“It’s too bad Ryner didn’t get to taste your cooking.” [Itham]

Itham said, sad that Ryner had left, but the crumbs of food around his mouth showed that he was enjoying himself plenty.

“That human was invited by the amazons, after all. Though I didn’t expect her to personally come guide him. It’s been one surprise after another today. What do you think, High Elder?” [Elder]

“*Chew chew gulp* Mm, delicious. Night fish are best eaten fresh. Give me another fish steak.” [Itham]

“Are you listening?” [Elder]

Itham told his order to the Elder with braided hair who was standing away from the table, a frying pan in hand. A counter of stone was now before him, having been created in an instant thanks to their handy elven magic. Next to him was a ball of water that contained three glowing fish from the lake. Using magic, the elven man separated one from the bunch and, after closing his eyes and saying a quick prayer, generated a blade of wind that cut off the fish’s head. The four others at the table, sensing the aquatic’s creature last breath, simultaneously offered a quick prayer as well.

“Besides High Elder Itham, anyone else want seconds?” [Elder]

“I do, but tie you hair up already, would you? It’ll get in the food.” [Elder]

“No one touches my hairstyle! My daughter braided it for today.” [Elder]

“Actually, why don’t you just go eat with your family?” [Elder]

“I will, but after we’re done here. We still need to finish our talk about the human.” [Elder]

Once the fish was swiftly cleaned and gutted, the Elder in charge of cooking created a fireball and used it to fry up the night fish with some herbs and seasonings. When the flesh turned white and the skin had become crispy, he plated it and placed it on the table. Then, taking another fish, he cut it apart, expertly separating the bones and organs from the meat, fried it and served it as a steak with some leafy vegetables on the side. The smell of the freshly-cooked dishes wafted through their table.

The same could be said for the other festival participants as each platform had someone cooking up more food using their makeshift, instant kitchen. If ingredients were missing, then they would happily pilfer from the food storage houses. Moreover, thanks to their powerful elven magic, fire was made to warm up dishes that went cold and ice was created to cool down beverages that became warm.

“Come to think of it, how did the human know about dark elves? They never set foot outside of Hossylei Nac.” [Elder]

“Maybe humans recorded them in their books like with the dwarves that they hunted? Since they have short lives, they write down everything.” [Elder]

Ignoring the festive mood where dark elves speedily swam in the lake like birds, captured bioluminescent night fish and created various mesmerizing forms and shapes out of water, the Elders exchanged their opinions on Ryner as they ate. It was a complicated topic, one that they didn’t want to touch, but needed to.

“That’s possible, but what I find more curious is his reaction. It felt like, instead of being shocked by seeing a dark elf, he was more shocked by seeing what a dark elf was wearing.” [Elder]

“I also found it odd. Swimsuits are something we obtained from trading with humans. You’d think he’d know about speedos.” [Elder]

Although, the current topic appeared rather unimportant.

Ryner, the person in question, and Mi were conspicuously absent, having returned to Hossylei Nac by the amazons’ invitation. The female tribe didn’t join the elves’ festival, having elected to eat by themselves.

“Now then, let’s get down to business so we can wholeheartedly enjoy the festival after.” [Itham]

Itham, who had kept quiet, seemingly deep in thought, finally spoke up after finishing his meal. Taking on a more serious expression, he looked at the four Elders sitting around the table, gathering their attention as they waited for his words.

“Sanya, Erynion, Amariel, Foruth, having shared a meal with him, what do you think of Ryner now?” [Itham]

When they heard his question after he called each of their names, the four elves sported similar expressions as their High Elder and straightened their backs.

“His emotions fluctuated a lot during the meal, but I couldn’t sense any malice in his heart.” [Sanya]

Sanya, the woman with her hair tied behind her back, spoke first.

“True, though I still don’t quite understand his nature, he does seem like a decent human enough.” [Erynion]

Erynion, the man with long hair tied up in two braids, added next.

“He doesn’t feel any lust even when he’s sitting next to me, which makes me feel relieved and somewhat complicated… But I still don’t trust him. Someone should show him some panties.” [Amariel]

Amariel, the woman with a mole on the lower left corner of her mouth, followed after.

“I agree with Elder Amariel, uh, somewhat. He may not have caused any disturbance since he came here, but it’s still too soon to tell.” [Foruth]

Lastly, Foruth, the man with short hair, stated his opinion.

The four Elders, after sitting together at a table and eating with the human, had slightly changed their opinion of him. Although it wasn’t by much, it was still significant. Before, they completely rejected him and saw his presence as nothing more than trouble, trouble that should be dealt with as soon as possible.

