The Spearmaster and the Black Cat

“Nyaoon.”

As I head to the detached lodging by walking across the courtyard, Rollo comes running from behind while raising a lonely voice.

When she comes to a halt, she extends a tentacle to my cheek.

『Don’t come』『Playing Tag』『Want to play』『Worry』

Rollo separating from us on the second floor previously was apparently because she wanted to be chased by me.

At least, that’s my analysis. I will lure her towards my shoulder for now.

“My bad. Come here.” (Shuuya)

“Nya.”

Rollo climbs up to my shoulder and then rubs her small head against my cheek.

It’s ticklish, but adorable.

I open the door of the detached, big lodging room while flirting with her like that.

I can see the slaves happily chatting in the middle of the room where the table and chairs are placed.

It looks like they are communicating among each other. That's a good thing for sure.

“Ah, master.”

“Mu.”

“Let’s go.”

“Alright.”

The slaves also notice me as I enter the room.

Every single one of them ran up to me after nodding to each other.

Now then, before going shopping, there’s something I have to ask them.

“Are you ready? As I said before, we are going to buy your equipment together next. However, prior to that, I want to know your names. I learned the names of your races, but I didn’t hear yours when I bought you. Well then, introduce yourselves in sequence, starting from the right. This is an order.” (Shuuya)

By the way, the small beastgirlNoire Runner is at the right end.

“My name is Souther Dayle.”

So the name of the fluffy one is Souther, eh?

Let’s call her Souther in daily routine.

“Souther, huh? Best regards.” (Shuuya)

“Yes. I'll do my best to be of use for you, master.” (Souther)

Souther says those praiseworthy words while doing her very best to turn her small face upwards.

“Aight, next then.” (Shuuya)

While curtly saying that with a casual tone, I point a finger at the next slave, the tiger beastgirlRazeil.

“My name is Pire Mamani.”

Pire is fine too, but since I consider Mamani to be unusual, I decide to call her with that name.

“Mamani, it is? Best regards.” (Shuuya)

“Yes, master!” (Mamani)

As if saluting, Mamani holds a fist against her chest. A martial spirit, eh?

“Next.” (Shuuya)

I point a finger at the blonde elf with the bug at the back of her neck.

“I am Fuu Dirdo.”

Fuu Dirdo, it’s a really elvish name; what a poetic, lovely moniker.

I recall the name of fairy types such as Cú Chulainn. ¹

“Best regards, Fuu.” (Shuuya)

“Yes. I'll do my best.” (Fuu)

“Understood.” (Shuuya)

And lastly, I turn my eyes towards the snakewomanLamia.

“This me is Grinok Evilode Ebobia Sporlopochron.”

Ugh, too long.

She quickly recited her name while slithering her snake tongue.

“…Umm, you know, your name is too long.” (Shuuya)

“Master, sorry. Since it was an order, this me thought that I would be subjected to punishment if I didn’t tell you mine formal name.” (Grinok)

She apologizes quickly.

“No, I don’t really mind your name being long. Rather, is it okay to shorten it?” (Shuuya)

“Of course.” (Grinok)

Now then, she readily gave me permission, but how should I go about it?

If I remember correctly, she mentioned before that she comes from the Ebobia District.

Besides, something similar to that was included in the middle of her name, too…

I guess I will take the “bia” from Ebobia and use that as her name.

“…Well, then you’re Bia from now on.” (Shuuya)

“Bia… This me shall comply and will be called Bia from today. Master, please take care of me.” (Bia)

Seemingly giving me some kind of ceremonial greeting, Bia touches her boobs from the left and right of her chest and then extends her hands by spreading them to the left and right.

It might be impolite, but I feel like asking her about it since I’m curious.

At that moment, Rollo enters the hood of my overcloak, apparently having become sleepy.

“…Bia, what kind of meaning is behind you using your hands in that way?” (Shuuya)

“This is an expression of great admiration. The act of touching the three breasts, which are a symbol of femininity, with both hands and then spreading them carries the meaning of accepting and admiring the other party.” (Bia)

Bia says quickly with her snake tongue slithering.

So that’s the reason, huh? Yet another new page has been added to the boob research society.

Aside from that, talking quickly seems the normal modus operandi of this race.

