After two days of preparation and travel we’ve finally arrived back in Orgo. I still remember the first time I set foot in this town I was greeted by the Guards’ spears and the Adventurers’ hostility. Right now, the Guards greeted me again, but this time minus anything pointy, sharp, and a hostile mage.

“Excuse me sir, are you Camus Helmight?”

“? I am. Is there something you need?”

“Mr. Helmight, the Guild Head has called for you, so if you would kindly please come with us we’ll be happy to escort you to the Adventurers Guild. Of course, the brave adventurers who are with you can come as well.”

Hmm. This is most definitely different from the last time I was treated. I know I saved the town, but they all still think I’m a scalekin, so I’m quite surprised at the huge 180 in the way they treated me.

“… Lead on then.”

“Of course!”

The guard looked enthusiastic as he ordered his colleagues to form a path within the crowd… Wait a minute… crowd? I just noticed but… there’s a huge crowd of people at the entrance!

“Ooh! There he is! He looks scary strong!”

“He’s a scalekin alright! I couldn’t believe it when they said it, but it’s true!”

“I wonder why the adventurers brought back a lot of wood?”

“Who knows? Maybe they used it as part of the plan against the monster boss.”

“Did he really stop the wave all on his own?”

“The officials said he beat the monster boss that was makin’ the wave, so it counts!”

“That can’t be right. I bet he just paid off all the other adventurers to get all the credit.”

“Are you a moron? Nothin’s more important to an adventurer than fame and a good pay from a Quest. There’s just no way they’d agree to somethin’ like that.”

“Yeah, I mean look! There’s over fifty of em’! You’s tryin ta’ say he’s some sorta rich scalekin noble or somethin’? Bahahaha!”

“I also heard from an adventurer friend that you can’t lie about Quests. Monsters they beat are magically recorded in their Grade tags.”

“Make way, make way! We’re escorting Mr. Helmight to the Guild!”

After hearing some small conversations amongst the cheers, it seems everyone’s heard about my exploits and are praising me for it. It’s really embarrassing but it’s another good thing that having scales instead of skin means I don’t blush… or at least I don’t think they can see me blush?

“Hm? Hehe… Camus is something wrong~? Your tail seems to be swinging wildly.”

Gah! Right… there’s that. Fighting control over my tail, I shrunk it down to the point that only a third of it was sticking out from under my battle skirt. I then scratched the side of my face as I slowly looked at Ellen.

“Hihi… it seems you can be cute as well~. I didn’t think you’d be embarrassed so easily, but it seems you’re a shy one after all.”

I could sense the playfulness in her voice… ugh… I didn’t think her teasing could be so effective. To distract myself, I remembered the words of the leader of four penguins from a 3D cartoon back in my old life, so without a second thought I started “Smiling” and “Waving” at the crowd. It seems they all liked it as the cheering started getting louder.

After what seemed like a long procession in a parade and being the center of it, we arrived at the Adventurers Guild’s entrance. However, before we could enter, an annoying sounding ratty voice called out to us.

“Oi oi, ya’ll can’t be serious now, right?”

I turned towards the voice that came from the entranceway and I see before me an average sized lanky man with a horse-like face. He’s not a horsekin but… that’s the impression I got when I saw his long face with an irritating smug looking toothy smile looking at me with his stupid pale yellow eyes. Now that I think about it, I guess “ass” would be the better comparison.

He had oily straight hair that fell to his shoulders and a red headband with a Silver plate. He wore a complete red and brown rugged leather set and was surrounded by 5 other men who wore the same. One was bald, one had a mohawk, one a wolfkin who had long black hair covering one eye, another was a broom head, and the last one was a pigkin with a crew cut. If anything, they looked like a bunch of stereotypical thugs. I grinned inwardly as I know what’s it all about with this very stupid and cliché scenario.

“I can’t believe the Guild’s standards would drop so low that they’d let a lizard in. Hey, is the old man THAT desperate to find new people?”

“Maybe he’s just lost, boss? After all, he’s all on his lonesome away from his swamp.”

“Ha! Then that means he’d be lookin’ fer an escort, aye? How’s about it, scales? Want us Wrath Hounds to help bring you’s home? That’s o’ course if we don’t skin ya inta a bag first! Gahahaha!"

Sigh… typical… I’m surprised the leader's a Silver rank but as always with any type of setting, there’s got to at least be a few of these types of guys. Welp, looks like I’ve found my stress relief. I smiled as evilly as I could and started cracking my knuckles, but Ellen held my shoulder and when I looked up to her, she only shook her head.

