Akatsuki Translations

It was unanimously decided to rescue the Island-Eating Turtle. Naturally, Ur and Shizuku, appointed as the executioners, left Diz and Akane behind in the carriage, quietly approaching the Island-Eating Turtle, the center of the commotion.

“Shizuku, how many times can you use magic now?” -Ur

“I’ve used magic three times today. I have seven times left.” -Shizuku

“Then, cast invisibility magic on us. Guess, that’ll leave us with six more times.” -Ur

Currently, Shizuku can use magic ten times, combined with the magic storage stone. Six remaining uses would usually be more than enough for dungeon exploration, but it wasn’t certain how much they’d need to fend off bandits. It was best to conserve.

As the sun began to set, they approached, concealed by magic. Soon, the Island-Eating Turtle loomed before them. The two crouched in the tall grass, assessing the situation.

“…The Island-Eating Turtle really is gigantic.” -Shizuku

“There was an external ramp for boarding at Greed , but without it, it’s a cliff.” -Ur

The Island-Eating Turtle is a massive beast. Naturally, its shell doesn’t have stairs. Apart from the passenger area on the top of the shell, there’s little modification. After all, they wouldn’t want bandits and outlaws boarding without proper procedures.

“But where did the crew of all those carriages go?” -Ur

If they couldn’t board, the passengers from the numerous carriages should be right under the turtle. Given the skeleton’s carriage they saw, there was no guarantee that the passengers were actual people,

“But at least the two who seem to be guards are humans… huh?” -Shizuku

Shizuku shifted her gaze to two men near the carriage, whom she suspected were crew members, then voiced her confusion. What she observed were the “faces,” of the two crew members, one a beast person, and the other, an ordinary human.

“…Are those tattoos?” -Shizuku

She tilted her head at the strange patterns carved into their faces. On the faces of the two men, there were distinct and ominous black markings etched. It was something too prominent and eye-catching to be called mere fashion, and Ur knew that. Having embarked on countless journeys, those distinctive marks on their faces were familiar to him.

“That’s the mark of exile from the city.” -Ur

“It signifies they’ve been expelled from a city?” -Shizuku

“It’s one of the laws established by the Grand Federation. Those who commit serious crimes and are exiled from a city receive that mark. They’re not allowed to enter any city.” -Ur

There was a reason for not unknowingly welcoming criminals from one city to another. This was wisdom in a world where infrastructure between cities was limited. Consequently, many of the criminals expelled from the cities couldn’t get close to populated areas and were destined to be devoured by monsters not too long after.

However, there were times when some managed to survive. Many of them became thieves, robbing the belongings of travelers moving between cities and trying to sustain themselves.

“Well, in a way, it’s incredibly straightforward. At the very least, these guys definitely didn’t come for a leisurely sightseeing trip to look at the Island-Eating Turtle.” -Ur

Their background aside, they were criminals, surrounding the Island-Eating Turtle with weapons drawn. Regardless of the circumstances, their intentions were undoubtedly malicious.

Two figures resembling sentries of robbers came into view. Despite only these two figures, there were about three carriages in sight. The number of people was considerably less compared to the number of carriages. Therefore, the majority of them were probably already up ahead. But how did they manage that?

“Did they use some flying magic?” -Ur

“【Flight】 is an advanced spell. Given that they have a mage who can control undead soldiers, it’s possible, but the Island-Eating Turtle should have countermeasures against such spells.” -Shizuku

“Then how did they-… what’s that?” -Ur

Ur, scanning the surroundings, doubted his eyes for a moment. In front of the Island-Eating Turtle, obscured from Ur’s direction, was another skeleton, but “huge”. Not just taller than a person, but as tall as the turtle. It was blocking the turtle’s path.

“…So that’s why the turtle stopped.” -Ur

“They’re using its back as a bridge?” -Shizuku

Upon a glance, its massive arms extended as if to block the path of the Island-Eating Turtle’s advance, while its upper body leaned at an angle, pressing down further. The part that hit against its spine acted like a bridge, connecting to the upper section of the Island-Eating Turtle. Hindered by the colossal skeleton, the Island-Eating Turtle stood motionless, unable to move.

“Can’t it push it aside?” -Ur

“Rather, it doesn’t seem to be trying to move.” -Shizuku

The basic means of boarding the Turtle Eater Island generally involved the city side preparing gangways. In case of emergencies, this precaution was taken to prevent outlaws and monsters from boarding. However, this vigilance, which was meant to be a safeguard, had become an obstacle for Ur and Shizuku at present. There is no way to board.

“…Huh? Ur-sama.” -Shizuku

Just as he stood there somewhat perplexed, Shizuku called out.