“…I see. So, I plan to buy you equipment for the labyrinth such as weapons and armors, but what kind would you prefer? No need to hold back. It will be you yourself who will use them in the labyrinth, after all. Tell me one after the other in order, starting with Bia.” (Shuuya)

While making a squeaking sound, Bia says,

“This me requests a big shield and a one-handed sword. In addition, this me would like to have hand spears that can be used as throwing spears and as reserves, too. Since mine scales are hard, there’s no particular need for an armor, but this me can equip one if you wish, master. This me also hopes to obtain a big knapsack.” (Bia)

Bia talks quickly, just as before.

“A shield, a one-handed sword, and a throwing spear, huh? Got it. Next.” (Shuuya)

I memorize Bia’s request and turn my head towards the next slave, the elf Fuu.

“Since I act as rear guard, I'll be happy as long as I can have a magic wand of the earth attribute and earth scrolls. However, since I can use magic either way, it's okay to postpone it a bit. The armor should be a leather armor, please. I would be happy to get some mana restoration medicineDream Potion, too. After all, it'll raise my ability in prolonged fights. And I hope for a knapsack of a medium size.” (Fuu)

Fuu says fluently. One wouldn’t believe that a bug has nested in the back of her neck, her head.

She’s really a beauty, though.

“…Roger. Next!” (Shuuya)

I point my finger and eyes at the tiger beastgirl and urge her to speak.

“Yes, master! I’d like to have a dagger, a claw sword, and a bow. As for armor, I prefer leather ones which are easy to move in. Furthermore, I hope you can add a mid-size knapsack and all sorts of potions such as explosive and recovery ones.” (Mamani)

The claw sword for close combat, huh?

She’s something like a scout, possessing a smelling skill and being good at removing traps, right?

Well, I guess having her own a bow is also acceptable. A scout needs ranged abilities, too.

“Dagger, Claw Sword, Bow, and potions, right? Noted. Next!” (Shuuya)

I turn my eyes towards Souther with her fluffy dog ears.

“Yes! I’d like to have several sturdy longswords. A matching size as armor… doesn’t exist, I think, so it’s unnecessary. I hope for the knapsack to be small as well.” (Souther)

So the boyish girl is a swordswoman, an offense-focused one at that.

She bragged about having defeated an Extreme-ranked master after studying the Flying Swords Style at the beginning, didn’t she?

“…Understood. With this, I've heard everyone’s names and equipment wishes. For the time being, I've also memorized them.” (Shuuya)

The name of the snakewoman is Bia; the elf is Fuu Dirdo; the small beastgirl is Souther Dayle, and lastly, the tiger beastgirl is Pire Mamani.

I stored their names in my mind.

“Master, it will be fine since I also remembered all of it.” (Viine)

Viine-san, who had watched silently from behind till now, supported me while taking a step forward.

As expected of her.

Let’s ask her if I should forget it.

『Your Excellency, I also memorized it more or less. Besides, Bia’s butt is huge.』 (Helme)

A tiny Helme appears in my field of vision at this moment.

『Well, her lower body is that of a snake, after all.』 (Shuuya)

『Yes. Bia appears to be someone who'd be excellent as a leader. Sooner or later, they will likely grow as a team, serving as the core of the military forces led by Your Excellency, as mighty blood family. Even turning them into bloodkin of a Light Demon Lucival should be considered in future.』 (Helme)

Helme-chan speaks like a staff officer of some empire while holding up a finger.

『Military forces… Helme, just what do you want to make me do?』 (Shuuya)

『To make your power known to the entire world, Your Excellency.』 (Helme)

『…What about the violation of butts?』 (Shuuya)

『A little bit is necessary, but everything’s for you, Your Excellency.』 (Helme)

Helme answers with a serious expression.

『I see. At the current stage, I don’t think about military forces. It might be possible in several hundred years, but for now, I want to enjoy myself with labyrinth adventures, okay?』 (Shuuya)

『Yes!』 (Helme)

I forcibly end the telepathic conversation with the dangerous Helme and switch my line of thinking.

“…Viine, you are reliable. Well then, it will soon be evening, but we will go to the store of an acquaintance.” (Shuuya)

“”Yes, master!””

With slaves in tow, I leave the house.

This place is in the south of Pelneet, close to Zaga’s store.

“Nya.”

After we had passed through several streets, Rollo wakes up within my hood.

Descending to the ground from my shoulder, she transforms into a Horse Lion and meows.

She then extends a tentacle towards my torso, grabs me, lifts me up easily, and places me on her back.