“They aren’t worth your time Camus… we all know you’re better than that. Come, the Head’s looking for us.”

Well, I guess Ellen’s right. I wouldn’t want to look petty in front of her, so I decided to let the losers off and ignore them. Obviously though, they weren’t willing to let it go.

“Oi oi, what’s the matter, El? Can’t ya let the little lizard have some fun with us or are ya afraid we’d find out? That way he can actually prove he’s nothin’ but horseshit. You honestly don’t expect the Wrath Hounds to believe that this nameless scaly’s beat a monstie boss, right?”

“You better believe it Catras, we were there. We couldn’t put a stop to it, but he did and we sure as hell know that if we couldn’t do it, then your team wouldn’t be able to as well.”

“Shove off, bitch! Your team’s nuthin’ but a bunch of wash-ups! Everyone ere knows it’s gonna be the Wrath Hounds who’s gonna be the talk o’ the town soon enough!”

“Oh please. You honestly expect us to believe you bunch of brainless morons are even capable of what we couldn’t accomplish? In case you’ve forgotten, the Titan’s Hammers specialize in monster subjugations, while you imbeciles of the Wrath Hounds are only good against bandits and the like. There’s not even a need to compare and yet you dolts deign to believe you’re more capable than us in an area you have no expertise? Honestly, if you creeps…”

Ouch. Looks like Angela blew a fuse and her sharp tongue is loose. There’s no stopping her now once she starts insulting you even when she starts making fun of your very existence.

“Boss, she’s doing it again! Please maker her stop! My head hurts from the hard words!”

“No! Not me mum! I hates it when she makes fun of me mum!”

“Gah! I’d rather me ears bleed! When she goes off like that, it makes me almost think I’m meant to be born a bug!”

Seems to be rather effective as well, especially against these pitiful losers of life where her words actually seem to hit home.

“Enough ya whiny bitch!”

Uh oh. Looks like he lost his temper as well and just pulled out a knife. Good thing we’re surrounded by reliable people.

*clang*

“What do you think you’re doing!? We’re in front of the Guild! You can’t just pull out your weapons like that!”

“Wot da!?... Well, well. If it ain’t ol’ Copper King. Shove off, brat, or I’m gonna gut ya like a snake like yer friend over there!”

“Not this time, Catras! I’m no longer Copper and I’m way better than I was back then!”

“Looks like the whiny Copper’s grown a pair! Alright then! I ain’t afraid of any of ya, so all of ya come on and do yer worst!”

Looks like shit is about to hit the fan, but the tension seemed to have suddenly died down when a new fierce and deep voice was heard.

“Hohoho… you’re willing to take on everyone here then Catras… does that include me?”

There at the doorway with his arms crossed stood a tall well-built old man with a flowing grey mane and beard along with fierce looking eyes. If his ears didn’t show he was human, then I would’ve sworn he was a lionkin. He wore a tight black shirt that stuck to his body and showed his chiseled muscles and scars while he wore long sandy brown loose pants. Along with his looks, I could feel the massive pressure his aura is emitting and from it I can honestly feel he may be as strong as my old man! Not stronger than him but most definitely not weaker.

“Tch! That’s right you old fraud! I ain’t afraid of the “Colossus” and I sure as hell ain’t afraid of you!”

“!! Catras, stop! Do you want us to lose our hard earned ranks along with our lives? You know you can’t even win against Ellen, let alone Old Gren. The last time you tried, you had too many injuries that we couldn’t do Quests for a week!”

It seems the wolfkin finally spoke up. He’s the only one that’s been quiet so far, and the first thing he’s said has been the most sensible thing spoken amongst these idiots. However, I can’t shake the feeling that I can’t stand his presence for some reason. When I took a good look at him, I noticed that his looks are practically that of a male supermodel! Yup… that has to be the reason…

Oh and thankfully, Ellen didn’t snap. I could see her twitch but she seems to be holding it in well. It seems the main reason is the old man up front. Thank goodness for that.

“Are you in on them as well, Merik? Stop me and I’ll… I’ll… tch, fine.”

Looks like despite being the leader, he’s not the one in charge. I saw Merik just gave him a narrow stare and he went all obedient.

“I’d like to apologize on behalf of my team. Please go easy on them. We just had a bad day after some rogue adventurers managed to elude us and their mood became worse when everyone started hailing a newbie as some sort of town hero.”

He bowed before us and before the old man as well. He soon started to leave with his team when Glenn ran up to him.

“Merik, wait!”

“Hm? What is it Glenn?”

