For those of you that are favoriting and following this story, thank you so much. I know that it isn't really much of anything right now and that it's being bypassed by people who immediately want Ainz in the picture or something, but I'm glad that I can make it enjoyable to those of that stick around for it. I DO wish more people would review and give me their opinions but, oh, well. This is mainly a project that I wanted to see come to life and reviews or no reviews, this is happening.

Anyway, to reiterate, yes, Zaryusu is along for the ride and will be in the foreseeable future, along with my 3rd OC, Darian Kletus, the magic caster. Gwent, a powerful demon and Incubus, is now a reluctant teacher to them due to his sex partner, NPC companion, Korik. And I'm not sure…but I think Korik may be part troll. : )

Q & A:

MadDan90: Jesus Christ, Dan, lol! Thanks for that hyper-over positive review! Now, I know that you've been helping me plan this story for literally a whole year but I realize that I had to do everything else on my own, including getting my facts right for canon things, tweaking my own material so that it seems like it works logically, etc. Honestly, I'm surprised that you said that NO ONE else, or VERY RARELY does anyone who writes Overlord stories about the transfer actually has their characters REACT to it!

I mean, for one, these are people who are, not only getting new bodies but are getting teleported to a world they've never heard of! Why DON'T people take that into consideration and have their characters question everything that's going on and the changes they went through? It's a story, not a summarization essay! Don't GLOSS over this shit just because we know how the transfer works! LOL. Wow, I went off on a tangent there, huh? Oh, and I'm glad you love Darian! Yeah, I wanted to write him out SO BAD and I'm glad I got to show off how HIGHLY impressionable he is. And I'm glad you loved the other interactions too with the other characters.

Generation Zero: You wanted more, you got more! And will GET more. Trust me.

FlameSpitterNinjutsu: Awww! You's making me blush! Thanks a million!

TheRangerBoy: Well I'm glad that I didn't spring a random lemon on you that you wouldn't have known when to skip and, in turn, drop this story due to it. Yes, I believe all authors who have lemons in their stories, should at least let the populace KNOW that said story will have sex and when it's gonna be in the chapter.

White: You're welcome, lol. Don't know why you're thanking me but if this fic is making you happy then I'm glad.

Chapter 3: Monsters

'Good lord, what even IS today?'

That was the single thought that ran through Gwent's mind as he walked through the open space of the forest with Korik and his two new students. That was still amazingly unbelievable and that was mainly due to the fact that both situations were highly circumstantial! He looked to Darian, who was busy conversing with Zaryusu, who seemed to have been slightly uncomfortable with the human's rambling. Thankfully, Korik had lightly jabbed him in the arm, Darian rubbing the sore location, and told him to slow down his talking.

All he wanted to do was have some fun with an unconscious guy and test his new body in battle. How did that translate to being a teacher? He didn't mind the company at all, that wasn't the issue. He was just worried that he wouldn't be the kind of guy that the two of them might've been expecting out of him.

Darian wanted magic lessons.

Zaryusu wants knowledge with strength on the side.

The latter of the two seemed easier to work with, in a way. He didn't know what kind of knowledge Zaryusu wanted since he was kind of vague about it but maybe he could get those kinds of answers later on. Darian was still the issue here. Gwent did possess [Skills] that could be attributed to magic due to his [Racial Classes] but that wasn't something he could rely on for teaching purposes as [Skills] don't require mana, or MP, though Gwent prefers mana. Especially since this isn't a video game world but a real one where things like stats weren't really a thing and where monsters didn't drop items.

That was going to complicate a few things down the road. Now, Gwent was not all that worried about having this kind of knowledge and, thankfully, knowing something like this as early as he did, was a good step in the right direction. No, he didn't necessarily gain anything from this but he IS armed with the knowledge of not over-relying on items with limited uses. Thankfully, he has a lot of other shit that he can use indefinitely and with the knowledge that [Lore Items] worked as their flavor text described them to work, he was going to do more experiments involving them.

Maybe there was an answer somewhere in how to help Darian progress as a magic caster. From what he's seen of the guy, he's greener than Korik, and that's an amazement. How the hell did this guy survive up to this point before Gwent came and saved him? Ogre's were capable of being taken out with 2nd Tier spells but the minimum point of beating them is 3rd Tier and that's only if there is a small amount of them. 3 at the max for a single magic caster and even then, they'd have to be smart in their casting and allotting their EXP to their appropriate stats.

'I guess I'm going to have to see the kid in action myself to get a feel for how strong he is. I can't use YGGDRASIL strength to calculate people's abilities in this world. It's not a fair comparison. I need to learn what strength is by definition of THIS place and try to work around that.'

"So, Mister Gwent?" Gwent snapped out of his inner-monologing to see said magic caster staring at him. "What's this village that you wanted to go to, again?"

"It's called Kokoto Village, which Korik and I saw on the map that we have."

Korik spoke up. "Thing is, we don't really know a thing about it, so we're going there to see if we can get more information on the world."

Zaryusu nodded in understanding. "That's a good enough reason in my opinion. It's best to go somewhere where there are many other people for something along that kind of nature. I may have not been traveling for more than a few days but it's just common sense."

Korik snapped a finger at him and gave a nod. "Uh-huh. That's right."

"We aren't expecting much," Gwent started, "but anything, at this point, I can work with. Resources, locations, currency, even this whole thing about adventurers and stuff."

Darian rose his eyebrows. "Wow, you two really don't know an adventurer is?"

Zaryusu looked to him as well. "Well, I'm also new to the term. Though, I'm suspecting they…go on adventures…" The Lizardman said a bit lamely. Though he didn't feel all that embarrassed as Gwent and Korik either nodded in agreement of said 'uh-huh'.

"Wow," Darian said in amazement, mainly at them not knowing such a wide-spread concept, "you guys are more out of the loop then I thought you were."

"Well, to be fair, I was born and raised among my tribe and the only others we interacted with were other Lizardmen. No humans at all and I'm honestly the first Traveler of my generation the Green Claw tribe. Not to mention Traveler, besides not occurring in out people a lot, either make lives outside their tribes or die out in the world."

Gwent raised a finger. "And Korik and I haven't explored the world at all either. Well…more like, we stayed in a more isolated location. Not to mention demons, from your reaction Darian, aren't a normal thing."

Darian gave a nervous laugh, remembering how scared he was just a while ago. "Yeah…um, that. Well, it's more along the lines of demons and devils are just…evil. Not common to see but whenever they are, they're known to hurt people and destroy things."

Gwent grunted with a nod. Honestly, he wasn't all that surprised by this information. As far as he knows, the majority of Demons are just violent creatures no matter the universe or world they're from. Finding a positive Demon in any realm that has them is like finding a needle in the Empire State Building. Gwent wondered what it would be like to find one of the Demon's in this world and compare them to what he knows in YGGDRASIL.

"I'm curious about something else. Darian, Zaryusu, how old are the two of you?"

They both looked to one another while Zaryusu tilted his head a bit in curiosity.

"Why do you wish to know something like that, Master?"

"No real reason. I'm just curious is all. Besides, one's age can speak about their experience by itself sometimes."

"If it makes you feel any better," Korik began to say, "we'll tell you our ages too. Should make you guys feel a bit more comfortable."

Darian thought about it before nodding. "Well…if that's the case then…I'm 20 years old." Korik gave a small laugh while Gwent snicked himself, which had Darian blush and huff at them. "And what's so funny about that!?"

Gwent grinned at him and elaborated. "Not even 21? I knew you were a kid but damn. Oh, well, only one more year until you can drink alcohol." Darian just huffed and crossed his arms.

"Hey, I'm not a kid, you know? I'm basically an adult…except for the alcohol part."

Zaryusu rose an eye-ridge in confusion. "I'm…not understanding. What does having to have lived 21 summers have to do with drinking alcohol?"

Darian nervously laughed. "Well…for humans, 21 is supposed to be the age where you're considered a full-grown adult. Technically, when you turn 16, that's when a human is allowed to marry and stuff. 18 is considered full adult so, I'm not sure what being 21 has to do with it. What about Lizardmen?"

Zaryusu looked up in through before he shrugged. "We don't have anything as unusual as that. There is no line separating child and adult. You're either one or the other after growing to a certain point. Then you're expected to pull your weight and assist in your tribe however that may be." He then blinked and realized that he forgot to answer their question. "Oh, that's right. I've lived for 25 summers myself."

Gwent nodded to Darian and Zaryusu, filing the info that they gave him. While he did want to know more about Lizardman culture, knowing about the culture of humans in this world was more important in the long run. Impressively, their take on what one could do at certain ages was similar. 16 is the age of consent. 18 is the age of legal adult and 21 is the drinking age. He was glad that at least, that is similar to Earth.

"'Kay then," Korik spoke up, breaking him from his thoughts, "guess I can take my turn. I'm 32. Unbelievable, I know. I look pretty damn good for it, huh?" He said this while cupping his chin and smirking to them but the two students just sweatdropped and mumbled agreements, to which, Korik laughed at the thought of them being modest.

'And I gave him age as well…wait for a second…didn't I put he was 30 in his flavor text? Where did 32 come from?' His eyebrows knit closer as he thought about it. He knows what age he gave his NPC to be. Unlike virtually all NPC's created by people, they won't bother to give them something like ages. Usually, because they don't make them to seriously RP unless you consider the guild Ainz Ooal Gown, but even then, he doesn't recall any of the PC's giving their NPC's something as simple as ages. Back to topic, as he thought about it, he did make Korik during his second year into the game, January 1st, to be exact.

He's played for a total of 3 years and he passed by January 1st twice during that time up until this point. His eyes widened at the prospect of such a simple thing being recalled by the Goblin, who was currently, going over with the two about how Goblin's age compared to other races. How they mature very fast after being born yet can live very, very, long. Especially the ones who can evolve into even more powerful versions of Goblins. Both Darian and Zaryusu seemed to have been sucking in this information.

'Holy fucking shit! Korik has a birthday! Korik KNOWS his birthday passed twice!? He IS 32 years old!' Gwent realized in amazement. And from the info, he cataloged in his [Game Encyclopedia] because Korik was the pinnacle of [Hobgoblin], even having the Goblin secret class, he could live for as long, maybe even longer than the conventional Elf. And Elves could live for thousands of years. Because of this, being 32 didn't mean shit to someone with longevity like that.

"Boss? Helloooo?"

