The Mysterious Child: An Adventure Tale Beginning with Numerology

"There might still be people trapped under collapsed buildings! We'll demolish them all before dawn!"

"Injured people, head to the community centers in each area! Those who can use earth magic, please assist with rescue operations!"

"There's a shelter in the central plaza! Information about lost children is also there!"

Citizens were busily running around in a flurry of activity.

Although we had defeated the giant centipede, the damage it had caused was extensive.

From the central district to the southern district, everything in the centipede's path was destroyed. It seems there weren't many human casualties in this area as most people had evacuated beforehand, but the buildings were a different story.

Every house was crushed beyond repair.

"If you hadn't come, it wouldn't have ended with just this. You saved us," Camlock said.

"No, no. More importantly, is it okay for me not to help with the work?"

"In principle, minors are prohibited from working at night without instructions from the administration. There are often secondary casualties."

Come to think of it, Mataisa's city had the same policy.

In this world where monsters exist, life is cheap, so young lives tend to be valued more. I only have Mataisa and Bargia as samples, so I don't know about other countries.

"I'm not as fragile as you're worried about," I said.

"That may be so, but there's a more serious matter concerning you. For now, come with me to the guild," Camlock replied.

Camlock led us away.

He chose a path that deviated slightly from the centipede's destructive route, heading back to the central district. There was commotion everywhere, but the entire city was working on recovery efforts.

The people of this other world are tough.

Although Camlock had said he'd explain in detail once we got back to the guild, he still spoke as we walked.

"So, what happened with the high-ranking demon?"

"We defeated it," I replied.

"As expected. Perhaps I should have made you SS-rank instead of S-rank?"

"What are you talking about?"

When I asked, Camlock explained that we, [Rozewill], had been promoted to S-rank adventurers. Apparently, Saaya had approved it.

It seems that this recognition, made independently by the guild without going through the country, means we don't receive rewards from the state but also don't incur any obligations. I have no complaints about that.

"But why so suddenly?" I asked.

"The reason is a bit complicated, so I'll explain at the guild. More importantly, Ruruk, is that young lady a demon?"

"Yes, her name is Nagi. She became our companion during our journey and helped defeat Saturn, so she lost her place in the demon realm. I brought her along. Please keep this confidential for a while."

"Geez... you say it so casually. At least have her hide her face. If someone who doesn't know the situation notices, it'll cause a big commotion."

"Ah, you're right."

It's night now so people won't notice unless they get close, but it would certainly cause a stir if they realized she's a demon.

However, she can't wear anything with high defense, and the risk is too high if she takes it off, so just hiding her face isn't enough.

I'll have to rely on perception interference.

While walking, I opened my status screen and looked at the contents of my item box.

"Let's see... Nagi, if you were to receive a present, would you prefer a bracelet or a necklace?"

"What's this about? If you're trying to hit on me, I'll have to decline."

"That's not it. You can equip accessories, right? I'm talking about an item that can hide your demon appearance."

"...I already have my brother's necklace, so a bracelet would be good."

"Got it."

For now, I took out a bracelet with paralysis resistance effect that I had picked up in a dungeon, and overwrote its information with "Threshold Compilation". Thanks to Elen, I'm used to it now and won't fail even while walking.

"Here, try it on."

"Alright."

Nagi put the bracelet on her left wrist.

It automatically shrunk to fit Nagi's slender arm perfectly.

"...Has anything changed?"

"It's a spell that alters the perception of those who see you. People who don't know you will see your ears and fangs as the same as a human's. That alone will make it hard to tell you're a demon, so try not to take it off if possible."

"I see. What about my skin color?"

"That stays the same."

"Why? Brown skin like mine isn't often seen among the humans in this city."

"It's true that it's rare, but not non-existent, so it's fine. Besides, I like the skin color of demons."

So I didn't think to make it appear as a different color.

"...I see."

"Huh, are you blushing? Hey, Nagi-san, are you blushing?"

"Hmph!"

Clang!

