Mushoku Tensei (WN) Volume 16

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The day after the man claiming to be the future me appeared.

Sleepily, I consider things. First, what is it that I should do? The future me had said it.

『Consult with Nanahos.h.i.+』
『Send a letter to Eris』
『Doubt Hitogami, but do not be hostile to him』

I wrote a letter addressed to Eris.
Just for now, the contents say that I'm fine accepting her. However, I'll talk to Sylphy and Roxy before sending it. Depending on how the discussion goes, the contents may change greatly.

Doubt Hitogami, but do not be hostile to him.
I'll declare this the next time he appears in my dream. I don't know when that'll be though.

Consult with Nanahos.h.i.+.
Though I want to consult with her, I wonder if she'll believe such a ridiculous talk. No, she's a Slider. Even if it's ridiculous, she should at least have the inclination to believe me.

But before that is――――the diary.

I've decided to read the diary. I didn't know what to do since it was left here. This is the life left by that old person after all.

The diary that the Future Me had brought was old and the earlier pages were dull and tattered. But I read it. Whilst skipping over parts that aren't important, I'll learn about the important parts.

-----

■
　I was thinking that I'd start a diary from today.
　Still, a lot has happened these last few days.
　What happened with Perugius, what happened with Zenith.
　Teleport magic with summoning magic.
　There are a lot of things that I have to do, so I thought to write a diary so I didn't forget.

■
　In the morning, Aisha was down and said [A weird mouse died.]
　I wonder if she hates mice.

■
　It seems that a cat infected with the Magic Stone Disease has been spotted in the neighbourhood.
　How scary.
　I'd better tell everyone in the family to wash their hands properly.

■
　Surprisingly, it seems that Elinalise is pregnant.
　Though Cliff seemed uneasy, Elinalise looked happy.
　I should get everyone together and bless them.
　Times like these call for a loud celebration.

-----

Up until now, it's all been normal diary stuff.

Like how they were taught summoning magic from Perugius.

Like how they went around the flying castle sightseeing with Zan.o.ba.

Like how he found out Roxy's weakpoints in bed.

Like how Lucy looked like an angel when she slept, and would definitely become a beauty in the future.

And each day seemed really fun.

Though it had been dated at the beginning, that stopped somewhere along the way. I wonder if it's because it was annoying. Because of that, I don't know how much time pa.s.sed, but I recall the old person's words, so it's probably within the span of 2 weeks.

However, after this point, it changes.

-----

■
　Roxy collapsed.
　Around this time we thought that it was because she was feeling a bit bad, but she eventually gained a fever.
　I'd better contact the school and tell them she's resting for a while.
　We try using advanced rank detoxification, but it has no effect.
　Could it be another incurable disease?
　I'd better meet with Cliff soon.

■
　Roxy's feet began turning into a purple crystal.
　I immediately called for Cliff, and he used his Eye of Identification.
　The name of the disease was 『Magic Stone Disease』.
　It can't be healed without G.o.d Ranked Detoxification: an incurable illness.

■
　To get our hands on G.o.d Cla.s.s Detoxification chants, we headed to the Holy Kingdom of Milis using the teleport magic circles.
　The group members were Cliff, Zan.o.ba and I.
　Sylphy had wanted to go as well, but I asked her to look after the house.

■
　We arrived in Milis.h.i.+on.
　It seems that the G.o.d Cla.s.s chant was left inside the cathedral.
　Though Cliff knew the location, it was somewhere that you couldn't enter unless you were archbishop level or something.
　As a result, we decided to sneak in, deep in the night.
　We'll just transcribe it, and then return.

■
　We managed to enter.
　However, the G.o.d Cla.s.s Detoxification was a book as thick as a dictionary.
　There was no way we could transcribe it there.
　We took it with us, but during our escape, we were detected.
　Right now, we're running from pursuers.

■
　We were ambushed at the teleport magic circle.
　During battle, the teleport magic circle was destroyed, and became unusable.
　Cliff fell due to poison, and is seriously ill and unconscious.

　……I killed my first person.
　I can still feel it on my hands.
　It's disgusting.
　s.h.i.+t.

■
　We move to another magic circle.
　Cliff's consciousness isn't returning.
　Our faces are being spread throughout the Holy Kingdom of Milis, and are now wanted.
　It seems we've completely become the enemies of the Milis Church.

■
　Cliff died.
　I don't feel like writing for a while.

■
　We somehow arrived at another teleport magic circle.
　There's just a little more.

■
　We were too late.
　I don't want to write anymore today.

■
　I think I should write about yesterday.
　When we entered town, we met Eris and Ghyslaine. Eris screamed something, but I already had two wives,
so I told her that I couldn't be with her anymore and she left with a shocked expression.
　In the end, Ghyslaine sent me an unpleasant look of scorn.
　When I reached home, everyone had mournful expressions. [1]
　Half of Roxy's body had crystallized, and she died.
　The chant was useless.

　After that, I told Elinalise about Cliff's death.
　I was. .h.i.t across the cheek by Elinalise, and she left for somewhere, crying.
　I feel like s.h.i.+t.

■
　We had Roxy's funeral.
　I didn't feel like doing anything.
　All that came were tears.
　I don't care about anything.

■
　It seems that Elinalise disappeared from town.
　Though she's heavily pregnant, I wonder where she went.
　Well, whatever.

■
　Sylphy tried to cheer me up, but I don't feel better.
　Roxy isn't here anymore.
　That Roxy.
　Roxy who gave her best at everything.
　Roxy who brought me outside, and who gently comforted me when Paul died.
　Roxy who had become my guide in life. That Roxy.
　（The pages were crumpled from tears.）

■
　Lately it feels like I've been doing nothing but drinking.
　When I don't drink, I remember Roxy and start crying.
　Sylphy said that this was no good, but what would she know?
　Even though Roxy had taught me very important things.

■
　When I drank inside the house, Lilia would scold me.
　I started drinking outside the house.
　When I drink in the bar, I occasionally b.u.mp into Eris.
　She says whatever she wants, and then hits me.
　What's with that woman?
　Ghyslaine doesn't stop her either.
　Also, lately Norn hasn't spoken to me. She sends me looks of disdain.
　n.o.body understands how I feel.

