As far back as I can remember I always loved stories and adventures. Maybe it has to do with my dad who is an adventurer himself, but whenever I think of going off into the world exploring new places and fighting great monsters it always made me excited.

“Glenn, come here and finish up. We need to clean them properly or we won’t have dinner when your father comes home.”

“Got it, mom.”

I’m currently helping my mom in the kitchen prepare dinner for when dad gets back. She’s really tall and beautiful with brown hair she ties in what she calls a ponytail. She’s also really strong and most of the men in the village get beaten up by her whenever they try to get close with her. Hmph. Only dad and me’s good enough for mom.

Dad only comes by every few days, but we heard from one of his friends that he was coming back today. I’m already 6 years old so I’m helping mom skin some horned rabbits in the kitchen. They’re bigger than a doggie so there’s lots of meat! Horned rabbit stew is always good when mom cooks it, but they’re tough to clean because their fur is prickly. The horns are put to the side so they can be turned into tools later, but they break often unless you toughen them up through some method my dad’s trying to teach me.

After some time, we got to cook the rabbits and it smells really good… slurp… uh oh, I can’t stop drooling. As I was wiping my mouth, I suddenly heard a familiar voice.

“Ena, Glenn, I’m home.”

Yay! Dad’s back! Dad always brings me presents, so I wonder what he got me this time? Just as I got to the front door, I saw mom in dad’s arms while their faces are stuck together. It really looks weird, so I wonder why they do that?

“Dad!”

“Hm? Ah! There’s my little boy. Are you taking care of things here, Glenn? You’re not making trouble for your mother, are you?”

“Of course not, Dad! I helped mom cook some horned rabbit stew today! Elder Yadi dropped by and gave it to us saying it was thanks for you always taking care of the town!”

“Hoho! Horned rabbit, eh? That sure takes me back. Seems you’ve gotten tougher if you were able to help your mom prepare that. Good work, Glenn.”

Dad patted me on the head and I was so happy that I couldn’t stop smiling. If only dad could be here everyday then it would be great. Dad’s really big with long black hair while he wears a headband and has a big scar across his face. He’s sword also looks really cool since it’s thin with only one edge but really really sharp.

After washing up, we soon got to the kitchen and had dinner. I was right, the rabbit was great! After dinner, we all cleaned up and I was ready to hear my dad’s stories. However, he told me he was tired and wanted to spend time with mom first, so I went to bed early so I can get up early tomorrow and hang out with dad. He always spends most of his time at night with mom anyway, so that means I’ll get to play with him throughout the day.

Alright, time to sleep!… … … hmm… I’m not sleepy yet. Maybe I should go down and grab some dried meat. Chewing on it helps me sleep sometimes.

I got out of my room all-quiet like and tried to sneak my way into the kitchen. Strangely enough, I’m not hearing mom and dad making those strange noises they always make when they’re together at night, and I also see some light coming from the kitchen. Are they still there?

“… do you really have to go so soon?”

Huh? Did mom just say dad’s leaving early?

“It can’t be helped, En. The bandits around Orgo have gotten bolder recently. Either there’s something that’s riling them up or there’s a new bandit lord that’s rallying them together. As the veteran adventurer that represents our village, I’ll need to head the patrols in our region so our village will be safe.”

Bandits? Bandit lord? I don’t really understand, but does that mean the village is in trouble and dad needs to go earlier?

“…Glenn. Come here.”

Oops! Looks like dad caught me again… I wonder how he does it?

“… Dad?”

“Don’t be afraid, son. I’m not mad.”

Phew… still, he looks really serious… and kind of sad. I’m happy I get to be with him tonight though, since I couldn’t sleep. Still, I’m worried about what mom said earlier.

“Are you leaving, dad?”

“… only for a short time, Glenn. I’ll be back before you know it, so can I trust you to watch your mom?”

“*nods* Leave it to me!”

“Haha… I’m proud to have a brave son.”

I was really happy. Dad said he was proud because I was brave! He even patted me on the head again, so it made me all warm and fuzzy inside.

Suddenly though, the outside became really loud as if someone was hitting a really big pan.

"The alarm!"

“Galai! We have trouble! Bandits have already stormed the town!”

It was Nils from today’s village watch. He suddenly came from outside and was yelling into the house. He looked like he was scared about something and was in a hurry.

“It can’t be! What has the watch been doing!? That’s too soon! … Ena, take Glenn and head for the Elder’s home!”

I looked at my mom and she nodded. She then grabbed my arm and pulled me along out of the house. I looked back and saw my dad run along with Nils towards the village’s entrance. I was shocked to see that over there was bright with orange light as if a big fire was burning. My mom pulled harder and I almost stumbled but I caught myself just before I fell.

“Hahaha! Looks like we caught some fleeing rabbits!”

As we were running along, a skinny looking man appeared out of nowhere in front of us. He was also with two other scary looking guys and they were bigger than him. I was really scared but I had to protect mom like I promised dad, so I had to hold onto her tighter. However, before I could move, mom suddenly let me go and charged at the scary men.

“What the!? Gaaaaah!”

The first skinny guy tried to slash at her from the side with his sword, but mom ducked super fast and hit him with something from below. He fell on his back but before he even hit the ground, mom already spun and hit the next guy. The last guy tried to get her as well, but she was so fast that I couldn’t really see but the last thing I saw was that she was holding on to a knife and it was stuck on the side under the arms of the last scary man. As he fell over, I saw mom holding onto two long knives.

“Hmph. I don’t know how you managed to sneak around the village, but if you think I’m just another helpless housewife, then you’re dead wrong.”

I shivered as mom said something scary, but she soon put away the knives after cleaning them under her skirt. She then smiled as she hugged me.

“I’m sorry you had to see something scary, Glenn. Come, we’ll soon be safe.”

I hugged mom back since I felt really safe with her around. I knew mom’s just as strong as dad, but I’ve never really seen her fight other than beat up some of the village guys. How cool is that! But I still have to protect her since I promised dad.

We soon started running again and we could see Elder Yadi urging the villagers into his home.

“Hm? Ena, Glenn! I’m glad to see both of you safe. Where’s Galai?”

“He went with Nils to join the fighting. Elder, how did the bandits get so close and managed to strike the village unawares?”

“I don’t know. According to the watch, they saw them coming from the darkness as if they were being shrouded by it. Before anyone realized what happened, they struck.”

I don’t know what mom and the elder were talking about, but everyone suddenly stopped as we heard a loud boom from where the fire is coming from.

“Oh no! Could they be using Agron Arrows!? The village won’t last at this rate!”

“Elder, please watch over Glenn.”

“! … Ena, you can’t! If anything happens to you, I wouldn’t know how to face Galai!”

“I retired because I had Glenn, Elder. But now that he’s older, I have kept my training and I have not weakened. I won’t stand losing my home, my husband, and my son.”

Before I realized what was happening, mom took off in the direction dad went. Oh no! Dad told me to protect mom so I have to go and get her back!

“! … Glenn, stop! Ugh… What is with that family!? Sigh… I’m too old for this… three of you, go and get that boy or Galai and Ena will have our heads!”

I feel bad for Elder Yadi, but I have a promise to keep with dad. Also, I wouldn’t want mom to get hurt anyway, so it’s my job to keep her safe until dad gets back.

I took the familiar turns and paths, but with everyone shouting and screaming as well as me trying to avoid the bad men, it took me a while before I actually got to where the big light was coming from.

There, I finally found dad fighting a strange… um… orange? …looking man with a big axe swinging it with both arms. Mom was at the side keeping the other bad guys back.

“Heh… not bad. You must be the one they call Galai, the Thin Blade. I’ve heard of your strength and that you wield a thin sword with only one edge, a weapon forged from beyond even the Eastern Great Sea of Trees.”

“…and you must be the new bandit lord I’ve been hearing about. I never expected you to be a half-orc.”

“Haha looks like I’m getting infamous after all. That’s right, I’m the one who’ll soon rule these wastes. I am Bolgruk, lord of the Vadar Mountains and chieftain of the Vadar Band!”

“Bold words for a ruler of outcasts. Enough talk, we fight to the end.”

“Hahaha! My thoughts exactly!”

Dad and the… what was he again? Half-orc? Anyways, they clashed once again and the fight looks to be even. Mom on the other hand has the other thugs under control so it looks like it’s all up to dad.

As they fought, I soon heard someone scream at the side and saw it was the big sis who lived a few houses from us with a scary man on top ripping her clothes. My mom and dad are doing their best over there, so I should as well!

