New chapter of Nameless Hero is out! (1/2 chapters)
Sword and Bow
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The next morning at the Stride Household’s annex dojo.
“Shall we begin?” (Tristan)
Tristan wore a lightweight navy garment with a loose skirt-like lower piece, tied tightly at the waist with a sash. It was called a ‘dogi’, and it looked rather stylish.
“Please.” (Jack)
Tristan and I borrowed this dojo for morning training after a long time. It had been so long since Tristan last trained me that I was genuinely excited. We both stood facing each other, holding bamboo swords. This ritual seemed quite unique and was apparently part of an Eastern culture.
Tristan’s movements had become much easier to follow compared to before. At first, it seemed like he was holding back, testing the waters. But as soon as he judged I could keep up with his speed, he gradually increased the tempo of his strikes, eventually reaching an incredible pace. I struggled to keep up with his swordsmanship. No matter how fast I moved, Tristan’s techniques surpassed me.
“Jack, you still have too many unnecessary movements. That’s why you’re always one step behind me.” (Tristan)
“…Mmm.” (Jack)
If I relied on my time manipulation skill, I might be able to take the initiative against Tristan. But doing so would feel like admitting I couldn’t compete in a normal match.
“No matter how fast you attack, Tristan can handle it?” (Jack)
“There are limits to the movement of objects. No matter how skilled a swordsman is, as long as they have unnecessary movements, their strikes won’t reach me.” (Tristan)
“I see…” (Jack)
“However, there are exceptions such as Dwayne’s specialty, teleportation magic. With proper application, it can enable tricky sword techniques. Even I have my limits in dealing with such things.” (Tristan)
Teleportation magic is indeed unfair. If I could use that magic, I’d definitely incorporate it into my fighting style.
“…Jack, let me show you my Managram.” (Tristan)
“What?! Really?” (Jack)
“I possess a special power, just like you.” (Tristan)
Suddenly, Tristan removed the glove covering his right hand and showed me his Managram.
＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝
Race: Human
Age: 19 years, 2 months
Life: 296/296
Mana: 223/223
Strength: B
Agility: S
<Abilities>
Swordsmanship S
Intuition F
Ice Magic C
Lightning Magic A
Dark Magic B
Mind’s Eye S+
Stealth S
＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝
Tristan’s abilities are somewhat similar to mine, which makes me happy. He is an agility type. No, it is probably more accurate to say I have modeled myself after him.
“Jack… this ‘Mind’s Eye’ is what I mean.” (Tristan)
“Mind’s Eye?” (Jack)
“It’s similar to ‘Intuition’, but while Intuition is instinctive, this is more logical. It’s a type of special ability practiced by people from my homeland.” (Tristan)
“Tristan’s homeland is…” (Jack)
“A certain region, home to a village of assassins.” (Tristan)
I’d heard about this from Alfred. Tristan was from an assassin village. Why he left there and joined the Liberta group was something he didn’t talk about, and I hadn’t pried.
“You’ve often wondered about the secret of my strength. If there is one, it would be this Mind’s Eye.” (Tristan)
“What does it do?” (Jack)
“Explaining it in words is difficult, but it’s like a form of future prediction.” (Tristan)
“Wow!” (Jack)
That sounds like a cheat ability. I want it too.
“Tristan, please train with me again.” (Jack)
“Of course. Once my work is done.” (Tristan)
—
By late morning, I had finished drawing my blood. I cut my right arm with a knife and poured the blood into a glass. Mixing it with sap extracted from a white willow tree and stirring, I created a solution to prevent the blood from clotting for several days.
“Well then, I’ll be off.” (Tristan)
“Take care, Tristan.” (Jack)
Tristan departed for Paradise Cyans ahead of us with two servants from the Stride Household. Alfred, Dwayne, and I would leave one day later.
“…Oh, Tristan!” (Jack)
“What is it?” (Tristan)
“Here, I’m returning this.” (Jack)
I handed back the magical tool, Presence Recircular, which I’d borrowed.
I’d been using it since my initial infiltration. Now, Tristan probably needed the ring that suppressed one’s presence more than I did.
“No… you keep it, Jack.” (Tristan)
“Huh? I borrowed it, so I should return it. Besides, you need it now, don’t you?” (Jack)
“Hmm.” (Tristan)
Tristan furrowed his brow, seemingly in deep thought.
“Actually, this tool is one of a pair.” (Tristan)
“How so?” (Jack)
“I have the other one.” (Tristan)
Tristan pulled out an identical item from his pocket.
