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## Chapter 355: Coward and Heavy Burden
"Lord..."
Gently embraced from behind, her body first trembled, then softened. Her slender hands, which bore the heavy burden of the entire Home, softly covered mine on her chest. A low moan, infinitely gentle, was filled with excitement, joy, relief, and dependence...
"Little Fool, aren't you afraid of mistaking me for someone else?"
Using my lips, I gently parted a strand of hair near her ear, wet with Fragrant Sweat, then breathed onto her fair earlobe.
"No, I'm not afraid, because it's Lord's scent."
Saying this, the girl leaned her entire Body into my embrace.
"L... Lord, there's sweat, it's very dirty..."
Her body suddenly trembled slightly. Velas avoided my kisses on her earlobe, her temples, and her neck, her tender face burning like a red cloud.
"No, it has Velas's scent, I like it the most."
I replied the same way, then unceremoniously licked clean every drop of Fragrant Sweat from the girl's face in my arms. Then I turned her Petite Figure around, lowered my Head, and kissed her passionately. Our lips parted, then kissed again, parted again, and came together again. At this moment, the entire Act held only the two of us embracing.
"Huh? Where's Three-No Princess?"
After who knows how long, we separated and gazed at each other's Appearance, smiling softly. It seemed she suddenly remembered doing such embarrassing things so passionately in broad daylight. Velas's already rosy face became even more blushing and beautiful, bright and lively like a lotus emerging from water. It was then that I remembered Three-No Princess should have been following me the whole time. I couldn't help but turn my Head and look around, but I didn't know when she had left.
"Woo~~"
Hearing me say that, Velas finally realized there had been other people watching. Her pretty face, already red beyond redness, seemed to suddenly steam up, and then her entire Body went limp and fell into my arms. Whether she was truly fainting or pretending, she buried her face in my embrace and refused to lift it again.
"Don't worry, Little Molly left a long time ago."
Seeing the so shy Little Vellas, my heart was filled with pity and love. I couldn't help but gently stroke her beautiful long hair while playing with the cute Small Hair Tie on her chest, decorated with a Metal Ring Ornament. I kept tickling her ear.
Perhaps unable to bear the teasing, after a while, Velas twisted her Petite Figure a few times, and her small Head slowly moved out of my embrace. From my Shoulder, she secretly swept a shy and timid Gaze behind me. After confirming there was really no one there, she breathed a sigh of relief, grabbing my hand that was still playing with her Small Hair Tie, which symbolized a Maiden's Heart. With a Gaze full of infinite charm from the Corner of her Eye, she slowly pulled away from my embrace.
"Really... Lord..., that... that was too much, every time..."
Speaking haltingly like this, she covered her face with her little finger, half shy and half filled with Helplessness. She sighed softly.
"What are you afraid of? We're already an Old Couple..."
I shamelessly grabbed her soft little hand and slowly dragged her towards the direction of Home.
"Even so... not in a place like this... it's so embarrassing... woo woo~~"
Obediently letting me pull her, she lowered her Head, walking half a step behind me. Our Shoulders occasionally brushed. Looking at the small Home getting closer, at this moment, my heart was filled with Warmth.
"So, anything goes at Home?"
The girl's shy Appearance really made it impossible for me not to tease her a little.
"Th... that's not... not just anything goes, Lord always... always likes to tease people..." Her soft voice sounded again. Even though it was a little hurried due to shyness, it still sounded as gentle as water.
"Didn't you like it quite a bit just now..."
"Woo~~~"
Feeling a hint of dangerous Gaze coming through, I inwardly cried out 'Oh no'. Just as Velas understood me, I, who was familiar with her Personality, immediately raised the yellow alert – this was a sign that Velas was about to get angry. I couldn't tease her anymore, or I'd probably be sleeping alone tonight.
After returning Home, we found that the missing Three-No Princess was actually inside drinking Tea. Her bright Golden Yellow Eyes, devoid of emotional fluctuations, made Velas, whose face was still not completely free of redness, breathe a sigh of relief.
"Lord. Sister Sarah should be back soon. We should also notify Xi Lu Si and Ai Ke Lu. Let them come back to stay."
Changing into an Apron, Velas walked out of the room with a Smile and said.
Sarah was part of the 'Home faction', while Xi Lu Si and Ai Ke Lu, due to the concealed nature of the Priest Training Camp, found it inconvenient to come and go, so they only came Home for a short stay on their day off every few days.
"Alright, then I'll go tell Akara and ask Xi Lu Si and the others to come back and stay for these few days. I'll also go see Sarah while I'm at it." I nodded, called out, and went out.
Akara's Place was easy to find. She was either strolling in the center of the Camp or drinking Tea in her own small shop. Although she looked very Leisurely, I knew that as the Great Elder, her Brain was almost constantly working, for the Adventurer Alliance, for the Rogue Encampment, for the First World, and for the people of the entire Sanctuary.
I quickly found her. There was nothing I could do, I wasn't familiar with the Barrier layers of the Priest Training Camp yet and couldn't break through them, so I had to trouble this busy person. Oh, right, and the things that happened in Kurast. I should tell her about that later too. Although I'm not particularly interested in the Elf Race, maybe the Old and Cunning Akara can sniff something out from it and gain some advantage like the Horadrim?
After saying goodbye to Akara, I started strolling in the North District Training Camp, slowly walking towards the Mage Training Camp. Ah, I feel a bit nostalgic. It's been a while since I've been here, right? I remember not long ago, I was often press-ganged by the Old Drunkard and thrown into the Training Camp to share Trial Experience with the Students. I've been to the Training Camps of various Classes several times. The Students' reactions were okay. Does this mean I also have the Aptitude to be a Teacher?
Smiling softly, I nodded to the Students who stopped on the road and greeted me warmly, whose Names I couldn't quite recall. I quickened my Footsteps and soon arrived at the Mage Training Camp.
Huh? It seems there's some Excitement there. Normally, I'm not someone who likes to join in the fun, but after looking left and right and not finding Sarah's Figure, I had no choice but to walk towards the Crowd.
The Students gathered to watch the Excitement were several layers deep, seemingly discussing something amongst themselves. Most of the voices carried disdain. Uh, I seemed to hear "Miss Sarah" or something similar. Could it be related to my Little Sarah? Thinking of this, my heart tightened, and I quickly hurried forward to join the Crowd. Then I saw a scene that made me so angry I was speechless.
In the center of the Crowd, the protagonist of the Excitement, a tall and thin man around twenty years old, with a somewhat delicate and pale face, who in my opinion had the Aptitude of a Pretty Boy. Of course, there was also my Little Sarah. Now I don't need to explain further, I believe anyone who has read too many dog-blood Novels should understand what's going on.
"Sarah. Why are you rejecting me? Don't you understand my Intentions towards you?" The Pretty Boy spouted a classic line.
"There's no need."
A voice as sharp as an ice blade, which I had never heard from Sarah before, slowly sounded from her lips. Her pink long hair fluttered slightly in the Wind, and her Scarlet Eyes, like burning flames, revealed infinite Coldness. I had seen Sarah like this once before.
A pure Angel who froze herself to Guard my Intentions.
Swept by Sarah's cold and sharp Eyes, the Pretty Boy shamelessly took a step back. Then, as if realizing that as a grown Man, he was being suppressed by her Presence, he became somewhat angry and embarrassed.
