Ryuugoroshi no Sugosuhibi

Chapter 9

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Kousuke and the Adventurers

The following few days Kousuke continuously completed various odd job requests.

He avoided requests that required technical skills like dog training, book translations and management. He lopsidedly fulfilled many manual labor requests to the point that others considered it entertaining.

Constantly doing manual labor requests made him very famous that people would to just request for him directly at the guild.

For example, a.s.sisting in dismantling a cow. The client was a butcher that wanted to visit his pregnant daughter in Ricardo since she’s about to give birth.

He wanted to decline this job at first since it was something he had no prior knowledge of, but was strongly persuaded and couldn’t refuse.

Kousuke was originally requested to just cut up and separate the various portions of a cow. The other employees hand their hands full with purchases and handling tons of bird’s meat so just having Kousuke do some of the beef portions was a huge help.

He received some training and a memo about the process on the first day. For the following six days Kousuke would process the beef early in the morning until 9AM every day. Thanks to that, his skills improved in a blink of an eye. When the butcher finally returned, Kousuke could already be considered a top cla.s.s dismantler.

He came to be known as the town’s handyman rather than an adventurer. The other adventurers started to view Kousuke as an inept adventurer that’s unable to complete regular requests from the board.

Because of that some adventurers started to directly show some misgivings towards him.

「Hey you!」(Unknown)

As Kousuke was about to head out after receiving an odd job request from the guild, an unfamiliar adventurer called out to him.

「Is there something you need?」(Kousuke)

「You should come with us on our request」(Adventurer)

「Wha? I already accepted a request though」(Kousuke)

「It’s just an odd job request. Just drop that garbage and help us out with ourreal request instead. You could at least become a decoy for us」(Adventurer)【TL: Xianxia moment! YOU’RE COURTING DEATH!】

「I prefer doing easier requests」(Kousuke)

Kousuke raised his hands to refuse the offer and leave but his shoulder was grabbed by a man, presumably the leader.

「Could you please release me?」(Kousuke) 【TL: Why you so nice, punch him】

「Just obediently listen to what we tell you. We seniors are sincerely just trying to help you by letting you get some experience outside safely. Of course, there’s a learning fee so we’ll just take your share of the reward」(Leader)

「To call this sincerity would be idiotic, what kind of person tries to drag out someone who’s not even wearing some armor into dangerous places. On top of that, you’re robbing them of their portion of the reward」(Kousuke)

Feeling annoyed, Kousuke rebuked in a threatening manner. Stress was building up from constantly hearing these malicious rumors about him, Kousuke was reaching his limit.

「The h.e.l.l you say!? Quit blubbering like an idiot and just follow us obediently!」(Leader)

The “Leader” yelled at the top of his lung. The “Leader” isn’t short tempered, but was trying to intimidate Kousuke into obedience.

The other members of the party joined in and gave Kousuke bloodthirsty glares.

Unfortunately for them it had no effect on Kousuke who was used to even stronger blood thirst from monsters.

「Is there something wrong?」(Guild receptionist)

Hearing the yell, a guild receptionist approached.

It was a receptionist Kousuke knew well. She was the one that a.s.sisted Kousuke on his first day here.

「These people are preventing me from completing my request」(Kousuke)

「Isn’t it a guild rule to not interfere between adventurers’ problems? Get the h.e.l.l away from here!」(Leader)

「There is such a rule about non-interference, but the impeding of another’s request is a different story」(Guild receptionist)

「Who the h.e.l.l cares about those odd job requests!」(Leader)

「Odd jobs? Are you perhaps Kousuke Watase?」(Guild receptionist)

「That’s right, is there a problem?」(Kousuke)

「No, I just wanted to confirm. You’re not in any form of trouble. The one’s in trouble for causing one though is you and your party, Regulus Parlor」(Guild receptionist)

「Regulus Parlor?」(Kousuke)

Kousuke could only tilt his head at that unfamiliar name.

「It’s their group’s party name. Generally, when adventurers gather together they would form a team and set up a party name to represent them as a whole」(Guild receptionist)

Regulus Parlor, apparently there’s a jewel called that here meaning “To attract one another”. These guys most likely used that name to show that they were grouped together by fate.

「How are we the one’s causing trouble? The one really causing trouble is HIM! This penny-pinching, “Coin Scrounger” failure of an adventurer!」(Leader)

Since Kousuke was constantly doing those odd job requests with almost no rewards the other adventurers were quick to a.s.sume he was a failure as an adventurer and gave him a derogatory t.i.tle of “Coin Scrounger”. 【TL: For those who do not understand, Coin Scrounger is the equivalent to a beggar in this situation】

「… a “Coin Scrounger” huh..」(Guild receptionist)

Laughing lightly she continued the conversation. She smiled without hiding the ridiculing look she gave the party.

「I’m sure you haven’t heard but do you know what type of odd job Watase-san constantly accepts? Each and every one of them require a lot of strength to complete. Normally, even if the adventurers are strong you would need at least four of them to complete each of those requests he selected. Watase-san on the other hand completed them alone and at record speed as well. Furthermore, within these twenty days he has completed 35 of these types of requests with only one day of rest. To top it off, all of the clients are extremely satisfied since he thoroughly completed all of their requests without fail or compromises」(Guild receptionist)

Kousuke wasn’t doing those requests rapidly with a purpose. He just didn’t feel tired at all. No matter what kind of manual labor request this town threw at him, as long as he gets a good night’s rest he would be completely recovered the next day. The only reason why he didn’t work one day was because Borudosu forced him to thinking he was just pushing himself.

「So.. SO WHAT! All of these odd jobs are easy as h.e.l.l to do anyways!」(Leader)

「That may be so for some. Honestly speaking, there are definitely a lot of odd job requests that adventurers would normally never take. On the other hand, it’s often that the same requests cannot be completed unless an adventurer handles them, this is a fact. The requests he has been completing at a high pace just happens to be those kind. I’m sure there’s no way all of you are unable to see the impressiveness of this right? Also, giving him a derogatory t.i.tle of “Coin Scrounger”, do you not see how foolishly you’re defaming yourself by trying to stroke your own ego?」(Guild receptionist)

The receptionist gazes toward the crowd, indicating that her comment was not only directed at the group in front of her but to every other adventurers listening in.