“Of course he has no malice, Sanya. If we didn’t sense anything on the first day, then we wouldn’t on the second day either.” [Itham]

After all, the Travelers that managed to return home generally did not have good stories to tell about the people that they met outside of Hossylei Nac. Humans and beastmen saw elves as a source of income, and yet, a human was allowed to freely walk around their home. He was an uncertain element, a bomb that could blow at any moment.

“Erynion, any human who saves my daughter is decent. That’s a fact.” [Itham]

Fearing that he was scheming something and that the worst would befall their kind, the Elders sought to erase the problem. That was why, knowing the amazons interest in him, they didn’t hesitate to use their Blood Trial to leave him too injured to move, or outright eliminate him.

“Amariel, if you’re that worried about him being a pervert, then go ahead and show him your panties… I think.” [Itham]

However, much to their astonishment, the human came out of that deadly ordeal with mere scratches and bested that notorious tribe of female warriors. In consequence, to the Elders’ eyes, Ryner had become more dangerous and their fear grew worse.

“Also, Foruth, he’s been here for two days already, and nothing has happened.” [Itham]

However, after hearing Itham’s report on his various activities during the day, they relented and accepted to dine with Ryner during the festival to closely examine him.

The reason was the “achievements” that he had piled up.

“I’ve already told you all what we did after the Blood Trial.” [Itham]

And once again, the High Elder was reminding them of what he saw of Ryner.

“That man isn’t our enemy.” [Itham]

Truth be told, the Elders had no concrete plan for if Ryner passed the Blood Trial. They thought it would end with him neutralized. That was why they let Itham decide the specifics for the other achievements, which proved to be a costly mistake.

The Elders’ plan had failed then and there, and no matter what, they wouldn’t let him enter the Forbidden Tomb in the forest. But, when they heard how Itham had used that chance to show Ryner around the city to know him better, how the human knitted a sweater and collected honey, how he was great at drawing and hilariously horrible at cooking, it changed their minds ever so slightly.

After all, while Ryner was doing all those activities, the High Elder was right beside him, keeping an eye on his emotions, and he had recounted what he observed during the whole time he spent with their guest.

He told the Elders that Ryner found the mundane tasks bothersome, yet never hated them. He was just curious about the elves’ culture and didn’t wish to hurt them. To him, everything he saw in Hossylei Nac was interesting. A part of him was even having fun walking around, crossing the bridges made of giant roots, or just drifting down the waterways. To Itham, that man with the drowsy, half-closed eyes looked like a kid with a sparkling gaze that was innocently admiring their city.

However, there was also what felt like a seasoned veteran that kept track of his surroundings at all time inside the human. Even as he laid down and closed his eyes for a nap, he was on his toes, ready for anything. Moreover, he had proven himself to be a powerful adversary. As such, he shouldn’t be underestimated or provoked needlessly.

“You’ve shared a meal with Ryner, so you should know already. It’s exactly like when we first met him. He’s wary of us. He doesn’t want to be around us even more than any of you. Especially after I told him that we could sense his emotions. He’s so cautious of us, in fact, that he probably doesn’t sleep because of how tired he is. But, he doesn’t want to fight. He doesn’t want to kill anyone. You four are Elders, the ones chosen to lead and protect Hossylei Nac. Don’t avert your eyes just because he’s human. If you want to understand someone, then spend time with him.” [Itham]

Itham gazed at the Elders’ faces, hoping that he properly conveyed his message.

“Keep your Sense open, and listen to their Pulse.” [Itham]

His race lived long and secluded lives. Because of that, they were inflexible and rejected change. Ryner’s continued presence was exactly a wind of change. An unwelcomed wind, even if it brought nothing but goodwill.

“… Maybe, we let our fear get the better of us.” [Sanya]

After a short silence, Sanya spoke up on behalf of everyone else.

“There’s no way anyone could hide from our Senses. We’ve forgotten that and chose to throw our problem at the amazons while we kept our distance.” [Sanya]

None of the other three Elders disagreed with her since they all felt the same way.

“That was wrong of us. But, trusting that human is…” [Sanya]

“You don’t have to trust him. I don’t fully trust him, and he saved what I love the most. Just, give him a chance.” [Itham]

Itham said with a calm and sincere smile on his face.

“Give humans, give others a chance.” [Itham]

His usual, boisterous behavior and exaggerated reactions were gone. Still, it didn’t mean that he was faking his current personality. Everyone knew he wasn’t deceiving them. They accepted his clamorous side and they understood why it was born. Before such a man who, despite the headaches he often caused, held their respect as the High Elder, the four Elders finally folded and decided to properly listen to him.

