Akatsuki Translations

The great chaos brought about by the 【Great Dungeon Flood】.

The simultaneous, catastrophic events that threatened human extinction originated from Seven Dungeons of Sin on the Isralia continent.

In response, the 【Grand Federation】was formed, centered around the City of Sin, Proudia. Every nation on the Isralia continent joined this federation. Regardless of national power, ideology, race, or culture, all differences were set aside, likely due to an undeniable sense of crisis that they would all certainly perish otherwise.

Adjustment to drastically reduced national territories.

Construction of 【Production Cities】to solve food problems.

Establishment of new laws including population control of citizens to deceive the eyes of monsters.

Creation of official guilds, adventurer guilds, to utilize the Nameless with low faith in spirits.

All measures against the dungeons were rapidly advanced under an organization called the 【Temple】, which managed the power of spirits. Historians agree that without this speed, the Isralia continent would have been consumed by the dungeons and turned into a continent of monsters.

The 【Temple】had strong influence from the beginning, but as a result of this turmoil, it completely established its position as the governmental agency that controls the world. There were “almost” no objections to this. This was because, during the dungeon turmoil, the priests who could use spirits fought on the front lines more than anyone else.

And within the Temple, one’s status changes depending on how much one is connected to the spirits and how much of their power one can draw.

First Rank: Shinra

Second Rank: Seira

Third Rank: Gran

Fourth Rank: Lene[1]

Fifth Rank: Nuu

The Temple is made up of priests holding one of these five official positions. Even in the magical superpower of Lust, this is no different (although many of the disciples of the White Witch have integrated much of the priests’ blood to solidify their own power and have also infiltrated the Temple).

The regular meetings that determine the course of the city-state are also conducted by these priests with one of these official positions.

“So, the mining quantity of magic stones is also not a problem, right, Aransa-dono?” -Kokotoria

At today’s regular meeting, under the guidance of Kokotoria Shinra Gartola, the 【Chief Priest】 of the Temple of Lust, the operational policy of the City of Lust was being decided.

The central topic of today’s agenda was about the mining quantity of magic stones from the Dungeon of Sin, Lust. For this purpose, Aransa, the Guild Master of the Adventurer’s Guild, Lust Branch, was called in.

“The appearance of the Poison Omen Bird has caused some changes in the route to the mid-levels that were being developed. The speed has decreased, but the amount of mining itself is not a problem,” the woman answered with a shrug to the man of the highest status in Lust.

Although she held the ring of a 【Silver Rank】 adventurer and had a position equivalent to an official in the Temple, her attitude was somewhat rough. Some priests frowned at her attitude, but she didn’t care.

“Can’t you just defeat that Omen Bird or whatever?” -Kokotoria

“There are several paths to the mid-levels, so it’s possible to avoid it. The reality is that adventurers aren’t motivated to do so. The poison is quite vicious, and it’s not worth it for Silver Rank adventurers to take unnecessary risks.” -Aransa

“I recognize the contribution of magic stones brought to the city by Silver Rank adventurers who can explore the mid-levels. Losing a Silver Rank adventurer is not what I want. I see, I understand.” -Kokotoria

With a “Well then,” she waved her hand lightly and sat down. Despite her lacking manners, both she and the Adventurers’ Guild contributed greatly to the city. The magic stones mined from the dungeon greatly helped in areas beyond the reach of the priests’ spirits’ powers. This was especially apparent in Lust, a country of magic.

Of course, there were still priests who disliked adventurers, but at least “for now” it was quiet.

“…Well, it’s about time. Today’s council meeting is―” -Kokotoria

“Chairman, one moment.”

“What is it, Lustania-dono?” -Kokotoria

The one who called out to the chairman was a woman in her mid-fifties.

Her name was Corein Seira Lustania.

She was a high-ranking “priest” among the attendees of this council, the current head of the Lustania family, a lineage of disciples who inherited the techniques from the White Witch. She was also the principal of the magic academy Lautaro. Her family was known for excellent magicians, skilled in shortening and compressing magical formulas, and many capable magicians studied under her. They were one of the most distinguished groups of magicians in the country.

However, she was also known for being somewhat problematic.

“Lately, I’ve observed an excessive outflow and loss of magicians from our country, Lust. I suggest that some measures are necessary.” -Corein

There was some murmuring among those who couldn’t grasp the meaning of her statement.

