Volume 6 Chapter 19 Be Careful Even Though There Are No Plans
Well, the reason why I can confidently say such lines is because I trust Getsuya's skills, and he himself is well aware of it.
To meet their standards, at least the strength of a 2nd rank mercenary is needed. Even though my official rank is 3rd, Karan informed me that I'm treated as a 2nd rank in reality.
"We negotiated with the guild for 'escort,' but if you find that too formal, we can consider it as 'tour guide.' Since it's true we lack local knowledge."
"That's quite the luxurious tour guide."
If it's a requested assignment, it will come with a considerable cost. The village that they caused trouble for used the remaining reconstruction aid from the country to request our help. In the end, Rouza covered all the expenses as compensation for the disturbance.
"As I've said before, I'm quite wealthy. I don't hesitate to spend money for enjoyment."
"It's truly enviable."
Rouza laughed heartily once again.
While it felt pleasant to listen to, there was a hint of suspicion that made me feel uneasy, maybe because I was being too cautious.
"Anyway, if I'm going to ask for directions, it would be more convenient if it's someone I know. So, how about it? Can you take on my request?"
"...That is—"
Just as I was about to speak, there was a commotion outside the door. Although I couldn't make out the voices, the footsteps were gradually getting closer.
'Partner, it's Mikage.'
"Huh?"
Without a moment's delay, the door was forcefully opened. As predicted by Gram, Mikage appeared before us.
She was supposed to have left the clinic for a request since before dawn today. I had asked about her destination, and I had heard she would return by dusk.
"What about your work?"
"No need to worry. I have completed it without any issues."
After respectfully bowing towards me, Mikage gave Rouza and Getsuya a sharp glance each.
"I had a feeling 'something was up', so I hurried to finish my work and head back. When I heard about the reception, I was sure."
Karan's messenger arrived at the clinic after Mikage had left. It was already daytime. She shouldn't have known I was coming to the guild today. Could she really have predicted it just by intuition?
'Women's intuition is scary. If you cheat, they'll find out right away, partner.'
I have no plans to cheat──but I'll be careful.
"Hey, Mikage. While you may have a good reputation within the guild, entering someone else's room without permission is a bit rude, don't you think?"
"Are you saying that?" I almost blurted out, but swallowed the words.
"I can't help but be surprised that the word 'manners' came out of your mouth, Rouza-sama."
"Even after you're gone, it seems I've grown a bit. Reluctantly."
Rouza chuckled softly.
I glanced at Karan with a questioning look about manners, but he tiredly shook his head from side to side. There was a sense of desperation in his expression, as if he wanted things to end quickly rather than ask questions now.
'I can't help but feel the melancholy of that middle manager.'
Next time, it might be a good idea to give Karan a gift along with the old man.
"So, why did you go to the trouble of summoning Yukina-sama?"
"I called Black Blade (this guy) for no other reason. I thought of asking for personal protection while in the royal capital."
"Personal protection...?"
Mikage openly directed a suspicious look towards Rouza. If that look had been directed at me, it would have taken a considerable amount of time to recover from it. Rouza's wolf ears drooped slightly, seemingly lacking strength.
"I don't trust you."
"Reflect on your own actions. If anyone who has even a slight relationship with you were here, they would react the same way."
As she glanced at Getsuya, he turned his face away in silence. Just that gesture made it clear how much Rouza had involved these two.
"The talk of protection is just a front, it's more like being a tour guide. I've already informed Black Blade about this. And just when I was about to get a response, you barged in."
"Ah... I've interrupted the conversation, I apologize."
Though her voice was soft, Mikage apologized for the slightly critical remark. Despite her thoughts towards Rouza, she seemed to respect his position as a member of the main family.
"Brother. What are your thoughts on this?"
"...It's the lord's decision. It's beyond the servant's place to intervene."
In a serious tone, Mikage's gaze turned stern once again as she responded to Getsuya. Unlike Rouza, who had a playful nature, their conversation as siblings was too cold.
Despite my concerns about this, Rouza seemed more amused by the situation. Meanwhile, Karan remained silent like a statue, indifferent to it all.
"Well, since Mikage is here, it's perfect. I intend to request Black Blade's assistance, including you. What do you think about that?"
"I'm──"
Just as Mikage was about to speak, she hesitated and fell silent.
Was it a choice as a mercenary or a personal dilemma for Mikage? It was an ambiguous expression unlike her usual self. Perhaps her recent troubles were weighing on her, leaving her unable to process everything in her mind.
"Alright. I'll take your request. I accept."
"Huh?"
Mikage was taken aback by my clear answer.
It wasn't like I agreed without thinking. She (Mikage) came in and missed the timing, but I had originally intended to agree. Now, there's a slightly new idea added to that.
"Just hold off on Mikage's response. She rushed to finish work, so she's tired and her judgment might be off."
"I see... that makes sense. I understand that."
Rouza, with his hand on his chin, looked surprised.
"Still, you're surprisingly agreeing without resistance. I thought you'd argue a bit more."
"I wanted to take some time to talk with you guys once. But it's convenient if we can get the reward together."
"I see. In that case, there was no need to go through the trouble of making a request."
It was already understood, but sightseeing guidance and escorting were just a front. Rouza's purpose was to make contact with us again.
I had expected Rouza to come to the royal capital, and I had been thinking about how to make contact with him at that time. This situation is like a dream come true, but things are progressing quickly and it's surprising.
"Now that you're here, please stop issuing requests without notice."
"Of course. If I pay the money, you'll get the job done."
Knowing that we both have our own thoughts and plans, Rouza and I shook hands to make a contract.
Please bookmark this series and rate ☆☆☆☆☆ on here!
Donate me
Support Me with USDC
(ERC20)
Support Me with XLM
(Stellar Lumens)