“Fine. He’s caused no trouble so far nor shown a smidge of intent to do so. Saying anymore would be uncouth.” [Sanya]

“I guess… If it had been my daughter that was saved by the human, then I would be just as grateful as our High Elder. But, letting him enter the Forbidden Tomb is a different matter.” [Erynion]

“… Just like Elders Sanya and Erynion said. The human did us no harm, so we shouldn’t harm him. But, I’ll still bring a pair of panties next time and show them to him. It’s not impossible that, before panties, that man will become a dangerous pervert.” [Amariel]

“I agree as well. But, Elder Amariel, as a friend, I’d just like to say that you’re the one who’s acting like a pervert right now.” [Foruth]

“Shut up. The panties from the outside world are shameless things. They may be cute, but they’re shameless. Why was there a pair with a hole in it?” [Amariel]

“Then don’t buy them!” [Foruth]

One by one, the Elders said their piece as they sensed that the discussion was coming to an end. An agreement among them had been reached.

“Good, good. Humans aren’t all bad!” [Itham]

While looking at each of the Elder, Itham nodded in delight.

“But, High Elder, what about the ones that kidnap and enslave our people? Your daughter had fallen victim to them, remember?” [Sanya]

“On second thought, I think humans deserve to die. Let’s kill them all except for Ryner! We can kill the beastmen too just to be safe! Who knows what sort of bugs will approach Meirith if I don’t!” [Itham]

“THAT’S COMPLETELY DIFFERENT TO WHAT YOU SAID A SECOND AGO!!!” [Sanya]

“WE REALLY SHOULDN’T BELIEVE YOU AFTER ALL!!!” [Erynion]

And just as it looked like everyone had come to a consensus, disagreement returned in force.

“Let’s lock up the human, show him some panties and kill him if he becomes a beast!!!” [Amariel]

“But first, we should knock some sense into this moronic High Elder!!” [Foruth]

“““AGREED!!!””” [Sanya, Erynion and Amariel]

Although some form of agreement was strangely present among the four Elders.

As the five most important elves of Hossylei Nac began to quarrel, with four of them chanting magic, the festival held in the middle of the lake continued late into the night.

Meanwhile, inside the city atop the wide tower of rocks from which spilled forth powerful waterfalls, Ryner and Mi were currently inside a room and talking to someone who also held a high position. She was an old woman with long grey hair and black marks like tattoos near the corners of her eyes.

“Thanks for coming.” [Predecessor]

It was the former Matriarch, the one that the amazons respectfully called “Predecessor”. With the help of an elf, she had gone down to the lake where the festival was held and had invited Ryner for dinner. Although that was what she had said, the real reason was most likely, to anyone who knew, about Ryner triumphing in the Blood Trial. So, after accepting her offer, which was for the sake of getting away from the elves, he was now inside one of the city’s many giant trees. Specifically, it was where all of the amazons lived.

The inside looked like it was made of interwoven branches, just like his temporary room, except that the tribe of female warriors had added their own touch. Ryner was sitting on a bench that sprouted from the floor which was covered by the light brown fur of an animal while Mi was lying at his feet. There were also other pelts of various sizes and colors around the room. They either covered furniture like stools, tables and beds or served as rugs. They also hung on the walls along with the stuffed heads of different animals.

The old woman present in the room wore clothes different from the light, silky robes that Ryner had seen the elves wear. Instead, she had on a heavy-looking poncho made of brown leather that reached her knees. There were black patterns on the back which were similar to the marks that every amazon had on their faces. Underneath the poncho, the Predecessor was wearing a grey robe that reached her ankles and was tied in place by a thick belt around her waist.

“You want some?” [Predecessor]

Sitting in front of Ryner on what could be called the stump of a tree covered by a white pelt, she offered him a black pipe.

“No thanks. That stuff will kill you.” [Ryner]

“Heh. Suit yourself. You’re missing out.” [Predecessor]

Shrugging her shoulders, the Predecessor put the pipe in her mouth, lit it using a red, spherical object that released a small flame like a lighter and inhaled deeply. Then, she released the accumulated smoke in the air and closed her eyes, seemingly enjoying the taste.

“Smoking. This is one of the greatest inventions in history. My people only focused on fighting, hunting and killing, so we would have never invented it. Thank the goddess our warriors travel the world and bring back men and other trinkets.” [Predecessor]

Smiling, the wrinkly old amazon showed Ryner her pipe.

“This is my favorite brand. Made by beastmen. The aftertaste really hits the spot and gives you this satisfying feeling. Like when you finally split open the head of a strong foe with your axe and watch the brains fly out.” [Predecessor]

“That satisfying feeling will end up punching a hole through your throat, though. That or it’ll feel like your lungs got crushed by a mace.” [Ryner]

“Bah, I’m already eighty-five. I’ve had my share of battles and I’m still alive. A little smoke won’t kill me.” [Predecessor]

She lightly waved her pipe before Ryner’s eyes and took another long drag.

