Chapter 95 - Mio, Cooking and Hero

"Ehm, seaweed with thickness and hard dried fish… was it?" A woman that doesn't fit the port town's market walks. The bustling sells of various articles that are unfolding on both sides of the street, and the calls of the shopkeepers that shout with a loud voice. That the places where there are no stands are the street, makes it a complicated labyrinth with irregular shaped pathways. The people seen when walking down the road were normally naked on the upper half or wearing a thin shirt. The number of muscular men was high. She was clearly not familiar in this place, a girl wearing clothes deep indigo blue that were close to black was obviously an existence that was out of place here. The clothes called kimono is probably an attire that no one in this port town has seen before. And also, her hair that may or may not reach her shoulders, glossy black hair that has been beautifully trimmed. Her long slit and black eyes, and her vibrant deep red lips. The beauty that emitted conspicuous colors was clear in everyone's eyes. Her attire and appearance, with those two combined, make the people walking by turn and look twice. That person is one of Kuzunoha Companies strongest jewels, Mio. Her representative Makoto is currently in Academy Town and finished opening a store there. Tomoe who has been acting alongside her, has received a task by Makoto and is in a faraway place, so right now Mio is alone. But she is not free. For the sake of pioneering the port town as Makoto told her, she advanced through the north road of Tsige and arrived at this town that is located at the sea. It isn't that big of a town. Compared to Tsige, the size of this one is clearly smaller. The other remote regions have a land route for goods distribution called the gold highway, but the growth of this town is slightly restraint. To walk with hyuman legs and take just a few days, one would be able to raise several questions. Whatever the case, this location is port town Koran that is blessed to a certain extent, doesn't have a direct connection to the world's border special procurement route and even when they have the potential to receive merchant ships of the highest class, they still haven't reached that scale. A deplorable town. Even so, there's obviously no need to compare this to Tsige in marine products. There were many ingredients Mio had seen for the first time and were unfolded in the market. However, it seems that the thing she is looking for or something close to it, she still couldn't find it. Mio stops her feet and sighs. "I can't find anything close to kelp and skipjack tuna" What Mio is looking for are ingredients that are pretty common in Makoto's world. It's just that, this isn't something that Makoto asked for. After Mio separated from Makoto, she has been enjoying the food and she has mostly visited the famous restaurants and bars in Tsige. Makoto has accompanied her in eating while walking and has been accepting the food he recommended, but even if it's wide, there's still a limit. There are a few where she hasn't visited, but it's clear that she will hit the bottom soon. For Mio who loves Makoto and delicious food, this was a worrying situation. Then a chance came. Tomoe nonchalantly said this. "In that case, isn't it fine for Mio to just make the food Waka likes?" For Mio, these words were literally a divine revelation. To make food… HERSELF. For the girl who just ate the food that was brought to her, the impact of those words made her body stagger. And then she looked at Tomoe with a serious face, as if looking at a genius. That's exactly it. If she makes it herself, she can create what she considers the ideal taste. Even the taste that Makoto wishes for, she might be able to make it as well, is what she thought. To begin, she tried to recreate the food she has eaten until now. But she was left astonished. She didn't know the process of cooking at all. Cut, bake, boil, fry; that level she can manage, but the further steps she just can't. There are people in Asora who can cook, and she was mostly taught by the orcs in cooking which increased her skills. Even so, she wasn't able to reach the level of the food she ate in Tsige. Mio, lowering the number of requests she took in the Adventurer Guild, revisited the restaurants and bars and lowered her head to the cooks there. She challenged a number of times and failed. And Mio who had begun understanding the basic parts of cooking, had felt some sort of respect for the people that she couldn't replicate the food from. That's why, for Mio who wants to be taught the recipe and technique, it was natural to lower her head. On the other hand, the shopkeepers and cooks who saw this, couldn't bear it. In Tsige, the adventurers and the people related, there is not a single one who doesn't know the existence of Mio. And that person herself is suddenly lowering her head and asking to teach her cooking. The cooks showed such respect that one wouldn't be able to tell who was the one asking for a favor, and practically in an instant they accepted her request. Just, there's also the deal about competing stores and secret recipes, so there were parts they couldn't teach her; is what they supplicated Mio with visible sweat. Of course, Mio nods at their words. She told them that it was okay to just teach about some particular foods, and she is not intending to be a hindrance in their business so it was fine to not tell her the secret recipes and techniques. And so, relinquishing sleep time, Mio wentto the cooks' kitchen to get taught and there were cases when she matched times with them and accompanied them. After 1 month, Mio was able to recreate the food, not to a perfect level, but she was able to understand the basic essentials of the food in Tsige and mimic them. The complex parts like the hand skills and sauce, she still doesn't reach their level, but it's an acquisition rate that would surprise anyone. This may digress, but Mio who normally treats adventurers coldly, was using formal language with cooks. And because of that, in the restaurants, bars, and inn's which are close to that connotation; her behavior with the adventurers became docile. And so, now. The objective of Mio in this port town was exactly, the recreation of Japanese food. The food of her Master Makoto's world. Before heading to the Academy, Makoto explained her about the world he had come from. And Mio, seeing that it would be impossible to meet that scenery and food, was truly sad. By the way, she really didn't have any particular impression about Makoto's blood-line. Shiki was incredibly excited and made quite the ruckus, so he received the iron fist of Tomoe, but Mio honestly didn't mind what country Makoto was from, no, no matter what world he was from, it wouldn't change. He is just her only master and an irreplaceable existence. That's why, no matter what's in his past, she wouldn't mind. Instead of such boring stuff, her interest in the Japanese food Makoto was eating was more important. The Japanese food's foundation was different from Tsige's food. Instead of using meat, it gave the impression that they used more marine products and she thought that the port town would serve as some sort of clue, but… "No good. To begin with, there's not much dried stuff. From the Japanese food I saw in those memories, the only thing I can recreate is the sunny-side fried eggs. I had Tomoe cooperate with me and research for ways to cook, but it seems that the kelp and skipjack tuna are indispensable. The rice and miso are being recreated by Tomoe so, leaving that to her, I should gather various ingredients and learn different ways of cooking, and yet…" Mio who had resolved herself to someday provide Makoto with Japanese food in Asora, had quite the expectations from the port town, Koran. However, the truth was that she couldn't