《Riot Grasper》 Volume 1 - CH 1 I died. I suddenly died. How? Im ashamed of saying it. I died protecting my family would have been a cool thing to say. Accidental death. It was an accidental death. Not interesting, right? Yeah, but I wasnt interesting in the first place, so whats the big deal? I was cocky. I know that it was wrong and I regret it now. After all, I had finally overcome the university entrance exam, albeit barely. Wasnt it my right to be even a tiny bit happy? Yet I was run over by a truck. Such a handsome guy. To think that he died. Good development it would have been if that were the case but it was not. You would need outrageous luck to remain handsome after getting run over by a truck. I was not that lucky. Fu~n, the bumper of the truck became a food processor. Thats how it felt. Those who are eating at the moment, I apologize. After having watched such a miserable me for a while from the sky, I seem to have migrated to the realm of afterlife. Overcome by a strange floating sensation, engulfed in pure white space, Im in front of what resembles a municipal office. Is this the realm of afterlife? Nope, theres something written on the gate. Reincarnation procedure, here Its that, right? That stereotypical reincarnation? Yeah, I know. Currently, Im sitting idly on a sofa, looking at the reception desk which has Earth written on it. \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ (I did die back there, didnt I? So, what now?) While I was thinking that, with my head down in gloom, someone called out to me. Its gloomy here yet that voice was contrastingly bright. Aww~, you died, right? Thats awful. Well, Im sorry that I died. And who might you be? Oops, Im a staff member of Reincarnation Control Centre. Well then, have you decided on the destination world after you reincarnate? Well, I have yet to understand things. You do? Okay then, which world did you come from? Japan, Earth Upon my words, the male staff member I see~ nods his head. Hes a difficult-to-understand type of person. His age seems to be about 20 years? Earth is quite popular. Furthermore, Japans acceptance rate is pretty high~. By the way, how about a world other than Earth? Eh? Is there such a world? There is~. Of course there is~. So, are you interested? Am I interested? Of course I am but this man doesnt seem to be serious. Is it really alright? Nah, if I can be reincarnated, I would like to go back to Earth, I think. What did you say!? Its another world! A world of swords and magic! A fantasy world! R-Really? Hey, think about it. Isnt a world of swords and magic really dangerous to live in? In Japan, if you can secure top position in occupations ranking, you can become a Public Servant which can provide you with financial stability in such an era as this. Dont! Dont say anything. Even if you do, theres no use~ the quota is fixed. Quota. Quota? Like filling? You understand that there are many worlds, right? Every world has a fixed quota in respect of the number of people in order to maintain balance. Also, its about time for the change of shifts. Do you know what would happen if they find out that I couldnt handle even one person? Terrible~. While lamenting, he peeks at me through the gaps between his fingers. Why do I smell a lie? Exactly what kind of god would behave like that? N-No Then how about a special service? You will receive one skill of your choice as a present. Eh? While I was trying to say something, he shut my mouth with his index finger. Well, Im interested in this otherworld anyway. It does sound interesting. I can hear your story at least. Thank you so~ much. Guide this gentleman, ple~ase. Suddenly, a man grabs my arm and pulls me. The man takes me to another reception desk. Iris is written on this reception desk. Which reminds me, Earth was written on the previous reception desk. So, is Iris the name of this otherworld? Have a seat, please. Lets start right away. First, your present as a special service. O-Okay. Heres the keyboard. Type whichever word you want. Ill give you the description of the skills in the search results. Feel free to use it, please. Why is there a keyboard!? And why is there a Liquid Crystal Display!? Ah~, it materializes as something which is easy-to-recognize for you. Dont pay any mind to it. Does it? So, if someone from another world were here in my place, would it materialize as a crystal ball? Alright, lets set that aside and search something. Im grateful for the fact that its easy to use. Stereotypical fantasy world, here I come. Magic It is. I lightly type the words in and click the search button. CO-Oh! The page is full. ?Fire Magic Lv1 ?Water Magic Lv1 ?Wind Magic Lv1 ?Earth Magic Lv1 ?Dark Magic Lv1 ?Light Magic Lv1 ?Origin Magic Lv1 ?Spirit Magic Lv1 CIt goes on and on. Oh well, its something that I only know of. I have never seen it. Excuse me, what does this Lv next to the skill name indicate? Ah yes, all the skills start with Lv1. In your life in the otherworld, you can level it up. Like any ability, you can train a skill until you reach its peak. Lv1 is Basic, Lv2 is Intermediate, Lv3 is Advanced, Lv4 is Expert, Lv5 is Superhuman. What- Superhuman!? If I Umm, this service allows me choose just one skill? Thats right~ its special, you know? Youre the only one whos receiving this service. Stock scam phrase. Hopeless. Absolutely hopeless. This service lets you choose one skill. However, the skill someone possesses is decided by their birth. In other words, it depends on their race. Even if you choose a skill, its not necessary that youll get that skill. Fumu, is there no skill in this world which lets you gain other skills? I should stop being double-minded. After all, a true man is always straight. Alright, next. Martial arts I type. ?Sword Arts Lv1 ?Spear Arts Lv1 ?Axe Arts Lv1 ?Archery Lv1 ?Body Arts Lv1 ?Stick Arts Lv1 C It goes on and on. The problem is, I have to choose only one. Resistance ?Abnormal Status Resistance Lv1 ?Mental Disorder Resistance Lv1 ?Fire Attribute Resistance Lv1 C Un, Im so troubled. I cant decide on one. Thereafter, I typed in numerous keywords but found nothing of interest. So, should I give up on it? While I was thinking that, I unintentionally- -Searched a blank. ?Thiefs Godly Skill Lv1 And this is what came up. Excuse me, what kind of skill is this? CThis? Yeah, it seems to be good. Please give me its details. Thatll be difficult~. Do you really want me to? Okay, this is a hidden skill. How did you come across it anyway~? Err itll be too much to explain for a mouth. Wait a bit there you go. Inside my head, some words float up. Thats convenient, hey! \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ Thiefs Godly Skill (Riot Grasper) Can steal any skill from the owner of the skill. The level of the stolen skill shall be same as when the skill was stolen. It is possible to train the stolen skill. Following are the conditions of invocation: The skill to be stolen must be known and visually confirmed. The body of the target to be plundered must be in contact at the time of invocation. Success Rate: 10% Skill Level (Total Lv of All your Skills Combined C Lv of the Skill to be Stolen) 1% shall be added to the success rate. (No change in case of negative resultant number) In