■
　Lately, Sylphy has been openly trying to seduce me.
　She says stuff about forgetting about Roxy and sleeping with her.
　Because she was way too persistent, I shouted at her.
　There's no way I'd sleep with her after being told something thoughtless like that.
　But that's not all.
　If I slept with Sylphy now, I'd probably treat her with drunken violence.
　She'd take Roxy's place, then after that I'd let out my anger on her.
　That's... no good.

■
　I've messed up.
　While I was drinking in the bar, a prost.i.tute called out to me.
　I was drunk as well, so I went with her to an inn and slept with her.
　As expected, women in this trade really are skilled.
　It's a bit like, though I thought I've been sleeping with women until now, they were actually just girls, or something...
　No, that doesn't matter.
　The problem was that I made Sylphy cry.
　She saw me coming home, smelling like a woman, and saying "Why aren't I good enough...?" and ran to her room crying.
　I was lectured by Lilia, and even Aisha bluntly frowned at me.
　I can hear crying behind the door even now.
　She won't reply when I knock.
　I've failed.
　I might've been better treating her violently. She might've wanted me to vent out my sadness.
　I'll apologize tomorrow.

■
　Sylphy won't speak to me.
　What should I do?
　At these times, if Elinalise were here...

■
　Sylphy has disappeared.
　When I woke up, the room was empty.
　Strictly speaking, only my clothes and belongings were left.
　Lilia ordered me to immediately chase after her.
　But I wonder if I'm qualified to do so.
　Wouldn't it be natural to divorce a man like me?

■
　When I grumbled, Zenith slapped me.
　Though she didn't say anything, she slapped me again and again.
　It's almost like she was criticising me.

■
　I decided to chase after Sylphy.
　When I gathered information, I found that Sylphy and Ariel had gone back to the Kingdom of Asura.
　Though there should've been a few months left before graduation, I wonder why they left so quickly.
　Though I don't know why they did this, something might have happened back in Asura.
　I decided to hurry as well.

■
　I met with Eris again.
　She said some incomprehensible stuff about forgiving me now or something or other.
　I didn't want to hear it so she suddenly hit me.
　Because she was getting way too annoying, I sent her flying with magic, and she drew her sword and attacked me, so I ran.
　Eris……Even though you abandoned me, why now……

■
　I was stopped because of the snow.
　I wonder if Sylphy has already left the snowy region.
　I'm getting really impatient.

■
　I finally reached the Kingdom of Asura.
　But, I was stopped at the border by something troublesome.
　It seems that because I was wanted in Milis, I was treated as a criminal in Asura as well.
　They tried to restrain me, and I escaped in a panic.
　I'll have to find smugglers somehow.

■
　I managed to find a smugglers guild.
　It seems that these kinds of organisations exist anywhere you go.
　It seems like I was the talk of the guild, and they looked at me with envy.
　As the thief that stole G.o.d Ranked chants from the Holy Kingdom of Milis, I was a celebrity.

　When I explained the situation to them, it was decided that I'd be guided by a voluptuous female thief named Triss.
　I'm worried that if Sylphy sees me with this woman, she'll get the wrong idea.

■
　I entered the Kingdom of Asura.
　I put on a hood and mask to hide my face.
　From now on my name was Rude Ronumar, and came up with a lie about how my face was cursed, and people who saw it would be turned to stone.
　It was decided that Ronumar was a magician working away from his home in Basherant, and was being shown around by his cousin Triss.
　Because they thought about various things for me, I bowed.

■
　I got hold of information about the King's death.
　There was also a rumor about fighting between the princes for his position.
　That's probably why Ariel returned here quickly.

■
　We'll reach the capital soon.
　However, I've heard nothing but suspicious things about Ariel.
　It seems that she had a.s.sembled troops and staged a coup d'état or something.
　It seems that people don't think that she has what it takes to win.
　Well, Ariel probably isn't that stupid.
　It's just a rumor.

■
　We reached the capital.
　When I left the role of gathering information to Triss and entered the bar, I spotted Eris.
　Could she have followed me all the way here?
　No, that's not it.
　She was born in the Kingdom of Asura.
　In the first place, our destination was probably the same.

■
　It seems that Ariel's hidden herself.
　Of course, Luke and Sylphy too.
　Will I be able to find them?

■
　I can't find them.
　Triss thinks that they've already left the capital and moved to another town.
　Places that Ariel seems like she'd go to... Luke's family's house, perhaps?
　Tomorrow, I'll propose to Triss about going to the Notus family's territory.

■
　We came to the Milbotts region, governed by Philemon Notus Greyrat.
　At the same time, we managed to get hold of information that said that Ariel was hiding in the Notus home.
　But how can I meet with Sylphy?
　Should I break in?

■
　When I entered the Notus home, for some reason Eris was there and I was beat up.
　I was caught, thrown into a dungeon, there a person whose face resembled Paul, called themselves Philemon and verbally abused me.
　It seems that for some reason, he thinks that I'm here to usurp the Notus house.
　After saying that he'd execute me tomorrow and hand my head over to the Milis Church, he left.
　After that, I escaped but... Ariel wasn't in Philemon's territory.

■
　A coup d'état broke out in the capital.
　『Ariel is in the Milbotts region』 was a false rumour.
　It seems that Ariel was hiding in the capital, and waiting for her chance.
　Will I make it?

■
　At a place a day's travel from the capital, I heard that the coup d'état had been suppressed.
　First of all it was too reckless, second of all, just as Ariel was thinking of killing the second prince,
　she was stopped by the Water G.o.d and North Emperor and her forces were annihilated.　
　It seems that Ariel was caught, and the next day she was executed.
　Her forces were annihilated.
　Annihilated……
　And Sylphy……？

■
　…………I'm tired of it all.
　Why did this have to happen……?

■
　I'd better write yesterday's events.
　In a corner of the capital, at the place of executions, the bodies of Ariel's followers were displayed.
　Among them were Luke... and Sylphy.
　Sylphy's body was missing its arm, and it had a large cut down its face.
　A number of people were throwing stones at them.
　As one of the criminals who disturbed the peace of the capital, Sylphy had stones thrown at her.
　Each time a stone was thrown, the crows would fly off.
　I couldn't bear it any longer and burnt Sylphy and the rest.
　I burnt everyone that got in my way as well.
　This country should just disappear.

I closed the diary with a bang.

It's painful to read. I don't want to read it anymore. Did I really have no choice but to read this? Why did I read such a thing?

"Ueh..."