“But hasn’t the encroachment of magic and dungeons been happening for a long time? Isn’t it inevitable that there will be casualties?” -Kokotoria

“There is a limit. That’s what I mean. Especially, the loss of graduates from Lautaro is a significant loss for our country.” -Corein

“But then, what should we do?” -Kokotoria

In response, she, with her stern expression, suggested,

“For the protection of magicians, I propose adding restrictions to magicians, including those from Lautaro Magic Academy.” -Corein

　　　　　　　　　　　◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆

Adventurers’ Guild, At the Tavern

『Ho, so that little one is the newbie? 』-Rock

“A provisional one.” -Ur

“Nice to meet you.” -Lynne

Ur was introducing Lynne to Rock. Having demonstrated her magic in Lautaro, she was provisionally employed, and Ur decided to take her for an exploration of the dungeon.

“Lynne. Hobbit. Magician.” -Lynne

『Name’s Rock, a swordsman among the dead. 』-Rock

“The dead?” -Lynne

Puzzled, Lynne tilted her head. Rock approached her, took off his helmet that had been hiding his face, and clacked his teeth together. Lynne’s eyes widened in surprise. It was impressive that she didn’t scream.

“…You can’t be serious, necromancy. It’s rarely seen in this country, nor at the academy. It’s a forbidden art for students.” -Lynne

“Magic dealing with human souls isn’t easily permitted.” -Ur

『Well, I am already officially registered with the Adventurers’ Guild. I keep it hidden because of the stigma, but there’s no problem, so rest assured. 』-Rock

“…But then, what about the magician?” -Lynne

“Not here today. Well, we’ll meet soon. Today’s exploration is with just the three of us.” -Ur

Today’s main event: the exploration of the Dungeon of Sin with Lynne included. The exploration was set to start after classes, which made it a bit of a late departure considering the current time was just past noon. Considering the travel time, they wouldn’t be able to stay very long.

“If I become an adventurer, I’ll quit the academy.” -Lynne

“You’re too hasty.” -Ur

Ur tried to calm her down, her stern face showing her eagerness. It was indeed too sudden to cut off her path in life when the outcome was still uncertain.

Well, Ur was certainly attracted to her power. The activation of “Ultimate Magic,” a technique of tremendous power that probably even Shizuku couldn’t activate alone, could be a very effective trump card for Ur, who aimed for big targets.

However, he still couldn’t make a final decision about hiring her.

“Continuing the observation of the bounty, the Poison Omen Bird. This time, the main goal is observation, not subjugation. However, considering it’s the real deal, engaging in combat is also an option.” -Ur

“I’ll do my best.” -Lynne

“No, Lynne doesn’t need to try too hard.” -Ur

Ur restrained Lynne’s enthusiasm. He couldn’t afford to have her stand out too much this time.

“It looks like you’re really eager to become an adventurer, but you probably don’t know what being an actual adventurer is like. I’ve heard from the Adventurer’s Guild that you haven’t been invited to join.” -Ur

“Are you concerned that I’ll start complaining later that ‘this isn’t what I thought it would be’?” -Lynne

“If I were to speak bluntly, yes, that’s exactly it. That’s why it’s ‘provisional’.” -Ur

Sadly, this was one of the top three complaints that Ur had heard at the Greed training facility. Imagination and reality are vastly different. To be honest, her level of enthusiasm made Ur anxious.

Therefore, Ur felt that a “trial period” was necessary.

“We are currently targeting a bounty in a Dungeon of Sin. This time, Lynne will observe our battle as objectively as possible. And watch carefully, our—” -Ur

He paused, then spoke the primary purpose of bringing Lynne along this time.

“—our disgrace.” -Ur

　　　　　　　　　　　◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆

Lynne had no intention of harboring illusions about adventurers.

Even though they might be necessary in this world as gatherers of magic stones, they are ultimately nothing more than ruffians, people whose livelihood revolves around violence. Lynne never had any fantasies about them.

She never thought of being an adventurer as a wonderful job. She simply wanted to become an adventurer “for her own sake,” not because she had any admiration for adventurers themselves.

At least, that’s what Lynne thought, believing she could view adventurers objectively.

“Shit shit shit shit shit, I’m going to die, going to die, going to die!” -Lynne

Apparently, she still had some illusions about adventurers, as she realized.

Right now, she and her companions are at the boundary between the upper and middle layers of the Dungeon of Sin. They had come to investigate a bounty target, the Poison Omen Bird. Yes, they were supposed to just investigate, but…

“Ur-san.” -Lynne

“What’s up, Lynne-san?” -Ur

“The bird, it’s fast.” -Lynne

“At least fly… why is it so fast on foot…!” -Ur

Lynne was being carried under Ur’s arm, fleeing from the Poison Omen Bird.

『ＭＯＫＥＫＫＥＫＥＫＥＫＥＥＥＥＥ！！！』

A shrill cry echoed through the deep forest. It might sound like a silly cry, but when a gigantic bird of several meters in length is bearing down on you with that cry, it’s an entirely different story. The bizarre cries sounded like a death knell, overcoming and at times knocking down trees.

