Chapter Two: Ice Princess

Amue Adulelia loved the season in which freezing, violent winds turned raindrops into snow. Stretching her small body, she opened her office window. The chill of early morning filled the room, rapidly lowering the temperature. Her long, light purple hair swayed in the wind.

Hugging herself, a subordinate stationed in the same room complained about the cold. ”Um, it’s a bit chilly in here…”

Without feeling, Amue dismissed her subordinate’s complaint. “Bear with it for now.”

“You appear to be in low spirits, Lady Orthoclase.”

“Before having this job thrust upon me, I’d planned to enjoy my first time off in quite some while.”

Amue cast a light glare upon the subordinate who’d so callously robbed her of valuable leisure time. As of right now, she should have been enjoying her favorite pie within her domain.

”My apologies,” said the subordinate. “However, I received a direct notice from the Royal Oversight Court.”

“Gemstone Academy’s graduation exam, I believe.”

The children of nobility attended a military school known as Gemstone Academy. Around this time each year, the academy conducted graduation exams. This particular year, Amue had been appointed to oversee the test.

”Yes,” replied the subordinate. “Compared to previous years, we’ve had a much harder time gathering Squire applicants. Consequently, we had to postpone the exam by nearly a month.”

“This recruitment test places the applicants’ lives at risk. It’s no wonder that willing participants are difficult to come by.”

“You’re right. Because of such rumors spreading, the number of applicants has dropped off each year.”

Traditionally, commoner Squire applicants accompanied Gemstone Academy’s graduation exam. The test was intended to determine the aptitude of future officers, but due to its life-threatening nature, a generous reward had been prepared for any commoners who volunteered to participate.

Nevertheless, few would risk their lives so easily. In a country as prosperous as Murakumo, even the commoners led lives free of poverty, making the offer all the less enticing. For quite some time now, the requirements for Squire applicants had even been eliminated. Regardless of citizenship, birthplace, or criminal record, one could enlist. As a result, they’d managed to secure the necessary number of applicants each year.

“At this stage, how many applicants are we missing?” asked Amue.

“Since I don’t have the exact numbers, I’d planned to do on an on-site verification. Would you mind joining me, Lady Orthoclase?”

“Well, making you go back and forth would be a waste of time. But refrain from using my Bright Name. This is a military operation.”

“My apologies, Solar General.”

Seeing her subordinate bow reverently from the corner of her eye, Amue placed a hand on her office door. “Let’s be on our way, Kazahina.”

Wanting to finish these bothersome tasks as soon as possible, Amue hurried towards her destination.

From birth, all humans had Miracrystals embedded in the backs of their left hands, of which there were several varieties. Turbid Dunstones with no special powers were classified as soft. Sunstones, whose wielders could manipulate and interfere with nature at will, were classified as solid.  Finally, Radiantores were classified as Adamantine.

Even amongst Sunstones, Radiantores demonstrated exceptional strength. When a Radiantore used Crynetic Energy, they exhibited power equal to a natural disaster. Even in large, highly populated countries, only a few existed. Naturally, these rarities amidst human society received special names. Orthoclase, passed down through generations of Murakumo’s Adulelia clan, was one such Radiantore.

Aside from their overwhelming might, Radiantores also slowed down the aging process and extended one’s life. The rate of aging and increased lifespan depended on the inherent nature of the wielder, resulting in individual variations.

At the age of twelve, Amue had inherited Orthoclase from her great-grandfather. In the many years since then, she hadn’t grown a centimeter. Despite being a young child in voice and body, Amue still headed the Adulelia Dukedom. She also commanded one wing of Murakumo’s military, the Solid Left Army, otherwise known as the Bright Ice Wolves.

“Is this it?” asked Amue.

“The eleventh barracks is the correct location, I believe.”

Kazahina had led them to one of the barracks, which mainly housed Squire training facilities and waiting areas. Upon noticing Amue’s arrival, the Squires guarding this building fell into a tremendous panic. In a great hurry, one of them brought out the barracks’ supervisor. Led by him, a total of twenty men prostrated themselves upon the ground.

“I sincerely apologize for not receiving you during your visitation, Solar General,” the middle-aged supervisor apologized most courteously.

“All is forgiven,” said Amue. “I’m here on an urgent matter. Everyone, raise your heads.”

Despite having permission, not a single prostrated individual did as instructed. On the contrary, they lowered their heads even deeper, rubbing their faces against the ground. This was the unbridgeable gap between Radiantores and the rest of humanity. If Amue did complain about the lack of reception, everyone here could be sentenced to beheading. Knowing this, some of the prostrated individuals’ hands shook with fear.

How utterly vexing.

