The so-called “wise” or “unexpected” races, also referred to as the Human Race, are known among the human species for their fragility, with their reproductive capabilities lingering below average. Moreover, apart from their adaptability to polar environments, their environmental fitness is mostly manageable through clothing. Yet, despite these drawbacks, humanity continues to thrive, and there are a few reasons for this.
Among these reasons, I believe one of the key factors enabling our prosperity lies in our ingenuity—our ability to appropriately prepare tools suitable for our scale.
“Goaaaaaaah!!!”
A roar that shakes the earth. The ogre’s greatsword, swung with all its might, sweeps through the air like a storm. In the midst of such a violent gale, human lives are as fleeting as morning dew.
It’s a magnificent display of power, and the overwhelming pressure is truly astonishing. Indeed, this greatsword could rightly be called a splendid weapon for Yorgos.
However, he shared the same flaw as Etan.
Compared to humans, ogres are generally much larger in stature, standing at around two meters tall. Their body mass is about twice that of humans, and even if you were to place a super-heavyweight muscular bodybuilder alongside them, the ogre would still appear more imposing.
Having dedicated himself to training as a warrior, Yorgos is no exception. In fact, standing beside him makes me feel like a bottle of soy sauce next to a set of chopsticks. If I were to confront him head-on, it would surely end in my defeat.
Should we attempt an arm-wrestling match, my knees would likely suffer an unpleasant fate at best, and at worst, my arms might be torn off like fried chicken.
Hence, like a tiger utilizing its innate strength, Yorgos attempts to crush his opponents with brute force. However, from the perspective of a swordsman, this approach is rather inefficient.
I’m not saying it’s bad, mind you. Most soldiers would likely crumble under the oppressive aura and present an opening to be crushed. Even if they managed to overcome the pressure and successfully land a blow, one strike from Yorgos would result in immediate death—a bondage-style scenario tailored for masochists. His mere presence on the front lines causes enemies of lower rank to hesitate, with even those who dare to charge forward being obliterated like morning dew battered by a violent storm.
That said, before a seasoned swordsman, a determined thrust can easily exploit his weaknesses, making him a challenging but not insurmountable foe.
“Hmm, that’s unfortunate…”
“Huh…heh…”
Yorgos, kneeling on the ground, was drenched in sweat, unable to catch his breath. Perhaps due to my earlier command for him to “attack without holding back until he collapsed,” he had pushed himself to the limits of his endurance.
“Alright… Etan.”
“Huh?”
“Do you understand why that was unfortunate?”
Upon posing this question, Etan traced a bull-like face with his finger, then grunted in thought before responding, “Because the openings were too big, right?”
“Hm. And why are the openings so large?”
“Huh? Well… isn’t it because the weapon is huge?”
“Not entirely wrong, but consider this: compared to Yorgos, the two-handed longsword wielded by humans is about the same size. The real issue lies in the weight.”
The ogre’s sword is large—so massive that the famous line about it being far too big to be called a sword readily comes to mind. It is indeed a weapon suited to its wielder. Standing over three meters tall, weighing hundreds of kilograms, with an alloy skeleton and skin, the ogre warriors are perfectly suited to wielding such weapons. There’s likely no better weapon in the world for them.
In the distant future, perhaps a 20mm cannon, a chain gun, or a heavy machine gun would befit them just as well. If they were to fire them standing, it would indeed seem plausible.
But given the current situation, there’s no more appropriate weapon for them besides this.
Still, for Yorgos, whose build is significantly smaller within the same species, it’s simply too heavy.
If you consider his relative size, a human wielding a long two-handed sword might not pose much of a problem, but given how wide and broad the sword is, it’s clearly unwieldy.
Indeed, Yorgos’s sword technique merely uses the momentum of swinging to feign some semblance of expertise, merely mimicking the ogre warriors’ combat style.
This is why the openings after each swing are so large.
Against weaker foes, the overwhelming mass and speed of the weapon would crush them through sheer intimidation, augmented by the primal terror invoked by the ogre’s battle cries.
But against soldiers hardened in battle, rushing forward with reckless abandon, or agile and quick human warriors, the openings become too vast.
And against warriors who have honed their entire body into a weapon, the size of the openings is simply too great.
Of course, supportive allies or comrades who could cover the gaps might help, but unfortunately, adventurers must operate under the assumption that battles will be chaotic. I can’t always be nearby to assist, as I’m often preoccupied with decapitation tactics aimed at breaking enemy command structures. It’s impractical to expect constant support under such conditions.
If we were capable of supporting each other, that would be commendable, but becoming a liability is unacceptable.
If he wishes to become stronger as a swordsman, a two-handed sword like the one carried by Lambert would be more appropriate. With his height allowing him to wield a sword of that length as if it were a regular longsword, he could quickly become a formidable fighter.
