Chapter 333 - Revisit of Fortress City Hekatrail

The new office of Remains of the Moon was situated in New Town, and New Town was what anyone would call a slum. But, the vicinity of the new office was bustling with so much activity that no one would ever expect this to be a slum. The scale of the population here induced the misunderstanding that the new office was actually located at a plaza of the fortress city itself.

Scaled peoplekaramnians selling woodwork, dwarves selling fur, humans planning how to build a shop specialized on ancient gold coins, an elven adamantine artisan selling adamantine arrows, a small beastmanNoir Runner carrying wool, a catmananmul displaying his prowess in martial arts, and a weaselwomangrili laughing while holding spear and sword.

A leopardmansebalka spear user, who looked like the spitting copy of Kazun, glared at the tigermanrazeil warrior with a j.a.panese conical hat opposite of him. A sebalka coachman gazed at that as if resignedly muttering, A duel, huh?, while steering his coach, just to almost crash into an oncoming coach after derailing from the course.

A human adventurer, walking on the other side, pointed at the mark on the cheek of an elven magician. While looking up to that, a small noir runner swordsman powerfully declared If its a mark, Ive got one as well, and immediately lowered the box he had been carrying on the ground, just to extend a staff from his back. A flag unfolded at the tip of that staff, having the words Peerless imprinted on it.

Moreover, the noir runner began to sing, In thiiiiis Fortress Cityyyyy, Im goooing to make a naaaaaaame for myseeeeelf!, in a loud voice which was very uncharacteristic of his race. Immediately following, he opened up his box to the sides, and, unexpectedly, started selling weapons on the street.

Just this little extract showed already how many different merchants, adventurers, and martial arts pract.i.tioners, frequented this part of New Town, even including queer noir runners. Everyone restlessly sold all kinds of commodities they had procured from various places such as toolboxes, cosmetics cases, fur, root crops, oil, beads, wool, fish, raim pelts, meat, natural sugar, salt, cueton fruits, quary beans, raim beans, crook nuts, magic cigars, and so on. Among them were also merchants exchanging goods with goods.

New Town truly had the flair of being a new town.

There were three major reasons for this thriving activity.

First, the existence of the s.h.i.+p company run by Remains of the Moon. Even right now, men of that s.h.i.+p company were in the middle of talking on the deck of a s.h.i.+p.

A tough man with finely chiseled features said, But, I must say, its a surprise that we could directly sail so smoothly all the way here from the Ocean Light City, to a fishman.

His name was Ghet. He had been imprisoned under deck just like other sailors after getting caught by the pirates of Oil Sh.e.l.l Miguln. In short, he was one of those who were rescued by Shuuya and his friends. At the time of his rescueGhet felt a mysterious bond with Shuuya as if having his whole body engulfed in a tremendous, orange wind. But, for a certain reason, he never voiced this out.

By the way, when Shuuya caught sight of Ghet for the first time, he evaluated his face to be similar to that of Captain Cook.

Nowadays, Ghet was exerting his shrewdness as captain of Black Cat, the s.h.i.+p of Remains of the Moon, but just like with his s.h.i.+p mates, he had never mentioned this to his direct boss, Vice-Guildmaster Mel - the fact that he was originating from the Spirit Fog Island.

That island lay in the eastern part of the Heim Ocean. And Ghet had never talked about that island to anyone, buthe had boasted to his fellow sailors about the time when he belonged to the Nanaphus.h.i.+ Party, and told them a heroic saga of him partic.i.p.ating in the battle over the Illusionary Silver s.h.i.+p and the scramble for resources against Fishman Pirate Atenboroul and many other pirates.

The fame of the Blood Moon Sea Stars Alliance has a tremendous effect. Even the Harmit Troupe of the multi-country archipelago pa.s.sed us by while staying away. The fishman recited the alliance names as if it was some sort of license.

Certainly, it goes far enough to make journeying the Heim Rivers golden route a cozy breeze. It almost feels as if you belong to the officially recognized Twelve Great Pirate Crews.

Gubaba, captain, you dropped a really big name there. As expected, even you dont believe that our guildmaster possesses a Great Pirates Letter of Marque, do you?

The letter of marque mentioned by the fishman was an official license certifying that a country gave its formal permission to attack s.h.i.+ps of foreign countries. The twelve famous, great pirate crews had each received such a permit from different cities and countries. For a long time now, the battles over attacking and being attacked had been continuing on the Grand Sea (Note: my fingers are itching to change change sea to line)which spanned over the Heim Ocean and Rodelia Ocean.