"Why? I clearly like you so much. I love you more than anyone. What's so good about that Wu Fan? Isn't he just a Class Changer? What's so great about that? I can become a Class Changer too, become a great Wizard. Money? Equipment? Whatever he can give you, I, Wicks, can give too..."
Under the pressure of Sarah's Presence, coupled with the disdainful Eyes and voices from the surrounding Students, this guy named Wicks was clearly provoked. His pale face subtly twisted into a somewhat distorted and ferocious expression.
The moment Wicks's words fell, all sounds suddenly stopped, as if Time had stopped. Emotions mixed with Coldness and anger spread among the Students. One by one, they glared at Wicks. If they weren't worried about something, they probably would have rushed up and beaten him black and blue by now.
Hey, hey, I, the person involved, haven't even gotten angry yet, why is everyone's Emotion so high? I covered my forehead with some Helplessness, considering how to deal with this... what's his Name, Wicks, right? Forget it, let's just call him Pretty Boy. How should I deal with him? After all, I'm an Elder, it doesn't seem appropriate to yell about killing in front of the Students.
"Clang—"
Just as I was lost in thought, the clear sound of a sword ringing out was heard amidst everyone's exclamations. A sharp longsword was held in Sarah's hand, its blade pressed against the Pretty Boy's neck.
"Apologize."
A trace of Killing Intent emanated from Sarah's Body, passing through the sword, making Wicks almost fall on his butt in Fear. But he didn't dare to move. The Gaze from her Scarlet Eyes, like raging fire, looking at him was so Cold, as if she was looking at a dead person. He was afraid that if he moved even a little, his Life would be gone.
In the Mage Training Camp, Sarah's Talent wasn't high. Her Aptitude could only make her an excellent Mage Mercenary, but when it came to Swordsmanship, she was undoubtedly the first. Once, Students from the Knight Training Camp came to challenge. It is well known that at Low Level, Sorceresses generally cannot defeat Warriors, let alone when everyone is still at Student Level. Mage Students haven't mastered many Magic spells, and their Casting Speed is slow, so how could they be a match for Knight Students?
However, these Knights were all defeated by Sarah, defeated by the Swordsmanship they were proud of. From then on, they never had the Face to step into the Mage Training Camp again. Since then, Sarah had another title in the Training Camp - Moon Angel. The Moon in Sanctuary is Blood Red, just like her Red Eyes and Hair. The Moon in Sanctuary is also so Cold and Aloof and Arrogant, just like the Temperament she is showing now, and the Cold longsword in her hand.
Wicks, who had been pestering Sarah relentlessly, of course knew how terrifying her Swordsmanship was. Although he had the Aptitude of a Class Changer, he was far from being her Opponent now. Therefore, he was so scared he didn't dare to move. Facing the gloating Eyes of the other Students, and even Sarah's Fans who were inciting chaos by shouting "Swipe the sword down", his face became increasingly filled with Fear and twisted. His pale lips trembled, and he spoke like a Toad opening and closing its mouth.
"I... I'm sorry, I... I was wrong."
"Looks quite Interesting, can I join in?"
Seeing the Pretty Boy completely defeated, I gently pushed aside the Students and walked to the center of the Crowd. I glanced at the Pretty Boy with a sneer, then turned my gentle Gaze towards my Little Angel.
"Big Brother!!"
Her movements stiffened, and the next moment, under the incredulous Eyes of all the Students, the Ice Goddess in their hearts suddenly bloomed with a bright Smile. In an instant, the ice melted and spring bloomed.
"Little Angel, I'm back."
I caught Sarah, who pounced on me like a Little Dog, and held her tightly in my embrace, speaking softly.
"It's Teacher Fan..."
After a brief silence, the surrounding Students suddenly became noisy. Whether they knew me or not, seeing this scene, they could probably guess the identity of the newcomer. Seeing the scene of Lovers Embracing, these Little Guys/Kids full of Youthful Vigor immediately became Restless/Mischievous. A few shouted "Kiss, kiss", followed by a large group shouting in unison. Their loud voices even attracted other Students.
The first few who started booing, I remember your Appearance. Weren't you the ones who just instigated Sarah to swipe the sword down? Be careful, I'll make you Fail the next Student Exam.
"What should we do? Little Sarah."
Lowering my Head, I used my Finger to lift the face buried in my embrace that refused to come out. Her Appearance, blooming with joy and about to drip with tenderness, her Beauty that had already blossomed with the peerless charm of a Maiden, made me unconsciously intoxicated.
My answer was Sarah's action of closing her Eyelashes, which trembled slightly.
"Oh—"
The next moment, the excited Wolf Howls of the Male Students and the shy screams of the Female Students echoed throughout the entire Training Camp.
"You... you are that Wu... Wu Fan..."
Our overlapping lips reluctantly parted. Holding Sarah, who was so shy she almost wanted to shrink into my Cloak, I waved to the surrounding Students. At this moment, the Pretty Boy, who had been ignored the whole time, finally couldn't help but speak.
Oh. I thought he would be sensible enough to disappear automatically. Since he wants to humiliate himself, I won't be polite.
"Kid. You dare to have designs on my Sarah? You've got some Guts, haven't you?"
I looked the Pretty Boy up and down with a teasing Gaze. The Wildness, deeply buried in my pupils after countless Slaughter, was something Wicks, a Rookie who hadn't even seen a Zombie, couldn't withstand. He staggered back a few steps, avoiding my Gaze, but his mouth was still stubborn.
"You... what do you want to do? Bully newcomers just because you're high Level? Let me tell you, I'll become a Class Changer just like you in the future, and my Family won't let you off..."
He's quite smart, isn't he? What a great line, "bullying newcomers". Does he want to resonate with the newcomers around him? "Will become a Class Changer in the future"? Is he trying to warn me not to Act Rashly? After all, Class Changers are still very Rare.
It's just, do you think your current Appearance can really stir up the atmosphere? Do you really think I wouldn't dare to touch you, this "future Class Changer Lord"? And...
With a sneer, I took a few steps forward, grabbed the collar of the Pretty Boy, who was so scared he forgot to retreat and just trembled as he watched me approach, and said in a low voice with a hint of Coldness.
"Since you know you're a Rookie, you should have a Rookie's Self-awareness. If your Teacher hasn't taught you how to Respect the Strong, then let me teach you a good lesson on his behalf."
Amidst the Students' exclamations, a White Light flashed. Light Snow 's Arrogant Figure stood tall against the Wind. The Presence emanating from its entire Body made these young Students, who hadn't even seen a Fallen, turn Pale. They finally realized the huge gap between themselves and a true Class Changer.
" Light Snow , take our Guest for a good tour of the Great Scenery around the Camp, so he can see the 'Fun/Enjoyment' we Adventurers usually have."
Patting Light Snow 's Head, I threw Wicks, whom I was holding, to it. It nodded. The next moment, raising a huge Storm, Light Snow , carrying the scared witless Wicks in its mouth, disappeared in front of the Dumbfounded Students.
"Don't worry, I'm just letting him see the Wilderness Environment a little." I said with a Smile to the Students who were still afraid. It was true. Just letting him see the Wilderness Environment.
"You brat, you just come back and cause me trouble."
After the Students who had enjoyed the Good Show dispersed, it was already Sunset. Walking Home with Sarah, a Melancholy Complaint suddenly came from behind.
