Around eleven, Miriel and Bisha returned in Pioneer Number Two.
「Did the goblins make it into the cages Gorg built?」
「Yes. He said he’ll make two more before we get back.」
「Good. A fast worker is always welcome.」
We loaded the sleeping goblins into the trailer and had them head back with Mebi as well.
「Mishinie, Ladarion, it’s a bit early, but shall we have lunch?」
After eating and taking a short rest, we set out for the city. We were used to the road by now and had a decent sense of the area, so the trip went smoothly.
「There’s not much foot traffic.」
It made sense since there were a lot of people out in the fields, but it was still surprising enough to notice how much it had dropped.
「People from the city go out to harvest too. Iron-seal adventurers sometimes take harvesting requests as well.」
So that’s what happens when wheat is the main industry……
We arrived at the Adventurers Guild. Even though it was early afternoon, there were clearly fewer people here too. Inside, it felt empty, and the staff looked like they had too much time on their hands.
A female staff noticed me and started moving.
I had expected this, so I’d prepared a countermeasure. I had Ladarion carry the donuts where they’d be easy to see. All right, Ladarion. Protect me. I’ll buy you cake from a famous shop later, just for you.
「…………」
She shot me a reproachful look, but after letting out a single sigh, she stepped in front of me as a shield against the female staff. Wow, so cool.
「Takato-san. Welcome back. Using a girl as a shield is rather shameful, you know.」
「If a little shame buys me peace of mind, it’s a cheap price to pay.」
I didn’t need any pointless pride right now. It didn’t matter how pathetic I looked as long as I survived.
「Fufu. You’re the same as ever.」
We hadn’t known each other that long. Or was I just that easy to read?
「Is the guild master here? There’s something I’d like to discuss.」
「Yes. Please come this way.」
「Ladarion. Wait in the Pioneer.」
I called out to Ladarion, who was surrounded by female staffs, and followed Sierra.
I thought we were heading upstairs, but instead we went out the front and into a large building next door. What is this place?
「This is the General Assembly Hall. The guilds in Koraus are housed here.」
Like a chamber of commerce? Though if you asked me what a chamber of commerce actually does, I couldn’t explain it.
This world feels strange. Sometimes it seems underdeveloped, then suddenly advanced. Maybe it’s because that useless goddess keeps sending people here from other worlds?
We went up to the second floor, knocked on one of several doors, and opened it without waiting for a reply.
The room was fairly large. About eight people were working at desks, but the guild master wasn’t there.
「If you’re looking for the guild master, he’s in a meeting.」
The man who looked to be the oldest among them said so.
「Will it take long?」
「No. It’s a regular meeting, so he should be back soon.」
As if on cue, the guild master returned.
「Takato, huh. Is this about that matter?」
「That, and I’d also like to talk a bit about goblins.」
「Understood. Sierra, go secure us a room.」
And so we came to what looked like a reception room on the third floor. But there were two unfamiliar men added to the group. Who are they?
「This is Miyar, the Commercial Guild Master, and Baron Mardo, who oversees the Third Walled District. They wanted to see your face, so I had them sit in.」
I really did not want to see them. If only I could say that out loud. I kept my thoughts off my face and gave a polite bow.
「Well, it’s better that Miyar and the baron know what you’re up to. Especially if you plan to operate in Koraus.」
That was true enough, but as for operating on a small scale. Yeah, that ship has sailed. I’ve already done far too much.
We took our seats, and Sierra poured tea.
「About workers for your place. Six people have volunteered.」
「Then I’ll hire those six. When can they start?」
「You don’t need to meet them first?」
「If the guild master chose them, that won’t be necessary.」
I’ve been on the side of being chosen before, but never the one doing the choosing. I’ve never run a guild either, so leaving it to someone with experience is the safer bet.
「You heard him. Sierra, I’m counting on you.」
Huh? Why Sierra?
「I’ll be leaving the Adventurers Guild and working under you, Takato-san.」
「I can trust the guild to Sierra. She’s acted as my proxy many times.」
I had expected him to slip in someone connected to the guild master or the lord’s proxy, but I never imagined he’d send Sierra herself. More importantly, is it really okay to let someone capable enough to serve as a proxy go?
「She’s capable, but difficult comes before useful. Keeping her here would only be a hassle. Put her to work for you.」
That’s not just dumping a problem on me, right?
「You seem flexible, but you’re stubborn at heart. You’ll be able to handle Sierra just fine.」
That kind of trust is nothing but trouble. And for the record, I’m the type who goes with the flow and rides the wave instead of fighting power.
「Well, I’ll gladly welcome anyone willing to come help with goblin extermination.」
It’s an uncertain venture with no guarantee of a future. If I die, it all ends immediately. Anyone willing to come to a place like that is welcome. I can’t afford to be picky. I’ll use whatever I can to survive.
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