Following the direction Shizuku pointed, there was something—a faint, tiny light. Even in the midst of the dark night, it was a small light that could only be slightly discerned. Observing it, Ur was momentarily puzzled, but upon realizing its true identity, he exclaimed in surprise.

“…It’s ‘Roadar’.” -Ur

“The Guardian Spirit of Travel, Roadar-sama?”  -Shizuku

“Yes. When I almost tripped with a pot in my hands, this light came to my rescue.” -Ur

Just like at that time, the small humanoid figure of orange light, in other words, the spirit, protected Ur when he was about to put a pot of hot soup on his head. With a quick motion, it supported the pot. It was from that moment that Ur’s prayers to Roadar became even more earnest.

And once again, Roadar appeared before the two. In other words, …

“It’s guiding us?” -Shizuku

“Probably.” -Ur

Although playful, the wind spirit wasn’t malicious enough to play tricks in life-and-death situations. As Ur approached, the small figure began to move, leading the way. Quietly, they followed, avoiding the bandits’ notice.

Soon, they reached the back of the Island-Eating Turtle, away from the giant skeleton and the bandits. Roadar flew up, heading to the tip of the massive shell.

“Wow.” -Ur

With a clattering sound, a ladder descended from the darkness. This was likely the secret entry point used by the Island-Eating turtle’s crew. Its location on the opposite side of the colossal skeleton was also quite convenient. With this, it would be possible to board without being noticed.

“Thank you, Roadar. We’re grateful.” -Ur

“We’ll bring offerings next time.” -Ur

As Ur and Shizuku bowed, the orange light spun around and vanished. Divine assistance wasn’t always guaranteed or direct, especially towards Nameless. So, such help was truly appreciated. Ur offered a heartfelt prayer of gratitude.

“…Ok, ready to go?” -Ur

“Yes.” -Shizuku

They climbed the ladder, boarding the Island-Eating Turtle. While they managed to board smoothly, Ur’s expression was tense. A gang of bandits, equipped with undead soldiers, attacking a mobile fortress owned by a major city, wasn’t a simple threat.

“…I have a bad feeling about this.” -Ur

Anticipating the challenges ahead, Ur sighed.

　　　　　　　　　　◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆

Atop the Island-Eating Turtle, which is to say, the passenger and cargo areas, one could easily forget that they were situated on the back of a creature. It was expansive and well-maintained. Sturdy platforms formed large open spaces, and roofs shielded passengers from rain and wind. There were furnished benches and tables for travelers to relax upon, and of course, sleeping arrangements were in place.

Furthermore, even on a relatively safe journey that lasts a few days, one would require meals. Naturally, the Island-Eating Turtle had provisions for that too; there were even restaurants, making it a veritable luxury.

Yet, at that moment, atop the comfortable shell of the Island-Eating Turtle:

“Help! Help me!!”

“AAAAAHHH!!!”

“It hurts… it hurts…”

It had turned into a hellish scene.

Suddenly, obstructing the Island-Eating Turtle’s path was the immense 【Gashadokuro[1] 】 On its back rode bandits who wielded violence upon the passengers. Although there were guards stationed on the Island-Eating Turtle, they had been caught off-guard, never expecting an ambush.

『KUKAKAKAKAKAKAKAKAKKAKAKAKAKAKAKKAKAKAA!!!! 』

“Eeeeek!”

“What the- AH!”

Amidst them, countless skeletons appeared alongside the bandits. These undead troops attacked, overwhelming the passengers in an instant. Devoid of any means to resist, panic engulfed the Island-Eating Turtle.

“Oi! That old guy has a woman with ‘im! Kill ‘im!”

“Hiii! Please, no! Help me!!”

The more refined passengers had their elegant clothes torn, their ornaments stolen, leaving them in tatters. Women and children were not spared as the bandits tormented them, laughing cruelly.

“…This is worse than I imagined.” -Ur

Ur frowned in disgust, letting out a restrained sigh. Shizuku was enduring as well, her face seemingly on the verge of bursting. Yet, she did not let her concealment magic waver and remained composed.

The two were atop a facility built on the Island-Eating Turtle, likely over the passenger sleeping area.

From their vantage point, they could see everything clearly – the gathered passengers, the tormenting bandits, and

『KUKAKAKAKAKAKAKKAKAKAKAKA! 』

The hordes of skeletons.

Their numbers were overwhelming, with dozens of skeletal soldiers crowding the upper part of the Island-Eating Turtle. While they might be mere bones without proper armaments, their jaws could inflict pain beyond mere bites.

Above all, atop the Island-Eating Turtle with no escape, their sheer numbers posed a dire threat. The passengers had lost all their hiding spots.

