Rustle Rustle Rustle
The leaves ruffled and parted, the sound of broken twigs and branches echoing in the air, accompanied by the sound of rapid footsteps as hooves and feet struck the solid ground. Ragged breathing ringing in quick succession as hearts pounded madly.
Buhiik Buhiik Buhiik
A wild boar ran throughout the forest, skipping over the rocks and crashing towards the bushes. Its heart was racing wildly and its eyes were full of panic. Its view shifted left and right as it tried to run away as fast as it could.
It was also worth noting that it was not a regular boar. It was a behemoth even larger than a bear, the ground shaking with each step it took. And the very same boar had a large spear stuck on its back, blood trickling down from it and dyeing the leaves and blades of grass red.
"Don't let it get away!"
"Hurry! Lure it to the left!"
On its tail were a cohort of warriors, wielding spears, blades, and bows, not losing out on speed as they chased the boar. They were all experts on the terrain, maneuvering skillfully on the rocky and budy fields, not losing track of their prey.
Clouds of dust and pollen were left on their wake, arrows darting through the air as they released shot after shot towards the running boar. Even when they were moving at high speeds, they didn't panic and shot arrows with a calm mind. A skill clearly honed from years of experience.
Buhhiiikkkk
A loud shriek boomed throughout the forest as arrows continued to rain down upon the wild boar, one laced with a tranquilizing agent. The more arrows hit, the slower and groggier its movement became. It was becoming sluggish.
With the passing of time, the large boar only slowed down, panting ever so profusely as darkness began to encroach its sight. The green and lively forest was now dull, only shades of gray to be seen as its visions swirled around.
"Surround it! Make it it has no way of escaping!"［Sakar］
"""Yes!!"""
The warriors didn't let the chance go, and quickly surrounded the now weakened boar. Before it noticed, there were already blades pointing towards it. Be it from the front, the sides, or the rear. It was already surrounded.
"Now!"［Sakar］
Sakar exclaimed and the warriors quickly charged towards the boar. Their spears thrust towards it and their blades hacked its tough skin, arrows still volleying towards it without rest. Death came from all sides.
Even then, the boar did not simply let itself be killed without a fight. Though it knew that it was on the end of its line, it still made a desperate, final struggle, charging towards the warriors and basing its massive body towards them.
⟨⟨Starving Shark!⟩⟩［Sakar］
Unfortunately for it, as it was distracted by the other warriors, Sakar had taken the opportunity and launched an attack of his own. The moment his voice echoed all over the forest, he was already midair, lunging his spear towards the struggling boar.
Like the name implied, the spear pierced through the boar's back, eating away its heart. A few moments later, a loud thud resounded in the air as the giant boar fell helplessly towards the ground, bathing in a pool of its own blood. It was over.
But rather than celebrating, the moment the boar fell, a deathly silence swallowed the place, only the rustling of leaves to be heard. Salar and the warriors looked at the boar once again before closing their eyes.
"I apologize for ending your life. We will make sure to use every bit of you to show our gratitude. May you rest in peace."［Sakar］
"""May you rest in peace."""
A sincere prayer echoed in the air as the warriors expressed both their apology and their gratitude. They may be the ones who killed it, but they still wished for it to have a fortunate life in its next life. Wishing towards fate itself.
"Let's not waste any time. I'm sure everyone is waiting."［Sakar］
Everyone quickly got to words and got the knives from their waistbands and slit the boar's stomach, letting the blood be drained and the innards be harvested. Not a single piece was wasted, only stored away in baskets to be used later.
At the same time, the warriors also retrieved the weapons and arrows stuck on the boar, cleaning them with water soon after. Though some of the arrows were broken or bent, there were still many which could be used again. It was fortunate.
Rustle Rustle Rustle
As the warriors were finishing their jobs, the leaves rustled once more, and as the bushes parted, two figures came out, wearing curious looks on their faces as they looked around the place.
"Waah～! What a massive boar..."［Yuna］
"To think they can reach this size. They're quite amazing, aren't they?"［Grey］
Of course, those two figures were none other than Grey and Yuna who had also just finished their hunts. It has been a few days since they started living with the villagers and every morning, they go out to hunt with the warriors.
Of course, they also go back and check on Lista from time to time, but most of the time, they are on Torogi. And after living there for a few days, they found more and more interesting things one after another.