“Even if it does, I won’t mind.” [Predecessor]

“Wouldn’t you rather die peacefully?” [Ryner]

“Ha! That’s a funny thing to say to an amazon!” [Predecessor]

The oldest amazon cackled, expelling white smoke from her mouth at the same time.

“A peaceful death is a boring death. Honestly, I’m jealous of everyone in my generation who died before me. They found their final battlefield while I became weak from age.” [Predecessor]

Once more blowing out some smoke, she watched it float upward with reminiscent eyes.

“… Can’t even swing a sword properly…” [Predecessor]

Sadness clouded her vision like a veil and her mind drifted somewhere else. Although Ryner noticed, he decided to pay it no mind. He believed that whatever she was seeing wouldn’t last long and she would come back soon. Sure enough, blinking away the memories, the Predecessor waved the smoke away and focused her attention once more on the sleepy-looking man sitting in front of her.

“But, that’s just the rabbling of an amazon who failed to die. I didn’t call you here to talk about me, but you, Patriarch.” [Predecessor]

“Who are you calling a Patriarch? I never accepted that title.” [Ryner]

“Honestly, it doesn’t matter to me if you didn’t. I heard from the Matriarch. You passed the Blood Trial, so the title’s yours. Hasn’t been one since the first Patriarch. Few men were judged worthy of taking the trial, which is already proof of their strength. I myself let one man take it during my time as Matriarch, but he turned out to be a coward. Broke the rules and used magic to survive. Or at least he tried to. Couldn’t stop me from ripping his spine out… Tch! Just remembering his face makes me want to kill him again.” [Predecessor]

“Hey, you can’t blame a guy for trying to survive when a bunch of amazons are out to kill him. Trust me. I know.” [Ryner]

“If he wanted to just survive, then he shouldn’t have accepted to take the Blood Trial. It’s a sacred rite that reenacts the ways of our ancestors. From before they learnt how to manipulate the mana inside them. Where the only things they could rely on was their muscles, wits and weapons. That man insulted our ways when he broke the rules. Smashing his skull with his spine was too good a death for him.” [Predecessor]

“Pretty sure he already died when you ripped out his spine… Wait a minute.” [Ryner]

“What?” [Predecessor]

“You can refuse the Blood Trial!?” [Ryner]

“Of course you can. It’s an opportunity for glory, not something imposed on-.” [Predecessor]

“Yeah, yeah, yeah, glory’s great and all, but what about me?! I didn’t get a choice!” [Ryner]

“What? You wanted to say no?” [Predecessor]

Looking up, Ryner hummed and thought a bit before answering the Predecessor who had a teasing and knowing smile.

“… Well, I like to buy any fights sold to me, not to mention that beating the crap out of your warriors was actually fun. But, yeah, I want to say NO to that Patriarch title.” [Ryner]

“Heh. Cocky, aren’t you. Then again, with that strength, having that attitude is normal.” [Predecessor]

The Predecessor let out a raspy chuckle, amused by Ryner’s behavior instead of being offended.

“It’s great that you find it funny. Now, back to what I was saying. Why’d you force the Blood Trial on me?” [Ryner]

“Come on, it’s obvious. One, the elves’ Council of Elders asked us and it’s hard to refuse them when they’re letting us stay here. Two, which is the biggest reason of all, is because-.” [Predecessor]

“Because I wanted you to do it.” [Riteinia]

Intruding from the side was the cold, yet pleasant voice of a woman that Ryner had grown to know, mostly through battles. When he turned his head to look at her, he saw Riteinia entering the room through a round entrance.

Different from usual, the Matriarch with the sharp, golden eyes was wearing a brown poncho that reached her hips. Red patterns resembling the amazons’ characteristic black marks near their eyes were embroidered on the front and back. There were also two red lines decorating the edges around the neck and hips areas. Although she was barefooted as usual, Riteinia wore a light brown skirt that reached above her knees instead of pants, showing off her slender legs. Moreover, there was a necklace with a round, polished grey stone and a white feather below it hanging around her neck. Light green bracelets that matched her hair were also present around her wrists and ankles.

While Ryner wondered if that was what she preferred to wear at home, Riteinia had reached his side and was now looking down on him, seemingly brooding over something. As a side note, Mi, who was napping by Ryner’s feet, got up and growled at the Matriarch. Unfortunately, the brave puppy was defeated by one glare and ended up hiding behind her owner.