Her previously spoken ridicule was not towards Kousuke, but towards the adventurers who were scorning Kousuke.

「Why are you taking that b.a.s.t.a.r.d’s side so much?! You’re not going to get anything from siding with an achievement-less b.a.s.t.a.r.d!」(Leader)

「It’s the guild’s responsibility to take care of talented adventurers」(Guild receptionist)

「Talented? HIM?! He hasn’t even done anything adventurer-like?!」(Leader)

He laughed loudly in a ridiculing way while pointing at Kousuke. Kousuke who was being pointed at was stunned at the receptionist’s words. He hasn’t even done any requests that would warrant such attention. He felt it was a wonder that he was being evaluated so highly.

「He is talented. There are many clients specifically requesting for Watase-san already. Though the requests are currently only for odd jobs」(Guild receptionist)

With that one comment the atmosphere in the room wavered. Even if it’s just odd job requests, being personally requested is a rare occurrence. Within this guild branch, first being Borudosu, there are currently five adventurers that get personally requested.

「Stop spouting nonsense! This b.a.s.t.a.r.d getting personally requested?! All of the requests he’s done were just odd jobs! There’s no way he would get personal requests just from doing those!」(Leader)

「It’s precisely because they are odd jobs. They are requests for help from this town’s citizens. By completing them and satisfying the clients thoroughly it would drastically improve one’s image in the people’s eyes. And by word of mouth the clients would spread their satisfaction to others. “My request was fulfilled by this adventurer”. Just by hearing that the people would a.s.sume if any problem comes up that adventurer would be able to fix it. And if that adventurer actually fixes the problem the people’s appraisal would further increase, spreading that adventurer’s fame more. You may not receive a lot of tangible rewards out of odd job requests, but on the other hand, through these requests you can also earn the intangible reward of the townspeople’s good will and impression. Do you understand? This was the sequence of events that lead to Watase-san receiving personal requests. Incidentally, it also raised the guild staff’s impression of him. Thanks to him we were able to reduce the enormous amount of odd job requests」(Guild receptionist) 【TL: Wow.. long monologue】

Hearing how favored he was by the guild the adventurers there felt uneasy.

「When a request isn’t completed for a prolonged period of time it shows how incapable the guild branch is to the people. Do you think people would continue to send us requests in that case? They’ll obviously find another guild branch to fulfill their requests instead. If the amount of requests coming into the guild is reduced it’ll negatively impact the branch’s revenue. So, despite it being “just” odd jobs, since Watase-san has been completing them one after another, he is considered a welcomed presence here. Do you now understand why I’m siding with Watase-san? To us staff and to this guild he is an important existence in comparison to you and your party that’s giving him trouble」(Guild receptionist) 【TL: One-Two long monologue, TKO! Monk loses!】

The members of Regulus Parlor stared at the receptionist and Kousuke in a frustrated manner.

Kousuke himself did not expect such an outcome, he was just selecting easy-to-do requests for himself. His seemingly small actions ended up building up to this current situation.

「I got why he’s being so favored alright. I got it but I can’t accept being called a nuisance for the guild by you!」(Leader)

「I don’t think you quite understand, are you just playing dumb? Your party tends to take requests that are far above your capabilities. Your success rate is below 40% right now. Under normal circ.u.mstances, the transfer process of requests is an uncommon occurrence! In the past year and a half your group has already done it ten times! If you take into account for the times you’ve repeated that prior to coming to this branch it’s over twenty times!

If the guild continually sends out groups that cannot fulfill the requests it’ll only serve to hamper the guild’s reputation. Honestly, if that isn’t considered a nuisance then what is?

Therefore a discussion was carried out by this guild branch’s staff and we came to a consensus. If, for any reason, your group transfers another request over to another then your group will be penalized with a half year suspension of all guild activities. This is a warning, not a suggestion! Does everyone understand?」(Guild receptionist)

These kind of discussions are usually done in private. There were two reasons for why she publicly announced them.

Firstly, to broadcast the true importance of odd job requests in hopes of getting more adventurers to accept them. This reason though was probably thought up on the spot.

The real reason is definitely the second one.

It’s to show that the guild is putting their foot down and drawing a line. There are too many people here that witnessed this, making it undeniable. If Regulus Parlor even tries to transfer a request then the guild will report to all branches about the punishment.

In hopes that it’ll urge them to become better adventurers, this course of action was taken so that the members of Regulus Parlor understand that there are no more second chances.

「Tct.. Fine I get it! Men, we’re heading out!」(Leader) 【TL: Tct is him clicking his tongue btw】

Being unable to use the guild’s facilities is considered a heavy blow to any adventurer. Each and every member of Regulus Parlor understood the severity of it.

Since they had no choice the party headed out to discuss among themselves how to thoroughly complete their current request.

「I hope they turn over a new leaf with this」(Guild receptionist)

「Um.. Would it be alright if I depart to do my requests?」(Kousuke)

「Of course, please continue as you normally would」(Guild receptionist)

「I just try my best, really…」(Kousuke)

Kousuke understood that he’s able to do all of this work thanks to his superhuman specs, but this event made him realize he still underestimated it. A typical adventurer rarely attempts more than one request per day and would normally take a break every two to three days as well.

「If that is so then please continue like that. There are many adventurers that are incapable of trying their “best” after all」(Guild receptionist)

「I plan on continuing this pace for ten more days」(Kousuke)

「Ten days?」(Guild receptionist)

「I plan on leaving this town after ten days」(Kousuke)

「Is that so… It’s a shame to see a talented adventurer leave, but it would be rude to try to keep you here. The open road and the romance of an adventure, wanderl.u.s.t is unavoidable with your line of work」(Guild receptionist)

「It’s not really something on that grand of a scale, I just plan on heading back home. I may drop by again since I will need to make more money later」(Kousuke)

The receptionist smiled at his response feeling a little relieved. She wanted to avoid seeing such a talented adventurer disappear.

Seen out by the receptionist, Kousuke headed towards his current client’s address. Today’s request is to help the client move some luggage.

It was noted that after today the amount of adventurers accepting manual labor odd jobs increased bit by bit.

