Chapter 2: Shijou Company
Thirty minutes by train from the station near my apartment.
In the outskirts of the city where we live, there’s the base of one of Japan’s top companies, Nightgoons.
A company refers to an organization that specializes in dungeon exploration and monster extermination.
Thirty years ago, when Tokyo was devastated and government functions temporarily collapsed, the vigilante groups that replaced the immobilized police and military are said to be the predecessors of these companies.
Currently, only those who belong to a company are recognized as authorized to undertake dungeon exploration and monster extermination, with the exception of government-related personnel.
If you want to make a living as a Slayer, joining a company is inevitable.
And just like any other industry, there are large and small companies, and as expected, the larger ones offer better treatment.
...And so, I ended up at Nightgoons, the largest company in this city.
"It’s really huge."
The headquarters of Nightgoons resembled a gigantic factory.
It seemed to also have training grounds for the Slayers, with a spacious field visible in the back.
Furthermore, the entire facility was surrounded by high walls, which might make it look like a prison or military base to some people.
Even though it’s a major company, the total number of Slayers employed is only about two hundred.
The fact that they maintain such an impressive facility with that number really shows how much profit Slayers generate.
"...What are you here for?"
"Yes, I’m here for an interview!"
As I stopped in front of the gate, I was addressed by the security guard.
I bowed lightly and explained that I was here for the interview.
In general, companies are always looking for potential Slayers to hire year-round.
Nightgoons was no exception, and they had many flyers and online ads for recruitment.
"An interview, huh... So, how old are you?"
"I’m eighteen this year."
"Ugh..."
The moment I said that, the security guard made a sour face.
He looked like he really wanted me to leave, so I quickly asked him what was wrong.
"Is it that people under twenty aren’t allowed?"
"No, no, it’s that you’re too late."
"Ah..."
When the security guard said that, I was immediately struck by a sudden realization.
How had I forgotten about this until now?
The Idea is supposed to manifest by the age of fifteen.
So, logically, it would make sense that someone would start acting toward becoming a Slayer by the age of fifteen.
It’s almost unheard of for a newcomer to be eighteen in this industry.
Especially for a major company like Nightgoons, it’s normal for people to join and train from a young age.
Even as an adventurer in my past life, this was no different, yet I had completely forgotten about it.
"There technically isn’t an age restriction, but… well, it’s probably impossible."
"Isn’t there anything that can be done?"
"Ah, I don’t have that kind of authority. Call HR with this number."
With that, the security guard handed me a flyer with a half-hearted motion.
I took it, gave a small bow, and left.
I immediately made the call, but as expected, I was politely told, "Sorry, but..."
It was a line I had heard so many times before, it was practically ingrained in my ears.
...I never thought I’d hear it at this point.
"This is a problem. Looks like I’m back at square one."
Even though I had regained my memories from my past life and could use magic.
It felt like nothing had changed, and I was still struggling with finding a job just like yesterday.
I let out a heavy sigh, but I knew I couldn’t just keep feeling down.
Anyway, I had to find a company that would hire me even at eighteen.
After all, my future livelihood was at stake.
"Alright, let's do this! I’m going to give it my all to get hired!!"
With my spirits lifted, I pulled out my phone and headed toward another company.
––〇●〇––
"Ughhh!! Why is the age restriction so strict everywhere!!"
A few hours after leaving Nightgoons’ headquarters, I was shouting in the middle of an empty street.
Amaterasu, Kanazaki Industries, Mirai Industries, Central Hearts...
I had visited nearly every company in the area, but none of them had given me any positive responses.
Hmm, is there any place left?
I searched on a map app, and immediately saw a company named "Shijou Company."
Oh, it’s only about a kilometer away from here!
However...
"Ugh! What’s with the ☆1 rating?"
The reviews listed on the map app.
While most companies had ratings of ☆4 or higher, Shijou Company had an astonishing ☆1.
What's worse, the reviews mentioned things like "the work is incredibly slow," "the reception staff is terrible," and even worse, "the CEO has tattoos"—there were some pretty sketchy things written about them...
Even though it’s just online reviews, seeing something like this was still pretty scary.
If I went there, I was sure some scary guys in black suits would show up.
"Well, at worst, I can always run away..."
Among the magic I learned in my past life, I had light magic to blind people and wind magic to enhance my speed.
Considering I once charged into a dragon’s nest, I figured I could handle a place full of scary people.
Yeah, it’ll be fine... it'll be fine...
I slapped my cheek to snap myself out of it, then gathered my resolve and headed toward the location of Shijou Company.
