Morning arrives and we were about to head out. I was already trying to look around for Saeki’s figure for most of my morning but have yet to spot her. Everyone was already preparing to leave.

"Ah, Saeki? Ah, her. No, I haven't seen her. Sorry." (2nd year)

"I-I see..." (Tami)

I tried asking some of the second years, but all their answers were the same. None of them seem to be her classmates. I started wondering if there were anyone from Saeki’s class currently in this group at all.

“Oiii!! Tami! We are about to leave! What are you doing!” (Cheroko)

Cheroko runs up to me. I turn to her with a frantic expression.

“I can’t spot Saeki anywhere! Since this morning, I have been getting this bad feeling!” (Tami)

I’ve already begun panicking.

“Cheroko! Tami! What is the hold up!?” (Isada)

Isada also runs up to us.

“Tami is looking for Saeki, but it doesn’t seem like she can find her.” (Cheroko)

"Eh, Saeki? She’s not with the second years?" (Isada)

"I asked, but they don’t know!" (Tami)

"Did you ask 'those' two second years from yesterday?" (Isada)

"I couldn't find them! A-" (Tami)

Cheroko pats my shoulder.

"Hey, isn't that them?" (Cheroko)

I follow her gaze to a group of four second years. Without another word, I dash up to the group and approached them in a clear voice.

"Hey, you guys! Do you know where Saeki is?" (Tami)

"Hm?" (2nd year #1)

The second years turn their gazes to my direction. Cheroko and Isada catches up to me a few seconds later and catches their breath.

"Did she say Saeki?" (2nd year #3)

"Ah, her." (2nd year #1)

He gazes at the guy with an expressionless face who accidentally let his thoughts slip.

"H-Hiiie!!?---" (2nd year #3)

He sighs and turns back to us.

"We don't really know her, sorry." (2nd year #1)

"W-Wait!! Those two guys behind you were with her yesterday. I just wanted to know where they last saw her." (Tami)

He turns back and narrows his eyes at the two in question.

"Well? Did you see her?" (2nd year #1)

"Yeah. She said she wanted to go search for something and moved further into the forest. She told us to return first." (2nd year #2)

"We have no idea where she is now." (2nd year #3)

"......" (Tami)

"Sorry for my rude friend here. She's just very worried about the girl you were with just now. My name is Cheroko, she's Tami. The guy beside me is Isada. As you can tell, we are 1st years. May I ask for your names?" (Cheroko)

He takes a good look at me, and turns to Cheroko.

"My name is Jonty. We're all 2nd years." (2nd year #1)

"Jatt." (2nd year #3)

He scratches the back of his head.

"Sinjin. Nice to meet you." (2nd year #2)

"...Hah. Iris." (2nd year #4)

"Then Jatt and Sinjin... was it? Where was the last time you saw her?" (Cheroko)

"Over that direction." (2nd year #2)

"Thank you. Sorry for bothering you." (Cheroko)

Cheroko leads us out of their earshot. I couldn't take it anymore and opened my mouth.

"Cheroko! They are lying through their teeth! That direction is the complete opposite of where we saw them come out from the forest! They are obviously hiding something!" (Tami)

"Calm down, Tami. I know." (Cheroko)

She pats my shoulder and falls into thought.

"I will be right back. I will ask Vice-President and see if he can delay for us until we find Saeki." (Isada)

Cheroko nods. Isada runs off to the front of the gathering group of students. I recalled the spot where Saeki disappeared to as I waited impatiently.

"I'm back. It seems they won't delay the departure for us." (Isada)

Isada sighs. I turn to him in shock.

"W-Why!!?" (Tami)

"It seems up to three students have gone missing so far, ever since we started trekking through this forest. They don't want to waste time and manpower for every student that goes missing every week. It seems Vice-president has kept this a secret with his trusted friends to avoid causing a panic." (Isada)

"That's the most logical thing to do." (Cheroko)

"C-Cheroko!?" (Tami)

Cheroko holds my hand.

"It's not that I am saying he is right, but he is in charge of looking after about 60 students. If I were in his shoes, I could imagine him saying that it's the missing student's fault for separating from the group in the first place." (Cheroko)

"......" (Tami)

"Now then, let's hurry!" (Isada)

"Eh?-" (Tami)

Cheroko and Isada smiles at me.