Only six days left until the deadline given to him by Alice. Reaching the financial goal, Kousuke headed back to the inn in good humor. After finishing dinner he relaxed comfortably in his room. While he was thinking about what to do tomorrow since he no longer needed to work, the noise of someone running towards his room interrupted his train of thoughts. The running footstep stopped in front of his room before the door flung open.

「Kousuke-san, I need to ask you for a favor!」(Unknown)

It was Viare who barged into the room. She was sweating a lot and completely out of breath as she stared desperately at Kousuke.

Kousuke was startled by the conviction in her eyes.

「A.. favor?」(Kousuke)

「I need you to help bring back Korungu’s group that snuck out of town!」(Viare)

「Who’s Korungu? Catch your breath first and calm down a bit and tell me everything from the start. Don’t worry, I don’t plan on refusing」(Kousuke)

He gave Viare a cup of water. She gulped it down in one go and took a few moments to catch her breath.

「Um.. So do you remember the child that you thought had a cold? Well that actually happened recently. Since the child has very little strength and stamina the symptoms the child is suffering is a lot worse. Magic and medicine can be used to stabilize the child’s condition, but unfortunately the town is out of the specified medicine. I considered finding someone with flight magic to ferry some of the medicine over from a neighboring town, but the reward money required for the request and the price of the medicine was simply too expensive. I barely managed to get enough money by borrowing from my neighbors.」(Viare)

Viare took a deep breath before continuing.

「My request is for you to bring back the group of children who misunderstood the situation by thinking no one was able to pay for the medicine and left to get it themselves」(Viare)

「I understand, so one of those children is called Korungu」(Kousuke)

「Yes」(Viare)

「Are you certain they are not in the town?」(Kousuke)

「At first we searched for them thinking they were just wandering around in town. But then we heard someone saw them sneaking into a cart and left the town」(Viare)

「That person didn’t stop them?」(Kousuke)

「The person a.s.sumed the children were related to the owner of the wagon」(Viare)

「I see, you wouldn’t stop them if you a.s.sume that. Do you know where the children were headed?」(Kousuke)

「They’re heading towards the Western Hollows. It’s about six hours away on foot, but that place is considered to be one of the most dangerous place around here. They went to get a herb called Leele Tortrine that grows in the bottom of the lake there」(Viare)

Kousuke’s expression became grim hearing the herb’s name. He recalled what Horun told him about that specific herb. He hurriedly got up and retrieved his sword standing against the wall.

「That place has some of the strongest monsters in the area! And the children went there by THEMSELVES!?」(Kousuke)

It’s already considered dangerous heading there, but it’s even more dangerous in that area.

He immediately left and casted《Flight》on himself. A crowd formed from the commotion and Kousuke was seen flying out of town by Viare, Shidi and the various inn patrons.

Flying at top speed, Kousuke reached the edge of the Western Hollow in about thirty minutes.

It was dark due to the cloudy night sky and he was too focused on flying forward to realize the possibility of spotting the children on the way there. But the situation turned out to be unusual. The spa.r.s.e moonlight illuminated an area near his arrival spot revealing two adventurer-like people with the children.

「They’re safe… phew」(Kousuke)

Seeing that the children were safe Kousuke let out a big sigh of relief.

「Hey you, do you know these kids?」(Adventurer?)

Startled by his sudden appearance the two adventurers’ vigilance spiked as they questioned him.

「Yes, I know them as well as their guardian. I was requested by the guardian to find and bring them back safely」(Kousuke)

The two adventurers questioned the children if they know the man in front of them, the children nodded.

The two adventurers relaxed a bit after hearing that.

「Is that so. Then please escort them back–」(Adventurer?)

While one of the adventurer was speaking he was suddenly interrupted by a loud shriek.

Everyone’s gaze shifted towards the direction of the shriek, but it was too far and dark to be able to confirm what it was.

「s.h.i.t.. they attracted a Violent Barb!」(Adventurer?)

“Violent Barb”, this was the name of the monster that made this Western Hollow a danger zone.

It usually lives underground near Leele Tortrines and its main body, the bulb, was rarely exposed. To compensate, it’s extremely shrewd and uses its roots with a razor sharp fang lined mouth on each roots’ tip to capture its prey. It’s impossible to determine when and where it’ll strike from underground with its numerous roots. Attacking the roots was largely pointless since its main body stays hidden. No matter what, this monster was something a beginner cannot contend with.

There are more than five of these things taking refuge in this hollow.

「You stay here and protect the kids!」(Adventurer?)

Without waiting for a response the two adventurers dashed towards the direction of the shriek.

Roars and screams, sounds of weapons clashing, twenty minutes pa.s.sed when the two adventurers returned carrying some of their previously missing comrades. They were all bloodied and heavily wounded, just walking was a struggle for them.

「I’ll leave their care to you」(Adventurer?)

The adventurers gently laid their most wounded comrades down before trying to head back towards the center of the hollow.

Kousuke stopped them from pushing themselves further.

「It’s impossible with the wounds you have!」(Kousuke)

「One of our own is still out there! He sacrificed himself so we could get away!」(Adventurer?)

「We promised we would return to rescue him.. We have to go!」(Adventurer2?)

Despite their broken bodies the two’s determination didn’t falter.

『There’s no helping it』thought Kousuke and spoke out once more.

「… Even so I would prefer that the two of you stay here. I shall go in your stead」(Kousuke)

「That’s even more dangerous! What can you do with just that sword? You don’t even have any armor on!」(Adventurer?)

「I’ll be fine. I’m not asking you to believe me since it will be the first time I’ll be facing a strong monster. But still, an acquaintance of mine told me I would be fine no matter what I faced」(Kousuke)

Kousuke recalled his discussion with Horun and Alice about the Leele Tortrine and what would happen if he had to fight against a Violent Barb.

Their response, winning would be difficult but losing would be absolutely impossible.

The condition to win would be to have a method to attack the bulb underground, but the current Kousuke cannot recall having any such method on hand. Even so, the Violent Barb would also be unable to deal any real damage to Kousuke. He knew that if it got dangerous he could always retreat out of its attack range.