case of failure, the same skill of the same target shall be permanently disqualified for invocation. Usage limit per day: Depends on the skill Lv. The stolen skill can be returned to the original owner. \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ Oh my god! Ive found a hidden skill. I can smell it! I can smell it! I can smell strong Middle School 2nd Year Syndrome, eeee! This is it! Th-This Rio- Thiefs Godly Skill Even if the person C whom the skill is stolen from C dies, the stolen skill will not be lost, right? Thats right~. The owner changes for all purposes. Theres a formula that mentions skill Lv. It means the Lv of Thiefs Godly Skill, right? Also, what does total Lv of all your skills combined mean? Im actually more confused. By the way, the total number of skills you can possess is limited to 10. It depends on race, though. So, would you like choose this skill? Ye- no Wait a minute, please. Lets think about it carefully. Invocation condition The skill to be stolen must be known and visually confirmed. Isnt it impossible? How would I know as to who possesses which skill? And I cant plunder people indiscriminately, right? Whats the matter~? To tell you the truth, theres no need to think for you dont get to choose To the otherworld YOU GO! Hey, I still havent decided if Ill go to another world! Its too late to say that. Take this present, too. The otherworld, here he comes! \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ Unique: Scholars Knowledge (Can appraise status and items) \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ Owa! Im being forcibly teleported. Well, isnt it actually amazing? Isnt it a perfect combo? CReincarnating in Iris. Thus, my connection to Earth was finally severed. With my heart jumping inside my chest, I was being reincarnated in another world. Thank you for choosing us~! Well then, lets quickly get the procedure completed. I wasnt scammed, right? Its gonna be okay, right? Which race and gender would you like? Race? What choices do I have? \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ ?Humans: Extremely high population in Iris. Balanced faction. Individual differences considerable. ?Dwarves: Skillful fingers. Suited to be artisan. Incredible strength. ?Beastkin: Cats, dogs, wolves, lions, etc.; Comprises various kinds. Enhanced physical abilities. ?Elves: The people of the forest. Possess plenteous magic aptitude. Suited to be rearguard. ?Dragonewts: A race that pursues different evolutionary system from the dragons. Tough. Extremely low population. ?Demons: Hostile relationship with almost rest of the races. Superior in terms of abilities. Not recommended to a novice. \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ This is basically it, so~ Ah, the man opens his mouth before long. Its bothersome. Surely. I mean, hey! Demon? Really? And its not recommended! Umm, demon CSo, is this what you want to choose? No I choose dragonewt. Because I could smell danger, I circumvent. But why drago-something? I cant even say it properly. How embarrassing. Its a dragon with a name right? What about sex~? Err male. Man, of course. I dont even want to imagine being a woman, making out with men. Al~right! With this, the procedure is complete. Well then See yaaa. Wait, isnt there a manual or an explanation about this otherworld? Actually, you will be reincarnated as a baby. Therefore, even if I explained it to you now, itd be of no use to you in the otherworld. Also, explaining it to you is not part of my job, so~ Reincarnated as a baby? I know, right? I misheard it, right? I knew it I want to reincarnate in a safe world. I cant- I wont enjoy such a world. Its so absurd that Im trembling. That!? Eee! Again? But its about time for another change of shifts and I need to achieve my quota with you. Well, sorry. CGood! Well then, you will now reincarnate in the otherworld with the current settings. There YOU go How is it good!? In that case, I want to choose human race can I? E~h Actually, this is the only way that doesnt require you to start over as a baby~. Well human is even better, then Its extremely regrettable but theres no other way. Fuu alright, if thats your decision. Well then take care. All of a sudden, I was in a mans hands. At the same time, my vision blacked out and I lost consciousness. \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ Un Hey! E? Hey, are you alright, hey!? My head is all muddled up. It all feels like a dream. CTo think that there was a time when I was like that. Have you finally woken up? How long have you been lying here? The first thing I saw in this otherworld is moustache and beard of a burly middle-aged man. Ee, its an unforgettable experience that Id rather forget. I was sent to this otherworld for this? No, I must see things from various angles. From my angle and from others angle. \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ Name: Seiji?Agatsuma Race: Human Age: 18 Job: None Unique: Scholars Knowledge Skill(s) ?Thiefs Godly Skill (Riot Grasper) Lv1 (0/10) \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ Name: Nicholas?Hoffman Race: Human Age: 35 Job: Sentinel Skill(s) ?Sword Arts Lv2 (24/50) ?Body Arts Lv1 (6/10) \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ Well then CEnjoy the life in the otherworld! However, the fact that I have just one skill is saddening! But the fact that this middle-aged mans job is not Thief is reassuring. Volume 1 - CH 2 1st Volume, 2nd Chapter The Beginners Town, Merville Excuse meDDwhere is this place? It was supposed to be my first conversation in this otherworld. Yet it is so pathetic. Where?It can be considered Merville town, I guess. My reaction is just what you would expect from someone whos hearing a name for the first timeDD I see. By the way, this area, where a certain someone was lying unconscious, is outside the town wall. Also, I dont have time to dawdle around. If you can move your body, get inside the town. BodyWhen he mentions body, I take a look at my own body. Although I cant see my face, Im sure that it doesnt look like minced meat. Also, from the way this old-man is talking to me, I can assume that Im a human. When I touch all over my body, I immediately realize that theres no change in my body from how it was in my previous life. Rather than reincarnation, it feels more like revival. My clothes, however, are totally different. Theres a jute jacket? Underneath is a shirt. Trousers are made of something stiff, like cotton? Pelted boots complete the rustic look. Where are my comfortable shoes which I had on at the time of the accident? Also, other luggage, which I had at that time, doesnt seem to be with me. YouAre you really alright? Rather, its a big relief that I can understand and speak their language. So that staff member actually did something useful, huh? Considering the fact that this old-man looks worried after seeing me acting strangely, he doesnt seem to be as strict as he appears. Ah, Im sorry. Im kinda confused. Umm, what was it called, again? Merville town? When I look around to inspect my surroundings, I immediately notice an extraordinary stone wall. As for its height, Im around 175cm talland its about twice my height? Its quite prominent. So this is the town