find the ingredients and the important dried fish was absolutely scarce. It was to the point that it made her question if this town didn't actually delve in that kind of manufacturing. "Dried fish? Things dried in the sun?Hmph, around this area there's no one who would go all the way to dry in order to eat fish and if they plan on carrying it to a faraway place, they normally freeze it" "In here the most important thing is freshness after all. To go through the trouble of drying it. Well, there might be houses where they dry them for one night but…" "They are low in numbers but, in places like souvenir and wholesale stores there might be some" She went around and asked, but the answers that she received were all unreliable. Even so, there was a bit of information regarding dried fish. The problem is the kelp. Even when telling them their characteristics, they all made faces like they haven't heard of it before, making Mio dejected. After doing a round around the market, Mio decided to go check the beach. Because she was taught that the place where fishes are dried is in the sandy beach, she thought that maybe she could get some information from the people that actually practice this. She felt like she was clinging to straws. "Is it that. It makes a peculiar smell. Like raw, or more like… a bad smell I have felt in the city but at the same time different. Fuh~, even though there should be marine plants drifting all around in the beach. Why is it that I can't find any?" While viewing the work at a distance, Mio despairs at the fact that there is only fish there. Glancing at one part of the beach, there was a black lump there and Mio noticed that it was washed up seaweed. In a place with pebbles spread all over and wood put together, a base was made located at an area where the sunlight hits easily. Fishes were placed there. The small ones are left as is and all the others were cut opened. "Now that I think about it, the smell of fish stinks more than beast meat. I feel like even boiling beast bone for a long time to make Dashi , there are also no fitting ingredients for it either. Tomoe-san told me that: "That's where the kelp comes in-nan ja", and said there was a special method. I thought that the basic process behind making soup with beast bone and fish bone as well as the ingredients were practically the same, but maybe that's not the case…" In the end, she wasn't able to get any new information from the workers. However, she was holding doubts about her own thoughts and gets closer to the black lump located at the beach. One of the workers said: "That's trash of the sea", but Mio didn't mind. "There are some that are warm to the touch and ones that are thin. There's quite a lot of types. When I look closely at their color, there's green and blue, and there's even red. The taste is… ara. Crispy and tasty. Saying its trash, what a waste. This one here is… well, the slight stickiness is worrying, butitis eatable. The lukewarm one has some white powder stuck on it-desu wa ne. Heh~, this one has a strong taste. The aroma is like that of the beach, a nice scent. The white powder is not poison either. From what I have gotten, the parts that are dry get hard but their taste gets stronger. Isn't this quite enough to qualify as ingredients-desu ka? Geez, they really have no insight" In order to have Tomoe inspect it, Mio looks for ones whose current state is good. The people that were drying fish gathered at a distance and looked at her eccentricities with a disgusted face. But in the middle, someone suddenly faced where Miowas, lifted both of its hands and began screaming. But Mio who was concentrated in selecting seaweed, didn't notice that. Several people look at the source, but Mio concentrated in her mouth. After they made noise is when Mio finally noticed. But it was already too slow. "That is… what's going on? Ah, maybe you were curious after seeing me eat seaweed? Eh?!" (Mio) An impact suddenly came from the back. If it was a normal person, it would have certainly been a fatal attack. That's how strong the attack Mio received was. Mio who had stood up from her squatting position with both hands filled with her harvest, had completely let her guard down. If she had spread out a "network" and expanded her perception area it would have been a different story, but Mio isn't that skilled in the perception of her surroundings. Without any proper preparations, she received the attack and was blown away. Mio was in the inner part of the beach at a place a bit faraway, attacked from behind while she was testing the seaweed. A loud sound of water mixed with the noise of waves was raised. That's right, Mio was completely thrown into the sea water. The ingredients that she had carefully selected and were in her hands, were released because of the surprise attack. And were washed by the waves and disappeared into the open sea. "…" Mio stood up silently. At her shoulder, there was a ferocious silver beast hanging onto her, biting her hard. With its hind legs it kicked Mio's body several times and from its moving jaw, one can see that the beast is still continuing to put in power. And yet, Mio didn't show any reaction. From the sandy part of the beach, there was a shadow running to where Mio is, and it was reflected in her field of vision. "…I have been drenched" (Mio) A cold penetrating voice rang out. The big wolf that would reach the ground if it stretched its legs, stopped its kicks. That's the identity of the beast that attacked Mio. But that big and ferocious beast was scared by Mio's words and weakness became present in its eyes. From its throat, an unreliable groan resounded. "…" Using her right hand, Mio casually grabs the silver wolf that was biting her left shoulder by the neck. It was a show of strength that none would expect from a woman, but just like that she pulled the wolf that was at her shoulder and smashed it into the sea. Mio's shoulders didn't have a single wound. It just left a small mark on the kimono she was wearing. The cloth resisted the attack of a wolf that was obviously not a normal beast. It was clear that it was not a simple kimono. On the other hand, the wolf, just by being smashed into the ground, was so weak it couldn't even stand up properly. It was pushing its body up with its front legs, but its hind legs didn't do the same. It could only look at Mio while moaning weakly. "Die, you bitch" (Mio) Mio takes out the folding fan from her bosom and swings it closed. Looking at the wolf with cold eyes that showed no mercy, she swings it in a breath. It was literally a paper-thin difference. The dark shadow enters into the space between Mio's attack and the wolf, and runs past while holding the wolf. It must have been quite the desperate sprint. Without taking its distance from Mio, the shadow's posture crumbles. "…" Mio, with her dangerous chill still around her, stops her movements and looks at the intruder that was standing on its knees. *Zuu Zuu An unusual sound reverberates in the place. The intruder thinking what was that sound, concentrates on the source of the sound. At the sea that preceded Mio's folding fan swing… Without caring about that disturbance, the sea that was carrying the wave… suddenly split up. The sea had divided in a range of several tens of meters from where Mio is and the bottom of the ocean was exposed. It was only a phenomenon that lasted for a few seconds, but the intruder gulped its breath and stared at that spectacle. "The owner? Then accompany it" (Mio) Mio swings her folding fang without hearing the answer of the intruder who had lost its words because of the previous phenomenon. "I'm sorry!!" The arm that was swung trembles, and stops. Because it lowered its head with all it had, when she thought it would stand up. "…" Maybe it piqued her interest. The hand of Mio stops and she waits for the next