“We need to reduce their numbers, or it’ll be hopeless…” -Ur

Ur recalled information about the skeletons, knowledge quite literally beaten into him by Glen.

―――― The behavior patterns of the undead soldiers are twofold, altered by whether they are natural or man-made.

In nature, their behavior is incredibly straightforward. Corpses re-animated by souls, with the soul acting as a driving force. These animated corpses, feeding on their own core, seek other souls to sustain their supposedly ended existence. They tear apart the living, using their jaws and arms to rip out the soul along with the flesh and blood.

But what about the artificial ones?

――― They differ significantly. It’s not like giving them a magical core as a replacement for a soul, like a puppet. Necromancers create these artificial undead soldiers by “splitting their own soul.”

Because this insane act involves splitting the very essence of life, many necromancers are seen as having strayed from the path of humanity and are considered dangerous. Naturally, the more “soul splitting” one does, the more dangerous they become. The ability to perform this on a large scale indicates a high level of skill in the practitioner.

In other words, the necromancer attacking this Island-Eating Turtle was a formidable one, far more so than Ur and Shizuku, who only recently became copper-ranked adventurers with just over a month of experience.

“However, skeletons should still be just skeletons. They aren’t particularly strong.” -Ur

While controlling a large number of undead soldiers is undoubtedly a threat, the skill of the necromancer does not equal the ability of a single skeleton. Ur can easily defeat one on his own.

Let’s assess the situation.

Ur and his team’s goal was to “rescue the passengers.” They didn’t know the specifics of the situation before arriving, so they hadn’t decided on a specific rescue strategy. They had considered evacuation before arriving, but given the current circumstances, escape seemed nearly impossible.

There was no bridge like the one in front of Greed on the shell of the Island-Eating Turtle.

So, how could they ensure the passengers’ safety?

“Guess it’s the 【Barrier,】 after all. Shizuku, can you use it?” -Ur

“I can use the 【Glacial Barrier】. But it won’t withstand continuous attacks. It lasts about 3 minutes. If I use all my magical power, maybe 15 minutes.” -Shizuku

“No, leave enough magic for three more uses. How long then?” -Ur

“I can make it last 10 minutes.” -Shizuku

Ur glanced at his Dragonfang Spear. Although it could potentially sweep away the undead with its Roar, there were passengers and bandits mixed together. Swinging it recklessly might harm the passengers. He couldn’t move in this situation.

“LISTEN UP, YA RICH BASTARDS!!!” -Bandit

The chaos quieted down. Ur and Shizuku held their breaths, bending even lower. They needed to assess whether this was an opportunity or a crisis.

“Our boss wants a woman—a young virgin. Hand ‘er over, and we’ll spare the others.” -Bandit

The passengers, already in turmoil, descended further into chaos. Young, virgin girls. Those who were injured, especially severely, involuntarily cast their eyes on fellow passengers. Those who felt targeted shrunk back or were protected by their loved ones.

A painful silence and tension enveloped the scene, and the bandits sneered at the sight.

“Then, I’ll go.” -Rose

Breaking the silence was a woman’s voice. Ur looked over. A beastperson girl dressed in a dazzling dress stepped forward from the mass of passengers.

“R-Rose-sama!” -Rubus

He recognized her. She was the girl who had argued with Diz at the boarding gate. She stepped forward with a resolute expression, staring down the bandits, her hand trembling slightly.

The thieves chuckled at her, their smiles filled with sadistic malice.

“Ohhhh? You mean yer offering yourself?” -Bandit

“I said I’d go out, didn’t I? Do you have a problem? -Rose”

“Yer a virgin? A real innocent girl?” -Bandit

“Why don’t you find out?” -Rose

Rose responded firmly to the brazen question. She had a strong will, showing no signs of fear or hesitation against the lawless men. Her unflinching eyes stared straight at the thieves. Her pride and strength as a young leader of a company shone through.

“…Pisses me off.” -Bandit

But that was a mistake in this situation.

Before Rose could articulate her surprise, the bandit’s fist connected with her cheek. A dull thud echoed. Rose collapsed to the ground, and screams erupted from the passengers. The bandit, showing no mercy, approached Rose, who was now prostrate.

“Ah…!!” -Rose

“What’s with that proud posture, you cat bitch! Cry! Beg for your life!!” -Bandit

Again and again, the man struck her. It was ruthless violence, devoid of any shred of hesitation or compassion. With every thud, screams rang out, but they gradually faded in intensity.

“Ur-sama…” -Shizuku

“Is this the limit?” -Ur

Ur, who had been watching intently, gripping his Dragonfanged spear. If things continued this way, she would die. He couldn’t just stand by and watch. Fortunately, or perhaps for the purpose of ‘seeking a virgin’, the passengers had been gathered in one place. The bandits’ attention was focused on Rose.

