Month of Ostara, Whitepale Mansion

  Another morning in Aerium. Though everything changes from today onward.

  I live in my own house now, with my new family.

  Knock knock knock.

  "Good morning, Master Yuki. I've brought your breakfast."

  She's still awkward around me, still clinging to those honorifics like a shield.

  "Yes, come in."

  "E-excuse me..."

  Kriieek...

  Her nervousness makes even the door sound ominous, like something from a horror tale.

  "Pardon me, s-sir."

  "Easy." I keep my voice gentle. "You're family now. You can enter my room whenever you need to."

  "N-no, sir. That would be... inappropriate."

  I sigh. One step at a time, then.

  "Alright, we'll set that aside for now. Get yourself ready—we're going out."

  "Wh-where to, sir?"

  "The Adventurer's Guild."

  Her eyes widen. "I'll... I'll prepare immediately."

  "Wait." I stop her before she reaches the door. "Do you have a name?"

  The lioness freezes, her hand still on the doorframe. For a long moment, she says nothing.

  "No... I forgot my name long ago. There's no use for names in my situation."

  She stares past me, lost in memories I can't see. There's no sadness in her expression, no regret—only a hollow acceptance that makes my chest tighten.

  "As long as I survive, anything is fine..."

  "That's the problem."

  "...Names?"

  "That emptiness in your eyes is the problem. It'll be a liability when you become an Adventurer. And we need something better than 'you' or 'slave.'"

  "Wha—what do you mean, sir?"

  "Exactly what I said. We're registering you at the Guild."

  "M-Master..."

  "I'll give you a name then." I study her—muscular build, physical talent, strong-willed despite everything, yet still carrying that softer edge. "How about... Rhea?"

  When Yuki decides by himself, the lioness looks troubled. In her homeland, names are sacred gifts, especially from someone strong and worthy of respect.

  The name hangs in the air between us.

  "...R-Rhea..." She whispers it like a prayer, her cheeks flushing.

  "Well? From this moment forward, as long as you're with me, you're Rhea. How does that sound?"

  She nods, silent, eyes glistening.

  "Good. Get ready. We leave in a few minutes."

  Another nod. Only later does she realize what she's actually agreed to.

  "M-Master, are you serious? Am I really going to be an Adventurer?"

  "Of course. Depends on your capabilities, though."

  "That's not what I meant."

  "Then what?"

  "You know... my situation. Being a slave. Being a beastman."

  I slow my pace so she can hear me clearly, dropping my voice.

  "Regarding the slave matter, Mrs. Rinne assured me she'd support us. And I have... special connections with the Guild."

  Rhea falls silent, facing forward as we walk. She knows this will only burden me later. The weight of that knowledge sits heavy on her shoulders.

  "Besides, no one will object as long as you're strong and capable."

  "But—"

  She can't hold it back anymore. This isn't about strength—she has plenty of that. She's tasted despair even when surrounded by power.

  "And about the beastman issue—you're just inexperienced with the wider world. See for yourself what you missed while trapped in that chamber."

  The Guild appears before us almost too quickly.

  "Let's go in, Rhea."

  Kreeek.

  Inside, Rhea's eyes dart everywhere. So many people, all absorbed in their own business.

  Then she sees it—different races, supposedly sworn enemies according to rumor, chatting like old friends. Some are even forming parties, discussing strategies with genuine cooperation in their voices.

  Her breath catches.

  "What do you see, Rhea?"

  "It's... amazing..."

  She stares like someone witnessing their first sunrise after years in darkness.

  "Ah! Mr. Yuukiii~! What brings you here?"

  A familiar voice rings out from the receptionist area. Every adventurer in line simultaneously turns to see who caught Emily's attention.

  "Actually, I need some advice. When are you free?"

  "Hoho, what do you mean 'when'? I told you—ask me anytime! Just give me one moment, Mr. Yuki~"

  Emily immediately passes her work to another staff member, issuing quick instructions.

  Though she's not technically a receptionist, every adventurer watches Yuki with thinly veiled envy. The newbie has all of Emily's attention and priority.

  Their stares drill into my back. I can feel the judgment.