“Food’s ready.” [Riteinia]

After delivering her message, Riteinia turned around and left just as quickly as she appeared.

“… Guess unlike her looks, the insides haven’t changed at all.” [Ryner]

“No, she has changed.” [Predecessor]

Staring at her retreating back was the man that had defeated her in the Blood Trial and her tribe’s Predecessor that was watching while amusedly smiling.

Having moved from the private room to what could be called a circular hall that spanned the entire width of the tree, Ryner was sitting on a pelt-covered stump and eating grilled meat. The young pup, Mi, was busy biting on a bone next to his seat.

The dishes, made by amazons, were placed on a table with short legs. Unlike the elves, these golden-eyed women limited themselves to animals and plants. Ryner stared at a few of the dishes before him. There was grilled meat, fried eyeballs, liver stew, thick steaks with the center bright red, liver served raw and a bowl of blood mixed with alcohol and lemon juice.

It would appear that, unlike the elves, amazons were more carnivorous.

“Eat up. Our warriors hunted a lot for this feast.” [Predecessor]

The Predecessor that was sitting on the other side of the table urged Ryner to eat more while holding a mug full of warm blood. She raised said mug and gestured to her surroundings, reminding the human male about the crowd of thirty or so around them.

Their group wasn’t the only one in the hall. Every amazon warrior was present and eating as well, either sitting on seats formed like stumps or on the ground after spreading a warm, furry pelt. The only ones that couldn’t be seen were those that didn’t travel the world, which were the older women and the kids.

“You should try the liver stew. Tastes great and helps you heal faster.” [Predecessor]

“It’d be easier to eat if I didn’t have someone glaring at me all the time.” [Ryner]

“…” [Riteinia]

Although Ryner still had room for more food, he didn’t really feel hungry because Riteinia was quietly sitting right next to him, her eyes staring at his face as if trying to burn through it.

“Don’t keep quiet. I’m talking about you. AND EVERYONE ELSE!” [Ryner]

It wasn’t only her though since all of the amazons present were furtively glancing at him, watching his every move. Though Ryner yelled at them, hinting that he wanted them to stop, it didn’t help his cause much. Still, Riteinia, who hadn’t touched her meal yet, finally stopped her intense staring and started eating. Seeing her behavior, the Predecessor smirked and, utilizing the wisdom she had piled over the years, decided to carry out her duty. As a former Matriarch and the last warrior of her generation, she would use all of her power to strengthen her tribe.

It was for this reason that only the young warriors were in the hall.

“Patriarch, a-.” [Predecessor]

“Call me Ryner, you brat.” [Ryner]

“I will if you don’t call me that.” [Predecessor]

“Fine, old hag.” [Ryner]

“Haha! No wonder our Matriarch always wants to kill you! Her stories about you were true!” [Predecessor]

“The hell did she say about me?” [Ryner]

Ryner asked as he glanced at Riteinia who returned his stare with her usual glare. She made no sound, but her mood turned sourer every time Ryner was called Patriarch.

“Oh, just how good you are at making her blood boil. Anyway, I heard how you narrowly dodged the warriors’ attacks near the end of the Blood Trial. I wished I could have seen it. But, is your body alright? You were still cut here and there.” [Predecessor]

“Oh that. I made sure that none were serious and I heal fast. They’ll probably be gone in a day or two.” [Ryner]

“Just to be safe, show me the wounds. I’ve got some herbs that work well on cuts. Amazons often get hurt, so we’ve gotten good at treating injuries.” [Predecessor]

“Huh? No way. I don’t need treatment for some scratches, and it’s embarrassing.” [Ryner]

“Embarrassing? You’re a man. Just take your shirt off.” [Predecessor]

Faced with the Predecessor’s sudden request, Ryner eyed her suspiciously since he could tell that she didn’t want to just treat his wounds.

“What are you scheming, old hag?” [Ryner]

“Predecessor! And I just want to slap some medicine on your wounds! Take it as a sign of good faith.” [Predecessor]

“… You’re lying.” [Ryner]

“If you listen to me for a second, then I’ll put in a good word for you with the Council of Elders. You want to enter the elves’ Forbidden Tomb, don’t you? I can help you as the amazons’ Predecessor. My words somewhat hold weight.” [Predecessor]

Although Ryner’s narrowed eyes continued to carefully examine her actions to see through her schemes, her offer was genuine, and quite tempting. She wasn’t lying about helping him get what he wanted, which was to enter the ruins located in the elves’ land. Even with Itham’s support, his reputation as a human was horrible, so he planned on accepting all the help that he could get.

But, more importantly, he wanted to get to the ruins, retrieve what he came for and leave Hossylei Nac as soon as possible. The city was beautiful, but bad for his heart.