wall of Merville, huh? A town wall is erected in order to defend from the enemies outside. There must exist fantasy creatures outside, I guess. Or should I rather say demon race, perhaps? Like I fearedmonstersexist. True. However, the town wall of Merville is quite sturdy. Youll be prone to attack if you step outside, though. Were you perhapsnot aware of it? Did you encounter any monster along the way? You dont seem to have any luggage with you. Does he perhaps think that I was attacked by a monster and I managed to escape with just my body intact? Because I have no other choice, Ill just keep on nodding. Such a terrible place. I have lost everything I had. Is that so?That really is terrible. N? You havent lost your ID, have you? If you want to enter the town, it will be required. Oh, god. If Ill have to spend my first night camping outside, I quit. What do I do now? What can you do now?Thats rightDDHey, do you know about the Adventurers Guild? Just the name. Its mandatory in case of another world. However, because I was preparing for entrance test, I didnt read many manga or novels. Not even during the breaks. If you get registered with the guild, the guild guarantees you a position in the society. The guild issues a guild card. It acts as a substitute for ID. However, if you tarnish the guilds image with your actions, it will lead to terrible consequences. Well then, if you want to enter the town, I can take you to the guild. MoneyWont I need money? They can issue you a loan. Since its an emergency, there wont be any problem, hopefully. T-Thank you very much. And this is where I work. Im Nicholas?Hoffman. Im a sentinel of this town. Im Agatsuma?Seiji. I extend my hand out to shake with his. The skin of his hand felt rugged. So his skill, Sword Arts Lv2, isnt for show, huh? What was it called, again? Intermediate? Agatsumahuh? Quite an unusual name. Ah, no, my name is Seiji. I see. So the given name comes first, huh? Hoffman-san, are you good with sword? N? Just call me Nicholas. A kid need not be worried about honorifics. Kid, huh? Well, a mere high school student is a kid, surely; but to suddenly call an elder by their first name without any honorifics is, somewhat, repugnant. Sword, huh? I have been training my sword for fairly long. Unlike adventurers, the opportunities to fight against different monsters here are not that many. Therefore, experiencing a real battle is rare. While saying so, Nicholas-san draws his sword from its sheath with burning eyes and slashes at the sky. Quite a performance it was. The way he put the sword back to its sheath with a brisk sound looked cool to an ordinary person like me. If a monster dares attack this town, Ill cut it down with this sword of mine. Indeed. Invocation condition is already clear, isnt it? It can be invoked if I touch. However, I hold my hand, which was about to touch Nicholas-san, back. Theres no need to be impatient, really. I honestly want to test it as soon as possible. However, I would not like to plunder someone who helped me. Without Sword Arts skill, Nicholas-san will become weak. If he were to be killed by a monster consequently, I would not be able to sleep in peace. What the fuck? This skill is unexpectedly difficult to use. W-Well, it has only just begun. First, lets think it over. ?Even if I try to steal a skill, will I be successful? ?Even if I successfully steal the skill, will I be able to use it? ?How many times can I use the skill per day if its Lv1? ?How do I raise the level of the skill? Four questions too many. That said, theres no other choice but to try it out eventually. But first, I have to get registered with the guild and secure accommodation for today. I have to do something about money, too. Its disturbing that I dont have any. Fortunately, the sun is still up. There are still a few hours left. I may be able to earn some without getting myself into danger. The South Gate of the town was the closest to the location where I was. After having walked with Nicholas-san for about ten minutes, I can now see the gate. After walking along the town wall for quite a while, I realized that this town is actually huge. For the town wall can be traced to be round, is the structure of the town circular? Because I was with Nicholas-san, I almost passed through the South Gate. Nicholas-san calls out to the sentry stationed at the gate and explains my situation, after which, we enter the town. Ooh Mervilles townscape comprises mostly of stone-made buildings. Wooden houses can be found here and there. Streets are stone-paved. Private residences have vividly-colored, triangular roofs. It looks like a fusion of medieval and contemporary Europe. The reason as to why I said contemporary Europe is that earthquakes are scarce in Europe, so the old constructions still exist there. Before you start arguing, I must tell you that I only know all this from the pictures on the internet. You cant expect a high school student to have actually toured Europe. From the first glance, the town looks clean. Theres no horseshit on the streets! Now then, I must pull myself together and go to the guild. Merville town is divided into different districts; including Commercial District, Residential District and Industrial District. The Adventurers Guild is located in the Commercial District which is situated in the southern part of the town. For this reason, We, who entered the town from the South Gate, reached the guild before long. Theres an orthodox signboard, featuring a shield and crossed swordsDDThis must be the signboard of the Adventurers Guild. Its a splendid, two-storied, stone-made building. Nicholas-san will probably go back after my registration is done and I receive my guild card. He may look rough and scary but honestly, Im glad that hes with me. When I open the door, what I find in front is a municipal office which looks similar to the one I saw in the realm of afterlife. Nope, this one seems to be inferior in quality compared to that one. On the counter, the silhouette of a receptionist lady, or a man, can be seen dealing with the visitors. On the bulletin board, many quests can be found stuck. This place is brimming with liveliness. It might have looked wild at firstDDbut its actually not. Well, its still a bit frightening but it cant be helped. I approach the receptionist lady on the counter. Umm, I would like to register with the Adventurers Guild. The receptionist lady takes a seat to conduct my interview. Nicholas-san is behind me, observing the state of my affairs. Well then, please fill your name, age and race in this form. When I was about fill in the blanks, my pen stops. Which letters do I write in? The moment I thought that, the content I was trying to write floats up inside my head in the letters of this world. Huh? This is convenient. After filling in the required information, I return the form to the receptionist lady. Okay, good enough. Well then, the registration fee is 1,000 Dalas. II dont have any money. I heard that I could borrow some from the guild. Yes, you can. If you repay it within one month, no interest shall be charged. Well then, what would you like to do? A high school student in debtThe more the time passes, the more it feels like another world. Okay. Well