“Whoa?!” (Jack)
“This was crafted by ancient twin magicians. While a single piece can suppress presence, the pair allows its users to sense each other’s mana and location.” (Tristan)
“That’s amazing!” (Jack)
So, he’d given it to me to ensure he could respond quickly if something happened to me.
“That’s why you keep it, Jack. A master protects his disciple.” (Tristan)
“Understood.” (Jack)
With those parting words, Tristan left with the two servants. We knew his overwhelming strength and unshakable will. We believed wholeheartedly that he would successfully rescue the captured Goddess and the brainwashed children.
—
Throughout the afternoon, Alfred trained in the garden, preparing for our departure the next day. His shirtless form, lifting weights and practicing swings, was brimming with vitality. He was nothing like the dejected man he had been before.
“Fred.” (Jack)
“What is it, Jack?” (Alfred)
His tone suggested he didn’t want to be disturbed.
“I want a sword.” (Jack)
“Huh?” (Alfred)
Alfred paused his practice mid-swing.
“Sorry, but I’m short on money. Don’t you already have plenty of swords?” (Alfred)
He was referring to my ability to generate swords. But constantly creating them during battle put me at a significant disadvantage.
“I already got the money.” (Jack)
“What?!” (Alfred)
I’d previously asked Parcine-san for the funds. Without hesitation, he handed me enough to buy a fine sword.
“Then, go buy one yourself. I’m focused on tomorrow.” (Alfred)
“I want you to choose for me.” (Jack)
This was Barwitch, a hub of trade. I didn’t want to risk getting stuck with a poor-quality weapon during such an important time.
“I can’t judge a good sword. But you can, Fred.” (Jack)
“…Tsk. Fine.” (Alfred)
Though he sounded reluctant, Alfred didn’t seem upset about my request. He agreed readily.
—
The area with Barwitch’s street vendors and weapon shops was near the central plaza of the west district, across the river. It was conveniently located for adventurers entering from the north or west gates. As usual, the place was bustling with people. It reminded me of the day I visited Dali Amor.
Back then, Fred and I walked around looking at street vendors like this, and even caught some con artists. I can’t believe it’s already been half a year since then.
“Hey, you two lads! We’ve got some good stuff here!” (Vendor)
As we walked down the street, the vendors kept calling out to us. These peddlers must be fiercely competing to do business in this Barwitch area. Alfred walked over to one of the vendors who called out to us.
“We’re looking for swords.” (Alfred)
“Oh, weapons, huh! Lad, you’re in luck today! I just got some new stock!” (Vendor)
The man had a thick mustache.
Why is it that merchants always seem to have mustaches? It makes them look shady.
“How many types do you have in your shop?” (Alfred)
“We carry so many I can’t even count! What kind of sword are you looking for?” (Vendor)
“I see… Sorry, but we’ll look elsewhere.” (Alfred)
Alfred said that and quickly turned on his heel, leaving the vendor behind. I followed after him.
“Wait a minute, lad! We’ve really got some great items here!” (Vendor)
Ignoring the vendor’s words, Alfred walked briskly ahead.
“Fred! Wasn’t it worth taking a look?” (Jack)
“Jack, you don’t deal with people like that before even seeing their goods. There aren’t that many kinds of swords to begin with. Any idiot merchant claiming they have countless varieties is only dealing in low-quality or cheap goods.” (Alfred)
“Eh… Is that how it works?” (Jack)
“That’s something you learn with experience and intuition.” (Alfred)
Alfred was well-versed in this kind of bargaining and interaction. It was one of his charms, showing he wasn’t just about fighting.
Someday, I want to be like him too.
Then, Alfred noticed a stall that was slightly shabbier compared to the others. Its exterior was gloomy, especially since the other stalls were so flashy. But the lineup of products caught my eye, with swords and bows gleaming in their display. The shop looked like the one we entered in Dali Amour when we bought a decorative bastard sword. I wondered if Alfred preferred shops without that pushy, hard-sell vibe.
“Shops like that don’t spend money on appearances. That means their swords might be the real deal.” (Alfred)
“I see.” (Jack)
Alfred approached the stall and spoke to the shopkeeper.
“Hey, mind showing me your swords?” (Alfred)
Once he zeroed in, Alfred shifted to a friendly, casual tone. He could easily pass as an actor.
However, the shopkeeper was extremely unfriendly in response. Or rather, I couldn’t even see their face. They wore a shabby hooded robe pulled low, sitting cross-legged, with only their mouth visible. The shopkeeper matched the gloomy vibe…
Do they even want to sell anything?
“…..!” (Shopkeeper)
The shopkeeper looked at the two of us and reacted as if they were choking on air.