After walking for about ten minutes or so...
In the outskirts of the town, an industrial area filled with small factories.
In one corner of it, Shijou Company’s base blended right in.
The old, corrugated metal exterior looked more like a small town factory than a company.
What’s more, there were large graffiti markings sprayed on the walls.
"Ugh… this is pretty intense…!"
All the companies I had visited so far had clean, well-maintained appearances.
Because of that, Shijou Company’s building looked even more intimidating.
If I opened the door, I was sure I’d immediately be surrounded by some rough-looking guys.
I nervously opened the door, recalling my experiences at taverns in my past life.
Then—
"Ah, welcome!!"
A friendly smile appeared from a girl, who looked like a puppy, sitting neatly at a desk.
Surprised, I quickly scanned the surroundings.
Contrary to the graffiti-covered, shabby exterior, the inside of the office was neat and calm, with a soothing atmosphere.
There were cute little knick-knacks scattered around, giving off a feminine touch.
It was hard to believe this was the inside of a building that looked so much like a Showa-era town factory.
"U-um… is this really Shijou Company?"
"Yes, it is! How can I help you?"
The girl approached me with a beaming smile.
...Isn’t she underage?
Her facial features were still quite youthful, and her voice was high-pitched.
She looked to be at most in her mid-teens.
Maybe she’s the staff member’s child?
"Um, aren’t there any other staff members around?"
"I’ll handle everything for you!"
"No, that’s not what I meant... I was asking about the person in charge..."
"Ah, despite how I look, I’m actually the president!"
"The president!?"
Taken completely by surprise, I couldn’t help but look the girl over carefully.
She then snorted and said.
"It’s bad manners to stare like that, you know!"
"I-I’m sorry!"
"Ahaha, I’m not bothered, don’t worry! Here you go."
With that, she pulled out a business card from her pocket and handed it to me.
It read, "Shijou Company President, Shijou Kyōka."
It seemed she really was the president of this company.
"You're the president at such a young age...! You must be amazing!"
"Well, it’s a small company, but…"
"...President, please! Hire me!"
To meet the president of a company—this was the biggest opportunity I could ever ask for right now.
I immediately bowed deeply, and Kyōka-san looked at me in surprise, her eyes wide.
"So, you’re applying for a job, then?"
"Yes!"
"Have you awakened the <Idea>?"
"Of course!"
When I said that, Kyōka-san took a deep breath.
––Silence.
She stayed silent for a moment, and eventually, I noticed a faint trace of tears in her eyes.
W-w-wait, is it really that much!?
I was bewildered by her overly dramatic reaction, and I couldn't help but feel confused inside.
Then...
"I’m so happyyyyyy!!!!"
Kyōka-san spread her arms wide and hugged me tightly.
W-what am I supposed to do in this situation!?
She’s the president, so it would be rude to push her away.
But at the same time, hugging her back feels like it might be rude too.
And on top of that, despite her youthful face and small frame, Kyōka-san is surprisingly...!
I feel like my body might react...!!
"...Ah, sorry! I got too carried away with my excitement!"
"No, it's totally fine! Actually, is it okay?"
"Is what okay?"
"Is there an age restriction or anything?"
"We don’t have any such thing here! Even an old man would be welcome!"
Kyōka-san dramatically slapped her chest with pride.
...Wait, is it really okay to welcome an old man like that?
I wanted to point that out, but instead, Kyōka-san happily floated toward the door at the back of the room.
"Well, you'll just need to take a basic entrance test. Please follow me."
"Yes!"
"Don’t be nervous. As long as you've awakened the <Idea>, it’s an easy test to clear."
As Kyōka-san gestured for me to open the door, I entered a spacious area that seemed to be a workshop.
It seemed this building had originally been some sort of town factory.
The floor was unfinished concrete, and the walls were made of corrugated slate, typical of factory buildings.
At the back, there were rusted machines.
And in front of them was a strange-looking device.
It was a large square metal base with a mannequin, the kind used in car crash tests, secured to it.
"Please attack this as hard as you can! If the reading exceeds 100, you pass!"
With that, Kyōka-san pointed to the display attached to the platform.
I see, this is straightforward.
Stretching my body, I confirmed with Kyōka-san once more.
"Does the attack have to be anything specific?"
"Yes. Oh, if it’s not an attack-type Idea, let me know. In that case, we'll use another method."
"It’s fine. ...Alright."
Since she called it a basic test, there’s no need to go overboard with the attack.
But if I don’t exceed the benchmark and can’t get hired, I feel like Kyōka-san might be disappointed...