You dont need to tell me. But, Rock, are you alright on your end? You betrayed your former pirate crew, and became a member of Remains of the Moon which operates in one region of the continent, moreover, mostly on land

I dont mind, captain. After all, it allows me to return to my beloved Ocean Light City. Besides, theres also a private, major reason beyond that.

What would that be?

I fell in love with Vice-Guildmaster Mel.

Ghet was startled by Rocks confession. With both shoulders trembling, he grandly spread both his arms.

You fell in love with the vice-guildmaster, you say? She belongs to the top bra.s.s of the highest leaders, you know? How could?

Ghet felt pity for him while looking at Rocks sidelocks, gills and horns.

Everyone knows that vice-guildmaster is in love with the guildmaster. Hes the great spearmaster whos saved my life. Hes got a flat face which is unusual around here, but on top of being good-looking, hes also very strong. Rock, theres no way that youve got a chance against that man. Butpersonal affections are free.

Moreover, hes an important work colleague. I suppose Ill earnestly support this fishman with his loveand try to indirectly bring up the idea of a drinking party with Vice-Guildmaster Mel when we get back to Pelneet. If I tell her that its also going to be a talk about the s.h.i.+p companys countermeasures against pirates, I should get Vice-Guildmaster Mel to show up as well.

As a fishman hes of a different race, but Rock is always doing his best with his work as a sailor with basic s.h.i.+p operations and defense duties in various regions such as the Ocean Light City. Ive gotta answer his work ethics as his captain. After all, the violent seas of Mother Nature, monsters, and pirates are awaiting us on our future trips.

Sea G.o.d Sepiton-sama, please give your blessing to everyone on the Black Cat, and Rocks romance.

While putting on a stern expression as captain, Ghet offered a prayer to Sea G.o.d Sepiton.

The second reason was the lord of Hekatrail, Chardonnay. She was currently receiving a report from her elderly attendant Shark in a room of the lords official residence - a big, square room.

A bluish-purple, rectangle crystal was burning inside a fireplace. The bluish-white and violet flames dyed the room in bewitching colors while looking as if they were dancing. A special aroma filled the whole place, bringing about a graceful ambiance suiting Chardonnays private room.

Its quite unexpected for that place to turn into a gold mine

Indeed.

I wonder whether I should take advantage of Blood and Moon here, and get on with the reformation of the slims with their low tax revenue

I believe that to be a good idea. It sounds like talks about enterprises majorly investing in the Surgebald territory located in the southern part of Leften. Lets incite a revitalization of the highway by disseminating this news to the smaller and medium companies with the focus on the Hekatrail Fanclub under the pretext of maintenance for the overland routes.

While nodding at Sharks comment, Chardonnay looked at the person she had added as new aide.

Buying him was definitely the right choice. Black War G.o.d Genzaburou MikamiI was startled when the trade with the merchants increased all at once after adopting his opinion

Did you also work on urban planning in the past?

Your Excellency, I only knew of the Optimization of Profit by chanceuntil I put it into practice according to my favorite motto, which is also the name of my ability, Engraving Things in Mind. Besides, since its said that Only nothing can be produced out of nothing, Hekatrail had the foundation for all this to begin with. Genzaburou Mikami said with a sharp glint in his eyes, but a cool expression that fit his gla.s.ses.

You may look unhealthy, but nothing less of personnel sold at the Underground Auction

I am deeply thankful for you having bought this unworthy me Genzaburou Mikami bowed in a very j.a.panese way without changing his steel-like gaze.

His conduct as he bowed showed absolutely no opening, similar to the very personification of a j.a.panese person.

Chardonnay narrowed her eyes

It was spot on to have partic.i.p.ated in the auction, even if it was somewhat forced! Ive obtained a clever, highly skilled man for a bargain! I had considered entrusting him with the wars shock corps to make Musaka surrender, but it looks like hell bring about result even if I let him handle Sharks counterintelligence platoon Chardonnay a.s.sessed in her mind while twining her curly blond hair around a finger.

And, the last reason was an effect of the alliance between Remains of the Moon, the dark guild ruling the underworld of Labyrinth City Pelneet, and b.l.o.o.d.y Long Ears of the White Whale, the dark guild ruling the underworld of Fortress City Hekatrail. The alliance between those two guilds became known as Blood Moon Armed Might in the underworld because of their power relations.h.i.+p. And the other dark guilds of Hekatrail strongly felt the threat.

