Eyoooo!
This is too short after missing uploading for three weeks, sorry about that. The problems piles up and not only holidays, our stores shuts down, which means... I'm unemployed.
Yay! fun right!?
No, I still haven't fully paid this phone yet so I might focus on looking for a job. Meanwhile, because we're still on pandemic, my time to look around would be limited, so I might be able to pull off to get back on track and upload every week.
Here we go again, promising something... *sigh*
That's all I have to say... anyway~
Enjoy
[ Where are we going now Sonobe? ]
A voice that seems confused suddenly resounded.
The group thought they were heading to Adventurers guild, but they were still inside the palace's area, having no clue what Yuka's planning for.
[ I need a few stuffs before heading to the Adventurers Guild. I also need to replenish my weapons. I used a lot on yesterdays training afterall. ] Yuka replied while walking briskly.
The rest of the Hero Party were already on their way to Great Orcus Labyrinth, and now there's only them left, the stay home group.
Yuka was assigned to lead and train them, and now they were heading somewhere to replenish their gears.
Not long after, the group found themselves on a workshop for Synergist department. Everyone entered and saw how busy the synergist was, that it makes them slightly taken aback for a second.
[ Ohayo, Volpen-san! Are you doing well? ]
The man named Volpen turned his gaze where that voice comes from on the entrance and found Yuka and co. looking at everyone with apologetic expression.
[ Ohh!... Korewa, Yuka-sama! What are you here for? Can I take a look at your weapon again? That weapon created by Nagumo-sama was really fascinating that it makes everyone here inspired to atleast reach his level! Hohoho! ] Volpen laughed wholeheartedly by seeing his colleagues on their work.
[ Sorry we're kinda in a hurry, so I'm just here to pick up what I requested the other day. ] Yuka said while scratching her cheek in embarrassment.
[ Hoho, is that so. Well I'm glad we could still be in help despite you having such an amazing Artifacts on your own. ] Volpen replied while walking to one of the workbench.
He picked a few stuffs and approached the group with troubled smile.
Sensing something, Yuka pulled out a bag filled with luta, and hand it over to Volpen with apologetic smile.
[ Eh-, Yuka-sama w-what are these for? ] Volpen asked in confusion.
[ I know the Kingdom would provide anything we need, but at the very least, let us do this as much. I know what I asked wasn't cheap so I want to pay for it for ourselves. ] Yuka replied with a smile.
Everyone stared at Yuka in surprise. And they too smile from seeing how considerate she was.
[ If you say so, I won't hold back at accepting this. Thank you very much Yuka-sama. ] Volpen said that, but he still accepted the bag of money with lots of reservations.
Volpen then hand over something that was covered in cloth on Yuka and called for the rest of the synergist to get everything she usually asked for.
Yuka turned around and smiles on her classmates. She removed the cloth and held it out its content in front of Tamai.
[ Atsushi, try this on. ] Yuka said while handing a pair of hand guards.
[ Eh-? W-what are this Sonobe? ] Tamai asked in confusion.
[ It's what you see. A hand guard. ] Yuka replied while tilting her head slightly.
[ I know that, but why are you giving me this? I'm rearguard, you know? ]
Yuka paused and thinks for a second before answering...
[ ...I think, being a vanguard fit you perfectly. Your Artifacts might be good on long range, but you'll be having a hard time when your enemies gets close, so you need to be ready to fight close range with that sword of yours... I will train you though, so you don't have look at me like that. ]
Tamai was having a second thought, but after compromising, he wore the hand guards and looked at it with in excitement. He didn't know why, but this might be what Nana said, that Yuka will come up with something for everyone to fight.
Yuka then opened up the other thing that was still covered in cloth and hand its content on Taeko next.
It's a whip.
[ I have plenty of spares so I asked Volpen-san to make this for you, Taeko-chan. ]
Taeko picked it up and before she could even give it a try, she noticed something odd.
[ I'm thankful Yuka-chan, but... Why is this so short? ]
It's only 1 meter long and it was pretty thin too compared to her Artifact.
Taeko's whip was 3 meters long and 2 inches thick. It has an ability to extend itself upto 5 meters and it can also increase the users strength which could help them lifts heavy stuffs even with slender body of hers.
So what Yuka handed was far far more inferior on what she had.
[ I know that you'll be having trouble when facing enemies on close quarters. Yesterday, you could hardly move when you were defending yourself, right? It also makes you vulnerable when it's your turn to attack, because it takes a moment for you to get ready. That's why I'll be giving you this... It's short and quick to use. Great for attacking even when you use that technique I thought you yesterday to defend yourself. I asked Volpen-san if he could combine the spider web I got from Nagumo with some ores. With this, it should be sharp and tough as a real sword, and it's still classified as a whip so it should be perfect for you! ]
Yuka finished her explanations, and everyone was completely speechless. For her to come up with ideas, like they were growing in trees makes everyone dumbfounded.