I feel sick. I'm sure this is just a story that the old man came up with in his delusions. I don't want to think that this kind of future is possible.

"..."

But I have to read it. Knowledge will surely be power.

So I look at the diary... But I don't have the courage to open it. I feel sick. I wonder what other suffering is written in that diary. When I think about it, I start to feel nauseous.

"I'll take a little break..."

I got out of my chair and headed to the toilet.

I threw up. Tears came out. It might be because it was my own handwriting, but I was able to imagine what I was feeling at the time.

The sadness when Roxy died.

The anxiety and hopelessness when Sylphy left.

The feelings when he chased after them.

Then the feeling of loss when he saw the dead Sylphy.

"Oeee..."

With my face buried in the toilet, I just threw up. My stomach is completely empty, but I have no appet.i.te. I'll probably be fine eating nothing today.

When I was rinsing out my mouth with water magic, I found that Sylphy was standing there worriedly.

"R-, Rudi. What's wrong? Are you okay?"

With white hair down to her shoulders, she was wearing casual wear, and felt a little unguarded.

With a wound down her face, missing an arm, killed, cold, and exposed to the public... Such a scene came to mind.

"Wah-, what?"

I embraced Sylphy without a word. Sylphy's body was soft, and warm.

"Rudi, were you that influenced by the fight with Atofe?"

"...Mn"

"Guess it can't be helped, huh... There, there. Whenever it gets tough, I'll be there to comfort you, okay? I know that you're not that strong after all, Rudi."

Whilst tiptoeing a little, Sylphy pat me on the back.

[Whenever it gets tough, I'll be there to comfort you, okay?]

The Future Me ignored these words.

"Mn. Sorry, Sylphy."

"It's fine."

"In the future when things get tough, I might not depend on you, or do or say bad things."

"Ehh..."

"But please don't leave me."

"Umm... If that happens, I might get a little irritated at you, treat you coldly, and fight with you... But we can make up, right?"

"Yeah. Of course we can. Mn, we can make up..."

Sylphy really is gentle. I'll betray this gentle girl.

"Um, Rudi. The way your hands are touching my b.u.t.t is kind of perverted."

"...Do you not want me to touch you?"

"Well I don't lose anything, so it's fine but... Wah-"

Since I got permission, I picked Sylphy up. I headed to the bedroom. I'm not particularly thinking of doing anything perverted. I was just thinking of flirting together with her like this.

How do I say this? Is it a bit like regaining something I've lost? I don't really get it. Because of reading that diary, I've become sentimental.

While thinking such things, I heal myself with Sylphy.

After Roxy came home, I started following her everywhere. I was sitting next to her on the sofa, and playing with the ends of her braids.

Enough that I was asked,

"What's the matter?"

"Umm, Roxy. Won't we talk a little?"

"Don't we always talk...? Or is there something in particular that you'd like to talk about?"

"No, like, in a more flirty way."

"Hahh... Well, it's fine with me, but doing 'that' today is no good, you know?"

"Right. I'm just clinging to you a little, but is that no good?"

"It's fine."

Roxy sat on my lap and dropped her head onto my shoulder. While embracing her shoulders, I meet her eyes up close. Though I said that, it's not like I had something to talk about.

"Umm, how was your day?"

"Nothing happened at all. It was just as usual... All that really happened was that the Princ.i.p.al's wig flew off due to the prank of some students, I guess."

"Ahh, I kind of wanted to see that."

"After that――――"

Roxy worked the whole day and was tired. Even so, she concerned herself with me. While we were giggling with idle chat, I somehow ended up giving her b.u.t.t a feel, and was instantly slapped away. Even so, because I kept insisting on it, Roxy said [I guess it can't be helped] and permitted it.

After that, we entered the bathroom together and I cleaned her back and ma.s.saged her shoulders. I was almost like a child showing piety to his parents.

"You're a bit 'that' today, Rudi. Did something tough happen?"

"No, no. Nothing at all. I was just thinking [I'm really so happy that Roxy is alive] again."

"I see... Well, I really did think I was going to die in the Teleport Labyrinth after all. Feel free to confirm it as much as you'd like."

Said Roxy, sitting on my lap in the bath. Whilst ma.s.saging her slim shoulders, I asked,

"Roxy. Lately, have there been any weird changes to your body?"

I've avoided the Magic Stone Disease... or so I think, but just because I've taken care of that rat, doesn't mean that things are guaranteed to be okay. There's a chance that the investigation by the Future Me was wrong, after all.

"Ehh? I'm fine, you know. Why did you ask something like that?"

"Well, I was just thinking [It'd be really great if Roxy lived a long life] you see."

"If you think about the lifespans of races, I'll live longer than you after all. I should be the one asking you to live longer, Rudi."

"Of course."

Saying this, I gently smiled at Roxy. For now, things seem okay.

-----

Sylphy and Roxy.

The two of them are alive.

Things won't become like in that diary.

I'll definitely avoid it.

With this in mind, I've gained the strength to read that diary again.

I'm ready.

The next day.

I've decided to read the rest of the diary.

Though I say this, it seems that after Sylphy's death, he didn't write anything for a while. The paper quality's different to the place that I read up to yesterday. Did he not write anything for a year? Two years? Or perhaps even longer. Five years or ten years? I don't really know what happened during that period.

But I do know that the contents of the diary have become more frivolous. For example how the b.r.e.a.s.t.s of a nee-chan[2] he saw in town were, or how her b.u.t.t was. About how he went around the red light district, and which brothel was best. It's almost like the diary of a delinquent.[3] He's written some pretty sleazy stuff.

One day he wrote a ranking of all the women he's slept with so far. Is this really me? If I lose Sylphy and Roxy, will I become like this?

At any rate, I think he lived for a few years with this kind of lifestyle, where he just picked up women. Though it isn't clearly written where he is, since the names of a few shops are familiar, he was probably still in the Magic City Sharia.

Aisha, Norn, Lilia, Zenith and Lucy. Their names come out strangely little. Occasionally Zan.o.ba or Julie's names will appear, and that's about it. Of all things, one day he had his eye on Julie. He had included Julie amongst those he could vent his l.u.s.t on. Julie who had done her very best to follow Zan.o.ba and my teachings. I don't want to think of this as me. No, I guess it's possible that it's me. Were it a situation where I had given into despair and my lower body, and I had my fame, my body, and my money, then...