  "Pardon me, seniors." I bow slightly, offering an apology.

  "Hm? What are you apologizing for, Mr. Yuki?" Emily's gaze sweeps over the senior adventurers, her words carrying absolute authority. "I don't see anyone here who deserves such an apology. Do you?"

  Every head snaps forward like nothing happened.

  "I see. If you say so."

  "Then let's proceed! We'll use the usual room~"

  "Come on, Rhea."

  "Y-yes, Master."

  Emily leads us toward the special room with barely contained excitement while Rhea hesitates, wondering if she truly deserves such treatment.

  "So what brings you here this time, Yuki? Oh, and who's this?"

  Emily's voice vibrates with anticipation, like she can barely keep still.

  "She's actually the reason I'm here. A companion from that shop you mentioned."

  "Ah, so she is..."

  Rhea senses Emily's sympathy and looks down—she expected this her entire life. It doesn't bother her anymore. Except when Yuki speaks.

  "Yes. My family, as of now."

  The words strike something deep in Rhea's chest.

  "Mm-hm, yes indeed. Family." Emily's smile brightens like someone turned up a lantern. "So what can I do for you?"

  "Can I register her as an Adventurer? I already consulted with Mrs. Rinne. She said there'd be some complications, but it's doable."

  "Oh yes, she's absolutely right. Don't worry about it—please rely on us, Yuki. We'll handle this fairly."

  "I'm grateful you're accepting this favor."

  "Haha, it's nothing major. After all, that's our job."

  A knock interrupts us.

  "Excuse me, Madam. The Guildmaster is looking for Mr. Yuki and is on his way here."

  "Understood. Tell him he can enter immediately."

  "Yes, Madam."

  "What does he want so suddenly?"

  "Haha, that's just how he is, Yuki. Always jumping into action. Get used to it."

  "I see."

  "Here he comes."

  "Yoo, Yuki! Oh, Emily—finished with your business?"

  "My, how polite of you today, Guildmaster. That's rare."

  "E-Emily...! Shhh!"

  "Ooh, so that's how you've been behaving? Sounds like you need more etiquette lessons."

  "Oh my, Lady Saintess! There you are. I see why he's on his best behavior, hoho."

  "Yes, I didn't know he was still the same as back then. By the way, it's been too long, Emily."

  "Indeed, my lady. We should talk more sometime soon. For now, please, take your time, Lady Saintess."

  "Thank you. Sharp as ever, Emily."

  "Wait, before you go—who is she?"

  "Ah, you'll know soon enough, Guildmaster. Excuse us."

  Baam.

  Emily closes the door, leaving with Rhea to continue the registration process. Silence fills the special room.

  "Sigh. Seems I can never win against you women."

  "Hohoho, of course not. We're stronger than any mere Guildmaster, you know."

  A mere Guildmaster, she says.

  "But that's not the main issue right now, is it?"

  "Ugh... right. Boy, I'll cut straight to it. Since I recognized your potential from day one, I've pulled considerable strings to get the highest authority to assess you. I did this to ensure you have the right path forward. So please—be grateful and cooperative."

  He's dancing around the real reason, but I already expected this.

  Yuki maintains his calm expression.

  "So here's the Saintess of the Shrine, also known as the Identifier—Yuna Eirias."

  #Basic Name: Yuna Eirias (Female) Race: Human Age: 26 Job: Priest lv.65 Title: The Identifier Class: Saintess of Shrine Currency: 30 silver Storage: Pocket bag

  "If possible, please don't call me 'Identifier.' It makes us sound like mere tools."

  "Haha, I think it's a cool title."

  "Sir Herald..." Her tone carries a warning edge.

  "Haha... as you wish, Madam. Please continue."

  "Thank you. Now then, Sir Yuki, correct?"

  "Correct, ma'am."

  "Oh, really, just call me Miss."

  "Yes, Miss Yuna."

  "I've heard about you from Sir Herald. You harvested several mid-rank monsters on your first day, cleared numerous low-rank quests on your second, and hunted the Lone Calden solo."

  "More or less, yes."

  "Relax, Mr. Yuki. Sir Herald called me purely out of curiosity about your potential. He desperately hopes you'll become the Guild's rising star."

