V3 Chapter 87

“...I said I’m fine. Yeah, they’re good people. They even save me when we fought a monster... I know, I will be careful. I’m not that easy to fool… yeah, I will, I’ll be safe. Really... Okay, I’ll be waiting, we’re already close now. I’m not gonna do that. Jeez. We’ll be waiting for you. Okay…”

Jonathan stared at Rain in interest. He sat down on the log in front of the bonfire and watched the boy finish his call.

“Your family?” he asked when he saw Rain hung up and put down his hand which was holding the strange metallic item.

Rain turned toward Jonathan and nodded his head with a smile. “Yeah,” replied Rain with a wry smile. After ending the call, he then kept his phone in his pocket.

“They sounded pretty worried. Did you run away without permission?” Jonathan heard the frantic and worried feminine voice coming from the smartphone and somehow was able to understand what was going on.

He recalled the bits and pieces of the conversation and even looked at the boy’s aggrieved expression like a child that had been scolded, yeah, somehow he was sure of it. Not to mention, with someone like Rain, powerful and talented, no one would be in their right mind sending him alone on a dangerous quest like raiding a Minotaur’s Lair. Unless, they want him on a suicidal mission, of course. But he doubts that. Who would be so cruel to send this nice and polite boy to die?

“Well, things happened, and I was not unable to tell them beforehand. I told you, the business with the Minotaurs is just something I’m doing on a whim. You can even call it a passing, fleeting sense of justice.” Rain said with a guilty tone. He then stared at the sizzling skewered meat in front of him with a wry smile.

“...if that’s true, then you are quite a righteous boy, Rain. That’s quite admirable. Not many would do something like this…even making yourself a bait,” Jonathan said, with a meaningful smile.

“... …”

Rain stared at him for a moment, before smiling helplessly.

“I trust my family. However, they also have their troubles. Even if I told them about the problem, they can only ignore it. More so, if I return, they would lock me up instead, to not cause trouble. Though, I don’t blame them,”

Rain said, understanding the meaning of Jonathan’s strange words. Indeed, what Jonathan said is true. He is placing himself as bait, ever since he had taken up this whimsical justice. He was not so foolish to think he could solo a Monster Lair, especially if it’s the lair of the Minotaurs.

However, if he returned and ask for help, Zarda might not do it, nor let him do it. And would just put her and the others in an awkward situation for him.

Why would they care about unknown strangers?

Attacking the Lair of Minotaurs would be like starting a tribe war.

With how dangerous the current situation inside the Desolate Cave is, there’s a little chance that they would answer his request. Though Rain didn’t want to admit it, Zarda and the others are not the types of selfless Heroes. In fact, they are incredibly selfish. Still, knowing their characters, his love for them never diminished. And he understands why they would be so cold.

And though he felt somewhat disappointed about it, he never blames them.

Why would he?

His sense of morals is completely different from this world.

What he was doing might be correct in his world. Morality, Honor, Sympathy, and more- it’s what defines Humans, and differentiate them from animals. It was normal to feel sorry for someone, or in wanting to save anyone in trouble. Because he is just a Human Being.

However, this world sadly didn’t share such virtue. In this world where killing and devouring each other for survival, personal benefits, for desires… saving someone is something only a just knight would do. In a quest that would not benefit you, and instead put your life at risk, it’ll be a miracle to find someone that would forgo their safety for a stranger.

Notwithstanding the fact that Lamians dislike and abhorred Human Beings due to…well, many and I mean, many reasons. No matter what, the Lamians would never do anything for those poor souls trapped in that cave with those savage monsters.

Rain was even certain that Zarda and the others will only be here to bring him back, whether he liked it or not. Even if it meant dragging him back to the village. That’s why Rain took a risk of coming into the lair alone. He might not be able to defeat the Minotaurs, but if he could snatch those captives secretly and run away… that’ll be the best outcome. At the very least, he has the confidence of sneaking inside the Lair of these monsters without being noticed. Zarda and the others would be his last trump card of resolving the situation and coming back alive.

“… But don’t you think you’re putting the people around you to danger?” suddenly, Jonathan said. He stared at Rain with a very serious expression.

