The Strongest Job Is Apparently Not a Hero or a Sage, but an Appraiser (Provisional)! Episode 3: Episode 3

Hibiki Manabe arrives at the grand Devi Agency, seeking protection for his travels. He is met by Ajaratan Devi, a flamboyant man whose enthusiasm seems to swell with the imagined scent of Hibiki's wealth. Hibiki quietly appraises the situation, finding the initial bodyguard options—a group of overly muscular men—unsuitable for his needs. His discerning eye quickly moves beyond brute strength, searching for something deeper, something more useful than mere muscle. He needs companions with magical prowess, a trait the burly men distinctly lack.

As Hibiki and Ajaratan move deeper into the agency, the opulent decor gives way to a grimmer, dungeon-like atmosphere. Hibiki uses his appraisal skill on Ajaratan, discovering the merchant's 'Golden Luck Scent' skill, a peculiar ability that explains his almost magnetic attraction to wealthy clients. Ajaratan mentions two 'difficult' individuals imprisoned below, but Hibiki's empathy for outcasts overrides any warnings. He finds Claude Aparas, a formidable wolf-man, and Lillian Rouge, a frightened young girl, confined behind rusty bars. The contrasting figures and their shared confinement immediately hint at a deeper story.

Hibiki unleashes his 'All-Knowing Eye,' a divine gift that cuts through all illusions, revealing the shocking truths about Claude and Lillian. Claude is a Level 95 Hero, bound by a powerful curse, while Lillian is a Level 1 Sage, whose immense, uncontrolled magic is consuming her life force. The sheer volume of information overwhelms Hibiki, but he quickly grasps the magnitude of his discovery. Despite Ajaratan's protests, Hibiki resolves to hire both of them, understanding that his unique abilities offer their only chance at survival. He then consults his internal system, Sapo-chan, for guidance on healing them.

Freed from their cell, Claude and Lillian stand in a forest clearing, warily facing Hibiki. Claude demands to know Hibiki's true intentions, his wolf-like form still radiating distrust. Hibiki calmly states his plan to cure Claude's curse and help Lillian control her rampant magic. Lillian's eyes widen with a fragile hope, and she appeals to Claude, expressing her desire to trust Hibiki. Her plea softens Claude's guarded demeanor, an early sign of their developing bond.

Hibiki initiates a mana-sharing contract with Lillian, drawing upon her vast, untamed magical power. He then casts 'Perfect Heal' on Claude, enveloping the wolf-man in a brilliant pillar of blue energy. Claude roars as his old injuries and internal ailments are mended, his body transforming back to its peak condition. Lillian watches with pure, unadulterated joy, her guardian's restoration a profound moment for them both. The magical display is impressive, showcasing the immediate and powerful effects of Hibiki's healing abilities.

A newly revitalized Claude tests his strength, overwhelmed by a physical wholeness he had long forgotten. Hibiki then reveals he knows Claude is a legendary Hero and Lillian a Sage, titles usually hidden by divine concealment. This revelation shatters Claude's composure, bringing him to tears as he grasps that Hibiki sees them for who they truly are. Hibiki then attempts to break Claude's curse with his 'Relief Measure' skill, shattering one of the spectral chains that bind Claude's power. While not a complete cure, it is more than anyone else has achieved, further solidifying Claude's awe and respect.

Convinced of Hibiki's extraordinary nature, Claude formally requests to perform the 'Oath of Loyalty,' a sacred ritual that binds him as Hibiki's knight and protector. Though Hibiki initially hesitates, Claude's unwavering sincerity moves him to accept. The master-servant contract ceremony is performed, with the skies responding to the powerful magic. Golden light envelops Hibiki and Claude, and magical crests appear on their hands, symbolizing their unbreakable bond. Lillian claps with delight, sensing the formation of their new, unique family unit.

The narrative briefly shifts to another corner of the world, introducing two elven sisters, Stieria and Emaria, accompanied by a human archer, Ibel. Emaria complains about their long journey, while Stieria remains stoic, focused on their mission. They discuss reaching a hot spring to rest, hinting at their own ongoing quest. This interlude offers a glimpse into other lives and narratives within the broader world, momentarily expanding the story's scope. It's a quick, refreshing break from the main group's unfolding drama.

Back on a mountain ridge, Hibiki is caught talking to himself, which perplexes Claude until Hibiki reveals he is conversing with the goddess who brought him to this world. Claude is awestruck to learn Hibiki is a 'world-crosser' receiving direct divine guidance. Claude then provides context about the world's deities, explaining that Hibiki's benefactor is likely the Great God, the supreme being. This realization deepens Claude's already profound respect for Hibiki, further solidifying their bond through shared, extraordinary revelations.

Within Hibiki's mental space, the Great God is joined by a mysterious, dark-clad woman who introduces herself as the Demon God, or Majin. She playfully teases the Great God about Hibiki's progress, expressing particular interest in Lillian's uncontrolled magic. The Majin offers a solution, granting Hibiki the 'Grimoire of the Evil God' to stabilize magic power in those he's contracted with. Despite Hibiki's wariness of the name, the Majin assures him it is a powerful tool. The interaction between the gods provides a humorous and intriguing glimpse into the divine politics of this world.

Hibiki activates the Grimoire in the physical world, and from a puff of smoke appears Vene, a small, fluffy white cat familiar. Vene, with a squeaky voice, announces she was sent by the Majin to be Lillian's magic tutor and familiar. Lillian is instantly smitten, pulling the cat into a tight, comedic hug. Hibiki is relieved that Lillian now has a companion for her unique magical challenges. Claude, ever watchful, observes the new addition with a mixture of amusement and lingering caution.

As Lillian playfully interacts with Vene, a moment of lighthearted comedy ensues as Claude exhibits a surprising streak of jealousy. The massive wolf-man subtly vies for Hibiki's attention, comically seeking headpats and affection. This unexpected display of neediness from the formidable Hero highlights the quickly blossoming, familial bond within the group. The episode then concludes with Stieria, Emaria, and Ibel relaxing in a tranquil hot spring, discussing their family and hinting at their own mysterious mission. It is a quiet end to an episode brimming with revelations and new beginnings.