  This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.

  "Ahem! I believe there are more urgent matters at hand."

  "See how he's blushing?"

  "Ugh... please, Madam."

  "With that in mind, please let me examine your plate, Mr. Yuki. Whatever secrets you wish to keep will remain between us."

  She sounds delicate and caring, but she's actually cornering me with friendly words, the Guildmaster her accomplice.

  Well, I expected this—just sooner than anticipated. Let me test my abilities against hers first.

  "Certainly. I see no problem, Miss Yuna."

  "Hehe, I knew you'd be cooperative, Yuki. After all, you're my buddy's son."

  "Thank you for your cooperation, Yuki. I think we'll become much closer after this."

  "W-wait. Don't be reckless, Madam. Remember your position as Saintess."

  "Hoho, I don't want to hear complaints right now~ I need to focus, you know~"

  "Grrh... sigh. Alright. Let's finish this assessment."

  "Agreed~ Now let me begin, Mr. Yuki."

  Zooooom...

  The Saintess holds the pedestal. It shines with brilliant light.

  #Basic Name: Yuzuki Yatoshu (Male) Race: Human Age: 18 Job: Warrior lv.55 Rank: A-rank adventurer Title: - Class: None Currency: 14 gold, 27 silver, 22 copper Storage: Item pouch

  #Stats Health: 6000 Stamina: 6400 Arcana: 2000 Strength: 730 Wisdom: 300 Vitality: 680 Agility: 570 Dexterity: 250

  #Abilities Unique magic: - Unique passive: - Unique ability: -

  #Magic: Space magic lv.10 Fire offense lv.7 Water offense lv.7 Wind offense lv.10 Earth offense lv.10 Wind creation lv.8 Earth creation lv.8

  #Battle: Combat tech lv.10 Sword tech lv.10 Throwing tech lv.10 Stealth tech lv.10

  #Passive: Presence detect lv.10 Magic detect lv.10 Auto heal lv.10

  #Knowledge/Skill: Survival tact lv.10 Smithing lv.1

  "Kyaaaa~!" Yuna gasps.

  Not again...

  "W-what's wrong, Madam? Something the matter?"

  "N-no, it's just his stats... actually, yes. Something's strange..."

  "Strange? What do you mean?"

  "Look for yourself."

  The Saintess shows Yuki's stats plate to the Guildmaster.

  I hope this old man won't cry like the Saint—

  "Gyyaaa~!"

  Too late. That sound is absolutely disgusting.

  "Your moan doesn't suit your appearance, old man."

  "A-ahem! I apologize for my... inappropriate reaction."

  "No, that was genuinely disgusting. Look at Yuki's face."

  Yeah, I accidentally let my disgust show.

  "Ugh! Not you too, boy! But what in the world happened with these stats?!"

  He changes the subject. (Both Yuki and Yuna think simultaneously)

  "Ehem. He's right, Mr. Yuki. Despite your level being below the average for A-rank, your stats exceed most A-rankers by a significant margin."

  Really? But my achievements already qualify me for A-rank according to Miss Emily. The promotion should go smoothly then.

  "Don't know. Training and quests, I guess?"

  "That's it? You're one hell of a diligent worker then."

  "No, while possible, your plate is... abnormal."

  "How so, Madam?"

  "Here, in the unique abilities section. If you don't have any, these categories shouldn't appear at all. In your case, the section exists, but the list is empty."

  As a Saintess, she must be speaking from experience. I don't think my disguise will be discovered immediately, so there's no point hiding it any longer.

  "What are you implying, Madam?"

  "What I mean is—what truly are you, Mr. Yuki?"

  "Sigh."

  "Boy? What does she mean?"

  "She's asking whether he's like the summoned heroes or a supreme being, Guildmaster."

  "What?! Is this true, boy? You wouldn't let her suspect you of—"

  "It's similar, but not quite the same, Miss Yuna."

  "W-what?" Herald stammers.

  "Fufu... which one is it?" Yuna's eyes gleam with curiosity.

  "Fuuhh... Alright, I'll be honest. But please—keep this secret between us. Can you both do that?"