There was also Eris. Around this time, he was running from place to place to escape Eris. It seems that Eris was also living in Sharia, and each time they met she'd look unhappy and start bas.h.i.+ng him.

『I wanted to catch her one day and mess her up, but I'm scared of her revenge so she's a no go.』 was written.

Worthless. But I can also tell that he has complicated feelings towards Eris. I wonder if he felt a little bit like he wanted to start things over with her. I wonder if it's because of Sylphy and Roxy that he wasn't able to love her, so things became like this. I feel like there's a bit of a contradiction in the things that he wrote he did.

There were a few disquieting things written here. It seems that the Milis Church had placed a bounty on his and Zan.o.ba's heads, and bounty hunters and a.s.sa.s.sins were popping up quickly. It seems that they weren't a big deal and all had the tables turned on them...

But as I was thinking, when I turned to the next page, the contents changed again.

It seems another year pa.s.sed by. He didn't write what happened. I should also mention that the quality of each page was considerably different, and the dates that he wrote entries were indeterminate.

-----

■
　Norn's Ruijerd books and figures are doing well.
　Also, in collaboration with the Magic University, I started officially teaching chantless magic cla.s.ses.
　The Holy Kingdom of Milis is demanding via the Kingdom of Asura that the Kingdom of Ranoa hand me over, but as long as I am of use to the Magic Triumvirate, they probably won't do so.
　As long as the Central Continent is separated by the Red Dragon Mountains, the attackers in a war would be at an overwhelming disadvantage, after all.
　It seems that the Kingdom of Asura still doesn't know that I was the culprit behind the fire murder incident. They're a stupid lot. They're probably filled with idiots.

■
　Zan.o.ba is close to completing his automaton research.
　It took longer than expected.
　However, I don't have the excitement that I did back in the day.
　Just why have I been working on this?

■
　The automaton was a success.
　It's an automaton built in the spitting image of Sylphy.
　She has her own will, and acts independently.
　At the same time, she'll always listen to what I say.
　She's gentle, and obedient, and gets a little jealous, so it's like seeing the old Sylphy.
　But, this isn't it.
　This really isn't it...

■
　I destroyed the automaton.
　I thought that Zan.o.ba would be angry, but on the contrary he apologized to me.
　The one who should be sorry is me.
　I can't be thankful enough to Zan.o.ba.
　I'll make sure not to betray him at least.

■
　We created a doll that was different from Sylphy and Roxy.
　This one was named Fourtee by Zan.o.ba.
　When I asked why that name, Zan.o.ba replied with his chest held up in pride that it was because it was the fourteenth masterpiece.

■
　We ma.s.s produced Fourtee's sister machines and ended up deciding to sell them to the Magic Triumvirate.
　Having the country as your regular customer sure is good.
　Though I don't know how much use they'll be militarily, they're what Zan.o.ba's and my skills have to offer.
　They should be stronger than the common knight or adventurer.

　Still, I've no goal now, huh.
　What should I research next?
　Though I don't really know why, it feels like I've been motivated for the first time in a long time.

-----

It seems that Zan.o.ba's research ended up in success. However, the theory behind the technology isn't written here. I guess there's no real reason to compile a research report. If that sort of stuff were written, I think our research would take a huge leap, but...

Well, I guess we don't need it anyway. Zan.o.ba's having fun right now, and the process is important too.

While I was thinking this, the next page completely changed. Again, the page was wrinkled with tears.

-----

■
　Hitogami appeared in my dreams.
　I can still feel his touch on my shoulder.
　I loathe him.
　I really loathe him.

■
　I have to get stronger.
　I have to kill Hitogami.
　I definitely have to do this.
　If I don't kill that f.u.c.ker, Sylphy, Roxy and Roxy's child won't be able to rest in peace.
　And I won't be able to feel better.

■
　Speaking of which, I wonder if Lilia and the rest are doing well.
　What kind of kid did Lucy grow up to be?
　Did she end up as a beauty who looks like Sylphy?
　Is she studying properly? Is she eating properly?
　...Why didn't I do things better after Sylphy died?
　Only Aisha returned and cared about me, but... even if I write it now, is there even any use?
　It's regrettable.

■
　How can I get stronger?
　Should I train my magic?
　Should I look for users of King Ranked and Emperor Ranked magic?
　No, going by the trend thus far, those above Saint Ranked only increase in scale, and won't really be of use in combat.
　The situation is that I have no King Ranked or above magic except the lightning attack, but even so I'm not lacking in offensive capabilities.
　The problem is defense and mobility.
　I can't wear touki, and my speed and defense fall behind others.
　what should I do?

■
　A certain book wrote about the Fighting G.o.d.
　The Fighting G.o.d wore a golden armor over his body, which meant that his physical abilities were increased manyfold.
　When I spoke about this with Zan.o.ba, he came up with an idea.
　Wearing 『Zariff's Prosthetic Hand』 over my whole body.
　Thinking about it, though I can't use touki, as long as I fill mana into my prosthetic arm, I can display power greater than normal.
　If I make the armor myself, and make it the absolute hardest, then covered my whole body in it...
　Alright.

■
　I gained Zan.o.ba's cooperation and the full-body armour was a success.
　It's a little over 2 metres.
　It ended up quite large.
　Moreover, the mana consumption is high, and no one can handle it but me.
　It's halfway to a huge piece of junk.
　Were Cliff alive, we might have been able to create a more efficient armor but...
　There's no use in saying that.
　At any rate, I've copied a certain game and named it 『Magic Armour』.[4]

After that, a story about me getting strong began.

With the Magic Armor, that is, a full-bodied Zariff's Prosthetic Hand, I was able to gain power, speed and defense on the level of the 7 Major World Powers. It seems that using it for half a day at full power was his limit, but even at 30% output, he wouldn't lose against common enemies. It really was a successful concept, huh?[5] Though considering that it's written that the Fighting G.o.d wore a similar equipment, this idea has been around for a long, long time though.

...Though I also want a Magic Armor, would we be able to create one with our current level of research? No, it's not about being able or not. We'll do it.

At any rate, for the names of my other family members to show up so very little, I wonder if they left. Let alone Norn, to even use up Lilia's good graces... Just how far did I...?

No, though he didn't write the details, there's the possibility that they were in danger from Milis.h.i.+on a.s.sa.s.sins. Yeah, that's it.