“You said, they would never allow you to do this, even if it means tying you up. That, I can understand. Even now, if I were in their shoes, I think I’ll do the same. Because your life is more important than anything, Rain…” the knight said. “…Being brave and righteous is a good thing, I admit. Especially for a young one like you. But there’s need to be a limitation.”

“... …”

“Rain. From your expression, I think you have an idea of what I want to say.”

“Yes, more or less.”

Rain nodded his head, letting out a sigh. After revealing a lonely expression for an instant, he showed a serious expression. It was an expression that left a strong impression on Jonathan. Immediately, Jonathan felt guilty about what he was about to say. It was a very sensitive topic, and if he pushed the wrong buttons, he might upset him. Nevertheless, Jonathan can’t back down now. At least, he believed he needs to say this.

“Make no mistake. I was not trying to reprimand you. Only, I hope I can teach you a thing or two…and make you realize that what you did… what you’re doing right now, is wrong. Good reasons, but… can’t say about the process. And even maybe, the result…whatever it’ll be, past this point.” Jonathan said patiently.

“… A hero is someone who can be looked up to for their actions. However, if it goes beyond the safety limit, you might be the one who will lose your life. Hero saves lives, but even a hero is a human being. Before you can save anyone, you must know how to save and protect yourself first. Risking your life and doing impossible things is not heroic, but being foolish.”

“... …”

“Rain, I know you mean well, but the risk is high. Just like this, even without us, I know you will still proceed and charge towards that Monster Lair, alone. But don’t you realize that, going alone would only mean endangering yourself, or even those that would come after you- that’s not heroism, that’s seeking death.”

Rain shook his head. “Be relieved, I’m not so foolish enough to seek death. And if this thing is indeed impossible, I’m not stupid enough to go with it as well. I didn’t mean to be brave, a hero. I’m not cut out for that, anyway. I still know when to give up, or when to proceed. However, being scared of death is also not enough to make me give up just like that.”

Rain muttered, a faint smile appearing on his face.

“I only want to see the situation for myself. See what I can do. Assess if it’s doable. And perhaps, find a way to do this right…of course, without causing any trouble. Hopefully… There’ll always be a way… at least, that’s what I believe. As long as I can save anyone… that’ll be enough for me. If I can avoid a battle, then I’ll choose that method any time in the day. I’m good at sneaking around,”

“... …”

Rain looks at Jonathan. His lips arching upwards, “The reason why I started doing this foolish heroism is exactly as I’ve told you earlier, but I’m not so sure of the exact reason myself. But if I had to give one, though…”

“If you had to give one?”

“…it all comes down to… I just want to give it a try.”

“…Huh? W, wait a moment, Rain. What do you mean that you ‘just want to give it a try’? That’s it? That’s your reason in doing this high-risk-no-reward plan that’s too big of a burden for one person to carry? All this risk, all this danger… for the sake, ‘you just want to give it a try…?’”

“If I were to give my honest thoughts on that matter… Yes.”

Rain chuckled from Jonathan’s queer expression.

He seemed to be amused by what he had done to Jonathan that he had shown such a strange expression. But what he said is true. He has never been one that would just easily give up without trying.

He knows the danger, but it doesn’t mean he would cower and ignore the wrongs he had seen. Though he can ignore it, he would be bothered by it for a long time. Just like what he had said, if he turned his back right now, then tomorrow’s breakfast would taste rotten.

I don’t want to act like a Hero. But I also don’t want to be an indifferent person. That’s exactly why I feel this way.

Even though these are my feelings, it’s hard to completely understand them even for me. But when I think back to my actions since coming to this world, this is basically what I’ve been doing ever since.

Call it stupidity, call it being foolish. Even being called a hypocrite is fine. But this is just who I am.

‘…Live beautifully until the end, Rain. And don’t leave any regrets behind. No matter what you do. Life in this world is short… but it’s precisely why you should give it meaning. Not a denotation for others, but for you…even if it meant worthless in the eyes of others. As long as you believe you had lived a full life… written a wonderful story to tell, then it’ll be enough,’

Just as Uncle Glen had once said to me. I’ve lived an easygoing life. Freely. Just like the way I wanted it.

