PAGE 1

“That’s a nice bag you have there. And what a cute decoration.”

“Yes, they are from a man and young girl who helped me a lot.”

“Hehe. You must be a very kind Adventurer, then.”

 

Well, this was embarrassing. I wasn’t used to being complimented. But I didn’t hate it either.

 

“Here’s the money.”

“Thank you! Have a good day!”

“Thank you, and you too.”

 

I bowed before leaving as the old woman waved. It was a random store I found, but things had gone well. Somehow, the streets seemed more beautiful as I walked now, remembering the compliment. This must be because of all my good deeds. I will continue to do what I can.

 

Next was food supplies. I could cook simple dishes, but it would be good to keep things simple for this little investigation, and so I went to the street stall district. I wasn’t being lazy! I swear.

 

“Now…what should I choose…”

“Hm? If it isn’t Asagi.”

 

As I scanned the stalls, a voice called from behind me. I turned around to see the arrogant child. The Adventurer, Penrose was standing there with meat skewers in both hands. Hm, deja vu.

 

“Ah, Penrose. That looks good. Give it here.”

“Get your thieving hands away from me!”

 

How stingy. But I suppose Adventurers should not take meat from children. It was positively criminal.

 

“Breakfast?”

“Yes. I accepted a herb gathering quest. I am setting out as soon as I finish this.”

“Solo?”

“No. I formed a party as well!”

 

Oh… Who would want to party with… Well, yes, he did have a change of heart. It was not surprising that some might have seen the promise in him. And really, I was happy for him.

 

“We scattered for now, while we eat.”

“I see. What kind of people are they?”

“Close to my age. I did want to fight with adults before, but then I realized something when I was with you and Miss Daniela. It is too early. I slowed you down, and was very nervous… And so I wanted to team up with people my own age.”

 

Hmm…so that’s what he was thinking. But, he was actually quite good. Still, a children’s party, huh? Young boys and girls who dreamed of becoming Adventurers… That sounded fun.

 

“That’s great. But don’t go anywhere dangerous, alright?”

“I know!”

“Oh, and here’s some advice from a veteran. They like it when you pick the herbs carefully by digging up the roots. It’s pointless if you just tear them out of the ground.”

“Alright!”

 

Ah, he was such a good kid now…your father’s proud of you. I thought amusedly to myself, when a group of boys and a girl in leather armor gathered around. There were five of them including Penrose. So this was Replants boy scouts. Well, there was a girl too, but she looked a little tomboyish…

 

“Hey, Pen. You still eating? Let’s go already!”

 

Oh, this girl was quite spirited…

 

“Hm? What’s your problem old man? Is there something on my face?”

“What did you call me?”

“He-he-hey-hey! Kikka, that’s Asagi’s forbidden word…!”

“What? Hey, wait…Asagi? The Asagi?”

 

I heard that unpardonable word, but I suppose I’ll ignore because of Penrose’s intercession… I sigh and move on.

 

“I don’t know what other Asagi’s are around, but I’m Asagi, yes. Nice to meet you.”

 

I offer my right hand and she grips it tightly. Surprisingly strong. And covered in blisters. She must practice with the sword a lot.

 

“Silvergreen! Wow! Nice to meet you!”

“The real one? Really?”

“Woah, but he looks so average.”

“Asagi is amazing. He can fly.”

“Okay, you’re exaggerating now.”

 

The children crowded around me excitedly. Their unreserved opinions flew in the air, and I looked up awkwardly at the sky. Ah, the weather was nice…

 

“Phew…”

“Ahaha, excuse us. We surprised you.”

“No, it’s fine. I wasn’t expecting to be recognized so much.”

 

I brushed it off as the children bowed apologetically. I could only chuckle uncomfortably at the thought of all the bad rumors they must have heard.

 

“Ah, we need to complete the quest!”

“Oh, right. I forgot!”

 

The kids remembered that they were supposed to be going on a quest after eating, and they frantically picked up their belongings. I was supposed to be preparing for ours as well. Oof…I stand up heavily. Maybe I was an old man.

 

“I’ve got a quest to be going to as well. You guys be careful now.”

“We will!”

 

I nodded at their reply, and walked away with my veteran aura. So those little runts were working hard. I couldn’t laze around then. Alright, I needed to hurry up and buy some food, then head for the south gate!

Next Chapter