"Don't 'Eh?' me. Did you think we would leave you behind? We're searching with you. You still haven't introduced her to us yet." (Cheroko)

"Let's go find her together." (Isaeda)

Isada nods.

"Uhn." (Tami)

I rub my moist eyes and nod. We quickly head to the forest together.

...

“S-Saeki! Where are you!” (Tami)

“Wait, calm down first! Tami! (Cheroko)

“Hah…. Hah…. I know it is this direction, b-but…!!” (Tami)

As I was about to continue running, Cheroko stopped me as she grips my shoulder.

“Tami, calm down first.” (Cheroko)

I stared at Cheroko’s calm figure, steadying my breathing.

“You’ve calmed down?” (Cheroko)

“Y-Yeah. I’m sorry.” (Tami)

“We understand your worries, but first we have to think things through first. We can’t just blindly search the surroundings. Do you see any footprints around here, Isada?” (Cheroko)

He was already searching for any clues, as he was slowly moving along the ground scanning the surroundings.

“I found a trail! Over here!” (Isada)

Isada beckons us over. As he said, there was a trail of footprints as expected. I’m glad it’s difficult not to leave any footprints behind from how soft and moist the forest floor was.

“Can you lead the way, Isada?” (Tami)

“Yeah, you can leave it to me.” (Isada)

He pats my head once before moving to the front to take the lead. I take a deep breath and follow after him feeling less agitated now. The footprints lead to a slightly different path. Luckily, Cheroko stopped me before I began running blindly in the wrong direction. I am glad I wasn't alone this time. Not even 120 seconds pass as I start to smell something… oceanic(?). With a complicated expression, I follow Isada out of a bush to find-

“......” (Isada)

I held my breath and stood in shock for a moment, blocking Cheroko following behind me.

“Whats wrong? Why did you two sto-... p...-” (Cheroko)

"S-Saeki!?" (Tami)

I hastily run up to the half-naked body of a girl. There lay Saeki wearing only a rumpled top of her school uniform. I saw her clothes scattered around her. Her skirt, uniform ribbon, and bra was laying around in a mess. As I was about to reach for her, I stop for a moment when a strong smell enters my nostrils. A really strong smell that is hard to describe coming from her, started engulfing me. It smells like… urine.

"Help me lift her up, Isada!" (Cheroko)

"O-Okay!” (Isada)

Cheroko and Isada hurries over after me. Cheroko touches Saeki’s cheek, while Isada takes off the outer layer of his school uniform to cover her lower body. I was shaken from my nerves and reach for her hand. There was body heat. Cheroko grabs Saeki’s other hand and checks her wrist.

"S-She’s alive... " (Cheroko)

I fall to my knees as my legs momentarily lose its strength. I sigh in relief. Isada also lets out a sigh of relief. Her eyes were closed, but she doesn't seem to be sleeping. If we were to pay attention, she was breathing heavily albeit it was low and barely audible. But it indicates that she is somewhat conscious. I touch her cheek to confirm with my own two hands once more.

“Her face is hot…” (Tami)

"She highly likely has a fever…” (Cheroko)

"Isn’t her face a bit too pale though…?" (Isada)

"The temperature was kind of cold last night. We have to warm her up." (Cheroko)

I move to quickly pick up Saeki’s clothes, but I couldn't find her underwear. From the feeling of urgency, I gave up on the fruitless search for it. Along with her clothes, I return to where Saeki is. I passed it to Cheroko, and she nods as she foremost puts the skirt back on Saeki.

“Wait, Tami. You couldn't find her...?” (Cheroko)

Cheroko holds down Saeki’s skirt, and turns to me. I shake my head.

"Those ‘animals’ just keeps on piling up their crimes…” (Cheroko)

Cheroko voiced her thoughts in anger. She moves to put on the bra for Saeki, moving her hands under the uniform. Saeki was already wearing Isada's outer layer of his uniform, but I take off my outer layer as well and put it on Saeki to keep her warmer. Isada looks away awkwardly, and his expression darkens.