Tamai's hand guard was made of rock golems parts that Yuka chose. It was the toughest part which located on the outer layer of its main core. Volpen found out, that it was surprisingly tough and could still be toughen up by channeling more mana into it. That was probably that golems unique skill.
On the other side. Taeko's new whip uses every features that spider web, Hajime provided, had. It's tough, flexible, sharp and could also conduct mana, which helps the user to channel mana on spells more efficiently. And by covering it with various of ground sharp ores creates a pseudo razor sharp barb wire.
Taeko tried to touch it, and she could feel the sharpness that wasn't visible to the naked eyes.
Volpen and the others were having a tough time creating these, especially Taeko's new whip. On top of having to use a non-ore, high quality materials, they also had to follow Yuka's instructions they weren't familiar with. But because it was an idea from an other world, it might be quite powerful too like that Man's gun, which boosted their excitement.
[ Yuka-sama... here's the rest of what you asked for. ]
One of Volpen's subordinate hand a bag filled with knives and wires to Yuka and bowed respectively before leaving.
Yuka did a final check and face her classmates with energetic smile.
[ We're done here. Let's go to our next destination! ]
Yuka didn't bother to wait for their reply and immediately walks ahead of them.
They wordlessly stared at Yuka and not long after, they let out a sigh, smiled, and followed after her.
[ Our next destination, it this? ]
A boy's voice that seems confused suddenly resounded(again) on bustling streets.
They were in front of clothing store afterall. Nobody had expected that someone who was preparing to fight would passed by here.
[ Yeah... I think a dress up for everyone is necessary. They also had adventurers section here, you know? ] Yuka replied before entering.
Akito, Tamai, Noboru, Nana, and Taeko followed after her without complaints.
A man with red hair, luxurious clothes and wears excessive make up, walks towards their direction, and greeted the group.
[ Welcome- hmm... Well if it isn't Yuka-sama... Kaori-sama and Shizuku-sama weren't with you, huh? I wish they could atleast say their farewell to me before leaving. I've made dozens of new clothes for you three to try on though. ] The guy said while examining the group.
The make up wasn't on the level of excessive anymore, he looks repulsive to the point that the boys were trying their best no to look at his direction, while girls can't help but froze in place from seeing a creature like this.
[ Ohayo, Vincent-san. You might heard it already, but they are on their way to Great Orcus Labyrinth. So it's just me and my party today... ] Yuka replies with a smile. She seems not bothered by this guys appearance.
Actually, Yuka reflexively throw a dagger at this guy when they first met. If it wasn't for Shizuku's speed who managed to block that, this guys weren't standing in front of them right now.
[ I see... Then. What can I do for all of you today? ] Vincent seems disappointed, cause his efforts were in vain.
[ Do you have light clothing for everyone? I want them to be able to move as much as possible, so something comfortable might help from their exhaustion... ]
By the way, Yuka's outfit consist of white polo shirt, crimson scarf tied around her neck, a black leather vest, crimson skirt, black boots, and a high socks. (If you're gonna ask where did she hide those daggers... well, it's woman's secret.)
[ Hm~m... I think I can do something about it. I have plenty of selection, so you guys should pick for yourselves, okay? ] Vincent said before turning on his heels and starts walking.
The group only nodded and followed after Vincent. The fear on their faces was still visible.
Yuka smiles warmly at them, and she too starts frolicking inside the store. While everyone was picking their clothes, she might as well look around.
Vincent was the one who picks her clothes, so she doubt she could be on any help on them this time.
Humming on her own, while looking at every clothes on display. Suddenly, Yuka noticed something on the glass box on one corner.
This shop also sells accessories, and they once attempt to buy her earrings and Shizuku's hair tie from them. But the atmosphere at that time plummeted and Vincent withdraws without question.
That's one of the reason he befriend with Yuka and Shizuku. He was curious on the creator of those magnificent jewelry, and he was planning to hire or ask if that guy could teach them somehow.
Little did he know that, that Man were currently turning a gentle clan into an head ripping berserkers. But that story will be told next time. (Or rather, just read the LN again.)
Yuka approach the glass box and peers inside of it. Tons of expensive jewellery were on display, and one was really eye catching. It was a bracelet and couple of rings. It had a simple design but what really piqued Yuka's interest was the amber colored gems fixed on top of it.
[ Vincent-san~!... ] Yuka waves her hand and calls out for the store owner.
Vincent immediately approached Yuka. The others were busy picking and trying clothes he recommended, so it wasn't a problem to left them alone for now.
[ What can I do for you, Yuka-sama? ] Vincent said with a smile.
Yuka points at the accessories inside the glass box, and starts talking.
[ This one... Uhmm- Where did you get that? ]
[ Hmm~, ahh! That one just arrived recently. It was created by one of my acquaintance on nearby town. He said that the gem on the middle was pretty rare, that an army need to be deployed just to acquire one, so it was pretty expensive, you know? ] Vincent replied with smug face.
