《My Daughters The S-Rank Adventurers Had Severe Father-Con》


 1 Picked up a baby.txt

    I--Kaisel Clyde was an adventurer.


    From the time I received my first adventurer''s license at age 14, I distinguished myself and rose to the A-ranked adventurer of all time, faster than any other adventurer in history.


    If you handled a sword, you were called a sage. If you handled magic, you were called a wise man.


    I was a child prodigy since the adventurers'' guild began.


    That was the reputation I was held in high regard.


    But I wasn''t buoyed by their praise. My goal was to become an S-ranked adventurer.


    I spent my days practicing sword and sorcery and completing my missions.


    No one doubted that Kaiser would become an S-ranked adventurer in the future. And that was certainly true for me.


    But then...


    One day when I was 17, everything was lost.


    There I was, on a grade A mission.


    We were assigned to kill a wyvern that lived in the volcano.


    I climbed up the volcano from the nearby village and killed the wyvern. That should have been the end of the mission.


    But then--


    But now an irregularity has arisen.


    The battle between me and the wyvern had awakened an ancient dragon that lay dormant deep within the volcano.


    The dragon was a disaster-grade demon - an S-ranked one.


    With a roar, the dragon leaped from the crater and took off toward the village at the foot of the volcano. I hurried back to the village, but it was too late.


    A great many deaths lay before me.


    Entire villages had been wiped out.


    Buildings, people, land, everything was overrun.


    Black smoke rose from everywhere.


    The stench of burning flesh stank of death.


    The dragon was screaming in the middle of the burnt-out village. I rushed toward its massive, wicked body.


    After a day''s worth of deadly combat, the dragon had fled.


    I didn''t have the strength to chase it.


    Someone!¡¡Is there anyone out there!


    The village was empty and I screamed.


    They were dead.


    The chief who welcomed me with open arms, the muscular carpenter who drank with me all night, the innkeeper who favored me, they were all burned out.


    They were all burned to the ground.


    That''s ridiculous. ......


    I fell to my knees in despair.


    This is all my fault.


    I should have taken the wyvern down faster. I wouldn''t have woken the dragon that was sleeping in the crater.


    What kind of A-Level adventurer are you?


    What kind of sage is this? What a wise man. What kind of a child prodigy.


    Status and honor mean nothing if you fail to protect the people you should be protecting. I''m just a huge fool for this...


    And that was it.


    Oh no.


    I heard voices from somewhere.


    It smelled of death, and the wind was blowing and smelling it.


    I gasped and stood up and walked toward the voice.


    I run.


    As fast as I can, I make my way toward the voice.


    The distance between them gets closer.


    --It''s around the wreckage.


    I rummage through the debris at my feet.


    Please, please, please be alive.


    Please know that I''m alive.


    Please keep me alive.


    My fingers were torn to shreds when I saw a baby peeking out from underneath that pile of rubble.


    And it''s not just one. It''s three.


    ""Oh, my God!"


    Everyone is crying, their faces crumpled.


    Trembling with fear and trembling with anxiety.


    Screaming and crying at the top of their lungs.


    But that''s what it means.


    I knew these children were alive.


    That''s good. I''m so happy. ......


    I picked up the three babies and held them close.


    I took their fears and their insecurities with me.


    I thought they were all dead.


    But there were lives we could have saved.


    I''ll take responsibility for raising you. I''ll make everyone in this village happy who died. ......


    I made a vow that day to the people of that village that I couldn''t save.


    I''d make this baby grow up.


    And I''ll make them happy for those I couldn''t save.


    My life changed after I got back from that mission.


    I went on a mission to take down the wyvern, but I got blamed for waking up a dragon that was responsible for wiping out my village.


    People who had always praised me, they just laughed at me and took it out on me. Now they were treating me like a criminal.


    "He knew this was going to happen someday!¡¡You''ve been called a child prodigy or something, and you''ve gotten carried away!


    "You''re a Grade A adventurer. You destroyed an entire village!¡¡I want that guy''s adventurer''s license revoked right now!


    They haven''t killed the dragon yet, have they?¡¡We can sacrifice that guy and lure him in to lure the dragon guy in.


    Everyone was throwing barbs at me.


    But I couldn''t bring myself to argue with them. But they were harsh, but I had killed people in that village.


    And then...


    I had to retire from being an adventurer.


    The guild''s receptionist was the only one who was eager to keep me, but she was adamant that I would be there for the babies I had taken in.


    ''I see. ....... Mr. Kaiser has done nothing wrong. You just did the best you could in the moment.


    Thank you.


    He''s probably consoling me.


    I bowed and left the Adventurers'' Guild.


    The double doors were closing.


    That was the sound of my dream of becoming an S-ranked adventurer shut off.


    This was the day that I, at seventeen, became a father to three babies. I swore to myself that I would give my life to raise them to be great men.

 2 Elsa, the eldest daughter.txt

    After being banished from King''s Landing, I returned to my home village of Yuzuha.


    It is where I was born and raised, and where I left to become an adventurer.


    My parents passed away when I was very young, but my family home was still there.


    People in the village would sometimes clean up the house for when I came back. That allowed me to get on with my life easily.


    I gave up on my dream of being an adventurer and came back home, only to be greeted by the people of the village who welcomed me with open arms.


    They were just surprised to see me bring three babies back with me. I told them the truth about their situation.


    Ten years later.


    The girls I''d found were now ten years old.


    Hey!


    The girl with the silver hair-- Erza wields a wooden sword at me.


    The eldest of three sisters, she has a dignified face.


    She is taller than most of her peers.


    The swordsmanship is so sharp and strong that it''s hard to believe she''s a ten-year-old.


    --However, she''s still just a child.


    I effortlessly catch her blow with my wooden sword.


    ''''Eeeeeeee!''''


    Elsa just called out and came at you with a bang.


    She has the advantage of being bold.


    I ducked her blow as she stepped in and hooked my right foot on her leg.


    My center of gravity wobbles forward.


    Wow. "...wow. Wow.


    Elsa is trying to balance on one leg, flopping around on the floor.


    I aimed at her head and--pokari.


    I swung the tip of my sword down gently.


    That was the trigger that sent Elsa stumbling to the ground. She''s in an awkward position with her hips thrust out toward you.


    She''s holding her head down, "There it is .......


    You''re a gamble, right?


    I laugh at him.


    "Ugh. ....... That''s my dad. I didn''t manage to hit him with my sword again. I was determined to make it happen today. ......


    "Hmm. I can''t let my darling daughter give me a blow yet.


    I smile at Elsa.


    Even though I''m retired from adventuring, I still have to train. It''s too soon for a ten-year-old girl to give me a blow.


    And she''s only 27 years old.


    But Elsa was pretty good too. Her swordsmanship is even better than before. If she keeps up this pace, she''ll be a great fighter.


    ''Can I be a swordsman like my dad ...... father?''


    Yeah. I''m sure.


    I stroked Elsa''s silver hair gently.


    "And you don''t have to be so formal about it. You can just call me Dad, okay?


    -Oh!


    Elsa''s cheeks were quickly reddened.


    ...... That''s not possible. I''m a swordsman. You need to keep your distance from the soft objects and practice your sword. You''ll never become a first-rate swordsman.


    Do you have to call him "Dad" to be a softy?


    ''Yes, sir. Calling me "Dad" or eating dessert is soft. A swordsman must always be a swordsman!


    It seems that Elsa has her own vision of the ideal swordsman. Perhaps she was influenced by reading swordsman''s heroic tales at home.


    I see... That''s a shame. We''re having apple pie for dinner tonight. Can''t eat that if you don''t like soft stuff.


    Pi?


    Elsa''s eyes sparkled with a squeal . When a greedy expression appeared on her face, she muttered while pinching the index fingers of both hands together.


    ...... I''m going to be a little soft today.


    She was so easy on herself.


    I chuckled and walked away from Elsa''s hand.


    Her little palms were blistered from swinging her sword.


    She was the one who was most interested in the sword out of the three sisters.


    Her eyes would sparkle when she saw me swinging it in our yard.


    Whenever I swung my sword, she would clap her hands together in delight.


    Even when she cried at night, she calmed down when I gave her the wooden sword.


    When she was a baby and now at ten years old, she would fall asleep with the wooden sword I was using in her arms.


    That seemed to calm her down.


    When I grow up, I want to be an adventurer like my father. And I will slay the dragons he couldn''t.


    Elsa declared, sniffling, as she told me.


    The girls knew I''d been an adventurer.


    People in the village had spoken.


    They told me that Kaiser was the best swordsman in their village and the youngest adventurer ever to become an A-ranked genius after becoming an adventurer.


    It''s a little too much of a stretch to be true: .......


    When Elsa heard that, she longed to be an adventurer.


    And she is determined to slay the Ancient Dragon for me, the one the villagers said I couldn''t slay.


    I had mixed feelings.


    As a parent, you don''t want to turn your daughter into a dangerous adventurer.


    Besides, the ancient dragon was not only the monster I couldn''t defeat, but it was also responsible for burning Erza''s homeland to the ground.


    If I had to get Elsa killed as well--''''


    ...... No, that''s a parent''s ego.


    I shook my head and shook the thought out of my head.


    It''s not up to me to decide what happens to Elsa. It''s Elsa herself.


    If she wants to be a swordsman and an adventurer, there''s no reason to stop her. That would only be for the convenience of her parents.


    So if that''s the case...


    Then I''ll try to teach her how to use the sword so she can become as strong as possible. As a swordsman, to gain the strength to defend yourself and those you care about.


    That''s all I can do for Elsa as a parent.

 3 Anna, the second daughter, is a solid person.txt

    Elsa and I were on our way back home.


    "Oh my God!


    I saw a man in work clothes coming from across the street.


    He looked pale.


    Screaming, breathing hard, like he''s running away from something.


    --What''s wrong with that Kamru guy? What happened to him? Could there be a monster in the village, and he''s after her?


    I was alarmed, but it was not a demon but Anna, the second of the three sisters, who came running after Kamru.


    Her hair was in a braid, hanging down from her left shoulder.


    She had a face like a noble cat that ten out of ten people who saw her would think, ''She''s cute, but she looks strong.


    A thirty-something worker was desperately running away from a teenage girl.


    It was as if the monster was chasing him.


    ''Dad!¡¡Get Mr. Kamul!


    ''What?¡¡Oh, yeah.


    I accepted my daughter''s request and stood in front of the worker, Kamru.


    ''Get out of the way!¡¡Kaisel!


    "Not so fast. It''s my daughter''s request. As a parent, I''m asking you for a favor. --I''m sorry, but you need to give yourself up!


    I tackled Kamru and fell into the street.


    "G-ha-ha!


    Nice, Dad!


    Anna snapped her fingers and came running to me.


    "Why did Kamru run away?


    Nothing is wrong with me. This guy''s been sneaking drinks on the job and I''ve been slacking off. I''m gonna give him a squeeze.


    I don''t have a choice!¡¡We need to take a break once in a while!


    You don''t get a break from work. That''s why I have the mine hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., five days a week.


    ''We want to work when we feel like it and leave when we feel like it!¡¡Regularity isn''t in my nature!


    "It wouldn''t be very efficient. When you work, you work hard. When you work, you work hard. I think it''s important to keep yourself in check.


    Anna said.


    ''Mostly because if you can work as hard as my dad, two days a week, three hours a day, you''ll still make the same profit.


    Don''t be absurd!¡¡Kaiser is on a monster level!¡¡This guy alone has enough horsepower for a hundred workers!


    Right?¡¡It''s the first time I''ve ever been able to whine when I''m as good as my dad. You have to work eight hours a day, five days a week, exactly.


    But don''t you think that''s a bad idea for a kid to be in our business?


    ''Hmmm . . since the kids started meddling in your business, the coal mine profits have hit an all-time high?


    Guh. ......!


    No, it''s okay. If I stepped down as a foreman... I''m just being paid to do it. I''ll let your boss and your wife know.


    Oh, no, I don''t want to do that!


    Kamru said in a panic.


    ''Both you and your wife have a lot of faith in Anna!¡¡If they tipped me off, I''d be out of a position at work and at home!


    Kamru kneels on the ground, clinging to Anna''s legs and pleading with her .


    A thirty-something man begs a ten-year-old girl for forgiveness.


    It was a great picture.


    "Well, I''ll work, dammit," she said. Okay?


    ''Yes, yes ......''


    All right, I''d better get back in the field. Quickly, or you''re going to lose your precious lunch break, okay?


    d*mn it!


    Kamul spat and ran towards the coal mine.


    ''Huh. ....... I thought all adults were supposed to be just like their dad. In fact, they''re just kids in adult clothing. If you spoil them a bit they complain, skip work, make excuses. We can''t afford to let our guard down.


    Anna let out a deep, stunned sigh.


    She didn''t look like a ten-year-old.


    You''ve been working hard. Working as a foreman in the mines, repairing damage to the village from the last typhoon. And lately you''ve been running a tavern, haven''t you?


    So--.


    Anna, the second daughter, was a skilled manager and motivator.


    She was involved in countless businesses that doubled their profits through her involvement, and any disputes were quickly settled when she interceded.


    Anna was also well-liked by her elders.


    She was the master of the mines, the village chief and the tavern master. She was very good at tapping into the pockets of her elders.


    Elsa had a different kind of promise.


    I help out because the other side asks me to. The experience will help when I join the guild in the future.


    ''Anna''s dream is to be a guildmaster, isn''t it?


    Elsa said she wanted to be an adventurer. He''s never been anything but a good swordsman. I''m going to have to manage him.


    Wow, I can do a lot more than just sword!


    Yeah. So, do you keep track of your household expenses and stuff?¡¡Do you have any idea how much money you need to live on in a month?


    ............


    Elsa''s eyes were glazed over.


    She seemed to have overheated.


    Apparently, she''s very bad with numbers.


    There you go.


    Anna smiled triumphantly.


    ''And I also want to support people who are adventurers like my dad. I thought the guild master position would be the best for me.


    I knew .


    To achieve her goal of becoming a guild master, Anna makes a dream notebook of what she''ll do when she''s __________.


    She''s setting goals year by year.


    I''m sure her dream will come true.


    Are Dad and Elsa coming home now?


    Yeah. Bake an apple pie.


    ''Apple pie!¡¡Is that your dad''s handiwork?


    Of course. I''m gonna take my sweet time with it.


    Great!¡¡I''m coming with you!


    Is your job good?


    There''s nothing like a job to take precedence over daddy''s apple pie.


    Anna''s face lit up and she wrapped her arms around me.


    The adult-like nature of her earlier days is gone, and she is spoiling you to the hilt. ...... This is the kind of place where she is still an innocent, innocent child of ten years old.


    I took Elsa and Anna and headed home.

 4 Merrill, the third daughter, is a sweetheart.txt

    I came home.


    A house with a thatched roof. There''s a small field near it, surrounded by a wooden fence. The golden wheat that grows there ripples in the wind.


    You open the front door and enter the house.


    The house is quiet in the living room.


    "Father. I don''t see Meryl.


    ''It''s funny . She was in her bedroom when we went to sword practice. ...... Don''t tell me you''re still sleeping.


    I''ll look in the bedroom to make sure.


    --There it is.


    I had a bad feeling about this.


    The futon was just as puffy as when I saw it this morning.


    Meryl, peeking out of the bedding like a turtle, is breathing peacefully, saying, "Hey .......


    ...... Hey, hey . It''s already around noon, remember?


    There''s way too much sleep.


    He was such a lazy kid.


    Anna put her hand to her forehead and wore a disgusted face.


    Anna, who is a strong person, may find that Meryl''s laziness in sleeping until around noon is too much for her to bear.


    ''''Meryl. Come on, wake up. It''s almost noon.


    I rock Meryl''s body under the covers.


    Neeeeeee. I want to go back to sleep.


    You can''t. Get up.


    Mmmm: ....... Okay, okay. If you really want me to wake up, Dad, you can kiss me on the cheek.


    What are you talking about?


    ''See, princesses are supposed to wake up to a prince''s kiss...''


    What are you talking about?


    I said it again.


    "Meryl. You''re not a princess. You''re my sister. Papa ......, please don''t do anything to embarrass your father.


    Mooo. Elsa is still such a prude. It''s okay. It''s okay. Dad. Give me a big smooch on my cheek.


    Is that going to wake you up?


    I can''t wait to get up. I''m gonna wake up soon.


    ...... Totally. It''s no use.


    I crouched down by Meryl''s bedside and gently gave her a light kiss on the cheek she held out to me.


    "You''re going to wake up now, as promised?


    Yeah, that''s what you do best.


    ...... That''s great.


    When my daughter tells me she''s a good kisser: .......


    Meryl smiled and lifted her upper body out of the covers .


    Her pretty, rolling eyes . A clear nose . Cherry-red lips . Meryl, the youngest, was the most girlish of the three sisters.


    She was also a very spoiled child.


    She''d cling to everything and would always say "ahhhhhh" when she was about to eat her food.


    Meryl looked at Elsa, who was standing beside her and said.


    "Hey, why don''t you get Elsa to kiss you too?


    What--?


    Elsa''s face, as clear as china, turned a bright red .


    ''Bah, don''t be silly!¡¡Chi, Chu and other soft things like that ...... swordsman, I don''t need it!


    Again. I''m so embarrassed. Elsa doesn''t take kindly to me.


    Meryl said and opened her hands to me . He looks up and makes a sweet tone of voice like whipped cream .


    ''Papa . Let me change out of my pajamas...


    Meryl''s too soft on me.


    Because I love you so much!


    I can''t help but chuckle.


    I''m the one who spoils her every time.


    If someone sees me changing my ten-year-old daughter''s pajamas every time I change her, I''m sure I''ll be subjected to the scolding of a fool.


    But she''s cute, so it''s inevitable.


    And it''s not just Meryl. Elsa and Anna are just as cute.


    "Meryl. Why aren''t you back at magic school? Do you have class today?


    Anna asked, folding her arms.


    Meryl was studying magic at the village''s magic school.


    "Heh. I skipped it.


    "You said you skipped school. ...... It''s not free to go to school. It''s paid for by my dad.


    Because. Because it''s boring. Your lessons are really low. I can do magic better than your teacher at school.¡¡Look, look.


    Meryl said that and held up a finger.


    And then...


    Ice crystals blossomed on her fingertips.


    This is ...... ice magic. Meryl: "Where did you learn it? Where did you learn it?


    My dad taught you some water magic tricks the other day.¡¡So, I''ve been experimenting with things and I''ve learned to do them in my own way.


    Applying water magic--it''s not a skill a ten-year-old or so can do.


    There are many adult wizards who cannot reach this realm. And you''ve done it so easily.


    Meryl had more magic than any of the three sisters.


    She was a quick learner.


    She soaked up the magic I taught her like a dry sponge. Not only that, she could use them as you do now.


    It was an extraordinary talent that made me excited for the future.


    aren''t they? Praise, praise, praise!


    When I patted Meryl''s head, her cheeks slackened in happiness.


    She had the expression of a distracted kitten.


    I''d rather be taught magic while flirting with my dad at home than going to class to study magic.


    No. Daddy''s too busy. I don''t have time for Meryl. So you''re going to go to school and take a class.


    ''I''m gone!¡¡Anna, that hurts!¡¡Looks like it hurts!¡¡Don''t tug on my ear~


    Are you going to school okay?


    Go!¡¡I''m coming!


    You''ll see.


    Anna smiled and turned to me and said.


    "Don''t worry about me, Daddy. I''m gonna put Meryl in charge of getting her to school. Daddy, you can go about your business as much as you want.


    Oh, yeah.


    Anna is really reliable.


    Maybe that''s why Meryl grew up to be such a spoiled brat.

 5 Elsas first team.txt

    There was a sword fighting competition in the village square today.


    Kids and adults alike were competing against each other.


    I had some work to do, so I joined the tournament as a spectator. There were children and adults in the tournament, and the winner was Elsa.


    She beat the other contestants to the punch.


    Even the most experienced swordsman looked like a child before Elsa''s sword. A hundred rounds wouldn''t change the outcome.


    Oh no. Kaiser. That was awesome, that girl of yours!¡¡That was a genius. He''s going to be a famous swordsman one day.


    Maybe he''s a good teacher. A hawk''s child becomes a hawk. It was like watching Kaiser''s sword when he was young.


    The crowd at the side of the stage was full of compliments.


    "It''s not me. It''s what he can do.


    Father!¡¡Did you see that!


    After the game, Elsa comes running up to you, looking happy.


    She has a trophy in her hand.


    Her face is filled with joy and excitement at having won.


    Yeah. Yeah. I saw that. Congratulations to the winner. Nice fencing skills. Just goes to show that Elsa works hard on a regular basis.


    But I''m still far from your father''s sword skills. You need to work harder. You''ll never be able to strike a blow against my father.


    Ha, ha. I look forward to that day.


    I smiled at Elsa.


    ''Do you remember that ...... promise?''


    Of course. . if you could just give me a shot, you know, the one thing Elsa would ask of me?


    ...... Yes.


    By the way, what is Elsa going to ask for?


    Oh, don''t tell anyone.


    When Elsa said that, her cheeks flushed and she turned her face away .


    ...... Is she trying to ask for something embarrassing? Do you want me to buy you a stuffed animal or something like that?


    Well, let''s not pursue it too deep.


    I reached out and gently stroked Elsa''s head.


    "Whew! ......


    A carefree voice leaked out.


    Elsa usually has a dignified face, but this time her cheeks were slack.


    She was just like that.


    Shall we have rabbit stew for dinner tonight?


    Really?


    Yeah. Celebrate your win. I put my skills to work on that.


    Hey, can I get another one?


    Of course. Eat to your heart''s content.


    I smile at Elsa.


    "Yay.


    Elsa was happily clasping her hands in front of her chest in a small way.


    ''''Heh. I wish there would be a swordfighting competition every day. Then we would win every day and have stew.


    That''s going to cause a huge drop in participation.


    If we had a sword fight every day, my body wouldn''t last.


    That''s when I was laughing at him.


    "Oh my God!¡¡There''s a demon out there!


    We heard them screaming.


    Both Erza and I were astonished and our eyes widened.


    --There''s a monster out there!


    ''The voice was from the other side. ....... Elsa''s going to stay right here. Don''t move until I get back.


    I''m coming with you.


    What?


    I won the sword fighting competition. I''m ready to fight with my father!¡¡So let me accompany your father!


    The way Elsa was looking at me, she was stubborn.


    She wouldn''t listen to me, no matter what I said.


    I don''t have much time to convince them to do anything about it: ....... I don''t have a choice.


    Okay. You can follow me.


    Yes, sir!


    Elsa is following behind me as I run toward the sound of my scream.


    We''ve captured the demon.


    It''s ready to go to war against the hunchbacked villagers.


    It was a boar.


    It was a boar demon with ferocious tusks and thick fur covering its body.


    "Hi!


    I''ll be fine!¡¡Help now!


    I''m going to fight!


    Elsa took the lead in the fight.


    She held her sword up valiantly.


    Then the boar''s consciousness turned from the villagers to us.


    What?


    That hostile gaze shot through her and she cowered.


    The demon boar, baring its fangs, comes running at you. --You''re going to be able to have a great deal of fun with this.


    ''''Oh.........oh.........''''


    It was like she was completely swallowed up.


    Oh no-- .


    I kicked the ground as quickly as I could and stood in front of Erza.


    I met the demon boar''s rush head-on. It was such an impact that it felt as if every bone in my body was going to shatter. A sharp tusk cut into his right shoulder.


    d*mn it!


    A sharp pain shot through me.


    But we can''t...


    We can''t leave here. Elsa''s behind me.


    I gathered my strength and squeezed the demon boar''s fangs. I lift the massive body, weighing nearly a hundred kilograms, and slam into the ground as hard as I can.


    "Hmph!


    When the boar stopped moving, he cut off his neck.


    He spurted out a lot of blood and then stopped moving.


    It was like he''d given up.


    "Elsa. Are you hurt?


    Yes. But your father is at .......


    Elsa''s gaze was fixed on my right shoulder.


    ''I''m sorry . I couldn''t do anything about it. ....... I won the swordfighting tournament, so I thought I could fight as well as your father. ......


    Haha. Don''t worry about it. Everyone''s first battle is like that for the first time. You''ll learn from this experience, little by little.


    I smiled and patted Elsa''s head.


    ''Father,''


    Hmm?


    Aren''t you afraid of demons, Father?


    That''s scary. Sometimes you think you''re gonna get hurt. But I have people to protect.


    The people we need to protect: ......?


    Oh . It could be Elsa, Anna, or Meryl: ....... Of course the people of this village are the same. I don''t fight for myself, I fight for the people I care about--that''s what gives me courage.


    I''ve got it.


    Elsa held her voice together and said.


    ''I have people I care about too. My friends, Meena and Illeza. Anna and Meryl. And of course my dad.


    Then swing a sword for them. Then you will find the courage to conquer your fears.


    ...... (country)


    Elsa nodded deeply at my words.


    I''m sure today''s defeat will be an important part of her life. And I''m sure she''ll be even stronger from now on.

 6 Annas talent.txt

    I walked up to the back door of the tavern with the ingredients the merchant had brought in. I dropped them off at the place designated by the tavern master.


    Good. That''s everything.


    Huffing and puffing, he turned his head.


    "Oh, no. I''m sorry. I''m sorry. You''re very helpful.


    I turned to see the tavern master smiling at me.


    His name was Giselle.


    A middle-aged man with a dandy beard.


    "Never mind. I let you run the house while I was gone. You owe me a favor.


    You''re a very loyal man, aren''t you? Always was.


    The master smokes his cigar and looks into the distant past.


    I''ve known him since I was a boy.


    He still helps out in the village. Especially as a bodyguard. Ever since you came back to the village, the menace of evil has been less of a threat. Thanks to you, this year''s crop is on track to be the best ever.


    That''s good to hear.


    Kaiser, I hear you''re teaching the kids how to use a sword.


    Yeah. To train the next generation of bodyguards is a bit of an exaggeration. There''s nothing better than having swordsmanship on hand. And the kids love it. Lately, they''ve been coming over to my house before noon. They want me to teach them swords.


    They love you. The first time you took part in the village fencing competition, you won it without taking a single shot. I had an image of you in my mind. --You were banned from future tournaments for being too strong.


    Ha ha ......


    I gave a dry laugh.


    That was a bit of a trauma. .......


    The master looked at the luggage I had brought in.


    But the horsepower is way different. I have a knuckle-dragging arm too, but if I tried to carry this amount of food all at once, I''d have a slipped back. And it''s easy to do that: ....... So you''re indeed a former A-ranked adventurer.


    You can''t do that. It was a long time ago.


    I chuckled.


    "I''m a retired adventurer now.


    Retirement. There''s no such thing as an adventurer''s retirement. You can go back to King''s Landing and be an adventurer again if you want to.


    I''m not going back. I''ve got kids.


    I''m no longer an adventurer.


    ...... No, I have a longing to be more precise.


    We still haven''t slayed the ancient dragon that wiped out our children''s homeland. Sooner or later, he may raid another village or city.


    I''ll take the blame for waking him up, and I have to bring him down.


    --And so I returned halfway from King''s Landing to the village. With the girls to raise them, of course.


    "Kaiser. Did you tell your children the truth?


    Is it true ......?


    That means you''re not their real father. They don''t have a mother, you know, because they look around.


    ...... No . . not yet.


    I turned my head down and said.


    "My children think I''m their father. --Of course I try to tell them the truth from time to time.


    You have the option to hide it from me.


    What?


    "They''d be surprised, more or less, to find out you''re not their real father. Then you shouldn''t have told them in the first place. That''s a kindness in hiding the truth. --Well, it''s up to you to decide for yourself what to do.


    ...... Yes.


    I gave a small nod.


    I will take the opportunity to tell you the truth--but I''m not sure I''m ready to do so. The older I get, the harder it gets to tell you.


    ...... Hey, you know what? Did you change the decor of the bar?


    "Whoa. There he is. I took Anna''s advice and changed it. It''s not just the interior, it''s the front door.


    I looked toward the entrance of the tavern.


    That''s right.


    It was a bayonet door and now it''s a swinging door.


    I could see into the bar from outside.


    "Say what you want about the wrong seat location. And I heard that customers would feel more comfortable if they could see inside the store from outside. So I did what they said. The bar is now full of people that I''ve never seen before. Lady Anna.


    Yeah.


    I screamed in admiration.


    "And then you told me your purchase price was higher than fair. He worked out a deal with the suppliers. That''s how I got a discount on the stuff. That was great. Anna did a great job negotiating with these business professionals. You talked your way in and kept your nose to the grindstone. It was quite a sight to behold.


    Ha, ha. That''s very impressive.


    I knew you had a talent for making people work for you.


    The mine master raved about it.


    He told me that since Anna had taken over as foreman and shift supervisor, her efficiency had improved dramatically.


    And to think that she has business acumen as well.


    Anna must have a lot of guts.


    "Kaizel, Anna''s a great guy. He''s going to be a great asset one day. I owe him a debt of gratitude while it lasts.


    The Master smiled and said with a smile.


    "Then maybe... Maybe they''ll put me in touch with someone. It''s also a talent to have connections with people of talent.


    Ha ha ....... The master is still cash.


    "Of course. I love money. --But the money guy never looked back at me.


    The master blew his cigar and smiled.


    I laughed along with him.

 7 Magic is for people.txt

    I said hello to the master and left the tavern on my way home.


    I was walking on the road through the village. On the right side, there was a field surrounded by a fence.


    I could sporadically see people working in the fields.


    --Usually at this time of year, demons would come after the crops. The demon boar was probably the same.


    There are some in the village who know how to use a sword.


    But they were no match for a stronger demon. That''s why I''ve taken over the guardianship of the village.


    I''ve killed all the demons so far.


    But it''s impossible for me to guard the whole village, so I''ve been training the children to be bodyguards.


    Of course, Elsa was among them.


    I was walking down the road through the village. My eyes were suddenly blinded. A hand reached behind me and closed my eyelids.


    It''s me.


    A sweet voice, with a hint of a smile, sounded in my ear.


    Of course, I knew right away who it was. But it''s no fun to answer right away. Maybe we can continue this exchange for a minute.


    Just give me a hint.


    "I''ll give you a hint. I''ll give you a hint: "I love you.


    Hmm. Who is that?


    "Mm-hmm. There are a lot of people who like you... It''s just that I''m the one with the strongest feelings of love among them, you know?


    ''...... When you give me that hint, it makes it harder to answer . It''s hard to tell someone who thinks they love themselves.


    And the embarrassment when I took it off was unbelievable.


    It ends in a huge crush.


    "I see. The shy one. I like that about you. Then I''ll give you some more tips.


    The one who covered my eyes turned to sing.


    "I''m one of your daughters


    You said my name is me: ......


    Come on. Dad. Answer me?¡¡What is the name of the genius wizard, the youngest of the three sisters, who loves his dad more than anything else in the world?


    ''You''ve almost made up your mind!¡¡It''s ...... Merrill, right?


    Ping-pong.


    With a snap, the hand covering her eyes is removed.


    The light comes back into my vision.


    I turn to see my daughter, Merrill, standing with her hands folded behind her back. She''s smiling happily at you.


    "You look awfully happy.


    It was so much fun making out with my dad.


    ''Anyway, what''s going on at the wizarding school?¡¡It''s supposed to be time for class now. Maybe you skipped class again?


    Tahee.


    Meryl flicked her tongue out.


    ''Totally. ....... The teacher complained about you. Meryl''s got bad behavior. He just dozes off during class and doesn''t listen to the teacher. He uses a lot of magic I didn''t teach him in class. And to top it all off, he challenged the teacher to a duel.


    Because. Because my teacher kept nagging me. I thought if I told him I was stronger than him, he wouldn''t say anything.


    Meryl said that with a flourish.


    I beat you easily. Isn''t that great. Aha. Dad, tell me nice things about myself.


    Haha. ......


    I let out a deep sigh.


    ''I can''t praise Meryl enough for this one.


    ''What?¡¡Why?


    "I certainly think it''s great that you beat the teacher. I agree that Meryl''s a genius. But magic isn''t meant to hurt people. Magic is there to make people''s lives better. It''s valuable because it''s for the good of others.


    That''s what I was saying to Meryl.


    "Oh. That''s Kaiser.


    A farmer was working the fields, and he saw me coming.


    It was farmer Norman.


    He was wearing a hood and flaxen clothing.


    He wore thick-soled farmer''s shoes with laces tied around his ankles.


    "You look like you''ve got some pep," I say.


    "This year is going to be great. It''s shaping up to be the best crop we''ve ever had. It''s gonna be the best one we''ve ever had.


    Norman turned his gaze toward the field.


    ''Kaizel''s been a good bouncer, but most of all, this magical fence you''ve built for me has helped.


    The magic fence? Meryl nodded her head.


    ''Yeah. This fence is filled with lightning magic. When the target demon comes in contact with it, it will send a high-voltage current through the fence. That way the plants aren''t vandalized. The sight of that vicious boar curling its tail and running away is simply breathtaking.


    Norman said and smiled pleasantly.


    I''ll send the harvest to Kaiser''s for you. Our vegetables are some of the best in the village, so you can look forward to it.


    Are you sure?


    Of course. You''ve been good to me. So I''m just returning the favor. The world''s gotta have its dicks in it, right?


    Norman gave a thumbs up and looked at Meryl.


    ''Eat my vegetables and grow up, Meryl.


    With a toothy grin, then, Norman walked toward the field. Meryl looked away, stunned at his back.


    I turned to Meryl and tried to get back to the topic at hand.


    ''Well . What were we talking about earlier?


    "No. That''s okay. I think I know what you''re gonna say. You''re doing something good with your magic.


    Meryl turned to me and said that.


    Do you think my dad would appreciate it if I could use my magic to help people?


    Yeah. Of course.


    Well, in that case, I guess I''ll just have to do my best.


    Meryl put a finger to her cheek and grinned.


    I had no idea at the time that this exchange with me would lead to the development of the future through magic.

 8 At the time of departure.txt

    Then four years went by.


    The children were now 14 years old.


    Elsa was devoted to the path of the sword. She worked feverishly to master the many swordsmanship techniques I taught her.


    In the village swordsmanship competition, you were unbeaten every year. You were banned from the village swordsmanship competition, just like me.


    I''m glad to be banned like my father. ......!


    He was happy to see me.


    Only Elsa would be happy to be banned from the tournament.


    As a village guard, Elsa fought many battles against demons. She was intimidated by the first battle, but her fear disappeared once she found the one she was supposed to protect.


    She fought bravely against boars and wolves.


    Anna showed her management and negotiation skills to the hilt.


    Since she became the manager of the village, the village''s finances are well-financed and the people are more prosperous than ever before. Every autumn they would hold a festival to thank Anna.


    It was not uncommon for her to be recruited by the merchants who came to the village. But she turned them all down, unwilling to do so.


    Her dream was to become the guild master of the Adventurers'' Guild. Her willpower is as strong as a cold stone.


    Meryl was still a spoiled brat and a slacker, but she used her magic not for self-display, but for the good of the world.


    ''''Dad. Today, I used my earth magic to find a vein of hot spring water...Thanks to this, there will be a hot spring in this village!


    ''Oh!¡¡That''s great!¡¡You''ve helped everyone.


    I know! Praise me! Praise me!


    I''m proud of Meryl.


    I''m happy.


    ...... It''s more like he''s doing the world a favor, or maybe he''s just trying to get me to praise him. As it turns out, I''m doing people a favor.


    My daughters have all grown up well.


    In this world, at 14, you have the right to take a vocation.


    It is at this age that you can become an adventurer or a guild official.


    I jumped into the adventuring world when I was 14.


    It was time for them to follow their dreams as well.


    Elsa was an adventurer just like me.


    Anna''s path led her to becoming a guild master.


    And Meryl is a lazy knitter. ...... she said, but as a result of doing what she didn''t want to do, she became a wizard.


    Tomorrow, the girls would leave for King''s Landing.


    Today was the last night the four of them would be together.


    The four of us were sitting in the living room at home, eating rabbit stew, meat pies, bacon and freshly baked bread.


    Hey. Aren''t you sure Dad won''t come with us?


    Meryl said in a forlorn tone.


    ''Yeah. I have a job as village watchman. And other things I need you to do. I''ve got to look after the house.


    ''I miss you!¡¡I can''t live without my dad!¡¡If Dad stays in the village, I''ll stay here too~!


    No. Don''t be selfish. Don''t annoy him.


    Anna chided.


    "And if Meryl stays in the village, Dad will spoil him and he''ll be a straight line of NEETs. Go to King''s Landing and let the tide of society wash over you.


    Mmm.


    Dad. It''s okay. I''ll take care of Elsa and Meryl. I''ll send you a note once a month telling you what they''re up to.


    Yeah. I''ll feel better knowing Anna''s with me. Please.


    I smile.


    ''''In the end ...... I couldn''t hit your father with my sword, could I? I''ve had hundreds of fights before at my age.


    Elsa had a frustrated look on her face.


    ''''I thought I had trained myself to be strong, but I''m still not as good as your father. I will strive to be even more diligent as an adventurer.


    I look forward to seeing a strong Elsa.


    I smiled at Elsa .


    She smiled at me and nodded.


    After eating, I took a bath with the girls.


    Normally we take a separate bath, but since it''s the last day of the week, ...... the girls begged me to join them for a mixed bath.


    "You know ...... father. Can you let me flush my back?


    ''What?¡¡Mine?


    "Yes, my lord. Your father trained me with a sword all this time. So I thought it would be good to repay him by letting him wash my back.


    You didn''t have to worry about that.


    No?


    No. I''ll take care of it.


    I let Elsa wash my back.


    The towel washed my back with a lather. The lather was just the right amount of pressure and it felt so good.


    Hmmm... Elsa. Let me do the next one.


    Anna?


    I want to wash my dad''s back too.


    Anna took the towel from Elsa''s hand and began rubbing my back.


    It was a careful and labored effort.


    "Bok-chan and Bok-chan too~


    Meryl applied the soap to her body and then hugged me directly on my back.


    She said, "Skin to skin, skin to skin, let''s get clean and nice," but Anna immediately pulled her to her feet. Mummified.


    I was happy to have my daughters flow down my back.


    --But I hadn''t yet told them the truth. That they weren''t really my daughters.


    I''ve tried so many times over the last four years to tell you, but I never did.


    Maybe because I owe them.


    I sent their real parents to their deaths because I failed to defeat the Ancient Dragon.


    I slept with them that night under the same covers.


    The next morning. I was riding to see the girls off on the King''s Landing Live Carriage. I peeked out from inside the hood and said to the girls.


    "Well, take care of yourselves, boys.


    Yes, sir. I''ll make sure I''m an A-list adventurer just like my father.


    Take care of yourself, Dad.


    I''ll be back to spoil you once a week!


    The carriage with the girls in it was moving along.


    I waved them off as they drove toward King''s Landing. And they kept waving at me until I couldn''t see them anymore.


    Four years later...


    And that''s where the story of the father and son relationship begins.

 9 Growth of daughters.txt

    Four years have passed since the girls left for King''s Landing.


    They were sweet as pearls when they met...but now they are 18 years old. The girls are now 18. The earliest ones might even consider marriage.


    I''d turned thirty-five too. A respectable middle-aged man.


    And I said...


    What are you talking about. You''re still young. Last time we took down a pack of wolves that came into the village.


    The tavern master blows his cigar and says, "You look like a twenty-something.


    "And you look like a twenty-something.


    ''Well, I''ve been training as a bouncer for a long time. -- though if I fight Elsa now, I''m afraid I''ll lose.


    ''I heard that Elsa became an S-ranked adventurer.


    "Yes. Yes. I hear he won the victory at the Sword God Festival held in King''s Landing. Because of his skill, he is now the princess''s bodyguard and leader of the knights.


    It''s a big promotion. Knight Commander and princess''s bodyguard. ...... and that little girl trailing behind you, huh?


    The master looked far away, nostalgic. The smoke from his cigar smoldered. I wonder if he sees in them the Elsa he knew as a child.


    After she left for King''s Landing, Elsa followed the path of the adventurer.


    She steadily completed her missions and advanced through the ranks of adventurers, finally becoming an S-ranked adventurer.


    According to him, it was the fastest S-rank in the history of the royal city.


    After becoming an S-ranked adventurer, Elsa sent me a letter with these words of joy.


    "Before I came to King''s Landing, I was so anxious. Was I really fit to be an adventurer if my father couldn''t strike a blow at me? But my fears were unfounded. In all my years in King''s Landing I have never met anyone more skilled than your father. I''ve learned that the people closest to me are the strongest.


    Although retired, I was still a former A-ranked adventurer.


    I was known as the first of the next S-ranked adventurers.


    Elsa was trained by me.


    I''m sure she''s a good swordsman.


    Hey, isn''t Anna working hard to join the Adventurer''s Guild?


    Yes. I got a letter saying I''ve been promoted to guild master. Apparently, he''s the youngest person in the Adventurers'' Guild.


    It''s no wonder he''s such a good kid. He''s the best we''ve ever seen. He''d make a great guildmaster.


    The master of the tavern has given her a thriving business, and he is very impressed with Anna''s talents.


    After arriving in King''s Landing, Anna joined the Adventurers'' Guild as an employee.


    It was a tough exam with a high multiplier ratio, but she passed it with ease thanks to her quick wits. It is said that he showed his eloquence at the interview and was given a job offer on the spot.


    After becoming a guild staff member, she worked as a receptionist, but her natural talents made her rise to prominence in the blink of an eye.


    She finally rose to the rank of guild master. Becoming a guild master at the age of eighteen is apparently the most unusual thing to do.


    We don''t need to hear anything about what Meryl''s been up to at ....... She''s back in the village every week or two.


    Ha ha ......


    I chuckled.


    Meryl was back in the village again yesterday. He came to see me.


    I''ll die of loneliness if I don''t see my dad for a month," she said.


    Meryl got into the magic school in King''s Landing. He''s always at the top of the class.


    From what Anna tells me, he''s been skipping classes as much as ever. But she''s developing a new kind of magic.


    They''re working on a simpler and more powerful magic syntax, developing magic drugs and mages to make magic accessible to the general public. The history of magic is so active that it can be divided into pre-Merrill and post-Merrill.


    People say she''s been praised by those around her with the title of wise woman.


    The girls are all working hard on their own paths.


    Hey. Hey, Kaiser. A peddler got a letter for you girls. --Here. Read and write to him.


    The master presented me with a letter he''d received from a vendor who''d come into his shop. There were letters there for all three of his daughters.


    I took the letter and opened it and began to read it.


    Each letter was an update on what was happening and that they wanted to live with me in King''s Landing again, as if we had made a pact.


    "I know you keep sending me love notes.


    The master said he was going to look at the letter in my hand.


    ''That''s good. "That''s good," he said. You should be in King''s Landing soon.


    What?


    The girls'' lives are starting to settle in and they''re starting to enjoy themselves. Your daughters will be happy to see you in King''s Landing.


    But the village thing is ......


    What. Don''t worry. You''ve trained the boys so they''re strong enough to take care of the guards and Hatake has a lightning-witch fence to keep them safe. You''ll take care of the house too. I''ll take care of it for you while you live here in King''s Landing. You''ll come back when you''re ready.


    ............


    "I know you wanted to go to King''s Landing. I know you wanted to go to King''s Landing. But you were too busy with the village to act. ...... You''re a godd*mn righteous prick. You can live your life the way you want to.


    The master chuckled.


    "And my lovely daughters are so eager to join me. As a father, don''t you think you owe it to them?


    Master ......


    I stared at the letter for a moment, then gave a small nod.


    -- Okay. I''ll do it.


    Okay. I think I''m going to go to King''s Landing again.

 10 I came to the royal capital.txt

    I decided to move to King''s Landing to meet the girls'' needs.


    They were overjoyed when I wrote to them about it.


    When I left the village, I got on a carriage and headed to the capital.


    It takes about half a day by carriage from the village to the capital.


    Leaving the village early in the morning, you arrive in the grounds of the capital around noon.


    The streets were crowded with people and houses with gabled roofs lined up on either side. It was much livelier than the village.


    --It''s been a long time since I''ve been back. It''s been 18 years since I''ve been back.


    Eighteen years ago, after failing to kill an ancient dragon and being treated like a criminal, we fled back to the village.


    Time has gone by so fast.


    I got off the back of the wagon and paid my fee. That''s when I paid.


    A crowd of armed knights surrounded me.


    They carried swords and spears and wore armor on their strong bodies.


    --What?¡¡What have I done?


    I didn''t do anything to be surrounded by knights.


    Is it because you didn''t show your ID card to enter King''s Landing: ......?¡¡No, everyone should be allowed to enter King''s Landing.


    Are the knights coming to seize it because of my lingering bad reputation?¡¡--My mind was running through many speculations.


    I could see the knights were about to move as one.


    --Are you going to fight?¡¡In the middle of the city!¡¡I can''t get caught. I need to see my daughters.


    "''Lord Kaiser!¡¡We''ve been waiting for you!


    ...... Huh?


    I was about to go into battle position, but I fell behind. The knights surrounding us bowed their heads in unison.


    Let''s see.


    What the hell is going on?


    We all went up to meet Knight Commander Elsa''s father, who is arriving today.


    "Welcome to King''s Landing!


    All the knights were shouting at once.


    Passersby were looking at me to see what was going on. It''s just plain embarrassing.


    ...... And yet...


    So these knights were Erza''s men. That''s good. It''s not like they''re here to get me or anything.


    "Mister Kaiser. I''ve heard you speak of him before. I''ve heard you''ve taught the wizard master Erza all the tricks of the trade.


    Oh, yeah. Yeah, I know.


    "Oh!


    There was a shout of joy from the knights.


    They say that Lord Commander Elsa has never been put to the sword by Lord Kaiser. Could the rumor be true?


    ''What?¡¡Well, yeah.


    "Oh!


    Cheers rose again from among the knights .


    ''''How could the youngest ever S-ranked adventurer, Knight Commander Elsa, not be able to do anything with her hands and feet: ...... Lord Kaiser''s sword skills are tremendous... ......!


    You''re more of a swordsman than a swordsman.


    When we bowed down to greet Lord Kaiser earlier, you stayed alert and ready to fight. It''s true.


    It seems that they''re singing my praises.


    There was a look of respect and envy in the eyes of the knights. It was dazzling. Like the boys in my village when they begged me for lessons.


    --It was then.


    "Father!


    Through the midst of the knights, Elsa emerged.


    Silky silver hair.


    Her dignified face was much more beautiful than it had been four years ago.


    She is dressed in light silver armor that matches Elsa''s own hair color. At her waist was a magnificent, ornate sword.


    Elsa. ...... you''ve grown up.


    When I said that, Elsa''s eyes watered.


    "You worked so hard. You worked so hard to make your dream come true.


    Yes. ......


    Elsa nodded with an all-consuming thought.


    She came closer to me.


    Then she leaned in and surrendered herself to me.


    "I''ve been wanting to see you for a long, long time. ......!


    Ha, ha. So do I. But from today on, you can see Elsa, Anna and Meryl. Elsa, Anna and Meryl.


    I''m really happy for you: ......!


    Elsa didn''t hesitate to lay her head against my chest. It was as if all the emotions she''d been holding in for so long were flowing out of her at this moment of reunion.


    I gently patted her head.


    Elsa closed her eyes as if they were comfortable. At this moment, she had the expression of a girl who wasn''t an S-ranked adventurer or a Knight Commander.


    The people of the Order were watching the scene with a smile.


    ''''Speaking of which, where are Anna and Meryl?''''


    ''Anna seems to be busy with her guild work: ....... Meryl was supposed to come, but she''s probably still in bed.


    ''You''re a guy who can''t help it. ....... Is Meryl still in the magic academy''s dormitory?


    ''''Yes. Meryl is enrolled in the Academy as a special student. If you live in the dorms, food and shelter are provided free of charge.


    Yeah. You''re telling me he''s never been in a better place.


    You can''t help but smile.


    ''''To be honest, when he got the news that your father was going to live in King''s Landing, he decided to leave the dormitory because he wanted to live with you.


    You think I''m going to do all the cooking and laundry for you if I''m around. It''s practically like living in a dorm.


    Meryl really is the same as ever.


    Elsa said dismissively.


    "Father. What are you going to do after this?


    We need to find a place to live first. I could live in an inn on my own, but with Meryl living there too, that won''t be possible forever.


    So, I said.


    "Well, for now, I think I''ll just live at the inn, work and save up, and then I''ll rent a house.


    Then leave it to me. I''ve got a better idea.

 11 Inside view of the house.txt

    Elsa said she had a wise idea.


    ''I''ve been looking for a place for your father, but maybe I can help.


    "Elsa. I appreciate that offer. ...... Well, you know, it''s a pathetic story, and I don''t have much to offer you, huh?


    I''ve got money from the village, but I don''t have enough to rent a house.


    Leave it to me. We don''t need the money.


    ''What?¡¡What do you mean?


    I''m the Commander of the Knights of the Realm. With my referral, I''ll be happy to give you a vacant house for free.


    Elsa explained it to me as she placed her hand on the breastplate.


    She is an S-ranked adventurer of the Adventurer''s Guild and the leader of the country''s knights--as well as serving as the princess''s bodyguard.


    Apparently she can control a right or two of the house.


    After receiving the news that your father will be moving to the capital, I listed a number of properties that have become vacant in the capital. They range from the nobleman''s quarters to residential areas. So, you''ll come with me to view them now.


    Sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo motivated! ......


    Of course. I''ll be living here with my father and the others. I''m determined to have the best house for us to live in.


    Elsa will lead the way as I make my way through the streets of King''s Landing.


    The City''s residential areas are divided into two main groups.


    The first is the residential area where the poor and middle class gather.


    And the other one is where only the chosen noble citizens live.


    I went first to the residential area.


    Brick buildings with gabled roofs stand side by side.


    The entire capital is surrounded by a huge stone wall, and perhaps due to the limited land area, many of the buildings stretch vertically rather than horizontally.


    These buildings were built on the land facing the road, and the overhanging roofs cast a dark shadow on the road.


    In some places it was like a maze.


    "Father. Here''s an empty house in a residential area.


    Elsa stopped in front of a three-story house.


    It''s a fine house," I muttered.


    I decided to take a look around.


    The living space is big enough for a family of four.


    There was plenty of room for a living room, kitchen, and then some space that could be used for work.


    After viewing the house, I walked out of the house.


    In front of the house there was a square with a fountain. The water was clear and flowing. Young children were happily running around it.


    An old man sat on a bench, holding a cane and watching the children from afar, squinting and smiling as they ran around.


