Kage no Eiyuu no Nichijou-tan Volume 3 Afterword

Afterword

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This is Yuusaku Sakaishi.
Thank you very much for taking the opportunity to pick up Volume 3 of The Shadow Hero’s Everyday Life.

This series was written with the intention of being centred around the academy, but Volume 1 and 2 both tell stories about getting involved in national conspiracies. In that regard, in Volume 2, I tried my best to depict the world relating to the academy.

Originally, Tweight became a student in order to distance himself from national conspiracies, bloodshed, and other such extraordinary events…In this volume, it feels like he is earnestly facing his second lease on life. As Tweight says in this book (probably), moving forward, it seems that he will definitely be fighting for his new friends, rather than for the nation. And to that end, in this volume, he sought a fighting style that wouldn’t hurt his opponents too much.
Well, it’s a given that Tweight will get caught up in some kind of large incident…but that’s just what happens to protagonists, right? Tweight has done various things in the past, so it feels like he’s holding on to a bomb that could explode at any time.

By the way, there is no change in main heroine in Volume 3.
Around 10 years ago, in the Light Novel world, I felt that changing the heroine being focused on in each volume was a common style, but recently, it feels like it has become more flexible. With the rise of Web Novels, which offer a high degree of freedom, people are now saying things like, “Light Novels can be so freely created and still be accepted!”, which shocked me a lot. This work was originally a Web Novel, and because of that, I had to take on various challenges.

Well, it’s about time I conclude this afterword.
I hope you enjoyed Volume 3.

{Acknowledgements}

To the editors, proofreaders, and those who helped in printing this work: thank you very much for your assistance.
To TYONE: the illustrations for the everyday life scenes were cute, and the illustrations for the battle scenes were suspenseful and packed a punch, so thank you very much.
To the designers: the cover was flashy and cool, so thank you very much.
And finally, I would like to express my utmost gratitude to all of you, who have picked up this book.

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Kage no Eiyuu no Nichijou-tan Volume 2 Afterword

Afterword

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This is Yuusaku Sakaishi.
The Second Volume of The Shadow Hero’s Everyday Life, has been successfully released.

This afterword was written at the end of May. And so, we are currently in the middle of the Corona Pandemic. Recently, the declaration of a state of emergency seems to be gradually lifting, so I hope that by the time that this work is released, things will have settled down a bit more.

What a work this was.
Volume 2 tells the story of saving Mize. In the process, we will be touching on her past, as well as her suffering.
In the midst of writing, I became conscious of the fact that Tweight, who saves Mize, also has his own problems. Having been taken in by a dangerous organization at a very young age, Tweight never learned common sense; he only honed his fighting techniques, which made him awkward in various ways. Though Tweight is the protagonist, having a hero-like role, he is by no means a perfect human. Therefore, while Volume 2 tells the story of saving Mize, in the background, it also tells the story of Tweight’s own growth.

Although this isn’t really related to the story, the challenge set for me was how to portray Mize in a cute way. While Volume 1 delved into Elysia, in Volume 2, there is a change in the so-called main heroine. Because of this, if Mize’s charm wasn’t conveyed to all of you readers, I would be reprimanded with things like: “Don’t leave Elysia out!” or “Don’t change the main heroine!”. So first, I decided to do my best to convey that Mize’s charm wouldn’t lose to Elysia. In doing so, I would be able to create a situation that would permit the change in heroine.
As a result, Mize became a character that had an outstanding main heroine feeling to her. With that said, I expected this to some extent. She has the appearance and impression of being the heroine. Since I wanted Elysia to be a character who is an equal partner to the protagonist, I wanted Mize to be a character you would want to protect.
And so, next, I want someone who will protect the protagonist: a motherly heroine…But there’s already Chris. Well, in this volume, she’s an enemy. (Spoilers)

{Acknowledgements}

To the editors, proofreaders, and those who helped in printing this work: thank you very much for your assistance.
To TYONE: the illustrations this time are also beautiful, so thank you very much. Mize is very cute.
To the designers: the cover was impactful, so thank you very much.
And finally, I would like to express my utmost gratitude to all of you, who have picked up this book.

2020/5, Yuusaku Sakaishi

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Kage no Eiyuu no Nichijou-tan Volume 1 Afterword

Afterword

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This is Yuusaku Sakaishi.
Thank you very much for taking the opportunity to pick up this book.

This work was originally serialized on the website, “Shosetsuka ni Narou (Let’s Become a Novelist/Syosetu)”, but in the middle of its serialization, I was approached by the publisher, who suggested that this could be published as a book. Thank you very much for that. There have been some improvements and additions compared to the Web Novel version, so I hope that those of you who read the Web Novel version will enjoy this one as well.

As the title “Everyday Life” implies, this work follows a slightly awkward protagonist in a peaceful academy, so this is the heart-warming story of his slow life.

That was a lie. Well, part of it is true, but it probably wouldn’t be considered as heart-warming.
The protagonist of this work is an agent who specializes in assassinations and ambushes, and who has also a background of single-mindedly undertaking dirty work behind the scenes of the Great War. This kind of protagonist, in a strange twist of fate, attends an academy as an ordinary person, but due to the value system that was ingrained in him during his time as an agent, he isn’t really able to fit into this ordinary everyday life.

The title of this work, “Everyday Life”, doesn’t refer to a continuous, carefree everyday life, but rather, it’s meant to represent the theme of how the protagonist, who has lived through an extraordinary life, confronts what the world considers to be an ordinary everyday life.
With that being said, the protagonist hits it off with a beautiful girl during the entrance exams, and goes together with his male friend to pick up girls after school, so it feels like he is somehow enjoying his everyday life.

{Acknowledgements}

To the editors, proofreaders, and all those who helped in printing this work into a book: thank you very much for your assistance.
To TYONE, who indulged my many selfish requests and made beautiful, very attractive character designs: thank you very much.
Also, to the designers, who handled the fantastic cover: thank you very much.
And finally, I would like to express my utmost gratitude to all of you, who have picked up this book.

2020/2, Yuusaku Sakaishi

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Translator’s Note:

The author refers to everyone with the honorific “-sama”, but unlike in the actual story, I felt somewhat uncomfortable leaving it as is in the afterword.