In this situation, the rumor of the spearmaster having single-handedly crushed Noctals Oath reached Hekatrail. Moreover, once rumors about the major leaders of b.l.o.o.d.y Long Ears, Combat Fairy Clydossus and Ledond of the Wind, freely frequenting the office of Remains of the Moon started to crop upall the small dark guilds harboring the ambition to rise to power in this land genuinely started to fear the alliance of Blood and Moon.

Among them were also some strong fighters wis.h.i.+ng to make a name for themselves by fighting and defeating the famous spearmaster, butmost recently impostors who arbitrarily took on the spearmasters name were popping up all over the city, making it next to impossible to tell who was the real deal.

This also gave birth to puzzling disputes in some places, and because some of those impostors were actually truly strong spear users at times, it escalated the chaos even further.

Those spear users were later given a new name besides the official t.i.tle of Eight Lights or Remains of the Moon - the victors of the Dignified Heavens Shrine where the Shadow Wing Brigade found its end, Dignified Heavens Moon.

And the folks who had been hostile to the office of Remains of the Moon, or of the new Dignified Heavens Moonkept striking up conversations with the beautiful receptionist with completely nonchalant faces.

Sherry, yer the subordinate of that spearmaster, arent ye? A man asked in a peculiar tone.

His hair was ruffled and unkempt, but each single strand of it moved as if to entwine around Sherrys face. The mana dwelling his hair had a quality as it was necessary for techniques based on .

It was a fluent movement, giving anyone the impression a spirit was dwelling within his hair, but it only woke discomfort within Sherry.

Renshou-san, since a while now this man has been acting overly familiar with me Sherry possessed experience as a barmaid, but even for her it was the first time to encounter someone who acted so intimately on a first meeting with her.

While feeling as if having her whole body touched and tampered with by his thin, hair-like strands, she deeply furrowed her brows, experiencing a strong pang of disgust.

He, Kary, is definitely a shady guy. But, hes such a big gun that you could call him the best free hitman currently residing in Hekatrail.

Youre exaggerating. You seem quite strong yourself. Im sure youd be able to give me s.h.i.+vers

Renshou-san, is this truly alright? Deep creases formed on Sherrys forehead.

Now, now, dont glare so muchHes my bodyguard since Im about to sell information about the marquess side, which was procured by Commandments of Rozen, to Remains of the Moon as present.

Im a bodyguard? But, you sure got a nice personalityfor a traitor.

What was that?

Seemingly having his mood spoiled, Renshou lifted an arm as if to show off his sleeve while deploying a thin, black defensive film beneath his neck from the lower part of his gas-mask-like magic tool.

Going by that delicious-looking mana faintly leaking out of that cuff, youre a unique dark device user? Kary asked while recalling that there had been someone similar among his friends.

Having pointed this out to him, Renshou felt panicked in his mind, thinking I havent shown him my snow blizzard technique yet, but that f.u.c.ker seems pretty perceptive, but then spoke up after a short break while straining himself to keep up a cool and composed air, Did you forget that its me who pays you money?

No, not at all. I havent forgotten that at all?

Kary narrowed his eyes, pondering, Should I fight him once the jobs over? It might be to my advantage. As long as I earn cash, Alford probably wont bicker around even if the client dies.

Then stop b.u.t.ting in. Besides, betrayal is an everyday occurrence, right?

Youre not wrong there.

I just want to join the winners side. Very soon Ancient City Musaka is going to be ravaged by the flames of war. Im sure you also heard about this?

I didOseberias army has crossed the Heim, right?

Renshou nodded at Karys words, then he turned his eyes towards Sherry, And thats where you come inSherry. Id like you to get in touch with the top bra.s.s of Remains of the Moon for an old friend.

Get in touchthis office has just opened recently. Im no more than a branch member at present, so it puts me on the spot if you tell me to get in contact with the top bra.s.s.

Sherry stared at the leaders of b.l.o.o.d.y Long Ears who were resting inside the office. It was a look implicitly asking Renshou, Could you describe those people there as top bra.s.s?.

Well, whatever. Lets go and greet the b.l.o.o.d.y Long Ears members then.

Ive got my job to take care of.

Roger.

Renshou averted his eyes from Sherry, exchanged a look with Kary next to him while putting on a leather ap.r.o.n and standing up. Then both approached Ledond, who was talking discreetly, and Clydossus, who was cheerfully chatting, inside the office.