  "I see no problem."

  "Alright, boy. Me too."

  "Actually... I was borrowed from another world by Guardian Freya."

  "H-huh?!"

  "Hmm... I didn't expect that."

  "I first arrived at Willow's Creep. Explored the forest for a while, then met Mr. Duran on the road to this city."

  "I see. That explains your unusual hunts."

  "Is this truly the truth, Mr. Yuki?"

  "You can check my stats again if you'd like."

  "Huh? Stats plates don't change much even for special individuals."

  "Will you really not check again?"

  "I suppose you're just inexperienced and acting overconfident. Since you're a good boy, I'll just—!!!"

  Her words die in her throat.

  "Madam? What's wrong?!"

  "Is this... even possible?"

  "What is it, Madam?!"

  The Saintess can't speak. She simply points at Yuki's plate with a trembling finger.

  #Basic Name: Yuzuki Yatoshu (Male) Race: Human Age: 18 Job: Warrior lv.55 Rank: A-rank adventurer Title: - [Divine title: Agent of Freya (detail)] Class: None Currency: 14 gold, 27 silver, 22 copper Storage: Item pouch

  #Abilities Unique magic: Void magic Unique passive: Void matter Unique ability: Ultra learn

  "Y-you're right, Madam. He has unique abilities."

  "That's not the main issue, Sir Herald! Look at this title!"

  "D-Divine title? Agent of Freya? You mean the Guardian Freya?!"

  "And it has detailed information. Should we... look?"

  "Is it alright, boy?"

  "It's fine. I've decided to trust you both."

  "Oh my, thank you, Yuki~"

  "Alright, here we go."

  The Saintess carefully clicks the detail section with shaking hands.

  Klik!

  The expanded information appears before them.

  Divine Title: Agent of Freya

  To all my followers, especially to my Saintess:

  Here before you stands my agent, borrowed from another dimension.

  I have asked him to help develop and restore my world, Aerium. Though I grant him authority to act, I watch over him always. Please cooperate with him and do not trouble him unnecessarily—I care for you all deeply.

  Remember: he is my responsibility.

  Your loving Guardian, Freya

  ..........

  ...............

  ..................

  "KKYAAAAA~!!"

  Both the Saintess and Guildmaster cry out in shock. This time with the old man's disgusting yell included.

  I didn't expect this to happen again.

  Suddenly, Herald and Yuna drop to their knees and bow before Yuki, trembling.

  "M-Mr. Yuki, please forgive me if I showed even the slightest disrespect!"

  "Sir Yuki, please call on me if anything—anything—happens within my authority. You can contact me directly!"

  Their previous behavior wasn't bad, but now they've gone to the complete opposite extreme.

  "Please, don't worry about it. I'm just here at Guardian Freya's request. And of course, I have some personal interests as well."

  "May I know the specific help she's requested of you, Sir Yuki?" Yuna asks carefully.

  "Haahh... just call me Yuki like before. After all, I'm your junior."

  "Well, if you insist, boy. But I'm curious about your mission too, Yuki." Herald leans forward.

  "It's similar to the heroes' task—eliminating evil arcana."

  "Evil... arcana? You mean demons?"

  "Not exactly. It's not the same Demon King fated to be defeated by the heroes."

  "Then what? Can you explain more simply?"

  "This knowledge comes from Miss Freya herself, so please don't be too surprised when you hear it. Alright?"

  "M-Miss???" Both Herald and Yuna echo in shock.

  "A-alright, boy. I'm listening." Herald steadies himself.

  "I'm ready too." Yuna braces herself.

  The room fills with heavy silence. Herald and Yuna prepare for another shock while Yuki organizes his thoughts.

  "Actually... the demon race doesn't exist in this world."

  "W-what?!" Herald jolts.

  "Then what do you call the savage beings that constantly destroy regions across the world?" Yuna demands.

  "Yes, the first Saintess of the Shrine mentioned them throughout recorded history." Herald adds.

  "I know. I have the knowledge Guardian Freya gave me. But that doesn't change the truth she revealed."

  "I... suppose you're right..."

  "Sorry, boy. It's just too shocking, even for us."