“Um… about the information you gave me last time. It helped me get accepted by Mr. Kholdrum in his venture and I’d like to thank you for that, but for some reason there were still bandits waiting in ambush.”

“! Really!? I’m sorry to hear that Glenn. Thankfully you were saved. I would’ve felt terrible if you died because some info I provided was wrong.”

“It’s no problem. I just thought I should let you know since you might end up in trouble as well.”

“Haha… good-hearted Glenn. If there were more adventurers like you, then perhaps we’d have less bandits to deal with.”

The wolfkin and his group left after I saw Glenn make a stupid grin.

“Hmph. Merik’s the only decent one among that lot. And with the looks to boot! I seriously don’t understand why he chooses to stay with those filth.”

I’m curious as well, but I don’t think much of it since I seriously don’t trust that guy.

“Well, now that that’s over with, come on in everyone.”

The old man signaled everyone in when he turned. As we all entered the hall, he faced everyone again and spoke in a really loud voice that’s practically a yell.

“Good work you lot! Proceed to the reception desks to submit your contributions and grab your rewards!… Ellen! Good work holding it in, or I would have had to deal with you myself.”

“Don’t even joke about it, boss! Last time that happened, I woke up with so many bruises and sore spots I didn’t step out of my house for three days!”

“Gahahaha! Anyways, you and your team are dismissed. I’ll have you report in later, so go get some rest. As for you… Camus was it? Come with me.”

I took a look at Glenn and he just nodded as he smiled in response.

“It’s ok sir Camus. I’ll wait for you here. I’ll have to report to the desk anyway so I can take my share as well.”

I nodded back and left to catch up with the old man. I followed him through a path in the back of the Guild hall heading up a staircase until I saw what looks to be double doors at the end of the passageway. A familiar girl of silver hair and short pointy ears was standing there seemingly waiting for us. What was her name again? I think it was… Lanfa. Right, she’s Glenn’s girl!

Hard to forget a girl of her looks not to mention the commotion she made last time. Hmm… now that I’m getting closer to her unlike last time… I’m sort of feeling annoyed by her presence as well… though not as bad as that wolfkin earlier, but the similar sensation’s definitely there. I wonder why.

“Come in.”

I stopped my thoughts as the old man invited me to his office. It looked modest enough with his desk at the end and two sofas facing a table at the center. There’s hardly any décor, and I could see some weapons on the side. I took a seat on the sofa facing his desk.

“Camus Helmight was it? Now that I got a good look at you, you look completely different from any of the scalekins I’ve encountered so far. No offense of course, but other than your head and other obvious parts, your body is most definitely human-like. Hoho… well, enough about that. I called you here since there’s something important I’d like to discuss with you.”

I listened to the old man, but somehow my thoughts kept wandering off, as I couldn’t concentrate. For some reason, I keep finding myself staring at the girl in annoyance.

“? Is something wrong, sir Camus? Oh right, where are my manners? I guess I forgot the important introductions. I am Gren Worrick, Head of the Adventurers Guild here in Orgo. And this lovely lady on the side, is my secretary, Lanfa.”

“A pleasure to meet you sir Camus. I heard a lot about you from Glenn, and I’d like to thank you for what you did for him.”

“… don’t thank me yet.”

Right. I figured it out now. Welp, time to get rid of this annoying bug.

I stood up and got closer to Lanfa until I was in front of her.

“Um… is there something wrong sir?”

She seemed afraid, and I could feel Gren’s killing intent on the side like a dagger ready to slit my throat.

“And what, may I ask do you think you’re doing?”

“… I’m thinking that you’ll owe me a favor.”

I saw him raise an eyebrow. I guess it’s understandable he’d be skeptical. Anyways, I guess it’s time to finish up.

“Don’t move.”

I reached out with my open hand as if I was making a grab at her face. It was then that I suddenly felt resistance on my claws. I could see nasty looking purple strands of fog appear in front of her. This was what was causing my annoyance… I don’t know what it is, but looks like I can hold on to it.

Without a second thought I clenched my claws and pulled it off the girl. The purple fog-like thing started to struggle in my grasp but it slowly dissolved into nothing. Soon, I could no longer feel irritated and I felt relaxed. Phew… I’m glad that’s over with…

“Y-Yo-You can tear apart miasma!?”

Hm? That was miasma? Now that I think about, the ghosts from back in the caverns I lived in could be torn apart by my claws. According to Ellen and her team, those ghosts were called Wraiths and are formed from spirits with strong negative emotions suffused with mana and miasma. If this is the case, then perhaps the mana destruction innate to dragons was what worked against those Wraiths when I clawed them. It doesn’t explain the miasma I was able to rip from Lanfa though.