I took out one of the horns from the horned rabbit I kept in my shorts while I crept closer. I kept one because I wanted dad to teach me how to carve a knife, but I don’t have a choice at the moment. Uh oh, the bad man started hitting big sis, so I guickly got on top of a crate and jumped at the man and got him on the side.

“Wot in da!?”

Ha! Take that! And That! While some of this! He started trying to shake me off but I held on while I stabbed him with the horn. Big sis managed to get away and I smiled but someone grabbed me from the back of my shirt and threw me off.

“Fuckin’ brat! I’m gonna cut you up and skin ya like a hare!”

Ow… my head’s all dizzy. The bad man threw me to the ground really hard. Soon I felt something grab me through my shirt again and I suddenly see the bad man’s face really close and staring at me. He’s really scary and I couldn’t stop shaking.

“Time ta’ say g’bye, brat!”

“Glenn!”

I heard my mom yell out and I looked at her. I didn’t want her to see me scared so I tried to smile.

“Huh? You’re that bitch’s brat? …hehe… I gots me an idea… Oi, boys! Now’s your chance!”

The scary man started laughing and suddenly I felt myself go up into the air. Huh? Did he just throw me?

“Glenn!!”

The next moment felt really slow… as if everything moved really slowly. I turned in the air and saw mom below trying to catch me, but she was surrounded by many bad guys. I also heard dad call out my name and saw him suddenly turn to protect my mom… but he was still in the middle of fighting that big scary half-orc guy.

Dad tried to protect mom as best he can, but some guys still managed to hurt her since she had to catch me. The half-orc guy stopped going after him for some reason, but I saw he already hit dad’s back with his big axe. After mom finally caught me, I saw her face filled with tears but for some reason she was smiling.

“Oh Glenn… you naughty boy… I almost thought I’d lose you…”

!! Oh no! Mom’s bleeding really bad!

“M-Mom! I’m really sorry mom, so please! We have to get you some help! E-Elder Yadi! He has healing medicine, right!?”

I was really panicking, I didn’t know what to do and I found myself trying to push back the blood flowing from her chest where something sharp came out earlier.

“It’s ok Glenn. Your mom’s really strong you know, so you don’t have to worry. And also… your dad’s here to keep us safe.”

“Glenn…”

Dad… I promised him I would protect mom… but I couldn’t do it… and I ended up hurting her instead…

“D-Dad… I-I’m sorry dad… I-I couldn’t protect mom…”

“It’s fine Glenn… you did what you could. I’m here now… so you don’t have to worry.”

Huh? But didn’t the orc guy hit your back?

“Tch… why did you turn your back, Galai?”

The scary orc guy suddenly called out to dad… he already hurt dad, what more does he want?

“… My family was about to be slain before me, Bolgruk. I don’t know if you’d understand… but to me they mean more than my life and honor…”

“That’s foolish! Even if you could protect them then, taking a hit from me means you won’t be able to after! At least if you kept fighting me, you could’ve joined them when I beat you!”

“…that’s not how things work, Bolgruk… And I think you know… enough words. We fight to the end.”

“I shall join you, dear.”

“Ena…”

“We’ll fight to protect our son… even to the end…”

Mom? Dad? Why? Why do you still want to fight? You both need medicine! Someone! Please! Help! Anyone…

“…you know you can’t win, injured as you are. Even if it’s the both of you.”

“Perhaps… but we’ve received wounds we wouldn’t live through anyway… so we might as well show you what happens when you fight someone resolved to die.”

“We will fight… to the bitter end… for our son…”

Mom! Dad! Stop! I wanted to scream that so bad but the words wouldn’t come out. I saw their back as they rushed at the orc man. For some reason, I could clearly see their fight even though it’s night and the only light came from the fires burning some houses.

Dad was parrying the heavy looking blows from the big axe while mom kept going around and attacking him from places he can’t see. They really worked so well together, as if I was looking at them dancing instead of fighting. Streaks of light flashed all around them, as if watching twinkling stars.

The orc guy… Bolgruk… started sweating and his face looked like he ate something bitter. He was bleeding from many places and looked desperate but he held his ground. The dance had to end, however, as mom suddenly slowed down and I could see that she was very pale. Bolgruk must have seen this as he swung his axe to the side to hit mom. Dad rushed in front of the blow and blocked it with his blade but he along with mom was sent flying and smashed through a house. As everything suddenly became quiet, I came back to my senses and started going after my parents.

“Mom! Dad!”

I rushed into the house but I saw another hole on the other side and went through it. I saw a trail of blood and found them huddled together on the ground with their backs to a rock. I quickly went over to them but I froze at what I saw. Mom and dad were both bloody and I could see some bones coming out of their arms or legs. A great amount of blood poured out from them making a little pool with them in the middle. I cried… I fell on my knees and crawled up to them as I cried…

“*hic*…Mom… *hic*…Dad…”

“Glenn…

“D-Dad!”

He’s still awake! Maybe they can be saved after all!

“Son… I don’t have much time… but know that your mom and I love you very much… quickly… you must run.”

“B-But I can’t leave you!”

“Son… please… it’s too late for me and your mom… you have to go… now…”

“Tch… “

!!

I turned around when I heard a sound behind me and there stood the scary orc man, Bolgruk.

“I take no joy from this… you were indeed strong, Galai… you and along with your mate… but I wanted a true fight… the fact you were both wounded before that clash… makes my victory pointless.”

“Heh… we were two on one though… so it should make it even…”

“It does not! I wanted to beat you both without hindrances! That fact that you both were bleeding out not because of a test of skill takes the joy from knowing I won!”

“Haha… you’re more orc than I thought… say, Bolgruk… would you do me the honor of doing a favor for a dying warrior?”

“Hmph… if you mean I won’t take your blade, then no can do. For an orc, claiming a warrior’s weapon is the greatest trophy.”

“Heh… you can do what you want with that sword for all I care… what I want… is that you spare my son… and if possible… the rest of the village…”

“Tch… very well… if not for you, then for my own honor. I will spare the boy and the village, but if he grows seeking revenge then you can’t blame me for fighting him. Though I would welcome it.”

“Ha… you heard him Glenn… don’t live your life with hate… grow… and be… happy…”

Dad suddenly became quiet and closed his eyes… I’m really afraid… dad… mom… please… don’t leave me…

“Waaaaaaaaah!”

“Boss! Where were you? Hm? Ah, there’s the noisy brat! Ei boss, leave ‘im ta me. He’s the brat of tha’ annoying couple so I’ll gut him like a pig for you!”

“… you’re the one who threw the brat into the air, aren’t you?”

“Tha’s righ’ boss! I bet ye’r mighty proud! Made the fight all damn easy, righ’? Who knows how long they’d last if it weren’t for me smarts.”

“Proud you say…” *smack*

“Gaah! Boss what’re you doin’!?”

“Do you have any idea how long I’ve been waiting for a fight like that? What my plans were if I had won!?” *thwack* *chop*

“Aaargh! Stop boss! It bloody hurtsss!”

“It very well should! You honorless mongrels cost me my pride and a good fight! For that, you deserve a painful death!” *thunk*

“Gaaah! *schlick* Aaaaargh! *chop* Bossh… pleash… *smack* Uurggg… *chop*… …

I could hear people talking as well as chopping noises behind me… but I didn’t care… all I could see were my parents in front of me… blurred by wet stuff coming out of my eyes…

“Grwaaaaaaagh! We leave, NOW! And if anyone dares to defy me, the same will happen to anyone like this bastard here! Now MOVE!”

I don’t know how long I was sitting there crying… but when I stopped, everything was quiet. I soon heard footsteps getting closer.

“This way! I heard noises over here!”

I turned and saw some familiar faces but I was still too weak to speak up.

“By the gods… it can’t be… they got Galai and Ena…”

“Tch… damn bandits… we should kill the lot of ‘em!”

“Don’t let the blood rush into your head… if those two couldn’t do anything, then we sure as bloody hell can’t.”

“Grrr… but still… those two… to this village…”

Soon, Elder Yadi came into view… he stopped for a moment then he walked towards me and kneeled down as he hugged me.

“Oh Glenn… you poor boy… come… let’s get you cleaned up. Everyone, please take care of Ena and Galai. They have done more for this village than anyone else… so please…”

When I felt Elder Yadi’s warmth, I suddenly felt very tired and began to fall asleep.