Having too little combat experience, Kousuke was unable to determine what would happen if he were to fight against a Violent Barb. Believing the words of Horun and Alice though, this he could do. He was convinced thanks to their words that there is no way he would lose.

「We shall entrust the rescue to you then」stated the adventurers as they judged that Kousuke would be more reliable than they would be with their tattered bodies.

Kousuke nodded as he casted《Light》and unsheathed his sword, dashing down the slope towards the center of the hollow. Sensing the vibration caused by Kousuke’s running, the Violent Barb viciously attacked him with its roots. Instantly, over twenty roots appeared, each with a thickness similar to tug-o-war ropes with a mouth lined with razor sharp fangs on the tip.

「OUTTA MY WAY!」(Kousuke)

He dodged what he could and sliced through the rest with his sword. Even the thick, st.u.r.dy roots that are capable of repelling most blades were getting bisected by brute force.

After slicing through around ten roots Kousuke reached the spot with the highest concentration of roots. There was a nauseating scent of blood here accompanied by a weakened cry and the sound of flesh being bitten.

「MOVE!」(Kousuke)

He swung his sword violently, scattering most of the concentrated roots in front of him.

「Uhhh」(???)

Past that swarm of scattered roots a bloodied man was seen collapsed on the floor.

Kousuke covered his mouth, barely holding down his nausea at the sight of this. Keeping his hand over his mouth he spoke to the collapsed man.

「Hang in there, I’ll start treating your wounds」(Kousuke)

As he bent down to cast《Greater Heal》to mend the man’s grave wounds, a bunch of new roots sprouted out towards them from the ground.

Drawn by the smell of blood, most of the roots aimed at the bloodied man and largely ignored Kousuke. To keep the man safe Kousuke repelled their advance with his sword. No matter how many roots Kousuke repelled, more and more roots appeared preventing him from being able to treat the man’s wounds.

「There’s no end to this!」(Kousuke)

「Ru.. run a.. way」(???)

With a flickering consciousness the man tried to persuade Kousuke to escape.

「You shouldn’t speak right now」(Kousuke)

Instead of completely healing the wounds, Kousuke quickly used《Heal》to at least stop the man’s bleeding. Kousuke barely managed this since casting《Heal》is faster than《Greater Heal》but unfortunately this only stopped the bleeding. As for the already lost blood and strength, there’s nothing he could do about it at the moment.

「How should I proceed from here?」(Kousuke)

Though the man wasn’t bleeding anymore, Kousuke was hesitant to move the body. Trying to carry him out would just result in being swarmed by more roots. It would put a burden on the man’s body with the constant dodging and weaving and may re-open his wounds. It would make the man’s condition even more critical.

「It would be great if there was a way to stop their advance」(Kousuke)

The man continued his preaching to run away, but Kousuke ignored him as he planned his next course of action. Nothing solid would come up as the roots would interrupt his train of thoughts with their incessant attacks. Scattering and cutting them apart, it didn’t matter as they kept sprouting up.

「YAAAH!! You’re all such a bother! Don’t make me uproot you!」(Kousuke)

Thinking about what he just screamed without thinking, Kousuke taps the hilt onto his hand thinking『That’s it!』.

「I just need to pull out the bulb and smash it!」(Kousuke)

The man quietly retorted that Kousuke’s idea was impossible, but it wasn’t heard.

Immediately, Kousuke acted on that thought and grabbed one of the nearby roots. Grasping the root with both hands he pulled with full strength. At first, the root stretched out longer before suddenly ripping. The ripped portion in his hand flailed around a bit before stopping all movements.

「It’ll rip if I just pull one root, then I just have to grab a bunch before tugging this time!」(Kousuke)

This time he grabbed ten roots and pulled strongly. Compared to the rock moving request in the past there was more resistance felt, but it wasn’t enough resistance to impede Kousuke.

The ground shook and the dirt and sediments roiled as the Violent Barb’s bulb was uprooted and exposed! This monster looked like a lychee with hundreds of roots attached to it. Its spherical body was a little over a meter in diameter in length and it seemed to lack any ability to fight itself.

【TL: Lychee! Click Me! 】

「Urgh.. I don’t want to get close to that」(Kousuke) 【TL: Me either…】

The sight of the roots attached to it squirming could make one’s heart feel faint.

Swallowing down the discomfort, Kousuke charged at the monster knowing that if he didn’t the situation wouldn’t change. Using the momentum of the charge at the bulb he swung his sword.

Sensing the incoming danger the squirming roots on the bulb lashed out towards Kousuke. Ignoring the roots his sword connected and the squirming roots movements stopped.

「The last blow!」(Kousuke)

Kousuke thrusted his sword.

The Violent Barb’s bulb was pierced down to its core.

The roots shook at the impact before falling limp.

Kousuke pulled out the sword from the Violent Barb and swung off the monster’s fluid. From that encounter Kousuke’s entire body was covered in the monster’s fluid. It made him feel disgusted.

「Ugh.. This is nasty. My clothes are tattered and slimy too, I want to change out of this!」(Kousuke)

As he was mumbling to himself it became evident that the attacks from the other Violent Barb’s roots ceased. The rest escaped after seeing one of their own get killed, fearing it would happen to them too.

Since the situation calmed down, Kousuke was finally able to thoroughly treat the man. Crushed limbs and broken bones, one after another was completely mended with his magic.

「Think you will be able to move now?」(Kousuke)

「… Ah… you.. you saved me. I still can’t believe you just dragged it out like that.. and even defeated it」(???)

With the pain and wounds mended the man was able to clearly speak to Kousuke now.

「I lost a lot of blood and strength though, I don’t think I can really move yet. Sorry for the trouble but think you can carry me?」(???)

「Not a problem.. But I’m quite filthy at the moment」(Kousuke)

「I can’t really complain in this situation, don’t worry too much about it」(???)

「Got it」(Kousuke)

The sword was a bit out of shape and he was unable to sheath it. Kousuke just slid it into his belt before he carried the man.

「I know it’s not proper to ask you for a favor after all this, but would it be alright?」(???)

「If it’s something I can do」(Kousuke)

「Could you gather some Leele Tortrines in the nearby lake?」(???)

It seemed these adventurers were handling a request to gather some Leele Tortrines. Since the Violent Barbs were quiet right now the man didn’t want to give up this chance to retrieve the herbs.