"I don't remember you ever managing the Training Camp."
Without turning my Head, I replied. Who was it who press-ganged me into the Training Camp to be free labor just to be lazy?
"What are you going to do with that Little Guy? You're not really going to leave him in the Wilderness, are you?" Scratching his Head, the Old Drunkard scoffed, unable to refute. Then he said with a yawn.
"Why not?" I tilted my Head.
"Are you serious?"
"Just a little bit."
"..."
"Don't worry, I'm a good person." I smiled and gently pinched the face of the Little Angel beside me, who was curiously looking back and forth between me and the Old Drunkard.
"It wouldn't matter if he were an Ordinary Person, but he's a collateral branch of the Edward Family. His Family has contributed a lot to the Adventurer's Guild, so we should give them some Face." The Old Drunkard still spoke in that casual tone.
"Edward Family?"
I was slightly lost in thought, and a Petite Figure flashed through my mind instantly. Is she doing well?
"Didn't I say don't worry? Have someone pick him up at the Camp Fountain tomorrow morning. But..." He paused, then turned his Head and looked at the Old Drunkard with curious Eyes.
"But, do you really plan to cultivate this kind of person?"
"What a joke."
As if hearing a joke, he spat out a mouthful of Ale, wiped his lips, and glared fiercely at me.
"Don't tell me you don't know what our Alliance's Standard for cultivating talent is. If we let someone like that become a Class Changer, wouldn't we be adding members to the Fallen Alliance?"
First is Quality/Character, then Aptitude/Talent. This is why all the Adventurers I've seen so far are such a lovely bunch of people. Of course, there are some Exceptions, like me, a "wild Class Changer cultivated by individual teachers".
"Is that so? What a pity, I thought I'd have another Interesting Opponent." I sighed and said.
"Tch, stop pretending. Do you think I don't know what kind of person you are? If I said that kid could become a Class Changer, you definitely wouldn't see him tomorrow." The Old Drunkard immediately scoffed at me.
"Oh? Then tell me, what kind of person am I in your Eyes?"
I raised my Hood with interest, looking at the Old Drunkard, also curious about what kind of person I was in others' minds.
"You are a Coward." Spraying the scent of alcohol, the Old Drunkard gave me a direct definition.
Hey, hey, that's too hurtful, isn't it? Even if it's true, please consider Sarah next to me. How can you damage my Great Image in front of her like this? You could have used words like 'cautious' or 'careful', couldn't you have just gotten away with it?
Glaring at the Old Drunkard, I angrily pulled Sarah and quickened my pace. "Is that so? So I'm a Coward, huh? Well, I'm really sorry about that. A Coward wouldn't specifically bring you Wine from Kurast to drink."
Hearing the word 'Wine', Kashya's Eyes immediately turned envious/jealous, and she quickly flashed forward and grabbed me.
"Brat, don't be angry. See, wasn't I just making a Joke to liven up the atmosphere? Actually, from the moment I first saw you, I felt that you would definitely become a Hero who saves the Continent in the future."
Wow, your Face and words change really fast. It's too late. I shook off the Old Drunkard's hand, unmoved.
"That's really a pity. How could a Coward like me become a Hero? You must have seen wrong."
The atmosphere paused. I felt the hand holding mine suddenly tighten.
"So-called Heroes are actually Cowards." A faint voice came from behind, so serious that I couldn't help but stop.
"If you weren't a Coward, how could you live to become a Hero? Don't you think so?"
Raising her Head, the Old Drunkard revealed her usual carefree Smile again. The fleeting self-mockery in her Eyes was so quick that I wondered if I had seen wrong. In just an instant, she returned to being that unscrupulous Old Drunkard.
"The world of the Lords is truly complex."
Looking at the Old Drunkard's Figure, who left content after getting the Fine Wine from Kurast, I sighed and shook my Head. I wonder what kind of Past this guy has?
"Little Darling, what should we do? Big Brother has become a Coward."
Turning my Head, I said with a long face to Sarah, who had been smiling happily and listening to us talking nonsense. Now I had completely Lost All Face in front of her. Detestable Old Drunkard, I really shouldn't have given him the Wine so readily just now.
"It's okay. If Big Brother is a Coward, then Sarah will be a Coward too."
With such an innocent and bright Smile and Tone, Sarah hugged my arm and said, immediately sending a Warm Feeling through my heart. Woo woo, as expected of my Little Angel, those words are so Heartwarming.
Perhaps. For example, that Wicks. Although he was a Profligate/Dandy, he wasn't so bad that he deserved to be killed quickly. Perhaps he might turn over a new leaf in the future and become a backbone of the Adventurer's Guild.
But what does that matter? I only see what's before my Eyes. I saw the trace of Resentful Gaze when he left, still not giving up on Sarah. If someone like that gains Strength, even if he's just a Pawn/Small Fry, I will feel uneasy. I don't have that much Wisdom, nor that much Magnanimity/Tolerance to cultivate or utilize a Potential Enemy, to be some Controller/Mastermind, or play Cat and Mouse Games. I am just an Ordinary Person. I will use the most Ordinary and simple Method to Nip in the Bud even a tiny bit of Danger as much as possible.
Therefore, I am a Coward. A Coward who, in the End of Days, is Trembling with Fear yet Content/Satisfied, guarding his Nest/Den.
When we arrived at the Doorstep, Xi Lu Si and Ai Ke Lu, escorted by two Rogue Soldiers, had returned even earlier than me. Akara was really efficient. Holding my two Beloved Daughters, who threw themselves into my arms and Acted Spoiled, I couldn't be happier.
"Alright, alright, before Dinner. I have something to announce to everyone."
Before Dinner. At the long, exquisite low wooden table, I sat at the Head seat. Clearing my throat, I spoke to Velas and Sarah on my left, and my two Beloved Daughters and Marissa on my right. Except for Marissa, the other four looked at me curiously, their big Eyes blinking brightly and lively, revealing their Question.
"Cough, cough. Now, I want to introduce a new Family Member to everyone."
Seeing that I had kept them in suspense enough, I looked at everyone proudly. Hmph hmph, surprised, aren't you? You'll be even more surprised later. Thinking this, with Little Ghost's magnificent Appearance, a fish tank about half the size of a person was placed on the table.
With sea blue slightly curly long hair, beautiful golden yellow Eyes and Tail, and Beauty and Temperament that were absolutely not inferior to any girl present, our Little Mermaid Princess made her grand Appearance. She was shyly holding onto the Edge/Rim with both hands, welcoming the Attention/Gaze of four pairs of big Eyes.
"This is...?"
Velas and the Daughters stared wide-eyed at Eriya – there was actually such a wonderful/mysterious Creature in this world. The girl's Upper Body, but below was a golden Fish Tail. Her exquisite face and skin, a noble temperament with a hint of King's Might/Aura, yet she seemed Approachable. If she could grow to be as big as a normal person, she would definitely make any Man fall in love with her.
"Big Brother, is this... is this the legendary Mermaid?"
Sarah, who read more books, finally spoke with some uncertainty after looking curiously for a while, because this was after all just a Legend. And Velas and Xi Lu Si's Family Backgrounds were not as good as Sarah's. Although they were Literate, they didn't know as much as Sarah, so after Sarah said "Mermaid", their Eyes were still confused.
"That's right, this is a Mermaid."