Given how excited she was when I said I wanted to join, it seems like she's having a hard time finding people.
Also, what’s with all the terrible reviews online?
From what I can tell, there doesn’t seem to be anything wrong with the president's personality.
"Um, President. Before I take the test, I’d like to confirm something."
"What is it?"
"Well... I’ve noticed that the reviews for this company are really bad. Is there something going on?"
The moment I asked, Kyōka-san’s cheerful expression vanished, and her face clouded over.
She shrugged her shoulders in a downcast manner and spoke in a small voice.
"Ah, well, it’s because… I’m being harassed."
"Has something happened?"
"It’s not exactly that, but… there are people who want us to give up our rights."
"Rights?"
"Yes. You see, these days, starting a new company is almost impossible. So, anyone wanting to start a company has to buy the operating rights from an existing company."
Hmm, it’s a typical regulated industry.
In this dungeon-centered era, the profits brought in by companies are enormous.
It seems like someone is trying to weaken a small company like Shijou Company and seize its rights.
This kind of thing really doesn’t change, no matter the world.
"I see. So, you’re being pressured to give up the company in various ways."
"Yes. Since we don’t have any backers, we’re being targeted... But don’t worry! If things get bad, I’ll protect all of you!"
Kyōka-san said with a smile, but there wasn’t much vigor in her expression.
Even though she was putting on a brave face, it was clear that she was feeling uncertain about the future.
Alright, let’s try to do something about this.
I’ll show a bit of my skill, just enough to make her feel a little more at ease.
"...In that case, I guess I’ll have to show my worth. Is this mannequin pretty sturdy?"
"Mm? Are you worried it might break?"
"Well, yeah."
"Then don’t worry. This mannequin is made of a special titanium composite material, so it won’t budge from a little thing like that."
Kyōka-san puffed out her chest, clearly confident in her words.
In that case, I can use my magic without worry.
I gently extended my hand forward, focusing my magical energy into a single point.
In the dim light, a faint red glow quickly appeared.
And then—
"<Flare Bomb>"
A fiery bullet shot from my palm.
When it struck the mannequin’s chest, it immediately exploded in a massive blast.
...Whoa, it really is tough, just as she said.
I had intended to blast its upper body off, but surprisingly, it held its form well.
The mannequin was charred black, with a huge hole in its chest, but you could still recognize its humanoid shape.
This might be tougher than an intermediate monster from Venolind.
But then—
"……N-no way!?"
The display showed the number 658.
Seeing that, Kyōka-san completely lost her composure.
"…Was that too much?"
Watching her panic, I couldn’t help but feel a bit rattled myself.
Was it really that big of a deal to make a big hole in the mannequin?
Sure, I put a bit of effort into it, but even magic school students could cast spells like that, right?
As I wondered, Kyōka-san eventually came closer, practically spilling out her words in excitement.
"That’s incredible…! I’ve never seen an <Idea> so focused on destruction before!"
"Really? I figured any Slayer could probably do something like that."
"No, no! As I mentioned before, this mannequin is made of a very special material. It’s not something that can be easily destroyed!"
"Ah, I see... I didn’t know that. Well, I guess mine is destruction-focused, after all."
I scratched the back of my head, trying to brush it off.
The truth was, calling it destruction-focused was a complete lie.
With the memories of a Sage, I could freely wield over a thousand different kinds of magic.
...But if I said that, it would probably cause even more trouble.
Well, even by Venolind’s standards, there aren’t many people who could use that much magic.
"So, does this mean I passed?"
"Of course! No one has ever gotten results like this before!"
"Really..."
"This device is used by other companies too, but for newcomers, the highest score is usually around 200!"
Simply put, that’s more than three times the highest recorded score...
No wonder she was so shocked, and no wonder I got this kind of reaction.
I guess I should be glad I wasn’t treated like a monster.
...Wait, could it be that Slayers are actually weaker than I thought?
"Well, it was just a fluke. I was really in a good mood today."
"Even if it was just a fluke, that’s more than enough! Now, since you passed the test, let’s move forward with the paperwork!"
Kyōka-san hurriedly urged me, seemingly eager to finalize everything today.
We returned to the office, and she immediately took out a tablet.
"Do you have your resume with you?"
"Yes, here you go."
"Also, I’ll need your number card for identity verification."
After quickly completing the identity check with my number card, Kyōka-san began reviewing my resume.
When she reached the qualifications section, her expression changed slightly.
"You have a License for Handling Explosives? That’s quite rare."
"I got it from a part-time job I had before. Do you use it for dungeons?"