…

Several days have passed and the village was mostly back. I stood on a hill overlooking the town. In front of me, were my parents’ graves. Normally, my dad’s sword would be there, but the orc bandit took it. It made me angry, but I was more afraid. Remembering his fierce eyes glowing from the fire made me shake without knowing it. I soon heard footsteps and when I turned, I saw Elder Yadi heading up the hill.

“Young Glenn, how are you feeling?”

“…still sad, Elder. But I’m doing better.”

“I see… your parents were truly amazing… when they first arrived in this village, everyone was really suspicious of them since they were armed… however, through their hard work they gained everyone’s trust and even became this village’s protectors by becoming adventurers. Words cannot express how truly grateful I am for them.”

“…”

I heard it before, but apparently my parents came from far away in the east. Other than mom and dad, nobody knows what’s there since the big sea of trees my dad told me about is in between. They also never told me about their home, but now I think it’s time for me to find out.

“Elder…”

“Yes, my boy?”

“I want to be an adventurer…”

“! Glenn… do you understand what you’re saying? Your parents may have been great adventurers, but surely you don’t have to follow after them?”

“I know but… if I don’t become one… then I feel I won’t be close to them…I want to remember them always, and how much I was so happy to hear about my mom and dad’s adventures.”

“I see… although you’re young, I can see a man’s determination in your eyes… it saddens me since you’re still a boy, but I won’t stop you.”

I nodded and gave Elder Yadi a smile to make him feel relieved. After going down the hill, we soon helped me get to know the people who used to train under my mom and dad in the village.They were happy to help train me and everyone worked together to help me get strong. It hurt at first, but I kept doing it since I wanted my parents to feel proud of me.

I lost count of the number of days my training went, but soon time came when I finally had to leave.

…

Five years have passed and I’ve already bested all the fighters in the village. It was time for me to leave for Orgo for better training. I bid everyone goodbye as I left the village while riding a visiting peddler’s carriage headed for Orgo, the biggest town in the frontier.

I was really excited. I’ve never been to a town before, and I heard it was way bigger than our village. After several days with the old peddler as my company, I learned more about the town and what I had to do to become an adventurer. It seems that the test is very strict, but it doesn’t discourage me in the least. I swore on that day that I’d become an adventurer, and I’ll make sure to fulfill it.

After two weeks on the road, I finally see Orgo. It wasn’t an entirely uneventful journey and I had to fight a few monsters and beast every now and then. Thankfully we arrived safely since we avoided the riskier roads and went for the more maintained ones with patrols. I thanked the old peddler and went my way.

Orgo was huge! There are really lots of people! How does anyone remember all the people’s names if there’s this many? Also, I noticed there’s a lot more beastkin here than anywhere. In my village, there were only a few, but here they’re just as many as the humans! There’re even several dwarves and a few elves! I’ve never seen the other races before, but seeing them up close makes me really excited for this town.

After stopping by a few stalls for food, I made my way to the Adventurers’ Guild based on the old peddler’s instructions. I could soon see it since it was easily the biggest building along the main road. I was excited but my smile froze as soon as I got inside. Everyone started staring at me and made me feel really uneasy. I gulped but I soon started feeling relieved when everyone ignored me and went back to their business.

Phew… looks like they were only sizing me up… I heard that’s what adventurers do whenever someone new enters to see if they could be a good ally or competition. I don’t have to worry about that yet though, since I only came here for the training. I looked around for a bit and I saw a petite silver haired girl wearing something that looks transparent in front of her eyes behind a desk with a small line. I decided to line up there since she seems nice enough, but I wonder why only her line is small? I guess I’ll find out soon enough since it’s my turn.

“…aren’t you a little young?”

“Ah… u-um… I’m actually here for the adventurer’s training.”

“I see… training costs 15 Rugal a month and requires you to have your own equipment. First course starts in three days and you need to be as early as the time when the sun rises. Can you manage that?”

“Y-Yes! Of course!”

“Hmm… there will be practical tests and you will be made to undergo them to determine if you’re capable of being an adventurer… also, you don’t get your money back if you get injured and are rendered incapable of continuing your training.”

“I-I already understand that, so you don’t have to worry! I’ll do my best!”

“Oh I’m not worried, only… I just honestly can’t see why a young boy such as you is willing to undergo the adventurer’s training regiment, which a lot of newbies avoid because of the harsh lessons. Even grown men give up after the first month, so forgive me for being skeptical that a boy as young as you is willing to go through it despite understanding the risks.”

“It’s to guarantee I’d become an adventurer! I heard that as long as you finish the training for a year, then you’re guaranteed to become a Copper rank after!”

“That’s true… but it’s been years since someone opted for the training… and it’s even been longer since someone succeeded… although more expensive, most people would simply choose to commission a veteran adventurer team to show them the ropes than have to go through a year’s worth of being harassed with military-like drills.”

“I can’t afford the other option, and besides, I want to have a solid foundation so I want to undergo the training! S-So please!”

The girl feels like she’s somehow determined to keep me from going through the training… it’s not like I blame her for it, but I feel like she’s trying too hard.

“Sigh… it seems you’re very determined and there’s no stopping you… very well then. Please fill this up and afterwards, pay the fee. I’ll then give you the schedule for the month.”

Looks like she gave up and gave me the form. Good thing the Elder taught me how to read, or this would have been very awkward. The villagers were also nice enough to help me in saving up and they gave me money in order to pay for my training. After finishing, I walked up to the desk again and gave her the form.

“… Looks like everything’s in order. Glenn, is it? Here’s your schedule. Food and drink will be provided during training based on the fee. Anything additional is your expense… also...”

“Um… what is it?”

“… nothing. Only… good luck.”

“Hehe… thanks.”

She’s much nicer than I thought. She sounded scary earlier as she kept telling me how bad the training is, but it seems she was only trying to keep me from hurting myself since she wasn’t sure I understood what I was getting into. I reassured and thanked her with a smile of course since she went through the trouble.

“!... hng.”

“Eh? Are you alright miss?”

It looked like her chest hurt, so out of concern I asked if she was fine, but she only straightened the thing in front of her eyes and looked back at me with her same serious look.

“I’m fine. Shouldn’t you be elsewhere by now?”

“Ah… right…”

Somehow, she became scary again, so I went ahead and left to find a place to stay. I wonder what was all that about?

…

It’s the first day of my training and I was really nervous. I was in a field behind the guild building alongside at least 3 more people, two guys and a girl. They were all older than me and we’re waiting for the instructor to begin our training.

“So these are the brats who think they can handle the adventurer’s training huh? You all look pathetic but I’ll make men and women out of you yet.”

The loud voice came from a large muscled man wearing a tight black shirt and light sandy pants who headed our way. He had a grey beard with a few black streaks of hair, but his whole head was covered in a black mask that covered his entire head except his eyes, nose, and mouth. It looked strange… like a black tight fitting sack with holes for the obvious parts.

“You will all refer to me as Gre- Great Mask! I will be your instructor but soon you will all see me as your worst nightmare! Only instead of haunting your dreams, I’ll be sure to chew you all up and spit you all out right here!”

He stuttered for a bit but it sure didn’t make him sound any less scary. I alongside the other three began to shiver in anxiety.

“Alright, first thing’s first, build up stamina! Run around the entire field ten times! Then we’ll see where to proceed from there.”

Entire field? This entire training field? It’s as big as 9 houses put together! And he wants us to run around 10 times!?

“What’re you all waiting for? A beating? Get a move on!”

As panic took us, we all started running around the field as if death was on our heels. That definition wasn’t off as well since Mr. Great Mask decided we were too slow and started chasing us like a madman!

It’s only the first day, but I can’t help but think back to what that girl in with the transparent eye piece told me. I can only hope I’m as tough as I believed.

…

“That masked bastard’s crazy!”

It’s the end of the day and I’m panting hard, but it seems that one of the guys who are training alongside of me still has enough energy to complain.

“Ease up, Dan. You knew as well as I do what we were getting ourselves into. I just hope the training won’t be just about running. Besides, our younger friend over there seems to be in better shape, so don’t go disgracing yourself.”

I was standing at the side while breathing in deeply as what I was taught to help ease up the exhaustion.

“Hey there little guy. You’re tougher than you look. My name’s Claire, and those two are my friends, Dan and Marco.”

The nice girl who walked up to me with a smile had short light brown hair and puppy ears. It seems she’s a dogkin. The guy, who complained earlier, called Dan had long shoulder length dark bark brown hair and was skinny. The guy called Marco had short black hair that’s standing likes spikes on his head. He’s also really tall and looks buff.