"What should we do about is?" (Isada)

Cheroko tries to straighten up Saeki’s clothes as much as she can, and rebuttons her uniform tying it back with the ribbon. I take out my handkerchief and try to wipe away the sweat, along with some dried fluids remaining on Saeki’s face and neck area. I see her glasses in her grip and take them off her hands. I store them safely away in my skirt pocket.

"Let's discuss about that later. We need to hurry back before we lose sight of the group and get left behind." (Cheroko)

"Yeah…” (Tami)

Isada lifts Saeki up in his arms and follows behind Cheroko as she takes the lead this time. I took one last glance at the spot where we found Saeki, before turning to follow behind Cheroko and Isada.

...

…

I stood in front of the makeshift grave. I took out two short swords I would have bought for her if she were still alive, and stare at them for a long moment. I walk up to where she rested and stab the two swords into the ground. I draw a magic circle and apply a near-permanent 6th rank barrier to protect the spot from potential thievery. I currently remain a 1st rank as an adventure, but Lakua said I would be a 7th rank now if I were to properly rank up within the Travelers’ Guild. 7th rank, the highest rank within the Travelers' Guild.

「1st rank: Average Human/Fairy. 2nd rank: Trained Soldiers. 3rd rank: Beastkin/Harpies/???. 5th rank: Demons. 6th rank: Heroes. 8th rank: Royal Lineage Magic. 10th rank: ???」

I review the information in my head. I don’t know if 6th rank magic is overdoing it, but I wanted to use the strongest defense magic I can currently use from all I've learned so far, to help protect this spot where she rested. She was a precious part of our family after all.

"It been 4 long months, huh." (???)

Before I met Lakua, I was a 4th rank… so I was told. Now I'm a 7th rank. I can use a lot of strengthening-related and shielding magic now. I gained a lot more confidence in myself. I even surpassed Luka within the first month, who was in charge of my guidance up until now. I make a fist and place it on my chest. I will do my best from here on out, so watch over us, Juyu.

"Sir Meirou, we have to hurry back now. If we stay any longer, our presence will be discovered. Centreville has increased their vigilance compared to the last time we were here, so it's only a matter of time." (???)

"Okay, let's quickly leave." (Meirou)

I took one last gaze at Juyu’s makeshift grave.

「Rest in peace, Juyu.」

…

The trip back took less than a day, and luckily without incident. As I enter the castle-

"Meirou! You're finally back! I issued an emergency meeting, and I want you to attend! Quickly come with me!" (Lakua)

"Eh? Ah- Wait, wait. I just got back, so at least let me return to my room first." (Meirou)

She starts trying to drag me along with her, so I lightly chop her head.

"Ow! Aren't you hitting my head a little too often these days!? I'm the princess of this country, you know!?" (Lakua)

"It’s become a habit before I knew it." (Meirou)

"A habit!?..." (Lakua)

Ah, she is depressed now.

「This wouldn't have become a habit if you acted more maturely like what a princess holding the responsibilities of a country on her shoulders would. I never imagined you were this whimsical…」“Anyway, I understand. I'll quickly head over right after I stop by my room.” (Meirou)

She pouts.

"Quickly hurry over when you're done. I will begin the meeting when you arrive!" (Lakua)

She hurries over to the direction of the throne room. Feeling better from the melancholy because of Lakua’s usual amusing reactions, I hurry to my room as well… but I suddenly remember something important I forgot to convey. I call out to Lakua.

"Ah, Lakua." (Meirou)

"Hm?" (Lakua)

She only took a few hurried steps before she turns around. She was still lightly rubbing the spot I chopped her.

"Thanks for accepting my selfish request." (Meirou)

"It was killing two birds with one stone. I was able to hear more detailed reports of the current movements of Centreville, so there is nothing you need to thank me for." (Lakua)

She smiles cheerfully at me, before hurrying on her way. I knew she took my request to heart, so I felt gratitude towards her.

「’I was able to hear more detailed reports of the current movements of Centreville’ she said. If I never knew of her daily vigilence towards the surrounding countries, I would have believed her straight-faced lie. Honestly, how can the current reports she's receiving become any more detailed than it already is? If there's something I've learned about Lakua, it's her ability to white lie.」

I smile to myself as I continue to my room. I found out that Lakua was 5 years older than me during my training period with Luka. So, I wanted to at least respect her as a senior despite her insistence in dropping formalities, but such feelings have all but evaporated as I began to see more and more of Lakua’s childish side. I prefer it this way though, because I feel we are becoming much closer in this direction. It's like having an older sister.