Ur and the others had no intention of fighting the Poison Omen Bird head-on this time; they were there strictly for reconnaissance.

From the upper layer, the “Giant Tree Stump,” they had chosen the central route of the three paths leading out. Their goal was the 【Poison Mushroom Spring, 】 a spring in the upper layer, also the dwelling place of the Poison Omen Bird. They had merely intended to approach the vicinity of the spring, intending to establish a temporary base just before it, but somehow, they ended up face-to-face with the bird.

And that led to their current predicament.

“But if we’re talking about reconnaissance, don’t we need to fight a bit?” -Lynne

“Change of plans.” -Ur

“Also, Rock-san, who was supposed to be our front line, got crushed while shielding us.” -Lynne

“Change of plans.” -Ur

“Flexible, aren’t we?” -Lynne

In fact, they were forced to drastically change their plans. Caught off guard and panicked by the sudden encounter, Rock had shoved Ur and Lynne out of the way to evade the first strike from the Poison Omen Bird.

As a result, Rock was utterly shattered. Considering the damage he had taken in their stead, it was a chilling thought.

“Is Rock-san okay?” -Lynne

“He’ll revive over time. If I remember correctly, the path ahead should be densely forested. With its huge body, it should be difficult for it to pursue us there. We’ll shake it off that way…” -Ur

Ur looked ahead.

For some reason, a vast plain lay before his eyes.

“…Wow, beautiful.” -Lynne

There were no trees growing densely, and although it should be inside the barrier, the sun’s rays were pouring down brilliantly. It was the perfect location for lying down and having a picnic.

『ＭＯＫＥＥＥＥＥＥ！！！』

If it weren’t for a time like this.

“There’s nowhere to hide.” -Lynne

“Change of plans.” -Ur

“The plan is not breathing.” -Lynne

“I feel like my breath is about to stop too.” -Ur

The 【Dungeon of Sin, Lust】 is a living dungeon.

It’s not uncommon for things that used to exist to disappear and for things that didn’t exist before to appear. In addition, the dense forest unique to the Lust Dungeon confuses one’s sense of direction. Surrounded by similar-looking plants to the right and left, one loses their sense of direction. Even trying to look up at the sun and confirm the direction is hindered by the brightly shining barrier. Without the navigation of the【Ring】to the exit, they would certainly be lost, and even with it, they still lose their way. Just like now.

The terrain itself does not change much. Ur remembers the location of the hall; if they go to the center, this plaza will abruptly become a steep slope. They should be able to slide down and gain some distance. But, however,

“It’s coming…!” -Lynne

“Wha!?” -Ur

They were already caught up. The omen bird charged, trying to crush them with its poisonous claws. Ur pushed Lynne away and took a low stance with his shield at the ready, prepared for the worst to be poisoned. Whether the 【Amulet of Poison Resistance】 would work or not—

『Don’t you dare ignore me, birdbrain!! 』-Rock

But then, the recovered Rock burst out. He swung his greatsword and struck it with force at the neck of the omen bird. However, the blade could not sever the neck. The neck’s terrifyingly tough muscles protected it, not allowing the blade to pass through.

『Don’t underestimate me!! 』-Rock

Rock swung the repelled blade again. A sharp and fast strike, he hit the exact same spot without any deviation.

『ＭＯＫＥ！？』

The omen bird cried out with a scream. Its robust neck shook. The impact given to the exact same spot made the bird’s head sway, and a little blood spurted from its neck. That was the first moment Ur and his companions had inflicted damage on the omen bird.

It was a good opportunity. Ur released his guard, readied his Dragonfang Spear, and activated the magic core.

“Rock, stay as you are.” -Ur

『Oi, wait! 』-Rock

Without waiting for a reply, Ur fired the Dragonfang Spear. In the center of the beautiful plain, there was a roaring sound and the smell of burning flesh.

『ＫＵＫＥＥＥＥＥＥＥＥＥＥ！！？？』

Along with its strange cry, the Poison Omen Bird was blown away.

Based on prior information and tavern tales, those feathers were supposed to be sturdy enough to withstand an attack from the Dragonfang Spear, but it seemed they inflicted more damage than what was told. Ur’s Dragonfang Spear might be “growing” compared to those of the adventurers in the tavern. This was good information.

“Another shot…!?” -Ur

Immediately, Ur began the cooling process for the Dragonfang Spear, aimed, and prepared to fire a second shot. However, before he could release it, the situation in front of him changed.

『ＭＯ　　　ＫＥＥＥＥＥＥＥ！！！』

The Poison Omen Bird flapped its wings, kicked off the ground, and leaped away from Ur, turning its back on him. For a moment, it seemed it might unleash a new attack, but that wasn’t the case. The Omen Bird dove into the forest and kept running.

In short, “it fled.”