“I’m Glenn. Nice to meet you all.”

“Hey kid, how’d ya’ do it? I mean, I’m mighty proud of myself for bein’ a courier for years, but even I wouldn’t be caught standing around like you were after a slog like that.”

“Training. Back in my village, the fighters taught me how to breathe properly so I wouldn’t get tired faster.”

“Hmm… that sounds interesting. I’ve only grown up while learning to take care of myself around these streets, but I never did learn proper fighting. If you don’t mind, would you teach us?”

“Heehee. That doesn’t sound like you, Marco. You don’t normally ask kids younger than you to teach you how to fight.”

“This is different, we’re all in this together. Besides, just because some people are younger than you doesn’t mean they can’t teach you something new. One of the kids in my old neighborhood taught me that the hard way.”

Everyone’s been really nice so far, so I didn’t mind teaching them how to breathe properly. As we talked we all became fast friends and vowed to finish the training together. The days became more bearable thanks to that and we looked forward to the day we became full-fledged adventurers.

…

“Training’s over brats! So far none of you have dropped out, but it’s only been the first week, so don’t get your hopes up! Get some rest and ready yourselves for tomorrow!”

Mr. Great Mask left after that. After 3 days of running, he made us go through several obstacle courses with different types of platforms and traps. It was terrible at first but then we got used to it after some time.

“Yeesh, I can’t help but feel that old bastard’s out to get us.”

“Hmm… I don’t normally agree with you but you’re right. The training’s getting worse and it almost feels like we’re about to die a few times. Look, poor Claire’s practically half-mad from exhaustion.”

“Wheeeee! Come oooon guuuuys! Ooooonly a feeeeew more laaaps!”

Poor Ms. Claire. She got caught by many of the traps several times and was made to do a few more runs along the course. Right now she’s unsteady on her feet while her eyes look like they’re going in circles.

“We’re going to head out to eat. How about you Glenn?”

“I’d like to stay for a bit. There are some things I’d like to work on.”

“Hah. You really put us to shame, you know? Even after training you still stay here to train yourself further. I don’t know how you do it, but I’m rooting for you.”

“Hehe. Thanks.”

“See ya, kid. Don’t strain yourself.”

“Byyyye Byyye!”

My new friends left with Claire on Marco’s shoulders. I’d like to join them but I really need to save my money. I still don’t have means to gain new funds, so I’d like to avoid spending as much as possible. During these moments when I’m by myself, I usually train further or study books about adventuring as well as knowledge of the world. Ever since I was younger, I always loved reading stories about adventures and it hasn’t changed until now. Only this time, I want to be the one in those stories, so it’s another reason why I’m working hard to become an adventurer.

Right now, I’m training since there are some movements that I’d still like to work on since I had to put more effort than usual when I had to use them during the course. I spent the next few hours like I usually do working on my sword techniques and other movements. As soon as I finished up, I heard a bit of giggling on the side.

“You’re really dedicated despite being young aren’t you? I’ve been wondering why that old man’s been in a good mood lately, and now I see why.”

I turned and I saw the girl who helped set me up for the training. Only this time she wasn’t wearing the transparent things on her face. I haven’t seen her in a while so I smiled and bowed as I greeted her.

“Hello miss. Thanks again for advice. You were right, the training was really hard, but I’m still pulling through so you don’t have to worry.”

“Eh?”

She looked really confused. Is it a different girl? Suddenly her eyes-widened and with an “Oh” she clapped her hands.

“Heehee. I think you’re mistaking me for my sister. I’m Lanfa, the Guild head’s secretary. The girl you’re talking about must be Leyfa, a guild receptionist and my sister. She’s in charge of newbies, so don’t forget to say hi to her every now and then.”

Oh so she had a twin sister. This is really surprising. I smiled and thanked her for clearing that up.

“…you know, you’re really polite for a kid. Are your parents servants to nobles or something?”

“No, not really. It’s just that our village elder told me I should be polite when I’m in town. He told me it’s to avoid getting in trouble while I’m here.”

“… I see. Well, that’s fine but it’s also wrong to be too polite, you know? It makes someone seem like they suck up to people because they want something or they’re hiding something…”

“Ah, I see. I’m sorry then. I’ll be sure to learn better next time.”

“Heehee. You’re doing it again… anyways, why are you so devoted to training?”

“Because I want to be an adventurer!”

“Really? What’s so great about becoming one?”

“Lots of reasons! One of them is because I like adventurers!”

“…That’s an odd thing to say… I’m free right now, and if you don’t mind, why don’t you tell me about those reasons? It beats doing boring work for that old man.”

I don’t get why it’s so odd, but if she wants to hear about my reasons then I don’t mind letting her know. I was excited as I told her about my mom and dad, about how great they were and the stories they told me. I also told her about my promise to them after they died, and how the people in the village helped me get here. When I was done, she suddenly hugged me and started crying. I’m not feeling sad and in pain anymore, so she doesn’t really have to cry…

“Waaaaaah! You poor kid! *sniff* I’ve heard my share of adventurer sob stories, but I’ve never heard anyone so pure and dedicated like you! … I’ve decided. I’ll help you along the way kid, but you’re the one who needs to pick yourself up when you fall, alright?”

“Gee, thanks Ms. Lanfa! Everyone in the guild so far has been really nice!”

“Hnnngh… slurp… and you look soo cute when you’re all innocent like that~. Hmm… since he’s this young… maybe I could raise… he’ll be… own little… toy… hehehe…”

Somehow Ms. Lanfa started laughing in a creepy way, but I heard something like she wanted to help raise me, so it made me happy to know that there’re people here who can help me as I grow.

We talked for little bit more and decided to hang out with her sister tomorrow as we went our separate ways. Ms. Lanfa wanted to bring me home but I told her it was fine since I lived close by. She also seems to live within the Guild building so there’s no worry about having to bring her home instead.

This is great! I don’t why know Elder Yadi said to be extra careful when I get to town, but everyone here seems to be really nice, and I just made a new friend. Well, there’s Mr. Great Mask, but he’s our trainer so he needs to be mean. Nobody would listen to an instructor who looks like he’s afraid to hurt the students; the kids in my village proved that.

I headed back to the inn I was staying at with great expectations for the days ahead.

…

“Tch… stupid brat. That’ll teach them not to mess with Silvers like us Wrath Hounds.”

I don’t understand… all I did was ask him not to hurt a poor kid. The little girl was only running along carrying some vegetables, but as soon as she stepped in front of him, he kicked her down. I tried to help pick up the vegetables and pass it to her, but he somehow got madder and kicked away the basket. He and his friends even started ganging up on both the little girl and me; so I was trying to hug her close to keep her from getting hit.

“Do we really have to do this Catras? I just think that beating on kids is pathetic.”

“Shut it, Merik. These brats need to be taught a lesson in respect and that no one gets in the way of the great me!”

“Hey, boss. Why don’t we accept his training fee for the lesson? After all, lessons aren’t free, right? Bahaha!”

“Good idea. Hey, brat. Cough up your cash. All of it, or I’ll cut you up like a pig.”

I grit my teeth from the pain. I was wrong… not everyone is good here. I should have expected that, but due to the way things have been going, I was blinded. After so long, I’ve forgotten how the world can be cruel at times, and I’ve forgotten how that cruelty stole my parents from me. I tried living without hate as dad said, but it pushed me to the point that I’ve forgotten how to look into people’s hearts. I was afraid… that if some of the hate showed itself… then I would lose myself… but if it means losing all that I have… then perhaps… I should let that hate run free…

“I didn’t think you’d sink to a new all-time low, Catras. I knew you were dirt, but I didn’t think you’d be below even trash.”

A beautiful voice suddenly echoed from above. It carried sharpness but also sounded smooth. It also sounded strong and confident, and I could almost even feel warmth despite the cold tone.

“Ah fuck, it’s Angela. Wot da hell do ya want this time, bitch?”

“That’s Ms. Angela to you, and what I want is for you gutter trash to get out of my sight before I do the world a favor and burn away the filth. You have until the count of three.”

“You think we’ll give you that time, bitch?”

“Three. Goodbye, trash.”

“Gaaaaah! It huuurts!”

“How the fuck does she do that!”

“No mage can cast as quickly as that!”

“Quick! Gang up on her!”