words of the intruder. "When I went to check the beach, this little one suddenly attacked you and… It's my fault. I understand that you are angered, but please, forgive us. The treatment of your injury and the mending of that kimono; I will definitely do it so!" Mio slowly lowers her folding fan, and puts it back into her bosom. She forgave it, or more like, it was because this one has piqued her interest. In this place where people don't know the name of kimono, the black haired girl here had said it as if it were natural. The girl in question stares at the folding fan that was lowered, and looked like all her strength left her. "…I am not injured so there's no need for treatment. Also, mend my kimono? It's is unfortunate, but this isn't something you can fix" (Mio) It looked like she was a bit down because of the traces of fang in her kimono, but it wasn't torn. Actually, the only damage-like damage was the washed away seaweed and that she was drenched. "I-I am sorry" "Let's see, if you help me out and treat me to dinner, I can leave it as if it never happened" (Mio) "If there's anything I can do! Regarding the dinner, please let me treat you! Thank you very much! Uhm…" "Mio-desu. And you lady?" (Mio) "Hibiki. Mio-san, I am truly sorry. This child is also reflecting so…" (Hibiki) At the place where she points out, there was the wolf curling its tail, but it was still sending a hostile gaze at Mio. It didn't look like it was reflecting at all. "Reflecting?" (Mio) "Sorry! Horn, return!" (Hibiki) The silver wolf is enveloped by light and disappears into the sash ofHibiki. Seeing that, Mio slightly narrows her eyes. "That wolf is a spirit who lives in a tool?" (Mio) "I don't know in detail, but it's something like a guardian beast" (Hibiki) "…I see. Then Hibiki, could you please help me sort out the seaweed that is in good state?" (Mio) "Seaweed? Uhm… is it for wakame or kelp? Mio-san is a cook?" (Hibiki) Mio's eyes widen at the nonchalant words of Hibiki. For Hibiki, her real reason to ask about her being a cook is because she actually wanted to continue by asking Mio what in the world is she. Of course, she doesn't really think that Mio who easily split up the sea, to be a cook. "?! That! Is there kelp among these?!" (Mio) "Eh?! Ah, uhm, it's probably the big one over there" (Hibiki) "This one?! Or maybe this one?!" (Mio) Just where in the world did her previous intensity go. She was now holding the said seaweeds in each hand and looking at Hibiki with eyes that radiated a different kind of intensity. "T-The one Mio-san is holding at your right is probably… kelp I think…" (Hibiki) "To think that not only was it not being sold, but dropped?!" (Mio) Throwing away the one at her left, Mio holds the kelp (probably) at her right with both hands and looks at it seriously. (Eh? Is she really a cook or something like that? I have heard that the wasteland before the town called Tsige was a place where common sense didn't work but… is it that common sense won't work beginning from the outside part? She was uninjured after being attacked by Horn and was able to easily split the sea with a folding fan. For someone like that to be a cook…) (Hibiki) Hibiki looks seriously at that Mio. "Uhm, Mio-san. The one you threw is probably something called wakame and it is used in miso… I mean, as an ingredient which I think will go along well in soup" (Hibiki) Just from the looks she wasn't sure, but Hibiki follows her explanation on the other one that was cruelly thrown away onto the beach. Immediately after that, Mio once again holds the wakame and washes it with sea water. "Wakame! That's right, this was wakame! Ah, Hibiki-san! I thank Waka-sama for this encounter!" (Mio) "Uwa!! Mio-san, just what is Waka-sama? Or more like, I'm sorry, it hurts, it stinks. Please let me go~~!!" (Hibiki) In her left hand wakame, in her right kelp; holding both of them, Mio embraces Hibiki with quite the vigor and strength, without reserve. Mio didn't notice at all, but this is how the Limia hero Otonashi Hibiki and Mio met. "Then, Hibiki and the others were looking for weapons and were in the middle of heading to Tsige?" "Yes. Our original plan was to use the gold highway and teleport until reaching Tsige, but we had some circumstances and have used ships and inconspicuous routes to transport until here" In the highway with people, 5 persons were walking. The sun is still high up and with the sparse number of people in this highway, one can tell that it isn't used that often. It's the shortest route that connects Koran to Tsige. At both sides there are a number of mountains, forests, lakes. To fulfill requests and train their skills, the adventurers that live in Tsige head to those places. It has been 2 days since Mio and Hibiki met. Mio while still not knowing that Hibiki's an otherworldler, she is being taught various knowledge about how to cook marine products by Hibiki. And Mio also visited numerous restaurants and passed her days eating things she has tasted for the first time. Right now she is accompanying Hibiki to her objective Tsige by Hibiki's suggestion and so they are now walking along in the highway like this. Hibiki has not revealed Mio her birthplace and that she is a hero. Hitting it off with Mio who wants to recreate food, she talks about the knowledge she has of food in her previous world. The group of the Limia hero is travelling incognito while vigilant of their surroundings just in case, but because of the death of one of their comrades, they are fatigued in spirit so noticing that the conversations with Mio were a good diversion, all except the person herself, silently consented Mio accompanying them. "I am sorry to interrupt in the middle of your conversation but, can you please give me a bit of your time?" When Mio and Hibiki had begun conversing about cooking, the magician who was silently walking, Wudi, cuts into the conversation. Because from the few days accompanying them, he knows that when the two of them begin talking about cooking, they don't finish for a long time. He thought that it was better to first digest the things that must be asked and the questions they had. His decision was the correct one. "What is it Wudi?" (Hibiki) "Make it short. Today I want to ask about drop-lid simmering-desu kara" (Mio) "Of course, Mio-dono. This may be a late question but, just what in the world are you? A cook, an adventurer or a merchant? Even though you did quite the shopping in Koran, you are not holding anything. You also didn't have a carriage. I haven't heard of a spell that one person can use to store that many goods" (Wudi) Mio isn't that used to be called a cook. That also goes for being treated as a merchant and an adventurer. It's like when throws away the world and lives long years of retirement, like a rich daughter secluded in her room. She gave off this aura that she is not used to this world yet. Even so, she is traveling alone like this and has travelled from Tsige to Koran and she is accompanying them on the way back. For Wudi there's something that doesn't fit. He had some bad feeling. "…I am a person who is currently interested in cooking and I have registered as an adventurer. Also, I am part of a company. If you ask me what am I, that is my only answer" (Mio) "…What a jumbled personal history. You say you are an adventurer but, you are not forming a party with anyone?" It was Bredda. While he consented travelling together with Mio, he is cautious of her. He didn't go as far as thinking that the demon race has expanded their influence up to this point, but even so, as long as he is traveling while protecting the hero, his approach isn't wrong. "Yeah, because the levels don't match or something like that. I actually wanted to party with Waka-sama, but since there's too much difference and because he is right now far away. The person who is closest to