Chapter 15: The Childhood Friend Kidnapping Case — Interlude
Translator: RaidenTL
Chapter 15: The Childhood Friend Kidnapping Case — Interlude
[Congratulations! You’ve defeated the demon [Orpheus the Submerged (Lv. 110)] and gained EXP!]
[Level Up!! Your level has increased to 36!]
[You’ve gained 12 additional stat points!]
[You have unlocked the achievement: ❰My Childhood Friend Is Safe❱! You have gained 10 bonus stat points!]
I dropped to one knee and picked up the Abyssal Ring. It was a thin, rusty, ultramarine blue earring engraved with strange, rune-like characters.
[You have obtained the loot: [Abyssal Ring]!]
[Abyssal Ring]
* Effect: When worn, you can read the target’s psychological state.
* Special: If worn for 7 days, the item loses its physical function, but the user permanently gains the ability to read psychological states even without the item.
* Rank: Tier 1
The Abyssal Ring was an earring designed to be clipped onto the pinna. By wearing it and looking at someone, I could see their current mental state through the Status Window.
Originally, this was an item Ian was supposed to get, but it would be far more useful in my hands than with a professional fainter like him. If a situation ever arose where he actually needed it, I could just step in and handle it myself.
I had no intention of handing over loot to Ian unless it was absolutely vital for the progression of the story—or if it was something I simply didn't need.
I turned toward Ian and Mateo as I cleared away the ice surrounding the abandoned warehouse. Kaya was staring at me in pure awe while casting healing magic on the two of them.
For a full recovery, they would eventually need a priest specializing in high-tier healing or a trip to the hospital. Kaya’s magic was merely first aid.
Ian, however, possessed a monster-like resilience thanks to his Light-element constitution. Kaya’s magic would be more than enough to get him back on his feet.
Now that the dust had settled, I decided to test the Abyssal Ring.
I clipped the ultramarine earring onto my right earlobe. It shrank to fit perfectly, sending a cold, metallic sensation through my skin.
[You have learned the passive skill: [Psychological Insight (★7)]!]
I had gained a passive skill that remained active as long as I wore the Abyssal Ring. If I kept it on for seven days, that condition would disappear entirely.
I covered my ear with my right hand so that Kaya and Mateo wouldn't notice the new accessory. Then, I looked at Ian, who was the first to pass out.
[Ian Fairytale]
* Lv: 43
* Race: Human
* Elements: Light, Fire
* Danger: X
* Psychology: [None]
As expected, a new "Psychology" section had been added to the Status Window. Since Ian was unconscious, it was empty.
[Mateo Jordana]
* Lv: 76
* Race: Human
* Elements: Rock
* Danger: X
* Psychology: [Confused by your overwhelming strength.]
Mateo was staring at me. It was the first time I’d seen a face so perfectly balanced between surprise, doubt, and admiration—though "doubt" seemed to be winning.
Ah, Mateo’s level went up by 1 as well. Likely due to the shared party EXP.
[Kaya Astrea]
* Lv: 91
* Race: Human
* Elements: Wind, Ice
* Danger: X
* Psychology: [In total awe of you.]
Awe? Really?
Kaya looked like a devout believer staring at a cult leader.
...Well, she leveled up too.
Phew. Just know you’re getting stronger because of me.
I removed the Abyssal Ring and slipped it into my pocket. Starting tomorrow, I’d just wear it as a normal accessory.
I walked over to Kaya, Ian, and Mateo. Mateo looked at me with a dazed expression, seemingly shocked into silence. Well, it wasn't like I had much to say to him anyway.
"Kaya."
"Yes, Lord Isaac!"
When I stopped in front of her, I was momentarily taken aback. Up close, her eyes were shining so brightly it was almost overwhelming.
...First, I need to confirm something.
"Are you here to help Ian?"
"Yes! Ah, Lord Isaac, do you know Amy Holloway? I heard she was kidnapped..."
"I kept her somewhere safe."
"I knew it!" Kaya exclaimed, as if she had expected nothing less.
Her pupils were still shimmering with intensity.
"I’ll handle the cleanup. I’ll take these two to the hospital, get them treated, and make sure they keep their mouths shut!"