“Hmm… Fine.” [Ryner]

That was why he agreed. So, he rolled up the sleeve of his left arm, exposing the dark red scabs that formed from the cuts as well as the many scars on his pale skin.

“There. See?” [Ryner]

“The shirt, you useless Patriarch!” [Predecessor]

“Shut up, you bratty old hag!” [Ryner]

While shouting at the wrinkly, grey-haired amazon, Ryner lifted his shirt to show the cuts and scars on his torso while grumbling.

“Hate showing my scars. There, happy? I better get a glowing recommendation for thi-!” [Ryner]

He then froze the next moment when he sensed the atmosphere change around him.

“… Crap.” [Ryner]

It was similar to bloodlust, but decidedly different. It was a phenomenon that he wasn’t familiar with, which was why he was late in realizing what the Predecessor’s aim was.

“You tricked me, hag.” [Ryner]

“Hahaha! About time!” [Predecessor]

Ryner grudgingly stared at the triumphant old woman.

“Guess you didn’t know. To us amazons, muscles are attractive, but scars are very, very, VERY sexy.” [Predecessor]

Around them, the amazons that were quietly eating had become restless. Their eyes were glued to the human male’s torso, even after he lowered his shirt. Their reactions varied from person to person. Some licked their lips, others drooled. A few even dropped their plates of food, stunned in place. But, every single one of them was staring at the man like hungry predators.

This was what Ryner didn’t notice until it was too late. His appearance was neither appealing nor attractive. Although, because of the intense training he went through, his looks could be called sharp if he cleaned up instead of always acting slovenly. Nevertheless, when it came to being popular with women, he didn’t have an abundant amount of experience. As such, he couldn’t detect it right away when such affection was pointed at him, though his distrust towards people’s goodwill also played a major role.

If a beauty walked down a crowded street, it would be normal for her to attract the attention of every man. If it was Ryner instead, no woman would notice his presence, which was how he liked it. It was what he was used to.

So, he couldn’t imagine that a bunch of beautiful women would actually get excited from seeing a bit of his skin, not to mention that it was skin full of scars and recent injuries. Moreover, he possessed a trained body, defeated their strongest and was victorious in the Blood Trial. He couldn’t predict that he was exactly what the amazons were into.

“Stand down.” [Riteinia]

Just as the atmosphere was starting to turn volatile, a commanding voice diffused the situation. All of the amazons bitterly swallowed their urges when told so by their Matriarch, the strongest of their tribe. Riteinia, who had been quietly sitting next to Ryner, didn’t seem restless like the other warriors.

“Dinner’s over. Come with me.” [Riteinia]

At first glance, anyway.

“Huh? Wait, owowowowow! You’re crushing my wrist! Stop it or I’ll crush your head! Literally!” [Ryner]

“Woof woof woof!” [Mi]

“Stay here with me, whelp.” [Predecessor]

“Woof! Woof woof woof!” [Mi]

“Let’s leave them alone. Come on. Eat up. Eat and become a strong hunting dog. Here. Want to try smoking?” [Predecessor]

While watching Riteinia forcibly drag Ryner away by the wrist, the Predecessor caught Mi who attempted to chase after her master and held her close. She watched the two leave, secretly grinning since things were going well so far.

After being taken away under everyone’s gaze, Ryner reproachfully glared at Riteinia as he rubbed his aching wrist.

“And? What the hell do you want?” [Ryner]

Riteinia glanced to the side before speaking. The two of them had distanced themselves from the group since the hall was huge. Although the other amazons could see them, they wouldn’t be able to hear their conversation if they spoke quietly.

“… How did you become so strong?” [Riteinia]

“Huh? THAT’S why you nearly tore my hand for?” [Ryner]

Ryner asked with a reproachful look and then sighed tiredly, acting as though he had heard that question many times in the past.

“… One hundred push-ups, one hundred sit-ups, one hundred squa-.” [Ryner]

“Answer me seriously for once.” [Riteinia]

The Matriarch’s voice carried her irritation at the human’s frivolous answer to her question. The punch she threw at his face also carried her irritation and desire to kill him.

“Oi, that was a serious training menu that could make you bald and kill anything in one hit.” [Ryner]

Ryner said after quickly dodging her fist that would have knocked all of his front teeth out.

“Just tell me.” [Riteinia]

The angry amazon roughly grabbed his collar and stared at him from up close.

“How did you become what you are?” [Riteinia]

This time, the light flickered in Ryner’s eyes. Their focus was disrupted when those words flew out of the Matriarch’s mouth and hit him straight on like a train. Dragging up very old memories, Ryner saw pieces of his childhood. The figure of a frightened boy running through an empty room along other children floated up in his mind. Explosions shook his core every time someone stepped on a landmine. Several similar scenes began asserting themselves like a violent torrent until they were overpowered by a voice.