I looked up and saw a girl with really long beautiful golden hair that were curling at the ends like a cone. She had a confident smile on her face as she had her arms crossed. The men surrounded her, but then a man with armor along with a shield and sword appeared and blocked the men charging at her.

“Angela, I’d advise you not to start something like this again especially when you’re away from the team. I get you’re confident about your cast speed, but that’s no excuse to be so reckless.”

“Oh don’t be such a drag, Dustin. You made it after all so it’s fine. Anyways, as I said earlier, goodbye trash.”

“Gaaaaah!”

“Ah fuck, her pet knight’s arrived. You’ll pay for this eventually bitch! Come on you louts or the guards’ll soon be here!”

All the bad men left the alley, and soon the girl’s friends arrived.

“Angie… what did I say…”

“No time for that El. Silvi, quickly go and help those poor children.”

“Sigh… sometimes, I just don’t know what to do with you.”

A small girl with blue hair and a kind looking face got close to us and chanted a spell. Soon, light-green light danced around us and the pain started going away. The little girl in my arms also stopped crying as she looked up.

“There. All better now.”

“Good. Now let’s get out of here before the guards show up. I don’t want to end up with another long winded lecture from the captain.”

“Angie…”

They soon left as they came… just like the wind…

…

“…you’re really fortunate, you know? Catras has a terrible reputation… even amongst the unruly adventurers.”

I was back at the Guild talking to Leyfa, the sister with the eye piece. I wanted to know more about the people who helped me so I though I’d ask her.

“…sigh… try not to do something stupid like that again… you’re an adventurer, not a hero. Also, once Catras does something like that, he’ll usually leave after the little bit of violence. Although I don’t condemn what you did, had you left the girl, then the both of you wouldn’t have had to go through that.”

I felt bad and looked at the floor. I wasn’t trying to be a hero but I just felt bad for the little girl. I also blame the fact that I’ve been very naïve and stupid, but the fear of the hate taking over was gnawing at me.

“…I have to admit though. I’m proud of what you did. After all, most people wouldn’t even bother. Even if you didn’t know who Catras was, you still did what you did knowing you were outnumbered.”

I looked up in surprise at what Ms. Leyfa said. She’d lecture me like this all the time, but she’s never complimented me like that. The thought somehow made me smile as I was scratching my head.

“Hng!... cough… anyways, the ones who helped you are probably Ellen’s team. They’re like you in a sense, but less naïve about it. They’re one of the few prides of Orgo’s adventurers, a team composed of mostly Silver ranks, the Titan’s Hammers. If you want some adventurers to look up to, then there’s no group that’s more suited to your fantasies about adventurers.”

Wow! The Titan’s Hammers! That girl with blond hair was really amazing and confident, while that knight was really cool when he protected her. The healer was also really kind when she healed me and the little girl, while the big lady looked really strong! I really hope I get to meet them again.

I nodded in thanks and smiled again. She gripped her chest again for some reason. Somehow her chest seems to keep hurting every time I do that, so perhaps I should stop?

…

A year passed in the blink of an eye, and soon we graduated from training. It was a long year, as we had to go through hellish survival and combat routines, fighting actual monsters and disarming traps, there were so many that we simply became uncaring for whatever came next. Marco, Claire, Dan, and me included all passed our training with flying colors.

“*Sniff* You kids make me so proud.”

“There, there…”

Lanfa was patting Mr. Great Mask on the side. It seems he’s really happy that we were all able to pass. According to Leyfa, it’s very rare for trainees to pass, let alone four at a time, so I guess it’s understandable why Mr. Great Mask would be very happy. I looked at my friends and we all smiled at each other as we finally did it.

“Now then. Since you kids have officially passed, with my authority as the instructor, you’re all now fully-fledged Copper adventurers! Here are your ranking plates. Now go out there and do the Guild proud!”

Mr. Great Mask soon left and my friends were celebrating excitedly.

“Dammit! I didn’t think we’d actually make it… oh gods… I’m tearing up…”

“Don’t be so melodramatic, Dan. We did it and that’s that. Though I have to admit, if it weren’t for Glenn, we probably would have left at the beginning.”

“That’s right! He’s our little helper who’s always looking out for us!”

Geez. These guys are exaggerating. All I did was teach them a few things while I cheered them on. I also helped them out of several pinches a few times, which actually earned us a bonus since adventurers are supposed to help their team members out.

“Glenn, my offer still stands, do you want to party up with us? Since we all worked so well anyway, I thought maybe we should team up.”

“That’s right! Glenn, join us!”

“Heh. You’re not bad shorty, so I don’t mind you being around.”

I thought about it actually and I want to join them as well. But there was one thing that was bothering me.

“Marco… are you all still planning to leave Orgo after this?”

“… that’s right. We originally wanted to become adventurers so we could head to the city of Llorden up north. We promised to meet up with some of our friends there.”

“…”

This is why I’m hesitating. After that bandit attack years ago, my village hasn’t been able to completely recover. I found out the fire hit our warehouse and burned most of our stored crops and seeds. The village has been barely hanging on through hunting and scavenging, but if I don’t find a way to help the villagers soon, then it will only be a matter of time.

With determination I looked at Marco and somehow he understood. We smiled and exchanged a handshake. Claire cried and gave me a big hug. Dan just gave me a strong pat on the back. They all left towards the exit one last time, and I almost teared up when I realized I might not see my friends again. However, I told myself this wasn’t true, and that someday when I get to become a veteran adventurer, I can go and see them again.

“Glenn!”

“Ah… Lanfa. Looks like I finally passed.”

“That’s right! And it’s all thanks to your hard work! I almost thought you’d cry when Marc, Dan, and Claire would leave, but it looks like you’re a big boy~.”

“Hehe… I had help from you and them… I wouldn’t have made it if it weren’t for everyone.”

“Alright, that’s enough of that. Let’s go celebrate! I told Leyfa to clear up her schedule later since I reserved us a table at the Apple Bear! Come on!”

Haha. That’s right. I can’t be lonely since I still have Lanfa and Leyfa… as well as all the villagers who are counting on me. I have to get stronger so that someday, I can reach where my parents once stood, and maybe even more.

…

It was time for me to finally take my rank up exam. It’s been months, but somehow I made it. I wasn’t always alone, but there were many times I hade to take Quests solo. It’s not because I didn’t trust people, but not many would want to team up with a no-name Copper, and there have only been a few newbies lately.

For some reason many adventurers, especially newbies, have been disappearing recently so Leyfa went out of her way to get me Quests that she guaranteed were safe. She didn’t have to, but it’s her way of showing she cares for me so I accepted them.

Lanfa has been acting weird recently though. She doesn’t react as cheery as she used to and somehow responds in a flat tone at times. This started happening when she along with several others were sent to question some adventurers who were making trouble. Perhaps she’s been overworking herself?

“Boy, you’re up.”

I shook away my thoughts and walked over as I heard the staff handling the tests call me. He told me that in order to pass I just need to last 5 minutes while facing a veteran adventurer. I prepared myself as I went into the testing hall, but I immediately froze when I saw whom I was to face.

“Hurry up, brat. I don’t got all day.”

It was Catras, the leader of the Wrath Hounds. A Silver ranked adventurer. I may have gotten stronger, but there’s just no way I can fight someone already at the level of a Silver, let alone a Silver who’s specialized in handling bandits and rogue adventurers; in other words, fighting people. Before the signal even came, he charged at me with sword drawn.

I panicked and hastily took out the practice sword to block. Since I wasn’t able to prepare myself properly, I lost my balance and he used that opportunity to relentlessly unleash blows. I somehow managed to block most of them, but the injuries were piling up and I needed to find a way to escape from the lock. Bracing myself, I took an attack to the side and used the opening for a counter, but while I was aiming to disarm him he suddenly sprayed something into my eyes using his mouth.

Gah! It burns! What is this!? Oil? Where was he hiding it in his mouth?

Blinded and rendered helpless by the surprise attack, I felt him kick me down and disarm me. Ugh… he kicked me really hard in the stomach…

“Tch… damn brat lasted longer than I wanted. Damn annoying.”

“Mr. Catras, I didn’t give the signal for the fight yet. You know the rules.”

“Like hell I care about that. Besides, if he wants to be an adventurer, he should learn to face the unexpected.”

“Even so, that wasn’t the criteria for the test. You’ll either need to do this right, or I’ll have to report your conduct to Mr. Worrick.”

“Hah! You think I’m actually afraid of that old man? This is what I think about your bullshit rules!”

