, he's timidly stealing glances at me. That was very rare to see when it's done by an evil-looking Dragon...
-"I insist! Decide now! If you don't like it, the offer is over! No second chances!"-
- -(Phew... This Dragon isn't very obedient. Neither am I, so we fit in well)-
-"Then I'll be in his care, brother!"-
I can't help but smile at those words.
- -"Huh? Why? Just like that?"-
- -(Uhm. So I'll finally be able to have a surname. So, I have to be known by a family name, huh? I'm not very good at this sort of thing...)-
-"Since you're called Storm Dragon, how about just "Tempest"?"-
-(That's good, isn't it?)-
Sounds good. I just took Storm and changed it to Tempest...
- -"[Not bad, mate]"-
-(Do you like it?!)-
- And that name was engraved into my soul. From what I can see and feel, I feel no different, but somewhere deep within my soul, I felt something change.
-(I should mention this to Veldora, shouldn't I?)- And so, we became brothers. -(Or would it be more appropriate to call us soul brothers?)-
But that didn't matter. I was now Yukimaru Tempest, and I decided to bear that name with pride!
-(But first...)-
-"Ah, before I go, I wanted to ask. Is there nothing you can do about that seal?"-
- -"You don't possess any Unique Abilities?"-
--
For the moment, the Hero's Unique Skill: [Eternal Prison] seals the target in infinite imaginary time and space; a nasty ability that doesn't allow interference from here. Although it seems strange that all it can do is communicate telepathically...
It's not like the Skill weakens over time, after all. Being able to recognize even the present and converse with other creatures seems like an interference problem. What's unusual is Veldora himself here...
Of course, we both realized this.
-"Very well, there's something I want to try..."-
As I said, I touched Veldora. And...
< As expected, sealing a Hero isn't going to be that easy. But for a second, the interference with the Hero's ability cast a blinding light, but then it returned to normal. It seems that for a brief moment, a rift opened in this eternal prison, but it quickly restored itself.
Anyway, "since it's also a Unique Skill, something will happen," that kind of thing will only lead to trouble.
-(Is there nothing I can do? What do I do...?)-
< It is impossible for the body to escape. Physical damage, probability of destroying the prison is 0%.
Regarding the escape method from imaginary space, analysis proved impossible. Analysis in an identical situation, imprisonment in [Eternal Prison] is necessary for analysis. Therefore, it is currently impossible.
The chance of freeing a spiritual body is 1%. You have to prepare a host for the spirit ahead of time, and pass it through the process; the success rate increases by 3%. For now, this process is similar to reincarnation. If the affinity with the host is poor, all memories and abilities will be reset.
End of escape method report>>
-(...Phew)-
The odds were too low. It looks like nothing more than a fragile veil, this [Eternal Prison] skill, but for it to be invulnerable to physical attacks...
There must be some weakness to this absolute Skill…
-"Did the Hero suffer any damage? A wound or something?"-
- And all the other babbling would end with Veldora laughing.
Unique Skill [Eternal Prison] was definitely used to cover his body; if all outside interference is denied, a shield isn't necessary.
-(What a useful skill!)-
Unique Skill [Absolute Break], Unique Skill [Eternal Imprisonment]. If these two are combined, you'd definitely be completely invincible.
-(I wouldn't want to run into her... Even less so if she knows I took all her things...)-
Although she must have passed away by now, she should be fine. No need to ask, she belonged to the strongest class.
-(Anyway. The escape method requires a host, huh?)-
-"To escape, you need to transfer your soul into a host. It's also possible to escape in a spirit body, but the chance of success is low."-
I don't really see the point in mentioning percentages. If Veldora's desire to escape diminishes, it might lower the chances...
- -"I see... That would be the reason why the concentration of magical energy around here is so high."-
- -(Ah...)-
I remembered the Hipokte Grass and Magic Ore. In this case, they are very valuable items...
-"Well... Since that's the case, are you going to try to escape? If you had a place to transfer to, the chances would be higher... And also, what is considered a good host?"-
-<... Unfortunately, even if I separate my spirit, gathering the magical energy into a single core is quite difficult... By opening a crack in the seal, that's how this will succeed. And a host, huh." That is, prepare a new core and move there. Reincarnation!>-
-(Ah, I thought he might be a bit foolish, but he understood everything perfectly. He came to the same conclusion as [Great Sage])-
-"Here's the thing. So, if there's something I can prepare, should I go and get it?"-
- Once again with those incomprehensible things.
So, we talked until I understood them...
The result:
Gather the magical energy with the mind and then form the flesh. For the time being, the bound flesh is out of the question, but the mind also can't influence the magical energy surrounding it.
That's the situation.
So I asked him if I could leave as a spirit.
- That's what he said.
If I were to leave this way, the magical energy would disperse, and I would cease to exist. And, somewhere else, another Storm Dragon would be born. It's a means of escape, but if there's no sense of it, it would mean becoming a different person.
-(I'm confused. Wouldn't "eating" Veldora with [Predator] be a better option?)- I pondered in my head. -(Placing him in my [Predator] [Stomach], thoroughly analyzing the effects of [Eternal Imprisonment], and simply eliminating him... Would that work?)-
< -(It's possible, huh... If I explain it to him, will he accept?)-
If this continues, after hundreds of years of isolation, only disappearance would be his fate.
And so, I explained to Veldora the [Predator] ability and how I planned to use it. This would be impossible without the [Great Sage] Correction Skill.
- -"Can you trust me so easily?"-
- -(I see.)- I smiled at Veldora's words. -(Not alone. Together.)-
With [Great Sage] and [Predator], I'll continue the analysis and look for a way to free Veldora from his prison. In [Stomach], there's no fear of dispersion or disappearing.
-(I think we can do this)-
-"Very well. I'll 'eat' you now. Try to break out of [Eternal Prison], okay?"-
- -(Okay!)-
I made my decision. I touched Veldora, and he began to be enveloped in the black mist.
In a second, the giant Veldora disappeared from my sight. -(That was too fast.)-
He was just talking a second ago. Having disappeared so suddenly... It makes me feel a little lonely.
The Skill depends largely on the target's resistance to being absorbed, but as expected of Veldora, he didn't put up any resistance. I have to say, I'm surprised he was able to absorb that enormous body.
-(It seems that right now, 25% of my [Stomach] is occupied... How much space do I have there?)-
Then...
< -(Go ahead!)-
And without further ado, I accepted.
-"Well, I'd better get out-"-
-(Eeehhh!?)-
-"[Partner, what's going on!?]"-
-"I feel... Very... Tired..."-
-(What's happening to me?)-
Suddenly, a great amount of fatigue and exhaustion invaded me.
< -(What!? Just like that!?)- I tried to open my eyes in surprise upon hearing that, but I was so tired that even that wasn't possible. -(No, you can't...)-
< -(No! I can't sleep in this dangerous cave!)-
But it was too late...
The last thing I felt was falling onto the hard, cold cave floor.
And then... Everything went dark.
-(Shit...)-
TO BE CONTINUED!!!
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Author's Notes
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Please note that this story is mostly centered around Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken and another novel that you may recognize. Please also note that Rimuru is completely replaced by my own character (Yukimaru). You are warned.
Disclaimers:
The character or story mentioned from an anime, or novel, does not belong to me. Instead, it belongs to Ichiei Ishibumi (High School DxD), Fuse, Mitz Vah (Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken) and Patora Fuyuhara (Isekai wa Smartphone to Tomo ni)
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Upcoming chapters (Spoilers):
Chapter 4- Evolution and Cataclysm
Chapter 5- The Girl and the Demon Lord
Chapter 6 - First Fight and Skill Acquisition