"Sometimes we use explosives to clear paths. It’s also useful to have a firearms license, but since you have an attack-type <Idea>, you should be fine!"
I was surprised to learn that Slayers use such things too.
As I was impressed, Kyōka-san finished checking my resume and smiled.
"It looks like there are no issues! Here’s the contract. Please read it carefully before signing."
"Yes!"
The words "Slayer Employment Contract" were displayed on the screen.
Seeing that, I felt my nerves tighten.
Oh, if I sign this, I’ll officially become a Slayer...!
I immediately began reading through all the conditions thoroughly.
I don’t think Kyōka-san is a bad person, but it’s important to go over these things carefully.
If there’s any discrepancy, I won’t be able to fix it later.
In this day and age, scams are no joke.
"For our company, the starting salary for newcomers is 150,000 yen. On top of that, you’ll earn commissions. This includes earnings from selling materials brought back from dungeons or rewards from monster exterminations. The company and the Slayer split it 30/70."
"I see. So the 150,000 yen is a minimum guarantee, right?"
"Yes, that’s the idea! Even in the case of illness or injury, you can count on that amount."
"...By the way, how much do people typically earn in commissions?"
I swallowed nervously as I asked, hesitantly.
After all, how much I could earn was the most important factor.
Being a Slayer known for making a lot of money, I wondered if there were players in smaller companies earning over a million yen.
Ideally, if I could earn over 500,000 yen, I could cover Nami's tuition and live comfortably.
In a perfect world, I’d want to live in a place with proper security for Nami.
"Well, we are still a small company, so... it’s about 300,000 yen."
"300,000 yen? Hmm..."
With a basic salary of 150,000 yen per month, that’s 1.8 million yen a year.
Adding 300,000 yen in commissions, the annual income would be 4.8 million yen...
Given the appearance of the company, I had a hunch, but earning less than 500,000 yen is a bit tough.
As a newcomer, the total income with base salary and commissions might only be around 3 million yen.
But, compared to not having a job at all, this is definitely better.
If I work hard, I could probably earn even more.
"Ahaha... Well, if you’re going to be a Slayer, you’d want to aim for billions, right? Actually, the top-tier people at large companies earn that much."
Seeing my grim expression, Kyōka-san smiled wryly.
...Hmm, I feel like something’s off here.
I can understand a million yen, but why is she mentioning billions?
"Wait, could it be that the commissions... are you talking about 300,000 yen per month?"
"Huh? You thought it was per year? No way, even for a small company, there’s no way that’s the case."
Kyōka-san burst out laughing, as if to say "don’t joke around."
So, what she’s saying is, the people who earn big here have a base salary of 150,000 yen plus 300,000 yen in commissions per month.
That means they’re earning 37.8 million yen a year...!?
That’s more than ten times the average annual income!
I knew Slayers were considered the "winners," but just how much can they make!?
And with that kind of modest face, is this the financial mindset in a profitable industry like this...!?
"Th-that's incredible...!!!!"
"We're still nothing compared to others."
"Please, hire me immediately! I mean, please, let me start working right away!!"
"W-wait!?!"
Without thinking, I grabbed Kyōka-san's hand and shook it.
Though overwhelmed by my sudden enthusiasm, she nodded vigorously.
"Alright! Then finally, please sign this."
With that, Kyōka-san pulled out a paper document from her desk.
Why is this one on paper when everything else has been digital?
I had that question in mind, but when I looked at the document, I understood immediately.
At the top, the word "Agreement" was written in bold letters.
"It says there's a possibility of death or permanent injury while on duty..."
"...Yes. Over 300 Slayers die every year."
Kyōka-san’s tone shifted, becoming serious as she spoke.
Perhaps someone close to her has lost their life in this line of work.
Her eyes reflected a quiet sorrow, and they eloquently conveyed the darker side of being a Slayer.
"The job of a Slayer has many rewards, but it also comes with great risks. You can still turn back now. Are you sure you want to go through with it?"
"...In this day and age, if you don’t take risks, you’ll just lose everything."
In this day and age, there’s no such thing as success without risk.
If I had to live my life forever, being exploited by someone as if I were already dead... then I’d rather take the danger.
Fortunately, I have experience as an adventurer from my past life.
This isn’t the first time I’ve fought for my life.
Taking the pen she handed me, I signed without hesitation.
...Alright, this is it.
The birth of Slayer Sakuragaku Amaheto.
"I’ve received it. Welcome to Shijou Company!"
After putting the agreement in a small safe, Kyōka-san immediately flashed a bright smile.
And so, I took my first step as a Slayer.
——.