Adventurers Guild Adventurer's Guild - Receptionist Desk

shad12ow · Oct 25, 2017

Kuma Desu said: ↑

Great Plain|#SD4|D-Ranked|Slay 1 Unicorn [100 G]
Gallant Mine|#GE1|E-Ranked|Mine 5 Ice Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Ice Crystal]
Gallant Mine|#GE2|E-Ranked|Mine 5 Wind Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Wind Crystal]
Gallant Mine|#GD2|D-Ranked|Mine 3 Fire Crystals [100G | 1 x Refined Fire Crystal]
Gallant Mine|#GD3|D-Ranked|Mine 3 Earth Crystals [100G | 1 x Refined Earth Crystal]
Gallant Mine|#GD6|D-Ranked|Mine 50 Stone [60G | 20 x Stone Slab]

---------------- Side Kuma ----------------

“Nnng...”

I was trying to concentrate myself to manipulate the energy that was covering my arm. The reddish black taint resisted a bit, but soon moved from my arm to my chest, then to my other arm.

I started trying out to move it to other parts of my body, and also move the taint from other parts. It was becoming easier to control this curse, although I can’t get rid of her yet. Both my arms, one which was completely made of the taint, and legs were covered entirely on the taint, and it was spread here and there in my body.

The curse was quite… tame, I’d say, after it contaminated completely my body. It stopped trying to erode my mind forcefully, and was now only whispering. Whispering about its hatred for the living. Whispering about the pleasure of killing. As long as I didn’t tried to do anything stupid like minding what it was saying or tried to draw out power from it, I would be fine… I hope…

Finishing my small testing, I got up and walked out of my home at Frontier. It was still a bit weird to live in Kuma’s old home, so I’m holing up at the hideout of that damned cat.

I had some matters to solve with him and Mirea, the metal blob, so I made my way in the village until the smithy where the bull girl Maligno talked about worked.

---------------- Side Maligno ----------------

“I’m happy for being able to go out with Noa again but… What’s with that?!” (Maligno)

[If you don’t like, you can go back.] (Mirea)

Mirea stared daggers at me.

“You wanted me to leave you to collect things? You must be insane.” (Kuma)

And Master… well, not quite master, answered.

“Isn’t it fine? I mean the more the merrier.” (Noa)

Noa, you’re not helping here!

To make matters worse, we’re going back to those damned cold mines, right after I lost my workshop and wanted to relax a bit in a date! The heavens must be laughing at me right now! I’m sure of it!

The Gallant Mines were chilling cold as always, so this time I brought a coat with me. I remember that this coat was given to my by the Guildmaster, but I forgot to hand him back…. well, I don’t think he’ll miss it.

Mirea was unfazed by the cold, and Master was with her spear in hands, covering herself with ice mist as if she didn’t minded the coldness.

As we were with both Mirea and Pyon today, searching for the crystals wasn’t that difficult. But the sight of a bunny and a girl sniffing the air to find them was a bit strange.

As neither of them could identify them properly, we ended up stumbling on a lot of junk, so we managed to collect the barely minimum for the quest.

“If we’re done, how about going back now?” (Maligno)

“What? Can’t deal with some cold, Kittie?” (Kuma)

“Yeah, I can’t. This cat was born to live in warm, cozy places.” (Maligno)

“Then you probably won’t like my place since it’s just beside the smithy.” (Noa)

“A-ah, no, I mean… It’s warm there, at least.” (Maligno)

“But not cozy in the least.” (Noa)

“Noa!!” (Maligno)

I glared at Mirea and Master that were grinning at me. Those two….! Stop with those thumbs up!

After being glared, Master smiled wryly before cleaning her throat.

“Well, I guess we really should go back.” (Kuma)

[True… can I at least grab some food?] (Mirea)

“Feel free to, Mi- Ah… Mnnn...” (Kuma)

“Huh?” (Maligno)

Huh? What was it now?

---------------- Side Mirea ----------------

“Feel free to, Mi- Ah… Mnnn...” (Kuma)

“Huh?” (Maligno)

Kuma stopped in the middle of her sentence as a ring made of golden light appeared above her head. The ring’s light started to blink now and then, and Kuma made an unusual serious face.

“Ah… I see...” (Kuma)

[What’s it, Kuma?] (Mirea)

“It seems I’ll need to go back for a bit...” (Kuma)

[What about… ‘that’?] (Mirea)

“Can you do ‘that’ for me? I’ll probably need it when I’m back.” (Kuma)

[I see… Have a safe trip.] (Mirea)

“Thanks~ Now, bye~” (Kuma)

“W-wait, Master!?” (Maligno)

Before Maligno could do anything, a strong light enveloped Kuma and flashed. When the light subdued, she was nowhere to be found.

“What was that?!” (Maligno)

[Nothing much… Let’s head back… we’ll need to hunt later.] (Mirea)

“Hunt? What hunt?! How can this be more important!?”

[It’s to help healing her curse... Probably...] (Mirea)

“Probably? What exactly you want us to hunt?” (Maligno)

[..... Unicorns.] (Mirea)

“”Eh?!”” (Maligno & Noa)

---------------- Side Noa ----------------

I always thought that unicorns were pure, kind hearted creatures, but… but…

“Mirea, I can’t hold them off too much!” (Maligno)

[Just a moment.] (Mirea)

Maligno was running in the plains, fleeing from a group of three of them, a couple and their foal, while throwing ice javelins and knives at them. Though, most of them bounced off in some kind of barrier around the animals.

Rather than a pure creature… they seemed more like maddened beasts.

They were focusing all the attention on him, while me and Miss Mirea were on a hill nearby. While I had a spear and a bow in case something out of the plans happened, Miss Mirea was…

[Now there’s only one left...] (Mirea)

Her lower body had melted into some kind of metallic work table while the upper body was busily fiddling with a lump of liquid metal and shaping it like an arrow. Her whole body, the table included, was enveloped in fire.

As she finished making the third and last arrow, the flames subdued and she turned back to her usual form, holding the arrows. She handed them to me and said.

[Hand them to Maligno.] (Mirea)

Turning to the battlefield, she shouted.

[Maligno! Get back here, I’ll hold them off!] (Mirea)

He was busy trying to fend off the beasts spared the time to shout back.

“How long!?” (Maligno)

[30… No, 25 seconds perhaps?] (Mirea)

“It’s enough!” (Maligno)

He fell back, and Miss Mirea stepped in to fight the unicorns.

[Ellengarde - Slime Form.] (Mirea)

She melted in a puddle of metal before rushing in the direction of the beast with her now amorphous body. Clashing against their bodies and pushing them back without harming them.

Maligno came to me, and I handed him the arrows that Miss Mirea gave me and the bow I was holding.

He shot an arrow at the biggest unicorn, hitting it’s leg. The animal staggered for a moment before it fell limply.

“Wh-?!” (Noa)

Maligno didn’t minded much and shot the other two, who followed the first one shortly after.

After all three were down, Mirea went back to her usual form.

“What was that?!” (Noa)

[The arrows were handcrafted by me, and were also a part of my body. As they hit the unicorns, I used them as proxy to mess with their mana flux.] (Mirea)

“In normal creatures, it would only mean that they wouldn’t be able to use magic for a while but...” (Maligno)

[Those three unicorns had their body functions closely tied to their mana, having the horn as a core. That’s very unlike other ones.] (Mirea)

“Ah, there’s the fact that they weren’t teleporting too. And that strange barrier...” (Maligno)

[In sum… those weird creatures weren’t exactly what we were prepared to face. In any case, when I messed their mana flux, their body functions wavered likewise, and in the end they couldn't keep their life functions.] (Mirea)

“A perfect, painless death.” (Maligno)

[I just wonder, where those things came from...] (Mirea)

“Doesn’t matter much… let’s just collect them and go back. Now, really… why we had to hold back against them?!” (Maligno)

Maligno complained as he stored the three animals in Miss Kuma’s Item Box.

[As I said, their body was unusually tied to the mana in it, meaning that-] (Mirea)

“- I got it. The bodies are good materials for mana conducting.” (Maligno)

[That’s just a supposition. We’ll need to check with the Guildmaster when we’re back.] (Mirea)

“But if they are, we could sell them~ What if the Guildmaster takes them away~” (Maligno)

[I hope he doesn’t. At least the horns not. We at least need them to help with Kuma’s curse.] (Mirea)

“Erm...” (Noa)

Feeling a bit out, I coughed and said.

“Rather than worrying now, how about we just go back?” (Noa)

Both of them looked at me and smiled.

“I guess we should.” (Maligno)

[Noa is right… Whatever happens, happens.] (Mirea)

@shad12ow

*Mirea puts the report papers and an unicorn foal's corpse over Guildmaster's table*
[Can you please check this thing for me?] (Mirea)

From the junks that were collected on Gallant: 6 Ice Crystals, 5 Wind Crystals, 3 Fire Crystals, 3 Earth Crystals, 51 pieces of stone.

From the plains: Two adult unicorn corpses, one unicorn foal corpse.

OOC: Well... I'm surprised I actually wrote that much... I usually make short reports...
Anyway, I think this is the first time an interaction in the Tavern makes me change a bit of my plans~
Click to expand...

Great Plain|#SD4|D-Ranked|Slay 1 Unicorn [100 G]
Gallant Mine|#GE1|E-Ranked|Mine 5 Ice Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Ice Crystal]
Gallant Mine|#GE2|E-Ranked|Mine 5 Wind Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Wind Crystal]
Gallant Mine|#GD2|D-Ranked|Mine 3 Fire Crystals [100G | 1 x Refined Fire Crystal]
Gallant Mine|#GD3|D-Ranked|Mine 3 Earth Crystals [100G | 1 x Refined Earth Crystal]
Gallant Mine|#GD6|D-Ranked|Mine 50 Stone [60G | 20 x Stone Slab]
================================================================
"Unicorn, eh? What do you want to do with it? Their whole body is quite rich with mana and a good mana conductor, especially this part," said Shadow as he tapped on the horn. "Pretty good material, if I must say so myself. Grind them, use it as a whole, carve them. Whatever you need."
He then looked at the whole corpse and then set a few of his mechanical spider crept on to them, checking the whole corpse.
"As for your report, I don't see any problem. And...oh, the result is in," said Shadow as one of the spider tapped its metallic mandible. "It seems the quality is quite good. Well, since you have done your part of the contract, I suppose you can have this one. And also this," he put down a small satchel, "your reward. Exactly 520 Gold. Ask the rest of the item at the quartermaster. Take care now~"

leegood · Oct 28, 2017

I walked inside the building after thanking Jin-Senpai, placing Hikari on Mister Sniffles, I walked in.
"Um~ We finished these quests and we're ready to turn it in!"

I started petting Hikari-san's head, "Hikari-san, It's time to wake up to get into bed~"
I placed the report on the receptionist's desk only to notice my vision blank out, and darkness take over.

Great Plain|#SD3|D-Ranked|Slay 3 Orc Leaders [150 G]
Great Plain|#SE3|E-Ranked|Slay 10 Orcs [100 G]
Great Plain|#SD5|D-Ranked|Slay 3 Kobold Leader [120 G]
Great Plain|#SE5|E-Ranked|Slay 15 Kobolds [70 G]
Great Plain|#SE4|E-Ranked|Slay 5 Boar Warriors. [70 G]

<Jin Vodka POV>

Jin now a bit taller so he needed to wear a new pair of clothes. For now, He was wearing his old clothes that he wore since he was 11 years old. But he was excited to wear the cleric attire for Goddess Hikari. He took a pseudo-grimoire as he stared at Hikari.

"Hikari-sama do we have a symbol for our religion? Since the number of believers is increasing. It is best to have something to identify us from others. Also, I could have easily proved myself when trying to recruit new believers." Jin looks at Hikari as he thought of it. "Well, you can take your time while we do this party~"

"It will be our first time partying Leeanne or Kouhai-chan. I will do my best to support and teach you though I don't know much about support magic." Jin smiled as he bowed towards Leeanne and slowly raise his head. "Do you guys mind if I use teleportation magic towards the Great Plain? Since it is faster that way."

<Leeanne POV>

"Oh, I don't mind Jin-senpai~! Though speaking of religious symbols...." *looks at Hikari* "Does Hikari-san have something that could Identify us?" Leeanne was curious, even though she was new to the religion, she wanted to figure out if she would have something to identify other believers with other than a 'feeling' about someone.

Miste sniffled oinked in and went to rest in the center of us lazily. "If we have a symbol, will there also be ones for beings like Mister Sniffles?" Leeanne could already imagine Mister sniffles riding valiantly into battle with something on.

<Hikari POV>

"Ah! A-a-a symbol...? Hikari never thought of one... Ji-Jin-san and Lea-chan are right... Hikari doesn't know exactly what though..." *tilts head in ponder* "It has to have some meaning with sacrifices... But it needs to identify with Hikari... Hmmmmmm...

Ah-Ah! Hi-Hikari is okay with teleporting! Hikari forgot to answer!" >.<

"Hikari will try thinking of something! It is important after all!"

Hikari really shouldn't wonder so much into her thoughts... But a symbol... Hikari really should have thought of that... Good thing Jin-san said it... It's no good for Hikari to not have any...

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Okay then! Let's go~" Jin nods as he concentrates and creates a magic circle beneath them. It started to glow yellow as it was made of holy mana instead of the demon one. A gentle floating white light appears as they were covered with it.

As the light disappeared they saw themselves teleported on the Great Plain.

"Hikari-sama please do look after us and tell me if I have done something wrong. I will try my best to teach Kouhai-chan!" Jin smiles as he saluted.

"Okay then~ How do we start this?" Jin looks towards Leeanne and Mister Sniffles. "For now let's test your scouting skills in finding the target. So I can see what I need to teach with."

<Leeanne POV>

"Wow~ that was really cool senpai~!" Leeanne jumped a bit but calmed down quickly, It was not her first teleportation, but it was her first one done by a single person powering the spell that teleports people.

Hearing the question, her face turned serious and she turned to Jin "I have some ability to track things because I played hide n seek with my friends all the time, What can I do senpai?"

Mister Sniffles looked around and sniffed the air, then he started looking for tracks. He then found another boar.

"Oink!" (My land) - Random Pig
"Oink?! Oink oink oink oink!" (Your land!? I call it ugly!) - Mister Sniffles
"Oink! Oink Oink Oink Oink Oink, Oink Oink!" (You! I call for a duel for this land, Fight me!)
"Oink, Oink Oink Oink Oink!" (Fine, But I will become your leader once we finish this duel!)
*the two pigs start dueling*

<Hikari POV>

"Hikari-sama please do look after us and tell me if I have done something wrong. I will try my best to teach Kouhai-chan!"

"Hi-Hikari doesn't think she can tell if things go wrong, but... Hikari will try her best!" >.<

What does Jin-san expect Hikari to tell though... Ah! Ma-maybe Jin-san will teach her about sacrifices...? Hikari does know more about that at least...

Hikari hopes she can help... Eh?

"Le-Lea-chan! Pi-Pig-san is fighting wi-with another Pig-san!

Wha-what should we do...?"

<Leeanne POV>

"Hmmm? Mister Sniffles? Oh, Let him fight, he's not in his serious form anyway so there won't be any large injuries." Leeanne started looking for the boar warriors first, If there are boars living nearby, then why would it not make sense that there are boar warriors somewhere nearby? "Senpai, I think I found something." Leeanne pointed to hooves that looked different from mister sniffles.

"What do you think it could be?"

Around this time, Mister Sniffles was able to push back the boar

"Oink! Oink! Oink Oink!: (Alright Alright, I give!)
"Oink, Oink oink oink oink oink oink, Oink oink oink oink oink (I Win, but the great I has to apologize for earlier, this land is not ugly!)
"Oink oink! Oink oink oink oink, Oink oink oink oink oink." (Merciful Leader! I also apologize, to have wronged you!)
"Oink, Oink oink, oink oink oink oink oink." (Stop, we must now celebrate with a dance around the Hikari.)
"Oink" "Oink" "Oink" "Oink" "Oink" "Oink"
Both Mister Sniffles, And Boar Follower A, started their new ritual dance around Hikari.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"It looks bigger than Mister Sniffles Hooves so might be the Boar warrior we are looking. Good job, you got good tracking skills." Jin pats Leeanne.

Jin looks behind and saw Mister Sniffles win the fight and gave him a thumbs up. Seeing the two boar dance around made him giggle. But he quickly gathers his senpai mode but still, a smile betrayed his expectations.

"Now let's slowly approach them and observe." Jin slowly follows the tracks.

"Kouhai-chan what kind of weapon do you have? Usually, cleric use mace or blunt weapon. It's best to at least to know self-defense so I will teach you some simple buff and defense magic."

<Hikari POV>

Let them be? But-but they are-

Eh? They stopped? Is this... Eeeeeeh!?

Wh-why are they dancing a-around Hikari wha-what is Hikari supposed to do!?

*looks at Lea-chan and Jin-san*

Eeeeeeeh!? They left Hikari alone! >.<

But Hikari can't help much over there... Bu-but here we have... Tho-those...

Wa-wait for Hikari! >.<

Hikari tried to approach a bit without getting too close, so as to not get in their way...

<Leeanne POV>

"Er, I have This bag of peaches?" Leeanne pulled out a bag of peaches, which she always prepared before heading out of the building. The peaches were more useful for other things besides Leeanne herself, she can't really save herself from hunger by creating a peach, it would be as if she was re-absorbing her mana (Though it could be a training method in the future).

"This one attracted monsters during the raid" Leeanne took out a peach and pointed at it, "It lets off a fresh, fruity smell when it's punctured" ahhh, I would show it, but...It's not a good Idea Right now "So I had an Idea after the attack on Aeternus, what If I put Peachfire magic in this peach, just a small amount, and create an air bubble on the bait peach's skin, then it'll blow a hole in the peach's skin, releasing its fragrance after a bit of time!"

Meanwhile, at the dance around Hikari's feet......

"Oink. Oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink!" (Stop. We have forgotten to bring objects of worship to Hikari!)
"Oink! Oink oink oink!" (Master! You are wise!)
"Oink, oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink!" (Follower, We go find Items for the Hikari!)
"Oink, oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink," (Master, there is a strange fruit plant I found guarded by a walking version of our people)
"oink oink?" (How many?)
"Oink oink oink oiiiiiinnnnk oink" (As many as *shows two hooves* thiiiiiisssss much)
"oink oink, oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink/oinks oink oink oink oink oink oink, oink oink oink oink oink oink oink" (But first, we must wait for two-feets/humans to finish first, now we guard the Hikari one in silence)
The two positioned themselves around Hikari, waiting for any stray beast to pounce upon.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Peachfire magic..? It sounds like explosion magic. But I bet the scent will attract the boar and we can kill it at that chance." Jin touches his chin as he starts thinking of a plan. "We can lure it with that and kill them down. Or perhaps make them fight each other for it?"

'This is quite hard since my ideas are not that advisable for a cleric. This mercenary trait of mine is becoming a disadvantage.' Jin sigh as the plans he thought were not that advisable.

"Okay then make them fight each other for the peach and kill them when they don't notice us. I can kill the 3 boar warriors while you deal with the two." Jin finally realizes something grows more trouble. "That's right, you are a support type. You would likely don't want to dirty your hands."

"Probably best scenario is Kouhai-chan lure and her companion will attack at that opening." Jin looks towards the two boars guarding Hikari.

"Hikari-sama, what should we do for this..?" Jin confused not knowing how to teach a girl end up looking to Hikari for help.

<Hikari POV>

Hikari had gotten closer, but... With the pigs making so much noise, Hikari thought they would get in the way...

S-stop that!

Eh? They really did stop...? Ho-how...?

"Hikari-sama, what should we do for this..?"

"Eh!? E-eto... Hi-Hikari thinks it is a good plan! Th-though... Can Lea-chan's peach really get some boar warriors down...? Hikari is... Unsure?"

"Maybe it would be nice to test what it can do beforehand...? Hi-Hikari wouldn't want Lea-chan hurt!"

<Leeanne POV>

"Hikari-san is so nice~! Alright, I'll test it first, But we'll have to find someplace else? Or would mister sniffles and his follower count as testing it?" Leeanne moved to her hand to her peach bag and gathered magic in her hand, something on the bag activated causing the peach magic inefficiency to reduce by a large portion.

"Alright, I have it here" taking it out of the bag, Leeanne showed the group the peach. The peach already has a slightly sweet smell drifting off of it, but when it's skin is pierced through or a hole opens up, a more sweet smell will arise.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"It smells good but it's better to throw it immediately--" Before Jin could continue he heard a loud voice and a large tremor was created on the ground.

*BAAM BAAM!!*

On the distance was a large smoke of dusk, multiple groups of Boar Warriors come out drooling.

"Here they come!! Seems like a mob about 12 of them!" Jin shouted as he readied himself, "Quick the peach!"

<Hikari POV>

"Eh!? I-it works better than Hikari thought!!!" >.<

"Hikari will try not to get in the way! Ple-please be careful!!!"

Hikari ran a bit and hit behind some nearby bushes... Huff... Huff... Why is Hikari... So... Tired...? Hikari barely ran... Anything...

Hikari took a peek to see if things were alright... Please be safe...

<Leeanne POV>

"Yes senpai!" almost dropping the peach, Leeanne threw the peach a bit further away into an open area and hid in a pile of grass. "Senpai, Hikari-san, Let's see what they do!" Mister sniffles and his follower already moved into hidden positions near Hikari as they watched the situation unfold.

The boar warriors met in the open field, where they started staring at each other, trying to claim this free food for themselves and tensions are starting to spark.

<Jin Vodka POV>

As the boar warriors dive to the peach and fights each other for it. Jin's eyes glow blue as he grows ice wings and creates a wall of ice around them. He started to use wind magic taking out 5 boar warriors from the ice pig pen and drop them close to him.

"Well, then shall we start to chill some fresh pig meat~" Jin coldly look down upon the 5 boar warriors. The boar warriors felt fear and tried to run away towards Leanne.

"[Chilling Mist]" Jin exhale as he releases cold wind towards the 5 boar warriors. The poor last 3 were frozen solid. Jin merely passes by them as his wings lightly touch their frozen skin. They started to crack as they broken into pieces.

The two surviving boar warriors drop on their knees scared.

"Leeanne now it's your turn~" Jin gently smiled as he finished his part. He tilts his head as he realizes, "wait was that a bit overboard?"

<Leeanne POV>

Leeanne was stunned and just stared for a second, not even noticing when Mister sniffles enlargened 4x his size and finished the boar warriors off. She turned to Jin slowly "Senpai......that was totally cool! It was like the time when I saw the guild master just slaughter the monster horde attack during the attack on Aternus!" Leeanne jumped excitedly and blushed a bit as she calmed down.

"Oh~ Mister sniffles, you finished them off yourself?"
"Oink!"
"Good job~!"
Of course, there was never an empty spot beside Hikari, follower one had already begun to see Hikari as a tribal treasure, something that would be essential for all descendants to keep safe.

"Now, for the Kobolds and Orcs I guess, Hikari-san, I think it's okay now~!" I waved over happily.

<Hikari POV>

"Ah! O-okay!"

Hikari got out of the bushes... Hikari was... Tired... But Hikari stopped panting at least...

It was surprising... By the time Hikari looked, there were a few boars broken down, and... Hikari really didn't expect it to be done so quickly...

... Why is Pig-san still following Hikari though?

"Kobolds and orcs then...? Alright! Hikari is ready to go!"

<Jin Vodka POV>

Okay, I'm also ready but first~" Jin looks to the ice pig pen trapping the other boar warriors still busy fighting each other. He then raises his hand as he weakens the magic of the ice and it starts melting. "The boar warriors will be fine after several hours when they finally realize the peach is already eaten."

"That was a very effective peach Kouhai-chan. Then shall we search for the Kobolds and Orcs?" Jin smiled as he starts walking away from the remaining boar warriors still busy fighting each other.

<Leeanne POV>

"I did not expect that senpai," Leeanne followed behind Jin-san quickly, "Sniffle-sa--Thanks Mister Sniffles" while about to ask Mister Sniffles to help Hikari since she seemed a bit tired, Mister sniffles had already gone to Hikari and bowed down in his large form, motioning for Hikari to get on.

Looking over at Hikari, Leeanne asked "Hikari-san" Turning back to Jin-senpai "And senpai, should we aim for the kobolds first or the orcs?"

<Hikari POV>

Hikari saw Pig-san getting closer and bowing.

"I-is Hikari supposed to climb...? Ah... Tha-thank you Pig-san... Hikari will accept it."

Hikari climbed on it... Hikari felt a bit bad since Jin-san and Lea-chan were walking, but... Hikari was tired... Why though...?

"Hikari-san and senpai, should we aim for the kobolds first or the orcs?"

"Eto... Kobolds probably? Hikari thinks it should be easier... They are smaller... Right?"

------------

While the trio was having fun, some grass moved in the distance. "!" The creature watching them was shocked, It had heard of ones who could destroy everything in their path, but not of one that took care of the boar warriors so easily.

It ran, ran fast, informing the small scout group It was with, It ran as quickly as possible.

-------------

<Jin Vodka POV>

"That's really a very good Boar. You have a nice companion Kouhai-chan" Jin smiles gently seeing the boar assisted Hikari. He then releases his Stolz possession as he returns to normal. 'Reminds me of my follower, but they don't have any mounts. Well, Lavri has one if he transforms. Wonder if he can return to that form.'

Jin slowly walks together with Hikari and Leeanne. He listens to them talking as he starts thinking about something.

"If Hikari-sama decided that Kobolds are first. Then I'm all in for it, so 15 Kobolds and 3 Leaders. Well, hope we find a pack of them. So finding all will not be a hassle." Jin holds his chin as he tries to think of possibilities.

<Leeanne POV>

"Let's go with that then" Leeanne looked back worriedly at Hikari, and tried to signal that something might be wrong by eyeing Jin-san. She continued anyway, If the person herself was not going to say much about it, It would seem too intruding to someone she doesn't know too much about yet.

"I think, we should go look for them, But it's a pretty large place and..." as she walked forward, her foot landed on a loose patch of ground hidden by a bit of tall grass and her leg was grabbed by a kobold that had burrowed himself and had been sleeping until recently.

"Eyah!" She immediately started bashing the kobolds face in with fire peaches and the kobold became more awake and started pulling on her leg more while trying to grab his spear that he left hidden near him.

<Hikari POV>

Hikari was... *blink blink blink* No-no! Stay awake Hikari! Now is not the time to sleep! It's still too early! *shakes head*

Alright, so... Where can we find-

Eh!? "Le-Lea-chan!?"

Hikari saw Lea-chan being grabbed... Ah-ah- "Pi-Pig-san! Go-go help her please!"

Hikari tried jumping from the top of Pig-san and fell on the ground... Ugh... It was hurting a bit... Ple-please stay safe... Lea-chan...

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Kouhai-chan!?" Jin was alerted as he quickly rushes over but heard someone falling.

"Hikari-sama! Are you alright!" Jin was confused on what to do. But he quickly supported Hikari to sit properly. "Don't worry, me and the mister Sniffles will save Kouhai-chan! Just wait here."

Jin quickly runs towards the direction of the Kobold and Leeanne. Large red flame wings appear on his back as he flew forward.

"Let go of her!!!" Jin shouted full of anger as his eyes turned blazing red. He then flew next to them and grab the spear in his right hand. The spear starts to melts from intense heat. Making the Kobold release Leeanne and shivers in fear looking at Jin's face. "What do you think you are doing Kobold-san?"

<Leeanne POV>

The Kobold looked at Jin in fear, but when it looked like it was about to start talking, It growled into the air and several responses were heard back. "T-Thanks Jin-senpai" Leeanne took a fire peach and smashed it into the kobolds mouth while it howled causing it to abruptly stop and the running in the distance seemed to have slowed down a bit.

Mister sniffles was not sure when the Hikari fell off him, but he looked at the Hikari one with more awe. So the Hikari one is currently cultivating, such a worthy Idol! Mister Sniffles, Oblivious to Leeanne's plight, continued guarding the Hikari.

In the distance, several growls could be heard again though, and one of them seemed louder than the rest.

<Hikari POV>

Hikari was trembling...

Jin-san supported Hikari instead of going to help Lea-chan... No-no, go help her, Lea-chan is, Lea-chan is...

As if hearing Hikari's thoughts, Jin-san rushed there to help, he held the spear and it started melting... What was Hikari doing here...? What if Jin-san took longer because of Hikari...?

Part of the melting spear fell on the kobold's leg, it didn't seem to notice, and howled instead... The melting... It became red... It was dark... It was running through the kobolds leg... It is red, it is red, it is red...

Hi-Hikari doesn't want to see red! No no! Get the red away from Hikari! Not again not again!!!

<Jin Vodka POV>

"I'm glad you are fine..." Jin gently smiled as he takes a glimpse to Leeanne. Then stares back at the Kobold who let go of the spear. He took the melted spear and throws it away. He sees a peach on the Kobolds mouth as it stops running away.

"Please move away for a bit Kouhai-chan." Jin faces his back to Leeanne as he grabs the Kobolds neck. He then suddenly felt something as if he heard Hikari's call. 'Ah that's right Hikari will not like what will I do'

"[Flame Wall]" Jin created a small flame of fire beneath him evaporating the blood. Since turning them into ashes will be better and less messy. He needs to avoid going overboard especially in the presence of his Goddess and Kouhai.

He did apply powerful flame magic burning the Kobold into crisp like piece of paper, leaving nothing behind. 'Control yourself Jin, make it clean and don't leave anything behind.'

Jin heard a growl in the distances and one which was powerful. He then takes his stance and creates multiple blazing spears floating by his side. "Kouhai-can, more are coming and something stronger. Leave him to me."

<Leeanne POV>

"Senpai, Let's leave Mister sniffles and follower one with Hikari-san, I don't want to think that she should get Injured, not Hikari." A flame of determination lit in Leeanne's eyes as she cautiously looked forward, throwing a rock here and there to simulate movement in order to confuse the kobolds somewhat.

The large growl in the distance seemed to have stopped for a second, then growled again as if issuing orders to a group of soldiers. In front, 2 kobold lieutenants appeared with their leader and some movement could be heard coming from the right side if one was listening.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Thanks, Kouhai-chan you're a great devotee for Hikari-sama!! Glad we have you join us." Jin smiled widely as he feels amazement to Leeanne determination. He then looks towards the pack of Kobolds. "I'll deal with the stronger Kobold Leaders and injure the other Kobolds so you can take them down."

"Today, you humans die to me!" His spear seemed, a bit special, and there seemed to be an eerily dark aura on the tip.

"Pfft... I don't think you have the proper qualifications to even lay a scratch on me." Jin laughs as his eyes look down towards the special Kobold. He leaps to the sky opening his wings wide, "[Rain of Flame]"

The blazing feathers flew towards the 5 Kobold burning them to death while grazing the others. He then aims his feet covered with magma to the Kobold Leader's head. He drags the head down and crushing it.

"2 more Kobold Leader, some injured and one special Kobold. Are you perhaps a commander or something. That spear looks nice~" Jin tilts his head as the two Kobold Leader feels threatened and take their stance. While the other Kobolds are busy trying to extinguish the flames from their body.

<Leeanne POV>

"I'll do it Senpai" Leeanne threw flaming peaches at the kobolds that were burning, finishing them off. The two kobold lieutenants looked at each other, then took a drastic decision while eying something at the flank. Both of the Kobold Lieutenants growled at Jin-san and a noise could be heard from behind Hikari's position.

Enraged, Mister Sniffers Oinked "You dare!" and started holding off the hidden kobold Lieutenant that had gone around with his two goons, which were being blocked by follower 1.

Before Jin could react though, they lunged at him to distract him from the Lieutenant that ambushed from behind.

<Hikari POV>

Scary scary scary scary scary!

The red is scary! Make it go away make it go away!

It's noisy it's noisy! Stop shouting! Away from Hikari! Get all away from Hikari! Out out out!

Why... Won't... It... Just... "Stop!!!!"

Eh...? What is... What was Hikari doing... Ah... Open... Open your eyes Hikari...

Hikari opened her eyes... The... Ground...? Grass? Hikari is... Where is... Ah! The-the quest! Ji-Jin-san! Lea-chan!

Hikari raised her head, a wave of tiredness washed over Hikari... Haa... What is this...

Pig-san seemed to be near 3... Kobolds? Where did...? When did they...? The other Pig-san was also there... Wait... Why aren't they... Mo... Vin... G...?

Hikari felt things going black... It felt... Nostalgic...

No! Do-don't sleep now!

Hikari put her hand on the ground and opened her eyes again, the noise came back, and things started moving... Though... The kobolds looking at Hikari seemed startled? What happened just now...? And... Why is Hikari even... More... Tired...?

Hikari should... Get... Away...

Hikari slowly crawled back a bit... Standing up was... No good.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Good Job Kouhai-chan!" Jin smiles widely as he prepares to cast a fire spell when he felt something was wrong. He looks back and notices Kobolds nearing Hikari. Luckily mister Sniffles and his companion are there to protect her. Still, he feels strong anger for the pest trying to harm her.

"Don't block my path you pest." Jin grits his teeth with anger to the two Kobold Leader. "[Flame Pillar]"

Suddenly the time stops just as the flames are halfway on covering the two Kobold Leaders.

"What just happened..?" Jin was shocked as he finally able to move. Since the time return again, the flame pillar raise above. Finally engulfing the two Kobold leaders into a pile of ashes.

"This is...?" Jin stood still in a daze since his rage suddenly disappears at the moment when time stopped. He could only look around noticing the surviving Kobolds stand still looking at Hikari in a daze.

"Kouhai-chan, let's go to Hikari-sama side!" Jin grabs Leeanne hand as he rushes towards Hikari side. Ignoring the other Kobolds still shock from what happened.

<Leeanne POV>

The last Kobold lieutenant shook his head and kowtowed to Hikari "Forgive us great one, I felt something great for only one moment, but In only that one moment, I felt your greatness when you moved into a different position in front of my eyes" The rest of the kobolds, seeing their leader start kowtowing, followed behind their leader.

"She-She's safe for now, Jin-senpai, go check on Hikari, please!" She ran near Hikari and looked at the kneeling Kobolds in case they tried anything. Mister Sniffles (Who is now normal sized) and Follower 1 had already started dancing around Hikari as a form of prayer.

<Hikari POV>

They stopped... And... Kneeled...?

"Forgive us great one, I felt something great for only one moment, but In only that one moment, I felt your greatness."

"Eh?"

Did they just... But why...?

"Ji-Jin-san! Lea-chan!? Wha-what is happening!? What happened while Hikari was... Was... What was Hikari doing...?"

Hikari can't remember... There was the quest... We were walking and... And suddenly Pig-san was fighting kobolds and Hikari was on the ground... What happened? Why can't Hikari remember...? Hikari thought her memory was alright now...

Is Hikari still going to forget things... Again...?

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Hikari-sama, I'm glad you're alright." Jin smiles in relief and looks towards the two boars. "Thanks, mister Sniffles and umm... boar-san..? for defending Hikari."

"Now what to do..?" Jin looks towards the remaining Kobolds who suddenly kneels and asking forgiveness. Jin was puzzled and conflicted, he decides to look at Hikari for a decision.

"I can't really explain and don't know what happened." Jin could only shake his head. He feels something happened since his anger suddenly dissipates. "Anyway, we are done with the Kobolds quest but the others are already surrendering."

Jin stares at the Kobolds not knowing what to do, "Hikari-sama seems like they want to become your believers? If you are willing to.

Then, I'll let them stay in the Askian Hamlet and teach them to be good."

<Leeanne POV>

"Uwaahhhhhh Hikari-san is the best~!" Leeanne, on impulse, joined Mister Sniffles and Follower 1 as they danced around Hikari. Leeanne had seen Hikari tired, so again, on Impulse, decided to cast healing magic slowly while dancing around Hikari.

The kobolds looked at the sight and decided to keep it in their hearts, For this scene will be recorded as their christening into the new era.

<Hikari POV>

"Hikari-sama seems like they want to become your believers? If you are willing to.
Then, I'll let them stay in the Askian Hamlet and teach them to be good."

"Eh? The-they... Worshipping... Hikari...?"

"Uwaahhhhhh Hikari-san is the best~!"

Lea-chan started dancing around Hikari, the kobolds seemed to be amazed... Eh? Is that... Lea-chan is... Healing magic...? Hikari isn't hurt though...

Does Hikari look that bad...? What should... Ah! Hikari can take this as a sacrifice! It should be alright!

Hikari accepted it, and Hikari noticed a peach appearing on Lea-chan's bag... Was that the boon? Hikari wonders if it is special...

... Ah! Ji-Jin-san is waiting for Hikari's reply! >.<

Hikari tried sitting down properly before answering... A backwards crawling position isn't very... Dignified...

"Hi-Hikari thinks that... If Kobolds-san are really okay with it... Then... Hikari would be happy to accept you all as Hikari's worshippers! Hikari will do her best to be a good goddess!"

<Jin Vodka POV>

The Kobolds cheered as they stood up and raising their hands to the Sky.

"Then I will take responsibilities to them, Hikari-sama." Jin smiles and bows to Hikari before facing the Kobolds.

"Listen up!" Jin releases his Gnev form as he returned to his normal state. He releases some of his holy mana as he shouted to the Kobolds. "You guys are now believers of Hikari-sama, and I will guide you guys on how to do it! For now, you guys are gonna relocate with your families to the Askian Hamlet just close to the Frontier Village. I hope you will listen carefully!"

The Kobolds nods and cheers from his words.

"Please to meet you all and I promise to help you when in need." Jin bows slightly as he gave a gentle smile. He suddenly remembered something. 'Wait, I might be busy with the trials but Lavri is okay with. Maybe he can manage them since he seems like a good leader.'

<Leeanne POV>

Looking at the sun starting to set, Leeanne stopped dancing "It's getting dark outside...How about we set up...! Senpai, Hikari-san, I forgot to bring a tent "

Before Leeanne continued though, the Kobold lieutenant talked "We normally would not have attacked adventurers, but a strange human had been seen talking with the chief/commander before he went...crazy...I also thank you Hikari-sama and Master Jin for accepting us."

He turned toward Hikari and kowtowed three times again "We will follow you beyond death."

Mister sniffles and Follower one had already dug a small burrow by this time, and started napping while surrounding Hikari in a warm pig blanket.

Hmm~ Did my bag get heavier~? Leeanne looked again as the sun began to set.

<Hikari POV>

"Sleep...? Hikari thinks-" *yaaaaawns* "It is a good idea..."

*gets surrounded by the pigs* "Oh... Uhn... Hikari didn't bring a tent either... Does Lea-chan want to sleep with Hikari? It is warm here...

Ah! Jin-san also needs some place to sleep though! And kobolds-san as well!" >.<

<Leeanne POV>

"Sure Hikari-san!" Leeanne went over and laid down next to Hikari, snuggling close with her.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Hikari-sama and Kouhai-chan, you don't have to mind me." Jin gently smiles as he walks towards the Kobolds. He only has a small amount of seal mochi he was planning to give as an offering. But they might be want to eat when waking up.

"Okay listen and don't make a loud voice." Jin starts telling them to hunt some food and wild edible plants. He asks the others to watch the perimeter and grab some firewood. As he made a campfire from the firewood and took some cooking utensils from his item box. He also took the veggies and apples from the Askian farmers. hey always gave him their crops, maybe due how Jin always help them during his daily morning exercise. The crops from the Askians were not ordinary since they are larger than the normal one. This might be due to what happened when Jin activated his Gnev possession while farming. "Sigh, if only they could at least give Hikari-sama a chance as a deity."

Jin readies to make a curry as he tries to focus.
The Kobolds looks interestedly to what Jin was doing. The other Kobold finally arrive carrying two deer and excitedly gave it to Jin. He praises them and prepares to cut a part of one deer as a meat for the curry. While the rest are to be roasted for the Kobolds. Jin was serious on his cooking not noticing there stares as he took a spoon and taste the curry.

"It tastes good~" Jin after finishing cooking and covers the pot. Since curry will taste good overnight, it just needs to be reheated. He then cooks some rice, since Shamal always argue that curry should always be paired with rice. He finally notices the Kobold looking at the food.

"I can give you roasted deer. If you bring me more meat then I'll cook it for you." Jin smiles gently as he offers the meat.

"Thanks, Master Vodka---"

"Shush, your voice..." Jin hastily reprimanded the Kobolds. Who nodded and start eating the roasted deer. They gave a thumbs up and continue enjoying the meat. Some even hunted pheasants and rabbits to be roasted. Which makes Jin busy cooking.

<Hikari POV>

Red red red red red, it was all red, everything was red, Okaa-san was red, Marisa-sama was red, Lily-chan was red, Troll-san was red. Red red red, make it go away! Hikari doesn't want the red! No! Get away! Don't make Lea-chan red- no! NOOOOOOO!!!!!!

Hikari woke up, Hikari was sweating a lot... It was hot, Hikari was tired, Hikari was sleepy...

Why is it still black though...? Didn't Hikari wake up...? Hikari tried opening her eyes... They didn't want to open... Hikari was scared of opening them... No, there is nothing... Just open...

Hikari slowly got to opening them... And Hikari... Was scared.

It was red. Everything Hikari saw was red. The trees were red, the grass was red, Lea-chan was red, Jin-san was red... What is... Why is Hikari seeing like this...?

Hikari heard Lea-chan's breathing noise, it was calm... She was fine... But why is...?

Hikari doesn't want it, Hikari wants things back to normal! Please tell Hikari this is still all a bad dream...

Hikari closed her eyes and went back to sleep... It will be okay... Hikari will definitely see normaly again tomorrow...

<Leeanne POV>

"Hmmm?" Waking up in the middle of the night, Leeanne sighed "Just when I was going to bite my mouth in....." looking over at Hikari, and seeing the sweat on Hikari, Leeanne took out a handkerchief and started wiping it off, after that, she started gentling patting Hikari on her forehead, as if calming down a baby.

"It must be tough being a deity..." She stared up at the night sky, nostalgic about when she went with her parents 'camping' in the agricultural district. It was fun, but her parents had fought so that she could have peace, is what she's told by her grandparents, about her how her parents went on many quests to earn the money needed to buy the house in Aeternus.

About the duty they felt as they defended the people to give them the peaceful life they deserve.

It was never told in any clear terms, but Leeanne was able to piece together that her parents were once soldiers, and that they detested the people that lorded over them, but for what reason was never told by her grampa.

She looked up again, content to pat Hikari's forehead, and slowly drifted back to sleep after a while.

<Jin Vodka POV>

Jin was busy managing the Kobolds and saw they finally sleep. He stretched his body and looks towards Hikari and Leeanne seeing them sleep peacefully not noticing any strange happening.

"Well, rest is also important." Jin could only smile and took a blanket and cover the two girls. He then looks to a sturdy tree and jumps towards the branches.

"I'm not really familiar with this." Jin could only sigh since he doesn't know how to responds to women. He was a knight and then mercenary. He only focuses on his work and never has any interactions especially with women. He could only awkwardly smile and just focus on the quest.

Jin silently looks at the surrounding as he stays awake. Since he was scared to sleep and never wake up due to the trials. He could only stay on guard as he watches the night sky.

<Hikari POV>

Hikari opened her eyes... Red, everything was red... Wha-what is!?

Ah... Hikari saw this... So it wasn't a dream...

Hikari looked around, Lea-chan was sleeping, Jin-san... Hikari can't see him... Is he on Patrol?

Both Pig-sans are sleeping around Hikari as well... Hikari wonders... Is it day or night? Hikari can't see the sun or clouds, but no moon or stars either...

Why is everything red...? Hikari doesn't want to see things like this...

Yukari-sama, please help Hikari... Hikari doesn't want to remain like this... Hikari is scared...

<Leeanne POV>

"Good morning---Hikari" As she woke up rubbing her eyes, she caught the sight of a distraught Hikari.She really reminds me of my grampa when I was a child, waking up distraught and alarmed, looking everywhere, looking for the enemy. Now that I think of It, he stopped doing that a year after he started being my 'master'.

Leeanne did what she knew, what did as a young(er) girl, she hugged Hikari while patting her back. "Everythings O-kay~" Looking in her bag, she found a strange peach "Want a peach, Hikari-san~?"

<Jin Vodka POV>

Jin was swinging his right leg as he sat on the branch looking at the surrounding. The birds are already sitting on his shoulders. This was due to the holy magic he was testing which attracts the birds. He then notices the sun raising, "Should I wake them for breakfast?"

He looks below to notice Hikari waking up and seems to be in trouble. He then jumps towards the lowest branches as he lands in-front of her.

"What's wrong Hikari-sama? You seem unsettled?" Jin asks and he notices Leeanne waking up. Since Leeanne is already awake, she might be able to help Hikari. Jin not really good at this. So he could only smile towards Leeanne. "Good morning Kouhai-chan, please watch over Hikari-sama while I prepare the breakfast."

"And also--" Jin grabbed a mochi from his item box and gave it to Hikari. "Here's my offering today~"

Jin then went to the pot and heat it up. He wakes ups the Kobold for breakfast as he busies himself for taking some plates and utensils.

"Breakfast is ready, we should eat a proper meal before continuing the quest." Jin gently smiles, "let's also do our best for today!!"

<Hikari POV>

Lea-chan woke up, her red eyes looked directly into Hikari's... It was too scary! Hikari doesn't want it! Let Lea-chan's eyes get back to normal!

She said something... What did she say? Hikari can't understand-

"Want a peach, Hikari-san~?"

It was as if the peach was made of that liquid red... No no, Hikari can't eat that! Ta-take it out!

"N-no, Hikari is-"

"Here's my offering today~"

Red bunnies, red red bunnies for Hikari!? No-no-no! Hikari doesn't want those!

"Hi-Hikari will pass..."

They are scary, stop showing scary things for Hikari! Hikari doesn't want to be scared!!

Jin-san had gone to get breakfast, Lea-chan was patting Hikari's back while saying something... It felt nice... But Hikari was scared of looking into Lea-chan's eyes...

Hikari held Lea-chan and buried her head on Lea-chan's shoulder... It is okay, right? Hikari won't see any red while she is like this... It will be okay... Hikari will be okay...

<Leeanne POV>

"N-No, Hikari is.." then she buried her head into my shoulder after looking in my eyes, eh..? Was she...Scared of my eyes...? It's a first, and I feel bad about it, but....I feel strange, It's like I want to see more of her expressions.... Shaking my head at those thoughts I looked at Jin-senpai, bringing Hikari into a mother's embrace If that mother was only a bit taller....

"Jin-senpai! I'll have a plate later, Hikari seems a bit out of it right now" Patting Hikari's head, I looked over at Mister Sniffles and Follower 1 "We should not waste time though, I'm sure Mister Sniffles and follower one are eager to find more opponents." at the mention of the word opponents, Mister Sniffles "Oinked" In excitement with his follower.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Okay then, I'm ready anytime to find the Orcs." Jin seeing Hikari looking not good condition feels bad. He doesn't know what to do, plus it seems like there are no injuries. 'I wonder what's wrong? I guess we should finish it fast. So we can go back Guild, maybe she will feel better there.'

"I see... I'll take Mister Sniffles and his follower to search for the Orcs. Kouhai-can, you stay here and take care Hikari-sama." Jin sadly smiled as he asks the Kobolds to stay and guard the two. 'Maybe Hikari-sama doesn't like seeing bloodshed. I should take a note of this next time.'

"If you guys are hungry, there is still curry on the pot. I will go search for the Orcs." Jin slowly walks away as he sighs while writing something in his white notebook. He then rubs his temple feeling a bit tired but he needs to endure and walk forward. Since it seems like he's the one most capable of killing the orcs. He just needs Mister Sniffles to help him search one.

"Okay, Mister Sniffles please help me track some Orcs."