Being feared more than necessary grew tiring.

“I’ve come to verify the status of the Squire recruitment test taking place alongside Gemstone Academy’s graduation exam,” said Amue. “Can you point me to the reception office?”

“Of course,” answered the supervisor. “We’ve set up a special reception office near the passage leading to the courtyard just beyond here.”

“I’m going to speak with the officer in charge. With your leave, I’ll be moving through these facilities.”

“P-please wait, Your Excellency! I’ll have someone guide—”

“That won’t be necessary. Return to your work, everyone.”

By now, the middle-aged supervisor had finally raised his head. However, since he still looked persistent, Amue clarified her words as an order, leaving the scene behind.

“They all seemed quite terrified,” said Kazahina, wearing a cheerful smile on their way to the reception office.

For Amue, this was no laughing matter. “…It’s the fault of that bald-headed Antigorite,” she said. “A long time ago, he executed a Squire who spilled tea in front of him. Ever since then, people have feared the name of Orthoclase alongside his. Even if we’re both Radiantores, our personalities aren’t the least bit similar.”

“From their perspective, Antigorite and Orthoclase must look the same.”

“Being held in the same regard as Serpentia is revolting.”

“I completely agree with you.”

In the middle of the conversation, their destination came into view. By all appearances, a temporary tent had been lazily erected here. Upon approaching the tent, Amue noticed something odd. In the distance, she spotted three soldiers surrounding a young man who looked like a commoner.

“Are they quarreling?” asked Kazahina.

“It appears so.”

Dressed in blue military uniforms, the three soldiers were Brights. The Dunstone surrounded by these Brights looked like an ordinary commoner. Even so, his gray hair – rare in Murakumo – and the mask covering the right side of his face gave him a distinctive appearance.

Roaring, one of the soldiers drew his sword.

 Kazahina stepped forward, looking towards Amue. “Oh, my… Are you going to stop them?”

“Even before three Brights, that man doesn’t look the least bit panicked.”

The gray-haired man appeared exceedingly calm, declining to even take a combative stance. He was so quiet, many onlookers would have pegged him as frightened. Yet after living for so long and seeing so many strong individuals, Amue knew the truth. Combined with the position of his feet, the distance he’d placed between himself and his opponents indicated his readiness to fight. His gaze – calmly assessing the situation – and composed demeanor carried the air of an accomplished swordsman.

Once the battle began, it happened in a flash. Using minimal movements, the young commoner carelessly dodged the Brights’ unleashed swords.

Kazahina’s voice rose in admiration. “My goodness…”

Their attacks proving futile, the Brights began using the powers of their Sunstones.

“Those imbeciles are about to use Crynetic Energy against a commoner,” said Amue.

“Let’s stop them this time.”

“It’s too late.”

The Brights were using weak Crynetic Energy, requiring only a short period of time to fire a single shot. Nevertheless, from Amue’s point of view, each of these attacks – despite being weak – contained enough power to penetrate the body of an ordinary person. Their swiftly fashioned Crynetic Energy released in an instant, giving her no time to stop it.

Imagining the scene destined to occur, Kazahina closed her eyes and turned her head. Amue also imagined the young man crouching on the ground, blood seeping from the holes punched in his body. Yet one moment later, an unbelievable sight unfolded before her. One by one, the young man dodged all three varieties of Crynetic Energy unleashed in his direction.

I don’t believe it.

”Huh?” asked Kazahina. “What in the…?”

Bewildered, Kazahina returned her gaze to the fight. Inwardly, Amue concurred. The Crynetic Energy used by Brights existed in a different dimension from cheap sword swings. Even if he was somewhat skilled and agile, dodging three simultaneous bursts of Crynetic Energy was a superhuman feat. Moreover, a commoner had pulled off this miracle.

Shouting curses at his opponent, one of the Brights raised his hands, concentrating Crynetic Energy atop his palms. Screeching, the sharpened air continued gathering, forming a blade of wind.

“This doesn’t look good,” said Kazahina.

Rather than the young man being targeted, it was the Bright whose prospects didn’t look good. He’d fashioned more Crynetic Energy than he could handle. If his power ran wild, he would hurt not only himself but also those around him, blowing everyone to smithereens.

Leaving Kazahina behind, Amue kicked the ground hard. Running into the middle of the quarrel, she used the power of her Miracrystal.

Adulelia clan members were born with Ice Miracrystals, which were rare in Murakumo. These Miracrystals could create blocks of ice from moisture in the air and freeze objects they came into contact with. However, the content and power of Amue’s Orthoclase existed within a different order of magnitude.