Gwent, once again, snapped out of his thoughts, finding it annoying that he's been doing that a lot lately. He looked down to Korik who was looking at him expectingly. "Oh, uh…yeah?"

"Tried to get your attention. How old are ya'?"

"Oh, yeah." Gwent, loathe as he would, thought about it. Lie about his age to seem like An old, powerful, demon? Aw, what the hell? He suggested this anyway.

"I'm 24 years old," he said with a shrug. Yeah, telling the truth wasn't going to kill him or anything.

Korik was surprised to hear his Boss' real age, along with Darian. He would've suspected that Gwent would be much older than that, mainly due to both his species and his deep voice. He sounded as if he was in his 40s but he was a year younger than Zaryusu? Speaking of the Lizardman, he didn't find that it was all that surprising for Gwent's age as he hasn't once suspected his age for any reason.

Korik looked at Gwent, surprise on his features. "Whoa, seriously!? You're that much younger than I am!? I never would've guessed, Boss!"

Darian nodded in agreement rapidly. "Y-Yes! I mean, you sound so much older than I suspected! And all Demons I've heard of in stories are always very old."

Gwent pouted a little bit, suddenly wishing that he lied. "Well, what's the big deal about me being 24? Honestly, I don't see it as much of an issue," he pointed to Zaryusu who was a bit put off by the action, "Zaryusu doesn't care how old I am, right?"

"I…u-um…" His tail swished a little, a Lizardman's way of being flustered, "it's not like I know much about Demon's or anything regarding age that's not Lizardman related. I have no room to judge in this regard."

"Regardless, thank you, unlike two others," Gwent turned his head away from Korik and Darian who were trying to apologize but the Demon just ignored them with an indifferent wave of his hand. These playful bouts of dialogue continued until they came upon much less forest and more main road. Looking past the trees from their position, they could see their destination off in the distance. A village that was built among the woodlands surrounding it, with decently sized barricades surrounding it. The only entrance was the path that leads to it, so they would be out in the open as they approached.

"I'm assuming that is Kokoto Village then?" Zaryusu wondered while Korik nodded.

"Most likely. I'd be very surprised if it wasn't."

Darian got a concerned look on his face. "Hold on, you three can't really expect to just stroll through the front gate! I mean…no offense to you Zaryusu. Demi-Human's aren't common but those of your kind would possibly just be watched at the most."

"It's fine. I'm sure I'll get used to it," Zaryusu agreed with a nod.

Darian gave him a small smile but then looked at Gwent and Korik. "But you two are a different story. Goblins just aren't liked at all and I don't even know what to say about you Mister Gwent. Demon's don't normally walk around but the mere sight of you would frighten those people even more than seeing Commander Korik."

"Yeah, we kinda figured that earlier Darian. But thanks for the confirmation," Gwent said, "besides, we've got a way around that."

Gwent and Korik focused on the power of their [Untrue Dark Rings] before they both activated, coating them in a small light before it vanished. The human and Lizardman gasped at the sight of the two, now human, males in front of them. They saw Gwent now was wearing very impressive looking steel armor…and he had an enormous sword on his back. Something that looked as if it was impossible to be wielded by any human. Zaryusu figured that blade was definitely a foot longer than the blade his brother wielded but it wasn't thicker. He was sure his brother's sword was heavier.

Korik looked…the exact same. He just wasn't green but dark-skinned, his ears weren't pointed, and his nose was fully human-like. Korik checked out as much of his exposed body as he could. "Huh. So this is what being a human is like? Weird."

Darian's eyes lit up fiercely. He brought his hands up to his face and began to bounce on his toes as if he was a little kid. "No! WAY! How did you two do that!? Just what kind of magic was it!? You're both humans! Or is it just a disguise!?"

Zaryusu was just as amazed as Darian, if not, more so due to him not having an inkling of magic knowledge outside of what he's seen from his own tribe. Seeing such magic was something he never could've dreamed of, where one could disguise themselves so perfectly as another race.

"I agree with Darian! Was that some form of disguise magic!?"

Laughing at their expressions, the two held up their hands to show their rings. Korik was the one who spoke though. "It's actually these beauties. Special magic rings."

Darian leaned in closer to Korik's hand, getting a better look at it. "Illusion magic then."

Gwent shrugged. "In a way," he then shook his head, "but also untrue. Our outer appearances ARE human. If you felt my backside, you wouldn't feel a tail and if you touch my hair, you won't feel my horns. These [Untrue Dark Rings] are special. They turn any non-human into a human in outer appearance just by thinking about it."

"Also, our power is changed like this," Korik began to explain, "humans are weaker that Demi-Humans. So, we aren't as strong as we originally would be like this. Our power is comparable to that of humans who would've reached our level."

Zaryusu blinked, taking in everything that was just said. "And yet…we still don't know how strong you both truly are. And yet you possess rings of such power?"

Darian just kept smiling brightly. "Magic items that can do magic on such a specific level is rarer than rare and virtually impossible to get! Have you apprised those!?"

Gwent deadpanned. "Darian, we'll go into that stuff later. But I wanna get to the village quickly, thank you."

He stood up while Darian scratched in cheek in embarrassment at getting immensely engrossed at the new magic. But he couldn't help it. He wanted to learn as much about magic as he can and seeing such a spectacle really got his blood pumping. Zaryusu is well, just not in the same way and not on the same level. He was more interested in that he just learned something amazing from his Master and Commander, even though he was not a magic caster himself. Magic items like those rings possessed was perfect for infiltration into human settlements.

Even though they didn't know it, Darian and Zaryusu were helping to fill Gwent's knowledge base steadily. Even though said knowledge wasn't much to make use of, it was the little details that could hold the most influence. Magical items like his [Untrue Dark Ring] weren't common and apparently, neither was illusion magic on this level either. Meaning that he and Korik would have to be more careful about the kinds of items that they use around the general public. The strength expectation lessened once again but not too much. It was nice to keep a healthy level of optimism on something he knew nothing about. He might be surprised later on for all he knew.

As they were walking down the dirt path, coming upon a large gate. Well, more of an entry-way. There were two very tall carved-logs, supported by smaller ones. They dug into the grass on the edge of the dirt path with a sign that read 'Kokoto Village' just overheard. They saw two people were guarding either side of it. Two men, one with shaggy black hair and a bandage on his nose. The second one, wearing a bandana to cover most of his brown hair and softer features than the other one. They were wearing, what seemed to have been, leather armor, with steel swords.

Korik glanced to Darian, who looked apprehensive at seeing the armed me raising their weapons to them. The disguised Goblin bumped his arm with his elbow. "Don't worry about them. Just act like nothing will happen. Boss and I will do all the talkin'.'

Darian gulped and took a breath, trying to calm himself. "R-Right, Commander."

Zaryusu noticed the expressions the men were wearing, especially as they looked at him. He then looked to Gwent and said, "I apologize for this Master but it seems that me being here might cause a few issues."

Gwent, keeping up his jolly façade for when he took this form, looked to him. Even though it was a false face, Zaryusu could tell that his smile was also a true one at the same time, for Gwent knew how to smile at someone to make them feel better. A real smile, at that.

"Zaryusu, don't worry about it. Once they see that you're harmless, they won't do anything. Besides, it's not like we're here to do much of anything. We mainly just want a map and learn about a few other things that can help us in the long run."

The Lizardman, feeling a bit more relaxed at his teacher's words, gave a small smile himself and nodded. As they got closer, Zaryusu couldn't help but notice small clumps of upturned dirt that seemed to be in a consistent line. He filed away this information, even if it didn't seem like anything important. Pretty soon, they were standing a fair distance away from the guards, who ran in front of the gate and brandished their swords. They had also caught the attention of some bystanders who were walking through the town, that chose to stop and look at the group of four.

"That's far enough! Who are the four of you and what are you doing here!?" The guard on the left demanded.

Gwent held up his armored hands. "I'm sorry for us coming through unannounced. We're not here to cause any trouble. We're just trying to get some information is all."

This time, the guard on the right spoke. "Information on what exactly? Who are you lot anyway? Adventurers…with a Demi-Human, to boot? Seems pretty weird if you ask me."

Gwent scratched the back of his head. "Ugh, again with that. No, sir, we aren't adventurers. I don't even know what you guys define as an 'Adventurer' anyway. My companion and I aren't from this continent."

Korik figured that was his time to pick up the slack. "He means me. We arrived here only yesterday but we don't know shit about this Re-Estize Kingdom, ya' hear? We just wanna talk to someone, maybe the chief or leader of this place so he can give us general knowledge and maybe even a map. The one we have only shown us the current area but nothing else."

The two guards looked them over, not able to find any deceit in their features. They weren't sure what to make of the two of them, especially since they claimed to not be adventurers. But if they came from another continent, and because of their skin tone, they must've, then they could just be warriors from their home. But then their eyes shifted to Darian, who still looked nervous and Zaryusu, who didn't have a change in expression. The guard on the left pointed to them.

"And those two?"

Gwent placed his hands on his hips and grinned proudly with a laugh. "Well, if you must know, they're actually my new students! I haven't taught 'em a damn thing yet but I'm sure that I'll be able to think of something later!"

This declaration immediately dissolved all the tension hanging around the guards and even Gwent's party. Korik snickered at how his Boss was trolling again while the other's sweatdropped at his jolly-bluntness. The guards then shook their heads and walked to either side of the gate.

"Okay, then. Can't really believe someone as easy-going as you could do something bad." The left guard said.

"Just don't cause problems and everything will be fine, alright? You four can go through." The right one said with a small sigh, not at all worried from that little display.

Gwent threw his fist in the air. "Nice! You two are great! Let's go, everyone!"

Zaryusu's and Darian's sweatdrops just grew in size as they slid further down their heads. 'Is this seriously the same person I chose to follow? What a personality shift.' This is a thought they both shared unknowingly as they walked under the wooden entrance. As they walked through, they all took a look around the place and were pretty interested in it, though Zaryusu seemed to have taken more of a shine to it from the look in his eyes.

There were barely any signs of anything purely man-made. Nothing was made of stone. Starting at the entrance, here were decent-sized wooden fences that lined the outside of the village, preventing anything short of an 8-foot tall creature to pass over them. All of the houses were made of wood and hay, yet none could see indoors, not that they were that privy. Houses weren't placed in sections and the dirt path seemed to seamlessly branch out to various location, while still making every location seem interconnected. Better yet, there were a ton of grass and plants around, indicating this village was created with nature highly in mind.