“Huh? What’s wrong? You’re selling these, aren’t you?” (Alfred)
Alfred leaned closer to peer at the shopkeeper’s face, but he lowered his head to hide it. Even with just the mouth visible, their face looked surprisingly delicate.
Could this shopkeeper turn out to be a stunningly handsome guy under that robe?
“…..” (Shopkeeper)
“What a quiet shopkeeper. Well, whatever… Jack, what kind of sword are you looking for?” (Alfred)
“Hmm… Something on the heavier side. A wide, weighty one would be good.” (Jack)
“Oh? Seems like our taste in swords matches.” (Alfred)
It felt like the shopkeeper was staring at my right arm.
Sure, it stands out, but there are demons here and there, so it shouldn’t be that rare in this town.
“So, what do you have?” (Alfred)
“…We don’t have anything here.” (Shopkeeper)
The shopkeeper spoke, their voice strangely high-pitched.
…A woman?
“Hey, hey, what’s that behind you? Looks like you’ve got some good stuff lined up. Or are you discriminating against customers or something?” (Alfred)
“…” (Shopkeeper)
Alfred kept talking casually. The shopkeeper remained silent as always.
How can someone like this make a living in this competitive market? It was starting to make me worry for them.
“Come on, at least let us take a look. We’re not here to haggle or waste time. If you’ve got something good, we’re willing to pay a bit extra.” (Alfred)
The shopkeeper started fidgeting slightly. Her neck trembled as if they were holding back anger.
“Ah, that gladius over there looks good. Could you grab it and let us see?” (Alfred)
Alfred leaned over the stall.
“Ahhh! Enough already! I’m not selling anything to you!” (Shopkeeper)
The shopkeeper suddenly stood up and yelled at Alfred with incredible intensity. Alfred widened his eyes, stunned.
“…You… Liz?” (Alfred)
“That’s right! Got a problem with it?!” (Lizbeth)
The shopkeeper threw back her hood, revealing her face. It was Lizbeth, a former comrade, looking just as she had before.
“Why are you two here?! And Jack, why are you here?! You went missing! And what’s with that outfit?! Ugh, none of this makes sense!” (Lizbeth)
Lizbeth burst out, her anger spilling over. After she finished speaking, she panted heavily, catching her breath.
“What about you? Did you change careers to become a merchant?” (Alfred)
“This is just… cleaning up my life!” (Lizbeth)
Lizbeth glared, as if meeting her mortal enemy.
“Cleaning up…?” (Alfred)
“Ah! It’s none of your business! We’re not connected anymore!” (Lizbeth)
Lizbeth had left the group for ‘adult reasons’, or so we were told, but I figured it had something to do with Lindsey’s pregnancy. It was obvious from her behavior back then that Lizbeth had feelings for Alfred.
“By the way, Jack… Are you really Jack?” (Lizbeth)
Lizbeth stared at me suspiciously, clearly confused by how much I had changed.
“Yeah. I’m glad to see you’re doing well, Liz.” (Jack)
“You’ve changed a lot… But how did you even get out of there?” (Lizbeth)
“It’s a long story.” (Jack)
Right now, there were other things we needed to focus on.
“Oh, Liz!” (Alfred)
Alfred moved closer to Lizbeth. She seemed flustered, her face turning red from the sudden proximity.
“W-What?” (Lizbeth)
“Please… Come back to Liberta with us! I’m begging you.” (Alfred)
Alfred bowed his head deeply. It was rare to see him lower himself like this.
“It’s too late now… Even if you say that, it’s impossible.” (Liz)
“Things are getting rough right now! Even Tristan came back. If you join us, Liberta can be restored!” (Alfred)
Alfred was right. If Lizbeth came back, everything could go back to how it used to be. Dwayne was a different person now, but so was I. People change over time, but the bonds we built wouldn’t just disappear.
“It’s impossible. Lindsey’s about to give birth, isn’t she? Once the child is born, we can’t go back to the way things were.” (Liz)
Top of Form
Those words seemed to carry blessings for Lindsay and Alfred, but at the same time, I couldn’t help but feel Lizbeth’s jealousy was mixed in.
“Please… Please, somehow!” (Alfred)
Alfred finally got down on the ground and started bowing deeply, groveling.
“Stop it already. You’ve become such a submissive man since I last saw you.” (Lizbeth)
“Liz! I’m asking you too!” (Jack)
I joined Alfred in pleading. If throwing away our pride could bring back those days, it was a cheap price to pay.
“Stop it! There’s no way I can! I’ll be leaving for a distant country in a few days.” (Lizbeth)
“What… did you just say…?” (Alfred)
Alfred looked shocked.