    --It was such a peaceful scene.


    ''''Father . The next property in the City of Lords. Let''s go.


    Yeah. Yeah.


    After leaving the residential area, they came to the town of nobility.


    There were knights standing on either side of the entrance gate to the nobleman''s district.


    When they recognized Elsa, they let me through the gate without question.


    ''''I see. So there are guards in the noble city?


    I was muttering to myself.


    ''''Yes . If anything happens, the knights are ready to come to you at a moment''s notice. So there are knights stationed at the gate.


    Entering the nobleman''s district, the streets changed drastically.


    Whereas the residential area was like a maze of disorderly houses, the buildings in the nobleman''s district were neatly arranged in a row.


    The buildings stretched out not vertically, but horizontally.


    ''The property is here.


    Haha. ......


    Elsa showed me the place, and I was amazed to see it.


    It was a complete mansion.


    The two-story building sprawled out over a wide expanse of land.


    It had a courtyard and even had a stone tower attached to its defense.


    The interior was great.


    Chests, bunks, dishes, cooking utensils, tables, chairs, and other furnishings are of the highest quality.


    After viewing, we walked out of the house.


    "Father. Did you like it?


    It''s amazing what a nobleman''s abode can do.


    --It was then.


    You!¡¡What are you doing!


    I heard a deafening voice.


    I looked to see two noble ladies with parasols on the side of the road, hurling abuse at a boy who was squatting on the road.


    ''''You''re a child of the village!¡¡You snuck into a nobleman''s town without permission!¡¡You look like a dwarf rat!


    Most of them were trying to rob you, weren''t they?


    No, no. My dog went into the nobleman''s court when I was walking him. I was just trying to get him back. ......


    That''s when the boy muttered.


    "Cunn. ......


    A brown-furred puppy emerged from a nearby planting.


    ''Ah!¡¡Pero!


    He seemed to be the kind of dog the boy was looking for.


    Oh, my!¡¡A dirty dog, just like its owner!


    One of the ladies scrunched up her face in disgust.


    As the puppy approached the lady, she kicked it away with a shriek.


    "Kaine!


    What the hell do you think you''re doing?


    ''Because you tried to get to me, you filthy dog-f*ckers!¡¡This is an aristocratic city!¡¡The lowly ones must leave immediately!


    ''Knights!¡¡Come!


    In response to the call, the knights rushed over in a panic .


    After hearing the explanation from the ladies, they gave the boys a sympathetic look and then had no choice but to take them away.


    We were stunned when the women noticed us. When they saw Elsa, their faces lit up as if they were lying.


    Hey. Hey....isn''t that Sir Erza? What brings you here today?


    Not the rugged voice she had for the boys, but a flirtatious one.


    It doesn''t sound like the same person.


    "We''re here to view a residence. This is my father. You will be living with us in King''s Landing.


    I see. He''s a wonderful father.


    The noblewoman uses a sycophantic smile and says, "Ho-ho-ho!


    ''''I just looked at a property in the residential area and I just looked at a property in the aristocratic district. I''m going to live in one or the other.


    Then you''ll definitely be better off living in a nobleman''s quarter. A residential area is just not the kind of place Lady Elsa and the others deserve. Besides, if you live in the highborn district, we''d be very proud of you as residents of the same highborn district.


    No. I''m going to live on a residential street.


    When I said that, the ladies'' faces froze.


    Why?


    He flinches and asks .


    ''You may have a big nose if we live here, but for me, living in the same place as your kind is nothing but a disgrace. Decency can''t be bought with money, you know.


    When I said this, the ladies looked like pigeons being eaten by a peashooter. A moment later, they were all red with shame.


    Well, I guess I should be off.


    Elsa didn''t apologize or blame her, she just said it and turned on her heel.


    We left the nobleman alone and left the streets.


    I''m sorry. Elsa. I shouldn''t have said those things. Maybe you wanted to live in the Highborn City?


    No. I feel the same way as your father. I''m glad you said that. I don''t want to live in the same city as those people.


    Elsa huffed and smiled.

 12 Mage.txt

    I''m back in the residential area from the aristocracy.


    I decided to stay in the first house I saw.


    A three-story house.


    I lived in a thatched-roof house in the village, so for me, it''s a big house.


    They''d come to the fountain square in front of the house.


    There was something of a crowd there.


    What''s going on?


    You seem to be getting quite a kick out of this.


    As me and Elsa approached the crowd, we peered through the human wall.


    And at the center of the crowd is Meryl.


    A pointy hat like a witch.


    A pretty baby face.


    She is dressed in revealing clothes that expose her shoulders and navel to the air. She wears a skirt underneath. The kind of fashion freaks wear.


    Meryl played charades with magically created fireballs.


    Five fireballs spun on the palms of her hands.


    The children saw them and clapped their hands together.


    The adults are whistling and cheering.


    "Ho ho ho ho!


    Meryl liked it so much that she started performing water tricks. Water gushed out of the fan held in both hands like a fountain.


    Reflected in the sunlight, the glittering droplets glistened.


    ''''Good!''''


    It''s beautiful!


    The crowd cheered as they watched Meryl do her water tricks.


    "Mmm-hmm. Last one. You''re about to see the best of the best.


    Meryl said and looked overhead .


    He shoots a fireball into the sky cut off by the roof of the building. The fireball soared high into the sky, trailing a red tail, and then popped.


    With a bursting sound, a flower of red light bloomed.


    "''Oh, wow!''


    The crowd gave a thunderous applause as they watched the fireworks.


    Meryl grinned at the audience''s excitement and took off her triangle hat and bowed deeply.


    "A twist if you like...


    One by one, the audience puts coins into the triangle hat that is turned inside out.


    Jab-jab.


    The triangle hat is filled with coins.


    Yeah! I got coins!


    Meryl rubbed her cheek on her triangular hat full of pennies.


    Money. I love you.


    He muttered lovingly to himself.


    ''...... Meryl. Is it finally happening?


    Elsa called out to him in a tone of dismay.


    ''''Oh. Elsa!¡¡You too!¡¡Good morning!


    It''s past noon now.


    I chuckled.


    "Was that a street performance?


    Yeah. I just had a lot of free time on my hands before my parents got here. And now I have a lot of treats to show for it.


    Well, that''s pretty impressive.


    I''ve done this a million times. People love to watch me work my magic and get a special treat. And you get a special treat. Two birds with one stone!


    ''Merrill, don''t you intend to labor normally?¡¡With your skills, I could pull from anywhere.


    No. I want to laze around all the time.


    Meryl said in a frustrated tone.


    ''You''re not the kind of person who can''t help it ......,'' sighed Elsa. ''But more importantly, how did you know we were coming here?


    ''Last time Elsa gave you a list of potential homes.¡¡I figured if it was a nobleman''s district and a residential area, my dads would probably choose this one.


    Would Meryl have been better off living in an aristocratic town?


    Not at all. I love money, but... I hate it when people get arrogant just because they have money.


    Meryl''s voice was sweet and venomous.


    She seemed to have a lot of faith in her own way.


    "Well, you know. Well... I''d be happy anywhere as long as I could live with my dad. I love you so much, Daddy.


    Meryl hugged me and pampered me like a puppy wanting attention, "It''s been a long time since I smelled my dad~" she said.


    ''It''s been a while ....... We met a week ago.


    Meryl came back to the village at least once a week.


    Unlike Elsa, who was an S-ranked adventurer and Knight Commander, and Anna, who was a guild master, she was able to do this because she was light.


    It''s hard work!¡¡Somebody get in here!


    We heard a call from somewhere.


    We looked at each other and headed toward the voice. Then I saw a grown man standing in front of another fountain, looking annoyed.


    "What''s going on? I ask.


    ''''It seems that the mage that runs this fountain has run out of magic: ....... At this rate, we won''t have enough water for life.


    When I looked, I saw that the sphere-shaped mage embedded in the base of the fountain had lost its light.


    That''s why the water had stopped flowing.


    ''''Meryl. What should I do in this case?


    Elsa asked Meryl, the creator of the grimoire.


    ''''It''s easy and simple... just pour the magic into the mage.


    I''ll take care of that for you, then.


    I walked into the dry fountain and addressed the mage in its base.


    Then I poured the magic power into the mage.


    Pah! ......!


    The mage that had been losing its light emitted a powerful light.


    The next moment--.


    A beautiful spring began to flow from the fountain again.


    ''''Oh!¡¡Water again!


    The man let out a yell of delight.


    ''Thank you!¡¡Thank you for the help!


    No.


    Are you ...... the father of Lady Merrill?


    Yeah. Yes, sir.


    "Thanks to Meryl''s development of the mages, we common people can now enjoy the benefits of magic. Thanks to this, our quality of life has improved dramatically. It used to be hard to find water for our daily lives.


    The man took my hand and bowed deeply.


    "Thank you so much.


    That''s good to hear.


    I smiled and left the man. I walked home. Along the way, I say to Meryl.


    "You''re doing the world a favor with your magic skills, Meryl.


    Aren''t I a great guy?


    Yeah. That''s very sweet. I''m more than proud of my daughter.


    "Heh heh heh heh." "Stroke me, stroke me.


    I patted Meryl''s head gently.


    Meryl said, "Mmmmm." and a happy expression appeared on her face. He''s a delirious genius who revolutionized the life of the city.

 13 Annas workplace.txt

    The sun is setting over King''s Landing.


    Between the intricate buildings, the darkness of night looms.


    A lamppost, using a magical device Meryl had developed, cast a glow.


    "Father. Excuse me, but can you go get Anna?¡¡I''m sure Anna will be happy to hear that.


    Yeah. Okay.


    I agreed to do what Elsa asked and went to pick up Anna.


    After leaving the house, I walked through the residential area to the Adventurer''s Guild on the main street.


    After a short walk, you''ll see a magnificent building that looks like a government office.


    This is the headquarters of the Adventurer''s Guild.


    I used to go to this place a long time ago.


    I only remember that I lived here for three years, from the time I became an adventurer at 14 until I retired at 17.


    --it''s been eighteen years since I set foot in it. .......


    Open the double doors and step inside.


    The landscape has not changed much.


    There is a huge bulletin board with a request form in the center, adventurers can select a request from the board and take it to the receptionist at the back.


    The guild''s receptionist is at the reception desk, and your request will be reviewed by the guild''s receptionist to determine your rank and suitability for the mission.


    Sometimes the receptionist will offer you a mission directly.


    The space in front of the guild and upstairs is a bar that is used for pre-mission strategy meetings and to launch missions after they are completed.


    --The more I look at it, the more I miss it.


    I can''t find Anna at ....... I wonder if she''s out in the open?¡¡I went to talk to the receptionist who was carrying the papers.


    "I''m sorry. You got a minute?


    Yes. What is it?


    "Is Anna present. The Guildmaster.


    Anna, you''re working in the back room. If you need anything, I''m at your service.


    No. I''m not here on business. I''m just here to pick up Anna.


    I''m coming for you. ...... ha!


    The receptionist''s eyes widened as if she noticed something.


    She brought her hand to her mouth.


    "Are you by any chance--are you Anna''s lover?


    --What?


    I almost cringe at the unexpected guess.


    ''''Anna-san, when did you get your girlfriend ....... And such a nice adult!¡¡I can''t even put that man in the corner!


    The receptionist said, "Kyah! I was having a blast.


    "Look, ...... I''m not Anna''s boyfriend. I''m her father. I''m going to live in King''s Landing today.


    ''What?¡¡Are you Anna''s father?


    I nodded and the receptionist opened her mouth.


    ''Heh. Are you the Kaiser we''ve heard about?


    "Rumor?¡¡What do you mean?


    Anna told me once. She said that my father is a good man, very reliable, strong and nice. Anna, who is known as a genius and has risen through the ranks since the Adventurer''s Guild began, talks like that. We all said he must be a great father.


    The receptionist narrowed her eyes at Nimanima.


    "So it''s nice to meet you. Hmm. Heh.


    Why are you staring at me?


    Mr. Kaiser. You are as nice as your reputation says. Young and good-looking!¡¡It''s a far cry from my flabby tummy dad!


    Ha ha ......


    But you don''t look much like Anna, do you?


    "--


    I heard those words and my heart stopped beating.


    Anna and I are nothing alike...


    Of course we''re not alike.


    Of course we''re not like each other. Because we''re not really father and son.


    "Ah. Except for the part where we''re beautiful and handsome. It''s nice. I''m sure your mom must be a very beautiful person too.


    The receptionist was enthralled.


    Anna''s real mother. ...... I''ll never see her again. She must be just as beautiful as the receptionist said she was.


    What''s going on?¡¡Hey!


    There was a shout that seemed to echo throughout the guild.


    I saw a strong man, who appeared to be an adventurer, approaching the receptionist. The bald man has a blue streak across his temple.


    I think he''s in a bit of a rage.


    "Mr. Garde. So. So, I''ve explained it to you earlier.


    I don''t f*cking get it, man!¡¡Hey!¡¡I want the manager!¡¡Get in charge!¡¡I can''t talk to a lowlife like you!


    Boom!


    The adventurous man called Garde - pounded the receptionist with his fist.


    The receptionist screamed and withdrew.


    "Mr. Garde. What''s wrong?


    The one who emerged from the back door was Anna.


    Her hair was tied up in a bun, hanging down from her left shoulder.


    She had grown a lot more mature than four years ago, and she had an intelligent beauty.


    The uniform he wears is more luxurious than those of the receptionists. As expected of a guild master.


    What''s going on?¡¡Why can''t I get this assignment?¡¡It''s a great job!


    Haha. ......


    Anna looked over the request form and said to the Garde, "It''s simple.


    ''''It''s simple . You''re still a B-ranked adventurer, right?¡¡This request is only open to adventurers of rank A and above.


    "Then get the hell out of here and get me up to grade A!


    "We can''t do that. It''s protocol. Besides, I wouldn''t recommend Mr. Garde accepting this request.


    Why?


    With your level of expertise, you probably can''t do this. I can''t send someone out there knowing that they will die.


    -Oh!


    Garde''s eyes widened.


    ''You b*tc*!¡¡You''re making fun of me!


    ''Haha ....... Only people who aren''t good at what they do want to overestimate themselves. The blame for the deaths comes on us, and yet ......


    Anna sighed in annoyance.


    That''s when her eyes caught mine.


    Then a thin smile spread across her mouth.


    "Okay, here''s what we''re going to do.


    Anna held up a finger and said .


    ''If you arm-wrestle with the one over there, and if you can win, then I''ll let you take this mission.


    ''Oh?¡¡What the hell is this thing?


    "He''s a grade A adventurer. He stepped away from the adventurer''s trade 18 years ago. That''s quite a long time ago. You''re not strong enough to take the job if you''re going to lose a power playoff to him.


    ...... If I win, you''ll let me take the mission, right?


    Yeah. I''d be happy to talk to you.


    Anna nodded, and the Garde sniffed with satisfaction .


    ''All right . --Hey!¡¡You!¡¡Now, that''s what the little b*tc* said!¡¡I''m going to have you arm-wrestle me as my stepping stone!


    Hey, hey, hey. ......


    Unbeknownst to me, I was supposed to be fighting an unknown opponent.


    I''m sorry. Dad. Just a minor twist.


    When Anna came to me, she apologized and whispered to me that she was sorry.


    ...... Well, when you''re asking for a favor from your beloved daughter, you can''t not do it.


    And this man is annoying Anna by interfering in her business.


    Then you have every reason to fight.


    Okay. All right, let''s take this one.


    That''s the way it should be. ...... And I''m telling you, I''m not gonna take it easy on you. I''m not gonna let you use that arm again.


    Ha, ha. Take it easy on me.


    We stood across the barrels of wine, hands folded on top of each other.


    Then-- start.


    "Ha!


    With all my strength as we began, I pulled down the Garde''s arm with all my strength.


    The liquor barrel shattered.


    Not only did Gardo''s arm fall to the floor, his body was knocked down as well.


    "AAAAAHHHH!


    He was rolling around on the floor, screaming.


    His arm was bent in a different direction.


    "Yes. You''re fighting for it. --Now you know.¡¡He said you''re still a long way from being an A-ranked adventurer.


    Anna looks at the hounded Garde and chuckles.


    ''Didn''t you hear about ......?''


    ¡ï


    Dad. Thank you. You''re a lifesaver.


    ''That''s fine, but ....... What were you going to do if I lost?¡¡Even though it''s an ''A'' grade, it''s been blanked out for eighteen years.


    ''What?¡¡I didn''t think about that.


    Anna looked puzzled.


    "You''re the strongest man in the world. I don''t want him to lose.


    That''s a lot of confidence.


    Just so you know. Is that a wise choice for a guildmaster?¡¡Or is it your favoritism as a beloved daughter?


    Hmm. Both.


    Anna smiled mischievously.

 14 Family group.txt

    After picking up Anna, he returned to his home .


    She chuckled when I told Anna that I went to see an empty house in the aristocratic and residential areas and ended up living in the residential area.


    "Hmm. That''s just like my dad.


    Is that right?


    "I''d rather live in a residential area too. That''s too stuffy for me in the high society. I don''t want to deal with troublesome people outside of work.


    Where has Anna been living all this time?


    I was renting an apartment by the Adventurers'' Guild. But I moved out as soon as I decided to move in with my dad and his friends.


    I''m sorry. It''s just a long drive to work.


    No. Don''t worry about it. Besides, my dad has to pick me up and drop me off every day. I''m not afraid to go out in the dark at night.


    ''What?¡¡To and from school?¡¡Me?


    "Hmm. It was a joke. That''s not Meryl.


    Anna smiles mischievously.


    She''s much more mature now than before we left the village.


    When we get home, we''re greeted by Elsa and Meryl.


    All our families together.


    It had been four years since I''d seen them all together.


    "Daddy. I''m starving, baby.


    We''ll be ready for dinner soon.


    I went to the new kitchen and started to prepare dinner.


    Dad. Would you like some help, father?


    "Elsa. Don''t worry about it. You''re tired from work. Get some rest. I''ll make that rabbit stew you like.


    Ugh, rabbit meat stew: ......!


    "Hey. Dad. Do you have any pie?


    Yeah. Of course.


    Rabbit stew. Meat pie.


    Oatmeal and white fish meuniere.


    And a salad of village vegetables.


    The girls'' favorite foods were on the table.


    Okay. Voil¨¤!


    Sounds awesome: ......!


    Living alone, you can''t help but eat simple meals. It''s been a long time since I''ve had such a good meal.


    Daddy''s home cooking. Daddy''s cooking.


    The girls seem to like it too.


    Thank you.


    We put our hands together and began to eat our dinner.


    ''I knew your rabbit stew was the best ......!¡¡When you eat this, you won''t be satisfied with any other dish.


    ''I have a delicious meal prepared by my dad at home when I get off work: ....... I''m going to be a bad person.


    I''m a failure at heart, so it''s safe.


    It''s a busy table.


    Since my daughters left the village, I usually ate alone. It''s more fun to have a meal with many people.


    I realized that once again.


    When we had finished eating, Elsa suddenly spoke up.


    "What are you going to do tomorrow, father?


    Yeah. ....... For now, we''ll just have to find a job.


    What. Dad, you''re going to work?¡¡You don''t even have to work. I can eat on Elsa and Anna''s money, you know?


    Meryl. You''re not one of them.


    Because I don''t work.


    I gave a wry smile.


    "We''ll work. I''ll work. My daughter won''t let me eat. I don''t have any connections, but I''ll find a job.


    Thirty-somethings who have no work history in King''s Landing have limited job options .


    Picking up scrap metal or manual labor. .......


    I''ll do anything to feed my daughters.


    I''m willing to sip muddy water.


    As a father, I was prepared to do that.


    "Ma''am. Father. That''s why I wanted to talk to you about that.


    Hmm?¡¡What''s the matter. Elsa.


    The Order would love for your father to learn how to use a sword. They want you to be an instructor in the Order.


    What?¡¡How come I''m the one with the white feather?


    Of course he is. My dad''s a great swordsman.


    Anna answered my question.


    Father taught Elsa everything about the sword, and she still insists that I can''t hit him with a single blow. You are the father of the Swordsmanship. Of course, the people in the Order would love to have you teach them, wouldn''t they?


    "Ha-ha.


    Was that how Elsa talked about me?


    She''s an S-ranked adventurer and the youngest and most outstanding person to rise to the rank of Knight Commander. She''s even known as the "Sage of Swords" by those around her.


    I guess I''m popular because I taught Elsa how to use a sword. Including the story of how she failed to hit him with a single blow.


    But I need you to help me with my work.


    ''When you say help, do you mean the ...... guild?''


    Yes. As an adventurer. I''m in a jam-packed line of business, and we''re short-staffed, and we don''t have anyone to handle the higher-ranking missions. See, isn''t my dad an A-list adventurer?¡¡So I''d appreciate it if you''d do the request.


    ''That being said, ....... I''ve got eighteen years of blanks on me, remember?


    ''''I''m fine. Just now you were beating the B-ranked adventurers in the Adventurers'' Guild by a landslide. You can still be a viable member of the guild.


    That''s a lot of nonsense.


    ''I''ve seen numerous adventurers since I became a guildmaster, and I''ve never seen anyone more skilled than my dad.


    Anna clasped her hands together and gave a crisp wink.


    ''Hey?¡¡Please!


    ...... Okay. As long as I can help.


    Yeah. Thanks.


    What. No. My dad''s gonna come with me to the street performance. We''re gonna start up the Merrill troupe and we''re gonna make tons of money.


    What?


    "Meryl. You need to get to school first. You''ll get expelled if you skip school too much.


    Yeah, yeah, yeah. I''m a gifted student. I have a lot of magical inventions. You''re not going to be expelled.


    Meryl said and wrapped her arms around me.


    "Can''t you just stay with me, Daddy?


    Ha ha ......


    I smiled at Meryl and smiled at her.


    My first day in King''s Landing.


    I thought it would be hard to find a job, but my daughters and the people of King''s Landing asked me to help them, so tomorrow we''ll be busy.

 15 Become an instructor of the Knights.txt

    What?


    The tip of Elsa''s wooden sword is about to shoot me through the chest.


    It''s so fast and powerful that it can leave sound behind.


    I caught the line of the sword with my eyes and swiftly swiped at it with my wooden sword.


    "There''s more!


    Elsa is bombarding you with swift and furious sword fights.


    It''s as if she is swinging several swords at the same time. Even the afterimages of the swords I swung before remain in the rush like blossoming petals.


    I dismiss them all and calmly play them off.


    The Knights'' training grounds.


    I''ve been invited as an instructor to train the knights, and at their request, I''m going to play a mock match with Elsa.


    They said--.


    "I want to see the battle between the knight master Erza, who is known as the sage of swords, and Lord Kaiser, who taught the master how to use his sword.


    That''s what it sounded like.


    I hadn''t sworn for a long time, so I agreed.


    But...


    "Hey. Can you see the two sword fights: ......?


    ''Well, I don''t see it at all: ....... You''re going too fast ......!


    "The rush of the Knight Commander Erza is unbelievable! That''s S-ranked adventurer. But Lord Kaiser is preventing all of that from happening perfectly: ......!


    Those two are strong out of the ordinary: ......!


    The knights couldn''t keep up with our every move. They were stunned by the swordplay we were witnessing between us.


    This time.


    Elsa unleashes a powerful blow with the spirit of the holy air.


    Her speed and power are impressive!


    She''s grown so much since she was in the village that it''s hard to compare her growth to when she was in the village. You''ve worked hard every day to forge your sword.


    No wonder he''s become an S-ranked adventurer.


    But...


    as a father, I still can''t let my daughter beat me.


    I reckoned for a moment after she loosed her sword and launched a counterattack.


    I swung the wooden sword at her body and Erza caught it with her wooden sword. -- but the wooden sword she held couldn''t bear the weight and shattered.


    ''''--?


    You''re a game changer.


    I huff a smile on my mouth.


    ''''It was a wooden sword, so it shattered, but if it was serious, it would have been almost an even match. Elsa. You''ve gotten a lot stronger in the time I''ve been away.


    ...... That''s my father. The years haven''t dulled his skills one bit. In fact, he''s gotten much sharper.


    I don''t stop working out, you know.


    ...... In the end, I couldn''t even land a blow on your father again. I was so determined to make it today.


    Elsa muttered in frustration, but her expression was happy.


    Is she happy to know that my sword skills are still intact.


    "I''ll be your wall to cross for a little while longer. --Well, that''s what fatherhood looks like.


    But I''m not sure how long it will last.


    At that moment, there was a burst of applause from the knights.


    That was great, Mr. Kaiser!¡¡I''m impressed!


    ''I couldn''t see the sword streak at all, but I was impressed!¡¡No really, I had no idea what happened!


    We would love to have you teach us how to use a sword!


    They were looking at me with a twinkle in their eyes, like they were looking at me with respect.


    They reminded me of the boys in the village .


    ...... Was there ever an element that could be so inspiring?


    "Father. I would like to ask you to do the same. Teach them how to use the sword. That will help the country grow in strength.


    All right. Elsa, of all people, does this for you. I''ll do it.


    "Whoa!


    The knights cheered.


    ''''If Lord Kaiser-dono trains us, we''ll be swordsmen too!¡¡If that happens, you''ll get a promotion and the girls will love you!


    Now you''re going to live the woo-woo life of yin to yang!


    ''Maybe I can get the Knight Commander Elsa to turn on me!


    ...... Quite a few of them have impure motives.


    Well, they are human in a way.


    I smiled and stood in front of the knights.


    "Then. From now on, I''ll be your sword instructor. I''ll be there for you, so just follow me closely.


    ''''Yes!¡¡I''ll do my best!


    Good answer. First of all, yes. ...... As a warm-up, I''ll have you go around the city fifty times with your armor on.


    "What?


    A shudder spread through the knights.


    "Haha. That''s my girl. Even jokes are funny. You''re wearing heavy armor and making 50 rounds of the city.


    No. I''m not kidding. Me and Elsa used to train like this as a matter of course when we were in the village.


    ............


    Here. He''s gone.


    I clapped my hands and urged the knights on.


    The knights looked drawn, but ran off.


    There was a high-pitched clatter of armor.


    Hours later, the knights came back, looking dying. As soon as they crossed the finish line, they fell as if a thread had broken.


    "Hey, guys. Good work.


    I say good luck to them.


    "Thank God. It''s finally over: ......


    ''Now we can be swordsmen too: ....... We can be reborn from a yinky non-motivated knight to a jolly motivated knight: ......!


    Okay, now let''s move on to strength training. Five hundred push-ups, sit-ups and back-ups. Then a thousand sword swings.


    "--?


    The faces of the knights grew tighter.


    ''Father!¡¡How about this training from day one!


    Elsa said to me.


    "Dear Elsa. ......


    I know. That''s a bit much, isn''t it ......?


    ''When we were in the village, we did twice as many menus as this one, didn''t we?¡¡Isn''t this not enough for you?


    "--?


    "If you start off training hard, it''s going to be tough. So I''m going to start out light and work my way up.


    Oh, I see. So that''s what it is.


    We smile at each other.


    "You said this was light: ......?


    ''Do you mean to tell me that Lord Kaisel and Knight Commander Elsa used to train more than this every day when they were in the village: ......!


    Ba, monstrous father and son: ......!


    The knights were muttering as they shuddered.

 16 Help the Adventurers Guild.txt

    When they finished teaching the knights, they were all completely exhausted. Tomorrow they will be hounded with sore muscles.


    But if you keep at it every day, you''ll get stronger for sure.


    I left the knights'' camp and headed for the Adventurers'' Guild. Anna had asked me to come.


    I opened the double doors and entered the guild''s building.


    It was crowded with many adventurers. The staff looks busy too. They must have received requests from various towns and villages today.


    ''''Ah!¡¡Anna''s father!


    A blonde receptionist approached me.


    ''You''re the guy from last time I saw you: ......


    It''s Monica!


    The blonde receptionist - Monica said her name with a big smile.


    "I''m Kaiser. Nice to meet you.


    Mr. Kaiser!¡¡I saw that. I saw you arm-wrestling with Mr. Garde the other day.¡¡It''s very powerful!


    Yeah. Thank you.


    Mr. Garde was so bad for the receptionist that she didn''t like him. Mr. Kaiser made me giggle and that made me feel better!


    That''s good to hear.


    What can I do for you today?


    Anna wanted me to come over, and... There she is.


    Dad!¡¡Just in the right place!


    When Anna, who was in the back, saw me, her face lit up. She beckons me over to her and I do as she says.


    What''s wrong? I''ll ask, "What''s the matter with you?


    "There''s nothing wrong with that. I''m really shorthanded. I need you to do something for me.


    The mission you want me to do?


    "Yeah. This is a B-ranked mission. I got an urgent call, but all the adventurers for this mission are gone now. I tried to talk to the remaining adventurers, but they all said no because they weren''t worth it. If we don''t defeat them today, the ogre might attack nearby villages and cause damage.


    Anna ruffled her hair.


    ''Oh God!¡¡There are only a few adventurers who can take on high-ranking missions, and I''m sick of all these self-centered, self-centered people~!


    ...... You''re having a hard time.


    I used to be an adventurer, so I know exactly how Anna feels.


    Most adventurers are proud. And they''re all freaks. The higher the rank, the more so.


    Serious adventurers like Elsa are quite rare.


    All right. Well, when that''s the case, I''ll go in for the mission. If I leave them alone, the people in the village might get attacked.


    That''s great, Dad!¡¡Thank you!


    Anna clasped her hands together and her face lit up.


    All right, we''ll take care of everything. I''ll take care of everything.¡¡Yes, sir. I''ll give you a map to the village.


    Yeah. . ...... pretty much a neighboring village.


    I looked at the map and said.


    "All right, I''ll be gone for a while. I''ll be back for dinner.


    Yeah. Have a good day.


    "Hey, hey, hey!¡¡Wait!


    The blonde receptionist who came in was the one who''d just walked in.


    ''What''s up?¡¡Monica-chan" and Anna.


    ''Mr. Kaisel, you''re heading out on a mission by yourself!¡¡It''s a mission to take out the ogre!¡¡Normally it takes four people!


    Yeah. I''m shorthanded.


    ''I don''t think so!¡¡Anna, isn''t your father important to you!¡¡Maybe you actually hold a grudge or something!


    How could I possibly hold a grudge against you?


    If that''s the case, it''s all the more impossible!¡¡I can''t go it alone!¡¡We need to put at least one more person on it!


    It''s okay. Daddy''s strong. You''re strong. Hey, baby?


    Anna gave me a look.


    "Well. There''s no such thing as a mission.


    Mr. Kaiser. Just ''cause you''re in front of my daughter, Anna, doesn''t mean you can''t act brave. Ugh. Let me at least pray for your peace of mind: ......!


    Please don''t kill me.


    I chuckled and left the Adventurer''s Guild and headed off on my mission .


    .


    Referencing the map Anna gave me, I went to the village where the ogre had been seen.


    I talked to the villagers and went into the mountains.


    I dug my way through the trees to get a better feel for the presence of the ogre.


    We didn''t have long to wait before we came upon the ogre.


    It had two horns on top of its head and a body as strong as a rock. There was not a trace of reason in its eyes. It was full of murder.


    --Alright. This should get us home for dinner.


    "Ggaaaaahhhhhh!


    ¡ï


    I returned to the Adventurers'' Guild in King''s Landing.


    "Ah!¡¡Mr. Kaiser!¡¡He''s back!


    Monica comes running up to me.


    ''Mmm-hmm. Mr. Kaiser. Well, you''ve escaped, haven''t you?¡¡You''re probably afraid to take on the Ogre alone!


    Monica got an apologetic look on her face and patted me on the shoulder.


    "There''s no need to be ashamed of yourself. We need to live for our lives. Let''s get the right people together and make sure we''re ready to go.


    It''s spoken on the premise of failure: ......


    I had just smiled at him.


    "Dad. You''re back. You''re home early.


    We met the ogre sooner than we thought. --Here''s a little something I found. Took me longer to dismantle it than to kill it.


    I pulled two horns out of the leather pouch I carried around my waist.


    They came from the top of the ogre''s head.


    ''Eeeeeeeeee!


    When Monica saw the horns, she was so surprised she almost jumped up.


    ''Kaizel-san, you really defeated the ogre?¡¡Just one person, or rather, in this short time!


    ''I told you so.¡¡Daddy said he was strong.


    Anna looked pleased with herself.


    As a father, I''m glad to be of service to my daughter.

 17 Invitation from the magic school.txt

    Our family mornings are earlier than most people in King''s Landing.


    Elsa will be the first one to wake up among the girls.


    She wakes from her bedding just as the sun is still up, when the dregs of the night are still in the air.


    She has a morning discipline. She hasn''t missed a day of it since she was in the village. It''s probably what keeps her strong now.


    Anna is the next one to wake up.


    She reads every newspaper in King''s Landing until breakfast.


    As guildmaster, she needs to keep an eye on what''s going on in the world. Her efforts have helped her get to where she is.


    As for me...


    I''m up before the girls. Because I have to get ready for breakfast. I had to make sure they have a good day ahead of them.


    And Meryl is the last one awake.


    If Elsa wakes up before sunrise and Anna wakes up as soon as the sun rises, Meryl is still under the covers when the sun is up.


    After Elsa and Anna went to work, I went to Meryl''s futon.


    "Meryl. You gotta get up now.


    Nyahhh. A little more ....... Just ten more minutes.


    I''ve been repeating that question for two hours now: ....... I made breakfast. Get up and eat early or it will get cold.


    Daddy. I''m gonna open my mouth.


    Hey, hey, hey. ......


    I''m not Merrill''s personal caretaker: .......


    No, in fact I am.


    "You''re going to be late for Potions Academy if you don''t.


    It''s a beautiful day and I''m taking the day off.


    So you''re going on a rainy day?


    "I''m going to take the day off in the rain, I''m going to get wet and catch a cold. Rain or shine. The wind can''t help. That''s the kind of person I want to be: ......


    After all, you''re not going on any day of the week!


    Huh, and that''s when I was sighing.


    Knock.


    There was a knock on the front door.


    "Yes?


    When I opened the door, there was an adult woman standing in the doorway.


    A cool beauty with tied-up hair and glasses.


    She was dressed in her school uniform.


    She exuded an air of seriousness.


    "Let''s see. You''re ......?


    Nice to meet you. My name is Irene. I''m a teacher at the Academy of Magic. Is this the right place for you, Merrill?


    Yes. Meryl is my daughter.


    Speaking of which: ......


    I''m Meryl''s father. My name is Kaiser.


    Really. You''re so young, you look like an older brother. Mr. Kaiser. I''ve heard so much about you.


    Is this a rumor ......?


    Yes. Meryl used to tell me. She said she loved her daddy. She said she was going to marry her daddy after all.


    Ha ha ......


    So that''s what Meryl''s been spouting around.


    It''s embarrassing.


    So what''s going on in my house, Irene?


    I''m here to pick up Mr. Merrill, the slacker.


    So that''s what happened.


    I knew what I was doing, and I turned back indoors and called out.


    ''Meryl. Your magic school teacher is here to pick you up.


    Please tell me I''m not here.


    I heard you, Mr. Merrill.


    ''Whoa!¡¡You scared the shit out of me.


    Before she knew it, Irene was standing at her bedside, and Merrill jumped up, startled.


    Her shoulders were peeking out of her soiled pajamas.


    Now let''s go to school. As a special student, you are obligated to go to school. I''m not leaving until you say yes.


    ''Yee-hah!¡¡I''m not going to the school, right?


    Why?


    Now that I get to live with my dad. If I go to school, I won''t be able to live apart.


    Meryl came to my side and squeezed my arm.


    "She''s a total f*cking dumbass.


    Irene lifted the vine of her glasses as if she were dumbfounded.


    As a parent, I had no choice but to apologize.


    Irene clasped her hand to her chin for a moment, thinking.


    Then, as if an idea came to her, she said.


    "Then I''ll tell you what.


    Hmm?


    ''You don''t want to be separated from your father, do you, Meryl? So you would go to school if your father was at the school?


    "What?


    Meryl and I both blurted out.


    "Irene. What the hell is going on ......


    Mr. Kaiser. Would you be willing to teach at the Magical Academy?¡¡If you do, I''m sure Mr. Merrill will attend the school.


    Is this your teacher?


    "Of course. We''ll pay you accordingly. No skill in magic is necessary. At a minimum, you should be able to cast a spell.


    I do have a background in magic, though.


    So, that''s all right then. What do you do for a living, Miss Kaiser?


    ''I don''t have a regular job, but ....... An instructor in the Order and a few adventurers.


    I see. Then I''d like to ask you to be a part-time instructor. That way, you''ll be able to balance your other work.


    Irene said, and then.


    What do you think?¡¡Will you accept?


    Hmmm ......


    ''My dad''s going to be a teacher?¡¡Then we can make out in the school!¡¡Then I''ll go to the school too!


    Meryl said in a spirited voice.


    "Meryl said I''d like to do it and I''ll take the job.


    So if you can get Meryl to go to school properly.


    Thank you for your cooperation. As for teaching, it''s basically fine if you''re with the permanent instructor. It''s just that we''re a magical school. If someone who doesn''t have magic power is here for a long time, their health could suffer. So, let me check to see if you have magic.


    I understand.


    ''Then will you touch this crystal?¡¡If one has magical powers, they will glow according to the amount of magic they have.


    Irene took the crystal ball and held it out in front of me.


    I touched the crystal ball with both hands. The crystal ball senses my magic and releases light. The light born in the center of the crystal ball instantly spread out over the entire ball.


    What a powerful light......!¡¡I can''t believe it!¡¡This amount of magic - far surpasses me and other instructors ......!


    Irene had a look of disbelief on her face.


    ''Mr. Kaiser!¡¡Would you please come with me to the school as soon as possible?¡¡I''d like to introduce you to the headmaster at least once!


    ''What?¡¡Oh, yes.


    I had to head to the Magical Academy in a hurry.

 18 Exam to become an instructor.txt

    Irene brought me to the Magic Academy.


    Meryl came with me.


    If you''re going, I''m going too!


    After all, she can go to the academy if I''m with you.


    The magical academy is located in the center of the royal capital.


    It''s a magnificent school building that stands on the vast grounds.


    After passing through the luxurious carved gate, I stepped inside the school.


    Classes are held in the school''s classrooms.


    You''ll find the principal''s office on the fourth floor of the main building.


    After Irene knocked twice on the door, she opened the double doors.


    The room is calmly designed.


    There is a reception table in front and a work desk at the back. At the desk is a small girl sitting in a chair.


    She was slumped over while holding a stick of candy in her mouth.


    She is obviously a little girl of about ten years old. .......


    ''''She is the headmistress of our school, Miss Marilyn.


    According to Irene, she''s the headmistress.


    Is she really an infant or does she have magic powers that keep her in shape?


    Some skilled wizards are able to do such tricks.


    Perhaps the headmaster is one of them.


    ...... that''s surprising if it really is a little girl.


    Irene. Who is that?


    This is Meryl''s father, Mr. Kaiser. I''ve asked him to be a part-time teacher at our school so that Merrill will be able to attend. I can''t make this decision on my own, so I thought I''d ask the headmaster''s permission to come along.


    Fuumu: ......


    The Dean--Marilyn looks around at me in a staring way .


    ''''I actually measured Kaisel-san''s magical power, and it seems that she has a magical power level that surpasses me and the other instructors: ......''''


    I knew immediately that this was not an ordinary man. So it''s not so surprising that Irene introduced me as the headmaster. That''s impressive. An ordinary person would not be surprised to learn that this little girl is the headmistress?¡¡You will react to that kind of nonsense. The fact that you are not restrained by your own perceptions is proof that you are top notch.


    Marilyn smirked and opened her mouth.


    "I hear you''re going to teach school. I hear you''re going to teach at the school.


    Yeah, well,


    ''How good is your magic?¡¡What are the five great magics?¡¡How many of the fire, water, wind, earth, and lightning attributes have you mastered in magic?


    I''ve mastered all five major magics, just in case.


    What--?


    Irene''s eyes widened behind her glasses.


    ''''Master one and you''re a first-rate wizard, master three and you''re a top-notch wizard, but all five of the great magic: ......?


    It''s my dad who taught me magic..." said Meryl, who was hugging my arm, proudly spinning the words.


    ''''You taught magic to Meryl-san, the genius since the beginning of this school, ......?¡¡Mr. Kaisel is such a user: ......!


    Irene couldn''t hide her dismay as she said .


    ''''But I heard from the rumors in the wind that it was Kaiser-san who taught that Knight Commander Elsa-san the sword, too: ......?


    That''s right, Dad, you taught me magic and Elsa the sword. Papa can do both sword and magic!


    ''You''re telling me you''ve created two geniuses: ......!


    I see. You have more than enough potential to be an instructor. You''ve already trained them both.


    Marilyn''s smile twitched at the corners of her mouth.


    It''s time to go. Care to show me some of your magic? The training grounds are designed to withstand the most powerful spells.


    I understand.


    ¡ï


    We came to a training ground.


    In front of me stood a target like a decoy.


    It seemed to be able to absorb magic and quantify its power.


    Marilyn folded her arms and said to me.


    It''s so boring to just look at the five major magics. Show me some magic applications. Show me something you''re most proud of.


    Is it the one you''re most confident about: ......


    I don''t know. I don''t know what to do.


    Daddy, hang in there.


    "The wise man--the one who taught Mr. Merrill his magic. This Irene. I will watch and study your magic!


    Meryl and Irene will take care of me.


    Okay. That''s the one.


    I decided on a spell to perform and faced the target.


    The target is a target, so it doesn''t move. Normally I would release the spell without chanting, but to make it more powerful, I chant.


    "Flame of fiery fire, gather in my hand and destroy all!


    Right hand raised to the target.


    Absolute burst!


    At that moment, the concentrated flame caused a huge explosion.


    The ground around the target was gouged out like a crater. When the dust cloud cleared, the target that had been there a while ago had disappeared.


    Wha-......?


    Irene''s face was aghast.


    "Oh. Did you blow up the whole target?


    Marilyn smiled wryly.


    "This was nothing more than an application of explosive magic-- fire magic. An impressive feat. This is far beyond an instructor''s level.


    Does my dad pass? Meryl asked.


    ''Sure. "Of course." "Of course." "I want you to be a teacher, not just a part-time instructor. It''s Kaiser. What else do you do now?


    An instructor of the Order and an adventurer.


    The instructor. Instructor of the Order. How much does it pay you?


    What?


    "Gratuity. Gratuity. Our school will triple that.


    You mean, triple?


    We''ll spare no expense in finding good men. It''s a shame to give away a genius like you to the Order.


    Marilyn seemed to agree with me.


    So I ended up becoming a part-time teacher instead of a full-time one.


    Two or three days a week.


    But the pay was still very impressive.


    I might be paid more than a full-time instructor.


    If I was a full-time instructor, the house would be ready to be built in three months.


    But I chose to teach part-time because of my girls.


    When I turned down a full-time teaching position, Dean Marilyn asked me why.


    If you''re unhappy with the compensation, then I''m willing to give you what you want.


    "It''s not about the money. It''s about my beliefs.


    I said that to Marilyn.


    We can''t neglect the order Elsa asked us to lead.


    Besides, as an adventurer, I need to make sure there''s enough time to get moving. I won''t be able to help Anna with her work.


    Oh, I see. I like this more and more.


    Marilyn''s smile deepened when she heard my response.


    And there was nothing more to hold her back.

 19 Adventurers Guild is busy.txt

    After I left the magic academy, I came back home.


    After sunset, I had a nice dinner with Elsa, who came back from her work with the Order, and Meryl, who came back from the Academy.


    Anna had told me in the morning that she was too busy to come home.


    She must be working late at the Adventurer''s Guild.


    When I finished eating, I went to the Adventurers'' Guild to pick her up.


    Inside the guild late at night, the adventurers were nowhere to be found, but the staff was still busy working.


    ''''Ahh. We''re going to die of exhaustion.


    Monica, the receptionist, was whining.


    ''I thought if I became a receptionist for the guild, I could go home on time every day, have a lot of money and marry a handsome adventurer...''


    Monica. Work out your moves before you have meaningless dreams. Or you won''t get home before the sun comes up.


    Heeeee!


    "Good job, you two," I said to him.


    ''Oh!¡¡Mr. Kaisel!


    Dad. Why?


    Anna said she was working overtime, so I came to check on you.


    Thank you. --But then, I guess we''d just be bored waiting.¡¡Yes, Papa. Can you pack up these papers for me?


    What?


    I''m in a situation where I don''t need help. Please.


    Mr. Kaiser!¡¡I''m asking you to do the same!¡¡If we don''t, we''re going to be at work until morning!


    Anna and Monica join hands and ask me for help.


    Oh, well. Well, if that''s the case . . ......, but is it okay?¡¡I''m not an employee of the guild, and I''m not going to take on the paperwork.


    Mainly in a confidentiality sense.


    "It''s not a problem. I''m in charge of this Adventurer''s Guild. And there''s no way my father would ever release classified information to anyone.


    She trusts me.


    I got the paperwork from Anna and went to work on the paperwork. The extra help means we''re all done before the sun comes up.


    It''s done.


    Monica said, stretching wide.


    ''I''m so glad you''re here, Kaisel. I see you can do paperwork too!¡¡Not a single mistake was made and it was quick!


    You are so good at everything, Dad. Anyway, now that you''ve got your work cut out, do you want to grab a drink?


    ''Good!¡¡If it''s on me, I''ll go!


    Monica responded to Anna''s invitation with enthusiasm.


    You''re a cash cow. How''s your dad?


    Yeah. Of course I''ll come with you.


    It''s settled.¡¡Let''s go.


    We left the Adventurer''s Guild and came to a tavern down the street.


    It was crowded with workers and adventurers.


    We sat down at a table in the back and ordered our drinks and food. A little later, the tables were filled with drink and food.


    "Now then, Monica. Dad. You''ve had a good day.


    "Kanpai.


    We clinked our glasses together and gulped down the ale.


    The bitter cold liquid drained down our throats and into our guts.


    But I never thought I''d see the day when I''d drink with my daughter: ......


    I whispered to myself.


    In this world you can have a drink when you''re sixteen.


    Time flies.


    Speaking of which, Monica seems to call Anna by her nickname. Is she even younger than Anna?


    "Pfft. Mr. Kaiser. How old do I look?


    About 16?


    Bingo!¡¡I''m the second youngest in the guild after Anna. Anna''s been very good to me.


    Monica said, "Hey? He smiled at Anna.


    ''Yeah. Mostly on the business end of things.


    Oh, come on!


    Monica tapped her forehead with a smack.


    ''''Well, you''re the closest friend in the guild, Monica. None of the others are happy with me.


    Is that so?


    Yes. I''m the youngest guild master in history. They say that the stakes get hammered down, but I have a lot of envy and jealousy.


    Are you okay?


    "Hmm. Thank you for being so concerned. I''m used to it.


    Anna chuckled.


    ''''It''s more difficult to deal with the huge number of requests that come in every day and to deal with adventurers with their own peculiarities.


    It''s really murderous, isn''t it?


    Monica muttered sympathetically .


    ''''It''s still manageable since Anna is the guild master. If she was the previous master, she''d be out of order.''''


    The hard work has left me little time to relax. ......


    That''s true. Kids my age seem to enjoy having a girlfriend. I want to find a nice love too.


    Monica sighed with her cheekbones.


    ''Miss Kaizel . Anna is very popular,


    ''What?¡¡Really? I asked.


    ''Yes. I''m used to getting hit on by adventurers.


    Really? ......


    ''Ah!¡¡Mr. Kaiser. Are you in a ditch?¡¡Yeah, of course. To have your own daughter taken for a horse bone.


    I''m not upset about it. She''s a girl of her age. There''s no mystery to her having a boyfriend or two.


    I made my excuses in a panic.


    "I''m just worried she''s going to fall for some strange guy. I won''t let anyone make her unhappy.


    ''Ooh!¡¡Your dad''s spirit is on fire!


    I won''t let anyone make Anna cry.


    I want my girls to have a happy home.


    Sorry to get you all fired up, but... I''m not seeing anyone. It''s true that I get hit on a lot by adventurers.


    ''What?¡¡Is that right?


    Why do you shirk it?¡¡What a waste!¡¡You could at least go on one date and then decide! Monica said.


    ''I''ve been seeing my dad all my life growing up. Everyone seems so unreliable in comparison.


    Anna. I know you say that a lot when you''re drunk. That if I was going to marry someone, it would have to be someone like my father.


    ''Yes. . . you have to be as strong as your dad, as dependable as he is, and as kind as he is.


    ''Kaiser-san has never lost to Elsa-san, right?¡¡No man is that strong.


    "Yes. I know that. There''s no man like my dad. That my dad was special, strong and dependable.


    Anna mumbled and looked me in the eye and said .


    "Dad. If I keep going this way, I won''t be able to marry anyone and I''ll be dead. You have to take responsibility and marry me.


    ANNA. You''re blushing. You''re drunk.


    You''re drunk. You have to be drunk or you wouldn''t be saying this.


    Anna''s eyes were glazed over.


    ''Meryl''s always going around mentioning how much she loves my dad: ....... You don''t talk about it, but I like him just as much as you do ......


    Anna: "Anna: ......


    Anna rested her head on her crossed arms on the table.


    Suh: "Suh: ......


    And then he started breathing in his sleep.


    Oh, my. Anna, you''re asleep.


    I''ll drive you home.


    I''ve never seen you take advantage of someone so much. I always thought she was cool at work.


    Really?


    ''Anna, you really love Kaizel-san: ....... It''s true that Kaiser-san is a good-looking woman.


    Monica said, smiling.


    ''Let''s get the check.''


    If you say so, we can''t afford to split it up, can we?


    Yes!¡¡Operation successful!


    Ha, ha. She''s got one.


    I paid and walked out with Anna on my back. After I said goodbye to Monica, I walked in the direction of home.


    "...... Dad. I love you.


    He mumbled in his sleep.


    f*ck. I''m weak.


    I can''t help but smile.


    As a parent, I guess I should be worried that my daughter isn''t ready to be a parent. But I didn''t feel bad when my daughter told me she liked me.

 20 Knights girl.txt

    The training grounds where the Order''s men forged their swords.


    As an instructor, I was teaching the knights how to use the sword.


    Now swing the sword a thousand times. Just swinging blindly won''t make you better. You have to imagine what your opponent is doing.


    A thousand times?


    Mr. Kaiser. Are you sure you''re not confusing one digit?


    Yeah. Definitely.


    "Ho-ho ......


    Me and Elsa, we used to do 10,000 swings when we were in the village. You two won''t be done by daylight, will you?


