Chapter 13: Advance Preparation
I noticed something strange, or rather an anomaly, while we were going down the stairs. A sound was coming from the bottom of the stairs. A creaking, wriggling sound. It was audible even up to the floor above.
Approaching slowly... we saw huge ants, nearly a meter in length, packed tightly together. Ants were layered on top of ants, and a massive number of ants filled the space from the second-floor room to the end of the passage. I gave up on Appraisal because they might notice us.
On the walls and ceiling, things that looked like ant eggs were lined up without even a needle-point of space, looking quite grotesque. Just as I was thinking I wanted to bring a rocket launcher here and blow them away magnificently, Clarice muttered, "It's like a game world." She was probably thinking the exact same thing as me.
"Ike-nii, what should we do?"
"If we mess with this poorly, it looks like it'll turn into a disaster... Does anyone have a plan?"
"Staying here is dangerous too, so why don't we go back for today? It seems completely different from the information we heard."
Following Clarice's opinion, we all aimed for the exit carrying magic stones. I defeated all enemies that appeared on the way back with magic. Everyone's hands were full with magic stones, after all.
While returning, I appraised Ike and Clarice, whose levels had risen.
【Name】 Ike Bryant
【Title】 -
【Status】 Human, Eldest Son of Viscount Bryant
【Condition】 Good
【Age】 11
【Level】 25 (+4)
【HP】 147/147
【MP】 822/1175
【Strength】 95 (+15)
【Agility】 72 (+12)
【Magic】 52 (+9)
【Dexterity】 41 (+7)
【Constitution】 90 (+14)
【Luck】 10
【Special Abilities】
Swordsmanship C (Lv 6/15) (4 → 6)
Spearmanship B (Lv 8/17) (7 → 8)
Fire Magic C (Lv 7/15) (6 → 7)
【Equipment】
Flame Lance
Fire Spirit Sword (Salamander Sword)
Fire Phantom Beast Ifrit's Robe
Bracelet of Fire
This is the first time I've properly appraised Ike like this since before I was sent to Granzam. In that time, he has aged and surely become stronger, possessing abilities of C-Class adventurer class.
Next, Clarice.
【Name】 Clarice Lampard
【Title】 -
【Status】 Human, Eldest Daughter of Baron Lampard
【Condition】 Good
【Age】 8
【Level】 25 (+4)
【HP】 120/120
【MP】 354/624
【Strength】 51 (+8)
【Agility】 55 (+9)
【Magic】 75 (+12)
【Dexterity】 83 (+15)
【Constitution】 51 (+7)
【Luck】 20
【Unique Abilities】
Barrier Magic G (Lv 1/5)
【Special Abilities】
Swordsmanship C (Lv 4/15) (3 → 4)
Archery B (Lv 7/17) (5 → 7)
Water Magic C (Lv 3/15) (2 → 3)
Holy Magic A (Lv 7/19) (6 → 7)
【Equipment】
Defender
Magic Arrow
Saintess's Robe (Saint Robe)
Mysterious Anklet
Hair Ornament of Vowed Love
Bracelet of Disguise
Since Clarice continued to dive into the Ilgusia Dungeon while I was making bricks, her level has risen quickly. She surpassed me in the blink of an eye and is already on par with Ike.
Her Dexterity has risen because she uses a bow and sword, and her Magic has risen because she uses magic. The tracking ability of the 《Ice Arrow》 she learned recently is also quite nasty.
When we left the dungeon, the sun had completely set.
Pushing through the hustle and bustle of the city, we headed for the Adventurer's Guild. Along with exchanging magic stones, we decided to report the situation on the second floor to Guild Master Ralph.
Amidst the stifling smell of sweat, we asked the 【Black Three-Wolf Stars】 to line up for the exchange, and the three of us headed to Ralph's daughter, Lucia, who was at the reception.
At that time, the adventurers were surprised by the amount of magic stones, but even more surprised that Beastmen were serving under someone.
"We have something to report to Ralph-san urgently. Can you pass it on?"
"What's wrong? Please state your business first."
When Ike asked Lucia, who was dealing with other adventurers, Lucia stopped her hands and listened carefully to Ike's words. The adventurers were people we had talked with at the social gathering, so even though we cut in line claiming an emergency, they watched the conversation quietly without making a single unpleasant face.
"There is a possibility that the Almeria Dungeon will cause a Dungeon Saturation."