Answering for me was Little Ghost, looking proud. Her proud Appearance was as if she was showing off the Little Mermaid as her own Pet. After fully enjoying everyone's Surprised Gaze, she slowly began to narrate the various versions of the Mermaid Legend.
Mermaid Legends are mostly inseparable from Feelings/Emotions – especially the yearning for Love. Therefore, the girls' Eyes quickly became Moist/Teary. And with Eriya's kind Personality, wanting to integrate/blend in with this Home and be accepted by everyone was not a difficult matter at all. After a while, confirming that the others had no Malice/Ill Will towards her, our Little Mermaid Princess got along harmoniously with everyone.
A few days later. Inside Akara's Tent...
Cain, Akara, the Old Drunkard, and I, the four Elders, sat together. As for the Stingy Guy Fara, he didn't come. It seemed that the Optimized Remote Teleportation Experiment had reached a Critical Moment. The last time I was inexplicably teleported to the Rogue Waypoint was because of this. Teleporting from a Remote Teleportation Station to a Normal Waypoint meant saving the Mana Cost of five Gems and five Sorceresses on the other side. This was indeed a great progress. I believe that in the near future, the dream of a Remote Teleportation cost of one Gem will no longer be just a dream.
"Is that so? I've also heard about it. I didn't expect things to be like this..."
After listening to my Experience in Kurast. Akara began to Ponder/Figure Out. Her fingers holding the Cane kept tapping on the Staff Head. Those familiar with her knew that her Brain was definitely rapidly turning again now. Finally, she seemed to have thought of something. Her Eyes met Cain's, and the two seemed to have instantly completed some scheme. A thought-provoking Smile appeared at the Corner of their mouths.
Hey, I say, you two old folks, what kind of Agreement have you reached? Tell me quickly, alright? Don't always play this tacit understanding game between the two of you. There are two other Elders here.
"Perhaps, this is an Opportunity."
Under my Gaze filled with countless Question Marks, Akara finally spoke mysteriously.
"Opportunity, what Opportunity?"
"An Opportunity to re-establish contact with the Elf Race."
"Huh—?"
My face immediately fell. To re-establish contact with those arrogant long-eared... Uh, I've been pretending to be Little People so much I'm getting used to saying it. It's the Elf Race. To re-establish contact with those stubborn/incorrigible Elf Race?
"Thousands of years have passed, it's time to come together again." Cain opened his old mouth and sighed faintly.
"It doesn't matter to me..."
Pulling out the Bottle Cap and taking a big gulp, Kashya said Leisurely. She probably felt that since the Elf Race's affairs wouldn't fall on her anyway, whether they cooperated or not wouldn't affect her. But judging by her tone, she didn't seem to care about the Elf Race much either.
"Then I have nothing more to say. Anyway, I don't understand this aspect, so you guys figure it out yourselves." I pursed my lips. My Idea/Thought was similar to the Old Drunkard's. Since Akara and Cain were worrying about it, why should I meddle?
"Since that's the case, it's decided then."
Her whitened blind Eyes swept over our faces. I don't know if it was an illusion, but I always felt that when her Gaze reached me, Akara's Smile was a little strange/eerie.
"What we need to do is very simple. First step, we must organize the Adventurers in Kurast and provide the Elf Race with a certain amount of Aid/Assistance. Only then can we gain their Recognition."
Looking at each other, everyone nodded, then continued to focus their Gaze on Akara.
"This Aid Operation Quest will be assigned to you, Wu!!"
"Pfft—"
I spat out a mouthful of Spirit-Clearing Water, looking at Akara's Gaze directed at me with Incredulousness, pointing at myself with my finger.
"Me? Akara, are you making a Mistake?"
"That's right, it's you." Akara said affirmatively.
"What can I do, being Useless/Incapable like this? Let others go. For example, isn't Asheara quite good?"
Calming myself down, I began to kindly advise/exhort Akara. Please, old lady, spare me. The highest official position I've held so far was in the Special Action Squad during the Monster Attack on Vita Village, and even then it was commanded by Druv, while I, the Actual Leader, just Jumped Around Randomly. Now you want me to organize the actions of thousands of Adventurers? I say, Akara, aren't you Overestimating me?
"Asheara is indeed a good Candidate, but firstly, as the Guard Captain of Kurast, she Cannot Leave, and secondly, she doesn't have the Strength to make those Unruly/Untamed Adventurers Obey Orders." Akara refuted unhurriedly, chuckling as if she had me figured out.
"Then let Kashya go. Isn't she quite Leisurely?"
My Eyes rolled, and I pointed at the Old Drunkard who was drinking alcohol leisurely on the side. Her Strength is enough, right? All the Adventurers in Kurast combined are not her Opponent/Rival. To be honest, having her alone is enough to aid the Elf Race. Why make the Adventurers of Kurast take risks?
When I expressed my Idea/Thought, I was again met with Akara's Refusal: "Leaving aside the fact that Kashya has her own Quest, even if she didn't, we can't let her go alone. Now is not the time to reveal her Strength. Moreover, the more people who help, the more it can show the Sincerity of our Adventurer's Guild, isn't that right?"
After my Brain turned a few times, I finally understood the Meaning of Akara's words – this time aiding the Elf Race, rather than helping them, is to show our Sincerity. If Kashya went alone, even if she could easily help the Elf Race overcome the Difficulty, the effect would not be as good as the entire Kurast Adventurers mobilizing together. Perhaps our side will pay the Price/Cost of Casualties, but in return, we will gain a greater Favor from the Elf Race. To show the Sincerity of cooperation, sacrificing a few Adventurers is something we Have No Choice but to do. Just like during the Monster Attack, Kashya and Fara, these Old Monsters who could rescue the Camp from Danger with just a flick of their Finger, watched from the sidelines with cold Eyes. This is the Way of Thinking of Superiors.
"But why me?"
I still didn't understand why Akara thought so highly of me. Did she think I had Leadership Potential? Or did she see something through the Great Eye?
"Because you are an Elder, because you have the Strength to make other Adventurers submit. Perhaps you are not Learned and Wise, but you possess the Vision/Insight that other Wise Persons do not have, and... Luck!"
I think if you removed Akara's preceding modifiers and just said the last two words, it would be about right. Aren't you just trying to say that I'm Enveloped/Covered by the Protagonist's Halo?
When the three of them looked at me with affirmative Gazes, I knew that declining was impossible. I didn't understand why they kept pushing a Small Fry/Nobody like me, whose lifelong goal was to Live a Lazy Life, onto the Crest of the Wave again and again. But never mind, I'm also interested in seeing from a third-party perspective just how far I, whom they expect, can go.
"Let me declare beforehand, you forced this onto me. If I Mess Up, it's not my business." It's better to say the Unpleasant Truth/Warning first. I have absolutely no clue about this operation, or rather, I'm prepared for the worst plan.
"Don't worry, Wu. Actually, your Most Important Task isn't to Command Actions, but to use your Strength to restrain these Adventurers. None of the Adventurers who have become Adventurers and reached Kurast are fools. As long as you can manage them well and Assign Tasks, I think you won't need to Expend Effort on the specific Operation."
Akara's words immediately made me Realize/Wake Up, and I felt much more relaxed. Indeed, I didn't need to worry unnecessarily. Does one have to be smarter than everyone in the world to be a good Emperor? The Adventurers in Kurast, any one of them has more combat experience than me. All I need to do is manage this group of people and Assign a Goal to them.