    "You got the digits wrong, do you?


    Perhaps my and Elsa''s training standards were too high, but the majority of them couldn''t follow even a light menu.


    ''''Come on . You better hurry up or it''s going to get dark.


    I clap my hands together and urge them on.


    The members of the Order began to swing their swords, saying hihihihihi.


    Instead of warming up, they''ve been running around the country with their armor on, so there are few people who can swing a sword properly.


    ''''Has the Elsa Knight Commander been doing this training since his childhood? ......''''


    ''''I thought he was a genuine genius swordsman, but ...... that''s why he''s so strong. He must have put in a lot of effort.


    ''Lord Kaiser and Knight Commander Elsa are outrageous. ......


    I looked at the exhausted Knights and muttered to myself.


    "Hmmm. I guess our normal isn''t everyone''s normal.


    "I was surprised when I first arrived at King''s Landing too. I was surprised when I first arrived in King''s Landing that the famously hard training of the Order seemed like a lukewarm affair. The discipline you and your father had put in place was, for most people, erratic.


    Elsa muttered sullenly next to me.


    ''I didn''t mean to be particularly harsh: ......


    I think so, too.


    The knights could not bear the training, and one by one they were losing strength. They fell like a doll whose strings had been cut.


    One of them....


    One of them... was swinging his sword single-mindedly.


    What?¡¡Hey!


    In the midst of the male order, the girl was a small girl .


    Her hair was pulled back in a bun and she had a cute little animal-like face.


    Her name was Natalie, I think.


    She''s from a country village and is particularly dedicated to training, and has completed a thousand give-up swings with the exception of Elsa.


    Wow. She''s good.


    Yes. Natalie is one of the most promising members of the Order. She often asks me to train with her sword as well.


    Elsa had a smiling expression on her face.


    Natalie is younger than Elsa, at 16. Perhaps Elsa loves her younger subordinate, Natalie.


    "Okay. Now let''s move on to the fight. I want you to work with me. Of course you can partner up with me.


    The faces of the knights turned away as if they were showing off.


    ''''We must definitely avoid just having a meeting with Lord Kaisel: ......!


    ''''It''s Lord Kaiser who says he''s stronger than the Knight Commander Elsa. Even in a mock battle with a wooden sword, he could be killed ......!


    Mr. Kaiser!¡¡Partner please!


    While most of them were jumping up and down with me, Natalie was different.


    In a loud and commanding voice, she offered me a fight.


    "Sure. I look forward to it.


    Thank you!


    Natalie bowed deeply.


    Her ponytail fluttered.


    Her whole body was filled with energy and enthusiasm.


    Miss Kaiser. Prepare to die!


    Natalie thrusts her wooden sword into the air with great force.


    She has some nice streaks.


    No wonder Elsa has such promise.


    But...


    But you''re not ready to beat me or Elsa.


    Heeeee!


    He blocked all of Natalie''s swords and easily turned her around.


    Natalie was shot through the torso and fell to the ground in a heap.


    ''''Ugugu ....... Kaiser-san. You''re too strong.


    You were a fine one, too.


    ''''I really wanted to strike a blow for Kaiser-san. That''s what we''ve spent the last few years doing. ......!


    Hmm?¡¡What do you mean?


    I asked Natalie.


    "I know you and I haven''t known each other long, but I''m pretty sure we''ve only just met. ......


    Elsa told me about you. Her sword master was your father, and I''ve never struck a sword in my life.


    So that''s what happened. So you wanted to put a sword to my head that your esteemed Elsa had never struck before.


    I nodded knowingly.


    "Natalie has a lot of ambition, doesn''t she?


    No. It''s not.


    What?


    ''I wondered if Elsa-san would have a meltdown with us if she could hit Kaisel-san with her sword, which she couldn''t hit with a single blow.


    --Melodic?


    And I was going to ask for your daughter to come home with me if I ever win against Mr. Kaiser. Too bad.


    ''Hey!¡¡Wait a minute!


    I turned to Natalie and asked.


    ''What?¡¡When you say you adore Elsa, do you mean in that ......-loving way, rather than as a ...... swordsman?


    Yeah?


    Natalie had a look on her face that said, "What''s the point now .


    ''We want to hold hands with Elsa, kiss and flirt with her ...... and get married in the future!


    It''s a shocker.


    If I was in the middle of a fight, I would have been wide open. If I wasn''t careful, I could have been hit by a blow.


    Wow. Is that right?


    I asked Natalie, trying to hide my upset.


    ''...... By the way, what attracted you to Elsa?''


    ''All of them!¡¡Elsa is strong, beautiful, kind to everyone ...... and an impeccable goddess sass!¡¡My dream guy!¡¡That''s why - I want that noble mind and body to be mine alone!


    Natalie snorted and waved an impassioned speech .


    Her eyes were the real deal.


    I didn''t think--I didn''t know there was a girl who liked my daughter.


    ''That''s why--I can''t forgive you, Kaiser-san!¡¡They''re trying to take Elsa-san away from us!


    Natalie gave me a hostile look.


    ...... eh?

 21 Defense battle in the bathroom.txt

    I''m trying to take away from Elsa ......?


    ''Yes!¡¡Because of Kaiser-san''s decision to live in the King''s Landing, Elsa-san has left the Order''s dormitory!


    Natalie said angrily .


    ''I was hoping you and Elsa would eventually get along and sleep on one futon in a shared room, or flush each other''s backside in the big bathroom. ......!


    I didn''t know I had such ambitions .


    ''We were going to fall in love from there, kiss and make out, and Elsa''s body and soul were going to be ours alone!


    I''ve been having a major meltdown.


    You two. What''s going on?


    Elsa couldn''t bear to look at us.


    "What the hell?


    ''It looked like there was some kind of dispute: ......''


    No, no. It''s just my imagination!¡¡Imagination!¡¡There''s no way we''d have a problem with Elsa''s father.¡¡Hey?


    Oh, yeah. We''re just discussing the sword.


    "Oh, yeah. NATALIE. It''s great to see you so ambitious. I''m sure you''ll learn a lot from your father.


    Yes, yes!


    Elsa smiled and turned on her heel.


    Nathalie was enthralled as she watched the back of him.


    ''Huh ....... Cool sss ......!¡¡Shukii ......!


    "Natalie. You sound like a different person when you''re talking to me. In front of Elsa, you''re like a borrowed cat.


    I get so nervous in front of people I like that I can''t talk about it.


    The squirming Natalie was like a damsel in distress.


    She was so virile, so pretty.


    Oh, well. People fall in love with different people. If you''re trying to win Elsa''s heart, I''m rooting for you in the shadows.


    ''Really?¡¡So tell us where your home is!¡¡I''m going to crawl on Elsa''s doorstep tonight!


    "Okay. I take it back. No backup.


    Why not?


    If I hadn''t misheard you, would you have said night crawling?


    Yeah. I''m going to crawl on you at night. We''re not very talkative, and I don''t have the confidence to seduce you, Elsa!


    How does that lead to the conclusion that you''re a night crawler?


    ''I thought if I made Elsa feel good and let her blow one of the tides, she would be captivated by our body and mind!


    Natalie holds up the goo sign and smiles radiantly .


    This girl has the thought process of a virgin boy: ......!


    I''m a parent and I''m not going to let you crawl in the night.


    ''What?''


    Natalie looked genuinely surprised.


    Of course.


    It''s more of a ''eek'' reaction.


    ''No. Love is an obstacle. You must overcome the obstacles of your father''s disapproval to be worthy of being a daughter''s lover.


    No. How positive is that?


    ''In the meantime, Mr. Kaiser, would you mind giving me a kiss?¡¡Not your cheeks, please, but your lips.


    ''What?¡¡Why?


    "Mr. Kaiser must have kissed Elsa when he was a little girl. So I thought it would be an indirect kiss!


    That''s a hell of a long way to go: ......


    ''Well, can you tell me what soap Elsa uses?¡¡I''ll use it as a reference for doing guru soap.


    "Guru soap?


    It stands for gourmet soap. Eating the soap used by your favorite person makes you feel like you are one with them.


    Yes. ......


    I clapped my hand to my forehead and was amazed.


    The girl''s obsession with Elsa was like the real thing.


    ¡î


    Night.


    When I got home, after I had finished eating.


    "Well, Father. I''ll just have a bath first.


    Yeah. I''ll let you get warmed up.


    Elsa had just gone to take a bath at home.


    I felt a strange presence outside my window.


    I opened the window and looked out. At that moment, I saw a shadow floating in the darkness and then quickly hiding.


    --That ponytail is ...... Natalie.


    I didn''t think it was possible, but it seems to have followed her home.


    Plus, she''s planning to take a peek at Elsa''s bath.


    "Father. Is something wrong, father?


    No. ....... Can I come in with you?


    What?


    Elsa was upset by my sudden offer.


    "You didn''t like it?


    "No, no. I''d rather be honored. I''d love to.


    I''m sure Natalie will try to peek into Elsa''s bath. As a father, I had to make sure she didn''t get to see her daughter naked.


    Elsa and I took off our clothes, wrapped a towel around us, and went into the bathroom.


    "Father. Let me wash your back.


    You didn''t have to worry about it.


    It''s what I want to do.


    So I''ll take care of it.


    I took him up on his offer and let him wash my back.


    Your father''s body is still magnificent. There''s no excess flesh on it: ....... It''s a truly ideal body for a swordsman.


    Elsa murmured in a rapt voice.


    All the while, I was keeping a keen eye out for any sign of life outside the window. Just as I sensed Natalie''s presence behind me.


    ''Elsa!¡¡Watch out!


    He turns around and tries to protect Elsa from Natalie''s carnal eyes.


    But her foot slips and she''s draped over Elsa.


    It''s like I''m laying on top of her.


    The towel peels off, revealing a stark naked body.


    ''Nope, Father, its ...... embarrassing ......''


    Elsa whispered in a ragged, fading voice as her white skin flushed . She hugged her shoulders and hid her chest.


    There was none of her usual dignified atmosphere.


    Just then, the window was blown open.


    This is bad!


    I got up and stood in front of the window to hide Elsa.


    With a flop, the towel around my waist fell off.


    Natalie looked into the bathroom, expecting to see Elsa naked, and then she saw my naked crotch popping up in front of her.


    ''''Ohhhh!


    Natalie screamed and collapsed, blowing bubbles.


    There was a bang, and then a crash.


    ...... Thank God. The evil was defeated.


    We were able to protect Elsa safely.

 22 Lecturer at Magic Academy.txt

    The next morning.


    I had come to the magic academy.


    I would be working there as a part-time teacher starting today.


    After dropping off Meryl in the classroom, I went to the headmaster''s office.


    Marilyn was waiting for me.


    "Welcome to school. It''s good to have you here today.


    Thank you. Please.


    Good answer. I''ll be looking forward to it. I''ve asked you to be my adjunct assistant teacher in Merrill''s class.


    Is this ......?


    "Mm. I want you to join Norman, your teacher. He should be able to tell you everything you don''t know.


    Marilyn introduced me to a man who was standing by.


    "Humph. ......


    The man called Norman pushed up a pair of glasses with his finger.


    He was about my age, maybe a little older.


    Tall and lanky.


    A solemn, almost joking, expression.


    A confidence that permeates his body.


    He had the look of a true elite wizard.


    He may be brusque and proud, but he is skilled in magic. I''m sure you have much to learn from each other. Be good to each other.


    We left the headmaster''s office without saying goodbye.


    We were walking down the hallway to classrooms.


    "I don''t get it.


    Norman muttered in a low, hard voice.


    "For generations, our instructors have been made up entirely of graduates of the traditional witchcraft school. You are not an alumnus of the academy, are you?


    Yeah. I''m not a graduate.


    "And in a special case, albeit a part-time one. Even if it''s to send Meryl to the school, I don''t know what kind of horse''s bones you''re talking about.


    Norman sighed in disgust.


    "Meryl''s an undisputed genius. One or two of the best in the history of the magical academy. But his parents had nothing to do with it. A common wizard teaching at our traditional school is a blot on our school''s history.


    It certainly wouldn''t be fun for the instructors.


    That''s of course priced in.


    I didn''t take this class to make you like me. I only did it because the principal asked me to. For my daughter''s sake, and for the school''s sake. So it doesn''t matter what the instructors think.


    ''Hmm ....... "A third-rate wizard... . one of the best.


    Norman''s face contorted in displeasure.


    Eventually, they made it to the front of the classroom. I followed Norman inside. The room was decorated like a college lecture hall.


    There were students'' seats arranged in rows from the lectern.


    Ah!¡¡Dad!¡¡Daddy~


    Meryl, sitting behind me, noticed me and waved her hands.


    I waved them back with a chuckle.


    "Quiet!


    Norman banged on the lectern and hissed.


    This is Kaisel-- he is going to be the assistant teacher in our class. That''s all. Now let''s get to class.


    The short version is that Norman''s about to move on to class.


    He''s not spending any more time with me.


    He is despised by many.


    Norman was teaching magical syntax.


    Basically, he explained it orally, with the occasional writing on the board.


    ...... I see. That''s rather unconventional.


    But--.


    Perhaps it''s because Norman is a good wizard himself. It''s difficult to explain and the majority of the students don''t follow the class.


    --You''re going to have to break them down.


    Meryl!¡¡You!¡¡Don''t fall asleep in my class!


    ...... mummies?


    When it came to Meryl, she was dozing off proudly . When he looked up at the shouting, he let out a yelp.


    "Because Mr. Norman''s class is so boring. I think it would be much more interesting if you did it.


    Wha--


    Norman had a blue streak across his temple.


    ''f*ck off!¡¡You think my class is less than this ordinary bone?¡¡No way!¡¡Don''t pull a lame stunt!


    This must have been very annoying.


    He yelled at the top of his lungs, spitting in the air.


    "It''s the truth!


    Meryl doesn''t look like she''s going to be sorry.


    Meryl''s track record as a wizard is far better than Norman''s, so I can''t even talk back to her. Besides, what Meryl said made the students around me think that I''m better at teaching than Norman.¡¡The air was like.


    "...... All right. Why don''t you show me. This is your favorite part of your father''s class!


    Norman said and turned to me.


    "Kaiser. Try teaching the class for me.


    Yes?


    "The test will be given to you after you teach the class. If you outperform the average score we gave you in this class before, you''re excused.


    I was already in the process of teaching a class. Well, I''m on the payroll as a part-time instructor.


    ...... Well, I''m on the payroll as a part-time instructor. I don''t want to stand by Norman''s side and watch him do it.


    I have to contribute to the school to make it worth my salary.


    Okay. All right.


    I say yes and Norman takes my place at the podium.


    You. Have you ever taught before?


    No. I even told Meryl about it.


    Yeah. You''re doing the best you can.


    Norman smiled at me.


    He seemed to enjoy watching me fail-- that''s the look on his face.


    Relationships are a pain in the ass.


    I chuckled and turned to my students.


    "Now. Do not resume your magic syntax class.


    Then he began the class .


    Unlike the class Norman had just been in, he replaced the difficult explanations with something familiar and easy to understand.


    To avoid boredom, I asked the students appropriate questions, and humor was used to elicit laughter.


    Then, when I asked them a question, they laughed.


    Even the students who hadn''t been with me in Norman''s class before started to listen to me without losing the light in their eyes.


    "So that''s what happened. So that''s what happened: ......!


    That''s pretty straightforward.


    "Mr. Kaiser''s class is so interesting!


    The students'' reactions were noticeably different.


    They became more interested in the class now that they understand the essence of the lesson.


    The atmosphere in the classroom was friendly, and occasionally there was a lot of laughter.


    ''Gunnu ......!''


    Norman watched him and bit his teeth.


    "Okay. That''s all for now. Come back later if you have any questions. -- or do you have a test first?


    I handed out the test papers I got from Norman to everyone.


    Things were definitely heating up in class. But hey!¡¡Whether or not the students understood the lesson is another story!


    Norman hissed.


    ''If you''re just going to liven up the place, you might as well bring in a street performer!¡¡The question is, did the student gain a better understanding of magic!


    But-- .


    The movement of the pen on the students'' test papers was nimble. After a while, I retrieved them and the two instructors split up to grade them.


    Norman''s face changed when he saw the results.


    That''s ridiculous. ......!¡¡The average score has gone up more than ten points: ......!¡¡Are you saying your class is better than my class: ......!


    "I don''t know what''s better or worse," I said. "I don''t know if they''re better or worse," I said, "but I''m sure they''re all good in class.


    If taught properly, they will absorb it all like a sponge. There''s no doubt they''ll become very good wizards one day.


    ''Stupid ......!¡¡We''re not going to end up like this: ......!


    Norman let out a hateful voice .


    ...... Good grief .


    I''d rather it ended like this .

 23 Difference in human desire.txt

    Another day in class.


    Norman brought me into the classroom.


    And the students were saying to me.


    "Mr. Kaiser. Thank you for helping me out yesterday!¡¡Thanks for getting it right!


    I showed my dad the fire magic my teacher taught me and he was amazed. He said it was going to be you to run the family business. My eldest son looked so disappointed. I felt like shit.


    Ever since Kaiser-sensei taught me the trick to water magic, I''ve been able to release Water Splash consistently!


    After the first day, I didn''t teach a class. Instead, I was taking questions from the students during recess and after school.


    "Hey!¡¡Recess is over!¡¡Quiet!


    Norman tapped the teaching table in frustration .


    Shin ...... and the classroom went quiet.


    Norman said, clearing his throat.


    Now let''s get to class.


    Yeah. Dr. Norman. ......


    Mr. Kaisel''s class is easier to understand and more fun.


    I''ll come back later with more questions.


    "Ki you guys! ......!


    Norman looked at his students and panicked. The wooden staff clutched in his hand snapped back.


    Well, well, well. Well, well, well.


    I try to quiet them down.


    "You''re the ones who have no qualms about it.


    Norman shouted, and his glare became hostile.


    "Kaiser. Surely you can teach him a few things. But don''t push your luck. I am a far better wizard than you are. A graduate of a magical academy, I''m no better than a hick wizard like you.


    ...... wow .


    I''ve become insanely hostile .


    .


    After class was over, students came running to me.


    They''d ask questions.


    "Mr. Kaiser. Can you tell us about your magic chanting: ......


    The magical syntax of the Flame Lance. I think it could be improved upon. I was wondering if you could help me out.


    Where did you learn magic, Dr. Kaisel?


    Dad. Stop bothering everyone and pay attention to me. You''re gonna die if you don''t make out with me in private.


    Hey, hey. You know I can''t deal with this all at once.


    It''s good that you''re willing to learn.


    But there''s only one of me, so I can''t deal with more than one of them at a time. There''s a balance of supply and demand by all accounts.


    "All right. I''ll listen for you.


    Norman said, pushing up one of his glasses with his finger.


    ." ".........,


    The students looked at each other.


    "Oh, no. I''m fine.


    I said no, as if it were a sign.


    "Hey!¡¡Why?!


    "Because Mr. Norman is so hard on us. When I asked him a question, he looked down on me and said, ''You don''t know these things at all. . you can''t even understand this stuff,'' and they look down on us.


    You''re so superior to me.


    It''s kind of hard to explain.


    In that respect, Mr. Kaiser doesn''t look down on us, and his teaching style is easy to understand, so it''s nice.


    Ugh. ......!


    Norman peeled his eyes and just barely bit his teeth.


    ''Oh my. You seem to be quite busy.


    Your next teacher, Irene, walked into the classroom and said. She was a beautiful, intelligent, bespectacled teacher with her hair in a bun.


    Miss Irene. Well, well, well, you look good today.


    When Norman looked at Irene, he mended his expression and thanked her reverently.


    I''ll add a line that will make your teeth curl.


    ''How''s that?¡¡I''ll have dinner with you tonight. I''ll tell you a story about the time I was top of my class at the Magical Academy.


    I''m sorry. I don''t think so.


    Irene simply turned down Norman''s advances and--


    Dr. Kaiser. Isn''t he very popular?


    Is that right?


    Yeah. There''s a rumor going around the school. Mr. Kaiser''s teaching style is very good. I''d love to come watch one of your classes.


    "Come on in," I say.


    "That''s right. Dr. Kaiser. Would you like to have dinner one of these days?¡¡I''d like to talk to the instructors in detail once.


    Wha-......!


    It was Norman who grunted.


    ''Why, why!¡¡With a third-rate wizard from the countryside!¡¡You won''t gain a single thing by talking to a man like this!


    Is that right?¡¡I''m sure you''ll have a much more meaningful time than having to listen to Dr. Norman brag about it.


    Irene cut off Norman''s words curtly and said--


    ''Dr. Kaiser. What do you think?


    After I made the girls'' dinner.


    "Hmm. We''re looking forward to it.


    Ugh. ......!


    Norman saw me and Irene laughing and moaned. He''s so angry and boiling that it felt like his veins were about to burst.


    And finally, he couldn''t take it anymore...


    Kaiser!¡¡Match me!


    I shouted at the top of my lungs.


    ''''Yes?¡¡Competition?


    You''re being congratulated for being a good teacher.¡¡I''ll tell you which one of us is the better wizard!


    ''You don''t have to do that: ....... I''ll just say that Dr. Norman is better. I don''t care about rank or anything.


    ''No!¡¡Even if you don''t care, I do!¡¡We must make it clear to those around us!


    Norman seems to be completely pissed off.


    I guess he can''t bear the attention of his students and Irene to me, an ordinary part-time teacher who isn''t even a graduate of the magic school.


    Um. Mr. Kaiser. Will you accept it?


    Irene said.


    ''''Because once we can make it clear in black and white which one of us is actually better, we won''t have to go through all this inert fighting.


    I see.


    That might be it.


    Bok. I haven''t seen my daddy work his magic in years.


    Meryl hugs me in her arms and begs me to do it .


    ...... I get weak when my daughter says that to me.


    Okay. Let''s take the game.


    "Hmm. That''s good. Kaiser. It''s the only time you can stay on top of things. I''ll show you what a huge disparity there is.

 24 duel.txt

    Norman and I went to the square in front of the school.


    Students from our class and Irene gathered around to watch the showdown. Some were betting on who would win.


    ''And then?¡¡How do you play the game?


    Duel.


    Norman threw the gloves he was wearing at me.


    "How about we walk three steps back to back, turn around and unleash a spell? Shall we agree on a rule that the person who casts a spell on the opponent wins?


    I see. Then the one with the fastest and most powerful magic chant wins.


    How true. It just goes to show you what a wizard you are. There is no such thing as winning in Magre.


    Okay. All right, let''s do it that way.


    The dueling technique has been decided upon.


    The students were whispering to each other.


    "Hey. Who do you think is going to win?


    ''Yes. ....... Mr. Kaiser is an excellent teacher. Isn''t Ms. Norman a better wizard than you?


    But you''re Meryl''s father.


    Hey, hey. Let me in on the bet. Yeah?¡¡Which one do you want to bet on?¡¡That''s all my dad''s money, of course!


    Before I knew it, Merrill had put all his money on me to win.


    This is too much to lose.


    No, it wasn''t supposed to, but...


    "d*mn. Kaiser. So much for you to stay on your game. I will show you the difference in power in front of everyone.


    Norman pastes a wry smile to his mouth.


    ''''I graduated top of my class from the Academy twelve years ago. I have mastered three of the five major magic attributes. That proves you''re a first-rate wizard. He uses his magic to great effect as a court wizard after graduation. You don''t have the background of a third-rate wizard from the countryside. Of course the number of tragedies I''ve encountered is incomparable.


    Norman talks about how great he is.


    I couldn''t help but chuckle.


    "This isn''t a job interview. I don''t need you to tell me about yourself. Shouldn''t you be focused on the game instead of talking?


    ''Guh. ......!¡¡You cocky bastard to all intents and purposes: ......!¡¡All right. I''ll let my body teach you what I''m capable of as a wizard!


    Me and Norman stepped up to each other and stood back to back.


    We took a step toward each other .


    I heard the soles of my shoes scrape the ground with a slow .......


    Second step. Tension builds.


    And on the third step-- as soon as the soles connected, both men looked back at each other.


    Norman was the first to move. He raised his right hand toward me and tried to break the chant to activate the spell.


    "Hahaha!¡¡Kaiser!¡¡You would be surprised!¡¡This is how you break the magic chant!¡¡An advanced technology that only a first-rate wizard could master!¡¡While you are chanting your magic, my Thunder Arrows will pierce your body!¡¡Take it!


    When a magic circle appeared beside Norman, arrows clad in purple electricity were shot out of it - sooner or later the magic circle was engulfed in a whirlpool of fire.


    ''''H......!


    The magic circle that had appeared at Norman''s side had vanished without a trace.


    By the fire magic I unleashed--flame.


    ''''Bah, that''s ridiculous. ......!¡¡Now that''s ...... chanting destruction!¡¡Kaiser. Do you possess the same advanced technology as I do?


    No, breaking chanting isn''t high skill. I''ve learned this much magic in less than a month, okay?


    What? A month?


    Yeah. . ...... did I say something funny?


    ''I''ve been training bloodily to learn to discard chanting: ......!¡¡It''s a bluff!¡¡This has to be a bluff!


    Norman shouted in dismay, and--


    ''Hey, then!¡¡Water magic!¡¡With a water shot that''s resistant to fire magic, we should be able to neutralize his fire magic!


    Another discarded chant activates water magic.


    A blue magic circle appeared at Norman''s shoulder.


    A bullet of water shot out of it like a bullet.


    But...


    But... my shot blasted the bullet back.


    What?


    ''Awesome ......!¡¡I can''t believe you cancels out water magic that should be incompatible: ......!¡¡There''s a substantial power difference between the two, which is why the trick is ......!


    Irene''s eyes were wide open behind her glasses.


    "Norman. Is it over?


    I turn to Norman and ask him.


    "Here we are. Now come on, show me some of that magic you''ve got. --But I''m faster and more powerful than you, so you can''t win.


    Norman knew that, too, and he fell to his knees. He hung his head in a crouch as if he had lost the will to fight.


    ''Why, ......!¡¡You''re supposed to be a third-rate country wizard: ......!¡¡So how can you do this much magic: ......!


    My mentor taught me a lot of things when I was in the country.


    ...... Master?


    Yeah. A wizard named Etra.


    ''Etra!¡¡Etra?!


    Do you know?


    ''I know and nothing else, she''s a wizard who''s gone down in the history of King''s Landing: ....... She''s named after the same wise man as Meryl!


    I knew you''d be famous.


    "She didn''t take an apprentice because she didn''t want to waste her time on a talentless person. But you studied under her. ......


    It looks like we''ve got a winner.


    Irene pushed up the vine of her glasses and said.


    ''Mr. Kaiser wins.''


    Dad. That was so cool.


    Meryl ran over to me and squeezed my arm.


    "But why were you holding back?


    What do you mean, take it easy? Norman hissed.


    ''Well. Because if you pull that trigger, you might kill him. I kept it to about three minutes of force.


    ...... I''m completely defeated. You''re too good at teaching and too good at wizardry. It seems you are a true wizard.


    After that-- .


    Norman would give up teaching classes when I was at work.


    And he and Irene took my class with them. And when they heard about my classes, the rest of the class would come.


    The room was packed to the gills.


    And everything seemed to be falling into place.


    It''s nice to know that everyone knows who you are. But it''s not gonna give me much time to spend with you, Dad.


    Only Meryl''s cheeks were puffed up and she looked unhappy.

 25 Date with daughters.txt

    The three sisters were in a very good mood that day.


    Why?


    It was because everyone''s vacation happened to fall on it.


    Elsa was off duty with the Order, Anna had her first day off in a while, and Meryl had decided to take a voluntary break.


    And I took a day off work too.


    An instructor of the Order, an adventurer, and a part-time teacher at a magic school.


    It was a busy day and I needed a break once in a while.


    Since all of your family members are off, we''ve decided to go out together. The four of us will forget about work and spend the day with our families.


    "Yay!¡¡It''s a date with my dad!


    Meryl''s in her pajamas and she''s hugging me.


    "Hey, hey. You''re up really early today.


    Because I''m going out with my dad today. I don''t want you to fall asleep. I wanna stay with you every minute of the day.


    You''re such a good girl. You should get up at least once a day. Then you''d have no reason to be late.


    Anna said with a confused look on her face.


    I''m a moody person. I need to be excited to be able to move. I can''t do anything when I''m not here.


    Meryl. You used to be able to live on that before Daddy came to King''s Landing.


    I used to go back to the village once a week to replenish my supply. I''ve been taking in a week''s worth of daddy stuff there.


    What is the Papa ingredient supplement ......? Elsa asked dubiously.


    ''Hmm. I wanted you to know that you get to play with your daddy and beg him for money. Anyway, when you make out with your dad, you can replenish your supply, right?¡¡Dad,


    That was a tough one: ......


    I looked far away as I thought of days gone by.


    In those days, I would come home once a week and Meryl would ask me for all kinds of favors.


    She wanted me to pat her head, give her a hug, kiss her cheek, bathe with her, hold her hand until she fell asleep, and let her change all her clothes when she woke up. ....... Etcetera.


    Huh?¡¡Not much different now, is it?


    "Meryl. You''re never going to be able to leave your father that way. Do you want to be a broken boy who can''t stand on his own?


    Okay.


    Meryl said it without apology.


    The word ''person'' is made up of me and my dad. Me and my dad are gonna be in love with each other forever.


    It''s open, and it''s ......


    Anna put her hand on her forehead.


    ''I''m glad to hear you say that, but ....... As long as me and Meryl are father and son, I''m almost certainly going to die first. I don''t know if it''s an illness or if I''m on a mission. So Meryl needs to be able to stand on her own, too.


    I''m fine!¡¡Even if my dad dies before I do, I''ll bring him back to life!


    Hey, can you bring her back?


    ''Yes!¡¡Even if my dad died, he''d be able to come back and put his soul back in the body he rebuilt. Then we''d have no life span. Hmmm. Me and my dad will be together for hundreds of years.


    Yes. ......


    Meryl was saying the d*mnedest things in a light tone.


    That is to say, to make you immortal.


    Since the dawn of time, the powers that be have all scrambled east and west to find immortality, but no one has ever done so.


    ''''She''s a true genius. ....... It''s not impossible. She''s a genius when her dad is involved. He invented a mage because he wanted to help people and earn my dad''s praise.


    That means ......


    Dad. I''m sorry to hear that. You may have to take care of Meryl forever.


    No rest for the wear, eh?


    "Meryl. I support your work, Dad. Papa ...... because we all want your father to be alive.


    What?


    No. It''s not because I don''t want to leave you, Father - it''s not that I don''t want to leave you!¡¡That kind of indulgence is not necessary for a Knight Commander. It''s just ...... that ...... there''s no point in beating your old and unskilled father with a sword.


    Ha, ha. Make sure you can beat me before I get old.


    I couldn''t help but chuckle .


    Elsa is still steadily getting stronger every day. One day soon she''ll be a far stronger swordsman than I am.


    Well.......


    I want to stick around for a little while longer to preserve my father''s dignity.


    "By the way. When Meryl completes her research on immortality, will she apply it to us?


    Of course you can. We''re a family. Me, my dad, Elsa and Anna, we''re going to live together forever and ever.


    That sounds wonderful. If I can live forever without losing my young body, I''ll be able to reach the heights of a swordsman.


    I guess I could take all the power in the country. We could take all the power in this country and get rid of the old bastards that are roaming around now and we''d have a better country.


    Each of the girls imagined what it would be like after they became immortal.


    "Well... I think we should look ahead. But it''s our time off. Let''s just enjoy the holiday for now.


    I said, and the girls nodded happily.

 26 Look over Elsas cute clothes.txt

    We left our home and went to King''s Landing.


    From the residential area to the main street.


    The main street of the capital was lined with all kinds of shops, young and old, men and women, and even peddlers'' carts.


    It''s as crowded as ever. I feel dizzy.


    Anna muttered to herself as she watched the waves of passersby.


    ''''This royal capital is in the center of the surrounding towns and villages. All kinds of people come here. There''s never a shortage of people here, day and night, all year round.


    It''s like a bug that attracts light.


    Of course, that means dangerous people could slip through the cracks. That''s why we, the Order, are here all the time.


    ELSA. Is that why you''ve been so wary of your surroundings?


    Yeah. I''m keeping an eye out for any suspicious characters.


    ''''It''s your day off and you should just leave it to the other knights. I mean, how is it that you''re dressed like that?


    Hey, what do you think is going on here?


    That''s right. With all of us in civilian clothes, you''re the only one in armor. It''s hard not to think of it as weird.


    Anna looked at Elsa like she was dumbfounded.


    While Anna, Meryl and I were all dressed in civilian clothes, Erza was the only one in armor. I''m sure you''ll be able to find your favorite sword at her waist.


    But ....... It''s just a light equipment. I''m usually equipped with a little more weight.


    "It''s not about that. I''m saying you''re not s*xy. And you don''t have much in the way of civilian clothes, do you?


    Yeah, yeah. Well, maybe 12.


    You''re so cute looking. You''re wasting your time.


    Ka, kawa: ......


    Elsa looked happy for a moment, but quickly snapped back to herself. He cleared his throat and said in a solemn tone, "I''m a knight.


    "I''m a knight. I don''t have to be pretty.


    Hmm. For that matter, when you found out your dad was coming to King''s Landing, you seemed awfully concerned about your appearance?


    How did you know about that?


    Natalie told me. She''s in and out of the guild a lot. She said she looked like she had a date.


    Ugh. Ugh. ......!


    Oh. Elsa, your face is all red. You look like an apple.


    Meryl pointed out Elsa''s blush and started rubbing her cheeks affectionately . Elsa let out a puff of steam.


    ''''Hey . Shall we go shopping for Elsa''s clothes now?


    Is my clothes at ......?


    "Yes. At this rate, she''s going to be out in armor all day long, even on her days off. Dad, you''d rather have Elsa in a pretty dress, wouldn''t you?


    ''''Yeah. It''s admirable that you''re always proud to be a knight, but can''t you at least dress up on your days off?


    Oh, is it fashionable: ......


    Elsa muttered and asked anxiously .


    ''Can I do it?''


    Of course.


    Okay. Okay, let''s get going.


    ¡ï


    Then we came to the clothing store.


    "Elsa. I''ll help you. I''ll help you get dressed. I''ll make you the idol of the Order.


    Ha, ha. ......


    I''m going to look at some clothes too.


    The girls were scattered throughout the store.


    Anna was mending some clothes and holding them out to Elsa.


    Elsa looked puzzled in front of the pretty clothes.


    By the way...


    The one who is mending my clothes is also Anna. Ever since we were in the village. So I don''t know much about clothes.


    You''re like a husband letting your wife pick out your clothes.


    "Daddy. Look, look, look.


    Meryl called me through the curtain in the fitting room.


    As I approached, the curtain was drawn back, revealing a clothed Meryl. She''s wearing a swimsuit with almost no fabric.


    What are you wearing?


    You''re almost naked!


    How''s that?¡¡Doesn''t it look good on you?


    Meryl said, "I''m going to shoot my dad''s heart out!¡¡He shot a gun in front of my chest.


    Her lithe body had not a scratch or stain on it.


    She was as fresh as a white fish.


    Meryl had always had a penchant for revealing clothing. She seemed to think that the more revealing the clothes, the prettier they were.


    "This bathing suit is pretty... Did you like it, too?


    No, I don''t agree with that.


    Why?


    This is way too revealing. If you go to the beach dressed like that, you''ll have no place for other men to look.


    Dad. You don''t like it when other men see me?


    Meryl grinned and looked happy, "I''m jealous~ . Cute~" she said, giving me a peck on the cheek.


    Not that I''m jealous, but .......


    "Hehehe~. I''m not going to buy this swimsuit if you insist. I''m the only one who shows you all my skin.


    Don''t say anything misleading.


    Why?


    The salesman keeps giving me these crazy eyes.


    The woman at the store looked at me suspiciously.


    "Me and my dad, we''re done.


    Hey, hey, hey!


    Don''t stir things up!


    Tahee.


    Meryl flicked her tongue out.


    I chuckled.


    "Anna. How are you doing? How are you doing?


    I called out to the dressing room next door.


    I called to the fitting room next door. You look great.


    Wait. Wait a minute: ......!


    Without hearing Elsa''s voice to stop her, Anna opened the curtain of the fitting room.


    ''''Ooh, ......''''


    Meryl and I let out an exclamation of admiration.


    What appeared in front of me was the figure of Elsa, dressed in fashionable clothes. She was dressed in a cute white blouse and long flowered skirt. Elsa''s slender model figure is elegantly brought out well.


    Elsa squirmed as she held the hem of her skirt in place. She looks up at you and asks you fearfully.


    Heh, isn''t that strange ......?


    No. It looks good on you.


    I smiled at Elsa.


    "I think it''s very pretty.


    "Such a flimsy outfit should be an abomination to any swordsman. ....... And yet I''m so happy when my father praises me. ......


    Elsa''s face had turned bright red.


    I thought that if the people of the Order, who usually only saw her with a dignified expression, saw this, I could guarantee that they would be surprised .

 27 Family flirting.txt

    Elsa decided to buy the clothes she had tried on earlier .


    Instead of wearing armor, she was now wearing a white blouse and long flowered skirt. But she still wore her sword at her waist.


    "You''ll need it in case of an emergency.


    That''s what it looked like.


    Amidst her pretty clothes, the sword at her waist was striking. But this doesn''t look too stylish.


    But I didn''t expect to see it for nearly half the list price.


    Hmm. Wasn''t it great the way I bargained?


    Yeah. I''ve never seen anyone with so much eloquence in my life. It was like watching magic.


    Anna bargained at the clothing store.


    At first, the clerk insisted that it was impossible, but as he played a trick on me, the price dropped rapidly.


    I was able to get the clerk to agree to my request.


    Anna''s bargaining skills were far more refined than when she was in the village. That''s no wonder she was the youngest person to reach the rank of guild master.


    Dad. You only speak well of Anna!¡¡I could lower the price if I magically brainwashed the clerk...


    Meryl says some pretty outlandish things. Brainwashing.


    That''s forcing you to do something. It''s important to get them to lower the price while still being convinced.


    Anna wagged her finger tsk tsk.


    ''Honestly, I could give it to you for free if I wanted to, but . But this is business. It''s got to be mutually beneficial.


    A chill went down my spine when I heard Anna''s words.


    If I wanted to, I could become a crook or a religious figure. But it''s impossible, because Anna has good roots.


    ...... Thank God God gave the right people the talent to do this.


    We were walking in the marketplace.


    Daddy. I''m tired of walking, Daddy.


    Meryl flopped down on her ass and opened her hands to me.


    She flings her pampered face out to me.


    "So, please. Piggyback me. Piggyback.


    Hey, hey. You''re blocking other people''s access to the street if you sit here.


    Yeah. I know.


    I see.


    So you''ve been begging me for a piggyback ride in anticipation of annoying other people if I don''t do it here: .......


    d*mn you, Meryl. I''ve thought about it.


    I guess I''ll just have to: ......


    Yay!


    Reluctantly, I choose to piggyback Meryl.


    Meryl falls on my back. It''s so light.


    Daddy''s back''s warm.


    You have a soft spot for him. You have a soft spot for Meryl.


    Anna sighed in disgust and cowered her shoulders.


    As I laughed, Anna wrapped her arms around my right arm.


    Anna wrapped her arms around my right arm.


    ''''What?''''


    It''s my day off. I''m gonna spoil you, Dad. You''re going to listen to me a lot, and I''m going to be selfish.


    "Why don''t you let Elsa put her arms around my dad?


    ''Wow, I''m not ....... If I locked arms with my father, my hands would be full. As a swordsman, I''m not built to be weak.


    Oh, come on. Oh, come on.


    Yes. Today is a good day.¡¡I''m the same way, but when you''re in a higher position, you can''t take advantage of other people, right?¡¡Day in, day out, tense and nervous. Who else is going to spoil me but you?


    Maybe Anna''s words echoed in Erza''s chest .


    Elsa put her hand over her mouth and squirmed, "Father...


    ''''Father. May I put my arms around that ......?


    Of course. Of course.


    Thank you. Now if you''ll excuse me: ......!


    Elsa gradually wrapped her arms around my left arm.


    I''m going to be able to have a look at it and I''m going to be able to see it.


    It''s a great relief to surrender to your father .......


    That''s good to hear.


    We were walking around, my whole family huddled together.


    Passersby saw us and said.


    "Look at that man. That''s the guy. There''s three beautiful women there.


    It''s a harem. Harlem.


    You''re a beautiful girl and I envy you. I want to be part of your harem.


    Apparently they didn''t think they were father and son .


    Later, that last one smells like something dangerous: .......


    ''We . . like they think we''re not father and son, but lovers.


    Are these two lovers ......?


    Yeah. Dad, you look so young. I guess I can understand why she''d think that. And it makes me feel good about it.


    I heard we''re dating. Whew!


    The girls didn''t seem all that pleased.


    I thought you''d hate it.


    "Ah. The food truck. Dad. I want a crepe!¡¡I want one with lots of whipped cream and strawberries on it!


    Meryl pointed to the crepe stand and said.


    ''Hmm. Good. I''ll have some too.


    Yeah. What about Elsa?


    "Wow, I''ll pass. Eating sweets makes you fat. It makes you less agile.


    Elsa said, and then.


    ''I mean, Anna and Meryl often eat sweets at home too: ...... How can that not make you fat?''


    Hmm. Because I use my brain every day at work?


    I''m not a fat person.


    ''Aside from Anna, I''m jealous of Meryl: ......!¡¡As much as I eat, the more I eat, the more flesh I put on my body.


    In Elsa''s case, it''s a squeeze to begin with.


    When I say that.


    Well. Today is a good day, isn''t it?


    And held out the crepe he had purchased.


    I think Elsa had always wanted to eat it.


    It''s inevitable that my invitation would make her mind wander.


    ''If your father says so: ....... I''ll take you at your word.


    Elsa timidly took the crepe and took a bite. At that moment, her eyes widened in surprise.


    ''''It''s--it''s soft!¡¡It tastes so soft!


    What do you mean?


    Does that mean it''s good?


    Hey. Let''s all take a bite out of each other


    We made each other take a bite of the crepe.


    I couldn''t help but squint at the cream on the girls'' mouths. I knew I was glad we moved to King''s Landing.

 28 Defeat the thieves on a date.txt

    We were walking through the marketplace in harmony.


    There was a crowd of hungry people around us. If we''re not careful, we''ll get separated. I''ll keep an eye on the girls.


    --And then, just as I was about to do so.


    And then my eyes caught sight of a figure out of the corner of my eye.


    It''s three men.


    Dressed in cloth and nondescript.


    But .......


    I couldn''t help but stop and take notice of them.


    "Dad. What is it, sweetie?


    Anna asked quizzically.


    ''Father. The people I just passed are ......


    "Elsa noticed too.


    Yes. There was something disturbing in the air.


    ''Yeah . They made no sign and no sound. They were trying to blend their presence into this crowd to the extreme.


    Nice work, both of you. I had no idea. You do have a reputation as a fighter, after all.


    Anna said, sounding impressed.


    "Meryl. Did you notice that?


    ''Mmmm?¡¡What did you say?


    She''s snoozing with a full belly and ......


    Anna chuckled in disgust.


    ''It''s just a rule of thumb for me--I have a bad feeling about this.


    Yeah. Yeah.


    Elsa and I had a near-perfect feeling.


    Now a man I had just passed had some kind of devious plan. And a hint of dark emotion seemed to be leaking out.


    And that''s when.


    "Wow!¡¡Thieves!


    I turned around in response to the screams.


    I see the men from earlier coming out of the jewelry store. They were carrying bags. They were trying to get away at wind speed.


    "So that''s what they were planning to do.


    Father. They are probably a group of thieves who robbed jewelry stores in King''s Landing recently. There have been reports of damage on more than one occasion. The Order has been on high alert, but we''ve been unable to find them. We won''t let them get away today!


    "Elsa. I''m going to help you. Let''s go after them.


    I left Meryl on my back with Anna and took off running after the thieves.


    Elsa was right behind me.


    We wove our way through the crowd and followed the thieves'' back.


    They''ve seen that we''re following them too.


    d*mn it. Don''t think you can keep up with our speed.


    The thieves kicked the ground and sprinted through the wall of the building.


    Passersby around us thought it was a juggling act, and they applauded.


    We didn''t lag behind and ran up the wall. Rather than falling behind, they''re closing in on us.


    You''re fast ......!¡¡If we don''t, it will catch up to us: ......!


    "d*mn it!¡¡When this happens!


    One of the men in the gang spotted a father and son who were nearby. He pulled out a knife from his pocket and threw it at the girl.


    Huh!


    Yikes! Meena!¡¡Watch out!


    Before the tip of the knife could penetrate the girl''s abdomen, I interrupted the line of fire and grabbed the handle of the flying knife to stop it.


    "...and... Glad you made it in time. Are you okay?


    "Uh. Yeah. ....... Thank you, big brother.


    ''I''m not even old enough to be a big brother. ....... I''m just glad you''re okay. But we''ve lost sight of them.


    What a cowardly way to use a child as a dupe: ......!


    Elsa''s fists were clenched tightly together, revealing her anger. She would not allow anyone to lay a hand on a weak man, woman, or old man.


    She was pretty pissed off.


    But if we lose sight of that...


    "Papa. Dad, do you hear me?¡¡It''s Anna.


    Anna?¡¡Where did that voice come from?


    "I communicate through Meryl''s magic. I have a map of the entire city and their location. You have instructions.


    "That''s encouraging," I said.


    "''It''s the good sisters you should have,'' I said.


    Totally.


    Can you save that line for when you catch the thieves?


    Elsa and I followed Anna''s directions down the intricate alleyway.


    Then, around the third corner, we catch sight of the thieves again. When they see us, they look upset.


    Why do you think we''re here: ......


    I have some very capable daughters. No matter where you run to in King''s Landing, you''ll never escape the siege of your daughters.


    Eventually, the thieves were cornered at the end of an alley. It was an empty, dank, beaten place.


    The perfect place for delinquency and violence.


    "You got nowhere to go," I said.


    "''The repeated robbery of money and goods is not enough, and the viciousness of sacrificing a good little girl so that they can escape - I will not allow it to go unnoticed. I''m going to send you to prison myself.


    You''re the ones who are trapped.


    The thief grinned at me and twisted his mouth.


    Then--


    Out of the shadows of the dimly lit alleyway, a number of men swiftly emerged. At a quick glance, there must have been close to ten men.


    I was originally planning to meet my friends here. You thought you were setting me up, but you''re being set up.


    That''s good. Hey, Elsa.


    I smile at Elsa.


    "Yes. If you all go through with it, we won''t have to go to the trouble of finding the rest of the people. We''ll take care of everyone here.


    You guys got eyes?¡¡That''s the difference in numbers, right?¡¡You think you can beat all of us with just two people?


    "That''s my line," I sneer.


    "Pull it out!


    The thieves all jumped on us at once.


    .


    A few minutes later--.


    Elsa and I saw the men of the gang of thieves lying before us. All of them had lost the will to fight and were moaning like insects.


    ''''Hey, what are you guys ...... too strong ......!


    It''s like a monster. ......


    That''s right. Elsa here is the leader of the King''s Landing. No matter how many of you are in a bundle, you''ll never be able to match her.


    This guy is the S-ranked adventurer you''re talking about: ......


    With a yelp, the thieves passed out.


    .


    Every last one of the thieves was caught in a noose.


    In the end, I spent my day off doing the business of the Order.


    I suppose so. But Elsa wouldn''t like it if we enjoyed the holidays with a bunch of thieves on the loose, would she?


    Of course. I''m a Knight Commander.


    I smile when I hear those words.


    You grew up to be a good, honest, responsible girl.


    I didn''t deserve that.


    "Well... Why not?¡¡You know, sometimes I like to spend my days off like this. I''ve had a lot of fun chasing down thieves, too.


    Anna''s a sadist. She loves to push people around.


    Hmm?¡¡Meryl: "What did you say? What did you say?


    It''s nothing.


    And so our date came to an end.

 29 Annas weakness.txt

    Mr. Kaiser. Tell me about Anna''s weaknesses!


    Inside the Adventurer''s Guild building.


    Monica, sitting across the table from me, asks me this. She leaned forward and had a serious expression on her face.


    ''...... What?¡¡What did you just say?


    You need to listen to me. Just make sure you hear me out. Will you listen again?¡¡Tell me what your weaknesses are, Anna!


    Monica repeated it as if she had no choice.


    ...... Apparently, I didn''t hear wrong.


    Why do you need to know Anna''s weaknesses?


    "Of course it is. Because Anna is too perfect. She''s intelligent, pretty, attentive, well-liked, talented enough to be the youngest ever guild master, and even has a good-looking father like Kaiser. Not much!¡¡What in heaven''s name do you need to give Anna to make her feel better!


    Come on, come on. ......


    It''s hard to motivate yourself when there''s such a big difference between us as human beings, even though we''re only two years apart in age. Really.


    Monica let out an audible sigh.


    She''s a girl who changes her expression all the time.


    You''ll be in trouble at work if you continue like this. I''m sure you''ll be skipping work.


    So you want to know Anna''s weaknesses?


    That''s right. And if I could know Anna''s weaknesses, then when I make a mistake at work and she gets mad at me, I can feel superior to her and say, ''But I know your weaknesses!


    Isn''t that the first place to make a mistake: ......?


    Oh, no. I can''t hear you.


    Monica made a gesture to cover her ears...


    "Anna''s a human child. There has to be. There''s a weakness that just outweighs all of her other strengths.


    That''s a weakness that just trumps all the other advantages.


    Do you have unusually long nipples, excruciating constipation, deadly bleeding hemorrhoids, etc.? Do you have any?


    ''It seems to me that the genre of weaknesses is very biased: ....... You''re right . Anna does have some sort of weakness.


    ''Really?¡¡Tell me about it!


    He couldn''t handle bugs as a kid. He got bitten by a caterpillar or something when he was a kid. So he can''t even touch them.


    ''It''s a bug: ....... That''s good to hear.


    Monica heard my words and smiled wryly .


    ''Phew! ....... Anna . You are a perfectly beautiful girl until today . I''ll take that disguise off of you!


    Where do you mean, where are you going?¡¡You''re at work right now, right?


    ''I don''t have time for work!¡¡We need to get ready to take down Anna!¡¡I''m on fire!


    Monica relieved herself of her work and ran outside .


    .


    A short time later, Monica came back inside the guild .


    ''''Haha ...... haha ......''''


    You look like you''re pretty tired. What have you been up to?


    I''ve been working on this!


