"So, this is where we split up." His eyes looked at the giant structure in front of him. A grand tower that overlooked the entirety of Orario and the surrounding areas, for some it could be a symbol of power for the city itself or even the Gods that live within its walls, for others it could be like a prison, a massive tower spying on everyone and making sure they all behave.
Two sides of a coin, perhaps an optimistic and a pessimistic approach.
"Yeah… I just hope to find answers." The Captain patted the axe to his side, he was feeling hopeful despite the uncertainty.
"I hope so too…" Even if he couldn't see the miracle that happened at the cave, Noel wouldn't doubt of what happened, even more so when there were witness to confirm that story.
"I'll go check for a few more inns and taverns, probably going to give some of these to other adventurers who might be interested as well."
That was the plan all along. While Ragnar was going to find answers or maybe some more clues about his weapon, Noel was tasked with going around the city to hang the recruitment papers.
Strangely enough this was the boy's idea and not Ragnar saying that it was best for them to split up the tasks and while one thing sounded much simpler than the other, the idea of finding new candidates for the Familia was exciting in a way.
"Alright, good luck Noel."
You too, Ragnar."
Noel went his way while Ragnar headed straight for Babel.
There was one place they haven't visited and the young one knew that if anything that was the best place that would get a lot of adventurers moving, it was neither a tavern nor an inn, it was no other than the Guild!
He could see already plenty of people coming in and out of the main doors, all while he still had that bright smile on him. As Noel was getting close he noticed that one of the workers from the Guild left the building with a box in her arms.
Although it had to be some kind of godly intervention because he recognized that bright red mane and pointy ears to the side.
"Miss Estherisiana! "
"Huh? " The elf turned and was pleasantly surprised at the silver haired approaching her. "Oh, Noel! It is nice to see you." Esther looked around as if trying to locate someone. "Where is Ragnar? "
"He walked into Babel to get some information about his weapon, I'm here to do most of the manual work." He showed her the pile of papers that he was carrying. "Oh? What's with that box? "
"This? " She lowered her shoulders and let out a sigh that felt like complete dejection. "One of my friends reported sick and the chief appointed me to do his job. Fortunately no other adventurers requested me."
"You have people other than me and Ragnar? "
"…"
There was an awkward silence, the elf felt like an arrow struck her chest at that comment, and while deep inside she was screaming but her body made no effort to show it to the outside world.
"…No." Came the cold (yet disheartened) response from the Guild worker. "What about you? What's the deal with all those papers? "
"We are finally going through with the plan! "
"Plan? Oh! You mean recruiting people for your Familia? How's that going so far? Mind if I see? " Noel raised the stack of papers and she picked the one on the top. "Skadi Familia is recruiting new adventurers… No restrictions..."
"What do you think? Worthy enough to post it at the announcement board at the Guild? "
"Well… it's not bad… how many people do you think will join your Familia if they see this? "
Of course this was a question they brought up many times. A small Familia with not a lot of achievements in the recent times, their only two members were Level 1. The best they could get were people of their rank, perhaps even one above if they were lucky but the chances of that happening were low.
"Being honest? Not a lot, even if we use Ragnar's victory over the bear, I don't think we might get a lot of people interested."
"Well, at least your expectations are realistic…" Esther folded the paper and put it in one of the pockets of her jacket. "Come with me, it will be nice to talk to someone on the way to deliver this."
Noel didn't say no, if anything he was glad that he could talk with someone as well during this.
However there was some silence, whether because the Guild worker did not have anything to talk about or because Noel was uncertain of how to start a conversation.
No, there was something he wanted to talk about and it was the perfect moment given that Ragnar was not with him.
"Miss Estherisiana, there-"
"Hold on to that thought, " she sighed. "Noel, we've known each other for a few months now, there is no need to call me by my full name. Esther is enough, no need to add the Miss either. "
"I feel like it's to show respect, after all you are both me and Ragnar's boss."
"Ugh, then… don't call me by my full name then." The boy noticed that she felt slightly annoyed by that but he didn't felt like he was in the wrong. Even if the Guild worked to help the adventurers they would still be considered the `bosses´ of those who they give advice; whether that work relationship is more on the professional side or closer to friends was up to each worker.