Rain mused.

He would never give up without even trying it. If he could save them, then he would. If it’s impossible, then he’ll give up. As simple as that. Only, he would throw the towel, once he was certain that there’s truly nothing he can do.

This is how I’ve lived since coming to this world. And this is the only thing I can say with confidence.

That’s why…

I’ll live as I wish. And beautifully until the end.

“‘I want to give it a try’… These feelings appeared in me, so I believe I can do it. I’m not going to push for it so hard that I would sacrifice anything just to make it a reality. But I want to take things into a better turn now while there’s still a chance… Is that too childish of me?”

“Where are you being childish?”

Jonathan shook his head with a wry smile. Though he still felt the same, that’s only his opinion. After all, he doesn’t want anything bad to happen to Rain. This boy has this strange charm on him, or probably effect on him that caused Jonathan unable to avert his eyes from him or leave him alone despite not knowing who he truly was.

“If you’re saying you want to do it because you want to, then perhaps. But little brother, when it’s you saying it, I feel like it’s not so childish after all. But childish or now… you do understand the consequences that this might bring upon you. Whatever the result of this Quest, it will affect your life. If the worst happens, it might even burden you… I’ve seen a lot of people who wanted to do the right things. Courageous people, knights, heroes… but in the end, some of them failed. And this haunted them…all their lives,”

“Certainly, it might be as you say. If something happens to you on this quest, I might carry the burden of your death forever. For I know, I’m the one who pulled you all into this madness,”

“I wasn’t talking about us. We followed you on our own accord, and despite knowing the risk―”

“I know. Nevertheless, I was the one who pulled all of you into this. And that’s the undeniable truth.”

“Rain, that’s not-”

“But be relieved. I’ll carry that guilt with me, still, I will continue to move on. Live. If I survive, of course. I won’t beat myself over it, no matter the consequences. Because, whether this succeeds or not, I did this to protect myself. And I don’t have any regrets over it.”

“…?!”

Jonathan was surprised by Rain’s answer and opened his eyes wide. Still, he continued, “…knowing the risk of this action, I would still be grateful, because I lived, walking the path I chose. No regrets about that. Yes, if worse did happen… I would feel sorrow, pain, remorse over…you know, anyone’s death because of this. But, still, by doing this, I won't have to make an enemy of my pride, my principle and most of all, my heart. The important thing isn't what I have done, or did, or lose…but what I didn’t turn my back on.”

There were feelings that Rain didn't want to betray. The straight and earnest feeling of wanting to be of help to someone in need. Knowing that he can do something about it… he can reach out. Either he succeeded or not, it’s not really the main purpose of this, but it’s by staying who he is, and never straying off the path he thought he was walking on.

He doesn’t want to betray his ‘Heart’.

“Rain…”

“And Brother Jonathan, I'm sure the people who had helped me in the past, molded me into who I am now, wouldn't forgive me if I abandoned anyone in need.”

Mother Superior… Uncle Glen… Elder Sisters of the Orphanage… my brothers and sisters… and even Lafetti, Zarda, and the rest of my new family, if they know I cold-heartedly turn back on someone who needed help, they would surely feel disappointed…at least, that’s what he wanted to believe.

Jonathan stared at Rain, surprised. But even more so, the boy’s words touched his heart, and he couldn’t help but feel a little proud of him. He might not agree with it, but he truly has the makings of a Hero. Jonathan couldn't help but muse in satisfaction, as well as a strange sense of pride.

He didn’t misjudge him. He has a strange air around him, and sometimes even danger… but deep inside of him, Rain is a good boy. A nice, righteous person that deserved his trust and adoration. That’s what Jonathan believes.

“I am not doing this to be hailed as a Hero, or be seen as one. But because I have things I don't want to betray. Even if people mock me for being naïve…or foolish,”

“No one would. And if anyone would dare insult you, in my name, they will fall to my sword,” Jonathan said with an unexpected serious expression. This time, it was Rain who was surprised. That was not just lip service. That sounds very sincere. And he felt that Jonathan would really do that, no matter who the other party is.

