The Mysterious Child: An Adventure Tale Beginning with Numerology

"Camping, huh. Are you guys used to it, Ruruk?"

As we were preparing for the quest back at the inn, Saaya asked while folding the women's clothes she had washed.

I shook my head.

"Not at all. We did it often inside dungeons, but camping outside? Only a handful of times."

"Right, you have teleportation skills. Should we buy some magic devices to repel beasts?"

"I bought some from Luney Trading Company. But it's the high-frequency type, so you might be able to hear it, Saaya."

"Don't treat me like a child! I'm a proper lady too."

"Click."

"Eek!"

When I activated the magic device, Saaya flinched.

It's like those sonic devices at shopping mall entrances to keep pigeons away.

It's just a precaution, but adventurers usually find it useful for camping as it repels not just magical beasts but animal-type creatures in general.

"Mu~ weird sound~"

"Sorry, sorry, I'll turn it off right away."

Apparently, Punisuke can hear it too.

I can't hear it at all. Elen and Seori look fine too, so they're probably okay. As rumored, it seems to be a frequency only children can hear.

...Wait a minute. If we use this frequency to imitate ghost voices, wouldn't only children think it's real? Hehehe, I've come up with a good idea. *Grin*

"You're making a weird face again."

"Mm, as usual."

"My lord's noble face is collapsing. Could this be the work of an evil god..."

Shut up, you.

"Master~ Do I need to prepare anything~?"

"Hm? Punisuke, you're perfect just by being here."

"Ehehe! I'm happy~!"

"You're favoring Punisuke again..."

I get my daily dose of squishy healing.

Priceless healing that I can summon whenever I miss it.

"Hey Ruruk. I want to summon Punisuke too."

"Familiar summoning is only possible for the master, right?"

"Can't you do something about that?"

"Mm, me too."

Not just Saaya, but even Elen.

I'd like to allow them to summon at least, but "Familiar Summoning" requires the master's authority even though it's a basic mystic art.

...Wait a minute?

I thought of something.

"Hey Saaya, magic stones are good conductors of magical power, right? Do you know what material conducts spirit elements well?"

"Hmm. I haven't researched it, but I've heard that the mystic art devices at the guild are made of silver."

"Silver, huh. Silver..."

I took out a silver coin from my wallet.

It's a bit wasteful, but I try to flatten the silver coin with "Synthesis". I made a small silver plate, as thin as possible while maintaining its hardness.

Saaya's eyes widened.

"Huh, what are you doing?"

"Just wait and see."

I start imbuing the thin silver plate with formulas.

After enhancing the silver plate with information, I stack "Mine", "Familiar Summoning", and "Threshold Compilation" in order. Thanks to my high proficiency, I succeeded in inscribing multiple formulas at once. Nice.

I hand the finished product to Elen.

"Try breaking this."

"Mm, okay."

Elen obediently applied force to the thin silver plate.

With a snap, the former silver coin broke easily. Goodbye, 1000 darucs.

"Wah~!"

At that moment, Punisuke disappeared from the top of my head and appeared in Elen's arms.

It's exactly like "Familiar Summoning".

"Ruruk, could this be..."

"Yeah. I call it the 'Punisuke Summoning Plate'!"

"Amazing! Your naming sense is terrible, but it's amazing!"

"Mm, amazing. Name's lame though."

"As expected of my lord! However, the naming seems to have a unique sensibility..."

Shut up.

That said, I managed to create it as a mystic art device for a basic summoning technique. I want to pat myself on the back for this.

"Hey, does that mean for us...?"

"Yeah. I'll make enough for everyone."

"Yay!"

We're usually together anyway, so there probably won't be many occasions to use it.

But it seems they're happy just to be able to call Punisuke anytime.

I handed out the "Punisuke Summoning Plates" I made to Saaya, Elen, and Seori. I even engraved an illustration of Punisuke on the surface of the silver plate.

As we were chatting noisily like this, making dinner after the sun went down, eating, and taking a break, a guild staff member came to the inn.