“…Oh! You are going to give us a ride again? But, with this number of people, I think it’s impossible… nuo.” (Shuuya)

As if challenged by my words, Rollo becomes even bigger, growing into the size of a house.

There’s suddenly an overwhelming feeling of a huge monster having appeared in the streets of the city, enshrouding the area.

Come to think of it, she did turn into such huge size once in the past.

The night wind feels pleasant, and the magic light sources illuminating the city are beautiful.

“Hyaaaaa—”

“A mooooonster!”

“Call the guards!!!”

Shit, this ain’t the time to calmly enjoy the scenery.

The people, who are traveling in the nearby streets leisurely, fall into chaos and run away.

Even the slaves, who were walking next to me, fall on their buttocks out of fear.

It was the same even for Viine. She flops down with her butt caressing the ground in surprise. Rollo sure has successfully caused a scene in the bustling streets.

“Hey, Rollo. Unless I order you, you mustn’t transform into such a huge size in future. Please shrink down to your usual size.” (Shuuya)

“Nyaoon.”

Her voice is as cute as ever, dispelling my slight displeasure.

Afterward, Rollo shrinks in an instant, returning to her Horse Lion size for traveling.

Once she becomes smaller, the surrounding tumult gradually calms down, but we've already gathered suspicious looks from the people as they noisily chat amongst each other.

There was even a call for the guards, wasn’t there? We will escape before it turns into a hassle.

“…Hey, you guys! How long do you plan to keep sitting on the ground?” (Shuuya)

I deliberately motivate the slaves with rough words to ward off this strange attention and atmosphere.

“”Y-Ye-Yes master~~~!””

The slaves stand up in a hurry and run up next to me, with even Viine acting in the same way as the slaves.

“Run as you are! Consider it a competition! Follow me.” (Shuuya)

I grasp the tentacle rein and operate it.

At the same time, I shout towards the gathered slaves and Viine after both forepaws of the black lion are lifted up, as if performing a wheelie, and then advance forward.

I don’t go too fast, however, advancing at the speed of around a normal, quick pace i.e. a trot.

When I look back, I can see everybody frantically chasing us by running.

They look slightly pitiful, but I keep Rollo at this tempo while maintaining the distance as it is.

After entering the street with Zaga’s store, I stop on the spot and wait for Viine and the slaves.

“Haahaa… haahaa…”

“Haahaa…”

The one who arrived first while being out of breath is Bia; second with a narrow margin is Viine.

Seemingly shocked that she lost to Bia, Viine glares at her with cold eyes.

However, the snakewoman’s running style of winding around is sure interesting.

But it’s obvious that she has the most stamina and the highest running ability among the group.

As might be expected of one using a shield, her ability to continue battling for a long time seems to be on the high end.

I’m certain she was a magnificent vanguard during her time as an adventurer.

“””Haaaahaahaa…”””

The last place went to everyone else, who arrived at almost the same time.

…I guess I will explain a bit about the incident just now while letting them rest.

“…You girls, listen to me while catching your breath. I’m sorry for having surprised you a while ago. However, Rollo, my partner, is no ordinary familiar: she’s a special black cat. Well, I think there will be an increasing number of various surprises about me and Rollo from now on. It would be great if you get used to it over time.” (Shuuya)

“”…Yes, master!””

The attitude and tone of the slaves is clearly different from until now.

Although they are standing, they have a face as if they are about to do a jumping dogeza. ²Even Bia, who had a different attitude from the others previously, is the same.

Well, I guess it’s inevitable after witnessing the colossal size of Rollodeen…

At that point, I look at Viine. She is tampering with her silver face guard.

I don’t know whether the mask slipped off a bit or whether she’s sweating because of the running, but she’s adjusting its position.

After that, she peeks at the slaves’ state and then sends a passionate gaze my way while donning a proud expression.

“…Master?” (Viine)

“Mmh? No, it’s nothing.” (Shuuya)

“Okay. Ah, by an acquaintance’s store, you meant Zaga-sama’s store?” (Viine)

“Exactly. If it’s Zaga and Bon, we'll be able to buy good weapons and armors.” (Shuuya)

“Yes. That’s certainly true.” (Viine)

I advance the black lion feet at a relaxed speed, keeping pace with Viine and the slaves.

Since the evening was about to end, I generate a light ball as light source, dispelling the encroaching darkness.

Once the vicinity has become dark, Zaga’s store comes in sight, clearly noticeable like fireworks at night.