  "That's why I warned you first."

  "Ugh... you did..."

  "So what exactly are they, Yuki?"

  "Listen carefully before asking questions."

  Herald and Yuna swallow hard, anxiety building as they prepare to hear the truth of history.

  "They are beings consumed by evil arcana. Miss Freya explained that evil arcana—or as she calls it, rotting arcana—is accumulated natural arcana that remains unused, lingering idly. The dangerous part is that arcana used with evil intentions also becomes rotting arcana. That's my sole mission in Aerium."

  "So you're saying natural arcana, even when used for evil deeds, becomes this rotting arcana and causes the appearance of 'demons'?" Herald's voice sharpens with understanding.

  "Exactly. And the term 'demon' mentioned in history is actually just a classification used by the first Saintess. The truth is, demons existed in our world with similar behavior to these beings. I assume that's why the first Saintess called them demons."

  "Now everything makes sense—especially considering the first Saintess was a summoned hero like the others." Yuna's eyes widen with realization.

  "Yes, precisely." I nod.

  "If this is the truth, then our countermeasures need complete revision. The priority isn't just preventing the Demon King's revival anymore." Herald's expression turns grave.

  "Indeed. And I have a feeling there are far more dangerous enemies than the Demon King we know." Yuna's voice drops to barely above a whisper.

  "Alright, Rhea. This is the last step—just sign the contract here and you'll receive your card." Emily smiles encouragingly.

  "Um... but how do I sign it? I've never..."

  Rhea's voice trembles with uncertainty.

  "Oh my, calm down, Rhea. I can teach you quickly. Madam, could I get some blank paper?"

  "Of course, here. And Miss Rhea, you can always ask us questions like this in the future." Emily's voice carries genuine warmth.

  "Yup, that's the example. Now you try." Seilyn finishes her sample signature for Rhea.

  "Y-yes!" Rhea responds, her awkwardness showing.

  While Yuki discusses rotting arcana, Emily processes Rhea's registration. Meanwhile, Dawgian's party passes by and asks about Rhea. Seilyn and Myrian stay to keep her company. Some people who've met Yuki also welcome Rhea's registration.

  "Haha, you're so sweet, Rhea. Don't be so reserved around us. We're all adventurers here." Seilyn grins.

  "Yep, yep! We adventurers help each other. Especially with stuff that doesn't involve money, haha—ugh!!"

  Myrian gets smacked on the head mid-sentence by Seilyn.

  "Please, dear Myrian. I'm trying to build a good impression here. Don't ruin my efforts."

  "Ugh! Efforts, my ass. She'll figure it out soon anyway. Why hide it?"

  "Gahaha! Good choice of words, little lady!" Some veteran adventurers respond to Myrian's yell from across the room.

  "Right, old man? Haha" Myrian grins back.

  The atmosphere inside the Guild is generally rowdy but peaceful. Still, some adventurers enjoy making real trouble.

  "Hah! Good impression of us? What are you even talking about?"

  The moment they step inside, the surrounding adventurers grow alert and agitated, watching them closely—like they're watching trash standing arrogantly and shamelessly.

  "Yeah! Go to the church if you want a good image!"

  They're known thugs with terrible reputations around the city—the Roaring Beast party. They barely scraped into B-rank with two B-rankers and one C-ranker.

  "Hahaha, good one!"

  "Hahahaha!"

  Unfortunately, despite being trash who use dirty tactics, their capabilities are acknowledged by the Guild.

  On the other hand, Dawgian's party—the Travellers—has fallen behind, though many experts once had high expectations due to their early rapid growth.

  "Oh, by the way, who's this cutie here?"

  Seilyn and Myrian instantly block the path to Rhea. Even Emily shows clear agitation—not intimidation yet, but close.

  "Hey! What are you doing that for?!"

  "That's so rude! We just want to get to know her as seniors, right?"

  "Haha, inde—"

  "What's happening here?"

  "Leader." Seilyn gives Dawgian a significant nod.

  When Dawgian and Ranngarf catch the signal, they immediately regroup with their party.

  "Oh, it's Dawgian's party, brother. Those two girls look familiar."