It was the beautiful staff member (married) from the Dungeon Management Division whom we met before.

She brought a message asking us to come to the gate of the First Central District in two hours.

I casually invited her to stay for tea since she was here, but she politely declined while subtly showing her wedding ring and left in a hurry. Too bad.

"Hey. Don't hit on married women no matter what."

"I'm sowwy."

My cheek was pinched. When I turned around, both Elen and Seori were giving me cold looks. I had no allies.

As Punisuke was cooling my swollen cheek, Saaya tilted her head.

"But why gather in the noble district so late at night? What are they planning?"

"Who knows. Well, they probably want to leave the city by means they can't tell others about."

"For example?"

"...Like the Seori Taxi."

"That's definitely something you can't tell others."

"M-my wings exist only for my lord... Eh, Master, are you serious?"

Seori started to panic.

I'm joking. You don't need to rush the rehabilitation for your dragon transformation that you can't do anymore.

"Well, we'll find out when we get there. More importantly, we're leaving in two hours. This quest will be a long journey, so make sure you don't forget anything."

"Elenora, you haven't prepared yet, have you? Did you bring a water bottle? A handkerchief? You can't just rely on your staff. Come on, take everything out again, I'll check."

"Mm... please."

"Geez. You're such a handful."

Is she a mom?

While Saaya was checking Elen's luggage with her caregiving spirit activated, Seori was putting things in and taking things out of her item box.

"Fufufu, the seal on my treasure is about to be released..."

"Oh, a new eyepatch? Did you buy it?"

"My lord, this is a noble item dropped by an undead dwelling in an ancient magical cavern."

"Oh, that. The grandma at the equipment shop we stopped by on the way back sold it to us cheaply."

"Thanks for the explanation."

By the way, stop calling the old lady undead.

The new eyepatch looks stylish, but to be honest, it doesn't look much different since it's still black. The strong impression of pink hair is to blame.

"By the way, what color does Seori's dragon form become? Since it's light attribute, is it white or something?"

"Hah, ridiculous! My form, as a servant of darkness, blends with the night!"

"Really? If you're lying, I'll spank you."

"I-I have a separate false form..."

She denied it immediately when threatened.

What a spineless one.

"My false form has a dazzling radiance that cannot be dyed by anyone. This is all a disguise to deceive the world..."

"So it is white after all. I'm looking forward to seeing Seori's dragon form."

"Me too. I'd like to see it."

"Mm, fight."

"Eek."

Seori cowered as Elen directed her fighting spirit at her.

As we were doing this, it was time to leave the inn.

Since we're expecting a long journey this time, I paid Tessa the inn fee for next month in advance. If we're going to travel anyway, I'd like to do some sightseeing on the way back if we have time.

After walking for about ten minutes from the inn, Camlock and the members of [White Tiger] were already at the gate of the First Central District.

As soon as we joined them, the passage gate opened and a handsome middle-aged butler came out. We were guided by the butler into a carriage, which then took us to almost the center of the First Central District.

We arrived at a rather large mansion in a short time.

"Wow. It looks about ten times the size of my family home."

"It's so big~! There must be lots of food too~"

Saaya and Punisuke were getting excited.

The carriage passed through a beautifully maintained and paved front garden, went around the mansion, and arrived at the courtyard.

There we were let off.

As expected, the one who greeted us was one of the Three Grand Dukes - the one who acted as the chairperson during the meeting. I think his name was Duke Smasrick.

He exchanged words with Camlock and then quickly retreated into the mansion. It seems he has no intention of talking to us directly. Well, he probably wants to minimize contact with rough adventurers.

In the spacious courtyard, there were many private soldiers and a man and woman wearing baggy clothes.

One had blue hair and eyes, and the other had red hair and eyes.

Camlock gave instructions to the soldiers and called those two over.

They approached with gloomy expressions, ignored everyone else, and knelt before Seori, bowing their heads.

"Princess, please allow us to accompany you."

"Eek."