I saw he was suddenly heading towards me and I tried to get up, but he threw something hard at my head.

Agh! That really hurt!

I then felt him stepping over my chest to pin me down, but the next thing I saw him do was even worse and really made me panic. What I saw was that he was raising his other foot high up and then he smashed it onto my hand.

“Aaaaaaaagh!”

Gaah! The pain! Uuugh… Why… why did he have to…

“Hah! Looks like he’s too fuckin’ injured to continue. And by your damn rules, if he can’t fight, he fails, so fuck off.”

I heard him leaving, but right now… I just wanted the pain to go away…

…

“…Glenn.”

I went to see Ms. Leyfa after I had my hand taken care of. Thankfully I didn’t have to purchase an expensive Healing Potion or pay for the services of a healer since the Guild healed it as an apology.

“…I’m sorry Leyfa. I failed…”

“Don’t say that you foolish boy. I’m more worried that you may have had terrible injuries that would permanently debilitate you.”

“… Please don’t worry about that. My hand’s all better, see?”

“You’re lucky he only stepped on your hand. The last time he was in a bad mood, he chopped off someone’s arm even with a practice sword.”

“…Why does the Guild let him do that?”

“We don’t. He was given a thorough beating by the Guild head the last time he did that, and he gets suspended each time he’s crossed the line. Right now, the Head should be currently using him as a punching bag. Personally, I’d prefer trash like him were to be put down and given a painful death, but the Guild in Orgo lacks Silver adventurers, so we can’t punish him too severely. As long as he doesn’t go rogue, then the Guild will continue to discipline him.”

“I just don’t understand… why is he like that? I really don’t like hurting people, but how can he make it so easy?”

“To be honest Glenn, you’re the one who’s actually the oddball. Many adventurers are actually quite selfish. I understand Catras takes it to another level, but it’s not uncommon to see adventurers do things only in their interest. In this sense, you’re the odd one for remaining so pure hearted despite seeing the world for what it is.”

“…I have one last question. Why is he allowed to test the adventurer candidates for rank up?”

“Sadly, not many are willing to be testers for the rank up. The cause is foolish adventurer’s pride… most can’t accept the idea that a newbie might be able to best their skills, and those who accept it are usually those who enjoy beating down those they think weaker than them. Though, there are some adventurers that accept these Guild commissions with goodwill and even some become affiliates of the Guild, but these adventurers are few and far between.”

I thought about this deeply. If this is the case, then it’ll be really hard for me to rank up. The idea of fighting someone who enjoys hurting people still scares me, not because I’m afraid of them… but because of the hate I’m still trying to hold back. I can’t stand people like that and I’m not really as nice as Leyfa seems to think I am. There are times that the anger just comes and somehow I want to kill everything around me, but when I imagine seeing myself covered in blood I become afraid… afraid that I would lose myself… and everything left that I care about…

I could only hope and pray that somehow I’ll be able to overcome this and pass the test at some point.

…

More than a year has passed, and I still kept failing. I don’t know why, but each time I do the rank up, I’m somehow facing a member of the Wrath Hounds one way or another. They’re all equally ruthless except for Merik who doesn’t apply as a tester. There were a few others as well, but they were just as bad and I still froze whenever I had to face them.

I don’t know what’s come over me… I’ve lost so many times, that I don’t know if what I did during the training even matters anymore… am I really just so weak?... why am I like this?... just… why….

After more than a year of failing, I decided to stop trying and instead try to make it as a Copper. Funny enough, people started calling me the “Copper King” since I did most of the Copper Quests. I’m somehow making it with these Quests since they’re in abundant supply due to there being a few Coppers, but the number of work as opposed to the pay is taxing me… I’ve fought the urge to just run away several times but… I just can’t bear to leave my village… In fact, they’re the reason why I could still bear with this. Each time I come back, everyone celebrates and helps cheer me up. The funds and supplies I bring back help keep the village stay standing, but I don’t know how long it’ll last. The Quests available for Coppers are easy but tedious, time-consuming, and have minimal pay. I can’t keep this up… I really need to find a bigger paying Quest on the board…

“Glenn!”

“Hm? Lanfa?”

Lanfa… I haven’t seen her in a while. I wonder how she’s been? For some reason, she’s always by the Guild head’s side nowadays so I rarely see her anymore.

“Muu… What’s with that reaction? We haven’t seen each other in a while and that’s how you react?”

“Ahaha… sorry. How’ve you been Lanfa?”

“Hmph, now you care?...Just kidding! I’m bored and annoyed… the Head doesn’t let me go out to have some fun anymore… I don’t know what stick went up his ass, but he’s definitely been grumpier than usual.”

“I-I guess he’s just worried. After all, I heard the number of disappearances have increased lately.”

“Maybe… but I still think he’s going too far… anyways, what have you been up to? And why the long face?”

“Ah… well… I just couldn’t find a good paying Job recently so I was checking out some of the Requests…”

“Hmm… I see… I know! I recently heard that one of our well-known decent dwarf merchant partners made a direct Guild Request for escorts. He asked for only adventurers that could be trusted regardless of Rank, and I think you fit the bill just right. What do you say?”

“Is it safe?”

“It’s a Request made directly to the Guild instead of an open commission that was just submitted, so it’s highly reviewed. Plus the merchant has been a trusted partner of the Guild for years so his reputation’s solid.”

This might actually be what I’m looking for. Lanfa really does help me whenever I’m in a pinch, so there’s no way I could refuse.

“Sounds good to me. How do I go about signing up?”

“Leave that to me! Just remember to check the safe routes for the escort. After all, you can’t really tell what will happen during a Quest, so it’s better for you to learn your way outside of Orgo. Here’s the map. You can then go meet with the client, Kholdrum, after two days at the eastern exit just after the sun rises.”

“Got it! Thanks Lanfa!”

“As long as you don’t forget to bring me a souvenir, then we’re even.”

I finally get to do an escort mission! This shouldn’t be a problem since I was able to guard that peddler from when I first arrived into town. I was so excited while studying the map that I almost didn’t notice myself bumping into someone.

“Oof! I’m sorry! Huh?”

“Haha. Take it easy Glenn. You can’t expect to avoid someone when you have something between your eyes and the road.”

“Ah! Sir Merik! I’m sorry… I should have been watching where I was going.”

“No problem. Anyways, what do you got there?”

Sir Merik may be part of the Wrath Hounds, but he’s the only decent guy among them. I’ve talked with him sometimes and he’s even helped me a few times in the past.

“I’m trying to study the safe routes out of Orgo.”

“Hm. I see. Can I have a look at that? …Hmm… If I remember correctly… the paths here… here… and here should have patrols today. That’s as far as I can remember, but I hope it helps.”

“Thanks! That really helps a lot!”

“No problem. See you around, Glenn.”

Alright! Now that I have the safe routes down, all I need to do is prepare for the journey.

…

“Hello, lad. The name’s Kholdrum. I’ve heard about ya’. They call you the Copper King since you’re a hard worker in clearing them Copper Quests in the Guild. That’s what I call a fine and diligent adventurer, so I know I can trust ye’.”

“Haha… good to meet you, Mr. Kholdrum, and thanks for the compliment.”

That’s not really the reason why they call me that, but if he thinks that’s the reason why then he must be a good person. With rations to last a while, some new knives, a bow and some arrows, while alongside an amiable dwarf client, I think this journey will be a good one already.

…

… that’s what I sincerely thought back then, but… why is this happening?

“This is your fault, boy! You told us the path was safe, but then we got surrounded by some of Bolgruk’s men! You’re the death of us!”

But… I really thought the path was safe… was sir Merik wrong? Or maybe… I was wrong…

I pushed these thoughts aside since dealing with our pursuers are more important right now, but some are just relentless in blaming me and wouldn’t stop swearing at me.

“Enough! There’s no point in blaming the boy now. Besides, we all thought the same when we discussed the routes and we were going to use it even if he didn’t point it out. If you’re all just going to complain, you might as well be helping with getting those damned dogs off our tail!”

Mr. Kholdrum… he really is a nice man… and it hurts me even more to know that I brought this all on him…

*thud*

“Tch… tell the drivers to move in an irregular manner to prevent the bandits’ arrows from reaching us! Quickly!”

Mr. Kholdrum was yelling out more orders, but the carriage suddenly stopped.

“Oi! Why’d you bastards stop!?”

“I’m sorry! We’re surrounded! They came from in front of us!”