"Meirou, welcome back! D-Did anything happen when you were over there?" (???)

A fairy flies over to me with a worried expression right as I open the door.

"We weren’t discovered. Don't worry, Kanko. How was your last day with your teacher?" (Meirou)

"I was able to finish earlier today, and thanked Teacher for everything up until now. But I wished I was able to finish quicker… I wanted to visit Juyu too…" (Kanko)

"There’s no helping it. You had to properly pass your teacher’s test, right?" (Meirou)

"Yeah…" (Kanko)

"I am sure Juyu wouldn’t be happy if you skipped out on such an important day over visiting. Lakua even personally hired the teacher for you, so try not to cause problems for Lakua too much. She did it specially for you, so every bit of time spent with that teacher is precious. Juyu wouldn't like that too, right?" (Meirou)

"Uhn." (Kanko)

As she lands to sit on my shoulder, I pet her head. Her expression changes to a bright smile. I glance at the whitish-blue hued 'wing' that was formed where her missing wing used to be. Because of Kanko's talent for magic control, Lakua passed on a rare flight spell to permanently give the 'wing' the ability for flight. I am sure sure if that 'wing' is the form of the spell itself, as long as Kanko remains conscious, it should maintain it's form. I am glad that she regained the ability to fly again. Really glad. I drop a few of my belongings and return to the door.

"Let’s go.” (Meirou)

"Uhn." (Kanko)

We quickly make our way to the throne room of the castle and find a number of people lined up on the sidelines. Luka casually raises a hand in greeting smiling as he stood beside the princess of Everard, inviting a lot of curious gazes towards my direction. I crack a stiff smile and return the greeting.

"I will introduce him to everyone later. Just be aware that he is someone I trust, so I won't approve of any misconduct towards him." (Lakua)

She happily nods to me.

「Hahh… She picked up another child from who knows where. The princess sure encounters the strangest children. Well, if it's the princess, it should be fine.」

Curious gazes are directed at not just me, but at Kanko as well.

「Sir Luka casually greeted him, huh… Is he the rumored pupil Sir Luka was mentoring?...」

「Hoh, I never thought I’d ever see another fairy in my lifetime. I’m glad I made it in time for the Princess’s call. I am looking forward to see what kind of character this young man is, to be able to be so friendly with a fairy.」

It seems I gained enough ground with Luka and Lakua’s influence to not draw any doubts or distrust, as thoughts were being conveyed to me. This alone makes me feel at ease. It proves they don't feel any real enmity towards me.

Amongst my abilities, my ability to receive the thoughts of others... I found out I did not actually lose the ability, nor did it evolve into 'Synchronized Telepathy' which I now call it. I was unconsciously suppressing it. It seems that as long as they don't have their guard up or wearing any magic items that block psychological attacks, I can receive their thoughts if I don't consciously block them. I have been nurturing it for the past few months, so doing it consciously is now possible for me. I also found out that if my mind is synchronized with someone else, like with Kanko and Hana, then the mind-reading simply goes a step further into the realm of synchronizing memory and emotions. I have started figuring out that being able to synchronize with someone has got to do with something regarding unwavering trust and affinity with the magic in my body. Lastly, 'Photographic Memory Reading' which I call it now. When Kanko was kidnapped in the past, I was able to read Kanko and the Catkin's thoughts. I've always wondered which category that belonged to, and now I know. As long as I've met them and clearly remember their face, I can read their thoughts even from afar. As long as they don't have their guard up nor are wearing any weird items and the like, it is possible. It's barely comparable to 'Synchronized Telepathy' though. I managed to figure this out thoroughly through trial and error, attached with Luka's thoughts on the matter. Of course, I've told Luka and Lakua about my ability, so they are now aware of it. With this much trust they place on me, of course I have to do so in kind.