    What Monica held up was a paper sculpture of a kemushi. At a glance, it''s so elaborate that it could be mistaken for the real thing.


    I will use this fake kemushi to make Anna scream. This is the last time you''ll be a perfectly beautiful girl today!


    ............


    Great motivation .


    I can''t help but think of ...... if it''s directed at work, even if just a little bit. Well, they say that work and hobbies are disproportionate to passion.


    "Hey, Dad. Dad. I didn''t know you were here.


    Anna saw us and came over to her.


    "It''s nice to meet you.


    ''''Hmm. It''s nice to have you here in King''s Landing so I don''t have to worry about whether or not I''ll be able to handle the difficult requests that come my way.


    It was as me and Anna were chatting with each other .


    Monica casually walked up behind Anna.


    Now!


    He took the Kemushi object in his hand and put it into Anna''s lapel.


    ''Anna!¡¡I''ve got a chemo in my back!


    "Oh no!


    As soon as Anna heard the word "kemushi," she jumped up. The fake vermin on her back rubbed against her skin in her clothes.


    ''''Kyaaaaaah!


    Anna collapsed to the spot with a scream . She grabbed the hem of Monica''s dress beside her and looked up at her as if she was about to cry.


    ''Take it!¡¡Monica!¡¡Just get it off me!


    ''Huh?¡¡That''s weird. I wonder where...


    ''Please, ......!¡¡Kemsi is at ......!¡¡Just not the chemtrails: ......!¡¡Goofy ......!¡¡Monica, hurry up and get it: ......!


    ''Nah, a teary-eyed Anna relied on me to help her ....... Cute ......!


    Monica looked at Anna''s exhausted state and was thrilled.


    She put her hand on her chest and looked ecstatic.


    ''''I understand!¡¡Leave it to me!


    When Monica was asked to do so, she was in a good mood and put her hand inside Anna''s clothes .


    ''Oh ...... hiya ...... there ...... you''re wrong ......!


    Anna let out a muffled sound as Monica groped her whole body.


    Her body shook with a little shudder.


    Hey, hey, hey. You can''t use that as an excuse to get rid of your vermin. It''s like you''re touching something else entirely.


    Ta-da!¡¡I got it!


    With a commanding voice, Monica raised her right hand to the heavens.


    There it was - a false chemist .


    ......, thank God . Hurry up and throw it outside--hmm?¡¡Isn''t that kemushi ...... a fake made of paper if you look closely?


    Whoa!


    ...... What the hell does that mean?¡¡Dad. Monica. I think you should tell me everything you know, okay?


    What?


    Monica was being questioned by Anna, and she had confessed to everything.


    "I see. Monica sent you all this stuff. You were working so hard on this stuff instead of working. Hmm. Wow.


    Oh, forgive me: ......


    Dahme. You''re gonna have to work a lot of overtime today.


    Hi!


    Monica screamed in front of Anna, who had a big smile on her face. ...... The composition is the complete opposite of what it was earlier.


    ¡î


    So?¡¡Were you satisfied with knowing Anna''s weaknesses?


    That''s true. But I think that the weakness of being bad at bugs only enhances Anna''s cuteness. Just.


    "Just?


    It was a boon to find out that it''s fun to torment Anna-san... Please keep telling me about your weaknesses and all that!


    ............


    Even after being squeezed, Monica didn''t learn her lesson. On the contrary, she was more motivated.


    She might be a girl with a surprisingly strong s*x appeal.

 30 Magic school drinking party.txt

    Night.


    I was sitting at a table in a public tavern.


    In attendance was Marilyn, the headmistress of the Academy of Magic. The school''s headmistress, Marilyn. And Norman, who had hated me for it.


    Well. I''m glad you could make it here today. I hope you and your fellow Academy instructors will gather around the table and get to know each other. That was rude.


    Marilyn looked around the table and smiled as she looked around at all the people around the table.


    "Well, gentlemen, let''s have a toast.


    Cheers!


    We each held a cup on top of the other.


    Then we gulped down our mugs of ale. The bittersweet ale, chilled cold, went down our throats and soaked our guts.


    By the way, everyone had ordered ale.


    Headmaster. Are you all right?¡¡Even if you drink ale . With the look of a dean, wouldn''t it be ironic to ask for juice? "Don''t be stupid," said Irene.


    ''Don''t be silly. I''m not a minor. I''m a grown woman. "Will some kid''s drink make you feel better about your orange juice?


    Does the headmaster normally drink a lot of alcohol? I ask.


    "Mm. The stronger the alcohol level, the better. I only think I can be myself when I''m sober.


    You sound like an alcoholic: ......


    Words that wouldn''t jump out at you from a young girl''s appearance.


    No, it''s more about you, Kaiser. It''s about you.


    Is this about me?


    I hear the class is getting a lot of attention. So much so that some of the other classes are skipping class to come to yours.


    Yes. And the teachers often come to our lectures. That''s why I study with you, Mr. Kaiser.


    Irene came to the class almost every time, except when she had her own class.


    After class, she would join the students and come to ask questions.


    I''ve always been impressed by her diligence.


    "Headmaster. Mr. Kaiser''s classes are great. She could take something so complex and make it clear to anyone. It was truly an eye-opener. I have a lot of respect for her as a classroom and as a wizard.


    IRENE. You talk a lot, my dear.


    Marilyn twisted her mouth into a grin.


    ''Are you in love with Kaiser?¡¡Hmm?


    ''Oh my God!¡¡Ho, love!


    Irene is waving her hands in front of her chest, disoriented. I''m sure it''s not just the booze that''s making her face turn red.


    Marilyn was pleased to see her reaction and said.


    "Kaiser. You have a daughter, but you are not married, are you?¡¡Then why don''t you marry Irene?


    You''re married?


    Mmm. Irene may be a hard man, but she''s a big girl with big breasts and a cheap body.


    Headmaster!¡¡Please stop!¡¡I''m suing you for s*xual harassment!¡¡It could mean that the next time we meet is in court!


    It''s okay. I''m the headmaster of the Academy of Magic. If they accuse you, it''s easy to win if you lobby the court.


    The powers that be: ......!


    Irene was glaring at Marilyn with a resentful stare .


    Even though Marilyn received that glare, she had a cool expression on her face. No glare, no rebuke, not even a sour look.


    "How do you feel. Kaiser . A woman like Irene is not your type?


    No. I think she''s a nice lady.


    ''Huh?¡¡Kaizel-san!


    Irene''s voice trailed off and she screamed.


    And then, squirming...


    ''I''m troubled ....... No, no, no. ....... No . I''m glad to hear it, but ....... Kaiser already has three daughters and ....... If you have a child with me, there could be a rift between her and your daughters ......


    Are you already thinking about what happens after the baby is born?¡¡Irene. Lord, are you getting too delusional?


    Marilyn muttered in disgust .


    ''And I think Kaisel''s ''I think you''re a wonderful woman'' now is not a confession, but just a social call, don''t you think?


    What? And Irene let out a gasp of astonishment.


    ''It seems that you have been taken seriously: ....... I''m sure you''ve been in a pure state of mind when you''re a raw girl who has never had a relationship.


    ............


    The light in the eyes behind Irene''s glasses suddenly disappeared.


    ''''Headmaster. You must wipe me out now. I don''t want to lose a single particle. Erase all memory and flesh.


    Ehh. It''s a pain in the ass. You''re a wizard when you''re drunk.


    Please!¡¡I don''t want to live with the shame of this!¡¡I''ve developed the self-consciousness that is characteristic of a raw girl!¡¡Ugh!


    It''s good!¡¡Even if she''s a live girl!¡¡No, raw girls are the best!


    Don!


    Norman, who had been silent for a moment, tapped the table with all his might.


    There was an unusual gleam of enthusiasm in his eyes.


    "Norman. You''re ...... a virgin kitchen?


    ''Of course!¡¡All men must be in the virgin kitchen!¡¡The virgin is the supreme being!¡¡All non-virgins before marriage should be thrown in jail!


    Norman spoke fervently.


    "This is a very mellow kitchen for a virgin.


    Marilyn giggled.


    "Mr. Norman. I have to admit, I''m pulling away.


    Irene''s eyes were cold.


    ." "............


    I guess Norman was speaking in defense of Irene. But she''s the one who pulled me aside.


    Norman cleared his throat once, and then--


    ''Eeeee!¡¡Bring me the booze!¡¡I''m going to lose my memory!


    He began to gulp down the ale.


    Irene begged the headmaster to make her disappear with magic, and Norman gulped down enough ale to make his memory fly.


    The place of drinking has turned into chaos.


    ''Kukkuk ....... A drinking party should be like this...


    Marilyn was alone, as still as a god looking down on the people below .


    .


    Oop. Ew.


    Norman. Come on.


    Outside the shop.


    Late at night on the main street.


    I was walking with Norman, who was drunk, helping him along.


    "Google. ....... I''m not going to make it. I''ve lost my dignity as a teacher, and Mr. Irene is completely out of touch with me.


    Don''t look so sad. You are a proven wizard. You''ll have plenty of opportunities to redeem yourself from now on.


    "Kaiser. You... You''re going to take me on your shoulders: ......!¡¡After all the sarcastic responses I''ve been giving you: ......!


    People don''t like it when things are going well for them outside. I know what you''re going through. I do.


    And?


    ''We''re both teachers at the same wizarding academy, aren''t we?¡¡We''re helping each other.


    I smiled at Norman.


    "Oh. Kaiser. Friends of the heart. ......!¡¡You''re the only one who understands me: ......!¡¡The world isn''t a bad place to live.


    Norman said, and then.


    "Kaiser. Let''s get a second round. I''ll buy.


    What. You still drinking?


    Of course. It''s a long night for men.


    "...... Thank God. Okay. I''ll go out with you.


    That''s the way it should be.


    Under a moonlit sky, we walked to the second bar.


    Norman and I drank the night away until morning.

 31 Shoplifting girl.txt

    The Day After Tomorrow .


    I spent the morning working on Anna''s request for a C-rank adventurer''s guild, and in the afternoon I had a half day off.


    It''s rare that I didn''t have any particular plans.


    So I was wandering around the market without any particular destination.


    As usual, the market was crowded with people. Then, as if to weave through the crowd, a person came running from across the street.


    It was a little girl. She was dressed in cloth.


    She was probably around ten years old.


    She had a fine, feline face. Her eyes are as big as crystal. She looks like a doll, a lovely, ethereal beauty.


    I don''t know why she had this desperate look on her face.


    "Hey!¡¡Somebody!¡¡Get that kid!


    A voice that came over the girl''s shoulder.


    --What?¡¡Could it be that someone is trying to kidnap a little girl?


    I thought so, but when I saw that it was the owner of the store, who I knew, who had requested the girl''s capture, I decided which camp I was going to be in.


    As the girl tried to walk past me, I caught her foot. I held out my right arm to support her as her center of gravity crumbled forward.


    I took her slender frame in my arms.


    "Let go of me!¡¡Let go of me!¡¡Fool!


    I''ve got a girl in my arms, flailing her legs around, trying to fight back. But she''s no match for running.


    Before long, the owner has caught up with me.


    I put my hands on my knees and breathe over my shoulder.


    "Huh. Haha. ......


    What''s going on here?


    No. She ate all my merchandise. She grabbed an apple from the counter and ate it.


    "I didn''t do this dastardly act of running away with my food!¡¡I didn''t know it took money to eat an apple!


    What do you mean? And I asked the girl.


    She said...


    I was walking in the market and there were apples lined up in front of the store.


    I was just hungry, so I took one. I didn''t know you had to pay to eat an apple from the store. Then I said to the owner, "Hey! He was so surprised that he ran away as soon as he could.


    I don''t see how that excuse can be used.¡¡You thieving girl!


    What--!¡¡You think I''m a thieving girl?¡¡You''re kidding me!¡¡Shopkeeper, you, I''m going to have to take that back!


    If you want it back, you''ll have to pay first!


    ''Uggh ....... I don''t have money ...... ......


    Then I can''t help you!¡¡I''ll have a knight on patrol come by. Call your parents and ask them to pay for their food poisoning.


    ''Ki, I don''t want you to call a knight!¡¡For God''s sake.¡¡If they call your parents, you''re not going to be any better off.


    What''s that? How could I be in a bad way?


    Yeah, that''s ......


    "f*ck. You don''t have to try to scare me. If you want me to stop reporting you so badly, you''ll have to pay for the apples first.


    So, I''m telling you, I don''t have any money!


    The conversation was going in circles.


    At this rate, I''m sure the owner would have to call in a knight. And then the girl will be squeezed tight.


    That''s a pity. ....... It''s just the way it is.


    Well, I''ll pay for this one.


    "What?


    The girl and the owner look at me at the same time.


    "Mr. Kaiser. Are you serious?


    The owner asks me if I can believe it.


    "Yes. I don''t think she has any money. It''s like she''s being reminded of something. You''ll have to excuse the situation to my face.


    I said so and let the owner hold the money.


    Nearly ten times the price of an apple.


    This much ......?


    Well... Think of it as an annoyance fee.


    "If you''re the patron of the patronage, and you say so: ....... Hey, little girl. You can thank Mr. Kaiser for that.


    The owner apparently forgave her.


    When he gestured to the girl as if to swat away a fly, she looked away and peeked her tongue out of her eyes and said, "Nveh.


    "d*mn it!


    Shut up!¡¡Barbarca!


    The girl agitated the owner and ran away from the front of the store. When she had gone a while, she said to me.


    "I want to thank you. I owe you thanks for saving my life.


    That''s good.


    ''But why did you pay for me?¡¡You and I are strangers. You don''t have to pay me to do this.


    The girl is flabbergasted.


    ''Are you ...... a pedophile?¡¡Are you trying to ingratiate yourself with me ...... and do dodgy things in return?


    No way.


    I chuckled.


    "I wouldn''t have been able to get that place to go away without it. Besides, you didn''t know you''d have to pay for the apples, did you?¡¡Then I wouldn''t be doing it again in the future, and I thought it would be too much to call my knights and parents.


    You know I could have told you a makeshift lie.


    If you were, you wouldn''t be asking me that. And I can see in your eyes that you''re not a liar.


    It''s an adventurer''s instinct.


    ''d*mn ...... hahaha!


    The girl suddenly burst out laughing loudly.


    "You''re a funny guy. I love it!


    He likes me.


    What''s your... What''s your name?


    It''s Kaiser.


    Yeah. Is it Kaiser-- Hmm?¡¡Kaiser?¡¡You ...... maybe have a daughter named Elsa?


    ''Elsa is indeed my daughter, but ....... Do you know her?


    You don''t know what she is.


    Just as the girl was about to make out some words.


    "Master Prim!


    A familiar, dignified voice sounded.


    I looked and saw Elsa in her knight''s armor running toward me.


    Prim--is that her name?


    ''''Prim-sama. I''ve been looking for you. You snuck out of the castle again. The people at the castle and the whole Order were in a panic.


    Mmm-hmm. I did everything I could to keep them from finding me.


    Don''t be so proud.


    That''s where Elsa found me, next to Prim.


    "Father. What are you doing here?


    No. Just a little. Who is this girl?¡¡Do you know him?


    I mean, I know him, or rather, .......


    I don''t know what''s going on. I don''t understand why she''s so cryptic.


    "Elsa is my Kingsguard.


    Prim answered for Elsa.


    ''Kingsguard?¡¡Which means: ......


    Elsa nodded.


    ''This one--Prim-sama Prim is the princess of the land.


    What?


    You mean - you''re a princess!


    Daughter of Her Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen.


    "Yes. Yes." "My name is Prim Wagenstein. Only daughter of the great King Sodom Wagenstein.


    "Master Prim. I''m going back to the castle, my dear. They''re wondering where you are.


    ''Hmm. ....... There''s so much more I wanted to do. I guess we''ll just... I guess we''ll just stick to the straight and narrow for today.


    Prim said that.


    "Kaiser. Thanks for your help today. I''ll see you later.


    And then he left.


    Your Highness!¡¡Please wait!


    Elsa hurriedly chased after her. By the looks of it, she''s probably being pushed around by the princess as a member of the Kingsguard on a daily basis.


    --I didn''t think she was a princess. .......


    If the shopkeeper had called the knight and had decided to call his parents, we''d be in trouble now. The most powerful person in the country is coming. If things are not done right, the owner''s head could be on a stick.


    Maybe the princess didn''t want to get reported because she didn''t want to be seen as a defender.


    I thought I was helping Prim, but as it turned out, I might have saved the shopkeeper''s life as well.

 32 Called to the castle.txt

    Father. I need a favor, Father.


    Night. In my living room.


    Elsa comes to me, and she cuts me off.


    I look up from my newspaper.


    "Hmm?¡¡That''s weird. Elsa never asks me for anything. It''s fine. Just tell me what you need. I''ll help you any way I can.


    Thank you. Actually, I''d like you to come to the castle tomorrow.


    The castle?¡¡Me?


    Yes. Master Prim would like to see your father.


    Prim-- that''s the name of the princess in King''s Landing.


    She was sneaking into the marketplace and was accused of escaping, and I paid her for her.


    He''s been complaining all day. The whole castle was in turmoil. So I was wondering if your father could help me: ......


    Elsa''s expression was exhausted.


    As a Kingsguard, Elsa was the princess''s personal attendant. You can see that she must have been pushed around by the selfish prims.


    Elsa must be going through a lot of trouble too. .......


    I couldn''t help but feel sorry for her.


    It''s for you, my daughter, of all people. All right.


    ''Really?¡¡Thank you for the help!


    The clouds that hung over Elsa''s face cleared in a flash.


    I placed my hand on her large chest and breathed a sigh of relief.


    I was planning to go to the Adventurer''s Guild tomorrow, but when I told Anna about the situation, she told me to give priority to Erza.


    .


    And the next day...


    I went with Elsa to the castle.


    A drawbridge stood in front of the grand castle in the center of the capital. Ahead stood the gate with knights standing on either side.


    When they saw us, they ran toward us.


    Deep circles were under their eyes.


    Oh!¡¡Mr. Kaiser!¡¡You''re here!¡¡Good for you: ......!¡¡Now the princess won''t have to go on a rampage anymore: ......!


    ''Come on!¡¡Give him an immediate audience!


    I was thanked like crazy for just visiting .


    I wonder how much Prim was spoiled yesterday: .......


    Guided by a smiling Elsa, I stepped into the castle.


    You walk down the marble corridor with its luxurious-looking carpeting and climb the stairs.


    Then you open the luxurious double doors to the king''s room.


    "Elsa. Thank you for your service," said Prim. She sat cross-legged on the throne where the king should sit.


    She was dressed in a dress instead of the cloth she was wearing before.


    This makes her look like a princess after all. The dignity and splendor of a girl coexist beautifully together.


    A touch of royal grace was also in the air.


    Oh my goodness. You''re Kaiser?


    A woman sitting next to Prim spoke up.


    She was wearing a luxurious lace dress.


    She exudes a demure air, a beauty without equal.


    She''s the queen of this country--Sonia Wagenstein.


    "Your Majesty. It''s nice to see you," I said, kneeling there.


    "Don''t be so reverent, Your Majesty. Just relax and enjoy your stay as if you were at home.


    That''s absurd.


    We''ll never feel at home in this solemn room of the king.


    "My daughter has told me And what about the money you paid her to do for you? She must have been very difficult to deal with, being so selfish.


    No. ......


    ''Thank you for taking care of my daughter~. Mr. Knight. Please give that to Mr. Kaiser.


    Ha!


    The knight answered Sonia''s voice and came to me.


    He held out a leather bag.


    It was filled with gold.


    Oh, no!¡¡I can''t take it!


    ''What?¡¡Would it have been better for the estate?


    ''Not that!¡¡I don''t want to be paid.


    That''s not going to happen. It would be a badge of honor for this country if we don''t thank you for saving our precious daughter, my dear.


    So, then please donate the money to the church.


    "Hmm. Okay. I''ll do what you say, Miss Kaiser. You don''t seem like a very greedy person.


    Sonia smiled and said as she addressed her hand to her cheek.


    ''''Elsa-san''s faithfulness was something you inherited from your father. I''m sure he was raised by a wonderful person. You were raised by a wonderful person.


    Oh, thank you.


    Elsa smiled shyly .


    "Mother. Can I get back to the subject?


    Oh, my. I''m sorry.


    Sonia gave up control of the conversation and Prim looked at me. Then, in a tone of authority that makes it hard to believe she''s only ten years old, she says.


    "It''s Kaiser. I was the one who called you here, of all people. I am to be Prim Wagenstein''s property!


    What?


    "I like you. It''s just my nature to not feel good about anything I like unless I have it in my possession.


    "Prim. That''s a bit rough, isn''t it?


    Sonia rebuked me softly and smiled at me as if she was troubled.


    "I think she really likes you, Kaiser-san. My husband died five years ago. I think she''s hungry for her father.


    So--


    The king of this country died of illness five years ago.


    ''Prim said she wanted to keep it as her property, but I''d like Mr. Kaiser to be my tutor.


    You''re a tutor.


    "Yes. I''d like you to help him learn and explore the outside world. I know that if you''re Erza''s father, Kaiser-san, I can trust you with him. What do you think?¡¡Would you be willing to take it on?


    "I''d be honored to talk to you. ....... "but I have a lot of other things on my plate. It would be very difficult to stay on top of things.


    Of course, you can come by any day that suits you, Miss Kaiser. Just come by for a visit, that''s all.


    I don''t think I''ll ever feel like wandering off to visit: .......


    But--.


    Prim lost her father when she was very young.


    Maybe that''s why she''s so selfish and unrestrained, because she misses him.


    She just wants attention. I think.


    If I can help you, I''ll do it.


    Really? And Prim''s face lit up.


    ''Thank you, Mr. Kaiser. Thank you. I know she''s a pain in the ass, but please take good care of her.


    Thus, I''m now the princess''s tutor.


    Now I had a fourth job...besides being an instructor of the Order, an adventurer and a part-time teacher at the Academy.


    That''s a scary parallel job.


    One of these days, I''ll be overworked: .......


    I couldn''t help but imagine that.

 33 Entertain the princess.txt

    I spent the next few days doing other work.


    I was an instructor for the Order, an adventurer on an urgent mission, and a part-time teacher at a magic school, teaching classes.


    Today I was free, so I decided to tutor.


    ...... I guess I''ll be working without a break for a while. I''m sure that will leave you with a lot of money to spend.


    There were a lot of people gathered in front of the gates as I headed to the castle.


    They were lined up from the drawbridge to the inside of the castle.


    Is something wrong?


    I asked a knight who I knew who was standing beside me.


    "Mr. Kaiser. Good evening. As a matter of fact: ....... The princess was bored and said she''d offer a reward to anyone who could amuse her. There are men from all over King''s Landing who think they can entertain the princess.


    I didn''t know that.


    No wonder so many of them are dressed like curiosities.


    Probably some kind of comedian or minstrel.


    ...... Is that a circus troupe?


    There were clowns and beast handlers, and there was even a lion chained up .


    -- I mean, are they okay?¡¡You''ve brought a lion! If he stumbles in front of the princess, the whole circus will behead him.


    But with all those lions, the princess will be happy.


    ''''No... No.... No one has ever entertained the princess. I tried to do it myself, but it was a disaster.


    Yeah. What did you do for a living, by the way?


    Dancing naked.


    Yes. ......


    "The Princess looked at the garbage. The only thing that kept me from being fired was that Her Majesty was so foolish that I didn''t get fired.


    ............


    Your Majesty, you''re really into that stuff.


    I wasn''t expecting that.


    You should try it, Kaiser. If you succeed, you''ll have a tremendous amount of money.


    I''ll think about it.


    I said goodbye to the knight and stepped into the castle.


    Behind the lines to deliver Prim, the dead men are creeping toward the exits.


    It probably didn''t go well.


    Everyone''s shoulders were slumped and dejected.


    Huh. It''s my dad.


    One of them was his daughter, whom he loved.


    Meryl. You came out here too?


    I heard that I get a lot of treats for entertaining the princess. I love money. Next to my dad and family, I love money.


    Meryl forms a circle with her thumb and forefinger.


    She''s a cash girl.


    "How did it go?¡¡For the sake of clarity,


    "Uh... I didn''t. She didn''t even flinch. The kids in the township always love it.


    Meryl puckered her lips in frustration.


    ''I guess I should have shown you the best of the best. For example, I could have used space-time magic to fly the princess through the air, or I could have magically blown this castle to pieces.


    You can''t do that!


    It''s way beyond the performance level.


    It''s already happening.


    Did you come here to put on a show for the princess?


    I''ve been asked to tutor the princess.


    Boo. Dad, you''re spending so much time with that girl out there. The girl from the Order and the blonde from the Adventurers'' Guild.


    You know your stuff.


    I''ll be watching you all the time, Dad.


    I patted Meryl on the head and walked away again.


    I stand at the door of the King''s Chamber.


    ''Whoa!¡¡Oh, my God!¡¡Somebody get in here!


    I heard a voice from behind a heavy door.


    I opened the door as if I was played.


    In the King''s Chamber is the circus we saw earlier.


    The clowns were so upset that I could see through their makeup, not to mention the beastmaster.


    Because--


    The chain that bound the lions was broken, and they were on the loose.


    Knights surrounded the lion, swords and spears at the ready.


    But they were shriveled up in the face of the fierce beast.


    Her Majesty was smiling and


    Wow. That was a great performance.


    And I''m not sure I understand the situation in front of me.


    This is finally starting to get a little interesting.


    Prim''s mouth was twisted into a grin.


    She wasn''t too upset.


    ''You''re looking at this situation like it''s a coliseum.


    ''Kaizel!¡¡Please join us!


    We just can''t afford to be alone!


    ''I ask you to protect the princess and the queen!


    When the knights found me, they sent a desperate call for help. Then the circus people give me the same look.


    --I''m not here to fight, but ...... it''s no use.


    I stood in front of the knights and faced the lion.


    The lion is roaring ...... and growling.


    There was a blazing hostile light in his eyes.


    ''''Gurrrrrgh!''''


    She leapt at me, her hind legs fluttering.


    I ducked and my claws tore through the space I''d been in a few moments before. I glared at the lion as it spun on its heel toward me.


    "--Stay put!


    Guggah ......!


    A light of fear passed in the lion''s eyes.


    In this instant, he must have sensed the overwhelming difference in power. The hostility that had been building up inside me shriveled up like a balloon with a hole in it.


    I walked up to the shriveled lion.


    Come on.


    Kuhn: "Kuhn: ......


    The lion put his left hand on the proffered right one.


    ''Oh!¡¡I''ve got it under control!


    You''re as salty as an abandoned dog on a rainy day.


    ''Yes!¡¡While you''re at it, put the collar and leash back on!


    The lion was collared again.


    They''ve shown no sign of resistance.


    I suppose that''s settled.


    Your Majesty!¡¡My lady!¡¡I''m very sorry!


    All the circus performers were on their knees at once.


    No, no. Please don''t mind me~


    Sonia responded with a smile.


    The circus crew repeatedly apologized to Prim and Sonia, asked for their forgiveness, then came up to me and said.


    "Thank you for your help. If anything had happened to the Princess or Her Majesty, the men who were here would have lost their heads, their families, their heads.


    "That''s good," I said.


    "That''s good," I said. You''re finally here. I''ve been bored stiff in the time you''ve been gone. And that''s why I put on this little party.


    Prim said .


    ''But there was nothing to get my heart pumping. It was as still as a calm, with a few ripples.


    I had a great time, didn''t I?


    You''re a laughingstock, mother.


    "Uh-huh. Especially the knight who danced naked was the best. Maybe next time I''ll ask her to dance naked when I meet with other countries.


    I really don''t think that''s a good idea.


    "It''s Kaiser. I''m so bored. Entertain me.


    Is ...... entertaining?


    I thought about it for a while, and then I came up with an answer.


    "Well, I have an idea. I don''t mean to throw a gala, but I''m sure the princess will enjoy it.

 34 Looking for a dog.txt

    I took Prim and I walked out of the castle.


    Elsa, my Kingsguard, is with me.


    The guild of adventurers has arrived.


    Wow. So this is the Adventurers'' Guild," said Prim. "What a bunch of boorish, boorish people!


    "Oh!


    The adventurers around you are horrified by your frankness.


    But the entrenched prims are having none of it.


    Excuse me!¡¡Sorry!


    Instead, Elsa was apologizing flatly, with a Peco and a flat-out apology .


    ...... Perhaps Elsa usually works hard to follow up with Prim. The speed at which she bowed her head was unusual.


    ''''Father . Why did you send Prim-sama to the Adventurer''s Guild ......?


    Yeah. Sort of.


    I looked at the bulletin board in the center of the room and mapped out the appropriate mission.


    ''''Oh . I peeled off the request form and took it to the receptionist.


    Ah. Hey, isn''t that Mr. Kaiser?


    Monica. I need to take this assignment.


    ''Another grade B or A mission?¡¡--I mean, what?¡¡Are you looking for an E-rated escaped dog?


    Yeah. Please.


    You''re very curious to take on a low-ranking assignment, Mr. Kaiser. Must have some very nasty habits.


    Why do they say that about you just because you took a mission?


    When I finished my mission, I walked out of the guild with Prim and Elsa. I turned to them and said.


    "So we''re going to find our dog.


    Hey. It''s Kaiser. Is this what you call a funny thing?


    "Yes. I''d like to see the princess''s help. --Here''s a sketch. I''ve heard he''s been lost in the townships.


    I handed Prim the sketch Monica had given me.


    ''Not a very good one, but I don''t think finding a dog is all that interesting: ......


    Oh, my god. Just feel cheated.


    "Hmm. If you say so, I''ll take you for a ride, but ......


    Prim said that.


    You said he was lost in a residential neighborhood. So let''s head there. Let''s just find him and finish him off.


    We moved into a residential area.


    Long buildings were lined up.


    The alleys are dotted like a maze.


    Even in the daytime, there were many dimly lit places.


    You walk around for a while--but your dog was dazzled two days ago.


    You could look for him, but you wouldn''t find him easily.


    "Huh. Haha. ......


    Prim was out of breath early.


    "Princess. Are you going to sleep?


    Elsa asked, concerned.


    ''Mm-hm. I''d like to sit down and have a drink of water - hmmm?¡¡Oh, hey!¡¡Look!¡¡Isn''t that the dog you saw over there!


    Prim''s eyes, which were haggard, widened.


    She pointed at the end of the alleyway where a medium-sized mongrel dog was walking. Prim looked excited as she compared the portrait in her hand over and over again.


    "There''s no doubt. It''s the dog.


    Elsa answered.


    ''Master Prim. Leave it to me. I''ll go get her--" she was just about to run off when I took Elsa''s arm.


    "No. No. You can''t help her here. I have to let the princess deal with it.


    ''But ....... Master Prim''s vigor and stamina are almost out of balance. You''d be hard pressed to catch a dog.


    Elsa. You''ve always thought of me that way, haven''t you?


    I''m sorry!¡¡That was a gaffe!


    "d*mn. We''re not going to let royalty get away with it. I''ll get that dog in person!


    Prim said that.


    Wait--!


    He ran off towards his dog .


    Thud thud thud .......


    The loud footsteps caused my dog to notice me.


    Woof!


    The dog turned on his heel and ran off deeper into the alley.


    Let him go!


    Prim is determined to chase her dog - but her hothouse-bred feet are no match for a wild dog''s.


    I''m sure you''ll be able to find a way to make the most out of it.


    Ugh. ......!¡¡I let him get away. That dog. ....... He was running lightly as if he was mocking me.


    Your Highness. I don''t want you to.


    It would still be better if I were to help: ......


    It''s not necessary. I''ve been mocked up to this point. I will hunt that dog down by myself in the name of royalty!


    Prim clenched her fists and said.


    Dog. I''ll have your head!


    Your Highness. You can''t take his head.


    I can''t give my owner a head.


    I only want him alive.


    ¡î


    Then he began the search for his dog again.


    Prim found her dog several times, but each time he was lost, his legs were no match for his dog''s strength.


    It was almost sunset.


    "Princess. It''s getting dark. Shall we go away for the night?¡¡I''m sure Her Majesty would be worried about you.


    No!¡¡You can''t come this close to retreating!


    Prim dismissed Elsa''s advice.


    "He came through this alley just now. So if we can drive him to a dead end down the street ......


    Muttering a strategy.


    Prim, having grasped the topography of the residential area, seems to be planning to catch the dogs. What she lacks in running power, she makes up for with her intellect.


    --That''s a good move.


    That''s a good sign.


    Good!¡¡I found it!¡¡Let''s get after it!


    Prim ran for her dog.


    The dog turns on its heel and runs away. He runs at a lightning pace, bouncing along at a trot. But he''s being led.


    The alley he''s running through is a dead end.


    No matter how fast he runs, he''ll never get past the five-meter wall. The dog will be standing there with nowhere to go.


    Mmm-hmm. We''ve got it cornered!


    Prim was inching closer and closer to her dog and...


    "Ta-tah!


    I tackle my dog.


    I take her in my arms and hold her close.


    Milady!¡¡Put this collar on that dog''s neck! And I threw the collar, and Prim struggled to fit it around the dog''s neck.


    Now that the leash is on, he won''t be able to get away.


    Got it!¡¡I got it!


    Prim looked at us with a twinkle in her eye.


    ''Splendid. Princess.


    ''Princess!¡¡You did it!


    Elsa and I applauded with praise.


    "Mmm-hmm. I''m a princess in this country. That''s easy for you to do. You''re stronger than I am, but the difference in intelligence is obvious.


    Elsa had a proud smile on her face.


    She''d spent all day chasing after the dogs in the narrow alleyways. Her clothes were stained.


    But...


    But her figure was shiny and bright.


    Mmm. Is it this late already? Usually the sun sets late, but today it was unusually early: ......


    That''s how enthusiastic the princess was about it.


    I said.


    "I hope you enjoyed it.


    ''Yes. ....... Yeah ....... I had a great time today . Most of all, I feel good about the satisfaction of having accomplished things on my own.


    Because fun is something you have to try to get from yourself rather than waiting for someone else to give it to you.


    I see. I suppose that''s true.


    Prim nodded and said--


    "Thank you both for staying with me today. It''s allowed me to spend some of the most precious time I''ve ever had.


    It was good.


    Will you stick with me again at ......?


    Of course.


    I''ll go with you.


    Hmm.


    Prim''s smile twitched into a smile.


    "First thing you''ll do when you get home is tell your mother about today. The adventure story of how I caught the dog.

 35 Merrills study.txt

    A classroom at Magical Academy.


    I was a part-time instructor at the school.


    The classroom was packed as usual. The students were listening intently. Teachers like Irene and Norman were standing around watching.


    But--


    Meryl is nowhere to be found at her seat.


    ...... That''s odd. We came to school together. He''d probably skip school, but he''d probably skip in his seat.


    Hmm. I''m starting to worry now.


    Maybe I should take the next break and go check on him.


    And just when I was thinking that.


    "It''s done!


    Rattle!


    The door to the classroom was thrown open to reveal a happy Meryl in a good mood.


    He has a big smile on his face.


    "Meryl. Where the hell have you been?


    I''ve been locked up in the lab. I''ve been locked in the lab all this time. Experiments, experiments, experiments. I''ve been wandering around in a dark tunnel.


    I don''t know if you''ve heard of that.


    I read that Meryl has been given a special lab as a scholarship student.


    That''s where she''s been holed up until now.


    But I finally finished my research!¡¡Ta-da!¡¡This is my masterpiece in the name of the wise man~


    He held up a clear flask.


    Inside was a pink liquid.


    What is it?


    It''s kind of strange to look at.


    Was this the best thing Meryl had ever developed?


    Yeah. With this medicine, my longtime dream comes true! I can''t stop smiling just thinking about it. I can''t stop smiling just thinking about it.


    I don''t know, but it must be awesome.


    Meryl''s had a number of breakthroughs in his career.


    The grimoire was one of them.


    This one revolutionized how people live.


    Meryl. You gotta try it!


    We want to be a part of history!


    The classmates were intrigued by Meryl''s inventions, the so-called wise men. They shouted enthusiastically to each other.


    You''re right. Maybe we can show it off in front of everyone. It''s also a good way to boost my morale.


    Looks like Meryl has decided to show off her inventions here .


    Originally, I had to stop this because I''m in class right now: ....... The students seem to be very interested in this, so I''ll give them some slack.


    "So how do you use the liquid?


    This is... It''s triggered by touching the user''s blood.


    Meryl responded by saying that.


    Meow. It''s been a long time since this day came. But it''ll make me happier than ever.


    He was in a very good mood and started spinning on the spot.


    Tap and dance.


    I guess it was because I was completely caught off guard. With a gasp, he tripped on the step at his feet and the flask in his hand flew through the air.


    By the time Meryl called out, "Ah ......," it was too late.


    The flask fell to the floor and cracked open.


    The liquid inside spread out.


    And when it touched the blood that I had just dripped for the magicians'' demonstration, it began to glow with a peachy glow.


    Ah----?


    Meryl let out a yell.


    "Meryl, Meryl!


    "I was going to use my blood to trigger it!¡¡Of all the things I could have done, I triggered it in response to my dad''s blood!


    Is that a bad idea?


    I don''t mean to be a jerk, but...


    The next moment--.


    The peach-colored liquid turned into a mist that was dispersed throughout the classroom.


    Her classmates were enveloped by the mist. So did Irene and Norman. And then, for a moment, they fell into a state of blank amazement.


    POWER: .......


    A heart appeared in their eyes.


    ''Dr. Kaiser.


    Mr. Kaiser.


    Kaisel: ......!


    Everyone in the classroom was looking at me, all eyes on me.


    I was horrified.


    I felt an immense favor that was almost too much to take.


    "Meryl. Is this ......?


    They loved you in the fog. I''ve developed a powerful aphrodisiac that I spread around.


    Aphrodisiac!


    Uh-oh. I thought I could make my dad smile so much. I thought we''d be more in love than ever before.


    ............


    Mr. Kaiser. ......!


    I was pushed down to the floor.


    On top of me was Irene.


    I ...... can only think about you, Mr. ...... and how many children do you want me and you to have? ......?


    What?


    No.


    She is supposed to be an intelligent woman, but she has completely lost control. Her uniform was pulled up, revealing her underwear. It was white.


    ''Miss Irene!¡¡Come to your senses, please!


    Kaiser!


    Dr. Norman?


    "You and I are friends at heart!¡¡In the spirit of connection!¡¡But let''s connect with each other physically for more fellowship than we have now!


    What are you talking about?


    "Kaiser. You''re it!¡¡I''m just a cat!


    What are you talking about?


    Dr. Kaiser! Dr. Kaiser!


    The students are closing in on me like an avalanche.


    Each one of them has lost their minds.


    And their strength seems to be rising even more than usual.


    I turned to look at Meryl with a start.


    What if Meryl was addressed to the aphrodisiac fog, wouldn''t her fondness for me run amok and cause something terrible to happen?


    And then it would destroy the entire school.


    But-- .


    She''s still smiling and smiling happily as usual.


    ''''Meryl!¡¡Are you okay?


    I''m usually a big, big fan of my dad, so being addressed to an aphrodisiac won''t change things at all.


    Meryl said with a smirk .


    ...... Do you usually carry this crazy favor in your heart?¡¡And yet you can live a normal life without losing control.


    I felt my back go cold.

 36 Collecting force.txt

    Step into the Adventurers'' Guild.


    Head to the huge bulletin board in the center with mission requests.


    Basically, it''s a low-difficulty mission request form with the occasional high-difficulty one mixed in.


    My eyes were naturally looking for a request to kill a certain demon.


    --An ancient dragon.


    It was the one that burned my daughters'' homeland to the ground and the only thing I''ve never been able to defeat in my life as an adventurer.


    --I guess there''s no sign of the requisition. No sightings either.


    I shouldn''t be surprised.


    Ancient dragons are S-ranked demons, designated as disaster.


    If someone saw something, word should spread throughout the capital.


    It''s impossible that I wouldn''t hear about it.


    Still, I visit the Adventurer''s Guild every day to check it out, only because I''m unusually obsessed.


    He must be defeated.


    To keep him from being like the second and third daughters.


    Hey. Dad. Did you come by to visit again today?¡¡What?¡¡Perhaps you came to check on me to see how I was doing?


    Anna came to me.


    "Anna''s got a good job. I''m not worried about you.


    "Hmm. Just kidding. Thanks. So Monica told me that you''re on the message board every day. Is there a mission you''re looking for?


    Well. Yeah, pretty much.


    If you tell me, I''ll let you know when the request comes in.


    Really?¡¡Well, I''ll do you a favor. If you have any sightings of the Ancient Dragon, you need to let me know.


    "Hmm. Ancient Dragon: ......


    What''s going on?


    No. I just thought, maybe it''s a coincidence. Maybe we''ll get to meet the Ancient Dragon soon.


    What? I blurted out.


    ''''Actually, there have been sightings of a giant monster at the volcano Duego. I''m not sure if it was an ancient dragon or not, but ....... I think it''s not very likely. Giant monsters in the volcano can be limited in number. A survey team will be sent out soon to corroborate the sightings.


    I didn''t expect to get a clue this fast.


    Was it coincidence or inevitability?


    Maybe we''re meant to be drawn to each other.


    That''s right, Mt. Duego. We''ll be right there.


    Dad. Just a minute.


    Anna stopped me.


    "If we''re going to the volcano, let me make some demands.


    "Conditions?


    "Don''t go it alone, form a party. And that includes two or more people with adventurer ranks higher than B. If there really is an Ancient Dragon, we can''t send out just one, Dad.


    ''''You have a B rank or higher. ....... Even if the Adventurer''s Guild is just short of people, who would be willing to help us with a project that doesn''t pay out?


    That''s not going to be easy.


    And on one condition... that I come with you.


    Anna?


    Yeah. I''m gonna have to follow my dad. --Oh, the guild will be fine. It''s time for me to take a vacation.


    Why?¡¡It''s dangerous, you know.


    "So that''s why. I want to help my dad too. Besides, you can go to ......


    And?


    Nope. The other reason is nai ... --anyway, I can''t let you go to the volcano unless you let me go with you.


    I don''t care if you say so.


    Reluctantly, I''ve decided to allow Anna to come along.


    If we really had to face the Ancient Dragon, the sparks would fall on Anna who was with me.


    Understanding that, Anna said she wanted to go.


    She''s a working man now.


    I don''t have the authority, not even as a father, to thwart her decision-making. All I can do is protect my beloved daughter at all costs.


    Deal. Thanks. Dad.


    Anna winked at me.


    It''s a cute gesture.


    ''''Now we''ve accomplished the requirement of having Anna with us, but the problem is the number of adventurers above the rank of B.''''


    Is there something for me?


    "In the meantime, I''ll call on the Knights and the Magical Academy. Maybe they can help us.


    ¡ï


    In that case, I''ll go with you.


    The Knight''s Training Ground.


    When I told her what had happened, Elsa offered to help me.


    "Are you sure?¡¡I won''t even get paid for it.


    There is no greater reward for me than to fight alongside you, Father. And if Anna''s coming with me, I should be with her.


    Why?


    ''Well, that''s the . I heard it was an overnight survey, so I thought it would be unfair for ...... Anna to be the only one to spend time in the water with your father." ......


    Elsa was mumbling something in a whisper, tapping the fingers of her hands together . I couldn''t hear it because of the volume of the mosquito''s buzzing voice .


    ''''?''''


    ''Anyway!¡¡I''m coming with you!


    Elsa has agreed to accompany me. An S-ranked adventurer, Elsa, the sage of swords, would be a great help to me.


    ¡î


    Dad!¡¡I''m going on a trip too!


    Magic Academy .


    As soon as I walked into the classroom to talk to Meryl, she said so even though I hadn''t said anything.


    ''''Meryl. How did you know?


    I''ll be watching you all the time. If Anna and Elsa go, then of course I''ll go too, because I love my dad so much. If everyone else is going, I won''t be able to cook or do the laundry by myself.


    ''It''s a very imposing and pathetic thing to say: ....... After all, we''re not traveling. We''re going to investigate to see if there are any strong demons out there.


    Yes, sir.


    Meryl raised her hands in the air in amusement .


    ...... Do you really know what you''re doing?¡¡Anyway, I''m grateful that Meryl, a wizard who is known as a wise man, is coming.


    With this, we''ve cleared Anna''s condition.


    With Elsa, an S-ranked adventurer, and Meryl, a non-adventurer but with A- to S-ranked abilities, there should be no problem.


    In the end, though, everyone in the party had become family.


    As for their strength, they should be the strongest in King''s Landing. no matter what kind of demon appeared.

 37 Ride a carriage.txt

    I took Elsa and Meryl and headed to the Adventurer''s Guild .


    When I told Anna that they were going to follow me, she looked at our oldest and third daughter in disbelief.


    ''''You guys. ....... You are the head of the Order and the head of the magical academy, right?¡¡And yet, how could you participate in an investigation that didn''t amount to a penny?


    Your father, of all people, requested it. Of course.


    That''s right. And I can''t have Elsa and Anna with my dad. I can''t have you with me.


    Well.... I know better than anyone that you are very good at what you do. I have no objection to you coming with me, though. But at this point, this is the best party we can think of. With dad, with Elsa and Meryl, it''ll be great. Just go to .......


    "Just?


    ''''Since we''re the party with the best strength in King''s Landing, King''s Landing''s strength is going to be stretched very thin while we''re gone.


    It won''t be a problem. It''s just a matter of giving it a few days. And with the Knights of the Order and the students of the Academy and the adventurers, I can handle it.


    Hmm. That''s true. At worst, if we can hold out until we get back, we can figure out the rest.


    We were headed for the main street in King''s Landing.


    There''s a carriage parked there.


    They were looking for a carriage to take people and we called out to the king.


    "Where are you going?


    Get me to Volcano Duego, please.


    When I told him where he was going, his expression turned grim.


    "Volcano Duego. ....... The demons are very active in that area right now. It''s dangerous to leave the carriage without an escort--


    "It''s all right. My father and I are adventurers. We''re reasonably good at what we do.


    And there you are, staring at us. His eyes widen as he gasps.


    "Oh, you''re Elsa the Knight Commander!¡¡And then there''s Guildmaster Anna and Wise Meryl, too!


    The daughters are all famous in the capital.


    Anyone who frequents King''s Landing will have heard the rumors.


    Oh no. I don''t need a bodyguard if you''re riding. We''ll manage even if the dragons keep attacking us.


    The driver''s demeanor had changed drastically from before.


    With a wry smile, he rubbed his hands together and rubbed them together .


    I''m sure the value of this carriage will increase and it will prosper if you have a knight leader, guild master or wise man on board. That''s a good opportunity.


    Are we finally going to get a ride? I ask.


    "Of course. You''re good enough for me. I''ll bring you in. But it''ll cost you a fortune.


    Yeah. That''s a rip-off.


    Meryl''s lips quirked up in frustration.


    "No matter how good you guys are, it''s still a dangerous trip. You''re going to have to pay for it, though.


    Uncle Tom doesn''t have to come in. Just give me the horses and carriage. I''ll drive my carriage and you can go.


    You don''t really know how to handle a horse, do you?¡¡It''s not an easy ride. It takes some skill.


    It''s not a problem.¡¡Elsa trains in horsemanship with the Order, and Dad can at least pilot a horse, right? Anna said.


    ''Well. You''re welcome.


    No. I can''t. Definitely not.


    "My horse, Catherine, is a stubborn wolf.


    "My horse, Catherine, is a stallion. There''s no way anyone but me could handle her. If you try to ride her, she''ll go wild at the moment. One kick in the hindquarters and his innards could burst open.


    No, you can''t put a horse in a place like that.


    Anna makes a good point.


    "Katherine rates people and only allows the right people to fly. She''ll go ballistic if anyone else gets near her.


    ''Really?¡¡You seem to have missed me.


    I looked and saw Elsa stroking her carriage horse--Katherine''s mane. Catherine''s eyes were squinting comfortably.


    Instead of acting up, she had become completely attached to it.


    What''s ----?


    Your man was astonished.


    "You''re telling me that Katherine is pining for someone other than you: ......?¡¡Have you bowed down to the human rank of the Knight Commander of Elsa: ......?


    If you''d like, you can pet him, too.


    It''s been a long time since I''ve had contact with a horse.


    I walked over to Kathryn. And I look at her.


    And then...


    "...and...


    Catherine''s frame shook as if she was frightened, and she sat there .


    She looked solemn as she held her head out to me.


    "You''re on your knees?


    What a lovely, straightforward horse.


    I will gently stroke Katherine''s mane.


    "There you go. Elsa and Papa won''t have a problem. We''ll be on our own. Will you wait for me in King''s Landing, Uncle?


    ''Not so fast!¡¡This is my horse!


    Why is this uncle so desperate?


    The point is, you want the money.


    I see. You''re just as much of a snob as I am.


    This is the man who owns the horse. He better come with me. I can''t be responsible for anything that happens to the horse.


    When I say that.


    Can you take us to Volcano Duego now?


    She gave the driver a jute bag.


    The color of his eyes changed when he saw what was inside.


    That''s ten times the price of ......?¡¡This is so good!


    It''s going to be a dangerous journey, I''m sure. It''s just a feeling.


    ''Sir!¡¡I''ll follow you for the rest of your life!


    A husband is .......


    This guy seems to be a bit of a cash man.


    Anyway, we can go now.

 38 Expedition to the volcano.txt

    The carriage left the royal capital.


    We were riding down the road to volcano Duego.


    A coachman is reining in the coachman''s table and we''re riding in the back.


    Meryl is sitting next to me, leaning on my shoulder.


    "Mmm-hmm. I''m right next to you.


    d*mn. ....... If I''d been sitting next to your father in rock-paper-scissors to determine who would be seated next to him ...... if I''d played my chocks out there, I''d be next to you right now.


    Elsa stared at her hands in frustration as she stared at her hands .


    ''''Elsa''s always giving out goo like she''s an idiot,'''' she said . If you give her a par, she will never lose.


    I am a knight. I will fight fair and square with my fists. I will not win with soft hands like chopsticks and parsons.


    Are Choki and Parr soft hands?


    Apparently, rock-paper-scissors comes from a rock, choki comes from a pair of scissors, and par comes from a piece of paper or cloth. Gu isn''t a fist or anything.


    ''What?¡¡Is that so?


    If you value your knightly pride, you should fight with a pair of scissors, relatively close to a sword. Then we could have won that fight just now.


    "Ugh. ....... I was unconscious.


    That''s how you know all this stuff, Anna.


    It''s just common sense. Common sense.


    ''I''ve shown my lack of education . I''m ashamed of myself. ......!¡¡Your father will think I''m a brainy woman with only a sword. ......!