<Hikari POV>

Hikari was embraced... Hikari felt comfortable... Hikari didn't want to let go, Hikari wanted to hide.

Hikari heard Lea-chan's and Jin-san's voice, but Hikari didn't understand what they said...

Hikari wants to rest, Hikari wants it gone, Hikari wants things back to normal... Hikari doesn't want to see red anymore... Red is... Scary...

<Leeanne POV>

This.....What did...It must be... I don't know what knocked the stack of cards down, but seeing Hikari cry made me *sniffs* cry too. "Hikari-san *sniffs* it's okay~!" I Hugged her a bit tighter, though making sure I was not hurting her.

Mister sniffles and his follower had already followed behind Jin, Oinking silently in excitement, as they began sniffing the area for any trails or scents left behind by any 'prey'

<Jin Vodka POV>

Jin was walking slowly as his eyes starting to get blurry. Since, he didn't longer need to act tough since he was alone, actually his with a boar. The light in his eyes started to disappear as he walks aimlessly. He could only shake his head to stay awake. "Not yet... At least when everything is perfectly safe. I can't fall down yet."

Jin slaps him both cheeks to awake himself. He then focuses as he finally activates his magic. He was limiting himself, but now he can use it. His eyes glow blue as he releases magic sense to the surrounding.

"Found you~" Jin grin finally sensing 8 Orcs sadly there are no Orc leaders and the number is not enough.

"I found some Mister Sniffles, please follow me." Jin tried his best to smile as he runs forward. "Let finish this quickly, so Hikari-sama can go back to the Guild."

<Hikari POV>

Hikari was hugging Lea-chan for a while...

Hikari's cheeks felt wet, was Hikari crying?

This wasn't nice... Hikari didn't want this...

*deep breath* Hikari doesn't understand... But... Hikari shouldn't stay here doing nothing either...

Hikari felt something... A... Sacrifice? Hikari tried feeling it a bit better... It was from Jin-san... Was it food? Hikari isn't sure... Ah... The bunnies... Hikari rejected it just because...

Hikari shouldn't be like this... *accepts the sacrifice* Hikari hopes Jin-san wasn't hurt from Hikari's reaction... Nor was Lea-chan...

Hikari took her head away from Lea-chan's shoulder.

"Sorry... Hikari felt a bit bad... Hikari is better now... Should we go clear the quests now?"

<Leeanne POV>

"It's all good Hikari-san~" Grabbing my handkerchief, I wiped Hikari's eyes off and prepared the two plates of dinner jin-senpai had left us. "We can't be hungry now, can't we? If you want, I can feed you~" That does seem like an interesting proposal to me, I wonder~

Meanwhile, Mister sniffles transformed quickly into his large form and activated his flames, He felt a disturbance in the Hikari and felt the urgency to return her to where he found her. He charged forward and knocked 3 orcs off their feet, causing them all to turn their backs against jin as he started getting chased by the orcs infuriated by a 'simple' large flaming boar attacking them.

<Jin Vodka POV>

Jin looks towards the Orcs as they rush to him. The other 3 chase Mister Sniffles as he taunted them. Leaving Jin with the 5 Orcs, but it was fine.

Jin emotionlessly stands still as he dodges the Orcs attacks. Since he was small and agile they couldn't catch him. Before they know it, Four Orcs felt pain as small magic circle glows in the parts of their party. Jin took his time to draw them was dodging.

"[Mark of Lightning]." Jin raises his open hand to the orc and closes. The magic circle releases strong lighting spark electrocuting the orcs. It was similar to magic traps but they were instead applied to the target.

The surviving Orc drop on the ground feeling fear as they see their comrades easily killed. Jin just slowly approaches as he looks down to Orc.

"You some Orc leaders right? Lead me to them..." Jin glares to the poor Orc was in fear. He could only nod and slowly moves. He wanted to run but for some reason, he could feel danger if he does.

"Two more Orcs and 3 Orc Leaders. Need to hurry and return to Hikari-sama." Jin covers his face as he could feel impatience and worry.

<Hikari POV>

Lea-chan cleaned Hikari's tears... Hikari was thankful... Hikari was avoiding her eyes though...

"Ah... Food?"

Hikari looked towards the dinner plates and saw the red plates, Hikari looked away.

"Eto... Hikari will-" *stomach rumbles loudly* "If... If it's not a problem for Lea-chan... Hikari would appreciate it... Hikari doesn't think she can look at the food right now...

Hikari is sorry..."

<Leeanne POV>

Hikari is soo cuuute~! I let go of my embrace of Hikari-san and fetched a plate and a spoon, coming back quickly. scooping out some, I blew on it a bit "Say Ahhhhhh~" I brought the soup to Hikari's mouth.

-----

Mister sniffles was angry at these orcs who believed that they could chase him! He turned around and activated his flames and charged through the three orcs the followed him, finishing one off, then two at the second charge. He then began to feast on the dead orcs to fuel his transformation.

<Jin Vodka POV>

Jin was surrounded by many Orcs and three Orc Leaders. They were full on guard seeing him.

"Hang in there..." Jin was muttering words as the light of his flicker. His body was swinging like a puppet. One Orc Leader with his two Orc goons rushes forward towards him as they swing their greatswords. They merely passed Jin as he keeps walking. Their body was cut in pieces before the blood could even splatter. Ice covered their body as they slowly broke into pieces like fragile glass. On Jin's hand was a blade made of ice.

"Must not make a mess...." Jin body sways as he tilts his head. His eyes were empty as if it has no longer life on it, he seems to be only acting by instincts.

The other Orcs shouted and ran away in fear. Only the two boar leaders left behind gritting their teeth. They tried there best to fight against what they are feeling. But they could feel a great threat from this child which was walking eerily.

Suddenly, Jin stops moving making the Orcs leaders surprise. They notice how he was only standing still devoid of life. The ice on his body started to melted, making him look vulnerable. Which gave the Orc Leaders a hope to kill him but still felt a little fear.

<Hikari POV>

Hikari ate without looking at the food, it felt... A bit weird, but... Not bad, rather... Hikari was happy to have Lea-chan help Hikari like this.

It was comforting, Hikari tried enjoying her company without thinking on what the food looked like.

Although...

"Lea-chan... Where is Jin-san?"

<Leeanne POV>

"I think he went ahead to look for the orcs...and he's most likely already taking care of the orcs, I think." Senpai seemed a bit, no, I Don't know his normal state anyway. Finishing feeding Hikari the food, Leeanne also ate her food and sighed again

I need to ask the question that's been burning in my mind

"Hikari-san, I might have just talked with you a few times during the reception, and during this trip, but, what's wrong? you seem...scared? Anxious? If there's anything you can tell me, please, I'll be willing to listen to you speak."

------

"Oink!" (You!)
"Oink oink oink!" (You Forgot me!)

Mister Sniffles had arrived from finishing the dead orc meal earlier, snuck around and smashed into one of the orc leaders from behind as they stood shell-shocked at the one who just killed their brethren like they do to wild animals.

The other Orc leader took out something, that looked like a mini-drum, and started beating on it loudly.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Hmm..?" Jin suddenly awakens hearing the sound of mini-drum. He tilts head is confused as he holding his head looking around. "What just happened..?"

"Mister Sniffles..?" Jin notices the boar killing the other Orc leader which seems to have saved him in the process. Jin slowly smiles as he went close to the pig and pat him, "thanks."

"I should hurry and finish this." Jin faces the last Orc Leader as he prepares to finish him. He creates an [Ice spear] which immediately flies and impaling the Orc Leader. But he doesn't know what the sound of the drum does. He didn't let his guard down and wait for what will happen.

---In the distance---

A scout Orc was lazing around, the raiding party had just left and so, It did not expect any trouble for some time since the raiding party had some of the best warriors of the tribe. When it heard the Thump Thump of the emergency call, It also started beating on its drum, prompting another scout in the distance to begin beating their drum.

A large group of orc soldiers started rushing to the spot, It was no ordinary signal, It was the signal that a being strong enough to wipe out their whole tribe is nearby, and all available warriors are to go meet the threat while the civilians were to flee elsewhere.

A small group of stronger looking orcs split off from the main group of orcs, the leader confident that taking the enemy by surprise would increase their chances of getting promoted.

--------------

<Hikari POV>

"S-scared!? Hi-Hikari!?"

I-is Hikari that easy to read...? Hikari didn't want to worry Lea-chan though...

"Hi-Hikari guesses so... Hikari just... Can't... Can't see... Can't see colors... Hikari sees red. Everything is red... It's all... Like the... The thing that...

It is scary! Hikari doesn't want to see that anymore! Hikari wants to see normally again!!!"

Hikari started sobbing... It was so, so scary... Why can't Hikari get back to normal already...?

<Leeanne POV>

"It's okay Hikari-san, Tell me, What's scary about the color red, Did someone wearing red bully Hikari? I'll go get them~!" If anyone bullies Hikari... I'll....I again embraced Hikari and patted her back gently, She felt just like my little----little what? I blanked out for a second but got back to the problem at hand "I'll bully back anyone that dares bully Hikari-san!"

-----

Mister Sniffles looked around cautiously because of the new noise "Oink!" He had smelled something and pointed his snout where a bunch of new smells suddenly started appearing.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"What is it, mister Sniffles..?" Jin could only confusedly tilts his as he looks towards the direction of where the pig was facing. He then, focus to feel the surrounding using mana sense only to fail. His head hurts for some reasons as massages his temple. "Sigh, this is getting worst."

"Oh well, let them come." Jin only wanted for them arrive. He grabs the ax from the Orc Leader who died. He swings it around and trying to adjust to his current young body.

<Hikari POV>

"What is... Scary...?

Red looks like... Like... The-the water... The water that drops... When we're hurt... Everything looks hurt, everything looks like... Looks like..."

*hugs and cries* "Hikari doesn't-" *sobs* "doesn't want to-" *sobs* "to see anyone dropping it again..." *sob sob* "Why does everyone look like they are-" *sobs* "going to-to-to" *sobs* "to stop moving..." *sobs* "Hikari doesn't..." *sobs* "Want..." *cries more*

<Leeanne POV>

"Hikari!" I pinched her cheeks "Everyone doesn't want to be hurt, and like Hikari, Doesn't want their friends to get hurt." I softly scolded her as I was hugging her and wiping her eyes.

"But everyone gets hurt a little, one time or another and It can be stopped. When I became an adventurer, It was not something I took seriously. But after the attack on Aeternus, my Grampa looked me dead in the eye and said 'You were able to make a difference, fewer people were hurt because of you, now stop lamenting and eat your darn breakfast or I'll eat it myself!' I laughed in reply, and asked him what I could do to help everyone, hearing my question, he paused for a second before laughing in my face"

Taking a long breath, I continued.

"He said, 'If you can do something you want to do, great! But if you go too far, It will hurt the people you care about, and that's what I discovered only later in life' So I asked him, 'Then what?" He replied to me while looking satisfied with something "Helping everyone stay safe is not an individual effort, but a group effort'"

Nooooo~ I feel like I'm preaching to her, someone that I'm supposed to preach the teachings of~! I'll just go for the push.

"So, Hikari, What do you want, and what do the people you help want? My own reply was that If I could, I will help everyone to the best of my ability, but I'll always make sure to rely on others when the task is too much and let them rely on me, That includes Hikari-san, If it's too much for them."

I smiled again at Hikari, resting her head against my shoulder and waiting for her to respond.

---

Mister Sniffles activated his flames and Oinked at his follower to go rush back to the Hikari one, He head smelled that a small portion of the orc group had splintered off in the direction of where the Hikari one could be.

He stood at the ready, as a group of orcs lined up in the distance, and started chanting a war-cry that went to the tune of "Kill! Kill! Kill!"

---In the Hostile Orc Chieftan's Tent---

"Chieftan! you failed to stop your men from provoking a strange one, Consider the alliance ceased!"

"You bastard! I knew you were no good, I will continue following the orc way and fight my enemies head on! Honor Guard, at me! we slay the one that dares attack my tribe!"

The strangely dressed orc sighed as he watched the stupid orc chieftain depart from the tent with his strongest men "Useless fodder will always be useless fodder." and vanished into the horizon.

----------

<Jin Vodka POV>

Jin notices something wrong might happened as Mister Sniffles make his follower rush back to where Hikari and Leeanne is. His expression grows grim as he looks to the multiple Orcs coming at them. "I hope your friends don't even harm even a strand of hair of Hikari-sama. Or else--"

Jin grit his teeth as he was overcome with rage, his eyes turning red. He then suddenly slaps himself. 'Dammit, don't lose control. The quest amount is done so no killing. Must capture and just render their movements. Don't make any problems for Hikari-sama'

"Inner peace..." Jin took a deep breath as he calms himself. He slowly activates his Stolz possession as ice wings and horns emerge. This transformation was best when taking down enemies without killing them. 'I need a better way to call this possession. A simpler one, maybe just Stolz form?'

"KIIIIILLLL!!!!" The orcs shouted as they rush forward.

Jin merely stomps his feet as smooth ice spreads making the Orcs slide and lose their balance. He then starts to hover above the ground and swing his wings.

"[Blizzard]" A strong wind of snow was release as Jin wave his wings. This covers the Orcs rendering their movement as they were buried by it.

"No then..." Jin gently landed on an Orc's head that was sticking out. "Tell me your purpose or all of you will be freeze to death."

Jin was too focus on the orcs, he forgot Mister Sniffles who might be buried in the snow.

<Hikari POV>

"But what can Hikari rely on others for!?

Hikari needs followers because Hikari needs to survive, but Hikari can't ask Yukari-sama for help, because it would look as if it was Yukari-sama's doing... Hikari can't even pray to Yukari-sama, Ran-sama or Yuuka-sama for help anymore...

Hikari doesn't want it! Hikari doesn't want to be alone! Hikari wants to just hug Mama and ask her to get worshippers for Hikari... But how can Hikari get them like that!? How can Hikari be a goddess by letting everyone do everything for Hikari!?!?!" *crying a lot*

"Hikari don't wanna... Don't wanna don't wanna don't wanna... Hikari never wanted to be a goddess, Hikari just wanted to help Fenrir-sama... Hikari don't want to see red... Hikari doesn't even know why she is seeing red...

... How can Hikari ask for help, if Hikari needs to do things herself... If Hikari doesn't even know what she should do...?" *sobbing hiccuping and tearing up*

<Leeanne POV>

"There there" I started patting her head "Let it out, The anger, The frustration, a person can't let it bottle up like that.There are always times where you can only rely on yourself to do something, But, Hikari, I'm sure your friends would be glad to lend an ear to your troubles." Pausing for a moment to gather my thoughts, I continued "What Hikari should do? Ask instead, what Hikari wants to do and thinking about what Hikari wants to do next."

"Hikari, you've already helped people, more than you think you have, What does Hikari believe in? What does Hikari wish for? Is it friends and family? Happiness? I won't pretend to know what Hikari goes through, and It would be bad of me to do so"

"Movement ahead!" one of the friendly kobolds suddenly blurted out before drawing his weapon forward.

I looked back at Hikari "Hikari's fight is my fight, If Hikari Doesn't know what to do, just follow what Hikari believes in, I'll give Hikari-san one of my favorite peaches when I get back." I let go of Hikari slowly as the clashes of weapons between the orcs and kobolds started, I put my hand into my bag and withdrew the special peach from earlier, infusing it with a large portion of my mana and took my chicken eggs out.

These Orcs...I'll punish them for the interruption!

----

Mister sniffles simply dodged the snow wave on instinct, honed as he dodged exploding spiders in Aeternus, He snorted at jin though, showing his displeasure in being forgotten but soon regained his rage at the orcs as he stared them down.

---

The orcs looked at each other, Till one finally broke "Leader Build Base...Take out Attackers...Ack!"

The Orcs head was cleaved in half "Traitor! This is what happens to all traitors! You there!" Pointing at Jin, he pointed his greatsword "You have slaughtered my Tribesmen, Now I'll feast on your guts!" He took out a different sword and a demonic aura fed itself into the foolish orc chieftain "Yes...yes! the power! I can take over now! That group can go slaughter themselves when they hear of my tales!"

The Chieftain's veins were changing, the other orcs felt it and started backing off, even his most loyal guard was already preparing to leave. Though, It seemed that the aura was still trickling into his veins, beginning to quicken its rate of entering the Chieftain at an exponential rate.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Tche... I was trying my best to not kill anyone but you." Jin looks down towards the Orc Chieftain as he suddenly killed his tribesmen.

Pointing at Jin, he pointed his greatsword "You have slaughtered my Tribesmen, Now I'll feast on your guts!"

"Pfft.... Ahahahaha!" Jin laughter reverberated all over the place. This makes the other orcs drop in fear. A mixture of demonic aura and holy mana release to Jin's body. He was laughing loudly as he holds his face. "How amusing~"

"You are quite too arrogant for a mere mortal aren't you..?" Jin tilts his head half-opening his eyes as a wide grin appears on his face. "To even say those words to me. A being higher than your standing. It seems you need to know your place, mere mortal."

Jin's personality suddenly turns into a drastic change as Pride consumes him. His wings grow clearer as it glows brighter releasing snows. A flail appears in his right hand as a shield appears on his left, both are made of steel-like ice similar to Ice golems.

"Seems you are getting arrogant just because you have a demonic artifact. But do you think, that would have any chance against the great me...?" Jin mocks the Orc Chieftain.

"You weak Orcs listen to my command! If either of you moves and pass me and try to harm those I protect! Then I would not hesitate to cut your legs so you can never walk ever again." Jin's voice reverberated over the forest. Imposing fear to the Orc around making them drop to there knees.

"Now then..." Jin suddenly appears in-front the Orc Chieftain as he moves his flail slamming on the Orcs face. Jin continued slapping him with the flail. He swings his demonic sword but Jin merely blocks it as he keeps attacking. Jin then kicks the Chief tan guts slamming him to a tree.

"It is best if you surrender..." Jin steps on the arm of the Chieftain holding the demonic sword as Jin breaks his bones.

"GAAAHHHHH!!" The Orc scream in pain from this. "Impossible why is a high-class demon here!?"

"Incorrect, I'm only half demon lord." Jin took the sword from the Chieftain's hand as he inspects it. He then looks down to the Chieftain as he asks seriously. "Where did you get this..?"

<Leeanne POV>

"Look, A human lady! Hurry, finish these lizards, we have some pretty loot to catch!"
I threw an egg in his face as he was about to strike down the kobold lieutenant or now, the kobold captain that Jin took in and was able to distract the orc leader of the group enough so that the kobold captain could start going on the offensive.

There were in total 6 orcs here, with the kobolds holding them off 1v1 by using their cunning vs the orcs brute strength, but that was just like balancing a see-saw, with the orc having in advantage in one flurry of strikes, and the kobolds having the next one.

I, of course, helped, and when I saw Hikari curled up on the ground I wanted this to be over quickly, to rush over and help her again. So, as I threw a chicken egg I shouted "Hikari! This will be over sooner than later! keep your eyes open, even if it's scary!" Follower 1 was able to rush back in time and pushed me back Letting me be able to dodge an opportunistic orc's attack and returned fire with an explosive peach to the face.

----

The Orc Chieftan seemed even angrier "I have an Orc's Honor! I will tear you limb from limb!" His eyes suddenly became bloodshot, signs of him suddenly entering a berserk mode, and starting resisting Jin to the last drop of blood.

----

Mister sniffles was busy staring down any orcs that looked like they were going to help the Chieftan, He admitted that this 'Jin' fellow was strong, but he still follows the Hikari.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Oh is that so~" Jin with a blank face as he tilts his head. "Are you in position to say those words...?"

Jin created a magic circle above him as four ice blade appears. It quickly flew and cut the Orcs Chieftain's arms and legs. "Sorry~ You just tempt me to do it due to your insolence. Now then~"

"I have no time to waste to you Orcs. So I want you all to stay and wait for me here." Jin flew on top of Orcs. They shiver in fear as they saw his blue eyes glow. A large blue magic circle suddenly appears on the Orcs feet. Ice started to spread as it binds all the Orcs in the area only their face was not covered for breathing. Even the Orc Chieftain which was barely alive was saved due to the ice blocking the blood from flowing.

"Don't worry, I'm a kind person. I made sure to regulate the temperature. Ice magic in the hands of an expert can control the intensity to make sure to not freeze to death. The ice will just make your body numb so you won't able to move. I guarantee it since I also made some experiments in the past." Jin explains it to reassure the Orcs. The Orcs could only pale regretting attacking this guy. "The ice is also like a steel similar to Ice Golems~"

"Now to return back to Hikari-sama. I will return to you guys after I make sure your friends didn't even harm her. Or else---" Jin's eyes were full of hostility as he smiled and stared down the Orcs. "I can't kill you all, but the rules didn't state that I can't take all of you. So I can [Rehabilitate] you all. Pray that nothing bad happens~"

Jin looks down noticing Mister Sniffles. "I forgot, sorry~ Let's go back to Hikari-sama already."

<Hikari POV>

"Hikari! This will be over sooner than later! keep your eyes open, even if it's scary!"

Over? What will be over? What does Hikari need... Wait? Open? Eyes open...? Hikari's eyes are closed...?

Hikari opened her eyes... Red... No!

It was black again... Black was more peaceful... Hikari didn't want to see red... The red was still there, Hikari was happy with the black, let Hikari remain with the black, the black is good enough for Hikari... Like this is good enough…

<Leeanne POV>

"Did I...Mess up?" during a brief break in the fighting, I looked back at Hikari, "I...Did I cause it?" I rolled barely out of the way of an orc that had started to attack me after knocking out the kobold that was fighting him. I continued supporting the Follower 1 that had gone into tank for me, throwing peaches when I could, and refueling the health of kobolds that seemed like they were about to perish, though I seemed to have wasted more mana that way. I had already felt myself....emptying out of mana.

3 of the kobolds were already knocked out and 2 of the orcs too, but the increase in numbers caused the allied kobold captain to take on two of the stronger orcs at once, only being able to delay them for so long and they were able to last this long in a direct melee since they had support. They seemed...Desperate to defend to the death.

"I...was......I am.....out of.......Hikari....." I walked over slowly to Hikari with a Tired smile and fainted as an orc threw it's small sword, hitting my shoulder.

---

Mister sniffles sensed something wrong, But it was not too urgent but he treated it as a life or death situation because the Hikari and the Food provider might disappear, like his siblings who one day were chased down by a wolf, he defeated the wolf in the end, but his siblings still were not there to celebrate his victory.

So, Mister sniffles, still in his transformation, rushed back to where Hikari and Leeanne were.

<Jin Vodka POV>

Jin seeing Mister Sniffles not even reacting to his call and just rush over made him sigh. 'I miss my followers for some reason. I didn't bring Presia since she is quite motherly and might embarrass me. But better than not knowing what to do.'

"Well, let's hurry now..." Jin rush as he opens his wings wide flying at a fast speed. He saw mister Sniffles and carry him to increase the pace. "Sorry about this, much quicker but why do you smell delicious?"

Jin then swiftly arrived the location only Kobold and Orcs fighting each other. He drops down mister Sniffles on top an Orc. Some of the Kobolds are wounded and struggling to defend themselves. He sees his Kouhai's shoulder bleeding from the sword. The Orcs are now trying to even get near to Hikari, luckily the Kobolds did their best to defend her.

"What have you done!?" Jin expression change as the ice melted from his wings. Pure rage was seen his face releasing a strong demonic aura. He clenches his heart as he tries to control himself. But he was too tired, never had any rest and sleep. Additionally, he hasn't properly control his holy magic. Flames wings emerge as it burned his shirt and a horn and dragon tails appear. Eyes burning red full of hatred, "To even dare do this to them!"

Tears of blood drops in his eyes, "you all will have to suffer eternal pain."

The Orcs feels get fear and malice seeping from Jin. Even the Kobolds are severing from fear.

"But first--" Jin creates a teleportation magic circle under Hikari, Leeanne, Mister Sniffles with his follower and all The kobolds. They have been moved a bit away from Jin and the area with orcs.

"[Flame Wall]," Jin was still able to control some of his anger. He made a wall encircling the orcs with him. Now his only alone with the orcs, as the others are just outside of it.

"I'm sorry for this..." Jin sadly smiled as he looks towards Hikari before the flames cover him. He knows she would probably hate what he will do. But he has no choice, someone needs to dirty his hand. And it was him...

<Hikari POV>

Wet.

It was wet. Hikari heard a thud, and then a wet feeling hit Hikari.

Why is it wet...?

Hikari moved her hands a bit... Tattering the ground... It was sticky... It was really... Wet...

Eh? This is... Soft...? Wait... "keep your eyes open, even if it's scary!"

Open... Open eyes...? Hikari should... Open... Eyes?

Open open open... It shouldn't be black, black isn't okay... It should be...

Red, Hikari's sight was red. Hikari's hand was atop of Lea-chan, why was Lea-chan on the ground?

The ground around Lea-chan was wet... Lea-chan's shoulder was also wet... Hikari should clean it.

Hikari has nothing to clean though... Hikari used Lea-chan's dress to dry it... Hikari hopes Lea-chan doesn't mind it...

Eh? Still wet? But Hikari just... Why still wet...? Why does Lea-chan keep on getting wet?

It is sticky... It is red... Everything is red... Lea-chan's shoulder is wet... It is sticky... It is red... It is wet... It it it it it-

It was black, everything was black, Hikari was hovering around a black space... Black really is calm isn't it...?

<Leeanne POV>

What...Is this, I was standing in an empty hallway when lights suddenly lit up, brightening everything up enough so that I could see that there weren't normal light sources, but peaches emitting pink rays. I wandered deeper into the hallway and arrived at a pedestal, and instinctively, I grabbed at it.

"You have been chosen, The peach bloodline flows in you, how to activate it? Only you can find out, for that is the way, of the dao of the peach! Plus it's more fun this way, you know how long it was for someone worthy to become a follower of the peach dao? I tell you it was way too long!"

A strange, pulsating, peachy? power flowed into my veins, including a small amount of power from the peach Hikari gave me, altering the structure and turning the peach dao into something...different.

I woke up with a start, and touched my blood, accidentally tasting it."My blood...has a hint of peach in it?!" thinking back on the dream I had "Why was the last portion of what the voice saying, forgotten to me?" Looking over at Hikari, I crawled over, not noticing my bleeding to have slowed down, the peach flavored blood, purging the bacteria that had contaminated the injury.

"Hikari-san~ I'm back~" I crawled over to Hikari and hugged her fiercely as I went to sleep again, placing my nose on hers.

---

Mister Sniffles looked at the two in boredom, the danger had passed and his chance for glory had gone past. He looked around in Leeanne's item box and gave away the remaining chicken eggs as pay for the kobolds because he was a generous boar.

<Somewhere down the road heading towards Frontier>

"Geez, to be attacked by bandit on the road. What luck do we have? Ahahah!" Goel laughs out loud as he took all the items of bandits they defeated. For some reason, even his younger brothers and little sisters are looting the bandits' bag.

"Wow, is he trying to rob them stark naked?" Flyx could only sigh as he sees Goel stripping the Bandits clothes.

"Pfft... Ahahaha! Master Vodka will laugh at this! The new follower and his family are hilarious!" Bernard holds his stomach. Pointing to the bandits now were stripped naked and starting to run far away.

"Let them be, they are doing what they do to survive." Lavri was busy carving on an ivory he asks from Jin. Since Jin has lots of ivory from his Rhino quest, Lavri was able to take one.

"What are you doing..?" Bernard tilt his head seeing this as his eyes went wide open. "Wow pretty! But what is that for..?"

"Offering for Hikari, since I'm now her worshipper. I'm giving this as thanks for the safe journey. It would be nice if I make it into her symbol. But since Jin still hasn't heard anything about it. Then a sheep shape will do since they are usually used as a sacrifice in olden times" Lavri stated as he let down the offering and pray.

"Wow, you're talking a lot today?" Bernard asks but Lavri hasn't answered as he was so focused on praying. But Bernard laughs inside, will even the goddess hear Lavri's prayer?

<Hikari POV>

Hikari felt something, it was a nice feeling, there was something for Hikari coming... Hikari liked it, Hikari held it in, and it was pretty... Ah, it disappeared...

Hikari felt a bit better with it... But Hikari wanted to look at it more... What was it...?

Hikari wonders...

...

... Ah! A-a sacrifice? Then... Hikari received a sacrifice and...

Whe... Where is Hikari...? It's all... Black?

Did Hikari faint...? Then Hikari should wake up... It would be no good to just stay like this... Why did Hikari faint...? Hikari doesn't know...

Why is Hikari's memories getting in trouble again... Hikari feels it wasn't the first time it happened recently... Please be nothing serious... Hikari doesn't want to feel that fear again... Hikari doesn't want to forget again...

Hikari followed the presence of Hikari's blessing to find her consciousness again... Hikari wonders what was that sacrifice... It helped Hikari get back on her tracks... Hikari is thankful, Hikari hopes they enjoyed what came of it...

---------------------

On a certain place far from here, a certain kobold was flustered by the Sanie plushy that appeared in the place of his offering, maybe it meant something?

<Leeanne POV>

"he...ehehehehehe....ahahahahahahaha! Mister Sniffles, I'm up! I'm up!" I still felt dizzy but I checked my wound and it stopped bleeding. I looked over at Hikari what can I do....I looked at Hikari, anger in my heart that I could not do anything at all to help her worries Maybe....Everything I said was useless...? She needs sacrifices..... I took out my peach bag and looked at it with the memories of my childhood, playing training with it for hours.

The past may be important, but the future is more important, looking over at Hikari, I hugged her and sacrificed my peach bag I wish that Hikari gets better.

--

Mister Sniffles was bored, He had already woken up the Leeanne, now it was just to wait for the Jin one to arrive, and for the Hikari to wake up.

<Jin Vodka POV>

The flames disappeared as Jin was the one left there were no blood nor ashes. He then ran and looks towards their side. His Gnev form was already released and he was looking more calmer but pale. Seeing that Leeanne wounds already stop bleeding and Hikari is safe. He sighs in relief as he looks to the surrounding.

"You guys need healing!" Jin looks at the Kobolds who have wounds and some even have severe injuries. Seeing this he immediately use Stolz form as he infuses his wings with Holy Mana. Gentle snow touches each of the Kobolds wounds as it healed them. Even those who are near to death are breathing safely. The snow closes up the wounds and as it melted holy energy sips to the body regenerating the wounds.

"That was my first time using this--" Jin holds his head as he falls to his knees. The exhaustion and sudden use of holy magic he hasn't mastered yet take a toll his spirits. He then forced himself to stood up and go near Hikari and Leeanne. Noticing that Hikari is still unconscious he looks towards to Leeanne.

"Sorry, I was late. What happened to Hikari..?"

------Meanwhile somewhere out there------

Shamal's face was unreadable as he sees a note.

[Hey Shamal!

I almost lose control myself but thanks for Hikari's blessing from the mochi a gave earlier, I was able to recover.
So in the end, I sent this Orcs to be rehabilitated by you. Just send them back to Askian Hamlet once they learn their lessons~

Yours truly, the only living friend you have tehee~]

"I see...." Shamal doesn't know how to react to this but since it came from his 'annoying' friend. He has no choice but to take the task. He looks to the orcs now trap in a desolate land as his snakes bind them. The orcs were shivering from fear and confused on what is happening. Both the Ocs Jin intrapped with him in the flame wall and the Orcs he left behind bind by ice, where now in Shamal's place.

<Hikari POV>

Hikari followed, it was close, Hikari would be back soon...

Another? This one is... It's Lea-chan? And it is pretty big... Is it really alright...?

Hikari really hopes it is alright... Please don't regret it Lea-chan...

Hikari accepted the sacrifice, and Hikari felt... Better...? Really... Lea-chan is too kind...

Hikari opened her eyes... It was... Colorful... It wasn't red... Hikari wasn't seeing red anymore... Hikari was glad... Thank you Lea-chan...

Jin-san was talking something with Lea-chan, Hikari wasn't sure on what, but Hikari felt calm... It really was too scary to see the red all the time...

Aaaah... Hikari feels tired, the day has just started, and Hikari already wants to sleep...

<Leeanne POV>

"Hikari---I'm not sure, she said she started seeing red, and all the crying...the crying...she was worried about everyone, about her friends, about her followers.....I think she feels alone, and that she has to take care of all the problems, and to do everything alone.....Senpai, can you talk with her later?"

I walked over to Hikari to notice her looking tired, but It's a big improvement compared to before....She was just....So sad....I walked back to Jin-senpai "You and Hikari-san will rest for now~!" I walked again, over to Hikari and sat down, placing her tired head on my lap.

(✧.✧) "Jin-senpai, rest. You've deserved it, I've already slept for a bit, now it's your turn. It's okay, Mister Sniffles and Follower 1 can warn us of any danger."

Mister sniffles walked over, de-transforming into his smaller form and along with follower one, stood guard around the perimeter.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"You don't have to worry about that. Since we already finished the quest. Me and Mister Sniffles already have killed the 10 Orcs and 3 Orc Leaders. Mister Sniffles did great killing one Orc Leader, you got a good companion Kouhai-chan." Jin pats Leeanne as he walks back to the Kobold wounded. There is also a reason he can't sleep. Due to the task, Stolz gave him. If he ever let his guard he will become coma and unable to do anything. He needs to make everything is place and followers fully geared.

"So it's better if we return to the Guild Tavern. So Hikari-sama can rest. I can teleport you guys, but someone needs to lead and protect the Kobolds to the Askian Village. So I will volunteer for that part. No worries, since I'm no longer an ordinary human."

<Hikari POV>

"Wi-will Jin-san really be alright...?

Hikari appreciates the thought, Hikari is just... Unsure if Jin-san can handle it..."

*looks very worried*

"But if Jin-san is truly alright... Hikari will accept it..."

<Leeanne POV>

"Alright, I'll take your word on it senpai, but don't forget to rest sometime!"
I hugged him, even though he had his own problems to deal with, he decided to help me.
I pulled Hikari up, putting her hand in mine.

"I'll go."
"Oink!" "Oink!"

shad12ow · Oct 26, 2017

leegood said: ↑

I walked inside the building after thanking Jin-Senpai, placing Hikari on Mister Sniffles, I walked in.
"Um~ We finished these quests and we're ready to turn it in!"

I started petting Hikari-san's head, "Hikari-san, It's time to wake up to get into bed~"
I placed the report on the receptionist's desk only to notice my vision blank out, and darkness take over.

Great Plain|#SD3|D-Ranked|Slay 3 Orc Leaders [150 G]
Great Plain|#SE3|E-Ranked|Slay 10 Orcs [100 G]
Great Plain|#SD5|D-Ranked|Slay 3 Kobold Leader [120 G]
Great Plain|#SE5|E-Ranked|Slay 15 Kobolds [70 G]
Great Plain|#SE4|E-Ranked|Slay 5 Boar Warriors. [70 G]

<Jin Vodka POV>
Jin now a bit taller so he needed to wear a new pair of clothes. For now, He was wearing his old clothes that he wore since he was 11 years old. But he was excited to wear the cleric attire for Goddess Hikari. He took a pseudo-grimoire as he stared at Hikari.

"Hikari-sama do we have a symbol for our religion? Since the number of believers is increasing. It is best to have something to identify us from others. Also, I could have easily proved myself when trying to recruit new believers." Jin looks at Hikari as he thought of it. "Well, you can take your time while we do this party~"

"It will be our first time partying Leeanne or Kouhai-chan. I will do my best to support and teach you though I don't know much about support magic." Jin smiled as he bowed towards Leeanne and slowly raised his head. "Do you guys mind if I use teleportation magic towards the Great Plain? Since it is faster that way."

<Leeanne POV>

"Oh, I don't mind Jin-senpai~! Though speaking of religious symbols...." *looks at Hikari* "Does Hikari-san have something that could Identify us?" Leeanne was curious, even though she was new to the religion, she wanted to figure out if she would have something to identify other believers with other than a 'feeling' about someone.

Miste sniffled oinked in and went to rest in the center of us lazily. "If we have a symbol, will there also be ones for beings like Mister Sniffles?" Leeanne could already imagine Mister sniffles riding valiantly into battle with something on.

<Hikari POV>

"Ah! A-a-a symbol...? Hikari never thought of one... Ji-Jin-san and Lea-chan are right... Hikari doesn't know exactly what though..." *tilts head in ponder* "It has to have some meaning with sacrifices... But it needs to identify with Hikari... Hmmmmmm...

Ah-Ah! Hi-Hikari is okay with teleporting! Hikari forgot to answer!" >.<

"Hikari will try thinking of something! It is important after all!"

Hikari really shouldn't wonder so much into her thoughts... But a symbol... Hikari really should have thought of that... Good thing Jin-san said it... It's no good for Hikari to not have any...

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Okay then! Let's go~" Jin nods as he concentrated and created a magic circle beneath them. It started to glow yellow as it was made of holy mana instead of the demon one. A gentle floating white light appears as they were covered with it.

As the light disappeared they saw themselves teleported to the Great Plain.

"Hikari-sama please do look after us and tell me if I have done something wrong. I will try my best to teach Kouhai-chan!" Jin smiles as he saluted.

"Okay then~ How do we start this?" Jin looks towards Leeanne and Mister Sniffles. "For now let's test your scouting skills in finding the target. So I can see what I need to teach with."

<Leeanne POV>

"Wow~ that was really cool senpai~!" Leeanne jumped a bit but calmed down quickly, It was not her first teleportation, but it was her first one done by a single person powering the spell that teleports people.

Hearing the question, her face turned serious and she turned to Jin "I have some ability to track things because I played hide n seek with my friends all the time, What can I do senpai?"

Mister Sniffles looked around and sniffed the air, then he started looking for tracks. He then found another boar.

"Oink!" (My land) - Random Pig
"Oink?! Oink oink oink oink!" (Your land!? I call it ugly!) - Mister Sniffles
"Oink! Oink Oink Oink Oink Oink, Oink Oink!" (You! I call for a duel for this land, Fight me!)
"Oink, Oink Oink Oink Oink!" (Fine, But I will become your leader once we finish this duel!)
*the two pigs start dueling*

<Hikari POV>
"Hikari-sama please do look after us and tell me if I have done something wrong. I will try my best to teach Kouhai-chan!"

"Hi-Hikari doesn't think she can tell if things go wrong, but... Hikari will try her best!" >.<

What does Jin-san expect Hikari to tell though... Ah! Ma-maybe Jin-san will teach her about sacrifices...? Hikari does know more about that at least...

Hikari hopes she can help... Eh?

"Le-Lea-chan! Pi-Pig-san is fighting wi-with another Pig-san!

Wha-what should we do...?"

<Leeanne POV>

"Hmmm? Mister Sniffles? Oh, Let him fight, he's not in his serious form anyway so there won't be any large injuries." Leeanne started looking for the boar warriors first, If there are boars living nearby, then why would it not make sense that there are boar warriors somewhere nearby? "Senpai, I think I found something." Leeanne pointed to hooves that looked different from mister sniffles.

"What do you think it could be?"

Around this time, Mister Sniffles was able to push back the boar

"Oink! Oink! Oink Oink!: (Alright Alright, I give!)
"Oink, Oink oink oink oink oink oink, Oink oink oink oink oink (I Win, but the great I has to apologize for earlier, this land is not ugly!)
"Oink oink! Oink oink oink oink, Oink oink oink oink oink." (Merciful Leader! I also apologize, to have wronged you!)
"Oink, Oink oink, oink oink oink oink oink." (Stop, we must now celebrate with a dance around the Hikari.)
"Oink" "Oink" "Oink" "Oink" "Oink" "Oink"
Both Mister Sniffles, And Boar Follower A, started their new ritual dance around Hikari.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"It looks bigger than Mister Sniffles Hooves so might be the Boar warrior we are looking. Good job, you got good tracking skills." Jin pats Leeanne.

Jin looks behind and saw Mister Sniffles win the fight and gave him a thumbs up. Seeing the two boar dance around made him giggle. But he quickly gathers his senpai mode but still, a smile betrayed his expectations.

"Now let's slowly approach them and observe." Jin slowly follows the tracks.

"Kouhai-chan what kind of weapon do you have? Usually, cleric use mace or blunt weapon. It's best to at least to know self-defense so I will teach you some simple buff and defense magic."

<Hikari POV>
Let them be? But-but they are-

Eh? They stopped? Is this... Eeeeeeh!?

Wh-why are they dancing a-around Hikari wha-what is Hikari supposed to do!?

*looks at Lea-chan and Jin-san*

Eeeeeeeh!? They left Hikari alone! >.<

But Hikari can't help much over there... Bu-but here we have... Tho-those...

Wa-wait for Hikari! >.<

Hikari tried to approach a bit without getting too close, so as to not get in their way...

<Leeanne POV>

"Er, I have This bag of peaches?" Leeanne pulled out a bag of peaches, which she always prepared before heading out of the building. The peaches were more useful for other things besides Leeanne herself, she can't really save herself from hunger by creating a peach, it would be as if she was re-absorbing her mana (Though it could be a training method in the future).

"This one attracted monsters during the raid" Leeanne took out a peach and pointed at it, "It lets off a fresh, fruity smell when it's punctured" ahhh, I would show it, but...It's not a good Idea Right now "So I had an Idea after the attack on Aeternus, what If I put Peachfire magic in this peach, just a small amount, and create an air bubble on the bait peach's skin, then it'll blow a hole in the peach's skin, releasing its fragrance after a bit of time!"

Meanwhile, at the dance around Hikari's feet......

"Oink. Oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink!" (Stop. We have forgotten to bring objects of worship to Hikari!)
"Oink! Oink oink oink!" (Master! You are wise!)
"Oink, oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink!" (Follower, We go find Items for the Hikari!)
"Oink, oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink," (Master, there is a strange fruit plant I found guarded by a walking version of our people)
"oink oink?" (How many?)
"Oink oink oink oiiiiiinnnnk oink" (As many as *shows two hooves* thiiiiiisssss much)
"oink oink, oink oink oink oink oink oink oink oink/oinks oink oink oink oink oink oink, oink oink oink oink oink oink oink" (But first, we must wait for two-feets/humans to finish first, now we guard the Hikari one in silence)
The two positioned themselves around Hikari, waiting for any stray beast to pounce upon.

<Jin Vodka POV>
"Peachfire magic..? It sounds like explosion magic. But I bet the scent will attract the boar and we can kill it at that chance." Jin touched his chin as he started thinking of a plan. "We can lure it with that and kill them down. Or perhaps make them fight each other for it?"

'This is quite hard since my ideas are not that advisable for a cleric. This mercenary trait of mine is becoming a disadvantage.' Jin sighed as the plans he thought up were not that advisable.

"Okay then make them fight each other for the peach and kill them when they don't notice us. I can kill the 3 boar warriors while you deal with the two." Jin finally realizes something grows more trouble. "That's right, you are a support type. You would likely don't want to dirty your hands."

"Probably best scenario is Kouhai-chan lure and her companion will attack at that opening." Jin looked towards the two boars guarding Hikari.

"Hikari-sama, what should we do for this..?" Jin confused not knowing how to teach a girl end up looking to Hikari for help.

<Hikari POV>
Hikari had gotten closer, but... With the pigs making so much noise, Hikari thought they would get in the way...

S-stop that!

Eh? They really did stop...? Ho-how...?

"Hikari-sama, what should we do for this..?"

"Eh!? E-eto... Hi-Hikari thinks it is a good plan! Th-though... Can Lea-chan's peach really get some boar warriors down...? Hikari is... Unsure?"

"Maybe it would be nice to test what it can do beforehand...? Hi-Hikari wouldn't want Lea-chan hurt!"

<Leeanne POV>

"Hikari-san is so nice~! Alright, I'll test it first, But we'll have to find someplace else? Or would mister sniffles and his follower count as testing it?" Leeanne moved to her hand to her peach bag and gathered magic in her hand, something on the bag activated causing the peach magic inefficiency to reduce by a large portion.

"Alright, I have it here" taking it out of the bag, Leeanne showed the group the peach. The peach already has a slightly sweet smell drifting off of it, but when it's skin is pierced through or a hole opens up, a more sweet smell will arise.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"It smells good but it's better to throw it immediately--" Before Jin could continue, He heard a loud voice and a large tremor was created on the ground.

*BAAM BAAM!!*

On the distance was a large smoke of dusk, multiple groups of Boar Warriors come out drooling.

"Here they come!! Seems like a mob about 12 of them!" Jin shouted as he readied himself, "Quick the peach!"

<Hikari POV>

"Eh!? I-it works better than Hikari thought!!!" >.<

"Hikari will try not to get in the way! Ple-please be careful!!!"

Hikari ran a bit and hit behind some nearby bushes... Huff... Huff... Why is Hikari... So... Tired...? Hikari barely ran... Anything...

Hikari took a peek to see if things were alright... Please be safe...

<Leeanne POV>

"Yes senpai!" almost dropping the peach, Leeanne threw the peach a bit further away into an open area and hid in a pile of grass. "Senpai, Hikari-san, Let's see what they do!" Mister sniffles and his follower already moved into hidden positions near Hikari as they watched the situation unfold.

The boar warriors met in the open field, where they started staring at each other, trying to claim this free food for themselves and tensions are starting to spark.

<Jin Vodka POV>

As the boar warriors dive to the peach and fights each other for it. Jin's eyes glow blue as he grew ice wings and created a wall of ice around them. He started to use wind magic taking out 5 boar warriors from the ice pig pen and drop them close to him.

"Well, then shall we start to chill some fresh pig meat~" Jin coldly look down upon the 5 boar warriors. The boar warriors felt fear and tried to run away towards Leeanne.

"[Chilling Mist]" Jin exhaled as he released the cold wind towards the 5 boar warriors. The poor last 3 were frozen solid. Jin merely passes by them as his wings lightly touch their frozen skin. They started to crack as they broken into pieces.

The two surviving boar warriors dropped on their knees scared.

"Leeanne now it's your turn~" Jin gently smiled as he finished his part. He tilts his head as he realizes, "wait was that a bit overboard?"

<Leeanne POV>
Leeanne was stunned and just stared for a second, not even noticing when Mister sniffles enlargened 4x his size and finished the boar warriors off. She turned to Jin slowly "Senpai......that was totally cool! It was like the time when I saw the guild master just slaughter the monster horde attack during the attack on Aternus!" Leeanne jumped excitedly and blushed a bit as she calmed down.

"Oh~ Mister sniffles, you finished them off yourself?"
"Oink!"
"Good job~!"
Of course, there was never an empty spot beside Hikari, follower one had already begun to see Hikari as a tribal treasure, something that would be essential for all descendants to keep safe.

"Now, for the Kobolds and Orcs I guess, Hikari-san, I think it's okay now~!" I waved over happily.

<Hikari POV>

"Ah! O-okay!"

Hikari got out of the bushes... Hikari was... Tired... But Hikari stopped panting at least...

It was surprising... By the time Hikari looked, there were a few boars broken down, and... Hikari really didn't expect it to be done so quickly...

... Why is Pig-san still following Hikari though?

"Kobolds and orcs then...? Alright! Hikari is ready to go!"

<Jin Vodka POV>

Okay, I'm also ready but first~" Jin looks to the ice pig pen trapping the other boar warriors were still busy fighting each other. He then raised his hand as he weakened the magic of the ice and it started melting. "The boar warriors will be fine after several hours when they finally realize the peach is already eaten."

"That was a very effective peach Kouhai-chan. Then shall we search for the Kobolds and Orcs?" Jin smiled as he starts walking away from the remaining boar warriors still busy fighting each other.

<Leeanne POV>

"I did not expect that senpai," Leeanne followed behind Jin-san quickly, "Sniffle-sa--Thanks Mister Sniffles" while about to ask Mister Sniffles to help Hikari since she seemed a bit tired, Mister sniffles had already gone to Hikari and bowed down in his large form, motioning for Hikari to get on.