The default ability 'Mind-reading', attached with 'Photographic Memory Reading', 'Synchronized Telepathy', and the flexible and adaptable 'Psychokinetic Waves'. If 「Complete Communication」 is this much of a cheat, I wonder how the other blessings would've turned out...? I sigh.

I take a glance at Kanko to see if she was minding the gazes, but it seems my worries were unwarranted. She was looking around the throne room with curiosity, unware of the gazes. Before I knew it, she has matured a lot since I've last seen her.

"Let's begin. There is a reason I have swiftly recalled all available generals to assemble." (Lakua)

She looks at everyone, and nods to Luka.

"I have received word that Centreville's royal family has summoned heroes to aid them." (Luka)

"What!?" (General 1)

"They summoned heroes?" (General 2)

"Yeah. It seems they are already in the middle of increasing their military force. There is an influx of transports containing various weapons being procured from the southern city in the Kingdom of Sabaku." (Luka)

"Centreville's royal family is likely going to wage war against our country." (Lakua)

Princess Lakua states as if war is already foreseen. She looks at everyone once more.

"There is likely going to be no declaration of war and will happen without forewarning. When the time comes, please lend me your strength. I know that I have to gain the approval of all eight generals at the same time as per tradition, but I don't know what will happen from this day forth; so, I want to be prepared when the time comes." (Lakua)

I move to whisper to Luka.

“Summoned heroes?” (Meirou)

“Yeah. It seems the country over there has resorted to taboo magic. We don’t have the means to summon heroes for Everard, but we wouldn’t go through with it anyway. We do know it requires the lives of many magic users to even sustain it, and to activate it requires the sacrifice of more magic users.” (Luka)

“……” (Meirou)

She bows.

"I understand. All of us will speak to the three who are not present today and convey your message." (General 5)

"I will prepare my forces at once, so we can react in time when the day comes." (General 3)

"I will do the same, Princess Lakua." (General 2)

The rest of generals nod at each other and bow their heads.

""""As you command, Princess Lakua."""" (General 1~5)

"So please raise your head. We are serving for the prosperity of Everard, and we are under your direct command, so order us as you see fit." (General 5)

"Thank you. I leave the protection of the borders in your hands." (Lakua)

Lakua smiles with gratitude. A general speaks up.

“Princess, I ask for your permission to speak.” (General 3)

“You may.” (Lakua)

“What rank do you assume the summoned heroes will be at?” (General 3)

“I assume Centreville managed to summon two or three heroes. No less than 5th rank.” (Lakua)

“I understand.” (General 3)

She looks around to see if anyone has any more questions, but no one speaks up.

“Then one more thing. I will announce this young man here as one of my personal knights to the general public in the near future. Spread the word and notify your knights of his existence. He will be known as-" (Lakua)

Lakua glances at me to double-check one last time, her eyes asking if I was sure of my decision. I nod.

"-Meirou, Knight of Princess Lakua." (Lakua)

"""As you command, Princess Lakua.""" (General 1~5)

"All of you are now dismissed. Catamir, before you leave, my father wishes to speak with you again regarding the battles to come. Please accompany me to his quarters." (Princess Lakua)

"Yes, Princess Lakua." (General 5)

Lakua leaves with the general in tow exiting the throne room. Luka turns to me as everyone also begins to make their way to the exit.

"Meirou, can I speak with you for a moment?" (Luka)

"Yeah, sure." (Meirou)

We exit the throne room and return to my room.

"You once told me and Lakua that you, along with your friends, were dragged into this world, right?" (Luka)

I nod, with a feeling that the discussion might be related to the summoned heroes. I would have approached Luka or Lakua if they didn't approach me about it.

"I received word that those heroes that were summoned have black hair, a hair color that doesn't exist on this continent. They are just like yours. This might only be a conjecture, but there is a possibility our enemies might be people you know. They might even be the friends you were searching for." (Luka)

He sighs.

"We tried searching far and wide for the friends you spoke of, but we couldn't find a single clue. They are either out of our reach, or possibly picked up by a neighboring country." (Luka)

"I see… You've done all you can. Thank you, Luka. Please also convey to your men they have my gratitude.” (Meirou)

Luka nods in low spirits. He really must have had his subordinates search through numerous locations for the past few months.