When I heard that, I can’t help but feel my heart sink. I guess there’s really no choice now… I have to fight… even though… no, I can’t think about that. There are many people counting on me, so I have to be strong.

I got out of the carriage and went in position closes to the bandits. Knowing this is my fault, I have to do my best to stop the bandits here and give Mr. Kholdrum enough time to escape. Even though I thought that, I couldn’t stop myself from shaking… whenever I think of bandits… I remember the night from back then…

“Look at that boys! One of them adventurer’s a brat who fancies himself a man! Let’s see if he has the balls of one then, ei?”

I tensed when I heard the large bandit in front of me spoke out to mock me. It seems he noticed my shaking and made me out to be an easy mark. I don’t blame him though… at least their attention became focused on me.

I steeled myself and wanted to sharpen my focus, but as the bandit drew closer I can’t stop myself from imagining him to be that half-orc, Bolgruk. Was he always that big? I wanted to move, but my arms and legs were frozen… Will I really just die here? …Unable to move like always?… Mom… Dad… I wanted to make you proud…but it looks like I’ll be seeing you sooner than I thought…

“Alright brat. Why don’t you “fight” and show us the strength of the “great” adventurers, ei?”

Here it comes… I curse my own body for giving out on me each time this happens… thinking about it, it’s a miracle I’ve been alive for so long… now though, it seems death has finally caught up to me… I waited, but I didn’t close my eyes… Though my body gave up on me, my heart has not… I will face my death with open eyes…

*CLANG*

…um…what?

“Ah crap! How pathetic… to think I dropped it… “

Huh? Did I just hear a voice above me?

I looked up and saw… something… is that… a man? A bat? No wait… it’s… a lizard? It flew down and when I took a good look at it…

!!

N-No way! I-It can’t be!? W-Why would this thing be here? W-Why a-a D-Demon Beast of all things! They love torment and despair! Anyone who faces one will die in the most painful way! E-Even so, I-I must protect… m-must protect… protect…

…

Hrmm… so warm… this familiar sensation… mom… dad… I’m dead, aren’t I? I can never forget your warmth when you both held me… I’m sorry… for dying… for disappointing you… for letting everyone down… I never could live a life without hate as you said dad… even when I don’t let it show… it’s always there… I tried forcing it down with smiles and being polite… but it just made it worse… I’m sorry… sorry… …

… huh? Something smells good… wait… could it be?...I’m not dead?... I should try to open my eyes…

"Uuurg... huh?... where?..."

"Hey, kid. Looks like you're finally awake. Hungry?"

Someone called out to me I think. But who… !!

"Gaaaah! Demon Beast!"

It’s the Demon Beast! I need to escape – wuh!?

"Waaaaaaa- huh?"

“Don’t start killing yourself after I just saved you. It would have made the entire effort completely pointless. Now, sit and eat. ”

Phew… I almost fell off a ledge… wait… did it just save me? It even talks! That can’t be…

“You’re not going to kill me?”

“… Kid, I recommend you start using your head. If I were going to kill you, you wouldn’t be sitting in front of me right now while having this conversation with me.”

Ugh… it has a point… but then, what is it? Since it doesn’t look like it’s going to kill me, I decided to talk to it. I only hope it’s not actually saving me for later or something.

We talked throughout the night and I didn’t know it then, but the things I’ve seen and heard that night would change me forever.

…

Wow! He’s fought and beat the Storm Roc! The Storm Roc! That’s the most powerful monster out here in the plains! I didn’t see him actually fight it, but the fact that its body was there is proof that he beat it single-handedly! There’s no one in town who could do that! He even has Space Magic, which is really rare since not a lot of people can understand the concept of space.

He calls himself Camus and he claims to be a Dracovian. That’s weird since I’ve read all the books about the world and none of it mentions a Dracovian. He could be a new kind of lizardman or scalekin, but the way he talks so easily and with his gestures feeling so… human… I just can’t see him as a scalekin. Is it possible he's telling the truth? He also doesn’t seem to know much about the current world as if he’s been hiding under a rock.

Right now we’re traveling across the plains heading towards my village. It’s the closest place from where we were and I asked him if we could stop by there. I know it’s risky since I don’t know him more than what we talked about the other night, but if he wanted to do anything bad, he’d have already killed me or tried to torture it out of me. Also, I somehow feel… safe around him… that’s why when I was unconscious that other night I felt a reassuring presence like my mom or dad’s. I don’t know why, but he seems to instill within me a feeling of confidence and valor… like in the stories of the great heroes and dragons I’ve read.

After several days and nights, I got to witness his amazing strength. He wrestled bare-handed a Four-Armed Bear, a monster that’s strong enough to lift boulders the size of a small house! He caught a Tri-Horned Pig in the middle of its charge, which is strong enough to destroy said boulder! He even easily dealt with an entire pack of Sand Wolves, monsters that are known as Copper killers since they’re smart enough to target newbie adventurers! I tried to help him a few times, but I just didn’t know what to do in the middle of his fights. It’s amazing… he’s just like a hero from the stories I’ve read… if only… I could be as strong as that…

“Hmm? What’s the matter kid? You seem down.”

“Eh? Ah sorry… I was just thinking… that you’re really strong. Just like a hero.”

“I dunno about being a hero, but I can most definitely feel that I’m strong as you said. Sorry if I didn’t let you get any of them. I wanted to see just how strong I really am so I’m trying to compare myself to the wildlife here.”

“Huh? Why would you need to do that? You already beat the Storm Roc, which is the ruler here, so there’s nothing that should be stronger.”

“True. But there are many aspects to fighting and knowing your opponents is key. Beating the Storm Roc means I can handle the things that can fly. I don’t know about the other monsters, however, and I wouldn’t want to be caught off guard.”

“Um… then couldn’t you just use the monster guidebook for adventurers?”

“I’m not an adventurer yet, so I don’t have access to one.”

“But I already told you I’m an adventurer, so I have one and can just lend it to you though.”

“…”

I lent him the book after that. He may be strong but he can really be silly at times. I wanted to do some work though, so for the rest of the trip I dealt with the monsters myself for training and to see how far I could go as well.

…

We arrived at my home village after several more days. I went in ahead to tell everyone about sir Camus so that they wouldn’t be surprised or scared. When everyone saw me, they started coming over with smiles and welcomed me. It’s really good to be back home…

I went over to Elder Yadi’s home and explained to him about sir Camus. I introduced them to each other but I also found out the Guild thinks I might be dead. I hope Lanfa and Leyfa are ok… they’d be sad if they think I was gone.

Everyone was curious about sir Camus and almost everyone in the village came over to see him. The next thing he did surprised me as he took out his prized meat and said he’d give it to everyone. Everyone started to cheer and celebrate since food has been scarce lately. Sir Camus… you’re a really good person, aren’t you…

Strong… brave… and kind… that’s the ideal person I wanted to be…

I felt terrible when I realized that I started feeling jealous of sir Camus. During the festivities I went back early and decided to do some training. Training always helped me clear my thoughts, and I felt that it’s been a while since I’ve done so.

…

“Not bad, kid. Your moves are pretty solid, so there’s little room for improvement. You’re stronger than you look since all the villagers look up to you.”

Huh? Oh, it’s sir Camus. It seems he saw me training, and he seems to think I’m strong. If only it were that simple…

“… ! Oh, it’s you sir Camus. Haha… that’s what others say but I’m not really convinced. After all, during the Guild’s Ranking tests, I always ended up getting low scores… Some of the others kept making fun of me as the Copper King… “

“Copper King?”

“Oh right… I never told you, but I’m actually still at the lowest rank of Copper in the guild. Because of my rank, I always end up with partying with newbies and rookies even though I’ve been an adventurer for 2 years…”

Well… I’m mostly alone actually… but he doesn’t need to know that… I feel disgusted at myself for being so pathetic…

“Hmm… alright, I think I know what the problem is… Glenn, come and attack me.”

“Huh? What?”

What did he just ask me to do?

“Don’t make me repeat myself, come and attack me like you mean to strike me down.”

“B-But I’m nowhere near your ability sir Camus! There’s no way I can fight you! Besides, I don’t want to hurt you!”

“Sigh… are you seriously underestimating me? If you think your weak ass attacks can even touch me, keep dreaming. I’m not asking you to fight me, I’m asking you to try and attack me like I’m your worst enemy. Now enough talk, attack.”