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Kage no Eiyuu no Nichijou-tan Volume 3 Coloured Illustration Dialogues

Check out the Illustrations Here

DIALOGUE IS FROM RIGHT TO LEFT

Unlike the first volume, this one has excerpts from the text

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Illustration 1: Mira introducing herself to the Hawk Team, while Tweight and Mize stand at attention

Mira: I am the assigned leader of the Hawk Team, as well as a member of the Student Council, Mira Opstein. I look forward to working with you all.

In front of over a hundred students, a girl with short, black hair bows her head. At best, she could be described as a serious-looking girl, and at worst, she could be described as a stubborn-looking girl.

She must have trained her body, as it lacked any unnecessary fats. The fact that she was wearing a white school uniform means that she was a student of the Hero Course. It seemed that she was accustomed to this situation, as there was no trace of nervousness on her face. Seeing her dignified appearance, the students in the Hawk Team could feel that her leadership was trustworthy.

Illustration 2: Elysia and Tweight fighting each other with their prospective weapons

Elysia briefly yells and swings her sword. The blade and bullet clash, letting sparks fly. But Elysia’s feet didn’t stop– and she cuts the bullet in half.

— That’s also a magical tool, huh.

It would be almost impossible to cut a bullet from <Snipe> with an ordinary sword. With Elysia’s skill it may be possible, but it seems that her body wasn’t strained from that. With certainty, I judge that it was because of the performance of her weapon, and not her swordsmanship.

Illustration 3: Tweight showing <Reject Blade> to Vallen, who is covered in flames and lightning

As a result of compressing magic power to its utmost limits, the space distorted like a mirage. And that distortion, took the form of a single sword.

Tweight: Compressed Sword– <Reject Blade>

I point the tip of the transparent sword at Vallen, who looks confused.

Tweight: This sword, repels magic.

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Kage no Eiyuu no Nichijou-tan Volume 2 Coloured Illustration Dialogues

Check out the Illustrations Here

DIALOGUE IS FROM RIGHT TO LEFT

Unlike the first volume, this one has excerpts from the text

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Illustration 1: Elysia, Mize, Gran, and Tweight taking the Magical Ability Test

Elysia Milictian

enrolled In the royal bildarz academy’s hero course.
A woman talented in both the pen and sword, who Used to live as a demon of revenge, but was since saved by tweight.

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Mize Howence

enrolled in the royal bildarz academy’s common course.
A beautiful yet mysterious girl with both elegance and an unusual wealth of knowledge.

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Gran Iblis

Enrolled in the Royal bildarz academy’s common course.
a compassionate young man whose only flaw is his weakness for women.

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Tweight

enrolled in the royal bildarz academy’s common course.
The Protagonist. Was known as the strongest ace of the True soldiers’ special ops organization. currently, he is cherishing the tranquility of his everyday life

Illustration 2: Mize and Tweight lying down in bed together

Tweight: Mize?

After I replied in a small voice, Mize moved from her own bed into mine.

Then, she tightly embraced me with her delicate body.

Mize: — Do you hate the thought of licking each other’s wounds?

A girl who had just lost her place in the world, was trying to soothe my wounds without healing her own.

Then, shouldn’t I at least heal her wounds?

Illustration 3: A fatigued Tweight fighting Oz

Oz: Th, is– ugh!!

Tweight: Too slow.

Oz flexibly twisted her body to kick upwards from below.

I stopped it in its tracks and slammed my fist into her side.

Oz: Gah!?

Oz tries to retreat after getting hit.

But I gripped her slender right arm and pulled her towards me.

Tweight: — I won’t let you run.

I create a dagger in my left hand with <Fixation>.

Without hesitation, I thrust its tip towards Oz’s heart.

Clang! The sound of metal colliding with metal rings.

Oz held TD02 in front of her chest, blocking my thrust.

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Kage no Eiyuu no Nichijou-tan Volume 1 Coloured Illustration Dialogues

Check out the Illustrations Here

Dialogue is from right to left

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Illustration 1: Tweight discussing his future plans with Chris

Tweight: …I want to experience an ordinary person’s everyday life.

Tweight: I want to live a normal life. I want to live freely, and do as I please. Is that…not possible?

Chris: No, there aren’t any problems with that.

Illustration 2: Sylphia announcing the start of self-introductions, with Mize introducing herself to the class as Elysia, Gran, and Tweight watch

Sylphia: So then, shall we start by having you introduce yourselves?

Mize: I’m Mize Howence, and I’m an aspiring adventurer. I look forward to working with all of you!

Illustration 3: An angry Elysia, a flustered Mize, an irritated Tweight, and a somewhat apologetic Gran sitting together at an outdoor table

Elysia: You’re the worst.

Mize: Oh…t-that’s embarrassing, so please stop!

Tweight: — oi. Then why didn’t you tell me?

Gran: Well, I thought that if it was you, Tweight, you’d actually be able to pick her up.

(Chronological order in the story is mize -> Tweight -> Gran -> Elysia)

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Kage no Eiyuu no Nichijou-tan Volume 1 Side Story

The Princess is in a Bad Mood

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The day after the conclusion of the Fourth Great Hero-Demon War was announced to the world.

A small discussion was taking place within the Royal Castle of the Kingdom of Terraria.

“I don’t want to. I won’t participate in the journey to commemorate our victory.”

The blond-haired, blue-eyed girl sitting on the leather sofa says with a sullen expression.

The First Princess of the Kingdom of Terraria– Sophia Terraria.

Chris, who was seated opposite such a person, secretly let out a sigh.

Just how in the world did this happen–

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— This story goes back to the other day.

While Chris was doing some paperwork as usual, another task was unexpectedly assigned to her.

“Convince Her Royal Highness…is it?”

“Mm-hm.”

The bearded, elderly man nodded.

Chris’ superior, who had abruptly visited her, explained the details of the task.

“If I recall, you were acquainted with Sophia-sama…And as you know, after the war is over, the Hero Party should go on a journey to commemorate their victory. However, Sophia-sama is uninterested in doing so. And not only is she uninterested in it, at this rate, it might actually devolve into a situation where Sophia-sama would be the only one not to participate. And that is why I would like you to persuade her, as an acquaintance.”

“…I understand the situation, but why me? Certainly, I am acquainted with Her Royal Highness, but even so, there should be others…”

Her true opinion was that she didn’t want any more work. Due to the dissolution of the True Soldiers’ Special Ops Organization, there was a much larger pile of paperwork than usual.