“…thank you,” Rain smiled faintly.

“…Rain, can you tell me something…?” Jonathan finally believed completely that Rain is not a bad person. But a boy with a pure, courageous heart. Still, this made the curiosity about this unknown, mysterious boy’s background grow stronger. And he could hardly keep it down any longer.

This great, incredible boy…just who is he?

Knowing that this is a sensitive topic, Jonathan decided to directly confront the question. And he decided that he would trust and accept it, no matter how strange a response he was given.

“Anything you ask.”

Rain nodded. He was not planning on lying or deceiving Jonathan and his trustworthy friends. Though there were things he couldn't say, he would tell him he couldn't in that case. He would answer anything if he could…

Seeing Rain nodding, Jonathan spoke. He put the question in his mind into words and asked Rain for the truth.

“I know it’s not right to ask this of you, and you can also choose to ignore this as well. But I really can’t help but be curious about you. You are not like anyone I know. Nor one of those boys I have seen up until now. You are different in so many ways, it makes me curious as to who you are and where you came from.”

Rain look at Jonathan and chuckled.

“I’m not anyone special if that’s what you are thinking. I’m just a normal man- and perhaps, can even be called, a poor victim of circumstances,”

In the past, he would have never imagined he would be in this situation, camping, and eating barbecue meat under the beautiful night sky and being encircled by clustering trees. More so, in this fantastical world that seemed extremely like a delusion or a fantasy dream he’s having.

Even up until now, his fear of suddenly waking up, and then realizing all of that happened up until now, is nothing but a dream… that scared him.

He had gotten to love this world, despite its twisted, troublesome nature. He had gathered precious people by his side, those that he had always been dreaming of having. He’s scared to lose them again. Every time he woke up, he would always have such fear. Sometimes, he even has moments when he didn’t want to sleep.

“...luck, perhaps, that’s what you call it. I just got lucky, that’s all. That’s why there’s nothing noteworthy about my identity.”

Rain turned towards Jonathan and grinned.

“…Rain Revert. That’s all who I ever, and will ever be.”

“I don’t quite understand what you are saying, but, well I guess that answer is enough for now.”

Jonathan let out a laugh. He knows that Rain avoided the question. But it seems like there’s a reason or it. A very important reason. And besides, Jonathan felt that they weren't a lie. And since he believed it was the truth, there’s no need to probe deeper into this. Time will tell, anyway.

Rain saw Jonathan laughed, and he smiled, before suddenly bursting into laughter himself.

The two of them started laughing it caught the attention of the others, and they couldn't help but turn around, and look at them with warm, smiling expressions.

The scene of the two of them laughing look picturesque for some reason. And it exude a warm, family-like aura that dazzled those who were watching.

They look like father and son...

Roel, Jin, and Zia shared the same thought as they watched the two laughing and chatting around the bonfire, that the genuine horrifying, creepy atmosphere of the dark forest doesn't seem to affect the mood around them.

... ...

BONUS Chapter-

Looking at the ascending smoke, and smelling the spreading fragrance of the meat, Rain’s expression beamed.

Sizzle! Sizzle! The sauces from the skewered meat dropped into the fire, letting out a little sizzling sound. Soon, a strong fragrance began to emanate from the skewered meat, filling the noses of Jonathan as well as the others nearby.

Busying themselves with assembling the tent, Zia and the others who caught the fragrant scent couldn’t help but opened their eyes widely and turned towards the bonfire where skewers were held close, and oozing with aromatic scent.

Their faces filled with amazement.

Sizzle! An alluring rosiness gradually appeared on the meat as it was being roasted by the flames. Oil soon permeated from the meat, while a faint amount of flames continuously jumped about on the surface. Rain skillfully rotated the meat to ensure that every spot was evenly heated.

As the roasting time increased, the rich fragrance of meat was wafting out and drifting within the forest.

Whether it was Jin, Roel, or Zia, they could not help but stop what they are doing and swallowed their saliva at the same time without prior agreement, and their eyes involuntarily drifted toward the meat. That extremely rosy meat roasted by Rain was glittering with oil and exuding tremendous charm.

"It smells delicious!"