People whispered as they walked by, mainly as they looked to Gwent, Korik, and Zaryusu, yet no one showed any kind of open hostility. While Gwent was purely curious, Zaryusu felt very out of place. This was his first time in a village that was full of humans, with abodes-styles that peaked his fancy. His tribe had tons of wood in the forest they lived near, yet they didn't go so over-the-top when it came to creating their huts. Just the necessary size to hold the necessary amount of Lizardmen, depending on who was living there. Zaryusu, himself, lives alone so his house was average in size. A family of four would have dwellings at least twice as big but no more than that.

'I wonder what humans need all of that extra space for in these houses of theirs. I should definitely learn more about that.' Housing plans set in his mind, he continued to follow Gwent.

Speaking of the armored individual, he stopped in the middle of the path and poked out his bottom lip. It would be best if someone could lead them to the leader of this place instead of walking around without a clue. He turned to two villagers, a light-skinned man wearing a brown hat and a woman with a red non-attached hood, which reached to her back, who noticed his gaze. Putting on a gentle smile, he rose a hand, pausing his party, and walked over to them, looking nowhere near as imposing as they thought he might.

"Hello, there. I'm sorry to both ya' and all but my friends and I are in a bit of trouble. We…sort of have no idea where to….go, exactly? I and the shortest one are new to this kingdom so, we were hoping if you could direct us to the leader of this place. I think they can help us out."

They look at each other before the man shrugged. "Well, if that's the case then I can help," he pointed to the house at the end of the village, "the chief lives in that house. He's an old and short man so it'll be hard to miss him."

Gwent nodded in understanding. "Thanks!" Walking back to his posse he pointed to the house. "That house there. Let's go."

"Okay," Zaryusu and Darian said with nods, Darian smiling between the two of them. Korik stayed silent but he nodded anyway.

Walking through Kokoto Village, they couldn't get over how there was a good amount of people roaming around, mainly by the produce and small market locations off the corner of the main road. There wasn't a whole sleuth of people but there was definitely more than they expected to find, granted that they didn't see a whole lot when they were on the other side of the gate.

Korik looked around the markets. "For such a quaint place, it's definitely got a decent population."

Gwent noticed that people were giving him looks as he passed by. At first, he thought they were looking at their whole group, and some probably were, but most of them were directed more-so to him. Though the ones aimed at Zaryusu and Korik didn't escape him either. He couldn't help but give himself a once-over, making sure that nothing odd about him stood out. The ring was working perfectly; no demonic traits anywhere. Same for Korik as he appeared to be a perfectly stout human.

'So….how come they think the two of us are something to give a passing glance at?'

Just as the thought made it's way across his brain, he realized it immediately. There was nothing but Caucasian people around him. No other kind of ethnicity. No black, no red, no yellow…just a lot of white. White with blonde hair or the occasional brown or black hair. Korik, the perceptive man he was, seemed to have also figured it out as his eyes scanned the people who were scanning him. Gwent rose a finger to his chin.

'Do…do dark-skinned people not exist in this world or something? Oh, man, that's definitely interesting…and pretty scary thought in a meta sort of way. You're saying that even as humans we stand out!?' He sighed and scratched the back of his head.

Zaryusu looked around as well but noticed that a good amount of people had a few guards around them. No…not guards. These people were definitely more experienced than the ones they met out in front, for they wore heavier light armor or light steel armor. Their swords seemed finely sharpened as well. One thing he noticed about all of them was that they had some sort of plates around their necks, varying from copper and iron. Those with copper plates had groups of 4 while the iron plates had groups of 3 or 2.

It wasn't just him either. Gwent noticed this trait as well along with Darian since he was gazing at everything and everyone in amazement.

"Man, I had no idea that adventurers worked all the way out here," Darian said in awe.

"So, these men in armor are adventurers then?" Zaryusu asked. Gwent decided to add his input.

"It's those…plates around their necks. Korik and I met four adventurers yesterday and they wore those same plates," Gwent said, showing that he knew at least something about adventurers.

Zaryusu took notice of those plates, wondering about the variations in material. "Okay, I see. Am I to assume that the different plates indicate some form of rank? Darian?" The Lizardman turned to the magic caster since he was currently the most knowledgeable one when it came to adventurers.

"Yup! From lowest to highest, the ranks are Copper - Iron - Silver - Gold - Platinum - Mythril - Orichalcum – Adamantite."

Korik rose an eyebrow as he looked at the adventurers. "So, these guys are just the runts in the ranks, huh? But does the ranking stop only at adamantine or is there some kind of hidden faction with even stronger adventurers?"

Darian looked very confused at the question, not entirely sure how to answer that. "Well…the thing is, there isn't a stronger material in the world over adamantite, which is why it's at the highest. So, no, there isn't a reason it stops there other than it's the best there is, meaning adamantite adventurers are the strongest people there is."

'But only adamantite?' Both Gwent and Korik thought once Darian was finished explaining. This new information was definitely something to take note of, for adamantite was only a Lv.30 ore in terms of YGGDRASIL, and not even the strongest of the 'normal' ores. It was actually two steps under the highest of the normal ores before one reaches into the Prismatic Ores, which were even higher than that.

In turn, this means that, if the strongest of adventurers were ranked with a Lv.30 ore, then that means that, as far as humanoid (bipedal) creatures are concerned, that is the standard of the pinnacle of strength this world is used to seeing consistently, so they were able to rank people based on that.

"I think I'd like to learn more about these adventures later but we made it to the Chief's house, " Gwent said, making the others stare at the house in front of them. There was no actual door in place but a tarp instead, and they could hear some voices coming from the inside. They stepped closer with Gwent taking the lead, as usual, stepping in front of the tarp, if only to get an idea of what was being said.

"And I keep telling you that without a stronger magic, there is no way for this issue to be properly solved! If you want a more permanent solution then this is the only thing I can think of!" This voice was that of a male adult, which carried a lot of vigor behind it. Maybe even a hint of professionalism but that isn't what was currently being heard right this moment.

"You keep saying that but the price for a permanent solution is too great. As much as I want this solved, I can't give you what you ask for a reward. I hoped the steady amount of pay for your continued service would be fine enough as is." This other voice was that of an older man. He didn't sound hostile but there was definitely an edge to his voice. Possibly from conversing with whoever the other person was for who knows how long.

"And while I appreciate the gesture, I am tired of staying in this village! It has been a month and no true progress! I feel that would be proper compensation for all of the work I did here. Besides, you're going up in your years, Chief. It's not like you can properly use it anyway!"

The older man actually gave a low growl but nothing too major. "It's not about its use to me! It's about what it symbolizes and you've done nothing but lack the qualities it takes to own it!"

Having heard more than enough of whatever the hell this was, Gwent pushed the tarp open, ducked a bit due to his height, and walked inside the house, his compatriots following behind. Zaryusu also had to duck due to him being around Gwent's height. Their arrival into the abode gained the attention of the other two occupants in the room.

The first and most noticeable of the two males was a tall male. Or, at least, he was taller than the old man that he was standing beside. A guesstimate being he stood at a height of around 5'8, in Gwent's mind. His skin was of a fair tan and his hair was brown, which looked slicked and reached to his shoulders, and his eyes were brown. He wore a leather cuirass, brown boots, tan pants, and a black shirt. Overall of that was a green robe with blue rims. He had a wooden staff in his hand that had a blue crystal at the top, that was about the same size as a man's palm. He wore two rings, one on each hand and a belt with packs and pouches. On it, was also a small wooden statue of an ape of some sort. Not a monkey but also not a gorilla. Gwent chalked that up to this world having similar but different animals.

His expression was that of someone who wasn't having a happy day. If Gwent had to guess this obvious magic caster was definitely miffed about whatever the hell he and the Chief were yelling about. And it was obvious that the old man was the Chief.

The Chief stood at around 3'6. He seemed to be in his late 60s, early 70s and with no hair on his head yet he did have a long beard that reached to his chest. He wore a simple brown shirt, pants, sandals, and have a yellow robe hanging from his form. His arms were resting behind his back, studying the new group that had arrived in his abode. However, the other male was doing the same, yet with a more discouraging look at the sight of the two males of a complexion he hasn't seen before and a Lizardman. The last male, who he guessed was a magic caster by his attire, wasn't anything special from a first glance.

Gwent blinked, looked between the two and asked, "Um…am…am I interrupting something important? I can come back…" Gwent honestly wasn't sure at the moment if he should've walked in or not when they were having this argument of their's but if he let them continue, he worried that they could've gone on longer in their screaming contest. Well…one of them was technically screaming while the other was speaking sternly.

"And just who in the world are the lot of you?" The other magic caster asked of them but not in a nice tone. Gwent pouted a little while Korik narrowed his eyes to him, not sure if he was gonna like this guy.

"Not trying to intrude on anything," Gwent began, "but we were just trying to talk to the Chief of this village is all. That's kinda it." Gwent looked to the old man who took a breath and composed himself.

He stepped forward and presented himself as best he could. Darian and Zaryusu were surprised that the man was so short though. The young magic caster was so amazed that another human being could be so vertically challenged. He's heard a story or two about the Dwarves but he knew that this man wasn't one. A single Dwarf hasn't been seen in this country as far as he knows. Zaryusu, who is now beginning to come into contact with humans, was also amazed at the size of the Chief. Mainly because he believed that the human species was more diverse than he initially thought!

"Ahem! Greetings! I'm the Chief of Kokoto Villiage, Miowa Koto. I apologize if any of you had to were forced to hearing anything prior to walking in here." He was sincere in his apology, obviously not wanting for such an argument to get so out of hand.

Darian shook his hands rapidly and said, "Oh, no, sir! Don't apologize for that. Thing is, we should've announced we were coming in beforehand."

"Apparently," huffed the other man, who Miowa rolled his eyes at. He then addressed the new and interesting group that walked into his abode.

"Bah, let's forget about that for now, and don't mind Alern over there. He is easy to irritate. How can I help you…interesting lot? Are you adventures as well?"

Miowa asked this while walking closer to Gwent and staring up at the large man in plate mail. If he was honest, Miowa felt that this man's armor was practically flawless. The metal had a reflective sheen on it but nothing too obnoxious to reflect light into one's eye. There were no scratches, nor a single scuff mark. If he didn't know better, he would say that this gear was made by a blacksmith more experienced than the one that resided in their village, that's for certain. His eyes then drifted to the sword Gwent carried on his back.