my level is someone called Tomoe-san who is in the same company as me, but it is not on the level where we can form a party so… Ah, that's right. I was originally a bodyguard of Waka-sama, so I am probably a bodyguard as well" (Mio) With no malice or anything of the like, Mio answers Bredda's question disinterested. Depending on the points of view, this could also be taken as feigning ignorance. In truth, she really is not partying with anyone. The person she wants to party with, Makoto, is in level 1, and even the one who is the closest, Tomoe, is over level 1,300. Mio who is in level 1,500, isn't able to party with anyone, so it can't be helped. "This may be rude but, what is the level of Mio-dono?" "Sorry. Waka-sama has nailed onto me that I can't tell other people my level without a reason, so I can't answer. In exchange, I won't ask for your levels, so please do forgive me" (Mio) "Hey, Wudi, and also Bredda! This is not an interrogation, so let's go with a more fun mood! We are doing a fast pace in the shortest route, but even so, she is still a person travelling with us!" (Hibiki) Hating the fact that the mood was getting bad, Hibiki scolds her two companions. The two of them apologize and obediently step back. It was not their intention to make the mood bad. In the route from Tsige to Koran that Tomoe and Mio planned to advance through has a number of hyuman and demi-human settlements, a roundabout route that takes several days. In contrast, the one that the five of them are walking in right now is a slightly steep and certainly the shortest route, where the adults could use magic to assist them to get through it in a single day. On top of not being able to pass with a carriage, there are chances to encounter mamonos, but if you are an adventurer, this route is a choice. Taking into account the girl Chiya who has a questionable amount of stamina, this route would take them at least 2 days to reach Tsige. "Hibiki, thank you. By the way, this is something I thought after the talk of level, but Hibiki and the others are reasonably strong-desu yo ne?" (Mio) "…Well, I think we are able to put good fight" (Hibiki) Bredda holds in his growing anger and Hibiki answers Mio's question. That reply had emotion mixed and the faces of Hibiki's party get slightly clouded. "I see… I normally don't do this, but I am accompanying you guys while being cautious of the surroundings. And it seems that something unusual is heading towards us-desu. Is it fine to leave it to you guys? Or do you want me to help you?" (Mio) "Don't joke around. I don't feel anything" (Wudi) "Yeah, I also don't feel anything around…" (Chiya) Wudi and Chiya refuted Mio's words. The two magicians had a hostile perception spell they were expanding in shifts. Saying something like that, Chiya who was resting, expands the spell again but in the effective range there was no reaction. "It is being expanded a bit wide so I can see why. Ah, there wasn't the need to try perceiving it. See, there it is" (Mio) Mio points out at the far mountain range. "What… is that?" "The wind is raging about?" There, many trees were dancing in the sky. And the forest was visibly shaking. The sound had not yet reached, but it was clear that something abnormal was occurring. And the abnormality was increasing its speed as it headed towards Hibiki and the others. "Now do you understand-desu ka? And so, what will you do?" (Mio) "Mio-san, do you know what that is?!" (Hibiki) "You were able to perceive that… from this distance? Isn't that impossible…" (Wudi) "I am not really sure but… it is probably a bug type mamono that has mutated in the wasteland and has crossed the mountains. It happens from time to time-desu" (Mio) Mio ignores Wudi and answers Hibiki's question. "A mamono from the wasteland?!" Bredda was clearly agitated. Even though they were thinking about trying out the wasteland after preparing their equipment in Tsige, they didn't expect that they would encounter a mamono before reaching the town. In the time they were talking, from the forest, the mamono doesn't change its direction and continues charging at them. It will soon come in contact with the perception spell of the hero party. "This is?!" "Incredibly strong! And also big!" "What are we going to do Hibiki?!" "…Mio-san. The thing that is heading here… is it stronger than the black calamity spider?" (Hibiki) "Eh, spider?" (Mio) "Yes, a hungry spider monster. Don't you know about it?" (Hibiki) "I do know about it but… Well, if you ask me which one is stronger, I have to say the spider is stronger-desu ne. But, is there a need to compare them?" (Mio) For Mio, the spider or in other words herself, hasn't fought anyone seriously until meeting Makoto. That is to say, what's the point of comparing strength when it wasn't even clear? Even so, there's no doubt that if she compares herself before her pact (taking out the hunger) and fought with her original strength, there's no doubt she would win against that thing charging at them. That's why she answered Hibiki like that. It isn't wrong. But the difference between the spider Mio is taking into account and the one Hibiki uses as measure, is what will make Hibiki do an incorrect decision. "That means we are enough. Everyone, we will be fighting so, prepare!" (Hibiki) Hibiki unsheathes her sword. Matching this, the other three prepare their fighting stances. (Ara, they are really doing it? Even though it is clearly stronger. This people, are they the type who die an early death when entering the wasteland? That's troubling-wa ne. Well, if Hibiki seems to be in danger, I just have to save her so there no real problemdesu wa ne) (Mio) "I see. Then I wish you good luck. If you think it gets bad, say so okay?" (Mio) Practically at the same time as Mio says so, a strong wind is raised in the surroundings. She jumps gently and sits down on a tree branch a bit faraway while resting her chin on one hand. There, something that had 4 legs extending from its abdomen, supporting its body and from its upper half there were two giant characteristic scythes in the place of its arms. "A praying… mantis?" (Hibiki) That's right. Just like how Hibiki said, there was a giant monster there which was probably based on a praying mantis. Its height is over 3 meters. Without even a single instant… It did an action that clearly told that the objective of the praying mantis was not the hero party. It does a swipe with its giant scythes that scatters the obstacles and heads onto the hero party. (Ara) Seeing the horizontal swipe of those scythes that cut off the surrounding leafs in an instant, Mio notices something. (I see. It's a variation that was weakened and got possessed by a wind spirit. From its size, it most likely ate a lot after that. And so, because it was troubled by food, it crossed the mountains. It would normally be a case where an emergency request is made in Tsige and gets noisy) (Mio) Mio is in a place outside the range of its attack and observes the praying mantis calmly. She has done requests in the wasteland and has experience protecting adventurers she accompanies so she knows how to act in this situations. Honestly speaking, taking into account the boost that Tsige has received because of Tomoe and Mio, Hibiki's group is about third place in Mio's eyes. She doesn't know about their level, but considering their survival abilities and instant decision making, they are just one of those parties that has some skills and has somehow not been buried. "Bredda!" (Hibiki) "Roger!" (Bredda) With Hibiki's voice, Bredda takes a step forward and stops the scythe attack with a wide width sword and deviates it. (Heh~, it is quite the well done defense. But well I have seen their weapons and I have to say, they have quite the poor equipment… Eh?!) (Mio) Mio's surprise. That reason was Bredda. Mio instantly understood that his