I hadn't even said a word, yet she knew exactly what I wanted. For some reason, I didn't mind the efficiency. The only thing that felt like a burden was her lingering, unabashed gaze of longing.
Feeling a slight tickle in my chest, a small smile played on my lips.
"Thank you."
At those words, the corners of Kaya’s mouth twitched violently and her lips began to tremble. It was the exact expression someone makes when they receive a compliment from an idol.
I’m actually just a nobody, yet you’re looking at me like that...
What can I say? I’m a little flattered.
"And keep the appearance of the demon a secret."
"Yes? Why is...? Ah! I understand."
I was about to explain the reasoning behind the secrecy, but she cut me off, claiming she already understood. I was left speechless. I wasn't sure what kind of mental gymnastics she was doing, but as long as she followed my lead, it didn't matter.
It reminded me of my time playing ❰Magic Knight of Märchen❱. Soon, Mateo’s lackeys would wake up and help him get to the hospital. The situation was resolved.
I gave Kaya a nod and headed toward the spot where I had "kidnapped" Amy. Throughout the walk, I could feel Kaya’s heavy gaze and Mateo’s suspicious eyes on my back.
I purposefully avoided looking back and quickened my pace. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky began to bleed into a stunning ultramarine blue.
*
"I brought more chocolate."
"Oh! You’re back!"
Amy practically hopped out of her seat like a rabbit when I arrived at the hideout. When she saw the chocolate, her eyes sparkled like a hungry Pomeranian's.
"You’re a bit later than I thought. Isn't it cold out, though? I feel a chill for some reason, don't you?" Amy asked, her voice laced with concern.
It was likely because I had been constantly emitting freezing air while fighting Orpheus the Submerged. I scratched my cheek and gave an awkward laugh.
"I don't want you catching a cold."
"What are you doing?"
Amy suddenly reached out, and a small, flickering flame appeared in her palm.
Crackle—
「Fire Generation (Fire Element, ★1)」
Oh, that’s warm.
"Ah, thank you."
"I’m the one who should be thanking you. Today was so much fun, and the chocolate was delicious... By the way, Isaac, what’s your answer?"
"Answer?"
"I asked if we could be friends."
Come to think of it, I hadn't given her a proper answer before I left. But she was about to hear the whole story from Ian soon anyway... She’d probably figure out why I really brought her here pretty quickly. I wasn't sure how she’d react then.
Still, why avoid it now?
"Friends... that sounds good."
"Hehe."
Amy smiled brightly, bathed in the warmth of her own flames. Her smile was sincere, like a flower in full bloom.
*
❰Magic Knight of Märchen❱ 「Act 2, Chapter 2: The Childhood Friend Kidnapping Case」 was officially over. After escorting Amy out of Josena Forest, we parted ways in front of the dorms. She lived in "Briggs Hall," which housed students from the middle and lower classes.
I decided to skip dinner. I’d had enough snacks with Amy that I wasn't particularly hungry.
Under the cover of the dark night, I went to a secluded corner of the garden to check my Potential.
[Potential]
* Stat Points: 22
◈ Growth Rate
* Physical Training Efficiency (C): 26/100 [UP]
* Magic Training Efficiency (C+): 33/100 [UP]
* Learning Efficiency (D): 12/100 [UP]
◈ Elemental Resistance
* Fire Resistance (E): 0/100 [UP]
* Water Resistance (D): 6/100 [UP]
* Ice Resistance (C-): 24/100 [UP]
* Lightning Resistance (C): 29/100 [UP]
* Rock Resistance (E): 2/100 [UP]
* Wind Resistance (D): 13/100 [UP]
* Neutral Magic Resistance (D): 8/100 [UP]
◈ vs. Race Combat Power
* vs. Human Combat Power (E): 4/100 [UP]
* vs. Other Races Combat Power (E): 1/100 [UP]
* vs. Heavenly Beings Combat Power (E): 0/100 [UP]
* vs. Demon Combat Power (S): 100/100 [MAX]
My level went up by 6, and I have 22 stat points total. If I have 22...
My primary goal was to master [Frost Explosion]. I had already decided where to invest. I poured all 22 points into [Magic Training Efficiency].
