Akatsuki Translations

The Next Day, City of Sin, Lust, At the Training Facility

“…Sleepy.” -Ur

『Can’t you shorten your sleep with that 【meditation】 thing? 』-Rock

“I’m still not good at it… Diz has been wide awake lately, I’m envious.” -Ur

『I don’t need sleep, so it’s easy for me. 』-Rock

It’s still before dawn, and the inside of the city is deserted and quiet. From the Adventurer’s Guild built atop a small hill, one can have a panoramic view of the city. The academy where Shizuku is located also falls within this view.

What are they doing in this training facility? Of course, as the name of this place suggests, they are training. Since they’ve become able to recover a significant amount of stamina with short sleep, Ur and Shizuku spend almost all day training whenever they are free. All of this is to compensate for their overwhelmingly insufficient experience points.

『You’re really serious. Normally, people would want to skip training because it’s painful and boring, right? 』-Rock

“I, hate it, TOO.” -Ur

Ur steps forward, twists his body, and thrusts his dragonfang spear, which is as tall as he is. The blow, thrust as if tearing through the wind, is easily parried by Rock’s sword. It’s not overpowered, but rather, it’s avoided as if being deflected. This difference in skill is evident between the two.

“I sweat, it’s not fun, my body hurts, and enhancing with magic is dangerous. On top of that, I have to study and can’t even see Akane…” -Ur

Ur swings his spear relentlessly. He observes his opponent, is conscious of his own body’s movements, and unleashes a series of attacks. Utilizing the weight at the tip, he bends the spear to add force. Gradually, he takes away Rock’s margin for avoidance. The last thrust manages to barely graze Rock’s armor.

“But, dying sucks, right?” -Ur

『Even understanding that, enduring the pain and preparing for it is not an easy task. 』-Rock

Rock chuckles at this earnestness.

Since leaving Aruto and starting to train with Rock, the intensity of the training has increased. Sometimes Diz helps too, but training with someone who instructs from a high standpoint and someone who can be fought desperately to match is a different matter.

As a result, the magical power plundered from crystal golem and Gashadokuro is already beginning to blend well with his body. At least, he has become able to move his body well enough not to be embarrassed by being overwhelmed by his own power.

But still, there’s no plan yet to defeat that omen bird. This is what makes Ur anxious.

“…Hmm.” -Ur

『It’s dawn. 』-Rock

From the eastern sky, the sunlight of the One True God, Zerudia, shines through. The dazzling light slices through the dark night, erasing the faint magical light, and coloring the cityscape.

At the same time, citizens started to come out of their houses.

As they expose their bodies under the dazzling light, they face the sunlight, join their hands together, and pray.

” Our God. Bestow thy radiant presence upon our way, and light our path with thy majestic grace.” -Ur

Ur also offered a short but certain prayer. The prayer to the Sun God, The One True God, Zerudia, is a “duty” that everyone inside the city, not just the citizens, must offer.

After all, the 【Barrier of the Sun】 that encircles the city, where humanity is allowed to survive, is brought by The One True God. It’s a matter of life and death before faith, so everyone does it seriously.

Therefore, if there is someone who forgets the prayer to God and the temple, they are either an eccentric who does not rely on God, a heretic who believes in malevolent gods, or――

『You are not a city dweller, but a wandering adventurer, right? Why do you still pray? 』-Rock

“It doesn’t really matter if I’m not a citizen, I’m still being helped.” -Ur

『……Hmm, then perhaps I should pray too. 』-Rock

“A prayer without heart means nothing.” -Ur

Or they simply are one who does not know about the faith in God and spirits.

“Was the faith in Zerudia weak when you were alive?” -Ur

『I wonder? 』-Rock

“Oi.” -Ur

『Really, I can’t remember anything from my life. Grandma, is the food ready yet?[1] 』-Rock

“Grandpa, you ate yesterday.” -Ur

Ur took out a magic stone and threw it at Rock. Rock skillfully absorbed the magic stone into his armor helmet. It felt like feeding an animal.

However, it was quite a troublesome story to even forget the faith in The One True God.

For the residents of this world, prayers to God are a part of life that transcends individual thoughts, beliefs, and ideologies. Losing it is like forgetting how to breathe, in extreme terms.

Or perhaps he lived a very, very long time ago? I thought, but the truth is beyond oblivion. Not that I’m particularly interested in his past. With that, Ur switched his thoughts.

『So? What’s the plan after this? 』-Rock

“I’ll freshen up at the bathhouse, then go to the academy after a little rest. It’s an interview.” -Ur

Today is the day to showcase Lynne’s magic. Just in case, following Diz’s warning, I plan to get some portable food at some stall. In other words, I’m going to the academy today, and Rock is not allowed in.

『Where should I go today? 』-Rock

“I’d like you to diligently collect magic stones in the dungeon if possible.” -Ur

『If it’s pocket change, I’ve earned a bit already, HAHAH. 』-Rock

Rock rattled the small bag of pocket money that Ur handed him. The bag seems more swollen than when Ur handed it to him, apparently, he is good at gambling. This skeleton.