"———U-Understood. Please come this way."
Following Lucia, we arrived in front of the Guild Master's room on the second floor.
"Viscount Zeke of Ilgusia's son says he has a report."
When Lucia knocked, Ralph's voice was heard from inside the room.
"Come in."
When Lucia opened the door and urged us to enter, there was a visitor already there. A neatly dressed old man was sitting on the sofa. I feel like I've seen him somewhere... As I was trying to remember, Ralph introduced the person first.
"You guys, this gentleman is the Carmel Margrave, Evin Saolm-sama."
Introduced by Ralph, the Carmel Margrave stood up slowly.
"Nice to meet you, I am Evin Saolm."
With a calm and gentle expression, the Carmel Margrave introduced himself, so we each introduced ourselves as well. Watching this, Ralph asked the business at hand immediately.
"So, what happened with you guys? I heard you had an urgent report?"
"Yes. Today we intended to head to the second floor of the Almeria Dungeon, but the situation was abnormal, so we turned back and came to report."
"The second floor? It's already that far... well, naturally for you guys... Continue."
"Yes. There were many ant monsters on the second floor. It was so packed we couldn't see the back. We thought we couldn't deal with that number, so we came to report."
"Even for you guys?"
"We won't know unless we try, but to say 'it was impossible' after trying... If we challenged it in a more prepared state and it was impossible, we could give up, but we didn't want to challenge it unprepared with just us and result in the destruction of the city."
"Umu. I would like to see it once, but can you guide me to the second floor of the dungeon now?"
Following Ralph's words, the Carmel Margrave continued.
"I wish to accompany you as well. After all, it is the land I govern. I apologize, but can I ask for my guard as well?"
"I think it will be fine. We are diving with Beastman slaves, so number-wise there should be no problem..."
Hearing that, the Carmel Margrave asked with a slightly surprised look.
"Beastman slaves? Where did you buy them?"
"At Helic-san's place in Almeria."
"Did the Beastmen obey obediently?"
"No, Barnes-sama and my brother Mars here sparred a little... Seeing that, the Beastmen said they would serve if it was us... Of course, Barnes-sama said he had no intention of serving yet."
"You conversed with Barnes?"
"Yes. Only my brother. The other Beastmen were also surprised that it was very rare for Barnes-sama to speak with a human."
"...I see... Beastmen obey you..."
Judging from the Carmel Margrave's expression, his feelings must be quite complex.
"We are currently exchanging magic stones, but shall we leave immediately?"
"Ah! The sooner the better. Is that acceptable, Margrave?"
The Carmel Margrave nodded at Ralph's words. Leaving the Guild Master's room and going down to the first floor, we met eyes with the 【Black Three-Wolf Stars】 who were still lined up.
Seeing the 【Black Three-Wolf Stars】 bow their heads as if showing firm respect to us, the Carmel Margrave showed a surprised expression again.
"We've decided to dive into the dungeon again now. I want you guys to guard these two gentlemen."
"Understood. What shall we do with these magic stones?"
Indeed, we can't take these magic stones with us. Then, here Ralph invoked his authority.
"I'm the Guild Master here. My skills are rusty, but I can still fight a little. I'll handle the magic stone exchange properly here, so rest assured. You guys prioritize guarding the Carmel Margrave here."
Ralph called Lucia and the others who were at reception and instructed them to carry the large amount of magic stones to the back of the reception.
"Guy, that's how it is. Focus on guarding the Carmel Margrave. Once we return, let's eat lots of meat dishes today!"
"Ha! Understood."
At Ike's words, Guy, Mack, and Ol of the 【Black Three-Wolf Stars】 bowed their heads.
While glancing at the Carmel Margrave and Ralph, who were surprised by the 【Black Three-Wolf Stars】' solid demeanor as slaves, we hurried to the dungeon.
"To this extent... are they all C-Class or higher..."
The Carmel Margrave and Ralph stared wide-eyed at our fighting style. With that momentum, we reached the last room of the first floor. What was there were Rock Lizards, not Grizzly Bears. As usual, the three of us—me, Ike, and Clarice—finished them off.
When the Carmel Margrave and Ralph checked downstairs, both of their eyes widened.
"What... is this gruesome spectacle... At least when Zeke and the others were here, ants... no, Killer Ants shouldn't have been here... Could they have come to the second floor from much deeper...?"