As usual, "Domain Mediation" activated and blocked Nagi's elbow strike.

Nagi rubbed her elbow with teary eyes and grumbled.

"Why does it work on Nagi but not on Seori..."

"So, Guild Master, is this okay?"

"As long as she's not found out, anything goes. But man, to casually create equipment that manipulates perception like this. Wouldn't that sell for an insane price on the market?"

"I have no intention of selling the technology. I'd only do that if I were desperately in need of money."

"Tch! Someone who becomes an S-rank adventurer at your age really does talk differently."

"You're the one who made me S-rank."

Exchanging such banter, we walked for a while and arrived at the guild headquarters.

"Ruruk~!"

Saaya and Elen were standing at the entrance of the guild. They noticed us, waved, and came running over.

"Welcome back, Ruruk! Seori and Punisuke too!"

"Mm, welcome back."

"I'm back."

"Wait, Punisuke, what's with that color?! Huh, did you evolve!?"

Saaya noticed immediately and her eyes widened.

"That story is a bit... can we talk about it later?"

"Okay. And it seems Seori worked hard too. Thank you for protecting Ruruk."

"Hmph, of course! But praise me more!"

"Good job, good job."

Saaya stood on her tiptoes to pat the head of Seori, who was puffing out her chest.

"By the way, I thought I saw something like Elen's magic earlier. Were you at the phoenix?"

"Defeated it."

"I thought so. As expected of Elen."

"Hehe~"

Another boastful sheep child.

Camlock smiled wryly.

"Between the young lady and Ruruk, you all can easily defeat S-rank monsters, huh. Is everyone in [Rozewill] like this?"

"Hey, Camlock-san, don't lump me in with these monsters. I'm not that good at attacking."

"What's a 10-year-old who can move as fast as me saying..."

Camlock was dumbfounded.

"Well, it seems all party members are here, and it's not good to keep talking standing up. The city is a bit hectic, but there's an important matter for you all. Let's go back to the room."

"Okay~"

"Mm."

Camlock said this and entered the guild. Saaya and Elen, seeming to know the situation, quietly followed.

Seori and Punisuke also followed them into the guild, but I was stopped by a tug on my clothes.

Nagi was looking at me with narrowed eyes.

"Are those girls just now your companions?"

"Yeah. What about it?"

"Don't tell me... you have a thing for little girls?"

"Stop it! It's just how it turned out!"

I didn't choose them based on appearance.

As I was about to explain how much I actually like older women, Nagi hugged her small body and stepped back.

"Hah! Could it be you're trying to add Nagi to your harem too? Is that why you saved me? What an unexpected vicious bastard. Please don't come near me."

"Shut up, you sharp-tongued girl. Do you know what reputational damage is?"

"There's no smoke without fire."

"Alright, alright. I'll introduce you to everyone later, but please don't say unnecessary things, okay?"

"Even if I say I was taken advantage of?"

"Absolutely not."

I didn't even do anything in the first place.

This girl is trying to attack me verbally since she can't do it physically.

Anyway, there's no point in  standing around here. Ignoring Nagi, who still seemed unsatisfied with her verbal assault, I followed the others to the Guild Master's room.

There was no secretary in the room, and documents were scattered about.

From the open window, the voices of citizens starting reconstruction work could be heard as if it were daytime, but Camlock closed the window, shutting out the sound.

"Now then, I'm sure you have many questions, but first let me speak as the Guild Master. Thanks to you all, we were really saved. The damage to the city is extensive, but considering we were up against three S-rank monsters, it could be said that this level of damage is minimal. I'll have the cause investigated immediately, but I'm sure the administration or the church will investigate that much without me saying anything."

"Come to think of it, who was dealing with the giant?" I asked.

"It was Kemuna and the others. I'll confirm that and report back."

They defeated it? As expected of Bargia's heroes.

I noticed Camlock's expression darken a bit, but I know we weren't called here to talk about the monsters. I'll keep quiet.

"The main issue is this. Ruruk... the Dragon King has summoned you by name."