“The reason you were chosen…you’ll understand when you talk to Sophia-sama.”

“Haah”, Chris sighs at her superior, who answered vaguely.

Thus, Chris met with Sophia for a discussion, but–

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“I’ve finally come back to this country, but I have to go on a journey once more…don’t you find that odd?”

“Uh…well, certainly, that’s true, but…”

Sophia’s obstinate refusal to participate in the journey made Chris’ stomach hurt.

“In the first place…I thought I would finally be able to calmly talk with 28-sama…having to part from him again so soon, of course I’ll hate it…”

While she may have intended to speak to herself, everything could be heard.

This is probably the reason why I was chosen for this, Chris was convinced.

The fact that Sophia harboured a crush on 28 was something only a few people knew of, and Chris was included among them. Based on what she said, Sophia is refusing to go on the journey because she doesn’t want to be separated from 28. And so, as 28’s direct superior, Chris was selected to persuade her.

(…No wonder she’s dissatisfied.)

Although she had to play this unpleasant role, she couldn’t help but feel sorry for Sophia.

All this time– she had been enduring. This girl wasn’t allowed freedom until the war had ended, always having to travel with the Hero from one battlefield to another. It was the same for 28, but…no matter who it was, it would surely be harsh on them.

And though the war had ended, contrary to her expectations, she had to go on a journey once more to commemorate their victory. While the majority of the previous Hero Parties were comprised of those who were eager to go on that journey, each of them brimming with enthusiasm, it wouldn’t be surprising if there were exceptions.

“Come to think of it…you are 28-sama’s boss, aren’t you?”

“Y-yes, but…um, why do you ask?”

Sophia fixedly stared at Chris, who became uncomfortable.

“…28-sama told me about you. He said, ‘My boss is a beautiful, mature, stylish, and an outstandingly capable woman’.”

“O-oh? T-t-that kid said, something like that…H-heeh, hmm…”

“He also said, ‘But her personality is too outgoing, so it’s definitely too late for her to become a bride; when she’s alone, she’s too lazy to even clean up her room; and the days she cooks, corpses will turn up, so someone should marry her as soon as possible’.”

“MIND YOUR OWN DAMN BUSINESS…!!”

She desperately suppresses her urge to scream.

During the war, for a change of pace, she made 28 taste a dish that she had created, but was 28 really still holding a grudge over that? Certainly, after trying it out, 28 had collapsed while foaming at the mouth, and since then, Chris’ creative cuisine became known as “The Ultimate Weapon (Dark Matter)”. The Weapons Development Department had praised it, saying “What a wonderful poison! Please teach us the formula!”, but she hadn’t added the slightest bit of poison in it. Just salt, pepper, and oil. Probably. For some reason, the lid of the detergent was open, but that was definitely an unrelated matter.

“L-let’s get back to the main topic, Your Royal Highness!”

She didn’t have the leisure to get caught up with Sophia’s dissatisfaction. After all, Chris’ desk still had a mountain of paperwork piled on it. Chris had to try and persuade her as simply as possible.

“The journey to commemorate your victory is also an important event traditionally. Naturally, while you will be greeting representatives from each country, more than that, the people themselves are looking forward to your arrival as the Hero Party. With the arrival of the Hero Party, the people can actually feel that the war is over…So please, Your Royal Highness, won’t you participate as well?”

“…Mmgh.”

Sophia made a dissatisfied face, but perhaps because she thought that Chris’ words had a point, she didn’t reject it outright. She was probably aware of her status as a princess, and thinking of the people, she couldn’t say anything selfish.

“…What will 28-sama be doing, from now on?”

“‘What’, you ask…it’s not something that concerns you, Your Royal Highness.”

“That isn’t so!”

Sophia says, standing up.

“Hero-sama and the others may not have noticed it, but I know! During the war, just how many times we were saved by that personage…If it wasn’t for 28-sama, we would have been dead by now. It is only natural that I think of wanting to repay 28-sama in some way!”

“…Is that why you invited him to become your knight?”

“That is so. If he becomes a knight by my side, 28-sama will be recognized as a person of the ‘Front’, both in name and in reality…It is only proper for that personage, as he is someone who should be admired far more. And clearly, that is why it should be fine for him to accompany us on the journey to commemorate our victory…”

Sophia, from the bottom of her heart, wished for 28 to be rewarded.

“But in that case, he doesn’t have to be by your side. For instance, you could have invited him to join a knight order–”

After saying that, Chris realized.

Oh crap– I’ve said something insensitive.

“That is, umm…I-if it is possible, I would like him to be near me…”

As Sophia says while blushing, Chris made a face as if she had chewed on a bitter bug.

This girl. To sum it up, rather than simply wanting to thank 28, she just wanted to be near him.

Though the person in question intended to hide her crush on 28, her actions were clear proof that the saying, “Love is blind”, was unmistakably true.

(That kid…I don’t think he’ll fall for this.)

Just how did 28 slip past the approaches of such a lovely young maiden? He probably didn’t think anything of it, huh…Chris thought.

“Umm…Will 28-sama, continue to live as a person of the ‘Back’ forever?”

Sophia asks with a meek expression.

“I have heard that 28-sama was taken in by the ‘Back’ at an awfully young age. With the Demon King now defeated, would it not be quite unfair to confine that personage to the world of the ‘Back’ any longer?”

“…I also had similar thoughts regarding that.”

Or rather– that matter had already been settled with the person himself several days ago.

28…rather, Tweight was going to attend the Bildarz Academy in the Royal Capital. However, if Sophia was to be informed of this– something troublesome could occur, so it would be better to keep this hidden from her, if possible.

“– That’s right! What if he enrolled in the academy!?”

At that moment, Sophia cheerfully announces.

“It’s perfect! This year, the Bildarz Academy will increase its admission quota because of the Hero Effect, and if worst comes to worst, I can just do something about it with my power…!”

Sophia says with sparkling eyes.

Chris inquired, filled with trepidation.

“H-hypothetically, if 28 were to attend the academy, what do you intend to do, Your Royal Highness?”

“Naturally– I will attend the academy together with him! Just as he had taken care of me in various ways during the war, it is now my turn to repay the favour in its entirety!”

As Sophia tells her excitedly, Chris holds her head.