Well anyway, I'd better start treating my family extra kindly. Yeah. If I remember correctly, Norn is coming home today, right? In that case, I wonder if we should all eat out for once. Well, it's always a good thing to spend time with family.

"Onii-chan, lunch is done! Let's eat together!"

While I was thinking, Aisha's voice came from behind me. When I got out of my chair and opened the door, I found my lively little sister standing there in a maid outfit. She probably just came from tasting the food, because there was a little sauce on her mouth.

"You have sauce on your mouth you know."

I took out a handkerchief and wiped her mouth clean.

"Mmguu, thanks."

Aisha was smiling. Even after the Future Me became a worthless person, it seems she still took care of me. The old man didn't mention Aisha, but if she was the only family he had left, she was surely his emotional support.

"Aisha. Do you have anything you want?"

"Eh? What's this all of a sudden?"

"Since you're always trying your best, I was thinking of rewarding you somehow."

"Ehhh, no wayyy. I'll feel bad about Norn-nee if only I get something. ...But you know, just recently I saw this cute hairclip. Eyes sparkling."

Eyes sparkling isn't something you're supposed to say, d.a.m.nit.

Just who'd you learn that off?

Well, it was probably me, though.

"Alright. Let's go shopping next time. We'll keep it a secret from Norn, okay?"

"Eh-!?"

Aisha twisted her body into an exaggeratedly shocked pose.[6]

"Whawhat? Really, what's the matter, Onii-chan? What's your purpose? Hah-! Could it be that you're after my body!? Would it be better if I cleaned my body and headed to your room tonight, Danna-sama? Uhun!"

"Yeah, yeah, let's just eat lunch first. It'll get cold, after all."

"Okaaay."

After having such a conversation, we moved to the dining room.

Though Roxy and Norn weren't here, eating with my family made the food seem really delicious. When I frankly said that today's food tasted better than usual, Lilia smiled just a little.

-----

After lunch, I return to the diary.

The Future Me journeyed the world looking for a way to reach Hitogami. On his journey he met a great number of people, and was shocked at the lack of information. The chance of those who were long-lived having information on Hitogami was high. After realizing this rule, he focused on those who were long-lived. He steadily trained his magic, developed magic, and became stronger a little at a time.

Gravity magic, electricity magic, voice magic... He even managed to increase his healing magic to Saint Ranked. He concluded that magic was versatile, and as long as he had the right feeling for it, he could do anything. He wrote things like how the mouse was the carrier of the Magic Stone Disease, and how Sylphy's death was possibly at the hands of Hitogami.

At a glance he seemed to be doing favorably. But because he couldn't get even a little information, the Future Me started to grow enraged, little by little. In those days, it seems that he wasn't a very good person. Quarrels would arise wherever he went, and after defeating small fry he'd look down on and scorn them. He did whatever he wanted, and he'd even rape women who pa.s.sed by. Though I thought he'd know better at his age...

I don't want to become like this.

Also, Eris would frequently appear. It seems that on his journey around the world he came into contact with Eris countless times. And because Eris was strong, he tasted defeat countless times.

Though you can't tell from the words, Eris may have been remonstrating me for turning into a piece of trash. But because Eris got in his way, he started misunderstanding her as a p.a.w.n of Hitogami or something. He arbitrarily decided that Eris was interfering with him whenever something was inconvenient for Hitogami. [There's no doubt that Eris is being manipulated by Hitogami] he thought.

As I continued reading, I found that he started hating Eris more and more. It was something without any proof that he arbitrarily decided upon. It probably counts as a type of unjustified hatred.[7]

And it seems that Eris gradually became unable to beat him. Was it because he got stronger, or was it because of age that Eris became weaker? I can't tell from what's written. In the end, 'that' time came.

-----

■
　Eris was crying.
　How long has it been since I've seen Eris crying?
　I might have overdone it.
　Could it be that she has nothing to do with Hitogami?
　No, but if that's the case then it doesn't explain why she's been whole-heartedly getting in my way the whole time since Sylphy's death.
　Moreover, when I questioned her during my journey, she would always keep her mouth shut.
　She knows something.
　Something.

■
　Eris escaped.
　There were bite marks on the handcuffs.
　Are her teeth made of steel!?
　f.u.c.k.

■
　I'll have an audience with Atofe tomorrow.
　Though I don't think that muscle-brained idiot knows anything, as a long lived immortal demon, the chance that she knows something is high.
　Even if I have to beat her half to death, I'll question her.

■
　Eris died.
　Ghyslaine blamed me.
　I don't understand.

■
　I'll try and organize what happened yesterday.
　I ended up fighting Atofe. Atofe, Atofe's imperial guard, I fought all of them together.
　I thought I could do it, but as expected, Moore got in my way.
　I was careless and completely messed up. Even though I should've known that the man known as Moore was a terrifying master of magic... It was because I was too focused on Atofe.
　When I was in dire straits, Eris leapt in.
　She covered for me, and died.
　Ghyslaine told me the reason.
　She told me about everything from the day we met again, until today.
　Eris had just wanted to be by my side.
　I had always, always been misunderstanding her.
　She had loved me all this time.
　It was because of this alone that she'd been following me around.
　It's like a joke.

The details aren't really written here, but it's probably the same as what the old man told me.

...I guess I really should marry Eris, huh?

How do I say this, I feel that she should be rewarded.

But would Sylphy and Roxy allow it?

Roxy wouldn't oppose it.

But what would Sylphy say?

Sylphy who was jealous of Nanahos.h.i.+...

No, at any rate I probably have no choice but to discuss it with them. Sending the letter comes after that. I'll discuss it with them tonight when Roxy comes home or something.

Let's continue reading.

After this, once again he didn't write anything important for a while. He moved here and there, and met this person and that, and fought with someone or other. All this was written indifferently. Amongst those he fought were brave people like the Water Emperor, or the North Emperor. However, it was like he didn't care in the least about defeating them, and didn't write the details. It was just stuff like,

[I killed ____. He didn't know anything about Hitogami.]

And the years flew by once again.

The next time he wrote anything long was on paper of plainly different quality.

-----

■
　Zan.o.ba died.
　At some point, I don't know when, The Order of the Temple entered the Kingdom of Ranoa.
　When I came running, it was already too late for anything.
　The mansion was burnt down, there were black scorch marks in front of the door to Zan.o.ba's cellar, and inside were Ginger, Julie and Aisha who I had left with Zan.o.ba, chopped to pieces.