“How did you become what you are?” [???]

The soothing voice of a woman who had asked the same question haunted his ears.

“Are you happy with who you are?” [???]

The silhouette of a dear friend appeared before his eyes.

“I’m glad that I met you, Ryner.” [???]

Though her form was hazy, he could still make out that gentle smile on her face.

“Answer me!” [Riteinia]

Nevertheless, Ryner didn’t have time to remember the details as Riteinia’s voice chased away the kind ghost. Impatient because of his silence, she struck out once again. Ryner wordlessly dodged the incoming fist, followed by the next one, and the next one.

“What did you do to become so strong?! How did you manage to fight my warriors, me, on even ground, without magic?!” [Riteinia]

The light green-haired amazon was questioning him as she threw her punches. Her attacks were slowly becoming faster and sharper because she was annoyed at how he kept evading everything while making it look easy.

“Where did you learn those moves?! How to fight!? TELL ME!!!” [Riteinia]

Sadly, both of her wrists were caught, putting an end to her assault that was turning frantic.

“None of your business.” [Ryner]

The human, usually laidback and sleepy-looking, coldly said to her face as he became expressionless. Riteinia seemed surprised before gritting her teeth and roughly shook off his hands. She then resumed her attack as punches and kicks flew out. However, perhaps she was mindful of the time and place because she wasn’t using mana to enhance her power, only raw strength.

Of course, they weren’t much of a threat as her opponent continuously dodged or parried her blows. The other amazons, who were watching from their tables, started to gather, but no one tried to stop the abrupt fight. No one spoke a word. They only observed from a distance, their golden eyes following the human male’s every move.

“TELL ME!!!” [Riteinia]

“Why?” [Ryner]

“I need to know!!” [Riteinia]

“To do what? Get stronger?” [Ryner]

“To… TO MAKE ANOTHER MALE STRONG LIKE YOU!!!” [Riteinia]

Riteinia shouted, actually sounding desperate, while her one-sided assault fruitlessly continued. She had also thrown off the cumbersome poncho, revealing the sleeveless beige shirt underneath that had a deep V-neck.

“You can’t have children, so I’ll find a worthy male and train him using your methods! He will have your strength, your skills! And then, he will pass the Blood Trial!! Just, like, YOU!!” [Riteinia]

Perhaps lead by her intense, volatile emotions, which were the result of failing to acquire Ryner’s bloodline, the first man she ever acknowledged, Riteinia finally ignored their location and used body strengthening. Her strengthened punch had become a force that could tear a hole in a steel wall.

In response, Ryner used life force and similarly surpassed human limits. Although he managed to cope with his foe’s sudden increased in power and avoided a blow, he was still thrown on his back when she leapt forward like a missile. After rolling around a few times, the Matriarch was on top of him as her fist shot out like a bullet. Ryner pushed it to the side, diverting it from a straight path to his face and letting it smash into the floor next to his ear. Simultaneously, he used his other hand to securely grab her throat. Riteinia’s expression warped to one of pain for a second. But, while glaring intensively, she managed to loudly declare her decision.

“*Cough* If I can’t have you as my Patriarch, I’LL JUST CREATE ANOTHER RYNER!!! HE’LL BE MY PATRIARCH!!!” [Riteinia]

“That’s impossible.” [Ryner]

Her decision, born from the realization that she couldn’t have what she wanted most, was instantly refuted. That prompt denial froze her in place and both sides temporarily ceased hostilities.

“There are countless men like me in the world, but they can’t become me.” [Ryner]

Ryner said as he slightly loosened his grip on her throat.

“I told you I’m the strongest monster you’ll ever meet. You won’t get another ‘Ryner’ just by doing some training, brat.” [Ryner]

Riteinia motionlessly observed him, seemingly at a loss. The choice of trying to create her own Patriarch, based on the sleepy-looking man, was what she had chosen after painstakingly mulling over her current predicament. Her decision suited an amazon Matriarch who sought strong males. Unfortunately, it wasn’t something that she picked with a clear mind since it was the first time in her life that she was interested in a man. Moreover, it was a man that she couldn’t get, that couldn’t give her children. As such, she was quite confused.

“… H-how can you kno-?” [Riteinia]

“You can’t make me, and I won’t let anyone make me. Ever.” [Ryner]

“… I… See…” [Riteinia]

Ryner firmly told her that her plan was doom to fail with quiet yet oppressive intensity, taking the winds out of her sails. Riteinia, instead of getting enraged, strangely felt at peace with it and her heightened emotions calmed down somewhat. She proceeded to take a few deep breaths, reevaluated her situation and wants, and examined her target again.