Looking over at Hikari, Leeanne asked "Hikari-san" Turning back to Jin-senpai "And senpai, should we aim for the kobolds first or the orcs?"

<Hikari POV>
Hikari saw Pig-san getting closer and bowing.

"I-is Hikari supposed to climb...? Ah... Tha-thank you Pig-san... Hikari will accept it."

Hikari climbed on it... Hikari felt a bit bad since Jin-san and Lea-chan were walking, but... Hikari was tired... Why though...?

"Hikari-san and senpai, should we aim for the kobolds first or the orcs?"

"Eto... Kobolds probably? Hikari thinks it should be easier... They are smaller... Right?"

------------
While the trio was having fun, some grass moved in the distance. "!" The creature watching them was shocked, It had heard of ones who could destroy everything in their path, but not of one that took care of the boar warriors so easily.

It ran, ran fast, informing the small scout group It was with, It ran as quickly as possible.

-------------

<Jin Vodka POV>

"That's really a very good Boar. You have a nice companion Kouhai-chan" Jin smiled gently seeing the boar assisted Hikari. He then releases his Stolz possession as he returns to normal. 'Reminds me of my follower, but they don't have any mounts. Well, Lavri has one if he transforms. Wonder if he can return to that form.'

Jin slowly walks together with Hikari and Leeanne. He listens to them talking as he started thinking about something.

"If Hikari-sama decided that Kobolds are first. Then I'm all in for it, so 15 Kobolds and 3 Leaders. Well, hope we find a pack of them. So finding all will not be a hassle." Jin held his chin as he tried to think of the possibilities.

<Leeanne POV>

"Let's go with that then" Leeanne looked back worriedly at Hikari, and tried to signal that something might be wrong by eyeing Jin-san. She continued anyway, If the person herself was not going to say much about it, It would seem too intruding to someone she doesn't know too much about yet.

"I think, we should go look for them, But it's a pretty large place and..." as she walked forward, her foot landed on a loose patch of ground hidden by a bit of tall grass and her leg was grabbed by a kobold that had burrowed himself and had been sleeping until recently.

"Eyah!" She immediately started bashing the kobolds face in with fire peaches and the kobold became more awake and started pulling on her leg more while trying to grab his spear that he left hidden near him.

<Hikari POV>
Hikari was... *blink blink blink* No-no! Stay awake Hikari! Now is not the time to sleep! It's still too early! *shakes head*

Alright, so... Where can we find-

Eh!? "Le-Lea-chan!?"

Hikari saw Lea-chan being grabbed... Ah-ah- "Pi-Pig-san! Go-go help her please!"

Hikari tried jumping from the top of Pig-san and fell on the ground... Ugh... It was hurting a bit... Ple-please stay safe... Lea-chan...

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Kouhai-chan!?" Jin was alerted as he quickly rushes over but heard someone falling.

"Hikari-sama! Are you alright!" Jin was confused on what to do. But he quickly supported Hikari to sit properly. "Don't worry, me and the mister Sniffles will save Kouhai-chan! Just wait here."

Jin quickly runs towards the direction of the Kobold and Leeanne. Large red flame wings appear on his back as he flew forward.

"Let go of her!!!" Jin shouted full of anger as his eyes turned blazing red. He then flew next to them and grab the spear in his right hand. The spear starts to melts from intense heat. Making the Kobold release Leeanne and shivers in fear looking at Jin's face. "What do you think you are doing Kobold-san?"

<Leeanne POV>
The Kobold looked at Jin in fear, but when it looked like it was about to start talking, It growled into the air and several responses were heard back. "T-Thanks Jin-senpai" Leeanne took a fire peach and smashed it into the kobolds mouth while it howled causing it to abruptly stop and the running in the distance seemed to have slowed down a bit.

Mister sniffles was not sure when the Hikari fell off him, but he looked at the Hikari one with more awe. So the Hikari one is currently cultivating, such a worthy Idol! Mister Sniffles, Oblivious to Leeanne's plight, continued guarding the Hikari.

In the distance, several growls could be heard again though, and one of them seemed louder than the rest.

<Hikari POV>
Hikari was trembling...

Jin-san supported Hikari instead of going to help Lea-chan... No-no, go help her, Lea-chan is, Lea-chan is...

As if hearing Hikari's thoughts, Jin-san rushed there to help, he held the spear and it started melting... What was Hikari doing here...? What if Jin-san took longer because of Hikari...?

Part of the melting spear fell on the kobold's leg, it didn't seem to notice, and howled instead... The melting... It became red... It was dark... It was running through the kobolds leg... It is red, it is red, it is red...

Hi-Hikari doesn't want to see red! No no! Get the red away from Hikari! Not again not again!!!

<Jin Vodka POV>

"I'm glad you are fine..." Jin gently smiled as he takes a glimpse to Leeanne. Then stares back at the Kobold who let go of the spear. He took the melted spear and throws it away. He sees a peach on the Kobolds mouth as it stops running away.

"Please move away for a bit Kouhai-chan." Jin faces his back to Leeanne as he grabs the Kobolds neck. He then suddenly felt something as if he heard Hikari's call. 'Ah that's right Hikari will not like what will I do'

"[Flame Wall]" Jin created a small flame of fire beneath him evaporating the blood. Since turning them into ashes will be better and less messy. He needs to avoid going overboard especially in the presence of his Goddess and Kouhai.

He did apply powerful flame magic burning the Kobold into crisp like piece of paper, leaving nothing behind. 'Control yourself Jin, make it clean and don't leave anything behind.'

Jin heard a growl in the distances and one which was powerful. He then takes his stance and creates multiple blazing spears floating by his side. "Kouhai-can, more are coming and something stronger. Leave him to me."

<Leeanne POV>

"Senpai, Let's leave Mister sniffles and follower one with Hikari-san, I don't want to think that she should get Injured, not Hikari." A flame of determination lit in Leeanne's eyes as she cautiously looked forward, throwing a rock here and there to simulate movement in order to confuse the kobolds somewhat.

The large growl in the distance seemed to have stopped for a second, then growled again as if issuing orders to a group of soldiers. In front, 2 kobold lieutenants appeared with their leader and some movement could be heard coming from the right side if one was listening.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Thanks, Kouhai-chan you're a great devotee for Hikari-sama!! Glad we have you join us." Jin smiled widely as he feels amazement to Leeanne determination. He then looks towards the pack of Kobolds. "I'll deal with the stronger Kobold Leaders and injure the other Kobolds so you can take them down."

"Today, you humans die to me!" His spear seemed, a bit special, and there seemed to be an eerily dark aura on the tip.

"Pfft... I don't think you have the proper qualifications to even lay a scratch on me." Jin laughs as his eyes look down towards the special Kobold. He leaps to the sky opening his wings wide, "[Rain of Flame]"

The blazing feathers flew towards the 5 Kobold burning them to death while grazing the others. He then aims his feet covered with magma to the Kobold Leader's head. He drags the head down and crushing it.

"2 more Kobold Leader, some injured and one special Kobold. Are you perhaps a commander or something. That spear looks nice~" Jin tilts his head as the two Kobold Leaders felt threatened and take their stance. While the other Kobolds are busy trying to extinguish the flames from their body.

<Leeanne POV>

"I'll do it Senpai" Leeanne threw flaming peaches at the kobolds that were burning, finishing them off. The two kobold lieutenants looked at each other, then took a drastic decision while eying something at the flank. Both of the Kobold Lieutenants growled at Jin-san and a noise could be heard from behind Hikari's position.

Enraged, Mister Sniffers Oinked "You dare!" and started holding off the hidden kobold Lieutenant that had gone around with his two goons, which were being blocked by follower 1.

Before Jin could react though, they lunged at him to distract him from the Lieutenant that ambushed from behind.

<Hikari POV>
Scary scary scary scary scary!

The red is scary! Make it go away make it go away!

It's noisy it's noisy! Stop shouting! Away from Hikari! Get all away from Hikari! Out out out!

Why... Won't... It... Just... "Stop!!!!"

Eh...? What is... What was Hikari doing... Ah... Open... Open your eyes Hikari...

Hikari opened her eyes... The... Ground...? Grass? Hikari is... Where is... Ah! The-the quest! Ji-Jin-san! Lea-chan!

Hikari raised her head, a wave of tiredness washed over Hikari... Haa... What is this...

Pig-san seemed to be near 3... Kobolds? Where did...? When did they...? The other Pig-san was also there... Wait... Why aren't they... Mo... Vin... G...?

Hikari felt things going black... It felt... Nostalgic...

No! Do-don't sleep now!

Hikari put her hand on the ground and opened her eyes again, the noise came back, and things started moving... Though... The kobolds looking at Hikari seemed startled? What happened just now...? And... Why is Hikari even... More... Tired...?

Hikari should... Get... Away...

Hikari slowly crawled back a bit... Standing up was... No good.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Good Job Kouhai-chan!" Jin smiles widely as he prepared to cast a fire spell when he felt something was wrong. He looks back and notices Kobolds nearing Hikari. Luckily mister Sniffles and his companion are there to protect her. Still, he felt strong anger for the pest trying to harm her.

"Don't block my path you pest." Jin gritted his teeth with anger at the two Kobold Leaders. "[Flame Pillar]"

Suddenly the time stops just as the flames are halfway on covering the two Kobold Leaders.

"What just happened..?" Jin was shocked as he finally able to move. Since the time return again, the flame pillar raise above. Finally engulfing the two Kobold leaders into a pile of ashes.

"This is...?" Jin stood still in a daze since his rage suddenly disappears at the moment when time stopped. He could only look around noticing the surviving Kobolds stand still looking at Hikari in a daze.

"Kouhai-chan, let's go to Hikari-sama side!" Jin grabs Leeanne hand as he rushes towards Hikari side. Ignoring the other Kobolds still shock from what happened.

<Hikari POV>
The last Kobold lieutenant shook his head and kowtowed to Hikari "Forgive us great one, I felt something great for only one moment, but In only that one moment, I felt your greatness when you moved into a different position in front of my eyes" The rest of the kobolds, seeing their leader start kowtowing, followed behind their leader.

"She-She's safe for now, Jin-senpai, go check on Hikari, please!" She ran near Hikari and looked at the kneeling Kobolds in case they tried anything. Mister Sniffles (Who is now normal sized) and Follower 1 had already started dancing around Hikari as a form of prayer.

<Hikari POV>
They stopped... And... Kneeled...?

"Forgive us great one, I felt something great for only one moment, but In only that one moment, I felt your greatness."

"Eh?"

Did they just... But why...?

"Ji-Jin-san! Lea-chan!? Wha-what is happening!? What happened while Hikari was... Was... What was Hikari doing...?"

Hikari can't remember... There was the quest... We were walking and... And suddenly Pig-san was fighting kobolds and Hikari was on the ground... What happened? Why can't Hikari remember...? Hikari thought her memory was alright now...

Is Hikari still going to forget things... Again...?

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Hikari-sama, I'm glad you're alright." Jin smiles in relief and looks towards the two boars. "Thanks, mister Sniffles and umm... boar-san..? for defending Hikari."

"Now what to do..?" Jin looks towards the remaining Kobolds who suddenly kneels and asking forgiveness. Jin was puzzled and conflicted, he decides to look at Hikari for a decision.

"I can't really explain and don't know what happened." Jin could only shake his head. He feels something happened since his anger suddenly dissipates. "Anyway, we are done with the Kobolds quest but the others are already surrendering."

Jin stares at the Kobolds not knowing what to do, "Hikari-sama seems like they want to become your believers? If you are willing to.

Then, I'll let them stay in the Askian Hamlet and teach them to be good."

<Leeanne POV>

"Uwaahhhhhh Hikari-san is the best~!" Leeanne, on impulse, joined Mister Sniffles and Follower 1 as they danced around Hikari. Leeanne had seen Hikari tired, so again, on Impulse, decided to cast healing magic slowly while dancing around Hikari.

The kobolds looked at the sight and decided to keep it in their hearts, For this scene will be recorded as their christening into the new era.

<Hikari POV>

"Hikari-sama seems like they want to become your believers? If you are willing to.
Then, I'll let them stay in the Askian Hamlet and teach them to be good."

"Eh? The-they... Worshipping... Hikari...?"

"Uwaahhhhhh Hikari-san is the best~!"

Lea-chan started dancing around Hikari, the kobolds seemed to be amazed... Eh? Is that... Lea-chan is... Healing magic...? Hikari isn't hurt though...

Does Hikari look that bad...? What should... Ah! Hikari can take this as a sacrifice! It should be alright!

Hikari accepted it, and Hikari noticed a peach appearing on Lea-chan's bag... Was that the boon? Hikari wonders if it is special...

... Ah! Ji-Jin-san is waiting for Hikari's reply! >.<

Hikari tried sitting down properly before answering... A backwards crawling position isn't very... Dignified...

"Hi-Hikari thinks that... If Kobolds-san are really okay with it... Then... Hikari would be happy to accept you all as Hikari's worshippers! Hikari will do her best to be a good goddess!"

<Jin Vodka POV>
The Kobolds cheered as they stood up and raising their hands to the Sky.

"Then I will take responsibilities to them, Hikari-sama." Jin smiles and bows to Hikari before facing the Kobolds.

"Listen up!" Jin releases his Gnev form as he returned to his normal state. He releases some of his holy mana as he shouted to the Kobolds. "You guys are now believers of Hikari-sama, and I will guide you guys on how to do it! For now, you guys are gonna relocate with your families to the Askian Hamlet just close to the Frontier Village. I hope you will listen carefully!"

The Kobolds nods and cheers from his words.

"Please to meet you all and I promise to help you when in need." Jin bows slightly as he gave a gentle smile. He suddenly remembered something. 'Wait, I might be busy with the trials but Lavri is okay with. Maybe he can manage them since he seems like a good leader.'

<Leeanne POV>
Looking at the sun starting to set, Leeanne stopped dancing "It's getting dark outside...How about we set up...! Senpai, Hikari-san, I forgot to bring a tent "

Before Leeanne continued though, the Kobold lieutenant talked "We normally would not have attacked adventurers, but a strange human had been seen talking with the chief/commander before he went...crazy...I also thank you Hikari-sama and Master Jin for accepting us."

He turned toward Hikari and kowtowed three times again "We will follow you beyond death."

Mister sniffles and Follower one had already dug a small burrow by this time, and started napping while surrounding Hikari in a warm pig blanket.

Hmm~ Did my bag get heavier~? Leeanne looked again as the sun began to set.

<Hikari POV>

"Sleep...? Hikari thinks-" *yaaaaawns* "It is a good idea..."

*gets surrounded by the pigs* "Oh... Uhn... Hikari didn't bring a tent either... Does Lea-chan want to sleep with Hikari? It is warm here...

Ah! Jin-san also needs some place to sleep though! And kobolds-san as well!" >.<

<Leeanne POV>
"Sure Hikari-san!" Leeanne went over and laid down next to Hikari, snuggling close with her.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Hikari-sama and Kouhai-chan, you don't have to mind me." Jin gently smiles as he walks towards the Kobolds. He only has a small amount of seal mochi he was planning to give as an offering. But they might be want to eat when waking up.

"Okay listen and don't make a loud voice." Jin starts telling them to hunt some food and wild edible plants. He asks the others to watch the perimeter and grab some firewood. As he made a campfire from the firewood and took some cooking utensils from his item box. He also took the veggies and apples from the Askian farmers. hey always gave him their crops, maybe due how Jin always help them during his daily morning exercise. The crops from the Askians were not ordinary since they are larger than the normal one. This might be due to what happened when Jin activated his Gnev possession while farming. "Sigh, if only they could at least give Hikari-sama a chance as a deity."

Jin readies to make a curry as he tries to focus.
The Kobolds looks interestedly to what Jin was doing. The other Kobold finally arrive carrying two deer and excitedly gave it to Jin. He praises them and prepares to cut a part of one deer as a meat for the curry. While the rest are to be roasted for the Kobolds. Jin was serious on his cooking not noticing there stares as he took a spoon and taste the curry.

"It tastes good~" Jin after finishing cooking and covers the pot. Since curry will taste good overnight, it just needs to be reheated. He then cooks some rice, since Shamal always argue that curry should always be paired with rice. He finally notices the Kobold looking at the food.

"I can give you roasted deer. If you bring me more meat then I'll cook it for you." Jin smiles gently as he offers the meat.

"Thanks, Master Vodka---"

"Shush, your voice..." Jin hastily reprimanded the Kobolds. Who nodded and start eating the roasted deer. They gave a thumbs up and continue enjoying the meat. Some even hunted pheasants and rabbits to be roasted. Which makes Jin busy cooking.

<Hikari POV>
Red red red red red, it was all red, everything was red, Okaa-san was red, Marisa-sama was red, Lily-chan was red, Troll-san was red. Red red red, make it go away! Hikari doesn't want the red! No! Get away! Don't make Lea-chan red- no! NOOOOOOO!!!!!!

Hikari woke up, Hikari was sweating a lot... It was hot, Hikari was tired, Hikari was sleepy...

Why is it still black though...? Didn't Hikari wake up...? Hikari tried opening her eyes... They didn't want to open... Hikari was scared of opening them... No, there is nothing... Just open...

Hikari slowly got to opening them... And Hikari... Was scared.

It was red. Everything Hikari saw was red. The trees were red, the grass was red, Lea-chan was red, Jin-san was red... What is... Why is Hikari seeing like this...?

Hikari heard Lea-chan's breathing noise, it was calm... She was fine... But why is...?

Hikari doesn't want it, Hikari wants things back to normal! Please tell Hikari this is still all a bad dream...

Hikari closed her eyes and went back to sleep... It will be okay... Hikari will definitely see normaly again tomorrow...

<Leeanne POV>

"Hmmm?" Waking up in the middle of the night, Leeanne sighed "Just when I was going to bite my mouth in....." looking over at Hikari, and seeing the sweat on Hikari, Leeanne took out a handkerchief and started wiping it off, after that, she started gentling patting Hikari on her forehead, as if calming down a baby.

"It must be tough being a deity..." She stared up at the night sky, nostalgic about when she went with her parents 'camping' in the agricultural district. It was fun, but her parents had fought so that she could have peace, is what she's told by her grandparents, about her how her parents went on many quests to earn the money needed to buy the house in Aeternus.

About the duty they felt as they defended the people to give them the peaceful life they deserve.

It was never told in any clear terms, but Leeanne was able to piece together that her parents were once soldiers, and that they detested the people that lorded over them, but for what reason was never told by her grampa.

She looked up again, content to pat Hikari's forehead, and slowly drifted back to sleep after a while.

<Jin Vodka POV>
Jin was busy managing the Kobolds and saw they finally sleep. He stretched his body and looks towards Hikari and Leeanne seeing them sleep peacefully not noticing any strange happening.

"Well, rest is also important." Jin could only smile and took a blanket and cover the two girls. He then looks to a sturdy tree and jumps towards the branches.

"I'm not really familiar with this." Jin could only sigh since he doesn't know how to responds to women. He was a knight and then mercenary. He only focuses on his work and never has any interactions especially with women. He could only awkwardly smile and just focus on the quest.

Jin silently looks at the surrounding as he stays awake. Since he was scared to sleep and never wake up due to the trials. He could only stay on guard as he watches the night sky.

<Hikari POV>
Hikari opened her eyes... Red, everything was red... Wha-what is!?

Ah... Hikari saw this... So it wasn't a dream...

Hikari looked around, Lea-chan was sleeping, Jin-san... Hikari can't see him... Is he on Patrol?

Both Pig-sans are sleeping around Hikari as well... Hikari wonders... Is it day or night? Hikari can't see the sun or clouds, but no moon or stars either...

Why is everything red...? Hikari doesn't want to see things like this...

Yukari-sama, please help Hikari... Hikari doesn't want to remain like this... Hikari is scared...

<Leeanne POV>

"Good morning---Hikari" As she woke up rubbing her eyes, she caught the sight of a distraught Hikari.She really reminds me of my grampa when I was a child, waking up distraught and alarmed, looking everywhere, looking for the enemy. Now that I think of It, he stopped doing that a year after he started being my 'master'.

Leeanne did what she knew, what did as a young(er) girl, she hugged Hikari while patting her back. "Everythings O-kay~" Looking in her bag, she found a strange peach "Want a peach, Hikari-san~?"

<Jin Vodka POV>

Jin was swinging his right leg as he sat on the branch looking at the surrounding. The birds are already sitting on his shoulders. This was due to the holy magic he was testing which attracts the birds. He then notices the sun raising, "Should I wake them for breakfast?"

He looks below to notice Hikari waking up and seems to be in trouble. He then jumps towards the lowest branches as he lands in-front of her.

"What's wrong Hikari-sama? You seem unsettled?" Jin asks and he notices Leeanne waking up. Since Leeanne is already awake, she might be able to help Hikari. Jin not really good at this. So he could only smile towards Leeanne. "Good morning Kouhai-chan, please watch over Hikari-sama while I prepare the breakfast."

"And also--" Jin grabbed a mochi from his item box and gave it to Hikari. "Here's my offering today~"

Jin then went to the pot and heat it up. He wakes ups the Kobold for breakfast as he busies himself for taking some plates and utensils.

"Breakfast is ready, we should eat a proper meal before continuing the quest." Jin gently smiles, "let's also do our best for today!!"

<Hikari POV>
Lea-chan woke up, her red eyes looked directly into Hikari's... It was too scary! Hikari doesn't want it! Let Lea-chan's eyes get back to normal!

She said something... What did she say? Hikari can't understand-

"Want a peach, Hikari-san~?"

It was as if the peach was made of that liquid red... No no, Hikari can't eat that! Ta-take it out!

"N-no, Hikari is-"

"Here's my offering today~"

Red bunnies, red red bunnies for Hikari!? No-no-no! Hikari doesn't want those!

"Hi-Hikari will pass..."

They are scary, stop showing scary things for Hikari! Hikari doesn't want to be scared!!

Jin-san had gone to get breakfast, Lea-chan was patting Hikari's back while saying something... It felt nice... But Hikari was scared of looking into Lea-chan's eyes...

Hikari held Lea-chan and buried her head on Lea-chan's shoulder... It is okay, right? Hikari won't see any red while she is like this... It will be okay... Hikari will be okay...

<Leeanne POV>

"N-No, Hikari is.." then she buried her head into my shoulder after looking in my eyes, eh..? Was she...Scared of my eyes...? It's a first, and I feel bad about it, but....I feel strange, It's like I want to see more of her expressions.... Shaking my head at those thoughts I looked at Jin-senpai, bringing Hikari into a mother's embrace If that mother was only a bit taller....

"Jin-senpai! I'll have a plate later, Hikari seems a bit out of it right now" Patting Hikari's head, I looked over at Mister Sniffles and Follower 1 "We should not waste time though, I'm sure Mister Sniffles and follower one are eager to find more opponents." at the mention of the word opponents, Mister Sniffles "Oinked" In excitement with his follower.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Okay then, I'm ready anytime to find the Orcs." Jin seeing Hikari looking not good condition feels bad. He doesn't know what to do, plus it seems like there are no injuries. 'I wonder what's wrong? I guess we should finish it fast. So we can go back Guild, maybe she will feel better there.'

"I see... I'll take Mister Sniffles and his follower to search for the Orcs. Kouhai-can, you stay here and take care Hikari-sama." Jin sadly smiled as he asks the Kobolds to stay and guard the two. 'Maybe Hikari-sama doesn't like seeing bloodshed. I should take a note of this next time.'

"If you guys are hungry, there is still curry on the pot. I will go search for the Orcs." Jin slowly walks away as he sighs while writing something in his white notebook. He then rubs his temple feeling a bit tired but he needs to endure and walk forward. Since it seems like he's the one most capable of killing the orcs. He just needs Mister Sniffles to help him search one.

"Okay, Mister Sniffles please help me track some Orcs."

<Hikari POV>
Hikari was embraced... Hikari felt comfortable... Hikari didn't want to let go, Hikari wanted to hide.

Hikari heard Lea-chan's and Jin-san's voice, but Hikari didn't understand what they said...

Hikari wants to rest, Hikari wants it gone, Hikari wants things back to normal... Hikari doesn't want to see red anymore... Red is... Scary...

<Leeanne POV>
This.....What did...It must be... I don't know what knocked the stack of cards down, but seeing Hikari cry made me *sniffs* cry too. "Hikari-san *sniffs* it's okay~!" I Hugged her a bit tighter, though making sure I was not hurting her.

Mister sniffles and his follower had already followed behind Jin, Oinking silently in excitement, as they began sniffing the area for any trails or scents left behind by any 'prey'

<Jin Vodka POV>

Jin was walking slowly as his eyes starting to get blurry. Since, he didn't longer need to act tough since he was alone, actually his with a boar. The light in his eyes started to disappear as he walks aimlessly. He could only shake his head to stay awake. "Not yet... At least when everything is perfectly safe. I can't fall down yet."

Jin slaps him both cheeks to awake himself. He then focuses as he finally activates his magic. He was limiting himself, but now he can use it. His eyes glow blue as he releases magic sense to the surrounding.

"Found you~" Jin grin finally sensing 8 Orcs sadly there are no Orc leaders and the number is not enough.

"I found some Mister Sniffles, please follow me." Jin tried his best to smile as he runs forward. "Let finish this quickly, so Hikari-sama can go back to the Guild."

<Hikari POV>
Hikari was hugging Lea-chan for a while...

Hikari's cheeks felt wet, was Hikari crying?

This wasn't nice... Hikari didn't want this...

*deep breath* Hikari doesn't understand... But... Hikari shouldn't stay here doing nothing either...

Hikari felt something... A... Sacrifice? Hikari tried feeling it a bit better... It was from Jin-san... Was it food? Hikari isn't sure... Ah... The bunnies... Hikari rejected it just because...

Hikari shouldn't be like this... *accepts the sacrifice* Hikari hopes Jin-san wasn't hurt from Hikari's reaction... Nor was Lea-chan...

Hikari took her head away from Lea-chan's shoulder.

"Sorry... Hikari felt a bit bad... Hikari is better now... Should we go clear the quests now?"

<Leeanne POV>

"It's all good Hikari-san~" Grabbing my handkerchief, I wiped Hikari's eyes off and prepared the two plates of dinner jin-senpai had left us. "We can't be hungry now, can't we? If you want, I can feed you~" That does seem like an interesting proposal to me, I wonder~

Meanwhile, Mister sniffles transformed quickly into his large form and activated his flames, He felt a disturbance in the Hikari and felt the urgency to return her to where he found her. He charged forward and knocked 3 orcs off their feet, causing them all to turn their backs against jin as he started getting chased by the orcs infuriated by a 'simple' large flaming boar attacking them.

<Jin Vodka POV>
Jin looks towards the Orcs as they rush to him. The other 3 chase Mister Sniffles as he taunted them. Leaving Jin with the 5 Orcs, but it was fine.

Jin emotionlessly stands still as he dodges the Orcs attacks. Since he was small and agile they couldn't catch him. Before they know it, Four Orcs felt pain as small magic circle glows in the parts of their party. Jin took his time to draw them was dodging.

"[Mark of Lightning]." Jin raises his open hand to the orc and closes. The magic circle releases strong lighting spark electrocuting the orcs. It was similar to magic traps but they were instead applied to the target.

The surviving Orc drop on the ground feeling fear as they see their comrades easily killed. Jin just slowly approaches as he looks down to Orc.

"You some Orc leaders right? Lead me to them..." Jin glares to the poor Orc was in fear. He could only nod and slowly moves. He wanted to run but for some reason, he could feel danger if he does.

"Two more Orcs and 3 Orc Leaders. Need to hurry and return to Hikari-sama." Jin covers his face as he could feel impatience and worry.

<Hikari POV>
Lea-chan cleaned Hikari's tears... Hikari was thankful... Hikari was avoiding her eyes though...

"Ah... Food?"

Hikari looked towards the dinner plates and saw the red plates, Hikari looked away.

"Eto... Hikari will-" *stomach rumbles loudly* "If... If it's not a problem for Lea-chan... Hikari would appreciate it... Hikari doesn't think she can look at the food right now...

Hikari is sorry..."

<Leeanne POV>
Hikari is soo cuuute~! I let go of my embrace of Hikari-san and fetched a plate and a spoon, coming back quickly. scooping out some, I blew on it a bit "Say Ahhhhhh~" I brought the soup to Hikari's mouth.

-----

Mister sniffles was angry at these orcs who believed that they could chase him! He turned around and activated his flames and charged through the three orcs the followed him, finishing one off, then two at the second charge. He then began to feast on the dead orcs to fuel his transformation.

<Jin Vodka POV>
Jin was surrounded by many Orcs and three Orc Leaders. They were full on guard seeing him.

"Hang in there..." Jin was muttering words as the light of his flicker. His body was swinging like a puppet. One Orc Leader with his two Orc goons rushes forward towards him as they swing their greatswords. They merely passed Jin as he keeps walking. Their body was cut in pieces before the blood could even splatter. Ice covered their body as they slowly broke into pieces like fragile glass. On Jin's hand was a blade made of ice.

"Must not make a mess...." Jin body sways as he tilts his head. His eyes were empty as if it has no longer life on it, he seems to be only acting by instincts.

The other Orcs shouted and ran away in fear. Only the two boar leaders left behind gritting their teeth. They tried there best to fight against what they are feeling. But they could feel a great threat from this child which was walking eerily.

Suddenly, Jin stops moving making the Orcs leaders surprise. They notice how he was only standing still devoid of life. The ice on his body started to melted, making him look vulnerable. Which gave the Orc Leaders a hope to kill him but still felt a little fear.

<Hikari POV>
Hikari ate without looking at the food, it felt... A bit weird, but... Not bad, rather... Hikari was happy to have Lea-chan help Hikari like this.

It was comforting, Hikari tried enjoying her company without thinking on what the food looked like.

Although...

"Lea-chan... Where is Jin-san?"

<Leeanne POV>

"I think he went ahead to look for the orcs...and he's most likely already taking care of the orcs, I think." Senpai seemed a bit, no, I Don't know his normal state anyway. Finishing feeding Hikari the food, Leeanne also ate her food and sighed again

I need to ask the question that's been burning in my mind

"Hikari-san, I might have just talked with you a few times during the reception, and during this trip, but, what's wrong? you seem...scared? Anxious? If there's anything you can tell me, please, I'll be willing to listen to you speak."

------

"Oink!" (You!)
"Oink oink oink!" (You Forgot me!)

Mister Sniffles had arrived from finishing the dead orc meal earlier, snuck around and smashed into one of the orc leaders from behind as they stood shell-shocked at the one who just killed their brethren like they do to wild animals.

The other Orc leader took out something, that looked like a mini-drum, and started beating on it loudly.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Hmm..?" Jin suddenly awakens hearing the sound of mini-drum. He tilts head is confused as he holding his head looking around. "What just happened..?"

"Mister Sniffles..?" Jin notices the boar killing the other Orc leader which seems to have saved him in the process. Jin slowly smiles as he went close to the pig and pat him, "thanks."

"I should hurry and finish this." Jin faces the last Orc Leader as he prepares to finish him. He creates an [Ice spear] which immediately flies and impaling the Orc Leader. But he doesn't know what the sound of the drum does. He didn't let his guard down and wait for what will happen.

---In the distance---
A scout Orc was lazing around, the raiding party had just left and so, It did not expect any trouble for some time since the raiding party had some of the best warriors of the tribe. When it heard the Thump Thump of the emergency call, It also started beating on its drum, prompting another scout in the distance to begin beating their drum.

A large group of orc soldiers started rushing to the spot, It was no ordinary signal, It was the signal that a being strong enough to wipe out their whole tribe is nearby, and all available warriors are to go meet the threat while the civilians were to flee elsewhere.

A small group of stronger looking orcs split off from the main group of orcs, the leader confident that taking the enemy by surprise would increase their chances of getting promoted.

--------------

<Hikari POV>

"S-scared!? Hi-Hikari!?"

I-is Hikari that easy to read...? Hikari didn't want to worry Lea-chan though...

"Hi-Hikari guesses so... Hikari just... Can't... Can't see... Can't see colors... Hikari sees red. Everything is red... It's all... Like the... The thing that...

It is scary! Hikari doesn't want to see that anymore! Hikari wants to see normally again!!!"

Hikari started sobbing... It was so, so scary... Why can't Hikari get back to normal already...?

<Leeanne POV>

"It's okay Hikari-san, Tell me, What's scary about the color red, Did someone wearing red bully Hikari? I'll go get them~!" If anyone bullies Hikari... I'll....I again embraced Hikari and patted her back gently, She felt just like my little----little what? I blanked out for a second but got back to the problem at hand "I'll bully back anyone that dares bully Hikari-san!"

-----

Mister Sniffles looked around cautiously because of the new noise "Oink!" He had smelled something and pointed his snout where a bunch of new smells suddenly started appearing.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"What is it, mister Sniffles..?" Jin could only confusedly tilts his as he looks towards the direction of where the pig was facing. He then, focus to feel the surrounding using mana sense only to fail. His head hurts for some reasons as massages his temple. "Sigh, this is getting worst."

"Oh well, let them come." Jin only wanted for them arrive. He grabs the ax from the Orc Leader who died. He swings it around and trying to adjust to his current young body.

<Hikari POV>

"What is... Scary...?

Red looks like... Like... The-the water... The water that drops... When we're hurt... Everything looks hurt, everything looks like... Looks like..."

*hugs and cries* "Hikari doesn't-" *sobs* "doesn't want to-" *sobs* "to see anyone dropping it again..." *sob sob* "Why does everyone look like they are-" *sobs* "going to-to-to" *sobs* "to stop moving..." *sobs* "Hikari doesn't..." *sobs* "Want..." *cries more*

<Leeanne POV>

"Hikari!" I pinched her cheeks "Everyone doesn't want to be hurt, and like Hikari, Doesn't want their friends to get hurt." I softly scolded her as I was hugging her and wiping her eyes.

"But everyone gets hurt a little, one time or another and It can be stopped. When I became an adventurer, It was not something I took seriously. But after the attack on Aeternus, my Grampa looked me dead in the eye and said 'You were able to make a difference, fewer people were hurt because of you, now stop lamenting and eat your darn breakfast or I'll eat it myself!' I laughed in reply, and asked him what I could do to help everyone, hearing my question, he paused for a second before laughing in my face"

Taking a long breath, I continued.

"He said, 'If you can do something you want to do, great! But if you go too far, It will hurt the people you care about, and that's what I discovered only later in life' So I asked him, 'Then what?" He replied to me while looking satisfied with something "Helping everyone stay safe is not an individual effort, but a group effort'"

Nooooo~ I feel like I'm preaching to her, someone that I'm supposed to preach the teachings of~! I'll just go for the push.

"So, Hikari, What do you want, and what do the people you help want? My own reply was that If I could, I will help everyone to the best of my ability, but I'll always make sure to rely on others when the task is too much and let them rely on me, That includes Hikari-san, If it's too much for them."

I smiled again at Hikari, resting her head against my shoulder and waiting for her to respond.

---

Mister Sniffles activated his flames and Oinked at his follower to go rush back to the Hikari one, He head smelled that a small portion of the orc group had splintered off in the direction of where the Hikari one could be.

He stood at the ready, as a group of orcs lined up in the distance, and started chanting a war-cry that went to the tune of "Kill! Kill! Kill!"

---In the Hostile Orc Chieftan's Tent---

"Chieftan! you failed to stop your men from provoking a strange one, Consider the alliance ceased!"

"You bastard! I knew you were no good, I will continue following the orc way and fight my enemies head on! Honor Guard, at me! we slay the one that dares attack my tribe!"

The strangely dressed orc sighed as he watched the stupid orc chieftain depart from the tent with his strongest men "Useless fodder will always be useless fodder." and vanished into the horizon.

----------

<Jin Vodka POV>
Jin notices something wrong might happened as Mister Sniffles make his follower rush back to where Hikari and Leeanne is. His expression grows grim as he looks to the multiple Orcs coming at them. "I hope your friends don't even harm even a strand of hair of Hikari-sama. Or else--"

Jin grit his teeth as he was overcome with rage, his eyes turning red. He then suddenly slaps himself. 'Dammit, don't lose control. The quest amount is done so no killing. Must capture and just render their movements. Don't make any problems for Hikari-sama'

"Inner peace..." Jin took a deep breath as he calms himself. He slowly activates his Stolz possession as ice wings and horns emerge. This transformation was best when taking down enemies without killing them. 'I need a better way to call this possession. A simpler one, maybe just Stolz form?'

"KIIIIILLLL!!!!" The orcs shouted as they rush forward.

Jin merely stomps his feet as smooth ice spreads making the Orcs slide and lose their balance. He then starts to hover above the ground and swing his wings.

"[Blizzard]" A strong wind of snow was release as Jin wave his wings. This covers the Orcs rendering their movement as they were buried by it.

"No then..." Jin gently landed on an Orc's head that was sticking out. "Tell me your purpose or all of you will be freeze to death."

Jin was too focus on the orcs, he forgot Mister Sniffles who might be buried in the snow.

<Hikari POV>

"But what can Hikari rely on others for!?

Hikari needs followers because Hikari needs to survive, but Hikari can't ask Yukari-sama for help, because it would look as if it was Yukari-sama's doing... Hikari can't even pray to Yukari-sama, Ran-sama or Yuuka-sama for help anymore...

Hikari doesn't want it! Hikari doesn't want to be alone! Hikari wants to just hug Mama and ask her to get worshippers for Hikari... But how can Hikari get them like that!? How can Hikari be a goddess by letting everyone do everything for Hikari!?!?!" *crying a lot*

"Hikari don't wanna... Don't wanna don't wanna don't wanna... Hikari never wanted to be a goddess, Hikari just wanted to help Fenrir-sama... Hikari don't want to see red... Hikari doesn't even know why she is seeing red...

... How can Hikari ask for help, if Hikari needs to do things herself... If Hikari doesn't even know what she should do...?" *sobbing hiccuping and tearing up*

<Leeanne POV>

"There there" I started patting her head "Let it out, The anger, The frustration, a person can't let it bottle up like that.There are always times where you can only rely on yourself to do something, But, Hikari, I'm sure your friends would be glad to lend an ear to your troubles." Pausing for a moment to gather my thoughts, I continued "What Hikari should do? Ask instead, what Hikari wants to do and thinking about what Hikari wants to do next."

"Hikari, you've already helped people, more than you think you have, What does Hikari believe in? What does Hikari wish for? Is it friends and family? Happiness? I won't pretend to know what Hikari goes through, and It would be bad of me to do so"

"Movement ahead!" one of the friendly kobolds suddenly blurted out before drawing his weapon forward.

I looked back at Hikari "Hikari's fight is my fight, If Hikari Doesn't know what to do, just follow what Hikari believes in, I'll give Hikari-san one of my favorite peaches when I get back." I let go of Hikari slowly as the clashes of weapons between the orcs and kobolds started, I put my hand into my bag and withdrew the special peach from earlier, infusing it with a large portion of my mana and took my chicken eggs out.

These Orcs...I'll punish them for the interruption!

----

Mister sniffles simply dodged the snow wave on instinct, honed as he dodged exploding spiders in Aeternus, He snorted at jin though, showing his displeasure in being forgotten but soon regained his rage at the orcs as he stared them down.

---

The orcs looked at each other, Till one finally broke "Leader Build Base...Take out Attackers...Ack!"

The Orcs head was cleaved in half "Traitor! This is what happens to all traitors! You there!" Pointing at Jin, he pointed his greatsword "You have slaughtered my Tribesmen, Now I'll feast on your guts!" He took out a different sword and a demonic aura fed itself into the foolish orc chieftain "Yes...yes! the power! I can take over now! That group can go slaughter themselves when they hear of my tales!"

The Chieftain's veins were changing, the other orcs felt it and started backing off, even his most loyal guard was already preparing to leave. Though, It seemed that the aura was still trickling into his veins, beginning to quicken its rate of entering the Chieftain at an exponential rate.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Tche... I was trying my best to not kill anyone but you." Jin looks down towards the Orc Chieftain as he suddenly killed his tribesmen.

Pointing at Jin, he pointed his greatsword "You have slaughtered my Tribesmen, Now I'll feast on your guts!"

"Pfft.... Ahahahaha!" Jin laughter reverberated all over the place. This makes the other orcs drop in fear. A mixture of demonic aura and holy mana release to Jin's body. He was laughing loudly as he holds his face. "How amusing~"

"You are quite too arrogant for a mere mortal aren't you..?" Jin tilts his head half-opening his eyes as a wide grin appears on his face. "To even say those words to me. A being higher than your standing. It seems you need to know your place, mere mortal."

Jin's personality suddenly turns into a drastic change as Pride consumes him. His wings grow clearer as it glows brighter releasing snows. A flail appears in his right hand as a shield appears on his left, both are made of steel-like ice similar to Ice golems.

"Seems you are getting arrogant just because you have a demonic artifact. But do you think, that would have any chance against the great me...?" Jin mocks the Orc Chieftain.

"You weak Orcs listen to my command! If either of you moves and pass me and try to harm those I protect! Then I would not hesitate to cut your legs so you can never walk ever again." Jin's voice reverberated over the forest. Imposing fear to the Orc around making them drop to there knees.

"Now then..." Jin suddenly appears in-front the Orc Chieftain as he moves his flail slamming on the Orcs face. Jin continued slapping him with the flail. He swings his demonic sword but Jin merely blocks it as he keeps attacking. Jin then kicks the Chief tan guts slamming him to a tree.

"It is best if you surrender..." Jin steps on the arm of the Chieftain holding the demonic sword as Jin breaks his bones.

"GAAAHHHHH!!" The Orc scream in pain from this. "Impossible why is a high-class demon here!?"

"Incorrect, I'm only half demon lord." Jin took the sword from the Chieftain's hand as he inspects it. He then looks down to the Chieftain as he asks seriously. "Where did you get this..?"

<Hikari POV>

"Look, A human lady! Hurry, finish these lizards, we have some pretty loot to catch!"
I threw an egg in his face as he was about to strike down the kobold lieutenant or now, the kobold captain that Jin took in and was able to distract the orc leader of the group enough so that the kobold captain could start going on the offensive.

There were in total 6 orcs here, with the kobolds holding them off 1v1 by using their cunning vs the orcs brute strength, but that was just like balancing a see-saw, with the orc having in advantage in one flurry of strikes, and the kobolds having the next one.

I, of course, helped, and when I saw Hikari curled up on the ground I wanted this to be over quickly, to rush over and help her again. So, as I threw a chicken egg I shouted "Hikari! This will be over sooner than later! keep your eyes open, even if it's scary!" Follower 1 was able to rush back in time and pushed me back Letting me be able to dodge an opportunistic orc's attack and returned fire with an explosive peach to the face.

----

The Orc Chieftan seemed even angrier "I have an Orc's Honor! I will tear you limb from limb!" His eyes suddenly became bloodshot, signs of him suddenly entering a berserk mode, and starting resisting Jin to the last drop of blood.

----

Mister sniffles was busy staring down any orcs that looked like they were going to help the Chieftan, He admitted that this 'Jin' fellow was strong, but he still follows the Hikari.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"Oh is that so~" Jin with a blank face as he tilts his head. "Are you in position to say those words...?"

Jin created a magic circle above him as four ice blade appears. It quickly flew and cut the Orcs Chieftain's arms and legs. "Sorry~ You just tempt me to do it due to your insolence. Now then~"

"I have no time to waste to you Orcs. So I want you all to stay and wait for me here." Jin flew on top of Orcs. They shiver in fear as they saw his blue eyes glow. A large blue magic circle suddenly appears on the Orcs feet. Ice started to spread as it binds all the Orcs in the area only their face was not covered for breathing. Even the Orc Chieftain which was barely alive was saved due to the ice blocking the blood from flowing.

"Don't worry, I'm a kind person. I made sure to regulate the temperature. Ice magic in the hands of an expert can control the intensity to make sure to not freeze to death. The ice will just make your body numb so you won't able to move. I guarantee it since I also made some experiments in the past." Jin explains it to reassure the Orcs. The Orcs could only pale regretting attacking this guy. "The ice is also like a steel similar to Ice Golems~"

"Now to return back to Hikari-sama. I will return to you guys after I make sure your friends didn't even harm her. Or else---" Jin's eyes were full of hostility as he smiled and stared down the Orcs. "I can't kill you all, but the rules didn't state that I can't take all of you. So I can [Rehabilitate] you all. Pray that nothing bad happens~"

Jin looks down noticing Mister Sniffles. "I forgot, sorry~ Let's go back to Hikari-sama already."

<Hikari POV>

"Hikari! This will be over sooner than later! keep your eyes open, even if it's scary!"

Over? What will be over? What does Hikari need... Wait? Open? Eyes open...? Hikari's eyes are closed...?

Hikari opened her eyes... Red... No!

It was black again... Black was more peaceful... Hikari didn't want to see red... The red was still there, Hikari was happy with the black, let Hikari remain with the black, the black is good enough for Hikari... Like this is good enough…

<Leeanne POV>

"Did I...Mess up?" during a brief break in the fighting, I looked back at Hikari, "I...Did I cause it?" I rolled barely out of the way of an orc that had started to attack me after knocking out the kobold that was fighting him. I continued supporting the Follower 1 that had gone into tank for me, throwing peaches when I could, and refueling the health of kobolds that seemed like they were about to perish, though I seemed to have wasted more mana that way. I had already felt myself....emptying out of mana.

3 of the kobolds were already knocked out and 2 of the orcs too, but the increase in numbers caused the allied kobold captain to take on two of the stronger orcs at once, only being able to delay them for so long and they were able to last this long in a direct melee since they had support. They seemed...Desperate to defend to the death.

"I...was......I am.....out of.......Hikari....." I walked over slowly to Hikari with a Tired smile and fainted as an orc threw it's small sword, hitting my shoulder.

---

Mister sniffles sensed something wrong, But it was not too urgent but he treated it as a life or death situation because the Hikari and the Food provider might disappear, like his siblings who one day were chased down by a wolf, he defeated the wolf in the end, but his siblings still were not there to celebrate his victory.

So, Mister sniffles, still in his transformation, rushed back to where Hikari and Leeanne were.

<Jin Vodka POV>
Jin seeing Mister Sniffles not even reacting to his call and just rush over made him sigh. 'I miss my followers for some reason. I didn't bring Presia since she is quite motherly and might embarrass me. But better than not knowing what to do.'

"Well, let's hurry now..." Jin rush as he opens his wings wide flying at a fast speed. He saw mister Sniffles and carry him to increase the pace. "Sorry about this, much quicker but why do you smell delicious?"

Jin then swiftly arrived the location only Kobold and Orcs fighting each other. He drops down mister Sniffles on top an Orc. Some of the Kobolds are wounded and struggling to defend themselves. He sees his Kouhai's shoulder bleeding from the sword. The Orcs are now trying to even get near to Hikari, luckily the Kobolds did their best to defend her.

"What have you done!?" Jin expression change as the ice melted from his wings. Pure rage was seen his face releasing a strong demonic aura. He clenches his heart as he tries to control himself. But he was too tired, never had any rest and sleep. Additionally, he hasn't properly control his holy magic. Flames wings emerge as it burned his shirt and a horn and dragon tails appear. Eyes burning red full of hatred, "To even dare do this to them!"

Tears of blood drops in his eyes, "you all will have to suffer eternal pain."

The Orcs feels get fear and malice seeping from Jin. Even the Kobolds are severing from fear.

"But first--" Jin creates a teleportation magic circle under Hikari, Leeanne, Mister Sniffles with his follower and all The kobolds. They have been moved a bit away from Jin and the area with orcs.

