Necromancer 9

Test

9. Return

The morning sun blinds my eyes.

“How many days has it been, I wonder…”

It looks like I’m in a forest.

For now, I should head back to the royal castle.

I’m curious about what my classmates have reported about me—but first, I need to return.

—And so, with the “Illusions Knight Mirage” at my side, I proceeded through the forest.

In the distance, I could see monsters.

Instinctively, I tensed up...

But...

The monsters growled softly and fled.

I remember that breed, known for its ferocity, had attacked us when we were all traveling together…

Back when my stats were low, I could never have stood a chance against them. But now, they run away from me, as if afraid.

“…No, they are afraid.”

Afraid of me.

That’s right. I’m not who I used to be. After the battle in the ruins, I’ve been reborn.

“And I’ve got a reliable ally now.”

I glanced back at Mirage.

Though its armor was damaged in places, it would be a while before it was back to full fighting strength. Looks like I’ll have to work extra hard.

We continued deeper into the forest.

On the way, we spotted more monsters, but each time, they ran off as soon as they caught sight of us from afar.

It was easy traveling—no fights, no attacks.

After nearly half a day, the sun began to set.

“Hmm, looks like we’ll be camping out tonight…”

“I’ll keep watch. Master, you should get some rest.” 

Mirage suggested.

“You didn’t get much rest in the dungeon, after all.”

“That’s true, but… aren’t you tired, Mirage? And your body isn’t at 100%, right?”

“I am undead. I don’t get tired.”

Mirage replied.

“My body is slowly regenerating. And at night, the process accelerates even more.”

“I see…”

So undead recover faster at night, huh?

Well, with the monsters in this area, even in its current state, Mirage should be more than capable of handling things.

As for me, I’m still human. I’ll take the chance to rest in case something happens later.

“Still, Master, you’re quite considerate of someone like me, an undead.”

“Huh?”

I looked at it, confused.

“Well, we’re comrades, after all… Though, to be honest, I hadn’t really thought about the whole ‘undead don’t get tired’ thing.”

“That kindness of heart is your virtue.” 

Mirage said.

“W-Well, it’s embarrassing when you put it like that. I’m not used to being praised…”

“Is that so?”

“I was mostly made fun of, both in my world and here…”

“I see no reason to ridicule you, Master.”

Mirage looked at me.

From behind its mask, its red eyes seemed to hold a gentle light.

“You are the one who saved me. Moreover, in the dungeon, you were both brave and resourceful. You have my utmost respect.”

“You’re really making me blush here.”

As I spoke, I felt a lump in my throat.

Had I ever been complimented so genuinely, so directly, even once in my life?

I don’t think I have.

“…Thank you, Mirage.”

“Hm, for what? I merely stated the truth.”

“I’m just happy to hear it… so I wanted to thank you.”

I smiled at Mirage.

“Well, that’s enough chit-chat. Hand over all your stuff, nice and easy!”

Suddenly, a voice called out from beyond the bushes.

I could sense multiple presences closing in.

What the—?