The two took a slight detour to the lake to gather the herb before arriving back to where everyone else was waiting. It seemed they were still vigilant of their surroundings.

In addition to when he gathered the Leele Tortrine, Kousuke cleaned himself in the lake.

「He’s back! Is Rayc.o.k safe?!」(Adventurer?)

「Ya.. I’m somehow still alive」(Rayc.o.k)

The man called Rayc.o.k was immediately surrounded by his comrades. It seemed the rest of them tended to their own wounds, most of them were healed already.

「You have our deepest grat.i.tude for saving our comrade!」(Adventurer?)

The group of adventurers all bowed towards Kousuke.

「Here, these are for you guys」(Kousuke)

Kousuke handed some Leele Tortrine to one of Rayc.o.k’s comrade.

「You gathered these for us?」(Adventurer?)

「I was asked to and had some leeway anyways」(Kousuke)

「Leeway? Even though you’re so tattered?」

「It’s just the clothes. My body didn’t get wounded at all」(Kousuke)

「You must have taken a lot of hits if the conditions of your clothes are like that right? Not being hurt despite that is just…」(Adventurer?)

Kousuke rolled up his sleeves and presented his arm. The areas he was bit and smashed by the roots were only slightly swollen red. Fractures or broken bones? There wasn’t even a single scratch on him. As for pain it was just a slight tingling sensation.

「Just what are you made of…」(Adventurer?)

「I’m just a bit st.u.r.dier than others. I wasn’t really aware by how much until today’s fight though」(Kousuke)

The adventurers were exasperated, there’s a limit to how st.u.r.dy someone can be! Seeing how calmly he stated that, the rest of them felt that their near-death struggle earlier was a joke. It was simply abnormal, becoming half-dead like them was the expected outcome here.

Everyone completed their goals so the only thing left to do was to head back. The only problem was that not only Rayc.o.k but the rest of his team were in dire need of rest. It was decided everyone would camp out until dawn. The children became restless and complained that they needed to bring the Leele Tortrine back as soon as possible but the adventurers scolded them that it was too dangerous. The children weren’t convinced and tried to go back themselves.

「《Sleep Wave》」(Kousuke)

If they can’t be convinced with words, then do it by force. Kousuke casted《Sleep Wave》on the children to keep them from leaving. The children resisted at first but one by one they collapsed.

「Should have just done this in the first place.. Or just scare them into listening」(Kousuke) 【TL: Holy c.r.a.p Kou-chan.. That’s dark】

「I can’t do that to kids」(Adventurer?)

「I can’t tell if you’re just being kind or naive」(Kousuke) 【TL: What’s with this 180 att.i.tude?!】

Those who could move prepared to set up camp. It was just to gather some firewood and kindling for a bonfire though. The last thing done was to find something to blanket the children with.

Kousuke went to Rayc.o.k’s group for some travel rations since he came out here with only his sword.

Having nothing left to do the group chatted as they pa.s.sed the night together.

The area was clear of monsters since they didn’t want to come near the gluttonous Violent Barbs. Even those feared Violent Barbs kept clear of Kousuke which allowed the group to relax without the need for a serious night watch.

As they conversed it became clear why Rayc.o.k’s group were nearly killed.

They knew of the dangers involved in retrieving some Leele Tortrines before accepting this request. They originally arrived here at night and planned to proceed the following morning. None of them fancied the idea of running around in the dark. The reason why they went in still was due to their soft-heartedness.

As they were prepping camp the children stumbled upon them and told them their reason for coming. Being unable to refuse the children’s request, Rayc.o.k’s group, despite knowing how dangerous it would be, went into the Violent Barbs’ territory. As a person, that decision may have seemed magnificent and altruistic, but as an adventurer there’s no limit to how poor that plan was.

When Kousuke pointed that out the entire group lowered their heads in apology. Seeing these adventurers who were clearly older and his seniors as adventurers lowering their heads convinced Kousuke of their soft-hearted nature. It also explained why they weren’t able to refuse the children’s request.

Apparently, the reason why they were even doing this request was due to it being transferred from the party Regulus Parlor. Regulus Parlor was the original party that accepted this request, but were forced to retreat when they attempted it since they underestimated the Violent Barbs. As a result, Regulus Parlor’s access to the guild facilities was suspended since they were warned beforehand.

Hearing this Kousuke briefly wondered what Regulus Parlor would do in the future, but quickly lost interest as they reaped what they sowed.

Night turned into day. After having a good, long rest the group immediately headed out towards St. Beria.

One of Rayc.o.k’s comrade named Guts started to converse with Kousuke on the way.

「Mind if I ask you a question?」(Guts)

「Sure」(Kousuke)

「I was just curious why you’re not sheathing your sword. It seems dangerous the way its dangling」(Guts)

The sword wouldn’t fit back into the sheath after last night’s fight against the Violent Barb. If one examines the sword carefully many chips could be seen on the edge and the blade itself looked a bit bent.

「It doesn’t fit anymore. If I try to force it my sheath may break」(Kousuke)

「It’s a miracle that’s all that happened to your sword after you cut apart a Violent Barb. Normally you shouldn’t be able to cut it apart like that」(Rayc.o.k)

Rayc.o.k voiced his disbelief despite seeing the fight himself.

「He cut it apart?」(Guts)

「The roots and the bulb, he shredded them apart」(Rayc.o.k)

Hearing this the rest of the adventurers stared at Kousuke in amazement.

「Really?」(Guts)

Kousuke nodded.

Seeing the condition of the blade and hearing Rayc.o.k’s testimony, the rest were forced to believe it.

「You really don’t look that strong though…」(Guts)

「Even I thought it was a dream since my conscious was a bit hazy. But after seeing the unmoving corpse of the Violent Barb and retrieving the Leele Tortrine I realized it wasn’t a dream」(Rayc.o.k)

「Having that much strength, you must have a name or t.i.tle you’re known as right?」(Guts)

「I was called a “Coin Scrounger” before」(Kousuke)

「WHAT!?」(Everyone else)

The adventurers were shocked further.