　In the Kingdom of Ranoa, I once again ended up ma.s.sacring the Order of the Temple.
　But by the time I killed them, there was already no point.

　Even though Zan.o.ba had always given his best for me.
　Why wasn't I there when he was in trouble?
　For what reason have I gained all this power?
　I'm powerless.

■
　In the end, everyone died.
　The only one left is me.
　There's no one left anymore.
　I couldn't protect anyone.

■
　It's because of Hitogami.
　I have to at least kill Hitogami...

-----

The contents suddenly became heavy. Zan.o.ba and Aisha died too, huh? ...That's harsh.

But still, I wonder if he didn't search for our family? Well, I don't know how he'd be able to face Lucy after all this time though.

...Or could it be that despite not being written in this diary, Lilia and the others died as well?

For Norn not to be mentioned either...

...No, let's stop with this. Let's think of things that weren't written as things that didn't happen.

Still, Zan.o.ba's death really didn't have anything to do with Hitogami but... It seems that he had already badly fallen into tunnel vision by then.

After this, he began searching for Hitogami like a madman. More severely than ever before, he proceeded with a vigor that ma.s.sacred everyone in his way.

Then, he found it.

-----

■
　I'm excited.
　I'm in the far reaches of the Begaritto Continent.
　In a place that basically no one has stepped before, I found a certain ruin.
　It's the ruin of the ancient Dragon Race.

　According to the wall art left here...

　This world is separated into 6 parts.
　The Dragon World.
　The Human World.
　The Demon World.
　The Beast World.
　The Ocean World.
　The Sky World.
　Each of them is like one of six surfaces; in other words, they're connected like a die.

　Inside them.
　In the interior of the die, is the Void World.
　If you want to travel from one world to another, you have no choice but to go through the Void World.
　But unless you use a certain method, you can't pa.s.s through the Void World.
　After this, the wall was broken so I couldn't read it, but at the very end, this was written:

　『Hitogami... is the Void World』

　I've finally found him.
　I think I'll stay here for a while and research what's written here.

■
　Written on the wall art is the history of the attempts at reaching the heart of the Void World.
　It seems to be derived from magic like summoning magic or teleport magic that uses the Void World as a path.
　I guess I really should research in that direction, huh?

■
　I've studied the entirety of these ruins.
　It seems that the ancient Dragon Race built something for the sake of reaching the heart of the Void World.
　But, I don't know what it was.
　The part of the wall art that described it was collapsed.
　But there's no mistake that it's something related to summoning and transfer magic.

■
　When you mention summoning, what comes to mind is Perugius.
　That guy is informed on summoning magic.
　If I ask him, he might know something.

■
　Perugius didn't know a thing.
　To start with, that guy didn't even know about Hitogami.
　Besides the fact that Laplace would become enraged at the word Hitogami, Perugius didn't know a thing.
　With this, I'm back to the starting point.
　Though Laplace knew of Hitogami, he doesn't exist in this world anymore... Perhaps Orsted might know something.

■
　I never even got close to meeting Orsted.
　I guess I really should research teleport magic, huh?
　Still, it might be because I've continued to fight over these past few decades, but the movements of my body are becoming slower.
　I might be about to hit my limit.
　No, while I can still move, I'll go search for another ancient Dragon Race ruin.

-----

This world is a die, and in the hollow part inside is the Void World.

And Hitogami is literally in the heart of this world.

I see.

That feeling of being sucked underground when I'm being transferred. It's because I'm really being pulled underground and I pa.s.s through the Void World. Though I say 'underground', even if I dig into the earth, I probably won't reach the Void World.

Now then, the continuation is a few years later, huh. It's a diary with a lot of omissions.

-----

■
　I found a second ancient Dragon Race ruin.
　It's deep in the mountains on the Magic Continent.
　Just why did the ancient Dragon Race build their ruins in such an out of the way and dangerous place?
　This area is filled with nothing but troublesome monsters.
　Ah... Come to think of it, is Perugius's flying castle also a ruin?
　Well, whatever.
　I'll conquer the ruins starting tomorrow.

■
　It bore fruit.
　I found a complete version of the wall art that I found a few years ago.
　This place had the missing parts of the method of reaching the Void World that was collapsed on the other one.

　The ancient Dragon Race created 5 treasures. Using these, you can reach the Void World.

　...Finally.
　Finally, it seems that I'll be able to reach Hitogami.
　However, I'm already over 60 years old.
　My body is rickety.
　Will I make it in time?

■
　When I returned to Perugius's place, a certain matter was proven.
　It was that the ancient Dragon Race produced 5 treasures.
　Each one of the Five Dragon Generals held one, and it seems only the Dragon G.o.d held the secret to the door to the world.

　But of the Five Dragon Generals, one has already died.
　The treasure he held is missing.
　The final member of the Five Dragon Generals is also missing.
　According to Perugius, it seems that the final member will appear in a few decades.
　I almost remembered something about the implications of his words, but in the end couldn't remember.
　Lately it's getting harder to remember what I want.
　I wonder if Perugius is still hiding something.
　I'm irritated.
　However, Perugius is the only person I can talk about the good days with.
　I don't want to kill him.

　Perugius said that if it was Orsted, he might know about the secret, but... I haven't the slightest clue where he is.

　There are still a few decades until the final person appears.
　Just that is enough to feel despair about.
　I probably can't live that long. This body is already at its limit.
　I can feel that I don't have much longer to live.
　What should I do...?
　I don't have any time left.

■
　I can't obtain the treasures of the Five Dragon Generals.
　Whether because they're treasures, or because they're secret, it doesn't seem like I can produce them.
　There's too much I don't understand about their principles.

　I... can't go to the Void World.

■
　I'm tired of this.
　Just how long must I struggle by myself?
　For who am I even doing this for?
　Even my hatred towards. .h.i.togami is wearing out.
　I'm tired.
　I just feel tired.

I could feel that he'd really given up.

There aren't many pages left.

So I'd just read roughly 50 years worth, huh?

Without any results to show for it, he continued to do nothing but struggle, and the result was that he didn't get anywhere.

Even if he weren't me, he'd probably stop thinking about anything at all due to the weariness.

No, if it were the current me, I might have given up at an even earlier stage.