It was possible to cast a barrier and protect the passengers. The challenge was whether, in the time that Shizuku’s barrier held, Ur could reduce their number of enemies and tilt the situation in their favor.

Can it be done? No, it must be done.

Ur glanced at the back of his right hand, remembering the mark of his 【mana,】 a testament to his growth in power. After his battle with the crystal golem, there was no doubt he had grown stronger. However,

　―――Rapid growth leads to arrogance and carelessness, resulting in self-destruction. Don’t forget.

“Got it, Glen.” -Ur

Recalling the repeated warnings from his master during training, Ur stood up. At the same time, Shizuku began her chant in a hushed voice. A brief exchange of glances and Shizuku nodded. As she completed her chant and set up the barrier, Ur moved to save Rose, creating chaos outside the barrier until the last possible moment—

“Heeey, if you’re looking for a beautiful maiden, there’s one right here~.” -Diz

A carefree voice rang out, coming from among the passengers, just like before with Rose.

Ur, about to spring into action, froze. Who? The voice was familiar, causing confusion for Ur. It was a voice he shouldn’t have heard here.

“If you want to torment her, why not start with me, dear bandits?” -Diz

Emerging with a cheerful smile was a woman with golden hair, a beautiful young girl.

It was Diz.

For some reason, she had appeared from within the Island-Eating Turtle, among the passengers, exposing herself in front of the bandits.

“…W, Why?” -Ur

Ur was bewildered. The one he was supposed to be guarding, who should have been waiting in the carriage, had suddenly appeared in the middle of the battlefield. How did she end up among the passengers when they had rushed at full speed toward the turtle? It must be someone who just looked like her. But no, she was wearing the same outfit from the carriage.

“What to… what do I do…” -Ur

He hesitated for a moment, but no matter what, Ur had to protect his charge. The number of hostages to be rescued had simply increased by one. The plan remained the same—

“———” -Diz

“Huh?” -Ur

For just a moment, Diz glanced up at Ur on the roof.

She shouldn’t have known about their plan to hide on the roof. Was it a coincidence? But Ur felt their eyes meet. She quickly mouthed something.

“Wait?” -Ur

“……” -Diz

It made no sense. The robbers in front of them lacked any morality. Even if she offered herself as a substitute, they might kill her in the next moment.

As these thoughts raced through his mind, she stepped in front of the robbers. Ur held his breath.

“If Diz-sama is exposed to danger, I’ll use magic to draw their attention.” -Shizuku

“And I’ll rescue her during that…” -Ur

He wasn’t confident, but that was the only option. He kept his eyes focused, looking for the perfect moment to act.

The robbers were initially taken aback by Deiz’s nonchalant entrance. However, after noticing her beauty, their expressions twisted into lecherous grins.

“So you’ll take the beating in her place?” -Bandit

“Yup, that’s right.” -Diz

“But did you hear the condition? You must be a virgin. That’s what our boss wants.” -Bandit

“Of course.” -Diz

She smoothly removed her coat, revealing her fair skin. Illuminated by the magical lights of the Island-Eating Turtle, she looked both beautiful and enticing. The bandits grew increasingly excited. One of them, a bearded man, reached out to her. Ur tightened his grip on his spear.

“Ah, right, I wanted to check one thing before that.” -Diz

“Huh?” -Bandit

“Have any of you killed more than three people?” -Diz

At her question, the bandits exchanged glances and then burst into laughter.

“Ah, that takes me back! The City Law, eh? The first, an accident! The second, self-defense! And after the third, ya can’t complain even if yer killed!” -Bandit

“Have we killed? What d’ya think, boys?” -Bandit

“That old man over there was killed by those bunch a’ bones, don’t count!” -Bandit

“Oh, didn’t we kill two of the slaves in the fort recently?” -Bandit

“It’s their own damned fault they died, Hahaha!”  -Bandit

The bandits continued laughing, mocking the lives they had trampled upon. The passengers grimaced or trembled in fear. Only Diz, who had posed the question, listened quietly and then nodded.

“I see, that’s a shame.” -Diz

With a swift motion of her right hand—

Ur didn’t see it. It was as if her right arm had vanished.

The bearded man’s head slid off his shoulders and onto the ground.

“Eh?”

Ur uttered in disbelief.

“Eh?”

The bandits echoed.

“Eh?”

Even the bearded man made the same sound before he met his end.

TL Note(s)

[1] Gashadokuro – (According to Wikipedia) The Gashadokuro is a spirit that take the form of giant skeletons made of the skulls of people who died in the battlefield, and is 10 or more meters tall.

Diz is very impressive