“…Did we manage to drive it off… Rock?” -Ur

Ur turned around. Rock, who had taken a direct hit from the first strike of the Dragonfang Spear, had his body blown apart. Rock’s skull was rolling at his feet, charred.

“…It was a noble sacrifice.” -Ur

『Shut up. 』-Rock

The skull, now all that was left of Rock, spoke. Ur wasn’t surprised; he just tossed it under the scattered torso. Then, his body slowly began to regenerate.

“You’re reliable. Undying swordsman.” -Ur

『Being blown apart feels awful. Show some more consideration for the elderly. 』-Rock

“You’re already dead, so it’s fine. I’d be dead for good if I were in your position.” -Ur

『It’s my achievement that we managed to drive off that Omen Bird. 』-Rock

“Yeah, that’s fine. Serves that damn bird right, such a spectacular escape—” -Ur

Ha ha ha, Ur and Rock laughed and laughed,

“『…It escaped? 』” -Ur and Rock

The two of them suddenly stopped laughing.

“Wait… no, that bird escaped.” -Ur

『It escaped, did it…? 』-Rock

Ur and his companions’ goal was to defeat the Poison Omen Bird. Their victory condition was not just to repel the attack and drive it back.

『By the way, we did damage it earlier, but what happens if we leave it be? 』-Rock

“It’ll heal, of course. This is a dungeon, and there’s plenty of magical power. Wounds heal quickly.” -Ur

『…』-Rock

“…” -Ur

Ur looked in the direction where the omen bird had escaped. It had already fled from the plains into the depths of the forest. They could probably track the route it took by following its trail, but catching up to its incredible speed was impossible. In other words,

“…Uh? Isn’t this bad?” -Ur

They both realized that this was very, very troublesome.

“Eh? Wait, no, that’s not it. Why is it running away in the first place! Isn’t it a monster!?” -Ur

『Do monsters not run away? 』-Rock

“Monsters usually attack humans without question upon seeing them, fighting until their lives are exhausted. That’s the rule for any monster, but for it to tuck its tail and run away…” -Ur

It couldn’t be said that this never happens. It’s not always the case. When monsters first appear, they are nothing more than mechanical attackers, hostile to humans. But as time passes, they gradually become more like living creatures. Flesh, blood, and bones form on bodies that were once just masses of magical power. They reproduce and multiply. They become more like living beings.

Of course, they are still ferocious, dangerous, and enemies of humans. However, this phenomenon is called 【incarnation. 】Especially the monsters that appear outside the dungeons, in the cities, and on the surface, many of them have these characteristics.

“Right, the body of the【Great Bladed Rhinoceros Beetle】 didn’t disappear. It had incarnated.” -Ur

It was the same with other monsters. They didn’t actively hunt monsters because they were focused on the Poison Omen Bird, but all the bodies remained. They had thought that this was because it was the area around the Poison Omen Bird, so adventurers didn’t approach, and many monsters survived…

“Is the Dungeon of Sin, Lust that kind of dungeon…?” -Ur

A dungeon that produces more biological-like monsters and ecology.

『But we didn’t hear such a story at the tavern, did we? 』-Rock

“Adventurers in the City of Sins rarely move between cities. Especially if they can earn a stable living and cover the city’s living expenses. In other words, they don’t know about other dungeons.” -Ur

Therefore, there was a lack of information. It’s unlikely that the adventurers in the tavern deliberately withheld information from Ur. To them, the fact that the monsters here had incarnated was natural. It was something that didn’t even need to be mentioned.

And then, they understood one reason why the bounty on that Poison Omen Bird was so high.

It’s because it’s very troublesome. More than combat power or anything else, it’s “subjugation” that is the point.

“………..What should I do?” -Ur

Ur held his head in his hands.

It was troublesome. No, he was prepared for the trouble. It was a bounty. It couldn’t be easy. However, the nature of this trouble was different from what he had anticipated. An environment that imposes restrictions on equipment, extremely dangerous poison, defensive strength that could withstand a blow from a Dragonfang spear, and then escape – a different kind of measure was now necessary.

He had to change his way of thinking. Ur furrowed his brows deeply.

『By the way, Ur, 』-Rock

“What is it, old man? I’m busy right now, tell me later.” -Ur

『Is Lynne alright? 』-Rock

“………” -Ur

Ur suddenly raised his face. He turned around and went back to the place where he had pushed her. When he looked, he found that the place was slightly muddied in the plain. There was Lynne, covered in mud, having been pushed by Ur and plunged headfirst into the mire.

“……” -Ur

“……” -Lynne

“……I’m sorry.” -Ur

“……This is different from what I thought.” -Lynne

Yeah. Ur thought so too.

TL Notes:

[1] Loine changed to Lene