Speaking of the girl, she looked like she was about to faint so I caught her back with my free hand. I could see her breathing normally, so I guess she’s fine. Gren moved quickly and took her into his arms. Strangely enough, I could see tears streaming from his eyes. Isn’t this girl just his secretary?

“Oh… Lanfa… my little girl… I’m so glad you’re free… if I lost you, I wouldn’t know how to face her…”

Yup… that explains that. I guess I now know why I thought she seemed similar to an Elf… she’s a Half-Elf.

Probably as a testament to him being the Guild head, Gren seemed to have reined in his emotions as he stopped crying and laid Lanfa down on the sofa. He then looked at me with a seemingly more softened expression and minus the kill-aura earlier. In fact… I’m starting to faintly feel weird positive vibes oozing off of him.

“I… am truly grateful and indebted to you. Also, never in my life did I ever hope to dream of ever meeting one of your kind. You, sir Camus Helmight, are a High Dragon aren’t you?”

“Oh? What makes you say that?”

“Hoho! There’s no need to hide or be wary, sir Camus. Only High Dragons possess the unique trait of being able to sense and destroy miasma. The curse that was placed on my daughter… Please… allow me to repay your kindness.”

So that’s it. That’s right, as I was staring at her, I unconsciously used [Status] on the girl earlier and my focus locked on to a specific abnormal state that I saw.

Curse

Soul Slave – a creature whose soul is marked with this curse will be completely dominated by the one whose soul was used as a catalyst to activate the curse. Highest level of mind interference curse spell system under the order of Zenistra, Goddess of Pain and Corruption.

My dad never mentioned a Zenistra among the gods and goddesses before, so I’m willing to assume she’s one of the dark gods that King Nabolros mentioned. Yeesh… I don’t know if this is a coincidence or they’re already here for me, but it looks like I gotta lie low for a bit… despite how close to impossible that is no thanks to my current newfound fame.

“Hmm… in that case, will you give me the special permit to cross into Argodia?”

“Ho! So you’d like the special permit, I see. I’d be happy to issue you one, but unfortunately that’s something that’s outside my complete authority as of the moment.

You see, when an Adventurer reaches Steel rank, they can make a request for the permit, but the Adventurer’s background needs to be reviewed by me as well as by a government official, to ensure the individual being given a permit isn’t a spy or an enemy of the kingdom.

This wouldn’t normally be a problem but… we’re close to the Town Council election for the new Town Governor. It’s within a week, and there won’t be any issued permits until the end of it. However, as soon as it’s over, I swear upon my name and position as Guild head, I will get you that permit, so you can rest assured.”

Hmm. Seems I’ll be here for at least another week. Well, no matter, I’m not really in a hurry. After all, I’d still like some time to get comfortable with Ellen.

“I don’t mind the wait. After all, my business here isn’t done. In any case, what was the original reason you called me here?”

“Let’s sit down first… to be honest, I was originally going to request a detailed report on what happened in the Woodland Region of the Labyrinth. But knowing what you really are, I don’t think it’s really necessary anymore. In fact, I’ll just rank you up without a fuss. After all, there’re only a few creatures that can actually be a threat to the High races let alone a High Dragon. If anything, I’m now just curious what you’re doing all the way out here and, which of the High Dragon people of the Great Five do I need to thank.”

“For the first question, I came from beyond the Plains of Death to journey to Argodia. As for the second, your guess is as good as mine. According to Glenn, my kind doesn’t exist.”

“Beyond the Plains of Death is it?… wait… a High Dragon race that doesn’t exist?… came from beyond the plains… perhaps… it can’t be… by the gods! are you… a Dracovian!?”

!!

Now that’s quite a shock. Looks like this old man knows more about me than it seems. I was half-expecting it of someone in authority, but I’m still quite surprised. If I remember correctly, it’s 2000-year old lost knowledge after all.

“It seems that you actually know. I mentioned it a few times to others, but none of the people have heard of what I am.”

“Hmhm… of course not. Only the highest authorities within the Kingdom have the knowledge of your kind. The reason for this… was because Argodia was once one of the Lost Kingdom of Ellara’s allies… Records of the mighty Dracovians have been kept within the Kingdom for millennia and only the King and his most trusted know about their existence in order to uphold their memory.”

An ancient ally of my dad’s kingdom? Not really sure why they bothered to keep the knowledge but now it makes sense why King Nabolros said I could find my answers there.

“You don’t think I’m lying?”

