-The Next Day…
-Summerlisle Forest, Near Guiria.
"Clovea, support me!" (Milgard)
The big brown wolf lost a fang as Milgard bulled forward, blood staining his massive kite shield.
-Thunk!-
As we stood there, surrounded by the formidable mega pack, the brown wolf let out a whimper, its head trembling. The pack voraciously circled us, hunger evident in their eyes, eagerly waiting for the perfect moment to sink their fangs into our succulent flesh.
"[True Shot.]" (Clovea)
Clovea pulled back her bow string as she took a calm breath. An arrow whistled through the air as her bowstring twanged, her arrow hit true and deep into the fur. The wolf in front of Milgard dropped dead without a whimper.
She then nocked again with admirable speed and turned her curvy body around, another arrow finding its target that tried to pounce on her.
(Hoo— She’s a better archer than me. Not to mention her technique is different from Kyūdō.)
-Japanese Archery.-
I calmly observed the battlefield while I pulled my blade out from another brown wolf as it fell before me lifelessly, its tongue lolling out from its big mouth in a pool of canine blood. I decided not to use any of my jutsus to test my sword skills against the wolves.
We were out there in the forest near Guiria, apparently Ivorystand—our party name—took another quest to take care of after dealing with the goblins in Catago. Thanks to my intervention in dealing with the goblins, we were able to arrive earlier, although they were unaware of my role in it.
-Thunk!-
Another brown wolf fell before Milgard while he was focused on keeping Melodia safe, who was our back-up.
—We assumed a close formation, since brown wolves were known to surround their prey before tiring them out enough to devour them, or so I was told.
And they weren’t your average wolves too, I assumed they were at least twice the size of the wolves in my previous world. The only thing I sensed from these powerful animals was hunger, hunger for blood and flesh.
I only expected a dozen wolves before getting here, however their numbers exceeded my expectations.
Swiftly, I fished for a kunai and launched it in the direction of Milgard, successfully stopping the big wolf on its track. But the tiny blade had a little surprise.
"[Explosive Kunai.]"(Ryuji)
A small explosion took out the wolf, surprising my comrades.
“Thanks!” (Milgard)
“[Scutumi Luminis]” (Melodia)
A protective shield of light materialized in front of the blonde Cleric, shielding her from the onslaught of the formidable brown wolf, allowing Clovea to swiftly dispatch it while I dealt with another wolf. Its whimper was silenced as I sliced the animal in half.
(I’m impressed no matter how many times I see it… Magic is so cool!)
During the fight I carefully observed each one of my new comrades. It was clear to me that they were not amateurs despite having the third-lowest rank available to a Scavenger. Bronze.
They had the perfect teamwork, each of them covering up their weaknesses.
There were eight different ranks.
Adamantine, Orihalchum, Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze, Iron and finally Copper, the beginner rank.
In my mind, the ranks looked like this:
image [https://i.hizliresim.com/l2l778p.jpg]
Eight different ranks that showed the abilities and the strength of a Scavenger.
I wonder how high I would be placed.
According to Melodia, there are only eleven Adamantine ranked Scavengers in the Shandria continent.
And even making it to Gold rank would turn you into a small-scale legend.
Without getting distracted by my thoughts, I sliced another wolf. I could not feel much resistance since my blade was top tier even in my world.
Apparently, Milgard loved to show off his strength and he had a competitive nature, so we made a bet between us about who would kill more wolves.
The seasoned warrior blocked another attack, however what he did next surprised me further.
“[Fortress of Flesh!]” (Milgard)
He hit his own shield with the broad long sword he had, then his entire body briefly gloved red.
(Did he buff himself? Must be one of his skills! And his magic words are different than the ones Melodia used...)
There were certain basic skills that anybody could do. That must be one of them.
In this world, magic was obviously stronger, however most magic casters lacked the skill in close quarters combat, which makes the physical warriors more important than them in most cases.
Especially tank warriors, they had the highest demand when there was a dungeon subjugation happening.
There were generally two types of people in the combat business.
A Magic Caster who controls different elements or heals people like Melodia does with the help of her Holy Arts, which was very rare. And within this class, there were Gifters too, who are blessed with unique abilities that sometimes can break the concept of logic.
And a Martial Artist like Milgard, who uses the magicules (or mana) within the air with their breathing and perform superhuman feats and amplify their physical abilities.