While watching that, Sherry wondered whether thatd turn alright.

They wont start a fight here, will they? Sheeshit really makes me feel like giving up on this job. The pay is good, but its tough to work in a place so full of tension

The work at my previous thief guild was a lot more relaxed since I only had to pa.s.s on informationokay, I think Ill stop working for Remains of the Moon.

But, I want to help Quiches with the building of a new hometown Since farm work is really tough, I must do my best to earn as much cash as possibleyep. I guess Ill persevere a bit longer as a clerk for Remains of the Moon.

Still, for my former boss Renshou-san to suddenly show up heremoreover for a strong person like him to apologize to his former underlingI didnt see that coming. Either way, the eyes of that Kary guy are scary.

Just as she was watching his back, thinking, I really cant stand him since hes somehow eerie, Kary abruptly looked back at her, and broadly grinned with his cursed smile at her. It looked to Sherry as though his expression and the saddlecloth he was carrying at his chest were entwined in a complicated manner, totally giving her the chills.

The next day after my night of happiness with Nora, a tiny Helme is buoyantly floating up and down in my visual field. Having returned into my left eye, Helme doesnt comment anything about my s.e.x night with Nora.

Im taking a relaxed walk with Rollo. I think the new office of Remains of the Moon should be this way

The place is noisy and busy with people coming and going. Theres also a stand selling grilled dango. This area has apparently expanded since my last visit.

By the way Ive told Nora, with whom I parted ways at the inn, the location of Remains of the Moon and my homes address in Pelneet.

On that occasion I also told her that I will escort her there, but Nora answered, Im happy about the offer, but that kindness of yours is poison, you know?

Sorry.

Fufu, dont look so depressedeven Ino, nothing. Anyway, before Im going to visit my sister in Pelneet, I have to put some things in order, so see you later. Nora informed me after getting up early in the morning.

Her face told me that she was reluctant to leave, butshe swiftly finished putting on her clothes so as to hide her seductive body. And then she thoroughly hugged Rollo who had returned to the inn.

After letting go of her, Nora headed over to the door with a graceful stride, and opened it. The lamps light s.h.i.+ning into the room looked dazzling as if a mirror was overlapping with her.

Nora looked back, casting a smile at me, and after sending a wink my way, she quickly turned on her heels. Even her way of leaving was that of a great woman

While recalling my separation with herI walk through the bustling New Townand discover the new office of Remains of the Moon. Its a new office building, but I immediately know that Im right here. The brand new signboard has the shape of a moon while depicting a black cat. That moon is probably designed in the same way as the mark decorating the surface of the thick door leading to the bas.e.m.e.nt of Pelneets Lodging Moon of the Labyrinth. Its not like that of an express home delivery service, but still easy to understand.

And then the front door is opened widely. Various people are repeatedly entering and leaving the buildingas if being guaranteed the freedom of trade during the Free Markets and Open Guild Policy of the Azuchimomoyama Period.

Alright, Im first going to enter and give a greeting. I step into the building with a feel of going undercover as a regular office worker despite being the CEO and company president.

As soon as I enter the office with my chest puffed up in pride, a cypress fragrance tickles my nose. Entering through my nose, it penetrates all over my body

When leaving the inn, I had cleaned my body by having Helme wrap up my body with a water membrane, which also served as training for , butbeing able to get a whiff of such a nice scent somehow gives me a good mood, as if having my body purified.

In such a great mood, I walk across the light brown floor with my arms swinging widely back and forth while Rollo moves her nose, sniffing the air.

The office of Remains of the Moon is crowded. Theres so many different races in here that you might actually mistake this place as an adventurer guild at a glance. All of them look extremely busy.

Among them I also see a hunter with characteristically close cropped hair and a dense beard. I think the hunter is a butcher. The human, who seems to work as hunter and butcher, takes mutton meat out of his jute bag, and places it on the desk. And then he writes down the amount of mutton on a doc.u.ment on that desk with a quill.

Next to the butcher are dwarves who have placed a heavy-looking leathercraft on the floor.

It looks like trade with the Phenimul Village is going to be profitable, becomes the starter for a discussion about the resale of lathe magic crystals.

The places name tickles a light curiosity in me.

This place looks more like the office of a company than a dark guild. Well, its only logical as dark guilds also serve as enterprises and companies, I suppose.

While listening to the conversations around meI meet the eyes of a pretty woman when I approach the counter. Hmm? Freckled cheeks?

