A few days later, at the New Recruiters Training Center.
'Not enough energy! Can you move 'Inspire Hydra' for that!
The man in scarlet robes - the 'Instructor Mage' - shouted to the trainees in line.
''Yes! I'm sorry! Instructor Mage Lord of Vermilion which!
The 'trainees' lined up on the shore answered upright and immobile.
The "Instructor Mage", sword in hand, walked back and forth in front of them...
This 'rookie training' was started by you of your own volition, even though your employer told you to do it. No matter what happens, you are responsible for it. If you don't like it, you can leave at any time!
Really? Well, I'd better get to .......
However, anyone who leaves in the middle of the day is a no-good person who can't even finish what they set out to do! Report to your employer, guild or chamber of commerce that way. You'll have to figure out what the rest of the job will be!
............ Oh.
After running, we'll do calisthenics. This is how you gather magic power to me. It's a good idea to unite everyone's minds to move the messenger. This is a good place to find out if you have enough cooperation.
The "Instructor Mage" clapped his hands.
On cue, the trainees began to move in.
This is the coastal area in the northern part of the resort area of Mishlila.
The trainees are on the beach. They had come for the "Newcomer Training Program" on the recommendation of their workplace or acquaintances.
They were of all genders and ages, but all wore the same clothes.
They were tattered cloths held together with strings that served as an obi. On the surface were the names and numbers of the groups.
Group A to Group E. The names of the groups and their numbers are painted on the surface. Group A to Group E. Call the roll and start the Kumiteisou!
「「「「「「──yes 」」」」」
The trainees started to prepare for the 'magic power presentation exercise' with a depressed expression on their faces.
I'm sure you'll be able to find a way to make it work.
The effects of my own "curse" are minor. Can you move for another hour?
Checking the cloudy state of the crystal, the 'Instructor Mage' murmured, "This crystal ball is a magic item that has the effect of preventing a curse.
This crystal ball is a magic item with the ability to prevent the curse. It's not just a matter of time before it is affected by the curse on its owner's behalf, and when it reaches its limit it turns completely black. It is currently gray. His own work wasn't over yet, and he planned to continue his activities for a bit longer.
The influence of the 'curse' is still weak on this beach. With the amulet, it will keep it.''
The 'Instructor Mage' looked around.
At the end of the sandy beach, there was a small boat parked, and beyond that, a large boat that housed the 'trainees'.
On the other side is a rocky mountain.
Towards the north, the sandy beach was gone and the waves were crashing directly into the sheer cliffs.
It is in that area that the mermaids lived, and it is also the place where the influence of the "curse" is strongest.
It is said that there is a dungeon in the mermaid's dwelling place that was sealed a long time ago.
It's the center of the 'cursed land'. Even if you have a talisman, you can't stay there for a long time.
That's why they first had to find someone who was resistant to it. That's what the training is for.
Furthermore, this also has the effect of creating obedient workers.
After the training was over, they would work in the nobleman's mansions, guilds, and merchant associations without turning aside. Their employers are all happy.
As for the 'Instructor Mage' organization, they would send their own collaborators. It was a two birds with one stone.
''But ...... all of them are so crushed by the 'curse' that they don't even think about it. No use.
The instructor mage murmured, his black hair fluttering in the sea breeze.
In the sandy beach, the trainees have started doing gymnastics.
It's a pyramid exercise in pairs of 10. It's an effective way to gather magic power when everyone is united. A magic circle is drawn on the beach. It is a system that allows the 'Instructor Mage' to use the magic power they have collected.
Kyoshi, 'Instructor Mage' which ...... is no more, it's impossible.
'Who said I could talk! Group D. Number 1 to 10!
No, ......, with this many people, it's just not the right shape for ......
No excuses!
The 'Instructor Mage' shouted.
The 'Magic Presenting Gymnastics' was beautifully arranged on the sandy beach.
It was a beautiful sight, but only Group D's was warped and snarled.
'............ number 4 is ...... not there. ......'
Fourth? You got away: ...... What's his name?
............
"You should at least remember the names of your friends! Solidarity. You all follow me.
The 'Instructor Mage' starts running with the trainees in tow.
This 'rookie training' is an important job requested by the Marquis Hilmut. I won't allow you to escape.
The "Instructor Mage" turned his gaze to a large ship that was parked in the shallow water.