Apparently Martial Artists had their own ranks like Magic Casters do, and Milgard was only a Intermediate class fighter, which is the second-lowest rank.
Turns out that both Clovea and Milgard are Martial Artists with their own respective style, while Melodia is a low-mid tier Healer.
Occasionally, multiple parties join forces to conquer the numerous dungeons scattered throughout Shandria.
Every dungeon is filled with an immense amount of treasure and valuable drops from monsters. However, for some reason the Dungeon monsters were far more powerful than the ones you could come across in places like this.
In this case, the hides and the fangs of these brown wolves weren’t too much, but it could feed a family for a week or two if you hunted about twenty of them.
—Milgard’s big sword came up and then down with a mechanical movement, splitting his canine adversary in two with a mist of blood.
"[Mountain Splitter!]" (Milgard)
(How over exaggerated!)
“Orrra! You’re not the only one who can do that, Ryuji!” (Milgard)
He shouted at me with a slick grin on his face.
(Hoho— You want competition huh? I’ll show you something nice.)
“[Flash Step.]” (Ryuji)
I moved very fast, faster than my teammates could track and beheaded three wolves that were headed to Melodia. The poor animals didn’t even realize what came at them. Melodia was surprised to see me appear next to her.
“You’re so fast! Thank you!” (Melodia)
“Don’t mention it.” (Ryuji)
I then turned my gaze towards Milgard and shot a wink his way to annoy him a little.
“Tsk, show off…” (Milgard)
His lips formed into a slick grin as he pinned down the big wolf before him and drove the steel into its chest before the wolf whimpered out in pain while feebly lashing out under the shield that was about the same size as Milgard.
Clovea’s hand moved fast and precisely, dropping wolves with her arrows whistling through the air.
This time was different though. Her arrows emitted a subtle green glow as she used a skill.
"[Burst Shot.]" (Clovea)
-Twang! Twang! Twang!-
She fired three arrows like a machine gun.
The blue haired girl then turned towards me with her bow aimed my way.
I quickly fished for another kunai and sent it flying in her way, dropping the wolf that was about to bite her head off simultaneously while her arrow stopped the wolf behind me.
Her round pools of emerald were locked into my eyes, sending a faint smile my way after that arrow, making me recall the events of last night…
----------------------------------------
-Last Night
It was a fine evening as we gathered around the warm campfire. I was lost within my thoughts.
“Tenacious one.” (???)
I can still vividly recall the final words of the woman who took my life. Just what did she mean by that? I vividly remember the moment when I met my demise as I was utterly mesmerized by the dancing sparks and the enchanting crackling of wood engulfed in the roaring flames.
“What’s wrong Ryuji?” (Milgard)
I was brought back to reality by the red haired muscle-man sitting across me.
His massive shield and sword rested against the log he was sitting on. I found myself growing fond of him in no time; he was funny and a nice guy. Not to mention that he was about the same age as me.
A total muscle head he may be, he cared about his comrades more than himself by always being their shield.
His scars were the evidence of his self-sacrificing nature and bravado.
I respected that mentality as I always worked alone as a Shinobi.
(A manly man, huh...)
“I’m fine Milgard. I just remembered something. It isn’t relevant.” (Ryuji)
“Ooh— Is that so? I won’t ask what it is, however I hope everything is okay.” (Milgard)
He is a good guy.
A smile formed across my lips as I looked at Melodia, who was sleeping soundly next to the campfire, using her bag as a pillow. Having her explain to me how Martial Arts and Magic work tired her out.
She even got angry in the end, asking me if I lived under a rock… How rude.
Of course, I did not tell them that I came from another world.
Strands of her short, curly golden hair covered half of her small, bony smiling face. I heard her mumble in her sleep and found it amusing.
“Waa~ I want steakhh…~” (Melodia)
Milgard and I couldn’t help but laugh.
“Ryuji, do you mind coming with me to gather some more wood?” (Clovea)
My gaze shifted to the blue haired beauty in her brown-leather ranger outfit as she offered me a warm smile. I quickly got up while patting the dust away from my pants.
“Yeah, I’ll help you out.” (Ryuji)
“You guys go, I’ll stay with Melodia and make sure nothing happens to her.” (Milgard)
“Alright, stay alert. I will be back in a moment.” (Clovea)
“Leave it to me!” (Milgard)
Clovea gave him a nod as she began walking into the forest, I followed her without any words with my hands in my pockets.