“Where? Where are you going?” (Alfred)
“I can’t say. There’s a guild that seems willing to buy my skills.” (Lizbeth)
A guild…? Does that mean Lizbeth will be directly affiliated with a guild? In that case, is she retiring from being an adventurer? It doesn’t seem like an adventurer’s guild, so what kind of guild is it?
“No way…” (Alfred)
“It’s not like this is our final goodbye, so don’t make such a face.” (Lizbeth)
Alfred slumped his shoulders for the first time in a while.
“More importantly, what’s this urgent matter about? What trouble are you caught up in now?” (Lizbeth)
It seemed Lizbeth was asking out of curiosity, treating it as the last bit of gossip she could gather before leaving the town. I wanted to convey to her that the situation was far more serious than she imagined. And if possible, I wanted her help.
“Well, you see, actually――――” (Jack)
“Wait, Fred.” (Jack)
“What is it, Jack?” (Alfred)
“There are too many people here. This isn’t something we should talk about in public. If Lizbeth’s okay with it, I’d like to move to another place to discuss.” (Jack)
Lizbeth glanced over at the stalls before responding.
“Sure, I don’t mind. Not like anything’s selling anyway. But right now, it feels like Jack’s the leader, doesn’t it?” (Lizbeth)
“Shut up. Just sincerely congratulate him on his growth.” (Alfred)
—
We moved to a quiet café. It was located off the main street, with a somewhat dim and suspicious atmosphere. The three of us, Alfred, Lizbeth, and I, sat around a table, and I explained everything that had happened and the current situation. At first, Lizbeth listened as if she found it amusing, but as soon as I mentioned Paradise Cyans, her expression turned serious.
“I see. That’s certainly something new.” (Lizbeth)
“Right?” (Jack)
“It’s hard to believe in Goddess, but… well, looking at you, Jack, I guess it’s not impossible to believe.” (Lizbeth)
Lizbeth glanced at my right arm and cheek. Receiving that gaze, I decided to make another request to her.
“Liz, this is probably the most important moment. When the Goddess was being kidnapped, she said the role of salvation would fall to the Chevalier.” (Jack)
At the mention of Chevalier, Lizbeth reacted slightly. Whether it was confusion or rejection, I couldn’t tell from her fleeting expression.
“I think the Chevalier refers to the members of Liberta. Of course, Liz, that includes you. So please, come with us when we depart tomorrow! I’m begging you.” (Jack)
Lizbeth seemed slightly moved by my earnest plea.
“…But for now, isn’t Tristan handling things well? If Alfred joins, it shouldn’t be too much trouble, right?” (Lizbeth)
“That’s not…” (Jack)
“And that orchestra… they were the people from that Dali Amor festival, right? They didn’t seem particularly strong.” (Lizbeth)
That is still unknown. The only one I fought was Reingard, and I didn’t think his strength was exceptional. But Medna-san’s calm demeanor and unpredictable movements… My instincts told me she was dangerous. Not to mention Grace, their leader. Even if she was just a musician, being their leader must mean she had corresponding strength.
“This isn’t my place to step in.” (Lizbeth)
I knew she was sarcastic, but to think she was this stubborn too…
“…Are you really okay with that?” (Alfred)
Alfred suddenly posed a question.
“What do you mean?” (Lizbeth)
“Are you satisfied with that?” (Alfred)
“…” (Lizbeth)
At this point, I could only rely on Alfred to persuade her. He had known Lizbeth far longer than I had. He should understand her personality and feelings better.
“…I’m an adult now. I’m tired of being an adventurer.” (Lizbeth)
“I see.” (Alfred)
Alfred spat out those words as if cursing, sounding like he had completely given up.
“…Or would you rather come with me this time?” (Lizbeth)
Lizbeth muttered such words. Whether it was a joke or serious, I couldn’t tell.
“Don’t be stupid. I already have a kid now.” (Alfred)
“I see…” (Lizbeth)
Hearing only that, Lizbeth slung her heavy-looking merchant bag over her shoulder and stood up.
“Then I’m leaving. Good luck.” (Lizbeth)
“Wait, Liz, hold on!” (Jack)
“Sorry, Jack.” (Lizbeth)
She walked briskly toward the store’s exit, but after a few steps, she turned around for a moment and threw something at me. It spun through the air. It was blade, no, a gladius. I caught it just in time. That was close.
“Think of that as a small farewell gift from me.” (Lizbeth)
“But we need bows more than swords right now!” (Alfred)
Alfred complained on my behalf. Lizbeth said nothing in response and began walking outside again.
“…Men are such fools.” (Lizbeth)
I thought I heard her mutter a small, sarcastic remark as she left.
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