"Lord..."
Gently embraced from behind, her body first trembled, then softened. Her slender hands, which bore the heavy burden of the entire Home, softly covered mine on her chest. A low moan, infinitely gentle, was filled with excitement, joy, relief, and dependence...
"Little Fool, aren't you afraid of mistaking me for someone else?"
Using my lips, I gently parted a strand of hair near her ear, wet with Fragrant Sweat, then breathed onto her fair earlobe.
"No, I'm not afraid, because it's Lord's scent."
Saying this, the girl leaned her entire Body into my embrace.
"L... Lord, there's sweat, it's very dirty..."
Her body suddenly trembled slightly. Velas avoided my kisses on her earlobe, her temples, and her neck, her tender face burning like a red cloud.
"No, it has Velas's scent, I like it the most."
I replied the same way, then unceremoniously licked clean every drop of Fragrant Sweat from the girl's face in my arms. Then I turned her Petite Figure around, lowered my Head, and kissed her passionately. Our lips parted, then kissed again, parted again, and came together again. At this moment, the entire Act held only the two of us embracing.
"Huh? Where's Three-No Princess?"
After who knows how long, we separated and gazed at each other's Appearance, smiling softly. It seemed she suddenly remembered doing such embarrassing things so passionately in broad daylight. Velas's already rosy face became even more blushing and beautiful, bright and lively like a lotus emerging from water. It was then that I remembered Three-No Princess should have been following me the whole time. I couldn't help but turn my Head and look around, but I didn't know when she had left.
"Woo~~"
Hearing me say that, Velas finally realized there had been other people watching. Her pretty face, already red beyond redness, seemed to suddenly steam up, and then her entire Body went limp and fell into my arms. Whether she was truly fainting or pretending, she buried her face in my embrace and refused to lift it again.
"Don't worry, Little Molly left a long time ago."
Seeing the so shy Little Vellas, my heart was filled with pity and love. I couldn't help but gently stroke her beautiful long hair while playing with the cute Small Hair Tie on her chest, decorated with a Metal Ring Ornament. I kept tickling her ear.
Perhaps unable to bear the teasing, after a while, Velas twisted her Petite Figure a few times, and her small Head slowly moved out of my embrace. From my Shoulder, she secretly swept a shy and timid Gaze behind me. After confirming there was really no one there, she breathed a sigh of relief, grabbing my hand that was still playing with her Small Hair Tie, which symbolized a Maiden's Heart. With a Gaze full of infinite charm from the Corner of her Eye, she slowly pulled away from my embrace.
"Really... Lord..., that... that was too much, every time..."
Speaking haltingly like this, she covered her face with her little finger, half shy and half filled with Helplessness. She sighed softly.
"What are you afraid of? We're already an Old Couple..."
I shamelessly grabbed her soft little hand and slowly dragged her towards the direction of Home.
"Even so... not in a place like this... it's so embarrassing... woo woo~~"
Obediently letting me pull her, she lowered her Head, walking half a step behind me. Our Shoulders occasionally brushed. Looking at the small Home getting closer, at this moment, my heart was filled with Warmth.
"So, anything goes at Home?"
The girl's shy Appearance really made it impossible for me not to tease her a little.
"Th... that's not... not just anything goes, Lord always... always likes to tease people..." Her soft voice sounded again. Even though it was a little hurried due to shyness, it still sounded as gentle as water.
"Didn't you like it quite a bit just now..."
"Woo~~~"
Feeling a hint of dangerous Gaze coming through, I inwardly cried out 'Oh no'. Just as Velas understood me, I, who was familiar with her Personality, immediately raised the yellow alert – this was a sign that Velas was about to get angry. I couldn't tease her anymore, or I'd probably be sleeping alone tonight.
After returning Home, we found that the missing Three-No Princess was actually inside drinking Tea. Her bright Golden Yellow Eyes, devoid of emotional fluctuations, made Velas, whose face was still not completely free of redness, breathe a sigh of relief.
"Lord. Sister Sarah should be back soon. We should also notify Xi Lu Si and Ai Ke Lu. Let them come back to stay."
Changing into an Apron, Velas walked out of the room with a Smile and said.
Sarah was part of the 'Home faction', while Xi Lu Si and Ai Ke Lu, due to the concealed nature of the Priest Training Camp, found it inconvenient to come and go, so they only came Home for a short stay on their day off every few days.
"Alright, then I'll go tell Akara and ask Xi Lu Si and the others to come back and stay for these few days. I'll also go see Sarah while I'm at it." I nodded, called out, and went out.
Akara's Place was easy to find. She was either strolling in the center of the Camp or drinking Tea in her own small shop. Although she looked very Leisurely, I knew that as the Great Elder, her Brain was almost constantly working, for the Adventurer Alliance, for the Rogue Encampment, for the First World, and for the people of the entire Sanctuary.
I quickly found her. There was nothing I could do, I wasn't familiar with the Barrier layers of the Priest Training Camp yet and couldn't break through them, so I had to trouble this busy person. Oh, right, and the things that happened in Kurast. I should tell her about that later too. Although I'm not particularly interested in the Elf Race, maybe the Old and Cunning Akara can sniff something out from it and gain some advantage like the Horadrim?
After saying goodbye to Akara, I started strolling in the North District Training Camp, slowly walking towards the Mage Training Camp. Ah, I feel a bit nostalgic. It's been a while since I've been here, right? I remember not long ago, I was often press-ganged by the Old Drunkard and thrown into the Training Camp to share Trial Experience with the Students. I've been to the Training Camps of various Classes several times. The Students' reactions were okay. Does this mean I also have the Aptitude to be a Teacher?
Smiling softly, I nodded to the Students who stopped on the road and greeted me warmly, whose Names I couldn't quite recall. I quickened my Footsteps and soon arrived at the Mage Training Camp.
Huh? It seems there's some Excitement there. Normally, I'm not someone who likes to join in the fun, but after looking left and right and not finding Sarah's Figure, I had no choice but to walk towards the Crowd.
The Students gathered to watch the Excitement were several layers deep, seemingly discussing something amongst themselves. Most of the voices carried disdain. Uh, I seemed to hear "Miss Sarah" or something similar. Could it be related to my Little Sarah? Thinking of this, my heart tightened, and I quickly hurried forward to join the Crowd. Then I saw a scene that made me so angry I was speechless.
In the center of the Crowd, the protagonist of the Excitement, a tall and thin man around twenty years old, with a somewhat delicate and pale face, who in my opinion had the Aptitude of a Pretty Boy. Of course, there was also my Little Sarah. Now I don't need to explain further, I believe anyone who has read too many dog-blood Novels should understand what's going on.
"Sarah. Why are you rejecting me? Don't you understand my Intentions towards you?" The Pretty Boy spouted a classic line.
"There's no need."
A voice as sharp as an ice blade, which I had never heard from Sarah before, slowly sounded from her lips. Her pink long hair fluttered slightly in the Wind, and her Scarlet Eyes, like burning flames, revealed infinite Coldness. I had seen Sarah like this once before.
A pure Angel who froze herself to Guard my Intentions.
Swept by Sarah's cold and sharp Eyes, the Pretty Boy shamelessly took a step back. Then, as if realizing that as a grown Man, he was being suppressed by her Presence, he became somewhat angry and embarrassed.
