Published: August 2, 2025
Today, two stories are updated at the same time.
This is the first episode.
When I showed up at the commercial guild this morning, as usual, I was led to the reception room again. Since it happens every time, I’m getting used to it…
“Good to see you, Ryoma. Still about the manpower issue?”
“Yes. But I have a bit of a consultation as well.”
“Oh? What is it?”
I first explained the situation.
“I see… Well, the introduction we made on the first day was a bit rough too. Alright, if you find someone you trust, bring them along. It’s not a crime or anything, so we’ll prepare everything so the procedures can be done quickly.”
“Then I’ll bring someone once I find them. Thank you for your help.”
“Yeah, good luck.”
Since the conversation wrapped up smoothly, I got up from the sofa, but was stopped.
“Ryoma, wait a moment. There’s something I forgot to tell you, so have a seat.”
“What is it?”
I lowered myself back down.
“It’s about those thugs who came to your shop the other day. We investigated here too... We found out they were hired by someone, but couldn’t track down the ultimate employer. There’s a chance the Dark Guild might be involved, so be careful.”
“The Dark Guild…”
That must be a criminal organization, right?
“A group of bandits and assassins?”
“Exactly. Not just those who carry out crimes, but also those who provide illegal goods or tools for crimes, and the ones who act as their liaisons — basically anything they do. They don’t just steal or intimidate; some specialize in killing, so be cautious.”
“Understood, thank you for the warning.”
“This is nothing to worry about. Besides, you’ll be visiting Taylor’s place soon, right? There’s something I want you to take along.”
The guild master called out to someone outside, then instructed a staff member who came in to bring a glass bottle. The bottle was filled with a pale green liquid, with some powder settled at the bottom.
Medicine?
Once confirmed, the bottle was placed in a wooden box brought in by the staff.
From the color, viscosity, and sediment of the medicine, it’s clear it’s a nutritional supplement.
And a strong tonic for vitality.
“Curious about it?”
“Ah, sorry.”
I thought it wasn’t really my place to dig too deep, but since I was curious, I asked.
“By the way, you were the one who gave Wogan that idea, right? If you know what kind of medicine it is, you probably don’t need me to explain, but it’s not for any specific illness, so don’t worry. When you get older, there are bound to be days when you just can’t shake off fatigue.”
While talking, the guild master wrote something with a pen and handed it to me.
“Give this letter to reception. This box is the usual one, so they’ll recognize it. I also wrote that you should hand it over directly, so you can take care of your business when you go.”
“Thanks again.”
“Say hello to the old man over there for me.”
Seeing the guild master off, I left the guild once again.
“So, that’s the situation. I was hoping the guild could either recruit for us, or register any suitable people we find.”
“I see…”
Using the delivery as an excuse, I met with branch chief Taylor and explained the situation I also told the commercial guild’s guild master. They accepted it smoothly, but the branch chief who heard it here looked troubled and thoughtful.
“Hm? Oh, sorry, I’ll prepare some tea.”
“Oh, no need. By the way, is there a problem?”
“No, not exactly a problem… Wait a moment. Let’s sit down and talk properly.”
The branch chief stood up and took out a tea set from a small shelf in the corner.
It seemed to include a magic tool like a cassette stove, and he began preparing tea.
“So, branch chief Taylor makes the tea himself?”
“Yes, no need to bother others, and it’s a nice break.”
With skill comparable to the duke’s household maids, the branch chief brought over the tea.
“Well, as I said before, there’s nothing wrong with your proposal. You can bring anyone you trust, or recruit from current members. That’s normal business. And honestly, we want to support your shop as a guild… but there are some concerns.”