If he was a younger, inexperienced man, he would definitely have his eyes bugged out of his head from the sheer size of it. One could not even call that a sword in proper terms but a lump of metal with a handle attached to it. He stroked his beard in curiosity. There was definitely a reason this man had such a weapon, though Miowa was not 100% sure that Gwent could use it, at least, effectively. Maybe he's just the brawny kind of fighter who focuses more on the weapon size than its efficiency.

While he had his internal monologue, Gwent shook his head. "Nope. Not adventurers. Honestly, my student here, Darian, just educated me a little on what they are and what they do. They also seem to wear those plates around their necks to signify rank and experience."

"Then…would that make you lot workers?" Miowa asked but Darian shook his head.

"Um, no. We're not workers either. Honestly, …we don't really have a way to designate ourselves yet. The four of us just became a group today. Mr. Gwent and Commander Korik here both come from another continent."

Korik grinned to Darian and shot him a thumbs up, appreciating how he took charge at the moment. Darian blushed a bit but rubbed the back of his neck from the praise. He may have been a rookie and naïve but he was good at explaining situations if he had too.

Alern crossed his arms and huffed. "So, you're not adventurers and you're not money-grubbing workers. Yet you," he looks to Gwent, "are definitely some form of a warrior and I can say the same for your shorter companion beside you, yet you have the face of someone who's entirely clueless."

Gwent grinned and laughed a bit. "Yeah, I guess you're right. I really don't know what I'm doing…yet here I am. Traveling with my best buddy in a new land I don't understand, with two students I didn't expect to gain. I'm super clueless!"

Alern looked to Zaryusu with a slight sneer, making the Lizardman raise an eye-ridge. "And why a Lizardman of all things? Such backward and barbarian societies demihumans live."

"Alern!" Miowa exclaimed, turning to him.

His comments made Zaryusu narrow his eyes and clench his fangs a bit. "Hey, I don't know who you think you are but you have no right to disrespect me or my people like that. You don't know anything about how we live."

Alern rose a brow and turned his head away. "I know your people live in the mud, for one. No sentient creatures worth their self-respect should live in such a way."

Zaryusu was about to lash out again but Gwent smiled a bit and gave a light chuckle. His reaction gave him a few looks. "I don't know about that! I mean, living out in nature the way they do? I think that's one of the best ways to live compared to a large city! Those that do learn a lot of important skills, too! They learn where their food is and hunt it. They learn to skin animals and cook them properly! They learn to fish at the best spots and they learn to survive without the need for money or even protection from outside sources! I don't know much about Zaryusu's home…but I definitely do know that it has to be a place with potential in it!" Gwent blinked and then laughed again. "Whoops…got excited again. Sorry. Just…please don't talk bad about where someone lives if they don't come from a bad place, is all I'm saying."

Korik grinned and gave a light punch to Gwent's side "Ha! You tell 'em, boss! Even if it is in your weird way!"

Darian smiled and placed a hand on Zaryusu's shoulder after he reached up to grab it. The Lizardman looked at him before looking back to Gwent, who then began to speak with the Chief about the reason why they were there. Yet he couldn't focus on the conversation as he found himself to be more transfixed on his Master than when he saw him and Korik killed those Ogres. Not only did he defend Zaryusu's feelings, he felt like Gwent defended all Lizardmen in that speech, not just his tribe.

No one outside of the Lizardmen tribes knew this as far as he knew but they all did have their own systems in place regarding their own personal laws and beliefs. While they are not as advanced as human-built civilizations or even a basic human village such as this one, that did not mean they lived like savages either and had very stable communities. It filled Zaryusu with so much positivity that his new Master could say such positive things like that and mean them. The Traveler knew Gwent meant those words. He was always good at reading other people, which is how he was sure.

He bowed his head in thanks. "Thank you for your kind words, Master!"

Gwent turned to him and scratched his cheek a bit, glancing away. "I-It was no problem, Zaryusu. But…you don't have to bow your head or anything," he mumbled.

"I just can't help but show my appreciation!" Zaryusu continued.

Alern gagged, grumbled and turned his head, not seeing the need to continue such a fruitless conversation while Miowa gave a hearty laugh. "My, my, boy-o! Even for a newcomer like yourself, you've got a good head on your shoulders! And such a good party of members, too! I can see why you have an entourage like them following you, even one who is a demihuman if you treat him with such respect."

Korik nodded. "You got that right, old-timer. Boss is the best and while I can't speak for these boys, I know I'd always follow him."

"I can see that," Miowa said with a nod to the disguised Goblin. "I have to say, young man, besides how you treat your compatriots, I am willing to help you get more acquainted with the Re-Estize Kingdom and as many basics as I can cover. However…erm…this might not be the proper time for that."

"Proper time? What do you mean?" Gwent asked while Miowa turned and walked back to his proper place, parallel to the rude magic caster, who was finally looking back to the man and the rest of them.

"Are we getting back to business now? Done with entertaining these…people, Miowa?" Alern watched what he said this time regarding Gwent's posse, as if not wanting to provoke the Lizardman to bite his head off. Granted, Alern was confident he could defeat him if the savage got any bright ideas.

Miowa sighed again, feeling as old as he looked. "Gwent, was it? There is honestly a problem that we have been dealing with for the past month. Something the rest of the villagers don't know about as I have kept it from their attention as best as possible."

Alern's brows furrowed before he pointed to the group. "Wait, are you really going to tell them? This is none of their business, old man! They can't-"

Miowa sent him his own glare. "In case you forgot Alern, I can hire whatever help I can if it'll make dealing with this situation any easier. And even if these fine folk aren't adventurers or even workers, that does not mean they are not capable. Not everyone walks around in armor or carries weapons. Besides, haven't you been unsuccessful all this time? Maybe some assistance will do you some good."

Alern scoffed. "Assistance? Please, old man."

"Assistance with what?" Gwent asked.

Miowa turned back to him and said, "While I would love to help you get some bearings in this kingdom, of course, I'm afraid that, at the moment, there is an issue that has cropped. Well…to be fair, it's not a new issue but it is definitely one that we can't ignore. Thing is, there is a special beast that lives near our village and in the past, we never had a problem with it and vice-versa. It kept to itself and, ironically, it kept other creatures from coming anywhere close to our home."

Korik crossed his arms. "Let me guess. It's become a problem instead."

Miowa sighed. "In a way. While it does not outright come here, it has been slightly shifting the nature of the forests surrounding us with its recent rampages. It has been chasing large animals and beasts towards the roads that lead to Kokoto Villiage, where these beasts can then attack people who try to make their way here and some can get a bit too close at times."

"That would explain all of the adventurers around the people," Zaryusu said while he placed a finger under his jaw in a contemplative fashion. Miowa nodded in agreement.

"We've had to tell any travelers who make it here to leave with the message that extra security is needed for them to journey here for safer passage. So, lower rank adventurers can escort travelers here. As I'm sure you noticed, the Copper Ranks have more people in their groups than those of the Iron Ranks. For obvious reasons, the Iron Ranks are more skilled so that can afford to have 1 or 2 fewer people in their groups when protecting their group of people. But Silver and up won't take something as meager as escorting people."

Darian looked confused. "But…if this has been a constant issue, this beast you talk about, then why not hire a more expensive adventurer? Silver or Gold to take care of it? You guys seem to be getting quite a bit of trade."

Miowa shook his head. "Because we don't want to kill it. It is an integral part of the balance around here. Without it to fight the beasts back from this direction, then all of them will make their way here and ransack the place. Copper's and Iron's can't handle the animals that live around here. All we can do is to try and repel it or sooth whatever it making it act out in this manner."

Alern, in his posh attitude, places a hand on his chest. "Which, as you should know, has been my job for the past few weeks. I'm already at the rank of the Gold adventurer, even if I am not one myself. Meaning not only am I being generous by making my services acceptable but I have also stayed here in the village to repel this threat each time it causes problems," he then scrunched his eyebrows," however, my methods are only temporary. I can't solve this without the necessary equipment."

Miowa furrowed his own brows. "I keep telling you, that is NOT to be treated as an object of sale, Alern!"

"Um," Gwent rose his hand near his face, "I've been hearing you guys talk about some item. What is it and why is it important?"

Miowa had a look of contemplation on his face, wondering if he should reveal the item in question. He was sure that none of these people were bad and would steal it. He just did not want to have more people against him once he explained what it was and why Alern wanted it. If too many people said that same thing, he might actually be tempted to part with it…but he just sighed. He would have to take whatever response comes his way and act accordingly. He reached into his shirt and pulled out a small stick attached to a string.

Removing the tiny nail that was attached to both the string and the bulbous top of the stick, he removed the stick which then grew in his hand in a veil of green magic. Everyone's eyes went wide as the stick quickly grew into a size that was at a size where a person of acceptable height should be wielding it and not this 3ft man. The staff portion looked twisted once it got to the middle portion up until the oval-shaped top, well, topped it off.

"A magic item that changes size!? NO WAY!" Darian exclaimed with glee as he attempted to run forward to get a closer look. Korik quickly grabbed him by his pants and stopped him in place with no effort, which had the poor kid trip on his face.

"Keep your wood to yourself, kid," Korik deadpanned while making an innuendo joke.

Zaryusu places a hand on the hilt of his [Frost Pain] and looked down to it. He then looked to the magical staff the old man was holding while Alern bit his lower lip as he gazed upon it. There were magical weapons out there capable of such an ability?

"How unusual…" he said, pretty mystified.

Gwent had no idea that such a thing was possible either but he just watched it. What an amazing item! Now, he DID know how in YGGDRASIL or other RPG games, it was possible to win the exact same weapon or armor off of monsters or bosses you defeat but they don't change size in real time. They functioned like any normal drop which could then be picked up right after. He couldn't help but think about the usefulness of having a weapon or other item that could change size, no matter who the wielder was.

"A wooden staff. Wait, does that make you a magic caster?" Gwent asked.

"Yes, I am. A [Druid] to be specific but my abilities aren't as up to snuff compared to when I was younger. Alern here is also a Druid." Miowa explained.

Darian got up from his position and rubbed his sore forehead. He winced but managed to look to them both anyway. "Wait..you're both Druid's?"

Zaryusu placed a hand on Gwent's shoulder, making him look back at the Lizardmen. "I…think I'm unfamiliar with the term 'Druid'. What kind of spell caster is that?"

"Oh. Well, Druid's are capable of using nature magic and is also experts in healing spells as well."