"[Flame Wall]," Jin was still able to control some of his anger. He made a wall encircling the orcs with him. Now his only alone with the orcs, as the others are just outside of it.

"I'm sorry for this..." Jin sadly smiled as he looks towards Hikari before the flames cover him. He knows she would probably hate what he will do. But he has no choice, someone needs to dirty his hand. And it was him...

<Hikari POV>
Wet.

It was wet. Hikari heard a thud, and then a wet feeling hit Hikari.

Why is it wet...?

Hikari moved her hands a bit... Tattering the ground... It was sticky... It was really... Wet...

Eh? This is... Soft...? Wait... "keep your eyes open, even if it's scary!"

Open... Open eyes...? Hikari should... Open... Eyes?

Open open open... It shouldn't be black, black isn't okay... It should be...

Red, Hikari's sight was red. Hikari's hand was atop of Lea-chan, why was Lea-chan on the ground?

The ground around Lea-chan was wet... Lea-chan's shoulder was also wet... Hikari should clean it.

Hikari has nothing to clean though... Hikari used Lea-chan's dress to dry it... Hikari hopes Lea-chan doesn't mind it...

Eh? Still wet? But Hikari just... Why still wet...? Why does Lea-chan keep on getting wet?

It is sticky... It is red... Everything is red... Lea-chan's shoulder is wet... It is sticky... It is red... It is wet... It it it it it-

It was black, everything was black, Hikari was hovering around a black space... Black really is calm isn't it...?

<Hikari POV>
What...Is this, I was standing in an empty hallway when lights suddenly lit up, brightening everything up enough so that I could see that there weren't normal light sources, but peaches emitting pink rays. I wandered deeper into the hallway and arrived at a pedestal, and instinctively, I grabbed at it.

"You have been chosen, The peach bloodline flows in you, how to activate it? Only you can find out, for that is the way, of the dao of the peach! Plus it's more fun this way, you know how long it was for someone worthy to become a follower of the peach dao? I tell you it was way too long!"

A strange, pulsating, peachy? power flowed into my veins, including a small amount of power from the peach Hikari gave me, altering the structure and turning the peach dao into something...different.

I woke up with a start, and touched my blood, accidentally tasting it."My blood...has a hint of peach in it?!" thinking back on the dream I had "Why was the last portion of what the voice saying, forgotten to me?" Looking over at Hikari, I crawled over, not noticing my bleeding to have slowed down, the peach flavored blood, purging the bacteria that had contaminated the injury.

"Hikari-san~ I'm back~" I crawled over to Hikari and hugged her fiercely as I went to sleep again, placing my nose on hers.

---

Mister Sniffles looked at the two in boredom, the danger had passed and his chance for glory had gone past. He looked around in Leeanne's item box and gave away the remaining chicken eggs as pay for the kobolds because he was a generous boar.

<Somewhere down the road heading towards Frontier>

"Geez, to be attacked by bandit on the road. What luck do we have? Ahahah!" Goel laughs out loud as he took all the items of bandits they defeated. For some reason, even his younger brothers and little sisters are looting the bandits' bag.

"Wow, is he trying to rob them stark naked?" Flyx could only sigh as he sees Goel stripping the Bandits clothes.

"Pfft... Ahahaha! Master Vodka will laugh at this! The new follower and his family are hilarious!" Bernard holds his stomach. Pointing to the bandits now were stripped naked and starting to run far away.

"Let them be, they are doing what they do to survive." Lavri was busy carving on an ivory he asks from Jin. Since Jin has lots of ivory from his Rhino quest, Lavri was able to take one.

"What are you doing..?" Bernard tilt his head seeing this as his eyes went wide open. "Wow pretty! But what is that for..?"

"Offering for Hikari, since I'm now her worshipper. I'm giving this as thanks for the safe journey. It would be nice if I make it into her symbol. But since Jin still hasn't heard anything about it. Then a sheep shape will do since they are usually used as a sacrifice in olden times" Lavri stated as he let down the offering and pray.

"Wow, you're talking a lot today?" Bernard asks but Lavri hasn't answered as he was so focused on praying. But Bernard laughs inside, will even the goddess hear Lavri's prayer?

<Hikari POV>
Hikari felt something, it was a nice feeling, there was something for Hikari coming... Hikari liked it, Hikari held it in, and it was pretty... Ah, it disappeared...

Hikari felt a bit better with it... But Hikari wanted to look at it more... What was it...?

Hikari wonders...

...

... Ah! A-a sacrifice? Then... Hikari received a sacrifice and...

Whe... Where is Hikari...? It's all... Black?

Did Hikari faint...? Then Hikari should wake up... It would be no good to just stay like this... Why did Hikari faint...? Hikari doesn't know...

Why is Hikari's memories getting in trouble again... Hikari feels it wasn't the first time it happened recently... Please be nothing serious... Hikari doesn't want to feel that fear again... Hikari doesn't want to forget again...

Hikari followed the presence of Hikari's blessing to find her consciousness again... Hikari wonders what was that sacrifice... It helped Hikari get back on her tracks... Hikari is thankful, Hikari hopes they enjoyed what came of it...

---------------------

On a certain place far from here, a certain kobold was flustered by the Sanie plushy that appeared in the place of his offering, maybe it meant something?

<Leeanne POV>

"he...ehehehehehe....ahahahahahahaha! Mister Sniffles, I'm up! I'm up!" I still felt dizzy but I checked my wound and it stopped bleeding. I looked over at Hikari what can I do....I looked at Hikari, anger in my heart that I could not do anything at all to help her worries Maybe....Everything I said was useless...? She needs sacrifices..... I took out my peach bag and looked at it with the memories of my childhood, playing training with it for hours.

The past may be important, but the future is more important, looking over at Hikari, I hugged her and sacrificed my peach bag I wish that Hikari gets better.

--

Mister Sniffles was bored, He had already woken up the Leeanne, now it was just to wait for the Jin one to arrive, and for the Hikari to wake up.

<Jin Vodka POV>
The flames disappeared as Jin was the one left there were no blood nor ashes. He then ran and looks towards their side. His Gnev form was already released and he was looking more calmer but pale. Seeing that Leeanne wounds already stop bleeding and Hikari is safe. He sighs in relief as he looks to the surrounding.

"You guys need healing!" Jin looks at the Kobolds who have wounds and some even have severe injuries. Seeing this he immediately use Stolz form as he infuses his wings with Holy Mana. Gentle snow touches each of the Kobolds wounds as it healed them. Even those who are near to death are breathing safely. The snow closes up the wounds and as it melted holy energy sips to the body regenerating the wounds.

"That was my first time using this--" Jin holds his head as he falls to his knees. The exhaustion and sudden use of holy magic he hasn't mastered yet take a toll his spirits. He then forced himself to stood up and go near Hikari and Leeanne. Noticing that Hikari is still unconscious he looks towards to Leeanne.

"Sorry, I was late. What happened to Hikari..?"

------Meanwhile somewhere out there------
Shamal's face was unreadable as he sees a note.

[Hey Shamal!

I almost lose control myself but thanks for Hikari's blessing from the mochi a gave earlier, I was able to recover.
So in the end, I sent this Orcs to be rehabilitated by you. Just send them back to Askian Hamlet once they learn their lessons~

Yours truly, the only living friend you have tehee~]

"I see...." Shamal doesn't know how to react to this but since it came from his 'annoying' friend. He has no choice but to take the task. He looks to the orcs now trap in a desolate land as his snakes bind them. The orcs were shivering from fear and confused on what is happening. Both the Ocs Jin intrapped with him in the flame wall and the Orcs he left behind bind by ice, where now in Shamal's place.

<Leeanne POV>

"Hikari---I'm not sure, she said she started seeing red, and all the crying...the crying...she was worried about everyone, about her friends, about her followers.....I think she feels alone, and that she has to take care of all the problems, and to do everything alone.....Senpai, can you talk with her later?"

I walked over to Hikari to notice her looking tired, but It's a big improvement compared to before....She was just....So sad....I walked back to Jin-senpai "You and Hikari-san will rest for now~!" I walked again, over to Hikari and sat down, placing her tired head on my lap.

(✧.✧) "Jin-senpai, rest. You've deserved it, I've already slept for a bit, now it's your turn. It's okay, Mister Sniffles and Follower 1 can warn us of any danger."

Mister sniffles walked over, de-transforming into his smaller form and along with follower one, stood guard around the perimeter.

<Jin Vodka POV>

"You don't have to worry about that. Since we already finished the quest. Me and Mister Sniffles already have killed the 10 Orcs and 3 Orc Leaders. Mister Sniffles did great killing one Orc Leader, you got a good companion Kouhai-chan." Jin pats Leeanne as he walks back to the Kobold wounded. There is also a reason he can't sleep. Due to the task, Stolz gave him. If he ever let his guard he will become coma and unable to do anything. He needs to make everything is place and followers fully geared.

"So it's better if we return to the Guild Tavern. So Hikari-sama can rest. I can teleport you guys, but someone needs to lead and protect the Kobolds to the Askian Village. So I will volunteer for that part. No worries, since I'm no longer an ordinary human."

<Hikari POV>

"Wi-will Jin-san really be alright...?

Hikari appreciates the thought, Hikari is just... Unsure if Jin-san can handle it..."

*looks very worried*

"But if Jin-san is truly alright... Hikari will accept it..."

<Leeanne POV>

"Alright, I'll take your word on it senpai, but don't forget to rest sometime!"
I hugged him, even though he had his own problems to deal with, he decided to help me.
I pulled Hikari up, putting her hand in mine.

"I'll go."
"Oink!" "Oink!"

Partners @brasca123 @JinVodka
Receptionist
@shad12ow
Click to expand...

Great Plain|#SD3|D-Ranked|Slay 3 Orc Leaders [150 G]
Great Plain|#SE3|E-Ranked|Slay 10 Orcs [100 G]
Great Plain|#SD5|D-Ranked|Slay 3 Kobold Leader [120 G]
Great Plain|#SE5|E-Ranked|Slay 15 Kobolds [70 G]
Great Plain|#SE4|E-Ranked|Slay 5 Boar Warriors. [70 G]
====================================================
Seeing the adventurer in front of him collapsing, Shadow quickly summoned his spider that managed to catch her just in time. The spider crew then took her to the nearby bench.
"...what in tarnation happened?"
As he read the report that was handed to him, he finally understood the reason. And that made him let out a frown.
"...You guys should know that you don't need to push yourself too hard. Especially against fodder like them. But...they've tried their best. Hmm....Well...." He then pulled out a small satcheld filled with 510 Gold and let one of the spider bring it near the adventurer. "Guard her for a bit until she woke up."

OOC: Well....I have to say, I am...hmm...having a bit of mixed feeling? No, it's not bad. It's interesting and good. But then again...hmm....well, it's entertaining, I can say that....Carry on. I don't have the correct word to describe my impression.

AliceShiki · Oct 26, 2017

Nahrenne said: ↑

Gallant Mine|#SE1|E-Ranked|Slay 5 Snow Goblin [80G]
Gallant Mine|#GE1|E-Ranked|Mine 5 Ice Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Ice Crystal]
Gallant Mine|#GE2|E-Ranked|Mine 5 Wind Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Wind Crystal]
Gallant Mine|#GD1|D-Ranked|Mine 12 Mithril Ore [60G | 1 x Mithril Ingot]

@brasca123
Entering the guild, Rhialla walked up to the receptionist desk and handed over the items required from the quests. She then took out a piece of paper, filled with elegant handwriting, detailing the events of her quests in a report. She also handed over a vial of ice slime gel, saying:
"I thought the guild might be interested in this. The details on it are in my report."
(^_^)
She smiled in a non-threatening way, maintaining her image of a nice, friendly 'elf'.

Rhialla made her way to the cave mouth known as the entrance to Gallant Mine. She was wearing her usual red, revealing clothes, seemingly not aware of the cold temperatures coming from the cutting wind and chill air of the cave. Instead, she did not have a single hair out of place and her clothes were still, her cheeks were a healthy pink colour and her skin was without goose bumps. For all intents and purposes, anyone who would look upon her figure would only see a beautiful woman in red, with pale skin and red hair, walking at a calm pace to the cave entrance, without looking cold, or being affected by the wind. Those who she passed along the way noticed how the air felt warm and serene in her presence, as if she were an ethereal being, not of this world. Seeing that she was about to enter the mine, seemingly unprepared, several mine guides rushed to stand in front of her, all clamouring to get their hands on such a rare beauty so they could be the ones to ‘guide’ her inside the mine.

“Hey, Miss! Care to have a guide~!”
“Oy! Don’t listen to him! He’ll take you somewhere dangerous! I can keep you safe in there!”
“Whatcha sayin’? You wouldn’ be able to ge’ ta ya house unless ya mamma grabbed ya hand and led ya there hasself!”
“Hey! Pretty lady! Come with me and you’ll never go hungry in that mine~!”
“Sure, sure~ Instead it’ll be the monsters hungering after the both of you!”
“Hey—“
Feeling quite annoyed by the hubbub of noise gathered before her, Rhialla used her stealth magic, while the guides weren’t looking at her, and she made her way around them all, hearing them arguing over who was the best guide and slandering one another.
*sigh*
I feel sorry for people who have no experience in battle and are completely new adventurers…
This one agrees, Eternal Daughter! This one sensed dark intentions behind their eyes; a lust deep in their hearts and eyes…
Urgh! Disgusting human males! They only think with their third leg a majority of the time!
Pay them no heed, Eternal Daughter. They are but things beneath Eternal Daughter’s notice. Instead, focus on what Eternal Daughter came here to do…
You are right Fifna. Telva!
Yes, Eternal Daughter?
Search the perimeter for any signs of mithril ore!
Eternal Daughter’s order has been acknowledged!
Fifna!
Eternal Daughter wants this one to search for any signs of wind crystals, right?
Yes! Glacia!
Glacia responds to Eternal Daughter’s call.
Glacia, I want you to search the perimeter for any signs of ice crystals!
Glacia has heard Eternal Daughter’s request and shall endeavor to complete it.
Good! All of you, keep me up to date with any changes!
Affirmative!
Acknowledged!
Glacia accepts!
With her orders given, a light green, a light purple and a light blue orb came out of Rhialla’s body and surrounded her, pulsating and glowing in the torch-lit cave. Although the cave was called Gallant mine, it was only named so because of the mining frequently done there, however, it was all a natural cave that spanned for miles and had a magic within that replenished all that was mined after a while. Due to the large amount of people who traversed these caverns, there were always lights shining on the walls, illuminating the main paths for adventurers and miners alike.

As she walked down the main path for a few minutes, her pact-spirits gave her the locations of several crystal and ore deposits within the vicinity. She turned off the main path and made her way down a dark tunnel at the side, clearly not well traversed by other people, since there were no lights put onto the walls. The further she walked, the quieter and more remote the area felt, her steps echoing down the tunnel. The path ended with a wall on all sides but the one she had approached from. Feeling a light breeze coming through a crack in the side of the wall, she called out her Earth pact-spirit, Telva and had him meld with the wall, easily creating a hole large enough for her to step through. Seeing a narrow winding path before her that branched out into different directions, she asked her ice pact-spirit to tell her which way to go to the ice crystal deposit detected.

Making her way along the dark winding path, she soon stopped as the path opened out into a large cavernous opening. Using her trained night vision from her past, she clearly saw many small huts with snow goblins moving about their daily lives. At the centre and four corners of their small village, were large ice crystals, towering at heights of roughly ten metres, shining brightly as the little natural light in the cavern shone through them. Slipping back into her stealth veil, Rhialla quietly crept towards the nearest snow goblin hut and observed the situation, taking note of the population, their weapons and the layout.

Leaning against the wall of the hut, Rhialla observed the little snow goblins acting out their daily business, ensuring that they did not notice her presence and go on high alert. She knew that she would have to remove the pests before harvesting her quest items, but she couldn’t help but feel in awe at how the snow goblins had formed a small society and were working together.
Fifna, just to confirm, how many snow goblins do you detect?
This one can sense thirty-five adults and twelve young ones, nineteen males, sixteen females, seven female young ones and five male young ones.
That fits with what I can detect as well. Fifna, how about you make it harder to breathe for our little friends~
This one likes the way Eternal Daughter thinks~! Command confirmed, this one shall make it extremely stifling for them~!
Be sure to not make it so for me, please.
As if Eternal Daughter had to say that! This one shall always put Eternal Daughter’s safety and health as the top priority!
Alright…play with the snow goblins, leave none alive~!
Sure thing!
After their conversation had finished, Fifna created a barrier around Rhialla, before going to the centre point of the village and flying up to the cavern’s high ceiling. Soon, a cool breeze swept through the cavern and a barrier was formed, surrounding the whole village, trapping all the snow goblins within. In roughly half an hour, not a single snow goblin was left breathing, or alive, their bodies strewn across the ground, none spared from the indiscriminate form of killing, silent, yet deadly. As her oldest pact-spirit did this, Rhialla started performing her ritual to the Spirit Mother, sending the life energy of the snow goblins to her, as an act of thanks for the Spirit Mother’s constant protection and guidance. Fifna returned to Rhialla and set about taking down the barriers on her and the village, before returning to the Spirit Realm, remaining on standby.
Well done, Fifna! Rest for a while, while we gather the needed items.
Of course, Eternal Daughter!
Walking around the village, Rhialla created a blade of wind and beheaded, then sliced off the right ear of every single snow goblin, not even the young ones were let off this gruesome treatment. Along the way, she checked their bodies for any weapons and other interesting or useful items. In total, after her harvest from the corpses, she had: forty-seven light blue snow goblin ears – thirty-five adult ones, and twelve small ones – followed by seven swords, three axes, six pikes, eleven bows, one hundred and forty-two arrows, thirteen shields, twelve short daggers, forty-seven ice crystal necklaces – the ice crystal the size of a grain of rice – three fist-sized ice slime cores, nine ice rabbit pelts and keys to something.

After going through the items she had obtained in this one-sided fight, she couldn’t help but focus on how every snow goblin had a necklace with a small amount of ice crystal on the end, that and a key to something, along with ice slime cores; Rhialla couldn’t help but wonder where these slimes could have been harvested, along with the many ice crystals. After browsing through all of the huts, she came to the conclusion that these snow goblins held a religious culture towards the ice crystal pillars, with each hut having five small statues of ice in the same formation as around the village. This made her think whether there was a reason behind such a thing, like maybe they had come into contact with a being of ice which made them worship these ice crystal pillars…I should inform the guild of this place she thought, as she continued investigating the rest of the village’s buildings.

It had been roughly seven hours of her meticulously examining every nook and cranny of every inch of the village, and she had discovered a cellar in all of the huts that connected together to an underground area full of penned up ice slimes. There were roughly over four hundred ice slimes in this ‘farm’ and she could see jars to one side of them and a pile of boxes on the other side. Looking around the underground cavern, she noticed veins of ice crystal embedded in the walls, ceiling and floor and saw that every few seconds, a pulsing light would be emitted. Every time this happened, the ice slimes would shudder and grow slightly larger, as if they were being fed magic to make them grow. Walking closer to the ice slimes, she saw a few among them who were considerably larger than the others, and could see multiple cores within them. She observed these particular ice slimes, trying to discern why they would have multiple cores in them, when the rest didn’t, and after a few minutes, she soon got her answer.

One by one, the multi-cored ice slimes began shaking more violently than the smaller ones and their bodies began to split. One ice slime, which Rhialla had observed it containing four cores, began splitting into four, the cores in each section of where the splitting was taking place. She looked at the others and saw the same thing happening. So this is how slimes reproduce, they gather enough magic energy and produce extra cores, eventually splitting into lots of new slimes. Interesting, this could be useful information for the guild’s own farm of slimes. After watching these ice slimes for a while, she eventually decided to proceed with the rest of her investigations and chose to take a look in the jars first.

These jars were roughly the same size as the snow goblins, and inside there was ice slime gel filling each jar to the brim. Rhialla asked her ice pact-spirit, Glacia, if it was safe to consume:
Glacia, analyse this gel and tell me if it is safe to touch and consume.
Glacia is assimilating to the substance…Glacia can confirm that the named gel is completely safe, with only the effect of cooling Eternal Daughter’s body down, as if eating an ice cream. Glacia also wishes Eternal Daughter to know that this gel can also be used as a healing salve for burns if properly prepared with restorative herbs.
Thank you for the information, Glacia. You may return to being on standby, I may have need of you later.
Glacia acknowledges Eternal Daughter’s wish. Glacia shall now go on standby.
After finding out that the gel was harmless, she dipped her finger into the substance and put it in her mouth, tasting the flavour, before swallowing.
Hmmm…what a peculiar taste…sweet, yet refreshing at the same time…and Glacia was right…I feel my body cooling down like it would after eating ice cream. No wonder the snow goblins were farming this, it’s a perfect food source for them.
Taking out an empty potion vial, she scooped out some of the gel and stored it away in her item box, thinking of sending this sample to the guild for analysis for future food ideas, like using it as a refreshing cool drink, when there is a shortage of ice crystals, or using it to keep things cool for those who cannot afford the ice crystals. An alternative. The medicinal options too, were a good thing to bring up for the healers in the hospital.

After finishing her investigation of the jars, Rhialla then moved over to the other side of the cavern, to where the many boxes were piled up. Using one of her Black Rose daggers to cut through the boxes, she looked in and saw piles upon piles of ice slime cores, all of them different sizes. Looking at a few of them, she noticed some of the cores were not in fact cores, but ice crystals. Looking through every box soon after, Rhialla spent a good few hours methodically inspecting each and every core, checking to see if any were in fact crystals, or not. Once her search was over, she had managed to gather up roughly thirty of them, all different sizes, with the smallest being the size of a finger while the largest were the size of an adult’s fist. Out of the fist-sized ones, she picked out the five largest, saving them for when her quest was over and called out her ice pact-spirit, Glacia, once more.
Glacia, I need your assistance with something.
Eternal daughter’s will is Glacia’s command. What does Eternal Daughter wish of Glacia?
I want you to refine these twenty-five ice crystals and make them all equal in size and shape.
That would require a great deal of energy, Eternal Daughter.
How much?
Ummm….Eternal Daughter may need to sacrifice to pay for the lacking energy.
Would those ice slimes suffice?
Of course! However, those cores would work much better. They contain within them a lot of the ice element, and would work well as a catalyst for Glacia!
Okay…how many of them will it take?
Glacia will analyse the energy within them…
…
…Glacia has confirmed that fourteen boxes of cores shall be needed!
*sigh* Okay, I’ll empty the needed amount of boxes.
Glacia appreciates, Eternal Daughter!
Coming to the end of her conversation with her ice pact-spirit, she used her wind magic to lift the needed amount of boxes and skilfully adjusted the wind pattern so that every box was tipped to the side and then upside-down. Adding ice magic to her wind magic, she moved all of the ice slime cores into one neat pile, making it easier to gather the energy within them. Sitting down, so as to not fall and hit her head from this ritual, she linked to Glacia and began slowly, but surely refining the ice crystals that she had managed to find.

Moving her and Glacia’s consciousness towards the first ice crystal, they both used their magic to begin removing the impurities inside. A good half hour had been spent on their first ice crystal, and Rhialla noticed that approximately a tenth of her magic had been drained. With the amount of ice crystals left to refine, she came to realise that Glacia was indeed right about her not having enough energy of her own to sustain the refining of them all. Thankful for the presence of the ice slime cores, laying in a pile close to her side, she picked up the refined ice crystal and examined it. Seeing that the majority of the impurities had been removed, she was pleased with her ice pact-spirit’s work, knowing that this will help Glacia get better at using her ice magic, making her grow in her cultivation as a spirit.
Glacia wishes to inform Eternal Daughter that the first ice crystal refinement it complete. Glacia wishes to say that, from here on, the efficiency of magic use to refine will be reduced with each ice crystal! Glacia feels Glacia’s power increasing.
That’s good to hear, Glacia! Keep up the good work! This is a training exercise for you, after all~
Yes, Eternal Daughter!

Seeing that this would be a long and laborious process to do, Rhialla set up a detection barrier, using her magic infused blood, so that she would be alerted to any presences or danger in the area. Once the barrier had been erected, she sat back down on the ground and, together, Rhialla and Glacia repeated the process over and over again, rapidly using up all of her magic and quickly utilising the pile of ice slime cores lying next to them, ready to be used as substitute for her lack of magic. With each refined ice crystal produced, less and less time was needed to complete the process. After roughly seven hours and five minutes, the twenty-fifth crystal was finally refined, taking only five minutes to complete – with every crystal taking one minute less to refine than the previous. Rhialla was pleased with this outcome, as it meant that Glacia’s control over her ice magic had also become refined, allowing her to be more efficient and speedy with her usage of magic.

Knowing that she would need to rest and recover her magic, she gathered up the refined ice crystals and stored them away in her item box; in order to stay safe and regain her sharp mind and senses, she drank a mana recovery potion, placed her bedroll on the ground behind the boxes of ice slime cores, and fell into a deep sleep.

[…]

After about six hours of sleeping, Rhialla eventually woke up, her magic fully restored and her fatigue from the previous day had worn off, making her feel refreshed and full of vigour once more. Getting up from her bedding, she used water and nature magic to freshen up her body, cleaning it from the previous day and night of walking and refining. After cleaning herself, she went over to the used ice slime cores and noticed how every single one that had been in the pile had turned dull in colour, no magic at all contained within them. Not wishing for evidence of her having used them in her refining of the ice crystals, she used fire magic to incinerate them all to ash, them being ice slime cores meant they were particularly weak to fire. Within seconds, the heat from the blaze had turned them all to dust, and she called upon her wind magic to scatter the ashes throughout the cavern. Checking the rest of the cavern and seeing if there were any more tunnels, items or secret passages, Rhialla then turned her attention towards the thrumming ice crystal veins glowing within the ceiling, walls and floor of this place. Noticing that the main arteries of these ‘veins’ came from the position of the five ice crystal pillars above, she knew that it all had to be connected somehow and she wondered whether this had any influence on their religious practices.

After looking thoroughly for anything missed, she decided she had identified everything of value, and so returned to the passage she took down there, arriving back in the snow goblin village. As she arrived there, she noticed some creatures beginning to scavenge near the corpses and so decided to do what she had done to the dead cores. Casting her fire magic once more and fanning the flames with her wind magic, she burned the snow goblins to crispy husks, before scattering their ashes with the wind. Satisfied with her work, she left the snow goblin village and followed the instructions of Telva for the location of the mithril ore deposits.

Twisting and turning, winding and walking, she made her way towards the largest source of mithril ore and quite often had to create new paths in walls with Telva’s help. After a few hours of walking in the chilly mines, Telva notified her of a large quantity of mithril ore nearby. Moving towards it, she could see walls shining with the mithril within them. Seeing that there was enough ore here to easily make up the quest amount, Rhialla touched the closest wall and used earth magic to take out a giant slab close to her height and twice as thick as her body. Not bothering to do anything with it, for the moment, she walked to another section of the wall and did the same process as before. Doing this another ten times, Rhialla had twelve slabs of rock full of mithril ore.
That seems to be round about the right amount for the quest.
This one agrees.
Telva, is there any way of reducing the amount of rock covering the ore?
This one shall try.
Moving to each of the twelve slabs, Telva slowly removed as much of the rock from the ore as possible, reducing their sizes by more than half. Seeing that she had a sizable amount of ore, she separated it into quarters, giving her 48 pieces of mithril ore. Putting it all into her item box, she found a place to rest and recover her mana.

After roughly an hour of rest, Rhialla got up from her sitting position and surveyed her surroundings. All around her were walls of ore-rich rock and ice. Seeing the ice walls, she thought back to when Kitty-boy asked her to collect some ice blocks, and decided to take this opportunity to cut some out and store it.
Glacia!
Glacia responds to Eternal Daughter’s summon.
Can you help me cut out some ice blocks to take back with me?
Glacia will follow Eternal Daughter’s request.
Thanks!
Eternal Daughter’s request, is Glacia’s command.
Following that, Rhialla moved to the ice walls and – with the help of her ice pact-spirit – began using ice magic to separate the solid, frozen structure - cutting out several large slabs.
That should be enough for Kitty-boy. Why he couldn’t have asked for an ice magic user to just create some ice blocks, I really don’t know…
Sending all of the ice slabs into her item box, she called upon Fifna:
Fifna! Where are the wind crystals?
This one has found a sizable amount, but Eternal Daughter will have to elevate Eternal Daughter’s current position.
Oh? Where do I need to go?
Link with This one and This one will show Eternal Daughter the location.
All right.
Assimilating with her wind pact-spirit, Rhialla could now sense the wind crystals, feeling them being much higher up the mountain, near an opening to the mine. Following Telva’s guidance through the mine to reach the opening, Rhialla came across a steep slope.
So, I need to climb up this?
Yes! It’s the fastest way to reach them.
Alright…Telva, is there any way of creating footholds in the slope to make it easier to climb?
This one believes it can be achieved.
Then, please do it.
Command confirmed.
At her command, Telva used his earth magic to partially rearrange the structure of the slope, pulling out some of the rock and shaping it into footholds, forming a stairway of sorts to traverse up. Moving towards the makeshift staircase, Rhialla made her way up the slope, applying earth and water magic on her feet to improve her grip.

After roughly twenty minutes of her climbing up the slope, Rhialla finally reached the top, only to be buffeted by a large gust of wind. Her dress flowed and danced, as if it were alive, before falling down, becoming still. The wind continued pushing against her body, yet she now seemed unaffected. If one looked closely, then they would have seen a very thin barrier of wind surrounding her, no doubt cancelling the effects of the natural wind howling before her. Looking ahead, she soon saw the opening to the outside and began heading in that direction. Guided by Fifna towards the wind crystals, she reached the exit and looked up. About fifteen metres up the mountain, she could see them, sensing many wind spirits – making this place their home.
Fifna, disconnect from me, I can see them now.
Of course, Eternal Daughter!
Feeling her mana no longer being drained from linking with Fifna, she began climbing up the mountain, searching for footholds, skirting around slippery ice and snow as she rose higher and higher from the base. Coming to within a metre of the many crystals lining the rock face of the mountain, Rhialla knelt down before them and spoke to the local wind spirits:
“I know that you have taken this place as your home, but may this Eternal Daughter take some of these crystals? I am willing to give a sacrifice as recompense.”
At her words, many orbs of light appeared and surrounded her, telling her:
“The only sacrifice worthy, is the sacrifice of Eternal Daughter’s mana-filled blood. Eternal Daughter’s heritage flows within and would be a great boon for us to cultivate.”
Not hesitating at these words, Rhialla took out one of her Black Rose daggers and slit her arms and legs, letting her blood soak into the rock, snow and wind. The orbs of light gathered around the spilled liquid, and soon not a drop was remaining.
“We have accepted Eternal Daughter’s sacrifice; the exchange has been acknowledged. Take what is needed, We have benefitted from this.”
Disappearing from sight, the wind spirits left the area, gifting all of the wind crystals to Rhialla. As soon as they had left, she used her nature magic to heal her wounds, before putting her dagger away and moving towards the many wind crystals.
Eternal Daughter need only have spilled a few drops. Why give them so much?
I was taking away their home, Fifna. I felt it was a fair exchange for me to give them that much, so they can quickly rebuild in another area.
Still…they weren’t even Eternal Daughter’s pact-spirits. Eternal Daughter shouldn’t give such gifts so nonchalantly.
Fifna…you’re jealous, aren’t you?
!?! T-t-this one is n-n-n-not!
*giggles*
Don’t worry, Fifna, you’ll always be number one for me~
…really?
FiFi, you were my first~! Of course, you’re special~!
Heehee! RhiRhi thinks This one is special!
Hehe, now how should we go about harvesting these crystals?
This one thinks digging them up would be the best thing to do. That way, they’ll stay intact.
Good thinking. Telva, mind helping me loosen the rock structure so I can pull them out?
Command confirmed.
Telva used his earth magic to break down the rock beneath the crystals; losing their stable base, they fell on their sides, their roots now in full view. Going up to them, Rhialla wiped away the loose rock, revealing intact crystals roughly the size of small children. After gathering them all up, she counted forty of them.
Those wind spirits must have put a lot of work into cultivating these…
All they needed to do was use their wind magic to encourage their growth. At most, it will have taken them about two years to get to this stage, so not much of a loss for them.
Two years?
Yes, but don’t forget, spirits live for a very long time, so long as we have a source of our element or mana, we will always live. That and the Spirit Mother ensures all of Her children get nourished in the Spirit Realm.
Yes, I hadn’t forgotten. But it still seems like a lot of effort.
Well, the powerful winds around here would have made it easier to do. That, and this mountain is brimming with mana.
So, you felt it too?
Of course! It feels like the mountain itself is alive.
Well…it must be very much attuned to the spirits then.
Yeah…
Let’s go back inside so I can refine most of these crystals.
Sure thing!

Putting all of the wind crystals into her item box, Rhialla made her way down the mountain back to the opening she came through earlier. Climbing down the slope to reach a place more sheltered from the wind, she sat down and rested until her mana had fully recovered. She then took out thirty-five of the wind crystals, leaving five for the quest, and began the labour-intensive task of refining them with the help of Fifna. Due to there being no cores present to rely on for mana consumption, the process took much longer to complete. Not only did she have to rest every now and then to regain her consumed mana, but she also had more crystals to work with than before. Add on the fact that wind as an element is much harder to control, she ended up taking roughly one and a half days to finish refining all of the crystals.
We’ve finally finished…
Yes! Eternal Daughter and This one managed to refine thirty-five wind crystals!
Indeed we did…you did well, Fifna, thanks for helping me.
No problem, RhiRhi! It helped make This one become stronger, so This one has benefited!
I’m glad to hear that…now…let’s leave this place and hand in the quest items and report.
Sure thing!
Putting the refined crystals into her item box, she made her way back out of the mine, easily avoiding the creatures prowling around using her stealth magic, not bothering to enter combat due to not requiring anything from them. After a few hours of efficiently traversing the mine, Rhialla reached a different entrance from before, not wishing to come across those pesky people waiting to ambush adventurers with their services. Coming out of the mountain, she then made her way towards the nearest portal, heading back to Aeternus to complete her first quests.

Refined Wind Crystals x35
Refined Ice Crystals x25
Swords x7
Axes x3
Pikes x6
Bows x 11
Arrows x142
Shields x 13
Short Daggers x12
Ice Crystal Necklaces x 47
Vial of Ice Slime Gel x1
Adult human-sized Ice Blocks x 5

OOC: Phew! Finally finished typing this up!
Sorry it too so long for me to do it...I got...distracted...
>->
<-<
Anyway, I hope I did it right...
>_<
*is nervous*
*huggles*

\(>_<)/

Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this!

X
Click to expand...

Gallant Mine|#SE1|E-Ranked|Slay 5 Snow Goblin [80G]
Gallant Mine|#GE1|E-Ranked|Mine 5 Ice Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Ice Crystal]
Gallant Mine|#GE2|E-Ranked|Mine 5 Wind Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Wind Crystal]
Gallant Mine|#GD1|D-Ranked|Mine 12 Mithril Ore [60G | 1 x Mithril Ingot]
========================
*blink blink* "Eto... For Hikari...? A quest...?" *tilts head*

"Ah! Hi-Hikari is sorry for not remembering! Hikari's memorry is a bit fuzzy!" >.<

"Hikari will take look at..." *peeks at her card* "At... Hi-Hia-san...? Eto... Hi-Hikari will read it!"

Why is this place so full of hard names!?!?!?

"Things seem fine Ria-san! Hikari doesn't quite know how to use this gel, but Hikari hopes it helps out somehow!

Just... Be a bit more careful, alright? The Wind and Ice Crystals were taken from unknown places, so it is okay... The mithril though... It is no good to overmine like that! It might trouble other miners!" >.<

"It should be alright if Hi-Ri-Rihia-san had a need for that much though... Eto...

Hikari will pass it by, but please be more careful next time.

The reward will be of 300G, 1x Refined Ice Crystal, 1x Refined Wind Crystal and 1x Mithril Ingot.

Please take care!!" ^^)/

((It was all good, you did it properly!))

A.I.M.E-02847 · Oct 27, 2017

"Good Day Guildmaster Shadow, I finally completed my quest. I took awhile due to the hunting quest. I wanted to make sure everything is safe and detailed. Also, here a barrel of fuel from oil sands. I hope the amount well suffice." I picked up the barrel from my item box as I handed it together with my report

Delta Town|#GE1|E-Ranked|Gather 10 Chickens [20 G| 5 x Eggs]
Delta Town|#GE3|E-Ranked|Fish 5 Speedy Tunas [80G | 1 x Speedy Tuna Fillet]
Desert Mine|#GD2|D-Ranked|Mine 3 Fire Crystals [100G | 1 x Refined Fire Crystal]
Desert Mine|#GD3|D-Ranked|Mine 3 Earth Crystals [100G | 1 x Refined Earth Crystal]
Desert Mine|#GD4|D-Ranked|Mine 50 Copper Ore [60G | 8 x Copper Ingot]
Desert Village|#EE1|E Ranked| Look For Hunting Spot [100 G]

| Location: Aeternus Floating City [Tavern]
| Objective: Preparation for the Quests

After looking to the items I took from the last quest. I encountered a problem of needing test subjects. I need to test the medical items I will create from the healing plants and moonlight flower. Additionally, I wanted to cultivate them in a greenhouse with an automatic system that will monitor its growth. Even If I will busy for a while, the plants will be still ready for harvest. Medical supplies are very important especially if something happens again just like the previous raid. But I will think about that later, the quest takes priority.

I started making a mechanical fishing speargun. Since quest about fishing was written as Speedy Tuna. A faster weapon like a gun will work well with it.

I used the wooden plank I got as a reward from the last quest. I cut one wooden plank into a gun shape barrel. I smoothened it down and applied special chemicals to protect it from rotting. Drilled a hole for the trigger and shaft. Also, tracing the path for the spear. I added the wooden grip with the metal trigger mechanism. I forged a thin metal spear from an old spear. Lastly, attached a rope to its end as I connected it to the metal pulley that will be attached to the speargun.

I look at the finished product and checked every part, to make sure it is not loose. I walked outside the Guild Inn to look for a tree and aimed the speargun. I pulled the trigger as the spear quickly flew away.

BAAM!

The spear stuck to the spear perfectly. I nodded and activated the pulley system. But for some reason, it was too slow for me. I sighed as I return back to my room to increase the speed of the pulley. Maybe, I'll add an option to pull forward and back to me. With this, I can use the speargun as a grappling hook.

After several tests it is ready.
For the scouting of fuel, I could just use my sensors when exploring in the desert. With everything, ready and prepared.

"Bye, Ezero I'll be back soon" I smiled softly and patted Erezo's core just laying on my table. For now, I'm made sure that his core where his A.I. and Operating system are stabilized.

With haste, I ran towards the portal heading to Delta Town.

| Location: Delta Town
| Objective: Fish 5 Speedy Tuna

I arrived late afternoon to the Delta Town. Since the chickens are easier to catch at night when they are resting. I decided to start with the speedy tuna.

I searched for a fishing vessel and found a kind fisherman to let me come with them. As we traveled to the deeper sea.

The sea was a beautiful color and the sky is clear making the weather calm. I took the speargun in the item box as I start searching the sea. I magnified my sights and increased my sensors. The tuna as it named was quite quick but I immediately used my lock-on ability. It keeps track for the Tuna without leaving my sight. As I aimed my speargun and calculated the next direction it will go.

BAAM!!

I quickly pulled the trigger as the spear was released and stab the Tuna. It tried to escape but the spear was embedded tightly on its body. I activated the pulley system as the large tuna is pulled towards me.

"It's is quite hard to hold too." I smiled as I hugged the Tuna in my arms making sure it doesn't escape my grasp. I held it on the deck with one arm and pulled the spear. Then tied its tail with the rope. The kind uncle helped me placed the Tuna in a large cryogenic capsule. It was my spare one for resting, with this size 5 Tuna can be placed inside.

I repeated the steps until I completed 5 tuna.
I decided to fish one more to give as thanks to the fisherman. When a large shark bites the Tuna and tried to pull it deeper to the ocean. Well, it tried but the strength of the shark is not enough to deal with automata.

I grabbed hold of the speargun as I try to pull the shark. I heard a ripping sound as I noticed the rope connecting the spear and pully is slowly breaking apart. I quickly gave the speargun to the fisherman next to me who was worried.

SPLASH!!

I dived into the ocean and swiftly swam towards the shark who was running away. As I passed him and stood in front. He quickly opened his jaw wide to devour me. But I just swiftly moved to his side as I gathered enough strength on my right fist and punched his nose. This stunned the shark as I quickly get the spear and stabbed his throat killing the shark.

The tuna is already shredded to pieces but at least I got a large shark. I slowly jump towards to the boat while carrying the shark on my shoulders.

I placed the shark on the deck. I squeezed out the water in my hair and noticed the shock expression of the fisherman.

"I'm sorry about the tuna but I got a shark, will that be enough payment for your assistance..?" I sadly look towards him feeling guilty about the tuna.

"The Shark is good! Plus, this is own has a lot of meat! And it's fin is quite expensive in the market. I don't fish sharks since they are quite dangerous but thanks for this!!" The Fisherman finally waking up from the stupor. Quickly checked the shark as he looks amazed how cleanly it was killed. "Hey as thanks for this! Why don't you have dinner with us at home! My wife shark dish is good."

"No, I should be the one to say thanks." I bowed to fisherman as we both try to say thanks to each other. Finally ending it as we both laugh.

The sun already was setting when we arrived the port. The light of the sun in the ocean and sky turned it into a beautiful red. I stood there in dazed until I was called by the fisherman.

I followed him towards the market as he sells the shark fins and some other parts. He had left a small portion of shark meat for his family dinner. The dish his wife prepared was absolutely delicious. I ate there and have some social interaction for a while.

| Location: Delta Town
| Objective: Gather 10 Chickens

It was already night and the chickens are resting. I have received an old fishing net from the fisherman. It has holes but I easily fixed it earlier.

I activated my night vision thermal vision, and sonar senses. Night vision allowed me to see in the dark while the Thermal vision allowed me to see heat signatures that living being emits. The sonar was to map my surroundings so I can easily retrace my path.

I found multiple sleeping chickens as I slowly approached them. Took one slowly away from the rest and quickly blocked their beak and feet with tape to avoid alerting the other chickens. I continued doing this for a couple of times.

The chicken struggled as they finally awaken inside the net but there are already secured and unable to move. I completed 10 chickens, the reason I also took this quest was for feathers fletching for the arrows. I was able to gather some large feathers just laying around.

I went towards the portal from Delta Town to the Aeternus Floating City. I left the chickens to my room. Next is to mine some crystals and ore I'm quite interested with.

| Location: Aeternus Floating City
| Objective: Updates

I have been having troubles with the mining quest. Copper ore is a good conductor of electricity. I just need to send electricity and use my sensor to notice the response.

The major problem was this crystal which is fire and earth respectively. They emit this so-called mana with the element they are called it. But I didn't know how to detect this mana and doesn't understand how it works.

Several minutes of researching, I gave up and decided to ask someone on the guild. Then, I heard about the opening of the [Dark merchant stall] and rewards from the Verdant Raid. I left the 10 chickens trapped inside a net. I decide to free them inside a plasma barrier and give them seed I receive from the farmers I save.

I first took a lot to reward I receive. I wondered if I did was good enough to receive this [Portable Mithril Barrier] which will be useful in a fight. Another interesting stuff is crystals and feathers. They have to seem to have elemental attributes which I need to study more.

The dark merchant has lots interesting stuff. Which intrigues me is this called [Curse Core]. Which similar to what Mirea has shown to me. I'm intrigued to this, but what was important was the [Optical Expansion and Locking System]. It can help me solve my problem about mana sensing. A wide smile escaped on my face as I happily skip to the merchant.

I studied the system and seeing it is an add-on to a helmet or goggles. I decide to add it to the visor of my Exoframe. After several minutes of tinkering, I was able to finish it. Now to just test it capabilities on mining.

I also got some items from the yandere bag which I could use.
But I was having a problem with the pet from the flute. It was a spirit type and was pretty scared of me.

"Do you want to come with..?" I kneeled at the Will O' Wisp trying my best to be less intimidating. But it only shivered and ran away hiding in the corner. "Understood, you stay and watch over the chickens."

I walked away and dedicated to finish the quest. I should ask how to feed a spirit and how to take of them. I should also find a name for the Wisp.

| Location: Desert Village
| Objective: Look For Hunting Spot

I entered the portal towards the Desert Village. I looked at the map and analyzed the surroundings. With a satellite, it is easier for me to track my way. But I have to do with my mini-map and the new system install.

For now, I have three objectives. One is the find a hunting spot near the Desert Village while heading to the Desert mine. Two is to find a fuel while at it. And lastly is to arrive at the Desert MIne to start mining all the Crystals and Ores.

I started to walk towards the Desert Mine direction while scouting the area. I noticed the water and checked it properties. I activated my sensors to track some fresh tracks. I noticed footprints in a shape of hooves. I take an image of it as I compare to all the animals with hooves in my database. In just a couple of minutes, it showed the species it belongs to which is a gazelle closely related with a deer. Their meat can be used as a food and have been known as Kosher meaning clean meat.

I followed the tracks as I watched my steps. I saw a herd of gazelles just far away eating some grass. It seems they usually eat to this area. I wrote the coordinates 3 km NE close to the river and included the locations illustrations. I wanted to check their behavior and their schedule. Since they are preys, the predators are highly like to be around. I compiled a written report on when it is to best hunt. Which time to avoid the predator eying the Gazelles.

Finally finishing, I went to look for any Petroleum that is found in oil reservoirs. I need to dig and be lucky enough to found one.

I walk and headed to the Desert Mine but my luck is not good since I could not find any oil reservoir. I could only continue on forward towards the Desert Mine.

| Location: Desert Mine
| Objective: Mine 3 Fire Crystals, 3 Earth Crystal 50 Copper Ore

First I started to mine for the ore. Some of the miners were curious at me since I look different. Others also ask if I need help, but I only shook my head and said I could handle it alone.

I increased my sensors in analyzing the veins in the main. Finally, I found some copper ores as I sent electricity to check its conductibility. I took the [Exoframe] in my item box and activated it. The black metal moves to my body as it covered me like an armor. The system starts to activate as new settings are added due to the [Optical Expansion and Locking System]. I started to strike the vein aiming directly to copper ore as I quickly grabbed it. With this method, I continued mining and searched for more copper vein as the vein is depleted.

Finally, I completed by 50 copper ores and an additional one. I looked behind me seeing the shock face of the miners. I just bowed towards them and search for the fire and earth crystals.

The Fire Crystals are said to be found in the hottest part of the mine. I activated my thermal vision to analyze the hottest location. As I reach the objective, the temperature here was high and hot. But it didn't bothered me at all due to my cooling system.

I swiftly activated my mana sensor in the new system which checked the surrounding. I saw a strange red light different from the rest. I started mining it gently since fire crystals will explode if not carefully mined. I looked at the fire crystal with bright red color as it emitted a high temperature. The Exoframe protected my hands so I can easily hold. I was able to take 4 Fire Crystals. I'm gonna keep one for research and testing.

Next, I walk away and used the mana sensor to search for the earth crystal. I looked at the location with plenty of rocks. As I checked every rock, I sense mana to some of them. I mined it and checked its hardness. It didn't break as I used all the strength of my suit. Seeing I found the Earth crystal, I started mining the rest to complete 3 earth crystal while keeping one.

I went a bit east from the desert mine and saw the river. I used it to guide me to the Aeternus Floating City since the map shown it passing to the city. As I walk leisurely watching the scenery. Something caught my eye as I swiftly ran to the location close to the river.

I found an oil sand which can be upgraded into crude oil. I took a closer looked at it which was similar to a clay but it contains bitumen. I took 2 barrels of it and decided to process it into refined fuel in my room.