Immediately, Amue lowered the surrounding temperature to that of a midwinter region. Since the atmosphere froze in an instant, one could almost imagine the air had turned blue. Using as much moderation as possible, she then covered the ground with ice. Quietly and in the blink of an eye, a thin layer of frost dyed the surrounding land white.

“That’s enough,” she said.

The three Brights and the young commoner all looked in Amue’s direction. Her surprise attack had succeeded. The violent Crynetic Energy gathered by the Bright had dissipated before its release.

“L-L-Lady Orthoclase!?” the Bright yelled frantically.

Kazahina, who’d approached him from behind, let forth a cry as sharp as a bolt of lightning. ”Such insolence! Using Her Excellency’s Bright Name without permission!”

You of all people, Amue thought but kept silent.

Kazahina spoke in a somewhat informal manner when they were alone, but in the presence of other soldiers, she maintained the attitude of a stern, loyal subordinate. Appreciating her flexibility, Amue had appointed Kazahina as her adjutant.

”M-my apologies,” said the Bright.

The three officers collapsed on hands and knees, groveling. Though Amue had used her utmost restraint when spreading the thin layer of ice, their limbs still stuck to the ground. Meanwhile, the young commoner remained upright, looking between Amue and Kazahina with a bewildered expression.

“Why did you use Crynetic Energy against a commoner?” Amue asked in a most severe manner.

After a few moments of silence, the Bright who’d used Crynetic Wind began to speak without raising his head, choosing his words carefully. ”This man wouldn’t follow orders. When he resisted, I had no choice but to…”

“Thus, the three of you used Crynetic Energy against an unarmed commoner?” asked Amue.

The Brights shifted.

You’re all hiding something. I can see it written on your backs.

The men were so afraid, Amue considered hurling these words at them. Shifting her gaze, she found – as expected – possessions not belonging to the Brights piled inside the temporary tent. Weapons, bags, clothes, and so forth. Walking over to the tent, she picked up a cloak placed atop the reception desk.

“Ah—”

The young commoner had uttered something.

“Does this belong to you?” asked Amue.

He nodded.

“So this is the source of the disturbance?”

In all likelihood, these Brights had been stealing money and possessions from Squire applicants, leading to this young man’s resistance. When Amue pointed this out, the Brights looked up in unison and began making excuses.

”You’ve got it all wrong. We were just holding onto their things temporarily.”

“Yeah, we were gonna give everything right back!”

As a Bright, Amue felt both anger and scorn at their unsightly appearances. Cold air that she verged on losing control of began drifting all around her.

”Silence,” she said. “You’ve used your positions to collect personal belongings from applicants. Disclose the names of everyone you’ve stolen from. If you manage to return everything to its rightful owner, you’ll be – at the very least – spared the death penalty.”

“Y-you can’t be serious…”

As the Brights continued trying to defend themselves, Kazahina looked down on them, her tone frigid. ”According to the laws of the Royal Murakumo Military, the use of Crynetic Energy on a defenseless commoner during times of peace is strictly forbidden. Offenders are subject to the death penalty. If you wish to disregard Her Excellency’s merciful attempts to save your filthy lives, keep flapping those disgusting gums. But be warned: you’ll wind up without a head.”

Drawing her sword, Kazahina placed the blade on one of the Bright’s necks.

”I-I beg your forgiveness,” he said. “P-please…”

“Then get up and follow Her Excellency’s orders.”

After Kazahina gave one Bright a forceful kick to the head, the three hurried to collect as many stolen items as they could carry, dashing off to do as commanded. As she turned back towards Amue, Kazahina ceased being the dignified soldier, returning to her usual, aloof self. Such a quick transformation demanded respect.

“Are you satisfied, Your Excellency?” asked Kazahina.

“Yes. Afterwards, I’ll explain the situation to the director of this facility and have him supervise their actions.”

“Understood. What sort of punishment shall we impose on them?”

“I’ll leave that to you. Punish them severely enough that they never think of doing something this foolish again.”

“Yes, Your Excellency.”

“Well then.”

After she’d finished giving directions, Amue turned towards the young commoner once more. Though she hadn’t noticed from a distance, he was tall and slender. Amue – a child by all appearances – had to look up at him.

“What’s been done to you is unforgivable,” she said. “Since you’re here, I assume you came to apply as a Squire.”

The young man nodded silently, his left eye wary of Amue. He had keen discernment.

“If you’re still willing, I’ll add your name to the list of test takers,” she continued. “Is that satisfactory?”

“Um, are you sure? I did cause a fight.”

Based on his appearance and how he’d handled the conflict, Amue had expected him to be a ruffian. As such, hearing his composed voice came as a surprise.