So these ants are called Killer Ants. To the shock of the scene, Ralph called Zeke without honorifics, and the Carmel Margrave asked.
"Either way, it is certain that this is not a situation we can leave alone... Ralph, what should we do?"
"Margrave, shall we return for now? It's too dangerous to talk here."
When we left the dungeon again, it was already late at night. The setting sun had illuminated Almeria when we entered the dungeon, but now magic stone lamps replaced it.
"I'm sorry. We've been diving in the dungeon since morning, so we're quite tired. May we excuse ourselves here for today?"
Instead of Ike, I proposed to the Carmel Margrave. We hadn't eaten and had been going non-stop. The 【Black Three-Wolf Stars】 were tired too, and above all, I didn't want Clarice to stay up any later.
"...I see. Understood. Good work, you guys. Sorry, but could you show your faces at the guild tomorrow again? I will provide proper compensation."
Nodding at the Carmel Margrave's words, we hurried to the mansion where Misa and Ray were waiting.
—The next day.
The Carmel Margrave was already in the Guild Master's room. Did this person sleep here?
"Straight to business, do you have any plans?"
When the Carmel Margrave asked us, Ike urged me with his eyes to speak.
"First, we don't know the strength of the monsters, so I can't say for sure. Ralph-san seemed to know about those monsters, but how strong are they?"
Since he called them Killer Ants yesterday, he must know something.
"Ah, those are monsters called Killer Ants that inhabit places like the 'Forest of Death' in the Lister Federation. Threat Level is D. If it's just one, it's not much of a threat, but with that number..."
Indeed, they were packed tightly all the way to the back.
"If it's about a thousand Threat Level D monsters, I think it's possible to defeat them all. But if there are higher species, it might be tough..."
"Does that mean if it's just a thousand Killer Ants, the three of you can manage somehow?"
"It might be impossible if we faced a thousand at once on a plain, but inside a dungeon, and fighting on stairs, I think there's a way."
"If you were to take command, what would you do?"
"If it were me... First, I would call the three C-Rank parties from Ilgusia: 【Brown Shield】, 【Blue Fang】, and 【Red Wing】. I would somehow persuade the Beastman slaves, and including the high-ranking adventurers of this city, wait in the last room of the first floor. What is important here is that Barnes-sama's cooperation is absolutely necessary. If enemies from the third floor and beyond come out together, we cannot deal with Threat Level B monsters alone."
At my words, the Carmel Margrave nodded as if expecting it.
"I see... as expected, it comes to that... Let's do what we can! I know what Barnes will demand, but... well, it's probably impossible... I think you know, but your power is also needed. You can expect compensation. Please, I'm counting on you."
The Carmel Margrave bowed his head to us three children. He was completely different from my image of a noble. Count Beetle was the same, but the high-ranking nobles of this world were all good people. Maybe it meant you couldn't govern unless you were a person of character.
"Carmel Margrave. Please raise your head. Of course, please let us fight together. This is also the place where we were born. Father and Mother will surely cooperate too."
"Thank you. As expected, it was the right decision to entrust Almeria to Sir Zeke..."
The Carmel Margrave teared up slightly, his voice trembling a little. It was decided that we would call Zeke and the others again tomorrow for a meeting.
After returning to the mansion and finishing dinner, I went to the dungeon alone. To train Lightning Magic. When I appraised Lightning Magic, it said that handling it required considerable training in magic manipulation.
First, trying to clad myself in Lightning Magic like when I sparred with Barnes, unlike before when it wouldn't manifest no matter how many times I tried, a golden aura wrapped my body easily, like a lie.
Huh? Aren't lightning bolts usually blue-white? I only saw lightning properly once, and that was the lightning when I came to this world with Clarice. Well, I guess I don't need to worry about the color.
The golden lightning I was wearing didn't seem to damage me. Neither did it damage the things I was wearing. And I could walk while clad in this lightning. While walking in the dungeon passage like that, I saw a flock of Silver Bats ahead.
The Silver Bats seemed to notice me too and attacked me while I was clad in lightning. Just as I tried to dodge the Silver Bat's attack while wondering if I could defeat it with Lightning Magic somehow, it happened.
The lightning I was wearing shot out towards the Silver Bat on its own.
When the golden lightning pierced the Silver Bat, my vision was dyed gold along with a roar, and in the next moment, the Silver Bat had turned into a magic stone. The other Silver Bats had also fallen to the ground from the sound and shock.