    I don''t think so.


    My darling daughter.


    She just needs to stay alive and healthy.


    Monsieurs, aren''t you? Sirs! Any time the monster comes through. ...... Why do you go to the volcano at this time of year in the first place?


    "It''s for research. There''s been a sighting of a giant monster up at the volcano. We''re going to see if it''s an ancient dragon.


    Even if it''s a different demon than him, I''m going to defeat it because if I leave it alone, it might cause damage, but...


    ''''Ancient dragons are that thing, aren''t they?¡¡More than a decade ago, they burned down an entire village at the foot of the mountain: ....... The village was a sea of fire and it was like a picture of hell. At the time, I heard about the devastation through word of mouth.


    When your man said that...


    But the masters must be curious, coming all the way out here to look for such a scary monster. It''s not a combat mission, so there''s no reward money, right?¡¡Mister, do you have some kind of history with him?


    "--


    I''ve been pushed a bit too far.


    There''s a connection between me and the Ancient Dragon.


    ...... It wasn''t just me.


    There''s a connection between him and my daughters, too.


    The reason the girls'' home was burned to the ground and I was separated from my real parents was because I failed to defeat him.


    I tried to cover up what your man said, but there was a weird pause because I was so upset. It would be awkward to say anything now.


    But if you don''t say anything, you''ll attract attention.


    Just as I was thinking that, Anna spun out a few words for me.


    "It''s not about karma. It''s not about karma. Then that''s a good enough reason. Huh?


    "Anna''s right. Your father is a man of the big picture. He wielded the sword for the men of King''s Landing. And I have done the same.


    I''m just following you because I have to go.


    "Ha-ha. That''s the father of a great knight and guildmaster. That''s a fine way of thinking. I don''t know if I could do it myself.


    I think your man is satisfied with his answer.


    Your daughters helped you.


    But they weren''t wrong either.


    If we leave the ancient dragon unattended, he''ll do more damage than he did last time. We have to kill him first.


    The carriage rode along the road for a while before it entered the deep woods.


    Giant trees no more than a few hundred years old loomed densely in the distance. The sky is dark as night, even in the middle of the day, due to the layers of leaves that cover the sky.


    The air was cool and clear.


    You walked straight down a dark road lined with huge trees on either side.


    Be careful. There are many demons in this forest. If you''re lucky, you''ll get through without encountering them.


    A coachman sitting on the coach''s rostrum pulled on the reins and said.


    "Then maybe we''re in the wrong place today.


    What?


    "There''s demons circling the wagon. Do you hear that?¡¡You hear footsteps stomping in the dirt in all directions.


    Yeah?


    About ten seconds after your man screamed.


    A black shadow leapt out of the bushes ahead.


    A wolf!


    A vicious wolf demon. Sharp claws and fangs, and muscular legs. It was a dangerous foe, slaughtering its prey in disciplined packs.


    In the bushes and trees around them, red eyes appeared one by one.


    Soon there were nearly a dozen of them.


    We got up from our seats on the back of the truck and went down to the ground.


    Anna''s a non-combatant, so we stay put.


    I called to the driver''s man.


    "You stay in the carriage. Don''t take one more step. As long as you stay put, I''ll keep you safe.


    ''Oh, yeah ....... But are you okay?¡¡That many in three: ......


    Maybe we''re a little too close together.


    ''What?¡¡Hey, hey, if you''re dead, we''re dead too!¡¡You know that right!


    Hmm?¡¡I think you''re confused about something. No, no, no. It''s not us who are too clever, it''s the bloodwolves.


    As I said this, I drew the sword from my waist.


    "Honestly, it''s more than enough for one of us. I''d feel a little bad for them if it took three of us to do that.


    ¡ï


    A few minutes later--.


    There was a Bloodwolf carcass lying in front of us.


    There was a herd of nearly a dozen of them, but we killed every one of them.


    Of course we were unharmed.


    Well... Well... that''s about it. But the two of you did some good work, though. You feel better than usual, don''t you?


    I was excited. It''s been a long time since my father and I have fought together, so I''m very excited.


    Buh. I wish you could have seen more magic. These kids have no bones. They won''t even get warmed up.


    That''s the real thing: ......


    Your man had a horrified look on his face.

 39 Procure food.txt

    It was already getting dark when we went through the forest.


    So I decided to camp by the lake a short distance away.


    This area is relatively calm and the number of monsters is small. Even if they were to appear, the field of vision is wide open, so it''s easy to deal with them.


    We parked the carriage by the lake.


    Unload the food on the back of the wagon.


    I offered to pay the fare when I got back to you.


    No, no. I''ve got enough money already. He refused to let me ask him to open his wallet any more.


    If that''s the case, you can go to .......


    I''ll take you up on your offer.


    We built a fire by the lake and sat around the fire. We ate our emergency rations of hard bread and dried meat.


    "Ew. Not very tasty.


    Meryl ate the dried meat and said bitterly.


    He stuck out his tongue.


    The meat is tough and it tastes bad because it''s just salted: ....... I''m a gourmet, so it''s not for my taste buds.


    Come on. Meryl. You shouldn''t have been so rude to me after I got my cut.


    Because...


    Meryl was right.


    I can''t say I''ve ever tasted any of this dried meat.


    That''s as it should be.


    It was mostly dried and salted, so there was nothing tasty about it.


    If it was preserved with pepper, the taste would be much better, but it was too expensive for ordinary people to get their hands on.


    I wish I could eat better food too. After all, when it comes to emergency food, there are many things that don''t taste as good as they used to.


    If I was used to eating my dad''s cooking, I''d never eat this stuff. d*mn it. What''s wrong with my dad is that he can''t cook good food.


    ''What?¡¡It''s my fault!


    "Meryl. You can''t afford to be extravagant. You have to put as much gratitude in your mouth as possible. You have to force it into your stomach.


    It''s a warrior''s mentality.


    Anna countered Elsa''s words.


    Well, I know it''s tasteless.


    I said.


    She seems to agree with Meryl.


    Actually, she hasn''t eaten any hard bread.


    "Well, I guess so: ......


    It''s important to eat.


    It''s good for the girls'' morale tomorrow.


    Okay. We''ll just grab some food. We''ve got a lake and woods nearby. We''ll gather some fish and berries and stuff like that to supplement our supplies.


    I decided to get moving.


    I broke a branch from a nearby tree.


    I sharpened the tips of it.


    Dad. What''s that?


    This is a harpoon. You dive down into the lake and you stab the fish.


    Huh. But wouldn''t it be faster to use magic?¡¡I can freeze the lake with my ice magic or use lightning magic for a great catch!


    ''That''s going to wipe out all the fish in the lake. ....... We''ve got to catch as many as we can eat. I don''t want to do anything that would destroy the ecosystem.


    You''re so sweet, aren''t you, Dad?


    You guys take a walk around, see if you can find something edible. About an hour and then I''ll be back.


    I took off my jacket and stripped off my top.


    I jump into the lake.


    I open my eyes and look around in the water.


    There''s supposed to be fish in there. .......


    O. There they are.


    I followed the fish as it crossed out of the corner of my eye. Then he fired the harpoon from his right hand. A flash of the harpoon strikes the fish''s belly like a thread through a needle.


    I got one.


    I put the fish in a basket that I got from the back of the truck. I dive again.


    When we found a good size fish, we would chase it and poke it with the harpoon. Within an hour, the basket was overflowing with fish.


    --I thought it was time.


    I peeked into the water and went back to the shore.


    The girls were already gathered around the fire.


    Oh. Daddy, you''re back. Did you catch the fish?¡¡--I mean, whoa!¡¡There''s a basket full of fish!


    Meryl hugged me around the waist.


    ''That''s enough to fill us up. How''d it go with you?¡¡Did you find anything that looked edible?


    "Yes, sir. We''ve been gathering nuts and mushrooms.


    Oh, man. That''s a lot of stuff.


    The basket was made of woven straw and was piled high with nuts and mushrooms. I wonder how they managed to gather them all in such a short time.


    Elsa and Anna did a great job.


    Meryl says.


    ''I had been holed up in the mountains with my father when I was very young. It wasn''t hard to see where the berries and mushrooms were growing.


    It''s my job to decide if it''s edible or not. Papa taught me that knowledge when I was in the village, and it helped me to keep it alive.


    My girls are all right.


    We cooked the food we gathered over the fire.


    We''ll roast the mushrooms and the fish in the branches. They left the berries intact. It''s so fresh and tasty you won''t even notice it''s made with emergency rations.


    The girls were satisfied with their fill.


    Now we''ll be ready to fight tomorrow.


    After we finished eating, we went to the lake for a dip.


    The girls will head to the lake first, and then me and the man will stay with the carriage. I can hear them chattering all the way down here.


    Ohhhhh. Elsa''s tits are getting big again!¡¡I like it.


    These things are unnecessary for a swordsman. They get in the way of fighting. I envy you, Meryl, for being as light as you are.


    That means they''re flat-chested!¡¡Mukkatsu-koo!


    You know what? Meryl. You''re too young to understand this. There''s more to a woman than just the size of her breasts.


    Boo. Anna, you know what? You don''t have a girlfriend.


    What?¡¡What''s that got to do with it?¡¡Why does it matter if you have a girlfriend or not when you talk about how attractive a woman is!


    It works, it works, it works!


    d*mn it!¡¡Wait for me!¡¡I''ll punish you for it!


    I''m not waiting for you.


    I hear the splashing sound of water splashing together.


    I''m glad they''re getting along so well.


    Three beautiful girls all dressed to the nines and laughing and having a good time. Sir, I gotta be a man about this.


    No way. It''s my daughter.


    I said.


    "And just so you know, if you do anything to warn me. "and I''m warning you, if you do anything crazy like that to get a peek at me, I''m not gonna let you go free, okay?


    Yes, I know, sir. Sir, you''re freaking out.

 40 In front of the bonfire.txt

    It was late in the evening.


    We were to make camp.


    The driver lies in the coach while the others sleep in the back.


    We put holy water around the wagon, but we decided to stand guard in front of the campfire, just in case.


    Pair by pair.


    Your man is tired from driving all day, so he is excused, and my daughters and I will take it in turns to keep watch.


    Elsa and I will keep an eye on them first.


    Sit in front of the fire.


    There was an hourglass at our feet. When the sand at the top has settled to the bottom, the next one will take over.


    Father. I''m glad we got to fight together today for the first time in a long time. I also learned a lot from watching your sword.


    Haha. Elsa is a Knight Commander and an S-ranked adventurer. What can she learn from my sword skills after all this time?


    "Of course. I was reminded of that. With my sword skills, I can''t even land a single blow on your father.


    Elsa muttered to herself as she watched the fire.


    ''When I saw your father''s sword skills ...... I felt frustrated that I was still no match for him, but I was more than happy to see it.


    Happy?


    Elsa nodded her head.


    My father, whom I admired, is still much stronger than I am. I was unbearably proud of that.


    Elsa: "Elsa: ......


    ''I want to surpass your father, but maybe somewhere in my heart I want him to be stronger than me.


    Elsa grew up to be a great person.


    She became a knight-errant and the S-ranked adventurer I never was.


    But it seems she hasn''t grown apart from her parents yet.


    Then I can''t skip the training. I''ll continue to stand as a wall for Elsa to cross.


    When I said that, Elsa huffed and smiled.


    She smiled, like a lost child who has finally found her parents.


    She looked relieved and happy.


    "Since we''re just here to watch, why don''t you tell me a story. Why don''t you tell me a story. What happened after Elsa left the village and went to King''s Landing?


    Yes. Yes.


    Even after Elsa left the village and came to live in the capital, she continued to send me letters once a month in the form of a status report.


    But there must have been a lot of stories that slipped off the paper.


    Events and feelings.


    I''ve been so busy lately that I haven''t had a chance to talk to each of the girls.


    Maybe now is a good time to talk.


    Like a jigsaw puzzle, Elsa''s words carefully filled in the blanks when we were apart.


    We filled in the gaps by trading blows with each other.


    The strength of the sword she wielded spoke more eloquently than anything else about the time she had accumulated, her love for it.


    After battling with Elsa for a while, I looked at the hourglass at my feet.


    All the sand on the top had fallen off.


    "It''s about time for my turn," I said. "Go wake up Meryl.


    I see. ...... Nothing like your father, after all.


    Elsa''s expression was filled with more joy than regret as she muttered that.


    ''''Is your father okay with not having to switch?''''


    I''ll be fine. Can you go check on Meryl?¡¡And if you''re sleeping soundly, I don''t mind being on my own.


    When I was an adventurer, it was not unusual for me to stand guard alone until morning.


    But I decided to work in pairs with my daughters because I wanted to talk to them and have a chance to do so.


    ¡î


    When Elsa returned to the back of the wagon.


    Meryl came running up to me right away.


    That''s weird. I would''ve thought you''d be sound asleep by now.


    Because it''s a chance to be alone with your father. It''s your chance to be alone with your father. If things go wrong tomorrow, we can''t afford to sleep on it.


    You need to get some sleep on that one.


    I chuckle.


    I''m focusing on the wrong things.


    "Daddy. I wish you would hold my hand.


    Yeah. That''s okay.


    I squeezed the hand that Meryl had offered me.


    Meryl intertwines her fingers between mine. Carefully, one by one. It''s like a snake coiling around me.


    "Heh-heh. Now we''ve bonded.


    Meryl looked up at him.


    His cheeks were slightly elevated.


    "Daddy''s hands are so big and hard.


    I''ve been holding a sword my whole life. I can be a hard man.


    I think I''m pretty cool.


    I''m sure Meryl is the only person who would say that.


    Yay. I guess I get to have my dad all to myself, huh?


    Meryl said and gently rested her head on my shoulder.


    "Mmm-hmm. Daddy, I love you.


    I like Meryl, too.


    Really?


    Of course.


    Hehe. I''m so happy~


    Meryl''s face lit up.


    "My dad and I have feelings for each other. Even if death do us part, we are destined to reincarnate and meet each other again and again...


    I don''t know that much.


    I''m sure of it. --Oh, but don''t worry. One of these days, I''ll make the Elixir of Immortality and create an eternal world.


    ............


    Elsa said she wasn''t ready to leave her parents, but Meryl is far worse. They''ll be together forever.

 41 truth.txt

    All the sand in the hourglass has gone down.


    Time for a change of guard.


    Meryl kept moaning that she wanted to stay with her dad, but I convinced her to go back to the back of the truck because it would affect the battle tomorrow.


    Anna comes to me by mistake.


    "Meryl. He wasn''t happy about it.


    I know.


    Yeah. I can''t believe I let you do that.


    Not as much as Anna. You usually have to deal with people who are adventurers. It must be hard to keep up with such strong-willed men.


    Well. I wish we were all like you. I didn''t realize until I came to King''s Landing that my father was an unorthodox adventurer.


    Okay. Have a seat. I''m sure you''ve got a lot to talk about.


    Yeah. I''ve been wanting to talk to my dad, too. Perfect timing. Now we won''t have to listen to the other kids.


    What. Is something bothering you?


    "No. It''s not like that. It''s already taken care of in my mind. I just want to check in with my dad, that''s all.


    Confirmation?


    Anna gave a small nod.


    ''Hey. Dad . You''re insisting on taking down the Ancient Dragon because you feel guilty that you couldn''t protect our home village?


    ............


    I''m at a loss for words.


    A warm breeze blew, and the flames of the campfire swayed heavily. The red light made the outline of Anna''s face appear in the darkness.


    ...... What does this mean?


    Papa was originally an A-ranked adventurer in King''s Landing. He was so good that he was known as a sage when he held a sword and a wise man when he used magic. It was said that it was only a matter of time before he was promoted to S-rank adventurer. But... after one mission, Kaiser Cloud was effectively forced to retire from adventuring.


    Anna gazed at the fire and caught her breath.


    ''After I came to King''s Landing and became a guild official, I did a lot of research into the past. At first I just wanted to know about my dad when he was an adventurer. But the more I looked, the more I found that I was looking into it, the more I came up with an entry for that mission. A mission to take out a wyvern at the volcano. They killed it, but it woke up an ancient dragon. The dragon then burned an entire village to the ground in the foothills.


    ............


    "Dad has since retired as an adventurer. He wasn''t hurt so badly that he couldn''t recover from his mission. I talked to some people who knew about it, and they said he brought home three babies after that mission. She wasn''t even married. They said they took in what was left of the burned-out village. Hey, dad.


    That''s when Anna finally turned her eyes from the fire to me.


    ''Those three sisters are us, aren''t they?


    Crack ...... and the dry sound of branches in the fire exploding in the fire .


    In this place surrounded by thick darkness, that voice stood out clearly. It was a tone of voice that had a core of conviction in it.


    Anna had come to the truth.


    That I wasn''t their real father. That I was the real reason for their obsession with killing the Ancient Dragon.


    I guess there''s no point in fooling around with this one: .......


    ''...... Ah . . yes.


    I whispered to myself in resignation.


    The moment I admitted it, I felt the leaven that had been building up inside my chest melt away.


    That''s when I realized again.


    I had always felt guilty.


    I knew it was true. It was good to hear it from your mouth.


    ...... Does Elsa or Meryl know about this?


    No. I''m the only one who knows. I didn''t tell them. Maybe they''d be shocked.


    Anna held her knees and muttered to herself.


    ''He''s been keeping this to himself for a long time, hasn''t he?


    "...... I''m sorry. I wanted to tell you so many times. But I couldn''t. It just dragged me down to this point.


    I owed them a debt.


    I had let their real parents die because I hadn''t been able to slay the Ancient Dragon.


    I was a kind of avenging their parents.


    "Anna. That must have been a shock ......?


    ''Yeah . I knew I didn''t have a mother at all compared to the other families around me, but I didn''t think I''d have any blood ties to my dad. It''s amazing. Maybe it would have been better if they had told me when I was a kid.


    ...... I was afraid to tell you guys the truth. I was scared to tell you guys the truth. I felt like if I did, we wouldn''t be a family anymore.


    Dad: "Dad: ......


    ...... Anna. Do you have a grudge against me?


    ...... Right.


    Anna muttered to herself.


    ...... Maybe I should be resentful, but I''m not. You are the one who originally separated us from our real parents. But,


    But?


    "No reason to hate my dad, no reason to hate him, because he got too much love. I''ve made too many irreplaceable memories. So I can neither hate nor resent him. ...... I still love you, Dad.


    Anna: "Anna: ......


    Today, when the bloodwolf showed up in the woods. I watched you and your friends fight from the back of the wagon. Elsa''s stripes and swordsmanship, the way she carried herself, it was just like her father. The little gestures she made as she sheathed her sword. The way Meryl used to mix up her magic. It was just an unconscious habit my dad had when he used his magic.


    Anna said.


    ''And I thought, "Hey, maybe we''re not related by blood. We may not be family by blood. But I got a lot of stuff from my dad. It''s nothing to do with blood or genes or any of those little things. It''s the good times we''ve had, the memories we''ve had that make us a real family. ...... I''m sure Elsa and Meryl would think the same thing about me.


    Thanks to ...... . Anna.


    My vision blurred with tears.


    His words of forgiveness pierced deep into my heart.


    And I was proud to have such a sweet, fine daughter. To the outside world, people might ridicule me for being an idiot.


    But I''ll still hold my heart out.


    I''ll be their father.


    As a family.

 42 Decisive battle.txt

    The next morning.


    We left for the volcano, Duego.


    After talking to Anna last night, I made a secret decision.


    I will tell the truth to Elsa and Meryl.


    But now is not the time.


    If I tell them the truth now, they''ll be upset. It will jeopardize our fight against the ancient dragons.


    So...


    We''ll talk again when things settle down after this battle.


    We arrived at volcano Duego just before noon.


    I had been here several times in my adventuring days, but today the air was unusually miasmic.


    --There was no mistaking it. He''ll be here.


    That was then.


    A heavenly, evil roar rang out.


    The air shook.


    "Ah!¡¡Dad!¡¡Look!


    I look in the direction Anna pointed.


    A huge black shadow flies from the volcano''s crater.


    Eerie golden eyes. Thick scarlet scales.


    A huge, intimidating physique. Sharp claws and a tail so tightly packed with muscle.


    I''ll never forget.


    How could I forget?


    A figure that''s been burned into my retina for 17 years.


    Ancient dragon.


    It flies out of the crater and flies straight for me. Once on the ground, he''s looking down on us from afar.


    "Did he know we were here?


    "Of course. This is my garden. "I can feel it when people with your kind step on my property.


    This demon ...... can go through human language.


    So...


    Ancient dragons are highly intelligent demons.


    "...... You''re that adventurer.


    You remember me?


    "You are the only adventurer who has ever driven me to that point. Now I''m here for a rematch.


    Yeah. Today is the day we''re gonna get our asses kicked.


    "Hmm. Is it going to be that easy?¡¡You look like an old man. Your best days as an adventurer are long gone.


    The Ancient Dragon sneered.


    Ten years is but a blink of an eye for me, but not for mortals. I doubt they can beat me in a body that''s past its prime.


    "Sure, I''d be on my own. But ...... now I have a family. With the help of all of us, I can beat you.


    Interesting. Then show me the power!


    With a mighty yell, the Ancient Dragon spat out a torrent of fire.


    The horrible fire that had destroyed my daughters'' home village.


    It wanted to burn us to the bone.


    But then--


    "Watersplash!


    The water-attribute advanced magic invoked by Meryl staved off the flames . The compressed water vortex canceled out the flames and turned into a mist.


    ''''Mmmmmm... stopping the flames is a piece of cake for me. Dad. Tell me so much good stuff about me.


    Ha, ha. After this battle.


    "Ho: ....... You seem to be a bit of a wizard. But - as long as you get to him before he triggers his magic, there''s no problem!


    A huge claw swung down at Meryl .


    Erza, standing in front of Meryl, catches it with her sword. She blocked the blows from the claws that were swinging in every direction.


    ''''Dad!¡¡Now''s your chance!¡¡Ancient dragons have high magic resistance, but lightning magic is relatively easy to get through!


    Anna sends me some advice from the carriage.


    I''m sure she''s studied the literature on Ancient Dragons for today. Then she figured out their weaknesses.


    Me and Meryl launched a magical attack.


    As Meryl fired a water bullet into the Ancient Dragon''s body, I immediately showered it with lightning magic.


    ''''Guaaaaaah!


    Okay. It''s definitely working.


    I could barely hold it together on my own.


    But...


    The advantage is gained by having the whole family fight together.


    Me and Elsa will be at the front, and Meryl will be firing spells at us from the rear guard. Anna gives us a bird''s-eye view of us and sends us instructions.


    Slowly but surely, we are draining the Ancient Dragon''s energy.


    The dragon''s agility at the start of the battle has slowed down, and the thick scales that acted as an absolute shield are sloughed off with each attack.


    Elsa''s sword slices through his hard claws.


    I cut off its tail, and the formation solidifies.


    "Stupid ....... I''m not supposed to be like this. ....... I''m not going to be pushed around by my human nature. ......!¡¡This much power and skill cannot be reckoned with: ......!''


    "Huh!


    Elsa''s slashing blow broke his center of gravity.


    "Churns!


    Meryl activated her earth magic and the thorns crawled out of the ground, entangling and restraining the Ancient Dragon''s entire body .


    The Ancient Dragon struggled to unhook itself, but it couldn''t escape.


    Now, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity had come knocking.


    Father!¡¡Now!


    Dad!¡¡Do it!


    "Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa!


    With a shout I kicked the ground and flew high into the air.


    As if to offer it to the heavens, I swung my sword in my hand.


    Seventeen years from that day.


    Not once did I forget you.


    I harbored regret for failing to defeat you, conflicts in my heart.


    Now I can let it all go.


    This is the end.


    I thrust my sword, with all my thoughts, into the top of the Ancient Dragon''s head.


    It breaks through the solid scales.


    From brain to chin in one fell swoop.


    ''''Gasp. ......!


    The Ancient Dragon let out a grunt.


    There was a definite response .


    The Ancient Dragon shook unsteadily and fell to the ground. It was as majestic and powerful as if the mountain had collapsed.


    It had been so long.


    I''ve waited for this day.


    At last we could break our old scores.


    This time, my ...... we will win.


    I held my swordpoint at the Ancient Dragon''s throat.


    He was the death of a worm. If left unchecked, it would be dead before long. But the light in his eyes was still strong.


    The Ancient Dragon glanced over at his daughters.


    Your friends out there: ....... Could they possibly be the survivors of the village that we burned to the ground that day ......?


    Yeah. Yeah.


    ''How dare you: ....... I, too, have failed to strike ....... I couldn''t hold their breath ......''


    ...... What do you mean by that?


    "My long sleep has been awakened by their birth. I stormed that village to kill them. That was my task.


    What--?


    Until now, I thought I had awakened the Ancient Dragon by engaging in a fierce battle with the wyvern.


    But... .


    Was it to kill my daughters when they were still babies?


    The Ancient Dragons said.


    "They were never meant to be born.


    What?


    Hey!¡¡What do you mean by that?


    "You will know sooner or later. "for as long as you live in this world.


    When the Ancient Dragon''s body emitted light, it turned into particles that returned to the sky.


    No matter how much I tried to call out, it was useless.


    When I woke up, there was nothing left to see.


    "Dad. You sounded like you were talking.


    Tell me about it.


    No. ......


    I killed the Ancient Dragon.


    That lifted the stagnation in my heart. But instead, a new lump has arisen.


    The Ancient Dragon''s last words to me: .......


    What the hell does that mean?

 43 epilogue.txt

    We returned to King''s Landing after successfully defeating the Ancient Dragon.


    Since we weren''t tasked with killing the Ancient Dragons, we didn''t get any gold or honor for our defeat.


    That didn''t matter to me.


    I didn''t seek him out for the gold or the honor.


    I wanted to get rid of the regret lingering in my heart.


    And besides--


    And besides--if I thought that by defeating him, I could have prevented people like my daughters from being killed in their home village.


    But .......


    As the Ancient Dragon said just now.


    --I attacked that village to kill them. I did my job. They were never meant to be born.


    They''re stuck in my head like soot.


    Who are the girls?


    A few nights after we returned to King''s Landing.


    I was ready to tell Elsa and Meryl the truth.


    "Elsa. Meryl. Got a minute?


    My living room.


    I call them over and sit them down facing each other.


    Anna watches from a distance.


    "Father. Yes, father?


    Do you want me to sleep with you or something?


    Listen to me, both of you.


    I said.


    "I need to talk to you about something I didn''t tell you before.


    "[............?]


    She sensed an unusual atmosphere.


    The two of them just sits there.


    They''re waiting for me to open my mouth to talk.


    "As you two know, I don''t have a mother. I guess I never really asked you to your face why that was.


    Maybe they cared in their own way.


    And so I haven''t talked to them either.


    I let it get to me, and I haven''t talked to them.


    So, now I want to tell you. I need to tell you the truth.


    I stared into their eyes.


    Elsa and Meryl seemed confused by the suddenness of it.


    Maybe this is what they were thinking.


    Why are they telling me now?


    It''s been quiet for 17 years.


    But they never spoke of those questions.


    Elsa nodded as a look of determination came over her face.


    ''Father. Talk to me.


    We''re here to listen.


    ...... Yeah.


    I gathered myself up again and began to speak slowly.


    That my daughters are not of my blood.


    That I had gone on a mission and missed killing the Ancient Dragon, and that my daughters'' home village had been burned to the ground.


    Picking up three babies from a land that had burned down their homes to ashes and death. Deciding to raise them as the only survivors.


    And that these babies are her daughters now.


    I told them everything, down to the last detail.


    They were stunned.


    It''s understandable.


    How could they just come out of nowhere and swallow it all at once?


    "I''m sorry I didn''t tell you this all along.


    I bowed to them.


    ''You didn''t tell me this because you were thinking of us, didn''t you?¡¡Because if you confide in us, we''ll be upset.


    Yeah. But that''s not all.


    I was honest with you.


    "I was afraid to tell the truth myself. Knowing that you weren''t really your son might drive you apart. I thought that finding out the truth might stop you from being family.


    So ...... why now?


    "The more time I spend with you guys, the more I think. And I thought, even if we weren''t blood related, we could still be a family. I love you three very much. Elsa, Anna and Meryl are my prize daughters, the only ones I will ever have. And I can tell you with all my heart that I love them more than anyone else in the world. I would risk my life to keep you happy. And I know that we will be as good as, if not better than, our blood family. That''s why I chose to confide in you.


    I looked into the girls'' eyes and said.


    "I consider you... more than family.


    I spoke my mind.


    Maybe at first it was an act of redemption.


    I couldn''t protect everyone in my village from the Ancient Dragon, so I thought I''d at least raise my girls well.


    But after spending so much time with them, I grew to love them.


    I grew to love them.


    I love them now more than my own daughter. I would trade my life to make them happy.


    "Thank you, father. Thank you for telling me. It must have been very painful to carry that thought with you all the way to .......


    Elsa had a labored look on her face.


    She wasn''t angry, she wasn''t sad.


    She was just full of compassion and love for me.


    "Your father and I may not be related by blood. But your sword taught me a great deal about him. It lives on in me, no doubt. I feel truly blessed to have grown up as your daughter.


    Elsa: "Elsa: ......


    I feel the same way. If you weren''t my dad, we wouldn''t be having so much fun every day.


    Meryl: ......


    Father. We are your daughters, without a doubt.


    Elsa said, and both Meryl and Anna smiled and nodded .


    My eyes burned when I heard that.


    I felt like I was going to cry.


    The Ancient Dragon said just now.


    --They shouldn''t have been born in the first place.


    No, they weren''t.


    I can say with all my heart that I''m glad my girls were born.


    I don''t care who they were.


    Elsa, Anna, and Meryl are the important girls I love and care about.


    That''s all right.


    I will keep them happy, even if it kills me. I will.


    And I swore to myself that I would keep them in front of me.

 44 Morning time.txt

    I still dream about that time in my dreams.


    When I was 17 years old...I was known as a sage when I used a sword or a wise man when I used magic. I was sure I would become the youngest S-ranked adventurer in history.


    That arrogance took its toll.


    Even though I had formed a party of adventurers, when my friends couldn''t leave, I went on a mission to kill the wyvern alone.


    I thought I was enough on my own.


    I was able to take down the wyvern, but the battle dragged on so long that I woke up an ancient dragon deep inside the volcano.


    After a full day of deadly combat, the Ancient Dragon has been shot out and the village at its base has been burned to the ground.


    The village, once lush and green, is reduced to nothing more than a black mass.


    Wreckage of houses and corpses are sacrificed to the flames. The scent of the dead made my nose ache. Everything was overrun and the scene was like hell.


    You are overcome by your own helplessness and slump into the scene. As I was almost swallowed by despair, a faint cry mingled with the roaring flames reached my ears.


    I cleared the pile of rubble and found three babies huddled together in the gap, sobbing.


    Oh, thank God. That they were alive.


    I''ll hold them to my breast like a thread of hope hanging down in hell.


    These girls are the only ones I want to protect.


    And that''s when.


    A large shadow fell over me.


    I turned to find Ancient Dragons sitting where I thought they''d gone.


    They were the ones who should never have been born.


    A raspy, croaky tone of voice that makes the listener uncomfortable.


    "Sooner or later, you will know. "they will never know that they will live in this world "as long as they continue to live in this world.


    That''s when he was done saying that. I knew something was wrong.


    The three babies I was holding to my chest. They had been whimpering frantically earlier and now they were as quiet as water.


    I looked down at my chest in anxiety and saw that the pale pink skin was charred and all three of them had turned into silent wrecks.


    The three vacant eye sockets stared at me all at once. Their eyes, concentrated in darkness, seemed to blame me for my helplessness.


    They said in a tone filled with resentment.


    If you weren''t here, we wouldn''t be like this. If it weren''t for my dad, we wouldn''t be like this. ......


    ''Ohhhhhh!


    ¡ï


    When I jumped up screaming, it wasn''t a hellish village . The morning sunlight streaming in through the window was pouring down on my mattress.


    A savory smell, nothing like the smell of death, fills your nostrils.


    I saw my second daughter, Anna, standing in the kitchen with her chestnut-colored pigtails hanging from her shoulder. She is stirring the contents of the pot with a ladle in her hand.


    Hey, Daddy. Daddy, you''re awake.


    Anna, dressed in her apron, turned around, looked at me and said .


    ''Anna......''


    That''s unusual. Dad never sleeps in.


    When I looked at the clock on the wall, I saw that it was already seven o''clock.


    Normally, even on a holiday, I would be awake at that time. If it was a weekday, even more so. I guess I missed a lot of time.


    I''m sorry. I made you breakfast.


    My dad makes it for me all the time. Sometimes it''s okay.


    Anna said and sipped the soup in a ladle. He nodded with a satisfied expression on his face and said it was delicious.


    Father. Are you okay?¡¡I''m afraid you''ve had a lot of nightmares.


    At my bedside was my eldest daughter, Elsa, looking at me with a worried look on her face. She is the Knight Commander of this royal capital and is already dressed in her white and silver armor.


    She must have finished her morning workout and took a shower. Her hair smells like shampoo. My sinking mood has lightened a bit.


    "Yeah. Yeah. I was having a bad dream.


    Is it a bad dream?


    It''s an old memory.


    I think he was tired. Father hasn''t been working very hard lately.


    An instructor of the Order and an adventurer, a part-time teacher at a magic school and a tutor to a princess. No wonder he''s so upset when he has to juggle four jobs.


    Anna chuckles.


    ''You need to take a break and relax once in a while, okay?


    I muttered, "I thought I was still young, but I guess I''m just getting old.


    When I said that, I felt the weight of the years wash over me all at once.


    Speaking of which, where''s Meryl?¡¡You don''t look like you''re in sight. Did you go to the academy first?


    ''I hope so,'' said Anna, cowering her shoulders in disgust. ''I hope so,'' said Anna, shrugging her shoulders in disgust, ''because if Daddy oversleeps, she''s even further down the line.


    Father. Meryl''s hiding in your father''s bed.


    The destination of Elsa''s pointing fingers - I rolled up the futon I was sleeping under, and there was a stark naked figure of Meryl, curled up in a ball, breathing peacefully.


    Her body was smooth and spotless. The pajamas that had been removed were beside it.


    "...... Meryl. Why are you naked?


    It''s so much better for me to sleep in my bed. And it''s hot.


    .......... She''s a girl of her age. You need to be more careful, don''t you?¡¡I fear for Merrill''s future.


    You''ll be fine. I''ll be with you in the future, Dad.


    That''s what I''m trying to tell you. You can''t stay a parent forever. You''re gonna have to be on your own someday, okay?


    Then why don''t you marry me? Then you''ll be a husband and wife, not a parent and child, and you''ll be safe!


    ''No, it''s much worse to marry a father and son!


    I said "no problem". Me and my dad aren''t even related by blood. It doesn''t matter if we get married. It doesn''t matter if we have kids!


    ............


    So--.


    Me and my three daughters are not blood relatives. Step-children.


    I''ve been hiding it from them for so long that they might be shocked to learn, and now I''m finally telling them. Meryl seemed to see the lack of blood relation as an opportunity.


    ''''Yes, yes. Don''t be silly. Breakfast is ready, so get up now. Are you going to be late for Magical Academy if you don''t?


    Anna urged Meryl as she put her hands on her hips.


    ''And get dressed quickly.


    Hi. ......


    Meryl woke up reluctantly.


    We sat around the same table and ate the breakfast Anna had made for us. I clasped my hands together and thanked her before I sipped.


    "Well?


    "Yeah. Yum. Anna, you''ve improved a lot.


    "Hmm. Thanks. I''m not ready for you yet.


    Anna. Can I get a refill, please?


    "Yes. There''s more to come. Feel free to eat. Especially Elsa. You''re supposed to be working with your body.


    Thank you.


    Hey. Daddy. Ding dong, dong dong... dong...


    Hey, hey. It''s all right. ......


    You have a soft spot for Meryl. You have a soft spot for Meryl.


    Heh. I don''t have a choice. Daddy loves me very much. I love you a lot, too, Dad, but...


    ...... Mmmm. I''ll have to learn from Meryl''s pampering skills . But such a soft imitation is ......


    "I love Meryl," he said. ''I love Elsa and Anna just as much as you do,''


    What?¡¡You scared the life out of me. You scared the crap out of me.


    You have to say your thoughts out loud, don''t you?


    Mornings with my daughters were a blessing in disguise.


    That''s why I must guard this happiness. I''ll take a risk and kill the danger that''s about to befall them.


    I was thinking about that as I ate Anna''s homemade food.

 45 C rank mission.txt

    The sword is held in front of the midline.


    The tip of the sword is aimed at the demon in front of you - the golem.


    A stone figure with a destructive intent, struck by the miasma that pervades the area. Its massive form requires you to lift your chin to see the whole thing.


    It possesses both offensive and defensive abilities.


    The light in its head''s eyes glowed with pure murderous intent toward me, the intruder.


    I want you to kill the golem that has appeared in the hills outside the city.


    That''s the C-ranked mission I''ve been assigned by the Adventurer''s Guild.


    I had originally turned my back on being an adventurer.


    But...


    "We don''t have enough people right now. I don''t have anyone else willing to go out there and take them down. So will you ask my dad?


    When Anna, the guild master, asked me to do so, I couldn''t say no. Besides, if I left it unattended, the people of the city would be in danger.


    I have to prepare dinner. I''ll have my work done.


    We''ll be facing the golem from across the distance.


    "Goooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo


    The golem ran with a speed that defied its massive frame.


    It swings its right arm wide open.


    Because it has no joints, it has a wide range of motion.


    It carried more than a few tons of weight and slammed its hammer-like fist toward my brain.


    I leapt straight up and ducked.


    The ground where I''d been standing just a few moments before was driven deep into the ground.


    If I''d been hit properly, I''d have died instantly.


    I was stuck in midair...and the golem''s inorganic eyes caught me. It unleashes an uppercut with an arm opposite to the one it had just unleashed.


    A roaring fist slices through the air.


    Ouch!¡¡You''re a stone puppet and you''re a smart fighter!


    I opened the palm of my other hand opposite the sword. I unleash my wind magic. The pressure of the stormy wind shifts my body''s position.


    An uppercut from the golem cuts through the sky.


    I ran my sword toward its unprotected arm.


    The severed arm of the golem''s arm fell almost simultaneously with my landing on the ground. I immediately turned around as if I''d been hit.


    The golem that had lost an arm stood there as if confused. Its gravity is off, and its center of gravity is off balance.


    This was my chance, I cut straight to the ground.


    I dove into the bosom of the golem and unleashed a blasting blow. The tip of the sword tore through the stone body as if it were a knife in butter.


    The body of the golem was cut in half diagonally. I managed to sever the core of magic embedded in its heart.


    "Goooooooooooooooooh!


    The golem shattered into pieces as it raised a decapitating cry .


    I made sure there was no magical reaction to the stone remnants scattered at my feet and then I put my sword away. I huffed once.


    Pressing down on my shoulder, I turned my head. You heard a crackling sound.


    It''s no good. I didn''t know it would take this long against a golem. Back in the day, I would have killed it on the first shot. I knew you were old, ......?


    Is it true that you can''t beat the waves of the changing years .


    ...... No, that''s not it. I was tense back then. I had an uncanny desire to become an S-ranked adventurer at any cost.


    That''s why I was able to outperform my size.


    I was filled with the versatility of youth.


    That sense of urgency from then had vanished from me now.


    So I guess that means I''m old after all.


    I concluded with a bitter smile and looked down at the city from the hilltop. The red of the setting sun pouring out from the mountain''s ridge line enveloped the city.


    People still work at that place.


    Well... It''s time to go back. I have to start supper.


    As I walked through the gate of the Adventurer''s Guild, the receptionist near the entrance noticed me.


    Bright blonde hair with a loose perm. Stylish and refined appearance. She was Anna''s assistant, a receptionist named Monica.


    Oh!¡¡Mr. Kaisel, he''s already back!


    Monica came to me with all the papers she had in her hand.


    "Golem, did you defeat it safely?


    "Well, you know. And here''s proof," I said, pulling out a core from my leather pouch. It broke in half and glowed dully.


    "Mmm. ......!


    What''s going on?¡¡You look doubtful.


    ''''Golems are C-level demons, you know?¡¡Is it possible to defeat it in such a short time?


    You mean, I''m probably misrepresenting myself, right?


    I don''t want to say everyone. That''s why Monica-chan was wondering.


    No, he said everything. Obviously.


    I chuckled.


    ''Isn''t this golem''s nuke here evidence of that?


    As a matter of fact, you bought it from a peddler!


    "A golem core is useless, and I don''t think anyone would sell it. Besides, it wouldn''t be long before they''d find out if you were to make a false report.


    Yes. Monica. I don''t believe that you would lie about something like that," said Anna, appearing behind Monica.


    "Oh, Anna!


    Dad. Hi, sweetheart. You''re home early.


    I''ve got to start supper. But I''m getting old. I didn''t think it would take so long to take down the golem.


    This much is too early ......? And Monica.


    Monica. My dad was a child prodigy when he was younger. I heard it was a sure bet that he was going to be the youngest S-rated adventurer in history.


    ''Yeah!¡¡Kaiser-san, you were such a great guy!


    That was a long time ago.


    ''I had no idea!¡¡You should have told me.


    ''I used to be an adventurer, a child prodigy, right?¡¡...... It''s too painful . Isn''t that your uncle telling you the saga of your youth?


    I don''t want to be a middle-aged man who can''t update his past forever .


    ...... But Monica doesn''t know me at all .


    It''s not just the glorious part, but also the shady part - the failure to defeat the Ancient Dragon, which resulted in you being stigmatized and half exiled from King''s Landing.


    Is it just that Monica is too young to know?¡¡No, but none of the people I''ve met in King''s Landing so far have realized who I am. .......


    The first thing that comes to mind is, Monica, what happened to the documents you asked for earlier?¡¡Why did you leave it out there in the dust?


    ''Oh my God!¡¡I was just about to do that!


    To tell you the truth. You''re not coming home today unless you get that out of the way?¡¡You don''t want to spend the morning in the Adventurer''s Guild, do you?


    ''Hi!¡¡I''ll do my best!


    Monica rummaged through the papers in a panic and retreated to the back of the room. She smiled, always a fidgety kid.


    "Just keep your rewards for mission accomplishment to the usual. All right, well, I''m going home. You stay here, Anna, and you''ll get the rest of the work done.


    Oh, yeah. Dad.


    I was about to turn on my heel when Anna stopped me.


    ''Hmm?¡¡What''s going on?


    Someone just came to the guild looking for my dad.


    Me?¡¡Do you know him?


    ''I don''t think I''ve ever seen you before. The man pointed his large sword at the receptionist and said, ''Where''s Kaisel?'' And asked me point-blank if I was on a mission. I told him I was on a mission, and he just walked away quietly. But there was something different about that atmosphere.


    Anna looked at me with worried eyes.


    "...... I know my dad wouldn''t worry about it. But you have to be careful. Maybe he''ll bring bad things to you.


    Okay. Thanks for the heads up.


    ...... You''re the one who''s looking for me .


    From the way Anna reported it, it doesn''t sound like she''s going to bring good news. I''ll have to be very careful.

 46 Intruder.txt

    You''re getting pretty good at teaching.


    After school was over.


    Marilynn, the headmistress, came over to me at the podium and said, "Thank you.


    "Thank you.


    Your students must be very popular with you. Yeah?


    Marilyn stroked her chin and glowered around.


    There were a lot of students around us.


    ''Mr. Kaiser. I have a question for you.


    I want you to see your newly acquired magic!


    Wait!¡¡I was going to ask the doctor a question first!


    It''s a good thing that teachers and students are so close.


    Marilyn nodded in satisfaction at the students who were making a pass at her mouth .


    She was shorter than the students around her. At first glance, she appears to be just a little girl. But her cunning tone exudes the dignity of the head of the school.


    But wait, Kaiser. You should not hurt the students.¡¡We can''t let our brains be taken over by the lower half of our bodies.


    ''What are you talking about? ....... I won''t. No, you won''t.


    I don''t know how old my students are.


    They''re the same age as my daughter, Meryl.


    Yes, they are. Mr. Kaiser is a good person. He would never be so vile. I want you to take back your statement and apologize.


    Irene pushed up her glasses with her fingers and said in a dumbfounded manner .


    She is an intelligent beauty who looks good in her glasses, she is the teacher of this school and the person who inspired me to become a teacher at the magic school .


    Irene. You have a lot of kaisel in you. I knew it was him.¡¡You''re in love with Kaiser, aren''t you?


    What--?¡¡Don''t make any arbitrary assumptions!


    Ooh-ooh-ooh. That''s a girl barking.


    ''That''s s*xual harassment!¡¡No matter how much the other party is the headmaster, we can''t overlook that!


    I am the head of this school. I''m a powerful man. I control all of them. I don''t make issues with me. That is all. This court is adjourned.


    Hey, you can go to ......!¡¡Abuse of power with impunity: ......!


    Marilyn had done it to her, and Irene was shaking with anger. But she couldn''t say anything else.


    "Kaiser. You don''t seem to have Meryl in sight.


    Norman said in a cool tone.


    He was also a lecturer at the same magic academy as me, and he used to consider me an enemy, but after we hit it off over a drink, we made peace with each other.


    Ah. Meryl didn''t go to class today.


    ''That''s unusual . He wouldn''t hesitate to skip class if it was me or Mr. Irene''s class, but he didn''t miss your class.


    He''s busy with research. He''s been stuck in the lab developing new magic. When that happens, he doesn''t come out for a while.


    ''Developing magic, ......,'' muttered Norman. "There are so many new magics being developed by Meryl. What is he working on this time?


    I think they''re talking about research into immortality.


    "Elixir of life?


    Norman and Irene spoke up at the same time .


    ''''Speaking of immortality, it''s a forbidden magic that our ancestors'' wizards had studied many times but never finally came to fruition!


    ''You''ll be in big trouble if that happens!¡¡Countries may go to war over immortality research: ......!


    Oh, wow. Interesting. I''ve decided to flirt with Merrill while I still can. Then I''ll be young forever.


    Well, just because you''re doing research doesn''t mean it''s going to come to fruition," he said, but I was half-convinced that my research would come to fruition.


    Basically, Meryl won''t do anything that people tell her to do, but if it''s something she started doing, she''ll do it until she can.


    But if it does come to fruition, some countries might be willing to go to war to steal the research on immortality like Irene had said.


    With me, Elsa, and Meryl, I''m sure most of them will be fine: ....... I might have to think about that area just in case .


    "...... Mm?


    In the midst of the harmonious space, Marilyn twitched her eyebrows.


    ''''Headmaster, what''s going on?''''


    ''What do you mean?'' asked Irene.


    ''I''m sure you''ve come up with some other stupid idea.


    Sounds like someone''s been in the school.


    "What?


    How did you know?


    I have placed warding spells all around the grounds of the academy. That is why I can detect anyone who tries to enter from outside the main gate.


    Maybe a child or a puppy wandered in? And Irene.


    Then the warding would have stopped me. They must have broken through my wards and entered my home, so they must have malicious intent.


    At Marilyn''s words, the air in the classroom was tense.


    The teachers have a grim expression on their faces.


    "We may not know what the intruder is after, but we can''t just let him get away with it. We''ve got to get rid of the rats that have entered our school.


    Marilyn looks around at us teachers.


    IRENE. You will stay in the classroom and guard the students. Kaisel and Norman will join me in removing any rats that enter the school.


    ''Yes . As a teacher, I will protect my students with my life," said Irene .


    ''''Humph. ....... It''s the height of folly to invade a traditional magic school. If we get our hands on it, we might just be afraid of a rat or two.


    Norman said.


    "Be careful, gentlemen. You must be careful, for the intruder must be quite handy to defeat my warding spell.

 47 Intruder.txt

    Marilyn says--


    I know there''s an intruder in our school, but I don''t know where he is. So we''ve got to split up and look for him.


    Speak up if you see anything. I have set up a magical network for the entire school. We must come for help.


    Phew. ....... That''s not even close to it . There''s no way this Norman can keep up with just one or two vile bandits.


    Norman. Isn''t that flagging?


    Hm?¡¡What''s a flag?


    No, it''s nothing. Let''s hope it''s nothing to sneeze at.


    I''ll take care of it. This time it''s not Kaiser''s place to do it.


    And as Norman gave me a thumbs-up, my concern grew. Will he be okay?


    Boys, I wish you good luck.


    At the sound of Marilyn''s voice, they spread out in unison.


    I walked around the school building to look for anyone suspicious.


    Since Marilyn had just notified the entire school, they all stayed in their classes.


    What exactly is the intruder''s goal?¡¡A magical academy is a treasure trove of knowledge. There was a lot of stuff I could think of.


    ...... Well, you''ll find out when you get there.


    That''s when.


    That''s when the voice in my head started to ring.


    "This is Norman. We have a possible intruder in the courtyard.


    Oh, God. Norman, you found the intruder.


    "Yes. Good work. Norman, stay put and follow him for a while. We''ll be right behind you," says Marilyn''s voice.


    "No. No, ma''am.


    Hmm?


    My voice and Marilyn''s overlapped.


    What do you mean, Norman''s guy, he''s not as good as that?


    "There''s only one bandit apparently. Then we don''t need to bother the headmaster and his friends. I''m fine on my own, thank you.


    "Hey, wait!¡¡Don''t be so quick!¡¡Wait for our support!


    "Headmaster. I am. Lately, Kaiser has been stealing all the credit. The students'' approval and Mr. Irene''s popularity. I need to be the best in the world to show that Magical Academy has a Norman.


    Do you hear me?¡¡I told you to wait. And you mistake me, my dear, for you were out of favor before Kaiser''s arrival.


    "Dr. Irene. I will offer you the head of the intruder. Bye!


    "Hello. Hello. Is this communication spell a one-way street as far as you''re concerned?¡¡Are you sure my voice is not designed to reach you?


    "............


    "............


    Norman hadn''t heard from him since then.


    I was sure Marilyn would look stunned by the silence. Sighing deeply, she said.


    ''''Kaisel. I''ll be on my way to the courtyard in a minute.''


    Yes, sir.


    When I finished communicating with Marilyn, I walked down the steps of the schoolhouse to the courtyard.


    The spacious grounds are covered with grass.


    In the middle of the sea of green, a huge tree stands tall in the middle. It was a magic tree that had grown by sucking the magic power prevalent in the school where wizards gather.


    Just as I reached the courtyard, Marilyn joined me.


    Hmm. That''s ......," said Marilyn, scrutinizing her eyes.