“None of the High Dragon people would mock the existence of the honored first born of the Great Five. Also, while you all have shape shifting abilities, the High Dragons can only choose to take the shape of either their true dragon form, or the humanoid race they have the best affinity with. The forms cannot share the traits of the other. You, on the other hand, are a mix of both, so that proves your legitimacy.”

“Hmm… If this is such big info, how do you… I see… you’re somehow related to the Royalty, aren’t you?”

“Hoho… indeed. How else could I claim to know what is only known to the King and his most trusted? I’m also willing to talk about this now, since you managed to get rid of that bastard’s ears and eyes that he attached on my girl.”

“Now that you mention it… who's this bastard you're talking about?”

“No clue. Only he shows up covered in a black mist with only his yellow eyes visible. He also likes to whistle for some reason. Calls himself Blackshade. Not the most original thing I’ve heard, but it describes him quite accurately.”

“I see… also, why did he curse your daughter?”

“To keep me in line. I don’t know what this thing’s planning, but it can’t be good. If you find anything, please let me know. The Guild will use its full power to assist you.”

“… Well, I’ll see what I can dig up… I have one more question… I get that you know I’m Dracovian and that our Kingdoms used to be allies, but that’s over two thousand years ago… why bother with all this?”

“Hmm… I guess it wouldn’t be strange you wouldn’t know. However, it’s not my place to say. Once you leave and reach the first city north of here within the Kingdom, look for the All-Treasure Pavilion. The Mistress there should be able to help you get in contact with the right people.”

Hmm. This is getting interesting, as it is cryptic. Not that I don’t like my fair share of suspense, but my curiosity’s killing me especially when it involves me.

“Hrmm….”

“Looks like Lanfa’s starting to wake. I’d still like to discuss more things with you, but for now you’re welcome to have some rest. I'll be taking care of my daughter, so if you need me, I’ll be here.”

I nodded towards the old man and went up to leave. He called to me at the last minute when I held the knob though.

“Camus… I don’t know what trick of fate brought you here, but I’m glad you dropped by when you did. However, be careful… Things are moving beneath the surface, and I don’t like the signs that show where they’re headed.”

And yet more cryptic messages. I don’t see why he can’t just tell it to me straight that shit’s about to go down in town. Does he just get a kick out of being mysterious or something? Although, I have to admit that it would lose the authentic fantasy feeling if he did it in the way I thought. In any case, I nod once more and left.

I think back to the things we talked about and decided that it’s best I’ll talk about it with the people I could trust. First things first, I’ll have to find Ellen.

I got down to the first floor and found Glenn at a table talking to a receptionist girl who looks very familiar… wait a minute… I could almost swear that’s Lanfa, only… she’s wearing glasses?

“Hm?… Ah! Sir Camus, welcome back. How was your talk with Mr. Worrick?”

“We just talked a bit as I reported the things that happened back in the Nest… also, I notice you have a new friend.”

“Ah, that’s right. Leyfa, this is sir Camus, the one I kept telling you about. Also, sir Camus, this is Leyfa, a receptionist here and a good friend of mine. She’s helped me quite a bit when I just started out here in Orgo.”

“A pleasure to meet you Mr. Helmight. Glenn has told me of your travels, and I’d like to personally thank you for helping him out.”

Hm. She seems quite straight-laced… not cold but… rather more business-like in her approach? That’s the impression I got at least.

“You can call me Camus like Glenn. Also, this may be a bit forward but you wouldn’t happen to be Lanfa’s sister would you?”

“Why, yes. We are indeed sisters, but why do you ask?”

Well, it’s not like it wasn’t obvious as they both looked almost exactly alike minus the glasses, but I’m still glad my guess was spot on.

“Your father’s taking care of her right now. It seems she’s recovered from something she’s been afflicted with. I just thought I should let you know.”

“! … Thank you for informing me, sir Camus. Glenn, if you’d please excuse me.”

She smiled and lightly bowed towards Glenn and me, and made for the path back to the Head’s office.

“Sir Camus? Did something happen to Lanfa?”

“Nothing you should worry about anymore. It seemed she was recently slightly sick with something, but I just so happened to have the medicine she needed since I did come from the south.”

“Phew… that’s great to hear. Lanfa and Leyfa have always taken care of me since I just started out. They’ve been great friends and are like real sisters to me. If something were to ever happen to them…”

Heh. I swear, this kid loves them and just doesn’t realize it. The big question is, who’s he gonna go for? I decided to bury that question that would later draw blood in the back of my mind as I gave the kid a pat on the shoulder and a reassuring smile.

Looks like he started feeling better, so I told him our plans for the day and we headed out to look for the Titan’s Hammers.