-----

■
　I think I'd better write my research notes separately here as well.
　Among my transfer magic research was a certain hypothesis:

　『Summoning magic』 and the magic recorded on the Dragon Race wall art. If I modify these two, I might be able to travel to the past.

　However, on top of it being theoretical, just transferring back in time a few seconds should take a tremendous amount of mana.
　If I leap back in the order of years, just how much mana would I need?

■
　I've decided to go to the past.
　I have my diary with me.
　If I use this diary as the origin, I might be able to return to the moment I wrote this diary.
　I'll go back to the time when I was tricked by Hitogami, when I let out that rat, and when I killed Roxy.
　I don't know if I'll be able to go.
　I don't know what'll happen if I transfer to the past.
　I'm aware of the concept known as a 'time paradox'.

■
　There are a lot of things I'm uneasy about.
　Will it be a time slip or a time leap?[8]
　If it's a time slip, what is it that I should tell them?
　I should tell them about the Magic Stone Disease, about Eris, and then about Hitogami.
　Will I be able to get it across to them?
　Will the me in the past believe that I came from the future?

　If it's a time leap, how should I face Sylphy and Roxy?
　I want to see them once again. I want to meet them again. I want to apologize to them.
　But when I think that I'll overwrite the consciousness of the me from when I was happy...

　Should I conduct more experiments regarding this point?
　Considering that I don't know if I'll cause a time paradox, I feel that it'd be best not to experiment too much.
　There's also the possibility that if I go back a few days, only my consciousness travels there and I leave my memory behind.
　It's possible that I'd continue to loop meaninglessly, unable to even die, and continue to live in this world...
　In that case, at the very least... Sylphy and Roxy one last time...

　No, I guess it's fine.
　Let's stop thinking about the difficult things.
　I don't have anything left anyway.
　I couldn't accomplish a thing. I've become a worthless man.
　Even if I fail and it becomes the cause for some other incident, I don't care.
　I'm already fine with whatever.

　But if I manage to succeed, then... I might give Hitogami a h.e.l.l of a shock.

-----

The diary stops there. He probably leapt to me after that. He probably realized he didn't have enough mana at that point.

I don't understand the theory behind his slight failure to leap to the past using teleport magic. In the first place, based purely on what I've read, wouldn't he have been fine with mana consumption had he just leapt to the past bit by bit? I wonder if it's because he was senile that he didn't realize that.

No, that's probably not it, huh.

The me from that time definitely had confidence in his mana pool. The thought that he didn't have enough might not have even crossed his mind.

But somehow or other, I understood just what I needed to; if I don't want to become like this, I must take action.

"I've returned."

The moment I thought that, I heard Roxy's voice from the entrance.

The things that I can do right now...

First, I'll have a discussion with Sylphy and Roxy tonight.

About Eris, as well as what to do from now on.

--- Sylphy's perspective ---

Recently Rudi has been acting strange.

He locks himself all day in the study, and his face looks pale when I thought he was going to come out.

What is he doing? Even though I'm worried, but he won't tell even if I asked. Last night when I try to break the question, he instead takes me to bed.

Well, if taking me helps his distress, then that works too.

When I ask Roxy about this, she said.

"Sylphy has noticed too... Rudi when troubled rarely likes to talk about it... Let's just try to help him when the time comes."

So she's worried too. But if this continues, maybe I should take the initiative and try to force him to explain what's going on.

With that in my mind, after dinner, Rudi pleads with some difficulty.

"Ah, Roxy-san, Sylphy-san, can you come to my room after dinner?"

A strange tone, feels a little like Rudi that time when he had Roxy and I together.

But that's nothing to feel guilty about, he shouldn't feel like he's imposing.

That's the kind of guy Rudi is, even I have no choice but to forgive him.

Roxy doesn't seem to mind, and she takes good care of me, so I don't really mind doing it together either.

Why is Rudi so worried.

Regardless, since he asked, Roxy and I are busy preparing ourselves.

We went in the bath together, and spread on perfume specific for this occasion.

For panty, I picked one I recently bought, and nightgown... the high exposure one. Rudi really likes it soft and with sleeves, so I picked that one.

Also, I left two b.u.t.tons unb.u.t.toned in the front.

Even though I'm a bit flat chested, so that isn't very s.e.xy.... But even if just a little, I want him to cherish me.

Wait, will he think I'm too naughty... No no, Rudi won't think so. It's fine, it's fine.

A few days ago I caught him peeking when I had two b.u.t.tons unb.u.t.toned as well.

Even though I caught him, since that seems to delight him, I let him have his fill, and that night he took me too.

Roxy wears her usual one-piece nightgown, but she isn't wearing any panties. That's her method of attack as well...

Regardless, since we're both ready, we head towards the bedroom all fired up.

Rudi sits on a chair in the bedroom, waiting on us. Roxy and I sit down side by side. Me on the right, Roxy on the left. There's no particular reason for this, that just seems to be the way it works.

Usually, Rudi will with a perverted face squeeze between us. But today, something's different.

He sits solemnly on his chair, his face serious. Like searching for a way to break the ice before Rudi said [Ah!] and faces Roxy.

"Ah-, Roxy."

"Em?"

"How's Norn doing in school?"

Feels like he's reciting someone else's line.

Roxy can only smile wryly.

"... Nothing in particular. Didn't you ask Norn herself a few days ago?"

"I thought it would be better if I get your judgement of it."

Rudi sounds off. I snicker slightly.

"Ah... Makes sense. Her studies and sword practice are so-so, but she's working hard for the Student Council. She's being recognized for her work on Public Morals. Even though there are many cheeky students, but they'll generally give her way when they cross paths. That might have to do with being Rudi's sister. Mostly, since she has many uppercla.s.sman admirers, no one gives her any trouble. She seems to have many friends, so I don't think there's anything Rudi should worry about."

"I see. Thank you."

Yeah, Norn is a hard worker. I haven't been to the school much lately, but I have heard some news from other Student Council members. Rarely do you see a kid so diligent.

I don't get to act like an older sister very much...

"Roxy, how about on your side?"

"Huh, what is it?"

"Anything in particular that's bothering you recently? Right, for example, feeling hungry so you sneak out for food or something?"

"Recently Rudi has always been sharing your meal with me. I'm actually worried that I might get fat."

"How about at school?"

"... School has been whatever. Once in a while someone will make fun of me because I'm small, and some students don't pay attention to cla.s.s."