"Well, this isn't the biggest they can get. I once saw something about twice as big as this one. And from the legends, it was said they could get even bigger."［Sakar］
"Twice as big... I wonder if there's still something that big around..."［Yuna］
One of which was that though there isn't a lot of variety amongst the wild animals, they are really impressive. Not only in size, they can also beat the other animals in terms of growth speed, reproduction ability, and resilience. Their meat is delicious as well. There isn't much to nitpick from.
In fact, the one the warriors just caught was only several months old. Though it wouldn't be unnatural for beasts, they were only normal animals. To grow up so quickly and massively, it really was a mystery.
Other than that, there were also little to no creatures which surpassed F-rank in the island. Though they finally encountered some monsters, they were mostly at H-rank or G-rank. The warriors could take them down with enough preparations.
And another thing. The fruit trees that Yuna had harvested from just a couple days ago were now bearing new fruits again, filled to the brim with delicious goodness only waiting to be picked once more.
Seeing the traits of the island, it was as it was made to be a paradise for people to live on. The food, the environment, the natural resources, and even the view. It was almost perfect. It very well be one of the wonders of Merusia.
"Speaking of which, how did your hunt go, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna?"［Sakar］
"Hmm... I guess you could say it went well."［Grey］
Said Grey as he showed the spoils of their hunt. As soon as he ended his words, a couple of animals suddenly appeared from thin air. There were a pair of boars, a few wild birds, and even a deer.
Of course, that was not all. As hunting them was easy, Grey and Yuna took the time to forage some plants and fungi from the forest, gathering a mountain-load of fruits, herbs, and mushrooms. It was a hefty spoil.
"Oohh! As expected of Lord Grey and Lady Yuna! You never cease to blow away our expectations."［Sakar］
"This is amazing... Just how many did they catch"
"Oh! They caught a horned deer as well!"
There were only praises to be heard as the warriors watched their spoils. Each and every single one was cut clean, not a single material needlessly damaged. With it, the highest quality leather, feathers, tusks, and many more could be harvested.
It didn't take too long before the warriors finally drained the blood of the large boar, and after storing the innards, they then tied it to a wooden pole, making sure it was tight enough and the boar wouldn't fall off.
"""Hup!"""
With a little upsy-daisy, they quickly lifted the pole and the boar along with it. There were already six people carrying it, yet it was still a heavy load. Still, not a single one of them complained and simply pushed through.
Grey and Yuna wanted to help them out, but the last time they tried to, they were denied by Sakar. It was not that they didn't appreciate it, it's just that carrying heavy loads was training for the warriors. A valid argument they couldn't argue against.
Tao Tap Tap
A heavy load on their shoulders, the warriors started walking back towards the village. Sakar made sure to follow them closely, making sure they didn't make any mistakes. They may already be experienced, but mistakes are something which could always be avoided.
"Hm?"
Though, throughout the course of their journey, something happened to the warriors that they couldn't explain. Suddenly, their bodies became lighter and all their pains faded away. Their bodies were back on their peak.
Of course, the culprit were none other than Grey and Yuna who casted healing magic to heal their bodies and illusion magic to veil the light coming from it. The warriors quickly figured out as soon as they saw Grey put his index finger in front of his lips, asking them to keep it a secret.
"Hey, is something the matter."［Sakar］
"A-Ah, nothing, Head Warrior. I just thought I saw a butterfly pass by."
"A butterly? You're already a grown man and a warrior, don't let yourself be distracted by some mere butterfly."［Sakar］
"Y-Yes... Sorry..."
It was a close call, but the warriors managed to dodge the bullet. With their bodies now in peak condition, they quickly and enthusiastically marched towards the village with their chests and chins held high, proud and happy.
Soon enough, after a few minutes of walking and carrying, they finally arrived at the ever so familiar village entrance. There, they were greeted by excited children, curious about what they caught for the day.
"Wow～! The boar is so big! It's even bigger than Papa!"
"Yaay～! We'll be having lots of meat today!"
"Are we having a feast again?!"
They all had different remarks, but all of them were excited and happy. Some were even jumping for joy as they thought about eating the juiciest and tastiest of meats. Kids are kids, after all. Food, fun, and dreams are all that there are on their minds,
"Ah! Big Bro! Big Sis! Good morning～!"