[Potential [Magic Training Efficiency] has been upgraded from C+ to B+!]
B+ Rank!
A B+ rank was already in the realm of genius. Even if Isaac’s base potential was limited, my future growth rate was going to be something to behold.
After that, I practiced my magic and headed to the training hall. The students from the Knight Department greeted me as if they’d been waiting for me. Of course, all hell broke loose shortly after.
*
The next day.
I ran into Amy while walking down the street. I was nervous for a second about what she might say, but she greeted me with a beaming smile.
[Amy Holloway]
* Psychology: [Feels very friendly toward you.]
She seemed genuinely happy. She mentioned that Ian had come to her yesterday, hugged her tightly, and told her how worried he was. Embarrassed by the sudden hug, she asked why, and Ian just stuttered that he was "worried something happened because he didn't see her all day."
He must have been a mess. But Amy was in such a good mood she just let it slide. Besides, she was probably just happy that the "color" of Ian’s heart had brightened again.
So, it’s the Amy route then.
In the game, if the player rescued Amy during this quest, they had two choices: [Pat her shoulder] or [Hug]. If the player chose [Hug], they locked into the Amy route.
Congratulations, Amy. Your wedding is going to be beautiful.
Judging by the fact that she didn't mention Ian being hurt, Kaya’s healing magic must have worked wonders. To avoid worrying Amy, Ian probably went straight to the dorms to change his clothes. He clearly hadn't told her about the fight with Mateo, let alone about me.
Seeing as he didn't react much to me in the classroom earlier, it seemed Kaya and Mateo had kept their word.
Good job, Kaya.
"What’s with the earring? Is it new? It really suits you."
It wasn't until we finished talking about Ian that Amy noticed the Abyssal Ring on my right ear. I had to wear it for a week, so I was glad it didn't look out of place.
Shortly after, Mateo called for me. To be precise, he summoned the entire gang.
After being blasted by Kaya’s wind magic, Mateo’s lackeys had no memory of the actual fight. They’d lost consciousness, and when they woke up to find the warehouse in ruins, they assumed Kaya had done it all. Mateo simply played along with their assumption.
As soon as they woke up, they had helped Mateo to the hospital. There, he received professional treatment and was finally able to move. He wasn't fully healed, though; he had bandages wrapped around his arms and torso. He flinched with every movement, but he was functional.
In an alley behind the academy building, Mateo bowed his head and apologized to us.
"I’m sorry. From now on, I’m going to live honestly and compete using my own skills. Thank you for following my orders until now. In the future... I just want us to be friends."
The lackeys patted Mateo on the shoulder, saying nothing, clearly convinced he’d been humbled by Kaya. Despite the detours, things were progressing similarly to the original story. I felt a wave of relief.
[Mateo Jordana]
* Psychology: [Feels grateful to you.]
Grateful, huh? Good kid.
Mateo sent the others away, leaving just the two of us. We went to the garden, sat under a tree, and started drinking. Of course, he was the one who bought the drinks—I didn't have a single cent to my name.
"I... I saw it all. The way you defeated that demon..."
Why are you using honorifics?
"You were pretending to be weak on purpose..."
"Just talk normally. It’s awkward."
"How could I possibly—"
I wasn't sure what Kaya had told him, but Mateo seemed to have completely bought into her misunderstanding.
"I’ll get angry if you don't."
"Ah, okay... I get it."
Mateo reluctantly switched back to informal speech. Kaya always used formal speech with everyone, so I didn't mind it from her, but having a guy who used to be a bully suddenly treat me like a superior was more than I could stomach.
"Thank you... without you, I would’ve died. Not just me, but the guys I just sent away, too."
"Think of it as payment for all those meals."
"I guess my life is only worth a few lunches."
Mateo burst out laughing, looking dumbfounded. He was usually so serious that seeing him smile felt strange. He clearly felt that the "payment" was heavily skewed in his favor.
"...I apologized to Ian."
"Is that so?"
"I understood after talking to him. I was on the wrong track. Just like the nobles looked down on commoners, I was treating people just as harshly. I thought that was the only way to resist them..."