Yuka seems got an idea where this thing comes from, but for starters she wants to confirm it.
[ Is this... some sort of mana crystal? ]
[ Ow! I'm surprised you noticed that Yuka-sama. Actually, he said that it was made of Golem's core he requested on the Adventurers guild. It was pretty good as mana tank, which was popular among high class mages. He was really amazed someone would take that quest despite how dangerous it was. Subjugation on that level requires the Kingdom's cooperation, so he increased the rewards on that quest as possible, hoping someone would take it. ]
A fight among monsters for territories were very common, but the chances of a monster defeating something powerful as a golem was pretty low, so stumbling upon a golem's carcass was very rare. So Vincent wasn't really lying when he said that it was a rare item.
Now that confirms it. It was the golem's core they defeated the other day.
Yuka immediately made a decision and declared...
[ Let me have that. ]
Vincent was taken aback for a second, and not long after, returned to his senses and face Yuka properly.
[ ... Well, Yuka-sama. I know you're one of the God's Apostles, but... This is really expensive you know. There's no doubt the Kingdom could afford that, but I heard recently that they suffered a tragedy against Demons invasion on the palace. ]
Even through his explanations, Yuka's expression didn't change and continued staring at him with intense seriousness.
Seeing that, Vincent cleared his throat and fix his collars. He's been acting friendly towards them since the beginning, but this time was different. He needs to face this girl like professional merchant he was.
[ The Kindom must had suffered with great loss from compensation for the Nobles who died there at that day. I don't want to be rude but... as a citizen of this Kindom, I can't allow such selfishness to be overlooked, just because you're one among the God's Apostles. ]
Someone would definitely would be overwhelmed by how serious Vincent was. But Yuka was different.
"What is this guy saying? Does he realized, we're here to save them?" Yuka thought to herself.
She couldn't comprehend why he would bothered to argued with her about this.
[ I want this. ] Yuka repeats herself with the same firmness.
Facing such resolution, Vincent finally gave up.
[ I see... Well if you really like to get this that much, how about we trade?... ]
Vincent paused, and looked at Yuka's expression. Her face remains the same after hearing his statement. Thinking that it wouldn't be like last time, he decided to proceed.
[ I'll have that earrings of yours, and you can get this set of accessories. How about it? ]
Yuka's eyes narrowed dangerously. That explains why he would bothered to turn her down. Sensing the danger, Vincent tried to increase the offer, thinking it might help somehow.
[ I-I-I... I'll add more, how about it? With all the accessories you want here, and a great sum of money? ]
Seeing that Vincent had become more desperate, Yuka let out an exasperated sigh. Which scared him, thinking he might pissed her off.
[ What are you saying Vincent-san? Just name your price already. I will pay for it myself. ]
Vincent's mouth hangs open. He didn't know what to say anymore to convince this girl to surrender that masterpiece of hers.
[ A-are you sure about that, Yuka-sama? Where could you g-get such amount anyway? ]
[ Hm? What are talking about, Vincent-san? I'm a Black rank adventurer you know. Shizuku-chan and I had been doing tons of quest, and selling valuable materials to saves a lot of money for ourselves. Of course I have my own saving. ]
There's no doubt now, that he can't really win against this girl.
If Vincent wanted, he could hire mercenaries to steal that treasure. He was sure Yuka must had understand that too, but despite this, she didn't bother to hide it while walking outside where theif lurks everywhere. In a way, Yuka's a monster too on how gutsy she was.
Vincent surrenders and gave the accessories with it's original price. He wants to use it to negotiate for Yuka's earrings, but it seems furtile when facing such terrifying enemy.
Not long after, the others called out for Yuka and Vincent. It seems they had finished choosing for themselves.
[ What do you think, Yukacchi? Does it look good!? ] Nana asked excitedly.
The group lined up for Yuka to observe.
Nana was wearing a dark blue boots, white high socks, blue short shorts, and a white sleeve less polo shirt, underneath her blue long sleeve jacket.
Taeko's clothes were now consist of maroon boots, black socks, red skirt, and a white shoulder less top with maroon colored pattern that resembles a clam shell.
(TN:Both Yuka and Taeko were wearing hot pants underneath, so there's no problem.)
The boys seems lacking in fasion as expected. They all chooses a white shirt, leather vest in different color matching their mana, grey pants, and a pair of black boots.
The only difference was that, Akito was wearing grey colored mage robe, which covers up his whole body. While Noboru on the other hand, had found a good looking green and brown coloured cape.
After seeing everyone, Yuka smiles and nodded in satisfaction.
[ Vincent-san I'll get everything they chose too... ]
Yuka starts fishing on her racksack and grab a heavy pouch filled with luta. She hand it to Vincent, while wearing a gentle smile on her face.
[ Here, take it, Vincent-san. Inside is more or less 5 million luta. Keep the change though. ]
Vincent's hand unconsciously accepts it and his gaze still remains on Yuka.