Just having a keen intuition wasn’t enough to describe it; 28 was going to attend that very academy.

If Sophia were to learn of this, she will definitely not participate in the journey to commemorate their victory. Instead, she would try to enjoy life at the academy together with 28.

After much consideration, Chris decided– to tell a lie.

“A-as of now, 28 is currently thinking about continuing to work as my subordinate. S-so regrettably, it doesn’t seem like what you imagined will happen, Your Royal Highness…”

“You mean to say…that 28-sama will continue to belong to the ‘Back’ for the time being?”

“Y-yes…T-this is also 28’s own wish. 28, umm, doesn’t seem very interested in the surface world.”

“…Is that so?”

28 himself chose that path in order to avoid scrutiny.

However, possibly due to Chris’ strained behaviour, which couldn’t hide her inner turmoil– Sophia intensely stared at her with eyes that were devoid of light.

“If that was a lie, I won’t forgive you, you know?”

“Hiih!?”

“If that was a lie, I won’t forgive you, you know?”

She said it twice.

In response to the demanding pressure, Chris vigorously shook her head.

“…I understand. I shall participate in the journey to commemorate our victory. I’m sure that 28-sama will also be busy, while he belongs to the ‘Back’…I shall repay him another time.”

After letting out a sigh, Sophia left the room.

Then, she encountered a brown-haired boy.

“Sophia?”

“Ah…H-Hero-sama!”

A man who was now known by all the people in the world– the Hero Shion Veil was there. He had a handsome, refreshing appearance and a friendly aura. At first glance, it was clear that he was the type of person who was well-liked by everyone.

When he saw Sophia’s face, Shion gave her a gentle smile.

“Great timing. I was just over there, talking with Alan and the others about our plans for the journey. For now, I was planning to meet all the people who looked after us during the war, but did you want to go somewhere, Sophia?”

“Uh, well…I’ll give it some thought.”

“Roger that. Alan and Witch are over there, so you can wait there if you want. I’m going to ask the Prime Minister about the budget for the journey.”

Sophia bowed to Chris, before heading to the place that Shion had indicated.

After watching Sophia move away from them, Shion looked at Chris and spoke.

“You’re from the army, right?”

“…Yes.”

Unlike Sophia, Shion doesn’t know much about Chris.

In the first place, Shion himself isn’t aware of the existence of the “Back”, and so he doesn’t have a full understanding of Chris’ position in the army.

But Shion suddenly gave a deep bow.

“Thank you for all your help during the war!”

Seeing the unthinkably humble attitude coming from the great hero who defeated the Demon King, Chris’s eyes turn round as she responded.

“Thank you for your kind words. However, we weren’t the only ones who were helped. Hero-sama, thank you very much for defeating the Demon King.”

Chris also gives a similarly deep bow.

“Even though you are lauded as a great hero, Hero-sama, you even treat a soldier like me with humility, don’t you?”

“…It’s not that I’m being humble or anything.”

Shion says, slightly averting his gaze.

“I…understand that I am but a poster boy.”

After saying that, Shion walked away.

Chris watched Shion’s back as he headed for the Prime Minister.

“…This world just doesn’t turn as one wishes, does it?”

Is this world truly approaching an era of peace?

Looking at all the problems that have piled up, it doesn’t seem likely. Surely, just because the war is over, it doesn’t mean that there is less that has to be done.

For the time being, it seems that these busy days will continue. Chris lets out a sigh.

But for now– she decided to start working on the paperwork that had piled up on her desk.

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Translator’s Note:

The word used for “Front”, 表 (Omote) is also used for “surface” when Chris says “…surface world”.

The Hero’s title, when referred to as Hero is 勇者 (Yuusha), which means hero or literally, brave person. When Chris refers to him as great hero is英雄 (Eiyuu), which also means hero. There seems to be a difference in connotation, where 勇者 (Yuusha) is used to refer to a hero who is in the midst of trying to do/accomplish something, while 英雄 (Eiyuu) is used to refer to a hero who has already done/accomplished something. In case you didn’t know, 英雄 (Eiyuu) is the term used in the title of this series, 影の英雄の日常譚 (Kage no Eiyuu no Nichijou Tan) or The Shadow Hero’s Everyday Life. The last word in the title, 譚 (Tan) simply means tale or story.

Source:

• https://hinative.com/en-US/questions/44154

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Translator’s Comments:

It’s quite late, but here’s the Side Story for Volume 1 of the Light Novel version. With this, I think I’ve translated most, if not all of what I want to translate from this series, at least for now. I still plan on at least summarizing some differences between the Web Novels and the Light Novels.

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Series Page | Next Arc (Prologue) ->

Kage no Eiyuu no Nichijou-tan Arc 3 – Chapter 35

Eccentric VS Eccentric

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“Oi, oi. Did ya really think that an E-ranked magic could defeat me–”

“– <Burst>”

The instant I chant, the bullets that I had shot burst, resulting in a violent shockwave that sent Vallen flying.

“Guh, oh… !?”

Vallen, who rolled on the ground, let out a groan.

It’s the first time I’ve used this magic in actual combat– but it appears to have worked.

“The fuck, was that…!?”

As Vallen got up, I fire <Bullet> again.

Vallen, who had mocked this as E-ranked magic, remembered the shockwave from earlier, and takes a large leap back in irritation. However–

“If you don’t avoid it a little more, you’ll get hit.”

“Gah– !?”

The bullet bursts, releasing an invisible blast.

Vallen was sent flying backwards with great force.

“Are you releasing the compressed magic power all at once…? I understand the principle, but just how densely did you compress it to achieve such power…!?”

Having participated in the Great War, it seems he’s been accustomed to various experiences, which allowed Vallen to analyse my technique. His analysis was correct.

“Tch…shit!!”

After clicking his tongue, Vallen closed in on me at full speed.

It isn’t favourable to engage Vallen in close combat, while he displays the full power of Donning. However, because of his impatience, it was easy to predict Vallen’s movements.

“If I get this close, you can’t shoot me–”

As Vallen felt like he had turned the tables on me, I place my palm on his stomach.

“– <Burst>”

“Goh– !?”

I release the magic power that had converged at my palm all at once, sending Vallen flying.

As I saw Vallen make an anguished expression, I was convinced that this new technique was more useful than I had anticipated.