    Out of the corner of her eye, I saw someone lying at the base of the magic tree. He is on all fours with his ass thrust into the air.


    She was dressed in the clothes worn by the magic school''s instructors.


    I ran over and saw that it was Norman. His eyes were white and he was blowing bubbles. He seemed to be completely out of it.


    Marilyn stepped closer and took his pulse. He looked up at me.


    "Maybe he''s not dead.


    Marilyn muttered.


    ''This would have been the most hapless death in the world if it had killed me.


    Norman!¡¡Come on!¡¡What happened!


    I shake Norman''s shoulders and try to bring him back to life.


    ''Uh-uh. ......''


    It''s sluggish. Let me. Marilyn won me over and began pouring water magic into Norman''s nose.


    "What?¡¡Whoa!¡¡Hoho!


    Unable to breathe, Norman winced violently.


    Which... Isn''t this faster?


    Marilyn proudly holds up a thumbs-up.


    You need to take a little extra effort.


    Come on, Norman. Tell me what''s going on.


    That''s why I challenged the ...... intruder, but it got turned around. Duh ......!¡¡The one that would be me was caught off guard. ......!


    You''re always so careless. They were already flagged when they called. Things don''t turn out so predictable.


    Norman. What did the intruder look like? I asked.


    But Norman''s face was cloudy.


    "The thing is," he said, "I didn''t understand ......


    What?


    He used a visionary spell to hide his form behind a mist. That''s why you couldn''t see him.


    "What the hell is that?" said Marilyn. It doesn''t work!'' said Marilyn.


    ''But it took down Norman in such a short time. The intruder must have some real skill. We''ll have to be very careful who we hit.


    Despite his pride, Norman is a wizard at the court. There aren''t many who can beat him.


    So you have no idea where he''s going or what he wants.


    No. I came very close to passing out when I saw ...... he was on his way to special training. I thought you wanted to see the lab.


    A lab, and that''s where Meryl is!


    Skipping class, Meryl is immersed in her research on immortality . ...... If the intruder is headed towards the lab, then Merrill is in danger!


    I started running toward the special training camp where the lab is located.


    Marilyn was chasing after me.


    We ran into the special training building and climbed the stairs to the third-floor lab that Merrill usually uses.


    I opened the door with enough force to dislodge it.


    "Meryl!¡¡Are you safe?!


    There was no light inside the laboratory, except for the light coming in through the open door, which was dim. Huge bookshelves lined up on either side as if to squeeze in.


    A faint odor smelled off to my nose. The liquid touches the soles of your feet as you step forward.


    There''s a clattering, clayey sound of water.


    Looking down at his feet, he saw that the liquid was a bright red color.


    "--What?


    With a gasp, she looked at the back of the lab.


    At the corner of the room - where there is a desk - I see a figure that I think is Merrill, and she is prostrate on the desk, as if she is drooping helplessly.


    No way-- .


    I got the worst possible idea in my head.


    No, but such a .......


    I came fearfully close to Meryl.


    I''m sure you''ll be able to find out what to do if you''re cold to the touch. ...... With that concern in mind, I prayed as I placed my hand on Meryl''s bare shoulder.


    I''m sure you''ll be able to find out what''s going on. A scare. A breath of relief escaped me as I looked down at his face.


    ''Sooooo ......''


    Meryl was breathing comfortably in her sleep .


    ''You''re just sleeping. ......''


    I sighed heavily and shook Meryl''s body.


    "Meryl. Come on, wake up.


    ''Mmmm?¡¡Dad?¡¡What''s going on?


    Meryl asks as she rubs her sleepy noggin.


    By the looks of it, the intruder didn''t come here.


    "Actually, I think we have a break-in at the school. We''re in the middle of a manhunt. Does Meryl know anything about it?


    Hmm. Was he in here earlier?


    What? I''m caught off guard, and I yell. "Are you sure?


    I thought, "Yeah. I''ve been hiding my sight with magic, so I thought it was suspicious. Plus, you attacked me.


    And he attacked you?


    Well, I''m a strong girl. I sent him away, but then I spilled some chemicals on the floor.


    So the liquid spilled on the floor was a chemical that was used in research.


    I thought it was Meryl''s blood: .......


    Mmm," muttered Marilyn, who was beside me.


    ''What''s going on. Dean.


    We just detected a breach in the warding system. I think that''s who Meryl was chasing back.


    Are you telling me that''s what he was after?


    Or maybe it''s the research.


    Either way, they''re coming after Meryl.


    "Meryl. What did the intruder look like?¡¡...... No, Norman told me he was hiding himself with magic.


    No. I saw you.


    Is that so?


    Mmm-hmm. I hope you don''t underestimate my magical power. It''s only a matter of time before I can defeat your magic.


    "There''s a reason they call me a wise man," said Marilyn.


    So, what did he look like?


    If we can figure it out, it might give us some clues.


    Let''s see. I can''t remember.


    Yes?


    I was so focused on my research the whole time we were fighting. I forgot to mention that I''m basically all about my dad and his magic.


    "[............]


    Meryl sticks out her tongue and smiles.


    Marilyn and I both looked stunned.


    In the end, we didn''t know anything about the intruder.

 48 Targeted Elsa.txt

    There wasn''t much action over the next few days.


    On this day, I was in charge of the Order as an instructor.


    Hey!


    Natalie, a girl in the Order, is coming at me with authority. A powerful sword streak slices through the air, ready to strike her torso.


    I catch it with my wooden sword. I feel the weight of my hands on the hilt.


    "d*mn it!


    Natalie swings her sword in rapid succession.


    Her hair swept back in a bun. Sweat dances in the air.


    Aiming for the moment when she gasps for air, she fires back.


    ''''--Uh!


    He must have realized that they switched formations.


    Natalie tried to stay on the defensive. But she knew that for all her valiant offensive power, she was vulnerable when she turned to defense.


    She is defensive and when cornered, she will try to strike back. But it created an even bigger opening.


    "This is the end!


    "Yikes!


    He swung his wooden sword precisely through Natalie''s body.


    It took the one perfectly.


    Natalie sank to her knees in a dejected heap. She''s wearing armor, so she was not hurt.


    She was only broken by the blow.


    Ugugu ....... I wasn''t a match for you at all.


    Natalie clenched her fists and bit her teeth.


    The knights who were watching our battles let out an exclamation point.


    "That''s the way I see it, Master Kaiser. Perfect swordplay.


    ''Natalie''s a pretty good prospect in our Order, but ...... it''s like she''s out of control. It was like twisting a baby''s hand.


    ''Suffice it to say that Lady Elsa didn''t manage to land a single blow.


    You have demonstrated a certain amount of dignity as an instructor.


    If I fight so clumsily, my teaching won''t be as convincing.


    ''''Ugh. I thought that if I could beat Kaiser-san in a bout, Elsa-san would fall in love with me.


    Natalie was pounding the ground with sorrow.


    She admires Elsa. In terms of envy, and in terms of longing. So by defeating me, Elsa''s admirer, she''s trying to get me to pay attention to her. I don''t want to get in your way, but I also have no reason to lose to you.


    It''s so frustrating!


    Well, don''t get too downhearted. Natalie''s going to eat up all the training I put her through, and I''m sure she''s got good muscles.


    Good plotting is not a word for an equal!¡¡We''re still not seen as equals, are we?


    ...... Indeed .


    Natalie is right . The word "reasonable" comes completely from the top. I''m not talking to someone I would consider a rival.


    "No, I''m sorry," I say to Natalie. Natalie looks up. I smile at her teary-eyed face and say, "Honestly, I don''t think we''re even.


    "I didn''t see you as an equal, honestly.


    No need to restate it again!


    Natalie turns red in the face and gets mukey and angry .


    ''Well, even if we had a good game, the important thing is that Elsa isn''t here right now. So you''ll have to put the contradiction away for today.


    Elsa was now out on patrol around town.


    Natalie has no one to show her the best of things.


    But it was auspicious that the leader of the knights himself went on patrol. Normally, that kind of work would be left to his men.


    But he wants to be closer to the townspeople.


    And this was it.


    The knights surrounding us were buzzing.


    "Commander Elsa. ......!


    What''s going on?


    Apparently, Elsa''s back from her rounds.


    But all of the knights are very upset. What''s going on?¡¡I followed the eyes of the knights and I couldn''t believe my eyes.


    ''Elsa......!


    Elsa wore a bitter expression.


    The brilliant silver and white armor she wore was dirty. She clutches her right shoulder heavily. Perhaps she was injured.


    More importantly, she wields a sword. It was broken off halfway up.


    Hey, hey. Hey, hey.


    I asked. "Did you fight someone?


    Elsa gave a small, quiet nod.


    "I was on my way to patrol when I was approached out of the blue. "''Are you Kaizel''s daughter?'' I said yes. And when I said yes, the man pointed his sword at me.


    And that''s why you were attacked?


    ...... Yes.


    "How dare you break Elsa''s sword: ....... Did you catch me off guard?


    I asked, and Elsa shook her head with a look on her face as if she had bitten down on a bitter bug.


    ''''No . I didn''t take any blunders. I struck them squarely, fair and square. As a result--I lost.


    !


    At Erza''s words, the knights gasped in unison .


    ''''Commander Elsa said that we lost ......!


    ''''Ridiculous . The Commander is a knight and an S-ranked adventurer!¡¡I''ve never seen the Commander lose to anyone before!


    I can''t believe someone like that is mixed in with the rest of the city: ......!


    "Elsa. "First of all, I''m glad you''re okay," I said.


    "I don''t think he meant to get my head. Once the sword was broken and the battle was won, he no longer wanted my head.


    Elsa muttered as she recalled the scene.


    "The other one said... ''This is about as good as it gets.'' Then he settled his sword and left a message for me.


    A message?


    Elsa nodded.


    ''He wants me to tell Kaisel everything that happened here.


    ......!


    Was I the target of the attacker who attacked Elsa?


    You know, Anna once told me. Someone in the Adventurers'' Guild was looking for me. Apparently he was pointing his sword at the receptionist.


    And the intruder who snuck into the Academy?


    I don''t know if it''s true, but I think we need to make contact with the man.

 49 The identity of the assailant.txt

    The soles of many shoes were tapping on the cobblestones. A never-ending stream of lively conversation. It hit my ear tips like a squall.


    People were coming and going, heading to their respective destinations.


    I walked between them, straining my nerves. I kept my senses sharp, careful not to miss the slightest hint of discomfort.


    The next day. I was with the knights on their patrol.


    There was only one reason. To get in touch with someone who wanted to kill me.


    I heard they wanted to know where I was.


    So it''s better that I go to him.


    Less chance of getting your girls out of harm''s way.


    Dad. Be careful. This man is very skilled. I confess he''s the best swordsman I''ve ever met in my time in King''s Landing.


    and S-ranked adventurer. How can you be too careful?


    "Who in King''s Landing could match Elsa head on?


    Elsa is undeniably strong.


    She''s one of the best swordsmen in the capital. That''s why she is where she is. That''s why it''s so important to have it beaten.


    He''d be a very troublesome foe.


    But against me and Elsa, it''ll be tough.


    When I offered to go on patrol, Elsa picked up the slack. She said she was worried about me.


    The other knights, for the most part, wanted nothing to do with it.


    They all said...


    "We can''t have anything to do with a man Commander Erza couldn''t beat.


    They will only slow you down, Master Kaiser.


    I''m simply afraid. I don''t want to die.


    So it seems.


    As for that last guy, what''s up with the spirit of the Order?¡¡I have to admit. Well, I don''t want them to get involved in something they had nothing to do with.


    "Elsa. Can you repeat the description of the attacker you gave me yesterday?


    Elsa nodded persistently and then opened her mouth .


    ''''The attacker had blood-red hair and a sword as tall as a man. She exuded an air of swallowing.


    "Mmm ......," I said, stroking my chin, lost in thought.


    ''Father?¡¡What''s going on?


    ''No, I had a feeling I''d remember the characteristics of the attacker Elsa mentioned.


    Do you have any idea what you''re talking about?


    "I don''t know. I mean, it could be the wrong person. But I think you''ve got the wrong guy. ......


    Elsa''s description matches the description she gave me.


    However, the features I remember from 18 years ago are the same as hers. So it''s quite possible that she was a different person.


    Was this person a rival to your father?


    ''Yes. . He wasn''t hostile, I think ......," he said, ending on a weak note. He was one of mine.


    ''What?¡¡Are you with us?


    Yeah. As I believe I told Elsa, I was an adventurer at one time. I was part of a party I was part of.


    "Your father had a party. Yes. I''m a little glad to know a father I didn''t know.


    Elsa said, then tilted her head dubiously.


    ''But if that is the case, then why did your former companion attack us?


    I don''t know. I don''t even know if that''s him to begin with. I can tell you one thing.


    just as he turned off the street into an alley.


    All at once the crowd disappeared. The rain on the cobblestones has stopped and the noise has died down. There''s something else in the silence...other than me and Elsa.


    What can you tell? And that''s when Elsa urged them on.


    The air currents distorted.


    As soon as I felt the wind on my skin, I was jumping.


    I took Elsa''s body in my arms and fell to the ground in the alley.


    The next moment, a huge mass of wind pressure rushed past where we had been a few moments before. It dug deep into the stone wall in a straight line.


    Wha-......!


    Elsa let out an exclamation in her throat.


    She looked at the deeply drilled stone wall and paled.


    If she had been a little later in her evasion, it would have left a hole in her body.


    ''''...... hmm . Did you read the slightest disturbance in the atmosphere as a sign of an attack? But that''s what I did on purpose.


    A gruff tone comes from the entrance of the alley.


    I stay on the ground and look up to look at her. In the dimly lit alleyway, the light coming from the street sears her silhouette into the broad daylight.


    Her flaming crimson hair.


    Her face is tightly knotted without a shred of affection.


    The slit eyes in which the light of a strong will dwells.


    The skin peeking out from his armor is hard and tight, and you can see the evidence of his training.


    A huge sword as tall as her body''s height is slung over her shoulder.


    There''s no mistaking it--


    So you were testing me.


    I muttered, a bitter smile tinted my mouth .


    You''ve been ...... seeing each other for a long time, and you''re pretty rough around the edges. If I didn''t duck, what were you going to do?


    "You can''t even duck this level of attack, you''re not worthy of a second meeting. When that happens, just drill a hole in the side of the river and scatter them roughly.


    She just said the word without hesitation.


    She''s just like the girl I remember from 18 years ago.


    But you foresaw my attack and ducked. I thought you were a little gutted with the ...... child, but you haven''t neglected the least amount of training.


    A look that anyone would have taken for an iron mask, but I, who had been with her for so long and suffered so much, could see it. She had a look of satisfaction on her face.


    Yes, she did. She always had that look.


    Was she stronger or weaker than me? She was only interested in the fight.


    Haven''t seen her like this in 18 years?


    I said.


    "You haven''t changed, Regina.


    The moment I called her name, I felt like the rust was being removed from my mouth.


    "...... Hmm. You''ve changed, Kaiser.


    Eighteen years ago, a fellow adventurer who was in the party with me in this royal city--Regina spat that out.

 50 Regina.txt

    Long before I met my girls.


    As an adventurer, I had a party of those same adventurers.


    It was a small party of just four, but it was filled with people who would go on to make a name for themselves in King''s Landing.


    Regina was one of them.


    She wielded a huge sword as tall as a man with ease.


    She cut down anyone who stood in her way without hesitation.


    People who saw how she fought gave her the nickname the demon princess. Her bright scarlet hair was said to be dyed in the blood of her slain enemies. That''s a ridiculous story. But there were some who believed it because she was feared by everyone.


    Three years younger than me, she was promoted to B-rank adventurer in just one year and was already considered an A-rank adventurer.


    It wasn''t a dream come true for her to become an S-ranked adventurer.


    It was up to me or Regina to be the youngest S-ranked adventurer. We were friends and rivals.


    The people of King''s Landing had high hopes for our advancement.


    But...


    But I ended up not being an S-ranked adventurer. I stepped down as an adventurer after my affair with the Ancient Dragon.


    After that, I left King''s Landing, and I hadn''t heard from Regina since then.


    I never thought I''d see my old friends again like this.


    I get up off the ground and go toe-to-toe with Regina.


    "Regina. You''re looking good, by the way.


    I remember her as a girl. And so it should be. She was 15 then. She''s 33 now. She''s a grown woman.


    "I''m sick of this whole ''cause it''s like a toothless speech. It''s disgusting.


    Your tongue is as sharp as ever, isn''t it?


    ''I''m just saying what I think,''


    "It''s called a tongue," I said. "''Most people have a way of wrapping their minds around an object.


    "Worldly wisdom. Boring. I guess people with those skills are more poisoned than I am.


    Regina seems to have been laid bare for the last 18 years.


    What have you been doing all these years?


    Did you think I was running a cake shop?


    Well, if that''s the case, I guess the bakery''s not doing too well.


    I chuckled at the thought of Regina in an apron, serving customers with a disgusted expression on her face. That would be the worst profession in the world.


    I can only live by fighting. When I can no longer wield this sword, that''s when I die. Unlike you who left King''s Landing in a hurry.


    Rugged tone.


    I think he''s angry that I went back to my village with three babies without talking to his party.


    Well, of course you are. You don''t agree.


    Well, let''s change the question.


    I lower my voice and look at Regina.


    "...... Regina. Why did you attack Elsa?


    Regina challenged Elsa and defeated her.


    She didn''t take any words, but she was probably the one who had shown up at the Magical Academy''s intruder or the Adventurer''s Guild and put a sword to Anna''s head .


    Glaring at her with a piercing stare, Regina''s corner of her mouth twisted up.


    ''''Hmph . Nice, hostile eyes.''''


    When I said that, Regina gave me a provocative look . She shuffled her chin .


    "Kaiser. Draw your sword.


    What?


    "You know that. I don''t listen to men who are weaker than I am. If you want to know why, show me the power.


    Regina''s eyes have a belligerent gleam in them.


    She seems serious.


    First of all, she''s not the kind of dexterous person who can tell a joke.


    "...... If I win, you''ll tell me why?


    Yeah. I promise.


    .......... I never thought I''d be crossing swords with someone I haven''t seen in 18 years. I was hoping we could sit down for a long cup of tea and talk.


    "Don''t be a fool. Swords speak louder than words. All the paths we take, we only need to cross to understand each other''s paths.


    I think that''s just Regina.


    I scratched my neck with a polish.


    Elsa at her side has a puzzled look on her face.


    Well, that''s what happens when you''re not used to it.


    Basically, Regina is more of a swordsman than Elsa is--a battle fanatic.


    Is she stronger or weaker than her opponent? That''s all she cares about.


    Anyway, let''s change the place. We''re in the city. We''re in the city. We don''t want the rest of the Order to clean up after us.

 51 The first adjustment in 18 years.txt

    He''s coming to the guardhouse.


    We won''t be bothered by the violence here.


    Me and Regina are facing each other, while Elsa and the rest of the Guardians are gathered around us. They''re watching us with bated breath.


    So that''s how we defeated Commander Elsa: ......


    ''But Lord Kaiser is so good that Commander Elsa can''t even get a shot in.


    "Father. Be careful. She''s very strong.


    Yeah. I, of all people, know best that Regina was a skilled swordsman. She was a first-rate swordsman back then.


    Shall I get the wooden sword?


    I know. I''m serious.


    Regina assured him, without missing a beat.


    "It is only in extreme combat, where lives are exchanged, that we truly appreciate each other''s company. You want to play chamberlain, you play with the kids.


    Well. I was hoping Regina would say that.


    With a wry smile, I drew the sword from my waist.


    Taking a breath once, I positioned myself in front of the midline.


    Regina drew the large sword on her back and swung it wide. At that moment, I could clearly see the wind pressure bullet coming toward me.


    You''ll be able to dodge it as it comes at you at high speed while gutting the ground.


    Haaaaah!


    Regina fires off a barrage of wind rounds one after another.


    It seems that they don''t want to let her close in on them.


    As a non-magical swordsman, Regina naturally has no means of attacking from afar. She would be weak against archers and wizards. But thanks to her remote ability to projectile through the wind, she''s better able to fight them as well as they are.


    I ducked the wind pressure bullets and fired my fire magic at Regina.


    The fireball was engulfed by the wind projectile before it reached Regina and disappeared. Does this mean that half-powered magic is no match for her?


    Will you use your earth magic to grow plants and trees on the ground and stop Regina from moving?¡¡No.... she''ll tear us apart before her monster can get a hold of us.


    We''ll be left destitute at this rate. We''ve got to find some way to close the gap.


    You''re losing focus!


    I saw a bullet in the wind.


    I kicked the ground and ducked.


    That''s when I realized I was being lured.


    Just as I ducked, a bullet went flying towards me.


    --I wasn''t going to duck.


    I quickly realized that I couldn''t duck.


    I held my arms in front of my body. A direct hit from the wind bullet sends a violent shock through your body. I''m flung off like a draught stone.


    Take a defensive position and quickly rebuild your men. You duck the wind-bullet that came after you.


    Maybe my combat instincts aren''t as good as they used to be...


    Regina said.


    ''I hope you haven''t become rusty from lack of peace.


    You can say whatever you want.


    Pfft. He spat out a wad of sputum that had risen to his chest.


    And there it was. Regina wasn''t just a strong woman who wielded a huge sword with impunity. She''s also very sharp, when it comes to battle.


    I haven''t swords together in 18 years, and I''ve learned that.


    Her sword is not rusty. In fact, it''s more refined than ever.


    It was probably just a matter of constant training.


    But that goes for me as well. I can''t afford to come off as a man of peace. We need to get to Regina.


    We need to get in range of her.


    I uncharacteristically let loose a fireball of fire magic.


    "Hm. Didn''t we just see that? There''s no use playing fireball in front of my windpipe. I''ll quench them as many times as I have to.


    How about that?


    What did you say?


    I uncharacteristically unleashed water magic for a second time. The water stream from the magic circle drawn in the air mixed with the fireball.


    It evaporated violently, and a mist covered Regina''s area.


    d*mn it!¡¡I can''t see!


    I kicked the ground and plunged into the fog. I can''t see. And neither can they. So that''s one thing she''ll do.


    With a huge wind pressure, the fog cleared at once.


    Out of the dispersed fog, the figure of Regina, wielding a great sword, was revealed. After the follow-through, an opening had been created for her.


    The sword I drew was blocked just as I was about to swing it.


    Round Two. I''m going in for a close fight.


    Sparks nearly fly as they trade blows. Neither side takes a step back. It was a desperate struggle where one momentary lapse in judgment could mean the difference between victory and defeat.


    The knights watching are at a loss for words.


    The tip of my sword was blocked by Regina''s greatsword. I had an arm free. A good chance to unleash some magic.


    Regina must have sensed that.


    "You''re going to unleash your boorish magic again!


    No. No, I won''t. We won''t use our magic until we get into close quarters.


    I''ll grip the hilt of my sword with the palm of my other hand. When I closed the option to use my magic, I attacked as fast as I could.


    "As a swordsman, I will confront Regina head on!


    What--?


    Regina''s eyes widened in surprise.


    Then a wry smile crept into her mouth.


    ''That''s the way it should be!


    Regina''s eyes had a blazing gleam in them.


    As we were fighting, I could tell that she was truly enjoying the battle. It was as if every cell in her body was glowing with freshness.


    So--.


    When the score was decided, she didn''t look disappointed.


    "I guess I win.


    He tells her as he holds up the tip of his sword.


    ''''...... Hmmm . I said that earlier, but I take it back.


    Regina said with a smile.


    ''Kaisel . I said you were different, but you weren''t. You are strong. You''re still the same as you were and you seem to be ahead of me now.

 52 discussion.txt

    Night .


    The wood-paneled round table in my living room.


    We were sitting facing each other in front of it.


    "Yes. "Daddy. I made the tea.


    I''m sorry. I''m sorry.


    I took the cup of tea from the tray Anna had prepared for me. I offer it to Regina and Elsa who are sitting across from me.


    "The tea you make is good, Anna.


    "....... I don''t care what it tastes like, as long as it tastes good.


    Regina slurped the tea she received from me.


    A peculiar habit had developed in the way she held the cup.


    Her eyebrows knit tightly together, but they loosened.


    ...... Well, that''s not so bad.


    I know.


    I think she liked it.


    "Hey, Dad. Can you tell me about this man?


    Anna asks as she holds the empty tray in front of her body.


    "She''s the one who pointed the great sword at me in the Adventurers'' Guild. As well as why she''s crossing the threshold of my home.


    The look Anna gave Regina was wary.


    It can''t be helped.


    No one would be so quick to accept someone suddenly pointing a sword at them.


    "That''s Regina. She was with me when I was an adventurer. She''s been looking for me. We finally ran into each other and had a brief exchange of words. You brought me to this house because you and Regina have a lot to discuss.


    "Fmm. ....... You''re an old buddy of Dad''s. ......


    Anna stared blankly at Regina.


    ''...... What . . stare.


    Regina looked back at Anna uncomfortably.


    An ordinary person would have been pressured by this intimidating feeling.


    But she didn''t seem intimidated by Anna.


    ''Does Regina like her dad or something?


    What?


    Regina spewed out a mouthful of tea with gusto .


    .............


    A splash of tea was released and landed on my face when I was face to face with it.


    ''''--what do you think you''re going to say?¡¡You think I have feelings for Kaiser?¡¡Don''t pull out the right stuff!


    Regina''s rebuttal was the most upsetting thing she had ever seen.


    ''Is it true?¡¡From the way he reacts, it seems like a figurehead.


    What... Does this guy like my dad?¡¡No, you can''t. Daddy''s all mine. You''re not allowed to steal from me.


    And Meryl, who was lying on the futon in the bedroom, peeked out.


    ''What do you know about me? You know what I know?" ...... A girl her age wants to be associated with everything that''s going on in the world of romance.


    Regina clicked her tongue.


    "Me and Kaiser once belonged to the same party. No more, no less. There''s no love lost. That''s nonsense.


    He spat that out and folded his arms and fell silent.


    But there was still a hint of redness in his ears.


    Well, that''s besides the point.


    And I try to get back on topic.


    "Regina. I have to ask you something.


    What?


    Why did you attack Elsa?


    I said the doubt in my mind.


    "If you want me, all you have to do is ask Elsa to show you around. I shouldn''t have to pick a fight with her.


    It''s simple. I just wanted to make sure.


    You sure?¡¡What?


    She''s probably the youngest S-ranked adventurer in history. Kaiser. That''s why she got there before you did.


    Yeah.


    So I wanted to make sure. Is your daughter really worthy of being an S-ranked adventurer? Kaiser. Are you worthy of giving up your S-ranked dreams to raise her?


    Regina looked at Elsa with waking eyes.


    "But that''s not what I expected.


    ......?


    Elsa''s eyes flickered in shock.


    ''Regina. You''re mistaken about one thing.


    I said.


    "I raised those girls of my own free will. It didn''t matter what they were worth. I just want them to live happily ever after.


    If it''s ......, that''s even more annoying.


    Regina spat bitterly.


    ''Kaiser. There''s no doubt you were the best in King''s Landing back then. If we''re being honest, you were the youngest S-ranked adventurer in the city.


    You''re not buying it. I''m not that much of a person.


    I said.


    "And then there was the whole incident with the Ancient Dragon debacle. I''m not sure I would''ve made it to S rank.


    ''But the whole Ancient Dragon thing wasn''t your fault either!¡¡We made you do that!


    Regina yelled at the top of her lungs.


    ''Let''s not talk about that anymore. We can''t go back in time.


    When I said that, Regina, who had been standing up, seemed to lose her spirit. A hurt expression appeared on her face as she honestly took her seat.


    ''''...... You are the only adventurer I''ve ever recognized. I will not allow you to demean yourself. It''s an insult to my recognition of you.


    Regina: "Regina: ......


    I gulped down the rest of my tea and said in a cheerful voice.


    But eighteen years is a hell of a time. I was beaten so badly then, and now no one remembers me.


    In all the years I''ve been in King''s Landing, my identity has never been discovered by the city''s inhabitants.


    Even the princess I had met in the past.


    Even though she looks different from those days, I can''t help but notice the passage of time.


    That''s because Etra has manipulated the memories of the city''s people.


    Etra?


    I was surprised to hear the name of a wizard who was once part of my party.


    The warding that now protects our city from evil was created by him 18 years ago. To it he built a magic that made Kaiser''s presence fade from the memories of those inside the wards.


    ''But we''ve remembered your dad since we came to King''s Landing, haven''t we?


    That''s right. I haven''t forgotten about you for a single day, okay?


    It''s not a sustainable spell. It only worked on the people who were in the city when the wards were put up eighteen years ago.


    Regina said.


    ''''A magic that interferes with the memories of every person the size of King''s Landing is ...... such an outrageous thing that can be done?


    No other wizard could have done it. But Etra could. That''s true, Kaiser. You know that as well as I do.


    Etra was a genius.


    At the time - eighteen years ago I was a wizard as well, but I was still nothing compared to Etra.


    She was the one who deserved the title of wise woman.


    But he hates getting out in the open and doesn''t have a heart for people. People don''t know me by name," said Regina.


    So you think Etra made people forget all about her for me. I wonder why.


    I don''t know. Only he can know what he''s really thinking. It''s also possible it was just a whim. We don''t need to keep guessing and guessing.


    Is it because the mind of a genius is incomprehensible to ordinary people?


    Regina nodded.


    ''What was Regina doing all this time?''


    I don''t think I have to tell you that.


    So let''s change the question. When did you come back to King''s Landing?


    I''ll use my right to remain silent.


    You''ve become so secretive.


    I chuckle.


    ''Does it bother you that I want to know about my people?


    "...... Hmm. You left King''s Landing without telling us," I said as Regina blurted out, "I don''t like to hear you say that.


    Regina. Are you sulking, by any chance?


    What did you say?


    Because I left King''s Landing on my own.


    "......, don''t be stupid. Who would do something so childish . I''m just trying to get back at you for what you did to me.


    Isn''t that what you call childish behavior?


    Anna pointed out.


    ''From what I hear, you seem to be totally sulking.


    d*mn it ......!


    Oh. Miss Regina. She''s all red in the face. She''s right.


    Meryl pointed happily.


    Regina stood up from her seat with a clatter. She tries to turn on her heel.


    "--I''m out of shape with you guys.


    Regina. Come home for dinner again.


    And I stopped him.


    "You''re going to stay in King''s Landing for a while, aren''t you?


    ...... hmm. I''ll think about it.


    Regina said, and opened the door and walked out.


    ''She''s got a lot of personality.''


    Anna shrugged her shoulders and said.


    ''We''re all adventurers. They''re a bunch of sociopaths.


    I can''t deny that.


    I chuckle.


    "Just so you know, he''s not a bad guy. We were together for a long time, I promise you.

 53 Elsas determination.txt

    The next day.


    I returned home with Meryl after finishing my teaching duties at the magic school.


    I was in the kitchen preparing the stew for today''s dinner while I was working with Meryl, who was sweet-talking me hard.


    "You''re home so early today.


    Yeah. All my work is done. My dad did his duty, and I did mine. It''s been so long since I''ve been home before dark.


    Boo. I just had a chance to be alone with my dad.


    Meryl had a frustrated look on her face.


    ''You should have worked more overtime.


    I''m sorry to hear that. I don''t want you all to myself.


    Anna turned a provocative smile at Meryl and sat down on the living room couch . Mmm, he stretched out wide and laid down in his guild uniform .


    ''''Anna . I''m lazy!


    I like to be able to relax at home.


    I know that feeling.


    In Merrill''s case, he''d be lounging around at all hours.


    I chuckled.


    ''There''s rather little time for relaxation.


    My motto is to be lazy.


    I don''t think that''s something to be proud of.


    Anna is dumbfounded, but she doesn''t ask for a correction, as she always does. I''ve learned over the past eighteen years that Meryl''s laziness is hardcore.


    ''Oh, by the way,'' said Anna, ''about Regina.


    ''Hmm?¡¡What about him?


    I''ve been doing some research. . and find out what Regina''s been up to these days as an adventurer.


    Yeah. How do you know that? I asked. "He''s been operating in a city other than this one, hasn''t he?


    The Adventurer''s Guild shares information about licensed people. Even adventurers operating in different cities can be referred to it.


    That''s useful. But it doesn''t seem to do anything stupid. ...... So?¡¡How was Regina''s activity?¡¡You''ve been active?


    It wasn''t just an exploit. It wasn''t an exploit.


    Anna said.


    "She completed every high-ranking mission single-handedly. I''ve never seen anyone else complete an A-list mission solo but my dad.


    He''s a real swordsman. But he did all of these things solo. So he''s not in a party right now?


    Well, when it comes to those who can stand alongside Regina, there are quite a few. Besides, when it comes to someone who can tolerate the character of a guy who is often misunderstood: .......


    That would be about as hard as finding gold in the desert .


    But it''s strange.


    What?


    If you only look at her accomplishments, Regina-san was S-ranked adventurer long ago. And yet, she''s still an A-ranked adventurer. It''s been over a decade.


    ''''You''ve got the right skills and track record. Yet, if you''re not getting an S rank, then ....... Does the condition of promotion include background conduct?


    I asked.


    "Or sociable.


    You''re not. I don''t expect you to be a decent human being. All I''m looking for is an overwhelming ability to cope in times of crisis.


    Well, that''s true.


    Adventurers are disproportionate to their abilities and their humanity. The higher one rises in rank, the more sociopathic the percentage of misfits rises exponentially.


    So I don''t understand. That explains why the guy isn''t an S-rank.


    ''''Or maybe he''s declining to promote himself to an S-rank. Well, I don''t think this is indeed possible.


    When I see him again, I''ll ask him about it.


    I doubt that he would answer honestly, though.


    When I finished preparing the stew, I looked at the clock on the wall.


    It''s eight o''clock in the evening. Outside my window, the sun has set and darkness has completely enveloped King''s Landing. It was like fireflies with the lights of other houses shining through the windows.


    "Son of a b*tc* Elsa, you''re late getting home today.


    Normally, they''d be home by now.


    What''s going on?


    ''It''s that girl, and she''s probably working overtime.¡¡I get asked to do a lot of things for people on the street on my rounds.


    You may have an image of being a king''s knight commander, which makes it difficult to talk to him, but Erza seems to be well respected by the people of the city.


    It''s probably because they share the same sincere attitude as the people in the city.


    ''''Elsa sounds like she''s in the knight''s barracks~''''


    Meryl. How did you know?


    Mmm-hmm. With my magic, it''s as simple as this... I can see where everyone is going and what they''re doing.


    That would help--but I''m afraid to use it incorrectly: ......


    There is always the fear of being watched.


    If you use magic to watch me, I may be able to counteract it with magic, but if I do so, I may be misunderstood as having something very important to me.


    When I left the house, I headed to the training grounds to pick up Erza.


    Just as Meryl had taught me, Erza was inside the military drill ground.


    Her waist-length hair swayed with each swing of her sword. The silvery white armor she wore shone back at the moonlight in the night sky.


    ''You''re getting better.


    And I called out to her back.


    "Father. ......


    Elsa stopped swinging her sword and turned around. She wiped the sweat on her forehead with the back of her hand. I finally let out a breath.


    Since she hadn''t returned for dinner, I came to check on her. That''s very auspicious of you to stay at the barracks and pretend to be here.


    I said, "I hope the other knights follow suit.


    "I hope the other knights will follow suit.


    No. I have a long way to go.


    Elsa muttered .


    ''...... currently, Regina didn''t stand up to me like that.


    "He''s especially strong. And the time he''s spent with his sword is different. He''s been around much longer than Elsa has.


    My follow-up words didn''t seem to be any comfort to Elsa. She bit down on her mouth tightly.


    She was silent, as if she''d thought it over.


    Eventually, she opened her mouth as if to open a tightly closed keyhole.


    "Miss Regina said after she won the battle with me. That''s about as good as it gets. That the girl that Kaiser had raised, who had given up her dream of becoming an S-ranked adventurer, was a lesser talent than Kaiser. He told me I was disappointed.


    "I told Regina. I raised them by choice. I''m just happy that you''re alive and well.


    "Father. Thank you. But I still don''t forgive myself. I allowed Miss Regina, who knew your father in the past, to think that I was weak. I allowed her to think that I had destroyed your talent and potential.


    Elsa: "Elsa: ......


    "Father. I want to be strong. I want to be stronger than anyone else, Mr. Regina, or any father ever was. And in doing so, I want to prove to Miss Regina that I was right. That your father was not wrong to make that decision.


    Strong. Full of will.


    She spoke to me, and she was like a straight sword.


    She''s been beaten by Regina, but she''s not broken. She is on her feet, ready to catch up with the man who beat her.


    --I think I understand why she''s the youngest S-ranked adventurer in history.


    Well, if that''s the case, I suppose I can help.


    And I said to Elsa.


    "I have to be stronger than Regina. I want Elsa to be convinced.


    ...... Yes.


    But not in moderation. Sometimes you need a good night''s sleep. I think we''ll go home for now.


    I put my hand on Elsa''s shoulder.


    "Otherwise, your stew is getting cold.


    As soon as I said the word stew, Elsa''s stomach made a gurgling sound. She blushed quickly, as if ashamed of it .


    ''...... I was actually so busy working out that I hadn''t eaten anything since lunch .


    I smiled in front of Elsa, who muttered that as an excuse .


    I see. Then I''d better get home soon.


    Under the moonlight, Elsa and I walked back to the house where Anna and Meryl were waiting.

 54 Hot spring area mission.txt

    Dad. Actually, there''s something I need to ask you.


    A few days later .


    When I showed up at the Adventurers Guild, Anna, who was in reception, cut me off.


    ''''Hmm?¡¡Is there another mission you can''t take on?


    The Adventurer''s Guild was packed with adventurers today as well. They were basically rowdy and their every move was loud.


    So I asked out loud so that I wouldn''t be drowned out by the noise.


    That''s right. Half right and half wrong.


    What do you mean?


    It''s true what they say about some assignments not being available. I don''t want to leave it unattended or it could get you in trouble, so I''m gonna ask my dad.


    What''s the other half of the job?


    I need you to take Elsa with you on that mission.


    "Elsa?¡¡...... means it''s a very difficult mission. It looks like it''s at least an A-grade or higher .


    You have to bring Elsa along with you - the fact that Anna has decided to do so means that it won''t be a half-heartedly difficult task.


    ''''Ah . It''s not . The difficulty level of the mission itself is C-rank level. It''s a mission that can be easily accomplished by just one daddy alone to take down.


    Anna said to explain away my misunderstanding.


    ''I want you to take her with you because I need her to blow off steam. You''ve been working out all morning and all night lately, haven''t you?¡¡And the rest of the time, we''re just tense. And I''m just so depressed that I need to get some rest. I''ll do it.


    Ever since she swore to be stronger than Regina, Elsa, who was originally immersed in training, began wielding her sword with such vigor that she devoted her entire life to it.


    It''s fine to work hard, but it certainly feels like overwork.


    She''s not the kind of girl who listens to me just because I tell her to take a day off. You''ll be able to take the day off if you''re with your dad on his mission.


    At least you''re on a C-ranked kill mission. Do I get enough rest?


    ''To Dad and Elsa, a mission to take down a guy like that would be a piece of cake, right?¡¡Besides, the area around the village where you were hired is famous for its hot springs. I''m sure a long soak in the hot springs will help you get rid of the daily fatigue that builds up in your body.


    Oh. The hot springs. Hot springs.


    You warm up your body to the core in the hot spring and drink a glass of cold local sake afterwards. Even just thinking about it will help you to get rid of your fatigue.


    Right?¡¡I''ve been working late and my shoulder''s been really sore. I need to relax.


    Are you coming with us?


    Yeah. We''re going on a spa trip. I don''t want to leave you here. I did all the work on that pile of stuff so I could get paid.


    All of these missions are starting to feel like a family vacation.


    Anyway, I''ll take care of the formalities. My father will see to it that Elsa is available. The Order doesn''t seem to have much time on their hands these days, so you''ll have some time off.


    Anna said and winked at me.


    "Mmm. Daddy. Please...


    All right, all right. ...... I''ve always complained that Anna has a tendency to use her father too much, but I''ve always followed the law," she said.


    I''m not going to be the only one.


    The stuffing room of the Order.


    When I spotted Elsa, I cut to the chase.


    Yeah. Sorry to bother you, but can you do me a favor?


    "Yes. Work itself is no problem. It''s the only thing my father asks of me. I''d put everything else before anything else. But there''s a website: ......


    But?


    For a man as powerful as my father to make such a request. This mission to take down the enemy is going to be incredibly intense.


    Uh. Yeah. Yeah. ......


    Father. What is the matter with you?¡¡Your eyes seem to be swimming.


    It''s all in your head. Ha, ha.


    ''Really?¡¡I hope so. -- anyway, I will do my best to live up to your father''s expectations.


    I''ve heard that Erza thinks that my request to come along with me is because this is a mission that would be difficult to accomplish by myself.


    But this is a mission of such a level of difficulty that it would be no problem for me to accomplish alone.


    But you wouldn''t dream that this was some kind of half-hearted trip to the hot springs to rest and relax under the auspices of the mission.


    Looking at Elsa''s willingness to do it, I can''t say: .......


    It seems that Anna is right, the Knights are in a relatively comfortable period right now .


    I''m sure you''ll be able to find the best way to get the most out of your time off.


    I took Elsa with me to the Adventurer''s Guild where Anna was waiting for me.


    There was a carriage parked in front of the Adventurer''s Guild.


    The carriage and the horse he was pulling the reins on looked familiar.


    I believe it was ...... the gentleman who helped me on my way to defeat the Ancient Dragon.


    Ah. Here they come. Here they come.


    Anna, who was standing near the carriage, raised her hand when she saw us.


    "You''ve already secured the carriage for me. That''s neat. But there was a chance that Elsa wouldn''t be able to take a break from the Order.


    You''ll do whatever you have to do to take a break if your dad asks you to.


    Anna assured him.


    ''Elsa''s a severe father figure.


    I only responded to your request to help you, father!¡¡Stop talking like a softy who hasn''t been separated from his parents!


    You can''t do that. You can''t.


    It''s ready!¡¡I''m already well established and independent!


    Hmm. You look so happy that Daddy bought you a basket like that. And on days when you can''t sleep, you''re holding Daddy''s wooden sword.


    ...... and it''s ......


    Elsa''s speech became weak in the blink of an eye when Anna pointed it out to her . She turned her flushed face down and muttered while pinching the fingers of her hands together .


    ''''It''s merely that I adore your father ......''''


    "Elsa. Let me tell you something good. That''s what people call it: a dumb luck charm. I guess I''ll learn something.


    Anna said with a triumphant look on her face.


    ''That''s good. I don''t care if he is a father figure. I like you a lot and I love you too. And I don''t think you have anything to be ashamed of.


    It was Meryl who peeked out from behind Anna''s back. Even though she was in public, she didn''t hesitate to hug me.


    "I love you, Daddy!


    Meryl was here too. Did Anna ask you to come?


    I asked him myself before I went to call him.


    I won''t be the only one left standing, I promise!¡¡If you''re left at home, you''ll starve to death because you can''t do any housework or cooking or anything else!


    Don''t say something so majestic and pathetic.


    I held my forehead with a wry smile.


    What would you do if something happened to us and Meryl was left alone?¡¡It''s also a matter of not being too far removed from your parents .


    ''''Does the fact that Anna and Meryl are also accompanying you mean that they are as dangerous as the previous Ancient Dragons?


    Erza gulped and cleared her throat as she unfolded her evil thoughts . With a serious expression on her face, she turned a scowl at the other two girls'' attire .


    ...... No, before that, why are Anna and Meryl in yukata?¡¡Have you been taking a bath or something?


    Oh. ''You finally noticed,'' said Meryl.


    Anna and Meryl were dressed in yukatas.


    The light fabric was decorated with floral patterns and the hem of the garment was fluttering. The obi tied around their waists accentuated their style.


    It is cool and very pretty.


    We don''t want to bother changing into our yukata when we get to the client''s town. Don''t you want to be able to take a hot spring as soon as you get there?


    Erza''s eyes were darting at Anna''s words as she held up a finger. She pressed her eyebrows together and didn''t know what was going on.


    Aren''t you going on a mission to take out an S-ranked class now?


    What are you talking about?¡¡What I got this time was a mission to take down a C-rated class.¡¡It''s more of a hot tub and the mission is just an added bonus.


    ...... Um . If that''s the case, why do you want me to go with you?


    "Elsa. You''ve been working out a lot lately, haven''t you? Forget about the sword for a while and rest your body.


    Father.


    And Elsa looked at me like she wanted me to help her.


    "Well, that''s what it looks like. Well, that''s the way it goes. Of course, we''ll do our job well on a takedown mission.


    When he realized that I was on Anna and Meryl''s side, he decided that it would be useless to say anything else.


    Elsa sighed in resignation and said


    ...... I understand. Abandoning a mission once accepted is a shame for an S-ranked adventurer. I''ll go with you all.


    That''s the way it should be.


    Anna smiled with satisfaction.


    "Elsa. Let''s go to the hot springs and wash each other''s body.


    Meryl said jokingly.


    ''...... Right . The fangs of resistance are completely missing from Elsa, who muttered with a bitter smile, "I''ll wash her back too, Meryl.


    And so we went on a trip to the hot springs, or rather a mission to defeat them.

 55 I arrived at a hot spring area.txt

    Yubara, the hot spring village where the request to defeat the demon was made, was a day''s ride away from the capital.


    We stayed one night in a town on the way and arrived the next day before noon.


    From Yuvala at the base of the mountain, we could see a huge volcano. The mountain rises into the sky, with clouds hanging near its peak.


    Whew. We''re here at last.


    I got off the platform and stretched out.


    Thank you. You''ve been very helpful again.


    No, no. I don''t have to worry about the monsters when I''m with the masters. Besides, they used to give me such a great reward.


    Your man smiles with a smile as he rubs his hands.


    He feels indebted to me for giving him several times the market price of the reward money when he was on his way to defeat the Ancient Dragon because of the risks involved.


    ''''Take it easy until we return.


    Yes. I''ll have a dip in the hot spring too. Bathing together with your husband''s beautiful daughters isn''t so bad.


    I won''t let you do that while I''m black in the eye.


    Ha, ha. I''m just kidding. So mister, please don''t have a straight face. If someone as strong as you give me that look, I''m going to seriously pee my pants. ......


    I''m gonna have to be careful and keep my word.


    I''m not going to let my daughters get away with it. ...... Am I too stupid to be a parent?¡¡No, but it''s what any parent would do. Yeah.


    "I hate my ass for sitting all day.


    I know. I can''t say I liked that carriage very much. I hurt all over. I need a soak in the hot springs to loosen up.


    Would you mind if I... How about we beat the demon first?


    It''s okay. You can take a hot spring bath first. If you go into battle with an exhausted body, even a lower-ranked opponent might get a leg up on you, right?


    Yeah, yeah. You have to be in tip-top shape to fight those demons!


    In front of Anna and Meryl, who were in a touristy mood, Elsa was outnumbered. They look towards me for reinforcements.


    I''m going to meet with my client and get the details of what we''re going to kill. You''re welcome to take a dip in the hot springs as long as you wait.


    That''s my dad. That''s so sweet! Anna is happy to hear that.


    "But I wish I could go in there with you, Dad.


    Then why don''t you go in again after you''ve defeated the monster? It''s not like you can only go in the hot springs once.


    Oh. Right. Anna, you''re so smart.


    So let''s get going... -See, Elsa. You don''t have to be in here alone, do you?


    ...... ... Your father is too soft on you both.


    I mutter bitterly to myself.


    I think with a wry smile. She''s wrong about one thing. It''s not just the two of them that''s sweet. She''s sweet on all three girls, including Erza.


    Anna had just taken Elsa''s hand and was heading to the hot springs with Meryl when I heard a voice calling them back. I heard a voice calling out to them.


    "Traveler. Are you going to use the village hot springs?¡¡So you might not want to do this now. . if you value your life.


    Standing in the path of the girls was an old man.


    He was bald and had a white beard on his chin. He wore a cloth robe and carried a wooden staff. He looked like a definite resident of the village.


    What do you mean? Elsa asked.


    Our village baths now emit a poisonous gas. The hot springs in my village now emit a poisonous gas... and if I tried to go in, it would kill me instead of heal me.


    ""What?"


    We looked at each other.


    "Poison gas?


    Hmm. Apparently there''s a group of mole animals that live near the village, and they''ve been poisoning the waterways with poisonous gas that spews from the hot springs. Thanks to this, their business is up. The hot springs are the village''s only tourist resource.


    ''Oh, that was a close one: ....... We almost died in the hot springs," said Anna, wiping the cold sweat from her forehead as she paled.


    ''We literally nearly ascended to heaven!


    Meryl . It''s not funny at all. ......


    Elsa laughed at Meryl and said dumbfounded.


    The old man said.


    I sent a request to the Adventurer''s Guild for a mission to take them down. ....... But we''ve been having financial difficulties and haven''t been able to pay you enough money. And I never got any orders.


    But," the old man continued.


    "At last someone was willing to take the mission. We''ve been waiting for these men and women for a long time.


    I chuckled at his words. Lower your head.


    "I''m sorry. Thank you for your patience.


    Are you sure you''re not one of those adventurers?


    Yes. Sorry it''s taken so long, but I''m here.


    ''Oh!¡¡Thank God for that!¡¡I''m glad you''re here!


    The old man''s eyes widened and he took my hand.


    You are the village''s only ray of hope. I beg you to kill these foul demons and bring the hot springs back to this village.


    I''ll take care of it.


    "Otherwise we wouldn''t be able to get in the spa," said Meryl.


    "You don''t have anything to worry about. We have two of the most skilled men in the Adventurers'' Guild. We''ll kill the monster before you know it.


    I''m counting on you.


    "I''m the mayor of this village," said the old man.


    I''m the village chief of this village. When the hot springs are back, I will give you the inn for free and for a private bath.


    Are you sure?


    "It would be so much cheaper if the village spa was restored. But be careful. Those demons are tougher than you''d think. Even with the village cavalry in tow, they were no match for us. Carelessness, even for an adventurer, can lead to pain.


    I don''t need to be told. though he''s a lower-ranked opponent, a demon is still a demon. It''s possible that we could lose our footing if we''re not careful.


    It''s best to brace yourself and put your best foot forward.

 56 Crusade mission.txt

    We left the village and headed for the demon''s lair that the chief told us about.


    It was in the forest at the foot of a volcano.


    Large trees no more than a few hundred years old stood in a row, and the sun''s rays were blocked by the spreading foliage, giving the place the appearance of eternal night even in the daytime.