"So, what were you going to ask? "
"Um…" Now it was the girl's turn to notice that Noel was unsure. Was it something private? Or perhaps something that not everyone needed to know. "I wanted to ask your opinion about Ragnar."
"Your Captain? " She figured that it would be something related to him, but at the same time it was impossible not to feel surprised.
Esther saw both Ragnar and Noel together all the time, where the Captain walked the other followed which was already strange to see them split up like this.
Or well, this was just her perception since she was mostly limited to staying behind a desk or a counter but she wanted to believe that this was not entirely wrong.
"Why do you sound so worried? "
"Oh, no don't think that it's something bad, it's just…" He bit his lip, holding tighter to the papers close to his chest. "I am excited about the idea of getting new people but at the same time I don't want to let Ragnar down. I feel like his attitude and combat style are… well, great and I am sure that if he were to lead a Familia of two, maybe three people there wouldn't be a problem."
"But you feel like he might not be up to the task? "
"It's not that, but I think that he might need some extra help. He will be in the middle of battle and if something goes wrong maybe he will be too busy fighting to even notice what's going on."
Throughout the multiple fights that Ragnar has been into, there was one pattern that Noel noticed. His Captain would go head first into battle, trying to eliminate all the enemies without minding his own wellbeing, this did not imply that he was careless since whenever Noel was in danger he would try to protect him or assist.
He would give some orders from time to time but would trust others' judgments when it comes to the actual fight. This isn't inherently a problem for Noel since it was the two of them and a small group of at least two more people wouldn't make a difference. Now, what if this group would get bigger and it was ten people fighting?
Sure, Noel knew what to do but what if the others weren't that quick with their decision making? Ragnar could be giving out orders individually but that could distract him from any dangers they could have in front of them.
Perhaps he could suggest that his Captain could take a backline role and be a tactician?
There was a definition for that: A rhetorical question.
If he was there he would say something like: "Well, a Captain ought to lead by example, right? " And he wouldn't be wrong, although at a moment like this, Noel wished that wasn't the case.
"It's fair to be worried about that and you might be surprised but your case is not the only one in the city." The silver haired was indeed surprised. "I heard other coworkers saying how the adventurers they advise do have similar issues, to a greater or lesser degree." Esther explained.
"There are Captains out there who act both as a tactician and can be in the frontlines to fight alongside the rest of the team. And while it is possible for them to learn a thing or two…" She did not finish that sentence but Noel knew what she meant.
That was a problem that they would have to figure out sooner than later if there were people willing to join the Familia. What if he took the time to learn about tactics? It was something he thought but at the same time he wanted to be there with Ragnar to help him.
There were the needs of a supporter to help them delve deeper into the Dungeon.
It was easier to make a list of things that they needed than to accomplish it. It wasn't impossible by any means but at the same time…
"Mind if I give you a piece of my mind, Noel? "
"Huh? S-sure, Miss Esther."
"Maybe it was me but ever since that big incident that put you two in the hospital, I feel like he changed." The elf stopped her words, thinking as they kept moving. "Call it intuition if you will, but before that he gave me a `rough´ vibe. He didn't care what would happen if he were to die, as long as he would accomplish his goal."
"To kill the bear."
"Correct. You could rarely see the real Ragnar, a boy who was fascinated with going to the Dungeon but as the days went on and he was getting closer to that goal, that fascination and happiness turned into… perhaps the beginning of an obsession. On top of his need to get stronger."
"Fortunately he still cared for others even in that moment. Protected Brynhildr and even tried to protect me."
"But that changed." She continued. "After that, the few times that we saw each other at the Guild he felt different. Like that fascination came back and he even talked about heroes and such. Maybe that fight gave him a reality check or just made him realize that he was walking down the wrong path? I can't say for certain, I am not that great at reading people."
"So how does that help with the problem?"
"Oh, right. Sorry, but I don't think Ragnar can be solved when it comes to that."
She didn't see it but Noel gave her a face that represented disappointment. He didn't get an answer, or rather it was back to square one.
"What I'm trying to say is. Do not worry about Ragnar and his fighting style. I am sure that the solution to those problems might come sooner than you think."
