CH 140

“Chapter 140: The Solar Dismantler”

Even after all the hardships, we managed to secure first place in the competition.

That night, the guild held a celebration party.

– Starting from tomorrow, Searat will be the representative guild of Bay Road! All thanks to every one of your efforts. We will get busier from now on, but don’t worry, it will be reflected on your pay! And also, a special thank you to those who prevented me from barking naked on the street.

– Cheers! (Everyone)

Our faces had smiles written all over them.

I still can’t get used to the taste of beer, but when I drink it like this, with everyone celebrating, I can’t get enough of the feeling.

– Hm, I’m not used to gatherings like these. Well, it’s not as bad as I expected.

It was thanks to Akane that we were able to get first place, so she was a guest of honor at the party.

– Yeah, I was like that too. I used to think I didn’t belong here. But just look at everyone having fun and being happy. Don’t you think it’s a wonderful thing?

– …

– What’s wrong?

Akane was looking at me straight in the eyes. Perhaps the alcohol was loosening her up, but she looked way less strict and formal than usual.

– Sorry, I was just thinking about how much you’ve grown. You look like a completely different person from the good-for-nothing I found at the sage’s palace.

– You think so?

– I guess being able to leave and spread your wings really helped you change. I wish I could too…

– Akane-san?

Just as Akane was opening up to me more and more, the door was slammed open.

– HEY EVERYONE! Sorry for being late.

– Grandmaster.

Ever entered the room along with Rizerotta, the woman that announced the results this morning.

– Apologies. We had to contact the main branch. Everything is on me tonight. Make sure they all drink to their heart’s content.

– This might not be the right guild to say that to.

– Don’t sweat it. It’s the least I can do for the trouble Mizott caused.

Rizerotta dropped a handful of 100,000S coins on the counter.

– So, I take it you’re the Sage of the Forest’s disciple. Takaya, right?

– Do you know me?

– This woman could not keep her mouth shut during the sages meeting. She would only talk about you.

– Grandmaster, I believe it was you who wanted to keep my existence a secret.

– Aw, come on, I just had a slip of mouth. Can I not boast about my precious apprentice?

– Right now I’m doing administrative work, but I’m also an adventurer myself. I’m a dismantler. Similar to you.

Rizerotta took out a shiny black stone I got from a longhorn.

– Takaya, we want you to join Alta Masters. This is not only my request, it’s a direct request from the main branch.