    A hole was drilled in the rocky mountain like a large creature''s mouth. Peer through it from a distance. It seems the hole leads deep underground.


    This is definitely their lair. I''m sensing a dense miasma.


    Yeah. I''m not much of a fighter, but there''s a definite feeling of disgust in the middle of this one, something unapproachable.


    Anna frowned as she peered into the nest.


    "And it smells like... It sucks.


    "They''re good at night, but we''re not. And of course, they know what''s inside the nest.


    So the enemy has a lot of ground to cover.


    At Anna''s words, Elsa nodded her head.


    But we can''t just sit here and do nothing. Even as we speak, the people of the village are in trouble.


    "Elsa. Wait a minute. Not so fast.


    She was about to march into the lair when I grabbed her by the shoulders and stopped her.


    "We don''t have to be stupid enough to play in the other ring. Just drag him out into the ring over here.


    ''Huh. ....... Does that mean you''re going to lure him out?¡¡But how?¡¡Doesn''t the mole show itself on the ground?


    "It''s easy. You just have to make it look that way. Meryl.


    I called out to him, and Meryl said, "Hmm? And then she turned her innocent face to me. I beckoned to her, and she came running up to me like a puppy.


    I gently nudge her ear.


    "Well?¡¡Can you do it?


    Mmm-hmm. Mmm-hmm.


    Meryl made a circle with her thumb and forefinger.


    Me and Meryl are standing side by side at the entrance to the den. From here it''s all slope up to the bottom where an unfathomable darkness awaits us with a wide open mouth.


    "Daddy and I are working together, aren''t we?


    Well, yeah, but... Don''t talk like that.


    I smiled and held up my palm.


    Meryl followed suit. Two magic circles rose into the air.


    "''Water splash!''


    When the chanting was completed, a large amount of water was released from the blue-lit magic circle. It flowed along the slope into the nest.


    The silent depths of the darkness that had been shrouded in silence a moment ago suddenly became noisy.


    There was a scream, then a bewildered cry.


    It seems to be panicking at the sudden rush of water.


    "Oh, I see. So you''re going to waterboard it. Submerging the nest will wipe out any advantage we might have. It''ll shave off a lot of the enemy''s strength.


    Anna was right.


    There was no need to venture into unfavorable conditions of battle.


    Ordinary magic doesn''t work for this plan.


    That''s because it''s me and Meryl who can use advanced water magic.


    Elsa, I need you to stand a little ahead of us.


    "?¡¡Yes, sir.


    In a few minutes, the enemy will come running, having lost their way. I hope Elsa will be there to intercept them.


    I understand!


    Understanding her intentions, Elsa valiantly stood in the front line. She readied her sword.


    It wasn''t long before the sword had its moment of truth.


    A clatter of furtive footsteps approaching. Out of the darkness, the mole-men were revealed as they rushed to earth, seeking refuge.


    The moment they caught sight of Elsa, they stared in horror. But they quickly revealed their hostility and came at her, wielding their claws.


    But that was not an enemy to Elsa.


    ''''--Haha!


    The tip of the sword sliced through the moles'' bodies without hesitation. They are unable to react as they fall to the ground one after another.


    The swords are said to be made at god''s speed and there''s no way these demons will be able to stop them.


    Erza cut down the fleeing moles as if to repel their comets. These are serious swordsmanship with no carelessness.


    Soon the water was rising to our level. The dumb moles were floating on the water.


    They must have drowned because they couldn''t swim through the current.


    Aren''t we all done here? Anna said.


    ''I guess so. It''s flooded in the nest.


    But that''s my dad and Meryl. You used water magic to sink an entire nest of enemies. You must have a hell of a lot of scale when you get under.


    Anna said that with admiration. That was the moment.


    Elsa and I noticed the presence of it almost at the same time. The dense, inferno-ridden miasma was close at hand.


    Where are you?¡¡I ran my eyes quickly over to Anna''s feet.


    ''''--Anna!¡¡Get out of there!


    What?


    I could see the ground underneath Anna''s feet was about to rise.


    At that moment, it was moving as if it had been played.


    I took Anna''s body in my arms and laid her on the ground. A few moments later, a claw shot out of the ground and ripped through the spot where Anna had just been.


    If I hadn''t reacted just a little later, I''d be on the spit.


    "d*mn. I think I missed.


    I can hear the sound of an abominable tongue click .


    I looked up from my position on the ground with Anna in my arms, only to look up.


    A large hole was drilled in the ground where we were standing, and a huge mole monster, far different from the moles we had seen until now, towered over us.


    It must have been nearly five meters long .


    Its eyes were fierce and its skin was reddish-brown. A huge, fat, obese figure.


    Are you the boss of this lair?


    Judging by the fact that he speaks human language, it seems to be correct.


    Only demons with a certain amount of strength and intelligence can understand human speech. That''s because he''s not just some mole monster.


    "You drove water into our lair. Now our hut is flooded. And now my little boys are dead all over the place.


    The mole was staring straight at us.


    How are you going to make this stuff up?


    You messed with it first. "You mixed the toxin with the hot water stream.


    Yeah. Yeah. That was us for sure. They won''t listen to a toxin. We were going to chase the villagers out and take over.


    The boss mole stroked his double chin and said.


    "''We can''t give the hot spring to a human. It belongs to us.


    I won''t let you do it. I''ll beat you and purify the hot water.


    "Try as you can. But first, I''ll have to kill you both. We''ll avenge the little minions.

 57 Crusade mission â‘¡.txt

    The boss mole crouched down and, despite his huge frame, jumped high. It was trying to crush us with its huge belly.


    That huge body is hard to catch.


    Everyone!¡¡We need to get out of there for once!


    Following the order, everyone, including the girls, jumped out of the nest. With a thud, there was a sound as if the whole earth was shaking inside the cave.


    A moment later, the boss mole crept out of the cave.


    d*mn it! You little bastard!


    The boss mole was glaring at us with bloodshot eyes.


    I whistled as I aimed my claws at its mouth.


    In response to that sound, the rest of the moles flew out.


    I wonder if there were more than a dozen moles at a glance. They''ll be surrounded by them. They''ll have the advantage of being outnumbered and outgunned.


    The boss mole grinned condescendingly.


    "You thought you had us fooled. But I don''t think you know that we set you up.


    What do you mean?


    "I was careful and I sent a secret agent to the village. They sent a message to the Guild of Adventurers asking them to take us out.


    Yeah. Yeah. That''s why we''re here.


    "The Guild of Adventurers has designated our defeat as a C-rated mission. --But that was an assessment that did not include me. I didn''t tell anyone in the village I was here because I knew something like this would happen.


    The boss mole is proud of his own cleverness.


    "Taking my presence into account, I''d say this should be over B-ranked in terms of difficulty. An A-rank rating is also possible. The Adventurer''s Guild probably sent a C-rank adventurer to the guild with the assigned difficulty level. Unfortunately, I''m far superior to you.


    The boss mole was stroking his chin and looking down at us.


    "Sending a secret agent to spy on the Adventurer''s Guild. That''s great.


    And you deliberately let him lower his mission rank by hiding your presence...


    You''re a very clever mole.


    but you''re no match for me in a fair fight. Your chance of victory is over!


    They were completely convinced that they had won.


    The boss mole is laughing loudly, his belly shaking. The henchmen around them followed suit, laughing and laughing loudly.


    Hmmm. That''s definitely great, but ......


    The moles were laughing at her, and Anna had a pitying look on her face. A look of compassion flashed in her eyes.


    ''''I guess that''s the mole''s limit, isn''t it?


    "Huh?¡¡Don''t f*ck with us, okay?


    The boss mole gave the word. The henchmen of the mole are attacking all at once.


    Father. Leave it to me.


    Elsa took a step forward, her sword at the ready.


    She was as still and unmoving as a calm. Drawing the moles to their limits.


    As soon as she was in time, she flashed her sword.


    The moles all jumped at once and fell to the ground like flies, unable to reach Erza.


    ''''Muu......!¡¡My pretty little henchmen in just one hit: ......!


    The boss mole was upset in front of the moles, who were easily kicked away. Come to think of it, he was underground, so is this the first time he''s seen Erza in action?


    In front of the flinching boss mole, Anna said as if to ask the question.


    ''''Hey. Did you ever think of it this way?¡¡He said just because it''s a C-ranked defeat mission doesn''t mean C-ranked adventurers will come.


    "What?¡¡So you''re B-rated adventurers?''''


    "?¡¡Come to think of it, how high am I ranked?


    "Meryl. You''re not an adventurer because you don''t have an adventurer''s license. I''m not sure I''m the one who''s taking an outsider along on a mission to take down a guy.


    Anna muttered to Meryl, who was looking at her, with a mixture of self-mockery. She turns to the boss mole and looks up at its massive body.


    Dad here is an A-ranked adventurer who was once described as a child prodigy. And Elsa here is the youngest S-ranked adventurer in history.


    ''''You''re an S-ranked adventurer to an A-ranked adventurer: ......!


    The boss mole''s face has obviously changed. That smug smile has vanished.


    ''Nonsense!¡¡Why would such a high-ranked adventurer be on a mission to defeat a C-rank or so!¡¡You guys are bluffing!''


    I''m sorry. I''m sorry, but it''s the truth.


    I said with a wry smile.


    "Actually, we''re going to take a family vacation. There was a combat mission at the hot springs, so we decided to take it.


    "What--?¡¡So that''s why we''re going to take them down while we''re at it?


    Well, that''s just it. Sorry about that.


    "............


    We were being killed as well.


    That fact came as quite a shock to him.


    The boss mole had a stunned expression on his face, as if he was having a bad dream. But the faded expression was quickly replaced by a fury.


    ''''You''ve got to be kidding me!¡¡It doesn''t matter if it''s an A or an S, it doesn''t matter!¡¡If I crush you guys here and now, I win!''


    He''s right about that.


    Ranks mean nothing on the battlefield, not even a title.


    Strong or weak. That''s all.


    But those who have been given the title of high-ranking adventurer have a certain amount of skill.


    The only thing that matters is the claws that the boss mole, who calls himself an A-ranked adventurer, swings at you.


    "What?


    And then he runs his sword.


    The severed claws of the boss mole fall to the ground.


    The boss mole was flummoxed, having lost his primary means of attack.


    I''m sorry. We gotta finish this. We worked up a sweat on the road and it''s getting dark. I need to take a bath in the village hot springs and get some rest.


    I''ve stressed that the hot springs are the main focus of this expedition.


    The boss mole''s pride should be torn to pieces.


    Sure enough, he was so angry that he lost his temper and pounced.


    But before his attack could reach me, it was much faster than my sword sliced through his massive frame from shoulder to hip.


    The boss mole turned white and let the giant body sink to the ground. An earth-shattering sound rang out, and then it stopped moving.

 58 Hot spring.txt

    After checking for any remnants and making sure we had killed every one of them, we headed back to the village of Yuvala.


    When we passed through the main gate, the village chief greeted us.


    We told him that we had destroyed the mole''s evil web. We killed them all and the boss mole was with us.


    I see. You killed them all right? I can''t thank you enough. It''s thanks to you two that our village will hold together.


    The chief took my hand and thanked me over and over again.


    The village now has its great tourist attraction back in the form of hot springs.


    But by nightfall the toxins will have cleared away and we''ll be able to go in. You men will have the first bath.


    Thank you. So I''ll take you up on your offer.


    We still have some time before night falls.


    The chief had already reserved a room at the most luxurious inn in the village, so we decided to go there and change into our yukata.


    Once we were in our cool clothes, we decided to explore the village.


    While we were shopping for souvenirs and tasting the local specialties, the sun was setting. A clawed crescent moon was floating in the night sky.


    The village headman took us to the hot spring at the back of the village.


    In front of the hot spring is a wooden building that serves as a changing room.


    Turn right and you will see the men''s room. Turn left and it''s for women.


    We split up on either side after talking to each other.


    Meryl was complaining that she was going in with her daddy, but Anna grabbed her by the scruff of the neck and dragged her away, saying she was coming with us.


    I smiled at that and then stepped into the changing room.


    I took off my yukata and put it in the basket.


    I opened the sliding door and stepped outside to see the hot spring. There it was, surrounded by rocks between the trees.


    A thick cloud of steam was wafting over the area.


    You rinse off the water and step into the bath. You dip your shoulders in the water. The warmth pervades my feet and my shoulders.


    I let out a gasp.


    The heavy rust that clings to your body seems to fall away.


    I love that we can rent this spacious outdoor bath to ourselves. As you were enjoying to your heart''s content, you heard the door being opened.


    Is it someone else?


    No, but the village chief said it''s our charter today: .......


    "Wow. It''s huge!


    Really. What a luxury to be renting out such a beautiful place.


    I can''t remember the last time I was in a spa.


    Hmm?¡¡There was a voice that sounded familiar to me: .......


    When I looked over the steam, I saw my three daughters there.


    I''m sure you''ll be able to find out what''s going on.


    How in the world are they in the same bath as me?


    I look towards the door where my daughters are coming in. It says "women''s changing room. I see. The changing room is separate from the hot spring, but the inside is a mixed bathing area.


    You''re relieved to know that I didn''t make a mistake.


    But what about taking a bath with a girl her age?¡¡Plus, they''ll be able to spread their wings more slowly without me.


    Okay. Let''s just get out of the tub and come back in later. .......


    Fortunately, the hot spring is very steamy. We can get back to the changing room without being seen.


    That''s when I was about to set up a stealth mission to get back to the changing room without the girls finding me.


    "Oh. It''s Daddy.


    Meryl pointed in my direction and screamed.


    My heart skipped a beat.


    Elsa and Anna''s eyes turned to me all at once.


    ''Huh?¡¡Where?


    The steam is too thick to see: ......


    Not yet. They haven''t been able to catch sight of me. I mean, how did Meryl manage to find me in the steam?


    Windblown!


    Hey!¡¡Don''t use wind magic here!


    A gust of wind blew and the steam that had been covering my form was ripped away. We face a world where everything is washed away.


    ............


    ............


    Elsa and Anna often freeze, and then


    Why is your father here?


    No, it looks like the spa is a mixed bath. See, there''s a door to the men''s changing room on the other side of the door you came in through.


    "Yeah. ''Oh, right . ''You should have put a note in the doorway,'' muttered Anna, looking towards the man''s changing room.


    ''So what was Dad trying to get out of the hot water for?''


    When you guys got out of the spa, I thought I''d go back in. I don''t think you guys are gonna have much trouble stretching your wings if I''m around.


    What are you talking about. It''s stinking of water. Why don''t you come in with us. You know what? And Anna asks the other two girls to agree.


    "Yes. I have no objection to bathing with you, father.


    I''ve always wanted to go in there with my dad. Lucky me.


    And Meryl hugged me like a puppy.


    But first, Meryl needs to wrap a towel around your body: ......


    "?¡¡How did you do that?


    A girl her age shouldn''t show her skin in public.


    Hmm. You sound like an uncle," Anna teases me. I''m at the age of a great uncle.


    I only show my naked body in front of you, remember?


    It''s not okay!


    Rather, it''s because it''s not the most, okay?


    Anyway, I''m gonna go wash up.


    I got out of the bath and went to the washroom. I sat down in the chair. I turned around and asked him stupidly.


    "Why are you guys following me?


    I thought, since it''s a family gathering, I might as well give my dad a good pat on the back.


    Anna said with a smile.


    Elsa and Meryl, who were standing beside her, nodded.


    ''Oh, come on . Come on . It''s indeed awkward to have the Guildmaster, the Knight Commander, and the Wise Master flush my back.''''


    I left my title in the dressing room at King''s Landing. We''re father and daughter now. Isn''t there anything funny about that?


    Let us have a little filial duty once in a while.


    You can spoil us, too.


    The girls weren''t going to back down.


    I hate to insulate them from the hospitality of others.


    All right. So I''ll do you a favor.


    I smiled bitterly, and ended up having my back washed away.


    I sat down on a chair and Elsa washed my back with a lather of soap. The girls washed my back for me.


    But I never thought they''d grow up to be so great. It just never ceases to amaze me how fast time flies.


    Maybe it''s because I''m unprotected in the bathhouse, an unclothed environment.


    I whispered to myself sullenly.


    Now I''m reminded of a grown child washing his or her parent''s back and thinking that the back that was once so big is now so small.


    I don''t know what you''re talking about. You''re still working hard.


    Anna said dismissively.


    That''s right. Your father''s back is as big now as it was when I was a little girl. Nothing has changed.


    And yet, you''re an adventurer with no scars on your back. I''m surprised.


    "I love the way your father''s bravery shows through. Your back. I hope to do the same someday.


    Hey, Dad. Next time I want you to wash me... of course you''ll have to wash me by hand.


    "Meryl. You said earlier that you wish your daddy would spoil you more. How can you spoil yourself, Dad?


    Me and my dad have a sweet and indulgent relationship with each other.


    And Meryl scowled as she addressed her finger to her cheek.


    "People say it''s called husband and wife. Mmmmmm.


    I''m not. You and your father are my daughter and my father.


    For now. For now.


    "Meryl. What do you mean by that?¡¡Do you intend for your father and Meryl to be more than father and daughter in the future?


    Hmm?¡¡Yes, but?


    ''No!¡¡We can''t allow that to happen between family members!


    It''s okay. My father and I may be family, but we''re not blood relatives. You can have a baby with me if you want to.


    Meryl then held up a finger as if an idea came to her.


    "Oh. That''s right. Why don''t we all just have dads and kids?¡¡And that way we''d have a bigger family and more fun.


    ''Yeah!¡¡A child between your father and us!


    At Meryl''s suggestion, Elsa''s face was red and upset.


    Anna cowered her shoulders, "I don''t know what you''re talking about anymore," she said, "but I don''t know what you''re talking about. ''Aside from Meryl, me and Elsa don''t have time to raise kids.


    Then why don''t I raise Anna and Elsa''s kid? Anybody who has the time can raise them.


    "That certainly makes sense. Collective parenting. Or maybe Elsa and I could take turns taking maternity leave.


    Hey, hey!¡¡You''re not there!


    You''ll have to object to the fact that you''re going to marry me first!


    I couldn''t help but chuckle.


    My daughters had grown up to be fine over the past decade or so, but the only thing that didn''t seem to have changed was that they were still severely fatherless.

 59 Irene and meal.txt

    After taking a hot spring bath and resting at an inn for a day, I returned to the royal capital.


    This mission has refreshed my mind and body as if a demon had been lifted from me.


    Today is the start of another hectic workday.


    I was to work as a teacher at the Magical Academy.


    You''ll be teaching your classes as usual, answering students'' questions and dealing with your colleague Norman''s rivalry, and then the day''s work is over.


    You are in the staff room getting ready for your next class.


    "Mr. Kaiser. Good evening. Is this ...... a good time?


    My colleague, Irene, came over to see me. A cool, intelligent, bespectacled beauty. But she looked extremely tense right now.


    "Yes. It''s fine. We''re just finishing up. What do you want?


    And I went on with the conversation.


    ''Do you remember when I said I wanted to talk to you about education, Mr. Kaisel? And his voice was a little hoarse.


    "I remember. What''s it to you?


    Then you can go to that ......


    At a loss for words, Irene tried to calm herself by pushing up the arch of her glasses with her fingers.


    This gesture was part of her routine.


    But her fingertips trembled under the strain, and the arches of her glasses were jiggling.


    After taking a deep breath, Irene said, "Su-ha-ha-ha.


    "If you''d like, would you like to have dinner with me tonight?


    Maybe it was because I was in a tempest, but my voice was exceeding the right amount of dialogue content .


    The instructors in the staff room all looked at me at once to see what was going on .


    Exposed to a rain of unwanted stares, the prone Irene had turned bright red. I thought fire was going to come out of her ears.


    ''Food?'' I muttered.


    "Of course not by force!¡¡I know you''re busy, Kaiser.¡¡You don''t have enough time to go out to dinner with me, and--


    Okay. Shall we go?


    ''Of course!¡¡I knew you were going to share a meal with me--what? I''m sure you''ll be able to find out more about this.


    Holding the frames of her glasses, she asks fearfully.


    Mr. Kaiser. What did you just say?


    I''ll go with you if it''s me.


    ''Yeah!


    Irene was so surprised that she almost sat up.


    ''?¡¡What''s going on?¡¡Maybe it was a social call or something: ......


    ''No, no!¡¡I wasn''t expecting you to agree.¡¡Just the two of us with Mr. Kaisel and dinner ......!


    Irene pressed her flushed cheeks and muttered to herself.


    ''I''ve heard that food is the best way to bring men and women together, and . Isn''t this perhaps ......!


    Miss Irene?


    ''It''s nothing!¡¡Anything!¡¡Because we teachers sat down to discuss education with each other!¡¡Yes!


    You''ll be able to see that they have some other plans. I can''t help but wonder if she has some other plans.


    We''ve come to a public tavern near the magical academy.


    It''s crowded. We''re seated in the back.


    Irene. What would you like to drink?


    Yeah, sure. I''ll have the same one as Miss Kaiser.


    ''Waiter . ''Can I have two ales?'' said the woman, and then ordered a combination of several dishes from the menu.


    "Hmmm. I think I''ll have the orange juice, then.


    Okay. Orange juice.


    I asked the waiter for more orange juice.


    "You''re underage, Meryl.


    Meryl always asks for this when she comes in here.


    When you use your head, you crave sugar.


    The two glasses of ale that had been brought to us and the orange juice in Meryl''s hand, we toasted after she had led the way.


    We tipped our mugs and drank the chilled ale in one gulp.


    There''s nothing like a drink after a long day''s work.


    You can''t help but let out a breath of bliss.


    Just as I was getting pleasantly drunk, Irene and I were asking at the same time.


    "No, why is Meryl here?


    Why is Mr. Merrill here?


    It was so natural that I was slow to react .


    Merrill''s little chin was resting on the cheekbones of his hands on the table, his legs swinging in the air with an amused smile on his face.


    Papa said he''s going to have dinner with Irene. I thought I''d like to follow him.


    After the lecture was over at the magic academy, Meryl came running home with me, but I refused to go home with her because I had something to do today.


    So you were following me after that: .......


    ''You know . Me and Irene are going to have a heart-to-heart talk now, teacher to teacher. It''s going to be hard to do a lot of things with my student Meryl around, isn''t it?


    It''s okay. I''ll just cover my ears.


    You''re a stubborn one, aren''t you? Are you really that desperate for bar food?¡¡...... Well, I''ve been so busy lately that it''s been a while since I''ve eaten out.


    Meryl has a habit of not listening to me when I say this.


    I scratched my neck and turned to Irene and said.


    "I''m sorry. I just wanted to let Meryl go home alone. Can I let him stay with you?


    Yeah, yeah. Come in.


    Irene gave a mended smile, then


    "Ugh. ....... I thought I''d be alone with Mr. Kaiser. ......


    He mumbled to himself with a downcast look on his face.


    And then I thought--.


    ''No, but isn''t this an opportunity?¡¡If we can win Mr. Merrill''s trust here, we''ll have a daughter-approved relationship ......


    I knew you wouldn''t let Miss Irene get her daddy.


    They were exchanging some kind of look at each other.


    Are there feuds between the two of them that I don''t know about?


    But there was no pretense of that.


    He seemed to be on good terms with the school.


    And if so, what''s the trigger?¡¡Did I cause this?¡¡Is it because I brought Merrill into a discussion of education?


    As I was lost in thought, I could hear the buzzing of customers around me.


    "Hey. Hey, man, what''s up with that guy. How many have you had?


    You''ve had more than ten. You''ve already had more than ten.


    And I''ll have three more for you.


    It seemed like there was a guest who had been drinking an absurd amount of alcohol.


    Most of these people are a pain in the ass. Not all of them, mind you.


    I don''t want to get involved if I can help it--I glanced to the side and saw an acquaintance out of the corner of my eye.


    She looked at you like a bird of prey as she fueled her drink. She came toward me with an empty mug in her hand.


    Looking down at me with a flushed face, she-Regina said.


    "Kaiser. I didn''t know you were here.

 60 Real mom?.txt

    Kaiser?¡¡...... No, it''s a different person, isn''t it?


    I looked away from Regina, who was looking very drunk.


    "Don''t play dumb!¡¡How could I possibly be wrong about you!¡¡You can''t do that if you try to pretend you''re not involved!


    Don!¡¡and banging the bottom of an empty mug against the table.


    All the guests around you are staring at you, wondering what''s the matter. Their gaze is more curiosity than fear.


    Oh, ....... I knew this would happen and I tried to act like I wasn''t involved.


    "Hey, you''re Kaiser, right? Hey." "Hey. You''re Kaiser, right?¡¡Hmm?


    Yeah. That''s right. It''s Kaiser. So please take your hand off my chest.


    It''s getting hard to breathe.


    You''re gonna start a murder spree in a bar?


    "...... Hmm. You should have just admitted it from the start. Don''t think you can pull the wool over my eyes. I know how many years I''ve been watching you.


    Regina spat and took an empty seat at the table around us. She crosses her slender legs in a show of grandeur.


    Oh, no. It''s like she''s just sliding into our seat. They''ll think we''re some kind of vicious drunks.


    You come here often and you get banned.


    Hey. Put some more ale on your plate.


    Regina. Don''t you have a little too much to drink?


    When I give Regina a hard time for asking her to get me a drink one after the other.


    ''You have no right to complain about my only pleasure other than my sword.


    He just snapped back.


    "What''s your only hobby?" I said. "Do you have any hobbies or interests?


    ''Do you think I sew or cook?''


    No, I''m sorry. It''s a stupid question.


    Regina was always uncommonly clumsy.


    When she sewed, she broke needles. When she cooked, she destroyed utensils with her powers.


    She had no taste for anything but swords. Now, besides the sword, she likes to drink. The money''s too good to be true.


    Booze''s fine. Drinking is the only thing that takes the boredom out of my life.


    What about the sword?


    ...... what?


    You once told me. You used to say that you only felt alive when you held the sword. I know you feel that way now.


    I don''t know.


    Regina looked bored and stoked her drink.


    ''The only time I can feel alive is when I''m next to death. You can''t feel life in an environment where there is no one to stand next to you.


    In short, you don''t have a proper opponent anymore.


    She''s gotten too strong, and there aren''t many people who can fight her as an equal. Humans or demons. Most of them are no match for her.


    The last time we had a fight. I haven''t felt my heart skip a beat in a while.


    Regina muttered to herself as she stared into the void. She drowns out her voice and her heart as she gulps down some more of her drink.


    Irene, who had been watching the scene, inquired in a horrified tone.


    "I... What is the relationship between the two of you ......?


    d*mn it. I totally left her behind.


    It looked like a vicious drunk with a camel wrapped around his neck.


    "She''s a-- Regina''s a long time friend of mine, you know.


    I explain to Irene that I''m going to tell her about Regina.


    Papa and Regina have known each other since before we were born," Meryl says as if to catch her.


    "They knew each other before Meryl was born: ......


    That''s when Irene got an idea. Her eyes widened.


    "--Ha!¡¡Could it be that Ms. Regina is the woman who was previously in a relationship with Mr. Kaisel!


    What?


    Regina spurted out a mouthful of liquor at the reasoning Irene had drawn. The splashes fell on me as I sat in front of them.


    Again. .......


    ''Hey you!¡¡How did you come to that conclusion!


    Regina said, her face turning a different shade of red than her drunkenness.


    I felt an extraordinary closeness between the two of you. It was the kind of intimacy that can only come from a man and a woman who have been close to each other for a long time.


    When Irene told her that much, she became even more delusional.


    ''If you are the mother of Meryl and her friends, it is you, isn''t it?¡¡So you''re Mr. Kaisel''s ex-wife!


    Was it?


    And Meryl just stared blankly.


    "So should I call you Mom?


    "Who''s my ex-wife?¡¡You don''t qualify people as menstruating women without permission!¡¡I''m not a mom and I don''t remember carrying this thing in my belly or giving birth to it!


    Regina denies everything, like she''s trying to spin a tale.


    ''Me and Kaisel are just old buddies!¡¡Nothing more, nothing less!¡¡Let''s get you to stop making your own assumptions.


    What. I didn''t know that. ......


    Irene looked relieved and puffed up.


    I thought for sure you two were on the same page: ....... It''s a relief to hear the denial from Regina''s mouth.


    I''m so relieved. I thought he was your mother.


    You can''t just call someone a married woman or a mom.


    Regina said with an accusing, rugged voice.


    She tipped her mug and downed the ale in it, then gave me a scowl.


    ...... And then?¡¡Kaiser. Why are you with this woman?


    There was a reproachful tinge in his eyes.


    "I''m a teacher at a magic school right now. Irene is a colleague of mine. We''ve come for a drink to discuss our education.


    Lecturer. You''ve come a long way.


    Regina''s words were sarcastic.


    "But it''s unusual. Regina taking an interest in a stranger. Was there something about Irene that bothered you?


    Mmm-hmm. I can see that.


    Meryl said with a grin.


    ''Mr. Regina was wondering if Dad had a girlfriend, wasn''t he?


    What--?


    Regina''s pupils widened at Meryl''s point .


    ''Guess what I''m going to say: ....... Don''t say the right thing!


    Yeah. You''re right.


    Meryl''s smile never falters, even after Regina''s threats. His balls are thicker than those of the three sisters.


    I just wanted to see if my former comrades were living a life of madness. I will not have you rubbing my face in it.


    I laughed at Regina as she folded her arms and spat at me.


    "...... Hey. What''s funny?


    No, I just thought you''d be that kind of guy. He usually comes off as brusque, but he''s surprisingly caring.


    "....... Don''t feel like you know what you''re talking about.


    Regina''s ears were slightly flushed when she turned her head away. I knew it wasn''t because I was drunk.

 61 Monica rushed in.txt

    The next day.


    I was giving a lecture in a classroom at the Magic Academy.


    As I was answering the students'' questions, someone rushed into the classroom.


    ...... hmm?¡¡Are you late to the party?¡¡Well, everyone is present today, including Meryl. So maybe the headmaster.


    So I came up with something different.


    Mr. Kaiser!¡¡Are you there!


    It was Monica, the receptionist of the Adventurer''s Guild, who screamed at the top of her lungs, looking very urgent.


    ''''Monica?¡¡Why are you here: ......


    He''s supposed to be on duty now.


    The students were surprised to see someone who wasn''t supposed to be here.


    ''Oh my God!¡¡It''s a big deal!


    Monica flaps her hands around to appeal to me.


    "I need you to calm down. What''s going on?


    ''Just come to the Adventurer''s Guild!¡¡Anna is waiting for you! And Monica takes my hand and tries to pull me along.


    Anna calls me at work. It sounds important.


    I run my eyes over to Norman, who is standing beside me, and call out to him.


    "Norman!¡¡I''m sorry. You''ll take care of the rest of the class.


    Mm. I don''t blame you. But I don''t care if I eat your existence by performing a great lesson while you''re out of your seat?


    Yeah. I look forward to hearing about the students later.


    I said yes and Monica took me by the hand and we headed for the Adventurer''s Guild.


    On the way, Monica bought me a drink and gave me a piggyback ride when I was tired from running, but I arrived at the Adventurer''s Guild.


    When I opened the door and entered, Anna came running towards me from the back.


    Dad!¡¡Finally, you''re here!¡¡...... but it''s so late . Monika-chan didn''t leave the guild until much earlier.


    Anna gave Monica a questioning look.


    ''''Did you get lost in the school?''''


    ''What?¡¡Um . I mean, it''s... I feel like it. Ha-ha-ha.


    Monica smiles a drawn-out smile as her eyes swim.


    Anna doesn''t know .


    . that Monica had been skipping and skipping all the way here .


    On the way there, she was hot and tired, so she went into a sweet shop and had a satisfied look on her face as she ate her juice and parfait.


    No, actually: ......


    ''Hey, Mr. Kaiser!¡¡What are you trying to talk about so nakedly!¡¡It''s not the past that''s important, it''s the present!


    Monica trying desperately to keep her mouth shut.


    You''re right, but I don''t think now is the right time to use it.


    Anyway. I''m not trying to expose Monica for skipping work. I just wanted to see how she reacted.


    Satisfied with Monica''s reaction, I decided to get back to the point.


    "Anna. Why did you bring me here?¡¡If you made me send Monica to you, then that''s what happened, right?


    Yeah. And that''s actually a bad thing.


    What''s wrong with it?


    ''If we don''t, it could destroy King''s Landing.


    What?


    These unexpected words made me reflexively yell out.


    "There seems to be a horde of demons attacking the capital. If you say "cyclops hordes", you''ll know things are bad.


    Cyclops--the one-eyed Titan of the A-Level class.


    Every blow from its monstrous power can be fatal.


    Even one Cyclops would be too hard to kill... but they still attack in packs!


    But the Cyclops are mainly found in the outlying regions. Individuals. I''ve never heard of a swarm.


    They seem to have just appeared out of nowhere. It''s just an undeniable fact that they''re marching towards King''s Landing.


    Anna had a serious look on her face .


    it''s normally the knightly order that intercepts the demons attacking the capital. But since we''re up against them, the Adventurer''s Guild has been called in. As an urgent A-ranked mission, we have to quickly gather the number of adventurers who are eligible for the order.


    Oh, I see. So that''s why you wanted me to come work for you, huh?


    I understand.


    I''m a qualified A-ranked adventurer.


    I think the truth is that I need an extra man now.


    But with A-ranked adventurers, the number of A-ranked ones will be limited. And if they''re up and running right now, how hard can it be to get them?


    "Yes. That''s right. There''s a party of A-ranked adventurers on an expedition. I''m gathering up some B adventurers at the moment.


    Anna said.


    ''After all, my dad and one other person were the only ones who could be called up with an A rating.


    ''Another one?¡¡That guy might be--


    It''s me.


    As if in response to my question, a voice rang out from behind me.


    Or should I say, as I expected.


    I turn around to find Regina with a pouting face.


    I knew it. But I didn''t expect you to just accept the call. If the city was in danger, you wouldn''t have wanted to fight if you weren''t interested.


    Many adventurers are like that.


    That''s why the Guild of Adventurers struggles to recruit them.


    Have you grown up over the years?


    "Nonsense. I will not fight against my will, even now. It was only because of you that I agreed to fight this call.


    Me?


    ''I knew that if my daughter, the Guildmaster, called the meeting, you would respond. Not bad considering it''s been a while since we''ve fought together.


    I see. Okay.


    But that''s okay?¡¡You don''t think I''m going to fight well enough to have your back, do you?


    He confirmed it with a smile.


    ''Hmm . I made sure my sword wasn''t dulled when I clashed with you before.


    Ha, ha. I''ll do my best not to disappoint you.


    "I don''t like that wry smile," said Regina, clicking her tongue. ''You never used to have that look on your face.


    It''s been 18 years. People change.


    I let Regina''s words sink in and turned to Anna.


    "Anna. What direction are they coming from?


    The guild scouts report that they are heading for the main gate from the southern plains. They''ll be attacking us in a couple of hours.


    Okay. Okay.


    I nodded and strained my voice to keep the momentum going.


    "Well. Let''s go. We can''t let those demons inside King''s Landing. We''ve got to intercept them first.


    Dad!¡¡I''m sure you''ll be fine, but be careful.


    Yeah. I''ll take care of it.

 62 Before the battle.txt

    A while later, I met up with a group of B-ranked adventurers.


    They all had the appearance of being rogues.


    ''''It''s a d*mn shame. I owed the guild master a favor, so I agreed to do the call. The rewards are lousy, so let''s just get this over with.


    I mean... Isn''t it the job of the knights to defend the king''s land? You don''t owe us a living wage.


    There was a lot of grumbling.


    Swearing and lashing out. The whole space seemed to be getting stagnant and creaky. It was broken by Regina''s one word.


    "You guys can go home.


    "What?


    It doesn''t matter how many clumsy bums you have. Now go away.


    ............


    The B-ranked adventurers were stunned and froze in their tracks .


    ''''Hm?¡¡Didn''t you hear me?¡¡I''m telling you to get out of my sight. I''ll talk to the Guildmaster and let him know.


    ''You ......!¡¡You''ve got a lot going for you: ......!¡¡I can finish you off here first, okay?


    "Ho. Interesting. You wanna try it?


    ''Wait, wait, wait!¡¡I don''t want you to fight among your friends!


    I rushed to intervene.


    I''m sorry. He has a big mouth. He''s always been like this. Can you just do this one thing for me and let me apologize for you?


    If it goes on like this, there''s no doubt that a fight will break out.


    And when it does, Regina will beat him to within an inch of his life. I''m not a handy guy who can go easy on her.


    These adventurers don''t know that me and Regina are A-list adventurers.


    We can''t afford to have anyone else needlessly injured before the battle.


    So I bowed to them instead of Regina. They must have been disappointed to see me bowing down, too.


    So don''t ever speak to me like that again.


    I clicked my tongue and swore, and he put the contraption away.


    ''Looks like it''s all settled,''


    I''m relieved.


    Thank God. We almost crippled the other side.


    Anna can''t feel sorry for herself if she loses a valuable member of the Adventurer''s Guild. We''re already short of people.


    ''''Regina. Please don''t do this to me.


    Why?¡¡I''m just stating the facts.


    You could try to wrap it up in something a little more feminine.


    Although I complain bitterly, I laugh at myself for being such a guy. I was rather relieved that things hadn''t changed.


    That''s when I saw the armor of the knights from across the street. I could see the armor of the knights from across the street.


    Father!¡¡Miss Regina!¡¡You''re here!


    Elsa came running up to me with a happy expression on her face.


    ''Yeah . Anna called me in.


    ''I wouldn''t be so reassuring if Lord Kaiser were here!


    ''No matter how many demons are attacking you, there''s no need to fear them!


    It''s a very good idea to be able to have a good time with them.


    It seems that he''s quite well-liked by the knights: ...... "I mean, didn''t the leader of the knights call me father?


    The adventurers were buzzing when they saw us talking.


    No wonder they don''t know who I am.


    I don''t usually hang around the adventurers'' guild and when I do, I''m quick to leave when Anna asks me to.


    Elsa and the rest of the guild and us adventurers will come together at the main gate of the capital. The men on scouting duty will tell you that the enemy will attack in less than an hour.


    Then shall we draw up our positions?


    As Elsa said this, she looked around at everyone present with a serious expression on her face.


    "Those of you who are good at close combat will join my team and fight the enemy on the front line, and those of you in the rear guard would like to ask for support from the artillery unit.


    That''s not necessary.


    And Regina sent word that it was Regina.


    "He and I will be enough on the front lines. We don''t need to do anything else. You just need to watch the back.


    "What?


    The knights were just as confused as the adventurers before.


    Well, of course they were.


    Sure enough, one of the knights spoke up to object.


    No, no!¡¡There are quite a few enemies out there!¡¡And each and every one of them is an A-rated Cyclops!¡¡Even though Lord Kaisel is there, it''s still too reckless for just two people to stand up to him!


    ''''We as the Order cannot give in to Regina-san''s demands.


    said Erza, the Knight Commander.


    "We are the knights charged with the defense of the city. I can''t leave that dangerous role to you two adventurers.


    I guess that means the Order has a lot of pride.


    It''s funny how a bunch of unskilled men can''t keep up with the rest of us.


    "Oh!


    Stupid!¡¡Regina''s guy, another superfluous one: ......!


    That guy has a big mouth. Deep down he''s not a bad guy. Please cut him some slack." I hurriedly followed up with the other members of the Order.


    Well. If that''s what Mr. Kaiser says... ......


    We are indebted to you, Master Kaiser.


    Hoho.......


    It''s a good thing you''re a man of virtue.


    "Erza, why don''t you just leave this to us? As long as we''re on the front lines, there won''t be any damage to the capital even if it gets through.


    I plead with my daughter.


    Huh?¡¡Please.


    "......, I understand. It''s for the best, father. I can''t do that. I will cover you as soon as I know you''re outnumbered.


    Yeah. That''s good. That''s very helpful.


    Somehow I managed to get my request through.


    Working with Regina, I feel like I''m just following up. Maybe one day soon I''ll be a negotiator on the side.

 63 Cyclopes army.txt

    When I saw it, I thought the earth was closing in on me. The power of the cyclops swarm was extraordinary.


    That was like a natural disaster: ......!


    One of the knights muttered to himself.


    Earthquake. Lightning. A tsunami.


    There are beings over which man cannot control.


    It''s no wonder when you look at that Titan army.


    Lady Kaiser!¡¡As expected, it''s reckless to take them on with just two people! "Well..." one of the knights in my life advised me.


    "Well... I''ll go as far as I can.


    Kaiser. Come on.


    Regina walked ahead of us and I followed her.


    At our backs the adventurers laughed at us.


    "They''re fools. We''ll die in the dog.


    ''You''ll soon find that you''ve been overconfident in your abilities.


    Oh, no. If it reaches Regina''s ears, we''re gonna have another fight on our hands, aren''t we?¡¡I looked at her fearfully, and I was surprised.


    Regina''s mouth was hanging open. She looked amused.


    "Kaiser. It''s been a long time since I fought with you. It''s exciting.


    Oh, that''s right--.


    She can no longer hear the outside world in her mind.


    All Regina can see now is the battle at hand. All she can think about is standing with me against the cyclops horde.


    We''ll be on the front lines, on the open plain with a clear view. We will take no tricks.


    I''ve long suspected you are a little too reckless.


    And I''m giving Regina a hard time.


    "Doesn''t it occur to you what would happen if you lost?


    "I ask you the other way around, can you imagine us losing?


    ...... No. I can''t imagine.


    Hmm. Yeah.


    We smiled thinly at each other.


    Neither of us moved at the same time.


    Cyclops and his friends found us as big as grains of rice to them.


    And then we were already moving into the crowd.


    Before they could get ready for battle, one of them fell with a blood spatter and screamed his last breath. The giant body is on its back as it leaps to its feet.


    The tip of a sword that runs through the air vividly catches the one eye that is their weak point.


    ''''Goooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!


    It holds its eyes and cuts down a screaming Cyclops!


    Another one swings a huge club at me.


    I dodge to the side... The ground collides with my club, causing the earth to shake.


    Regina!


    I know!


    While I''m holding its attention, Regina swings her greatsword and sends wind bullets flying.


    It catches one of the cyclops'' eyes and leaves a gap in his vision. Taking advantage of the opportunity, he leaps up the huge body and strikes through the head.


    It didn''t waste a single step.


    Right where I wanted her to be, Regina is there. I know exactly what''s going on in her head.


    It''s like the 18-year blank never happened.


    When I came to, a horde of cyclopses surrounded me. It was as intimidating as if we were surrounded by a huge wall.


    We were backed against each other in the center of the circle.


    "This isn''t good. We''re surrounded," I said.


    We''re in a tight spot. We make one wrong move and we''re deadly. And yet, there was no sense of danger in my chest.


    I don''t feel like we''re going to lose. We''ll be okay...no matter what comes at us.


    There was only that sense of omnipotence and an overflowing sense of joy.


    Oh, right. I remember now.


    I felt it every day when I was an adventurer, but I haven''t felt it in a long time. The elation of being in the middle of a fight to the death.


    The rush of blood.


    I guess it was the same for them, too.


    "That''s about right for us.


    There was a hint of joy in his voice as he muttered that.


    ''Regina. Don''t screw it up.


    Who are you talking to?


    Even with her back turned, I could see what Regina''s expression was like . A warrior''s smile as she stands before her prey.


    It was the same as when she was once called the demon princess.


    ¡î


    They''re all... They''re monsters. ......!


    Witnessing the battle, one of the B-ranked adventurers muttered to himself.


    A monster .


    As he muttered that, his awe-inspiring gaze was not on the cyclops swarm--it was on both Kaisel and Regina.


    Two. Yes, there were only two of them.


    Their massive bodies are like grains of rice to the cyclops. Nevertheless, they were completely overwhelmed.


    I''m totally pushing the cyclops crowd. ......!


    ''Not to mention Lord Kaisel, that female adventurer is following his every move!¡¡I honestly don''t know what''s going on: ......!


    The knights, too, have a look of horror on their faces.


    And--.


    The same gaze is shared by the adventurers and knights, who have seen the strength of Kaiser more closely than anyone else.


    ...... Is that your father?¡¡Really?


    Kaiser is a kind and reliable father to Elsa. But what she sees is a far cry from that.


    A wild, fierce beast wielding its fangs.


    He looks just like Regina - or even more battle-crazed.


    ...... awesome . Too awesome ......!


    Elsa thought she too had pursued the path of the sword and become strong in her own way.


    She was even the youngest S-ranked adventurer in history. She could become a Knight Commander. Many in King''s Landing claimed that she was the strongest.


    But the man I see fighting before me, Kaiser, is a different story.


    Not a match for her.


    I''m horrified.


    The difference in their power was obvious.


    And most of all, there was one thing that confused Elsa.


    Seeing Kaiser fighting alongside Regina seemed to amuse her. It was as if the joy of battle was pouring out of his body.


    --I don''t think I''ve ever seen you do that when you''re fighting with me.


    Someone I can trust with my back.


    Someone I can count on to have each other''s back.


    Regina is that to Kaiser, and Elsa isn''t. It was as if she was being confronted with that reality.


    In the end, there was no last act for the Knights and adventurers.


    In the middle of the plain, the two bloodied men stood side by side with the wreckage of the defeated cyclops around Kaisel and Regina.


    The two men smiling at each other looked very bright to Elsa.

 64 At launch.txt

    "Papa. Elsa. Mr. Regina. Cheers. Okay, cheers!


    Anna holds up a mug of ale and says.


    Me, Elsa, Meryl, and Regina drink to each other.


    After completing an urgent mission, we had come to the tavern to launch.


    That''s good. We fought off a horde of cyclops. Where they came from remains a mystery.


    Anna said that after taking a sip of her mug.


    It''s definitely spooky that the source of an A-grade demon is unknown. If we don''t strike at the source, there''s no guarantee that this won''t happen again in the future.


    I''m so grateful that my dad and Miss Regina are here.


    Anna said.


    ''The adventurers said they were different. They said they were on a different level of strength.


    "It''s been a long time since I fought with Regina. I''m fired up. I don''t want my former comrades to think I''m degraded.


    "...... hmm.


    Regina sniffed.


    Was it my imagination that she looked a little happy?


    "But I didn''t expect Regina to join us for the launch. I asked her to join us, thinking she would definitely say no.


    So it was a social call?


    No. I just didn''t expect it.


    This guy loves to go to the party. When I was putting together a party, I almost always went to one.


    I thought back on the old days and said so.


    At any rate, she was the one who wanted to go to the party the most.


    "There''s free booze at .......


    Regina spouting lines like a drunkard.


    But I know.


    Regina, who''s never been interested in anything but swords since then, has more than enough money to spare. She can drink alone if she doesn''t have to drink for free.


    Despite her looks, she has a lonely side to her. I''m sure.


    "Hey. Dad. Do a... do a... ahh...


    Meryl leaned closer to me, and she spoiled me with that.


    "Too bad. Here.


    I bring a piece of meat pie to Meryl''s open mouth.


    Meryl said with a look of satisfaction, "It tastes three times better when my dad feeds me. Seeing that, everyone except me looked at it with amazed eyes.


    What''s wrong with you guys?


    I just thought your dad was really sweet.


    That''s what being a parent is all about.


    Anna and Regina have been saying that to me.


    ''Ugh ....... I envy Meryl for being able to spoil her like that without hesitation......" and for some reason Elsa looked at Meryl with envy.


    ''''But I''m glad you came to King''s Landing, Regina.


    Anna says.


    "You''re going to stay here for the rest of your life, aren''t you?


    I will.


    ''''It would be a big help to the guild if Regina-san was up and running. We''re always short on high-ranking adventurers.


    Anna clasps her hands together and smiles at me.


    ''We have a lot of missions to clean up...''


    No one has said anything about begging yet.


    Oh, my god. Don''t say that. You don''t have anything else to do, do you?


    "Hey. That''s Kaiser''s daughter. Stop treating me like I''m slowing down.


    My name isn''t Kaiser''s daughter. It''s Anna.


    Anna placed her hand on her chest and introduced herself before saying


    ''So let me ask you the opposite. What do you do when you''re not on duty?


    ''''It''s ...... forging a sword, though?''''


    Anything else?


    ...... and drinking like this.


    Otherwise?


    ...... Nothing special.


    After putting a hand to her chin and thinking for a while, Regina muttered to herself . She tried to twist it out, but it didn''t seem to come out.


    I didn''t think there was anyone living a less colorful life than Elsa: ......


    Anna looked surprised and put her hand on Regina''s shoulder. With a loving look, he said.


    ''Miss Regina. I''m here to help you, if that''s okay with you.


    Hey, Kaiser. You sure you don''t want me to kick his ass?


    No way I''d give you permission to do that.


    Well, you can''t be sure Regina doesn''t mean it either. ...... Or maybe she wouldn''t.


    Anyway, that wouldn''t hurt to ask for the assignment, would it?¡¡If we''re on a mission to defeat them, we''re also training our swords.


    When Anna held up a finger and suggested that, Regina said


    ...... Okay. I''ll take the job. Just on one condition.


    I''ll do everything I can. What''s that?


    He''s to come with me when I go on a strike mission.


    Regina pointed at me with her thumb and said.


    ''Miss Regina. You''ve been on your own all this time, haven''t you?¡¡So why do you want my dad all of a sudden?


    Did you think I''d say that I wouldn''t mind being on my own?


    Regina sniffed mockingly .


    ''Don''t get me wrong. I''m good enough on my own for a takedown mission. It''s for a different reason that I''m bringing this guy along.


    Is there another reason ......? Elsa said.


    "Elsa. I understand.


    Meryl said knowingly.


    ''Quite simply, Regina is so fond of her dad that she''s going to try to make out with him alone on a mission!


    "Yes. I was with Kaiser and-- No!¡¡Don''t say the right thing!¡¡I wouldn''t think such an insolent thing!


    Regina almost nodded for a moment, then turned red and countered .


    Oh . That''s a great flippant comment. I didn''t know you could do this. I felt as if I had caught a glimpse of my former comrade''s surprising talent.


    Regina said she cleared her throat to get it back.


    I want Kaisel to come with me because I need the stimulation. This one makes boring enemy combat a little more interesting.


    Isn''t that because you like your dad after all?


    ''I told you it''s not!¡¡Don''t mix your love for them with your approval of them!¡¡This is why I hate people with a love brain.


    Regina spat at him evasively.


    ''So that''s what happened.''


    And I smile happily.


    ''So Regina approved of me, for a change.


    ......?


    Regina''s face turned away as a bemused look came over her face .