sword was already not in a state where it could be used properly, but maybe because Bredda still didn't understand that, he was preparing himself to receive the other incoming scythe with his sword. Moreover, it looked like he didn't notice the difference in nature of the attack at all. Seeing how low their observation ability is, Mio clicks her tongue. It seems like she was overestimating Hibiki and the others and has been left disappointed. "Idiot! Evade it!" (Mio) Without any other choice, Mio warns him. "Eh?" From Bredda's look, it seems like he didn't take heed of Mio's words. The reason he let those words slip was because Hibiki was aiming for a counter. Flash. Bredda takes on the second attack of the praying mantis. But the result will not be the same as last time. The right scythe had passed through. Bredda's sword gets torn in two and without stopping, it cut through his left shoulder that was protected by metal like it was paper. The heavy armor young man coughs fresh blood and falls face up. His eyes were not filled with despair, but surprise. How pitiful that sight was. But he is still not dead. The healing light of Chiya who is in charge of recovery envelops Bredda. Wudi's aria doesn't stop and the battle is just begin, or at least that's how it was supposed to go. "Bredda!! No… M-Mio-san, I am sorry but please!" (Hibiki) Just like that. Unrest runs through Wudi and Chiya. Mio also gets surprised by the unexpected words. It's true that Bredda suffered severe injuries, but he is still able to continue fighting. Or more like, if he doesn't get up somehow, it is certain that everyone will die. For her to change her thinking to running because of this, is way too fast. Of course, there is no way for Mio to know this, but it was because Naval's death had become a heavy trauma in Hibiki. Outside it looks like she had already gotten over it, but in reality it was far from that. Actually, the slight escapism of Hibiki to her previous world had something to do with the cooking discussion she had with Mio. The normal Hibiki, after seeing the ability of Mio in the beach, she would have answered her questions while asking her to have a bout with her. And yet, she answered all of Mio's questions and just conversed about cooking. Because of the peaceful conversations, she must have unconsciously felt peace of mind. For the mamono, the people's circumstances are totally not its business. Mio, while thinking about the unexpected request of reinforcement this early, moves at high speed to the vicinity of where Bredda is fallen. "Hibiki, you have disappointed me. How pathetic. If you are weak, understand that you are weak and evade the danger. It's a bother-desu. Those two over there, I leave the treatment of that knight to you" (Mio) Hibiki's shoulders make a big tremble. "Geez. For a mere insect to think he is allowed to devastate the forest. How will you compensate if with this the number of mushrooms and fruits lower?" (Mio) Beating its fang and making an obnoxious sound, the mamono didn't show any signs of answering Mio's question. She stopped the swung scythe with her folding fan, no, not only that, she repelled it. "Wa!" "Eh?!" "Die" (Mio) She swipes her folding fan horizontally. She didn't even pay attention to whose voice it was. Mio easily cuts the praying mantis in two along with the forest behind it. The mamono that had the upper half imitating that of a hyuman and the lower that was of an insect had separated. "Done. With this you can even get raw materials from it right?" (Mio) "…" To not have words must refer to this kind of situations. That praying mantis was without doubt a strong one with clear presence and she defeated it like if she were taking care of a hoodlum in the road. Even though she hasn't sweated at all in the battle, Mio fans her face with her opened folding fan. "Is the knight fine?" (Mio) "Ah, ehm, yes. I think we will somehow be able to close the wound" "I see. Then there won't be any need to assist right? Hibiki, help in dismantling" (Mio) "Mio-san!!" (Hibiki) The distressed words of Hibiki didn't reach in time. Without any time to turn back, Mio's back was slashed. Losing her posture, Mio steps forward several times. There was no scream. Flapping its wings at a speed that eyes couldn't catch properly, it made its body hover. "Mio… san?" (Hibiki) "…Hey, Hibiki" (Mio) The tone that was being directed at Hibiki was clearly low. Remotely different compared to the time at the beach. If Makoto saw this he would raise his hands in surrender. That's how dangerous the current anger of Mio is. The praying mantis that had its body bisected, had gone mad and continued to slash at Mio's back. But Mio was showing no signs of being affected. Of course, there was no blood and unlike the viciousness of the attacks, it was quite peaceful. "Is my kimono loosening?" (Mio) "…Uhm" "It's ragged, Mio-oneechan" "…I see" (Mio) Taking the place of Hibiki who was having troubles saying it, Chiya explains her the situation. Mio puts her folding fan in her bosom. She breathed deeply and exhales. And then she turns and faces the praying mantis. There, a domain of two giant scythes were raging. And yet… Mio thrusts both of her arms without hesitation. "You… inseeect!!" (Mio) Grabbing the left scythe with one hand, she ties its other scythe whole with the darkness that was gushing out of her right palm. Thinking that the darkness had gone into the praying mantis' arm, the arm that was wrapped up in tight muscles had been instantly sliced into thousand pieces and fallen to the ground. Hibiki and the others gulp their breaths. The mamono makes a painful shriek. But Mio doesn't stop at just that. With her open right hand, she firmly grabs the remaining scythe that was grabbed with her left. And then, with Chiya's scream in the background… She cuts it into thousand pieces. With the slender arms of a girl. She does that to a mamono that is praised for its strong build. To the prided arm that had a scythe. Once again, an inhuman shriek reverberates around the surroundings. Losing its lower body and its two arms… The mamono had already noticed its own demise. But even so, it still tried to cling to life and with its flying ability that was still left, it tried to escape from the fight. However, even that was not possible. Mio's right hand was still holding the mamono's arm. Its left arm's scythe was cut in thousand pieces and thrown away, but her right hand was still holding its arm. Increasing the strength of its flapping, the praying mantis that had already lost its original form, created a gale while trying to escape. "Shut up!" (Mio) The giant body is send flying in the air in a form that it didn't wish to. Mio had raised it with one hand. And just like that, she smashed it to the ground. The ground that had received the body of the mamono, showed a fissure. "How dare you do that to the kimono Waka-sama praised!!" (Mio) The lower body that was lying powerless and the upper body that was being smashed, were wrapped by darkness at the same time. Even though it was darkness created by magic, a part of it makes you think it's a living being. The wriggling darkness begins to expand and envelops that giant body, and after that, it slowly gets smaller. In time, the darkness disappears in midair. There was nothing left. "…Ah… Because I continue letting my guard down. Can the kimono be fixed?" (Mio) Changing into a troubled face that one would even think it's not the same person, Mio looks at the state of her back. However, Hibiki and the others had no words, and were only overwhelmed by the being that was on a whole different level. "No good. As expected, this is not the time to be leisurely returning" (Mio) Mio seems to be pondering about something. (Mu, thought transmission? Is she talking to someone?) Wudi who had left Bredda's treatment to Chiya, goes to where