Equipment created with low durability:

- Speargun (broken rope and pulley need fixing)
Items taken:

- 1 Barrel of processed fuel from oil sand
- 1 Fire Ore
- 1 Earth Ore
- 1 Copper Ore

@shad12ow

Renzy · Oct 28, 2017

I went inside the guild hall. It was already night when I arrived. There are already few people when I looked around. I went straight to the receptionist desk where my appointed receptionist Hikari-san was. "Excuse me, Hikari-san" I called her. "I finished all the quest that i take and here are the proofs". I take out 13 orc ears including the orc leader's, 20 rabbit corpses that are still fresh, The moonlight flower and a jar filled with 10 nectars. I only take the weapons of the bandits as proof.
"Also here's my detailed report" i said while I handed her my report papers.

Great Plain|#SE3|E-Ranked|Slay 10 Orcs [100 G]
Great Plain|#SE6|E-Ranked|Slay 20 Wandering Rabbits [50 G]
Great Plain|#GE1|E-Ranked|Gather 10 Moonlight Flower & 10 Healing Plants [50G | 1 x Rejuvenation Potion]
Great Plain|#SD3|D-Ranked|Slay 3 Orc Leaders [150 G]
Great Plain|#SD7|D-Ranked|Slay 5 Bandits [150 G]
Great Plain|#GD2|D-Ranked|Gather 10 Nectar [120 G | 1 x Butterfly Honey]

In the morning after finishing my plans, I told the innkeeper that I might be back very late at night . I started my journey. I chose a route where less adventurers are passing through going to the great plains. Delta Town and Great Plains are not far apart. An elf like myself wont make a sweat reaching there.

After walking a few kilometers away from the town. I already gathered the needed number of healing plants that can be casually seen out there. I gather as many as I can when i see them. And then after reaching the Great Plains, I can see many rabbits far away eating grasses. These rabbits preferred to eat alone and becase of the very wide grassland they don't care about the other rabbits around. I talked to myself "I'm so faraway they can't detect my presence. with my bow and arrows, its a piece of cake." 10 mins after, I manage to kill the more than the required amount. I pick the corpses and put it in my item bag. I can cook some of them later.

Then I went to the forest where I can see traces of orcs. Orcs looks for food in the day. I use the extra healing plants, ground them and smeared it to my body. Orcs have a great sense of smell they can easily smell you. Using plants to cover yourself is good when ambushing. I made a small campfire and roast some rabbit meat after skinning and skewering them. I leave them be while I'm waiting atop of a tree where I blend in waiting for ambush. Minutes later, 4 orcs and an orc leader can be seen.

(Orc leader): "What's that smell. It's smell so good."
(Orc A): Boss there might be some humans here camping."
(Orc leader): "You might have a point. You two search the surroundings."

He points two of the orcs and ordered them. Then they came back fast.

(Orc B): "Boss we find some roasted rabbits there and its still newly roasted."
(Orc leader): "Let's eat them and ambush them later. You two continue searching for those humans and report back immediatelly, we will leave you some shares."

Two orcs were searching on a certain direction. Now that there are 3 left, I grab the oppurtunity. I Aim my bow to the Orc Leaders head. "Psshh". The arrow accurately hits the head of the orc leader, while the two orcs are happily eating and haven't found out, I already aim the both of them and the succeeding arrows fly out. 3 of the orcs fell at the same time. I cut their right ears as proof that I killed them and I put them in the item box. I hid the bodies of the 3 in the bush and covered the ground with earth that has stains of blood. I waited for the two orcs that might come back.

Another few minutes later they've arrived and was confused that the other orcs are already gone. One of the orc said that they might have already went back to their camp.

And so I followed them but before they have reach the camp. I shoot them in the head and killed them both using my bow. I cut off their right ears like I did last time.

The camp I saw had also have few orcs. Thses orcs are orc bandits, they might have human weapons and equipments. There are two orc guards in front of the gates and few orcs eating their lunch. Whhen I headcount them the total of orcs are 9 including 2 orc leaders. "This is just the right amount of orcs I needed to kill to complete my quest" as i thought.

I got hungry when I saw those orcs eating so I ate biscuits that i purchase in town. I waited for those orcs who are finish eating to go to their tents. I killed the two guards first with my bow and silently went inside the camp using my shadowsteps skill. This skill made me invisible but slows my speed. I'm being careful as I went on. One by one i killed them using my mithril knife. These guys never noticed me becase I still smelled like a plant. It took me 2-3 hours to kill them because of those waiting game. I cut their ears again like what I always do. While I was searching for equipments i saw 3 sets of quivers of Iron arrows. "Thank you, thank you." I told myself. The arrows that I used to kill the rabbits and the first batch of orcs are just self made arrows. Now that there are plenty of arrows that i can use, I put them in my item box including chipped swords, already used spear, axes and some leather sets of armor. There are also edible food that I need for cooking. I washed myself up using my water magic and erased the smeared plants. I happily went outside of the camp and then was shocked but I didn't let them see my expression. A group of people were just waiting outside glaring at me.

I asked them "who are you guys and why are you here?"

(Bandit A): We found dead orcs along the way and found this camp.
(Bandit B ): "You are asking us who are we? We are the only known bandit group in the Great plains"
(Me): "And so? What can I do for you?"
(Bandit A): "Are you the one that killed them?"
(Bandit B): "Hand over those loots you got there. I know that you killed those f*cking orcs"
(Bandit C): "Boss look at those ears. I think he's an elf, maybe we can sell this elf to a slave dealer for a very high price." whispered the guy
(Bandit D): "Why don't you just surrender to us?"
(Me): "hmmph. Trying to trick me?" I can easily hear the guy that whispered because of my sharp sense of hearing. I immediately aim my bow to the guy who whispered and killed him.

(Bandit A): "You f*king bastard. Kill him!!!" enraged he pull his sword and dash straight to me.
(Me): "Not a chance" I said it while smirking. I cast a speed enchant to myself and I use my magic skill while running away "Ice arrow!!".

The arrow hit the first guy who is much nearer to me then he got slowed. I did a side step and I aim for his head. "Psshh". Instant kill. Then I use another skill "Rapid fire" I hit the two besides their leader. Arrows are hitting in their bodies. They will die of blood loss. The only one left is their leader. The leader was flabbergasted and he tried to run away and I said "Where are you going now?" I use my other skill Radiant shot. Before the arrow hit the man, I already turned away from him and started looting their corpses. When i check them they are so poor that they don't even have a cent. They even boasted they are widely known. I laughed "hahaha so weak". I organized the stuff that i need the most and put them in the item bag.

I rested at the side and cooked some rabbit meat. I ate them alone happily. I already manage to complete 5 of my quest in just a day. Ranked E quest doesnt take too long to do. I rested after eating but I slept.

When I woke up it was already night time perfect time for finding the Moonlight flower. As far as I know the moonlight flower can only be found where the moon shines brightly at night because its easily spotted when rays of the moonlight reflects from its petals. This wouldn't be a problem.

I set out and went into the biggest flower field in the Great Plains. The scenery in the night is very beautiful. Heavens didn't leave me as I easily found the flower. I also collected huge amount of nectar there while looking for it.

-21 rabbit corpses
-13 orc meat
-42 healing plants
-4 moonlight flower
-36 nectars
-3 quivers
-82 iron arrows
-1 bow
-6 chipped swords
-2 long spears
-3 axes
-4 daggers

@brasca123

shad12ow · Oct 28, 2017

A.I.M.E-02847 said: ↑

"Good Day Guildmaster Shadow, I finally completed my quest. I took awhile due to the hunting quest. I wanted to make sure everything is safe and detailed. Also, here a barrel of fuel from oil sands. I hope the amount well suffice." I picked up the barrel from my item box as I handed it together with my report

Delta Town|#GE1|E-Ranked|Gather 10 Chickens [20 G| 5 x Eggs]
Delta Town|#GE3|E-Ranked|Fish 5 Speedy Tunas [80G | 1 x Speedy Tuna Fillet]
Desert Mine|#GD2|D-Ranked|Mine 3 Fire Crystals [100G | 1 x Refined Fire Crystal]
Desert Mine|#GD3|D-Ranked|Mine 3 Earth Crystals [100G | 1 x Refined Earth Crystal]
Desert Mine|#GD4|D-Ranked|Mine 50 Copper Ore [60G | 8 x Copper Ingot]
Desert Village|#EE1|E Ranked| Look For Hunting Spot [100 G]

| Location: Aeternus Floating City [Tavern]
| Objective: Preparation for the Quests

After looking to the items I took from the last quest. I encountered a problem of needing test subjects. I need to test the medical items I will create from the healing plants and moonlight flower. Additionally, I wanted to cultivate them in a greenhouse with an automatic system that will monitor its growth. Even If I will busy for a while, the plants will be still ready for harvest. Medical supplies are very important especially if something happens again just like the previous raid. But I will think about that later, the quest takes priority.

I started making a mechanical fishing speargun. Since quest about fishing was written as Speedy Tuna. A faster weapon like a gun will work well with it.

I used the wooden plank I got as a reward from the last quest. I cut one wooden plank into a gun shape barrel. I smoothened it down and applied special chemicals to protect it from rotting. Drilled a hole for the trigger and shaft. Also, tracing the path for the spear. I added the wooden grip with the metal trigger mechanism. I forged a thin metal spear from an old spear. Lastly, attached a rope to its end as I connected it to the metal pulley that will be attached to the speargun.

I look at the finished product and checked every part, to make sure it is not loose. I walked outside the Guild Inn to look for a tree and aimed the speargun. I pulled the trigger as the spear quickly flew away.

BAAM!

The spear stuck to the spear perfectly. I nodded and activated the pulley system. But for some reason, it was too slow for me. I sighed as I return back to my room to increase the speed of the pulley. Maybe, I'll add an option to pull forward and back to me. With this, I can use the speargun as a grappling hook.

After several tests it is ready.
For the scouting of fuel, I could just use my sensors when exploring in the desert. With everything, ready and prepared.

"Bye, Ezero I'll be back soon" I smiled softly and patted Erezo's core just laying on my table. For now, I'm made sure that his core where his A.I. and Operating system are stabilized.

With haste, I ran towards the portal heading to Delta Town.

| Location: Delta Town
| Objective: Fish 5 Speedy Tuna

I arrived late afternoon to the Delta Town. Since the chickens are easier to catch at night when they are resting. I decided to start with the speedy tuna.

I searched for a fishing vessel and found a kind fisherman to let me come with them. As we traveled to the deeper sea.

The sea was a beautiful color and the sky is clear making the weather calm. I took the speargun in the item box as I start searching the sea. I magnified my sights and increased my sensors. The tuna as it named was quite quick but I immediately used my lock-on ability. It keeps track for the Tuna without leaving my sight. As I aimed my speargun and calculated the next direction it will go.

BAAM!!

I quickly pulled the trigger as the spear was released and stab the Tuna. It tried to escape but the spear was embedded tightly on its body. I activated the pulley system as the large tuna is pulled towards me.

"It's is quite hard to hold too." I smiled as I hugged the Tuna in my arms making sure it doesn't escape my grasp. I held it on the deck with one arm and pulled the spear. Then tied its tail with the rope. The kind uncle helped me placed the Tuna in a large cryogenic capsule. It was my spare one for resting, with this size 5 Tuna can be placed inside.

I repeated the steps until I completed 5 tuna.
I decided to fish one more to give as thanks to the fisherman. When a large shark bites the Tuna and tried to pull it deeper to the ocean. Well, it tried but the strength of the shark is not enough to deal with automata.

I grabbed hold of the speargun as I try to pull the shark. I heard a ripping sound as I noticed the rope connecting the spear and pully is slowly breaking apart. I quickly gave the speargun to the fisherman next to me who was worried.

SPLASH!!

I dived into the ocean and swiftly swam towards the shark who was running away. As I passed him and stood in front. He quickly opened his jaw wide to devour me. But I just swiftly moved to his side as I gathered enough strength on my right fist and punched his nose. This stunned the shark as I quickly get the spear and stabbed his throat killing the shark.

The tuna is already shredded to pieces but at least I got a large shark. I slowly jump towards to the boat while carrying the shark on my shoulders.

I placed the shark on the deck. I squeezed out the water in my hair and noticed the shock expression of the fisherman.

"I'm sorry about the tuna but I got a shark, will that be enough payment for your assistance..?" I sadly look towards him feeling guilty about the tuna.

"The Shark is good! Plus, this is own has a lot of meat! And it's fin is quite expensive in the market. I don't fish sharks since they are quite dangerous but thanks for this!!" The Fisherman finally waking up from the stupor. Quickly checked the shark as he looks amazed how cleanly it was killed. "Hey as thanks for this! Why don't you have dinner with us at home! My wife shark dish is good."

"No, I should be the one to say thanks." I bowed to fisherman as we both try to say thanks to each other. Finally ending it as we both laugh.

The sun already was setting when we arrived the port. The light of the sun in the ocean and sky turned it into a beautiful red. I stood there in dazed until I was called by the fisherman.

I followed him towards the market as he sells the shark fins and some other parts. He had left a small portion of shark meat for his family dinner. The dish his wife prepared was absolutely delicious. I ate there and have some social interaction for a while.

| Location: Delta Town
| Objective: Gather 10 Chickens

It was already night and the chickens are resting. I have received an old fishing net from the fisherman. It has holes but I easily fixed it earlier.

I activated my night vision thermal vision, and sonar senses. Night vision allowed me to see in the dark while the Thermal vision allowed me to see heat signatures that living being emits. The sonar was to map my surroundings so I can easily retrace my path.

I found multiple sleeping chickens as I slowly approached them. Took one slowly away from the rest and quickly blocked their beak and feet with tape to avoid alerting the other chickens. I continued doing this for a couple of times.

The chicken struggled as they finally awaken inside the net but there are already secured and unable to move. I completed 10 chickens, the reason I also took this quest was for feathers fletching for the arrows. I was able to gather some large feathers just laying around.

I went towards the portal from Delta Town to the Aeternus Floating City. I left the chickens to my room. Next is to mine some crystals and ore I'm quite interested with.

| Location: Aeternus Floating City
| Objective: Updates

I have been having troubles with the mining quest. Copper ore is a good conductor of electricity. I just need to send electricity and use my sensor to notice the response.

The major problem was this crystal which is fire and earth respectively. They emit this so-called mana with the element they are called it. But I didn't know how to detect this mana and doesn't understand how it works.

Several minutes of researching, I gave up and decided to ask someone on the guild. Then, I heard about the opening of the [Dark merchant stall] and rewards from the Verdant Raid. I left the 10 chickens trapped inside a net. I decide to free them inside a plasma barrier and give them seed I receive from the farmers I save.

I first took a lot to reward I receive. I wondered if I did was good enough to receive this [Portable Mithril Barrier] which will be useful in a fight. Another interesting stuff is crystals and feathers. They have to seem to have elemental attributes which I need to study more.

The dark merchant has lots interesting stuff. Which intrigues me is this called [Curse Core]. Which similar to what Mirea has shown to me. I'm intrigued to this, but what was important was the [Optical Expansion and Locking System]. It can help me solve my problem about mana sensing. A wide smile escaped on my face as I happily skip to the merchant.

I studied the system and seeing it is an add-on to a helmet or goggles. I decide to add it to the visor of my Exoframe. After several minutes of tinkering, I was able to finish it. Now to just test it capabilities on mining.

I also got some items from the yandere bag which I could use.
But I was having a problem with the pet from the flute. It was a spirit type and was pretty scared of me.

"Do you want to come with..?" I kneeled at the Will O' Wisp trying my best to be less intimidating. But it only shivered and ran away hiding in the corner. "Understood, you stay and watch over the chickens."

I walked away and dedicated to finish the quest. I should ask how to feed a spirit and how to take of them. I should also find a name for the Wisp.

| Location: Desert Village
| Objective: Look For Hunting Spot

I entered the portal towards the Desert Village. I looked at the map and analyzed the surroundings. With a satellite, it is easier for me to track my way. But I have to do with my mini-map and the new system install.

For now, I have three objectives. One is the find a hunting spot near the Desert Village while heading to the Desert mine. Two is to find a fuel while at it. And lastly is to arrive at the Desert MIne to start mining all the Crystals and Ores.

I started to walk towards the Desert Mine direction while scouting the area. I noticed the water and checked it properties. I activated my sensors to track some fresh tracks. I noticed footprints in a shape of hooves. I take an image of it as I compare to all the animals with hooves in my database. In just a couple of minutes, it showed the species it belongs to which is a gazelle closely related with a deer. Their meat can be used as a food and have been known as Kosher meaning clean meat.

I followed the tracks as I watched my steps. I saw a herd of gazelles just far away eating some grass. It seems they usually eat to this area. I wrote the coordinates 3 km NE close to the river and included the locations illustrations. I wanted to check their behavior and their schedule. Since they are preys, the predators are highly like to be around. I compiled a written report on when it is to best hunt. Which time to avoid the predator eying the Gazelles.

Finally finishing, I went to look for any Petroleum that is found in oil reservoirs. I need to dig and be lucky enough to found one.

I walk and headed to the Desert Mine but my luck is not good since I could not find any oil reservoir. I could only continue on forward towards the Desert Mine.

| Location: Desert Mine
| Objective: Mine 3 Fire Crystals, 3 Earth Crystal 50 Copper Ore

First I started to mine for the ore. Some of the miners were curious at me since I look different. Others also ask if I need help, but I only shook my head and said I could handle it alone.

I increased my sensors in analyzing the veins in the main. Finally, I found some copper ores as I sent electricity to check its conductibility. I took the [Exoframe] in my item box and activated it. The black metal moves to my body as it covered me like an armor. The system starts to activate as new settings are added due to the [Optical Expansion and Locking System]. I started to strike the vein aiming directly to copper ore as I quickly grabbed it. With this method, I continued mining and searched for more copper vein as the vein is depleted.

Finally, I completed by 50 copper ores and an additional one. I looked behind me seeing the shock face of the miners. I just bowed towards them and search for the fire and earth crystals.

The Fire Crystals are said to be found in the hottest part of the mine. I activated my thermal vision to analyze the hottest location. As I reach the objective, the temperature here was high and hot. But it didn't bothered me at all due to my cooling system.

I swiftly activated my mana sensor in the new system which checked the surrounding. I saw a strange red light different from the rest. I started mining it gently since fire crystals will explode if not carefully mined. I looked at the fire crystal with bright red color as it emitted a high temperature. The Exoframe protected my hands so I can easily hold. I was able to take 4 Fire Crystals. I'm gonna keep one for research and testing.

Next, I walk away and used the mana sensor to search for the earth crystal. I looked at the location with plenty of rocks. As I checked every rock, I sense mana to some of them. I mined it and checked its hardness. It didn't break as I used all the strength of my suit. Seeing I found the Earth crystal, I started mining the rest to complete 3 earth crystal while keeping one.

I went a bit east from the desert mine and saw the river. I used it to guide me to the Aeternus Floating City since the map shown it passing to the city. As I walk leisurely watching the scenery. Something caught my eye as I swiftly ran to the location close to the river.

I found an oil sand which can be upgraded into crude oil. I took a closer looked at it which was similar to a clay but it contains bitumen. I took 2 barrels of it and decided to process it into refined fuel in my room.

Equipment created with low durability:

- Speargun (broken rope and pulley need fixing)
Items taken:

- 1 Barrel of processed fuel from oil sand
- 1 Fire Ore
- 1 Earth Ore
- 1 Copper Ore

@shad12ow
Click to expand...

Delta Town|#GE1|E-Ranked|Gather 10 Chickens [20 G| 5 x Eggs]
Delta Town|#GE3|E-Ranked|Fish 5 Speedy Tunas [80G | 1 x Speedy Tuna Fillet]
Desert Mine|#GD2|D-Ranked|Mine 3 Fire Crystals [100G | 1 x Refined Fire Crystal]
Desert Mine|#GD3|D-Ranked|Mine 3 Earth Crystals [100G | 1 x Refined Earth Crystal]
Desert Mine|#GD4|D-Ranked|Mine 50 Copper Ore [60G | 8 x Copper Ingot]
Desert Village|#EE1|E Ranked| Look For Hunting Spot [100 G]
====================================================================
"Oh? Oil sand? Fascinating....Very fascinating indeed!" exclaimed Shadow as he showed her a very pleased face at what she had.
He snapped his finger and then a dozen of his mechanical spider came out of the counter and quickly brought the barrel into the backroom.
"Much obliged, Aime. As for you report....Hmm....nothing is wrong. Perfectly done. You know, after I read your report, I am reminded of my old days of adventuring. It somehow lit my own adventuring spirit. Exploring the wild and such. Hahaha~"
A small satchel was then placed on top of the counter.
"Here you go. All 460 Gold and also a slip for you to retrieve the item from the quartermaster. Take care now~"
OOC: Sorry for being late!

AliceShiki · Oct 28, 2017

Renzy said: ↑

I went inside the guild hall. It was already night when I arrived. There are already few people when I looked around. I went straight to the receptionist desk where my appointed receptionist Hikari-san was. "Excuse me, Hikari-san" I called her. "I finished all the quest that i take and here are the proofs". I take out 13 orc ears including the orc leader's, 20 rabbit corpses that are still fresh, The moonlight flower and a jar filled with 10 nectars. I only take the weapons of the bandits as proof.
"Also here's my detailed report" i said while I handed her my report papers.

Great Plain|#SE3|E-Ranked|Slay 10 Orcs [100 G]
Great Plain|#SE6|E-Ranked|Slay 20 Wandering Rabbits [50 G]
Great Plain|#GE1|E-Ranked|Gather 10 Moonlight Flower & 10 Healing Plants [50G | 1 x Rejuvenation Potion]
Great Plain|#SD3|D-Ranked|Slay 3 Orc Leaders [150 G]
Great Plain|#SD7|D-Ranked|Slay 5 Bandits [150 G]
Great Plain|#GD2|D-Ranked|Gather 10 Nectar [120 G | 1 x Butterfly Honey]

In the morning after finishing my plans, I told the innkeeper that I might be back very late at night . I started my journey. I chose a route where less adventurers are passing through going to the great plains. Delta Town and Great Plains are not far apart. An elf like myself wont make a sweat reaching there.

After walking a few kilometers away from the town. I already gathered the needed number of healing plants that can be casually seen out there. I gather as many as I can when i see them. And then after reaching the Great Plains, I can see many rabbits far away eating grasses. These rabbits preferred to eat alone and becase of the very wide grassland they don't care about the other rabbits around. I talked to myself "I'm so faraway they can't detect my presence. with my bow and arrows, its a piece of cake." 10 mins after, I manage to kill the more than the required amount. I pick the corpses and put it in my item bag. I can cook some of them later.

Then I went to the forest where I can see traces of orcs. Orcs looks for food in the day. I use the extra healing plants, ground them and smeared it to my body. Orcs have a great sense of smell they can easily smell you. Using plants to cover yourself is good when ambushing. I made a small campfire and roast some rabbit meat after skinning and skewering them. I leave them be while I'm waiting atop of a tree where I blend in waiting for ambush. Minutes later, 4 orcs and an orc leader can be seen.

(Orc leader): "What's that smell. It's smell so good."
(Orc A): Boss there might be some humans here camping."
(Orc leader): "You might have a point. You two search the surroundings."

He points two of the orcs and ordered them. Then they came back fast.

(Orc B): "Boss we find some roasted rabbits there and its still newly roasted."
(Orc leader): "Let's eat them and ambush them later. You two continue searching for those humans and report back immediatelly, we will leave you some shares."

Two orcs were searching on a certain direction. Now that there are 3 left, I grab the oppurtunity. I Aim my bow to the Orc Leaders head. "Psshh". The arrow accurately hits the head of the orc leader, while the two orcs are happily eating and haven't found out, I already aim the both of them and the succeeding arrows fly out. 3 of the orcs fell at the same time. I cut their right ears as proof that I killed them and I put them in the item box. I hid the bodies of the 3 in the bush and covered the ground with earth that has stains of blood. I waited for the two orcs that might come back.

Another few minutes later they've arrived and was confused that the other orcs are already gone. One of the orc said that they might have already went back to their camp.

And so I followed them but before they have reach the camp. I shoot them in the head and killed them both using my bow. I cut off their right ears like I did last time.

The camp I saw had also have few orcs. Thses orcs are orc bandits, they might have human weapons and equipments. There are two orc guards in front of the gates and few orcs eating their lunch. Whhen I headcount them the total of orcs are 9 including 2 orc leaders. "This is just the right amount of orcs I needed to kill to complete my quest" as i thought.

I got hungry when I saw those orcs eating so I ate biscuits that i purchase in town. I waited for those orcs who are finish eating to go to their tents. I killed the two guards first with my bow and silently went inside the camp using my shadowsteps skill. This skill made me invisible but slows my speed. I'm being careful as I went on. One by one i killed them using my mithril knife. These guys never noticed me becase I still smelled like a plant. It took me 2-3 hours to kill them because of those waiting game. I cut their ears again like what I always do. While I was searching for equipments i saw 3 sets of quivers of Iron arrows. "Thank you, thank you." I told myself. The arrows that I used to kill the rabbits and the first batch of orcs are just self made arrows. Now that there are plenty of arrows that i can use, I put them in my item box including chipped swords, already used spear, axes and some leather sets of armor. There are also edible food that I need for cooking. I washed myself up using my water magic and erased the smeared plants. I happily went outside of the camp and then was shocked but I didn't let them see my expression. A group of people were just waiting outside glaring at me.

I asked them "who are you guys and why are you here?"

(Bandit A): We found dead orcs along the way and found this camp.
(Bandit B ): "You are asking us who are we? We are the only known bandit group in the Great plains"
(Me): "And so? What can I do for you?"
(Bandit A): "Are you the one that killed them?"
(Bandit B): "Hand over those loots you got there. I know that you killed those f*cking orcs"
(Bandit C): "Boss look at those ears. I think he's an elf, maybe we can sell this elf to a slave dealer for a very high price." whispered the guy
(Bandit D): "Why don't you just surrender to us?"
(Me): "hmmph. Trying to trick me?" I can easily hear the guy that whispered because of my sharp sense of hearing. I immediately aim my bow to the guy who whispered and killed him.

(Bandit A): "You f*king bastard. Kill him!!!" enraged he pull his sword and dash straight to me.
(Me): "Not a chance" I said it while smirking. I cast a speed enchant to myself and I use my magic skill while running away "Ice arrow!!".

The arrow hit the first guy who is much nearer to me then he got slowed. I did a side step and I aim for his head. "Psshh". Instant kill. Then I use another skill "Rapid fire" I hit the two besides their leader. Arrows are hitting in their bodies. They will die of blood loss. The only one left is their leader. The leader was flabbergasted and he tried to run away and I said "Where are you going now?" I use my other skill Radiant shot. Before the arrow hit the man, I already turned away from him and started looting their corpses. When i check them they are so poor that they don't even have a cent. They even boasted they are widely known. I laughed "hahaha so weak". I organized the stuff that i need the most and put them in the item bag.

I rested at the side and cooked some rabbit meat. I ate them alone happily. I already manage to complete 5 of my quest in just a day. Ranked E quest doesnt take too long to do. I rested after eating but I slept.

When I woke up it was already night time perfect time for finding the Moonlight flower. As far as I know the moonlight flower can only be found where the moon shines brightly at night because its easily spotted when rays of the moonlight reflects from its petals. This wouldn't be a problem.

I set out and went into the biggest flower field in the Great Plains. The scenery in the night is very beautiful. Heavens didn't leave me as I easily found the flower. I also collected huge amount of nectar there while looking for it.

-21 rabbit corpses
-13 orc meat
-42 healing plants
-4 moonlight flower
-36 nectars
-3 quivers
-82 iron arrows
-1 bow
-6 chipped swords
-2 long spears
-3 axes
-4 daggers

@brasca123
Click to expand...

Great Plain|#SE3|E-Ranked|Slay 10 Orcs [100 G]
Great Plain|#SE6|E-Ranked|Slay 20 Wandering Rabbits [50 G]
Great Plain|#GE1|E-Ranked|Gather 10 Moonlight Flower & 10 Healing Plants [50G | 1 x Rejuvenation Potion]
Great Plain|#SD3|D-Ranked|Slay 3 Orc Leaders [150 G]
Great Plain|#SD7|D-Ranked|Slay 5 Bandits [150 G]
Great Plain|#GD2|D-Ranked|Gather 10 Nectar [120 G | 1 x Butterfly Honey]
====================
"Welcome back..." *peeks at his card* "Zyren-san!

Hikari will take a look at the report!"

*shows a troubled face*

"Eto... Hikari is happy that Zyren-kun did things without trouble, but...

The quest asks for 10 Moonlight Flowers, not only one...

But Zyren-kun misunderstood it, and did get the healing plants, so...

Hikari will discount half of the reward for that quest, please be more careful in the future!" >.<

"Your reward will be of 595G, 1x Rejuvenation Potion and 1x Butterfly Honey.

Good luck on the next quests!!!" ^^)/

HELLiCOPter · Oct 29, 2017

Desert Village|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 20 Large Desert Mouse [75 G]
Desert Village|#SD2|D-Ranked|Slay 10 Gray Desert Fox [85 G]
Great Plain|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 10 Lizardmen [90 G]
Great Plain|#SD2|D-Ranked|Slay 8 Rampaging Rhinos [90 G]
Treacherous Port|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 5 Bandits [150 G]
=============================================================

I left guild , transformed in my battle form ... Focus , focus ... you need to focus. Unknowingly I woke up when I bumped in the tree. I came to the Great Plains. Smells of fresh grass and nature made me alive.... I love sleeping here , but I came to work. So lets start.
Great Plain|#SD2|D-Ranked|Slay 8 Rampaging Rhinos [90 G]
"Rampaging rhinos" - well I never saw them , but it said they are bulky and agressive animals. So I knew what I need to do ... I climbed on the tallest tree I found and started to shout in my animal language.
-HEY ! YOU STINKY CHUNKS OF FAT CALLED RHINOS!!! I WANT TO KNOW , ARE YOU REALLY DUMD AS IT IS WRITTEN IN THE BOOKS.
It did not even passed a second when I saw a cloud of dust to the south.
-Here they are!!!!
-Lets try them ...
I jumped from the tree and landed in the bush. They stopped under that tree ... they clearly where talking to each other. Well I cant understand them well ... but some words were at least familiar.
-Who was that , big bro? Who were calling us for fight!!!
-I dont know but I will break his neck with my hoofs.
They were too busy with talking to each other , so I made myself open.
-Hey!!! You ...small one... have you seen anyone here? Small creature like you must know about that animal with such strong voice?
-RHINO 1 FLIED AWAY!!!-
Small creature which they called now hit him with giant fist. After that they saw that small creature became like them in size even more it actually became bigger than them.
-NOW WHO IS SMALL!!!!
Only then I felt something in my side. One of them actually injured me... I tried to fight with them , but this form was actually a bad decision . They are big , but they are fast also... So I stood there like a big doll with holes. I shrink myself and ... Giant body of the rhino slammed on my head.
-HA HA !!! Feel this , you small ... hey stop .STOP!!!!
-Bro are alright?! - asked another rhino.
But he got no reply , because I made a hole inside the belly of that animal who tried to tackle me down. I ate part of his spine. They have no defense under the belly , thanks for him I saw that. Well ... then lets start. I prepared my claws ,then looked at the remaining six.
-Chaos consumes all.- I became covered in fire , then there just stood nothing....
-WHERE IS THAT SMALL!!!BE ON GUARD ALL OF YOU!!!!
One who tried to warn others died first , giant black claws penetrated his skull .
-WHATS HAPPENING!!!!
-HOW HE DIED?
-SHUT UP AND GROUP UP!!!
But the fourth one actually tried to run , others three saw the giant shadow on his back when he was cut down , he was in such fear so he actually did not see that he lost some of his insides. Blood trail , he lost too much blood in twenty meters after he started to run.
-We need a plan! Fast!!
Only then they heard a crunching sounds , they looked at source and stood in fear. Black something was eating the brain of their fallen friends.
-Well , yummy , but still ... i think this is enough. Then they saw a strange thing. This animal grew new teeth on his mouth...
-Interesting your horns are actually helped me to develop my teeth ... i need to test them out.
Then one of rhinos started to cry in agony. There was bite marks on his leg.
-He bit me.
-Well your physique very tough , well at least I can bit through your skin.
Then there was a explosion. Leg and part of the rhino who was bitten by me was torn apart. Well thanks to the small exploding which I ate in the raid. I injected some exploding syrup inside but result is fascinating. I even damaged all of them because they groupped up. Two dead , one is too dizzy to fight. My tail with upgraded spikes was now inside his eye. I aim for the vital part,his brain , I gift you fast death .
5 dead , 3 to go. At least I know where they are graze. So I prepared traps and I will return back to them after I will done.
Great Plain|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 10 Lizardmen [90 G]
Lizardmen , well sometimes I hate killing this creatures. They also create families and they are trying their best to create community. I found a village of lizardmen down in the river two moons ago and actually they are good friends. I found a good old friend Mrakiki , he was happy to see me , because I brought some fish to him and his pregnant wife.
-Is there any tribes who trying to attack you?
-No , no , my friend , but Mrakiki knows why you came to me. You searching for blood and my big head is searching for the blade or like in this time for claws.
-You village head have problems?
-Yes , wait here I will summon head he will tell you . Mirasha , head will come please sit with Eri.
Mirasha is the wife of Mrakiki. She is lizardwoman with blue scales and green dots under her eyes.
-Hello , Eri . How your life?
-Good . Hows the child?
-Shaman says , he will be a strong boy.
-Thats good.
Then I saw an old lizardman at the entrance of the house.
-Let the water help and the moon protect your village , head.
He just nodded at my words and told his story.
-Bunch of lizardmen are actually terrorizing the others with magic artifact they have stolen . Now the hold in fear three villages and head thinks that they will be next.
-Outlander , we need help . We want you to takeor destroy the artifact and kill all who used it.
-What i will got from this?
-We lizardman proud of the spears we make.
-I dont need weapons as you see.
-Then what about this ...
I heard a unknown voice.
-Shaman ? But this orb.
-Head. No problem , moon is happy too help Dreamchaser.
-Dreamchaser? - I repeated strange nickname which that strange lizardman with feathers in his nose gave me.
-I am Forgotten Tide , dreamchaser , you may call me like this. Those heretics are abusing power of water to make themselves stronger , to abuse weak ones. Moon knew that dreamchaser will come , Lady moon knows your mother.
When I heard about my mother , I felt a spine chill on my back.
-I got it . Well I am on my way .... I run with all my speed.
-Tide? What have you done?
-I dont know head , but his mother is really a scary person. Even the moon goddess said to me to gift this orb if he will reject the job which will be given to him.
-Interesting.
-MEANWHILE I WAS RUNNING TO THAT PLACE -
-I dont want to meet my mom! I dont want to meet my mom! I dont want to meet my mom! I dont want to meet my mom!
I need to end this task fast and leave this place , but that was not so fast as I thought... because it was clearly a fortress. A fortress for twenty lizardman ... hey you know you are going too far?
-Yep , empty halls , this building is too big for them as base. I looked inside all empty halls , they were filled with gold and other things. They took everything...
Then I felt sense of danger. Huge tentancle destroyed the wall and tried to grab me. I jumped , but that thing was faster than me... it got me. Air , i need air ....
-Well , well , well boys look! Who we have here.... a little coward who tried to sneak.
-Uncle now you have done it wrong...
-Oh then who are you ?
-I am Amy... his friend.
-HA HA HA !!! Then what i need to be afraid of little girl? From you?
-No you must be afraid of him , because he is pissed off when someone call him small or little.
-What?
I really was , pissed off. My body started to boil and creating the air I needed. I took a deep breath and using my tail as harpoon made myself free.
-Catch him!!!
I transformed into the Chaos form. I need time so I made tentacles run after me and my ash clones ...
-Amy? What he is using? So many tentacles and with such such quantity why he is not depleted of mana. Stop , artifact.
-RUN , RUN ! You little cat ...
That lizardman is really ***hole.
I cant get close to him ... Even in this form , I cant. Now he is still running after my clones , but still ... Wait , maybe I dont need to run... I stopped all the tentacles destroyed my clones ... Then I took a deep breath and cloud of smoke went out from my mouth...
-He used tentacles to create a wind and clear the surroundings...
-And thats all what you can do?
I jumped straight to him ... He tried to create a tentacle as always , but I slashed his arm off.
-What? What have you done?
-Look around you... Water around him was black.
-You can control only pure water , I saw it when you destroyed my clones. Ash mixed in , so you could not create a new one. Other lizardman tried to ran away , but I got them all. Some of them tried to resist , but all they put hope in their leader and when he actually died , they have become just a victims of my claws.... I ate that artifact which helped that bastard to control water. Then I returned back to Mrakiki , he said that head and shaman left the orb to him. I took and ran away as fast as I could from that place.
Desert Village|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 20 Large Desert Mouse [75 G]
Desert Village|#SD2|D-Ranked|Slay 10 Gray Desert Fox [85 G]
Smell of the sand. Well it is pretty good when you dont have eyes , so sand does not bother you. I found a village pretty fast , they had some problems with mices and because I am cat , thats call of the nature. Well of course I thought that Large Desert Mouse will be Large , but I was surprised at first. I am natural enemy of mices , so that job suited me perfectly ... I snapped his necks with ease ... I stopped when quantity of killed mices became 20 , of course then I caught some for myself.
Then I came out from that small village to the open desert , I left Amy at the plains because here is too hot for her. I need to find some foxes ... So I dig myself in the sand , my bone head helped me to merge with the surroundings perfectly.... (You can look at my battle form in the Adventure card)
-I waited for such long time ... Two hours three hours ... Then I felt something running ... Fox ran near me ... My claw was ready I penetrated that animal throught his torso with my long tail... I caught four like this. Then it became boring... 4 out of 10. Well then I started to wander across this giant sandbox. I made myself looking that I am actually close to death , when I fell on my stomach without moving I saw how foxes started to move. First always the hungriest ... He bit throught my skin and rip part of my leg .... Others felt meat and blood and start to run to my body ... So many teeth , I nearly lost myself in this pain...
When they actually all stopped , because spikes from my body killed them. I ate two bodies to return in normal form , still I got 10 foxes. I left desert and came back to Great Plains ,where I found two rhinos. I still need one to end my quest , because in one trap was a pregnant female I let her go. I will catch one later.I still need to go to the port.
Treacherous Port|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 5 Bandits [150 G]
Humans... They dont see me so dangerous as they should... They even breed in my presence. I killed them first... Female was clearly surprised when male on top of her died ... but I clearly did not see any kind of sadness inside her eyes. She wanted to kill him to , when she pushed his body from her and took all the money I snapped her neck with my tail. Some people came for noise and cries of that woman , but what they was just a small cat and bunch of coins in blood... I just jumped on the barrel and walk away trought the hole in the fence.
I need to find more ...
This place is filthy , smell of alcholor , cigarretes and other things... made me to hurry , I wanted to leave this place. So when I saw the man in the shadows with a dagger in the mouth I knew I found my client. I jumped down and sneaked behind him , but I was surprised when he tried to cut me.
-Did he knows that I am not normal cat?
-Hey kitty dont try to sneak behind me.
-MEow!!! - I answered - he dont know ...
Then my tail penetrated his skull form behind. I aimed for the neck , but he tried to protect it , so I changed direction in last moment. When I felt something flying to me from behind... It was a dagger , but when it hit my iron hide it just stopped. I looked at the roof and saw a man.
-SHIT!!!!
He tried to run , he even thought that I lost him , but he had such face when I meowed behind him. I cut his neck and left his body in blood. He tried to stop blood , that s why I cut off his fingers...
Last bandit died in his slumber... He was drunk , so he was easiest prey from this five. I bit gently his neck and injected a poison inside his organism. On my way back to the guild I found a rhino in the hole which I dug... I killed using water , I knew that they swim like rocks.

@shad12ow I jumped on the desk before the receptionist and left a paper with my report , only then I saw that I left a blood trial behind me on the guild floor. I jumped down and started to clean the mess which I created.

Naraku · Oct 29, 2017

1. Great Plain|#GE1|E-Ranked|Gather 10Moonlight Flower & 10 Healing Plants [50G | 1 x Rejuvenation Potion]
2. Great Plain|#GE2|E-Ranked|Gather Moonlight Water [50G | 1 x Bottled Purified Moonlight Water]
3. Gallant Mine|#GE2|E-Ranked|Mine Wind Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Wind Crystal]
4. Great Plain|#GD1|D-Ranked|Gather 5 Rainbow Slime Gel [120G | 1 x Rainbow Gel]
5. Ant Nest|#GD1|D-Ranked|Bring 3 Ant Corpses [110 G | 1 x Arachne Silk]
6. Desert Mine|#GD2|D-Ranked|Mine 3Fire Crystals [100G | 1 x Refined Fire Crystal]

Entering the the guild, Liya went to the receptionist's desk and said with a happy tone, contrary to the last time, it was quite a bright smile.

"Hikari, here is my report, it went well I think."

Well, it was more than just worthwhile, he earned money, a certain interest in herbalism, and a sort of plan that may be able to completely 'heal' Cinere from his curse, why shouldn't he be joyous ?

Descending from Aeternus, the first thing Liya did was going to Delta Town and search God of Hope's Shrine, or more commonly said Elpides's Shrine, why ? For a simple reason, beg to him, or at least pray so maybe he can hear his supplication...
Wandering pointlessly in the tow, he searched everywhere until he found... the Temple, made quite simply, the persons entering in it are nothing special, commoners, knights, priest, thiefs... no matter who enter, there's nothing about the treatment.
Looking at this, he felt relivied, he probably won't need to hide or deceive them so they do'nt realize his identity, calmly, he intruded himself in it, and just followed strangers, each of them were either going to the public or private room... in the latter, they needed to donate at least 1 Gold.

[Excuse me, may I take a private room.]

He asked to priest nearby with a kind and benevolent smile, the priest accepted the ten golds that Liya gave, most only donated the minimum, he did ten better, why would he refuse ?
Guiding him at a private praying room, he told him, letting him alone in this white and pure room with Elpides's statue which is an old man with a short white beard and is currently bald, he seemed like an uncle, a severe uncle who is overworked to death.

[Hmpf.]

Sneering at this statue, he kneeled and closed his eyes and began praying with a disatisfied feeling, his smile wasn't at the least happy, on the contrary, it was twisted by his spite.

[Elpides, come I want to talk.]

- - -

Tsk, another familiar killing intent... let's see, Delta Town... my shrine...?
In a private room of course, then who is it ?
Servant of the Fiend ? What is he doing... it might be interesting... he wants to ask me something with such a feeling ? Well well well... l will respond to him later.

- - -

Two hours later, Liya was gritting his teeth in anger, nothing happenned, bloodlust emited unconciously from his body... he sighed and talked to himself in annoyance...

[Look like I will need to come back later...]

Sighing, he stood up and decided to leave the room when a priest entered, his smile wasn't the same as before, it was disdainful, yet jealous. His voice was cold and frustrated by this young man who didn't do anythign to him, at least directly.

«Our benevolent God sent a message, he wants you to come back to one of his shrine in five or seven days, he may respond to you after some days of waiting.»

His tensed muscles relaxed, he thought he was recognized, it would have been awful, however, it was a good new, at least this damned god will talk to him in five days, with a awkward smile, he thanked this priest and left the shrine, leaving Delta Town.
He decided to travel this way, from Delta Town to the Gallant Mine passing by Frontier Village, following the rivers and doing the quests he needs to do in the Great Plains at the same time, then to the Ant Nest from Gallant Mine, passing to the Desert Mine to complte hsi quests, this way, he should get everything done easily and safely.

- - -

At the riverside, under the moon, he was walking quietly, sometimes bending his back to pick up Moonlight Flower or Healing Plant, under the starlight, the Moonlight Flower was quite pretty, blue like a saphir and glowing when light fall on it, it's quite easy to notice them.

[Maybe I should gather hundred of them...]

Somehow, Liya seemed to have an inconsiderable love toward those flowers, it's been two hours since he began walking toward the Gallant Mine, he already picked up Ten Moonlight Flowers, however... he doesn't stop... if that's continue, he will be tempted to take far too much of them...

[I should learn Herbalism.]

Yes, just because he liked the way this flower bloomed under the moonlight, he began to feel interested in Herbalism, well, it's a pecular reason, Liya has never been that interested in something, he began magic and fighting because of Cinere or his 'father'... He never did anything else than that, so maybe Herbalism might be fun.

[Right, I should also pick up the Healing Plants... after I finish those two quests, I should start running...]

When he will come back from the Gallant Mine, he will try to get the Rainbow Slime Gel, apparently, it should be deeply located in water... oh well... it should be alright, his brother is far colder than a bit of water, physically talking at least... he doesn't think badly of him.
Snatching a few Healing Plant from the ground, he felt quite good, alright, so now, since he is going to run the fastest he can, after sighing he said to himself, a bit reticent...

[I would like to take more but... I think that 30 Moonlight Flowers are enough... and 20 Healing Plants too...]

It's not just enough... he just took too much, streching his legs and arms, he prepared himself to run... if he doesn't stop even once, he should be able to get easily to the Gallant Mine in two day.
Pushing slightly the dirt with his feet, he suddenly leaped and his body went far away, running fastly, the ground sometimes wasn't enough resilient and cracked or just sinked a bit at his steps...

His speed is almost as fast as a wolf, right now, he is using Wind Magic to accelerate, he doesn't really need to do that, if it continues, he might only take one day to reach the Gallant Mine, it will be outrageous enough.
A shame, at high speed, he doesn't have a good control of his body, otherwise, it could have been useful in battle... thinking about that, he remembered the times he crushed into walls because of this speed...

- - -

One day later, Liya was eating in Frontier Village, there was nothing special in this village, except the lake, it was soon night and strangely the began glowing under the moonlight, just like the flowers... well, let's finish some quests.
In the end, he decided to finish all Great Plain's quest this night, some Rainbow's Slimes are deep within the lake and the Moonlight Water, well obviously... he will be plunging in it, why waste this opportuny ?
Removing his armor and wearing casual clothes, he jumped in the water and dived deeply in it, the water flowed smoothly, swimming toward the deptg, Liya just though, feeling quite at ease while his body felt the cold liquid touching him.

'It's quite comfortable.'

After some dozen of seconds, he finally reached the depth, as he watched in front of him, he felt stunned, there were dozen of slimes unmoving yet glowing with a rainbow color, it was beautiful.
Well... They just asked for the gel, so it's alright if he doesn't kill them, he will just take the gel, only the half of their body... three of them lost a part of their body, still, it's better than dying...

He submerged from the water and began using Wind Magic to dry himself... or after taking 3 Bottles of Moonlight Water, he began running toward the Gallant Mine, he will take another day to reach the mine, so let's not waste time here.

Once again, his body disappeared and leaped himself, racing toward his goal...

- - -

Unexpectly, in half a day, he entered the East Barrier Mountains by the Galant Pass, all he needed to was to follow the road, and considering that there were a lot of bends, he couldn't go at full speed, so he just ran normally speaking... it can already be counted as an oustanding speed... he was probably as fast as a horse this time
Well... he still has troubles controlling his body... but at least, he can turn by taking support on a rock that may tremble a little when Liya put a feet on it to run...
After three hours of searching, turning around, he finally found the Gallant Mine and sighed of annoyance.

[How bothering it was, now that I am here... hm... there doesn't seem to be people... perfect.]

The Gallant Mine was desert, so perfect... as for now, let's search a pickaxe, if there's no pickaxe here, he wouldn't understand why, this is a mine, so, there's probably pickaxes hiding somewhere... otherwise he will probably be at the wrong place...
Entering the mine he found a broken pickaxe...

