Episode 66: Loyal Skill

What Amamiya pulled out was a notebook.

"Anticipating this possibility, I've compiled the rules of 'Subjugation' in advance. Please refer to it."

The notebook, surprisingly delicate in handwriting for a man's writing, was titled "Loyal Skill Summary MEMO."

"Let me see... "

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[Loyal Skill Summary MEMO]

● Conditions for activating 'Subjugation.'

To activate the skill and enslave a human, you must touch their head for at least one minute☆

At that time, the target must be fully conscious☆

(It doesn't work if they're deeply asleep, seems like☆)

● About "slaves."

Those who become slaves using the "Subjugation" skill can communicate telepathically with the user anytime, anywhere—just by thinking it☆

Moreover, with a human turned into a "slave," you can make them carry out any command of yours—anytime, anywhere☆

However, each command is only effective for five minutes.

If you want to keep the "slave" under your control, you must issue a new command within those five minutes☆

● Releasing a "slave."

A person who has become a "slave" can be freed either by obtaining permission from the "slave master," or by killing the "slave master"☆

Just because someone's a "slave" doesn't mean they can be treated too harshly—otherwise, they might end up getting attacked in their sleep and meet a sudden end☆

● Enhancing the "slave."

At first glance, reading this might make it seem like there's no benefit to being a "slave," but there are actually advantages to becoming one.

Being a "slave" allows you to grow stronger and even use magic, thanks to the《Slave Mastery》skill☆

The strength of a "slave" changes depending on the《Slave Mastery》skill acquired☆

For reference, here's a list of the《Slave Mastery》skills obtained so far☆

《Slave Mastery I》……Grants the "slave" the abilities《Combat Technique (Beginner)》,《Natural Healing (Weak)》,《Fire Magic I》, and《Water Magic I》, and allows control over up to three "slaves" simultaneously.

《Slave Mastery II》……Grants the "slave" the abilities《Combat Technique (Intermediate)》,《Natural Healing (Moderate)》,《Fire Magic I》, and《Water Magic I》, and allows control over up to five "slaves" simultaneously.

《Slave Mastery III》……Grants the "slave" the abilities《Combat Technique (Advanced)》,《Natural Healing (Moderate)》,《Skin Reinforcement》,《Fire Magic I～II》,《Water Magic I～II》, and《Sexual Technique (Beginner)》, and allows control over up to seven "slaves" simultaneously.

As for the《Subjugation》skill, that's it for now, DAS☆

Did you understand that well, huh☆

If you still have any questions, feel free to ask me anytime!

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"Hey, what's with this text? It's really annoying..."

"Isn't it more approachable like this?"

"All I sense is murderous intent..."

Anyway, I've got a clear understanding of the 'Subjugation' skill.

"They're villains, sure, but seem like a makeshift organization. Still, the leader appears quite clever. If we make that person our 'slave' and command them, dismantling the whole organization wouldn't be too difficult, I think."

"I see. That sounds good, but I have to keep my hand on their head for a full minute, right?...That seems a bit difficult."

"Of course, the strategy for that part is already fully prepared."

With a confident smile, he pulled out a whip about thirty centimeters long.

"It's called the 'Whip of Future Use.' It's a reward from the achievement I unlocked when I first enslaved Zunri."

"What's its effect?"

"Keeps the target restrained for one minute while maintaining consciousness. However, it's reportedly ineffective against players."

Ah, I see. So it's an item exclusive to the 'Slave Master' class.

"Moreover, there's one more thing. A method for infiltrating their hideout..."

"Infiltration?"

"Yeah. They're unfamiliar with the area, and there's no shortage of hostages, right? Plus, we have no idea where the boss is staying. …We can't exactly go sneaking around like in *Metal Gear Solid*, hiding inside a cardboard box to find the boss's room."

Now that he mentioned it, it really did sound like an unrealistic plan.

"Then, there's a reliable item I have…"

He said that, and pulled out a staff.

Made of wood, with carvings on the handle.

It seemed to be shaped like a cat.

"This is also a reward item from a quest. Um... when exactly did I get this, Satori?"

As usual, the maid-girl responded mechanically.

"It was about a week ago, when I defeated a cat-shaped 'monster,' master."

"Yeah, that's right, that's right... Pikapika~! (Probably the sound effect when Doraemon pulls out a secret gadget)... 'The Staff of the Cat Monster.' It grants the power to transform into any appearance you desire for an entire day. I'll have you use it."

"...Huh?"

I tilt my head.

"Is there something wrong with my current look?"

"I already said it, didn't I? They treat women like objects."

"Huh?"

"If you're going to be a warrior, that appearance is a problem. You'd be caught immediately."

"Hmm."

"Still, it seems like they're always looking for men to run errands. Zombie hunters are short-staffed no matter where you go."

"...Interesting."

"Well then. You get it, right?"

You get it... right?

Huh?

A vague sense of dread washes over me, and I glance at Saya beside me.

She gave a firm thumbs-up.

"Come on, Ne-chan! For justice!"

A strong (and utterly irresponsible) declaration.

The young "slave master" spoke with a cheerful smile.

"By this, we'll turn you into a man—'Nomad Warrior'."

For a moment, I just kept gaping, my mouth opening and closing repeatedly.