However, if what he truly aspires to become is an ogre warrior, there are certain difficulties.
If he were to picture in his mind those towering, heavy, and enduring swords slicing through the air with elegance and precision, glowing with the same brilliance as my own aspirations for adventure…
Frankly, I didn’t immediately know how to assist him with that aspiration.
After all, the ogre’s sword is simply too much for him. He could use it, but it’s clear he’s straining himself, and while it’s powerful when applied correctly, the overall handling is cumbersome, much like the super-heavy tanks from the Second World War.
At least, just as a tank that requires immediate overhaul after a mere 10-kilometer run cannot feasibly advance to the front lines, Yorgos being easily killed by a skilled swordsman poses too great a risk for deployment in battle.
In the midst of chaos, everyone is busy and cannot always ensure constant support. I cannot guarantee constant support either—and engaging in battles where allies or enemies might suffer greatly due to his use of such a weapon is far from ideal.
If he simply wishes to become stronger, the greatsword isn’t the best option; a two-handed sword like the one Lambert wields would suit him better. Given his height and build, he could wield such a sword effectively, quickly becoming an impressive warrior.
However, if what he truly desires is to embody the ogre warrior…
Well, that part is somewhat challenging.
If that image of a grand, heavy, and enduring sword cutting through the air in elegant strokes inspires him, much like how my own aspirations for adventure shine, then…
It’s somewhat disheartening that I don’t immediately know how to proceed. After all, I can’t even picture how he might wield it properly. His stature wouldn’t suddenly mutate to match that of a female ogre, and all I can think to do is have him consume a protein-rich diet to build more muscle.
I do want to help him as a mentor, but…
I maintained a plausible expression while secretly panicking in front of his stunned face when salvation arrived.
Turning toward the voice calling my name, I saw a familiar face at the open courtyard door.
It was Margit. She had kindly offered to bring snacks in the afternoon since I had informed her about our training session.
She carried a large basket, presumably filled with lunch preparations. The extensive spread suggests the innkeeper’s involvement, and there should be plenty of food.
And the voice wasn’t alone. It was the castrato-like, gender-neutral beauty of Mika’s voice. Even as an adult, it remains unclear whether Mika is male or female, embodying a mysterious neutrality.
Mika’s previously male frame had slightly shrunk and now stood about the same height as me. Their shoulders and waist had rounded, losing masculine characteristics. Their features had softened yet retained a certain sharpness, and their once unruly hair now flowed gently.
Meeting them since our first encounter in the Imperial Capital, they’ve gracefully aged, retaining traces from that time. Seeing that, my role as a mentor couldn’t help but soften.
“Ah, Margit, Mika, thank you so much!”
Upon hearing my response, everyone let out startled cries.
Most people would not have recognized the figure in that familiar robe; they might have mistaken them for a sibling had they met without prior knowledge.
However, this individual is undoubtedly my one and only true friend.
The night before, Mika had undergone the gender transition period, shifting from a male form to a neutral one.
The transition takes about two days, beginning subtly with internal organs, followed by the disappearance of external reproductive features, and concluding on the second night with bone modifications accompanied by growth-like pains.
Thus, Mika had started the transformation upon arriving in Marsheim.
Yorgos, upon seeing this, gaped in astonishment as though his jaw might unhinge.
It’s understandable; Mika, now more accustomed to their transformations, seemed to have embraced their species’ unique trait as a playful pastime since shortly before my departure from the Imperial Capital.
The existence of gender-neutral individuals is still largely unknown outside the northern polar regions, causing Mika considerable distress in the past. But having gained a close friend in me, their perspective seemed to change over time.
If someone were to feel uneasy or repulsed about Mika’s transition, Mika could detach from such a relationship without regret.
Silently engaging with someone while concealing their species would be dishonest, and explaining their origins to each person separately became tiresome.
Perhaps one day, gender-neutral individuals will spread across the empire from their current settlement in the north. But until that time, Mika decided to find a balance for themselves.
Continuing this method since we last parted indicates that it has worked well for them.
And today, Mika, with a shy yet endearing smile, explained, “That’s what our species is like,” to those who were shocked upon meeting them.
Though appearing strong on the outside, this approach can seem reckless at times.
But it’s the path Mika has chosen. As a friend, I can only assist in helping them integrate with their surroundings.
Let’s take this playful ruse as a successful prank and introduce them to everyone.
Tough guys like these will likely find this gender-neutral form more approachable.
“Here, take this offering. It’s something the two of us prepared.”
“Really? Did you cook it well?”
“Ah, wasn’t it the innkeeper’s collaboration?”
“A little girl who sought her mother’s love, perhaps?”