  "Yeah, 'familiar.' Though I almost forgot those faces. But... what's the meaning of this, Dawgian? After all this time?"

  "Come on, we're friends at the same rank, right? Oh, I see—you're that scared now that I'm B-rank, one level higher than you, huh?!"

  "Hahaha, of course, brother! He must be devastated that you're B-rank while he's still struggling!"

  "You're right! Sorry, my little junior! Didn't consider your feelings at all, haha!"

  "But still—explain your attitude right now! Junior!"

  "Speak up, mute! Our leader asked you a question!"

  Dawgian and his party grit their teeth, preparing for what comes next. They don't anticipate what happens seconds later.

  "What do you want from me?"

  Rhea steps forward, speaking up for Dawgian's party. She knows she's the real target.

  "Gehe! Smirk. What a brave little girl we have here."

  "Ooh, brother, look at her! Seems she's a slave from that collar."

  "Hoho, you're right. How dare a mere slave become an adventurer like us?"

  "I don't think it's your privilege to judge anyone's value."

  Emily can't contain her fury any longer.

  "Hah?! Who's the—!"

  "And if I remember correctly, your party just became B-rank. Already this arrogant? How shameless."

  In a heartbeat, she releases her murderous aura—cold as winter snow.

  "M-Madam?! S-sorry, I didn't know you were here!"

  "So what? You'd change that attitude only if you knew I was here? How ridiculous!"

  Emily continues her deadly glare, giving the thugs no chance to compose themselves.

  "Please, Madam. You don't need to respond to such meaningless talk."

  Despite the pressure from Emily, the thug leader can't tolerate humiliation from Rhea's words.

  "Heh! What do we have here?! Little cute slave dares to register as an adventurer, then speaks up against a B-ranker like me?! Let's see who your master is!"

  When the thug launches his strike at Rhea, a massive suppressing arcana in the form of a specter suddenly appears before her, blocking the attack.

  "Ugh... what is this?!"

  "B-brother, I think it's that protection mechanism rumored around the city!"

  The thug leader immediately retreats to calm himself.

  "Shit! Why didn't you tell me sooner?!"

  "Haha! So our 'seniors' don't even know current city trends?"

  Dawgian smirks, openly mocking the thugs.

  "I guess we need to change methods. See here? This is our specialist sage! Take them down!"

  The third thug stays quiet, but his magical ability is formidable for a C-ranker.

  The evidence appears in the massive fireball he summons.

  "Gahaha! Burn to ash, you assholes!"

  Their arrogance clouds their judgment completely. They don't consider the specter's true power.

  "Uuaaaghh, brother!!"

  "What is that barrier?!"

  "Impossible! Magic like that blocked by a simple barrier?!"

  The specter's barrier completely blocks the fireball, causing a shockwave with minimal damage to the surroundings.

  When the smoke clears, someone stands before Rhea. Some spectators expected this sight—but not the thugs.

  "Yuki!" Dawgian calls out.

  "Mr. Yuki!" Emily's voice rings with relief.

  "Haahh, thank the gods..." Myrian exhales.

  "Fufu, you're so cool, Yuki~" Seilyn teases.

  "Hah! That's the man I know!" Ranngarf cheers.

  "What did they do?" Yuki's voice is calm but carries an edge of danger.

  "They tried to ridicule Dawgian's party, then switched their target to Rhea, Yuki." Emily explains quickly.

  "Haha! So what if I did? It's a senior's duty to give guidance to juniors. And who are you anyway?! How dare you interrupt our conversation!"

  "I'm her family and companion. Who are you to give me orders regarding her?" Yuki states it simply, factually.

  "Hah! You must be that newbie who got the Guildmaster's favor! You know that little slave of yours just caused a disturbance, don't you?"

  "No! They attacked her first, despite her enduring their ridicule silently from the start!" Emily firmly takes Rhea's side.

  "Everyone here witnessed it!"

  "Tsk! You're playing favorites, Madam!"

  "Who do you think you're talking to? You're not even qualified to be my acquaintance as the Guild's assistant." Emily's voice turns to ice.

  "Uuggh!"