"Ugh."

This is no time to be leisurely!

What should I do? We just used the curse-breaking medicine.

"I didn't expect you to return so soon, but it's just as well. Tomorrow, you'll depart for the holy land with the princess."

"...Is there any way to refuse?"

"Please don't. This time, you should be blameless, but the Dragon King is just worried about his daughter. If you have nothing to feel guilty about, please meet him. Otherwise, the country might be destroyed."

Nothing to feel guilty about, huh... I do though.

If we had just become companions, the Dragon King probably wouldn't be this furious, but she's become my subordinate... Even a normal parent wouldn't be happy to hear their daughter has become someone's familiar. Especially not the Dragon King, who's rumored to be a doting parent.

However, it doesn't seem like I can refuse.

In the first place, this was planned from the moment I made Seori my companion. Somehow, I need to make sure he doesn't find out about her being my kin.

"I understand, it's tomorrow then. Should we just quickly move to the holy land?"

"No, Duke Smasrick is scheduled to accompany us as a representative of the citizens, so we'll use a carriage. Of course, I and all your companions will be coming along too."

I see, they're like witnesses.

"But Ruruk, that's not all. This is related to why we recognized you all as S-rank, but because of this incident, you've earned strong resentment from the nobles. Depending on the Dragon King's words, there's a possibility that the entire country of Bargia could become your enemy."

Camlock then explained the formation of Bargia as a country, potential future succession issues, and the intentions of the nobles.

I hadn't realized Seori was such an important figure, but thinking about it, she is a princess after all. Apparently, she's essential for inheriting territory, so I can understand why she might be targeted.

"I'm also working to prevent that from happening, but in the worst case, I might not be able to stop it completely."

"I see, I understand then. I'll be careful."

"...Is that all? Aren't you angry?"

"Well, I'd be upset if I was targeted without reason, but I have excellent companions, so I'm not too worried."

If anything, I'm more concerned about Elen going berserk if we're attacked.

Of course, if my companions are targeted, I intend to retaliate with full force.

"I see. I hope it doesn't come to that."

"Is that all you wanted to discuss?"

"Just lend me your and the princess's guild cards. I'll rewrite the ranks."

"Ah, right."

Seori and I submitted our guild cards to have the information updated.

When we got back our cards with a big "S" marked on them, even I had to smile wryly.

"I've notified the guild headquarters of each country. I'll also report the simultaneous defeat of the S-rank monsters this time, so there shouldn't be any areas complaining. Even if things go well with the Dragon King, I'd prefer if you could continue operating in this country, but..."

"I'm planning to properly tackle dungeons, so we won't be leaving right away."

"That's a relief. In this kind of situation, the anxious citizens need a 'hero'."

A hero, huh.

Indeed, when a country is unstable, it needs a figurehead.

But I think that should be Kemuna and the [White Tiger], not us.

It seemed Camlock's business was finished there, and he instructed us to come to the guild again tomorrow morning.

It didn't look like he had the leisure to keep dealing with us, so the celebration for the successful quest in the demon realm was postponed until the situation settled down, and we were dismissed for now.

As we were practically pushed out of the room, we immediately gathered everyone and transferred back to the inn.

Tessa wasn't at the inn's reception, only a note saying [If you have urgent business, please go to the shelter]. We decided to report our return tomorrow and went straight to our room.

As soon as we entered the familiar room, Saaya, who had apparently been curious, tilted her head.

"So, you brought her along like it's natural, but who is this girl?"

"This is Nagi. Nagi, take off the bracelet."

"Understood."

When Nagi removed the bracelet, the perception manipulation was undone, and she appeared in her original form.

Saaya's eyes widened.

"Ah, the demon girl you mentioned! You brought her along?"

"Yeah. It seems she has no place in the demon realm, and she doesn't have prejudice against humans."

"I see. I'm Saaya Schreine. Call me Saaya, nice to meet you!"

"...Nice to meet you too."

Nagi hesitantly responded to Saaya, who extended her hand without any hesitation.