Sylphia-sensei had taught me to release my magic power. This was extraordinarily compatible with my Eccentricity. The blast when I release the magic power can be as large as I wish, in proportion to the Compression ratio of the magic power, and furthermore, it’s less lethal than compressed magic power. It’s the ideal weapon for this battle.

“Damn you…fucking with me…!!”

At that moment, Vallen’s expression is completely filled with rage.

“Ain’t that a technique to not hurt people…!!”

Hearing those words, my eyes turn round.

“You noticed?”

“No shit…! If you compress magic power that much…you could have just shot me without releasing it!!”

Although it shouldn’t have been easily understood, Vallen was instantly able to understand the essence of the technique. Although the way he moved his body was monotonous, he isn’t stupid after all.

In fact, I defeated the operatives in the manner that Vallen had described. He might have compared the scene that time to this situation and realized that I was still going easy on him.

“Don’t be so displeased. I also don’t think that this is enough to defeat you either.”

I say to Vallen, who is indignant.

While it can send Vallen flying, the blast from the released magic power doesn’t do enough damage to make him lose consciousness.

In order to make such an attack, I must first have him release his Donning.

And the weapon for that– is in my hands.

“Certainly, most of the magic I’ve learned is for holding back– but not this one.”

I focus my attention on my right hand.

Following Sylphia-sensei’s advice, I have practiced the magic, <Barrier>, many times. I can compress it to its utmost limits and reshape it.

As a result of compressing magic power to its utmost limits, the space distorted like a mirage.

And that distortion, took the form of a single sword.

“Compressed Sword– <Reject Blade>”

I point the tip of the transparent sword at Vallen, who looks confused.

“This sword, repels magic.”

In an instant, I closed in on Vallen.

Immediately after the sword was swung, Vallen instinctively evaded it.

“Kuh– !?”

Vallen avoids the slash by a paper-thin margin.

In doing so, the sword grazed the flames and lightning that clad Vallen’s body– which vanished as if repelled by something.

“Wha!?”

Startled, Vallen quickly retreats.

“Son of a bitch…what the fuck is that magic?”

“Well, if I had to explain it to you, a user of Donning, in a way that you could easily understand–”

I answer while thinking.

“– This sword, has around 200 <Barriers> condensed into it.”

Actually, there might be even more than that, but that should be a sufficient approximation.

This magic was the result of combining the magic that Sylphia-sensei taught me, <Barrier>, and the magic that I often use, <Fixation>. While I was compressing <Barrier>, I wondered if I could change its shape in the same way as <Fixation>, and this is the result.

“200, really…!?”

Vallen’s eyes widen in astonishment.

Eventually, he stumbled upon an idea and looked at me with sharpened eyes.

“Is that it…! You fucker, you’re Eccentric to Compression…!!”

“That’s right; we’re the same.”

I didn’t expect to meet another person who had mastered an Eccentricity, and it should be the same for the other person. Vallen’s eyes turned to dots in shock– and eventually, he burst into laughter.

“Haha…Kuhahahahahahahah!!”

Vallen laughs, as if he had allayed his rage.

“I didn’t plan to this extent in the least…Everything has been so unexpected that I can’t help but laugh. You little shit, you really are strong.”

“I did say that at the start.”

“Like there’d be a dumbass who’d just believe that…Even though I’ve seen it myself, I still can’t believe that a first-year student from the Common Course would master an Eccentricity.”

As Vallen told me that, the expression on his face was somewhat refreshed, as if he’d laid his demons to rest.

His impatience and fear had disappeared.

Perhaps, he had realized the outcome of this battle. Even so, he just focused on what he had to do.

“It ain’t in my nature to end things this sloppily…Until the end, I’ll come at you with the intention to kill.”

“…Do as you like.”

Immediately after I answer, Vallen gives a smile before disappearing.

In an instant, Vallen leaps high and thrust his fist from above.

“OOoOOOooOoOoOOoOooOGH—- !!!!!”

A fist clad in flames and lightning approaches me, exuding a pressure that could crush the atmosphere. That pressure alone caused the ground beneath my feet to crack, and the trees in the distance to snap.

“I told you.”

I say while lightly swinging the sword in my right hand.

“This sword– repels magic.”

The distorted sword that shimmered like a mirage flashed.

A moment later– CRACK! Along with an echoing sound, all of the magic power that was clad around Vallen’s body had been repelled.

“…Damn it.”

Vallen spits out a short curse.

Do it. As I looked into Vallen’s eyes, which seemed to say that, I thrust out my palm.

“– <Burst>”

Vallen’s body was violently slammed into the ground.

---

Author’s Note:

For this new work, I’ll upload 3 chapters daily.

The Labyrinth Killer’s Life Afterwards ~The strongest explorer was expelled from the guild for conquering too many dungeons, retires and becomes an instructor at a dungeon training institution, where he is worshipped by his students. He is begged to come back due to the return of dungeon activity, but it’s too late now.~

https://ncode.syosetu.com/n1579gp/

If you’ve read until this point of The Shadow Hero’s Everyday Life, I think you’ll enjoy this work!!

Synopsis

※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　

“Labyrinth Killer. I apologize, but we have to revoke your Explorer’s License.”

Once upon a time, Dungeons were feared by the people as a den of Monsters.

However, in recent years, the resources slumbering within the Dungeons became more important, leading to the people planning to coexist with and prosper from the Dungeons.

As a result, the strongest explorer, who destroyed innumerable dungeons with his “Perfect Strategy”– the <Labyrinth Killer> Lect, was cut off by the nobles who profited from Dungeon management, and expelled from the Explorer’s Association.

Having retired from active service, Lect was referred to a dungeon training institution by an acquaintance as an instructor.

Lect, who thought that it was better than rotting somewhere, hid his true identity and decided to enjoy his second life…

“How could a teacher at a training institution be so strong!?”

The students, who looked down on Lect at first for retiring despite his youth, began to worship him before they knew it.

“The Dungeons are becoming active again because you retired!?”

“It’s obviously impossible to coexist with and prosper from Dungeons!! The upper echelons of this country don’t understand anything!!”

Active explorers who are well aware of the situation beg him to return to active service, so it seems that a peaceful life is still far off.

His expulsion from the Explorer’s Association.

This had instead freed Lect, the man who held the strongest power.

The nobles’ conspiracy. The ever-changing Dungeons.