“Hm? Look sir Camus, isn’t that sir Lawrence?”

I took a look at one of the side stalls and saw Lawrence browsing what looks to be accessories. It seems he didn’t notice us so we decided to get a closer look at what he was up to.

“Hmm… I dunno… do ya’ really think she’s gonna go for it? I mean… I can see it’ll look great on her hair an’ all, but I think this migh’ get in the way of her ears.”

“Of course not, sir! I’ll have you know that the Valna are frequent customers of mine and that these hairpieces are getting quite popular with them as of late! So please, take your time.”

It seems he’s looking to buy a gift. If I remember what the others told me correctly, the Valna are what the bunnykins are officially called. So he’s buying a gift for a bunnykin? I can’t help but think of Alma when I thought about whom the gift could be for.

“What are you doing sir Lawrence?”

“Gaah! Arrhanea’s tits! Don’t scare me like that! … huh? You two?”

Pfft. I stayed quiet and waved at him since I’m currently trying to stifle a laugh from his overreaction.

“Hmm? Hairpieces? Are you perhaps looking for a gift for a girl?”

“Tch. Whatsit to you two? Can’t a guy go around looking for something nice once in a while?”

“If it’s for a girl, then there’s nothing wrong with it… but if it’s for you… then I’ll have to question your tastes.”

“Oi! I’m straight as an arrow, ya’ hear? I’ll be damned if I was ever caught wearin’ one o’ those!”

“Then maybe we can help. Is the girl someone we know?”

“… sorta… why’re you two’s sticking yer noses inta’ my business anyway?”

“Because we’re bored and we’re looking for Ellen. Also, it’s Alma isn’t it.”

“Bored!? Why I oughta – Fuckin’ ell! Shh!… how’d you figure it out?”

“Oho… I didn’t, but thanks for confirming it.”

“FFUUUUUUUU –“

Heh. There’s no other bunnykin girl we know so I just decided to put her name up. He fell for the old trick though and ended up admitting it.

“…Alright, wha’ the hell do you two want?”

“I am insulted, sir. We’re friends after all, so why do you think we’re blackmailing you to do us a favor?”

“… Somehow, I don’t believe you.”

“Hehe… well, you’re half right. I don’t intend to blackmail you, but I do need your help in finding Ellen.”

“Tch. Figures. Alright, fine. I’ll take you two to her favorite hangouts.”

“Thanks for that. Glenn, we’re about ready to go, you finished there?”

“Yup, I got what I wanted.”

I had Lawrence lead us on. Eventually, we found ourselves in a quiet neighborhood with humble looking houses and a few shops. We soon came across a wide lot with a long building in the back and a stable to the side and some hen houses. In the front yard, to my surprise I found Gregor and Silvi playing with a lot of children.

“Oh? Ah! Ren, Glenn, and Camus, what a pleasant surprise. How are you three?”

“Good friends! Gregor is pleased you came to visit.”

“Whatsup you two? We’re just passing through. You wouldn’ happen to have seen Ellen would ya?”

“Ellen? I think she might be at the Apple Bear today. She heard they had a new pastry and she wanted to try it.”

“Got it. Thanks.”

We talked for a bit and I found out this place was an orphanage. Gregor loves kids and took it upon himself to run the orphanage. He’s scary looking but one can never really tell until you know people… I don’t know if I should be glad I could sympathize with him in that area. As for Silvi, it seems she works for a church every now and then, and part of the work involves taking care of the kids. She’s suspiciously close with Gregor though, so I wondered if there was more to them than meets the eye. We also played with the kids for a bit, and seeing the actual number of children, I decided to give them some of the remaining Roc meat I have since I still have a lot of it.

They were really happy about it, especially Gregor, and asked us to drop by again when we had the time.

“Wow, I know the Titan’s Hammers are amazing, but I didn’t know that Gregor had that side to him. It felt really nice getting to know him better.”

“Yeah, ol’ Greg’s an odd one that. When El first found ‘im she said he was protectin’ some kids from a group of Sand Wolves out in the plains. I dunno what the ‘ell they were doin’ out there, but his body was a mangled mess since he used it as a shield against their claws an’ fangs. He didn’t know who he was other than his name, and the poor guy couldn’ even talk properly back then. But Sil saw past that an’ decided to teach ‘im herself, and though everyone said it was fine, he wanted ta’ pay us back so he went and became a Guardian ta’ join our party.”

Damn. I’m really a sucker for these kinds of stories and I couldn’t help but tear up a bit. Looks like Glenn’s the same as he actually started sniffling about.