"What? How dare they? Who are these impudent imbeciles that don't pay attention to Roxy's lessons. I'll teach a lesson so the only thing they'll say from then on is [JesusBABUCHAAAHHH]." [9]

Roxy bows lightly, a little shocked.

Feeling a little embarra.s.sed, she plays with her hair.

How nice.

Having Rudi respect you so much. It makes me jealous.

"Well, there's one thing I'm worrying about..."

"Go ahead."

"That thing, I want to be sure before I announce it."

"... Then I look forward to it."

Ah, I think, I know what Roxy was going to say. Now that she mentioned it, her body has been acting strange recently.

Maybe I should prepare to congratulate her soon? No, she needs to confirm it still.

"Sylphy."

"What is it, Rudi?"

Suddenly getting asked, I try my hardest to look cute by tilting my head. Rudi's eyes focus slightly below my head, good, operation successful!

"Recently, em... Lucy, how is she?"

"Doesn't Rudi check up on her often? She's doing well?"

"She hasn't suddenly started yelling [I am my own Lord throughout heaven and earth.] [10] or anything like that right?"

"Heaven... What? Ah, but Lilia-san said she'll start to crawl very soon."

"Oh."

All thanks to Lilia-san, parenting has been going smootly.

Even though Ariel-sama has said to leave the child care to the maids, and that mothers don't need to be involved. But grandma said to give as much loving care with my own two hands as possible.

So I have been following grandma's advice. Rudi seems to want me to take good care of Lucy, so I will.

"Sylphy, anything in particular that's bothering you recently?"

"No, but if I can be honest, it's that my husband seems to be hiding something."

I finally said it, but I feel like I didn't say it well.

"Oh, ohh, sorry."

Rudi looks visibly shaken, sheepishly averts his eyes.

So he's hiding something.

But would he tell...

Right then, Rudi recovers.

Looking focused.

In these moments, Rudi looks so cool...

"That's actually what I asked you to come for today. That was it."

I sit back straight and stop unb.u.t.toning my gown.

Roxy while puzzled also straightens up.

"Em.. Next, I don't know how I say this but... a few days ago, I met someone."

"Someone?"

"Yes, a miko that can predict the future... someone like that."

What Rudi said next even made us sense the impending crisis.

How a bad person has been eyeing Rudi and the family (us).

How that bad person might cause all sorts of misfortune on the family (us).

How because of that, Rudi might start doing many things that look very strange to us.

Honestly speaking, I'm worried that he's over thinking it, but Rudi seems to have some definite proof. He must have thought about the situation before talking to us, about what he can say, about what he can't.

Even though some of this doesn't make sense, but it'll be too late once something happens. I can understand Rudi's thought process here.

"I see. Then, is there anything we can do to help?"

"Not that there isn't, but for me, I just want you to stay as safe as possible."

That again, recently that's all Rudi says. When did this start... Was it when Paul-san pa.s.sed away?

I know he's just worrying about us, but isn't he being too protective? I'm not a kid that can't do anything anymore...

"But what if Rudi faces danger while we're not looking?"

"It's too early to tell, but it's possible?"

"I don't want that..."

Rudi was. .h.i.t hard during the Atofe fight.

Even though Rudi is strong, he doesn't actually enjoy battle.

Even though he still traveled far and wide, fighting, dying...

Even though I don't want to, I can only stay home and wait for Rudi, comfort him, encourage him...

Ugh-.

"I understand."

The person that said this is Roxy. Still twirling her hair, she looks at Rudi in the eye, smiling.

"When Rudi isn't home, I will protect Norn-san and Aisha-san."

Straightforward she answers. Like she wants to confirm her mission to Rudi.

"Roxy won't mind?"

Doesn't Roxy want to follow him? That's what I actually wanted to say. Roxy nods.

"Because Rudi would be more upset if his family fell to misfortune than himself."

"... But."

Speaking of which, Roxy was with Rudi when Paul died. I only heard about how depressed Rudi was by Paul's death. They said Rudi was at the worst he had ever been, so the situation must be really desperate for him.

Desperate enough to break our vows... Ah, I'm a terrible woman, forget it.

Rudi came back to me, that's all that matters.

"Sylphy, of course I don't want to just watch on the sidelines if Rudi is in danger."

What does that mean? Roxy will stay home?

"If we feel there's a time we have to lend him a hand, then let's make our own judgement on how to help Rudi, when the time comes."

Ah, so that's what she means. That makes sense if I think about it.

We don't need Rudi's permission to help Rudi. We should do it, as long as Rudi is safe.

"... You're right. Em, I understand."

Rudi can only smile wryly at Roxy's words. Not with rebuke, but looking at her with eyes of trust.

"Rudi, don't look back, please just do what you think is right. We'll protect you from behind."

Roxy said with a smile. Rudi's eyes sparkles. Roxy is amazing, to have Rudi's respect like that.

"Then, when I have it bad, please come to my aid."

With a sigh of relief Rudi finally smiled. No matter what, as long as it helps Rudi calm down, that's what's important.

If Rudi faces danger, I'll decide on my own to help him. Yes, that's right.

Maybe it has always been like this for me, be his support when he's in trouble, and be a good wife when he isn't.

That's fine.

"Then, there's one more thing."

At that moment I was clenching my fist with enthusiasm, when Rudi said in a meek voice.

Somehow the atmosphere is different. The stuff said earlier was difficult, but was with wording. This time it feels like we're back to the topic he has been avoiding.

"... This, is there even a good way to say this?"

"Is it really that bad?"

Roxy carefully prods Rudi. He nods forcefully.

"It's hard for me to tell you two."

What is it? Now I'm feeling anxious. Is it about Rudi looking unwell recently?

Don't tell me he has some incurable disease that even Detoxification Magic can't cure?

"I'm not sure yet, but, we might have to add another person."

Eh, add a person, so a girl? That's what he means?

Even though I told him to not add anymore...

No, I never asked him not to, forget it.

But Rudi doesn't keep his promises! What is he even thinking?

But I won't ask, I am the good wife, a good wife won't object to her husband.

"Who? Nanahos.h.i.+?"

I try my best to stay calm, pretending that I'm angry. I think I'm successful.

Speaking of the wench, Nanahos.h.i.+. She doesn't feel right to me. She doesn't seem to like Rudi, at most the only thing she feels for. If Rudi pushes the issue, I won't object to her. But just because