Seori let out a surprised squeak at being suddenly addressed.

I understand her surprise, but it's natural for them to bow since they're both dragon species.

-------------------

[Name] Aqua

[Race] Dragon Species - Water Dragon (Subjugated)

[Name] Ruby

[Race] Dragon Species - Fire Dragon (Subjugated)

-------------------

Seori, who had been taken aback, seemed to understand they were her kin and hurriedly nodded.

"I-I permit it."

"We are grateful, Princess."

The two said this without changing their expressions and returned to their original positions.

It was surprising to find dragon species with the ducal family that greeted us, but after seeing their status, I could somewhat understand the situation. Probably kept secret from the citizens though.

Camlock, being considerate of us, whispered quietly:

"Those two are dragon species who have fallen to criminal slavery. With the Dragon King's permission, they're being taken care of by the ducal family under national servitude. Of course, we can't openly say they're criminal slave dragons."

"I see. By the way, what did they do?"

"Pillaging. They disguised themselves as humans, escaped from the holy land, took control of a village, and made them offer sacrifices. Well, it's a bit funny that the 'sacrifices' were just delicious food, but they're very gluttonous. Because of that, the village faced food shortages and many starved to death. The guild issued a quest without knowing they were dragon species, [White Tiger] accepted it, and that's how they were caught."

"The members of [White Tiger] caught two dragon species? That's amazing."

"...Well, Furat got badly beaten when they found out they were dragon species, so they put sleeping drugs in their food and caught them while they were asleep. Then they reported to the Dragon King, and here we are."

Come to think of it, Furat did mention losing to dragon species during the meeting. So it was them.

Indeed, Furat is glaring at them with murderous intent. The dragons don't seem to notice though.

"Are we going to ride them to the demon realm?"

"That's right. It'll be over in no time."

Riding outlaw dragon species, even if they're subjugated. 

They're not exactly the kind of ride I'd prefer. Their expressions are gloomy, and I can't tell what they're thinking.

"It's alright. They've been docile since being caught, and the princess is here this time. They won't misbehave since they're afraid of the Dragon King and escaped from the holy land."

"I hope that's the case."

Well, I'll stay alert to at least protect my companions if anything happens.

Camlock quickly gathered us and the members of [White Tiger] to begin the final discussion.

"From now on, I want you all to ride those dragons to the quest. First, stop by the Elf village to meet up with Mererosu, then fly again to the entrance of the demon realm. The dragons will wait there. From there, you'll proceed on foot through the demon realm."

"...Where are we going?" Lakirala asked grumpily.

"According to our source, Luney Trading Company, the elf children are gathered in two locations. One is a small-scale dungeon near the entrance of the demon realm, and the other is a castle of a mid-ranking demon further inside."

"Hey, did you just swallow that information? How did they get that info?"

"Well, listen, Furat. I was skeptical at first too, but Luney Trading Company's information gathering ability is, frankly, out of this world. Take a look at this."

What Camlock presented was a map. A map from the Magic Tree Forest to the southern part of the demon realm.

It wasn't the rough map common in this world, but a detailed map with contour lines familiar to us modern people.

Did Luney Trading Company actually survey the demon realm?

"These lines apparently show elevation differences. The scale is written in the bottom right, so we can clearly see the distances to the dungeon and castle. If you proceed through the demon realm and it doesn't match this map, consider it unreliable and return to the Magic Tree Forest. Or since a Luney Trading Company member is apparently joining the elf team, you could ask her if you meet up."

They probably had never seen such a detailed map before. Both Furat and Lakirala were staring intently at the map, at a loss for words.

I was impressed too, but at the same time, something bothered me.

"Could there be maps of this precision for areas other than the demon realm?"

Or rather, there definitely are, right? They've probably made maps of each country too.

Camlock frowned.

"Who knows. But even if there were, they wouldn't make them public. With these, invading other countries would become easier. They're not a trading company that doesn't understand that."

"I see, that's true."

Detailed maps can be used for military purposes. With a modern sensibility, it's easy to forget such a simple fact.