You will find the Marquis Hilmut and - another "instructor" inside that boat.
The "Instructor Mage" remembered that face and involuntarily gritted his back teeth. The other "instructor" who is his rival has already found some people who are resistant to the curse. I'm not going to be the only one.
The other two are already being evaluated for it. It's a good idea to have a good time with them.
"I'm going to look for 'D Group 4. I don't know his name. Gender is female, hair blue. That's what you're looking for.
The 'Instructor Mage' said to the trainees.
"The rest of you will continue with the gymnastics. You will have to wait until I return. You will be allowed to take a break later to hydrate and breathe deeply.
「「「「「 yes 」」」」」」
The trainees on the sandy beach replied with downcast eyes.
After looking at them with a satisfied look, the 'Instructor Mage' murmured, "The one who runs away has some resistance to the 'curse', but does not follow orders.
''Those who run away have some resistance to the 'curse', but they do not follow orders. Those who obey have no tolerance. It's a difficult one.
The "Instructor Mage" Lord of Vermilion has started running.
Near the rocky mountains near the coast, near the area cursed by the curse, Letitia team...
All right, let's get to work.
Leticia said to her gathered companions.
This is a rocky mountain close to the coast. The hillside. It's the safe zone that Saint Delilira taught me about.
The area affected by the land's "curse" has been carefully mapped out by Nagi after listening to Delilira's opinion. She also took into account the margin of error to get a safe distance. There should be no impact here.
Rafilia-san. Have you received a message from Nagi-san?
It's 'mind-linkage reform', isn't it? It's coming!
Raphilia nodded, hiding behind the trees that grew in the rocky mountains.
The masters are about 20 minutes' walk from here, and they'll be waiting. They'll be on the move if we cause a scene.
Is Ms. Cutlass ready?
I'm calling Fynn now!
Cutlass touched the equipped 'Balluar's Breastplate' and closed his eyes.
'Another Boku, Fynn! The search for the enemy, please!
Yes, sir!
A girl with the same face as Cutlass - a little longer hair and different colored eyes - suddenly appeared.
Then, I'm going to take a look at the surroundings from the top of the tree. The details are for Cutlass!
Saying that, Fynn lightly kicked a branch and jumped up into the air.
With a body made of magical power, Fihn can fly. I'm very good at spotting and scouting.
Well, I don't think there's anything there.
Fynn climbed up to the highest branch, hiding between the branches and leaves.
'We only have to get their attention, that's all. If there's nothing else, you can have Raphilia and her teammates fire a few fireballs at you and... oh no! Someone's coming.
There is something wrong with you, isn't there?
Cutlass on the ground turned to Letitia and said.
'Someone's coming this way,' he said. For more information ...... hmmmm. It's a young girl, with blue hair and ...... looking terribly tired, says Fynn.
Are you armed?
I've heard that he doesn't have ....... It's not that I'm in any condition to fight, it's just that I'm not. His complexion is pale and his eyes are downcast, and he is wearing clothes with numbers drawn on them ...... Perhaps he is a trainee in a 'rookie training' program.
Having said that much, Cutlass finished his report.
''What are you going to do? A nobleman's daughter.
A voice came from Letitia's back.
It's the Leggy of the Magic Sword, entrusted to me by Nagi.
"You are the leader of this team.
We believe the 'trainee' has escaped from the new training program. We'll protect him. You can at least get the information. Raphilia-san, you should tell Nagi-san about that.
Okay.
Could it be that you're trying to make them think you're an escaped convict and attack those who come looking for training? What will you do if that happens?
I mean, it's our job to get their attention anyway.
Leticia grabbed the magic sword Leggy.
''If there's a trap (trap), we'll just use 'Chiito Sukiru' to bite it off. You will cooperate with me, won't you? Mr. Leggy.
'Of course. The Lord has asked me to help a noble girl. You owe me one.
Okay. Boom, boom, boom.
Leticia smiles wryly and Reggie snaps his scabbard.
Meanwhile, up in the tree, Fynn continues to scout out the tree. Cutlass continues to pass on the information he's gleaned from her.
As per the plan, Raphilia has disappeared. She is the communicator to Nagi. This is because it's troubling if she doesn't stay safe until the end.
─ ─ She is coming!
When Cutlass gave the signal - a skinny girl appeared from behind the trees.