It’s not that! How do I make him understand? Right now my mind’s not right because of jealousy, and I might not be able to keep back the feelings of hate.

“… If you won’t attack me, then I’ll kill everyone in the village here and now.”

“What!?”

W-What did he say? Is he for real? That can’t be! He was being so nice to everyone! Why’d he even bother to save me then!?

“You heard me. I tricked you by saving you in order to lead me into your village so I can kill everyone. That’s right, I’m one of those so-called Demon Beasts that you were so afraid of! Now, what are you going to do about it?”

Grrr! I c-can’t h-hold it back anymore… The thought… of losing everything… once more… Don’t you dare hurt anyone!

“Graaaaah!”

I lost myself and after this… my mind simply blanked…

…

“… Do you understand what it is you lack?”

...Huh? I’m alive?

“The chief told me of your history. It seems bandits attacked your village when you were younger, and you lost your parents when they tried to protect you. You vowed that you’ll become stronger in order to protect everyone in this village, and that’s why you became an adventurer. Does this still hold true?”

So Elder Yadi told him… ugh... it’s so frustrating! Of course I want to be stronger! Of course I’ve tried hard!

“I’ve been trying! For the longest time, I’ve been working hard to get stronger! I’ve already learned all there is to know about fighting from the Guild instructors, but everything I do seem to fail no matter how much effort I made! I just don’t know what I’m supposed to do anymore! What am I doing wrong!?”

“… it seems you’re misunderstanding something. You already possess the skills, you just lack the means to wield them.”

…huh? What is he talking about?

“That’s right… what you lack, is courage. In the midst of battle, one must have courage in order to think and see beyond that, which threatens your life. Only with courage will you have clarity within the throes of death to be able to wield all the skills that you possess.”

… it seems he’s misunderstanding something, but I think it’s better that I play along.

“… But… I’m a coward… it’s not that simple for me to just stop being afraid.”

“Again, you misunderstand. Courage is not the absence of fear. Courage is the ability to move forward despite being afraid. Everyone is afraid of something, but sometimes we just lack the means to face it. And that my friend, is courage.”

Wait… is that true? Now that I think about it… the only reason I’ve never been able to step forward… is because I freeze whenever I face someone who wants to harm me… because it makes me think back on that day… but today, the fear of losing everything again made me lose those restraints… Indeed, I lack courage… but is that really all I lack? Perhaps sir Camus can show me…

“… I now understand… but… how do I find my courage?”

“Haha! Simple my friend! All you need to do is experience constant battle and threats to your life, so that you’ll gradually build up courage. Since you lack it in your nature, we need to build it through experience until it becomes great enough that you’ll simply laugh in the face of fear!”

Huh? Wait a minute… that doesn’t sound right… in fact… it just sounds plain crazy!

“Come Glenn! We have much training to do to help build up that courage! Since it’s already dawn, we have a whole day ahead of us!”

“Um… sir Camus, that sounds… great… and all? But, I seriously lack sleep… uh… sir Camus? Sir Camus!?”

I pleaded for him to stop, but my cries fell on his deaf ears. Gods! Please have mercy on me! I know I’ve been lost but what did I do to deserve this!? Please don’t make me have to go through hell again!

…

It’s already the fourth day of the training he’s making me go through. If this torture that he’s made me go through is what he’s decided to call training, then Mr. Great Mask’s obstacle course could simply be called a playground! How much longer do I have to keep doing this? I argued with him but apparently he’s not willing to admit it’s torture…

"In any case, we should be done for now. How soon can you be done with your errand? I'd like to start preparing for our trip to Orgo."

Oh thank the gods! I told him I was done and we could leave anytime. The errand was me visiting my parents’ graves. It’s been a while since I’ve gone to them and I wanted to tell them how things have been for me. I also had to bring Lanfa and Leyfa a souvenir so I asked the village smith to help make me two wristbands.

"Oh right. When you go back, make sure you arrive before lunch and please gather everyone at the main entrance of the village. I left a couple of little package there for the villagers. They’re by the fence. Once you’re done, meet me back here, I’ll wait for you until then. And also... hmm... well... just have faith in me, so if you have to make a certain choice, don't feel guilty, alright?"

That was a strange request but I agreed to go along with it. After all, he’s been good to everyone but me lately.

…

Things just happened so quickly… first I did as sir Camus asked and gathered everyone. Everyone then became so happy that the village would no longer die out thanks to his gifts. But soon bandits arrived along with the brother of Bolgruk claiming he’s after a Demon Beast. Afterwards, one of the bandits claims he recognized me from before and now everyone’s attention is on me… Just what is going on?

“Is this true, boy? Your elder claims that the village has not met with the Demon Beast, but my men say they recognize that you were there when it killed one of my men. Tell me the truth now, or I will have yours and that elder’s head.”

Sir Camus is our village’s benfactor… if it weren’t for him… then our village wouldn’t last another few years… then again… he brought these bandits upon us… what is he thinking really?

Just have faith in me, so if you have to make a certain choice, don't feel guilty, alright?

…I see… he knew that this would happen if I bought him here… I don’t know why he didn’t tell me, but he gave us weapons so that we wouldn’t rely on him…and he’s basically told me it’s ok to sell him out… because… he’s strong…

“If you’re looking for him, he’s at the northern rocky hills, just a ways away from this village.”

Doruk seemed pleased and made an honor-bound promise. He then left for sir Camus' direction. Though I can never forgive them, the half-orcs are honorable and will keep their word, but I can’t say the same for the men in front of us. Bandits will always be bandits, and I soon unsheathed my blade as they directed their greed towards my family.

Thanks to sir Camus training, I’ve learned to channel my hate and turn it into rage. He taught me that it’s normal to have feelings of hate, but what I’m directing that hate to is what matters. My hate turned to anger… anger towards cruelty and malevolence… righteous fury… a fury towards all injustice and evil.

I still lack the means to channel it properly, but I was now able to easily deal with the bandits in front of me… but I got overconfident and my carelessness soon caused the tables to turn against me.

“Time to eat dirt boy. What was it your lizard friend said when he tried to gut us? Oh right! Time to pick a god and start praying brat!”

I looked at him in defiance… I was no longer afraid and felt only calm… because… while I vowed to protect my family… my family in turn would protect me… they always had and this is why I never ran away from them.

“Wh- Wha…”

“Gyaaaaagh!”

The bandits ran… my family cheered in triumph as they drove them away. In celebration, we named the village in sir Camus’ honor. Afterwards, I went to our agreed rendezvous point and saw him there. We then went on our way to Orgo.

“Sir Camus! Everyone’s been looking for you, you know?”

“It’s fine kid, I’m no good with that sort of thing so it’s fine… By the way… did you all really have to name the village after me?”

“Haha! It’s a great honor don’t you think? After all, you’re our hero!”

“…”

He’s either embarrassed or he’s deep in thought. I’m willing to bet it’s the first one.

“Say kid. You’re not upset that I ended up leading those bandits to your village?’

“I can’t say that I’m not… but I think I understand why… you wanted everyone to be independent and have something to fight for, didn’t you?”

“Looks like you’ve found me out. Had I taken care of them myself and killed all of them, Bolgruk might eventually trace everything back to your village. I couldn’t stay until then and I did tell them I’ll be in Orgo, but aren’t you worried the bandits will still come back to attack?”

“Not really. Bolgruk may be ruthless, but he’s a man of honor and he'll care more for his brother's death. He’ll also believe more in the village that my dad used to be in than his gathering of greedy men. I should know since my dad fought him personally.”

“I see… that’s good then…”

Looks like sir Camus was honestly worried. I’m truly glad to have met him, but I wonder why he’s trying so hard for me and for everyone?

“Sir Camus… why did you save us?”

“Hm? Why not?”

“You could have simply left us to fend for ourselves… if you’ve heard from the Elder about my history, then you should know that Bolgruk would never have attacked us anyway… also, you’ve not only given us food, but taught us how to raise the bounty of the land. This is too much… and you really don’t strike me as a saint.”

“Heh… what can I say… you’re the first friend I’ve made and everyone in the village was really nice… think of it as my way of showing my appreciation.”

Friend? He thought of me as his friend?… I can’t believe I’ve thought of him terribly before… I had faith in his strength but I couldn’t say that I truly trusted him. It seems I was wrong and I feel truly blessed that I could learn from him.

“Now that that’s over with, it’s time to continue with your training. Don’t think that just because we’re on the road you can slack off.”

I take it back… he’s a devil that’s escaped from hell!