I've strayed from the topic a bit, but if they even have maps, it's really thorough. As expected of Luney Trading Company, there couldn't be better support.

"So when we arrive in the demon realm, should we split into two groups?"

"That's up to your judgment on site. But if you do split up, I want Ruruk and Elenora-san, you guys to act separately."

"...Can I ask why?"

"It's simply the difference in fighting power. I hadn't told [White Tiger], but I've had mock battles with Ruruk and Elenora-san too. To be frank, their abilities are easily above SS rank. Enough to thoroughly beat me."

Isn't that an overestimation?

I didn't feel like I could win one-on-one against the high-ranking demon Skato, who was said to be equivalent to SS rank. Well, that was before my status increased, but still.

"...The Guild Master lost?"

The one who broke the silence with a low voice was the shield user with a big shield, whose name was... something like Almond.

"That's right. Furat and Lakirala were thoroughly holding back in their mock battles."

"Tch, I know that."

"Besmond, you saw the individual battles too, right? I'm a former SS rank saying this, so it's not wrong."

"...Hmm. I'll believe it."

"So, Ruruk. Of course, I'm not forcing you, but when dividing the team, I want you to split based on combat power, not party units. It's not an order but a request, so of course you can ignore it if you want."

Hmm.

Honestly, what's most important to me is the lives of my party members. In the worst case, I intend to protect my companions even if I have to abandon the members of [White Tiger].

So I can't promise, but...

"Well, I'll keep it in mind."

"That helps. There are two maps, so I'll give them to Ruruk and Furat. I can't accompany you, after all. So, discuss and decide which dragon you'll ride."

Camlock, having finished his rough explanation, threw the rest to us as if it was troublesome.

Furat and I met eyes and quickly looked away. We're on bad terms, so we can't really have a friendly discussion. I'm socially awkward too, and I have no idea how to talk to someone who dislikes me.

Then Furat said curtly:

"We don't have the right to decide before the Dragon Princess anyway."

"That's what he says, Seori. Which do you prefer?"

"Huh? M-me?"

You're the only Dragon Princess here.

"If you don't really care either way, I think the one that looks cooler to ride would be good. The blue dragon looks stylish, and the red dragon would look fierce."

"...Which does my lord prefer?"

"Hmm, let's see. If we're going for a servant of darkness vibe, a dragon rider commanding the red blood flowing through veins might be more romantic. But prioritize Seori's opinion over mine--"

"Hah, as expected of my lord! I, the true ancestor, hereby command: oh crimson servant, grant us the honor of riding upon your back!"

Seori gave the order with great enthusiasm.

And so, it was decided that we would ride the fire dragon Ruby. Furat didn't seem particularly dissatisfied with the water dragon either. If anything, his gaze towards Seori was a bit heated... well, that can't be helped since he's a citizen of Bargia.

Camlock looked up at the sky and said,

"Well, the moon is starting to hide. It's a good night for flying. Dragons, transform."

"Yes," they responded in unison.

The dragons immediately changed from human to dragon form.

It was dark so it was a bit hard to see, but as expected, they were blue and red dragons. Their scales and hair must clearly show their attributes. They were a size larger than Riseto whom we fought before, and more muscular. Their backs looked wide too.

The dragons crouched and curled their tails. First Seori mounted, then we followed. It's spacious, but there's nothing to grab onto except the scales. Won't we fall off if caught by the wind?

"A-are we flying like this?"

Saaya clung to my arm, getting anxious.

Camlock gave a wry smile.

"Dragon species' flight isn't affected by wind. As long as they don't deliberately fly unsteadily or you don't slip, you won't fall off, so don't worry."

"Th-that's right. We dragon species are the solitary rulers of the sky!"

Seori said this haughtily while clinging to my other arm.

Don't act scared of the sky when you're calling yourself a solitary ruler.

"Mm. Scary scary."

Elen also sneakily hugged my waist, speaking in a monotone. She's definitely not thinking that.