“*hic* Gregor’s a really great guy… *hic*…And Silvi’s also pretty amazing for helping him…”

“Indeed… Though it’s understandable since you’ve all been together, I’m surprised she wasn’t at all afraid of him back then. They must have gotten pretty close.”

“Close wouldn' be the half of it. They’re married after all.”

“Heh. I see… …”

“…EEEEEEEEH!?”

Wow. That was a step further than what I expected, so I couldn’t help reacting alongside Glenn.

“Heh. That never gets old. Everyone always yells out like tha’ the first time they hear it. Funny enough, it was even Sil who proposed. Seems some sort o’ switch got flipped in her when she took care o’ the guy.”

Honestly, I doubt anyone wouldn’t have been surprised. Gregor’s a giant of a man, just as burly and tall as those bearkin then just replace the hair with scars. Silvi on the other hand has a cute child-like face and a short petite body.

No offense to Gregor, but if they ever decide to have kids on their own… I can’t help but imagine an Ogre breeding scene. Also, now that I think about it… the way Silvi reacted back then… it seems I’ve awkwardly figured out part of the reason she married the guy… Ugh… the idea just made me shiver.

As we turned around a corner, Lawrence soon reacted to an unusually large fluffy yellow cat lying around the grass to the side of the road.

“Huh? Aren’t you Fluffnut? What’re you doin’ all the way out here, little fella?”

“Is that your cat, sir Lawrence?”

“Nope. It’s Alma’s. Dunno what her cat’s doin’ all the way out here though. It’s all the way across town from where she lives.”

“Maybe it’s lost. You think we should bring it back?”

“Nah, ol’ Fluff’s a smart cat, she’ll get back one way or ‘nother. Although, she’s nice to squeeze and is frickin’ adorable.”

Lawrence then picked up the cat and started playing with it. The cat didn’t seem to mind as it let out a soft purr. Seeing how friendly it is towards him, I couldn’t help getting curious about his relationship with Alma.

“Say, Ren. If you don’t mind me asking, what are you to Alma? It seems her cat is quite attached to you.”

“… I doubt she thinks much of me other than part o’ the team. Fluff’s just really friendly to the team…”

“That’s not true sir Lawrence! I think you’re a great person, even if you are a little rough on the edges!”

“Heh… thanks kid… but I’m not as positive as you are. I grew up like any other brat around here without a home or folks to feed him like those brats Greg and Sil took care of. Only difference is, I didn’t get people like them growing up. That’s why Alma probably avoids me most of the time.”

Hm? That can’t be right. Ellen told me Alma’s just really shy, which explains why she’s always so taciturn and barely speaks at all. Then again, I heard Lawrence was the last to join the team, so maybe he didn’t know? Huh? I just felt a presence behind me... eh?…is it just me or are those bunny ears peaking out from behind that fence?

“I tried lotsa ways to try n’ talk to her. Always ended up makin’ a fool o' myself especially when Angie was hangin’ around. She don’t like me, that one… proly cuz she’s a rich merchant’s daughter and I was just some street rat. I’ve even been trying hard fixin’ the way I talk so I don’t scare Alma, but old habits die hard. Also, the town festival was comin’ up an’ I was hopin’ ta’ get her a present before then.”

“Hmm hmm… I see, I see. Say, I’m curious sir Lawrence, but how did you come to like Alma?”

“There’s nothin’ fer’ it really. Funny thing is, before I was part o’ the team, she caught me tryin’ ta steal from Angie. Caught my wrist, she did, and then knocked me on my ass. Pissed me off at first, but after several more times she kept makin’ me eat dirt, I couldn’ stop thinkin’ about her. I though it was cuz I was angry at her but my heart kept racin’ each time I took a look at her. She’s the original reason I forced my way into Ellen’s team.”

I’m quite surprised at how much of a talker Lawrence is. I always saw him as the “wot’ da’ hell’re you lookin’ at” sort of guy. Is it because of the cat? This must be the magical effect of petting a cute fluffy animal.

“In that case, how about we help you, sir Lawrence? We’re all friends now, and I’d like to see the two of you happy as well!”

“Haha… that’s fine kid. I’m old enough ta’ deal with my own woman problems. However, don’t ya try n’ tell me to try goin’ after differen’ fish, ya’ scaly bastard. Alma’s the best girl there is, and I ain’t willin’ to give her up unless she ends up wiv’ a guy who can make her happy, or I’ll gut whoever makes her cry!”