As a dazzling light is escaping the workshop, it must be open.

I get off RollodeenHorse Lion, who immediately shrinks down and returns to her favorite spot, my shoulder.

“Whoaaa.”

“Amazing.”

“Rollo-sama is so wonderful…”

“…She returned to her original size.”

The slaves express their admiration one by one. They're fascinated by the spectacle.

Without paying attention to that, I head towards the workshop while taking the still amazed group along.

Come to think of it… it’s rare for Rollo to not run off to meet Bon, isn’t it?

Once we get close, the hard and loud sound of metal hitting metal can be heard from within the workshop.

The room is also slightly hot.

I see. He’s in the middle of work, huh?

Since Zaga and Bon are immersed in their passion, they don’t notice our presence.

Rubia is nowhere to be seen as well. I guess she is in the middle of her adventuring job.

I suppose I will observe them for a little while from the side.

Zaga hits a heated piece of steel that had been placed on an anvil with a hammer at a nice, constant rhythm.

In the intervals, Bon holds up his hands, which are coiled with mana, towards the red-shining piece of steel and pours mana into the steel.

For an instant, it reminds me of a mochi pounding rally. ³Discarding that retarded imagination, I look at the metal that’s being hit repeatedly.

Each time mana is poured into it, the red-shining steel will be tinged with a cloudy white.

It’s mysterious, to say the least. The hammer wielded by Zaga is clad in mana, too.

A magic crest has been carved into the metallic upper part of the hammer, shining with a blue light.

Zaga’s face is more serious than usual, and it looks as even his wrinkles have increased in number.

Bon reveals an ecstatic expression each time he pours mana into the steel. He doesn’t mention his usual “Enchant”, though, fully focused.

As I’m watching them toiling away for a while, Zaga stops hammering at some point.

The light also vanished from Bon’s hands.

Zaga puts the hammered piece of steel into a huge furnace, takes out the heated steel, and then quickly puts it into a tube-shaped container next to the furnace.

Smelting the steel, huh?

As he takes out the piece of steel from the container in a hurry, a magic-like flame rears its head up from the bottom like a dragon.

It flickers up as far as reaching Zaga’s beard, but as if getting rid of trash, he erases the fire smoldering his fac6al hair, wiping it away with his leather-covered arm.

He’s really used to it, evident from his smooth actions.

“…I guess this should do it.” (Zaga)

Zaga looks at the angle of the blade and nods in satisfaction.

The red steel with the flame having vanished has been adjusted into the shape of a longsword.

“Enchant.”

Returning to his usual phrase, Bon dons a content expression, too.

Zaga and Bon nod at each other while smiling, appreciating their feat.

Since it looks as if they have reached a good point to stop working, I guess I will try chatting them up.

“Yo, Zaga and Bon!” (Shuuya)

Zaga rotates the magic hammer around and affixes it to his waist belt.

After wiping away the sweat on his forehead, he then turns this way.

“Shuuya, huh?” (Zaga)

Once Bon hears my voice, he comes running over with his big and round eyes sparkling.

“Enchant!”

Forming a rock ⁴ with his thumb, he greets Rollo and me in his unique manner.

“Nn, nya.”

Rollo greets Bon as well and gets off my shoulder.

She approaches Bon’s feet and the usual dance time starts once again.

The slaves look at that spectacle in surprise, obviously taken aback.

As it’s business as per normal, I will ignore it.

“…Shuuya, so you came to sponge a meal, after all?” (Zaga)

Zaga says while having a faint smile on his face.

When I met him after a long time at noon, Zaga said something along the lines of treating me to a meal. It seems he is talking about that.

“No, not this time. Rather, I came to sponge some equipment.” (Shuuya)

“No meal, eh?” (Zaga)

Zaga says that with a bit of disappointment while ignoring my light joke.

“…Well, let’s leave that for our next encounter. For now, I'm here because I bought slaves. Hence, I want to request armors and weapons for them.” (Shuuya)

I turn my face in the direction of the four girls standing on standby behind me.

“Hoo… four. What's more, there’s even a lamia among them. Plus, a tiny dog-girl, a razeil, and a long-earElf, eh?” (Zaga)

“Yeah.” (Shuuya)

“I can get the equipment ready right away. I've plenty of arms on stock that combine strong and weak points. A one-of-a-kind custom-made item like the one you have, Shuuya, will take some days as long as I have special materials. Still, I can make one of those as well. Of course, it’ll be expensive though.” (Zaga)

“For today, the items on stock will suffice.” (Shuuya)

“Got it. Choose them from the shelves over there and the ones decorating the walls. The number of magic weapons is low, but there are some.” (Zaga)

Zaga spreads his short arms while briskly walking with small steps.