What is this? It's like I'm wearing beautiful girl armor.

Wait, what am I saying?

Anyway, remembering that my party members tend to get clingy when given an excuse, I decided to find some reason to peel them off later.

It seemed the riders on the other dragon had also finished mounting, and Camlock nodded.

"Alright, I'm counting on you. Be careful, all of you."

And so, the dragons channeled magic into their wings and began to rise.

Thus began our first journey through the sky.

-- Well, it's a rare experience riding dragon species, but...

"Hah, it's my turn! I attack with Minotaur!"

"Okay, trap card activated. The beast-type monsters on the field become confused and attack their allies."

"N-no way..."

Saaya and Seori, who were initially frightened by the exposed flight, slept fearfully until dawn, and then became excited by the scenery when the sun rose, were now playing card games out of boredom after getting used to it.

While glancing at the two playing, I'm discussing magic theory with Elen. Well, it's our usual chat where I provide theoretical knowledge and Elen uses it as reference for her formulas.

Or rather, the dragon's back really isn't affected by wind at all. We should be moving at the speed of a car on a regular road, but even the fluttering cards aren't blown away. It's just a bit chilly.

This is certainly comfortable... but of course, I'm not standing up. Even though we've laid blankets on the scales, the bumpy scales are unstable. If I slip, I'll fall straight to the ground.

If we want to enjoy a safer sky journey, we need to add a handrail or something.

Well, there's no way we can do that on a dragon's back...

"Wait a minute?"

Of course, stabbing directly is out of the question, but maybe we could do it if we tried?

"Hey Elen, you had some steel in your item box, right?"

"Mm. This."

What she took out was about ten kilograms of molded iron. It's already refined, processed steel.

Of course, it's rougher than modern iron, but since we bought it from a skilled blacksmith (Mererosu's dwarf roommate's workplace), it's sturdy and easy to work with.

I start using "Synthesis" to change that iron lump into a rod shape from the edge. I hook the thin rod part into the gaps between the scales, and further use "Synthesis" to change its shape to fit snugly into the gaps. At the same time, I create legs like a tripod from the protruding pillar to fix it in place. Phew, this requires quite a bit of concentration.

"...What are you doing?"

"Making a handrail."

"Are you an idiot?"

Saaya made a strange face, but I ignored her.

Well, shall we make the other side too?

After several tens of minutes of struggle, failing a few times with the iron bar breaking midway, I patiently continued shaping it, able to redo it thanks to the power of mystic arts.

And what was completed was an inverted V-shaped handrail on the dragon's back.

The dragon mount Ruby seemed to fidget itchily a few times during the process, but since there were no complaints, I went ahead and did it.

"How's that, you guys! I made a handrail! Now we can stand up and look at the scenery!"

"Master..."

Seori looked at me with white eyes.

Huh, why are you so exasperated?

Hey Elen, isn't it amazing?

"Mm, more stable if you stab it in."

Isn't that a bit too heartless?

It wobbles a bit, but it doesn't fall even if you lean on it. Isn't that a job well done?

"Ruruk."

"What is it, Saaya? Are you complaining too--"

"No, that's not it. Look, come here and support my waist."

Saying that, Saaya grabbed the handrail and stood up, closing her eyes and spreading both arms.

N-no way, you...

I put my hands on Saaya's waist from behind as told, and whispered in her ear. Isn't this what Leonardo says?

"Now, open your eyes..."

"Wooooow! This is! The! Famous! Scene!"

Saaya was super excited.

Well, this pose at the inverted V-shaped bow is old for our generation, but everyone knows it. It's not the sea like in the original, but the sky, but you can't deny the excitement.

...But you know.

"Isn't this a flag for sinking later? I don't want the dragon to crash, you know?"

"That would be perfect!"

Hey.

Anyway, I achieved the goal of attaching a handrail to the dragon's back.

Saaya seems satisfied with being able to play too.

By the way, when we landed for a break and Ruby returned to human form, I was calmly scolded.

I'm sorry for getting carried away.