"Why? I clearly like you so much. I love you more than anyone. What's so good about that Wu Fan? Isn't he just a Class Changer? What's so great about that? I can become a Class Changer too, become a great Wizard. Money? Equipment? Whatever he can give you, I, Wicks, can give too..."
Under the pressure of Sarah's Presence, coupled with the disdainful Eyes and voices from the surrounding Students, this guy named Wicks was clearly provoked. His pale face subtly twisted into a somewhat distorted and ferocious expression.
The moment Wicks's words fell, all sounds suddenly stopped, as if Time had stopped. Emotions mixed with Coldness and anger spread among the Students. One by one, they glared at Wicks. If they weren't worried about something, they probably would have rushed up and beaten him black and blue by now.
Hey, hey, I, the person involved, haven't even gotten angry yet, why is everyone's Emotion so high? I covered my forehead with some Helplessness, considering how to deal with this... what's his Name, Wicks, right? Forget it, let's just call him Pretty Boy. How should I deal with him? After all, I'm an Elder, it doesn't seem appropriate to yell about killing in front of the Students.
"Clang—"
Just as I was lost in thought, the clear sound of a sword ringing out was heard amidst everyone's exclamations. A sharp longsword was held in Sarah's hand, its blade pressed against the Pretty Boy's neck.
"Apologize."
A trace of Killing Intent emanated from Sarah's Body, passing through the sword, making Wicks almost fall on his butt in Fear. But he didn't dare to move. The Gaze from her Scarlet Eyes, like raging fire, looking at him was so Cold, as if she was looking at a dead person. He was afraid that if he moved even a little, his Life would be gone.
In the Mage Training Camp, Sarah's Talent wasn't high. Her Aptitude could only make her an excellent Mage Mercenary, but when it came to Swordsmanship, she was undoubtedly the first. Once, Students from the Knight Training Camp came to challenge. It is well known that at Low Level, Sorceresses generally cannot defeat Warriors, let alone when everyone is still at Student Level. Mage Students haven't mastered many Magic spells, and their Casting Speed is slow, so how could they be a match for Knight Students?
However, these Knights were all defeated by Sarah, defeated by the Swordsmanship they were proud of. From then on, they never had the Face to step into the Mage Training Camp again. Since then, Sarah had another title in the Training Camp - Moon Angel. The Moon in Sanctuary is Blood Red, just like her Red Eyes and Hair. The Moon in Sanctuary is also so Cold and Aloof and Arrogant, just like the Temperament she is showing now, and the Cold longsword in her hand.
Wicks, who had been pestering Sarah relentlessly, of course knew how terrifying her Swordsmanship was. Although he had the Aptitude of a Class Changer, he was far from being her Opponent now. Therefore, he was so scared he didn't dare to move. Facing the gloating Eyes of the other Students, and even Sarah's Fans who were inciting chaos by shouting "Swipe the sword down", his face became increasingly filled with Fear and twisted. His pale lips trembled, and he spoke like a Toad opening and closing its mouth.
"I... I'm sorry, I... I was wrong."
"Looks quite Interesting, can I join in?"
Seeing the Pretty Boy completely defeated, I gently pushed aside the Students and walked to the center of the Crowd. I glanced at the Pretty Boy with a sneer, then turned my gentle Gaze towards my Little Angel.
"Big Brother!!"
Her movements stiffened, and the next moment, under the incredulous Eyes of all the Students, the Ice Goddess in their hearts suddenly bloomed with a bright Smile. In an instant, the ice melted and spring bloomed.
"Little Angel, I'm back."
I caught Sarah, who pounced on me like a Little Dog, and held her tightly in my embrace, speaking softly.
"It's Teacher Fan..."
After a brief silence, the surrounding Students suddenly became noisy. Whether they knew me or not, seeing this scene, they could probably guess the identity of the newcomer. Seeing the scene of Lovers Embracing, these Little Guys/Kids full of Youthful Vigor immediately became Restless/Mischievous. A few shouted "Kiss, kiss", followed by a large group shouting in unison. Their loud voices even attracted other Students.
The first few who started booing, I remember your Appearance. Weren't you the ones who just instigated Sarah to swipe the sword down? Be careful, I'll make you Fail the next Student Exam.
"What should we do? Little Sarah."
Lowering my Head, I used my Finger to lift the face buried in my embrace that refused to come out. Her Appearance, blooming with joy and about to drip with tenderness, her Beauty that had already blossomed with the peerless charm of a Maiden, made me unconsciously intoxicated.
My answer was Sarah's action of closing her Eyelashes, which trembled slightly.
"Oh—"
The next moment, the excited Wolf Howls of the Male Students and the shy screams of the Female Students echoed throughout the entire Training Camp.
"You... you are that Wu... Wu Fan..."
Our overlapping lips reluctantly parted. Holding Sarah, who was so shy she almost wanted to shrink into my Cloak, I waved to the surrounding Students. At this moment, the Pretty Boy, who had been ignored the whole time, finally couldn't help but speak.
Oh. I thought he would be sensible enough to disappear automatically. Since he wants to humiliate himself, I won't be polite.
"Kid. You dare to have designs on my Sarah? You've got some Guts, haven't you?"
I looked the Pretty Boy up and down with a teasing Gaze. The Wildness, deeply buried in my pupils after countless Slaughter, was something Wicks, a Rookie who hadn't even seen a Zombie, couldn't withstand. He staggered back a few steps, avoiding my Gaze, but his mouth was still stubborn.
"You... what do you want to do? Bully newcomers just because you're high Level? Let me tell you, I'll become a Class Changer just like you in the future, and my Family won't let you off..."
He's quite smart, isn't he? What a great line, "bullying newcomers". Does he want to resonate with the newcomers around him? "Will become a Class Changer in the future"? Is he trying to warn me not to Act Rashly? After all, Class Changers are still very Rare.
It's just, do you think your current Appearance can really stir up the atmosphere? Do you really think I wouldn't dare to touch you, this "future Class Changer Lord"? And...
With a sneer, I took a few steps forward, grabbed the collar of the Pretty Boy, who was so scared he forgot to retreat and just trembled as he watched me approach, and said in a low voice with a hint of Coldness.
"Since you know you're a Rookie, you should have a Rookie's Self-awareness. If your Teacher hasn't taught you how to Respect the Strong, then let me teach you a good lesson on his behalf."
Amidst the Students' exclamations, a White Light flashed. Light Snow 's Arrogant Figure stood tall against the Wind. The Presence emanating from its entire Body made these young Students, who hadn't even seen a Fallen, turn Pale. They finally realized the huge gap between themselves and a true Class Changer.
" Light Snow , take our Guest for a good tour of the Great Scenery around the Camp, so he can see the 'Fun/Enjoyment' we Adventurers usually have."
Patting Light Snow 's Head, I threw Wicks, whom I was holding, to it. It nodded. The next moment, raising a huge Storm, Light Snow , carrying the scared witless Wicks in its mouth, disappeared in front of the Dumbfounded Students.
"Don't worry, I'm just letting him see the Wilderness Environment a little." I said with a Smile to the Students who were still afraid. It was true. Just letting him see the Wilderness Environment.
"You brat, you just come back and cause me trouble."
After the Students who had enjoyed the Good Show dispersed, it was already Sunset. Walking Home with Sarah, a Melancholy Complaint suddenly came from behind.
"I don't remember you ever managing the Training Camp."