Gwent saw a look of recognition flashed through the Lizardman's eyes. His mouth opened a bit just like his eyes. If he had lips, he'd be making the 'O' shape with them.

"Ahhhh, I understand now!" He removed his hand and placed a fist in an open palm. "'Druid' is the humanoid term to describe Lizardman 'Priests' then! Apparently, the two are one and the same!"

Gwent's eyebrows rose in interest. "Ohhh, I never heard that term describing a [Druid] before. [Priest], huh?"

Zaryusu nodded. "Yes. My older brother who is also the chief of my tribe is one such [Priest]. He can use magic to control the earth and heal as well."

Alern scoffed. "[Priest]? Can't even get our terms… whatever. Back on topic now. Yes, I'm a [Druid] but even my abilities are not enough to permanently calm the monster that rules this forest. But that staff that Miowa holds can give one of my spellcasting class incredible power. Enough to do placate the beast once and for all without killing it. But in return, I ask for said staff as payment and then I'll finally be able to leave this village and its issues back in the hands of the Chief."

Korik raised an eyebrow. "And the reason you stayed is…?"

"Because he keeps paying me to help him and, as I said, my services are cheaper than what Gold Rank adventurers WOULD be taking from him. About the price of a Silver Rank adventurer."

"I also noticed something else," Zaryusu started, "at the gate, I noticed some upturned dirt. And it didn't stop there but some went around the posts surrounding the village as well."

Miowa nodded. "Yes, that was actually me. Those are an incentive in case we have to deal with beasts coming too close. They are seeds that sprout and rapidly grow vines. Then the vines are to tie up anyone or anything hostile enough to do us harm." He then looked at Alern. "And just like I told you countless times, no one is forcing you to stay here. You do so because you keep trying to take this from me and I just so happen to always have enough money to keep you satisfied! But this staff has been carefully passed down for 3 generations! I don't care if you claim it's the solution you need to ease the beast but keeping it is out of the question!"

"Stubborn fool! That staff is the key and you're just too set in 'tradition' to give it to me to save your village!" Alern exclaimed.

Gwent sighed and shook his head. "Please, stop yelling okay. Look, how about we go with Alern and do all we can to calm down this thing that keeps everything else in line? Korik and I have dealt with a lot of crazy stuff in the past so it shouldn't be anything we can't handle," he pointed to the other two members, "not to mention I have my own spellcaster and a Lizardman with his own magic weapon. All of us, plus this Alern guy, should be more than enough."

Alern glared at the demon in disguise. "Thanks but no thanks. I've been doing this for a month and I can handle it myself as I always did. As I said, I'm capable, I just don't have the power for a permanent solution."

Korik rose an eyebrow. "I don't think you're hearing Boss right. We will be the extra power. I'm sure either Boss or I have something that can calm this creature of yours. Then once we get back and ring the good news, we can talk about proper business, Chief."

Miowa laughed a jovial laugh, happy that these people were, in fact, going to help him. To be fair, he wasn't exactly sure about if this party of unusual people would react to assisting in this dilemma. He didn't offer a reward or money of the sort and he didn't know if they would ask for a reward if they manage to finish the deed. But that is a bridge he will arrive at in the future. He can, however, give Gwent the thing he asked for, such as general information on the Re-Estize Kingdom and how it is different from where he the shorter human, Korik he believed, came from.

"Thank you, all! I hope you have the best of luck then. Alern knows the location and I trust you support him as much as possible. And once you get back, Mr. Gwent, I'll let you know whatever you ask for in regards to our kingdom."

Gwent grinned. "Don't gotta call me 'mister', dude. Just Gwent is good enough."

Miowa blinked in confusion. What was..a 'dude?' Well, whatever it meant, he was glad and that was it. Maybe they can finally calm the beast who has been driving the other lesser ones towards the village. That and he can finally have Alern stop trying to take his staff. Alern sighed as he found that he was forced to take this rag-tag group with him. Seeing as he no longer had a choice in the matter, he looked to Miowa.

"Fine! Whatever. I'll bring them along with me, old man. But before they head out, they should at least know what we're dealing with."

Miowa nodded. "Quite," he cleared his throat, "the leader of the forests around these parts is known as Yasha Ape. It stands at the height of 2 grown men and is very physically able. In my youthful years, I have seen his power first hand a few times as he battled other beasts or some cocky workers, swords-for-hire, who thought they were capable of killing Yasha for his fur or fangs. And he did away with them effortlessly."

Darian and Zaryusu gulped at the description of this Yasha Ape. Never in their lives had they had to fight something that sounded so vicious. Well, at least Zaryusu had fighting experience under his belt and he did, in his opinion, fair pretty well against three Ogre's at once. But Darian has never fought anything or anyone before unless you count scaring off 2 stray wolves and sneaking past any larger animals. In terms of combat, he was a complete novice and this realization had him shaking a bit.

Alern smirked at the sight of Zaryusu and Darian. Of course, from the way that Miowa was describing the Yasha Ape, it'd strike fear into anyone who thought of themselves ill-equipped to deal with something like that. But when he looked at Gwent and Korik, they didn't seem all that phased. In fact, Korik was grinning, as if he was about to play his favorite game while Gwent looked like he was gonna take a stroll through the park. Nothing in their body language betrayed anything.

'Do they really believe that they can face the Yasha Ape and not feel threatened? They must be overconfident fools then. We'll see their worth once they actually get a look at that…monster for themselves.'

Korik adjusted his gloves by grabbing and yanking the rim of it on his right hand. "So, how do we permanently calm him down?"

Miowa stroked his beard. "Well, the only way I can think of is to assert yourselves by besting it in combat. Yasha Ape is the type of creature where it rules those who can't defeat it and it might show obedience to the lot of you if you make him heel. Honestly, since I have no idea why it is acting this way in the first place, that the best I can think of. But with Alern's experience in dealing with him, I'm sure it can be accomplished. I wish you luck."

"No problem, Old-Man Miowa! We'll get it done!" Gwent declared with a hand against this chest. "Besides, it's the least we can do for you being willing to help out some strangers."

Alern, tired of the exposition, decided that it was time for them to get a move on. "Let's just get going and be sure to try and not slow me down." He then walked past them, though Zaryusu sent a glare to his back and lightly growled.

"I don't trust that man," he said.

Miowa chuckled. "Trust me, he isn't my favorite sort either. But he's all we have to stops Yasha Ape from both advancing here himself and makes sure to chase the other beasts from the direction of the village. Once again, I pray for your success. I hope you lot are the push we need."

Darian took a breath and nodded. "We'll do our best, sir! Thank you!" He figured that this might've been a great time to show his new teacher what he was capable of. If he could impress Mister Gwent then there was no one he couldn't accept the young magic caster entirely, at least Darian thought so as they turned and followed Alern out the tarp entrance.

Later

The lot of them were walking through the forest after taking a path to the left road from the end of the village from the Chief's house. It was the easiest and technically the most dangerous entrance since it led directly through the thickest reaches even if there was an obvious dirt path. It wasn't just Zaryusu this time who noticed but the others saw the edges of the path had upturned mounds of dirt. No doubt more Druidic traps that had been laid to stop hostile beasts from getting into Kokoto this way.

Alern took the lead once they walked off the path, Alern had fully taken the lead with Gwent right behind him. Aryusu and Darian took up the middle with Korik In the back. Both he and Gwent unspokenly agreed it'd be best for their group if their two strongest fighters were the ones to hold the more critical positions.

Seeing as they were traveling in silence, Darian decided to try and break the tension. "So…um…Mr. Alern? If there are supposed to be other creatures in this forest, why haven't we seen any?"

Alern used his magic to move a fallen log out of his way. A small and simple feat that didn't really take much magic. "It's because the closer we get to Yasha Ape's territory, the less you'll see of other creatures or animals. Not that you can't find any wandering around here but this is usually the norm with this area. The path we're taking is one of few that is a straight shot to the location Yasha Ape lives."

Darian nodded and thought of another question. "And…how does it, erm, he direct other beasts from the village."

"You ask a lot of fo questions," Alern pointed out, "does that even matter?"

Zaryusu narrowed his eyes but controlled his temper. "Without proper knowledge, how can you expect us to act accordingly in a situation that required it? What if while trying to stop this Yasha Ape, we make a mistake all because you wanted to withhold information from us?"

Alern's eyes narrowed, clearly disliking the manner in which he was spoken too like that. And from a lower class Lizardman on top of it. He was about to retort but Gwent spoke before he could.

"He's right, Alern. Sorry to say since you think otherwise but if we're gonna help then we need to know what works and what doesn't work. And we need to know any capabilities of the Yasha Ape on top of that. Not trying to be rude but it's just common sense." Gwent scratched his hair, sounding a little disinterested in the conversation when he spoke but it was just him playing his new human persona.

Miowa smirked from the words they spoke which had Alern unable to say anything and just left him frowning. "Alern, it is decided that they will go with you. No, if's, and's, or but's about it. So, stop being so difficult and help them help you. Hopefully end this issue once and for all so that we can go back to our normal lives."

Alern looked at the people that he was forced to take with him. Gwent and Korik were both giving him smiles that seemed like they weren't going to cause any harm but that only served to unnerve him. Darian was as nervous as when he first entered the Chief's house while Zaryusu was still giving him a minor glare. No doubt for how he was speaking of Lizardmen earlier but to Alren, he was only speaking the truth. And yet the younger of the two [Druids] had no way of being able to get out of this situation forced on him. He also knew that Miowa wanted him to try and make a better impression, hence why he wanted Alern to be the one to explain and not Miowa himself, who know just as much about the Yasha Ape. Because of this, he just sighed and decided to suck it up.

"Fine. If you lot are assisting me then I better at least tell you some information that will possibly stop you from getting killed once we encounter it. First, the Yasha Ape is easily 3 to 4 times the size of a full adult and very physically powerful. Its hide is tough so don't physical attacks to do much of anything. Second, it has some resistance to magic but that does not mean magic can't hurt it or immobilize it. That is always how I am able to restrain it when I have to calm him down, by making sure to stun it and then some other means afterward."

"Um…when you say it's that big and that powerful," Darian began, "any…estimate?"

"You'll die in a single hit. You might not die if you at least have a reinforcement spell of some kind fo increase your body's natural defense. But for someone like you, even if you were to do that, you'll definitely slowly die from fractured ribs punching into your lungs if it managed to hit you in the chest. And you'll definitely be paralyzed if it strikes you in the back."