Jonathan could not restrain himself as he muttered. He was quite close to the fire, so the smell assaulted him at full power.

The smell of the meat was mellow but not greasy and was even mixed with a faint fruity fragrance. It gave him an inescapable feeling of euphoria…and, well, of course, doing its best at whetting his appetite.

"It makes me happy hearing that from you,"

Rain heard what he said, and smiled while rotating the meat. As the oil started to drip from the roast meat, he would sprinkle some seasonings on it and the aroma of the meat would immediately become even more rich and diverse. And then finally-

“Done,” said Rain, before picking up a skewered meat that was leaning close to the fire and offering it to Jonathan. “Help yourself,”

“Thank you,” Jonathan didn’t refuse. Not like he could. And he happily accepted the skewered meat before he took a bite out of the roast meat.

His eyes widened in surprise, and then…well, there’s no then, Jonathan couldn’t stop for a moment, and happily devoured the skewered meat.

After setting their tents, Zia and the others also came over, sitting around the fire and having their dinner as well. Though, they took a distance away from Rain due to the Winged-Evil Serpent that was coiling around him. Since whenever they come closer, it would open its eyes and glare at them, ‘Don’t come over, you’re suspicious,’ kind of gaze with a clear sense of hostility.

It seems like it was taking the duty as Rain’s protector very seriously…which is kinda, really surprising.

Just what kind of charm is this, to be able to enslave monsters like this so easily…?

Jin and Roel were almost drooling as they look at the sizzling and smoking skewers. They were smelling the aroma of the roast meat from a close distance, their appetites were whetted and they were eager to have a taste as well.

Taking down three of the skewers, Rain then gave them to Zia and the others.

"It’s nothing much, but please do enjoy,"

"Thank you very much, Rain."

Zia was still quite self-disciplined. She thanked Rain before she took a bite out of the roast meat.

Though, nobles, Jin, and Roel’s table manners were not as refined as Zia’s. When Zia was having her first bite, their mouths were already stuffed with roast meat. Especially Roel who happily devoured the fragrant barbecue.

"Oh, oh… Hot! Hot!" his cheeks were stuffed with food and his eyes were opened wide.

The awesome knight who can tank any monsters with unyielding spirit tightly held onto the roast meat with one hand while continuously fanning his cheeks with the other hand. He looks very funny while doing so. Jin was doing the same, however.

“Hm?!”

Zia took her first bite of the roast meat.

During the instant her teeth made contact with the meat, a rich flavor burrowed into her mouth. The meat was surprisingly tender and was missing the dryness and hardness that roast meat should possess. As she bit down, the oil seeped out and smeared her lips. When seen from afar, it was like a layer of lipstick was applied.

"Hmmmmm~~!!!"

As she chewed the roast meat in her mouth, the succulent meat was covering her tongue and a numbing sensation was secreting from the meat.

It was stimulating her mouth and causing goosebumps to appear all over her body.

After swallowing the roast meat, the numbing sensation traveled down her esophagus and into her stomach. It felt as if her entire body was being cleaned inside, out, and it was so comfortable that she wanted to moan out loud.

"How could such a delicious taste exist in this world! I didn't know that the meat of the Armored Boar could be this delicious!"

Jonathan silently watches as Rain slices large chunks of meat off from a monster he had taken out from his Inventory, and then skewered several pieces on the tips of several half- to a meter long steel spikes, before planting the opposite side in the ground. He also pulled out some small bottles of spices and sprinkled some over the meat.

Immediately, after a few minutes, as Jonathan and the others were eating the first batch, the smell of fresh new meat being seared over fire began wafting into the noses of the surrounding just like before, and their eyes subconsciously focused on them.

“This is really delicious… do you have a cooking skill as well, little brother? And surely, it must be at a high level,”

Jonathan asked, somewhat amazed by the deliciousness of the skewered meat. Still, not only having an Alchemy Skill but also a Cooking Skill? Just how many professional skills does Rain have? And they are clearly at high levels.

The others also shared the same thoughts, and they look at Rain, waiting for an answer.

“I am good with house chores,”

Rain met their gazes and chuckled, saying simply.