Yuka could somehow read what inside his thought. She heaved out another sigh and starts talking in annoyance.
[ Anosa, Vincent-san... I know you want this earrings of mine badly. But I need this, you know. To reach my goal, this thing here will help me. I know this might sound like I'm self-loathing but... Maybe without this, I wouldn't have the courage to continue fighting, or even set a goal for myself. In a way, this thing here gives me hope... That's why it's priceless. ]
[ Yuka-sama... ]
Vincent and the others were dumbfounded.
Mid sentence, Yuka's voice become gentle and sweet, and her expression was overflowing with happiness.
Of course she was still talking about the earrings, and not the man who gave it to her. Was what she thought.
The room became silent, and Yuka who had caused that, returned to her senses. She became flustered and starts walking towards the exit.
[ N-now! Let's go now everyone! V-Vincent-san thank you for helping us out! We're gonna head now, okay! Bye-! ]
The students smiles wryly and heaved out sigh themselves.
Vincent thanked everyone and sends them all with a sad smile.
[ Ohhh! So this is the Adventurers Guild! ]
[ Different kind of warriors and mages are everywhere! ]
[ H-hey both of you... Look at those receptionist. Which one do you think is cutest? ]
Akito and Tamai's voice echoed loudly inside the Adventurers Guild, while on other hand, Noboru were examining each of the receptionist on each stations.
[ Hey you three! Be quiet will you! We're gathering too much attention! ] Taeko shouted.
[ Taekocchi, you yourself were too loud too, you know... ] Nana whispered.
It's like Taeko said. The group were gathering too much attention. Mainly among the men. Some were looking at the girls with heated gaze, while others were cowering in fear on Yuka.
[ ...*sigh* Hey all of you. Focus, okay? We're waiting for my acquaintance, but be alert at all times. You never knew when will the danger will show up. ] Yuka said in exasperation.
The group only looked at her in confusion. But at that timing, an old man approach the group.
[ You have the guts to show yourself here again! ]
Yuka and the others stiffened from the sudden. That make sense, because what's in front of them wasn't an old man, but rather a man on his twenties, and for some reason, he only have hair on the either side of his head. Looking closer, this man was good looking too and his blonde coloured hair were obviously taken good care of.
[ It's you again huh? What was it they call you again? ] Taeko said in exasperation.
Taeko and Nana already met this man on the other day. At that time, they were in hurry and Shizuku deals with him in span of few seconds, so they failed to know this man's identity.
[ It's Abel, you know! Abel, the blade lord! Remember that! ]
Taeko and the others nodded in understanding. And their gaze ran off behind Abel.
Behind him was the reason that suprised Yuka's party. There's a group of men behind him, and there's a total 5 of them. Judging from their rough looks and bulky muscles, they were definitely veterans.
[ I'll definitely make you pay now! This time, I've brought my Black rank party! You'll never stand a chance even if you three...? wait, where are the other 2 that's always with you? ]
Abel looked at the Yuka's party, searching for Shizuku and Kaori.
[ Ow... They are not here. It's only me and my party left, and the rest head out to train on the Labyrinth. ] Even Yuka finds this guy annoying but, she still answers regardless. What a good girl. Or rather, based on how she looked at Abel in pity, she just feel sorry for him if she ignores him.
[ Is that so... That's even better, right!? With only you left, you won't stand a chance anymore! What's a mere single Black ranker can do against us, huh?! ]
Yuka let out an exasperated sigh, and reach out for Teilt main dagger behind her...
[ Yukacchi leave this to us! I will make this idiots into ice cubes! ] Nana said with a confident smile.
[ Then... I'll gonna grind them like shaved ice. ] Taeko added with a sadistic smile.
Before Yuka could take action, Nana and Taeko steps in front of her, and held out their wearpons. The boys were annoyed too, but they were taken aback from Taeko's sadistic expression nobody had seen before. So for starters, they decided to leave it to the girls.
[ What is it now this time?... Wait, I remember you two. You both were together with them the other day, right? Looks like our night will have more variety of lovely flowers! Surround them now! ]
Abel's group formed a half circle and blocked every exit. The other adventurers seems eager to help, while others already ran away. Perhaps, they were planning to call for help, or rather, they're just scared to get caught into the fight.
It seems like this group were famous too. Judging from the conversation of the bystanders, this group was infamous in extortion, quest stealing, and many more. That's why they were branded as Quest hooligans. But this allegations wasn't proven, because the victims themselves refused to talk, and the Adventurers Guild were having a hard time dealing with them.
But the weird thing here was that, they were working for Abel. He probably tip them off, that Yuka's group were rookies who had been sweeping up high ranking quest.
Thinking they might be able to slave them off for completing more quest for them, they joined Abel to atleast give them a scare. Forcing someone physically to form a party was a problem too, the guild had been facing. Tons of casualty was already been reported where one of the party members were left behind to die for the whole party, and this was usually the reason of it.