"This sheep-person is Elenora. Including us, we're a four-person adventurer party called [Rozewill] along with Punisuke. We just got promoted to S-rank, so we're quite capable. Though, since Ruruk and Elenora are too strong, I'm just riding on their coattails."

"By the way, Saaya here is the Ruin Factor that Saturn was after."

"I see. So that's how it was."

Despite being told about a being that could potentially destroy demons, Nagi didn't seem particularly interested.

I decided to explain to Saaya and the others as well.

"We need to prepare for Nagi to stay in this country, so I plan to have her stay here until then. Nagi, you might be confused by cultural differences, but if you have any problems, feel free to ask anytime. I'll support you as much as I can."

"Understood."

"If there's anything you find difficult to ask Ruruk about, you can always come to us. We're all girls, so let's get along, okay?"

Saaya seemed to have switched into her usual caretaker mode and was asking Nagi various questions.

Although Nagi was confused at first, she soon seemed to get used to Saaya's pace and was absorbing the rules of human society without tension. I knew she was smart, but her adaptability is surprisingly high.

I guess it was the right decision to bring her along after all.

While I was showing Nagi around the room's facilities, Punisuke prepared a meal for us.

Punisuke had evolved into a Mithril Slime with a metallic body, but just a moment ago, it used its new skill [Color Manipulation] to return to the appearance of an ordinary slime, at least visually.

It looks like a slime but is actually mithril inside. The one and only familiar, Punisuke!

While watching Punisuke skillfully prepare the meal with great interest, Nagi said:

"Ruruk, you're letting Punisuke cook?"

"Unfortunately, it evolved into a Mithril Slime this time, but our goal is for it to become a Cooking Slime."

"...Did you hit your head?"

"I'm perfectly sane."

"That makes it even more off-putting."

"But look, doesn't the chef's hat suit it? Punisuke is really cute, you know. Eventually, when we come back from quests, it'd be great if Punisuke greets us wearing an apron and asks, 'Would you like dinner? Or a bath?' I can't imagine a life without Punisuke..."

"Your demands are creepy."

She gave me a genuinely disgusted look.

"What's with you, Nagi? Is that the face of someone who wants to take on that role?"

"Shut up."

"Geez, Nagi-chan, you're just not honest."

"Hmph!"

Clang!

Once again blocked by [Domain Mediation], Nagi held her elbow with teary eyes.

"Ugh, still doesn't make sense...!"

"Hehehe~ Try hitting me if you're frustrated~"

"Stop bullying her!"

"Ow!?"

As I was taunting her, Saaya smacked the back of my head. It hurt.

"Honestly, you're going to be living together for a while, right? Don't do things that'll start fights! Bad!"

"Yes, I'm sorry..."

"Saaya, can I ask something? Why can Saaya and Seori hit Ruruk?"

"Now that you mention it, I wonder why. I never thought about it before."

Come to think of it, I'm curious too. Why can our companions ignore my defense skill and hit me?

Saaya tilted her head in confusion and started patting my body.

"Hmm, the skill isn't activating at all."

"Hey, don't casually feel inside my clothes! That's sexual harassment!"

"But it's been a while since we've seen each other."

"That doesn't mean you can touch me just because it's been a while!?"

"Mm. Unfair. Me too."

Elen started joining in too.

I'm being patted all over. Hey, you guys, do you know what morals are?

"If you touch him like this, Nagi should be able to do it too, right?"

"I don't want to touch him."

I'm plainly rejected.

What's this? I wasn't asking for it, but I feel a bit hurt...

Watching me being clung to by Saaya and Elen, Nagi narrowed her eyes.

"By the way, Ruruk, can I say something?"

"What is it?"

"You really are a loli--"

"Alright, it's mealtime! I'm starving!"

I wonder what's on the menu today, I'm so excited!

Before I could be labeled with a dishonorable title, I hurriedly started preparing the table.

By the way, the dinner Punisuke prepared was chicken soup filled with chunky ingredients and bread loaded with cheese.