Th-This magic is dangerous. No matter how you think about it, it's unavoidable. By the time you think it flashed, it has already hit. The power is immeasurable too. At least, it's not comparable to 《Firestorm》.
I decided to name the magic of cladding lightning 《Tenrai》. The MP consumption of 《Tenrai》 was a whopping 500. It eats up too much MP. Thinking I might be able to suppress MP consumption if I could adjust the power, I repeated trial and error, when suddenly I heard a familiar cute voice from behind me.
"Mars? Are you okay? There was amazing light and sound... what are you doing?"
Turning around, I saw Clarice looking worriedly at me.
"Eh?! Why... are you here?"
"No... I was cleaning up with Misa and Ray, and saw Mars leaving the house. I got a little worried and followed you."
Clarice walked over, looking a little apologetic.
"I was practicing magic. It's a type of magic that causes trouble if people or things are around."
As I approached to welcome Clarice walking towards me and tried to take her hand, I realized something. I hadn't deactivated 《Tenrai》!
"Dangerous!"
My shout was in vain; golden lightning traveled from my body to Clarice's right hand.
"Kyaaaaaahhh!!!"
.........
......
...
"A-Are?"
《Tenrai》 definitely should have hit Clarice directly, but...
"A-Are you okay?"
"Y-Yeah... what was... that just now?"
Clarice asked while looking at her glowing right hand in wonder.
"I think the magic I'm training right now hit Clarice... but are you really okay? It's the magic that damaged Barnes-sama the other day, so I wanted to be able to use it quickly. But I thought something like this might happen if I practiced in front of people, so I came here alone to train..."
"The sensation just now felt somehow nostalgic... I know this feeling... I think."
As expected, I also felt somehow that this magic was nostalgic.
"It's Lightning Magic. I have an idea too. Probably the sensation from that convenience store, isn't it?"
"I knew it... I thought so immediately too. Does that mean I have resistance?"
"Probably..."
Maybe it's thanks to the Saintess's Robe she has equipped.
"Hey, I'll try not to make it hurt too much, so could you take it off?"
Clarice looked blank for a moment at my words, but her pure white skin turned red in an instant.
"Wait?! Wh-What are you saying?! Here?! I don't want to do it here..."
Ah, my phrasing was definitely bad... This is definitely a sexual harassment case.
"N-No, I didn't mean it like that. I thought maybe it was thanks to the Saintess's Robe that Clarice didn't take damage or get the status abnormality Electrocuted. I definitely didn't mean it in that way."
"Ah...! Say it properly."
Saying that, Clarice took off the Saintess's Robe. I became strangely conscious because of the conversation just now, and even the sound of clothes rustling... Cutting off my worldly desires with all my might, I called out as naturally as possible.
"Then I'm starting, okay? As gently as possible... no, so it doesn't hurt... no... anyway, I'll try not to hurt you, but tell me if it hurts even a little."
I felt like whatever I said would be taken in that way. But Clarice seemed to understand.
"I trust Mars. Be gentle and don't hurt me, okay?"
She teased me with a smile and held my hand.
"Here I go?"
At my question, Clarice looked straight into my eyes and nodded.
"《Tenrai》"
At the same time golden light wrapped me, it traveled from my hand to Clarice, wrapping her gently as if to protect her too.
"This means I have resistance after all, right?"
"Yeah. Thinking about it now, it would have been dangerous if you didn't have resistance. I was too rash. Sorry."
"No. I had the conviction that if it was Mars, it would definitely be okay. Besides, now I can dive with you. Even for you, Mars, I'm worried about you being in this dungeon alone."
"Thank you. Then I'll take you up on that and ask for your support."
I trained on whether I could release 《Tenrai》 at will and controlling its power. Clarice had brought the Intermediate Holy Magic grimoire and aimed to learn 《Cure》 recorded in it.
This Lightning Magic, the output is too large, so controlling it might require considerable Magic and Dexterity stats. I feel like I'm managing to moderate it somehow, but still, it wasn't something Silver Bats or Rock Lizards could withstand.
Also, once 《Tenrai》 locks onto a target, I can't call the lightning back by my will. Or rather, by the time I notice, it has already hit. So, it's not a magic I can manifest casually in front of everyone.
Also, the intense MP consumption is a drawback. In fact, having trained only a little, my MP is approaching double digits.