"About the summoned heroes, I will decide what I will do after I reunite with those two. They should be on their way back sometime soon, right?" (Meirou)

"Yeah. I received word Hana has already finished her magic training with General Shantae. They should already be wrapping up and preparing the trip back to the capital. General Allan is still currently not done with Hika’s technique training though. It might be another two weeks before they will return." (Luka)

I wonder how much three and a half months can change a person? I went through extreme changes under Luka’s strict guidance, with a lifestyle where I gotten used to sleeping only 2-3 hours every day. Even I can tell how much I've grown, as I feel like a different person compared to 4 months ago. I’m looking forward to how far those two have grown as well. As Luka had matters to attend to, he makes his way out the room after handing me some extra detailed reports regarding Centreville's heroes. Not a second later, somone enters the room at the same time.

"Is your talk with him done, Meirou?" (???)

I turn to find a familiar figure. It was Seriku.

Two months ago during a mission with Luka, we were traveling through a forest northwest of Everard. We came across a village of squirrelkin in the middle of doing dealings with a group of slave traders. ‘Apparently’ the village elders were negotiating on a price to sell off one of their own for some extra gold. It was probably a decision the elders of the village have secretly agreed upon amongst themselves when a chance arose, as things were proceeding swimmingly as if it were prearranged. The elders were on their guard, so I wasn't able to hear their thoughts. But judging from the thoughts that were conveyed to me from the villagers that were present at the scene, that's the conclusion I arrived at. It’s likely not a stretch to assume the elders got in contact with slave traders for that day. Seriku glance at Kanko in surprise. Ah, now that you mention it, this should be their first time meeting each other.

“Yeah. I was thinking of stopping by the Travelers’ Guild to take a look and see if anyone has submitted any urgent missions." (Meirou)

“I’m Kanko. Nice to meet you!” (Kanko)

Kanko energetically waves at Seriku in greeting.

“My name is Seriku… Ah, I have seen you around the castle a lot! I-I didn’t know you were together with Meirou.” (Seriku)

“Uhn. I was studying under a teacher, so I didn’t have free time to visit Meirou a lot. But Meirou told me a lot about Seriku, so I am glad we can meet now. Ehehe.” (Kanko)

She happily smiles at Seriku and raises her wrist to show Seriku the bracelet.

“We’re the same.” (Kanko)

Seriku softly smiles as she nods, holding the bracelet on her wrist.

「She can’t share her thoughts with us yet, Meirou? I don't hear anything from her.」(Kanko)

「No, it seems there is still some condition that has yet to be met…」(Meirou)

「Uhn. I will do my best to get along with her!」(Kanko)

「Please do.」(Meirou)

I take a few steps towards the door, but stop. I don’t seem to hear any footsteps behind me.

“Seriku? You’re not coming?” (Meirou)

I turn to look at Serika, but as our eyes meet she averts her own.

“Is that alright with both of you?… I mean, you couldn't spend time together until now...” (Seriku)

“Eh? I want you to come too, Seriku.” (Kanko)

I point at my wrist, and she moves her eyes to her own. It was the bracelet that I’ve created with my own two hands for her. It was my first time; but because of the way the craftsman taught me, I’ve managed to create a presentable bracelet on my second try. Proof of our relationship as a family in physical form.

“Do you still remember the words I’ve said that day?” (Meirou)

“Uhn...” (Seriku)

“Has your feelings changed since?” (Meirou)

“No! It hasn’t changed at all! I-In fact, it’s grown so much... I don’t want you to leave me behind. I also want to remain a part of your family. I also want to get to know everyone else in the family.” (Seriku)

“Then that’s all you need to think about. Don’t worry about what we think. Show us what you want to do.” (Meirou)

She glances at the small bracelet on Kanko’s wrist as she held onto her own. I pet Seriku’s head.

"We can take one step at a time. I just want you to remember my words, as well as what you said just now. So, come with us without worrying what we think. If you want to come with us, come along. We’re already family." (Meirou)

I beckon her over with a lighthearted tone. Her expression changes to a smile.