“Roger.” (Shuuya)

Well then, I guess I will check the notable weapons.

Big hammers and axes are lined up on the shelf. Longswords and daggers are adorning the walls while spears and halberds are leaning against them.

First, I check the longsword types with Magic Observation in order, picking up the ones that contain mana.

A longsword and dagger, which have a bluish-white light tinging their blades, a thin, rapier-like sword, which has a red light at its pointed end, a bastard sword, which doesn’t shine albeit being clad by mana, a longsword, which has a great number of magic crests carved into its blade, a unique sword, which has two blades, and even a hand sickle.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t look as if there’s any types of claw gloves for fists.

The ones looking useful are the longsword and dagger clad in bluish-white light, and also the bastard sword.

At this rate, it’s fine for me to choose, as well, but as I’m not the right person to make the decision here, I suppose I will allow the slaves to choose themselves while trusting in their judgment without complaining about the materials and tools as a good worksman doesn’t blame his tools.

“You guys, choose the weapons you want to use.” (Shuuya)

“Yes.”

“Very well.”

“Understood.”

“At your command.”

Each of them picks up weapons and swings them around.

They alternatively check the available weapon types while switching the hands used to hold the weapons.

“How is it? Is there anything you fancy?” (Shuuya)

“Yes. All the weapons here are wonderful. Even though I don’t feel any mana, it makes me sense that the craftsman has poured their soul into it as it has a great balance. On top of that, there is leather wrapped around the sword hilt.”

Souther say while grasping the longsword clad in a bluish-white light.

So, she chose this one, after all, huh?

She has apparently also picked a steel longsword that’s lying at her feet.

“The one below is a spare weapon, correct?” (Shuuya)

“Yes.” (Souther)

“It’s just as Souther says. I’m pleased with this dagger…”

Mamani seems to like a dagger.

She makes the conspicuous dagger with its bluish-white blade spin on top of her palm as if playing with a pen. Then she splendidly gets into an attacking posture by grasping it and exhibits swift movements of slashing it up and down.

“Lord, this me is fine with this. This me put down the javelins over here.” (Bia)

She’s easily brandishing the bastard sword with its beautiful magic crests which had been carved in several layers into the steel.

She has also placed several spears on the ground.

“Well then, settle the weapons you chose on top of the table in the middle.” (Shuuya)

“Acknowledged.”

Bia, Mamani, and Souther promptly follow my order.

“Zaga, I'll buy these weapons. Also, I'll allow them to choose some more.” (Shuuya)

“Got it.” (Zaga)

Zaga nods with a serious expression, his burned beard jumping up and down on his massive chest.

I guess next is a bow, Mamani’s main weapon, and Fuu’s wand.

“Mamani, you said you’d like to have a bow, but did you chose one?” (Shuuya)

“Yes, the longbow set please. Since it will be fine as long as I can use arrows as a diversion, it will be enough with the bundle of arrows over there.” (Mamani)

Mamani has picked an ordinary item that had been turned into a set of bow and quiver.

Arrows are divided by the metal used as arrowhead, but what Mamani chose are only normal ones; she didn’t pick any containing mana.

“Zaga, how many of these arrows do you have?” (Shuuya)

“Those are arrows I procured, and I have a total of one hundred.” (Zaga)

A hundred, huh? It appears that he hasn’t created all the items here himself.

Nonetheless, even if it’s not made by Zaga, I will trust in his eyes as a merchant and buy them.

“Mamani, put the chosen bow and arrows on top of the table.” (Shuuya)

“Yes.” (Mamani)

Next I look at Fuu.

“…Fuu, is that the wand you chose?” (Shuuya)

“…Yes. It’s of the earth attribute.” (Fuu)

Fuu was startled after being addressed all of a sudden, but she still holds up the wand in her hands, quickly regaining her composure.

“Well, then place the wand on the table, just as everyone else did.” (Shuuya)

“Yes.” (Fuu)

Several spears, a simple, manaless, steel longsword, training weapons, and throwing spears now rested on the huge table next to Zaga.

Following is a shield.

I turn my face towards Bia.