"Are we playing again this afternoon?"
"Big Bro, Big Sis, I want to eat delicious foods again!"
Of course, the moment they saw Grey and Yuna, the children's excitement jumped to another level. They all crowded around them, asking all sorts of questions with their sparkling eyes and wagging tails.
For the few days they have been in the village, Grey and Yuna always spend their afternoon with the village children. Not only do they play with them, they also cook some food for them. It was no wonder they quickly became so attached to them.
Well, what could they say? They simply have a soft and warm spot for little children, especially those who are kind and obedient. They just want to spoil them rotten and watch them grow up to be some fine people.
"Now, now, kids, let's calm our horses, okay? We'll make sure to play with you later. For now, how about you help out with housework? I'm sure your Mama and Papa would be very happy if you do."［Yuna］
"Will Big Sis and Big Bro play with us if we help?"
"Un! We'll play lots and lots! And... We also eat lots of yummy foods!"［Yuna］
At Yuna's words, the children's expressions quickly brightened up as they looked at each other's faces. They were strangely determined, nodding their heads towards each other as they all came to a silent agreement.
"Then, I'll go home now. I'll help Mama and Papa a lot!"
"Me too! I'll help out a lot too!"
"Me three! I'll make Mama and Papa happy!"
Raising their cute resolve one after another, the children scattered like flies all over the village as they went home to each and their own. They all had smiles on their faces, eyes brimming with energy and excitement.
Grey and Yuna don't know whether they were simply obedient or whether they were just innocently naive. There was also the possibility that they could just be lured by food. Nevertheless, they were both happy.
"Oh, looks like we're already left behind. They sure are fast, aren't they?"［Grey］
"Fufufu! We did heal them a little bit."［Yuna］
"Hahaha. That's right... Well then, let's go, shall we?"［Grey］
Calm and positive expression painted on their faces, Grey and Yuna started moving their feet again, skipping their steps, and quickly catching up to the warriors who were now at the village center.
With a quick swipe of his hand, Grey then dropped off their spoils and let the villagers do the rest. They were already drained of blood and innards, so all that's left to do was dismantle and store them. A little salt and drying will do.
"Lord Grey, Lady Yuna, thank you very much for your help. I'm sure everyone will be happy with such a magnificent haul."［Sakar］
"You're giving us too much credit. We're just happy to help."［Grey］
"Un! As long as everyone's happy, that's more than enough for us."［Yuna］
As usual, Sakar was the first one to express his gratitude. They have already said it was not needed since the first day, but he was quite the serious and stubborn man. Every time they finish, he would always thank them.
Well, it wasn't only Sakar. The other warriors and villagers thanked them too. Though it does feel good being appreciated, when they do it at each and every single thing they do, it gets a little embarrassing. Nevertheless, they were happy.
"Then, we'll be going now. Just find us if you need something."［Grey］
"Yes. We'll make sure to do just that... We hope you enjoy the rest of your day, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna."［Sakar］
"Fufufu! Don't worry, we will!"［Yuna］
With their morning tasks done, Grey and Yuna waved their hands goodbye before walking off towards the horizon, their figures slowly shrinking from Sakar's eyes until they were no more.
As for Grey and Yuna, they were simply heading to where their feet took them. They have neither a destination nor a goal in mind, simply walking and enjoying the sight at their leisure, feeling the fresh air touch their cheeks.
"Hmm... What should we do now?"［Yuna］
"Beats me... We're done with helping out, but now that we're free... I don't know what to do anymore."［Grey］
"Right～? And it's still some time before the afternoon arrives, too... Hmm... What to do... I'm getting bored..."［Yuna］
Yuna grumbled as she pondered ever so gently, It was still in the middle of morning, and with a few hours left, they are now left with an empty window in their schedule.
There was cooking, lazing around, cuddling, making equipment, and so much more. Their choices were a myriad, yet they couldn't choose what to do. It was just like having a large library of video games yet not knowing what to play. They were bored.
"Big Sister Yuna～! Big Brother Grey～!"［Marika］
Thankfully, the answer fell right into their lap. As they were just running out of ideas on what to do, a pretty little angel came towards them, running at full speed as she waved her hand left and right in the air, a smile blooming on her face.