[...well... if you stuck the pieces of woods together, it should get better...]

The iron wasn't damaged, it was only the wood supporting it, using Earth Magic, he tried to make a weird sticky mud so it can stick together... uhm... let's put a bit of Water or Snow with it... it might work better... hmm... that seems... to temporary work...?

[...if that breaks I will just put the iron on my staff...]

Hm... then, he just wandered in the Mine... following the wall, he searched for Wind Crystal, of course, while he was doing that, he was using Dark Magic to disappear in the shadows... because there's a lot of dangerous monsters around here like Elementals...
...Sensing them, he used the roads that seemed the safer... gulping after seeing an Ice Elemental, who passed near to him, he felt a bit terrified by the amount of mana he got... of course, Cinere has even more but he is a exception, so when he sees people with half or a quarter of Cinere's mana reserve, he felt that these people are monster among humans... to him his brother is THE exception... anyway, looking at the Ice Elemental, he felt glad that he was good at Dark Magic otherwise he would have been detected a long time ago...
After seeing his back leave, he felt better... It was even colder than Cinere... not that much though.
Looking at where he come from, Liya wanted to curse, this is probably two wind crystal in the wall... he approached, let's take them quickly while it's not dangerous, using the pickaxe, he dug in the wall, after a dozen of hit, he got one... alright, the next... he dug out the next with more ease than the last one...

However... he turned back and saw the Lesser Ice Elemental, he bowed respectfully then disappeared in the shadows like earlier, without hesitation, he used Wind Magic and ran the fastest he could while insulting fate, he got two on three... neverthless...
Ice spikes began to fly toward him... the ice elemental was probably feeling insulted by the person who intruded in his place and bowed to him after stealing him, who wouldn't be mad ?

[How lucky...]

He avoided by sidestepping and rolling on the ground and continued to run in a straight line... when arrived at an intersection, he saw...a Wind Crystal, well... sure why not ? He dug it out while worrying that the elemental may come back... then the pickaxe broke...

[Well... it was perfect I guess...? Let's just take the the metal, it may be useful...]

Now that he has the Three Wind Crystal, he decided to run the fastest he could toward... the Desert Mine, it's going to be quite long, well at least... all he needs to do is to go in a straight line, and using the Magic <Haste>, he may be able to reach the Desert Mine in two days and the Ant Nest in half a day... it would mean that he won't rest four days in a row.
Well, it's only four days, after all.

- - -

Two days later, he entered the desert, no, he was still at the Great Plain, but he was thinking about how to be fast in the desert... because of the sand, he might not be able to run and trips instead, sand is just too easy to move so if he tries to run, his two legs might sink in the sand and he will lose time.

[...will that work...?]

Orally expressing his doubts, he began to create a frail earth pillar under his feet and... began lifting himself up... five meters... ten meters... twenty meters... he looked at the ground and felt a bit odd, if he jumps he won't necessary die, but it will be quite annoying to put himself together.
He sighed... and take his pillar as a support to leap himself and then, he uses <Levitate> to keep the speed and somehow the height...
And this is how... he will keep up with his insane speed.

- - -

After some hours, he arrived at the Desert Mine and easily found a pickaxe this time, the dunes were maybe palatial, it was maybe hot... but it was easy to pass...

[Well let's find the Fire Crystal.]

At least, here there were no monsters, all he needed to do was to find the Fire Crystals then leave, but his skin was sweaty and his throat dried, and he was also a bit hungry... well, he ate before entering the desert, neverthless it wasn't that much.
After finishing digging out three Fire Crystal from the mine, he began going toward the Ant Nest with the same strategy as earlier, by |flying| of course...

Easely arriving at the Ant Nest, all he needed to do was finding the left corpses, three corpse, how hard should it be ? And if he doesn't find any corpses, all he needed to do was to kill three of them and quickly stock them in the Item Box, knifes and hidden thank to the Dark Magic, and since there's no mage, they won't even be able to feel magical waves coming from him.
Searching around the Nest by turning around the patrols, he sometimes saw the Ant fighting among themselves and waited to see if that went as far as killing... and it's almost... all he needed to do was to influence a bit the match, using Dark Magic to induce a bit of fury in the winner's mind.

Trying this, it worked, they made weird sounds after killing it.

«Kriieeekkk !»
«Kraaa.»
«Kriekrie.»

He didn't understand a thing except maybe take care of the corpse ?
After doing that, others Ant and began fighting with the killer, they killed each other... just like this, so... he wanted to venge the dead, huh ?
While they were minding probably their families matters, Liya still invisble just stocked the three corpses and decided to leave, with as much ease as he entered.

[Well, I did everything I needed to do... now, let's go to Delta Town.]

It's been four days, and if he go at his fastest, he will need two days, so it's alright since he is supposed to go there at the seven days... he sighed and well... what else could he do except hurrying to find something to eat ?

- - -

Two days later, he arrived at Delta Town, hungry and a bit dirty, he didn't sleep since six days, the first thing he did was going to the hostel and give 30 gold without even considering what were the price, by luck, he gave too much.
Thank to that, they gave him one of their most delicious yet loaded plate, it was a Boar Warrior's Steak, scrambled eggs and slime sauce, he licked his lips and thanked the servor without hesitation.

[Thank you for serving me.]

Beginning to eat the steak, he rubbed his chin and wondered what he should do and what Elpide wants, no, he should think about what he can exchange for freeing his brother, it's the most important right now.
Well, no matter how much he thinks about, he won't be possibly able to know what a God wants.
After realizing that it was pointless, he continued to eat and then entered his bedroom to have a nice and long sleep...

Waking up, he went to the bathroom and used the bowl of water to wash himself, afterwards, he equipped himself with a simple leather armor and went to the shrine, feeling uneasy, his body was stiff and still exhausted from all this work.
The same priest welcomed him with a bitter smile and guided him to the same private room, once again, Liya gave 10 golds even if this time he didn't ask anything, he still gave.

Looking at the free money he got, the priest left with a slight smile, then with a sigh, Liya said with a sorrowful and disappointed tone.

[Even priest are obsessed with money...]

Annoyed, he kneeled and heard an old voice talking, echoing in his mind, this voice seemed curious and slightly unwelcoming.

- - - -

<Servant of the Fiend, what are you doing here ?>
[Firstly, Elpides, oh mighty God of Hope, my name is Liya... Liya Lorem since recently, brother of Cinere Lorem]

Sarcastically rebuting him, Liya didn't hesitate one second to correct his error which angered him, meanwhile, he didn't even notice that the world became white and nothing else than him and this hateful bald uncle who were there.

<Brother ? Hmm... alright, then what do you want concretly ?>
[Why else than that would I be here ? Can't you be less stubborn ?]

At this moment, Elpides didn't seem to understand what he meant, he furrowed his brows and said with a perplexed tone, even if he was rude to him, he didn't care, his killing intent was well hidden, meaning that he was already restraining himself... however, did he thought that he could hide this from a god ?
How foolish.
Since he was restraining himself from exploding, he won't scold him from being rude or something like this, he will stay reasonable and notice the respect he had for him, if he didn't have any, he wouldn't have restrained himself, isn't it ?

<What do you mean by that ?>
[You're kidding me ? The curse you put on him is still plenty active !]

Suddenly, the look on the god became astonished, no wonder they still hate him, the curse is still there... he forgot to undo it, it was what he realized.
To himself, he always thought about one thing everytime he cursed someone, after five years I would free him from this despair, yes, this is what he thought. However, none of the persons he cursed survived more than one or two year... except Cinere who is cursed since more than five years...

Internally speaking, Elpides never understood why those people didn't survivre more than two years, why all of them became crazy, what you see is just the hell you spreaded, also,I will steal your hope during five years, you deprived them from their lifes and hopes, so why is it wrong ?
If you see hope, you will see despair with no specific reason, your perception of life will be twisted.

All of you deserved this, but why don't you bear with it ?

Despite his thoughts, he still didn't understood why they never survived, all they had to do was to lock themselves in a room during five years, he has been doing that for thousands of years !

<I see.>
[What can I exchange for freeing Cinere ?]

His eyes were determined yet so hopeful, he hoped so much that he could do something for him, the God of Hope liked this kind of emotions, he always found this special emotion so... beautiful and never got tired of it, people having hope is wonderful.
'So I became a God who gave hope'
This how he became like this, even if he didn't understood this hope, he wanted to see it prosprering... but why should he undo the curse so easily ? Considering how much he lost because of this elve, he had something in mind that might help him and gives him a way to get healed from all this despair.

<I have an idea... let's do it like this.>

Suddenly... something appeared on Liya's hand a certain number...

- - -

After understanding what he wanted, Liya felt a bit better but not that much, it's... almost impossible to do that, how... is there even that much... Why ? It's just too much... at least, they will share this burden... he wants him to get better mentally speaking.

Thinking about this deeply, he just decided to go back to the guild and sees his brother once again... it was the most important right now, he needed to tell him how they can solve this problem or at least weaken it.
Considering that finally they have a way of resolving this curse, Liya thought about Tene and wanted to thank him.

Hope fell once gain on his head, however this time, this is not a hidden knife in a decorated box, no this is real... seeing this... he stopped himself from crying, his body was trembling from hapinness and excitation...
...he would need those tears, when the time will come.
When he will be free from this pain.

- – - - - - - - – - - - – - - – - - - - - - – - - - – - - – - - - - - - – - - - – - - – - - - - - - – - - - – - - – -
Title : Liya : ¤ Cursed by the God of Hope ¤ Freakish Racer
Passive Skill : ¤ Curse of Elpides (God of Hope)

Attributes : Liya : Speed 66 → 68 ; Sanity 5 → 2 ; Fate 3 → 5 ;

Skill : Liya : Avoiding : 201 → 209 ; Steath Mastery 522 → 524

Extra Items : 20 Moonlight Flowers ; 10 Healing Plant

@brasca123

OOC : *cough cough cough* Elpides means Hopes actually... how original !
Oh well... about the map's scale...? Didn't try to do nothing logic ~
Just made him run like a monster for days ~ ^w^
Anyway... I think I made this report quite lazily ~ Don't know why, I feel like something is missing, but... meh ~ I don't care it will be fine like this ~

shad12ow · Oct 29, 2017

HELLiCOPter said: ↑

Desert Village|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 20 Large Desert Mouse [75 G]
Desert Village|#SD2|D-Ranked|Slay 10 Gray Desert Fox [85 G]
Great Plain|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 10 Lizardmen [90 G]
Great Plain|#SD2|D-Ranked|Slay 8 Rampaging Rhinos [90 G]
Treacherous Port|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 5 Bandits [150 G]
=============================================================

I left guild , transformed in my battle form ... Focus , focus ... you need to focus. Unknowingly I woke up when I bumped in the tree. I came to the Great Plains. Smells of fresh grass and nature made me alive.... I love sleeping here , but I came to work. So lets start.
Great Plain|#SD2|D-Ranked|Slay 8 Rampaging Rhinos [90 G]
"Rampaging rhinos" - well I never saw them , but it said they are bulky and agressive animals. So I knew what I need to do ... I climbed on the tallest tree I found and started to shout in my animal language.
-HEY ! YOU STINKY CHUNKS OF FAT CALLED RHINOS!!! I WANT TO KNOW , ARE YOU REALLY DUMD AS IT IS WRITTEN IN THE BOOKS.
It did not even passed a second when I saw a cloud of dust to the south.
-Here they are!!!!
-Lets try them ...
I jumped from the tree and landed in the bush. They stopped under that tree ... they clearly where talking to each other. Well I cant understand them well ... but some words were at least familiar.
-Who was that , big bro? Who were calling us for fight!!!
-I dont know but I will break his neck with my hoofs.
They were too busy with talking to each other , so I made myself open.
-Hey!!! You ...small one... have you seen anyone here? Small creature like you must know about that animal with such strong voice?
-RHINO 1 FLIED AWAY!!!-
Small creature which they called now hit him with giant fist. After that they saw that small creature became like them in size even more it actually became bigger than them.
-NOW WHO IS SMALL!!!!
Only then I felt something in my side. One of them actually injured me... I tried to fight with them , but this form was actually a bad decision . They are big , but they are fast also... So I stood there like a big doll with holes. I shrink myself and ... Giant body of the rhino slammed on my head.
-HA HA !!! Feel this , you small ... hey stop .STOP!!!!
-Bro are alright?! - asked another rhino.
But he got no reply , because I made a hole inside the belly of that animal who tried to tackle me down. I ate part of his spine. They have no defense under the belly , thanks for him I saw that. Well ... then lets start. I prepared my claws ,then looked at the remaining six.
-Chaos consumes all.- I became covered in fire , then there just stood nothing....
-WHERE IS THAT SMALL!!!BE ON GUARD ALL OF YOU!!!!
One who tried to warn others died first , giant black claws penetrated his skull .
-WHATS HAPPENING!!!!
-HOW HE DIED?
-SHUT UP AND GROUP UP!!!
But the fourth one actually tried to run , others three saw the giant shadow on his back when he was cut down , he was in such fear so he actually did not see that he lost some of his insides. Blood trail , he lost too much blood in twenty meters after he started to run.
-We need a plan! Fast!!
Only then they heard a crunching sounds , they looked at source and stood in fear. Black something was eating the brain of their fallen friends.
-Well , yummy , but still ... i think this is enough. Then they saw a strange thing. This animal grew new teeth on his mouth...
-Interesting your horns are actually helped me to develop my teeth ... i need to test them out.
Then one of rhinos started to cry in agony. There was bite marks on his leg.
-He bit me.
-Well your physique very tough , well at least I can bit through your skin.
Then there was a explosion. Leg and part of the rhino who was bitten by me was torn apart. Well thanks to the small exploding which I ate in the raid. I injected some exploding syrup inside but result is fascinating. I even damaged all of them because they groupped up. Two dead , one is too dizzy to fight. My tail with upgraded spikes was now inside his eye. I aim for the vital part,his brain , I gift you fast death .
5 dead , 3 to go. At least I know where they are graze. So I prepared traps and I will return back to them after I will done.
Great Plain|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 10 Lizardmen [90 G]
Lizardmen , well sometimes I hate killing this creatures. They also create families and they are trying their best to create community. I found a village of lizardmen down in the river two moons ago and actually they are good friends. I found a good old friend Mrakiki , he was happy to see me , because I brought some fish to him and his pregnant wife.
-Is there any tribes who trying to attack you?
-No , no , my friend , but Mrakiki knows why you came to me. You searching for blood and my big head is searching for the blade or like in this time for claws.
-You village head have problems?
-Yes , wait here I will summon head he will tell you . Mirasha , head will come please sit with Eri.
Mirasha is the wife of Mrakiki. She is lizardwoman with blue scales and green dots under her eyes.
-Hello , Eri . How your life?
-Good . Hows the child?
-Shaman says , he will be a strong boy.
-Thats good.
Then I saw an old lizardman at the entrance of the house.
-Let the water help and the moon protect your village , head.
He just nodded at my words and told his story.
-Bunch of lizardmen are actually terrorizing the others with magic artifact they have stolen . Now the hold in fear three villages and head thinks that they will be next.
-Outlander , we need help . We want you to takeor destroy the artifact and kill all who used it.
-What i will got from this?
-We lizardman proud of the spears we make.
-I dont need weapons as you see.
-Then what about this ...
I heard a unknown voice.
-Shaman ? But this orb.
-Head. No problem , moon is happy too help Dreamchaser.
-Dreamchaser? - I repeated strange nickname which that strange lizardman with feathers in his nose gave me.
-I am Forgotten Tide , dreamchaser , you may call me like this. Those heretics are abusing power of water to make themselves stronger , to abuse weak ones. Moon knew that dreamchaser will come , Lady moon knows your mother.
When I heard about my mother , I felt a spine chill on my back.
-I got it . Well I am on my way .... I run with all my speed.
-Tide? What have you done?
-I dont know head , but his mother is really a scary person. Even the moon goddess said to me to gift this orb if he will reject the job which will be given to him.
-Interesting.
-MEANWHILE I WAS RUNNING TO THAT PLACE -
-I dont want to meet my mom! I dont want to meet my mom! I dont want to meet my mom! I dont want to meet my mom!
I need to end this task fast and leave this place , but that was not so fast as I thought... because it was clearly a fortress. A fortress for twenty lizardman ... hey you know you are going too far?
-Yep , empty halls , this building is too big for them as base. I looked inside all empty halls , they were filled with gold and other things. They took everything...
Then I felt sense of danger. Huge tentancle destroyed the wall and tried to grab me. I jumped , but that thing was faster than me... it got me. Air , i need air ....
-Well , well , well boys look! Who we have here.... a little coward who tried to sneak.
-Uncle now you have done it wrong...
-Oh then who are you ?
-I am Amy... his friend.
-HA HA HA !!! Then what i need to be afraid of little girl? From you?
-No you must be afraid of him , because he is pissed off when someone call him small or little.
-What?
I really was , pissed off. My body started to boil and creating the air I needed. I took a deep breath and using my tail as harpoon made myself free.
-Catch him!!!
I transformed into the Chaos form. I need time so I made tentacles run after me and my ash clones ...
-Amy? What he is using? So many tentacles and with such such quantity why he is not depleted of mana. Stop , artifact.
-RUN , RUN ! You little cat ...
That lizardman is really ***hole.
I cant get close to him ... Even in this form , I cant. Now he is still running after my clones , but still ... Wait , maybe I dont need to run... I stopped all the tentacles destroyed my clones ... Then I took a deep breath and cloud of smoke went out from my mouth...
-He used tentacles to create a wind and clear the surroundings...
-And thats all what you can do?
I jumped straight to him ... He tried to create a tentacle as always , but I slashed his arm off.
-What? What have you done?
-Look around you... Water around him was black.
-You can control only pure water , I saw it when you destroyed my clones. Ash mixed in , so you could not create a new one. Other lizardman tried to ran away , but I got them all. Some of them tried to resist , but all they put hope in their leader and when he actually died , they have become just a victims of my claws.... I ate that artifact which helped that bastard to control water. Then I returned back to Mrakiki , he said that head and shaman left the orb to him. I took and ran away as fast as I could from that place.
Desert Village|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 20 Large Desert Mouse [75 G]
Desert Village|#SD2|D-Ranked|Slay 10 Gray Desert Fox [85 G]
Smell of the sand. Well it is pretty good when you dont have eyes , so sand does not bother you. I found a village pretty fast , they had some problems with mices and because I am cat , thats call of the nature. Well of course I thought that Large Desert Mouse will be Large , but I was surprised at first. I am natural enemy of mices , so that job suited me perfectly ... I snapped his necks with ease ... I stopped when quantity of killed mices became 20 , of course then I caught some for myself.
Then I came out from that small village to the open desert , I left Amy at the plains because here is too hot for her. I need to find some foxes ... So I dig myself in the sand , my bone head helped me to merge with the surroundings perfectly.... (You can look at my battle form in the Adventure card)
-I waited for such long time ... Two hours three hours ... Then I felt something running ... Fox ran near me ... My claw was ready I penetrated that animal throught his torso with my long tail... I caught four like this. Then it became boring... 4 out of 10. Well then I started to wander across this giant sandbox. I made myself looking that I am actually close to death , when I fell on my stomach without moving I saw how foxes started to move. First always the hungriest ... He bit throught my skin and rip part of my leg .... Others felt meat and blood and start to run to my body ... So many teeth , I nearly lost myself in this pain...
When they actually all stopped , because spikes from my body killed them. I ate two bodies to return in normal form , still I got 10 foxes. I left desert and came back to Great Plains ,where I found two rhinos. I still need one to end my quest , because in one trap was a pregnant female I let her go. I will catch one later.I still need to go to the port.
Treacherous Port|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 5 Bandits [150 G]
Humans... They dont see me so dangerous as they should... They even breed in my presence. I killed them first... Female was clearly surprised when male on top of her died ... but I clearly did not see any kind of sadness inside her eyes. She wanted to kill him to , when she pushed his body from her and took all the money I snapped her neck with my tail. Some people came for noise and cries of that woman , but what they was just a small cat and bunch of coins in blood... I just jumped on the barrel and walk away trought the hole in the fence.
I need to find more ...
This place is filthy , smell of alcholor , cigarretes and other things... made me to hurry , I wanted to leave this place. So when I saw the man in the shadows with a dagger in the mouth I knew I found my client. I jumped down and sneaked behind him , but I was surprised when he tried to cut me.
-Did he knows that I am not normal cat?
-Hey kitty dont try to sneak behind me.
-MEow!!! - I answered - he dont know ...
Then my tail penetrated his skull form behind. I aimed for the neck , but he tried to protect it , so I changed direction in last moment. When I felt something flying to me from behind... It was a dagger , but when it hit my iron hide it just stopped. I looked at the roof and saw a man.
-SHIT!!!!
He tried to run , he even thought that I lost him , but he had such face when I meowed behind him. I cut his neck and left his body in blood. He tried to stop blood , that s why I cut off his fingers...
Last bandit died in his slumber... He was drunk , so he was easiest prey from this five. I bit gently his neck and injected a poison inside his organism. On my way back to the guild I found a rhino in the hole which I dug... I killed using water , I knew that they swim like rocks.

@shad12ow I jumped on the desk before the receptionist and left a paper with my report , only then I saw that I left a blood trial behind me on the guild floor. I jumped down and started to clean the mess which I created.
Click to expand...

Desert Village|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 20 Large Desert Mouse [75 G]
Desert Village|#SD2|D-Ranked|Slay 10 Gray Desert Fox [85 G]
Great Plain|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 10 Lizardmen [90 G]
Great Plain|#SD2|D-Ranked|Slay 8 Rampaging Rhinos [90 G]
Treacherous Port|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 5 Bandits [150 G]
======================================================
"....At least you're cleaning up your mess. Let's see.....hmm....good, good. Nicely done. I have no complaint so far. Okay."
The sound of metal clinks echoed slightly as Shadow threw a satchel filled with gold coins.
"Your reward, all 490 G. Take care now."
OOC; Hmm...the content I have nothing to complaint. But the formatting. It is hard to read. Maybe make it into a paragraph or something? And it is quite difficult to see whose talking. Try making it clearer next time. As how? Well, many ways~ Some use colors, some use something like (amy) at the end of the sentence, or something like '".......," said the girl as....' after the dialogue. Many ways~ Good luck and see you later~

AliceShiki · Oct 30, 2017

Naraku said: ↑

1. Great Plain|#GE1|E-Ranked|Gather 10Moonlight Flower & 10 Healing Plants [50G | 1 x Rejuvenation Potion]
2. Great Plain|#GE2|E-Ranked|Gather Moonlight Water [50G | 1 x Bottled Purified Moonlight Water]
3. Gallant Mine|#GE2|E-Ranked|Mine Wind Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Wind Crystal]
4. Great Plain|#GD1|D-Ranked|Gather 5 Rainbow Slime Gel [120G | 1 x Rainbow Gel]
5. Ant Nest|#GD1|D-Ranked|Bring 3 Ant Corpses [110 G | 1 x Arachne Silk]
6. Desert Mine|#GD2|D-Ranked|Mine 3Fire Crystals [100G | 1 x Refined Fire Crystal]

Entering the the guild, Liya went to the receptionist's desk and said with a happy tone, contrary to the last time, it was quite a bright smile.

"Hikari, here is my report, it went well I think."

Well, it was more than just worthwhile, he earned money, a certain interest in herbalism, and a sort of plan that may be able to completely 'heal' Cinere from his curse, why shouldn't he be joyous ?

Descending from Aeternus, the first thing Liya did was going to Delta Town and search God of Hope's Shrine, or more commonly said Elpides's Shrine, why ? For a simple reason, beg to him, or at least pray so maybe he can hear his supplication...
Wandering pointlessly in the tow, he searched everywhere until he found... the Temple, made quite simply, the persons entering in it are nothing special, commoners, knights, priest, thiefs... no matter who enter, there's nothing about the treatment.
Looking at this, he felt relivied, he probably won't need to hide or deceive them so they do'nt realize his identity, calmly, he intruded himself in it, and just followed strangers, each of them were either going to the public or private room... in the latter, they needed to donate at least 1 Gold.

[Excuse me, may I take a private room.]

He asked to priest nearby with a kind and benevolent smile, the priest accepted the ten golds that Liya gave, most only donated the minimum, he did ten better, why would he refuse ?
Guiding him at a private praying room, he told him, letting him alone in this white and pure room with Elpides's statue which is an old man with a short white beard and is currently bald, he seemed like an uncle, a severe uncle who is overworked to death.

[Hmpf.]

Sneering at this statue, he kneeled and closed his eyes and began praying with a disatisfied feeling, his smile wasn't at the least happy, on the contrary, it was twisted by his spite.

[Elpides, come I want to talk.]

- - -

Tsk, another familiar killing intent... let's see, Delta Town... my shrine...?
In a private room of course, then who is it ?
Servant of the Fiend ? What is he doing... it might be interesting... he wants to ask me something with such a feeling ? Well well well... l will respond to him later.

- - -

Two hours later, Liya was gritting his teeth in anger, nothing happenned, bloodlust emited unconciously from his body... he sighed and talked to himself in annoyance...

[Look like I will need to come back later...]

Sighing, he stood up and decided to leave the room when a priest entered, his smile wasn't the same as before, it was disdainful, yet jealous. His voice was cold and frustrated by this young man who didn't do anythign to him, at least directly.

«Our benevolent God sent a message, he wants you to come back to one of his shrine in five or seven days, he may respond to you after some days of waiting.»

His tensed muscles relaxed, he thought he was recognized, it would have been awful, however, it was a good new, at least this damned god will talk to him in five days, with a awkward smile, he thanked this priest and left the shrine, leaving Delta Town.
He decided to travel this way, from Delta Town to the Gallant Mine passing by Frontier Village, following the rivers and doing the quests he needs to do in the Great Plains at the same time, then to the Ant Nest from Gallant Mine, passing to the Desert Mine to complte hsi quests, this way, he should get everything done easily and safely.

- - -

At the riverside, under the moon, he was walking quietly, sometimes bending his back to pick up Moonlight Flower or Healing Plant, under the starlight, the Moonlight Flower was quite pretty, blue like a saphir and glowing when light fall on it, it's quite easy to notice them.

[Maybe I should gather hundred of them...]

Somehow, Liya seemed to have an inconsiderable love toward those flowers, it's been two hours since he began walking toward the Gallant Mine, he already picked up Ten Moonlight Flowers, however... he doesn't stop... if that's continue, he will be tempted to take far too much of them...

[I should learn Herbalism.]

Yes, just because he liked the way this flower bloomed under the moonlight, he began to feel interested in Herbalism, well, it's a pecular reason, Liya has never been that interested in something, he began magic and fighting because of Cinere or his 'father'... He never did anything else than that, so maybe Herbalism might be fun.

[Right, I should also pick up the Healing Plants... after I finish those two quests, I should start running...]

When he will come back from the Gallant Mine, he will try to get the Rainbow Slime Gel, apparently, it should be deeply located in water... oh well... it should be alright, his brother is far colder than a bit of water, physically talking at least... he doesn't think badly of him.
Snatching a few Healing Plant from the ground, he felt quite good, alright, so now, since he is going to run the fastest he can, after sighing he said to himself, a bit reticent...

[I would like to take more but... I think that 30 Moonlight Flowers are enough... and 20 Healing Plants too...]

It's not just enough... he just took too much, streching his legs and arms, he prepared himself to run... if he doesn't stop even once, he should be able to get easily to the Gallant Mine in two day.
Pushing slightly the dirt with his feet, he suddenly leaped and his body went far away, running fastly, the ground sometimes wasn't enough resilient and cracked or just sinked a bit at his steps...

His speed is almost as fast as a wolf, right now, he is using Wind Magic to accelerate, he doesn't really need to do that, if it continues, he might only take one day to reach the Gallant Mine, it will be outrageous enough.
A shame, at high speed, he doesn't have a good control of his body, otherwise, it could have been useful in battle... thinking about that, he remembered the times he crushed into walls because of this speed...

- - -

One day later, Liya was eating in Frontier Village, there was nothing special in this village, except the lake, it was soon night and strangely the began glowing under the moonlight, just like the flowers... well, let's finish some quests.
In the end, he decided to finish all Great Plain's quest this night, some Rainbow's Slimes are deep within the lake and the Moonlight Water, well obviously... he will be plunging in it, why waste this opportuny ?
Removing his armor and wearing casual clothes, he jumped in the water and dived deeply in it, the water flowed smoothly, swimming toward the deptg, Liya just though, feeling quite at ease while his body felt the cold liquid touching him.

'It's quite comfortable.'

After some dozen of seconds, he finally reached the depth, as he watched in front of him, he felt stunned, there were dozen of slimes unmoving yet glowing with a rainbow color, it was beautiful.
Well... They just asked for the gel, so it's alright if he doesn't kill them, he will just take the gel, only the half of their body... three of them lost a part of their body, still, it's better than dying...

He submerged from the water and began using Wind Magic to dry himself... or after taking 3 Bottles of Moonlight Water, he began running toward the Gallant Mine, he will take another day to reach the mine, so let's not waste time here.

Once again, his body disappeared and leaped himself, racing toward his goal...

- - -

Unexpectly, in half a day, he entered the East Barrier Mountains by the Galant Pass, all he needed to was to follow the road, and considering that there were a lot of bends, he couldn't go at full speed, so he just ran normally speaking... it can already be counted as an oustanding speed... he was probably as fast as a horse this time
Well... he still has troubles controlling his body... but at least, he can turn by taking support on a rock that may tremble a little when Liya put a feet on it to run...
After three hours of searching, turning around, he finally found the Gallant Mine and sighed of annoyance.

[How bothering it was, now that I am here... hm... there doesn't seem to be people... perfect.]

The Gallant Mine was desert, so perfect... as for now, let's search a pickaxe, if there's no pickaxe here, he wouldn't understand why, this is a mine, so, there's probably pickaxes hiding somewhere... otherwise he will probably be at the wrong place...
Entering the mine he found a broken pickaxe...

[...well... if you stuck the pieces of woods together, it should get better...]

The iron wasn't damaged, it was only the wood supporting it, using Earth Magic, he tried to make a weird sticky mud so it can stick together... uhm... let's put a bit of Water or Snow with it... it might work better... hmm... that seems... to temporary work...?

[...if that breaks I will just put the iron on my staff...]

Hm... then, he just wandered in the Mine... following the wall, he searched for Wind Crystal, of course, while he was doing that, he was using Dark Magic to disappear in the shadows... because there's a lot of dangerous monsters around here like Elementals...
...Sensing them, he used the roads that seemed the safer... gulping after seeing an Ice Elemental, who passed near to him, he felt a bit terrified by the amount of mana he got... of course, Cinere has even more but he is a exception, so when he sees people with half or a quarter of Cinere's mana reserve, he felt that these people are monster among humans... to him his brother is THE exception... anyway, looking at the Ice Elemental, he felt glad that he was good at Dark Magic otherwise he would have been detected a long time ago...
After seeing his back leave, he felt better... It was even colder than Cinere... not that much though.
Looking at where he come from, Liya wanted to curse, this is probably two wind crystal in the wall... he approached, let's take them quickly while it's not dangerous, using the pickaxe, he dug in the wall, after a dozen of hit, he got one... alright, the next... he dug out the next with more ease than the last one...

However... he turned back and saw the Lesser Ice Elemental, he bowed respectfully then disappeared in the shadows like earlier, without hesitation, he used Wind Magic and ran the fastest he could while insulting fate, he got two on three... neverthless...
Ice spikes began to fly toward him... the ice elemental was probably feeling insulted by the person who intruded in his place and bowed to him after stealing him, who wouldn't be mad ?

[How lucky...]

He avoided by sidestepping and rolling on the ground and continued to run in a straight line... when arrived at an intersection, he saw...a Wind Crystal, well... sure why not ? He dug it out while worrying that the elemental may come back... then the pickaxe broke...

[Well... it was perfect I guess...? Let's just take the the metal, it may be useful...]

Now that he has the Three Wind Crystal, he decided to run the fastest he could toward... the Desert Mine, it's going to be quite long, well at least... all he needs to do is to go in a straight line, and using the Magic <Haste>, he may be able to reach the Desert Mine in two days and the Ant Nest in half a day... it would mean that he won't rest four days in a row.
Well, it's only four days, after all.

- - -

Two days later, he entered the desert, no, he was still at the Great Plain, but he was thinking about how to be fast in the desert... because of the sand, he might not be able to run and trips instead, sand is just too easy to move so if he tries to run, his two legs might sink in the sand and he will lose time.

[...will that work...?]

Orally expressing his doubts, he began to create a frail earth pillar under his feet and... began lifting himself up... five meters... ten meters... twenty meters... he looked at the ground and felt a bit odd, if he jumps he won't necessary die, but it will be quite annoying to put himself together.
He sighed... and take his pillar as a support to leap himself and then, he uses <Levitate> to keep the speed and somehow the height...
And this is how... he will keep up with his insane speed.

- - -

After some hours, he arrived at the Desert Mine and easily found a pickaxe this time, the dunes were maybe palatial, it was maybe hot... but it was easy to pass...

[Well let's find the Fire Crystal.]

At least, here there were no monsters, all he needed to do was to find the Fire Crystals then leave, but his skin was sweaty and his throat dried, and he was also a bit hungry... well, he ate before entering the desert, neverthless it wasn't that much.
After finishing digging out three Fire Crystal from the mine, he began going toward the Ant Nest with the same strategy as earlier, by |flying| of course...

Easely arriving at the Ant Nest, all he needed to do was finding the left corpses, three corpse, how hard should it be ? And if he doesn't find any corpses, all he needed to do was to kill three of them and quickly stock them in the Item Box, knifes and hidden thank to the Dark Magic, and since there's no mage, they won't even be able to feel magical waves coming from him.
Searching around the Nest by turning around the patrols, he sometimes saw the Ant fighting among themselves and waited to see if that went as far as killing... and it's almost... all he needed to do was to influence a bit the match, using Dark Magic to induce a bit of fury in the winner's mind.

Trying this, it worked, they made weird sounds after killing it.

«Kriieeekkk !»
«Kraaa.»
«Kriekrie.»

He didn't understand a thing except maybe take care of the corpse ?
After doing that, others Ant and began fighting with the killer, they killed each other... just like this, so... he wanted to venge the dead, huh ?
While they were minding probably their families matters, Liya still invisble just stocked the three corpses and decided to leave, with as much ease as he entered.

[Well, I did everything I needed to do... now, let's go to Delta Town.]

It's been four days, and if he go at his fastest, he will need two days, so it's alright since he is supposed to go there at the seven days... he sighed and well... what else could he do except hurrying to find something to eat ?

- - -

Two days later, he arrived at Delta Town, hungry and a bit dirty, he didn't sleep since six days, the first thing he did was going to the hostel and give 30 gold without even considering what were the price, by luck, he gave too much.
Thank to that, they gave him one of their most delicious yet loaded plate, it was a Boar Warrior's Steak, scrambled eggs and slime sauce, he licked his lips and thanked the servor without hesitation.

[Thank you for serving me.]

Beginning to eat the steak, he rubbed his chin and wondered what he should do and what Elpide wants, no, he should think about what he can exchange for freeing his brother, it's the most important right now.
Well, no matter how much he thinks about, he won't be possibly able to know what a God wants.
After realizing that it was pointless, he continued to eat and then entered his bedroom to have a nice and long sleep...

Waking up, he went to the bathroom and used the bowl of water to wash himself, afterwards, he equipped himself with a simple leather armor and went to the shrine, feeling uneasy, his body was stiff and still exhausted from all this work.
The same priest welcomed him with a bitter smile and guided him to the same private room, once again, Liya gave 10 golds even if this time he didn't ask anything, he still gave.

Looking at the free money he got, the priest left with a slight smile, then with a sigh, Liya said with a sorrowful and disappointed tone.

[Even priest are obsessed with money...]

Annoyed, he kneeled and heard an old voice talking, echoing in his mind, this voice seemed curious and slightly unwelcoming.

- - - -

<Servant of the Fiend, what are you doing here ?>
[Firstly, Elpides, oh mighty God of Hope, my name is Liya... Liya Lorem since recently, brother of Cinere Lorem]

Sarcastically rebuting him, Liya didn't hesitate one second to correct his error which angered him, meanwhile, he didn't even notice that the world became white and nothing else than him and this hateful bald uncle who were there.

<Brother ? Hmm... alright, then what do you want concretly ?>
[Why else than that would I be here ? Can't you be less stubborn ?]

At this moment, Elpides didn't seem to understand what he meant, he furrowed his brows and said with a perplexed tone, even if he was rude to him, he didn't care, his killing intent was well hidden, meaning that he was already restraining himself... however, did he thought that he could hide this from a god ?
How foolish.
Since he was restraining himself from exploding, he won't scold him from being rude or something like this, he will stay reasonable and notice the respect he had for him, if he didn't have any, he wouldn't have restrained himself, isn't it ?

<What do you mean by that ?>
[You're kidding me ? The curse you put on him is still plenty active !]

Suddenly, the look on the god became astonished, no wonder they still hate him, the curse is still there... he forgot to undo it, it was what he realized.
To himself, he always thought about one thing everytime he cursed someone, after five years I would free him from this despair, yes, this is what he thought. However, none of the persons he cursed survived more than one or two year... except Cinere who is cursed since more than five years...

Internally speaking, Elpides never understood why those people didn't survivre more than two years, why all of them became crazy, what you see is just the hell you spreaded, also,I will steal your hope during five years, you deprived them from their lifes and hopes, so why is it wrong ?
If you see hope, you will see despair with no specific reason, your perception of life will be twisted.

All of you deserved this, but why don't you bear with it ?

Despite his thoughts, he still didn't understood why they never survived, all they had to do was to lock themselves in a room during five years, he has been doing that for thousands of years !

<I see.>
[What can I exchange for freeing Cinere ?]

His eyes were determined yet so hopeful, he hoped so much that he could do something for him, the God of Hope liked this kind of emotions, he always found this special emotion so... beautiful and never got tired of it, people having hope is wonderful.
'So I became a God who gave hope'
This how he became like this, even if he didn't understood this hope, he wanted to see it prosprering... but why should he undo the curse so easily ? Considering how much he lost because of this elve, he had something in mind that might help him and gives him a way to get healed from all this despair.

<I have an idea... let's do it like this.>

Suddenly... something appeared on Liya's hand a certain number...

- - -

After understanding what he wanted, Liya felt a bit better but not that much, it's... almost impossible to do that, how... is there even that much... Why ? It's just too much... at least, they will share this burden... he wants him to get better mentally speaking.

Thinking about this deeply, he just decided to go back to the guild and sees his brother once again... it was the most important right now, he needed to tell him how they can solve this problem or at least weaken it.
Considering that finally they have a way of resolving this curse, Liya thought about Tene and wanted to thank him.

Hope fell once gain on his head, however this time, this is not a hidden knife in a decorated box, no this is real... seeing this... he stopped himself from crying, his body was trembling from hapinness and excitation...
...he would need those tears, when the time will come.
When he will be free from this pain.

- – - - - - - - – - - - – - - – - - - - - - – - - - – - - – - - - - - - – - - - – - - – - - - - - - – - - - – - - – -
Title : Liya : ¤ Cursed by the God of Hope ¤ Freakish Racer
Passive Skill : ¤ Curse of Elpides (God of Hope)

Attributes : Liya : Speed 66 → 68 ; Sanity 5 → 2 ; Fate 3 → 5 ;

Skill : Liya : Avoiding : 201 → 209 ; Steath Mastery 522 → 524

Extra Items : 20 Moonlight Flowers ; 10 Healing Plant

@brasca123

OOC : *cough cough cough* Elpides means Hopes actually... how original !
Oh well... about the map's scale...? Didn't try to do nothing logic ~
Just made him run like a monster for days ~ ^w^
Anyway... I think I made this report quite lazily ~ Don't know why, I feel like something is missing, but... meh ~ I don't care it will be fine like this ~
Click to expand...

Great Plain|#GE1|E-Ranked|Gather 10Moonlight Flower & 10 Healing Plants [50G | 1 x Rejuvenation Potion]
Great Plain|#GE2|E-Ranked|Gather Moonlight Water [50G | 1 x Bottled Purified Moonlight Water]
Gallant Mine|#GE2|E-Ranked|Mine Wind Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Wind Crystal]
Great Plain|#GD1|D-Ranked|Gather 5 Rainbow Slime Gel [120G | 1 x Rainbow Gel]
Ant Nest|#GD1|D-Ranked|Bring 3 Ant Corpses [110 G | 1 x Arachne Silk]
Desert Mine|#GD2|D-Ranked|Mine 3Fire Crystals [100G | 1 x Refined Fire Crystal]
===============================================================================
"Welcome back..." *peeks at card* "Riya-san!

Hikari will look at the report now!

... Uhum, things seem to be fine! Thanks for all the hard work! Make sure to not overdoit with the plant gathering though!" >.<

"Eto..." *looks at it again" "Almost all good... Riya-san only brought 3 Gels? The quest asked for 5... Did Riya-san get the number wrong?" *tilts head*

"Hikari isn't quite sure on what to do... Hikari will give no gold reward for this one, alright? RIya-san will still get the extra reward and the quest clear though, please be more careful next time!

The reward will be of 390G and the listed items.

Better luck next time!"

((I tried looking at the report again, but you really didn't mention anything about the number of Gels... Most you said was that 3 slimes lost 1/2 of their corpse, so the best I could assume was that each slime would give 2 vials of gel... But then you'd list 1 gel at the extra loot and... Well, there was nothing there... >.>))

Naraku · Oct 30, 2017

brasca123 said: ↑

Great Plain|#GE1|E-Ranked|Gather 10Moonlight Flower & 10 Healing Plants [50G | 1 x Rejuvenation Potion]
Great Plain|#GE2|E-Ranked|Gather Moonlight Water [50G | 1 x Bottled Purified Moonlight Water]
Gallant Mine|#GE2|E-Ranked|Mine Wind Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Wind Crystal]
Great Plain|#GD1|D-Ranked|Gather 5 Rainbow Slime Gel [120G | 1 x Rainbow Gel]
Ant Nest|#GD1|D-Ranked|Bring 3 Ant Corpses [110 G | 1 x Arachne Silk]
Desert Mine|#GD2|D-Ranked|Mine 3Fire Crystals [100G | 1 x Refined Fire Crystal]
===============================================================================
"Welcome back..." *peeks at card* "Riya-san!

Hikari will look at the report now!

... Uhum, things seem to be fine! Thanks for all the hard work! Make sure to not overdoit with the plant gathering though!" >.<

"Eto..." *looks at it again" "Almost all good... Riya-san only brought 3 Gels? The quest asked for 5... Did Riya-san get the number wrong?" *tilts head*

"Hikari isn't quite sure on what to do... Hikari will give no gold reward for this one, alright? RIya-san will still get the extra reward and the quest clear though, please be more careful next time!

The reward will be of 390G and the listed items.

Better luck next time!"

((I tried looking at the report again, but you really didn't mention anything about the number of Gels... Most you said was that 3 slimes lost 1/2 of their corpse, so the best I could assume was that each slime would give 2 vials of gel... But then you'd list 1 gel at the extra loot and... Well, there was nothing there... >.>))
Click to expand...

[Ah, of course... well, thank you for counting the quest cleared.]

Liya forgot how many gels he needed on the way and just took on a whimp, realizing that, he rubbed his forehead and sighs... at least, it's not a complete failure.

[Sorry for the trouble, I will be more careful next time.]

OOC : Woops... I was quite clumsy while writing... sorry for not precising :/

Renzy · Oct 31, 2017

After finishing my quests. I headed into the Guild hall to find Hikari-san. Igreeted her politely. "Good afternoon Hikarisan. This is the written report of my quests." Hands over the paper to the her.

Delta Town|#GE1|E-Ranked|Gather 10 Chickens [20 G| 5 x Eggs]
Delta Town|#GE3|E-Ranked|Fish 5 Speedy Tunas [80G | 1 x Speedy Tuna Fillet]
Delta Town|#SE1|E-Ranked|Slay 100 Rats [100 G]
Delta Town|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 10 Water Spiders [100 G]
Delta Town|#SD2|D-Ranked|Slay 5 Flesh Leeches [130 G]
Delta Town|#SD3|D-Ranked|Slay 5 Sea snakes [120 G]

On that morning I ask people since I was new in the town. I ask them where could I find the farm because I'm heading there to do both of the two quest. Its says on the quest that I must gather 10 chickens and exterminate 100 rats. I don't know why I must capture this chickens but I feel that they might not be ordinary chickens. I went to the house of the farmer who issued the quest. After meeting him and listening to his story, I let him lead me where could I find this chickens. He says that the chickens are running amok but he don't know what's the reason why are they like that. I told the farmer that I'll try to find it out and just rest easy. After the farmer went home. I observe the large chickens. While doing that, I realize that they won't enter the chicken coop so I check it. When I enter the coop I saw a large snake with a bulging tummy. He might have eaten a big chicken. I didn't hesitate and immediately use my skill and I immediately kill it.. that snake is weakened already because it has many holes in it's body maybe the pecks of the chickens. I reported it to the farmer and just gave him the corpse of the snake coz i don't need it. I gathered the chickens after that and let the farmer handle the rest.

Now that I've finished handling the chickens to the farmer. I went to his farm fields where there are many holes in the ground. He said also in the story that rats are eating his crops. He also said that they are only few in numbers at first but then just multiple. From what I conclude these rats have lost their natural predator. It's impossible for them to multiply that fast. Maybe the snake that I just killed lost appetite on them and decided to taste those big fat chickens resulting to the rats having no enemies. Because the field have full of holes. I use my water magic and flooded the underground maze. One by one rats started to comeout.. I didn't stop shooting, with my agility and fast reflexes and with my passive hawkeye skill, me and the rats are like playing Whack-a-mole but for every rat that tried to come out turns into a corpse. I finish killing all 100 rats in just a few minutes. I went to the farmers house and told the news. I was invited to eat lunch and didn't reject his request. so i stayed and talked to him for a bit. I thank the farmer for that wonderful lunch and bid farewell and I directly head to the wharf.

Four of my quests are related that can be found at sea. I went to the fishermen association and let them explain to me where are their usual hunting spots or hunting area.. I also ask them information about why are they have been attacked. All of their reasons says that the fish they caught is being targeted by those monsters. After hearing the reason. I borrow one of their fishing pole and put it in my item bag first. They said that they would just give it to me for free as long as i can kill those monsters that disturbed their daily lives. I check first the map given by the fishermen and we locate them. Not long after we have already spotted them. The fishermen are using a kind of water magic to move the boat. I think that all humans in this continent dont lack in magic abilities. For a rank E quests they are just easy fodder for me. I don't even have to use my skills. Arrow after arrows shooting like rain.. water spiders and sea snakes all died.. the water leeches that I caught are still alive coz im gonna use them as bait for those tunas. I told the fishermen to help me fish the tunas using the leeches.. Its hitting two birds with one stone.. I just let the tunas kill the leeches while I fish them.. A few hours later with our patience. I already got the required tunas and put it in my item bag. I gave them the extra tunas for helping them and all my quests are finish in one fell swoop.

Extra Loot: Fishing Pole
@brasca123

OOC: I will just alternate my quest with you and guildmaster next time.. since you two are the only active persons i know.

AliceShiki · Oct 31, 2017

Renzy said: ↑

After finishing my quests. I headed into the Guild hall to find Hikari-san. Igreeted her politely. "Good afternoon Hikarisan. This is the written report of my quests." Hands over the paper to the her.