"How is it? Do you think you can learn 《Cure》?"
"Yeah. I kind of got the hang of it, so if I do a little more..."
Watching Clarice's face next to me as she worked seriously, a white light was released from her right hand.
"I did it! I can do it!"
"Congratulations! Teach me next time too. If we stay too late, it might affect tomorrow, so let's go back."
"Right. Tomorrow might be the real thing, so let's return quickly."
Taking Clarice's hand, the two of us left the dungeon.
Arriving in front of the mansion, we tried to sneak into the house without anyone noticing, but were easily found by the three of the 【Black Three-Wolf Stars】. Beastman hearing is terrifying.
When we explained the situation, they said it might be presumptuous to worry about us who are stronger than them, but asked us to at least tell them when we go out.
While the two of us apologized saying "I'm sorry," I returned to my room thinking that from now on, I have to erase sound and smell with Wind Magic, or I won't be able to have dungeon dates in the name of training.
—The next day
"Alright, let's begin immediately."
After scouting the situation on the second floor of the Almeria Dungeon with Zeke and the others who came from Ilgusia early in the morning, we held a strategy meeting in the Guild Master's room.
Everyone nodded at Guild Master Ralph's words. Me, Ike, Clarice, Zeke, Maria, 【Blue Fang】, 【Red Wing】, 【Black Three-Wolf Stars】, and the Carmel Margrave.
"I heard the gist from Mars. What happened with the Beastmen?"
When Zeke asked Ralph, the Carmel Margrave answered.
"I negotiated with the Beastmen yesterday, and everyone except Barnes will cooperate. As expected, Barnes's demand was as predicted. I'm sorry."
"What is Barnes-sama's demand?"
Ike threw a natural question.
"He said if we bring a woman named Flora to Almeria, he will participate. Well, if a Dungeon Saturation occurs, he will fulfill his duty as per the contract, but there will likely be some damage to this city..."
"Is it not possible to bring Flora-san?"
"Ah. Flora joined an A-Rank party. She is no longer in the Kingdom of Barcus. She should be in some high-difficulty region or near a dungeon somewhere in this world by now."
An A-Rank party. I want to meet them someday. As I was thinking that, Zeke asked the Carmel Margrave a question this time.
"Can you not mobilize the Margrave's knight order? Also, adventurers other than those here."
"Umu. I can mobilize them. In fact, I am directing the knight order here, but the knight order operates mainly for public order maintenance and has never dived into a dungeon. Don't expect too much. We are recruiting adventurers from other cities, but ask Ralph about that later. There used to be excellent adventurers in Almeria too, but they were drafted for the war. Two promising adventurers got married, and now they are unfortunately Viscounts of a direct imperial territory."
The Carmel Margrave answered while looking at Zeke and Maria.
"I apologize. You looked after us very well, Margrave, but..."
"It's fine, it's fine. Besides, I am receiving cooperation from that Viscount's children too. I am very grateful to you, Sir. Once this matter is settled safely, can we talk, just the two of us... no, with your wife, the three of us?"
"Yes. Understood. But for now, let's think about the Almeria Dungeon."
When the Carmel Margrave nodded, Zeke immediately opened his mouth while looking at everyone.
"Yes. Then, the strategy. First, the execution date, but sooner is better, so it's tomorrow. We will dive leaving one enemy alive in every room on the first floor of the Almeria Dungeon. This is a standard tactic, but it is to make the retreat route safer. Unless it's a spawn room, monsters won't spawn in that room unless you wipe them out, as you all probably know."
When Zeke looked around, everyone except me and Clarice nodded. I thought I had heard something like that a long time ago, but Clarice apparently didn't know at all.
"When we reach the last room of the first floor, we will also leave one alive in this room. However, for the monster in this room only, I want to restrain it if possible."
Well, with this much war potential, tying one up should be easy.
"From here is the real thing. I am considering the battle location to be between the first and second floors, meaning the stairs. Likely, the moment we attack one ant, most of the ants will aim for the first floor. There, I will have Mars release a 《Tornado》 near the stairs to attack the ants. Is everyone with me so far?"
When Zeke confirmed with Ralph and the Carmel Margrave, both nodded.
"We believe a single 《Tornado》 won't be enough to finish them off, even if it deals decent damage. Due to the massive number of ants, the power of the 《Tornado》 will weaken, and we expect ants to slip through the Tornado and enter the first floor. The strategy is for us to annihilate the weakened ants that enter the first floor."