Hibiki is and while confirming her state, he notices that Mio's pondering look was because she was talking to someone and he had taken an interest in it. In time, Mio faces in the direction of the three. "I have decided to hurry and return to Tsige. I can't just leave you behind so, please do forgive me" (Mio) Darkness envelops the three. A sound of powerless falling reverberates. Mio who had taken away the consciousness of Hibiki and the others, confirms their state and once again connects the thought transmission. (Tomoe, I have taken down everyone. I am counting on you to get us to Tsige-desu wa) (Mio) (I am not a taxi-ja ga na) (Tomoe) (Taxi? A word I still don't know of huh. Didn't I tell you that this has to do with my learning of Japanese food?) (Mio) (Ah, that you did-ja na. Well, if it's about that, I will cooperate. Is the gate of Tsige fine?) (Tomoe) (Yeah) (Mio) In the place where an intense fight had taken place, a number of presences disappeared. "Ara, you came" At the interior of the counter, in a place where there is a workshop, a familiar voice is heard. Hibiki and the others notice that they have arrived to their objective. They are at Tsige which is showing the most growth in this remote region, and moreover, in the Rembrandt Company that is riding on the momentum and growing with it. They are at a corner. A darkish skin demi-human smiled at them gently from the counter and received them. It's the sub-branch of Kuzunoha Company in Tsige. This company has already obtained a deep amount of stable customers and among the adventurers it is a store they admire. It uses outstanding materials and in this town it is the place with the highest quality of equipment. Moreover, if one has the right amount of money, they even accept orders for improvements or original weapon creations. For equipment that will certainly last for a long time, not only the adventurers but the people who have occupations where they will encounter battles, rate this place highly. Even so, there are a number of merchants at a corner lining up to buy medicine. Kuzunoha Company's medications are famous for being more effective than those other unskillful magic medications and their sales are rising. There's no doubt that it is doing well as a company. Right now the armor orders are temporarily stopped, so in the place for armor orders, there's no one. However, a number of adventurer-looking hyumans were there looking at the situation from the distance, so some people were anticipating that the orders will begin again. Hibiki and her companions were transported to an inn in Tsige by Mio while they were unconscious. Mio gave detailed instructions to the landlady and left the inn. Hibiki's group heard the situation from the landlady (several parts were altered) and devoted themselves to Bredda who was heavily injured, living several days there. And so, today. Because Bredda was able to walk normally now, they once again reunited and headed to Kuzunoha Company's sub-branch where they were told they could contact Mio. Hibiki's group didn't know aboutthe gazes of inquisitiveness and envy that were being directed at them. It's because they were envious of them having connections with Mio, but Hibiki's group who don't know about Kuzunoha Company and the status of Mio in this town, it is no surprise that they haven't noticed. When the Forest Oni clerk said "Sorry for making you wait", a black haired girl they met a few days ago appeared. "That knight, it seems he has healed already-desu ne. It's great that it was nothing serious" (Mio) "Yeah… That time you really aided us. From what I heard, you even lend a hand in healing. We thank you" (Bredda) Bredda himself steps forward and thanks Mio. Mio glances at him and soon turns her gaze to Hibiki. "I don't mind-desu wa. I am used to protecting after all. And so Hibiki, it seems that your companion is in a good state but, do you have time?" (Mio) "Yes. I heard from the landlady that you had business with me. So uhm… Is it about the fight with the mamono?" (Hibiki) Hibiki's expression is gloomy. Showing a pathetic appearance and being told that she was disappointed, had become a lingering discomfort inside her. For her, there were no past experiences where she has disappointed anyone and no experience in confronting her own weakness. Coupled with the fight of the demon general that made her hold doubts about her strength, she who is a hero, hadn't been able to digest this feeling inside her yet. "Fight? Ah, I don't really mind that. I just said this but, because of reasons, I am used to protecting people like you. Just think of it as being lucky-desu wa" (Mio) However, Mio's words totally negated Hibiki's thoughts. From Mio's point of view, the way back to Tsige had turned into protecting hyumans, that's all. "We were lucky…?" (Hibiki) "Yeah, because you guys didn't die. Moreover, I am not your companion nor your teacher and yet, why do I have to grade your fight and scold you?" (Mio) Mio's words implied that she didn't care much about the life of Hibiki's group. Those words stabbed Hibiki's group. "That is… then why did you save us?" (Hibiki) "I told this to the landlady too but, Hibiki, it's because I had business with you-desu. I still haven't asked you about how to make Dashi from the marine products and dried fish after all" (Mio) "D-Dashi is it?" (Hibiki) "Yes" (Mio) "Just because of that?" (Hibiki) "? That's right. If you know about ways to cook, it would be a pity to have you die. Just that. Now Hibiki, you have already taken care of your worries, so please give me some of your time" (Mio) Without any concern, Mio just answers the words of the dazed Hibiki. "Mio-dono, we are grateful for saving us, but we are unable to agree to your request. The reason we came here is to train and get good equipment. Sadly, we don't have time to spare…" (Wudi) Wudi opposes Mio's proposal. Hibiki's group came to Tsige because they were looking for an outstanding place to train. And also to find equipment that matches their skills. For the sake of the rematch with the demon general and also to overcome Stella Fort this time for certain. All of these actions are for that sake. "Stop it. To be defeated by an enemy of that level and moreover for a party that has the decision making of a baby, stepping into the wasteland will just turn you into feed. Your levels may be high, but in that place that just makes you a child with big build. It's impossible-desu" (Mio) Mio rejects Wudi's speech as if amazed. It wasn't that she belittled them or scorned them. It was like she was really admonishing a kid. "Even so! We have to get stronger! We don't have the time!" (Hibiki) Mio sighs at Hibiki's intense words. Because she saw in her eyes the light of an adventurer hurrying to its death place, the characteristic eyes of a person with narrowed vision. "I don't understand. I thought you were adventurers who were a bit different, but do you have an objective that makes you hurry that much?" (Mio) "That is…" "But I want you to at least repay me for saving your life? Also, no matter how strong you are, do you intent to take such a small child to the wasteland?" (Mio) "…" "Silent-desu ka. To think you guys were more stupid than I thought. Hmph, even so, this is troubling. I also can't back off after all…" (Mio) "Mio-san, for a while we will be moving in the day. So how about I tag along with Miosan at night?" (Hibiki) "From how you said it, it feels like there might not even be that many days-desu wa ne. I see, what should I do…?" (Mio) Hibiki and Mio converse across the counter. There, one man cuts in. It's a man that just like Mio, came from the interior of the store. "Then, how about this?" "N, Beren. Do you have an ingenious idea?" (Mio) "It's not to the point of calling it ingenious though. Mio-sama wants to ask about cooking to that lady there right? And