Abel probably deliberately avoid mentioning that this guys were God's Apostles. Judging from the confident smile they wore, they don't even doubt they would lose.
Also, it seems only Abel were interested on taking the girls in, which makes Yuka, Taeko, and Nana more annoyed. They were very eager to beat this guy up to pulp.
[ Nana-chan, let's do it like we did yesterday, got it? ]
Nana looked at Taeko for a second and replied excitedly...
[ Roger! ]
Nana crouch down, and channel her deep blue mana through her wand.
[ Glacier! ]
The area around them froze instantly. With enough training, she could choose her target precisely.
[ Wha-! One word chanting!? ]
One of the men said after leaping away at the area of effect along with Abel.
2 of his companions failed to react and caught themselves by Nana's spell, but they weren't worried at all. It's true that they were caught by surprise on how fast she cast, but basic spells wasn't really that threatening to them, those 2 should be able to escape, was what they thought.
A sound of cutting through wind suddenly resounded and Abel's 2 cronies that was caught on Nana's spell was wrapped in rope?... They were caught in Taeko's whip from head to toe, and failed to move from their position.
[ Where do you think you're going? ] Taeko asked, still wearing that sadistic smile.
Yuka and the others didn't know but, she actually obtained this personality of hers during their group sparring yesterday. Her victims, which was her classmates, might be able to catch on that, but that story will be told next time.
(TN:For those who didn't know, Taeko had obtained her sadistic personality when she met Allen. Read Abyssgate if you're still confused.)
Seeing that their companions was having a hard time, the other three rushed at Taeko, planning to finish her up, or atleast makes her released their party members.
But Abel, who basically don't have any experience to lead, failed to give orders. He caught sight of Nana who was chanting behind Taeko, so he alone decided to stop her.
Akito, Noboru, and Tamai was about to help, but Yuka stopped them. Thinking that, this was also part of the training for them to overcome, so the boys had to backed down.
Seeing Abel and the other 3 were taking actions individually, Taeko whips out her other weapon she just obtained. She didn't know yet if she could do it, but double welding was her only option if she wanted to protect Nana behind her. She knows Yuka and the others won't let Nana gets harm, but the two of them confidently declared they would handle this, so relying on the others would be embarrassing.
[ Eiyaaa! ]
Taeko let out a battle cute roar and lifted the 2 men she caught and threw them at the direction of the others, while at the same time, she caught Abel's hand with her other whip before he could draw out his sword.
One of Abel's cronies failed to react and was hit by their own companions, which knocked them off completely. Seeing such power, the other 2 left goes on different direction and rushed Taeko at the same time.
Seeing that, Taeko manipulated her whip and let it rotate around her to protect herself. on the other hand, Abel tried to make himself free by forcefully pulling out his arms, which causes his flesh to ripped apart and makes him scream like a girl in pain. Seeing his arm covered in blood makes his complexion white as a sheet.
The two ignored the scream of their boss and continues from attacking. Even though they were pouring out their entire strength into it, their swords can't break through Taeko's defence.
Abel quickly recovered and immediately draw out his blade. The pain makes him cry like bitch he was, which causes the bystanders to looked at him in pity. Regardless, he launched an attack in high speed at Nana, while being warry at Taeko's whip.
Since Abel was in pain, he can't used his full speed, which was the only reason Taeko was able to blocked his attacks despite protecting herself from the other 2.
While Taeko was busy dealing with multiple enemies, the wind gone cold and a voice suddenly resounded to the whole Adventurers guild...
[ ...Thy enemies in front of me, I call for thee, Crystal Coffin! ]
With enough precision, Nana was able to complete incapacitate Abel and his cronies.
Everyone was shocked, because Crystal Coffin was one of the advance spell that let the user complete freeze everything, and it takes atleast 5 minutes of chanting to cast it, but this girl managed to cut the chanting time in half, which makes everyone dumbfounded.
Now that their enemies was incapacitated, Taeko let out an exhausted sigh and smiled in satisfaction.
[ ...I thought it would take longer for you to cast that, Nana-chan... ]
[ I'm getting a hang of it now. Kaoricchi really was scary when she was teaching us magic. So I had no choice but to do my best... ] Nana replied while wiping up the sweat on her forehead.
[ ...Yeah, but isn't that good, everyone improved because of her... Now, what should we do with this morons? ]
[ Well, since they decided to attack us in broad daylight, the Adventurers guild should be able to deal with them. Let's leave it Jenny-san over there. ]
Nana said before pointing at the slightly opened door. Looking closer, Jenny was there looking at the group in fear and panic.
Yuka smiles awkwardly and called out for her.
Jenny stiffened and straightened her back. She cleared her throat and open the door naturally as possible, but looking at her shaking figure makes Yuka's awkward smile grew deeper.
[ Don't be afraid now Jenny-san. It's just us you know! ] Nana shouted.