“We can’t exactly breastfeed, can we?”
As I took the basket from my approaching partner and friend, it was clear the contents were plentiful, enough for everyone to enjoy. It was generous of Mika to help despite having to greet the administrative offices later.
At any rate, it’s time to reveal the truth about this unexpected arrival to those who have been captivated by this gender-neutral beauty…
The aspiring creation mage concluded today’s events with satisfaction while visiting the administrative offices.
Humans often reveal their true nature when genuinely surprised.
Judging by today’s reactions from the Sword Friends Association, things went smoothly. The reasonable complaint that they “should’ve been informed sooner” held no trace of bitterness.
The timing was also fortunate. Since most members of the Sword Friends Association are male, from a male perspective, it’s easier to accept a man transitioning into a woman rather than the reverse, which carries a greater sense of betrayal.
In fact, the professor in question had experienced it himself.
Being adorned in splendid attire, pleasing some of the nobility and friends, and participating in events while encountering some “former favorites” was not uncommon.
Meeting these individuals across different factions, though initially bewildering, the charm of a certain gentlewoman—later revealed as a man in disguise—left a memorable impression.
A fleeting flutter was felt at the close encounter with the captivating aroma and soft touch of what appeared to be a woman. However, upon realizing that the elegant wrist peeking from elaborate lace and the throat hidden behind a high collar belonged to a man, the psychological impact was overwhelming.
When inquired, the person revealed their true identity with utmost normalcy, having embraced their newfound life after being influenced by Lord Raizenitz’s eccentricities. Apparently, this individual had undergone a transformation in mindset, finding joy in the idea of becoming the “world’s most adorable person,” thus significantly altering their lifestyle.
Indeed, their charm wasn’t diminished even when accepted as a man, with several friends maintaining affectionate companionship.
Empire-wide, personal expression, within reasonable limits, was largely accepted—evident from the leniency toward an almost half-naked empress.
Nevertheless, despite intellectual acceptance, there remain emotional challenges. At fourteen, Mika first realized what impression they left on others.
Engaging as a male, relationships developed more smoothly. Dealing with females would be tricky—sharing baths would be inappropriate, and excessive familiarity might lead to complications. Even men might feel deceived upon discovering the truth, just as women could feel betrayed.
Reflecting on this, the timing of their current form was beneficial.
With renewed optimism for their new role, Mika completed the greeting ceremony in the audience chamber.
Everything proceeded smoothly. The one concern was the absence of the Margrave of Mars-Baden due to official duties, with his aide accepting the courtesy. Considering the mage’s status as a listening student, it wasn’t significant.
For a researcher, it might seem awkward, and for a professor, problematic, but as an ordinary listening student, placing official duties first was understandable.
Until now, everything seemed fine.
However, the following day, instead of reporting to the academy’s branch office as planned, Mika found themselves handed off to a senior sorcerer directly under the Margrave of Mars-Baden for training.
Reviewing the transferred materials, and hearing that practical exercises would begin the following week, the unease only grew.
Isn’t it unusual to deploy someone new, especially a mere listening student, so quickly into practical duties?
Moreover, the documents included crucial infrastructure such as water supply systems and city walls, all marked with “confidential” stamps, containing forbidden symbols accessible only with special permission. This certainly didn’t seem like a typical assignment.
Initially, Mika thought it was about filling in gaps where experienced personnel were occupied. Things like repairing stone-paved roads and maintaining roadways—basic tasks that could be done by anyone due to the uniformity of imperial construction standards.
Never did they expect to be involved in maintaining core city functions, let alone being dispatched to guard a subsidiary fortress of Marsheim as part of their practical training. It was indeed quite unexpected.
Upon raising their gaze from the documents, Mika became acutely aware of the senior mage’s overly cheerful smile, masking something beneath.
Simultaneously, a familiar face came to mind.
This friend was always at the center of some commotion, whether peripherally at first or inevitably drawn into the center.
Another troubling situation seemed to be brewing.
With a faint smile ingrained from their time in the Imperial Capital, the gender-neutral mage concealed their unease while inwardly pondering…
—
During mourning, I’d prefer to forgo the New Year’s greetings for now, but I hope we can continue our journey together this year.
The third volume of “Henderson’s Gospel” is set for release on January 25th!
This time, there are three bonus features:
– Overlap Webstore Exclusive: “Monologue of Ashes”
Thoughts of the Gray Maiden toward new inhabitants.
– Special Store Exclusive: “An Afternoon of Idle Spirits”
The pleasure of the afternoon as enjoyed by von Raizenitz.
– Melonbooks Exclusive: “Like Actors on the Stage”
Mika receives tickets as a reward from their master—what unfolds next?
Additionally, there’s a signature book campaign on Twitter, so please take a look!