『How about it? You should try, it’s interesting, seeing insect monsters clash with their horns. 』-Rock

“……Once in Greed, I was forcibly dragged into a lizard racing bet by fellow adventurers, but…” -Ur

『Really? 』-Rock

“Ran out of money in seconds.” -Ur

『Oh…… 』-Rock

It wasn’t that I spent so much money (I used it for my dinner), but at that time I was cutting my daily life to the limit, so it felt terrible to waste it for nothing. Fortunately, or rather, since Shizuku won a lot and it ended up being a zero-sum, but I swore never to do it again.

“Well, do as you please as long as you don’t cause any problems.” -Ur

『Then I’ll visit that lady’s store today. 』-Rock

“Don’t get mistaken for a monster and kicked out……” -Ur

It was hard to understand what was interesting about going to a beautiful lady’s store with a skeletal body, but since he’s eager, Ur let it slide. According to Shizuku’s contract to “provide a second life”, this man has the right to enjoy it, so he might as well make the most of it.

『Would you like to come next time? 』-Rock

“I’ll go.” -Ur

『I thought you’d say something vague like you’d ‘consider it’. 』-Rock

“I can’t maintain my mental health without an opportunity to relieve stress. Seriously.” -Ur

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Now, it’s the second day at Lautaro Magic Academy.

Just like yesterday, I approached the gatekeeper at the main entrance. It seems my situation was already known, and the procedures were completed more smoothly than on the first day.

Yesterday, I was bewildered by the vastness of the academy and got lost a few times, but today, I headed straight to the 【White Garden】 I visited yesterday without any hesitation. I have to see this magic of Lynne. It’s literally an interview.

Of course, Ur has no experience being on the interviewing side. The closest he’s been to an interviewee was getting involved in a small-scale magic stone mining for some quick cash, where he was scorned and kicked out by the burly man in charge.

His knowledge about human resources is pretty much limited to Diz’s advice. He can easily imagine himself being confused and not knowing what to do. At the very least, he has to make sure not to trouble Lynne.

《I’ll help.》-Akane

“Ah, Akane. How kind you are.” -Ur

Ur was moved by his sister’s kindness. Then he came back to his senses.

“So, why are you here, sister?” -Ur

《Nii-tan, you seemed like you had a problem, so I came to help. 》-Akane

“Hmm, and did you get permission to enter the academy?” -Ur

《Unlawful entry!》-Akane

“Unlawful.” -Ur

Ur glanced briefly at the main gate he had just passed through. The friendly old guard seemed to notice his gaze and waved cheerfully. While waving back, Ur hid Akane, feeling a sense of guilt.

“Akane-san. Your presence here makes my situation very difficult.” -Ur

《Nii-tan, do your best! 》-Akane

“It pisses me off that I’m happy with such a crude form of support.” -Ur

Well, she’s not a sister who likes causing trouble. While making sure she doesn’t wander off into unnecessary places, I plan to sneak her back home later.

《We haven’t talked much lately, have we~? 》-Akane

“…Well, yeah, Akane, you’ve been stuck with Diz.” -Ur

After the so-called “recovery of her equipment,” Diz seemed quite busy, taking Akane here and there every day. Probably, like during the “skeleton incident,” she had some work to do. I can’t imagine how tough the job was, but I’d prefer not to get involved if possible.

《So, Diz said I could be away from her for a bit. 》-Akane

“The root of all evil is surprisingly kind…” -Ur

Next time I visit her, I should bring some expensive sweets. That’s what Ur thought.

《Also, if you’re dealing with ‘Lay Lain,’ please be a good conversation partner for her. 》-Akane

“I really appreciate the concern, but seriously, what the hell am I going to be shown now?” -Ur

　　　　　　　　　　◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆

Afterward, since there was still some time left until the appointed hour, Ur wandered around Lautaro Academy for a tour with Akane. He was dubious about how Akane would be perceived in this academy, so they mostly avoided going inside buildings, but even so, touring the academy was fun.

“The buildings in the city are always tall, but these are unique…” -Ur

《They kind of twist and turn, huh》-Akane

“That flower bed, it’s glowing.” -Ur

《Isn’t it disturbing their nap?》-Akane

“…What’s that… A simple shrine for spirit worship?” -Ur

《Creepy twisty snake statue》-Akane

There were tons of things they had never seen before, and it was worth sightseeing. It was somewhat irreverent to wander around the pinnacle of magical learning in a touristy mood, but Akane was the priority. And with that, Ur easily cast aside any sense of guilt.

“Let’s see… Just before eight o’clock, that should be good.” -Ur

《Nii-tan, is that a watch?》-Akane

“Yeah, I thought it might be necessary in the future, so I bought this pocket watch for five silver coins. It’s expensive.” -Ur

《The watch is cool, but Nii-tan looks uncool~~》-Akane

Holding the pocket watch he had purchased himself and feeling nauseous about his own expenditure, Ur arrived at the White Garden. The vast underground space, and the dazzling barrier that spread there, was a fantastical sight no matter how many times he saw it. Akane was raising a cheer in novelty. He had to make sure she didn’t wander off somewhere on her own.