We kept walking together in the dark as I was behind her, admiring those curves she had. Clovea was the most level-headed person in the Ivorystand party. She was always calm, and those pairs of beautiful, round emerald eyes told me that she had years of experience. I wonder how old she is.
(She’s so damn hot!)
“So, where are you from Ryuji? I don’t think I’ve seen a brown eyed person in a very long time. Are you from Assai?” (Clovea)
(I guess brown eyes are rare in this world. And Assai? I wonder where that is.)
She asked without turning around, holding her bow in her hand while walking. I noticed that her steps were light, not as light as mine since I made no sound at all, but she moved with a cat-like gait. I could tell that she was good at being sneaky.
That was a very hard question. I guess I’ll make something up.
“O-oh, I’m from the eastern continent!” (Ryuji)
(Please let that place exist!)
We were already deep in the forest. With a brief turn around to check my back, I saw that the campfire was now just a small dot.
Clovea suddenly stopped, however her back was against me. I suddenly felt blood lust.
“Eastern continent huh?” (Clovea)
“Yeah.” (Ryuji)
I calmly replied. The bloodlust I was feeling was coming from Clovea. I took my hands out of my pocket to take precaution.
(This isn’t good.)
“But Ryuji, don’t you know that the Eastern Continent is inhabitable by humans?” (Clovea)
“Oh—” (Ryuji)
I suddenly remembered what she told Milgard.
‘I will be back in a moment.’
(Shit!)
She abruptly turned around with an arrow in her hand and nocked with an amazing speed and precision.
-Thwang!-
The arrow whistled through the air and found its mark, piercing the throat of the Shadow Clone I made before.
The arrow fell to the ground with its momentum dead as my Shadow Clone poofed.
“W-What?!” (Clovea)
“I’d say that was a good attempt, however you did not expect that, did you?” (Ryuji)
“A Gifter... How rare yet troublesome…” (Clovea)
This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
My cold black Tanto pressed against her artery as I’ve successfully misdirected her. Her pulse sped as her knees buckled.
“What was that magic…? (Clovea)
“I hope you got a good reason behind that.” (Ryuji)
I added with a serious tone, ignoring her question. Her bloodlust mitigated, while mine was practically seeping from me with each breath I took.
“Now, slowly kick the bow away. Don’t do anything stupid, Clovea.” (Ryuji)
She obediently tapped the tip of her shoe against the bow, making the leaves on the forest floor rustle.
Then I pulled the curved dagger away from its sheath which was located on her waist. And took a good kunai distance away from her.
Honestly, I was upset that she turned against me so quickly—During the day I always felt her stare at me while she followed me around with her blue hair bouncing on her shoulders, but I didn’t think she would commit to my life that openly this soon.
“Now, turn around slowly. Do something weird and I’ll kill you.” (Ryuji)
Threatening her like that left a sour taste in my mouth. However, it was necessary. I cannot overlook the fact she tried to kill me just now.
If you want to take a life, you need to have the resolve.
“Y-Yes…” (Clovea)
I honestly felt bad. Her knees weakly buckled as she turned around. I was emitting a lot of bloodlust since I was ready to kill her if she tried anything. And I could do that easily. Pretty she may be, I do not discriminate between villains.
I utilized my [Flash Step] to swiftly maneuver onto the branch above her just before she turned around slowly. As expected, not even a single leaf moved when I did that.
I saw her green eyes dart around in an attempt to spot me.
They were glowing subtly.
“I’m here. Keep your arms up.” (Ryuji)
“Gods... When did you?” (Clovea)
She gasped upon hearing my voice from above.
I made sure that she felt the difference in skill between us.
Her hands were above her head as a sign of submission while I was nonchalantly sitting on the thick branch, admiring the craftsmanship of her dagger.
The dagger appeared to be both curvaceous and substantial, so substantial in fact that it almost defied being classified as a mere dagger. However, its elegantly designed red handle, complete with a hand guard, added a touch of grace to its overall aesthetic.
“Why did you try to kill me?” (Ryuji)
I finally asked, spinning her dagger in my hand, she was watching the dagger move limpidly in my hand.
“Because I can tell you are after me.” (Clovea)
That made my scarred eyebrow rise.