The now-free Lect appears on a whim and influences them all.

This is a tale of a hero who thinks his role is over and seeks a peaceful life, but unknowingly continues to exert a great influence on the world afterwards.

※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　

The text at the bottom of this page links to it,

So you can also check out the work from there!!

---

<- Previous Chapter | Series Page | Next Chapter ->

Syosetu

Kage no Eiyuu no Nichijou-tan Arc 3 – Chapter 34

A Physical Technique that Could Kill in a Single Strike

---

“Deployment– Lightning!!”

Vallen roars.

At the same time, intense lightning surges from his body.

I shut my eyes at the dazzling light.

When I opened my eyes again, Vallen had disappeared.

Alarms ring in my head. I ducked, and immediately afterwards, Vallen’s fist passes by above me.

“Nice reflexes.”

A violent shockwave bursts, blowing away the air before us.

This is the power of Donning. The magic prepared beforehand isn’t simply used up, but its power is maintained, clad around his body as he uses physical techniques.

Vallen is probably donning magic conferred with the lighting element. Based on its power, it probably isn’t just the D-ranked magic, <Lightning Ball>; at the very least, he is probably clad with multiple <Lightning Cannons>, a C-ranked magic.

In other words, each of Vallen’s punches and kicks– now hold the same power as a <Lightning Cannon>.

“Take that!! You can’t handle this with just physical techniques!!”

As expected, I wouldn’t be able to fight back if I took a direct hit from an attack with that much power.

And so, I’ll just parry everything.

Cladding himself in lighting didn’t just increase the power of Vallen’s movements; it also increased their speed. However, possibly owing to the nature of the person himself, his movements were often straightforward. I could predict his attacks by looking at the movements of his torso, not just his limbs.

“Tch. So, you’re skilled at parrying. Then–”

Vallen took some distance at once, placing both hands in front of his chest.

The electricity in his hands subsides, replaced by swirling flames.

“Deployment– Flame!!”

Vallen’s entire body was engulfed in flames.

A small explosion bursts by his feet, and Vallen uses the recoil to approach me.

I try to parry his attack again– but the flames swept over me, and I reflexively retreat.

My palm is burnt. I can’t touch him carelessly.

“…Despite how I look, I’m very skilled.”

Vallen gives a daring smile, and I examine him.

— Is he donning an equal amount of flame magic and lightning magic, and switching between them depending on the situation?

Considering the power of each attack, he should be donning 4 magics of each element. This was, by no means, a simple technique.

— The maximum number he can don is 8.

It’s hard to believe him out of nowhere, but it might be true.

Usually, the maximum number of magics that one can don is 3. If one can don 4 magics, they’ll be referred to as a genius.

However, Vallen claims be able to don 8 magics, twice as much as a genius.

Such an extraordinary technique…I don’t know of anyone who can do such a thing.

“…Are you Eccentric to Donning?”

“Hah! So ya know about Eccentricities! As I thought, you ain’t just an ordinary student!!”

Vallen closes in on me, scattering sparks everywhere.

If I avoid him by a paper-thin margin, my skin will be burnt. Making slightly larger movements than usual, I continue to avoid Vallen’s attacks.

Certainly, not being able to touch him may make things difficult.

But–

“Flames aren’t fast enough.”

Unfortunately for him, I’m the type of person who specializes in speed rather than power.

While I’m not sure if it was because he was clad in lightning earlier, his speed while being clad in flames is slow enough that I can just dodge all of them without needing to parry.

At the same time as I avoid a palm strike, I concentrate the magic power from <Rage> into my feet and release a roundhouse kick.

“Gwoh– !?”

Before getting burnt, I quickly pulled back my foot.

Vallen, who received that kick on his stomach, let out a short cry before retreating.

Wiping the gastric juices that spilled from his lips with his arm, Vallen glared at me.

“…Son of a bitch, seriously, who the fuck are you?”

Vallen says, with a glance that seemed to be looking at something suspicious.

“The way you move ain’t normal. Why’re you in the Common Course…no, you don’t even need to be a student in the first place. If you were a knight or an adventurer, then wouldn’t you have already been famous throughout the entire kingdom?”

“Well…I also have my circumstances.”

In response to my vague answer, Vallen gives a small smile.

“Well, that’s fine…but be careful. From here on out, I ain’t holding back!”

Vallen says, before placing both hands in front of his chest.

Lightning surged from his right hand, while flames swirled around his left. As soon as he placed both palms together, his body was enveloped in lightning and flames.

“Dual Deployment– Flames and Lightning!!”

Vallen’s body was clad in the two different elements, in complete harmony.

“I never said I couldn’t deploy them at the same time.”

It felt like Vallen no longer held the slightest bit of carelessness.

As I thought his eyes became sharper, the next moment, Vallen approached me from the side with a kick.

“Guh… !?”

I instantly raised my right arm to block the kick. However, I was unable to completely kill the impact, and I was sent flying.

Both his speed and power have exceptionally improved.

Perhaps, this is where Vallen’s true worth lay: Donning and maintaining a maximum of 8 magics, before using them all at once. Clad in 4 fire-element magics and 4 lightning-element magics, an attack from the current Vallen boasts of a power that can definitely kill in one strike.

For a moment, Oz comes to mind.

Oz is a soldier who can unleash endless barrages that could kill in a single strike. On the other hand, the man before me is a soldier who can unleash an endless flurry of physical techniques that could kill in a single strike.

“– If you stop, you’ll die?”

Vallen’s fist approached me from above.

Immediately after I avoided it by retreating, an ear-splitting roar resounded before me. A gigantic crater had formed in the academy’s schoolyard.

“…Why don’t you think a bit more about the damage you’re causing to the surroundings?”

“If that’s what you’re thinking, then just lose already.”

Vallen says with a hint of irritation.

“Fucker, you haven’t been fighting back for a while now. If you’re at your limit just from dodging, then you don’t stand a chance anyway. Just get crushed like a man.”

I see. Apparently, Vallen is under the impression that this was a close match since I wasn’t fighting back. Thinking back, certainly, it wouldn’t be strange if he perceived my movements as such.

“…I don’t have any plans of doing so.”

“Ah?”

Although my opponent was guiding operatives of another country, he was still a student. I felt some resistance at using my full strength, so I was just thinking of a way to painlessly neutralize him. However, if he keeps on damaging the academy’s facilities like this, I can’t just leisurely wait and see.