And after doing so, she realized that nothing had changed and accepted it.

“… Maybe. Maybe I can’t do it. Maybe… Maybe there won’t be another man like you.” [Riteinia]

For it meant that what she had to do was the same as ever.

“No matter how hard he trains, he won’t have your strength, your savagery… Or those skills that were, almost… Almost beautiful, divine…” [Riteinia]

The more the Matriarch spoke, the clearer her thoughts and the hotter her body became. Her sentences gradually turned intermittent and the desire to fight slowly drifted away.

“Or your body… That’s, full, of scars… From battles… Many, many scars… Everywhere… And muscles…” [Riteinia]

Her hostile eyes were now directing a heated gaze at the man she was straddling and she became keenly aware of their current position. She was sitting astride while clad in a skirt, which was dangerously rolled up, and a shirt designed to show off a lot of her cleavage for the sake of seducing males.

“Muscles forged to fight… Scars from battles… Hidden… Just… Under, this… Flimsy… Piece of… Cloth…” [Riteinia]

One of her hands started stroking his chest, as if to ascertain what laid beneath his shirt. Her other hand went to her throat and rested on Ryner’s hand that was choking her just a moment ago.

“Hey… Are you really infertile?” [Riteinia]

She suddenly asked.

At that moment, Ryner realized that the type of danger he was in was different from earlier. In his mind, the face of a certain blonde-haired vampire was superimposed upon the Matriarch currently on top of him.

“I am totally infertile. Can’t grow crops at all.” [Ryner]

He said as he tightened his hold on her throat. His other hand went to her stomach and he attempted to throw her off of him. However, she grabbed both of his wrists and prevented him from doing so. Body strengthening was used and their arms trembled as they competed in strength.

“Is that true?” [Riteinia]

“An elf-.” [Ryner]

“I know what the High Elder said.” [Riteinia]

“So you’re just gonna ignore it now?” [Ryner]

“I decided to judge for myself first. I want you to prove it to me. Prove everything.” [Riteinia]

“Yyeeah, I could, but I’d really rather fight.” [Ryner]

“We’ll be fighting, alright. Just, not right here… No, it doesn’t matter if it’s here.” [Riteinia]

Riteinia said as she glanced behind her. The other amazons, after confirming that the fight was over, had approached and surrounded them. They had heard their conversation midway and understood their leader’s intentions.

“Matriarch, is this really fine?” [Amazon]

“It’s pointless if he’s sterile.” [Amazon]

Several of them raised their concerns.

“This man passed the Blood Trial. He is a Patriarch. A man whose strength, mind and body spoke of the wars he’s seen. When looking at such a man, what do your instincts tell you? That it’s pointless, or that his blood will give us powerful daughters?” [Riteinia]

But, the Matriarch abated their worries thanks in large part to Ryner’s performance and the nature of her people.

“The elves can see through lies, but… That doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t… Check. Just to be sure.” [Riteinia]

“Tha… That is true.” [Amazon]

“… W-we can’t tell without trying.” [Amazon]

“The Matriarch’s right. He passed the Blood Trial.” [Amazon]

As such, one by one, they looked at each other and gingerly agreed.

“My instincts have been urging me to have that man’s daughters for a while now.” [Amazon]

“yeah. This chance might never happen again.” [Amazon]

“We can’t give up on attaining the bloodline of a powerful Patriarch so quickly.” [Amazon]

Sure enough, everyone’s hesitations were gone and they were closing in on the man who strongly pulled at their amazon instincts. No longer considering the fact that he might really be infertile, the group of warriors let their urges dictate their course of actions.

“… Oook, things escalated quickly. Again.” [Ryner]

Said man, who was surrounded by women with golden eyes that were faintly glowing, like a prey among predators, appeared calm. It didn’t seem like the predicament he ended up in bothered him too much. In fact, he might be welcoming it since he ceased to struggle and was smiling calmly.

“… See ya!” [Ryner]

However, he was fully intent on escaping like a rabbit as he broke the stalemate and threw the Matriarch off of him using an increased burst of life force. Then, he shot up to his feet and made a break for it.

“YOU’RE NOT GETTING AWAY THIS TIME!!” [Riteinia]

“SHUT UP! LIKE HELL THIS IS HOW MY NIGHT’S GONNA END, YOU FREAKING CRAZY LAD-!” [Ryner]

“RITEINIIAAA!!!” [Riteinia]

His escape attempt was not accomplished effortlessly as ferocious amazon warriors chased after him.