She said with a stern expression, however it was clear that she was trying to keep her cool. I noticed a bead of sweat roll down from her cheek. It was probably cold.
But after her? Me? Why does she think that?
“Why do you think I’m after you?” (Ryuji)
“I can recognize the eyes of a killer. All of us took the lives of others as Scavengers. Sometimes you just have to do it. You may try to hide it but I can tell you took lives before. And this morning I saw how you took those bandits down in that mist you created. I can recognize an assassin when I come across one.” (Clovea)
“Oh. I’m not really hiding it. I killed a lot of people.” (Ryuji)
“H-Huh?” (Clovea)
She was dumbfounded by my reply.
“Why would I hide it? Bad things happen, and we make mistakes too. Not saying I killed people unintentionally though. It was my job in my previous life.” (Ryuji)
I decided to be more open with her and try to clear the misunderstanding.
“So you worked as an assassin!” (Clovea)
"Yeah, in past." (Ryuji)
Her tone was accusing and clearly pissed, probably because she was in this situation after failing to take me down. However, she is not wrong about the fact that I am an assassin. Or was—since I don’t think I’ll continue killing people for money.
I'm interested in pursuing a new direction in life after all. And I wish to see how powerful I can become with my new abilities and enjoy this fantasy world to its fullest!
“You said you saw me taking those bandits down. How?” (Ryuji)
“I possess a racial ability called [Elven Eyes], enabling me to perceive things with extraordinary clarity.” (Clovea)
(Enhanced kinetic vision huh? But wait a second—did she say Elven?)
She checked her surroundings, then her hands cautiously lowered to raise the blue curtain that perfectly hid a pair of pointy ears. One was missing the tip. I assumed that is why she was hiding her ears all along.
“I know what you are thinking, yes, I am an Elf, a mix to be exact—My father was a Night Elf and my mother was a High Elf. I know… Fruit of a forbidden love.” (Clovea)
(THERE IT IS! THE HOT ELF LADY!!!)
“I think there is a misunderstanding, Clovea. I am not after you. And honestly if I was, we wouldn’t be having this conversation.” (Ryuji)
She released a sigh from her lips. Visibly relaxed.
“You are right… I just couldn’t see you move just now… And the way you beat those bandits down explains everything. Just who are you?” (Clovea)
"A Shinobi. Ninja." (Ryuji)
I threw her dagger. It got stabbed into the soil next to her feet.
Her eyes widened.
“You’re not going to kill me?” (Clovea)
“No. Why would I kill the party member I just met for no reason? Besides, you guys seem nice. There are only two types of people I kill, Clovea.” (Ryuji)
“Villains with no right to live, and warriors worth fighting with life on the line. As of now, you are neither.” (Ryuji)
(I stole that quote from an old martial arts manga…)
“Haha—I guess you are right… I am no match for you after all.” (Clovea)
She offered a broken smile, holding her right arm.
“Don’t be sad because you are not. Be happy because we will be fighting together as a team from now on. And honestly, I admire your archery. You are far better than me in that aspect.” (Ryuji)
Her pink lips curled up further, this time however her cheeks flared up, along with those cute ears that just twitched.
(AAAAHHH SHE IS SO CUTE! I LOVE ELVES!)
“S-so… Do your friends know about you being an Elf?” (Ryuji)
She nodded before she took her bow and put it on her back.
“Only a few people do, and I’d like to keep it that way… And I don’t like… Showing my ugly ear.” (Clovea)
“I think your ears are pretty cute.” (Ryuji)
(Oh, I said that out loud! How embarrassing!)
“E-Ehh…?!” (Clovea)
"Eh." (Ryuji)
Her face turned red, same for her ears.
I gave her a bright smile and raised my thumb.
“Don’t worry, your secret is safe with me.” (Ryuji)
“Then let’s not tell the others this happened. I don’t want Melodia to be worried. And Milgard seems to like you a lot…” (Clovea)
I gave in to a chuckle as she offered me her lithe hand. I squeezed it as I got down from the tree.
“Once again, I’ll be in your care Clovea.” (Ryuji)
“Mhm!” (Clovea)
----------------------------------------
-Present
-Capital of the Neolan Kingdom, Guiria.
Upon approaching the city of Guiria, we were greeted by a bustling scene of people and horses, all lined up in front of the main gate like a dynamic and vibrant snake composed of fellow Scavengers, merchants with their carts, and solitary travelers.