「The “Coin Scrounger” I heard about from the rumors was said to only do odd jobs and has no ability as an adventurer though」(Guts)

「I only do odd jobs because it’s safe and easy」(Kousuke)

「Don’t you feel it’s more appropriate to search for ruins and such as an adventurer though?」(Rayc.o.k)

「The reason why I became an adventurer was to gather a certain amount of money, not to make a name for myself」(Kousuke)

「… Ah.. So that’s why. I guess your path as an adventurer is just a bit different compared to most. But with your capabilities you could easily do almost any requests」(Rayc.o.k)

Rayc.o.k’s group stared at Kousuke with envious eyes. Seeing those eyes Kousuke felt a bit taken aback. The strength he has wasn’t earned through effort but through sheer luck and being stared at like that by people who do their best was painful.

They tried to invite Kousuke into the party but was refused. The group continued to idly chat as they travelled.

They safely arrived at St. Beria a lot later than expected since they were matching the children’s pace with numerous breaks in between.

「I’ll be taking the children to the orphanage then」(Kousuke)

「We’ll drop by your inn later tonight then」(Rayc.o.k)

Rayc.o.k’s group wanted to hold a feast for being able to safely return. Kousuke nodded contently and walked with the children.

They escorted the children together for a bit before separating. They first visited a doctor before heading back to the guild.

The fate that awaited the children back at the orphanage was a b.u.mp on their head caused by Wei’s fist. They were being scolded harshly for causing everyone to worry and for leaving the town without permission.

Next to the scene of Wei scolding the children, Viare was bowing her head towards Kousuke.

「Thank you very much Kousuke-san!」(Viare)

「I didn’t do this alone. You should also thank the group of adventurers responsible for gathering some Leele Tortrines. I only escorted the children back. The one’s who listened to and protected the children were them」(Kousuke)

「Is that so. I understand, I’ll express my grat.i.tude to them as well. But I still wish to thank you as well. I was very happy that you immediately headed out after listening to my request」(Viare)

「I’m pretty sure anyone would in that situation」(Kousuke)

「A normal adventurer would ask for the request’s reward first before moving」(Viare)

「Ah that’s right I forgot to ask you about that. I was frantic from hearing that the children were in danger so I can’t recall the details.」(Kousuke)

Kousuke scratched his cheeks feeling embarra.s.sed.

Viare gave Kousuke an apologetic look.

「About the reward.. I truly wish to give you something but because of the debt I incurred… I hope you don’t mind being paid in installments or everything on a later date」(Viare)

「You don’t have to go through that much trouble…」(Kousuke)

He recalled his fight with the Violent Barb, but decided to keep quiet about it. He understands the current situation the orphanage is in and does not wish to burden them in any fashion.

「I didn’t really do much so you don’t have to worry about the reward」(Kousuke)

「That’s not okay! Please allow me to give you your just reward!」(Viare)

「But.. It really wasn’t that difficult of a job」(Kousuke)

「What are you two talking about?」(Wei)

Wei approached to two as he gave the role of scolding the children to another person.

「Father! Kousuke’s trying to refuse the reward he deserves」(Viare)

「It’s because I didn’t do much to deserve any reward」(Kousuke)

「I recall Viare telling me that you flew out as soon as possible towards the Western Hollow. You also safely brought the children back. You acted to save the children and completed the request with their safe return, I think this warrants receiving a reward don’t you agree?」(Wei)

「Then instead of giving me the reward please give it to the adventurers that put their life on the line to keep the children safe. I believe they deserve it more for listening to the children’s selfish request that placed them in a lot of danger」(Kousuke)

Rayc.o.k’s group didn’t even accept the request but did it anyways so Kousuke tried to refuse the reward on that basis.

「So there were other adventurers that helped the children. What kind of selfish request did the children ask of them?」(Wei)

He explained how the children begged Rayc.o.k’s group to gather the Leele Tortrine under unfavorable, night conditions.

Hearing this, Wei’s expression turned furious. It was certain that the children’s head would have another b.u.mp after they were scolded. Wei wouldn’t let the children’s misdeeds slide as it endangered other people’s lives. Wei decided to use this opportunity to drill into the children just how serious and rash their actions were as it almost caused a group of adventurers to lose their lives

「I’m going to have to punish them again after this」(Wei)

「Please give them a proper scolding」(Kousuke)

Kousuke admired the children for going to such extent for a family member, but was in favor of the scolding as he did not want to see them do something similar in the future.

「Leaving that aside, not giving you a reward seems improper still」(Wei)

「Eh.. We’re coming back to that topic?」(Kousuke)

「Isn’t it a crucial thing for an adventurer?」(Wei)

「Yes yes! It is a very important matter Kousuke-san」(Viare)

「I understand that’s the case, but this time it was a bit different」(Kousuke)

Seeing how adamantly Kousuke was refusing the reward Wei could only sympathize with his feelings. It’s undeniable that Wei is under financial pressures, but there’s no disdain in Kousuke’s refusal and left him feeling no discomfort from Kousuke’s pity. Wei felt that he should respect his choice.

「Please wait a moment then」(Wei)

「Yes?」(Kousuke)

Wei went back into inside and returned around ten minutes later. In his hand were some black clothing.

「This is what I wore during my adventuring years, let’s subst.i.tute these as the reward then since it looks like your current attire is in tatters. These clothes are durable and won’t tear easily」(Wei)

「These are mementos from your adventuring years’ right? There is no possible way I can accept this!」(Kousuke)

「No no, these are just taking up s.p.a.ce in the closet so please accept」(Wei)

「…… Then I will humbly accept」 (Kousuke)

『If its just clothing it shouldn’t be too expensive』He a.s.sumed as he accepted them.

「Thank you very much」(Kousuke)

「No, no, you deserve this as a reward for completing the request, there’s no need to thank me」(Wei)

It was a pristine jacket, despite its age it didn’t seem like something that was made many years ago.

It was a bit big though, but it didn’t hamper his mobility at all.

As he put on the jacket Viare immediately complimented how well it looked on him. Kousuke felt a bit bashful. He once again gave his grat.i.tude to Wei before heading back to the inn.

「Ah, welcome back」(Shidi)

With a bored expression and an elbow on the reception, Shidi spotted Kousuke coming in and called out to him.