then, the procedure huh? Is something wrong? Your age is 18 yearsExcuse my rudeness, are you sure theres no mistake? Eh? Yes, theres no mistake. When I heard a surprised voice leak out from behind me, I turn around to find wide-eyed Nicholas-san. The receptionist lady was astonished just as well. Pardon my rudeness. Are you not younger? I thought that you were 14-15 years old. The facial features of Nicholas-san and the receptionist lady are indeed strong. Although not completely, they resemble westerners. On the contrary, compared to westerners, orientals look younger than their age. Indirectly, theyre telling me that I have a baby-face, huh? Im 18 years old. Pardon my rudeness, again. Well then, let me brief to you about the Adventurers Guild next. Okay. At the Adventurers Guild, we receive numerous quests on a daily basis. I will have you note that the guild acts as an intermediary between a client and an adventurer. For this reason, the guild deducts a fee from the reward at the completion of a quest. In return, the guild bears full responsibility for the quest. In case the client objects the deficiency in the completion of the quest, unless the adventurer recognizes their fault, the guild provides full protectionDDYou can receive security against loss. Well, agency model is pretty common but theres protection, too, huh? In case the adventurer is at fault, the reward amount shall be compensated by the adventurer as a penalty. Therefore, please be careful in that regard. The entire reward amount shall be compensated?Isnt that harsh? Also, a rank is assigned to the adventurer. From S+, S, S- to E+, E, E- in descending order. If your rank is high, you can receive designated quests. Well then, aim to be a trusted adventurer. How much can a rank S+ earn? Well, I will first have to earn enough to survive in this world. I can think about making a fortune later. Seiji-san will start as a rank E-. As for the quests, you can either choose routine work downtown or you can collect medicinal herbs in the outskirts. During the collection of the medicinal herbs, you may encounter weak monsters. Is Seiji-san able to fight? Iwill learn. I understand. Please be careful and try not to encounter any monster. Come to think of it, do monsters possess skills, too? If so, then I can steal the skills from the monsters without any hesitation. However, unless I plan my first step, Im not sure if I can kill even the weakest of the monsters. For the time being, I better not step outside the town. I should probably receive quests relating to routine work downtown. Your rank increases once upon the completion of every ten quests. In case you fail to complete a quest, the protection against the penalty depends on your quest completion rate. In addition, youll have to pass a test in order to raise your rank beyond D. E+ to D-, D+ to C- and so on can, therefore, be considered stages. Err written test? Because the monster subjugation quests tend to be available to those beyond rank D, we conduct the test to ascertain that they have the ability to fight against the monsters. No surprises there~. Well then, we will now issue you the guild card. The cost of the first issuance is included in the registration fee. However, any subsequent issuance shall cost you 500 dalas. Please be informed. After saying that, the receptionist lady goes inside and comes back after a while with something, which looks like a silver metal plate, in her hands. When I press my finger on the back of the card, as I was asked, a mysterious light poo comes off it. This is Seiji-sans guild card. Welcome to the Adventurers Guild. Y-Yes, likewise. Please take care of me. Im happy, somewhat. Im in debt now, though. Umm, Nicholas-san, here. Ah, your identification. Welcome to Merville town, finally. I hope you earn enough to make a fresh start. After saying that, Nicholas-san leaves the guild. Was it alright for him, a sentinel, to leave the gate for this long? Umm, I can accept quests from now on, right? Of course. You can have a look at the quests posted on the bulletin board there. Umm, can you please recommend me an inn in this area? Also, how much will the accommodation cost be? The receptionist lady smiles gently at the penniless adventurer in front of her. Now Ive done it. Hmm, let me think. Right, considering the reward of a rank E- quest, the inn I would recommend to you would be Feeder Pops. Well, taking into account the amount of money I have in hand, shes not gonna recommend me a big name hotel where pretty girls are at your service. Its gonna be an inn with a stinking old-man! I express my gratitude to the receptionist lady and head to the bulletin board. Hmm, rank E- quests Warehouse Rearrangement: Quest Reward C 200 Dalas Supplementary Personnel for Public Works: Quest Reward C 250 Dalas And so onNothing but trivial work. Is there really no helping it? Well, the battle skill of the current me is zero, after all. The moment I stretch my hand out to remove a quest paperDDjeers and boos resound inside the building. Hey, what are kids doing here?! A~h, accepting trivial work for a quest, eh?! Youre a disgrace to us adventurers! Off to your home, take a shit and go to your bed! Err hes quite pissed off, clearly. Uttering such words, two men, who resemble the motorbikers from a certain end-of-century comic, head my way. Well, what else would you say to a novice, with a baby-face no less, who has already been suspected to be 14-15 years old. Umm, err I need to receive a quest to cover accommodation expense. Did you hear that, guys?! A boy who doesnt even have the balls to fight a monster has registered to be an adventurer! Does he think so low of us adventurers? They carry on. Help, someone? Apparently, the guild staff doesnt arbitrate a quarrel between two adventurers. When I look toward the receptionist lady from earlier with pleading eyes, she was troubled to open her mouth. So an adventurer is supposed to help themselves, huh? I dont mean to show off or anything but in my previous life, I happened to dabble in Karate. But then, why have I not been granted the Body Arts skill? Do I have no talent? Should I cry? That aside, I should first check their status. Take it easy. Theres no need to be worried. Theres indeed a need to be worried. \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ Name: Bal?Goliath Race: Human Age: 32 Job: Adventurer (Rank B+) Skill(s) ?Axe Arts Lv2 (47/50) ?Physical Abilities Enhancement Lv3 (4/150) \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ Name: Zac?Keynes Race: Human Age: 28 Job: Adventurer (Rank C+) Skill(s) ?Spear Arts Lv2 (35/50) ?Body Arts Lv1 (8/10) \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ It was obvious that they were high ranking adventurers but their ranks are too damn high! Its not good to bully a weak. Well then, what do I do now? I cant resort to violence in the guild, after all. How about I give it a go, then? No, thats not it. But if I dont accept this quest I dont fucking care! Dont you get it? Bal slams his fist on a table. He bent massive, cm-thick wood out of shape? Is he a gorilla, hey? Thereafter, Bal heads my way and shoves me into the wall with his arm. It hurts. Im gonna die. You listening? If I ever see this