Now, if things were as promised, Lynne should also be here. He arrived a bit earlier than scheduled and looked around. Then, he quickly found her.

“…” -Ur

In front of the White Barrier was a small girl with orange hair braided into three parts. However, her outfit was different from the typical uniforms of this academy. A large witch’s hat, and a matching pitch-black robe, numerous talismans hung around her neck, and a “broom-like staff” that seemed as tall as she was.

In a way, she was serious. Ur felt slightly intimidated by the earnestness that could be glimpsed in her appearance.

《Is she betting her life?》-Akane

“Heavy…” -Ur

Now more than ever, the realization that he might be taking on someone else’s life came to him, and Ur felt a heavy sensation in his stomach. For now, he hid Akane in his arms and approached the girl.

“……Thank you, Lynne. I’m counting on you today.” -Ur

As he speaks, Lynne glares sharply at him. Her gaze is indeed piercing. Without changing her expression, she forcefully hands something to Ur. What is it? When he receives it, it turns out to be the jacket Ur had given her the day before.

“I’m returning it to you.” -Lynne

“Thank you.” -Ur

“It was helpful.” -Lynne

“You’re welcome.” -Ur

The exchange of conversation comes to a halt. Seeing Ur in trouble, Lynne turns her back, putting some distance between them. Then she turns around and glares.

“I’m going to show you my magic now.” -Lynne

“Ah… wait a minute. What kind of magic are you going to show me? What type?” -Ur

Ur raises his hand and asks. There are many types of magic. In fact, there are countless. It’s said that all phenomena in this world can be reproduced using magic.

Magic is omnipotent. When she says she’s going to show her magic, it’s troublesome for the viewer if she doesn’t at least tell what kind it is. Since she aspires to be an adventurer, I think she intends to show some kind of magic related to that…

When asked, Lynne nods, swaying her large witch’s hat.

“Offensive magic.” -Lynne

“……I see.” -Ur

Well, if that’s the case, Ur is used to seeing it. It’s what Shizuku always uses. Whether or not she’s needed in Ur’s party is another matter, but it’s unlikely she wouldn’t be useful in an adventure. For adventurers, combat is inevitable, even if it’s just for self-defense.

However, what then is the meaning of Diz’s meaningful words?

“……Just to confirm, is it ordinary offensive magic?” -Ur

“No, it’s not.” -Lynne

“It’s different, huh?” -Ur

It’s different. Ur’s unease increases.

“My family was once a disciple of the White Witch. The magic I use is a portion of the White Witch’s techniques, which I have continued to refine.” -Lynne

Hearing this, it indeed seems like it could be incredible magic.

Ur doesn’t know much about the anecdotes of the White Witch, but he knows that she sealed the Dungeon of Sin, Lust. It would be strange not to expect something from the power of such a great magician.

The question is, why does she have such a stern expression while inheriting such wonderful witchcraft techniques?

“But there is a flaw.” -Lynne

“What is it?” -Ur

By now, Ur had already anticipated that there might be a problem. So, what was the issue?

Magic incurs a cost to achieve omnipotence. It’s a common drawback of magic.

Immense magical power, or a medium in its place, sacrifices, the success rate of the spell itself, precision, etc. The cost of obtaining results varies. It’s the reason why magic is sometimes called “theoretically omnipotent.”

Naturally, her magic must have a cost, a flaw. That much is clear. But what is it? Ur waited silently for her explanation. Lynne, still with a stern face, opened her mouth slightly heavy.

“As a premise, I have specialized in this magic and honed it by imposing restrictions on myself. I cannot handle any magic outside of this lineage.”

“Ah, so that’s why you couldn’t use purification. Anything else?” -Ur

“It takes time.” -Lynne

“…Hmm.” -Ur

That was a surprisingly understandable issue for Ur.

When confronting monsters, the time it takes for them to close the distance and bite at one’s throat can be less than a second in some cases. A battle can end in just tens of seconds. In such situations, taking time to activate magic would indeed be impractical.

For instance, Shizuku’s song-like magic chants are considered to be incredibly fast and precise, according to what other magicians say, but even that sometimes can’t keep up with the battle.

That’s why Ur becomes a wall to protect Shizuku.

Even Shizuku, called a genius by many, cannot escape the constraint of time. Therefore, she continues to train constantly to improve the activation speed of her magic. Shortening the activation time of magic is not only for her necromancy training but also one of the reasons she enrolled in the academy.

His thoughts had wandered, but it seemed the issue Lynne was facing was the activation time of her magic.

“…Time, by the way, how long does it take?” -Ur

Ur asked, somewhat prepared for the answer. Depending on the power, if a single spell takes tens of seconds to cast, its practicality in the dungeon becomes quite dubious. Even if it’s still utilized, various ingenuities would be necessary. He wanted to confirm the extent beforehand.

When asked, after a brief pause, Lynne declared.

“One hour at best.” -Lynne

Ur’s consciousness drifted far away.

---

TL Note(s)

[1] In reference to this meme I think https://nlab.itmedia.co.jp/nl/articles/2201/02/news006.html