Jenny approached the group after calling out for the other Adventurers to moved the Crystal Coffin of Abel and the others to the corner. Abel seems the only one left still in conscious probably because of the pain on his arm, so he could see the pity on the eyes of everyone when they moved them into the corner.
[ K-konichiwa~ Yuka-sama, Nana-sama, Taeko-sama... ] Jenny greeted the group with a bow. She looks like she was ready to cry anytime.
[ [ [ Konichiwa~ Jenny-san! ] ] ] The three returns her greeting energetically.
[ Sorry about that just now. The Templar Knights that should be on look out had decreased recently, so dealing with this guys was really a pain. With that I thank you truly... Ow, by the way, don't worry about the damage, we'll deal with it. ] Jenny once again bowed deeply.
The group smiles and blushed in embarrassment. Looking around, it seems not only Jenny, but the other Adventurers too was thankful to them.
[ ...The truth was there's a bounty for these guys. Let me get it fo- ] Jenny was about to left to get the bounty, but Yuka grabbed her hand and interrupted her talking.
[ You don't to have worry about that, really. Someone should really teach this guys a lesson, so a reward for it is unnecessary. ] Yuka said while smiling warmly.
[ Yes, yes! This guys is annoying, so beating them up was a reward itself. ]
[ Yeah! Women's enemy should be burried in ice! ]
Taeko and Nana holds into Jenny's arm and gave out comforting words for her.
Jenny looked at them for a second and once again bowed thankfully.
[ Thank you very much! Everyone!... ]
Yuka's party urged Jenny to stop bowing and asked her to do them a favor.
Jenny recovered, and went to her station energetically. It seems she returned to her jolly self without problem.
[ What can I do for you now Yuka-sama and the others!? ] Jenny's energetic voice resounded, which makes the atmosphere returned to normal, and everyone went back to their business like nothing happened.
[ We're looking for a quest again related to Demons... Do you have more of it. ] Yuka asked.
Yuka, Shizuku and Kaori's quest was sometimes related to Demons, because even though they were in surface, their monsters was on the other level compared to normal monsters anyone could find. And because of that, the Guild Master deliberately, ordered not to displayed such quest for any normal Adventurers to take.
Due to lacked in man power on the incoming war, the Kingdom had requested for the Adventurers to participate, so the Guild Master had no choice but to keep them away from any danger where death was inevitable. Quite inconvenient, since being an Adventurers was nothing but danger.
That's why Yuka had to asked for it, and Jenny was their personal guide when it comes to it.
Jenny fished out through the drawer under her desk, and brought out a thick book. After skipping pages and reading through a few lines, she finds what she was looking for.
[ ...There is a town near Haraud, where unknown entity are appearing recently... Hmm~... If I'm correct the lord on this town requested help too a few months ago. The risk was high, because the number of bandits was unknown, so nobody was taking it. ]
[ Wait... Isn't that the town Sensei visited recently? I thought Meld-san's squad dealt with it already? ]
[ Ohh, now that you mention it. Ai-chan-sensei said that, the bandit group reported there, was exterminated by Meld-san's squad. ]
[ Then... Why are they still requesting? ]
Akito, Taeko, and Noboru talks in dubious tone. Even Yuka was confused too.
[ Wait Jenny-san... Does Demons had something to do with this? ] Yuka asked.
[ ...Yes. According to the scout we sent. Carriages was found attacked inside the forest. It was still fresh so it must had happened after the bandits problem had been cleared. The possibility of another group of bandit appearing was high, so it might be possible that it wasn't Demons that was behind this, but the weird thing here was... despite the bloody scene, there's no corpses could be found. ]
Yuka and the others looked at Jenny in shock.
[ Does that mean... They were eaten? ] Yuka asked with a hint of anger.
[ Most likely, that is the case. That's why our Guild Master concluded that monster was behind this. ] Jenny's tone was dread. She seems avoiding mentioning something.
The truth was, the number of cases was high, despite it appearance was only reported not long ago. She can't mention it, cause she thought it might be too much to handle by people at Yuka's age.
Yuka became silent and starts thinking. Unknown enemies has been a problem for them even with Shizuku. Without Kaori now, she can't really take a risk since nobody would be able to heal them.
Akito might be able to pull off, but he wasn't cut to it since it's not his forte. Adding that he was still unexperienced gave Yuka a lot to think about.
[ By the way Yuka-sama... Does your companions behind you were interested in joining on Adventurers Guild? ] Jenny cuts off Yuka's thoughts and asked in curiosity.
The group were taken aback for a second, however, Taeko and Nana smiled wryly, and Nana tried to deny her offer...
[ Like I said Jenny-san. We don't ne- ]
[ [ [ Please do! ] ] ] Akito, Tamai, and Noboru bowed and shouted in unison. Which interrupted Nana before she could decline.
Jenny had already asked this question to Nana and Taeko previously, but the two refused, thinking it wasn't really necessary, since Yuka should be with them whenever they visit the Adventurers Guild.