  The thug bites his tongue, knowing he's only a freshly promoted B-ranker.

  "My sister here did nothing wrong to provoke such aggression. I'll leave this to Guild law, Miss Emily."

  "Yes, Mr. Yuki. I'll make sure they face appropriate consequences!" Emily grins with wicked intent.

  "Kkuh! Don't you dare run away, brat!"

  The thug leader suddenly lunges at Yuki, daggers aimed at his chest.

  It's painfully slow to Yuki's eyes. He knows someone with authority will intervene, so he simply prepares to dodge—and finish the fight if they're late by even a few seconds.

  "DROP YOUR ARROGANCE, RIGHT NOW!"

  When the Guildmaster and Saintess appear, every adventurer freezes as if bound by invisible magic.

  "G-Guildmaster?!"

  "Sorry for the disturbance!"

  The thugs shiver in fear at the Guildmaster's presence alone.

  "You know your mistakes?"

  "Y-yes, sir!!"

  All three nod simultaneously, as if standing in freezing snow.

  "So what punishment fits this? Hmm?"

  "We're sorry! We had a reason!"

  "No! They bullied Rhea, the newcomer, and summoned a carriage-sized fireball at us—despite knowing Guild staff and I were in that direction!"

  Emily coldly reports the necessary facts to the Guildmaster.

  "M-Madam! That's a misunderstanding!"

  "WHAT?! Now you doubt Emily's evaluation?!"

  "N-no, Guildmaster! We wouldn't dare!"

  "Then what?! What are you grumbling about?!"

  "I can't let it slide—how dare such a newbie challenge a senior like me?! And I doubt with my own eyes if he deserves that rank in such a short time!"

  The thug leader points accusingly at Yuki, questioning his rapid promotion.

  "So what? Are you suspecting something about the Guild?!"

  "No, Guildmaster! I wouldn't dare doubt your decision, but you should respect the efforts of seniors like us! We spent years getting promoted to B-rank! So I have an urge to witness his true capability!"

  "Don't beat around the bush—you know I hate that! Just say what you want!"

  "Y-yes! I want a duel with him! A duel arranged by ourselves to prove his capability as a B-ranker!"

  Hearing the shameless request, Herald simply sighs. Though it's thrilling for the adventurers present.

  "How about you, boy? Feel like taking up their challenge?"

  "Sounds good to me."

  "Sigh."

  "Alright. Since both sides agree, we'll hold an official duel in three days between Yuki's party and the Roaring Beast party."

  "Heh! Better prepare to die, brat!"

  "Hahaha! Hope you won't run away out of fear!"

  Yuki responds to their trash talk with a confident, almost mocking expression. Even without words, the hoodlums understand perfectly—and it enrages them.

  "Enough. This matter is settled for now. Disperse!"

  "Tsk!"

  "Just wait, you bastard!"

  The hoodlums finally leave. Other adventurers disperse with excitement for the upcoming duel.

  Later, the Saintess excuses herself since her business is finished, though her enthusiasm for the duel is obvious. The Guildmaster can't prevent her from attending.

  "Alright, boy. I'll excuse myself now. Lots of work waiting."

  "Yes, old man. I'll be on my way too."

  "Yeah, but be really careful before the duel. They're infamous for their dirty tricks on the streets."

  "Don't worry. I've dealt with similar people before."

  "Yes, yes. I'm leaving first, Mr. Agent."

  "Hmph. On your way, old man."

  After the Guildmaster leaves, Yuki approaches Emily to collect Rhea's card.

  "Yes, it's ready, Mr. Yuki. Rhea is now officially an adventurer of the Brandish Blade Guild. Welcome to the adventurer's life, Miss Rhea."

  Emily hands the card to Yuki while smiling warmly at Rhea.

  "Here's your card."

  "Thank you, Master. And Madam Emily..."

  Rhea bows slightly, her voice thick with emotion as she fights back tears.

  But Yuki doesn't waste precious time and moves to his next plan.

  "Alright, let's finish our business here."

  "W-where are we going now, Master?"

  "Training, of course. Before the little game." Yuki says with a playful smile.

  - Fourth Objective: The Dream He Denies - CLEARED! -