“Were you surprised? Even though shishou looks like this, she’s at the SSS rank. Wait, I think that was a while ago..?. ” (Arnold)
“Fun!, even if it’s been a long time since I’ve been active, a midget like you wouldn’t even be a decent warm up.” (Rarashik)
Rarashik said as she laughed. Hiiro felt frustrated. However, he could not say anything. In reality, he couldn’t even lift a finger against her. And to think she wasn’t even using her full power.
(What a monster…to think these kinds of people were called top rankers.)
Even if they’re human, can an SSS ranker be this powerful?, As if reading Hiiro’s thoughts, Arnold began to explain.
“They’re strong. The difference between a person with an SS rank and one with an SSS rank is significantly huge. Honestly, the only people that can obtain an SSS rank are freaks of nature.” (Arnold)
“Who you callin’ a freak?” (Rarashik)
*Smack (or Punyuchi~tss)
Ignoring Arnold whose face was buried in the ground, Hiiro looked back at Rarashik.
(Should I use it? The word [Pry]…?)
If he used the word [Pry] he would be able to view the target’s status. He was tempted to use it in order to obtain an absolute numeric evaluation of her strength. But in order to use the skill, he would have to write the word. If he were seen…no. Without a doubt, Hiiro was convinced that he would be noticed before he could even initiate the skill.
He really wanted to confirm her abilities, however, if his strange movements attracted her attention and caused him to be cornered, that would be the end. Thus, he decided to stop for now. Hiiro determined that a chance will definitely arise at a later date. This was definitely the first time that Hiiro displayed any signs of weakness.
“A-alright then. I kinda want to get the conversation going so…Hiiro, don’t do anything unnecessary, okay?” (Arnold)
Hiiro remained silent. Seeing this rare sight, Arnold’s eyes widened.
(To be able to get that Hiiro to shut up, my shishou is impressive as always.)
Thinking as such, Arnold turned his gaze towards Rarashik.
“Actually, Shishou, I want to ask you a few things about the war.” (Arnold)
Hearing this, Rarashik’s face instantly turned became hostile. She gave him a glare that made Arnold jump in panic.
“I don’t believe it but, are you guys saying you want to go off to war as well? (Rarashik)
“Eh? Ah, no, that’s not what I’m trying to say… but when you say it like that, then it’s as we thought. A war is starting, right?” (Arnold)
“The question’s not whether there will be a war or not, our forces should’ve already reached the border by now.” (Rarashik)
“Seriously?! Then what’s gonna happen to this continent now?” (Arnold)
“Who knows?” (Rarashik)
“Master!? What do you mean, ‘Who knows!?” (Arnold)
“If war has already started then there isn’t much you can do you about it. Unless, Arnold, you want to try and persuade the king to withdraw?” (Rarashik)
“T-that’s kinda…” (Arnold)
There was no way for a group of mere adventurers would even get a hearing. However, it also didn’t feel right to leave the issue as it is and continue to act as a bystander.
“What happens, happens. The thing about war is that it can only end when one side is declared the loser. But I doubt that the Evila or the Gabranth will surrender.” (Rarashik)
“So you say, but we’re talking about a war. Wouldn’t it leave the world in ruins?” (Arnold)
“Well, seeing how we rushed into war in such as state, we will never know when it will end. The days of rigorous everyday battles may continue indefinitely.” (Rarashik)
“Earlier, I’m pretty sure you said that they are already at the border…” (Arnold)
Arnold took a map out of his pocket as he inspected the layout of the continents.
The Gabranth continent was connected to the Evila continent by a bridge. It was very similar to the bridge that connected the Humas Continent and the Gabranth continent. However, the structure and materials of the bridges were completely different.
The bridge that connected the Humas and Gabranth continents was 10km long and 10 meters wide.
However, the bridge that connected the Gabranth continent to the Evila continent was 30km long and 30m wide. Furthermore, it was constructed out of a special ore called “Xrude Ore” which boasted supreme toughness and was incredibly firm.
There was even a rumor about an SSS ranker that used such ore to create a sword that slaughtered countless monsters. Ever since such a rumor was confirmed, the usefulness of Xrude Ore was substantiated and irrefutable.
The reason behind the substantial difference between structure and material of the bridges is quite lengthy. Once upon a time the Humas and Gabranth worked together to create a bridge just as long and wide as the Gabranth-Evila Bridge. However, there were numerous strong and powerful sea monsters that attacked the bridge. The people managed to fend those monsters off for some time but eventually it collapsed from the relentless onslaught.
Construction of a more robust bridge was undertaken with incremental progress over the years. Ever since its completion, it continues to withstand attacks from sea monsters, remaining firm and reliable as it provides safe passage from one continent to the other.
“The Gedult Bridge, huh…if they cross that, then it’ll turn into a full blown war…” (Arnold)
“Yeah, and it’s looking like it’ll happen real soon..” (Rarashik)
Hearing Rarashik’s words, Muir face showed a dejected expression.
“Why….why would they start a war?” (Muir)
“Muir…” Arnold