I also spotted a prisoner cart, carrying the bandits I beat down earlier...
Guards were searching the carriages, checking the posters in their hands to see if there was somebody. And as we came close to the gates, the colors became more vivid.
—The tall walls wrapped the city in a safe embrace. And in case things didn’t go well, there was a second wall that hugged the palace, which was a tall, white fortification with blue spires reaching for the sky, earning the palace nickname: Blue Palace.
“I never thought I’d be so happy to see the Blue Palace...” (Melodia)
Melodia said with a subtle sarcasm, planting the seeds of curiosity in my mind.
“Why? What’s wrong with the Blue Palace?” (Ryuji)
She sighed while we walked alongside before replying.
“You surely know of the inner conflict between the Prince who is in charge of the Kingdom, and the Princess right?” (Melodia)
(War of succession huh? Edda-san told me about it a little.)
“Yeah. I can say the Prince is doing a shitty job so far.” (Ryuji)
“Shh! Don’t let any soldier hear that. We will get into big trouble…” (Melodia)
She was visibly worried about my words.
“And not to mention those Red Cloak bastards... The Prince’s private army he somehow gathered. I can’t stand those guys at all because they act like they own the whole city.” (Milgard)
Milgard spat as he said while carrying the large sack of brown wolf teeth and fur on his shoulder because of the bet he lost against me.
I took down more wolves than he did, however Clovea actually was on the top place.
“That’s quite the political turmoil. But what about the actual Neolan soldiers?” (Ryuji)
“The higher ups are mostly given home detention while some of the nobles got exiled, and the last time I checked, the Princess's Knight Order, the Order of the Crescent cannot leave their fort within the city as they are still being surrounded by the Red Cloaks in a small siege. It was a stalemate between both sides. It seemed to me that the Prince was purposely keeping them there.” (Melodia)
So there is already a civil war going on.
“He is probably trying to capture the Princess so that he could force them to surrender. I heard that she had gone missing.” (Milgard)
His words attracted the attention of both girls as they looked up to him.
“Really?! What if she was taken out already?” (Melodia)
“Is it really a bad thing? I thought this type of stuff was common among the nobility.” (Ryuji)
“Of course it is bad!” Melodia said, then continued with a hushed tone, “that Prince is really bad news... And everyone knows that the King wanted the Princess to take the throne… The Prince just forced his way with the King. This is nothing but a coup.” (Melodia)
(Why do I get quest line vibes from this?)
“I’ve heard that the Princess is a genius or something like that.” (Clovea)
“Yeah, she is said to be a genius who is an expert at managing the country and a flawless tactician.” (Milgard)
As the line progressed, we finally reached the gates and got greeted by a pair of guards in leather armors with long spears.
One of them checked their wanted posters, while one of them approached me.
“A person with brown eyes… Where are you from?” (Guard)
(I probably shouldn’t say I am from the eastern continent like I did with Clovea. I think she mentioned a place called Assai…)
“I’m from Assai, my name is Shinobu Ryuji.” (Ryuji)
“Alright, what is your business here?” (Guard)
He squinted at me while resting a hand on the word he had on his waist. His eyes wandered away to the short blade I carried on my back.
“I’m here to join the Scavengers. I am traveling with these three.” (Ryuji)
He stood before me for a moment, carefully observing me. Then he grabbed the handle of his sword, ready to pull it out.
(This doesn’t seem good… I can’t take on an entire city full of soldiers.)
“You three, carry on. We’ll accompany your friend to the fort. Don’t try resisting, we have orders to arrest anyone that is suspicious.” (Guard)
Milgard put a hand on his sword as well, getting in front of me while Clovea also reached for her dagger. Melodia had already got her staff ready. And as a response, the guards around us pulled out their swords.
My eyes quickly darted around, spotting the soldiers atop the wall with their crossbows aimed at us.
(Shit... Here we go.)
“OI WHAT IS GOING ON THERE!”
The owner of that deep, loud voice cut through the crowd of guards with his massive frame.
I immediately understood who it was from his red hair that was collected in a ponytail. The tall, muscular man in full plate armor had a crest on the left side of his chest, assumingly it was the crest of the City Watch.
image [https://hizliresim.com/qn2pajf]image [https://i.hizliresim.com/qn2pajf.jpg]image
“C-captain Erneis!” (Guard)
As the massive man in plate armor approached us, the guard who had appeared tough a moment ago turned into a timid cat. He stood as tall and as imposing as Milgard, and his red hair instantly made the connection for me.