Delta Town|#GE1|E-Ranked|Gather 10 Chickens [20 G| 5 x Eggs]
Delta Town|#GE3|E-Ranked|Fish 5 Speedy Tunas [80G | 1 x Speedy Tuna Fillet]
Delta Town|#SE1|E-Ranked|Slay 100 Rats [100 G]
Delta Town|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 10 Water Spiders [100 G]
Delta Town|#SD2|D-Ranked|Slay 5 Flesh Leeches [130 G]
Delta Town|#SD3|D-Ranked|Slay 5 Sea snakes [120 G]

On that morning I ask people since I was new in the town. I ask them where could I find the farm because I'm heading there to do both of the two quest. Its says on the quest that I must gather 10 chickens and exterminate 100 rats. I don't know why I must capture this chickens but I feel that they might not be ordinary chickens. I went to the house of the farmer who issued the quest. After meeting him and listening to his story, I let him lead me where could I find this chickens. He says that the chickens are running amok but he don't know what's the reason why are they like that. I told the farmer that I'll try to find it out and just rest easy. After the farmer went home. I observe the large chickens. While doing that, I realize that they won't enter the chicken coop so I check it. When I enter the coop I saw a large snake with a bulging tummy. He might have eaten a big chicken. I didn't hesitate and immediately use my skill and I immediately kill it.. that snake is weakened already because it has many holes in it's body maybe the pecks of the chickens. I reported it to the farmer and just gave him the corpse of the snake coz i don't need it. I gathered the chickens after that and let the farmer handle the rest.

Now that I've finished handling the chickens to the farmer. I went to his farm fields where there are many holes in the ground. He said also in the story that rats are eating his crops. He also said that they are only few in numbers at first but then just multiple. From what I conclude these rats have lost their natural predator. It's impossible for them to multiply that fast. Maybe the snake that I just killed lost appetite on them and decided to taste those big fat chickens resulting to the rats having no enemies. Because the field have full of holes. I use my water magic and flooded the underground maze. One by one rats started to comeout.. I didn't stop shooting, with my agility and fast reflexes and with my passive hawkeye skill, me and the rats are like playing Whack-a-mole but for every rat that tried to come out turns into a corpse. I finish killing all 100 rats in just a few minutes. I went to the farmers house and told the news. I was invited to eat lunch and didn't reject his request. so i stayed and talked to him for a bit. I thank the farmer for that wonderful lunch and bid farewell and I directly head to the wharf.

Four of my quests are related that can be found at sea. I went to the fishermen association and let them explain to me where are their usual hunting spots or hunting area.. I also ask them information about why are they have been attacked. All of their reasons says that the fish they caught is being targeted by those monsters. After hearing the reason. I borrow one of their fishing pole and put it in my item bag first. They said that they would just give it to me for free as long as i can kill those monsters that disturbed their daily lives. I check first the map given by the fishermen and we locate them. Not long after we have already spotted them. The fishermen are using a kind of water magic to move the boat. I think that all humans in this continent dont lack in magic abilities. For a rank E quests they are just easy fodder for me. I don't even have to use my skills. Arrow after arrows shooting like rain.. water spiders and sea snakes all died.. the water leeches that I caught are still alive coz im gonna use them as bait for those tunas. I told the fishermen to help me fish the tunas using the leeches.. Its hitting two birds with one stone.. I just let the tunas kill the leeches while I fish them.. A few hours later with our patience. I already got the required tunas and put it in my item bag. I gave them the extra tunas for helping them and all my quests are finish in one fell swoop.

Extra Loot: Fishing Pole
@brasca123

OOC: I will just alternate my quest with you and guildmaster next time.. since you two are the only active persons i know.
Click to expand...

Delta Town|#GE1|E-Ranked|Gather 10 Chickens [20 G| 5 x Eggs]
Delta Town|#GE3|E-Ranked|Fish 5 Speedy Tunas [80G | 1 x Speedy Tuna Fillet]
Delta Town|#SE1|E-Ranked|Slay 100 Rats [100 G]
Delta Town|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 10 Water Spiders [100 G]
Delta Town|#SD2|D-Ranked|Slay 5 Flesh Leeches [130 G]
Delta Town|#SD3|D-Ranked|Slay 5 Sea snakes [120 G]
===========================================================
"Welcome back-" *peeks at his card* "Zyren-kun! Hikari is glad to see Zyren-kun well!

Let's see...

Alright, nothing to complain about! Good job on all those quests! The reward will be of 550G, 5x Eggs and 1x Speedy Tuna Fillet.

Take care now!" ^^)/

The Everdistant Utopia · Nov 1, 2017

Sandy Desert - #SE1 - E rank - Slay 25 Desert Jackal [ 50 G ]
Sandy Desert - #SE2 - E rank - Slay 25 Desert Fox[ 50 G ]
Desert Village - #SE1- E-Ranked - Slay 10 Large Lizard - [50 G]
Sandy Desert - #SD1 - D rank - Slay 15 Desert Lizardmen [ 110 G ]
Desert Mine - #GD4 - D-Ranked – Mine 25 Iron Ore [ 60G | 10 x Iron Ingot]
Desert Mine - #GD5 - D-Ranked – Mine 30 Copper Ore [ 60G | 10 x Copper Ingot]

In what looked more like ruins than a proper construction, a young man was holding a broom while he tried to tidy up the destroyed room. After some time, his hands stopped. He wiped of the sweat in his forehead and took off the cloth that covered his mouth for protection and sighed.

“I guess that’s about it...”

Although he wasn’t quite satisfied yet, this was the best he could do in the current moment. With the workshop that he had just received the authorization to use now in wreckages, he couldn’t help but sigh.

It had a way too short life because of the attack that happened suddenly at the flying city.

Now the building who was before a decent workshop was only a shadow of it. The rubble was moved elsewhere, what could still be used was put in the few intact shelves, and what could not was thrown away. The only things left from the few before were a sculpting knife and mostly books. Everything else went to waste.

Aside from cleaning the workshop, there were still the emergency repairs to do, but Alberon didn’t had the budget to afford them right now, so he could only hope the ceiling won’t fall down at his head while he worked.

Sighing yet again, he took one of the few remaining chairs and pulled it to the most conserved worktable and started taking out things from his Item Box. Although he didn’t liked much to use the smallish cube that had some sort of spatial magic imbued to it, since he rather liked the weight of his satchel over his shoulder, circumstances made him use it to store some difficult to store materials, like the gryphons corpses, who were easily four meters tall and eight to ten long from head to tail.

The items he took out, though, were quite small. A piece of strange green stone, that glowed with a strange energy, and a small carving knife. He also took a vial with a strange darkish red ‘ink’, that was in fact a bit of his blood. Although gruesome, it was a way to cut down the expenses.

Leaving the Item Box aside, Alberon pulled a book from his satchel, his demi-grimoire, Fictus Liones, and rested it at his lap.

The book let out some sparks, but he ignored it. Its use right now will be only to supply Alberon with mana. The mana coming from it flowed to his hands as the young man drew the magic circle around the stone with the blood.

It was a bit of a waste to use mana on something like that, but is the only way as Tene, the one who ordered it, had said it was better to not touch this.

Finishing the preparations, Alberon infused more mana on the formation and took the sculpting knife. The magic circle shone faintly as the stone started to raise its temperature, what could be told by the heat that was emanating from it.

When the blade of the sculpting knife touched the stone, a piece of it came off easily. Feeling satisfied with the results, Alberon started shaving off the stone and giving it form as the knife danced over it.

What he had used just now was a formation for Creation Magic, a magic focused on support and crafting of items. It had many uses depending on what runes you used to make the formation, but the only downside was that it required a constant supply of mana to be kept working, what Alberon couldn’t possibly provide. For this reason, he had to rely on the mana that was infused at the start.

If his calculations weren’t wrong, he had about an hour and something, so his hands hurriedly started to work.

The stone started to gain the form of a slim and tall… person? Is this right? Tene did looked like a man, but Alberon not entirely sure.

It took almost the full time of the spell to finish the sculpture, and yet he was not that satisfied with the details. He lacked better tools…

But with this workshop as it was right now, he couldn’t even dream about getting all the new tools he wanted to.

Leaning at the chair tired, he started thinking about dozing off a bit there. Amanda was still recovering from her wounds in the battle, so she wouldn’t arrive so soon, what left only…

‘Woof!’

Hearing a familiar sound, he snapped out of his sleepy daze and turned back to see who was. The one he found there was no other than the wolf girl he and his sister found during the battle.

‘Woof!’

She was holding the wolf plushie that was given to Alberon as ‘reward’ after the battle, squeezing it to make it go ‘woof!’.

“Hm… You did liked this...”

‘Woof!’

“You know, words are easier to understand rather than ‘woof’s.”

‘Woof!’

As she continued squeezing it rather than talking, a slight curiosity started boiling inside him until he blurted out.

“You can’t speak, isn’t it?”

‘Woof!’ She nodded and squeezed the wolf tighter.

“Were you always like that?”

‘Woof!’ She tilted her head, and thought a bit before nodding. Although Alberon didn’t wanted to pry much into her matters, he couldn’t help but get curious.

“Hm… Come here for a moment.”

Raising from his chair, he asked her to sit down at his place. The girl tilted her head, puzzled, but headed to the chair and seated. As she did so, Alberon checked how many mana was remaining in Fictus Liones. Roughly half of it.

Ascertaining what he wanted to do, he placed his hand gently in her throat and started pouring mana and a couple of runes shined around her neck as he started examining.

“Let’s see… Negative for curse, it seems… It would be less troublesome if that was the reason, though. And the vocal chords seems to be there and weren’t badly developed, so she can’t possibly have been born without being able to talk, but...”

Alberon’s face distorted as he checked the current conditions of the girl’s vocal chords.

“They’re completely wrecked.”

From what it looked, something made her mute. The possibilities that floated in his head were either that they were purposely destroyed by someone, or even her, or they were destroyed in some accident involving some sort of voice magic or she could have lost it due to some disease.

Either way, that wasn’t exactly the only thing in Alberon’s head. He was also curious about the reason the girl had lied. Or if she wasn’t lying and really thought she was mute since she was born.

While such thoughts stormed inside his head, he canceled the magic and retracted his hand.

‘Woof!’ The girl squeezed the wolf plushie and jumped down the chair.

Alberon smiled faintly and looked at the cracked ceiling, noticing that the sun was starting to show signs that it would set. He had spent the whole day doing chores and making Tene’s sculpture, although he didn’t felt like that much time had passed. Perhaps because he had just noticed how much time he had been working non-stop, a wave of fatigue assaulted him.

He stored everything he had over the table, including the sculpture of Tene, back into the Item Box. Turning to the wolf girl, Alberon said.

“Well, let’s call it a day. We still need to meet up with Amanda.”

‘Woof!’ the girl nodded and started following him as he exited the workshop, locked it and went back to the inn they were staying at.

“Alby~ Why are we here~?”

Amanda complained to her brother, Alberon, as they were heading out of Verdant Village to the open space of the Great Plains. Alberon led the way, Amanda unwillingly followed and the wolf girl, whose name was still unknown, tagged along them, staying in the back.

“We’re here to train! Train I say!”

“But~ But~ I wanted to eat something~!”

“Then why didn’t you ate yesterday?!”

“Erm… I was a bit busy with my treatment… and I decided to do some experiments~”

She started averting her eyes as Alberon glared at her. Since the day when she locked herself away, four months ago, she hadn't eaten anything at all.

Of course, he knew that with her conditions, and amount of mana, she could easily continue without eating anything, but he wanted to correct her bad habits before it was too late.

The group continued their way until they reached a place suitably far from Verdant, but still near the lake. As they arrived, Alberon cleared his throat and started.

“Well, today’s training has three objectives: First, have Amanda learn some support magic. Second, have myself learn some offensive magic.”

“Oh~! That sounds boring!”

‘Woof!’

“Of course, we’ll coach each other, so I hope it proceeds smoothly.” He continued disregarding Amanda’s protest. “And, finally, third, to discover what exactly you can do.” Alberon said as he pointed to the wolf girl.

Since the last day, he had been quite wary of her. He wanted to at least know the extent of her abilities if the need arises.

The first part of the training was of both Amanda and Alberon, so the wolf girl seated in a dead tree nearby and watched.

“So, let’s begin the lesson, Amanda.”

“Ugh… Okay~”

“So, let’s start with the basic. We both use rune magic, right? Do you know the reasons why?”

“Because is easy to make it more mana economic than other ones, and because even a kid with no affinity can use, as long as he or she has mana~?”

“Correct. Specially the one we use, the Runes that our father devised. It holds similarities with many other kinds of runes, but have big influences from Fairy Runes and Dragon Runes, which we use for our four main magic types: Destruction, Creation, Support and Curses.”

Amanda nodded as he continued the explanation.

“That said, even though it’s the most suitable, we shouldn’t be relying on it too much. The main focus on our training today will be the actual casting.

One of the reasons I can’t release any magic of Fictus Liones is because I lack the will to cast them, thus making them weaker than they should be. The same applies to you with support magic, or me with destruction magic. As our personalities clash with the intentions of those skills, our will waver during the casting, making the final result pale in comparison to when properly casted.”

“Speak in a easier to understand way~!”

“You don’t like support, that’s why your support magic sucks.”

“Gotcha.”

“So we’ll train today ‘How to better imprint our will while casting’.”

“Do I get anything for succeeding~?”

Alberon pondered a bit before saying.

“I’ll make you something… but only if you manage to use one or two One Verse spells.”

“Ugh… Okay~~”

He sighed heavily at her answer because he knew that it was almost certain that she wouldn’t commit to the training. Taking out two books from his satchel, he threw one to her.

“First things first, we need to practice the spells with chant, then chantless using runes. How about it? Don’t worry, we won’t start off with One Verse spells, and rather with Single Action ones.”

“I’m good with it. Let’s go!”

Different from her practice with curses, with support magic even the single action spells, which were formed of one single to three runes, were hard. They never ended up satisfactorily and from time to time turned into curses expontanelly.

Alberon was also having a bit of a hard time with destruction magic, but his progress was quite ahead of Amanda’s. He was taking the chance to use Fictus Liones thunder attribute to help with his training while it provided the mana he needed.

They continued training like this while using different spells until it was three past the noon. At that point, the mana in Alberon’s book was almost at the rock bottom, so he decided to stop.

Although he had a head start, Amanda ended up overcoming his progress with her huge mana pool and stubbornness. She had managed to meet his expectations and cast two One Verse spells, which were usually composed of six to eighteen runes forming a magic circle.

“With a [Speed Enhancement] and [Endurance Enhancement], you should be enough. The rest are your Single Action spells for body reinforcement.”

“Ehehehe~ So I get the reward~”

“Yeah… But I’ll need a day to prepare it… You surprised me with your progress, really.”

“Thanks~”

“Ah, we won’t be training tomorrow, as I’ll need to prepare the things for my quest. So you can train if you want, or rest. Well, then...”

Looking at the wolf girl, Alberon smiled faintly and said.

“Your time now.”

‘Woof!’ The girl tilted her head, but soon put down the plushie over the fallen tree and got up, walking to the two of them. She was carrying two bags ever since the raid, but had never took anything from them, but now took a thick book from it and opened it. As soon as she did, a large amount of energy leaked, making Alberon mutter.

“A grimoire?!”

Many pages started flying out of the book and dissolving into the reddish energy she was using during the battle before.

She closed the book and the pages stopped flying as the energy converged into one a point near her hand, forming some sort of red shortsword.

From what Alberon could see, it was completely made of mana. It was probably a weapon created by that strange grimoire she was carrying.

“Hm… so that’s it. How strong it is, I wonder.”

Hearing this, the girl headed to a rock nearby and sliced at it until it turned into a cube, then sliced the cube in half.

After finishing her actions, she stopped in a proud looking pose with the shortsword in hand. Her showcase was enough to make Alberon reach a conclusion.

‘Hm… That’s certainly not a grimoire… The power of that sword seems to come from her rather than the book. A seal, perhaps?’

After asking the girl to show some more things, they discovered that she could make a spear, a longsword or a greatsword depending on how many pages she used, but could only have one at time. When she wanted, she could also turn the weapons back into pages.

They spent some time resting and eating a meal by the lake, although Amanda refused to eat, and then went back to Aeternus.

In the following day to the training, Alby left the yet in repairs in and headed to the Central District. His goal today was to buy some items with the money they earned as reward from the Raid.

Alberon entered a large store located in the Central District. Luckily, it was not destroyed in the attack due to its location, so he could buy new tools. The workshop, though, was just like many others. Destroyed. But as he couldn't do much at the present moment, he thought that at least buying new tools would at least suffice.

As he felt that lacking a weapon in a fight was stupid due to his last experience during the attack, Alberon decided to head first to the weapons section.

"Hm... That won't do... Nor that..."

While checking both a longsword and a spear, he concluded that he had no skill at all to use them. Although he knew a bit about fencing, what he lacked was actual training. Perhaps Amanda would be able to, knowing that she was raised by their mother, and personally trained by her. But as for now, giving a weapon to his chaotic sister was out of question. He picked up, instead, a mace.

"Well, I might at least know how to use this. Hmmm..."

With an idea flashing in his head, he promptly headed to the material's shelf. As the tool's section was in the way to it, he took the chance to pick up a normal looking pickaxe and a compass. He had taken a quest to mine, so he was in need of one, and a compass was always welcome to someone with such a poor sense of direction as him.

Arriving at the shelf, he quickly picked up two sheets of parchment and started rummaging through the elemental inks. After giving a look over all of them, he finally found the one he wanted. A yellowish colored ink with a label saying 'Thunder Element Ink'.

Picking it up, it stacked over all the items he had took. It was quite the amount now, and as my money probably would run out with just this, Alberon decided to call it a day.

"Hm... I'll be taking those, if possible. How much it goes?" Taking the items to the counter, he placed them over it and asked for the bill.

Mace

2 Parchment

Thunder Elemental Ink

Normal Pickaxe

Compass

"Alright then..." *peeks at card* "Aruberon-san?

This is the order, right?”

His eyebrow twitched as he was called ‘Aruberon’.

1 Mace = 160G

2 Parchment = 2 x 20 = 40G

1 Elemental Ink = 80G

1 Pickaxe = 40G

1 Compass = 30G

Total = 350G

“Please take the money from your guild card, alright? Hikari is happy to help Aruberon-san with his shopping needs!"

Alberon sighed heavily as he paid and exited the store.

"Why no one gets my name right..."

He walked with heavy steps until he finally reached the rundown workshop. From the door, he could see Amanda waiting for him at the door, waving.

“Did you brought everything~?”

“Yeah, let’s get to the work.”

Alberon said as he entered. The wolf girl wasn’t nowhere to be found, so it would be only them both for today. Taking out his Item Box, he dumped a Leshy corpse over the table.

He didn’t liked much the idea of using something like that as material, but they had to manage with what they had right now.

Taking out his knife, he started removing one of the arms of the creature. A strange sap-like liquid came out. It was lacking the viscosity of a sap. It was probably its blood.

“Amanda, did you bought what I had asked?”

“Yup. Here it is~”

She passed him down some vials. Alberon had asked her to sell half of the ravens they had collected in the Raid and buy some vials for this situation. He wasn’t quite sure, but maybe it was possible to use this sap-like blood later.

Alberon only stored three vials worth of it and the rest went to a bucket to be used right now.

The next step was prying open the Leshy’s chest. From there he took out the creature’s heart and deposited over the table. The rest of the body went back into his Item Box.

Drawing a circle by using the Leshy’s blood as ink, he asked Amanda to help him. She sliced one of her fingers and started putting some of her blood over it as she poured mana. The cicle started glowing as her mana inflated the heart of the Leshy back to its usual appearance when inside the body. Not long after the heart was completely inflated, it started to harden and the flesh started to turn into a crystal like material.

As they finished turning the Leshy’s Heart in a crystal, Alberon took the arm that was dried out of blood and straightened it, putting the heart in its hand, bound to it by the fingers that held in a grasp-like position.

Around the arm, Alberon started drawing yet another group of magic circles. Those seemed to be slightly bigger than the one made for the heart. With all the preparations finished, he turned to Amanda.

“Well, I finished the foundations, but I’ll need you to supply the mana as I work. I want to reserve Fictus Liones’ mana to something.”

“Roger that~!”

The girl started pouring mana over the strange staff-like object and the magic circles beneath it, and while she did that Alberon caught the mana and started threading it into more inscriptions, both in the surface of the Leshy’s arm and the air near it.

He wrote some things in the air, then erased it. He did and redid the magic circles at least three times before finally being satisfied and nodding to his sister for her to stop sending mana.

The mana that was filling the circles started circulating through them, then started to enter the arm until all the circles, even the ones made in the table, completely disappeared.

“It’s complete.”

“Oh~!”

“The quality is still lacking, though. Without using a proper catalyst, and using its blood as enchanting medium instead of magical ink made the quality drop a bit. The quality and amount of mana, though, are good.

This staff is powered by this… Hm… How could I call it… Mana Heart? Sounds like a good name. Anyway, the Mana Heart works as the catalyst of the Staff, and have some spells, that I handpicked, engraved in it. Mostly Support Magic, as to cover for one of your flaws, but I also added some Curse and Destruction Magics for you. The body of the staff, made of the Leshy arm, is filled with natural Magic Circuits, that I made using the veins that were already there.

Overall, the utility of it is to allow you to cast spells more easily as the Magic Circuits take care of directing and controlling your chaotic mana while the catalyst executes the spells. Of course, it’s not all powerful, and if you pour too much mana… I fear it might just explode.”

“Oh~ It’s cool~ And I liked the appearance~”

“Guessed so. Now, help me cleaning this mess.”

The both of them wiped the table clean off the remains from the last experiment and Amanda stored her newly made staff in her Item Box.

After the table was made clean, Alberon dropped the mace he had bought, together with the vial of Thunder Elemental Ink and a shard of Thunder Crystal.

He took out Fictus Liones and started drawing a magic circle with the elemental ink as the thunder attributed mana danced joyously as it was infused in the circle.

Just like the one which he used on Tene’s sculpture, it was a circle of Creation Magic, but for a different reason this time. Since it was a small one, it barely used any ink, and soon he began to work.

He started by cutting the shard, that was about six to seven centimeters big, in three smaller pieces and give them a similar form and attached them at the end of the handle with the help of the Creation Magic. After that, he pulled out his knife and started to carve runes across the handle.

The last step was to spread magic circles for the enchanting using the Thunder Elemental Ink. It took half of the ink to make them all.

Resting the mace over the circles, he started pouring all the remaining mana inside Fictus Liones on them, also forming new ones in the air just like with his sister’s staff. But, differently from the staff, Alberon had a clear idea of what he wanted to do with the mace, so the making of the enchanting circles progresses smoothly without needing to erase or change anything.

As he took off his hands of the mana that was surrounding the mace, the magically made electric currents started circulating through the circles and ultimately imbue themselves inside the mace.

The final result was…

“Another failure, huh...”

The mace was radiating an aura similar to the demi-grimoire, Fictus Liones, but on a smaller scale. The three jewel-like crystals in the base looked brighter than before, and shone faintly as they absorbed the mana of the surroundings slowly.

“It looks fine for me, though~?”

“Again, the materials and my own skill are lacking. At least I can use it as substitute for Fictus Liones in case of a close fight. The mace, aside from the thunder attunement, was imbued with some of the basic spells, and the whole weapon can store mana through the crystals at the base.”

The result was good, but not satisfactory for Alberon.

“Well, I’ll call it a day. I probably won’t be able to do much for today.” With Fictus Liones completely out of mana, he was, basically, powerless.

Storing all the things he hadn’t used in his Item Box, he went back to the inn.

In the following day, Alberon went through one of the Teleport Gates to the Desert Village and took a ride together with the caravan miners that were heading there. Inside one of the wagons, he checked again the contents of his bag, he noticed the extra item inside it. It was a vial of water. Though, it was not normal water, but the ‘Fortune Drink’ given to him by Sentina as a free sample.

He was quite dubious about that flask of water, thinking that was either a scam or perhaps a placebo of sorts. When he found the said Fortune Drink inside his bag, the first thing to cross his mind was throwing it away, but as he wouldn’t like to sadden Amanda by doing so and because, since he was going to the desert, having some extra water wouldn’t hurt, he decided to keep it.

Pushing everything back to his bag, he placed it in a safe place. As he was currently in a wagon, there was the danger of the baggage flying out of the wagon because of the bumps.

Together with him inside the wagon were a group of four people. All of them were probably meeting each other for the first time as a awkward mood filled the air.

One of them was a girl with an attire that didn’t seemed like a combatant’s. She had a long black hair tied in a braid over her shoulder, a sharp face and eyes. From her back, a pair of black wings grew. Even though she resembled faintly something like a fallen angel or something, she was in fact a Raven-kin.

The second person was a tall human man with a bow and quirrel hung to his back. He had a square face and short, disheveled brown hair. The other one was an aged, scarred man. He looked like a normal human, though his ears were a bit pointy to some degree.

The last integrant of the group was the wolf girl that decided to follow Alberon until here.

“So… the weather sure is nice today.”

With an awful wording, the old man tried to break the silence. The tall man smiled dryly and took the chance to finally speak too.

“The weather is indeed nice today.”

As he butchered the conversation, a low laugh could be heard leaving the mouths of both him and the old man.

“What are you laughing at?” The Raven girl spoke while staring at them strangely.

“Ah, no, no. Sorry. I was just thinking how stiff we’re being.”

“Is that so?”

“Introductions? How about it? It’s a good way to dispel this.”

“Introductions, huh?” She narrowed her eyes before speaking. “Rihu. I’m Rihu. A merchant heading to the Desert Mines.”

“Good. I’m Darnic, a half-elf and a… jack of all trades, you could say? I’m currently anything, but maybe a mercenary.”

“I’m Adrian, an adventurer, D Rank.”

When it came to Alberon’s time to introduce himself, he hesitated for a bit before doing. “I’m Alby. An E Rank adventurer. This one is...” Putting his hand over the head of the wolf girl. “... I don’t know her name, but she’s my companion here.”

“E rank huh...”

“You do feel like a greenhorn, hohoho.”

“What brings you to the Desert Mine, though?”

“Erm… Shortage of money?”

The three of them made an awkward face and hung their heads as they heard that.

“I see...”

“So you too...”

“I guess is a common problem...”

“Eh?”

“We’re on the same boat, Alby… On the same boat…”

“We all need money for… well, our reasons...”

As soon as she said that, the wagon stopped suddenly, making us lose a bit of balance.

“What the heck?”

“We’ll make a pause for now. Soon it’ll be noon.” The conductor of the wagon that was taking us to the mines said without turning to us.

As the sun was starting to reach its pinnacle, travelling would become troublesome, so the group of miners decided to make a stop to rest and eat until the sun start to go down.

Alberon was thinking about resting a bit too and reading while he waited, but…

“Hey, Alby mind to join us for a bit?”

Darnic called me and the wolf girl as the miners started to set camp. Adrian was together with him, with a bow in hands.

“Huh?”

“You see, we’re near a place where some jackals and desert foxes live, so we thought it would be a good idea to try to gain some extra money here.”

“But, the sun...”

“That’s no problem.”

The raven girl from before appeared holding five small blue gem-like objects. As she transferred some mana to them, they dissolved and flew to each one of the five, covering in a bluish aura. Suddenly, he felt that the heat that was once troubling him had lessened quite a bit.

“I thought you were a merchant.”

“I’m a merchant though.” She smiled proudly. “A jeweler, and a mage in the free hours.”

‘I see’ Alberon simply nodded.

The five of them headed off, taking care to not distance themselves too much from the miner’s camp. Soon after, they found a group of both jackals and desert foxes, that seemed to be fighting each other. Probably they had some territorial conflict or something.

Adrian had his bow in hands, the girl, Rihu, had taken out some gem-like objects smaller than the ones before, Darnic took out a spear and the wolf girl already had her hands covered in her red aura.

Alberon decided to take out his only weapon at the moment, the thunder enchanted mace. Although he was more fit to be a magician, he had left Fictus Liones at Aeternus, so he had to fight with that he had.

As the three frontlines, Alberon included, started to go in the enemy's direction while sneaking, the ones at the back started shooting. Arrows and spells alerted the beasts as their comrades started to fall down.

“Storm King Might. Storm King Charge.”

Casting two simple reinforcement spells, he charged in the direction of his foes with his enhanced strength and speed. With a swing of the mace, he managed to graze at one of the foxes, and the sparks coming out of the weapon made the animal stop for a while. Taking the chance, he kicked the fox and followed with another swing to its side.

After Alberon had took out three or four foxes and two jackals that got in the way, something changed in the battlefield.

Together with a loud sound of hisses, a bunch of arrows fell in the midst of the battlefield.

“Damn lizards…!”

Alberon could hear Darnic cursing nearby as a group of lizardmen mounting large lizards appeared suddenly. They started shooting arrows from the back of the beasts while letting out delighted hisses.

Feeling that the situation would get complicated now, Alberon strengthened the grip in his mace and chanted.

“The King never fights alone, for his subjects are always by his side! Steel yourselves and fight, Storm King Guard!”

A surge or energy left the mace and flooded to the four that were accompanying him. Their abilities were enhanced by the support magic that was cast, and their weapons, just like the mace, started to generate weak electric currents. With the thunder support magic, they decided to attack the lizardmen. Both them and their mounts fell prey to the thunder enhanced attacks, and soon they either fled or were killed. The animals had also left the battlefield in the meantime, leaving only the dead creatures and the wounded group.

“Phew… Who knew that the lizardmen were targeting those animals too. Luckily we managed to fend them off.”

“Thanks to Alby and that thunder spell.”

“Ah, no… That was nothing...” Alberon groaned at his recklessness. Just like that, he had used up over half of the mana stored at the mace. “I just thought it would be useful, I guess?”

‘Woof’

“Ugh… I think I used too much mana...” Rihu complained as she massaged her temple.

“Well, this was something I don’t want to experience again, so let’s target smaller groups next time.”

“Rather, I think we spent more time that I expected on this battle.”

Pointing at the sky, the sun had already started to slowly descend. It was just a bit past noon, but they had to hurry there to not be left behind by the caravan.

“Oh, shit… Alby, help me here.”

Alberon and Adrian swiftly stored the monsters in their Item Boxes and the group went back to the camp.

“Frankly, you all have no sense of danger...”

“Says the one who suggested us to fight.”

“Well, I thought they were an easy target. Sorry.”

“We’re alive and kicking, and that’s the important. As for the rewards…. Let’s split them in the way to the mines.”

The miners dismantled the camp not long after they arrived, and, back in the wagon, the four of them started to disassemble the corpses and discuss who would take what.

Alberon managed to keep the materials he wanted, since the others, even more the wolf girl, didn’t showed any particular interest in them. The hearts of some of the creatures, the tails of the foxes and jackals, the teeth and the tip of the tails of the large lizards and from the lizardmen he didn’t wanted nothing aside from the strange necklaces they were wearing to serve as proof of subjugation. The wolf girl only wanted to take as meat as possible to eat later.

“But, what a strange guy… Asking for hearts and teeth instead of things like the lizard’s scales.”

“Well, the teeth are for… well, a test I’ll only be able to make at the Mines. As for the hearts, I’ll process them to turn in magic crystals.”

“Oh? Let me hear more about it!” Rihu’s eyes shone strangely as she approached Alberon for answers. Probably her merchant side was kicking in.

“Uh… well, it’s still a prototype, though, but is simple enough for anyone who has mana enough to do. Let me demonstrate.” Alberon took out a parchment, one vial of the Leshy’s blood from his item box and started drawing a circle in the parchment using his finger.

After completing the magic circle, he transferred a bit of mana from the mace to the parchment, making the circle shine and burn itself in the parchment surface. After that, he placed a smallish fox heart in the middle of it and turned to Rihu.

“Hm… Can you help me here? I usually need to rely on my equipment’s stored mana since I’m short on it, but I fear it might be influenced by its attribute.”

“Sure thing.” She nodded and started transferring her mana to the magic circle. Alberon only observed as the heart started swelling up and undergoing the same change as the Leshy’s.

“The mana poured will enter the heart and fill it in place of the blood.” Alberon started explaining as the heart was undergoing the change. “Then, when it completely filled the heart, the mana will sublimate the flesh of the heart to energy and crystallize the heart into the ‘Mana Heart’. The process is simple, and the only downside was the amount of mana needed to make it in bigger sizes.”

While it’s easy to make a Mana Heart out of the heart of a desert fox, which was at most thumb sized, making one out of a Gryphon’s one would require a large amount of mana and time.

“My... Well, this is quite a pretty gem. Although there's nothing of special aside from that.” The raven-kin merchant said as she held the heart shaped crystal.

“After made, the Mana Heart will work much like any mana crystal and the only thing different was its form. As I said, it’s nothing special…”

“Well, if it isn’t special I’ll be keeping this one.” She said as she put the Mana Heart in her bag.

“Ah… nevermind...” He sighed and stored his things back before he went back to reading in his seat of the wagon. The travel dragged for the rest of the day, and they needed to camp again to rest. In the following day, they had to travel for some hours before finally arriving at the mine.

“Finally here, huh...” The girl made some stretches after getting out of the wagon.

“That reminds me… why were you wanting to come here again?”

“Ah, didn’t I said I was a jeweler? I make Magical Jewels out of the crystals that can be mined here.”

“Magical Jewels?”

“Well, they’re nothing more than elemental crystals shaped as jewels, but if you imbue a sigil on them, voila! Magical Jewels. They’re good for people that are unable to use magic, so they sell well among some mercenaries and even beginner mages.” Rihu said as she took a small gem-like object like the one she had used before. “Like this one, which I used in the fight yesterday. The only problem is that they’re consumed during the casting as the energy that forms the gem is consumed as fuel for the spell.”

“I see… Wait, so you were using products to fight? How does one makes profits like that?!”

“Hm~ Well, I was actually using the cheapest gems, so there’s no problem.” She gave Darnic a smug grin, much to his annoyance.

“Let’s just get to the work.”

“Roger!”

Alberon took out his newly bought pickaxe from the Item Box. Turning to the wolf girl, she had already pulled her book and made a pickaxe out of the red aura. They started mining peacefully from a bit before noon until the sun had travelled halfway from its apex to the horizon to set.

Alberon, though, had only lasted halfway through it, and the rest was left to the wolf girl. The pile that he managed to mine was about one third of what the quest asked, while she mined the rest. That was also because he took the chance to mine some unrefined earth crystals for his experiment.

Coming back dead tired to the camp of the miners, he met with Rihu and Darnic.

“Where’s Adrian?”

“Ah, he set off to do a quest or something. In the Ant Nest. He said he would go back after completing, so asked me to say goodbye to you in his stead.”

“Oh… Well, I think I’ll be heading off now, since I already completed what I had to do here.”

“Me too. I only came to check the mine, and to collect some crystals for my personal things.” Rihu announced.

“It was short, but I hope you have a good travel back. A caravan will leave soon, so you should take it before is late.“ Darnic said it smiling faintly.

“I enjoyed the travel, so I hope we can meet again.” Extending his hand to the old man, Alberon offered a handshake. Darnic shook his hand and smiled.

“I hope so too, young man.”

‘Woof!’

“Hohoho~ You too, little one.” He said as he patted the wolf girl.

After parting with Darnic, he joined the caravan that was heading back together with Rihu and the wolf girl.

When they got in a wagon, the first thing the raven girl did was ask.

“So, what are you making now?”

“What?”

“Don’t ‘What?’ me. I’m curious, so I dismissed half of my visit time for this.”

“Are you stupid?!” Alberon pinched his nasal bridge and asked.

“No, you just smell like proffit.” She said with a strange glint in her eyes. “Now, do it!”

Grumbling internally, he took out of the Item Box the vial of Leshy’s blood he had used before and a piece of earth crystal. Handing the crystal to her, he said. “Can you clean this, please?”

“Usually I’d charge you for that but… Hm… I’ll do it.” Taking the crystal, she started using her mana to clear the impurities of the crystal. After finishing, she handed it back to Alberon, who crunched it and mixed with the Leshys blood and a bit of mana from the mace.

Checking the stored mana in the mace, he noticed that it had restored a bit back, so it had more than half left.

Satisfied, he took out the last parchment he had and drew a magic circle in it and used mana to burn in the surface of the parchment. This way, it could be used more than once.

With the preparations set, he took out a bunch of the large lizard’s teeth, some earth crystals and his knife. Being asked once again to help him cleaning, Rihu complained. “You didn’t showed it before but you’re quite shameless...”

While she refined the crystals, he used the knife and a bit of Creation Magic to make a hole in the teeth. With the slightly refined earth crystals, he made them into a powder and filled the holes before closing with the material that came out when he was making the holes, mending it with Creation Magic.

He made ten or so of those earth powder filled teeth and then placed it over the parchment. Using the mana in the mace, he started to fill the magic circle, which reacted to the teeth as the mana in the circle started entering them.

Alberon continued pouring mana for ten or so seconds before he retracted his hands and said. “It’s done.”

“What’s this?”

“Hm… You could say it’s a type of golem core, maybe?”

“I don’t quite follow...”

“When I was young, my Father told me a story about golem-like creatures made of bones, but not through necromancy. Dragon Tooth Warriors.” Alberon said as he stored back his things again. “Of course, there’s no way I’d have the materials to make one, so I decided to try to make a different version.” Picking up one of the five inches long tooth, he continued. “Thus I made those Lizard Tooth Warriors. If you throw them in the ground, it’ll turn into dust and create a degraded version of a Dragon Tooth Warrior.”

“I see.” She said in a uninterested tone as she reached for three of them and put them on her bag. Sighing, Alberon stored the rest of them and decided to process the rest of them at Aeternus.

Going back to the Desert Village, he waved goodbye to Rihu and went back through the Gate. Arriving at the Receptionist Desk, he handed the papers the reports, along with the items required for the quest.

@brasca123

26 Desert Fox Tails;
25 Desert Jackal Tails;
15 Lizardmen Tribal Necklaces;
11 Tips of Large Lizard’s Tails;
25 Iron Ore;
30 Copper Ore.

4 Semi-refined Earth Crystals;
7 Lizard Tooth Warrior Cores;
100 Large Lizard Teeth;
9 Desert Fox Hearts;
10 Desert Jackal Hearts;
10 Desert Lizardman Hearts;
10 Large Lizard Hearts;
2 Vials of Leshy blood.

The body of the staff is made with a Leshy’s arm, with its veins and energy channels altered into Magical Circuits that focus on controlling and directing the mana infused in them;

At one end of the staff, there is a Mana Heart made with a Leshy’s heart and Amanda’s blood and mana. Its main functionality is to process the mana sent by the body into spells;

It has 10 Spells stored inside it:

Destruction Magic -

Exploding marbles

Destructing Flames

Curse Magic -

Slow curse

Heavy curse

Sleep curse

Support Magic -

Speed Enhancement

Strength Enhancement

Endurance Enhancement

Vision Enhancement

Simple Barrier

The whole mace is able to store Mana inside it, which is absorbed through the crystal shards at one end, and is attuned with the Thunder Attribute thanks to the conditions of its enchantement;

Each of the three shards has a lesser spell of Fictus Liones engraved inside them, allowing Alberon to cast them: Storm King Might, Storm King Charge and Storm King Guard;

By charging the three at once, it’s possible to cast the only offensive spell that Alberon has in his current arsenal: Storm King Assault;

If needed be, the mace can transfer mana to Alberon, allowing him to make use of it for other things.

A sculpture of Tene made with the unknown green stone. It’s shaped as Tene reading a book, seated in a table of the Tavern.

[OOC] Finally done after four months... Well, just as any of my reports (With Ara too), it's quite messy and of low quality. On some points, it feels rushed even.
Anyway, 738 words of questing.... 6465 words of nothing at all...

And, yep... I don't like introducing new characters, I guess?

AliceShiki · Nov 2, 2017

The Everdistant Utopia said: ↑

Sandy Desert - #SE1 - E rank - Slay 25 Desert Jackal [ 50 G ]
Sandy Desert - #SE2 - E rank - Slay 25 Desert Fox[ 50 G ]
Desert Village - #SE1- E-Ranked - Slay 10 Large Lizard - [50 G]
Sandy Desert - #SD1 - D rank - Slay 15 Desert Lizardmen [ 110 G ]
Desert Mine - #GD4 - D-Ranked – Mine 25 Iron Ore [ 60G | 10 x Iron Ingot]
Desert Mine - #GD5 - D-Ranked – Mine 30 Copper Ore [ 60G | 10 x Copper Ingot]

In what looked more like ruins than a proper construction, a young man was holding a broom while he tried to tidy up the destroyed room. After some time, his hands stopped. He wiped of the sweat in his forehead and took off the cloth that covered his mouth for protection and sighed.

“I guess that’s about it...”

Although he wasn’t quite satisfied yet, this was the best he could do in the current moment. With the workshop that he had just received the authorization to use now in wreckages, he couldn’t help but sigh.

It had a way too short life because of the attack that happened suddenly at the flying city.

Now the building who was before a decent workshop was only a shadow of it. The rubble was moved elsewhere, what could still be used was put in the few intact shelves, and what could not was thrown away. The only things left from the few before were a sculpting knife and mostly books. Everything else went to waste.

Aside from cleaning the workshop, there were still the emergency repairs to do, but Alberon didn’t had the budget to afford them right now, so he could only hope the ceiling won’t fall down at his head while he worked.

Sighing yet again, he took one of the few remaining chairs and pulled it to the most conserved worktable and started taking out things from his Item Box. Although he didn’t liked much to use the smallish cube that had some sort of spatial magic imbued to it, since he rather liked the weight of his satchel over his shoulder, circumstances made him use it to store some difficult to store materials, like the gryphons corpses, who were easily four meters tall and eight to ten long from head to tail.

The items he took out, though, were quite small. A piece of strange green stone, that glowed with a strange energy, and a small carving knife. He also took a vial with a strange darkish red ‘ink’, that was in fact a bit of his blood. Although gruesome, it was a way to cut down the expenses.

Leaving the Item Box aside, Alberon pulled a book from his satchel, his demi-grimoire, Fictus Liones, and rested it at his lap.

The book let out some sparks, but he ignored it. Its use right now will be only to supply Alberon with mana. The mana coming from it flowed to his hands as the young man drew the magic circle around the stone with the blood.

It was a bit of a waste to use mana on something like that, but is the only way as Tene, the one who ordered it, had said it was better to not touch this.

Finishing the preparations, Alberon infused more mana on the formation and took the sculpting knife. The magic circle shone faintly as the stone started to raise its temperature, what could be told by the heat that was emanating from it.

When the blade of the sculpting knife touched the stone, a piece of it came off easily. Feeling satisfied with the results, Alberon started shaving off the stone and giving it form as the knife danced over it.

What he had used just now was a formation for Creation Magic, a magic focused on support and crafting of items. It had many uses depending on what runes you used to make the formation, but the only downside was that it required a constant supply of mana to be kept working, what Alberon couldn’t possibly provide. For this reason, he had to rely on the mana that was infused at the start.

If his calculations weren’t wrong, he had about an hour and something, so his hands hurriedly started to work.

The stone started to gain the form of a slim and tall… person? Is this right? Tene did looked like a man, but Alberon not entirely sure.

It took almost the full time of the spell to finish the sculpture, and yet he was not that satisfied with the details. He lacked better tools…

But with this workshop as it was right now, he couldn’t even dream about getting all the new tools he wanted to.

Leaning at the chair tired, he started thinking about dozing off a bit there. Amanda was still recovering from her wounds in the battle, so she wouldn’t arrive so soon, what left only…

‘Woof!’

Hearing a familiar sound, he snapped out of his sleepy daze and turned back to see who was. The one he found there was no other than the wolf girl he and his sister found during the battle.

‘Woof!’

She was holding the wolf plushie that was given to Alberon as ‘reward’ after the battle, squeezing it to make it go ‘woof!’.

“Hm… You did liked this...”

‘Woof!’

“You know, words are easier to understand rather than ‘woof’s.”

‘Woof!’

As she continued squeezing it rather than talking, a slight curiosity started boiling inside him until he blurted out.

“You can’t speak, isn’t it?”

‘Woof!’ She nodded and squeezed the wolf tighter.

“Were you always like that?”

‘Woof!’ She tilted her head, and thought a bit before nodding. Although Alberon didn’t wanted to pry much into her matters, he couldn’t help but get curious.

“Hm… Come here for a moment.”

Raising from his chair, he asked her to sit down at his place. The girl tilted her head, puzzled, but headed to the chair and seated. As she did so, Alberon checked how many mana was remaining in Fictus Liones. Roughly half of it.

Ascertaining what he wanted to do, he placed his hand gently in her throat and started pouring mana and a couple of runes shined around her neck as he started examining.

“Let’s see… Negative for curse, it seems… It would be less troublesome if that was the reason, though. And the vocal chords seems to be there and weren’t badly developed, so she can’t possibly have been born without being able to talk, but...”

Alberon’s face distorted as he checked the current conditions of the girl’s vocal chords.

“They’re completely wrecked.”

From what it looked, something made her mute. The possibilities that floated in his head were either that they were purposely destroyed by someone, or even her, or they were destroyed in some accident involving some sort of voice magic or she could have lost it due to some disease.

Either way, that wasn’t exactly the only thing in Alberon’s head. He was also curious about the reason the girl had lied. Or if she wasn’t lying and really thought she was mute since she was born.

While such thoughts stormed inside his head, he canceled the magic and retracted his hand.

‘Woof!’ The girl squeezed the wolf plushie and jumped down the chair.

Alberon smiled faintly and looked at the cracked ceiling, noticing that the sun was starting to show signs that it would set. He had spent the whole day doing chores and making Tene’s sculpture, although he didn’t felt like that much time had passed. Perhaps because he had just noticed how much time he had been working non-stop, a wave of fatigue assaulted him.

He stored everything he had over the table, including the sculpture of Tene, back into the Item Box. Turning to the wolf girl, Alberon said.

“Well, let’s call it a day. We still need to meet up with Amanda.”

‘Woof!’ the girl nodded and started following him as he exited the workshop, locked it and went back to the inn they were staying at.

“Alby~ Why are we here~?”

Amanda complained to her brother, Alberon, as they were heading out of Verdant Village to the open space of the Great Plains. Alberon led the way, Amanda unwillingly followed and the wolf girl, whose name was still unknown, tagged along them, staying in the back.

“We’re here to train! Train I say!”

“But~ But~ I wanted to eat something~!”

“Then why didn’t you ate yesterday?!”

“Erm… I was a bit busy with my treatment… and I decided to do some experiments~”

She started averting her eyes as Alberon glared at her. Since the day when she locked herself away, four months ago, she hadn't eaten anything at all.

Of course, he knew that with her conditions, and amount of mana, she could easily continue without eating anything, but he wanted to correct her bad habits before it was too late.

The group continued their way until they reached a place suitably far from Verdant, but still near the lake. As they arrived, Alberon cleared his throat and started.

“Well, today’s training has three objectives: First, have Amanda learn some support magic. Second, have myself learn some offensive magic.”

“Oh~! That sounds boring!”

‘Woof!’

“Of course, we’ll coach each other, so I hope it proceeds smoothly.” He continued disregarding Amanda’s protest. “And, finally, third, to discover what exactly you can do.” Alberon said as he pointed to the wolf girl.

Since the last day, he had been quite wary of her. He wanted to at least know the extent of her abilities if the need arises.

The first part of the training was of both Amanda and Alberon, so the wolf girl seated in a dead tree nearby and watched.

“So, let’s begin the lesson, Amanda.”

“Ugh… Okay~”

“So, let’s start with the basic. We both use rune magic, right? Do you know the reasons why?”

“Because is easy to make it more mana economic than other ones, and because even a kid with no affinity can use, as long as he or she has mana~?”

“Correct. Specially the one we use, the Runes that our father devised. It holds similarities with many other kinds of runes, but have big influences from Fairy Runes and Dragon Runes, which we use for our four main magic types: Destruction, Creation, Support and Curses.”