He didn't have to single me out as if I'm a dick, but that’s one hell of a declaration. One big enough to get the person in question to get her out of her hiding place and stand behind him. Glenn looked shocked when he saw her but somehow managed to keep quiet.

“Hm? Hey scaly, why’ve you been keeping yer’ trap shut this whole time?”

Lawrence turned around as I was getting excited to see his reaction. To describe what I saw… first he stared long and hard while frozen as if he was a statue. The next second, I saw huge streams of sweat pour out of his face that looked like it was twitching. The last thing before he started talking again was that he visibly became as pale as a sheet. For reference, Lawrence is a very tanned man so going from tan to pale in less than 2 seconds is a feat of chameleon-like magical proportions.

“A-A-A-Alma… h-h-h-ow l-l-long h-h-have y-you b-been s-standing there?”

“… long enough. May I have Fluffnut back?”

“O-Of c-course. Here she is!”

After he gave back the cat, I just realized something. If the cat was smart and was here so far away from their home, wouldn’t that mean the owner was probably close by? I just gave myself an internal facepalm at this very delayed insight.

“…thank you… Ren, are you busy?”

“Uh n-no, not at all.”

Actually, he promised us that he’d help us find Ellen, but I can let it go this time. I'm pretty sure I'm not that much of a dick and I don’t often get to see something this hilarious and interesting in reality even in my previous lifetime.

“…I see. Then come with me… Please?”

“Hnnnngggh! Of course, I’ll be happy to!”

That was frickin adorable. Like a bunny acting all cute only in the form of a girl. What was the term again? Moe?

I also noticed Glenn sneakily passing something to Lawrence from behind. I see, it’s the carved rabbit hairclip I saw him browsing for earlier. Hehe… good work Glenn.

“Hey uh… Alm, I got you somethin’. I wasn’t sure if yer into it, but I hope ya’ like it.”

Alma was looking at the hairclip and after a few seconds, took it from Lawrence. She then clipped it onto her hair. It looks quite nice actually. I noticed a faint smile on her face as she suddenly started rubbing her ears on Lawrence. The effect was incredible as Lawrence immediately did another magical color change from white to boiled-lobster red.

Alma faced us and gave a nod as she left with her free arm around Lawrence pulling him along. Lawrence faced us one last time as he mouthed the words “thank you” and left with her. Have fun you two.

Glenn and I looked at each other and smiled. That was a fun development. We then proceeded onto the main road close to the Apple Bear Inn, but after a few minutes we bumped into Angela in casual clothes and Dustin… who’s currently the baggage carrier carrying a huge 2m stack of boxes like a mountain. Looks like Lawrence wasn’t kidding when he said she was a rich merchant’s daughter.

“Hm? Oh it’s you two. Say, do you mind if I borrow Glenn for a bit? Poor Dustin is getting tired and I still have more things to buy.”

“Eh?”

Before Glenn could even react, she grabbed him by the arm and told Dustin to give him half of his cargo.

“I’m truly sorry Glenn. I promise I’ll return the favor someday.”

I heard Dustin say with a tired voice as they left with a teary eyed Glenn and Angela waving back. Huh… that escalated quickly.

I shrugged as it couldn’t be helped and entered the Apple Bear Inn. I saw Ellen at a corner waving at me with a smile on her face as I thanked my lucky stars on how things somehow ended up with me being on a date with her. With a stupid grin, I moved on and sat beside her. Time flew by as I enjoyed our time together.

…

…

Back in the Town Hall, in the office of the Governor, things started moving unseen.

“Hmm… Gov, we’ve got a problem.”

“Huh? What do you mean?”

“I lost contact with the piece I left with Gren. Either they found a cure, which is unlikely, or someone undid my curse.”

“W-What? That can’t be! What do we do now!?”

“I don’t know who the hell did it, but thanks to this bastard, our plans need to be moved up. Our losses will be big, but we can still succeed as long as we start moving now.”

“A-Alright then. What do you need me to do?”

“Make that Request to the scalekin and submit it to the Guild before Gren takes notice. We have nothing to hold him back now, so be extra careful about it. I’ll contact Bolgruk and plan the ambush with him. And remember Bremv, don’t screw this up… the years we’ve spent on this as well as our lives are forfeit if we fail. “They” most certainly won’t be happy and even death would be a mercy.”

“R-Right.”

‘I don’t know how the hell you did it, but I sure as hell know it was you, you scaly bastard. The repercussions of ruining our plans are heavy, so I hope you enjoy your little fun while you still can.’

This time, he was no longer calm as anger surged within him. “Blackshade” as he is called, started moving, and the town of Orgo would soon become engulfed in panic and chaos once more.