“Brother!” (Captain Erneis)
Milgard's lips curled into a sly grin as he offered his hand for a firm handshake. The amusing twist was that both of them, determined and unyielding, attempted to overpower the other's grip, but neither could gain an inch.
This interaction reminded me of that handshake scene from the first Predator movie between the characters Dutch and Dillon.
(Yu sonu ova biatch!)
I somehow managed to imagine Erneis shooting a big assault rifle in a jungle, his body covered in scars and mud.
“I see that you haven’t lost any muscles even though you are drowning in paperwork, Burazā!” (Milgard)
Milgard’s older brother erupted into boisterous laughter, then he laid a hand on his ‘little’ brother’s shoulder in a way that would put a normal person into the ground like a nail into a board.
-Bam!-
“Bahaha— I got my own subordinates to handle that boring shit!” (Captain Erneis)
Erneis was as loud as his younger brother. A family of muscle-heads?
He then suddenly turned his attention to the guard that was about to arrest me.
“Oi you! Don’t you recognize my younger brother and his friends?! Huuuh?!” (Captain Erneis)
Erneis’ contorted expression looked similar to a one that would resemble an old fashioned Yakuza, especially with that cross shaped scar on his right cheek. His presence overwhelmed the squeaking guard.
“B-But sir! Orders!” (Guard)
“Huuh?! You’re still talking? You got balls to be talkin’ back to me! I am the Captain of the City Watch! I give the orders here! Now drop down and work those muscles! 100 push ups!” (Captain Erneis)
(Damn he is a demon... I almost feel bad for this guy...)
“ Hiiii—Y-Yes sir!” (Guard)
The guard’s knees buckled before the 7ft tall man, saluting as he was shaking like a newborn cat. He then immediately dropped his weapon to the ground and began doing push ups while counting.
The older brother offered me a hand covered in gauntlets.
“Yo. I’m Milgard’s older bro, Erneis Tetsugo. Captain of the City Watch. Thank you for taking care of my brother. Friends of my brother are also my friends. Welcome to Guiria, the humble capital of the Neolan Kingdom.”
I grabbed his hand with a genuine smile. His thick, armored fingers tightened around my comparatively smaller hand. However, he wasn’t able to squeeze and crush my hand into bits as I applied the same amount of strength as he did, visibly surprising him.
“Hoo— Not bad. I see why my bro stood up for you. I expected nothing less.” (Erneis)
“Thank you. I am Shinobu Ryuji. Pleased to make your acquaintance. I recently teamed up with them. They offered to help me join the Scavengers.” (Ryuji)
“I see, I see. Scavengers huh? What a shame. I would love a guy like you working under me. But I can’t blame you for choosing adventuring over guard duty, haha! Well, find me in the keep if you ever change your mind. Also nice to meet you Ryuji.” (Erneis)
“I’ll keep that in mind sir.” (Ryuji)
“Haha! Call me Erneis! I don’t like formal stuff.” (Erneis)
Erneis led out another boisterous laughter as he patted me on the shoulder the same way he did to Milgard just now. He was quite strong, however my body did not get shaken while I was joining his laughter with my own nervous one.
“Hahaha…” (Ryuji)
Clovea giggled as Melodia sighed.
“They are brothers after all…” (Melodia)
“Let’s go inside before the shitty Red Cloaks arrive. I already can’t stand them. Don’t want any of those dumbasses to nag me...” (Captain Erneis)
We followed after the Captain, a gust of wind whipped his blue cloak that reached all the way to his thick, armored legs.
“Brother, how is mother and father?” (Milgard)
-Milgard and Erneis refer to each other as burazā (brother in Japanese)-
-He refers to his mother as Ofukuro お袋 (Mother in Japanese in a more masculine form)-
“Aah, they are doing fine. I go visit the inn every once in a while. Emma is there helping with the family business.” (Erneis)
“I see. If Emma is there then I don’t have to worry. Things aren’t looking good in the capital huh?” (Milgard)
“We’ll talk once we are in the inn. We don’t know who might hear us.” (Erneis)
“Does your mother own an inn?” (Ryuji)
I looked up to Milgard while we were walking. As we were past the gates, the sun made me squint as the vibrant colors of the city laid before me. The red roofs of the short and tall, European styled buildings made me feel like a stranger. The architectural style resembled the ones I saw in books when I was a kid.