I’ll change my course of action from defeating him painlessly to defeating him quickly.

After all, I specialize in that.

“Vallen, prepare yourself.”

I point a finger at Vallen as I say this.

From the tip of my index finger, I shoot a compressed magical bullet. Vallen’s eyes widen, and he quickly jumps to the side to avoid it.

“Was that…<Bullet>?”

I shoot more bullets at Vallen, who looks confused.

“Oi, oi. Did ya really think that an E-ranked magic could defeat me–”

“– <Burst>”

The instant I chant, the bullets that I had shot burst, resulting in a violent shockwave that sent Vallen flying.

---

Author’s Note:

11/6

A new work, has begun~~!!

The Labyrinth Killer’s Life Afterwards ~The strongest explorer was expelled from the guild for conquering too many dungeons, retires and becomes an instructor at a dungeon training institution, where he is worshipped by his students. He is begged to come back due to the return of dungeon activity, but it’s too late now.~

https://ncode.syosetu.com/n1579gp/

If you’ve read until this point of The Shadow Hero’s Everyday Life, I think you’ll enjoy this work!!

Synopsis

※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　

“Labyrinth Killer. I apologize, but we have to revoke your Explorer’s License.”

Once upon a time, Dungeons were feared by the people as a den of Monsters.

However, in recent years, the resources slumbering within the Dungeons became more important, leading to the people planning to coexist with and prosper from the Dungeons.

As a result, the strongest explorer, who destroyed innumerable dungeons with his “Perfect Strategy”– the <Labyrinth Killer> Lect, was cut off by the nobles who profited from Dungeon management, and expelled from the Explorer’s Association.

Having retired from active service, Lect was referred to a dungeon training institution by an acquaintance as an instructor.

Lect, who thought that it was better than rotting somewhere, hid his true identity and decided to enjoy his second life…

“How could a teacher at a training institution be so strong!?”

The students, who looked down on Lect at first for retiring despite his youth, began to worship him before they knew it.

“The Dungeons are becoming active again because you retired!?”

“It’s obviously impossible to coexist with and prosper from Dungeons!! The upper echelons of this country don’t understand anything!!”

Active explorers who are well aware of the situation beg him to return to active service, so it seems that a peaceful life is still far off.

His expulsion from the Explorer’s Association.

This had instead freed Lect, the man who held the strongest power.

The nobles’ conspiracy. The ever-changing Dungeons.

The now-free Lect appears on a whim and influences them all.

This is a tale of a hero who thinks his role is over and seeks a peaceful life, but unknowingly continues to exert a great influence on the world afterwards.

※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　※　

The text at the bottom of this page links to it,

So you can also check out the work from there!!

---

<- Previous Chapter | Series Page | Next Chapter ->

Syosetu

Kage no Eiyuu no Nichijou-tan Arc 3 – Chapter 33

Vallen Stielen

---

I evaded the deep crimson barrage by a paper-thin margin and approach Vallen.

“…Oi, oi.”

Vallen’s expression, which was originally calm and composed, was gradually dyed with impatience.

Against a user of Donning, it’s almost impossible to predict what, when, and where magic will be used. Therefore, it isn’t a good idea to approach him carelessly, but– as long as I don’t give my opponent an opportunity to attack, it doesn’t matter.

We were probably equally skilled with the body enhancement magic, <Rage>. However, I have the upper hand when it comes to close combat techniques.

Vallen took a half-step back, forcing himself to keep his distance, and released <Flame Cannon> from his palms.

But it was easy to read the trajectory of that desperate shot. I evade the barrage with minimal movements and swing the dagger I had created with <Fixation>.

“Seriously? You fucker–”

Vallen turns his body to avoid the blade.

The blade that was supposed to pierce his shoulder had ended up only lightly scratching his cheek.

At the same time that Vallen significantly retreated, I lightly retreated as well.

Both of us were keeping our distance while adjusting our breathing.

“No matter how highly skilled your Donning is, in the end, the user is only human…Even if it’s a rare technique, it can’t be used with disorganized thoughts.”

“…Hah!”

Vallen laughs.

And then, he raises his hand upwards–

“Don’t fucking look down on me.”

The next moment, barrages approached me from every direction.

The power and speed of these barrages was incomparably greater than the ones earlier. I didn’t think he was still hiding this much power…I quickly leapt diagonally backwards to evade.

The barrage grazed my left ankle, and I could feel a burning pain.

“…It isn’t just the magic itself, are you also Donning its course?”

“Hoh, so you could tell by looking at it just once.”

It’s an uncommon ability.

Originally, users of Donning are rare– but this might be my first time seeing a person who is so skilled with it.

“…Guess I can talk for a bit.”

Vallen says in a small voice.

It seems that he had approved of me somewhat after our exchange just now, so Vallen’s mouth had loosened.

“Why would I do this…was it?”

Vallen mutters, placing a hand on his hips.

“Don’t you think that the sense of danger ain’t enough?”

As I wrinkled my brow, not understanding the intent of that question, Vallen continued asking.

“Did you know that three students from the Bildarz Academy participated in the previous Great War?”

“…Yeah. You’re one of them.”

There were three students who participated in the war:

The current Student Council President, Ix Dulight; his older sister, Frau Dulight; and finally, the one standing before me, Vallen Stielen.

“It ain’t known to the public…but that was just the start. The Kingdom was also preparing for the next campaign, beginning with our participation in the war.”

The next campaign.

Hearing Vallen’s disturbing words, I arrived at a possibility.

“– Conscription?”

“That’s right. And it was only limited to our academy.”

I have never heard of this before.

However– it seems likely.

Originally, the students of the Bildarz Academy were selected and trained to be the very best. Now, with the establishment of the Common Course, it is possible to become a student by simply submitting the proper documents. While the Hero Course still exists, aspiring students must pass an intense entrance examination, just like the one Elysia and I had taken.

If this country were to consider conscription, the students of the Bildarz Academy would be the first ones expected to join the war. They would certainly be more useful than unskilled adults.

“Luckily, the Great War ended earlier than expected, so the conscription wasn’t issued. But…for us who already participated in the war, we saw hell.”

Vallen says, sounding like he was stifling his rage.