if possible, learn the techniques as well" (Beren) "Yeah" (Mio) "And so, the group says they want to get stronger at the wasteland" (Beren) "Yes. That's the reason why we came" (Hibiki) Aside from Hibiki who answered, the others also assent. "I see, just like how Mio-sama said, if it continues like this, you guys will die in given time. Practically certain" (Beren) "!!" "Beren, don't beat around the bush and just say it!" (Mio) "Sorry for the discourtesy. If you are going to teach Mio-sama cooking, in regards of teaching her, I will also provide everyone with equipment that fits you in deferred payment. You can leave to the wasteland at that time. That way, until the equipment is done… let's see, three days maybe. In that time it will be done. After that, you will continue teaching Mio-sama cooking at night. What do you think? Excuse me for my impoliteness, it is true that everyone's equipment is reasonably good, but they seem to be quite damaged. To go to the wasteland like that is suicide" (Beren) "…Can we be at peace by just changing the equipment?" (Mio) "Then, how about having Toa and the others accompany them as well? If it's Miosama's request, they won't refuse" (Beren) "I see. If it's them, as long as it is in the day there's not much to worry. Beren, wasn't it an ingenious idea after all?" (Mio) "I am honored. And so, how about it?" (Beren) The opinions of the people inside the counter had been arranged and the dwarf craftsman asks for the answer of Hibiki's group. "Three days huh. You can't shorten that time?" (Bredda) "I will be taking the measurements now so. It is a different story from just repairing. Three days is an incredibly short time that no matter what craftsmen you ask would concur" (Beren) To Bredda's question, the craftsman Beren answers politely. Inside him, he was amazed by the knight who didn't understand smithing. "What prove do we have that the accompanying adventurers can be trusted?" (Wudi) It's the magician Wudi. He was worried whether the people accompanying can be trusted. To have the adventurers you hired betray you, isn't that unusual of a story. If a betrayal occurs in a dangerous place, it can even kill them all. "Toa-dono is the person at the top of Tsige's list. Her face is known and she is not the kind of person who would do unreasonable things. Her party's average level is over 450 and its ability can soon be called high class" (Beren) "450?!" "Also, they are adventurers Mio-sama trusts. If you say there's no way you can trust them, then at that time we would have to think of another way" (Beren) "?!" Wudi trembles at the gaze mixed with blood thirst that Beren released for a second. He felt like he wouldn't hesitate to take unscrupulous means. To feel danger from a conversation about cooking is just unreasonable. With a nod that one could take as consent, Wudi steps back. "Hibiki, what will you do? I do think this proposal is advantageous for your party though?" (Beren) "…I count on you" (Hibiki) "Great! Then let's begin the measuring as soon as possible. Beren, hurry. The first one will be Hibiki okay? After that, contact Toa and…" (Mio) "Everyone, over here please" (Beren) Being invited by Mio and Beren, Hibiki's group disappears into the interior of the store. Limia's Hero began her restart in the borderland. 2 This is the first time in Hibiki's life that several months felt so short. Now it feels nostalgic the times when they were surprised by the performance of the weapons Beren and the other elder dwarfs created. From the adventurer party of the girl Toa they were presented to, they have learned the adventurer way of decision making and way of thinking. Toa who was filling the role as party leader, is the type who uses speed as weapon and while it is the same type as Hibiki, she uses a different method to take advantage of the enemy's openings, and she was able to become a good sparring partner for Hibiki. Toa who thought of Hibiki as a person of her same trade, didn't find the chance to show Hibiki her trump card and hidden skills. No one knows what the result would be if a real fight were to happen. At least Hibiki thinks that she doesn't want to confront her. Lately, Hibiki has not been increasing her level, however, her strength has clearly increased. At first, Hibiki who was still dragging her trauma of losing her companion, splendidly lost in a spar with Toa who was close to her level. She already has experience, but this is the first time that Hibiki has lost to a hyuman so badly. By the way, she also sparred with Mio, but the result was a complete defeat. She practically didn't let her do anything. One time, late at night in the inn where she had expanded a barrier in case of intruders and was sleeping, there was a case when Mio had, not broken the barrier, but passed through it and woke her up. Hibiki who was struggling because she didn't know what was happening, got easily subjugated and was dragged to the kitchen by Mio who had sparkling eyes, to teach her cooking. There was a time when Hibiki who was particularly stuck to the idea of levels, didn't understand why she lost to Toa who has a lower level than her, and had to ask. "When I was in Zenno, I was like that. Well, aren't levels just one of many indicators?" (Toa) Is what Toa thought as she remembered the masked merchant. "Having a high level is just proof that you have killed a lot. You shouldn't feel strength from a number but with your body" (Mio) This was said by Mio. It was slightly mixed with the masochism when she was controlled by hunger, but Hibiki didn't notice it. She was only looking at Mio with admiration. And that Mio who was being taught by Hibiki the way to make Dashi from dried fish and konbu, had the sparkling eyes of a child. A companion that has the same black hair as her, and even if it's only limited to cooking, she is able to talk to her about the knowledge of her previous world in a favorable light. As Hibiki was steadily conquering her trauma, she was at the same time growing dependent of Mio. 2 Tonight will be the last night her party will be staying in Tsige. A repatriation order had been send by Limia. At first, because they were being treated favorably by the dwarfs, Hibiki's party were a target of envy, but being friends with Toa's party and the mutual cooperation in the wasteland, and at the same time as Hibiki conquered her trauma, she slowly regained her disposition of attracting spirits and were slowly being accepted by the adventurers in this remote region. That's why tonight, a party was being held for the sake of her and her party, and a great number of adventurers were sad at their parting as they make a racket. There were some who decided to follow Hibiki's party to Limia and there were others who had decided to fight alongside her. Bredda and Wudi were dead drunk and in that state, they disappeared somewhere. Maybe they were kidnapped by women who were sad by their departure and wanted to pass a night of passion with them. Chiya didn't have adventurers who were the same age as her and felt left out, so she had a time when she was homesick, but because she hit it off with Toa's sister Rinon, she was having fun in this party as she drank juice and in the end, the two of them happily went to sleep on the same bed. And Hibiki… Had left the tumult and was on top of the rampart that surrounds the town. It couldn't compare to the modern sight of neon, but at her back there's the lighted town of Tsige. At her front, there's the gold highway. The place where the wealthy merchant Rembrandt and his butler saw off Misumi Makoto, is exactly this place. She is not alone. From the inner part leaning at the rampart, there is a woman looking at Hibiki. It's Mio. "I heard you have something to talk about? Is it something that you have to ask me to come all the way here for-desu no?" (Mio) "…Yes. In that place