Without turning my Head, I replied. Who was it who press-ganged me into the Training Camp to be free labor just to be lazy?
"What are you going to do with that Little Guy? You're not really going to leave him in the Wilderness, are you?" Scratching his Head, the Old Drunkard scoffed, unable to refute. Then he said with a yawn.
"Why not?" I tilted my Head.
"Are you serious?"
"Just a little bit."
"..."
"Don't worry, I'm a good person." I smiled and gently pinched the face of the Little Angel beside me, who was curiously looking back and forth between me and the Old Drunkard.
"It wouldn't matter if he were an Ordinary Person, but he's a collateral branch of the Edward Family. His Family has contributed a lot to the Adventurer's Guild, so we should give them some Face." The Old Drunkard still spoke in that casual tone.
"Edward Family?"
I was slightly lost in thought, and a Petite Figure flashed through my mind instantly. Is she doing well?
"Didn't I say don't worry? Have someone pick him up at the Camp Fountain tomorrow morning. But..." He paused, then turned his Head and looked at the Old Drunkard with curious Eyes.
"But, do you really plan to cultivate this kind of person?"
"What a joke."
As if hearing a joke, he spat out a mouthful of Ale, wiped his lips, and glared fiercely at me.
"Don't tell me you don't know what our Alliance's Standard for cultivating talent is. If we let someone like that become a Class Changer, wouldn't we be adding members to the Fallen Alliance?"
First is Quality/Character, then Aptitude/Talent. This is why all the Adventurers I've seen so far are such a lovely bunch of people. Of course, there are some Exceptions, like me, a "wild Class Changer cultivated by individual teachers".
"Is that so? What a pity, I thought I'd have another Interesting Opponent." I sighed and said.
"Tch, stop pretending. Do you think I don't know what kind of person you are? If I said that kid could become a Class Changer, you definitely wouldn't see him tomorrow." The Old Drunkard immediately scoffed at me.
"Oh? Then tell me, what kind of person am I in your Eyes?"
I raised my Hood with interest, looking at the Old Drunkard, also curious about what kind of person I was in others' minds.
"You are a Coward." Spraying the scent of alcohol, the Old Drunkard gave me a direct definition.
Hey, hey, that's too hurtful, isn't it? Even if it's true, please consider Sarah next to me. How can you damage my Great Image in front of her like this? You could have used words like 'cautious' or 'careful', couldn't you have just gotten away with it?
Glaring at the Old Drunkard, I angrily pulled Sarah and quickened my pace. "Is that so? So I'm a Coward, huh? Well, I'm really sorry about that. A Coward wouldn't specifically bring you Wine from Kurast to drink."
Hearing the word 'Wine', Kashya's Eyes immediately turned envious/jealous, and she quickly flashed forward and grabbed me.
"Brat, don't be angry. See, wasn't I just making a Joke to liven up the atmosphere? Actually, from the moment I first saw you, I felt that you would definitely become a Hero who saves the Continent in the future."
Wow, your Face and words change really fast. It's too late. I shook off the Old Drunkard's hand, unmoved.
"That's really a pity. How could a Coward like me become a Hero? You must have seen wrong."
The atmosphere paused. I felt the hand holding mine suddenly tighten.
"So-called Heroes are actually Cowards." A faint voice came from behind, so serious that I couldn't help but stop.
"If you weren't a Coward, how could you live to become a Hero? Don't you think so?"
Raising her Head, the Old Drunkard revealed her usual carefree Smile again. The fleeting self-mockery in her Eyes was so quick that I wondered if I had seen wrong. In just an instant, she returned to being that unscrupulous Old Drunkard.
"The world of the Lords is truly complex."
Looking at the Old Drunkard's Figure, who left content after getting the Fine Wine from Kurast, I sighed and shook my Head. I wonder what kind of Past this guy has?
"Little Darling, what should we do? Big Brother has become a Coward."
Turning my Head, I said with a long face to Sarah, who had been smiling happily and listening to us talking nonsense. Now I had completely Lost All Face in front of her. Detestable Old Drunkard, I really shouldn't have given him the Wine so readily just now.
"It's okay. If Big Brother is a Coward, then Sarah will be a Coward too."
With such an innocent and bright Smile and Tone, Sarah hugged my arm and said, immediately sending a Warm Feeling through my heart. Woo woo, as expected of my Little Angel, those words are so Heartwarming.
Perhaps. For example, that Wicks. Although he was a Profligate/Dandy, he wasn't so bad that he deserved to be killed quickly. Perhaps he might turn over a new leaf in the future and become a backbone of the Adventurer's Guild.
But what does that matter? I only see what's before my Eyes. I saw the trace of Resentful Gaze when he left, still not giving up on Sarah. If someone like that gains Strength, even if he's just a Pawn/Small Fry, I will feel uneasy. I don't have that much Wisdom, nor that much Magnanimity/Tolerance to cultivate or utilize a Potential Enemy, to be some Controller/Mastermind, or play Cat and Mouse Games. I am just an Ordinary Person. I will use the most Ordinary and simple Method to Nip in the Bud even a tiny bit of Danger as much as possible.
Therefore, I am a Coward. A Coward who, in the End of Days, is Trembling with Fear yet Content/Satisfied, guarding his Nest/Den.
When we arrived at the Doorstep, Xi Lu Si and Ai Ke Lu, escorted by two Rogue Soldiers, had returned even earlier than me. Akara was really efficient. Holding my two Beloved Daughters, who threw themselves into my arms and Acted Spoiled, I couldn't be happier.
"Alright, alright, before Dinner. I have something to announce to everyone."
Before Dinner. At the long, exquisite low wooden table, I sat at the Head seat. Clearing my throat, I spoke to Velas and Sarah on my left, and my two Beloved Daughters and Marissa on my right. Except for Marissa, the other four looked at me curiously, their big Eyes blinking brightly and lively, revealing their Question.
"Cough, cough. Now, I want to introduce a new Family Member to everyone."
Seeing that I had kept them in suspense enough, I looked at everyone proudly. Hmph hmph, surprised, aren't you? You'll be even more surprised later. Thinking this, with Little Ghost's magnificent Appearance, a fish tank about half the size of a person was placed on the table.
With sea blue slightly curly long hair, beautiful golden yellow Eyes and Tail, and Beauty and Temperament that were absolutely not inferior to any girl present, our Little Mermaid Princess made her grand Appearance. She was shyly holding onto the Edge/Rim with both hands, welcoming the Attention/Gaze of four pairs of big Eyes.
"This is...?"
Velas and the Daughters stared wide-eyed at Eriya – there was actually such a wonderful/mysterious Creature in this world. The girl's Upper Body, but below was a golden Fish Tail. Her exquisite face and skin, a noble temperament with a hint of King's Might/Aura, yet she seemed Approachable. If she could grow to be as big as a normal person, she would definitely make any Man fall in love with her.
"Big Brother, is this... is this the legendary Mermaid?"
Sarah, who read more books, finally spoke with some uncertainty after looking curiously for a while, because this was after all just a Legend. And Velas and Xi Lu Si's Family Backgrounds were not as good as Sarah's. Although they were Literate, they didn't know as much as Sarah, so after Sarah said "Mermaid", their Eyes were still confused.
"That's right, this is a Mermaid."