「I’m back~」(Kousuke)

「Where did you go? You rushed out last time so it was something really urgent right?」(Shidi)

「Just a small job that needed to be finished quickly」(Kousuke)

「Is the fact that your sword isn’t sheathed related to that “small” job?」(Shidi)

「Mhmm. It wouldn’t fit in the sheath anymore. Just wondering, can I ask the store I bought this from to repair it?」(Kousuke)

「You can」(Borudosu)

Borudosu answered as he walked down the stairs.

「Ah, Borudosu. Long time no see」(Kousuke)

「Well, I haven’t been around town these days. About your sword, Clarice can probably do something about it if you ask her. But, the cost will vary based on the damage. Mind showing me the sword first?」(Borudosu)

Kousuke pulled the sword out of his belt and pa.s.sed it over for Borudosu to inspect. As Borudosu inspected the sword his eyes started to widen.

「… A lot worse than I expected. Just what did you cut with this?」(Borudosu)

「Violent Barb」(Kousuke)

「So you were at the Western Hollow. I heard Violent Barbs boast high durability, you were able to cut them?」(Borudosu)

「I managed to cut them… Through brute force..」(Kousuke)

Borudosu nodded as he was convinced and impressed at the same time. As long as there’s enough force, even with a low quality weapon like this, it was possible to break through anything especially if the person was this stupidly strong.

「Wanna head to Clarice’s store now?」(Borudosu)

「I actually want to rest tonight, let’s go tomorrow instead」(Kousuke)

Last night since the group of adventurers were all injured Kousuke decided to take the longest night watch. Because of that, even though he wasn’t tired, he felt sleepy.

After explaining his situation, he took back his sword and headed to his room. Without changing he collapsed onto his bed and fell asleep. He was awoken by a knock on his door later that evening.

Shaking off his grogginess he opened the door. The person before him was Shidi.

「There’s are guests for you, Kousuke-san」(Shidi)

「Guests?? Oh.. come to think of it..」(Kousuke)

He remembered about Rayc.o.k’s group.

「Are they waiting downstairs?」(Kousuke)

「Yup」(Shidi)

He headed downstairs and saw Guts and another adventurer called Hiiro.

「Hey, sorry for making you wait」(Kousuke)

「It wasn’t that long, no worries~」(Guts)

「Is that so. So what brings you two here?」(Kousuke)

「We came here to give you this」(Guts)

Guts offered a pouch to Kousuke.

He accepted and peeked into the pouch and saw 30 silver coins in it. It’s equivalent to one gold coin! A typical household could survive three months with this much money.

「… Why are you giving me money?」(Kousuke)

「You don’t get it? You did do our request in our stead right? It’s only logical to give you the reward」(Guts)

Kousuke doubted his ears and asked them again and received the same response.

「Did you just give me the full amount?」(Kousuke)

「That’s the full amount, yes」(Hiiro)

Hiiro saluted as he proudly stated that.

『These guys are too kind-hearted』thought Kousuke, feeling helpless.

「Idiots.. these guys are just idiots」(Kousuke)

Guts and Hiiro didn’t catch Kousuke’s muttering.

It may be that he did complete the request on their behalf, but receiving the reward in its entirety only troubled Kousuke so he decided to return half of it to Guts.

「We’re both on the same boat, you also did my request on my behalf. I can only accept half, okay?」(Kousuke)

Kousuke knew if he tried to return the entire reward they would immediately reject it so he tried to return half to Guts instead.

Kousuke’s proposal was actually a very helpful thing for them. Rayc.o.k’s injuries lead to some infections and he is currently hospitalized. The infections were unfortunately something magic could not treat so he would need about two weeks to recover. The medical bill for Rayc.o.k, living expenses and repair fees, they were worried how they could cover all of this.

「This time around you need the money to cover the repair costs for your equipment’s right? I’m in a similar situation as well so there’s no way I could accept the entire reward」(Kousuke)

「This compromise is definitely something we would like, but are you sure?」(Guts)

「I’ve already received my reward for bringing the children back safely. If I take all of your reward then the only person that benefitted would be myself」(Kousuke)

Being told by Kousuke to not worry about it, Guts and Hiiro gave their grat.i.tude once more before leaving the inn.

Seeing their departing backs, Kousuke wondered if that group will be alright from now on.『The kind-hearted ones are usually taken advantage of…』He thought, but he smacked his own head in admonishment since it seemed rude to criticize them as a junior. 『I should be the careful one』Kousuke held this thought in his heart as he returned to his room.

The following morning, Borudosu woke up Kousuke and had breakfast together. Afterwards they headed towards Clarice’s store “Chains and Arms”. The original plan was to go alone, but Borudosu tagged along since he had some business here as well.

「Welcome!」(Clarice)

While carrying a box of shipments in the back Clarice heard their footsteps and welcomed them.

「Mornin’」(Borudosu)

「Good morning」(Kousuke)

「Long time no see Kousuke. You know you made Onee-san sad by not visiting for so long ya know?」(Clarice) 【TL: Not a real older sister~】

「Uh.. er.. I’m sorry for not dropping by」(Kousuke)

「Why are you apologizing? She’s not the type to get depressed over something like this, she’s just messing with you」(Borudosu)

「I’m a person with feelings too you know? Especially when I can’t see you Borudosu」(Clarice)

While her eyes burned with fiery pa.s.sionate desire she prods Borudosu’s chest with her finger.

「Your store’s been busy right? There’s no way you had the time keep anyone in mind with “That” kind of feeling」(Borudosu)

Borudosu laughed as he smoothly denied her words.

Clarice’s pa.s.sion was immediately dampened seeing his reaction. Kousuke noticed her becoming depressed, but Borudosu was completely oblivious to it.

「Is it possibly that he’s.. just dense?」(Kousuke)

Clarice’s ears perked up as she caught Kousuke’s muttering. Clarice, in a low whisper, voiced her complaints to him.