“I bear the blame for that,” she said. “You won’t be held responsible for what happened earlier.”

“…Then I’d still like to take the Squire recruitment test.”

The young man looked directly at Amue as he spoke. Hearing the name of Orthoclase, most people would prostrate themselves in front of her. However, this young man acted brazenly, showing no signs of fear. To Amue, his behavior – while refreshing – also merited surprise. As a result, she found herself at a loss for words when replying.

“Y-yes, very well. Then I’ll call someone to act as your guide. While you’re waiting, fill out the reception form.”

Leaving him in the care of a facility worker Kazahina had called for, Amue stared at the young man’s back as he left.

“What a strange boy,” said Kazahina. “Despite how he conducted himself in the fight, he was so composed, as if nothing had happened.”

“Perhaps…”

Amue wondered if he really had been that composed. Three Brights had surrounded a mere commoner, threatening his life with Crynetic Energy. Following that incident, he’d appeared as serene as Kazahina had suggested.

Yet his eye had revealed something different.

Despite his poise, his discerning left eye had burned brilliantly. After withstanding his glare, Amue could no longer consider him composed.

If he was trying peer into me…

As he’d looked at her and Kazahina, Amue had sensed a hint of probing in the young man’s eye. Though not strictly unpleasant, his mettle was rare indeed. Immediately after fighting for his life, he’d stood before Amue – an Adamantine Bright – and attempted to peer into her.

Fascinating.

Amue lowered her gaze to the form he’d signed, finding the name Shuou written in neat script. “Shuou, is it?”

“Your Excellency?”

Ever astute, Kazahina had noticed Amue’s cheeks loosening. Flustered, she returned to her usual, blank expression.

“I want to know what he does from here on out,” said Amue. “Run a private investigation.”

“Understood. You’ve developed an interest in him?”

“That’s remains to be seen. But this might turn into a windfall.”

Amue had only a vague sense of expectation. She didn’t know if this encounter would lead to a future relationship, but she suspected that something important had occurred here.

Turning around, she looked up at the lifeless buildings lining the grounds. Inside, the supervisor would be waiting for her, and after learning of the disturbance, he would bury his head into the stone floor. In a little while, she would hear such a wide variety of apologizes and excuses that calluses would form in her ears.

Suppressing her annoyance, Amue exited the scene.

Original text: https://ncode.syosetu.com/n4006r/5/

Chapter One: The Kingdom of Murakumo

For many years, Shuou had lived apart from human settlements. During that time, he’d learned a great deal from Amane. However, he’d possessed little interest in acquiring knowledge from text or oral instruction. When learning how to walk and hunt in the Gray Forest, he’d found training in the field far more valuable than lectures. Because of this, his desire to experience the world through his own senses had grown stronger each day. As a result, he’d half fled from his master and guardian’s home.

Finally exiting the Gray Forest, he found himself standing upon a road paved with white stones. A special ore called Moonstone – quarried and processed – forged this path, otherwise known as the Alabaster Road. Reacting to moisture in the air, Moonstones emitted a vague, white light. Moonstone luminescence deterred further encroachment of the Gray Forest, and more importantly, passing Rabidaemons tended to avoid their radiance.

For unknown reasons, the effects of Moonstone weren’t absolute. Even so, traveling upon the Alabaster Road guaranteed some degree of safety, making it an important means of transportation for humanity.

Shuou continued walking down the Alabaster Road. Despite its coarse surface, the road was clean and perfectly level. Thus, carriages could drive through without difficulty, allowing for the smooth flow of commerce. Due to the intricately tangled vegetation, most people struggled to find footing in the Gray Forest, but as a path prepared by humans for humans, the Alabaster Road proved easy to traverse.

Continuing onward with a light step, the Alabaster Road ended when the ground rose a little higher. From here on out, the people of this land had determined this area to be a safe zone. As the road sloped gently to higher ground, a city surrounded by stone walls came into view.

Across the world, an uninterrupted mountain range ran in all four cardinal directions. Murakumo, the Kingdom of Gathering Clouds, was a large country located in the eastern mountain range. Thanks to the country’s rich mineral resources, weapons manufacturing kept the treasuries well-stocked, allowing the people to live abundant lives.

The Royal Capital of Murakumo.

These words were printed across the flag fluttering before the city’s entrance. The center of the flag depicted a winged, snake-like creature.

Is this nostalgia I’m feeling?

Until Amane had told him, Shuou hadn’t known the name of the country in which he’d lived as a street urchin. Indeed, Shuou had spent his childhood in the Royal Capital of Murakumo. The smell of the city, which he hadn’t experienced for twelve years, simultaneously invoked nostalgia and brought back bitter memories of his life as an orphan.

