As a Reincarnated Aristocrat, I'll Use My Appraisal Skill to Rise in the World Episode 3: Answer

The episode opens with Hibiki Manao arriving at the grand Devi Introduction Agency, seeking a bodyguard for his travels. He is immediately greeted by Ajalatan Devi, the agency's eccentric owner, who, with an almost supernatural sniff, declares Hibiki possesses a "fragrant scent of fortune." Devi's theatrics and pronouncements of impending wealth set a strange tone for Hibiki's recruitment mission. This introduction establishes Devi's unique character and his immediate, profit-driven interest in Hibiki.

Hibiki is presented with a formidable line-up of muscular bodyguards, each flexing impressive brawn. However, he quickly dismisses them, noting their significantly low Magic Power (MP) despite their physical prowess. For Hibiki's specific needs, raw strength is insufficient; he requires companions with substantial magical reserves. His rejection highlights a core aspect of his character, prioritizing unseen capabilities over obvious ones.

Intrigued by Devi's continued sniffing and pronouncements of fortune, Hibiki uses his appraisal skill on the agency owner. He discovers Devi possesses a 'Fortune Sniffing' skill, confirming that his odd behavior is directly linked to the scent of massive potential wealth. This revelation prompts Hibiki to request to see Devi's "problematic" clients, sensing an opportunity where others see only trouble. The world rewards those who look deeper than the surface.

Led deeper into the agency's prison-like cells, Hibiki finds Claude Abalas, a massive werewolf, and Lilian Rouge, a young girl, huddled together. Devi explains their imprisonment: Claude for a protective rampage and Lilian for her uncontrolled, dangerous magical outbursts. The pair's intimidating yet tragic appearance immediately sets them apart, their presence hinting at a deeper story of misunderstood power. Hibiki feels a sense of empathy for these outcasts, reflecting his own solitary journey.

Undeterred by their reputations, Hibiki activates his 'Divine Eyes' to appraise Claude and Lilian. He sees past the suppressions, revealing Claude as a level 95 'Hero' afflicted by a powerful curse, and Lilian as a 'Sage' with an immense, volatile MP pool. A divine voice from the Main God confirms his eyes are an unprecedented gift to see the world's deepest secrets. Hibiki also discovers 'Rescue Measure', a skill capable of alleviating external restrictions.

Hibiki shocks Devi by announcing his decision to hire Claude and Lilian, sending the agency owner into a comical, exaggerated dance of financial glee. Hibiki then leads his new companions to a secluded forest clearing, where he calmly explains his intent to treat their conditions. He appeals to Lilian's loyalty, reminding her how Claude has always protected her, urging her to help him now. Her agreement sets the stage for a powerful healing ritual.

With Lilian channeling her immense magical energy, Hibiki casts 'Perfect Heal' on Claude, enveloping the werewolf in a column of vibrant blue light. Afterward, Hibiki activates his 'Rescue Measure' skill, causing a colossal pair of scissors to descend and sever one of the 'Fixed Eight Chains' binding Claude. The hero lets out a pained gasp, then marvels as a portion of his strength returns, a testament to Hibiki's unique abilities. This act of liberation earns Hibiki profound gratitude and an apology from the once-hostile Claude.

Humbled by Hibiki's act of mercy, Claude falls to his knees and offers to perform the 'Ritual of Loyalty,' a binding master-servant contract. Hibiki, understanding the depth of Claude's gratitude, accepts. A beam of light descends, and a magical sigil appears on both Claude's chest and Hibiki's hand, solidifying their new, unbreakable bond. Claude pledges his unwavering service, cementing a partnership born from compassion and redemption.

As the newly formed party travels, Claude deduces that Hibiki is a "Drifter" from another world, connected to the powerful Main God, a deity he describes as the highest among eleven. Suddenly, the Majin, a dark and elegant goddess, appears in Hibiki's mind, playfully bickering with the Main God. The Majin then upgrades Hibiki's 'Magic Book' skill, allowing him to manage Lilian's volatile magical power automatically. This divine intervention reshapes Hibiki's abilities and destiny.

Following the Majin's intervention, Hibiki activates his newly upgraded 'Magic Book' skill, summoning a burst of smoke and light. From the magical display emerges Bene, a small, cheerful cat familiar, sent specifically by the Majin to help Lilian control her magic. Lilian is immediately enchanted by the cute creature. Claude, however, reacts with surprising, almost childish jealousy, demonstrating a lighter, more vulnerable side of the formidable hero.

Away from Hibiki's burgeoning party, Emaria, Ivelle, and Stieria find a moment of peace at a hot spring under a starry sky. They enjoy the warm water, with Stieria's playful antics adding a touch of levity. The scene provides a tranquil contrast to Hibiki's unfolding adventure, highlighting the parallel journeys of the characters. They reflect on their own mission and wonder about Hibiki's progress, leaving their paths open to future intersection.