「You noticed? Seriously, this guy just doesn’t realize how we feel about him」(Clarice)

「We? There are others that go through the same thing as you do?」(Kousuke)

「Yup. I know there’s one more person. She’s an adventurer and has more contact with him compared to me but despite that he still hasn’t noticed」(Clarice)

「Umm.. I’m sure he’ll notice both of your feelings one day. If push comes to shove why not just push him down?」(Kousuke) 【TL: Oh my… Kou-chan… das hawt】

「That’s the absolute last resort. When I can’t hold it in anymore I planned to get the other girl and push him down together. I promised to not grab a head start」(Clarice)

「What are you two whispering about?」(Borudosu) 【TL: About you, you idiot】

「Nothing important. Just some small complaints」(Clarice)

「Complaints? Do you want me to help you with them? You’ve always taken care of me these days so don’t hold back!」(Borudosu) 【TL: Once again, it’s you, you idiot】

Kousuke sighed『This guy… seriously』

「If the opportunity arises. Anyways, what brings you two to my store?」(Clarice)

Clarice pulled herself together and took up a professional att.i.tude.

「I’m here to get my armor repaired. Kousuke needs his sword repaired.」(Borudosu)

Borudosu places the armor he brought onto the counter.

Clarice began a simple inspection of the armor on the counter and finished quickly.

「I can get this fixed by the end of the day」(Clarice)

「As usual, you work really fast, thank you」(Borudosu)

「It’s not like I get overloaded with work. Next is Kousuke’s sword, can you show me?」(Clarice)

Clarice frowned deeply as she saw the sword’s condition.

She inspected it from various angles then sighed.

「This one was abused pretty badly. Next time don’t wait for your equipment become like this!」(Clarice)

「I didn’t really wait.. It became like this from yesterday’s battle」(Kousuke)

「This is a pretty st.u.r.dy sword you know? It’s impossible to get this damaged in just one day」(Clarice)

「No, no, it’s not impossible. He apparently sliced apart a Violent Barb with it. If it’s that it’s more plausible right?」(Borudosu)

Clarice’s expression became serious hearing that.

「He didn’t just fight it, but also sliced it apart?」(Clarice)

「You were able to with that sword right Kousuke?」(Borudosu)

Kousuke nodded at the question.

Even Borudosu, who’s not a blacksmith, can easily tell that the sword wouldn’t get like that if it’s just fighting a Violent Barb.

「a.s.suming that then…」(Clarice)

Clarice swung the sword lightly as she went into deep thought. She stopped inspecting the sword after a few more swings.

「You were able to cut it using brute force right? If you’re that reckless then it makes sense why the sword is so damaged. This sword wasn’t designed to combat that kind of monster after all」(Clarice)

Even with her years of experience as a blacksmith this was the first time she saw something like this. Despite that, as a professional blacksmith, she managed to correctly guess the reason.

Clarice praised the sword inwardly for not breaking despite what it went through.

「It’ll take four days to repair the sword. It’s a bit out of my hand so I’ll ask my father」(Clarice)

「How much will this cost?」(Kousuke)

「In silver coins… Around six」(Clarice)

Hearing that the repair cost is more than half the sword’s original price made Kousuke understand just how reckless he was with it.

He handed over six silver coins to Clarice from the pouch he received yesterday.

「Thank you for your business!」(Clarice)

「That’s all I needed for today so I’ll head back now. I’ll come retrieve it in four days」(Kousuke)

「One second, listen to one of my advice before you go」(Clarice)

Kousuke tried to quickly leave so he wouldn’t become a third wheel between Clarice and Borudosu, but was stopped.

「You swung this sword with the intent to smash which is why it’s like this now. If you can shift that intent into slicing or cutting then it wouldn’t have become like this」(Clarice)

「So I should focus on how I swing my sword from now on, is that it?」(Kousuke)

「It depends, there may be times where it’s more effective if you swing it like before. It’s not like it’s a bad thing to focus on, it may keep your equipment from breaking quickly」(Clarice)

Her statement was definitely trying to debunk the swordsmanship training Kousuke received from Borudosu, but it made some sense seeing the results.

「I’ll try to be careful from now on」(Kousuke)

This time, Kousuke was able to leave the store.

While Borudosu was trying to guess as to why Kousuke left so quickly, Clarice understood that he left to give her some time alone with Borudosu.

「I came with him since I was hoping I could find an armor for him」(Borudosu)

「I don’t think that’ll be necessary」(Clarice)

「Why not? Don’t you remember he was asking you questions about armor when I first brought him?」(Borudosu)

「That boy’s jacket isn’t something the cheap armors here can compare with」(Clarice)

「Is that the case?」(Borudosu)

「Yes. That jacket was made with “Silma’s Cloth”. It’s extremely durable and has high resistance towards slashing and piercing attacks and it’s pretty much fire-proof. It’s priceless. Well, it might prevent the burning but heat will still pa.s.s through and it won’t absorb impact based attacks. Still, if you try to buy it be ready to spend at least three gold coins」(Clarice)

「I guess he managed to get some proper armor anyways」(Borudosu)

If Kousuke heard this conversation he would have dashed over to Wei’s place to return the jacket. It was obvious he had no idea the subst.i.tute reward he was given was extremely precious.

It would be a while until Kousuke realizes that the jacket he originally thought was just a bit st.u.r.dier than other jackets was actually a truly amazing thing.

The sword took five days to repair and the day of his departure arrived.

During those five days Kousuke was doing some agriculture and carpentry work to learn the various basics about them. He felt that those basics would be useful when he returned to Alice’s place.

He learned how to till the field, cultivate and gather crops, and perform some minor home repairs. Since he would basically be a freeloader he wanted to avoid becoming a good-for-nothing.

The other things he did were retrieving the repaired sword, buying some farming tools and visiting the guild. The reason for visiting the guild was to inform them he will not be able to accept any personal requests since he would be leaving the town.

When he visited the guild a lot of people approached him. It was because an adventurer overheard how Kousuke defeated a Violent Barb when Guts was providing a guild staff the request report. Soon after, news about it spread to everyone. A few were skeptical about it but most believed it. This was thanks to the fact that many knew Rayc.o.k and his party members weren’t liars.

Back at the inn, while carrying his previous luggage and the newly purchased supplies, Kousuke, Borudosu and Shidi were chatting.

「So it’s already been a month」(Shidi)

「Thank you for the hospitality」(Kousuke)

「You’re a customer, of course I as an employee would take care of you. H

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