where a party is being held, I just felt like the mood was not right" (Hibiki) Hibiki who was looking at the highway, turns around. "Make it short. Being in this kind of place at midnight can create unnecessary misunderstandings" (Mio) "As always, when it isn't related to cooking you are so cold, Mio-san. Understood, I have two things I want to convey" (Hibiki) "…" "First, Mio-san thank you very much" (Hibiki) Hibiki lowers her head deeply and gives her thanks. "If we didn't meet Mio at Koran, I think we wouldn't be alive. The wasteland was a lot harsher than we thought. The trigger was Horn running wild, but I am really glad that I met you Mio-san" (Hibiki) "I also had an objective after all. There's no need to thank me" (Mio) (Also, the reason why that wolf called Horn attacked me was because he reacted to my smell. Through the end it seems these guys didn't realize that I am the black spider they fought, but only that thing noticed it. There's no helping it that he attacked me. Also, I have already "silenced" Horn, so there's no need for me to tell her) (Mio) Mio found out the reason the silver wolf attacked her. On top of that, she gave detailed instructions to Horn and had him unable to disclose anything to Hibiki and the others. Thinking about the conditions, that wolf wouldn't disclose anything, is what Mio thought with peace of mind. "I was surprised that you even had katanas, but the sword that Beren-san made is really incredible. Our meeting with him is also thanks to Mio, so please accept my thanks" (Hibiki) Hibiki had her heart quite moved when she saw the katana at the elder dwarfs' workshop. It is also because she originally practiced kendo. When she took it in her hands and unsheated it, she was dazzled by that beauty and gulped her breath. But, Beren bluntly told Hibiki that she is not fit for a katana and cut off her longing eyes. Beren who had seen her sword, had warned her that Hibiki's sword technique didn't fit katanas anymore. "I can tell that the skills that lie in young lady's body are originally techniques that handle single edged swords. However,the sword that young lady is swinging right now is clearly double-edged sword techniques. I don't recommend the katana which also has a special method of maintenance. That's my opinion as a person who recommends weapons" (Beren) There was no mistake. The way of using a sword that Hibiki had originally known was kendo and a bit of fencing. Apart from kendo which she continued in club activities, she also learned a bit of fencing, but because of reasons, she soon had to stop. And so, when she came to this world, she had now settled with the real combat sword techniques of the now deceased Naval that are mixed with self-taught techniques as well as the way of fighting with the bastard sword. To use a katana now might be difficult, she herself knows that. Accepting the warning obediently, Hibiki for the first time obtained a weapon that surpassed her abilities. Contrary to how it has been in the past, she had to train to be able to properly pull out the capabilities of the weapon. That sword which was mixed in with Beren's playful side, is a sword that's bigger than a bastard sword and its appearance is one that can compare to a big sword, but it was unexpectedly lighter than the sword Hibiki used. If she accurately took into consideration its size, she is able to use it just like her previous sword. That Beren used the scythe Mio showed him nonchalantly as material is one of the secrets that have not been revealed to Hibiki. Remembering that gratitude as well, Hibiki turns her gaze away from Mio and looks at the night sky. "I think right now I am only able to bring out about half of the capabilities of this sword. Beren-san also said I still haven't been able to bring out the trick to it and was disappointed. To leave before finishing a task, is honestly mortifying" (Hibiki) "Not really. The current you can get proper training even without staying here. You probably will be able to use Beren's creation in a near future" (Mio) "I will do my best. And so, about the other thing I want to convey" (Hibiki) Hibiki, unusual from her, was showing a look like she is having a hard time choosing her words. Having drunk and eaten enough and not having any urgent business, Mio just waits silently for Hibiki's words. "…Mio-san, could you please come together with us? In the end I wasn't able to meet him, but I will definitely make sure not to show discourtesy to the company's representative!" (Hibiki) Hibiki has not met the Kuzunoha Company's representative, Raidou. Itis someone that comes in conversations at times and she has also heard stories from Toa. That mysterious merchant who seems to have skill, in the end didn't return from stocking up and Hibiki and none of her companions have met him. It's just that it was clear that Mio, Beren and the people in the company admire him a lot and when they told Hibiki about Raidou, they showed extraordinary pride. "I don't want to-desu. I have Waka-sama after all. I told Hibiki too right?" (Mio) Immediate answer. "Then together with that Waka-sama. I will also prepare it so he can make a store there" (Hibiki) "That's also a no-desu. Didn't I tell you that Waka-sama is currently busy?" (Mio) There were no points where Hibiki could find compromise. "…This is just an example but, if my wish concerned the world and you pulling back drags Mio-san's important Waka-sama, and turns into a situation where your strength is necessary to cope with. Would you still say that?" (Hibiki) I am a hero, through the end, Hibiki didn't tell Mio. She deceived her by randomly telling her that her knowledge of cooking was learned from reading books. Of course, it is a lie that just by asking would soon crumble. But for Mio, the important part was the cooking knowledge and techniques and anything else was irrelevant. It's also because she was uneasy about revealing her position of hero to Toa and Mio, and changing their way of treating her. Being able to stay as a simple adventurer, this several months were fresh, and are really regretful times to part from. "Not even worth discussing. I don't care about the world at all-desu. What's important is Waka-sama only. If it turns into a situation where a mere woman like me has to provide reinforcement to resolve, it means that Waka-sama can deal with it as well. Then I just need to stay at that grand person's side, and put my life for him" (Mio) "…No matter what?" (Hibiki) "No matter what-desu wa" (Mio) Hibiki thought about just revealing that she is a hero once and for all, but she soon threw away that thinking. Mio said she doesn't care about the world. Then, even if she reveals that she is a hero that has been called to protect the hyuman society, it wouldn't affect the negotiation. (Just who in the world is this Waka-sama that Mio-san is so in love with? Toa-san also said that he is on a whole different level and made a wry smile after all. Could it be that guy and Mio's group could even save the world?) (Hibiki) The comment Hibiki thought jokingly might not be that much of a stupid one, is what she will think back in given time. "…Fuh~. No matter what huh. I have been splendidly rejected" (Hibiki) "If you are a person with the role of managing a party, you must know that having it easy and being comfortable is a minus. I don't intend to follow the orders of anyone aside from Waka-sama" (Mio) "Yes yes, thanks for all the sugar. This is all I wanted to convey. Then Mio-san, with this…" (Hibiki) "Yeah, take care when returning" (Mio) "Yes. Mio-san, please visit Limia when you have the chance. At that time I will remember more recipes" (Hibiki) "Ara, this is the first appealing proposal you have made. I will keep it in mind" (Mio) For the end, Hibiki did a deep bow and leaves. That's how the strange meeting of Mio and Hibiki had ended.