Just as they are about to continue walking, Esther stopped. "Ah, this is where I need to turn. I'll make sure to hang the recruitment paper at our announcement board." She smiled at the young warrior. "Hope to see you soon Noel!" The Guild worked waved at him and then walked down a different street.
That was another paper down and still a few more remaining. Right now all he needed to do was to go for an inn or a tavern and hopefully someone would be interested.
He walked down one of the main streets and…
THUD
He fell and the stack of papers flew everywhere.
"Oh, sh…shucks… crap, sorry." The eyes of many people on the streets went to the shower of papers that were surrounding.
"No, it's alright. I should've seen you." Noel shook his head, it wasn't a rough land but it was certainly unexpected and the stones below him definitely were not comfortable. It was quick but he was collecting all the papers that were near him, fortunately a lot of them just fell nearby so it was a matter of seconds.
"Here, let me help you." The stranger knelt and picked up a few papers, stopping to read the first one they picked up. "Huh…"
Noel finished getting most of the pages since very few flew away and were nowhere to be seen. He stood up and wiped some of the dust on his shirt. "Thanks." But the stranger did not respond.
The person reading the paper was a Demi-Human, more specifically a Raccoon, the ear was a dead giveaway.
Wait, ear?
The dark brown hair stylized into a short ponytail, his pale face lacked any creases and the lack of major facial hair except for a goatee made Noel figured that this man was probably in his mid-twenties most likely. But the outfit was slightly extravagant; a purple shirt and a long dark coat, the black pants fitted with the coat and the boots were definitely a show too with silver-colored tips. An elegant rapier was hanging from the black belt and behind he had his backpack with a lute on the side.
Noel coughed, trying to get his attention.
"Mh? Oh, excuse me. I was reading this." The Raccoon gave the adventurer the few papers he collected. "So, are you recruiting new people? "
"Yes, we are planning to expand our Familia and if we want to go deeper into the Dungeon then we will need more hands." Noel explained. "We may not be that big nor have many accomplishments like the bigger ones but recently Rag-… the Captain, was able to take down a giant bear by himself."
Surely, he helped a bit but didn't feel like it was right to take the credit, even if partially when he was unconscious for most of the fight.
"I see…" The stranger was intrigued by Noel's words. "And do you think that a person like me would fit in this group? "
"Well, I don't see why not, if anything you will bring some attention with those clothes of yours." The boy joked but he did not lie, the outfit from the stranger was definitely eye-catching.
"Is there something wrong with it? "
"What? No, I'm just saying that it's-"
"It brings attention, how does this bring attention? " There was a tense silence, the Raccoon looked angry, almost as if the comment made by the adventurer was an insult. He crossed his arms, tapping the foot and frowning. "Well, go on. Is there an issue? "
"Um… n-no… it was just a fun comment, please do not take it as an insult." The stranger sighed and the tension brought up from the question was gone, yet it felt like the calmness would not easily return. "S-so… what happened with your ear? " He pointed up at the missing appendage.
"Oh? This? Uh… little accident when I was a kid, I'd rather not comment on it if possible."
"Oh, I see." The boy cleared his throat. "Anyways, the name's Noel. I hope you are still interested in joining us."
"I might consider it. My name is… you can call me Alain." The brunette extended his arm and the adventurer replied with a heartfelt handshake. "Sorry about before, I… I don't like when people talk about my outfit, I don't like standing out too much."
"It's alright, I admit that while extravagant it does have style." Noel handed one of the papers back to Alain. "I hope we can see you soon."
"Yeah." Alain waved the paper. "I'll try to be there." With a smile he walked away, going opposite of where Noel intended to go.
No one else could see it but the silver haired adventurer was celebrating on the inside. It was his first success when recruiting someone. A future member of the Skadi Familia; it didn't matter how extravagant Alain looked but if that attitude could be used in the Dungeon then they could get farther than they already could.
However, he also knew that this was no guarantee of that man's recruitment. He could be there for the trials that Ragnar had prepared but maybe he wouldn't pass, it would be a shame if that ended up happening.
Noel gently slapped his cheek. "Come on Noel, you still have to put all of the papers."