Oooohhhh! Its Sherry!

Sherry?

Eh? Oh, Shuuya-san!?

The instant Sherry yells that, the office of Remains of the Moon becomes deadly silent. The staff members part to the left and right around me. They do it with such a momentum that Im reminded of Moses.

And thenis it ma.s.s psychology or a mentality of blindly following the h.o.a.rd?a trader of horsehide crafts and merchants holding large amounts of cotton seed also move to the sides in a fl.u.s.ter.

Everyone also distances themselves from Rollo, causing her to meow, Nnn, nya? I immediately grasp that my partners cry means she is asking about whats going on.

Suddenly, I sense a strangely sticky gaze from behind the reception. I want to look at Sherry, I want to talk to her, butinstinctively, I make eye contact with the nasty look directed at me.

You kidding? All of a sudden I get melancholic. Why the h.e.l.l is Kary of the Shadow Wing Brigade over there? The Kary who fought Veronica and Mel. Moreoverisnt that Clydossus and Ledond next to him? In addition theres also some fishy guy with a gas-mask-like protective mask with them. However, Im slightly confused as they dont seem to have a hostile atmosphere going.

But, I think Sherry comes first.

Sherry, Im happy to see you doing fine. When I heard your name from Mel, I thought that it couldnt be, but for it to really be youwhat a happy coincidence.

Yes! Im of course doing fine, Shuuya-san Sherry directs a smile as bright as a sunflower at me.

But then she apparently recalls the past matter at the bar, and averts her eyes to the side with her freckled cheeks glowing scarlet. Sherry is turning the tip of her slender chin diagonally below. I naturally follow that diagonalor rather, my eyes are drawn to her abundant b.o.o.bs.

Yep! Theyre magnificent, huge b.o.o.bs. No different from before. The past me who has played around with those big t.i.tssomehow p.i.s.ses me off now. Such wonderful b.r.e.a.s.t.s! Past me, what a pervert you were!

While thinking all those r.e.t.a.r.ded things, Haha, by the way, hows Quiche doing?

Hearing my words, Sherry looks at me face, and apparently senses that Ive thought about weird stuff. After smiling cutely, Ah, Im sure you must be curious about her. Quiche isnt in Hekatrail. I think youve heard about it, but shes at a Sea of Trees on the other side of the Baldok Woodlands, beyond the southern Hino Village. Quiches hometown is located deep in the mountains of that Sea of Trees, butcurrently shes struggling to rebuild her hometown there by building a new village. Thats why Ive been also trying to do my best by cultivating Good Net Gra.s.syoimoy, starting a breeding of raim and sheep, albeit on a small scale, and building a small farm while cooperating with the children of Hino, but

Did something happen? Sherry looks kinda devastated.

Is something wrong?

Cases of the fields being ruined and the cattle disappearing little-by-little keep occurring.

Keep occurring means that its still happening? Have you found out whether its monsters or thieves?

Yes, we think its monsters. Big footprints are usually left behind whenever it happens. But, the children with adventurer experience, who followed those footsteps, went missing during the pursuit

N, nyaa.

Rollo had played with those children in the past. Recalling the past, she might be telling me that we should save them. If its the children who were with Quiche

That sounds terrible.

It is. Quiche immediately went after the children, investigating their whereabouts. But, countless monster dens, including those of orcs, exist over there. Unlike the Hino Village, Quiches new place is in a part of the woodlands. So there are things like dragons from Baldok Mountain, or the ants from the famous Bewitching Baraydus Mansionin the end, we couldnt find the children anywhere. For this reason, we thought about hiring adventurers, but its an unexplored regionand with the rebuilding of the village costing a lotwe couldnt hire anyone. As the children are staying unaccounted for, Quiche has been blaming herself

Come on, for real?

I seeare you possibly working here to raise the necessary funds, Sherry?

Yes. Ive been scouted by the vice-guildmaster lady of Remains of the Moon. She told me, Youre an agent of the thief guild Commandments of Rozen, arent you? Im going to pay you twice of what theyre paying you, so wont you offer your talents and beauty to us?. I dont know how she obtained that information about me, but I got persuaded really skillfully. Theres also the matter of me needing money, just as I told you a moment ago, so

Its quite typical of Mel. Was she accompanied by an elf with a square face and a katana-wielding beauty with short, black hair?

Oh, yes. I was really startled when I later heard that those two were big leaders of the guild. Or ratheras expected, Shuuya-san, youre Noticing the attention from those around us, Sherry shook her head lightly. While fidgeting, she continued, the guildmaster of Remains of the Moon, arent you?