"...... haha. Huh. ...... I can't do this anymore. I can't work any more ......
A girl comes running out on wobbly legs, scrambling through the grass with trembling hands.
She is sweaty, and her hair is shaggy. She is wearing simple clothes, just a cloth held together with an obi. The words "D Group 4" are carefully written in the lower right corner.
The girl kneels on the ground and tries to stand up - noticing the presence of Leticia and the others ......
'Hi...... hi! I was just trying to drink water. I was just trying to drink water ...... I know I can only drink it for a set amount of time, but I'm already thirsty, and I'm feeling pretty ......
Relax. We're just passing through.
............-e ......
What's your name?
"I'm number 4 in the ............D group, ...... the blue-haired little (Kogara) .......
The girl said in a dry voice.
'I'm in the third group on breakfast duty. I have a small voice, so I'm allowed to do duty three times a week to do ...... as punishment. I really wanted to learn magic, but I didn't have enough requirements to join that group, so I'm in the close combat group. That one is rank E and .......
'Huh-ha, no use! I'm sure you'll be able to find out what's going on. Its skin and flesh are made from altered crystal...
It's a physical defense. They seem to recognize it as skin and flesh.
''That crystal body is absorbing magic. So we should think of it as the power source.
I told the master to go to ......, and here comes the mission.
"Then get it done! Elf girl!
Opponents with cheat skills are used to it.
After completing the analysis in the blink of an eye, Leticia's team makes their move.
Leticia and Cutlass took their weapons in hand and headed towards the 'Instructor Mage'.
And Rafilia deactivated the 'Optical Camouflage' and readied her bow.
''Abominable──are you the owner of the voice?''
We'll talk later. Activate! ''Gououkyou Kyoujutsu'' plus ''Physical Penetrator''!
(with a) whizzing sound
The five arrows released by Raphilia flew through the air.
''That magic crystal! I'm going to destroy it all at once!
'Nonsense. That thing's skin and flesh are getting harder. No one can pierce it with that arrow!
It doesn't penetrate skin and flesh, sir.
Flipping over the 'Optical Camouflage Cloak', Rafilia struck a 'cool pose'.
'Just ignore it.'
I'm not going to be able to get it right.
I'm sure you'll be pleased with the results.
I'm sure you'll be able to find out more about this.
Crack!
The crystals shattered, five at once.
"Hyahhhhhhhhhhhh!
The body of the "Inspire Hydra" fell apart.
The sound of glass shattering could be heard. It was a loud sound.
This would have echoed all the way to the seaside. Thinking that, Leticia and the others nodded to each other.
Their objective is 'to attract the attention of the people in the training hall', and that's enough of an achievement.
''Now all we have to do is get this girl to a place where she'll be safe.
Yes, sir. That's a tough one, isn't it, trainees who have escaped? Please put it on my back.
I gave the master the information about the mage. According to Cecil-sama's analysis, she has the ability to manipulate 'magic power' at will.
"You've been absorbing the magic of the trainees, haven't you? Hmmm.
Letitia held her sword towards the 'Instructor Mage'.
She lent her shoulder to the girl from Cutlass and the 'Escaped Trainee'
Raphilia takes an alert position behind Leticia as she talks to Reggie.
'I'll protect your back. Mr. Cutlass, take the child to a place of safety.''
What are you people?
'Instructor Mage,' he shouted.
''This can't be happening! As an instructor of "training" approved by the Marquis, I can't even catch the ...... escapees!
'You're so stiff! There are some things in the world that you just can't see coming!
Leticia pulled out her magic sword Leggy.
''Strengthening,'' ''Both legs,'' ''Acceleration'' - I'll capture you!
The "Instructor Mage" chants a spell and kicks the ground. Both of his legs emit light.
''It's just as Master and Cecil-sama analyzed! This guy has a 'Chiito Sukiru' that gathers magic power into a part of his body and 'strengthens' it!
Yes, sir! We'll intercept!
"Cover for you, sir. "Flame Wall!
Raphilia cries out and a burning wall is created in front of the "Instructor Mage".
But...
"'Enhanced'! resist rise, fire resistance! Focus your magic on The Sword!
The "Instructor Mage" swung his sword and cut through the "Wall of Fire".
''─Focusing the magic power on the weapon and strengthening it? You cut the magic?
Because of this ability, I have been given the job of instructor!