face here, Im going to beat it out of shape! You get that, asshole?! Hey, Zac, lets go. KuahahahaDDN? What, you wanna do something about it, piece of shit?! Just like that, with vulgar laughter, the pair leaves the guild. DDGehogehougu If its someone like them, I wont have any guilty conscience. Are you okay? Im extremely sorry. The guild has a no-intervention policy in respect of a quarrel between two adventurers. Besides, if they were half as strong as they act, they wouldnt leave so many quests incompleteStill, if it escalates any further, the guild will issue them a warningDD At the receptionist ladys words, I gesture with my hand for her to stop. I have got the basic idea. Even if you touch the target, this skill wont invoke until and unless you call for it. Furthermore, you have to touch the targets skin. If you touch the armor, it wont work. Finally, at Lv1, the number of times you can invoke this skill per day is at least two. How lucky! At first attempt with just 10%. As for axe-handling, since it wasnt visually confirmed, it was futile. Wawawa, Im fine. Moving onI want to receive an easy quest since-! A shattering sound resounds inside the building. This time, the sturdy wooden-table, which I try to rest my hands on, breaks under the force. Amidst the dancing sawdust, I could feel an incredible power welling up inside my body. Physical Abilities Enhancement Lv3 huh? Isnt it overwhelming? Of course it is! DDThereafter, the cost of the broken table was added to my debt, it goes without saying. I offer an earnest apology to the receptionist lady. \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ Name: Seiji?Agatsuma Race: Human Age: 18 Job: Adventurer (Rank E-) Unique: Scholars Knowledge Skill(s) ?Thiefs Godly Skill (Riot Grasper) Lv1 (1/10) ?Physical Abilities Enhancement Lv3 (4/150) \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ I have stolen a skill``````````! Volume 1 - CH 3 1st Volume, 3rd Chapter The Expert Blacksmith, Jig?Salman No matter how strong of a skill it is, stealing is an inhumane act. Making it unexpectedly difficult. (Authors note) Well then, I would like to receive this delivery of goods quest Very well. With the herculean strength you displayed moments ago, you shouldnt have any problem in completing the quest, I believe. The place is located outside Commercial District; its located in the east, in Industrial District. I will mark the location on the map. You will receive further directions on site. Alsoplease dont forget to pay 1,500 Dalas within one month. So the compensation has been duly added. Un, whatever, it was I who broke the table in the end, after all. At any rate, this Physical Abilities Enhancement skill seems to be Continuous Activation type. My body is clearly light. My strength has welled up as well. And my speed is remarkably different from before. While considering possibilities, I call for my status and concentrate my consciousness on the skill. Physical Abilities EnhancementDDEnhances physical abilities. Increases the original physical abilities by a percentage. The synergistic effect is similar to that of physical training. If proficiency is high, the gap of physical abilities between races can be surpassed. Excellent compatibility with martial arts. Ah, something came up. Thisskill is quite useful. Great. Is it rare? Oh well, its usability will depend on the combination of skills. In short, the usefulness of this abilitywill vary from person to person. Huh? Have I just raised another hurdle for myself? Another hurdle. AhemThis is the story of a protagonist who was reincarnated in another world. The light-hearted story of how he enjoys his life in that otherworld. Please refrain from associating excessive expectations. What a massive idiot I am. Where was Industrial District again? East? Its all thanks to that muscle balloonBalloon? Was it? I must thank him. I have no idea as to how weakened he would be after losing his skill. Well, he was all muscles anywayso it shouldnt be that bad. I mean, if you compare our physique, Im a frail guy. It was he who struck the table first and almost broke the table. DDThe value next to Thiefs Godly Skill has changed to (1/10). Most likely, the proficiency of the skill increases with every success. As it is now, the success rate is unspeakably low. In order to increase the success rate, I need to increase the total Lv of all my skills combined. In order to increase the total Lv of all my skills combined, I need high Lv skills even if theyre unnecessary. In order to obtain high Lv skills, I need to increase the success rate. That said, can I really afford to have unnecessary skills with the limit of 10? If the number of my skills exceeds 10, will they be discarded?Well, I have just one skill at the moment, so I dont need to go that far, do I? For now, I best increase the proficiency of the skill steadily. Also, whom I steal the skill from is important. First, I need to confirm whether the monsters possess skills. Whatever, that I dont have skills doesnt mean that I cant fight. In the first place, that staff member never said that I should give up. With this physical ability, if I were to get injured by a weak monster DDOh well, my priority should be completing the quest. Aah, are you an adventurer? Nice to meet you. Im a merchant called Batteau. Coming to the point, I want you to deliver these packages to an artisan in the Industrial District. Im Seiji. Nice to meet you, too. Its quite heavy. Will yoube alright? Can I try it? Ho! I try to lift one of the cartons. It is heavy, indeed. However I can carry about two at a time. In totalthere are ten. Im still not as mature a merchant to be able to judge someone from their appearance, it seems. Here is the map. I have marked the location of the artisans workshop. Would you, please? Yes. Meanwhile, I check the status of the merchant. As for the skills, he has Business Acumen Lv2 and Sword Arts Lv1. Sword Arts skill is at the lowest level. Its only for self-defense, most likely. How do I visually confirm Business Acumen skill? By witnessing him cracking a big deal? No, I dont intend to particularly steal this skill. Ill be in trouble if I make stealing a habit. Thereafter, I made several round trips to Industrial District and delivered the cartons. The quest went smoothly. When I deliver the last carton and look around for a while, I realize from the exterior of the shop that the artisan is a blacksmith who makes weapons and armors. So, if I? Nah, its blacksmith we are talking about, right? One who hammers hot iron, who forges steel, who shapes it into a strong sword! Who is black! Who is rough! Whose dick is numb! This job is no good. Excuse me. I was sent here by Batteau-san. I received the delivery of goods quest. Theres no answer. Is there no one inside? When I move further in from the sales counterDDI reach a place that can be considered the workshop. Excuse meDD DDAs soon as I say that. Dont come here! I can hear you! There is someone! But they are short of my expectations. Hes bearded and considerably shorter than me. Hes muscularDDWith this, we have our first dwarf of the series. *A round of applause* Name: Jig?Salman Race: Dwarf Age: 57 Job: Expert Blacksmith Skill(s) Smithing Lv4 (54/500) Hes