“Bia, choose a shield, too.” (Shuuya)

“Acknowledged.” (Bia)

Round, big shields, octopus shields, tower shields, and small wooden shields are arrayed beside the wall.

However, it looks like there’s none with mana dwelling within.

The one Bia chose in the end is a Hoplon Shield. It resembles the one worn by the heavy infantryHoplit Unit of Ancient Greece.

It’s a heavy-looking shield, but she holds it with ease, handling it as if capitalizing on the snake scales of her thick lower body.

She said that she was an armed Head Knight, but she’s probably a unique shield user of the lamia race.

“Lord, this me is fine with this shield.” (Bia)

“Roger. Lay it on the table.” (Shuuya)

“Acknowledged.” (Bia)

She carries the shield over to the table and places it on top.

“Next is the armor. Choose them as you like.” (Shuuya)

“This me doesn’t need one. As you can see, I possess a torso with tough scales. Even during mine time as an adventurer, I just used this cloth suit.” (Bia)

Bia quickly says with overflowing confidence.

“I don’t need one, either. I wore these leather clothes during the time when I dove into the labyrinth as an adventurer. Besides, you won’t be able to buy an armor for a beastman like me in the first place.” (Souther)

Souther’s word’s are also filled with confidence.

“I don’t have any armor for a lamia. Sorry, but I don’t have an armor for a small beastgirl, either. Shuuya, do you want me to make a private armor for them?” (Zaga)

Zaga reveals an expression as if he’s eager to make the armors.

“No, as it will take time anyway, it’s not necessary for now. Souther, you really don’t require any armor?” (Shuuya)

“No, since I’m quite confident in my ability to dodge attacks, I truly don’t need one. I don’t want to brag, but I’m confident in me not being a normal combat slave. Even by myself, I have confidence that I can advance to the fifth floor without any issues.” (Souther)

I ended up spoiling her mood; it looks like I hurt her pride, so let's cheer her up a bit.

“Got it. I worried unnecessarily, didn’t I?” (Shuuya)

Meanwhile, Mamani and Fuu have selected leather armors.

Although there’s almost nothing but heavy armors for sale.

“Are you really fine with these leather armors?” (Shuuya)

“Yes.”

“It’s plenty enough.”

“Then put it on the table.” (Shuuya)

Mamani and Fuu carry their armors to the small mountain of equipment.

“How much for all of it?” (Shuuya)

“Let’s see. I'll sell them to you for 45 platinum coins as a special discount.” (Zaga)

Since I have absolutely no clue about the market price, I look in Viine’s direction.

“Master, I believe it to be quite a bargain.” (Viine)

“Humph, Shuuya, I chose this price just because it’s you.” (Zaga)

Zaga breathes a bit roughly through his nose.

It looks like he saw me sending a signal through my look to Viine.

“I know; I know. Thanks for that. Here, I'll pay you right away.” (Shuuya)

I quickly operate my item box and take out the necessary number of platinum coins.

“It’s the exact amount. And it's me who should be grateful. I was able to sell quite a bit of my stock.” (Zaga)

“No, no, it’s me who’s happy that I could buy the things sold by you, Zaga.” (Shuuya)

Zaga laughs broadly, showing his teeth. He appears rather delighted at my praise.

“Gahaha! I look forward to doing business with you next time, as well. To commemorate our sale, I'll set aside the superior items for you.” (Zaga)

“That would be very appreciated. Well then, I think I'll have the slaves equip the bought items.” (Shuuya)

“Aye.” (Zaga)

I turn around to the back after exchanging pleasantries.

“You guys, put on the bought equipment.” (Shuuya)

I tell the slaves straightly, not mincing my words.

“”Yes!””

“Understood.”

“As you order.” (Bia)

The slaves put on the equipment pieces they chose.

Bia equips the shield on the left hand while holding the bastard sword with her right.

Mamani wears the leather armor, meanwhile, holding the dagger and bow. She then puts the quiver containing the iron arrows on her back.

Souther grasps the bluish-white longsword, which has a size that’s around her own size, in front of her chest, glaring with a sharp gaze at the sword’s point.

Fuu also dons the leather armor, checking the wand in her hand.

I guess I’d like to get some straps, knapsacks, and a tube for the throwing spears of Bia next.

“Zaga, there’s still some things I need: a big tube for throwing spears, something that can be worn by a lamia, and a total of four straps and knapsacks matching their height. Can you prepare those?” (Shuuya)

“I can. In fact, I'll go and get them right away.” (Zaga)

With brisk, small steps, Zaga moves to a place where cabinets are lined up.

