Hyaku Ma No Aruji

Merea awakens on the summit of Lindholm Spirit Mountain, surrounded by translucent spirits who are the lingering souls of heroes from ages past. Their leader, Flander Crow, was the Grim Reaper who guided him. These heroic spirits explain that they sent the Otherworld Grass to summon someone who could resolve their regrets. Merea is truly alive, unlike them, and they intend to raise him into a hero capable of protecting others.

Life on the mountain is harsh. Monsters and dragons fly overhead. When the clouds lower, a Celestial Dragon named Curtista visits and speaks with Flander about Merea’s unusual appearance and the fact that many heroic spirits have already departed after their wishes were fulfilled. Merea learns that his body is formed from fragments of heroic spirits, giving him traits like Flander’s “Magic God’s Demonic Eye,” which can see through any spell formula. The spirits begin rigorous training: dodging fireballs, deciphering complex spell languages, and mastering reversal magic.

Merea hears about the Demon Lords—powerful beings that have appeared throughout history, their meaning shifting from “embodiment of wickedness” to merely “someone powerful.” The spirits are reluctant to discuss them in detail, but it becomes clear that many were betrayed or sacrificed in conflicts involving Demon Lords. The training is meant to ensure Merea can protect his comrades if such enemies arise.

Over three years, Merea hones his skills. He learns to read a spell’s construction the moment it is cast and weave a reversal spell instantly using reflection. In a final test, three female heroic spirits fire simultaneous spears of flame, lightning, and water. Merea deploys a barrier woven from reversed formulas and neutralizes all three attacks. The spirits acknowledge his progress, noting it took them five years to reach his level. Merea continues living among the ghosts, preparing for an unknown future where his power may be needed.