Darian's expression was a little hilarious to see after hearing how intimidating the Yasha Ape's brute force was. His eyes were wide and his jaw dropped as low as possible. He staggard from the information. "Oh…oh, no. I don't…think I appreciate that." He found a scaly hand placed on his shoulder and looked at Zaryusu.

"Do not worry, Darian. Remember, you are a magic caster, meaning it would be best if you were at a distance anyway. The three of us will make sure to not let it get close to you, while we buy Alern time to complete whatever magic he has to so he can immobilize this Yasha Ape."

Darian felt some of his nerves relax from hearing the truth his companion spoke of. Yes, that was correct. He wasn't going to be in this monsters face, right? He'll keep a healthy distance and support with his spells. He placed a hand to his chest and breathed.

"T-Thanks, Zaryusu. Yeah, you're right…I'll just help you all from the back. But I'll do my best to help support you guys!" He was determined when he finished his sentence and Zaryusu smiled at him and patted his back.

"That's good to hear, Darian!"

Alern scoffed and walked up to them. "If you lot are done giving yourselves pop talks, can we depart now? I want to get this properly sorted out, hopefully, for the last time." He didn't wait for a reply as he walked by the lot of them. Zaryusu was tempted to trip him with his tail but decided against such a thing. As much as he felt he deserved it, he knew his Master wanted to make a good impression in front of Miowa and he wouldn't dare hinder that.

"Alright Old-Man Miowa, we're gonna take care of this Yasha Ape for you," Gwent said, "then I'd like for your help after."

"Of course. Good luck you all." Miowa said with a small bow before the group left to follow Alern. They all walked through another section of the village that had a road which lead to a barricaded gate. Unlike the front gate, this one had to be opened from the inside. The guards opened it for the group and let them pass through into most dangerous side of the village. This back path had uncontrolled forest on both sides of the road and people who trek through it, with no proper direction, were bound to get lost. The beasts residing inside to be their only other company.

The group had been walking for around 30 minutes with Alern still in the lead. He moved through the greenery with expertise, no doubt having memorized a good majority of the paths that he took to get to the Yasha Ape's location, with Alern taking the lead. Korik got so boared of wallking that he took some random wood be picked up and began to carve something with an [Iron Knife] he discreetly pulled from his inventory. Korik eventually got a bit fed up with all the walking. Looking to Alern, who fingered the effigy on his belt, he spoke up.

"How much longer until we get there? Feels like we've been walking forever."

Alern removed his right hand from the figure then looked at the disguised Goblin. "We're basically upon it. He lives in a massive tree which won't be hard to miss from the direction we're heading."

"I'm sure we have a plan for when we attempt to subdue it, right?" Zaryusu wondered as he looked at Gwent and then to Alern. While he did not like the latter man, he wouldn't let his personal issues about how he felt jeopardized any way to defeat an unknown for said man encountered countless times.

Alern nodded but kept his eyes on the path ahead of them. "Of course, I have a plan. With a lot of you here, it should actually go smoother than if it was by myself now that I think about it. See, there is a secret entrance to the home of the Yasha Ape in the tree we're heading too but it's only large enough for one person. Normally, whenever that thing went on a rampage, I would sneak in that way, use my magic to fill the area with a powder to make it docile and lead it back inside after it attempts to go too far and chases away animals and other creatures towards the village as much as I am able.

However, the lot of you can fight it head-on, something I could never do. If you're lucky enough to not die and substantially weaken it, then I can actually impose my will on the creature through physical contact."

Darian felt pretty uncomfortable hearing this piece of information while Gwent rose an eyebrow in a questioning manner.

"Impose your will? What's that mean?" Gwent asked while Alern smirked to himself.

"I devised a method after all this time to gain control of the Yasha Ape. Since it doesn't want to control itself anymore and do its job then I can give it a command that will have it obey me, even if I'm not in the general area. That command will be for it to protect the village from the various beasts and then I'll be able to leave this damned place, finally."

"How are you going to do that?" Darian asked to which, Alern pointed to the ape effigy on his waste.

"Through this. A product of constant honing of my Druidic magic and a few fur samples were taken from the ape. It is a powerful form of magic that took a month to complete but once I use this in the proper vicinity of the ape, it will be under my control." Darian's eyes lit up, now understanding fully what Alern was attempting to do, while Zaryusu's eyes shone with its own amount of interest.

He didn't know that a [Priest] was capable of such magic. He was sure his brother had no idea either, else he would've tried to use the forests surrounding beasts to try and make familiars or companions.

"Impressive, I admit," Zaryusu said while Alern didn't pay him much heed as he focused on walking.

"I know it is," Alern stated making the Lizardman's left eye twitch a bit in irritation.

Korik grinned and gently slapped the back of Alern, making him yelp and stumble forward, not at all prepared "I gotta say, you're a man who knows your stuff! I respect all the effort you put into doing something like that! You must be serious about wanting that ape!"

Alern growled in his throat and rubbed the sore spot on his back. Thankfully, Korik didn't hit him so hard that it'd leave a bruise or worse but Alern wasn't prepared for the amount of strength behind the hit. Hell, he wasn't prepared for it at all. He stood up and cracked his back.

"Why…thank you," he growled which Korik just grinned like an idiot at and nodded.

Gwent looked down at him and tilted his head in a deadpan. "Dude…"

Kroik, after bringing one of his hands from his pocket, rose his arms to shrug. "What? I can't compliment the guy, Boss?"

Alern kept his irritation to himself and kept his pace until they were standing in front of the tree. Gwent and his group were in awe as the size of this tree was no doubt at least 3 times the size and the width of all the other ones around it. At its base was a rounded entrance and yet in front of even that was a circular dirt and rock ring of sorts. The ring actually sunk down from the grassy terrain they stood on and had a diameter of 30 meters.

"Jeez, what is this? A fighting pit?" Gwent asked aloud as Alern walked a bit away from the group.

"In fact, yes. This is where the Yasha Ape battles those that wish to challenge it and it doesn't show mercy, no matter who or what it is. Also, from what I've seen, it would take a team of Silver or Gold ranked adventurers to fight it and possibly win yet I'm only speculating."

Darian gulped a bit and stepped back. "W-Wait, really? And you want ALL of us to fight…something like that?"

Zaryusu tilted his head. "I'm unfamiliar with the strength levels of adventurers even through rank. But it's safe to say this monster is powerful, right?"

Darian nodded rapidly. "Let me say it like this! We can't actually win against something that'll take a whole TEAM of Gold ranked adventurers to beat! Mr. Alern, all we could possibly do is slow it down!"

Alern chuckled and nodded. "I'm expecting that, yes. All you have to do is weaken it however while I support from the back so that I can use my effigy."

Gwent looked at Darian and smiled. "Hey, relaxed, buddy! With Korik and I support you, you won't have to worry about a thing. You just do what you can and it'll all work out," he looked at Alern, "alright, let's do it."

"Just step into the pit. Everything else will happen after that," Alern said.

Zaryusu and Gwent patted Darian on the shoulders to help get him to calm down. The young sorcerer took a breath before walking down with them into the pit. Alern moved around the rim of the grass making his way to the tree but out of reach of the eventual battle, to take his own position. He smirked, believing that this plan could actually work. Hopefully, this lot wasn't all talk and could at least fight this beat to a standstill somewhat.

Down in the pit, Gwent, Korik, Zaryusu, and Darian were all in a line in the center of the area. Gwent had a hand on his [Ultra Greatsword]. Korik and cracked his knuckles and scuffed the bottom of his boots against the ground. Zaryusu had [Frost Pain] out and ready. Darian, after taking another calming breath, was prepared to cast magic with his hands out at the ready. They stood in place for 15 seconds waiting for something to happen yet nothing did.

Darian bit his bottom lip. "W-What's up? Shouldn't this ape be, I don't know…challenging us?"

Zaryusu, not losing slack in his position kept his eyes on the tree entrance. "It's only been a few seconds. Maybe it's preparing."

Right after he said so, a massive roar erupted from the entrance of the tree. There was so much force behind it that a turbulent wind poured from there, knocking Darian to his butt and Zaryusu was forced to a knee. Korik and Gwent held up a single arm in front of their faces, not perturbed by the force but didn't want their eyes to get irritated from the wind and dust being thrown around. The roar had continued for a little longer than the time they were standing in a line until it thankfully died down.

Dust was still spilling around the pit as the Goblin-in-disguise picked his now human ear with a pinky. Sure, he may have looked pretty human with this ring on and this new world kicked the disguise to another level, but there were just some things that still bled through from his original body. That being his amazing hearing. Gwent grumbled as he did the same with his own ears.

"Holy shit," Gwent said before he began grinning a little," that thing sure got some awesome lungs!"

Korik chuckled, the ringing finally gone. "If that wasn't to issue a challenge, I don't know what else would be!" He licked his upper lip a tad and gave a big grin. "How strong do you think he is, Boss!? Should we try this time, unlike with the Ogres!?"

Gwent thought about it for a bit. "Nah. Reign in your fighting spirit. It's best to test these things first and not just jump into full power."

He then looked at the other two members of the group. Darian was still shaken from the roar while Zaryusu's hand trembled a bit while gripping his weapon. The demon-in-disguise just smiled and walked behind them before he kneeled and place hands on their shoulders.

"Hey, whatever happens, Korik and I will be here to help and I know that as my, erm….students, you two will have ours. Besides, I didn't get to see what the two of you were made of when we first met. I hope to see more of your abilities. That way, I'll know where you guys stand and can help you out properly." Korik chuckled to himself at Gwent addressing the two as his students with a bit of reluctance in his voice.

'Aw, he'll get used to it,' Korik thought with a big smile.

Darian stopped shaking and looked to his savior and teacher with admiration. That's right. He and Korik fought 3 Ogre's easily and won. So…even if he and Zaryusu don't help all that much in this fight, they can still prove their worth by showing their abilities. Gwent wasn't asking them for much except to fight and fight hard. He nodded, along with Zaryusu.

"O…Okay, Mister Gwent. I'll…I mean…I may not be a s-super powerful magic caster but…I'll do my best."

"I agree, Master Gwent," Zaryusu began as he and Darian stood up with Gwent's help, "I'll put mine all into this fight. I'm not afraid!"

"Good!" Gwent patted them on the back as thudding footsteps came from the tree, getting louder and louder. Along with the footsteps was growling that belonged to a very large creature. Definitely, something to not take easily. Gwent took a few steps to the front and got eager to see this creature. He never heard of Yasha Apes in YGGDRASIL. He couldn't wait to see what it could do, but even more so, if he was going to be a teacher, he had to take even more note of the other two behind him. At least they weren't worried looking anymore.