Yes, I am.

Umm, the thing at the bar

She seems to have suddenly become conscious of me being her boss. Her small lips, which I had flooded with many kisses, and her delicate arms are trembling. I think shes feeling uneasy. Even though its nothing shed need to worry about

I gently cup her hand with mine to alleviate her anxiety, Of course, its a memory I cherish.

It makes me happy to hear that.

Sherryis an adorable woman.

Spearmaster-san, I know youve got a nice mood going there, but do you possible have a moment?

I also have some business with him, just so you know.

My business takes precedence over yours

Characteristic voices are directed at me. Moreover, they spoiled the sweet mood between Sherry and me.

I wonder whether I should just ignore those voices. But, this place here is the office of Remains of the Moon, and Im the guildmaster, so far as it goes.

No helping it.

I s.h.i.+ft my eyes to the owners of those voices - Kary and the gas-mask dude. Theyre all together with Clydossus and Ledond-san being next to them.

Sherry reads the mood, Later then, Shuuya-san, and pulls away while lewdly fingering the back of my hand and whispering this to me.

Thats a former barmaid for youshes extremely skilled at appealing her erotic charm in a casual manner.

Without letting those thoughts show on my face, I meet eyes with Kary.

Kary, you sure got guts to brazenly show your dirty mug around here, dont you? I didnt forget that you poisoned Mel

Mel would have died if not for Veronica.

Id really prefer if you wouldnt give me such a scary look.

Hey, Kary, you didnt mention a word that you know

Kary let his hair stand on end as if exhibiting his combat prowess and spirit. And then he pulls off a pervert pose, showing off his nether region.

That pose is cheeky. Should I drive an ice stake into his b.u.t.t and teach him a painful lesson?

Sure

Eh?

Helme has apparently expected me to retort at that. Seemingly surprised by my honest agreement, she appears in my visual field while rotating in a deformed state. She makes her b.u.t.t wobble. And then, that b.u.t.t s.h.i.+nes so radiantly that it makes me think of a dazzling, beautiful cl.u.s.ter of neon lights.

Unconsciously, I feel like having acquired a new skill with Piiing s.h.i.+ning b.u.t.t. But, theres no one around to retort about what I should do with a s.h.i.+ning b.u.t.t anyway.

And then, as if the splendid retort of Whats the point in you wobbling your b.u.t.t? has reached Helme, she stops shaking her b.u.m.

But, rather than Helme-chan, who reflexively drew my eyes, I think I should take a closer look at the companion of Kary. The gas-mask guyhas no openings. Its obvious that hes quite a skilled fighter. What kind of effect does that gas-mask-like magic tool possess? Is it maybe something like protection against poisonous gas or some kind of sterilization?

His neck is also covered by it, so it might also serve as a neck protector, kinda like the face guard of a j.a.panese armor set. It looks oddly cool. I kinda want one as well, I think.

Since that spearmaster is angryLedond.

Yeah

Clydossus and Ledond-san, who know about me, retreat while maintaining their respective styles. Well, its a natural reaction for them whove seen me fighting in the Dignified Heavens Shrine.

Now then, I deliberatelyignore them, the problem remains Kary, after all. If Im going to fight him, its got to be outsideIll crush him there. I suppose Ill lure him out of here.

I think its only natural for me to give you a scary look, but its fine for me to a.s.sume that you came here to fight, right? If were going to do it, lets go outside, okay?

No, no, no, I didnt come here to fight. Im not a part of the brigade anymore. Right now Im working as a bodyguard to earn some cash. I mean, during the battle the other day, my life was in danger. I was desperate just to get away. Thats why Ill gladly apologize to that Mel person

Dont f.u.c.k with me.

Thinking that, I a dagger. But, Kary instantly deploys -based mana threads in front of him. My ancient dragon dagger is caught in those threads, being blocked.

Kary grabs that dagger, and licks its blade.

And? What do you think? I got stronger, didnt I? Ah, let me return this to you

Dont lick it.

He faithfully throws the dagger back to me. He seems to really have no will to fight. His expression is calm, though I dont check his nether region.

I dont want any daggers hes licked, butitd be a waste to throw away a Baldok dagger just because of that. Thus, I carefully wipe the blade with a leather cloth.

Ah, sorry. Its my habit to lick those.

It troubles me how to react if he apologizes like that.

Whatever, I cleaned it off.