Dusk had arrived.

The streets bustled with men returning home from work and women out shopping for dinner. These pedestrians occasionally glanced at Shuou’s face. He didn’t know if the large eye patch, which covered nearly half has face, or his unfamiliar attire drew their attention. Unable to compose himself, Shuou left the main street. Following the backstreets, he came upon a quiet, residential area, helping to calm his nerves.

Shuou’s only possessions were a dagger made from the tooth of an insect Rabidaemon, a cloak made from the hide of a beast Rabidaemon, and a few days’ worth of portable rations. If he were merely looking to survive, Shuou could hunt for food and endure sleeping outdoors. Yet in the world of humans, he would need money to get by.

Even after living in seclusion for so many years, Shuou had a natural desire to stay in a decent inn, to enjoy the local food and drink. Since he wished to see the world, he would need money to travel across foreign countries as well.

Conveniently, he spotted a standing signboard advertising the Jobs Guild on the corner of the road. The all too ordinary act of working for money felt refreshingly new to Shuou. Merely thinking about it filled him with excitement.

Following the sign’s directions, he walked across the city, arriving at the guild in no time. If he were an outsider with no knowledge of the land, he might have gotten lost, but since Shuou had spent his childhood coming and going from the city’s backstreets, he didn’t fear losing his way.

As soon as Shuou entered the guild, an elderly man at the counter spoke to him. “Welcome, welcome.”

”I came here after seeing the sign,” said Shuou. “Can you refer me to a job?”

“Hmm.” The man observed Shuou from the tips of his shoes to the top of his head. “I see. So, what kind of work are you looking for?”

“I need to make a lot of money in as short a time as possible.”

Frowning, the man flipped through his nearby documents, his expression grave. “A quick, lucrative job, eh? Well, that’s going to be difficult.”

“Is it really?”

“During summertime, helping the merchants arriving from foreign counties carry their shipments provides more than enough work, no matter the number of laborers. But with winter right around the corner, no one’s looking to hire. At the moment, I can only refer you to places seeking long-term workers.”

“I see…”

Apparently, he’d arrived during a period coinciding with a low workload. Just as Shuou considered giving up and looking towards the future, the man raised his eyebrows as if he’d noticed something.

”Oh, there’s one place I could refer you to,” he said. “The royal army is recruiting Squire applicants.”

“Squires for the army?”

Shuou had confidence in his ability to fight. He had a well-honed body, and Amane’s training had been severe enough to make him vomit blood. Thus, he wouldn’t turn down work requiring strength, yet joining the military would mean losing his freedom for an extended period of time.

”I’d prefer to avoid long-term jobs,” he said.

“No, no, it’s not what you’re thinking.”

“It’s not?”

“This is recruitment to take part in an exam to select Squire candidates for the military. Even if you pass the examination, you can still decide whether or not you wish to join the army. Moreover, regardless of the results, you’ll still receive a generous reward afterwards.”

“That sounds almost too good to be true.”

“Yeah, but here’s the catch…” Before continuing, the man grunted, as if his next words were difficult to speak out loud. “Apparently, this test also serves as the graduation exam for Gemstone Academy, the school for noble children possessing Sunstones. The test itself is quite dangerous. Each year, more than half of the Squire applicants die.”

“More than half…?”

“It’s not that surprising. Unlike nobles, commoners with Dunstones such as ourselves only have physical strength and luck to protect us.”

Excepting some plants, creatures of this world were all born with stones called Miracrystals implanted in their bodies. Human Miracrystals were embedded in the backs of their left hands.

Two kinds of Miracrystals existed: Sunstones and Dunstones. Dunstones, which most people were born with, were named for their cloudy, grayish appearance. Except for this turbid hue, these stones were completely ordinary.

Conversely, Sunstones – Miracrystals displaying vibrant colors such as blue and green – had the ability to manipulate and intervene in various forms of nature, such as water and wind. Because Sunstones were hereditary, those in possession of them belonged to a privileged class in every country. Murakumo being no exception, those with Sunstones formed the aristocracy.

“This probably won’t mean much coming from me,” said the man, “but I’d advise against taking this test.”

“How long does it last?”

“According to the documents I received, up to a month.”

The exam would restrict him for a month, but if he returned alive, he’d receive a substantial monetary reward. Furthermore, no one would force him to join the army. These conditions were in line with his wishes. Though the risk of death accompanied this test, Shuou had confidence in his ability to surmount it.

”The job sounds great,” he said. “I’d appreciate a referral.”

“Are you serious?”

“Of course.”

“Well, that works for me, too. The army will give me a decent reward for anyone I refer.”