In addition, the "Instructor Mage" swings his sword.
With his magical sword, he obliterates the wall of fire and fleshes out Letitia.
To be a hero, you cannot fail! Prepare yourself!
You ought to at least say hello! Activate 'Forced Civility (Manners Geass)'!
Hello! I'd like to say hello to you: ────!
Leticia lightly bows to the 'Instructor Mage' who came crashing through the wall of fire.
The "Mandatory Etiquette" is to force the person who greeted you to return the greeting.
But──.
"......-o, my body returns the greeting on its own, so if ...... is ...... 'inject all magic power into the resist value increase'!
Ggggghhh. Guguuguugu.
The entire body of the 'Instructor Mage' emits light.
He stiffens with the sword in his hand. With his upper body slightly tilted, he stops.
''Resist ('Compulsory civility') (is) (is) (is) (jatte)!''
'It's the same if you can't move! Tsk!
Letitia waved the 'Magic Sword Leggy'.
''──Chi!
The 'Instructor Mage' flies backwards.
The blade of the "Magic Sword Leggy" only made a small wound on his arm.
"...... forgive me. You've injured me. I'm going to give you the ultimate in great magic!
"Not good: ...... Aristocrat girl.
The magic sword leggy trembled in Leticia's hand.
When I cut off his arm just now, I activated the Condition Changer. However, he has increased his resistance with his full magical power. That's why the roulette was full of ska. Only the weakest effect was given. ......
I'm glad it worked. And how does it work?
"Sneeze.
Let's go! I'm going to concentrate all of my remaining magic power, enlarge my right arm, destroy it, and send more explosions and black smoke into the air.
The chanting broke off and the magic power gathered by the "Instructor Mage" scattered.
"Wha-what is this──Heck!
The "Instructor Mage" clenched his mouth.
''I'm sneezing - I can't stop sneezing. My magic for this nonsense!
You mustn't chant your magic in that state.
Shut up! You all are a bunch of hooligans!
Flipping over his scarlet robe, the 'Instructor Mage' raised his arms to the heavens.
''Come on, heck! The sky is turning upside down. "Utterly ridiculous! Yes! When this happens, speak up quickly and say, 'Concentrate my residual magic power on your right arm, and use the power of destruction to give all of your enemies the power to destroy and turn them into ashes. I'm going to turn all of my enemies into ashes.
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa!
The magic of the "Instructor Mage" has erupted.
The incomplete chanting caused the magic power to swirl around and blow the scarlet-robed mage away.
The mage rolled on the ground and stopped after hitting the base of a tree.
''...... such ...... stupid ...... kushun.''
The "Instructor Mage" fainted as it was.
The ...... chanting (eishou) is dangerous if not done correctly, you know. Especially with giant magic.
...... I'll just tie him up for now, won't I?
"...... Later on, I'll ask the maidservant to do something about my memory.
Raphilia takes out the rope and Leticia quickly ties the mage to the tree.
'...... What in the world is ...... you guys aren't training ......, right... ...?
The girl in the "Escaped Trainee" watched the series of events in awe.
Her body has stopped trembling.
Clinging to Cutlass' back, the girl just opened her mouth.
If possible, I hope you'll put aside what just happened.
Cutlass asks the girl in The Escaped Trainee, "We're just passing through.
'We're just passing through. We helped you because you wanted to be free. That's all right, sir.
I'll drive you to safety.
Fynn comes down from the air and lines up next to the girl.
At the same time, Fynn reports to Cutlass.
The 'trainees' and people who seem to be instructors have gathered on the beach. The environment to launch the second phase of the operation is ready.
'Now it's up to Arujidono.
We're the support system, aren't we?
Cutlass and the others still have their work cut out for them.
Anyway, let's get out of here and move to a safer place.
...... Oh, what the hell are you guys doing at ......?
The girl from the 'escape trainee' asked at Cutlass' back.
'We're 'just passing through,'
Then Cutlass laughed.
'We're just doing what we want to do. I just wish the world could be a kinder place, though.
"I know, I was pushing myself too hard a while ago.
...... Really? ......?
So don't worry about it. Now, you just take your time and get some rest.
Cutlass smiles at the girl on his back.
"Calmly ...... if you can remember your name, you can tell me ...... a little bit about your situation. That alone makes you very valuable to us, you know.