"O-Okay." (Seriku)

Back at the village… She never voiced it, but her desperate cry for help was strongly conveyed to me. Her feelings must have been extremely heightened at that time, because I was heavily affected by it when it struck me. Anyone would know her gaze was crying for help, but all the nearby villagers avoided eye contact. I waited to see if anyone was willing to step out to help her, but it seemed not single fellow villager was willing to do so until the end. That was enough reason for me to step in and buy her freedom from the slave traders’ grasps.

“Hello, how may I help you today?” (Guild Representative)

I grabbed a request and handed it to the representative. It was a request to collect specific herbs that are growing nearby. ‘Urgent’ was written in bold as the header of the piece of paper, but because it was 1st rank no one seemed to have bothered with it so far.

"I will be accepting this job." (Meirou)

The Guild Representative seems to have shown a slight expression of relief.

"......?" (Meirou)

I move my eyes to double-check the contents of the request.

「Eh? It was posted since yesterday afternoon? I am sure there are a lot of good-natured adventurers in Everard, so I’m surprised no one accepted the job…」 (Meirou)

I look around the guild and find that with the exception of a few groups having serious-looking discussions, it was basically empty here.

「Everyone is out on jobs…?」 (Meirou)

This is the first time I've seen the guild this empty.

"Is something going on right now?" (Meirou)

"There has been a flood of jobs asking for extermination in slightly distant villages, so everyone has been trying to do what they can. Although it seems the jobs are lasting longer than anticipated. The trips themselves take more than a day from here. That's why I’m glad there are still adventurers remaining that can continue accepting the lower rank jobs. They are just as important to us." (Guild Representative)

The representative bows to us.

"You don't have to bow. Leave it to us. Right?" (Meirou)

"Leave it to us!" (Kanko)

Kanko pats her chest in confidence. Having gotten used to Kanko's presence from my previous visits here, she smiles warmly at Kanko's actions. I turn to look at Seriku. She notices my gaze on her and joins the conversation in haste.

"Y-Yeah! Leave it to us!" (Seriku)

The guild representative showed us an amused expression. I move my hand to the top of Seriku's head and she nods with a pleasant smile. We leave for the forest about five hours away and collect the easily obtainable ingredients by the edge of a nearby cliff within the forest. Ever since I decided to make her a family member, this has been our daily routine when Kanko wasn’t around yet. I train, she watches. I visit the shopping district, she tags along. I get called in by Lakua to participate in discussions, she waits for me somewhere nearby. I accept a job from the Travelers’ Guild, she helps out. Although up until last month, Seriku seems to have been under the care of one of the generals. Lakua brought it up to me the moment I decided to make her a part of my family. I have been seeing her less and less, but I want her to catch up to us as much as she can before we set off on another long journey.

"This amount should be enough. Let's hurry back." (Meirou)

"Okay." (Seriku)

Kanko flies over to me with a small batch of her own and drops it on the batch I’m holding. I turn my gaze to Seriku. She has no parents to speak of as they died protecting her from monsters… so I have understood from her memories conveyed to me. Of course that was not my reason to become her family. She seemed so bright and lively when she was with her parents, but now she is always too overly careful and reserved of her actions around everyone including me. That bright personality does come out from time to time, but it's hard to determine the exact trigger. It… can't be from my petting, right? Either way, she is too overly careful and reserved. As if she is scared of something happening. Abandonment? If it was such a simple reason, then my synchronized telepathy would solve everything. But right now, it seems we haven't met the prerequisites for my synchronized telepathy. That won't be any help right now. I saw fragmented memories, so I at least understood she must have gone through something horrific. The timeframe from the day her parents died leading up to the day she was to be sold out by her fellow kin might be a factor... Maybe the day the elders announced she was to be sold as a slave for the good of the village…? That might have been the final trigger. Or maybe there was something more behind her parents’ death...? It was already strange enough as the village seemed to be flourishing with seemingly good livelihood. The villagers seemed healthy. ‘For the good of the village’ was a transparent lie, so I still don't know the real reason why the elders went through with selling one of their own as a slave.

"Seriku, it's almost time for you to meet with General Nellie, right? Go on ahead, I’ll retrieve our rewards." (Meirou)

"O-Okay." (Seriku)

She lightly passes me her batch, bows to me, and runs on ahead. After watching her figure disappear into the distance, I continue on my way through town to the Travelers’ Guild.

…

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