Lv4. Wow! He seems to be quite an excellent blacksmith. Dont come inside without permission! GoodsPut the goods there. Im sorry. I did call for you at the sales counter but Youare an adventurer? But you are just a kid. Are you looking to die young? Because I have my guild card hanging around my neck, he could tell from a glance that Im an adventurer. By the way, when I press my finger on the back of card, it shows my name and rank. Is this some kind of magic? Even though I may appear so, Im actually 18 years old. I just dont prefer to jump into danger needlessly. Thats too exaggerated! Even Jig-san looks considerably younger than his age! Because we belong to different races, however, I cant say for sure. It was a joke. StillAs an adventurer, you should have equipment on you even if its low. Its reckless to fight against monsters as you are. I became an adventurer just today. Its my first questAlso, because Im in debt, I cant enjoy the luxury of buying equipment. FumuIn the future, do you intend to receive quests that require you to fight against monsters? I would receive such quests, I think. Appearing bothered, Jig-san stands up and moves to the sales counter, scratching his head all the while. Did I do something? For the time being, I follow behind him. Hey, is there a weapon youre good at? As of yet, unfortunately none. Fun, in that case, take this. Learn how to use it yourself. Its better than nothing. What jig san threw at me is a 50cm long blade attached to a pommel. In other words, a sword. When I pull it out of its sheath, its dark gray luster reflects in my eyes. BaselardDDAlthough its typically a dagger, its overall length of 50cm makes it a short sword. Because its lightweight and easy-to-use, even those who are not apt at using swords can use it. Are yougiving this to me? Its a parting gift to a fledgling adventurer. Dont think its free, though. When you grow strong, you have to buy better weapons from this shopIts just so you dont die young. My tear glands were about to burst. But I manage to hold them back, somehow. Dying to an accident, reincarnating in this world, meeting a thugAfter going through all that, this act of kindness warmed my heart. Considering Jig-sans words just now, he has all the makings of a Tsundere. I-Its not like Im giving it to you for free, B-Baka. You have to buy expensive goods from my shop in the future. Itll be a waste if you die before that. (TN: I added B-Baka myself. Its not in the raw.) To have Imagined such a thing, I must prostrate and apologize to him. Thank you very much. Im Jig. Well then, do your best. My name is Seiji. Ill be sure to visit again. DDI leave Jig-sans shop and head back to Batteau-san. Now that I have delivered the goods, I need him to sign the quest off as complete. When Batteau-san was signing off the quest, his gaze falls onto the sword on my waist. I received a leather belt, too, from Jig-san to put the sword on. All I need now is to steal Sword Arts skill. Should I steal it from Batteau-san or not? This swordcant be Jig-sans work, right? You can tell just by looking at it? Business Acumen Lv2, indeed. Nah, it must not be entirely related to it. Yes, I received it as a parting gift for being an adventurer. Thats greatSeiji san, do your best as an adventurer henceforth. More heartwarming~. No way, so soon~. Are most of the people in this town perhaps this nice? Well, well. Time to go back to the guild, report the completion of the quest and receive the reward. Trivial jobs may be free of risks but take rather long to complete. The sun is about to set. I would like to check in an inn before sunset. In quick strides, I head to Commercial District in the south and open the gate upon reaching the guild. The receptionist ladys bright smile. My first income in this world. A warm bed. Im so excited. However, the room on the first floor is noisy and surrounded. A silhouette of someone shouting in a familiar, loud voice can be seen. DDNo way, so soon~. Volume 1 - CH 4 1st Volume, 4th Chapter Feeder Pops In of Thiefs Godly Skill I remember that I wrote, In case of failure, the same skill of the same target shall be permanently disqualified for invocation. I have revised a part of the 2nd chapter. Physical Abilities Enhancement was stolen in the first attempt. The number of times the skill can be invoked in a day at Lv1 has now been revealed. (Authors Note) What Im saying is, push the remaining time limit. Thats all! Okay, but youre injured, dont overexert yourself Thats for me to decide. Dont nag. Like I suspected, the one shouting at the receptionist lady is the adventurer from earlier in the day. Bal and Zac, right? Apparently, Bals arm is injured. Is that why he couldnt complete the quest This is what I have deduced from the situation. By the way, this world has an established system in respect of the days. In Japan, the origin of the days in a week was related to the planet. Here, however, the origin is related to the spirits. In order: Fire, Water, Wind, Earth, Dark, Light, Origin are the seven days. One year consists of twelve months including the birth month, making it a 364 days cycle. So I have been told. For the birth month, various grand festivities are held at the end of the year. Unfortunately, its currently the fifth month. Theres a long way till that. I was taught the concept by the receptionist lady at the time of receiving the quest in relation to the completion time limit. The time limit for my quest was tomorrowDDthe day of the Wind. DDSnorting wildly, Bal and company turn around and start walking. As for me, Im standing so as to face the wall in order not to make eye contact with them. I dont want to have any business with them anymore. I cant afford to have others know that I can steal skills. Thinking back, it was thoughtless of me to hit the table and break it. Still, no one will associate it to stealing skills. Because theres no way of telling what skills one possesses, theres no way for him to suspect me, I think. Still, if he accuses me, Ill resist. Return his skill? Gimme a break. Ho Apparently, Mr. Adventurer has no time to spare for a good-for-nothing like me as he glances my way and leaves. Theres nothing left on Bal for me to steal and Zac doesnt have Sword Arts, so theres no use for me in picking a quarrel with them. Is something wrong? As the receptionist lady is the only whom I knowDDI call out to Sheena-san. She told me her name when I received the questbecause shes a woman, I was trying to refrain from checking her status. Nah, theres no deep meaning, really. Shes 20-year-old beautiful miss with fair skin and chestnut hair, styled into a ponytail. These are the only details that matter. Ah, Seiji-san. How did your first quest go? Its complete, so I would be able to sleep in a cozy bed tonight. By the way, those people just now Yes, those were the same people who picked a quarrel with Seiji-san earlier in the day. We dont normally reveal the circumstances of other adventurers but we cant help it if they make a ruckus and advertise it to others. Did they failto complete their quest? No, they have missed the monster that was the subjugation target. At this point, theres still a day left till the time limit, so it cant be considered