"Isn't it impossible for Mars-kun alone to keep firing magic at the stairs continuously?"
"Yes. If Mars's MP runs out, I intend to block the stairs with Earth Magic or Water Magic. Therefore, everyone capable of Earth Magic and Water Magic will act so as not to consume MP. If we can hold out for three hours, Mars's MP should return somewhat, so we will have to judge based on the situation then, but... Also, to ensure the retreat route, I would like you to prohibit other adventurers from entering the dungeon. There is a possibility that other adventurers might defeat the monsters we left alive. It would be good if we could have them standby in front of the dungeon just in case..."
"Understood. Let's go with Zeke's plan."
Obtaining Ralph's approval, I supplemented Zeke's words.
"I apologize for being presumptuous. What Father just said is based on the premise that Barnes-sama will participate in the battle. If Barnes-sama does not participate, wouldn't it be a tactic to somehow involve him in the battle? I believe we will definitely be wiped out by ourselves..."
"You mean... fight in the city of Almeria..."
The Carmel Margrave nodded at my words.
"Yes. If we are wiped out and Barnes-sama fights the swarm of ants alone, what will happen? Even if Barnes-sama wins, I think the city of Almeria will suffer tremendous damage."
"Indeed... If we think the battle in the dungeon is even slightly too tough, returning to the city of Almeria early and fighting alongside Barnes might be the best plan..."
"Could you persuade Barnes-sama one more time?"
"...Impossible... at least for me. Could I ask you to go alone now, Mars-kun? You are the only human Barnes has acknowledged here. He might not realize the magnitude of the situation no matter what I say, but if you say it, maybe you can persuade him."
Going alone is scary... but it's a request from the Carmel Margrave...
"Understood. Then I will go speak with Barnes-sama."
In the end, tomorrow's strategy was decided: if we get into a pinch with the previous fighting method—no, retreat before getting into a pinch—we would somehow involve Barnes and engage in urban warfare.
"What do you want? I don't think I have anything to say to you anymore?"
For some reason, Barnes wasn't inside the room but in front of it.
"Yes. I came to ask you to accompany us to the Almeria Dungeon by all means."
"Persistent! I will lend a hand if a Dungeon Saturation occurs. But until then, I have no intention of leaving here!"
"If we get wiped out in the Almeria Dungeon, this city of Almeria might suffer considerable damage too. But if we can fight together, I think the possibility of Almeria suffering damage will be lower."
"I don't care what happens to this city. I'm just lending a hand for the contract. If you guys get wiped out, I'll just leave here."
Hmm. Is it just me, or is what Barnes saying kind of incoherent? He has no intention of leaving here... but he doesn't care what happens to the city... As I pondered a little on the spot, a lion appeared from behind Barnes.
There was a red ribbon on that lion's head. And its left eye was crushed... or maybe not, but it had a severe wound. Could it be that this lion was the one in the same room as Barnes? But Barnes definitely called her a girl the other day...
"Hey, go home already. I won't move from here until you bring Flora."
"Lastly. What do you intend to do after bringing Flora-sama here, Barnes-sama?"
"That's obvious. Make her cure Ellie's curse and wounds."
Saying that, Barnes looked toward the lion with the red ribbon. So this lion is Ellie.
Hmm? Cure wounds? Then could it be that Flora is?
"Could it be that Flora-sama can use Holy Magic?"
"Ah, yes. That's why I entered the Kingdom of Barcus instead of the Lister Federation. I heard there was a Holy Mage in this country who didn't belong to any country or party yet."
"Flora-sama must be an amazing Holy Mage. To be able to break a curse."
"No way. According to what I heard, Flora can only use 《Heal》. Well, she might be a bit better now. I just heard that a Holy Mage broke a curse in the past. I'll make her do it until she can break it."
Barnes glared at me sharply and continued.
"Hey. If you find Flora somewhere, bring her to me! Got it?"
"Understood. But if this city disappears, I won't know where Barnes-sama is..."
This time Barnes seemed to be hesitating. Maybe one more push?
"I have been told by my father to go to the Lister National School in the Lister Federation. At that time, it is possible to stop by various places and look for Flora-sama, but... what shall we do?"
"Hey. Mars, was it? Come back again tomorrow!"