Amanda nodded as he continued the explanation.

“That said, even though it’s the most suitable, we shouldn’t be relying on it too much. The main focus on our training today will be the actual casting.

One of the reasons I can’t release any magic of Fictus Liones is because I lack the will to cast them, thus making them weaker than they should be. The same applies to you with support magic, or me with destruction magic. As our personalities clash with the intentions of those skills, our will waver during the casting, making the final result pale in comparison to when properly casted.”

“Speak in a easier to understand way~!”

“You don’t like support, that’s why your support magic sucks.”

“Gotcha.”

“So we’ll train today ‘How to better imprint our will while casting’.”

“Do I get anything for succeeding~?”

Alberon pondered a bit before saying.

“I’ll make you something… but only if you manage to use one or two One Verse spells.”

“Ugh… Okay~~”

He sighed heavily at her answer because he knew that it was almost certain that she wouldn’t commit to the training. Taking out two books from his satchel, he threw one to her.

“First things first, we need to practice the spells with chant, then chantless using runes. How about it? Don’t worry, we won’t start off with One Verse spells, and rather with Single Action ones.”

“I’m good with it. Let’s go!”

Different from her practice with curses, with support magic even the single action spells, which were formed of one single to three runes, were hard. They never ended up satisfactorily and from time to time turned into curses expontanelly.

Alberon was also having a bit of a hard time with destruction magic, but his progress was quite ahead of Amanda’s. He was taking the chance to use Fictus Liones thunder attribute to help with his training while it provided the mana he needed.

They continued training like this while using different spells until it was three past the noon. At that point, the mana in Alberon’s book was almost at the rock bottom, so he decided to stop.

Although he had a head start, Amanda ended up overcoming his progress with her huge mana pool and stubbornness. She had managed to meet his expectations and cast two One Verse spells, which were usually composed of six to eighteen runes forming a magic circle.

“With a [Speed Enhancement] and [Endurance Enhancement], you should be enough. The rest are your Single Action spells for body reinforcement.”

“Ehehehe~ So I get the reward~”

“Yeah… But I’ll need a day to prepare it… You surprised me with your progress, really.”

“Thanks~”

“Ah, we won’t be training tomorrow, as I’ll need to prepare the things for my quest. So you can train if you want, or rest. Well, then...”

Looking at the wolf girl, Alberon smiled faintly and said.

“Your time now.”

‘Woof!’ The girl tilted her head, but soon put down the plushie over the fallen tree and got up, walking to the two of them. She was carrying two bags ever since the raid, but had never took anything from them, but now took a thick book from it and opened it. As soon as she did, a large amount of energy leaked, making Alberon mutter.

“A grimoire?!”

Many pages started flying out of the book and dissolving into the reddish energy she was using during the battle before.

She closed the book and the pages stopped flying as the energy converged into one a point near her hand, forming some sort of red shortsword.

From what Alberon could see, it was completely made of mana. It was probably a weapon created by that strange grimoire she was carrying.

“Hm… so that’s it. How strong it is, I wonder.”

Hearing this, the girl headed to a rock nearby and sliced at it until it turned into a cube, then sliced the cube in half.

After finishing her actions, she stopped in a proud looking pose with the shortsword in hand. Her showcase was enough to make Alberon reach a conclusion.

‘Hm… That’s certainly not a grimoire… The power of that sword seems to come from her rather than the book. A seal, perhaps?’

After asking the girl to show some more things, they discovered that she could make a spear, a longsword or a greatsword depending on how many pages she used, but could only have one at time. When she wanted, she could also turn the weapons back into pages.

They spent some time resting and eating a meal by the lake, although Amanda refused to eat, and then went back to Aeternus.

In the following day to the training, Alby left the yet in repairs in and headed to the Central District. His goal today was to buy some items with the money they earned as reward from the Raid.

Alberon entered a large store located in the Central District. Luckily, it was not destroyed in the attack due to its location, so he could buy new tools. The workshop, though, was just like many others. Destroyed. But as he couldn't do much at the present moment, he thought that at least buying new tools would at least suffice.

As he felt that lacking a weapon in a fight was stupid due to his last experience during the attack, Alberon decided to head first to the weapons section.

"Hm... That won't do... Nor that..."

While checking both a longsword and a spear, he concluded that he had no skill at all to use them. Although he knew a bit about fencing, what he lacked was actual training. Perhaps Amanda would be able to, knowing that she was raised by their mother, and personally trained by her. But as for now, giving a weapon to his chaotic sister was out of question. He picked up, instead, a mace.

"Well, I might at least know how to use this. Hmmm..."

With an idea flashing in his head, he promptly headed to the material's shelf. As the tool's section was in the way to it, he took the chance to pick up a normal looking pickaxe and a compass. He had taken a quest to mine, so he was in need of one, and a compass was always welcome to someone with such a poor sense of direction as him.

Arriving at the shelf, he quickly picked up two sheets of parchment and started rummaging through the elemental inks. After giving a look over all of them, he finally found the one he wanted. A yellowish colored ink with a label saying 'Thunder Element Ink'.

Picking it up, it stacked over all the items he had took. It was quite the amount now, and as my money probably would run out with just this, Alberon decided to call it a day.

"Hm... I'll be taking those, if possible. How much it goes?" Taking the items to the counter, he placed them over it and asked for the bill.

Mace

2 Parchment

Thunder Elemental Ink

Normal Pickaxe

Compass

"Alright then..." *peeks at card* "Aruberon-san?

This is the order, right?”

His eyebrow twitched as he was called ‘Aruberon’.

1 Mace = 160G

2 Parchment = 2 x 20 = 40G

1 Elemental Ink = 80G

1 Pickaxe = 40G

1 Compass = 30G

Total = 350G

“Please take the money from your guild card, alright? Hikari is happy to help Aruberon-san with his shopping needs!"

Alberon sighed heavily as he paid and exited the store.

"Why no one gets my name right..."

He walked with heavy steps until he finally reached the rundown workshop. From the door, he could see Amanda waiting for him at the door, waving.

“Did you brought everything~?”

“Yeah, let’s get to the work.”

Alberon said as he entered. The wolf girl wasn’t nowhere to be found, so it would be only them both for today. Taking out his Item Box, he dumped a Leshy corpse over the table.

He didn’t liked much the idea of using something like that as material, but they had to manage with what they had right now.

Taking out his knife, he started removing one of the arms of the creature. A strange sap-like liquid came out. It was lacking the viscosity of a sap. It was probably its blood.

“Amanda, did you bought what I had asked?”

“Yup. Here it is~”

She passed him down some vials. Alberon had asked her to sell half of the ravens they had collected in the Raid and buy some vials for this situation. He wasn’t quite sure, but maybe it was possible to use this sap-like blood later.

Alberon only stored three vials worth of it and the rest went to a bucket to be used right now.

The next step was prying open the Leshy’s chest. From there he took out the creature’s heart and deposited over the table. The rest of the body went back into his Item Box.

Drawing a circle by using the Leshy’s blood as ink, he asked Amanda to help him. She sliced one of her fingers and started putting some of her blood over it as she poured mana. The cicle started glowing as her mana inflated the heart of the Leshy back to its usual appearance when inside the body. Not long after the heart was completely inflated, it started to harden and the flesh started to turn into a crystal like material.

As they finished turning the Leshy’s Heart in a crystal, Alberon took the arm that was dried out of blood and straightened it, putting the heart in its hand, bound to it by the fingers that held in a grasp-like position.

Around the arm, Alberon started drawing yet another group of magic circles. Those seemed to be slightly bigger than the one made for the heart. With all the preparations finished, he turned to Amanda.

“Well, I finished the foundations, but I’ll need you to supply the mana as I work. I want to reserve Fictus Liones’ mana to something.”

“Roger that~!”

The girl started pouring mana over the strange staff-like object and the magic circles beneath it, and while she did that Alberon caught the mana and started threading it into more inscriptions, both in the surface of the Leshy’s arm and the air near it.

He wrote some things in the air, then erased it. He did and redid the magic circles at least three times before finally being satisfied and nodding to his sister for her to stop sending mana.

The mana that was filling the circles started circulating through them, then started to enter the arm until all the circles, even the ones made in the table, completely disappeared.

“It’s complete.”

“Oh~!”

“The quality is still lacking, though. Without using a proper catalyst, and using its blood as enchanting medium instead of magical ink made the quality drop a bit. The quality and amount of mana, though, are good.

This staff is powered by this… Hm… How could I call it… Mana Heart? Sounds like a good name. Anyway, the Mana Heart works as the catalyst of the Staff, and have some spells, that I handpicked, engraved in it. Mostly Support Magic, as to cover for one of your flaws, but I also added some Curse and Destruction Magics for you. The body of the staff, made of the Leshy arm, is filled with natural Magic Circuits, that I made using the veins that were already there.

Overall, the utility of it is to allow you to cast spells more easily as the Magic Circuits take care of directing and controlling your chaotic mana while the catalyst executes the spells. Of course, it’s not all powerful, and if you pour too much mana… I fear it might just explode.”

“Oh~ It’s cool~ And I liked the appearance~”

“Guessed so. Now, help me cleaning this mess.”

The both of them wiped the table clean off the remains from the last experiment and Amanda stored her newly made staff in her Item Box.

After the table was made clean, Alberon dropped the mace he had bought, together with the vial of Thunder Elemental Ink and a shard of Thunder Crystal.

He took out Fictus Liones and started drawing a magic circle with the elemental ink as the thunder attributed mana danced joyously as it was infused in the circle.

Just like the one which he used on Tene’s sculpture, it was a circle of Creation Magic, but for a different reason this time. Since it was a small one, it barely used any ink, and soon he began to work.

He started by cutting the shard, that was about six to seven centimeters big, in three smaller pieces and give them a similar form and attached them at the end of the handle with the help of the Creation Magic. After that, he pulled out his knife and started to carve runes across the handle.

The last step was to spread magic circles for the enchanting using the Thunder Elemental Ink. It took half of the ink to make them all.

Resting the mace over the circles, he started pouring all the remaining mana inside Fictus Liones on them, also forming new ones in the air just like with his sister’s staff. But, differently from the staff, Alberon had a clear idea of what he wanted to do with the mace, so the making of the enchanting circles progresses smoothly without needing to erase or change anything.

As he took off his hands of the mana that was surrounding the mace, the magically made electric currents started circulating through the circles and ultimately imbue themselves inside the mace.

The final result was…

“Another failure, huh...”

The mace was radiating an aura similar to the demi-grimoire, Fictus Liones, but on a smaller scale. The three jewel-like crystals in the base looked brighter than before, and shone faintly as they absorbed the mana of the surroundings slowly.

“It looks fine for me, though~?”

“Again, the materials and my own skill are lacking. At least I can use it as substitute for Fictus Liones in case of a close fight. The mace, aside from the thunder attunement, was imbued with some of the basic spells, and the whole weapon can store mana through the crystals at the base.”

The result was good, but not satisfactory for Alberon.

“Well, I’ll call it a day. I probably won’t be able to do much for today.” With Fictus Liones completely out of mana, he was, basically, powerless.

Storing all the things he hadn’t used in his Item Box, he went back to the inn.

In the following day, Alberon went through one of the Teleport Gates to the Desert Village and took a ride together with the caravan miners that were heading there. Inside one of the wagons, he checked again the contents of his bag, he noticed the extra item inside it. It was a vial of water. Though, it was not normal water, but the ‘Fortune Drink’ given to him by Sentina as a free sample.

He was quite dubious about that flask of water, thinking that was either a scam or perhaps a placebo of sorts. When he found the said Fortune Drink inside his bag, the first thing to cross his mind was throwing it away, but as he wouldn’t like to sadden Amanda by doing so and because, since he was going to the desert, having some extra water wouldn’t hurt, he decided to keep it.

Pushing everything back to his bag, he placed it in a safe place. As he was currently in a wagon, there was the danger of the baggage flying out of the wagon because of the bumps.

Together with him inside the wagon were a group of four people. All of them were probably meeting each other for the first time as a awkward mood filled the air.

One of them was a girl with an attire that didn’t seemed like a combatant’s. She had a long black hair tied in a braid over her shoulder, a sharp face and eyes. From her back, a pair of black wings grew. Even though she resembled faintly something like a fallen angel or something, she was in fact a Raven-kin.

The second person was a tall human man with a bow and quirrel hung to his back. He had a square face and short, disheveled brown hair. The other one was an aged, scarred man. He looked like a normal human, though his ears were a bit pointy to some degree.

The last integrant of the group was the wolf girl that decided to follow Alberon until here.

“So… the weather sure is nice today.”

With an awful wording, the old man tried to break the silence. The tall man smiled dryly and took the chance to finally speak too.

“The weather is indeed nice today.”

As he butchered the conversation, a low laugh could be heard leaving the mouths of both him and the old man.

“What are you laughing at?” The Raven girl spoke while staring at them strangely.

“Ah, no, no. Sorry. I was just thinking how stiff we’re being.”

“Is that so?”

“Introductions? How about it? It’s a good way to dispel this.”

“Introductions, huh?” She narrowed her eyes before speaking. “Rihu. I’m Rihu. A merchant heading to the Desert Mines.”

“Good. I’m Darnic, a half-elf and a… jack of all trades, you could say? I’m currently anything, but maybe a mercenary.”

“I’m Adrian, an adventurer, D Rank.”

When it came to Alberon’s time to introduce himself, he hesitated for a bit before doing. “I’m Alby. An E Rank adventurer. This one is...” Putting his hand over the head of the wolf girl. “... I don’t know her name, but she’s my companion here.”

“E rank huh...”

“You do feel like a greenhorn, hohoho.”

“What brings you to the Desert Mine, though?”

“Erm… Shortage of money?”

The three of them made an awkward face and hung their heads as they heard that.

“I see...”

“So you too...”

“I guess is a common problem...”

“Eh?”

“We’re on the same boat, Alby… On the same boat…”

“We all need money for… well, our reasons...”

As soon as she said that, the wagon stopped suddenly, making us lose a bit of balance.

“What the heck?”

“We’ll make a pause for now. Soon it’ll be noon.” The conductor of the wagon that was taking us to the mines said without turning to us.

As the sun was starting to reach its pinnacle, travelling would become troublesome, so the group of miners decided to make a stop to rest and eat until the sun start to go down.

Alberon was thinking about resting a bit too and reading while he waited, but…

“Hey, Alby mind to join us for a bit?”

Darnic called me and the wolf girl as the miners started to set camp. Adrian was together with him, with a bow in hands.

“Huh?”

“You see, we’re near a place where some jackals and desert foxes live, so we thought it would be a good idea to try to gain some extra money here.”

“But, the sun...”

“That’s no problem.”

The raven girl from before appeared holding five small blue gem-like objects. As she transferred some mana to them, they dissolved and flew to each one of the five, covering in a bluish aura. Suddenly, he felt that the heat that was once troubling him had lessened quite a bit.

“I thought you were a merchant.”

“I’m a merchant though.” She smiled proudly. “A jeweler, and a mage in the free hours.”

‘I see’ Alberon simply nodded.

The five of them headed off, taking care to not distance themselves too much from the miner’s camp. Soon after, they found a group of both jackals and desert foxes, that seemed to be fighting each other. Probably they had some territorial conflict or something.

Adrian had his bow in hands, the girl, Rihu, had taken out some gem-like objects smaller than the ones before, Darnic took out a spear and the wolf girl already had her hands covered in her red aura.

Alberon decided to take out his only weapon at the moment, the thunder enchanted mace. Although he was more fit to be a magician, he had left Fictus Liones at Aeternus, so he had to fight with that he had.

As the three frontlines, Alberon included, started to go in the enemy's direction while sneaking, the ones at the back started shooting. Arrows and spells alerted the beasts as their comrades started to fall down.

“Storm King Might. Storm King Charge.”

Casting two simple reinforcement spells, he charged in the direction of his foes with his enhanced strength and speed. With a swing of the mace, he managed to graze at one of the foxes, and the sparks coming out of the weapon made the animal stop for a while. Taking the chance, he kicked the fox and followed with another swing to its side.

After Alberon had took out three or four foxes and two jackals that got in the way, something changed in the battlefield.

Together with a loud sound of hisses, a bunch of arrows fell in the midst of the battlefield.

“Damn lizards…!”

Alberon could hear Darnic cursing nearby as a group of lizardmen mounting large lizards appeared suddenly. They started shooting arrows from the back of the beasts while letting out delighted hisses.

Feeling that the situation would get complicated now, Alberon strengthened the grip in his mace and chanted.

“The King never fights alone, for his subjects are always by his side! Steel yourselves and fight, Storm King Guard!”

A surge or energy left the mace and flooded to the four that were accompanying him. Their abilities were enhanced by the support magic that was cast, and their weapons, just like the mace, started to generate weak electric currents. With the thunder support magic, they decided to attack the lizardmen. Both them and their mounts fell prey to the thunder enhanced attacks, and soon they either fled or were killed. The animals had also left the battlefield in the meantime, leaving only the dead creatures and the wounded group.

“Phew… Who knew that the lizardmen were targeting those animals too. Luckily we managed to fend them off.”

“Thanks to Alby and that thunder spell.”

“Ah, no… That was nothing...” Alberon groaned at his recklessness. Just like that, he had used up over half of the mana stored at the mace. “I just thought it would be useful, I guess?”

‘Woof’

“Ugh… I think I used too much mana...” Rihu complained as she massaged her temple.

“Well, this was something I don’t want to experience again, so let’s target smaller groups next time.”

“Rather, I think we spent more time that I expected on this battle.”

Pointing at the sky, the sun had already started to slowly descend. It was just a bit past noon, but they had to hurry there to not be left behind by the caravan.

“Oh, shit… Alby, help me here.”

Alberon and Adrian swiftly stored the monsters in their Item Boxes and the group went back to the camp.

“Frankly, you all have no sense of danger...”

“Says the one who suggested us to fight.”

“Well, I thought they were an easy target. Sorry.”

“We’re alive and kicking, and that’s the important. As for the rewards…. Let’s split them in the way to the mines.”

The miners dismantled the camp not long after they arrived, and, back in the wagon, the four of them started to disassemble the corpses and discuss who would take what.

Alberon managed to keep the materials he wanted, since the others, even more the wolf girl, didn’t showed any particular interest in them. The hearts of some of the creatures, the tails of the foxes and jackals, the teeth and the tip of the tails of the large lizards and from the lizardmen he didn’t wanted nothing aside from the strange necklaces they were wearing to serve as proof of subjugation. The wolf girl only wanted to take as meat as possible to eat later.

“But, what a strange guy… Asking for hearts and teeth instead of things like the lizard’s scales.”

“Well, the teeth are for… well, a test I’ll only be able to make at the Mines. As for the hearts, I’ll process them to turn in magic crystals.”

“Oh? Let me hear more about it!” Rihu’s eyes shone strangely as she approached Alberon for answers. Probably her merchant side was kicking in.

“Uh… well, it’s still a prototype, though, but is simple enough for anyone who has mana enough to do. Let me demonstrate.” Alberon took out a parchment, one vial of the Leshy’s blood from his item box and started drawing a circle in the parchment using his finger.

After completing the magic circle, he transferred a bit of mana from the mace to the parchment, making the circle shine and burn itself in the parchment surface. After that, he placed a smallish fox heart in the middle of it and turned to Rihu.

“Hm… Can you help me here? I usually need to rely on my equipment’s stored mana since I’m short on it, but I fear it might be influenced by its attribute.”

“Sure thing.” She nodded and started transferring her mana to the magic circle. Alberon only observed as the heart started swelling up and undergoing the same change as the Leshy’s.

“The mana poured will enter the heart and fill it in place of the blood.” Alberon started explaining as the heart was undergoing the change. “Then, when it completely filled the heart, the mana will sublimate the flesh of the heart to energy and crystallize the heart into the ‘Mana Heart’. The process is simple, and the only downside was the amount of mana needed to make it in bigger sizes.”

While it’s easy to make a Mana Heart out of the heart of a desert fox, which was at most thumb sized, making one out of a Gryphon’s one would require a large amount of mana and time.

“My... Well, this is quite a pretty gem. Although there's nothing of special aside from that.” The raven-kin merchant said as she held the heart shaped crystal.

“After made, the Mana Heart will work much like any mana crystal and the only thing different was its form. As I said, it’s nothing special…”

“Well, if it isn’t special I’ll be keeping this one.” She said as she put the Mana Heart in her bag.

“Ah… nevermind...” He sighed and stored his things back before he went back to reading in his seat of the wagon. The travel dragged for the rest of the day, and they needed to camp again to rest. In the following day, they had to travel for some hours before finally arriving at the mine.

“Finally here, huh...” The girl made some stretches after getting out of the wagon.

“That reminds me… why were you wanting to come here again?”

“Ah, didn’t I said I was a jeweler? I make Magical Jewels out of the crystals that can be mined here.”

“Magical Jewels?”

“Well, they’re nothing more than elemental crystals shaped as jewels, but if you imbue a sigil on them, voila! Magical Jewels. They’re good for people that are unable to use magic, so they sell well among some mercenaries and even beginner mages.” Rihu said as she took a small gem-like object like the one she had used before. “Like this one, which I used in the fight yesterday. The only problem is that they’re consumed during the casting as the energy that forms the gem is consumed as fuel for the spell.”

“I see… Wait, so you were using products to fight? How does one makes profits like that?!”

“Hm~ Well, I was actually using the cheapest gems, so there’s no problem.” She gave Darnic a smug grin, much to his annoyance.

“Let’s just get to the work.”

“Roger!”

Alberon took out his newly bought pickaxe from the Item Box. Turning to the wolf girl, she had already pulled her book and made a pickaxe out of the red aura. They started mining peacefully from a bit before noon until the sun had travelled halfway from its apex to the horizon to set.

Alberon, though, had only lasted halfway through it, and the rest was left to the wolf girl. The pile that he managed to mine was about one third of what the quest asked, while she mined the rest. That was also because he took the chance to mine some unrefined earth crystals for his experiment.

Coming back dead tired to the camp of the miners, he met with Rihu and Darnic.

“Where’s Adrian?”

“Ah, he set off to do a quest or something. In the Ant Nest. He said he would go back after completing, so asked me to say goodbye to you in his stead.”

“Oh… Well, I think I’ll be heading off now, since I already completed what I had to do here.”

“Me too. I only came to check the mine, and to collect some crystals for my personal things.” Rihu announced.

“It was short, but I hope you have a good travel back. A caravan will leave soon, so you should take it before is late.“ Darnic said it smiling faintly.

“I enjoyed the travel, so I hope we can meet again.” Extending his hand to the old man, Alberon offered a handshake. Darnic shook his hand and smiled.

“I hope so too, young man.”

‘Woof!’

“Hohoho~ You too, little one.” He said as he patted the wolf girl.

After parting with Darnic, he joined the caravan that was heading back together with Rihu and the wolf girl.

When they got in a wagon, the first thing the raven girl did was ask.

“So, what are you making now?”

“What?”

“Don’t ‘What?’ me. I’m curious, so I dismissed half of my visit time for this.”

“Are you stupid?!” Alberon pinched his nasal bridge and asked.

“No, you just smell like proffit.” She said with a strange glint in her eyes. “Now, do it!”

Grumbling internally, he took out of the Item Box the vial of Leshy’s blood he had used before and a piece of earth crystal. Handing the crystal to her, he said. “Can you clean this, please?”

“Usually I’d charge you for that but… Hm… I’ll do it.” Taking the crystal, she started using her mana to clear the impurities of the crystal. After finishing, she handed it back to Alberon, who crunched it and mixed with the Leshys blood and a bit of mana from the mace.

Checking the stored mana in the mace, he noticed that it had restored a bit back, so it had more than half left.

Satisfied, he took out the last parchment he had and drew a magic circle in it and used mana to burn in the surface of the parchment. This way, it could be used more than once.

With the preparations set, he took out a bunch of the large lizard’s teeth, some earth crystals and his knife. Being asked once again to help him cleaning, Rihu complained. “You didn’t showed it before but you’re quite shameless...”

While she refined the crystals, he used the knife and a bit of Creation Magic to make a hole in the teeth. With the slightly refined earth crystals, he made them into a powder and filled the holes before closing with the material that came out when he was making the holes, mending it with Creation Magic.

He made ten or so of those earth powder filled teeth and then placed it over the parchment. Using the mana in the mace, he started to fill the magic circle, which reacted to the teeth as the mana in the circle started entering them.

Alberon continued pouring mana for ten or so seconds before he retracted his hands and said. “It’s done.”

“What’s this?”

“Hm… You could say it’s a type of golem core, maybe?”

“I don’t quite follow...”

“When I was young, my Father told me a story about golem-like creatures made of bones, but not through necromancy. Dragon Tooth Warriors.” Alberon said as he stored back his things again. “Of course, there’s no way I’d have the materials to make one, so I decided to try to make a different version.” Picking up one of the five inches long tooth, he continued. “Thus I made those Lizard Tooth Warriors. If you throw them in the ground, it’ll turn into dust and create a degraded version of a Dragon Tooth Warrior.”

“I see.” She said in a uninterested tone as she reached for three of them and put them on her bag. Sighing, Alberon stored the rest of them and decided to process the rest of them at Aeternus.

Going back to the Desert Village, he waved goodbye to Rihu and went back through the Gate. Arriving at the Receptionist Desk, he handed the papers the reports, along with the items required for the quest.

@brasca123

26 Desert Fox Tails;
25 Desert Jackal Tails;
15 Lizardmen Tribal Necklaces;
11 Tips of Large Lizard’s Tails;
25 Iron Ore;
30 Copper Ore.

4 Semi-refined Earth Crystals;
7 Lizard Tooth Warrior Cores;
100 Large Lizard Teeth;
9 Desert Fox Hearts;
10 Desert Jackal Hearts;
10 Desert Lizardman Hearts;
10 Large Lizard Hearts;
2 Vials of Leshy blood.

The body of the staff is made with a Leshy’s arm, with its veins and energy channels altered into Magical Circuits that focus on controlling and directing the mana infused in them;

At one end of the staff, there is a Mana Heart made with a Leshy’s heart and Amanda’s blood and mana. Its main functionality is to process the mana sent by the body into spells;

It has 10 Spells stored inside it:

Destruction Magic -

Exploding marbles

Destructing Flames

Curse Magic -

Slow curse

Heavy curse

Sleep curse

Support Magic -

Speed Enhancement

Strength Enhancement

Endurance Enhancement

Vision Enhancement

Simple Barrier

The whole mace is able to store Mana inside it, which is absorbed through the crystal shards at one end, and is attuned with the Thunder Attribute thanks to the conditions of its enchantement;

Each of the three shards has a lesser spell of Fictus Liones engraved inside them, allowing Alberon to cast them: Storm King Might, Storm King Charge and Storm King Guard;

By charging the three at once, it’s possible to cast the only offensive spell that Alberon has in his current arsenal: Storm King Assault;

If needed be, the mace can transfer mana to Alberon, allowing him to make use of it for other things.

A sculpture of Tene made with the unknown green stone. It’s shaped as Tene reading a book, seated in a table of the Tavern.

[OOC] Finally done after four months... Well, just as any of my reports (With Ara too), it's quite messy and of low quality. On some points, it feels rushed even.
Anyway, 738 words of questing.... 6465 words of nothing at all...

And, yep... I don't like introducing new characters, I guess?
Click to expand...

Sandy Desert - #SE1 - E rank - Slay 25 Desert Jackal [ 50 G ]
Sandy Desert - #SE2 - E rank - Slay 25 Desert Fox[ 50 G ]
Desert Village - #SE1- E-Ranked - Slay 10 Large Lizard - [50 G]
Sandy Desert - #SD1 - D rank - Slay 15 Desert Lizardmen [ 110 G ]
Desert Mine - #GD4 - D-Ranked – Mine 25 Iron Ore [ 60G | 10 x Iron Ingot]
Desert Mine - #GD5 - D-Ranked – Mine 30 Copper Ore [ 60G | 10 x Copper Ingot]
====================
"Welcome back..." *peeks at card* "Aru... A... Arube-san!

Let Hikari see... Eto...

Seems like everything is fine, though... Isn't there too much information on the report?" *tilts head* "Hikari is happy that Arube-san is dedicated into saying everything, but writing it all out must be tiring! And consumes lots of parchment!" >.<

"I-in any case, the reward! Arube-san will get 380G, 10x Copper Ingot and 10x Iron Ingot!

Take care now!" ^^)/

((As @Naraku said, everything before the actual quest could've gone in an SS... Well, I would read it anyway, but you would've been able to finish the first part a lot quicker, wouldn't you?

The afterstory part fits the quest though!))

Ddraig · Nov 3, 2017

North Mountain|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 30 Cliff Goat [150 G]
North Mountain|#GD1|D-Ranked|Gather 3 Yeti Skins [120G | 1 x Yeti Fur]
Gallant Mine|#SE1|E-Ranked|Slay 5 Snow Goblin [80G]
Gallant Mine|#GE1|E-Ranked|Mine 5 Ice Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Ice Crystal]
Gallant Mine|#GE2|E-Ranked|Mine 5 Wind Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Wind Crystal]

@brasca123

I arrived at the frontier village using guild's teleportation device. I was already prepared for the journey as i had rations and other essentials in my inventory. I had decided to first finish all the gallant mine quests, I headed out of the town towards the gallant pass. Judging by the distance described on the map, the trip was going to take around 3 to 4 days.
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It was already night by the time I reached near the entrance to the gallant mine. The stars were shimmering with a soft glow as I walked on the moonlit path. The moon provided enough visibility that I felt safe enough to move. I decided to spend the night at the mine's entrance. I enchanted some rocks to form a primitive defense formation which was pretty useless for anything except warning me about intruders. I fell asleep.
zzz......
zzz....
zz....
zzz...
Mosquitoes are annoying creatures. Apparently my formation does not classify them as intruders. I went back to sleep after wiping there existence using some fire magic.
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I woke up the next morning and headed inside the mine. I decided not to go too deep inside due to fear of getting lost and the really high level monsters. My pendant allows me to befriend them but there are many high ranking monsters who are not exactly amiable and believe in concept of 'friendship'.
After about two hours I chanced upon a team of snow goblins. The goblins had a haggard appearance and were covered in numerous wounds. "Looks like something is happening deep in the cave.....", I thought as I realized that there were vibrations in the cave reminiscent of what would I imagine to be a disaster. "Maybe a section of the mine collapsed," I thought as I realised that there were just five goblins in the team as opposed to the usual ten. "I should probably get out of here as soon as I complete my quest."
I launched a fireball directly on a goblin as a sneak attack. The goblin bewildered by the preemptive strike died without a scream. As other goblins charged towards me forming there brutish ice mace, I prepared another fireball as I backed away to create distance between me and the frenzied goblins. "Absorb the essence of snow goblin," I commanded to my pendant. I launched the fireball at the feet of the approaching goblins to buy enough time for pendant.
"Essence Absorbed. Evolution stone - Ice goblin's Mace created. Stone equipped in slot 1/6."
I invoked the stone and an Ice mace was created out of thin air. I controlled the mace with magic as I let it sweep through the entire team of goblins stunning them. It is suffice to say that a few fireballs and bashes later all of the goblins died before even touching my clothes.
"It went exactly as she said....." ,I thought while feeling empty inside after my first real battle with monsters. I mindlessly collected goblin fingers and skin from the dead goblins. "Would my cousins also collect their first evolstone by killing like me or befriending monsters?" I silently thought as I continued to feel empty. A tremor broke my train of thought as I realized the danger of standing in the mine. I quickly collected 5 ice crystals and 5 wind crystals and left the mine and continued my journey towards the place in northern mountains where yeti's cave existed.
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Six hours later after fifteen encounters with lone cliff goats that always resulted in dead goats, I managed to reach the yeti's cave. I found a horde of goats, fifteen of them grazing on the left slope of the mountain near the cave. A brilliant plan formed in my head which was immediately put to execution.
I launched an extra large fireball from a safe distance directly on a goat and quickly took cover. The goats did not see me but in there anger started moving towards the cave. The yeti came out of the cave to check what the explosion was but was met with a horde of angry goats. As the two sides started fighting, a pandemonium ensued. I sneaked into the cave took five yeti skins and ran down almost to the base of the mountain. I spent the night there illuminated only by a small floating fireball barely enough to keep me warm. At dawn I quickly went to place where fight took place and collected goat horns as evidence resulting in me completing all of the quests.
I returned back to the frontier village without much problems with all the loot.

Got my first evolstone
got two extra yeti skins
got fifteen cliff goat skins
got five snow goblin skins

Ooc : Write reports is really hard. Also where should I write character backstory , powerups etc?

The Everdistant Utopia · Nov 3, 2017

Great Plain|#GD3|D-Ranked|Gather 5 Flower seeds [80 G | 1 x Butterfly Flower]
Great Plain|#SE3|E-Ranked|Slay 10 Orcs [100 G]
Great Plain|#SE5|E-Ranked|Slay 15 Kobolds [70 G]
Great Plain|#SE4|E-Ranked|Slay 5 Boar Warriors. [70 G]
Great Plain|#SD5|D-Ranked|Slay 3 Kobold Leader [120 G]
Great Plain|#SD7|D-Ranked|Slay 5 Bandits [150 G]

Amanda hops to the desk while happily humming. She hands over the papers to the girl in the other side.

“Uwa! Finally out of the training!”

Stretching my arms, I exclaimed to the plains ahead. It’s been quite the time.

Back in the library, I almost didn’t noticed the passage of time, and ended up locked for months straight.

To my luck, I didn’t starved thanks to my mana, but staying locked indoors is bad!

Or so said Alby!

I can’t see a problem with it, though! The library is cozy, and I get time and space to make my dangerous tests like with my curses there!

The Librarian would always scold me, though.

In any case, here we are at the plains! I can finally test that!

Reaching for my Item Box, I took out my staff. The appearance was quite unique, being an arm of a Leshy grasping his heart. The heart, though, was made of a darkish red crystalline material.

The staff was made in a similar way as Alby’s mace, but the function was completely different. While his focused on storing mana, it didn’t had many magic circuits for mana processing, but Alby could cover for that.

My staff was all filled with mana processing magic circuits and no storing. Though, I wouldn’t need it anyway~

Now, forgetting about this… where should I head to…?

West? Mnnnn…. No. East? Mn…. No too. I don’t like the look in those mountains.

To south is the lake, and having to walk my way around it would be a pain…

Then, to north I go!

The plains were quite peaceful going north.

Well, except for the hindrances in the way~

I found a group of large, green skinned creatures. If I’m not wrong, I saw in a book that those things were orcs~

Hm~~

It’s a perfect opportunity to test a thing~

Not my staff, though~

I took out from my bag three six inch long fangs and poured mana at them before throwing on the ground.

The fangs turned into ashes, and the ground was ripped as three human-like skeletons with lizard heads sprouted from the soil. They were my brother’s creation, the Lizard Tooth Warriors, Proto-Spartoi.

“Wha~~ How pretty you little ones are~” Patting the creatures that had appeared, I smiled wholeheartedly. “Now, can you help me get rid of those creatures~?”

I pointed to the orcs and the Proto-Spartoi promptly took the weapons that had sprouted together with them and marched.

Since I don’t want to lose any of them in the first fight, I guess I’ll help them a bit~

Raising my staff, I started casting curses in the orcs. To make their body feel heavier. To slow down their bodily functions. To make their strength wither. To make their eyes heavy.

The orcs fell down almost powerlessly. I guess I used too much mana~

Oh, well~

I don’t think the Proto-Spartoi will need but… I guess I’ll help out a bit more~

Using my new staff’s functions, I casted Support Magic to strengthen them, increasing the gap even further.

When they arrived at the orcs, what was left was a bloodbath.

I stored the bloodied corpses while humming and moved on, followed by the three Proto-Spartoi.

After walking for two or so hours, going north and northwest, I came across another group. This one was bigger than the one before.

Some bandit looking guys were fighting some dogs walking in two legs, most probably kobolds, and it seemed pretty rough.

The bandits were defending their wagon with all their might, so I guess there might be something good there~

Hm… But I don’t think I have enough Proto-Spartoi to deal with them.

Alby only have me seven, and the enemies numbered around thirty.

Oh, well~ If anything goes awry, I’ll just blow everything away~

Throwing the remaining four fangs in the ground, I increased my numbers. In the meantime, the number of enemies was reduced by five or so by themselves.

Hm~~ Alby said me to not go overboard or the staff would explode, but this much should be fine, right?

Pouring a torrent of mana in the staff, I started firing curses at the group.

Since the Mana Heart was there to show the pathway I should direct my mana to write the runes, I only had to make my mana follow it to shot one after another.

The result was duller than if I casted them one by one, but the fire rate compensated~

But, well, it wasn’t quite enough~

The enemies fought back quite fiercely, but in front of a three way fight, and with both the kobolds and bandits in disadvantage due to my curses, the result was clear~

The only ones standing on the battlefield at the end were two of my Proto-Spartoi. I had to apologize to Alby later for destroying them~

Just because only they were standing it didn’t meant that the enemies were all dead, as there were some fallen in the ground, incapacitated.

I walked merrily to the wagon they were protecting before. I wonder what exactly was so precious~ Mnnn~?

“Uh?”

“Huh?”

Inside the wagon, there was a girl. A girl with a pale, almost lifeless skin, a short, white hair, orange colored eyes and a strange glow in her chest that shone through the skin, that looked like a flame.

On top of her head there were two strange ‘rabbit ear’-like things, even though she had normal ears beside her head. And at her back there was a pair of small flipper-like wings.

The girl was seated in a corner of the wagon in a fetal position.

“Are you with those barbarians?” She asked, staring at me.

“Ah, the bandits? No~ I beat them to see what was here~ What a surprise to find you~”

“I see...” She turned her eyes to the floor of the wagon as she mumbled. “You can leave now, then.”

“But why should I?”

“I don’t want anyone here. I just want to be alone.”

“What happened? Can you tell me?”

“I’m not certain… Everything is so blurry in my head...”

“Where are you from?”

“I do not possess such knowledge...”

“So you don’t know?”

She reluctantly nodded.

“Do you know how did you ended up in this wagon?”

“I do not possess such knowledge...”

“Do you at least know where you are?”

“I do not possess such knowledge...”

“Good Luminous, what knowledge do you possess in the end?!”

“... ret...”

“Hm…?”

“Margaret…. My name is Margaret.”

Smiling broadly, I entered the wagon and approached her. “That’s a good start, Margie~”

“Margie...?”

“Hey, do you want my help~?”

“Why would you...”

“Friends help each other. That’s why!”

“But I’m not your friend...”

“Do you want to be my friend?”

“I… am not sure...”

“That’s enough.” I extended my hand to help her get up. “You didn’t declined me as a friend, so I can act a bit selfishly and call you a friend~”

“Do as you wish...” She got up, taking the hand I had offered, and started exiting the wagon.

As soon as we stepped out, a growling sound could be heard.

“What was that?”

“I fear it was my stomach.”

“Oh, so you’re hungry~? Hm… It’s a shame, I don’t have food on me~”

“There’s no need. There was already a banquet waiting right here.”

She said as she approached a still conscious bandit. She sat in a seiza position beside him and extended her hand to his chest. The hand started shining with a reddish orange, hot glow as her hand pierced his chest leaving a smell of burnt meat in the air. She pried his chest open with the bandit screaming powerlessly until she finally found his heart and ripped it off from his body, allowing him to finally die.

The heart didn’t burnt in her hands and she took it to her mouth, eating it whole. She joined her hands as if to make a small prayer and from the body of the bandit surged a sphere of light, which she took and ate too.

She repeated the same ‘ritual’ with every one of the fallen enemies while I checked on the Proto-Spartoi.

Hmmm~ They don’t seem to be in a good shape…

Unfortunately, they can’t be repaired since the processing wasn’t done in the right way, according to Alby.

When I finished checking the Proto-Spartoi, Margie approached me while wiping her mouth clean.

“Are you done eating?”

“Do you not feel strange about my eating habits?”

“Well, you sure have strange tastes, but… well, to each his own~”

“I see... ”

“Then, we should be going now~” Storing the heartless corpses in my Item Box, I was preparing to leave when a loud squeal interrupted me. “Huh? Did you heard that?”

“I did… there’s something near.”

“Oh, then I’ll take care of it~”

“Don’t worry. I can deal with it.”

As soon as she said that, a group of five boar creatures appeared. Four of them were using glaive-like weapons while the last one had a staff in his… ‘hands’?

They started to charge in Margie’s direction while the staff boar started to grunt something and write runes in the air.

But that only lasted until Margie made her move. Raising her hand, the strange glow in her chest shone brighter and the eyes of the boar creatures were set aflame.

As they fell in the ground with thuds, she walked calmly to them and proceeded to have a second meal.

When everything was finished and the corpses were stored, I turned to Margie and asked.

“So… What’ll do now?”

“I’m not certain...”

“Why don’t you come with me~? Aeternus is a nice place~”

“I do not possess such desire. I just want to sort out everything in my head right now.”

“So… we won’t meet anymore…?” My face probably was looking a bit dejected, as Margie looked at me strangely and smiled faintly.

“I’ll try to make sure you’ll find me if you come this direction.”

“Okay~”

I parted with Margie there, waving goodbye to her as I went back to Aeternus. I wonder what will Margie do now…

In the way, I found a nice flower bed, so I decided to rest a bit by it and pick some flowers and seeds to grow some in Aeternus.

After resting refreshingly while the Proto-Spartoi guarded me, I went back to Aeternus humming happily. I made a new friend today~

10 Dead Orc's left ear;
15 Dead Kobold's tails;
4 Dead Leader Kobold's tails;
10 Dead Bandit's right hand;
5 Dead Boar Warrior's nose;
5 Flower seeds;

5 Dead Boar Warriors;
10 Dead Orcs;
10 Flower seeds.

@brasca123

[OOC] It was short! 1.7K words!
Tempted to bring Margaret to Aeternus, even though she's supposed to be a bad guy...

AliceShiki · Nov 3, 2017

Ddraig said: ↑

North Mountain|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 30 Cliff Goat [150 G]
North Mountain|#GD1|D-Ranked|Gather 3 Yeti Skins [120G | 1 x Yeti Fur]
Gallant Mine|#SE1|E-Ranked|Slay 5 Snow Goblin [80G]
Gallant Mine|#GE1|E-Ranked|Mine 5 Ice Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Ice Crystal]
Gallant Mine|#GE2|E-Ranked|Mine 5 Wind Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Wind Crystal]

@brasca123

I arrived at the frontier village using guild's teleportation device. I was already prepared for the journey as i had rations and other essentials in my inventory. I had decided to first finish all the gallant mine quests, I headed out of the town towards the gallant pass. Judging by the distance described on the map, the trip was going to take around 3 to 4 days.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It was already night by the time I reached near the entrance to the gallant mine. The stars were shimmering with a soft glow as I walked on the moonlit path. The moon provided enough visibility that I felt safe enough to move. I decided to spend the night at the mine's entrance. I enchanted some rocks to form a primitive defense formation which was pretty useless for anything except warning me about intruders. I fell asleep.
zzz......
zzz....
zz....
zzz...
Mosquitoes are annoying creatures. Apparently my formation does not classify them as intruders. I went back to sleep after wiping there existence using some fire magic.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I woke up the next morning and headed inside the mine. I decided not to go too deep inside due to fear of getting lost and the really high level monsters. My pendant allows me to befriend them but there are many high ranking monsters who are not exactly amiable and believe in concept of 'friendship'.
After about two hours I chanced upon a team of snow goblins. The goblins had a haggard appearance and were covered in numerous wounds. "Looks like something is happening deep in the cave.....", I thought as I realized that there were vibrations in the cave reminiscent of what would I imagine to be a disaster. "Maybe a section of the mine collapsed," I thought as I realised that there were just five goblins in the team as opposed to the usual ten. "I should probably get out of here as soon as I complete my quest."
I launched a fireball directly on a goblin as a sneak attack. The goblin bewildered by the preemptive strike died without a scream. As other goblins charged towards me forming there brutish ice mace, I prepared another fireball as I backed away to create distance between me and the frenzied goblins. "Absorb the essence of snow goblin," I commanded to my pendant. I launched the fireball at the feet of the approaching goblins to buy enough time for pendant.
"Essence Absorbed. Evolution stone - Ice goblin's Mace created. Stone equipped in slot 1/6."
I invoked the stone and an Ice mace was created out of thin air. I controlled the mace with magic as I let it sweep through the entire team of goblins stunning them. It is suffice to say that a few fireballs and bashes later all of the goblins died before even touching my clothes.
"It went exactly as she said....." ,I thought while feeling empty inside after my first real battle with monsters. I mindlessly collected goblin fingers and skin from the dead goblins. "Would my cousins also collect their first evolstone by killing like me or befriending monsters?" I silently thought as I continued to feel empty. A tremor broke my train of thought as I realized the danger of standing in the mine. I quickly collected 5 ice crystals and 5 wind crystals and left the mine and continued my journey towards the place in northern mountains where yeti's cave existed.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six hours later after fifteen encounters with lone cliff goats that always resulted in dead goats, I managed to reach the yeti's cave. I found a horde of goats, fifteen of them grazing on the left slope of the mountain near the cave. A brilliant plan formed in my head which was immediately put to execution.
I launched an extra large fireball from a safe distance directly on a goat and quickly took cover. The goats did not see me but in there anger started moving towards the cave. The yeti came out of the cave to check what the explosion was but was met with a horde of angry goats. As the two sides started fighting, a pandemonium ensued. I sneaked into the cave took five yeti skins and ran down almost to the base of the mountain. I spent the night there illuminated only by a small floating fireball barely enough to keep me warm. At dawn I quickly went to place where fight took place and collected goat horns as evidence resulting in me completing all of the quests.
I returned back to the frontier village without much problems with all the loot.

Got my first evolstone
got two extra yeti skins
got fifteen cliff goat skins
got five snow goblin skins

Ooc : Write reports is really hard. Also where should I write character backstory , powerups etc?
Click to expand...

North Mountain|#SD1|D-Ranked|Slay 30 Cliff Goat [150 G]
North Mountain|#GD1|D-Ranked|Gather 3 Yeti Skins [120G | 1 x Yeti Fur]
Gallant Mine|#SE1|E-Ranked|Slay 5 Snow Goblin [80G]
Gallant Mine|#GE1|E-Ranked|Mine 5 Ice Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Ice Crystal]
Gallant Mine|#GE2|E-Ranked|Mine 5 Wind Crystal [80G | 1 x Refined Wind Crystal]
====================
"Welcome back..." *peeks at card* "Ze... Ze... Zeku-san?" *tilts head*

"Eto... Hi-Hikari will look at the report!

Um... Seems like it's all good! Zeku-san handled everything cleanly! Hikari thinks it was pretty smart to throw the goats against the yeti as well!

The reward will be of 510G, 1x Refined Wind Crystal, 1x Refined Ice Crystal and 1x Yeti Fur.

Take care now! Keep up the good job!" ^^)/

((Ah, just a small poke, the beginning of your report had a wasted bolded code of spoilers... That's fine by me, but be careful with those things, you can create a huge mess on your post if some useless code starts appearing out of nowhere while you are using other codes...

Well, it shouldn't be a problem unless you start using other codes though.

As for power ups and the like? You can either do them on quests, or on side stories, you're pretty free to do it in the way you want.

Side stories go either in the Tavern or on the Main Thread, whichever you prefer.))

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The Everdistant Utopia Honorary Maou | Part Time Writer | Crau's

AliceShiki 『Ms. Tree』『Magical Girl of Love and Justice』

Ddraig Frostfire Dragon|Retired lurker|FFF|Loved by RNG

The Everdistant Utopia Honorary Maou | Part Time Writer | Crau's

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