Nana, Yuka, and Taeko looked behind and stared at the boys in surprise. The resolve and determination they emit were blazing fiercely.
[ ...H-hey you three... What are getting excited about? ]
[ Do you really have to join the Adventurers Guild? ]
Nana and Taeko tried to talk to the boys, while getting embarrassed at the gazes from the other adventurers around them.
[ Of course we do! ] Tamai replied in firm voice.
[ W-why? ] Nana asked getting overwhelmed from his determination.
[ I know it wasn't really necessary, since Yuka could get quest for us to train into but... ] Tamai trailed off while scratching his cheek.
For some reason, the three were embarrassed on something, and it wasn't because of the other Adventurers who was eyeing the group in curiosity.
[ If you understand that much, then why? ] Taeko asked.
[ ... I do appreciate that, but as expected... Letting her pay for everything we need is shameful as expected. We're boys, you know? ] Noboru joined in.
[ Yeah... Atleast let us pay for our own equipments. And for that, we want to earn money by ourselves... ] Akito added.
Yuka, Nana, and Taeko dumbfoundedly looked at the boys. They didn't realize it until now, but that's really something to be ashamed of.
Nana and Taeko looked down in shame. They've been relying too much on Yuka, that they had forgotten to stand on their own, which was one of the quality of being strong. Even as such simple task like getting a quest or earning money would really feels like they were spoiled high schoolers waiting for their parents to enroll them on school, even though they should be capable already.
As for Yuka, she really didn't care at all. She earned this money for everyone, so she could lightened the burden on Liliana. She wasn't really planning on pampering everyone, but now that she realized, it makes her a little ashamed herself. She too need to respect their pride as a person and let them do what they can and should do atleast.
Yuka smiles and step aside to let her party through. Seeing them like that brought her answer to her plight earlier.
[ O-okay... Please show me your Status Plates... ] Jenny got embarrassed too from the sudden outburst, regardless, she held out her hand in front of her, asking Tamai and the others for their Status Plates.
The boys handed their Status Plates like a man handing out his report nervously to his superiors, while girls gave theirs without meeting Jenny's gaze. The two were still embarrassed, cause they already declined before.
Jenny smiled gently to the group and her gaze turns to Status Plates on hand.
Tamai Atsushi Age: 17 Male Level:34
Job: Cutlassier
Strength: 220
Vitality: 305
Defence: 310
Agility: 290
Magic: 205
Magic Defence: 210
Skill: Sword Proficiency [-Improved Slashing Speed] - Dual Weilding [-Improved Proficiency] - Language Comprehension
Akito Nimura Age: 17 Male Level:37
Job: Illusionist
Strength: 140
Vitality: 290
Defence: 275
Agility: 150
Magic: 510
Magic Defence: 480
Skill: Dark Magic Affinity [-Improved Proficiency] [-Reduce Mana Consumption] [-Image Supplementation] [-Increased Casting Speed] [-Remote Mana Control] [-Spell Retention] - Mimic [-Improved Proficiency] [-Reduced Mana Consumption] [-Spell Retention] - Language Comprehension
Noboru Aikawa Age: 17 Male Level:33
Job: Ranger
Strength: 130
Vitality: 250
Defence: 260
Agility: 490
Magic: 285
Magic Defence: 310
Skill: Marksman [-Increased Accuracy] [-Remote Mana Control] - Foresight - Presence Manipulation - Language Comprehension
Nana Miyazaki Age: 17 Female Level:41
Job: Hydrosophist
Strength: 145
Vitality: 250
Defence: 240
Agility: 270
Magic: 540
Magic Defence: 510
Skill: Ice Magic Affinity [-Improved Proficiency] [-Reduced Mana Consumption] [-Multicasting] [-Image Supplementation] [-Increased Casting Speed] [-Spell Retention] [-Remote Mana Control] - Water Magic Proficiency [-Improved Proficiency] [-Reduced Mana Consumption] [-Multicasting] [-Image Supplementation] [-Increased Casting Speed] [-Spell Retention] [-Remote Mana Control] - Language Comprehension
Taeko Sugawara Age: 17 Female Level:40
Job: Whip Master
Strength: 330
Vitality: 380
Defence: 355
Agility: 368
Magic: 230
Magic Defence: 300
Skill: Whip Proficiency [-Improved Control] [-Increase Accuracy] [-Increased Slashing Speed] [-Increased Drawing Speed] - Remote Mana Control - Language Comprehension
Jenny's eyes widens, and she wipes the cold sweat on her forehead using her sleeve with trembling hand.
[ Uhmm... I-I should had expected that you three too were members of God's Apostles. Sodayo neh... Yuka-sama won't just form a party with anyone else except her own comrades, right? ] Jenny's eyes looks like a dead fish now.
The others already forgotten, because of how ridiculous Hajime's stat was but, all of them possessed incomparable stats compared to Tortus residents. That's why Jenny was overwhelmed because of these powerful individuals registering to Adventurers Guild nonchalantly. She thought Shizuku, Yuka, and Kaori was the last people she would see with this kind of stats.