Looking into the man’s doubtful eyes, Shuou nodded.

“Seems like you’ve made up your mind,” said the man. “In that case, I’ll give you a referral.”

“Thank you.”

The man took out a letter of introduction containing the guild’s name and his signature. Finally, he stamped on a wax seal bearing the guild’s emblem, giving the completed form to Shuou.

“You’re a traveler, aren’t you?” asked the man. “Do you know where you’re staying tonight?”

“No. Since I don’t have any money, I’d considered sleeping outdoors.”

“You’re sleeping outdoors in this cold season?”

“I’m used to it.”

Even as a child, he’d managed to survive in the dead of winter. As an adult with a stronger constitution, camping in the city would hardly faze him.

“If you’d like, you can stay here,” said the man. “It isn’t much, but I can provide bread and soup for dinner.”

“Are you sure?”

“Of course. Letting our guest of honor sleep outdoors would bring shame upon this guild.”

Despite feeling guilty for making the man worry, Shuou decided to take advantage of his kindness. The hot soup and bread served at the dinner table was quite appetizing, soothing the exhaustion he’d accumulated while traversing the forest. Listening to the recent happenings in town and experiences from guild work, Shuou had a pleasant, worthwhile evening.

Borrowing a cot at the back of the guild, he was finally able to relax his weary body.

I’m off to a decent start.

Far more fatigued than he’d imagined, sleep swallowed him whole.

The next morning, Shuou shrewdly accepted breakfast as well. Patting his somewhat full stomach, he headed towards the barracks containing the Squire recruitment office. As described in the application guidelines, “Squire” was the rank given to Dunstone commoners upon joining the military. Since the cloudy Miracrystal embedded in his left hand reflected light dully, Shuou met these requirements.

Sunstones who became soldiers were divided into two ranks: Brights and Crystaliers. As this had nothing to do with him, Shuou knew very little about the subject.

Shuou had never met a Sunstone. He, the adults he’d seen as a street urchin, and even Amane had been Dunstones. Most of the world’s people were Dunstones, possessing no special powers. So long as one led a normal life in the city, they would never lay eyes on a Sunstone.

To demonstrate their power, most Sunstone nobles and their children served in the military at least once in their lives.

This’ll be fun.

Amane had told him many stories about those who wielded colored Miracrystals. Sunstones could launch blades crafted from wind, blow away their enemies with globes of water, and so on. How much strength lay hidden within those who could wield such mysterious power? Shuou’s curiosity was boundless.

Without needing to check the map he’d been given, Shuou arrived at the predetermined barracks. As befit a military facility, many buildings – all of which appeared durable even from the outside – were erected across the grounds.

Shuou crossed the barracks’ solid gates. Passing through the drab courtyard, he proceeded to the back, a magnificent, stone building coming into view. Two armed soldiers stood guard at the entrance. After waiting for him to approach, the soldiers turned their stern gazes upon Shuou, addressing him with a question.

“Answer succinctly: who are you, and why are you here?”

One soldier placed a hand to the sword at his waist.

“I received a referral from a guild and came as a Squire applicant,” said Shuou.

Upon seeing his letter of introduction, the guard’s expression immediately relaxed. ”Is that all? In the courtyard on the left-hand side from here, you’ll find a temporary reception tent. Head over there and complete the application process.”

“Thanks.”

Following the soldier’s instructions, Shuou found a courtyard with a decent sized lawn. Being a training area, several human-shaped scarecrows, wooden swords, and wooden spears were visible on the grounds. The temporary reception tent stood near the outer corridor leading from the main building to the annex. During such a cold time of year, Shuou wondered why it was necessary to set up a reception area outside. Well, there must have been some reason behind the decision, he convinced himself.

As Shuou approached the temporary tent, he heard multiple male voices coming from within. Peeking inside, he found three soldiers enjoying a coin game on a small table. Unlike the Squires guarding the entrance, these three men wore military uniforms made of blue and white, expensive looking fabric. On the backs of their hands, Shuou noticed blue, green, and orange Miracrystals. Clearly, these were officers.

”Excuse me.”

When he called out to them, the three men’s gazes focused on Shuou all at once.

The man sitting closest to Shuou stood up lazily and walked over to him. ”Yeah?”

”A guild referred me here,” said Shuou. “I heard that you’re looking for Squire applicants.”

“Well, it’s about time. You’re lucky, ya know. There was only one spot left. Sign this form with your name and your consent to take the test.”

Shuou’s first encounter with vibrant Miracrystals couldn’t haven’t been any worse. Their eyes held others in contempt. Their grinning faces were slovenly and vulgar. The man in front of him – who wore a blue uniform – was so unpleasant, Shuou wondered if he’d been born with a special talent for making people feel uncomfortable.