    ''''I''m not sycophantic enough to trust my back to someone I don''t ...... acknowledge. We''ve been working together for years and you can''t understand that . You idiot.


    The words were muttered with a short tongue lashing, and I smiled bitterly.


    You''re still a straight shooter.


    Anna, who was watching our exchange, opened her mouth.


    I know what you want, Regina. But I know you have a lot on your plate. He just works three or four jobs at once. ....... Can''t you just come along every time?


    ...... All right. I won''t say every time.


    An instructor of the Order, a teacher at a magic school, and a tutor to a princess.


    Handling the unfulfilled tasks of the Adventurer''s Guild.


    On top of that, I''ll be accompanying Regina on her mission to defeat the enemy, that''s more than one person can handle.


    We have to respect Dad''s wishes first. Do you think?


    I don''t mind.


    Normally, I wouldn''t take on more than this.


    "....... You''re going to do something crazy again. I ask you all the time, but you can''t just take on anything, can you?


    Anna chuckled in disgust.


    ''I have to say no sometimes.


    Haha. That''s true. But this wasn''t a freebie on this one. I did it because I wanted to.


    I remember fighting with Regina.


    I hadn''t felt my blood boil like that in a really long time.


    I felt almighty, like no one could beat me.


    The sweet aftertaste still haunts me.


    Maybe I accepted this offer so I could experience it again.


    If you say so, I won''t stop you, but ....... Please don''t do it. Your father isn''t alone in this life.


    "Yeah, I know," I said. I know," I said, smiling at Anna.


    It''s been decided that I''ll go along with Regina on some of her combat missions from time to time. She''s busy as ever, but after today, she''ll be busier than ever.


    But I wasn''t expecting that.


    Meryl. What?


    "Miss Regina. I thought she was very scary when I first met her, but... But when I got to talking to her, I found her surprisingly easygoing and cute.


    Meryl said that.


    Well, I''m not giving it to you, though, am I?


    I told Regina to check it out.


    ...... I don''t even remember trying to get it.


    ''''But it''s true, I too thought Regina-san was one hell of a person when she first came to the Adventurer''s Guild and pointed her sword at me.


    "I was surprised when he came at me out of the blue, too, when he attacked me on the side of the road.


    Anna and Elsa said the same thing.


    Haha. Meryl got attacked at the school once by Regina. It''s not surprising that people don''t make a good first impression.


    I chuckle.


    That time the whole school was in an uproar.


    Yeah, yeah. I''ve been meaning to talk to you about that.


    He turned to Regina.


    ''You pointed your sword at my girls. To Elsa, to Anna, to Meryl. How about a proper apology to those girls for once?


    I''ll be living in King''s Landing now.


    The girls aren''t the type to hold grudges.


    But it''s best to be straightforward with them at least once to avoid bad feelings.


    So I suggested softly that we--


    "...... Wait a minute, Kaiser. What the hell are you talking about?


    Regina gave me a questioning look.


    ''What do you mean by that? You''d better make sense of it once: ......


    No, not that part.


    Regina said, trying to drown out my voice.


    ''''I''ve certainly made contact with the silver-haired girl there and the Guildmaster''s daughter. I approached the silver-haired girl there to see if she was worthy of being the youngest S-rank in history. And to get the Guildmaster''s daughter to tell him where Kaizel was. But the wizard''s daughter, I have no idea. I have made no attempt to reach out to this man.


    --What?


    The words Regina dropped sucked in all the sounds of the place . The silence falls. Or maybe I''m just upset and it feels that way.


    ''Wait . It''s true that the person who broke into the school at that time had Meryl ......


    The headmaster broke through the guardian wards on the school''s grounds and the intruder returned Norman to the laboratory where Meryl was working.


    With that, Meryl fought off the intruder, but because of the illusionary magic he was using, he was unable to figure out who he was.


    But afterwards, when it turned out that it was Regina who pointed the sword at Erza and Anna, I assumed that the matter at the school was her doing as well .


    But--it was different .


    Regina says she hasn''t tried to contact Merrill.


    I don''t think she''s lying.


    Part of me knows that Regina is a difficult and cryptic person, but I also know that she would never lie to me in this kind of situation.


    But before that...


    Regina is completely unable to use magic.


    Hence, she''s not the same as the intruder who was using illusionary magic to hide herself. I don''t think she was colluding with anyone else either.


    Which means...


    Which means the intruder may still be lurking here in King''s Landing.

 65 On the way home.txt

    Anna. Thanks for your help.


    The sun had just set and the lights of the city were beginning to glow in the darkness like fireflies.


    I stepped into the Adventurer''s Guild, and when I saw Anna, I called out to her. She''s just finishing getting ready to go home.


    "Dad. Did you come to pick me up like that?


    Yeah. I don''t like being alone at night. After what happened.


    You''re... You''re a worrier.


    Anna looked troubled, but vaguely happy.


    There was no one else in the guild room. Anna seemed to have stayed behind until the end. It must be hard being in charge.


    Well, I guess I''ll be going home.


    Yeah. Let''s go.


    He turned off the light inside the guild and opened the door and stepped out.


    Anna had remembered to lock the door.


    The Adventurers'' Guild was so crowded with adventurers during the day, but at night, the building that had turned into a mute figure felt like a shell of itself.


    Under the moonlight, I walk towards home.


    Whoever attacked Meryl may be lurking in this royal city. Whether that person is after Meryl or the magical academy itself, I don''t know.


    Either way, there''s no guarantee the other girls won''t be attacked.


    So I''d be the one to pick Anna and the other girls up.


    The street was deserted, its daytime energy gone. The sound of soles on the cobblestones could be heard. I pay maximum attention to the occasional passerby.


    "Hey, Dad. I wonder what they think we look like now.


    Anna asked this as she walked with a supple gait.


    ''What does ...... mean?'' "I mean, don''t you see them as normal parents and children?


    Don''t they look like a couple?


    No, that''s not exactly how it works.


    Why?


    Me and Anna are way too old for that.


    After all, there''s a 17-year age difference.


    You look a lot younger than you think. Besides, these days it''s not uncommon for lovers to be older than you are.


    I wondered if Anna had said that.


    Yeah. I have a good idea.


    He held up a finger with a mischievous expression on his face.


    --a good thing?


    And that''s when I was tilting my head back.


    Squeeze.


    I felt something soft and warm on my left arm.


    And I looked.


    I saw Anna leaning in with her arms entwined with my left arm.


    "How''s this?¡¡Wouldn''t this make us look like lovers?


    Hey, hey. You''re getting a little soft today.


    I''m usually so tense when I''m at work. It''s just you and me. You don''t have to spoil him every once in a while.


    It''s a lot harder to fight when you''re hugged, though, when you''re attacked.


    It''s okay. Daddy''s strong. With your left arm stuck like this, as long as you can use your dominant arm, who''s going to beat you?


    Oh, man. Oh, my God. ......


    I''m not exactly invincible, you know?


    I swallow the words that came out of my throat.


    Anna is usually the calmest person in the world, but when it comes to my strength, she trusts me blindly.


    It''s like she can''t imagine her father losing.


    At first glance she appears mature, but she''s still a child. It''s not as if I can beat anyone.


    ...... Well, as far as losing goes, I can''t remember.


    What about your work?¡¡Is it still hard work every day?


    Yes. It''s depressing to be dealing with a colleague who tries to slack off at every opportunity and an adventurer who''s selfish enough to ignore our requests.


    Anna chuckled as she said this.


    ''Well, I''m not busier than my dad, though.


    Really?


    Yes. You''ve been working a little awkwardly lately, haven''t you?


    Anna said dismissively.


    Today you were working as an instructor for the Order in the morning, the princess''s tutor in the afternoon, and then you went on an A-rank mission with Regina. Moreover, a task that should have taken several days to complete was accomplished in half a day. This is too much work for you.


    Originally, I was juggling many jobs, and recently I''ve been accompanying Regina on more and more missions to defeat her, so my schedule was super overcrowded.


    ''''It''s fine. I''m busy, but I''m not unreasonable.''''


    It wasn''t vanity, it was heartfelt.


    I don''t feel depleted, mind and body.


    If you asked me to, I would have done it.


    May I remind you that I''m not trying to toughen you up?


    We''ll see. Dad, you seem to be having so much fun these days.


    Really?


    Yeah. . because when you and Regina are on a mission to defeat them, Dad looks so alive like a child.


    Anna chuckled.


    "Didn''t you know that?


    A puzzled look crossed his face. Anna sounded surprised.


    I hadn''t noticed.


    But I guess if she says she did, she did.


    Actually, it was fun going on missions with Regina. Fighting with her reminded me of those days when I was a desperate adventurer.


    This was it.


    ...... Anna. Stay close to me.


    What?


    I can sense someone lurking nearby.


    They''d been walking for a while, and then they''d stepped into an alley.


    There was no one around.


    But I could still feel eyes on me from somewhere.


    "Dad. Could it be ......?


    Yeah. That''s a distinct possibility.


    ...... inactive city streets. A secluded, dimly lit alleyway in a blind spot. The timing couldn''t have been better to pounce.


    Anna''s arms tighten in my grip.


    She''s nervous. That''s understandable.


    It''s okay. I''m with you.


    ...... Uh-huh.


    As I told her this, Anna''s fear faded from her face.


    I raised my guard and set up a perimeter.


    Come at me from anywhere.


    No matter who it is, I won''t let Anna lift a finger.


    I was staring into the dim light.


    And then...


    Behind a dumpster at the corner of the alleyway, there''s a moving shadow.


    There it is.


    A moment later, he drew the sword from his waist and shook it off.


    A flash--.


    The trash can was split in half, revealing the figure hiding behind it.


    Hiiiiiiiiiiii!


    It screamed and fell on its ass, and I stuck my swordpoint into its shadow.


    "Surrender. Don''t fight it.


    If you make even one strange move, I''ll cut you down, no questions asked.


    That''s what I was getting so worked up about, but...


    Kaiser-san!¡¡Me!¡¡It''s me!


    The voice that reached my ears was vaguely familiar.


    ''...... Huh?¡¡Monica?


    Anna, who was beside me, muttered in confusion.


    The moon, which had been hidden behind thick clouds, peeked out and poured light down the alleyway.


    A figure seared by the pale moonlight, holding up her hands with her hips, was Monica, the guild''s receptionist.


    ''''Oh, God!¡¡You gave me a fright!¡¡Kaiser-san, you were almost ready to cut me down!


    I''m sorry. I''m sorry. I''m sorry.


    I was apologizing to Monica as she expressed her anger.


    After all, it was Monica who was hiding.


    But why were you hiding here?


    I was walking around and saw them, and it was funny to see Anna''s delirious and spoiled by Kaizel-san, so I was secretly following them.


    I see. So that''s what happened.


    Anna-san, at work, you give me a very stern look, but you can make a girly face like that.


    Monica giggles as she plays with the "Poo-sniffle".


    ''Moooooooooooo, Monica!''


    Anna was wincing at that.


    ''Wouldn''t that make us look like lovers?¡¡Anna''s arm in arm with Kaizel was so cute when she said, "I wish everyone could have seen that. I wish everyone could have seen it.


    ...... You, if you tell everyone at work about it, I''ll make you live a life of working overtime and not being able to go home, okay?


    Oh, no. Just kidding.


    As expected, she thought it was a bad idea to play around with it any longer .


    At Anna''s threat, Monica gave a tight smile. It''s important to have a good judgment in this kind of situation.


    But it was cool to see Kaiser trying to protect Anna. I felt a little bit of a rush when she held up her sword to me.


    Yes. Your dad is so reliable and good-looking.


    You two won''t get anything out of your compliments.


    I''m sorry. I''m just being honest.


    I smiled at Monica, who was laughing at me.


    She''s a good girl.


    Anyway, I''ll let you walk her home if you want to go home alone.


    It''s not like I''m in a good mood for praise or anything.


    ...... Well, maybe a little bit of that, too.

 66 Escort task.txt

    Today I was supposed to go on a mission with Regina.


    I went to the Adventurers'' Guild and Anna explained the mission.


    "Papa and the others will be escorting you on this mission. We need you to protect a convoy of merchants carrying goods to an elven village in the middle of nowhere, from demons.


    "An Elvish village. ....... It was pretty treacherous along the way.


    Yes. Yes. We have to pass Numeric Marshes on the way. There are a lot of predators out there that are looking for people to pass by.


    It''s good for business. It''s not easy being a merchant. I''m sure it''ll cost you a fortune to hire us adventurers.


    But there''s more to it than that. That''s more than enough to pay for all the adventurers we hire. The elves are good for business.


    Regina muttered as she added: "Any item they offer in exchange for goods is of high value.


    The mission itself is fine. But...


    Is there a problem?


    ''If we were to take a normal carriage, it would take us two full days to get there, wouldn''t it?¡¡The situation is the situation, and the idea of crossing the day without you guys is ......


    Just because I''m not here doesn''t mean something''s not going to happen to my girls.


    You''re... You''re such a worrier.


    Anna chuckled.


    ''That''s okay. It''s the shortest mission, a day trip.


    What do you mean?


    The horses of the merchant corps that you will be escorting this time are equipped with wind chambers. They will be able to move much faster than ordinary horses.


    I see.


    So the horse has been given increased mobility by wind magic.


    "A day''s work for you, that''s all right. Then we''ll go on a mission right away. Shall I continue on to the appointed place?


    Yeah. I''ve already been through it.


    Yeah. All right, Regina. Let''s go.


    When I was leaving the Adventurer''s Guild, I said I had Regina with me.


    Oh. Hold on.


    Anna stopped us. I turned on my heel and looked back.


    "Hmm?¡¡What?


    Look, about this mission, I have a kid I want you to take with you. He should be here in a few minutes, so just wait for him.


    The boy you want me to take him to?


    I was just craning my neck when the door to the Adventurers'' Guild opened up. The door to the Adventurers'' Guild was thrown open.


    Father!


    When I turned around, I saw Elsa running into the room.


    "Elsa. Could it be ......


    Yes, sir. I''d like to come with you on this mission.


    Was it Elsa who was the girl you wanted to take with you? Indeed, she was off duty with the Order today.


    Are you sure it''s a good day off?


    I''d like to study alongside you both.


    Elsa''s face was serious as she put her hand on her chest and said this.


    "Hmm. I don''t need you to slow me down.


    Elsa''s request was coldly discarded by Regina.


    ''I won''t slow you down!


    You''ll never be able to beat me or Kaizel.


    Eventually I will win. That''s why you''re coming with us.


    I have no right to give you what you want.


    Ugugu: "Ugugu: ......


    Seeing Elsa biting her teeth, Anna interrupted her.


    "Oh, my God. It''s good. You can take her with you. Besides, I''ve already told them Elsa is coming with me.


    What did you say? Regina''s eyes widened. "...... you. Now, you took care of that beforehand because you thought I''d disagree with you, didn''t you?


    I don''t know. I think you''ve been working too hard.


    Playful Anna.


    She''s a tough one. She''s strong. Maybe she did it.


    "Hmph. But it''s a shame. I don''t care if you told them or not. I''m not gonna take this guy.


    But Regina was even more stubborn than Anna had planned.


    She doesn''t want Elsa to come along with her.


    ...... Why is Regina stubbornly refusing to accompany me?


    It''s a good thing that you''ve been treated so poorly. She looks squarely at Regina as if glaring at her.


    I told you. There''s no point in taking someone who isn''t good enough.


    Do you mean it?


    What do you mean?


    ...... Isn''t it because you don''t really want to be alone with your father anymore?


    What are you talking about?¡¡Don''t talk nonsense!¡¡I do not wish to be alone with this man!


    Regina was clearly upset at Elsa''s point of view . Her iron mask crumbled, and her face was flushed red and ripe.


    ''''I see that reaction is a figurehead!


    ''No!¡¡Take it back!


    So allow me to come with you. Otherwise, I''ll assume that''s what Mr. Regina''s motivation is.


    "...... d*mn it. This kid ......


    Regina giggled and bit her teeth as she stared abominably at Elsa . The formation had been completely reversed.


    ''Looks like Elsa was one better this time.


    Anna chuckled.


    "Miss Regina. Will you allow Elsa to accompany me?


    "All right. Regina. Elsa''s a much stronger girl than you think. I assure you she won''t slow you down.


    And I followed up with him.


    I guess he realized that we were under siege .


    Regina clicked her tongue briefly and muttered in resignation.


    ''''You can do what you want with .......''''

 67 Guard mission â‘¡.txt

    ''Oh!¡¡I didn''t know you two A-ranked adventurers would even come to the head of the Elsa Knights!¡¡This trip is safe!


    My client, a big, hungry merchant, was happy to have Elsa with him.


    He was a good-looking man with a smile on his face.


    Beside him were several carriages and other merchant men. Tethered to the carriage are horses'' hooves containing a grimoire of wind magic.


    When the merchant man looked at Regina and Elsa, he tilted his head questioningly.


    ''Hmm?¡¡What''s going on?¡¡The two of you, turn away from each other.


    Regina and Elsa were turning away from each other.


    After what happened earlier, it seems they just don''t see eye to eye.


    "No... It''s nothing. Ha-ha.


    I tried to disguise it with a fake smile.


    I couldn''t let him know that our guards don''t get along with each other. This would give the client unnecessary anxiety.


    Now let''s go. Now let''s go. You three will ride in the back of the lead carriage. Sorry to make a bit of a tight fit.


    We climbed into the back of the wagon.


    On the plank floor was a large cargo.


    It''s not dusty and it''s well maintained.


    It must have been a fine carriage.


    Even with the maverick gait of the wizard-armored horses, the cart didn''t shake much and the cargo didn''t fall apart.


    I opened the top of the truck and combed it open.


    The scenery drifted behind you like an arrow.


    Ha-ha. Sure looks like we''ll be there soon.


    Anna was right.


    The effects of the mages are amazing.


    You two should see what''s out there, huh?


    I wanted Elsa and Regina to feel like this wind - so I turned around to beckon them to me.


    Then I saw them staring at each other.


    "Hmph. What the hell do you know?


    ''At least I think I know better than you, Regina, don''t I?


    It''s just a flash in the pan.


    You''d think they were about to draw their swords.


    Hey, hey. What happened to you?


    Did Regina say something about Elsa slowing her down again?


    That''s what I took for granted, but the answer was different.


    Of course I know more about Kaiser than you do!


    No. I know your father better than you do. I''m sure of it.


    --Yes?


    I overheard them arguing, and I froze.


    Huh?¡¡Me?


    "In response to your father''s decision to follow me, Regina told me that Kaiser has always had a soft spot for me. I replied that he would not allow me to go with him on a dangerous mission for that reason alone. She told me not to talk to him as if he knew anything about it. ......


    So they argued about who understood me?


    She nodded when I asked her that.


    What''s that? .......


    Regina sniffed and looked good.


    I''ve been partying with this adventurer all along. There''s nothing I don''t know about anymore.


    I''ve been with your father since I was born. I understand him better than you do.


    ''You didn''t know him when he was an adventurer, did you?¡¡I spent the most concentrated years of his life with him, the most concentrated years of his life. I am.


    ''So you say, Regina, you don''t know your father as a father, do you?¡¡We sisters are the only ones who know your father''s paternity.


    Uggh. ......" "Gunnu. ......


    Regina and Elsa were gnashing their teeth in frustration at each other.


    ''So, have you ever had the experience of ducking under the line of death with Kaisel?¡¡I have?¡¡It''s the experience of ducking under a dead line that creates a true bond.


    ''Ugh ....... But I have shared a bath with your father many times!¡¡I suppose that''s more intimate than going under the dead line!


    ''What? ......?¡¡As expected, I''ve never experienced a back flush either: ......!


    "And my father came and kissed me almost every day when I was a boy. You don''t know what your father''s kiss was, do you?


    Don''t get cocky, okay?¡¡Little girl. I know that much too!


    What--?


    Of course I''ve kissed Kaiser, of course I''ve kissed him. After all, we were in the same party.


    If it was the same party, would kissing be the norm?


    What''s that theory: .......


    ''The latter is better than the kiss as a child and the kiss as an adult!¡¡Apparently, I''m one better than you.


    Ugh ......!


    Elsa was flustered in front of a victorious Regina.


    ''I can''t believe your father once kissed Miss Regina: ......!¡¡The two of you were honeymooning, after all: ......?


    ''Wait, wait, wait!¡¡Elsa''s got it all wrong!¡¡I say kiss, but it''s unavoidable when you''re giving artificial respiration to a dying Regina!


    It''s just a stopgap measure.


    It''s not what Elsa had in mind.


    ''Ho....... So that was it.


    ''But that doesn''t change the fact that I know how to kiss Kaiser. Little girl. You''re not the only one with a monopoly on it.


    Regina with her arms folded and a smug look on her face .


    ...... Why are you so desperate to stick it out?


    I wonder if he''s really pissed off about Elsa.


    ''d*mn it ......!¡¡Regina can''t be beaten. ......! Erza''s big eyes were filled with a strong gleam of will.


    Let''s see . . we''re talking about sword skills, right?


    Don''t tell me you''re talking about whether or not you have a better understanding of me?


    I looked out of the hood and saw that we had already entered the Numeric Marshes.


    The landscape was open, with stagnant colored marshes and knee-high vegetation. A thin layer of fog hung over the entire marsh, enveloping it.


    That''s when.


    The wagon, which had been going so well, came to a halt. The back of the wagon was sinking.


    What''s going on?


    I open the front cover and ask the merchant man sitting in the driver''s seat.


    Aha. ....... The wheels on the back of the truck got stuck in the mud. I guess we''ll have to pull it out.


    Well, in that case, we can help you with that.


    "Oh. That''s great!¡¡Please!


    The merchant man clasped his hands together and revealed his joy.


    ''But it''s funny . I''ve been trying to stay away from the swamp. ....... It''s as if the swamp has drawn us in.


    I was stroking my chin suspiciously, when I heard a voice say.


    ''Mr. Debris!¡¡Oh, my God!¡¡There''s a swarm of demons around!


    A trader on a coachman''s platform in the rear of the carriage cried out.


    "What did you say? And the merchant leader''s man--Debris said.


    ''''What?''''


    All at once, the place was tense.


    I quickly opened the top and looked out.


    Through the white mist that hung lightly around the carriage, a large number of demons appeared as if they were wading through it.


    There were demons like muddy hands in the mud where the carriage wheels were stuck.


    I see.


    These things dragged me in?


    Whaaaaat?¡¡I''m surrounded!


    I can''t even move, and this is not good!


    The merchants were in a panic because of the sudden danger they were in.


    No problem. We''re here for times like these.


    Father!


    "Yeah," I said, nodding at Elsa''s call. ''''I guess we''ll have to do some escorting first before we can pull up the carriage.

 68 Guard mission â‘¢.txt

    The carriage was surrounded by a large number of demons.


    Poisonous frog demons.


    Ape demons with human-like intelligence and inhuman strength.


    Giant mud-armed demons.


    An amoeba monster that can invade a person''s body and take over their brain.


    Even on their own, they''re a nasty one.


    Hey!¡¡I knew I shouldn''t have come to a dangerous place for money!


    "Uh, don''t get upset!¡¡We have the Lord Commander and his men at our side!¡¡With the three of you, there''s nothing to fear from demons!


    But, Mr. Debris, your legs are shaking!


    Stupid!¡¡This is numbness in my hands and feet from lack of exercise!


    No, I think there''s a problem with that: .......


    Anyway, we have to protect the merchants and the carriage. And if the horses and carriages are harmed, it will interfere with their future travel .


    ''Regina!¡¡Elsa!¡¡Cover me, please!


    I don''t need to be told.


    I''ll take care of it!


    We intercepted the demons as we guarded them.


    The monkey demon pulled out a rock from the marsh and threw it at us.


    It seems that the monkey demon wanted to break our formation from a distance.


    In addition, the frog demons spat out a bubble of poison. Poison so deadly it could melt anything it touched was coming toward us.


    So it''s working together.


    That''s very clever of you. But you know what?


    Regina!


    "Ha!


    The wind projectiles from Regina''s great sword ricocheted off the rocks and poisonous liquid.


    Shattered pieces of rock and venom rained down on the demons. They were in a state of screaming under their own attack.


    Elsa whispered in astonishment.


    ''''But how can two demons of different species work together ......


    The demons that live in the Numeric Marshes are an entire ecosystem. They ensure their prey is killed by forming groups. They''re a nasty bunch.


    No problem. It doesn''t matter how many small fry are in the bunch, they''re still small fry.


    I can''t help but chuckle at Regina''s bullheadedness.


    I have no intention of sitting back and letting them prey on me like they want.


    Regina sliced into the disordered demon''s formation. As tall as a man, she nimbly swings her greatsword and cuts down the demon.


    Kaiser!


    That motion gave me an idea of what she was going to do.


    I immediately unleash my fire magic.


    A huge pillar of fire erupted on the ground.


    "What!


    Regina swung her greatsword and sent the wind pressure flying, blowing away the pillar of fire I had created and setting it ablaze among the demons like a wave.


    I succeeded in wiping out the crowd of demons in one fell swoop.


    ''''Regina-san!¡¡It''s back there!


    Elsa shouted as soon as she could.


    A giant mud-handed monster was approaching from behind Regina.


    "--Oh!


    I smashed that monster as it tried to get to Regina.


    What. What... you couldn''t react?


    Don''t be silly. From that position, I knew you''d cover me. How many years do you think we''ve been partying together?


    Regina said with a wry smile.


    I can''t betray my trust in this one.


    ''''Great!¡¡Those two are in perfect synch!


    As if.


    The merchants were cheering when they saw me and Regina fighting.


    Regina smiled with satisfaction when she heard that. She looked triumphantly at Elsa and said provocatively.


    How are you doing?¡¡This is the kind of partnership that has kept Kaisel and I together over the years. This one and I are more physically compatible with each other than with anyone else.


    Mmmm: ......!


    In response to Regina''s agitation, Elsa was biting her lower lip .


    I mean, that''s a funny thing to say.


    I know, when you talk about physical compatibility, it sounds weird.


    "Dad!¡¡I''ll cover you next time!


    Oh, yeah.


    The two of you are fighting back-to-back with Elsa.


    She''ll fight back the demons that come her way.


    I''ve seen Elsa''s sword stripes, pacing and breathing since I was a child. So I knew what to do next.


    ''''Oh!¡¡Those two are awesome convinces too!


    That''s my boy!¡¡It''s like a double movement.¡¡It''s like looking in a mirror!


    The merchants were cheering again.


    Hearing that, Elsa wore a proud expression on her face.


    ''''Mm-hmm. What do you think? The way your father and I work together... Your father taught me how to fight with the sword, so that''s why I''m the one to do it.


    ......cch.


    Regina was letting out a tongue-lashing in front of Elsa''s smile.


    ''Kaisel!¡¡You''re with me next time!¡¡I''m going to show this guy how it''s done!


    No, Father!¡¡Come and share your back with me!


    Elsa and Regina tried to tell me that I was the one.


    I laughed and told them.


    "No, I''m afraid I don''t think I''ll be able to give them what they want.


    "What?


    All the demons to fight have been wiped out.


    They looked around with a puzzled expression on their faces.


    They probably didn''t notice because it was completely between the two of them, but... All those demons had been vanquished.


    The only thing spread around were the fallen demons that couldn''t fight.


    I couldn''t swing my sword if I wanted to.


    "Whoa!¡¡That''s what I''m talking about, a Knight Commander and an A-ranked adventurer!¡¡I narrowly defeated a demon that was all over the place with all that straw!


    ''I''ve never seen such reassuring people as my guards!


    The merchants were having a field day with us.


    "[............]


    But .


    Elsa and Regina, for their part, had a puzzled look on their faces.

 69 Guard missionâ‘£.txt

    The carriage arrived safely at the elven village without a single casualty.


    The merchant man---Debris turned to us and said.


    We have some merchandise to sell to the elves. In the meantime, you guards can take your time and go sightseeing in the village.


    And with that, the merchants walked away.


    It may be a time of rest for us, but for them it''s just the beginning. They were serious as they walked to the battlefield of trade.


    They had come a long way and risked everything. Good luck with that.


    Well.... Let''s take a look around the village. How about you two?


    I''ll pass. I still have some work to do today.


    What''s your routine ...... working out again?


    Yes. I need to hone my sword skills even more and aim for greater heights.


    You''re good at this. Don''t push it, okay?¡¡It''s not like you''re saying ...... . Because if you''re going to be strong, you''re going to have to be a little reckless.


    You won''t break through just by training the same amount as the others. I knew that part well.


    Elsa nodded and then looked at Regina.


    "Um. Miss Regina. Would you like to see me?


    ...... What?


    You''ll have to go one-on-one with me.


    It was settled before.


    That time, we came very close to catching Regina by surprise. This time, we''re fighting under the same conditions.


    She looks at Elsa like she wants to challenge her, and Regina is stunned.


    "It''s a waste of time. You''re no match for me. All the more so on equal terms.


    I''ve got to try.


    Will you come along for the ride?


    I said.


    "It would be a good experience for Elsa to go up against a swordsman of Regina''s caliber. I thought I''d lend my heart to the cause.


    Father: ......


    Regina, who had been sniffling, eventually muttered to herself, "You can''t be responsible for breaking my heart.


    ''You can''t be responsible for breaking my heart.


    "Don''t you worry about that. My daughter''s not that fragile," I said, and Regina sniffed boringly.


    Okay. Little girl. I''ll deal with you.


    Thank you.


    "If we''re gonna do this, we''re gonna do it with everything we''ve got. You better be prepared for that.


    Of course.


    I don''t want to get in the way of that. I''m going to take a walk through the village for a while.


    I turned on my heel and left them.


    The village of the elves at the foot of the Great Tree was bustling with activity. They were friendly to me, even though I was from a foreign country.


    That''s why I ended up buying so much stuff. It made me feel good to shop.


    After wandering around the place, I went back to Elsa and the others.


    It was about time to settle the matter.


    Sure enough, it looked like Regina had broken Elsa''s heart. I found her on her knees on the ground, biting her lip in frustration.


    ...... hmm.


    Regina tucked her greatsword behind her back and walked over to me as she cut her gaze from Elsa. Her expression was cool, without any danger.


    ''Looks like you just finished.


    I handed Regina a bottle of water from the market.


    "What''s this?


    They say it''s special water from the Elven village. It''s rich in nutrients and good for beauty. It''s our way of saying thank you for keeping Elsa company.


    "Hm.


    Regina took the water from my hand and gulped it down.


    "So, after all, in your eyes, Elsa''s not ready yet?


    Yeah. I can''t believe we''re going to lose. But ......


    "But?


    "You are much sharper than when we last met with swords. You have made such an impressive leap in such a short period of time, it''s remarkable.


    Yeah. That''s weird. Regina telling someone else a nice story.


    "I haven''t decided not to praise others. I just haven''t found anyone who deserves it. I''m just a person who takes the good with the not so good.


    Regina drank some of the elf''s water and began to walk away.


    ''Where are you going?''


    I''m going to look around the village. I saw something in the shop earlier that caught my eye. I''m telling you, don''t follow me.


    What exactly is he buying?


    Well, I don''t mean to pry.


    I walked over to Elsa after I saw Regina off.


    "Elsa. You''re done. Here''s some food.


    She knelt on the ground and handed Elsa the elven water.


    "Father. I was no match for Miss Regina again.


    Like I said before, he''s one of the best swordsmen in the world. Don''t worry so much. And he did say nice things about Elsa, didn''t he?


    Miss Regina?


    Yeah. He said it''s a big deal that he''s gotten so good at it in such a short period of time.


    ............


    What''s going on?¡¡Shut up.


    No. I think it''s frustrating.


    Do you regret it?


    "A compliment means that you are not seen as an equal. If they were seen as equals, they would be a threat.


    Oh...


    I thought maybe Elsa was right.


    I praise a man for fighting because he''s still got room to spare. If you''re in real danger, you can''t afford to praise your opponent.


    To Elsa, praise is not something she would appreciate.


    "But you''ve been working harder than ever lately, haven''t you?


    I really want to beat Miss Regina.


    To prove your sword right?


    No. . . there''s that too, but ......


    Elsa mumbled and then


    I want to be the one standing in line next to your father, not Mr. Regina . ...... I don''t want to give it to anyone else.


    She looked me straight in the eye and told me so.


    After she finished, she came to her senses and blushed. She looked embarrassed as she looked down and whispered to herself.


    I''m sorry ....... I''m sorry for being so thick: ......


    No, I didn''t know Elsa felt that way about me. I''m glad.


    I smiled at Elsa and patted her on the head .


    ''But then, I''ll have to work on that too . I need to train myself so that I won''t be inferior to Elsa when I stand alongside her.


    I can''t let my daughter get in the way of that.


    We''re gonna get through this together.


    ¡ï


    They were beaming as they met the merchants in front of the carriage. I heard that the negotiation went very well.


    Oh no. Thanks to you, we made a lot of money. Even if you subtract your escort fee, it''s more than enough to make the change. Ha-ha-ha.


    I''m glad to hear that. We''re happy for you.


    It would be too sad if we came all the way here only to end up losing money.


    We''ll get paid for the escort mission whether the deal goes well or not, but what good is it if the client isn''t happy?


    That''s why we''re going on this mission, not for the money.


    So, you''ll be my escort on the return trip.


    I''ll take care of it.


    After leaving the Elven village, the carriage started to drive towards King''s Landing.


    Compared to the journey home, the journey back was peaceful itself. We made it back to the Adventurer''s Guild before nightfall as we had planned.


    Anna is there to greet us.


    "Papa. Elsa. Miss Regina. Good job. Your mission went well, too. The merchants were very pleased.


    The merchants offered me an additional reward when I returned to King''s Landing. That you had done their work for them.


    But we turned it down. We got paid well enough.


    "Oh, right. Dad.


    Hmm?


    Dad has been running high-ranking missions at an alarming rate lately, hasn''t he?


    Yeah. Yeah.


    Ever since he came to King''s Landing, he had achieved high rank missions in a row.


    ''''If I continue like this, maybe I can be promoted to S-rank.


    ''What?¡¡I''m an S-rank?


    I''m not sure yet.


    ............


    I froze when I heard the news from Anna.


    I''m an S-ranked adventurer?


    I''ve been chasing this dream since I left the village and became an adventurer. I gave up on it once, and now it might come true. .......


    ''''Regina-san, you meet the qualifications for promotion, but you''ve been adamant about it all along, haven''t you?


    Anna said to Regina.


    "Why don''t you and Dad move up to the next level?


    ...... Right.


    Regina muttered with a sense of not being bothered.


    Anna, who was watching the situation, poked her cheekbones at the receptionist and said mischievously, "I don''t know.


    ''''I mean, maybe the reason Regina wasn''t promoted is because she wanted to be promoted with her dad.


    ............


    Regina looked away from Anna''s words and looked like she was in a bad way.


    ''What?¡¡Could it be that you were right?


    Hmph!


    Regina didn''t affirm or deny it, but tried to cover it up by sniffing. She turned her face away, but her ears were ripe and red.


    ...... I see. So I''m an S-ranked adventurer.

 70 Old story.txt

    Some time later that night.


    I was in my living room.


    We had just finished dinner and were having a family discussion.


    "Hey. Dad. Are you going to go play with me tomorrow?


    Meryl plopped down on the table and suggested.


    "I''m sorry. I have an assignment tomorrow.


    ''What?¡¡Another mission?¡¡You were there yesterday and today!


    Meryl flopped her legs in the air in frustration.


    "Daddy''s not paying any attention to me lately!


    I don''t think so.


    Compared to the average family, I don''t think I''m a big fan of them at all.


    ''I don''t care about the rest of the family!¡¡Because I''m the standard for what I''ve been doing!¡¡I want to make out with my dad all the time!


    You''re going through withdrawal symptoms because you can''t be with your father. ......


    I chuckled.


    Lately I''ve been going on missions as an adventurer.


    That''s why I had to cut back on my duties as an instructor of the order, part-time teaching at the magic school and tutoring the princess.


    As a result, she didn''t spend much time with her daughters.


    It''s only because--


    Come on. You''re having your youth back now.


    Anna with her cheekbones smiled and muttered that while smiling .


    ''''The dream of being an S-ranked adventurer that I had when I was young is now within my reach. You can''t blame me for being so eager.''''


    That was a very mature point of view.


    But yes. Anna''s opinion was spot on.


    I am buoyed by a thread of hope that has suddenly been hanging in the air. Lately, it''s been like life has gone back to normal.


    Everything else is out of sight.


    I just keep running, aiming for the heights.


    That feeling of immersion was a long-forgotten emotion.


    You know, I never really heard that one before.


    Hmm?


    How did you become an adventurer?


    Ha ha. What. Just like that.


    I can''t help but laugh at Anna''s words.


    "Seeing my dad when he was with Regina, I thought. You were our age once, too.


    That''s right. I was a baby, and I was a kid, and I was a young man. It didn''t start out that way.


    Well, I can''t even imagine my father as a young man.


    I became an adventurer because I didn''t have a choice. My parents were attacked by a monster when I was very young. I was raised as an orphan in a village.


    Was my dad an orphan ...... so?


    Yeah. After my parents died, I grew up in an orphanage in a village where I knew people. That''s where you grew up, in the village of Yuzuha, your home village.


    So you think Dad is like us?


    It''s the circumstances.


    Me and Anna weren''t raised by our real parents in the same way.


    But there is one crucial difference.


    Well, in my case, my parents left when I was a kid. I remember the two of them pretty well.


    And--.


    ...... and the sight of the two of them being attacked and killed by a demon in front of me.


    I could feel my daughters gasp for air.


    "My parents have a fencing school. They taught me swordsmanship when I was little. I was good enough to hear about it. So when the demon horde came for our village, I knew I could fight just fine.


    But it was no good at all.


    "When I came face to face with the monster, I couldn''t move a muscle. As I cowered, my parents tried to shield me from the demon that was attacking me and told me to go to ......


    That''s right. I''ll never forget it.


    In front of me, my parents were killed by the monster that was protecting me. The ogre wielded a giant axe that crushed my skull.


    At that moment I thought my parents were killed because I was weak. When you''re weak, you let the stronger ones do what they want you to do. So I decided to become an adventurer. The stronger I became, the safer I was from having what was most important to me taken from me. You''ll be able to protect what you want to protect. And it was the only way someone with no family and no education could make it.


    I asked Miss Regina once about her old dad. She did. She said Kaiser was very intense in those days.


    "As an orphan, I had nothing. I needed something solid. Something to prove that I was better than I was that day.


    I whispered to myself, thinking back to the days of yore.


    ''Maybe Anna was right, those were the days of my youth. I didn''t realize it because I was struggling every day back then, but it sure was fun.


    So it''s like a second childhood for both of you.


    Two?


    It''s Miss Regina. What else could it be?


    Oh, no. The guy just doesn''t have the balls to think like that. I don''t think he''s got any special feelings about it now or ever.


    Yeah?¡¡To me, I''m sure Mr. Regina feels the same way about your father . Obviously, he''s been softening his expression lately.


    I don''t think it''s going to change: ......


    Well. It''s kind of hard for a guy to understand. But it''s pretty obvious to the guys in the same s*x.


    Anna smiled as if she could see it all coming.


    It''s almost as if the dads nowadays are following the common trend of classmates who have not seen each other in a long time at a reunion and get to know each other well.


    Dad. I''m not, okay?¡¡If you make out with Miss Regina!¡¡Daddy has a beautiful daughter named me!


    Meryl put the nail in my mouth.


    "Ha, ha. I know.


    I didn''t have that relationship with Regina in the first place.


    I think she and I are old buddies, and we have a deep trust in each other ....... But there''s nothing s*xual about it.


    I''m sure she''ll say the same thing.


    "So you''re gonna make out with me!


    What''s [that means]?


    "If you can''t make out with me tomorrow on duty, make out with me now!¡¡Specifically, sleep with me next to you...


    Well, if that makes sense to you: .......


    d*mn. I''ll have to do it.


    Yes!


    I was on my way to the bedroom with a jubilant Meryl when...


    Elsa. What''s the matter?


    Elsa was staring at me.


    ''No, no ......''


    Oh. Okay. I know you want to sleep with your dad.


    ''''~!¡¡So, that''s not what I''m talking about: ......!


    Elsa was turning red and retorting.


    I, uh, need to work on my sword before I go to bed. I''ll take my leave. Father. And good night, all of you.


    After saying that, he left as if he were running away.


    "?¡¡What was that?


    I was just tilting my head in that direction.


    Well, it''s a difficult age, isn''t it?


    Anna muttered to herself with her cheekbones .


    ...... No, you''re the same age as Elsa . Anna is more than a little too mature compared to girls her own age.


    Dad. Hurry up, hurry up!


    Meryl gingerly tugged on my arm . I chuckled at her gooey pampering and thought she was a little too young.

 71 Family meeting.txt

    The next evening.


    It''s the time when Kaiser has gone to work as the princess''s tutor.


    Elsa, Anna and Meryl were face to face in the living room of their house, all serious. There was none of their usual cheerfulness.


    "Elsa. About that cyclops group we saw earlier.


    Anna cut him off.


    ''Yes, sir. I had a group of knights search the area. They found a transporter''s magic circle in the forest, just as Anna had predicted.


    I knew it. A bunch of them just showing up out of nowhere is just unnatural. Unless they''re beamed in from somewhere.


    Anna took a sip of the cup of tea in her hand.


    ''I still wonder if that pack of cyclopses was beamed in by someone.


    I think so. There''s still some magic residue in the magic circle.


    And then, as if to confirm Elsa''s suspicions, Meryl said.


    ''And then?¡¡What happened to the magic circle?¡¡If we leave it unattended, we''ll be in danger of having another demon transported to us.


    Don''t worry about that. I had Meryl deactivate the magic circle.


    Elsa said, looking at Meryl.


    Meryl said with a smug smile on her face as she puffed out her chest, "Eh-hem.


    ''But you know what? I had a hell of a time doing that. It took me two whole days to disarm it. It''s an amazingly complex procedure.


    That''s quite something for Meryl to say that much.


    ''I don''t know who set it up, but I think the sorcerer is a very skilled wizard. I''ve never heard of a sorcerer transporting that many demons at once. To begin with, drawing a magic circle on that scale would be very difficult. Well, I''m a better genius than you.


    Okay, okay. Good for you to disarm it. You''re a genius.


    ''Moo!¡¡You''re a total mess trying to flush me out!¡¡At times like this, you could have patted me on the head and spoiled me!


    That''s because you''re a daddy. I don''t spoil him.


    Boo. I''m a girl who appreciates praise, remember?¡¡You are going to have to learn to respect that. You''re going to have to treat me with the same courtesy as a flower.


    "Meryl. You know him?¡¡I''ve heard that the fruit that becomes a flower tastes better when it''s grown under a certain amount of stress.


    Yeah. Really?


    ''Yes . So I''m going to be strict with Meryl to make sure she grows good fruit,'''' Anna said, a smile on her lips.


    I guess she thought it was a bad idea. Meryl smiled wickedly.


    "d*mn it. I''m human.


    It was a convenient Meryl who immediately retracted the analogy she had made. Anna and Elsa smiled bitterly in front of them.


    ''''About the magic circle...''''


    Elsa returned her voice to a serious tone.


    ''''Is it possible that the person who set this up is the same person who attacked the magical academy?


    I don''t know if it''s a sure thing. It''s a strong possibility.


    Then you''re in danger of launching another raid. ......


    Hey, hey. So you think you should... Shouldn''t you tell your dad?¡¡Why are Anna and Elsa keeping this a secret from Dad?


    "[............]


    They choked on Meryl''s point.


    ''Isn''t this a very important time for you, Dad?


    Anna opened her mouth.


    ''''The S-ranked adventurer position I''ve been chasing for so long is now within reach. I don''t want to stir things up with something else.


    And we''ve relied on your father all our lives. We have to take care of things ourselves once in a while.


    Hmm. You two have a lot on your mind.


    Meryl sounded impressed.


    I don''t mind asking my dad for help. If we ask him, he''ll help us, even if he''s busy.


    Maybe it would have been better when we were kids. We''re 18 years old now.¡¡You need to be independent for a while now.


    "I agree with Anna. We''re not children anymore.


    Yeah. But Elsa, the last time I slept with you, you looked like you wanted me to join you.


    ''Oh, that''s ......!¡¡It''s just a temporary quandary: ......!¡¡A sign of my soft spirit . I must discipline myself more strictly: ......


    Elsa clenched her fists as if to warn herself.


    Meryl tilted her head back and said.


    "I have no idea what you two are talking about.


    What don''t you understand?


    We''re not kids anymore. When we get older, we''ll still be kids to you.


    Meryl put a finger to her mouth and said with a puzzled look on her face.


    ''I don''t think I''m not supposed to rely on you or take advantage of you.


    Anna and Elsa looked as if they had been caught off guard . I didn''t expect a serious opinion from Meryl .


    ...... but I want my dad to focus on himself now. It''s just that you''ve been taking up so much of our parenting time for free.


    At Anna''s words, Erza nodded deeply.


    Hearing that, Meryl chuckled.


    You two are really spoiled. If that''s the case, you won''t be able to get Dad to pay any attention to you. It was Meryl who said in a mischievous manner, "I''m not going to be able to do anything about it.

 72 To S rank.txt

    The time has come at last.


    When I was coming back from a combat mission I was on with Regina.


    Anna greeted me at the reception desk with a smile and said.


    "Dad. Congratulations. By completing this mission, you''ve fulfilled the requirements to reach S rank. I have a ticket to the highest rank of adventurer.


    I was still in a dreamy mood when I heard those words.


    I''m an S-ranked adventurer: .......


    I''ve been chasing this dream since I became an adventurer.


    Now that dream is about to come true.


    Mr. Kaiser!¡¡I heard that!¡¡Congratulations!¡¡It''s really awesome to qualify as an S-ranked adventurer!


    There was a dry explosion.


    I looked and saw Monica, the receptionist, clinking crackers. She was smiling and buoyed by a festive exuberance.


    The adventurers around her buzzed at the sound of her voice.


    ''''Kaizel-san is S-ranked ......!


    ''Seriously. I''ve always thought you were an amazing person who handled high-ranking missions with ease, but ....... I never thought I''d be an S-ranked person.


    ''Aren''t you the second person from this city, after Knight Commander Elsa?


    When the adventurers approached me, they congratulated me.


    "Mr. Kaiser. Congratulations!


    We need to roast your claws for a while.


    Ha, ha. Thank you so much.


    I can''t help but feel embarrassed while responding.


    No . Congratulations. Let''s take a break from work today and have Kaisel-san''s S-rank anniversary party!


    "Monica. That''s just because you want to skip school. You can''t. We still have a lot of work to do.


    ''Oh no!¡¡I can''t believe I have to work all day, every day!¡¡I''d love to take a day off, date a hot guy, and get one of those pick-up lines!


    ...... Totally. I don''t blame you.


    ''What?¡¡Can you give me a break?


    Monica''s eyes sparkled in anticipation .


    Anna cornered Monica against the wall and blocked her escape with her right hand against the wall, lifting her little chin up.


    ''Anna. I''m not letting you leave today.


    ''Don''t force me to work overtime in a pick-up line style!¡¡I don''t want that!¡¡Whatever it takes, I''ll get home on time!


    Their exchange drew laughter from the adventurers around them.


    Boss and subordinate. It''s good to know they''re getting along.


    ...... When he said that, Monica must have said, "No, sir!¡¡This is power harassment! But to the naked eye, it''s just flirting.


    "Hey. Move up the ladder.


    A numbed Regina prompted the conversation.


    ''There must be something you need to explain.


    Oh. That''s right. Dad. I wanted to talk to you about moving up to S-rank.


    Hmm?


    ''''Up to rank A, I was able to process promotions within this guild, but when it comes to rank S, I have to go to the Adventurer''s Guild headquarters.


    The headquarters is in the city of Atele, right?


    Yes. It''s only a day''s ride from here in King''s Landing. And you will have to attend an award ceremony at the headquarters there to get your license.


    "I believe the ceremony is only held on certain days of the year. I heard it has something to do with the customs of the Adventurers'' Guild.


    Regina muttered to Anna to check.


    ''Actually, yes. So if you miss that time, you''ll have to wait a year. I''m sure it was meant to be for some reason, but nowadays there are few people at headquarters who understand its meaning correctly. The point is, it''s a moot point.


    Anna cowered her shoulders in disgust.


    ''Really, customs are such a pain in the ass. Why don''t they just do away with it now?


    So it will be some time before I actually get my S-ranked certification? I guess I''ll just have to wait for that particular time.


    That''s not really the case, is it?


    What?


    That time is the day after tomorrow. So if we go through King''s Landing tomorrow, we should have no problem getting him to hold the award ceremony.


    The timing was almost as good as the attempt.


    ''''I mean, ever since Dad started going for an S-rank, I''ve only cut my duty schedule to fit the ceremony.


    Anna seems to have been holding them back.


    That''s very thorough.


    Couldn''t you have told me in advance?


    "I didn''t want to put any extra pressure on you. I didn''t want you to worry about deadlines that would make you lose control of your duties.


    He says he cares about you very much.


    Dad. You''ll leave tomorrow, right?


    Yeah. Let''s see what we can do.


    I''ll take care of it.


    Anna winked and held up a thumbs-up.


    ''What about you, Regina?''


    Hmm?


    ''You''ll have met the requirements for promotion to S-rank by now.


    ...... Yeah. It''s an opportunity. Maybe I''ll move up to S-Level. Not that I''m interested in the title, mind you.


    "All Regina cared about was the timing. She was really looking forward to moving up with her dad.


    What do you mean? I''m looking forward to seeing you at ......


    Because, you know what?¡¡I''ve had the qualifications for this promotion for three years. And you were stubbornly refusing to move up.


    ''''I just couldn''t convince myself to qualify for an S-rank ahead of this guy who''s as good as me - or even better!


    Okay, okay. Tsundere B.


    Anna easily prompted Regina''s excuses .


    ''It''s so much cuter when you''re honest about your feelings sometimes.


    ...... Hey. You''re younger than me, aren''t you?


    "Younger or older, I always say what''s on my mind. Miss Regina. You''re one of those people, aren''t you?


    Anna said as she tested Regina.


    ''And yet you deny me?''


    It''s...


    Lost for words, Regina clicked her tongue.


    I was totally f*cked.


    ''Hey. Ms. Regina. Don''t use your tongue. Isn''t that bad manners?


    ''You''re supposed to be my protector!


    They seemed to be totally at ease with each other.


    As I watched my former companion and my beloved daughter communicating, I was deeply moved by the length of time that had passed.