Kays Translations
Just another Isekai Lover~
Chapter 420: Shadow of the Organization
The day after the drug workshop was raided, Tauro received a report from Count Graunewald in a room of the territorial castle—his new family home.
“Thanks to you, we seized a facility that was preparing to distribute a dangerous drug throughout the capital. You prevented a serious disaster.”
“It was mostly chance that led us there, but I’m glad we noticed it in time.”
“Unfortunately, Grado’s interrogation suggests that the problem is more deeply rooted than we first believed.”
“Deeply rooted?”
Tauro’s expression hardened at the count’s grave tone.
“The organization appears to have collaborators inside the Adventurers’ Guild, among territorial officials, and even within the territorial forces. Several suspects have already been identified and detained. Some of the guild members were apparently arrested during the recent branch reforms.”
Tauro immediately thought of the widespread inspections triggered by the corruption exposed in Caxart. He said nothing, allowing the count to continue.
“The underground sewer system is one of the capital’s newest public works. For concealed entrances to have been incorporated into it, someone under my authority must have arranged them during construction.”
“When was the sewer system built?”
The facility was advanced enough that even the Royal Capital lacked an equivalent. The construction records might therefore narrow down who had possessed the necessary authority and access.
“It was one of the first policies I began after inheriting the title. The entire project took approximately ten years to complete.”
“That reaches quite far into the past. If we examine the original plans, contractors, supervisors, and officials involved, we may be able to identify the organization behind this.”
“Agreed. Someone, bring me every surviving record related to the sewer project.”
A servant immediately left to gather the documents.
“That should begin the investigation. What are you planning to do today, Tauro?”
“We intend to look for another quest at the Adventurers’ Guild. There’s still about a month before the unveiling.”
“I see. Be careful. Trouble seems to appear wherever you go.”
Count Graunewald’s warning was half serious and half teasing. Tauro didn’t actually invite disaster; he simply noticed irregularities that most people overlooked. To anyone unfamiliar with him, however, the distinction might not have been obvious.
“Hahaha. I possess [Great Fortune], so I’m sure everything will work out.”
Even Tauro often forgot about the upgraded fortune ability. Its influence felt natural rather than dramatic, making it difficult for him to recognize when it was helping him.
After speaking with his adoptive father, Tauro joined the others and went to the Adventurers’ Guild.
A receptionist noticed the party as soon as they entered.
“Black-Gold Wings! I’ve been waiting for you. A nominated request has arrived.”
“A nominated request?”
The party had only recently begun operating in the territorial capital, so none of them had expected to be requested by name.
“Yes. It comes from Maine Village.”
The receptionist handed Tauro the request form.
Maine Village… Was that one of the settlements on Garde-san’s delivery route?
Tauro remembered stopping there, although nothing about it had stood out at the time.
“They want us to teach the villagers how to fight?”
The unusual request made him look up for confirmation.
“That’s correct. Maine Village has no notable specialty, and its chief wants the residents to acquire useful skills that may eventually provide another source of income. After seeing two young members of your party working as capable adventurers, he decided that combat training should be their starting point.”
The receptionist explained that the chief had been inspired by Tauro and Zion.
“I understand why he thought of us, but this isn’t something only we can teach. What do all of you think?”
Tauro wasn’t enthusiastic. Martial skill couldn’t be mastered in a few days, and the request allowed only one week.
“Leader, they specifically nominated us. If seeing our party inspired them, I think we should accept.”
Ankh was unexpectedly eager.
“If the villagers are truly willing to train, I have no reason to refuse either.”
Ragune agreed.
“I’ll follow Tauro-sama’s decision!”
Zion, as usual, entrusted the choice to him.
“Very well. Since they asked for us personally, refusing without even trying would feel wrong. Building relationships throughout the territory may also help us as adventurers. We’ll accept.”
“Really? Thank goodness! They already paid seventy percent of the reward in advance, so the guild would’ve had a serious problem if you refused.”
The receptionist immediately began processing the request.
Seventy percent in advance? They’re putting an extraordinary amount of effort into this…
Tauro’s recent near-death experience with [Creation Magic] had made him more cautious than before. Still, perhaps accepting this apparently harmless request was another quiet effect of [Great Fortune]. With that thought, he set his unease aside.