Taking out a pen and piece of paper from beside him, the man deliberately threw them onto the ground on Shuou’s right side. Seeing this, the two men sitting behind him began snickering.

“Also, we’re holding onto the possessions of those participating in the recruitment test,” said the officer. “Money, weapons, food. Give us all but the bare minimum of your clothing.”

“…Your reason being?”

“What was that? You came here for a job in the army, didn’t you? Then shut up and listen to orders.”

The man grew more and more stubborn. Though Shuou had doubts about submitting his belongings without any guarantee of their return, he didn’t want to butt heads with a soldier. Thus, he reluctantly decided to obey.

Shuou arranged his belongings atop the desk: portable rations, his weapon, and his cloak. Apart from these items, he had nothing worthy of being called a possession.

“Hey, quit jerkin’ me around,” said the officer. “Hand over your money. If you’re hiding even one copper coin, things won’t end well for you.”

“I don’t have any money. If you think I’m lying, feel free to search me.”

“Then jump up and down. If you don’t make a sound, I’ll believe you.”

Shuou did as instructed, jumping up and down a few times.  However, as he’d told the truth about having no money, he produced none of the officer’s anticipated sounds.

”Damn,” said the officer. “You really are broke.”

If I had money, I wouldn’t be here.

As Shuou cursed the officer inwardly, the two others moved in front of him as well, rummaging through the items he’d placed on the desk.

“Commoners never have anything good on them.”

“Is this dried meat…? And this dagger doesn’t even have a decent edge.”

“This cloak’s not half bad. Can’t tell what hide it’s made from, but the quality’s nice.”

At that moment, Shuou’s suspicions were confirmed. These men were stealing items belonging to commoners who had come here seeking work. Despite being right in front of him, they weren’t even trying to hide their actions. To them, this kind of behavior had become natural.

“Oh, yeah.” The first officer Shuou had spoken to looked at him, his expression contorting hideously.  “Hand over that mask you’re wearing. The craftsmanship looks decent enough. Might fetch a good price.”

“You can’t have this.”

Even if they strip me naked, I refuse to give them this.

“Strange,” said the officer. “I didn’t quite catch that. Mind repeating yourself?”

The man made an exaggerated show of placing a hand to his ear. In response, the two beside him laughed, hands pressed against their stomachs.

“This was a gift from someone important to me,” said Shuou. “Take whatever else you want, but I won’t give you this.”

The officers stopped laughing. The man in front of Shuou stared at him furiously, eyes bloodshot and lips trembling.

Drawing the long sword from the scabbard at his waist, he pointed the end at Shuou. ”Who do you think you are?” he asked, his rage blazing forth. “When I give an order, you obey! I won’t allow a filthy, lowborn commoner to defy me, a Bright!”

One of the officers who’d been laughing from the sidelines tried to stop his friend. “H-hey, you’re taking this way too far. If you make a scene, we could get in a lot of trouble.”

Overcome with fury, the man wouldn’t sheathe his weapon. “Shut it,” he said. “We’ll just say he was a spy from another country.”

“S-seriously…?”

“This grimy commoner defied us. If we let him go, he might get a big head and snitch on us later.”

One of the officer’s faces paled. “Oh, shit. If we’re caught doing this…”

“Guess we don’t have a choice.”

The two other officers drew their swords as well. Shuou walked backwards from the temporary tent, slowly putting some distance between them. Following him, the officers – their swords drawn – also exited the tent.

If you don’t obey, they’ll make sure you can’t say anything, huh? Talk about jumping to conclusions.

One belligerent man and two lackeys afraid of having their crimes exposed. Shuou wondered how much these three were hiding. If all Murakumo soldiers were the same, he would be quite disappointed. He sighed low enough to go unnoticed. No matter what happened, he wouldn’t be able to avoid trouble.

Covering him from the front, the three men readied their swords. This series of movements distinguished them from amateurs, calling to mind the bloody stench of trained soldiers.

The man taking center position called out his instructions to the others. “We came upon a suspicious commoner, but when we tried speaking to him, he resisted. Thus, we had no choice but to kill him. Sound good?”

The officers standing on his left and right nodded wordlessly. First, the man on the left attacked. Racing towards Shuou, he swept his sword sideways.

Plain as day.

Due to a burn scar, Shuou couldn’t use his right eye. Even so, his uninjured, left eye possessed extraordinary kinetic vision, incomparable to an ordinary person’s. At the same time, demonstrating his unique kinetic vision required a great deal of concentration. As a child, he’d only been able exercise this remarkable ability while maintaining his presence of mind. During fights or mentally destabilizing situations, he hadn’t been able to see well due to distraction.

