Kays Translations

Chapter 13: Request for Rescue and Reunion

"It's turned into a mess. No, it's already a disaster."

Returning to the unexplored surface area where Rolo and Fimia waited, I told them about the 'Scarred Beast.'

Rolo praised me for not immediately attacking in that situation, but that wasn't the main concern. It's too dangerous to have such a monster roaming so close to the village.

"Jurg, let's calm down. Let's summarize the situation and come up with a plan of action."

"I get it...! But still."

"It's not like you. Even if you're upset, be more composed."

Being told firmly, I fell silent. However, Fimia was right. If I, who would likely be tasked with holding it off, were to become agitated, I wouldn't be able to protect anyone.

"But seriously, why is the 'Scarred Beast' in a place like this? It disappeared five years ago, right? The last sighting was at the foot of the Eldaan Mountains, and that's on the opposite side of the kingdom."

Rolo scratched his chin and groaned, lost in thought. Considering the fact that it's here, it is indeed unnatural. However, the creature known as Manticore, the human-faced lion, is a powerful monster that, in some countries, is even considered a 'divine messenger.' If it's an individual with so many years passed, it can understand human language and use magic. It might have come to this eastern border using those abilities.

"In any case, we need to report to the Guild quickly. The abnormal behavior of monsters might be caused by the 'Scarred Beast.'"

"That's true. When we get back, let's send a Letter Bird right away. After that, I'll head directly to the dairy city, Hilte, to inform them."

"You mean I don't have to go even though I saw it directly?"

In response to my words, Fimia shook her head.

"If, by any chance, something happens, the situation in Malhas could change based on whether you're there or not. And Rolo-san is the one who can use you most effectively. So, wouldn't I be the most suitable?"

"... You're right."

Moreover, Fimia holds the title of a 'saint,' officially recognized by the church. Even the Guild staff would be pressured by her. If we're lucky, we might even get support from the church. It's more realistic than me making a fuss about seeing the 'Scarred Beast.'

"Then, let's head to the village first. Rolo, please gently encourage the villagers to evacuate."

"Yeah, everyone understands the danger of the forest. I don't think they'll panic."

"Jurg, patrol in the same place as last night. It might be a good idea to hang the fresh hide of the Greyback bear as a warning to the monsters."

"The Saint is saying something scary."

"It's the wisdom of an adventurer."

Even so, the words of the priestess, the "Saint," seem overly shocking for someone of her position. Albert would probably foam at the mouth if he heard it. Well, I don't think of this woman as pure and innocent, so it doesn't bother me.

"Alright then, let's do that."

Both Rolo and Fimia nodded in response. We need to hurry; there's a high chance that it could be too late. After all, Manticore's etymology is 'beast that eats people.'

◆

Five days have passed since Fimia left the village. While leading a camping life and keeping watch over the unexplored area, Rolo came to fetch me.

"You're back?"

"Yeah, but..."

"Damn, this is why rural areas..."

Seeing Rolo avoiding eye contact with a frustrated expression, I understood the situation to some extent. In the first place, in such a backwater place, there shouldn't be the strength to deal with someone who requires a request from an advanced adventurer in Advante. However, judging from Rolo's appearance, it seems like that's not the only issue.

"That's not the only thing. Can you hear me out without getting angry?"

"Have I ever gotten angry at you?"

"A few times when we were kids."

"Enough about the past."

Let's set aside inconvenient things. What could be a story that would make me angry?

"Albert is here."

"What?"

More than being surprised, I was dumbfounded. Why would that ignorant, narcissistic good-for-nothing come to such a backwater place? Well, I understand. Just as Rolo followed Fimia, he must have chased after her.

"It's troublesome, but if he's here, Saran is probably here too, right?"

"Yeah, right now, he's thinking about post-meeting plans with Fimia."

"In that case, let's go straight to the point. I'll come too, for now."

With a sigh, I followed Rolo. If Albert doesn't interfere with anything, Saran will probably come up with a good plan.

...Or so I thought. But I was naïve.

"We should retreat immediately. There's a powerful Notorious Beast, right? We can't deal with it alone!"

Don't cry out loud as if your complaints can be heard outside. What a pathetic sight for the leader of a nationally chosen party.

"Hey, Albert. If you don't like it, you can leave."

Opening the door to the village chief's house, I declared in a somewhat menacing tone. The former leader, who turned around, screamed not at me but at Rolo.

"Rolo! It's because of you! Is this revenge for being expelled? Dragging Fimia around even to such a rural place! Do you know how worried I've been?"

"Hey, shut up. Seriously, what the hell did you come here for?"

Even though I hadn't mentioned Rolo's circumstances, this guy came here as if he knew everything. Really... I wonder why I was in a party with such a man. When we first met, he seemed a bit more decent.

"I came to bring back Fimia!"

"Have you finally lost your mind?"

"What did you say?"

Your tough act isn't intimidating at all. Anyway, Fimia followed Rolo. Let someone who interferes with others' love lives be kicked to death by a horse.

Luckily, there are quite a few horses in Malhas. Take your pick.

"So what? Saran, do you have a plan?"

Ignoring the fool, I called out to Saran, a former party member who was silently contemplating.

"It's been a while, Jurg-san. I just arrived. It’s isn't as simple as your fighting."

While grumbling, Saran continued to focus on the map of the unexplored area created by me and Rolo. Despite his complaints, this man, who always calmly assesses the situation, is likely to have some plan since he doesn't say, "It's impossible. Let's retreat."

"I still don't have enough information. Jurg-san, it's your job."

"Yeah, leave it to me."

Smirking, I responded to Saran, who pushed up his glasses with his finger.

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