A figure emerged from the shadows. A very, VERY large figure, with red glowing eyes. He walked towards them on his hind legs but it looked capable of using his massive arms to assist its walking with those as well. And what did it look like exactly? The sight of the Yasha Ape was both simple….and scary. Standing a little over 8ft tall (250cm), with a very hulking build. It was a beast that was similar looking to a gorilla but the muscles on its body were rippling with pure power. Its skin was green, with pointed ears, a fanged mouth that was capable of ripping flesh to ribbons, and elongated hair on his head.

Yasha growled and beat his chest a few times, the impacts of fists on pecks sounding like drums before he outstretched his arms to the side and planted his dextrous feet into the earth. He hooked his claws fingers and flexed them a few times, scrutinizing his gaze over the group.

Zaryusu took a breath, looking over every aspect of this amazing creature. "By the ancestors…never once have I looked upon such a beast."

Darian fought to pick up his jaw but succeeded eventually. "You're telling me…that thing is the Yasha Ape!?"

"Be on your guards!" Korik exclaimed, wanting them to keep their heads on straight. He knew that his Boss wanted to make this a sort of test for them, to see their full capabilities in this battle. No, he knew that Gwent had no intention of throwing them at the ape to fend for themselves but to only see the extent of their abilities.

However, they did not get much chance to fully prepare as Yasha ape, after pushing off of his powerful legs, jumped right at them in a single stride.

"Here he comes!" Gwent exclaimed, hand back on the hilt of his sword. Yasha could sense that among the four of them, Gwent and Korik were the stronger fighters and the other two were nowhere near their level. So, as to get rid of the bigger threats, he went for Gwent in front but the armor-clad man just spun so his sword, still on his back, faced Yasha to block a strong punch from him.

The resounding clang was a loud one fro hardened flesh meeting a massive steel sword. Gwent didn't budge an inch from the blow but a tiny amount of shock did travel through his back. He felt the hit, even after his blade, armor, and body took no damage of the sort. Lower level gear or not, that didn't mean he chose to neglect refining them with [Refined Adamantite] which was a good few levels higher than normal, rough, [Adamantite]. Using [Refined] ore is actually a little secret among [Blacksmiths] and [Armor Smiths] that was both a common secret and an uncommon one.

See, those who had either class, after investinng enough in either to get at least Lv.5, gained the [Skill], [Whetstone]. This skill was always a shared secret among those who crafted weapons and gear to trick Players who had neither classes or had the classes but not as the appropriate levels, to buy gear at a higher price, even if it was made fro the same material. When one [Iron Broadsword] did 15 damage with rough [Iron] and a replica did 25 damage with [Refined Iron] that was created by a Lv.5 or higher [Blacksmith], then of course the ignorant buyer would grab the weapon he was just using all of 5 seconds ago for extra 10 damage output. And this is all without any enchantments or anything.

Not to mention, the better the material, the stronger the refined versions of said material would be. You go from 10 damage jumps to 25 and then to 50. Then to 100 or even 1000.

No one ever said that this was a secret among the smithies but it was an unspoken one, for sure. A rule to not tell others that people with similar skills pick up and agree to always follow. If everyone knew of this little secret then many more people would try to invest in either [Blacksmith] or [Armor Smith] to make their own [Refined Ore]. There would be next to no buyers of refined weapons due to anyone being capable of getting said weapons themselves and all of the old weapons not charged with [Data Crystals] or rough ore would rarely be used. Then the price on refined gear would plummet to the same price as original weaponry.

Hell, secrets were power in that game and Gwent had never been happier to be part smith. Granted, he was interested in hearing a certain rumor about how to become a full-on [Ancient Dragon] race but he didn't care for it much. Something about…giving up all your items, money, and gear? Psssh, fuck dat'. Sex demon any day.

Back to the battle, Yasha Ape was impressed that this human blocked his blow and that his large weapon did not snap. Either man or weapon would've felt to this punch in the past but this is new. He reared back and jumped up, 15ft, intending on bringing down a hammer blow on Gwent but he leaped backward, spinning sideways in the air one times and landing on his feet, just as the Yasha Ape brought his hands down into the rock and dirt.

Darian, who had made sure to keep his distance and very much so, put a hand out as a blue magic circle appeared. "I can help! [Magic Arrow]!"

An arrow, the size of a basic iron arrow but made of blue mana, fired from the magic array. The attack struck Yasha in his chest and got stuck in his thick fur but it didn't really seem to do anything. The ape grunted before grabbing the magic in a large hand. With a small tug, he pulled it from his fur and crushed it in his hand, making it dissolve into nothing. Darian gasped at the sight of his magic having no effect.

"That didn't even faze it!?" He exclaimed before the ape turned his attention towards him. Darian gasped and back-peddled some, not wanting the monstrous animal to have sights on him. Especially while it was growling in irritation, showing its teeth.

"Hey, over here!" Zaryusu shouted as he charged at Yasha from the other side, the intent of getting its attention off his friend. Yasha decided to face this new attacker and dodged the swipe that Zaryusu gave with [Frost Pain]. He turned his body left, then right, then jumped over the low slash the Lizardman attempted to give with his weapon. While still in the air, like an acrobat, he executed a front nimble somersault while also extending his right leg for an ax kick.

Zaryusu's honed battle instincts are what saved him from the swift attack as he dove out the way, rock upturning from the impact of the foot making contact. He rolled once while also turning, placing his feet against the ground to skid to a halt. He shook his head a little at how he barely avoided that blow but was definitely glad for his prior fighting experience assisting him.

"It's very nimble," he said to the others.

Gwent nodded at him, still havinng not drawn his sword yet. "Of course it is. Ape's are known to be but I'm surprised one as well-built as this one can move the same. It's pretty cool, actually."

"Admire later, Boss," Korik said while watching the Yasha Ape stand up and getting back into position. He was growling even more now, beating his chest harder and roaring his challenge. Gwent took his chance to give some quick orders to his companions.

"Alright, game plan! Darian, use spells to try and disable him from a distance and if you can, use any enhancement spells to buff Zaryusu in any way you can. He'll need those the most since he has no proper armor and that things punch and break normal steel. But don't burn your mana out too fast."

"My what!? I-I mean, okay, Mister Gwent!" Darian exclaimed, getting ready to cast more magic, even though he had no idea what this 'mana' stuff was that his teacher just spoke of.

"Zaryusu, once Darian gives you proper enhancements to defense or attack, you use your melee prowess to go in and dance around him. Strike at whatever spots you can to tire him out, even if it's not effective. And that special ice attack your weapon can do? How many times can it be cast?" Gwent ordered first and questioned after.

"I can cast [Icy Burst] 3 times a day and I already used it earlier against those Ogre's, so I have 2 more," Zaryusu explained.

Gwent nodded with a grin. "That's cool! I think we'll only need to use it once but be prepared to use it again. As for Korik and I, when you two do your parts, we'll go in to take and deal the stronger blows."

Korik rose a finger. "And we'll do our best to not kill the thing."

"Good boy," Gwent said while Korik flipped the finger at him. Laughing it off, they got ready while the Yasha pe charged at Zaryusu yet Korik was the one to get in his way this time. The gray beast roared at somersaulted multiple times in the air. Carried by its momentum, it went out for another hammer blow but Korik raised his hands with caught the fists as they came down. The rock under his feet, shattered and dust blew away from them due to the amount of air pressure in the collision.

Korik gave a grin with his eyes narrowed a bit, his arms not even budging from the attack. The Yasha Ape was surprised that its hammer blow didn't go through at all and wondered how the shortest of the group was able to do something like that.

"Heeey, calm down big guy~ You'll play with him soon enough. Just step back for a bit, will ya'?" Korik asked before he lightly flicked his wrists outward. That action forced the ape's arms to spread out wide from the strength in his wrists alone before he felt a strong palm to his gut, courtesy of Korik who chose to just lightly push him. Yasha roared and was sent flying back 10 meters but he backflipped and landed on his own feet, growling from the throbbing in his gut.

Darian breathed as he had his new yellow magic circle aimed at Zaryusu. "Okay, Zaryusu! I'm ready!"

The Lizardman nodded. "Okay! Let's' start!"

"First. I'll enhance your speed! [Quick March]!" A yellow down coated Zarysu's body and he felt his body become…lighter. More responsive. Even his senses seemed to have been taking in everything at a slower pace, evident by the birds flying ahead which did not appear to be flying as fast as they should've been. "Now, [Reinforce Armor]!" Another yellow aura surged through Zaryusu, who gasped as he felt his muscles tighten and his scales felt like natural steel instead of natural iron.

Gripping [Frost Pain], he smirked and dashed forward. Now, Zaryusu was someone who didn't have any [Martial Arts] abilities but that never stopped him from fighting at his best whenever he was forced to. And sometimes, his best was enough to battle against other Lizardmen who were capable of such techniques. This back before he even had the ownership of [Frost Pain]. So, once he kicked up a trail of dust from his rush and slashed at the ape's hand, leaving a bleeding cut before Yasha could react to it, that prowess showed.

Due to not moving around in shallow water or a marsh, his webbed feet aren't as dextrous as they could be but he had no issues running on solid ground. Yasha roared and swung back his left fist to hit Zaryusu but he slid under the arm and slashed at the leg. Yet, like the magic arrow, the damage wasn't as severe and he was forced to block a kick from the same leg with his weapon. The defense spell stopped a decent amount of the force and he was forced to jump away.

Korik and Gwent chose that time to help them out a bit more and moved in. Finally drawing his sword, Gwent held the monstrosity of a blade high before bringing it down and gently as possible for a swing on the ground in front of Yasha Ape. This split a good chunk of the rock in half and kicked up a few slabs. The shock from the attack sent the hulking beast tumbling back but he just flipped to his hands and sprung up.

Korik took some of the upturned rocks and threw them at Yasha Ape, to try and attack with objects instead of his fists. He wasn't sure exactly how much power it would take to hurt but not maim or kill this thing with his own body. So…throwing rocks were the next best thing in this moment.

"Alright, Commander Korik!" Darian yelled out, preparing another spell just in case. To be honest, he was breathing a little heavy from using 2nd Tier spells back to back but he still had to pull his weight in this fight.