The city structure was orderly and buildings were separated into blocks like the ones I saw in Barcelona/Spain.
Each stone paved path was connected to each other, eventually joining into a main, wide path that presumably led to the Blue Palace which was located higher on a hill that towered over the city from the center.
The roads were filled with trash, and it was easy to spot the people laying in the streets here and there.
The city despite it's mesmerising architecture, was in horrible shape.
“How awful… It has gotten much worse since we left for Guiria.” (Clovea)
“Yeah…” (Melodia)
Melodia was looking down with a sad expression.
I could not say it was the richest city around. The current economic crisis has surely taken a toll on the city. It was easy to spot beggars in most corners.
“Yeah, we own the most famous inn the capital has, The Blazing Heart!” (Milgard)
(What a fitting name…)
“It is a common place for the Scavengers and City Watch soldiers. Nobody dares to act weird in there thanks to them, making it a safe place for us female Scavengers too.” (Melodia)
As we arrived at the inn area of the city. Also one of the most empty areas of Guiria, since almost everyone could afford food.
In the distance I saw someone getting kicked out from an inn.
-GROWWLLLL…-
Melodia’s stomach rumbled, causing her cheeks to flare up as her face made a perfect imitation of a tomato, coaxing out laughter from each one of us and making her pout cutely as a result.
(Waah… She’s so cute!)
Melodia was one of those petite, cute types that eat a lot of food without getting chubby.
“I’m h-hungry so what! We’ve been traveling for a week now! Hmpf!” (Melodia)
(She really said ‘Hmpf!’)
“Oooh, life of a Scavenger huh? Mother told me that you guys were headed for Catago to exterminate goblins. How did it go?” (Erneis)
“No luck. Someone called Yomi was ahead of us and took care of it.” (Clovea)
Clovea sneaked a cheeky grin in my way.
(Seems like she made the connection after last night…)
“Grrr, I’ll have a thing or two to say if I meet that Yomi person!” (Melodia)
I nervously scratched the forehead protector I was still wearing on my forehead. Then I noticed the group of armored soldiers that were coming towards our way.
A group of five armored men with puffed out chests.
—The way they proudly carried themselves with their red cloaks draping behind them made it clear that these were the Red Cloaks they were talking about earlier.
To me they did not look strong, in fact, I could tell they were weak. However, from the change of expression everyone had, I came to the conclusion I have to be careful.
“Tsk, speak of the fiends. Let me handle the conversation.” (Erneis)
The Red Cloaks stopped in their tracks as they noticed the massive captain who stood before us. Each party did not back down from their stare-off. The men in plate armor had their coat of arms attached to their chests, located on the left side in a fashion similar to Erneis and the other City Watch members.
image [https://i.hizliresim.com/9l8raz6.jpg]
I heard some people speak about them.
"Oi isn't that Solomon? The cruel one!"
"It seems bad... But the other guy is Captain Erneis, the pride of this city!"
Assuming he was their officer in command, the skinny blond man with his hair slicked back spoke. He had a self-confident tone as he greeted Captain Erneis.
“Oooh! If it isn’t Erneis-dono!”
“Captain Erneis. I remind you that I outrank you, Lieutenant Solomon of Red Cloaks.” (Erneis)
“Yes-yes… We just wanted to greet you boys and… Oho~ Girls… Oi-oi, are you girls free tonight? We were looking for some fun company…~” (Solomon)
“Oi!” (Erneis)
Solomon looked at the girls in a way that a hungry predator would look at a juicy pile of fresh meat.
It pissed me off, but it pissed off Melodia even more as she walked up to him before Erneis could say anything. After a couple seconds everybody in the street was looking at us with worried expressions as the sound of Melodia’s hand branding the bastard’s face echoed throughout the street.
People began seeking refuge inside the nearby inns.
“You scum! How dare you look at me like that!” (Melodia)
Of course, the other Red Cloaks did not just stand idly. Each one of them drew their swords from their waists while Solomon held his cheek with teary eyes, only to raise his hand to hit back. However, I was not going to let that happen.
“You bit-!” (Solomon)
I caught the greasy bastard’s hand in mid air. Everyone was surprised with how fast I closed the distance between me and him.