The rest of his day went by smoothly, going to every inn and tavern that he found and asking if he could put the recruitment notice on their notice board. Most of them agreed while others were either asking for a fee or outright refused, fortunately other people were interested and picked some which made the pile inherently smaller after that.
The day was still young and the stack was just relegated to the last three.
Or well, two.
Noel got the permission and put one of the papers on the announcement board of a discreet tavern; if anything it was dangerous territory since it was pretty close to the Loki Familia base. Not like there was beef between the Skadi and Loki but the latter could consider this area as their `territory´ and the last thing they wanted was to start a war that they were ill-prepared for.
He put the recruitment notice on the board, his chest puffed with pride seeing that this job was almost done.
Noel hoped that his work would pay off, that there would be someone that would even be interested in joining the Skadi Familia, even if it was one person.
The boy stood in front of the announcement board, looking not only at the paper he posted but the menu.
"Ugh... even with what we earn, I wish we could eat something better for dinner than just bread…" He muttered to himself.
In this moment of contemplation, two shadows appeared behind the adventurer, looking at the new announcement that was posted.
"Hoh? " A female voice, Noel felt the energy just from the tone itself.
"Fanis Fanis Fanis. Look! " The same voice spoke up and one of the shadows was shook violently.
Noel turned around and saw the two strangers that were looking at what he posted. The one who spoke was another Demi-Human, one of the Cat People.
Her dark blue hair was reminiscent of the sea, flowing to her shoulders into a white blouse with rolled up sleeves that showed tattoos engraved on them, she wore a pair of shorts that were definitely not suitable for the upcoming cold season; the cat ears on the top twitched as the tail was wiggling left and right slowly.
To her left was a human, who exuded a complete opposite energy to the one of the feline. She was cowering, looking down and with her eyes closed and tugging to her winter dress. The light orange hair flowing and seeking cover under the hat that she wore, this person was definitely better equipped (or rather over-equipped).
"Sorry, can I help you? "
"N-No, we were just going."
"Nonsense Fanis! This is our chance to prove ourselves! "
"Uh… F-Fine…"
"Hi! Are you recruiting for your Familia? "
Another opportunity! Noel gave a gentle smile but if he could he would've done an even bigger one. "Yes!" He quickly responded and took one of the papers and handed it to the feline. "We are recruiting new members, we may only be two but we are hardworking and our goal is to go deeper into the Dungeon. The Captain also took down a giant bear that was levels beyond him all by himself! "
"A b-bear?! Lili, I don't think this is a good idea, w-we should leave and-"
"I am Livialiska Malidi and this is my older sister, the great mage Fanis Malidi" The blue haired presented the other girl as if it was a show but she was not having it.
There was quite the difference between the two, one of them was the epitome of energy. Outgoing and with a loud voice, she would definitely not feel any shame acting like this on the street, even if there were some people watching them right now.
The other was quiet, a person hidden within their shell as if trying to protect themselves from the outside world, the stuttering and more often quiet words were a sign of not wanting to attract attention or even being nervous.
There was also the bigger question that Noel had: She did say sister. Unless they are step-sisters. No, she would've mentioned it, right?
"Nice to meet you, name's Noel, I do not have a fancy title other than just being a member of the Skadi Familia. Would you be interested in joining? "
"Interested? Of course! "
"O-Of course not! " They both replied at the same time. "I-It's too dangerous, we could die, we… what if there are powerful monsters? My magic is not that strong and maybe it could fail, j-just… can't we just go somewhere else Lili? "
Lili groaned and took the paper that Noel was offering them. Fanis already started to walk away from the two of them and the feline girl rolled her eyes. "I'll make sure she changes her mind, yes? She might not sound like it but she's thrilled to join a Familia."
"Well, mind you, there will be a test so you two better get ready."
"Aw, don't worry, I'm sure we will pass with flying colors. Now, if you excuse me, I need to make sure my sister doesn't run away." Without saying goodbye, Lili and Fanis disappeared from Noel's view.
He looked at the amount of papers in his hands. Very few were lost to the wind while the others were posted or given to people who might be interested. Was it a victory?
Noel smiled, for the answer was clear for him:
"Yeah, this is definitely a win for us." The young one jumped, raising one fist to the air.