Glad to hear. So, did I get you to understand? I wont fight since I dont want to die, okay? The other day I just partic.i.p.ated since it was my comrades battle. And, for the sake of survival, I made sure to not show my face up there while using a certain trick.

So thats why, huh? I suppose he didnt show up and remained in the bas.e.m.e.nt because of that. And his current composure comes from him having a.n.a.lyzed my mental state in his own way. Its a way of living for the moment, not minding even if it turns into battle.

A heart of gallantry and a crazy drive for freedom, huh? I feel like I can understand that disposition at the threshold between valor and insanity - being mad and then again not.

Without telling him any of thatas if to take a stab at the emotions behind his facade, I say, Why did you come here then? Has it something to do with the man next to you?

Correct. Besides, the fight with you is a treasure for me. And thats why, although it may sound weird, Id like you to forgive me for what Ive done the other day

Theres no way I will, is there? But, I dont plan to chase you down if you dont fight.

I guess youve come to an understandingGuildmaster of Remains of the Moon. Let me apologize for Kary once more. Im terribly sorry. The gas-mask man forces his way into our conversation.

Even if I get an apology from him

No need to. By the way, your name was?

Oh, youre right. I forgot to introduce myself. My name is Renshou. Formerly Ive been in charge of a part of the intelligence work of the Hekatrail branch of Commandments of Rozen.

I remember having heard about them.

A member of Commandments of Rozen? I recall having heard that name before. Do you know someone with the name of Crow?

You know Crow? You spell me surprised over your wide network of connections. Nothing less of a guildmaster.

Its the woman whos traveling with Kaldo. I wonder whether Yui was able to join up with them. Shes got no Rollodeen with her, so it should still be too early, huh? No wait, shes a Lucival, so she might have already joined them.

I dont know since she hasnt contacted me through a blood message. On the other hand, Viine has several times complained to me about feeling lonely

It made me worried about her training, but well, Im sure shes going to be alright.

Ive digressed, but anyway, I direct my eyes at the cla.s.sy gas mask magic tool of Renshou-san. If appraised, I might find out that its an item actually using some high technology of an ancient civilization.

No, Quiche is more important than some item Id like to have. Suppressing my hotblooded feelings, Shes an acquaintance. Are you also acquainted with Crow-san?

Ive just met her a few times, so I wont say that I know her well. Ive heard that her work over in Zamalia was superb.

Melissa has told me about the work of thief guilds in the past. They seem to dabble in many fields.

If her work ethics are as superior as he says, my Kaldo might usher her in as blood family, as his .

Is that so? But, Renshou-san, Im sorry to interrupt you in the middle of your talk, but Ive got some business to take care of. Id like you to keep it brief, if you could.

Indeed, I cant help but feel an urge to run over to Quiche as soon as possible. Just imagining her heartbroken expression makes me feel a pain in my heart. I want to help her in one way or another.

Ive been wondering whether I could get hired here as combat power for the war against Zamalia

It looks like youre misunderstanding something. We arent some governmental branch office. I dont know about the contract of b.l.o.o.d.y Long Ears, but I think itd be faster for you to approach the local lord if you want to make some profit from war. Shes been bolstering her combat forces recently.

Renshou-san falters after hearing my reply.

Once his gas mask tool becomes somewhat more tasteful by changing its shape, he looks at Clydossus whos been watching from a distance.

Us b.l.o.o.d.y Long Ears have nothing to do with the job this time. The marquess seems to be continuing her steady advance through the network of her own combat forces.

I see. So the Blood Moon Armed Might wont get involved in the dispute between Zamalia and Oseberai, huh? While nodding at Clydossus comment, he exchanges a look with Kary.

He dons an expression as if saying that theyre going to have a chance if neither blood nor moon are going to make a move. Renshou smiles, and turns his eyes towards me.

I understand. Please excuse us then. After bowing politely, Renshou-san exchanges another look with Kary, Kary, were leaving.

You okay with that? I think that joining up with this place will put you on the side of the winners, though.

You heard them, didnt you?

With his narrow eyes gleaming in joy, Kary says, The marquess it is then?

If you got it, then lets go.

Money rules the world, after all?

Kary follows behind Renshou-san with his peculiar way of walking, not even to mention the weirdness of his way of talking. I fully understand that hes become terrifyingly strong from how he moves his body. The fine s.h.i.+fts of his body weight, the positioning of his feet, his mana manipulation, and the good balance between and To be honest, he makes my heart race as someone studying martial arts, but I dont want to see his nether region anymore.