Yet thanks to Amane’s training, he could now maintain his composure even in life-or-death situations. In Shuou’s current state, dodging the brandished sword of a modestly trained soldier was mere child’s play. He retreated nimbly, dodging the sword sweeping towards his stomach with perfect timing.

“Wha—”

Wearing an imbecilic expression, the man swept his gaze back and forth from Shuou to the sword he held aloft. Thinking he’d cut Shuou, the officer must have found the lack of blood strange.

“What are you doing, you useless piece of crap?” asked the central officer.

“I-I’m, you know…”

“It doesn’t matter! The two of us will finish him off!”

While the middle officer raised his sword diagonally over one shoulder, the left one held his in a stabbing position, both charging Shuou at the same time. Without expending much effort, Shuou twisted his body, dodging these attacks as well.

Their swordsmanship is rather lacking.

In the Gray Forest, Rabidaemons swung their claws at lightning speeds without any preparatory movements. Recalling the days he’d spent battling such monsters, these officers’ dull attacks were less than an amusement, unworthy of training.

A few more times, the men took turns raising their swords, attempting to rain blows upon Shuou. Merely by repositioning his body, Shuou dodged all their attacks with little to no effort.

“Damn it, I can’t hit ‘im… What’s with this guy?”

Breathless, the officers thrust their swords into the ground, using them as canes while heaving in air.

”Screw this,” said the central officer. “It’s time to get serious… Let’s use Crynetic Energy.”

“U-understood.”

“Roger that.”

Crynetic Energy referred to the power used by Sunstones.

They’re going to use their abilities?

For the first time, Shuou felt tense as he readied himself. Though knew a little bit about the Crynetic Energy used by Sunstones, he’d never seen it for himself.

On the left, the Orange Sunstone pointed his palm towards the ground, causing the soil to rise upwards. Gathering in the air little by little, it gradually formed into a thick, pointed object akin to an arrow. Afterwards, the Green Sunstone – located in the middle – held his hand aloft, creating a sharp, rotating blade of wind atop his palm. At some point, the officer on the right had also amassed a violently whirring globe of water in front of his chest.

Upon seeing them, Shuou understood. Each of these attacks contained enough power to destroy a human body in a single blow.

If any of those land, I’ll pay for it dearly.

Shuou prepared himself. This was the first time he’d seen Crynetic Energy. Even if his eye could perceive these powers, dodging them would be a different matter. First of all, he wasn’t even sure if he would be able to see them.

Thus, Shuou prepared to put his life on the line.

I might die.

At the central officer’s signal, all three Crynetic Energies released in unison. While the wind blades targeted Shuou’s legs, the earthen arrow flew towards his chest, the water globe hurtling towards his face.

What? Is that all?

Too easily, Shuou’s eye perceived each of the attacks with perfect accuracy. Lifting his foot, he evaded the wind blade. Shifting his body, he dodged the earthen arrow. Finally, he crouched to avoid the water globe.

Rather than a sense of accomplishment, he felt something close to disappointment. Amane had spoken about Crynetic Energy as though it were a fearsome power. Hearing her stories had invoked both awe and interest within Shuou. As such, being able to effortlessly deal with these powers saddened him.

”What the hell are you!?” shouted the middle officer. “There’s no way! There’s no fuckin’ way! A mere commoner shouldn’t be able to dodge Crynetic Energy!”

The Green Sunstone in the center ranted and raved, his face turning bright red. Unable to believe what had just happened, the left and right officers backed away, their mouths hanging open.

Enraged, the middle officer discharged a torrent of insults and curses. Based on his complete lack of composure, this man had a difficult personality. Seeing Shuou nonchalantly contemplate this appeared to displease the officer, his anger intensifying as he shouted.

”You dun bastard! Quit actin’ like you’re better than us!”

The Green Sunstone raised his hands towards the heavens. Immediately, a blade of wind formed atop his palms. Twice the size of the Crynetic Energy from earlier, it sucked in the surrounding air, producing a sharp sound, as if the very atmosphere were being torn apart.

It happened most unexpectedly.

Freezing air rose throughout the entire area, turning Shuou’s breath a cloudy white. As far as he could see, the ground had frozen in an instant, covered in a thin layer of ice. This sudden development caught everyone off guard. Even the officer who’d amassed so much wind lost focus, causing his Crynetic Energy to dissipate.

”That’s enough.”

Turning in the direction of the voice, Shuou found a young girl standing there, as expressionless as a doll and wearing an elegant, military uniform.

Original text: https://ncode.syosetu.com/n4006r/4/