Barnes returned to his room, and the lion with the red ribbon followed him.
He will probably think until tomorrow. Likely, Barnes can't move much. Because of Ellie. It would be impossible to move from city to city while protecting her. That's why he can't go look for Flora... for a Holy Mage himself.
If he trusts me even a little, he might accept the previous proposal.
Also, I have something to consult with Zeke when I get back. Whether I can tell Barnes that I can use Holy Magic.
If I can break the curse, I could do it right here, but I don't know such magic.
The worst pattern is that by curing Ellie's wounds, it becomes known that I can use Holy Magic, and I get confined until I break the curse.
I returned to the mansion while pondering.
"I see... I am against teaching him that Mars can use Holy Magic. Barnes-sama might have the same thought as me. If that lion named Ellie is the most precious person to Barnes-sama, he will choose Ellie over Almeria. It's easy to imagine how he would treat Mars for Ellie's sake. As expected, is there no choice but to choose urban warfare..."
When I returned to the mansion and reported the conversation with Barnes to Zeke, the expected answer came back.
"Yes. However, if it becomes urban warfare, the timing of retreating from the dungeon becomes important. If we can hold out in the dungeon even a little, the possibility of causing damage to the city of Almeria decreases..."
"True. If possible, I want to make this decision. Especially since most of the dungeon participants this time are people from Ilgusia. Leaving the lives of Ilgusia residents to others is a bit... In the end, the retreat decision will probably be made by the Carmel Margrave or Ralph, but I'll try to do something so I can interject even a little. I wanted to ask one thing, what Threat Level of monsters can Mars defeat?"
"If it's just me... I feel like I can win against Threat Level B enemies depending on compatibility... I think I'm better at dealing with a large number of small fry than one strong enemy. Probably Barnes-sama is the opposite of me."
"Even Mars, huh... How strong do you think the enemies are?"
"According to Ralph-san, the weakest Killer Ant is Threat Level D. In the case of Goblins, the weakest Goblin is Threat Level G, and the strongest is B. Thinking like that, it's certain they are stronger than B at minimum. In my opinion, I think they are Threat Level B or higher."
"That is... as expected, Barnes-sama is essential... Understood. Let's eat."
"Father. May I ask you to dive into the dungeon together?"
I asked Zeke, who was relaxing after finishing the meal.
"Ah. I don't mind, but what's wrong?"
"There is something I want you to see before tomorrow's battle. If possible, Mother and Ike-nii too. I think Clarice knows, but it would help if she came along."
Despite the sudden proposal, everyone nodded to my suggestion.
"Wh-What was that just now... Lightning? But golden?"
"Roar, vibration, power. All of them are a first-time experience."
This was the reaction when I showed 《Tenrai》 to Zeke and the others.
"Yes. This is Lightning Magic. It's magic I learned when I was threatened by Barnes-sama, and the power is as you see. The weakness is that I can't control this magic yet, and I can't cast it near anyone except Clarice."
"Why can you cast it near Clarice?"
Zeke threw a natural question, so I took Clarice's hand, moved away from everyone, and used 《Tenrai》.
"Wh-What... Clarice is golden too?"
"Yes. For some reason, only Clarice doesn't become a target for 《Tenrai》."
I gave a vague reason to the surprised Zeke. I can't say it's because we were struck by the Demigod's lightning together.
"Is it not the effect of equipment?"
Ike, thinking the same thing as me, asked.
"Mars asked the same thing before, so I tried taking off my equipment, but it didn't change."
Clarice answered, blushing slightly. She must be remembering when I told her to take it off.
"I intend to use this magic in case of emergency. At that time, could you give instructions for everyone except Clarice to move away from me?"
"Ah. True. If you don't mistake when to use it, it's quite effective. Mars, thanks for telling us."
"So that's why Mars was diving into the dungeon with just Clarice... I thought you were on a date or something... Sorry, Mars."
Zeke thanking me, and Ike understanding. As expected, my dungeon dates with Clarice were exposed to Ike.
"Also, Clarice learned a magic called 《Cure》 that detoxifies poison, so please keep that in mind too. I intend to have Clarice teach me when we get back."
"What?! You've grown tremendously in the short time I haven't seen you. Tomorrow we will leave early. So, let's head back now."
Returning to the mansion, I spent time with Clarice until bedtime under the pretext of having her teach me 《Cure》.
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