failure. However, they have suffered an injury, so I proposed them to cancel the quest. Is that why he was angry? Because the guild tries their utmost not to betray the trust of their clients, they prefer for other adventurers to take over a quest if the quest seems impossible for an adventurer. They appear to be quite skilled, then how Yeah, its a mystery. I didnt hear it. Ummare you here to report the completion of the quest? Ah, okay. Ill handle it. Sheena-san pulls herself together and starts processing my quest. The reward of this quest is 300 Dalas. After she confirms the signature on the quest paper, she hands me three rather big copper coins. I see. So one big copper coin equals 100 Dalas. Umm, I havent seen excessively large sums of money. What are different coins beside this one? To the beginner who asked a question while scratching his head, Sheena-san explains politely without a speck of irritation. Sheena-san looks just like a bewitching goddess. Apparently, the circulated coins are half copper coin, copper coin, large copper coin, half silver coin, silver coin, half gold coin, gold coin and white gold coin. Which respectively equal 5, 10, 100, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 100,000 Dalas Because copper is produced the most in this world, its value is low, somewhat. Well then, Ill take this. I bow and leave the guild. I must check in to the inn before it gets dark. What was the name of the inn again? Because I havent eaten anything during the day and am hungry, is that why the inn with such an odd name appears attractive to me? Feeder Pops Un, going by the name, I can expect a good meal, at least. Although there are many inns and similar facilities in Commercial District, I was recommended this place because its not far from the guild. From the exterior, it appears to be a three-storeyed, neat building. I cant say that its magnificent but its clean, at least. Not bad. I enter the inn and survey the first floor. The walls are milky-white, creating a tranquil ambience. The first floor seems mainly to be the dining hall and the bar. People can be found in dribs and drabs. Can I help you? Are you here to eat? Or to stay? Lively voice, cut out for a receptionist. Its a females voice, not an old-mans. Shes not exactly young, though. This inn seems to be run by a couple. I would like to stay a nightdelicious smell. My stomach is grumbling now. Yes, its stimulating. You can expect big things from my husbands cooking. Actually, his cooking was the reason we started this inn. The smell wafting from the kitchen is making my stomach restless. Itll be 250 Dalas for a nights stay. It includes breakfast and dinner. Is she being honest? She seemed honest but that grin pours the cold water over. I take the large copper coins out from my trousers, make the payment and take the keys to the room. Your room number is 205; its on the second floor. Breakfast shall be available from 6 to 8 bells. As for dinner, its likewise available from 6 bells till I put out the fire in the stove. If youre too late, youll miss the meal, so be careful. Bells are used to tell the time in this town. Electronic watches or likes dont exist in this world, so people seem to track the time through the ringing of the bell. In the morning, from 6 to 12, the number of times the bell rings corresponds to the time. Similarly, in the afternoon, from 1 to 6. When I was running around the town in relation to the quest, it suddenly started ringing. At that time, I was wondering what it was about. By the way, 6 bells have already rung. Then I would like to eat right now. Right now? Put your luggagein the room. You dont seem to carry much luggage with you. Are you an adventurer? Youre so young yet working so hard~. Just how (fucking) old did I use to look back on Earth? As for the luggage, the sword hanging on my waist is about all the luggage I have. If I were to go eat with a sword, it might scare people. However, Ive seen a lot of people in this area armed, so I guess they dont mind it. I became one just today; finished my first quest just now. He, you must be really tired. Then Ill have my husband muster up more effort. Hey, honey. In reply, emerges a man from the kitchen. A bald, giant man. My first impression of him was that of a skinhead, stern old-man. When he spoke, however, his tone was gentle. Is he perhaps aiming for gap moe? Ho, an adventurer? If you plan on staying in this town, please consider this inn. Im dario; I run this inn. Shes my wife, Flower. Ah, yes. Im Seiji. Inadvertently, I peep. Name: Dario Fot Race: Human Age: 43 Job: Innkeeper Skill(s) Cooking Lv3 (145/150) Hes totally not cut out for this job! Not just that. His Lv is about to go up, too. Now this has made me anticipate dinner. Alright then, have a seat, please. Your meal will be ready in no time. Thereafter, he comes back with delicious, steamed vegetables and harmonious, thick milk stew with exquisite meat. The fragrance of black pepper seasoning is exciting my appetite. And the delicately baked, soft breads taste is something that I have never tasted before. Oh well, this much description of the meal is enough. If Dario-san levels up to Lv4, what will he be called? Master chef? Ive decided to stay in this inn for a while. I quench my thirst with fruit juice after the meal and bask in happiness. I want to live itonce more. I indulge in deep emotions. Oh well, I have already died once. Rather, I have reincarnated. When I try to view the town through the window, it reflects my image. I look exactly the same. Its strange, though. I heard that you remember nothing from your previous life after reincarnation. Neither your family nor any attachment. Neither your affairs nor any regrets. I knew it, I should have chosen my original world! At the very least, I wouldnt have to be worried about my family, dont you think? It doesnt change the fact that I have reincarnated in this world. And I recognize that I have no other choice but to live in this world. I dont intend to expose my life to danger. I have to seriously reconsider whether I should fight monsters or not. Unlike last time, theres a possibility that I wont be given a chance to reborn. Originally, I should have reincarnated as a baby but I reincarnated in my original body. Based on this, I can be considered a heretic existence. After greeting Flower-san, I go up to the second floor and enter my room. I lean my sword against the wall, stretch my body and throw myself down on the bed with a plop. Whats there to say? So much happened; Im tired now. I want to sleep already. How do I live in this world?I cant decide at all. DDReincarnating in another world is not that bad. To the assault of somnolence, I surrender. My consciousness that I have been holding onto, I let go. Thus, the curtain rings down on my first day in this otherworld. Volume 1 - CH 5 1st Volume, 5th Chapter Outside the Town I have changed a part of the description of Thiefs Godly Skill. Before change: (Total Lv of Your Combined Skills C Total Lv of the Opponents Combined Skills) 2% shall be added to the success rate. After change: (Total Lv of Your Combined Skills C Lv of the Opponents Skill to be Stolen) 1% shall be added to the success rate. (No change in case of negative