Thats why, its good to bid him farewell here.

Once Renshou-san and Kary have left, Clydossus and Ledond-san draw close.

Im going to quickly return to Senapua. Please ask Ledond about the details.

Clydossus seems to be in a hurry. I wonder what business Ledond-san might have with me.

Ledond-san, right? What kind of business do you have with me?

Ah, before that, Ive got a message from our guildmaster for you. Shes going to kill me if I dont pa.s.s it on to you. Clydossus, whos been skipping, says while looking back at me.

What did Lezalaysa say?

Come to Senapuas red-light district. Shes going to prepare an exclusive inn and wait for you. Shell also take you along into the Azel Boundary that interests you. She asked whether you dont need personal equipment for sky trips while laughing and showing a womanly face, contrary to her usual scary face.

I recall the spontaneous s.e.x with Lezalaysa. She had mentioned that she liked the way I used my hips with an obscene look on her face. I cant forget her eyes that were reflecting heart marks.

Got it. I might head over someday. Tell her to look forward to various things.

Ill tell her precisely that. Bye then

Clydossus vanishes through the door with movements as if shes grown wings at her feet, making it now wonder that shes being called Combat Fairy.

Shuuya-san, could I have a moment of your time?

Go ahead.

Ledond-san addresses me politely. Exactly because hes such a good-looking, elven swordsman, hes gathering the looks of the women around us.

My business concerns the exploration of the underground beneath the Mahaheim Mountain Range. Id like to request your a.s.sistance in the investigation of the underground corridor, a legacy of the Great Befaritz Empire

Yet another very interesting matter But, Ill prioritize Quiche.

Thats very interesting. But, Ive got something to do now.

Thats alright. Including our commander, were elves, so we arent in a hurry.

I see. Then let me just say for now that Ill consider it. Since Ive only returned to Hekatrail, I havent even shown my face at the adventurer guild here.

I understand. Just having you consider it under a positive light is a delight for me, Shuuya-san. The gigantic underworld world is crowded by hordes of monsters. The Spirit World, the underground worlds

It makes me all excited. But, I also plan to return to my Masters place at some point. Its also scheduled for me to take Mysty and the others to the underground world after she gets some results from her research

It looks like those are all matters far down the road as of yet.

Well then, I shall go back to the office of b.l.o.o.d.y Long Ears. I also plan to show up at the adventurer guild, so please treat me well if we meet there.

Got it.

Ledond-san bows politely with movements befitting of a swordsman, and leaves our office.

I immediately look in Sherrys direction, with a serious expression. It might look to her as if Im deeply in love, though.

Those eyes make me very jealous, but Quiche should be in Hino or the new village. Please go and support her. Sherry says with the expression of a woman who hates something but says she doesnt.

Her worrying about her friend is beautiful.

Im really sorry. With those words, I turn around, and leave the office.

I run while completely lost in thought. And then, my feet turn heavy for some reason, and I stop.

Quiche is alright, right?

I look up to the sky. Psydayle, was it? Where was that star again? I remember how we gazed at the starry sky together.

Rollo jumps off my shoulder after throatily growling. After landing, my partner walks ahead briskly with small steps, and then looks back at me. Its a face telling me that she understands without me saying anything.

My partner tilts her head. Her drooping, white whiskers give me the impression of her laughing, butmy partner abruptly faces back forward, swinging her tail and exposing her b.u.t.t. She walks forward rhythmically, but then suddenly starts running, turning from a black cat into a panther, then a horse lion, and lastly a divine beast.

I jump Rollodeen, err, straddle her. The instant I tightly grasp the rein tentacle thats appeared in front of me, my partner releases a throaty voice, mixed with a beastly breathing, and immediately kicks off after powerfully planting her limbs on the ground. A movement as if my partner has turned herself into a spring.

Rollodeen starts to sprint as leaping upwards with me on her back. Instinctively lowering my body, I s.h.i.+ft to the stance of a horse rider. Through her soft fur, my thighs can directly feel her tough muscles working. Though, I can also tell that theyre special muscles also endowed with flexibility. Im sure a tremendous amount of muscle fibers must be spreading from her legs to her chest.

After taking hold onto the tall wall of Fortress City Hekatrail with her forelegs, as if pus.h.i.+ng down the wall, she uses the wall as a stepping stone with her hindlegs, and immediately flies off high into the sky in one breath.

Quiche