Yasha Ape threw fists and feet as the large slabs flew at him, yet he destroyed each one. Every time he did, rock-dust would appear and obscure his vision a bit but his smell was even better than his eyesight.

So, he caught wind of Zaryusu having charged, jumped, and then trying to slice as his face but he caught the blade between his hands, making the Lizardman gasp.

"Uh-oh!" He exclaimed before he was thrown to the ground in front of Yasha. While the defense and speed spells were still working, the only reason that happened was that there was no way to control the speed at which someone fell without making themselves heavier or some other method. He threw up [Frost Pain] over his himself with the flat side when Yasha Ape attempted to stomp on him. He clenched his fangs as this happened over and over and over, the ape doing his hardest to crush one of his opponents….but then he cringed. He gave a low pained growl and he stood back with some frost covering his foot.

Gwent and Korik's eyes widened as they took notice to that. Frost? But Zaryusu wasn't attacking. A passive of some sort? While they thought this, Darian wanted to try and get the Yashaa Ape away from Zaryusu. So, mustering what little amount of power he had, he made a blue magic circle. A small spiral of magic was forming in the center before it grew in size. He was straining as he was using the rest of his power in this attack but it was going to be worth it to help his friend.

"[Magic Arrow]!" Unlike the first attempt, a set of 4 magical arrows were fired from the magic array. Right after that, Darian fell to the ground, too exhausted to move. Unlike before, where they met resistance against the thick fur of the Yasha Ape, they actually aimed for the areas that Zaryusu had already struck with his weapon, digging into the flesh easier. The beast roared loudly from the pain and stumbled around, though it was tripping a little due to its slightly frostbitten foot.

Seeing that this thing was off-kilter, Gwent knew this was the time to capitalize. "Zaryusu, that ice attack!"

Nodding, Zaryusu stood and held out [Frost Pain] as it glowed with a chilled, white power. "[Icy Burst]!" With a hard swing, a large blast of ice and snow was sent hurling at Yasha Ape, who couldn't help but get caught in it. He tried to withstand the wind, snow, and the like but he couldn't keep himself grounded for too long. Some parts of his body became trapped in light layers of ice while he was carried up into the air.

Zaryusu breathed in exertion but smiled as he saw the form get freed from the attack, to which it fell to the ground, landing on its back. Yasha groaned as he felt very weakened and injured. "Yes! I…I think that might've done it!"

Korik wiped his hands together. "Well, more like you and Darian did it. Boss and I just supported." Gwent went go help up Darian while the shorter man spoke.

Zaryusu gave a light glare. "Which is still more than I can say for Alern though. He didn't do anything even though he said he would."

Gwent, with Darian's arm,, slung over his shoulder agreed with a nod. "Now that you mention it…he did say he' help us weaken the thing but there were no plants or nature magic being thrown around, was there." He looked at the spot on the ledge where Alern was but found him missing. "Not there? Did he ditch us?"

Before anyone could say anything else, vine erupted from the ground, covering the limbs of the still-conscious monster. Yasha Ape growled in confusion before he was brought to his knees and forced to kneel while his arms were parallel to the ground. He tried to break free of the bindings but even with his brute strength, Yasha couldn't do anything to undo them. Coming out of the ground beside him was a massive set of vines that was shaped as a cacoon. It opened up to reveal Alern, with that knowing smirk on his face.

"Great job, everyone. You did your jobs perfectly," he congratulated while Korik huffed.

"Yeah, no thanks to you. What the HELL were you doing anyway? Jerking off?" Alern blushed and growled at him for saying that, while Gwent laughed. Zaryusu nd Darian blushed at their Commander's words.

"How dare you!? As if I'd ever…you know what? No. I won't rise to that," he said after taking a breath and putting his smile back on, "but I'll take it from here."

Darian, who got some of his breath back said, "M-Mr. Alern? You're going to, um…give him the command to help everyone now, right?"

"Oh, he'll get his command," Alern said with a smile, "but I thought of an even better one. I figure it would be easier to teach that old man a lesson by showing him that this is more than he thought you lot could handle."

Zaryusu narrowed his eyes, not liking the sound of that. "And what does that mean?" He got his weapon ready just in case.

Alern smirked and aimed his staff at the Lizardman. "[Ice Javelin]!"

An icy magic circle appeared before a 3ft long and width spear of ice blasted at the Lizardman, who was able to react fast enough to it. He swung his weapon at it, just as the effects of Darian's buffs were wearing off and he destroyed it, breaking it into various ice shards. But the attack surprised him, Darian, while Gwent's eyebrows slowly rose up.

The Lizardman no longer buffed growled at him. "I KNEW I didn't like you for a reason!"

Darian shook a bit in Gwent's grasp. "A-A….A 3rd Tier Spell!? Wait, Mr. Alern, what are you doing!? You could've killed him!"

Korik snorted to the naïve mage. "That's the point, kid. Alern is double-crossing us. No doubt he'd planned this since we got here. Let me guess, have us weaken the Yasha Ape so you can properly restrain him then use you effigy to put him under your selfish whim?"

Alern wasn't even concerned. Not like he tried to hide his intentions just now. "Oh, entirely. You don't know this but the Yasha Ape has a special trick it uses to actually command all of the creatures that are weaker than it under his control. It's how he directs those who get too close away from the direction of the village. Yet it wouldn't do that in the face of a personal challenge hence you four. I never did anything against this thing for over a month. I was using a spell, {Command Beast], to send those attacks."

Gwent's eyes wandered from side to side as Alern explained himself, having seen the backstab, bad-guy trope in movies and video games WAY too often. So, he wasn't all that phased by this.

"And….you did this….whyyyy?"

Alern scoffed. "Something so SIMPLE that I'm upset I had to go through all these lengths to get it. That damn STAFF! It's a relic that is capable of 4th Tier magic! Potentially, even 5th!"

Darian's eyes shot up. "N-No way! That thing can use such powerful magic!? But…how!? Magic is like is supposed to be outside the realms of humanity and other races!"

'These guys think simple 4th and 5th Tier magic is some kind of godly force? This world is getting more interesting the more I learn about it!" Gwent thought with a smile.

'Holy hell…how weak IS this world in terms of power? I could understand if they said 7th or 8th was hard to acquire but 4th and 5th? Hell, we've got tons of magic items that can cast magic on that level and then some!' Korik thought, realizing just how overpowered the people and potentially, even the creatures of this world were. What, were they capped at around Lv.30 or something? Lv.40?

"So, the money the old man gave me actually went towards the materials to help me make this. So, yes, I kinda lied about this too but my magic was still influential. Hell, at the most, all I did was snag some fallen fur from Yasha Ape that was left behind as the main ingredient." He brought up his effigy and place it against the Yasha Ape's chest, another vine restraining his neck so he couldn't bite Alern's face off. "And now, to get what I've worked so hard for!" Green magic coated the effigy, which began to glow.

"NO! Stop him, Mister Gwent!"

"Master Gwent!"

Gwent passed Darian to Zaryusu and grabbed his sword but Korik held out a hand to stop him.

"Korik, what the hell, man!?" Gwent asked but Korik turned and gave a naughty grin, which made Gwent a bit uncomfortable.

"Uh…d-dude? What…?"

Alern continued the process for a minute but when the light died down…his eyes were wide. The effigy was supposed to meld with the Yasha Ape and yet he was still holding it and said ape was still struggling in his binds.

"W-What the!? Why didn't it work!? I did everything perfectly when creating this! It's modeled exactly like the ape, it's got its hair, it's got the proper mind-control spell placed on it, so…"

Korik chuckled a bit and walked forward. "Well, that might've worked…if you actually had the thing." From his pocket, he pulled out a similar effigy. The real wooden effigy.

Alern gasped and brought the one he was holding to his face. He turned it on all sides to get a look at it until he found a small message on the back of it.

-GET FUCKED:

LOVE KORIK-

With an angry blush, he threw it to the ground in front of them, letting everyone see the message. Korik laughed, and Zaryusu threw a hand over his mouth to calm himself down while Darian let a laughing caught escape his mouth. Though Gwent blinked in confusion as he looked at the words, not knowing what was written.

"WHAT THE FUCK IS THIS!? HoW DID YOU…WHEN DID YOU!?"

Korik grinned. "Fuck did ya' think I was carvin' when we were making' our way here? A little incentive just in case some bullshit like this happened, and I gotta say, I sure know my way around the arts, huh? I had the replica done in 15 minutes. 10 were spent thinking of what insult to put on the back. The last 5 was actually putting it on."

Alern gripped his staff so tightly, his knuckles turned white. "But when did you swap them!?"

Korik made a slapping gesture and Alern balked. When he slapped his back!? "N-No way! The time intervals between the slap and you swapping them-"

Korik wiggled his fingers. "I don't know about you, but I've got the fingers of a thief. It wasn't hard for me to move my arms at such a speed that or any anyone else wouldn't have noticed." He then crushed the effigy completely in his hands. Alern stomped on the ground, completely losing his composure.

Gwent's eyes narrowed as he never even picked up on ANY of that happening. 'What the fuck? Wait…so Korik was trolling this guy the entire time!?'

"You FUCKING….little…GOBLIN! I'll put you down as if you WERE one! Then I'll kill the rest of you and then this disgusting ape! With NO guardian then ALL creatures around here will attack that village at one point or another!"

Korik grinned when Alern insulted him. Gwent knew exactly what his companion was gonna do to rise up to that and he couldn't even say he didn't agree with it. So, pulling off his [Untrue Dark Ring], his form changed back to normal, to that of a Goblin. Alern's eyes almost jumped out of his sockets at the sight of the man changing species in front of him.

"WHAT!? N-NO! You ARE a Goblin!? A monster!?"

Korik cracked his knuckles and stepped forward, Alern, forgetting about casting magic and stepping back until he fell on his ass. "I'm not just some Goblin. I'm the [Goblin King]…and you'll face the harshest of punishments one can face when defying royalty. Besides…I'm about to off a REAL monster right now, so you could say I'm a saint."

Alern screamed and threw various spells at the King of Goblins but each one was just either batted aside or walked right through until he was in front of the man. With a swipe, he blew away the upper portion of Alern's staff while preparing a fist with his other hand. His eyesseemingg to glow as Alern was at his mercy, and sobbing like a child who couldn't find his mother.

"So…you little pissant. Like I said before…..get fucked."

His fist flew down.


Korik Ex Machina. That's all I gotta say.

Rest in Pieces, bitches! Until next chapter!