Pride, what a wonderful thing he felt. To accomplish something so simple and yet it felt like a grand victory, because not all battles will be held in the Dungeon and not all involve combat.
He would return to Ragnar and Skadi with a smile, telling them that his job was done successfully and if they were lucky, they could be getting new members soon. Of course, there was also the issue that it was never mentioned when would the trials be made so chances are that people could show up starting tomorrow or perhaps in a week or even a month...
…or not even show at all.
He made his way back to Babel, if anything Ragnar would be waiting for there. But even if he was there for an hour there were no signs of him.
How long would appraising a weapon take? Maybe he had to go somewhere else to get his answers? There was the chance that he already left so he could ask if they saw him.
As if anyone would notice someone like Ragnar, he does not stand out unlike any high ranking adventurers.
Still, if they couldn't find each other in Babel, then they would return to Fimbulvetr, sooner or later they would have to return.
He waited for a few more minutes but no signs of the Captain so he went back home.
On his way he found another person who seemed he thought would be interested in it and gave them a paper, leaving Noel with just one in his hands.
"Hey, had any luck? " The young one turned at the voice of Ragnar and raised the last paper, smiling at his victory.
"Toured the city and I ended up with only one. And uh… I followed Miss Syr's advice and decided to tell everybody a bit of what we did."
Ragnar patted his friend. "Nicely done, Noel. Let's go, we can probably visit the Dungeon for a bit today."
The rest of the day was uneventful. The two of them went back to Fimbulvetr, grabbed their things and then visited the Dungeon.
Having trained a little bit after killing some monsters, they found Bryn and asked her if she wanted to go with them to which she accepted in her own way.
And as the sun set, the day of recruiting and obtaining answers led to an end.
…
"Ragnar, wait up! " Noel was finishing putting his armor, falling behind.
"Last one to the gate washes the dishes tonight! " The blond was smiling. Even if he was to show some professionalism as a Captain, that didn't stop him to play a little bit.
He touched the closed gate and tried to catch his breath. "Phew, I shouldn't be running after finishing breakfast."
Noel was able to catch up, however he ended up walking rather than making a run for it. "Alright, you won. I'll wash tonight."
"Hey, I did last two times, it's only fair."
The two of them started to unlock the massive wooden gate. Removing the locks and slowly pulling to open the door.
"Alright, Babel here we…" Ragnar's voice trailed off after his eyes caught something. "…go." There was an awkward silence between the two adventurers.
"Uhm… may I help you? "
"Yes, excuse us." The man with the ponytail produced a paper from his coat and showed it to the Captain. "I believe this is the home of the Skadi Familia, yes? Aren't recruitments open? "
There was a group of at least twenty adventurers at the gates of Fimbulvetr. Ragnar had no idea who they were, a lot of strangers who were willing to take the test to enter the Familia.
Noel recognized a few of those faces, others not so much.
"Psst, Noel." Ragnar leaned to his friend, still not taking his eyes off the group. "Do you think we are ready to test them all? "
…
It was still early in the morning and the sun was slowly coming out. The adventurers were preparing to go to the big tower while the shops were opening.
A traveler was walking down the streets until something caught her attention. She knelt and grabbed what looked to be a lone piece of paper.
Skadi Familia is recruiting new adventurers!
A smile appeared on this girl's face. She looked back at the bag wrapped near the tip of the sword, it was small but it contained her essentials according to her.
Her amethyst eyes took another look at the paper and most importantly the map. It was her first time in this labyrinth of a city so navigating through it would take her some time.
Still, that would not stop her from reaching her goal.
"The strongest… I'm coming for you."
While Ragnar was getting some answers about his axe, Noel did quite the recruitment campaign to bring some people and turns out that he got many people interested! You already some interesting prospects in this chapter but there might be more coming up! But they might have to be worried for there is a new visitor in Orario whose might spell trouble for this recruitment drive.
Thanks to everyone who's been following and putting on their favorites, for some reason Fanfiction is not sending me an email but I've seen the numbers grow and I'm thankful.
That's it for this chapter, hope you enjoyed it as much as I'm going to enjoy introducing new characters into this small Familia. Have a great week and as always: See you in the next chapter!