Answering for me was Little Ghost, looking proud. Her proud Appearance was as if she was showing off the Little Mermaid as her own Pet. After fully enjoying everyone's Surprised Gaze, she slowly began to narrate the various versions of the Mermaid Legend.
Mermaid Legends are mostly inseparable from Feelings/Emotions – especially the yearning for Love. Therefore, the girls' Eyes quickly became Moist/Teary. And with Eriya's kind Personality, wanting to integrate/blend in with this Home and be accepted by everyone was not a difficult matter at all. After a while, confirming that the others had no Malice/Ill Will towards her, our Little Mermaid Princess got along harmoniously with everyone.
A few days later. Inside Akara's Tent...
Cain, Akara, the Old Drunkard, and I, the four Elders, sat together. As for the Stingy Guy Fara, he didn't come. It seemed that the Optimized Remote Teleportation Experiment had reached a Critical Moment. The last time I was inexplicably teleported to the Rogue Waypoint was because of this. Teleporting from a Remote Teleportation Station to a Normal Waypoint meant saving the Mana Cost of five Gems and five Sorceresses on the other side. This was indeed a great progress. I believe that in the near future, the dream of a Remote Teleportation cost of one Gem will no longer be just a dream.
"Is that so? I've also heard about it. I didn't expect things to be like this..."
After listening to my Experience in Kurast. Akara began to Ponder/Figure Out. Her fingers holding the Cane kept tapping on the Staff Head. Those familiar with her knew that her Brain was definitely rapidly turning again now. Finally, she seemed to have thought of something. Her Eyes met Cain's, and the two seemed to have instantly completed some scheme. A thought-provoking Smile appeared at the Corner of their mouths.
Hey, I say, you two old folks, what kind of Agreement have you reached? Tell me quickly, alright? Don't always play this tacit understanding game between the two of you. There are two other Elders here.
"Perhaps, this is an Opportunity."
Under my Gaze filled with countless Question Marks, Akara finally spoke mysteriously.
"Opportunity, what Opportunity?"
"An Opportunity to re-establish contact with the Elf Race."
"Huh—?"
My face immediately fell. To re-establish contact with those arrogant long-eared... Uh, I've been pretending to be Little People so much I'm getting used to saying it. It's the Elf Race. To re-establish contact with those stubborn/incorrigible Elf Race?
"Thousands of years have passed, it's time to come together again." Cain opened his old mouth and sighed faintly.
"It doesn't matter to me..."
Pulling out the Bottle Cap and taking a big gulp, Kashya said Leisurely. She probably felt that since the Elf Race's affairs wouldn't fall on her anyway, whether they cooperated or not wouldn't affect her. But judging by her tone, she didn't seem to care about the Elf Race much either.
"Then I have nothing more to say. Anyway, I don't understand this aspect, so you guys figure it out yourselves." I pursed my lips. My Idea/Thought was similar to the Old Drunkard's. Since Akara and Cain were worrying about it, why should I meddle?
"Since that's the case, it's decided then."
Her whitened blind Eyes swept over our faces. I don't know if it was an illusion, but I always felt that when her Gaze reached me, Akara's Smile was a little strange/eerie.
"What we need to do is very simple. First step, we must organize the Adventurers in Kurast and provide the Elf Race with a certain amount of Aid/Assistance. Only then can we gain their Recognition."
Looking at each other, everyone nodded, then continued to focus their Gaze on Akara.
"This Aid Operation Quest will be assigned to you, Wu!!"
"Pfft—"
I spat out a mouthful of Spirit-Clearing Water, looking at Akara's Gaze directed at me with Incredulousness, pointing at myself with my finger.
"Me? Akara, are you making a Mistake?"
"That's right, it's you." Akara said affirmatively.
"What can I do, being Useless/Incapable like this? Let others go. For example, isn't Asheara quite good?"
Calming myself down, I began to kindly advise/exhort Akara. Please, old lady, spare me. The highest official position I've held so far was in the Special Action Squad during the Monster Attack on Vita Village, and even then it was commanded by Druv, while I, the Actual Leader, just Jumped Around Randomly. Now you want me to organize the actions of thousands of Adventurers? I say, Akara, aren't you Overestimating me?
"Asheara is indeed a good Candidate, but firstly, as the Guard Captain of Kurast, she Cannot Leave, and secondly, she doesn't have the Strength to make those Unruly/Untamed Adventurers Obey Orders." Akara refuted unhurriedly, chuckling as if she had me figured out.
"Then let Kashya go. Isn't she quite Leisurely?"
My Eyes rolled, and I pointed at the Old Drunkard who was drinking alcohol leisurely on the side. Her Strength is enough, right? All the Adventurers in Kurast combined are not her Opponent/Rival. To be honest, having her alone is enough to aid the Elf Race. Why make the Adventurers of Kurast take risks?
When I expressed my Idea/Thought, I was again met with Akara's Refusal: "Leaving aside the fact that Kashya has her own Quest, even if she didn't, we can't let her go alone. Now is not the time to reveal her Strength. Moreover, the more people who help, the more it can show the Sincerity of our Adventurer's Guild, isn't that right?"
After my Brain turned a few times, I finally understood the Meaning of Akara's words – this time aiding the Elf Race, rather than helping them, is to show our Sincerity. If Kashya went alone, even if she could easily help the Elf Race overcome the Difficulty, the effect would not be as good as the entire Kurast Adventurers mobilizing together. Perhaps our side will pay the Price/Cost of Casualties, but in return, we will gain a greater Favor from the Elf Race. To show the Sincerity of cooperation, sacrificing a few Adventurers is something we Have No Choice but to do. Just like during the Monster Attack, Kashya and Fara, these Old Monsters who could rescue the Camp from Danger with just a flick of their Finger, watched from the sidelines with cold Eyes. This is the Way of Thinking of Superiors.
"But why me?"
I still didn't understand why Akara thought so highly of me. Did she think I had Leadership Potential? Or did she see something through the Great Eye?
"Because you are an Elder, because you have the Strength to make other Adventurers submit. Perhaps you are not Learned and Wise, but you possess the Vision/Insight that other Wise Persons do not have, and... Luck!"
I think if you removed Akara's preceding modifiers and just said the last two words, it would be about right. Aren't you just trying to say that I'm Enveloped/Covered by the Protagonist's Halo?
When the three of them looked at me with affirmative Gazes, I knew that declining was impossible. I didn't understand why they kept pushing a Small Fry/Nobody like me, whose lifelong goal was to Live a Lazy Life, onto the Crest of the Wave again and again. But never mind, I'm also interested in seeing from a third-party perspective just how far I, whom they expect, can go.
"Let me declare beforehand, you forced this onto me. If I Mess Up, it's not my business." It's better to say the Unpleasant Truth/Warning first. I have absolutely no clue about this operation, or rather, I'm prepared for the worst plan.
"Don't worry, Wu. Actually, your Most Important Task isn't to Command Actions, but to use your Strength to restrain these Adventurers. None of the Adventurers who have become Adventurers and reached Kurast are fools. As long as you can manage them well and Assign Tasks, I think you won't need to Expend Effort on the specific Operation."
Akara's words immediately made me Realize/Wake Up, and I felt much more relaxed. Indeed, I didn't need to worry unnecessarily. Does one have to be smarter than everyone in the world to be a good Emperor? The Adventurers in Kurast, any one of them has more combat experience than me. All I need to do is manage this group of people and Assign a Goal to them.