I wasn't particularly interested in Mateo’s self-reflection. It was obvious he’d been moved by Ian’s "protagonist philosophy." Now that I knew things were back on track, my mind was already racing toward the next chapters.
Now, here’s the problem.
「Act 2, Chapter 3: Practical Training」 and 「Act 2, Chapter 4: Ant Legion」.
I was already planning how to deal with the ant demon, [Garzia the Hermit], who appears in Chapter 4. Garzia was Level 140, and his ant army possessed a collective intelligence and a notoriously toxic "Evil" element.
There was a reason the difficulty spiked so hard here. As soon as he manifested, he began gathering strength in the Tantak Underground Cave beneath the academy grounds. Two weeks later, fully powered up, he would ambush Ian during the practical training.
In the game, you could only explore the cave after finishing Chapter 4. Inside, you could find Zephrim, a rare mana remnant that solidified into magic stones. It was easy to carry and incredibly valuable.
Zephrim was a byproduct of Garzia constantly cycling his mana while charging up. It was a top-tier material for forging accessories and weapons—and it sold for a fortune.
My strategy was simple: enter the Tantak Underground Cave early, kill Garzia while he was still charging, and hoard all the Zephrim.
I wasn't sure if it would work. In ❰Magic Knight of Märchen❱, the cave was inaccessible until the script allowed it. It was uncharted territory.
But if it does work...
I could prevent a disaster and stop being a beggar all at once. It would be a massive shortcut. I’d be swimming in Gels.
Just imagining it made me feel good. I felt like I’d just bought a winning lottery ticket.
"...so I’m going to watch what Ian does from now on."
This guy still hasn't finished talking?
*
Inside the Class A classroom.
Even during lectures, Kaya Astrea couldn't stop thinking about Isaac. She had been riding a wave of excitement all day. Earlier, while hiding behind a tree, she had eavesdropped on Isaac and Mateo’s conversation, which only fueled her obsession.
How many things had Isaac accomplished in this one incident?
He infiltrated Mateo’s gang to save Amy Holloway. He defeated a high-level demon. And he even reformed a delinquent like Mateo.
A person who had reached the Realm of an Archwizard was truly on another level. As an aspiring mage herself, she couldn't help but worship him.
How can you be so incredible, Lord Isaac...
Isaac was so different from Kaya, who spent all her time studying or training. The fact that they were classmates in the same year, the same department, and the same academy made her heart race.
As Isaac had requested, Kaya had "properly" informed Mateo.
Isaac is a man who has reached the Realm of an Archwizard. He is only pretending to be weak because he has a purpose deeper than the abyss and broader than the ocean.
At the time, still high on the adrenaline of seeing him defeat the demon, she might have laid it on a bit thick.
She had ordered Mateo to keep the demon’s appearance a secret—to take it to his grave. Everything Isaac did had a purpose. A man in his position, secretly protecting the students, must have a profound reason for every action.
She warned Mateo that if he ever breathed a word about Isaac’s true power, she wouldn't let him off easy.
She had then fabricated a story for Ian, claiming she and Mateo had somehow worked together to defeat the demon. Since Amy was safe, she used that as leverage to keep the whole thing quiet.
Also... is Ian Fairytale even human?
It was hard to believe he had recovered so quickly with just her basic healing magic. Of course, some people had exceptional constitutions, or perhaps he had simply dodged the worst of the demon’s attacks. Kaya decided not to overthink it.
But for an ordinary person, seeing a demon is a once-in-a-lifetime event... It’s strange that so many have appeared in such a short time.
Since arriving at the academy, she had encountered demons twice. If the rumors about the class placement evaluation were true, that made three times. Demons were so rare they were usually treated like natural disasters. Their frequent appearance at the academy was highly irregular.
And every time a demon appeared, Isaac was there to defeat it...
The reason Isaac came to this academy... is it because of the demons?
Is there some massive secret hidden within Märchen Academy?
Isaac is a genius among geniuses who has reached the Archwizard realm. Did he infiltrate the academy because he already knew the secret...?
"..."
It was a terrifying thought. If a figure as powerful as Isaac had to step in personally, did that mean a catastrophic danger was lurking right under their feet?
...No, surely not.
Kaya swallowed hard as the chilling realization settled in her mind.