Opening the drawer of a cabinet, he takes out several items from within.

Then he vanishes after moving deeper inside.

After a short interval, he returns while carrying a huge trunk at his chest.

“…Just in case, I got all the items that should match going by size. I also prepared belts that will fit with the chosen weapons. As for a stock of huge tubes for throwing spears, I don’t have anything besides this one.” (Zaga)

Ooh, how tasteful. The huge tube seems to suit Bia quite well.

There are even knapsacks of both small and big size. He also prepared chest and waist straps.

“How much for these?” (Shuuya)

“30 silver coins should do.” (Zaga)

I’m sure that’s more than absurdly cheap.

Since it would be tasteless to ask about each and every little thing, I keep my mouth shut.

“Roger.” (Shuuya)

I retrieve the silver coins out of my item box and hand them over to him with a feeling of gratitude.

“Thank you for your continued patronage.” (Zaga)

At this point, I turn around to the slaves once again.

“Girls, wear these.” (Shuuya)

“”Yes, master!””

The slaves equip the belts and shoulder the knapsacks.

Mamani and Bia store their weapons into the lashes connected to their belts, causing them to dangle at their waists.

Bia properly affixes the leather belt, connected with the throwing spear tube that’s shouldered on her back, in front of her chest.

Right now, she’s carrying four steel spears.

The one who had a longsword equipped after turning around the sword belt towards the back is Souther.

With this, the equipment for all of them is done.

Next are the potions, but I think it will be fine with the ones I currently own.

Though I don’t have any explosive ones.

Or rather, I didn’t even know that such a potion existed before.

“…The fact that you bought equipment for your slaves means that you were able to finish the deciphering of the magic treasure map, doesn’t it?” (Zaga)

Zaga, who was watching the slaves, asks.

“Indeed. I plan to tackle the magic treasure map.” (Shuuya)

“That’s what I suspected. But, be careful. My acquaintance, who belongs to a clan with the name of White Brotherhood or something like that—” (Zaga)

“That name!”

Mmh? Viine is surprised?

“Yeah, they seem to be quite famous.” (Zaga)

Zaga looks slightly boastful at her reaction.

“Hee, so that clan called White Brotherhood is famous. Is it possibly as renowned as the six top clans?” (Shuuya)

“Master, it’s one of those six top clans.” (Viine)

She calmly retorts me from the side.

Viine’s expression is somewhat cold-hearted.

Uuh, sorry for being ignorant of the ways of the world…

I immediately look in Zaga’s direction.

“Is she correct? For you to be acquainted with such an influential clan, as expected of a master smith.” (Shuuya)

I praise him sincerely.

“Stop it. Anyway, I guess one of their clan members mentioned something like Magic treasure maps are dangerous, The profits are huge, but the amount of monsters spawning is large, and The death of our young members was a serious blow for our clan.” (Zaga)

So it goes as far as a major clan having difficulties in their explorations, too.

“Got it. Thanks for the warning.” (Shuuya)

“Aye. I just don’t want to see sad faces, you know? Do your best if you're going to challenge it. And, if you manage to obtain good materials, bring them to me.” (Zaga)

Once again, Zaga laughs broadly with his teeth showing at the end of his sentence.

“Encha, encha!”

At that moment, Bon draws near while repeatedly chanting “Enchant” in rapid succession.

Rollo is with him, as well. They're like a pair of inseparable buddies.

“Did you finish dancing already?” (Shuuya)

“Encha?”

Bon is puzzled at my offhanded comment.

“Don’t worry about it. Now then, it’s already night, so we will go home soon.” (Shuuya)

“Enchant!”

“Aye, come here again once you have some time.” (Zaga)

“Roger.” (Shuuya)

I turn on my heels after saying goodbye.

“You guys, you heard me, right? We are going back home for the moment.” (Shuuya)

“Yes!”

“Understood.”

“As you wish, master.”

“Acknowledged.”

Everyone leaves the workshop and walks along the street in tandem.

Rollo gets off my shoulder and transforms into the Horse Lion once again.

Extending tentacles towards Viine and me, she places us on top of her back.

She doesn’t extend any tentacles to the slaves, though.

It’s not the hierarchy of a pet family, but she is apparently making a clear distinction.