“I killed a bunch of times, and I was almost killed a bunch of times. Even so, Ix and I barely managed to survive. But…Frau died…We weren’t prepared enough. And this country, which had no choice but to fucking rely on us, doesn’t have a sense of danger.”

Vallen’s voice as he said that, was filled with a regret that couldn’t be hidden.

It’s not like I don’t understand his feelings. I too have experienced hell, losing countless comrades along the way. However, from the beginning, I was raised as a tool of war, so I was prepared for that. I didn’t have regrets like Vallen had.

“…But the war is already over.”

“And what makes you say that?”

Vallen says in a sharp tone.

“We don’t know when the Fifth Great Hero-Demon War will happen.”

Those words were irrefutably true.

There are various theories as to when the Great Hero-Demon Wars begin. However, none of them have provided substantial evidence. That is why humanity has always been forced to simply react until now.

“It’s too fucking late already when the war begins. In fact, the world is still in a volatile situation. No one knows what will happen…and while the heads of this country are relaxing without giving a damn, we’re the ones who have to fucking pay for their carelessness!!”

Vallen bares the rage he had bottled up in his chest.

As Vallen says, the world is still in a volatile situation, even though the Demon King has already been defeated. That is why all it took for operatives of another country to infiltrate the academy, was a single student acting behind the scenes.

“And that’s why, I’ll burn a clear sense of danger into this country once more…as this temporary peace begins, before those useless fuckers rest on their laurels.”

While Vallen’s ideals were extreme, I couldn’t deny it completely.

In fact, there are many who plan to take advantage of this temporary peace to reap more benefits. Depending on how one sees it, the portion of the academy’s administration who approved of the establishment of the Common Course are a part of those people. More than half of them must have turned a blind eye to the currently volatile situation.

“…I understand the logic behind that.”

At least, Vallen isn’t acting thoughtlessly.

“But that way of thinking sacrifices too much.”

I tell him, while remembering last night’s battle.

What sense of danger would permit the sin of wreaking havoc in the city– of causing innocent people to suffer? If his hypocrisy is allowed to grow even more, it will be extremely inconvenient.

“If it was possible, I would have liked to cool your head in a peaceful manner…but it seems like that would be difficult.”

“Hah! You understand well, don’t ya!”

Vallen laughs in a good mood.

“If ya know about Donning, then you have a good understanding of its features, right?”

Vallen asks, giving a daring smile.

“In the first place, Donning ain’t just a technique to unleash the magic you’re carrying…it’s a technique to clad your body in magic. If I don more advanced magic, and don even more magic at the same time, then its power will be increased.”

With a crackling sound, Vallen’s palm becomes electrified.

In the blink of an eye, lightning surges around Vallen’s entire body. It was as if power was overflowing from his body.

“The most I can don at once is 8– I ain’t bragging, but I haven’t seen anyone who could do more.”

---

Author’s Note:

On October 27 (2020), my original work, “The Holy Knight’s Dark Road”, released its first Manga volume!

It’s an Action x Comedy story about a Holy Knight who wants to become a Dark Knight, for some reason! By all means, please pick up a copy!

---

Translator’s Note: (You can skip this if you want)

I suppose now is a good a time as any to explain my understanding of how magic works in this setting, since I’m not satisfied with my explanation of Donning magic. The first thing I would like to discuss is magic power; for a clearer picture, this is what I think is this setting’s term is for Mana, MP, Prana, Magical Energy, and the like. Everyone seems to have some degree of magic power within them. Magic power has various aspects to it, which include: Magical Power, Magical Speed, Magical Stamina, and Magical Control, and each person can have varying degrees of each. (This portion was explained in a previous chapter (Arc 2 Chapter 11), so I’ll skip the explanation). Magic power can then be used to construct magic that one learns. Learning new magics, seems to be an intuitive process, involving the caster picturing how the magic works, normally accompanied by a chant (consisting of only the name of the magic). From this point, I would like to divide magic into two separate stages or forms: as a magical sequence and as a magical spell (these terms are not canon, simply a way to distinguish them for the sake of this explanation). As the caster pictures how the magic works, they construct the magic, before casting/activating it. As magic is constructed, it can be seen in the form of a magical sequence, or a mass of magic power organized in a specific way or following a formula. When magic is then casted/activated, it can then be seen in the form of a magical spell, or the manifestation of magic power. Magic can be modified while it is a sequence, since at this point, it is still a mass of magic. Modifying the magic as a sequence affects the magic as a spell. An example of these can be observed in Tweight’s original spells: <Flash Blade>, which is a modification of <Fixation>; <Instant Bomb>, which is a modification of <Bomb Trap>; and <Aerial>, which is a modification of <Barrier>. Going a step further, the addition of an Element into the magic can be considered as a modification, such as adding the Fire element to the magic <Bullet>, which results in the magic, <Flame Bullet>.

Now, moving on to the various techniques that can be applied to magic power (note: since it’s applied to the magic power, it is applied to the magic while it is a magical sequence, not when it is a magical spell), there have been a few named so far in this series: Compression, Multiple Activation, Parallel Activation, and Donning. Compression is applied when to the magic as a magical sequence in order to change its form to a more condensed one. This technique isn’t applicable to magics with Elements, as the addition of an Element causes the magic to have a different form. Multiple Activation involves overlapping the construction of the same magic over each other multiple times before activating it. Doing so increases the potency and effectiveness of the activated magic. Parallel Activation involves the simultaneous construction of multiple magics, activating them as separate magics. Unlike Multiple Activation, Parallel Activation does not necessarily need to be applied to the same magic (spell). These two can be used at the same time, in the technique known as Multiple Parallel Activation, or simply, Synthesis. Donning, on the other hand, involves constructing the magic beforehand, then “wearing” the magic as a magical sequence, then maintaining it without activating it (without casting the magic as a magical spell). The worn magic can then be activated at any time. This is why it seems to have no indication that magic will be used, since while the magic is being Donned, it is still a magical sequence, or just a mass of magic power worn by the user.

TL;DR: Magic is formed from magic power, and comes in two forms: as a magical sequence and as a magical spell. A magical sequence is simply a mass of magic power arranged in a specific way. A magical spell is what the magical sequence manifests as. In normal Donning, the user wears the magic as a magical sequence, but not necessarily as a magical spell itself. What Vallen displays at the end is him wearing the magic as a magical spell.

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