"Huuh?! Who do you think you are? You want to fight me, the Great Red Cloak Commander, Solomon the Cruel?!" (Solomon)
(Your title is too long!!)
“I won't let you hurt my friend.” (Ryuji)
The Great Red Cloak Commander, Solomon the Cruel smirked at me defiantly before he spoke.
"Alright then, I challange you to a duel here and now." (Solomon)
I grinned back confidently.
"Sure. Just you and me without your goons over there." (Ryuji)
"Ryuji, you sure about this?" (Erneis)
I replied with a confident nod.
"Then I will be the overseer of this duel as the City Watch Commander. No magic allowed since it is forbidden in the city." (Erneis)
(Hmm... That must be because people or buildings might get caught in cross fire.)
We took some steps back from eachother, his hand was ready on his waist already.
A crowd had already gathered around us, drawn by our intense duel.
"Give him what he deserves, Ryuji!" (Melodia)
"Go Buraza! You can do it!" (Milgard)
Solomon drew his long sword. It was like seeing a little child stepping into a shoe several sizes too large for them.
Clovea was already using her skill. Seems like she wanted to see what I will exactly do.
(I am going to end it in a flash.)
"If your opponent is unable to continue, you will win. No magic. Ready now?" (Erneis)
"Unfortunately for you, I am a Sword Graduate in Lionne Style. You stand no chance against me." (Solomon)
The Red Scarf attached to his belt was probably the indication of his sword skill rank. Isn't Red a very aggressive color?
(Yes yes, the typical NPC line...)
A yawn escaped my mouth as I took out a single coin from my pocket, making Milgard question.
"What is he doing?" (Milgard)
"Fight!" (Erneis)
Solomon took a very exaggerated stance. He was full of openings.
"Take this! [Activating Technique of Careless Mandril-]" (Solomon)
I flicked a penny in the air, making him look up. In fact, most people did too.
Then using my [Flash Step] I appeared behind him and crouched down.
(Hebigakure Special Killing Move: ONE THOUSAND YEARS OF DEATH!)
I made a tiger seal with my hands, then drove both of my index fingers into his ass. Piercing through his plate armor. His scream of agony echoed throughout the crowded street.
Leaving everybody exasperated as he flew high about 20ft high, landing into the stone path with his ass high up.
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!" (Solomon)
...
-Thunk!-
"Hah. That's what you get for screaming out your attack." (Ryuji)
(I can't deny how cool it is though...)
The crowd burst into a cheer mixed in with laughter, belittling The Great Red Cloak Clown, Solomon the Pierced.
After that day of meeting me, Solomon was now known as Solomon the Pierced, a nickname that will haunt him for the rest of his life.
Clovea was looking at me with a disgusted face. I think she saw what I did...
"I have never seen such a fearsome technique... I feel pity for Solomon." (Clovea)
"Oh, I couldn't see what happened after Ryuji threw a coin..." (Melodia)
Clovea shook her head.
"Trust me, you wouldn't want to see that..." (Clovea)
Solomon's goons approached us.
"Oi! T-That was dirty!"
"Yeah-yeah, you cheated!"
"Dishonorable!"
I tilted my head.
"I didn't say I would fight with honor though..." (Ryuji)
"Grr..."
"Okay okay, that's enough. Our lady is in a good mood today, so she said she will overlook this little squabble..." (Clovea)
Confidently, she approached the angry Red Cloaks, her arms folded beneath her ample chest, greatly distracting me.
"Huh? What are you talking about?" (Ryuji)
I was looking at her chest while speaking.
"Her face is up there Ryuji..." (Melodia)
"Ah-" (Ryuji)
"Oh, I forgot to mention to our friends here... But Melodia is actually a member of Neolan nobility... Melodia Melusine Bern Ingard." (Clovea)
Her words shocked the crowd as Melodia was dumbfounded.
"THAT MELODIA?! THE SAINTESS OF INGARD FAMILY?!"
"Woah!"
"S-S-Saintess?!" (Melodia)
She was steaming, her face completely red.
(I guess she doesn't like attention...)
"D-Damn it! We will remember this!!" (Red Cloaks)
They grabbed Solomon and ran away like a group of fodders in an anime.
"DAMN YOU CLOVEA!!! YOU EXPOSED ME!!" (Melodia)
-End of Chapter 3