"We'll advance slowly. Besides, it’s just the right moment, so follow in a jog, and consider it training.” (Shuuya)

I order the slaves with the commanding tone of an S.

“”Yes!””

The slaves begin to run, heeding to my words.

We go forward at an average walking speed.

Time to go back home. Ah, I have to make a report to the Lodging Moon of the Labyrinth.

There’s also a mirror over there. I guess I will head over to inform them of the news after leaving the slaves at home.

I will be immediately there, if I use a gate.

After settling my plan, I move my head back and watch the slaves who are following us by running.

“Master, would it be better for me to run as well?” (Viine)

Viine asks something like that as I’m checking the slaves behind us.

Is she saying that she wants to train herself?

“…Why?” (Shuuya)

“I want to train as well.” (Viine)

As expected.

“Hmm, feel free to do so.” (Shuuya)

“Y-Yes!” (Viine)

After bowing towards the laughing me, she jumps off RollodeenHorse Lion.

Once she lands on the ground, she joins the running slaves in their exercise.

Viine’s eyes are focused on Bia all the way, however.

Does she possibly regard her as a rival while holding a grudge for having lost in the previous small contest?

Without noticing Viine’s gaze, Bia runs while slithering with her long tongue.

It looks like she has also skillfully affixed the bastard sword on her back to the sword belt. The sword also sways as she runs, following her motions, but the big, round shield is no problem.

As I’m checking the state of the jogging slaves, we arrive at my home.

Everyone’s breathing is rough, but even among them, only Fuu with the parasite in her head is completely out of breath.

“Haaaahaahaahaaa…” (Fuu)

It sounds slightly erotic to my ears, however, as I recall a TV program where a beautiful idol ran up a slope.

But, Fuu is a beauty, no doubt.

I want to do something about the bug in her head, though.

I will observe her for a bit longer with the Kaleidoscope. Will I be able to kill only the main body of the bug with pinpoint precision by aiming my chains directly at it, just like performing a surgery?

Fuu’s head will most probably turn into a mess if I do something like that.

No, wait, if it’s <Banquet of the Blood Chains>, the special technique of <Blood Mana>, it should work, shouldn’t it?

If I can make the chain retract while using a blood chain…

Well, right now, it’s nothing more than my imagination, but I suppose I will later carry out experiments with <Banquet of Blood Chains>, once I’m alone.

“…Master, we're home.”

“Yeah, sorry. Go in.” (Shuuya)

I deliberated too much while watching Fuu, holding up everyone outside the gate.

Viine’s look has become somewhat stinging…

Don’t get angry. Those words don’t leave my mouth, though.

I walk across the courtyard while fleetingly peeking at Viine who looks as if she’s irritated.

At the moment we arrived right in the middle of the courtyard, I turn my face towards the slaves.

“You guys, wait at home. You can spend your time freely in this house. Don't be shy to use the food ingredients of the main building, too. I won’t mind if you eat some food individually by yourself. I've a little business to take care of, so I'll go outside. Then, time to break up!” (Shuuya)

“Yes!”

“Understood.”

“Acknowledged.”

“Certainly!”

The slaves look at each other, and then, while smiling, they move to the lodging house located on the right side of the courtyard.

“Master, where are you headed?” (Viine)

Viine asks, her silver hair swaying freely in the air.

“The inn, Lodging Moon of the Labyrinth.” (Shuuya)

“I see. You are going to retrieve the mirror, aren’t you?” (Viine)

“That’s right. I'll use a gate in the main building.” (Shuuya)

“Okay.” (Viine)

I enter the main building while taking Viine along.

Subsequently, I prepare a gate in the middle of the living room, where the table is.

Taking out the 24-faceted orbTrapezohedoron from my bandolier, I activate a gate by touching one facet.

The usual sight of my inn's room is reflected on the other side of the gate.

“Let’s go.” (Shuuya)

“Yes.” (Viine)

“Nya.”

『Yes.』 (Helme)

Even Helme appears in my field of vision.

I pass through the gate with Rollo on my shoulder and Viine’s hand in mine.

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Translation Notes:

1. Probably a reference to Lancer, a character from Fate/stay night, whose true identity is that of Cú Chulainn. Cú Chulainn is a figure of the Celtic mythology.
2. If you want to watch a jumping dogeza, check out the beginning of this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XspDkqEtWFE
3. Check https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mochi for information on mochi. Mochi pounding itself is something done during the End of Year Ceremony.
4. The one from the rock-paper-scissor game