resultant number) Wait, waitAlthough we have come this far, there has been no appearance of the heroine yetDoes that mean? The progression of the story is rather slow. Please read patiently. (Authors note) In the previous world, I was able to experience the unspeakably pleasant feeling of going back to sleep once again after punching the alarm clock. Here, however, I cant reach the ringing bell, so I have no means of stopping it. The ringing bell resounded in the town, denoting that it was 6 AM. It rang 6 times. I got up. Oh, I feel refreshed. Is that because I went off to sleep early? When I went downstairs to the first floor, Flower-san was already at the counter. Was she awake ahead of the ringing of the bell? Uhmazing Good morning. Where do I wash my face? Ah, morning. If you exit from this door, youll find a water well in the courtyard. Its used for laundry and such. There are no bathrooms in the rooms, so if you want hot water for bath, you can ask for it. Itll be for 10 Dalas only. Which reminds me, I didnt take bath yesterday. But Im not feeling dirty, so its fine, right? Although there are bathrooms in a high-class inn, Dario-sans cooking has already won my stomach. I cant escape from Dario. (TN: Flowery background) After splashing cold water, fetched from the water well, and completely regaining my consciousness, I headed back to the dining area. As was, I decided to sit down and have breakfast. The mellow fragrance of meat getting smoked and fat getting singed wafting from the kitchen made my stomach wide awake. The freshly baked bread with a special sauce made of gravy and the mixed vegetables sandwich was a superb piece of work. My stomach, the old-man Dario-san made it full. With such thoughts in my head, I returned to my room. I equipped the sword, leaning against the wall, and pondered over todays plan. If it were possible, I would stay at this inn today, too, but I dont have money. I cant help but receive quests, if I am to earn money. Itll be better to receive routine work quest but I would like to make use of the sword Jig-san gifted me. Because itll be dangerous when it gets dark, I can complete monster subjugation quest in the morning and receive routine work quest in the afternoon. Its difficult, I know, but I wont be able to repay the loan if I dont do it. DDWell then, Ill be off. Aah, youre leaving? Then Ill keep the room reserved. Flower-san seems pleased that I complimented Dario-sans cooking for she will keep the room reserved, even though theres no surety that I will be able to earn money. This made me motivated even more. Although I arrived at the guild early in the morning, it was already bustling. In this world, does everyone wake up early in the morning? I cant stay up late here. I was standing before the bulletin board, searching for rank E- quests. However, there was no monster subjugation quest. By the way, even though Im rank E-, I can receive rank E and E+ quests. Although the technical subclassification of the quests is done by the guild, they cant necessarily explain the difference in the degree of difficulty to a layman. I can receive rank E- to E+ quests of my own discretion (after consulting with a staff member) if I believe that I can complete it. It seems to be same in case of higher ranks such as D or C. However, for the purpose of calculating completion count in relation to rank up, itll count as one whether its a rank E- quest or a rank E+ quest. The degree of difficulty changes significantly from E to D, D to C and so forth. For this reason, an examination is conducted at every stage. Long story short, I can receive E and E+ quests, too. There seemed to be a few here and there. Theres been an outbreak of Green Caterpillars in the forest south of Merville town. Exterminate 5 monsters. Reward: 500 Dalas. 100 Dalas for each additional monster killed. Client: Merville town garrison Time limit: None Subjugation proof part: Antenna This quest was listed in the rank E section. I just have to trample caterpillars, right? I triumphantly took the quest paper to the reception desk. Then I went to the familiar, Sheena-san. There are other staff members, too, butI-Its not like I went to her because shes hot. DDAh, Seiji-san. Good morning. Youre going for a monster subjugation quest today? You should fight monsters gradually. To do it all of a sudden I think I can fare well against caterpillars. You think? Well, you have a weapon and you seem to possess strength, too. StillIsnt it sudden? Because I possess strength enough to step into the outskirts and I have to pay the compensation as early as I can in order to avoid persecution, I finished the procedure of receiving the quest and headed straight to the south forest. En route, I purchased a leather sack and a pouch from a shop in the Commercial District. I put the pouch, which would serve as my wallet, on my belt while the leather sack would be used to store the subjugation proof parts. Thanks to that, I was completely broke. I stopped by to greet because I found a familiar face of Nicholas-san at the south gate. Oh, Seiji, aint ya? Where are you going? Im going to exterminate Green Caterpillars in the south forest. Ah, theres has been an outbreak there. That aside, can you fight monsters? Eh, its just a caterpillar, no? Thats right, caterpillars. Although theyre large in number, theyre weak against weapons, so youll be fineStill, there are so many of them. Are you sure? Guys, please dont raise flags for me! I walked for about ten minutes. After walking for a while, I could see a forest off the road. That place matched the description I was provided with in the guild. The weather was gentle. Are there four seasons in this world, too? The forest was filled with fresh greenery. It felt subtly moist. A grassy smell filled my lungs when I breathed. It felt soothing. This thing is not Phytoncide, right? Because that thing stings! I strolled through the forest. Pigiiii Something came out. Un, how do I put it?Because everyone raised flags for me, I had already prepared my heart for this. What is this thing?! Its about half my height. Is this a caterpillar? How can it be so big? While I was lost in my thoughts, its green body started wriggling furu furu as it jumped into the air. The green caterpillar initiated a flying body attackSurreal. While checking its status to confirm whether it possessed skill or not, I found out that it was a Green Caterpillar, indeed. Abnormal Status Resistance Lv1 (2/10) There is, huh? I did it! The discovery that monsters possess skills is a big one. Which reminds me, I dont know exactly how many times per day I can invoke Thiefs Godly Skill. (TN: Last time, he confirmed that its at least 2) Even if I tried to steal Abnormal Status Resistance, I wouldnt be able to for I havent visually confirmed the skill. Should I give up for now? I back-stepped to dodge the flying body attack of the opponent. Its movement is slow, at least, so I can deal with it. From the intensity with which its body hit the ground, it didnt seem to be a heavy blow. It jumped againDD For this, I dont need my sword. After confirming the trajectory of its flight, I launched a kick. Bam! By the time I felt the impact on my leg, the caterpillars body had bent like