Tamai and others averted their gaze in embarrassment. At first, everyone was nervous cause their stats might be too low to be accepted. And now it's kinda embarrassing from remembering how powerful they were despite being in young age.
[ ... That's right, Jenny-san! Can you do something for them to skip ranks? ] Yuka steps in and removed the awkward atmosphere between her party and Jenny.
The group looked at her in confusion for a second and the first to speak was, Tamai...
[ I-I think that's too much to ask, Sonobe... ]
[ Yeah, it's fine if we start from the bottom, you know. ] Noboru added.
The others only nodded in agreement, and for some reason Jenny was sweating and making herself small cause of embarrassment.
[ It's not like starting from the bottom wasn't a bad idea. But you'll are too strong for that already, and you won't be able to get high rank quest if you start from blue, you know? ]
The group went silent after hearing Yuka's statement. That's true, since it will be inefficient if they start from the very bottom. And getting a high rank quest, because Yuka was there will only ruined their resolve they had built for themselves. So the best way to get stronger was to skip ranks and sweep up high rank quest for themselves.
Once everybody decided, all of them faced Jenny again who, for some reason, were making a complicated expression.
[ Anoooo, Yuka-sama... A-apparently skipping ranks was out of questions just because you're from God's Apostles. ] Jenny said while averting her gaze with all her strength.
Yuka looked at Jenny with a blank expression. She looks pissed off which scared the hell out of Jenny, but actually she just confused.
Jenny panics and starts explaining herself in front of the group...
[ Y-you know. Skipping ranks was really out of question, sorry about that. I'm just saying it on my own last time cause of excitement, and I've been scolded by our Guild Master because of it. So... ] Jenny trailed off at the end, while sneaking a glance at Yuka to see how she would react.
Seeing Jenny liked that, makes Yuka let out a sigh. She could hardly understand why the Guild Master won't allow that, but before she could speak what's on her mind a deep voice suddenly resounded...
[ Perhaps we could make an exception... ]
An old man walks to the group which suprised everyone inside the Adventurers Guild. He has an shrewd eyes and impressively long beard. Seeing the bulging muscles he has even under his clothes makes Yuka's party's expression convulsed.
[ Ah, Balse-sama! For you to come out-... ] Jenny suddenly exclaimed.
Yuka concluded, that this old dude was the Guild Master.
[ That's fine Jenny, you can just stay there and relax... I just like to see myself this talented young people. ]
[ A-as you wish, Balse-sama... ] Jenny replied with a bow.
She then processed Yuka's group Status Plates to register them as an Adventurer.
Balse then returned his gaze on Yuka's group and talked while brushing his beard with his hand.
[ Yuka-sama and the others. I'm here to express my outmost gratitude for stopping those brute earlier. Those men over there was causing troubles to us lately, and we lack in power in order to stop them. So it really was a great help you all came here with great timing. ]
[ W-well don't worry about it too much Guild Master-san. W-we were just doing what we can to protect ourselves. ]
Even Yuka was being overwhelmed by Balse's intimidating figure. The Adventurers around them looked at him with combination of fear and admiration, and Tamai and the others wasn't an exception.
[ Please, you can just call me Balse, Yuka-sama. You all are God's Apostles afterall. ]
[ T-then... Balse-san is fine right? ]
Balse continues from brushing his beard, while wearing an amused expression.
[ And about what we were talking about earlier. ] He seems aware about the atmosphere he created, so for starters he decided to softened it a little.
[ Skipping ranks just because of your titles wasn't allowed to Adventurers Guild. Just because you're an influential individual doesn't make you a powerful person, am I right?... ] Balse talks while glancing at the corner where Abel and others were frozen still.
With just that, Yuka and the others understands what he meant.
[ Then... W-what do you mean by exception Balse-san. ] Tamai asked nervously.
[ You can skip ranks by achieving something for yourselves. But you got to take notice, that it will be far more dangerous than nabbing those normal quest on the board. It may even cost your lives for trying to complete it. ]
The group gulped nervously.
Balse looks at them for a second before he continues.
[ But looking that you managed to stop those brute over there gives me a glimpsed on your capabilities. That's why I'm willing to give this exception. Adding that Yuka-sama will be accompanying you all, won't be a problem. ]
Tamai and the others smiles happily from hearing that.
[ That's why, do you best all right, young warriors... ]
Blase smiles, turn on his heels, and went back to the room where a sign that said "Guild Master" was hanging on the door.
Yuka and others bowed in gratitude and faced Jenny again who had stay quiet even after finishing processing Tamai and the others' Status Plates.
[ About the quest earlier, Jenny-san... ]
Yuka paused and looked her party behind her...
[ Leave it to us! ]
Yuka's firm voice echoed through the Adventurers Guild. And the rest of her party standing behind her formed a confident smile and nodded firmly.