"Papa's looking forー Uwaah!"［Marika］
And that very same angel, as one would expect, tripped herself against a rock yet again, almost falling down to the ground. It has almost become a routine at this point. Marika was simply too clumsy and careless.
Thankfully, Grey was there. With just a flick of his finger, he made the wind obey his commands and make a soft cushion to catch Marika. It was as if she had a bean bag made from air and magic, cool and comfortable.
"Th-That was close!"［Marika］
"What do you mean close? You really did trip, Young Lady."［Grey］
"But Big Brother caught me, so it's alright!"［Marika］
And in a very Marika-like fashion, she wasn't even concerned when she almost planted her face towards the ground. Rather, she was still enthusiastic as ever. To which, Grey could only heave a lengthy and exhausted sigh.
"Alright, alright, but be more careful next time... Anyway, what were you saying again? The Great Chief is calling for us?"［Grey］
"Ah, right! Papa has something to tell you!"［Marika］
"Hm? About what?"［Grey］
"Hmm... He didn't say anything. He just said it's important."［Marika］
To Marika's words, Grey and Yuna could only tilt their heads in confusion. Hearing the word "important", they could only think of the problem regarding the evil beast or anything related to it.
There was just one flaw. If it really was regarding that, the Great Chief himself would have hurried to see them rather than sending Marika first. With it out of the way, they are now in the dark about what the Great Chief. It was puzzling.
"Something important... I wonder what it is..."［Yuna］
"Well, there's no use thinking too hard about it by ourselves. We surely won't arrive at anything. Let's just ask the Great Chief, shall we?"［Grey］
"A-Ah! Then I'll lead the way!"［Marika］
Deciding to not think too much about it, Grey and Yuna simply decided to give up and follow Marika's lead. And contrary to their expectations, they weren't going to the Great Hall nor the Great Chief's house.
It was in another building, a little far away from the village and carved deep into the mountain, vines covering the place and hiding it from plain sight. It was like an old temple, water still running through the broken canals.
Only the light from Grey's magic illuminated the place, a number of ancient carvings and sculptures to be seen, the sound of dripping water clearly echoing as they hit the strangely flat ground. It was as silent as the dead.
"Marika, this seems like something important... Is it really okay to bring us here? This seems something sacred to Torogi..."［Yuna］
"Fufufu! No need to worry about that, Big Sister Yuna. Everyone in the village knows about this place. They say it's an old ruin, but no one really knows."［Marika］
Marika said as she reassured Yuna, not a single lie in her words. Soon, another light from the cavern, coming from a single torch. The one who held the torch was none other than the Great Chief, standing by himself.
"Oh! Lord Grey, Lady Yuna, you've arrived!"［Manelo］
"Well, you did call for us, but... What is this place?"［Grey］
"Hahaha. I would also like to know the answer to that question, Lord Grey. But truthfully, I also don't know myself."［Manelo］
Grey asked but all he received was disappointment. Both Marika and the Great Chief don't know, and so do they. Seeing how the situation has unfolded, one could only see hopelessness as they proceededー or so how it would seem.
But at a closer look, as Grey's light shone upon the walls behind the Great Chief, he saw familiar symbols engraved ever so skillfully. They might have gotten ruined from the flow of time, but there was no way he couldn't recognize them.
"Enchantment... Runes...?"［Grey］
"Oh? You know of them, Lord Grey?"［Manelo］
"Well, yeah... Just a little bit,,."［Grey］
Or so he says, but possessing the knowledge God himself gave, he knew of every single rune in existence. The ones in front of him were undoubtedly high level ones even he, as a Tier-6 Enchanter, rarely had a chance to use.
Moreover, they weren't simply carved into the walls. They formed an array which functioned as a lock to something, something not a single person in the world knew. Something so amazing, complex, and exhilarating was right in front of him.
"Lord Grey, can you decipher it?"［Manelo］
"Ah, well, I'll tryー"［Grey］
Grey hasn't even started. The hand he just extended suddenly stopped on its track, quickly getting retracted as his heart started to race quickly. A cold and terrorizing chill ran down his spine, danger looming over him.
"Lord Grey, isー"［Manelo］
"Yuna, my barrier has been broken! The Evil Beast has arrived!"［Grey］
"""!!!"""
It was all too sudden, not a single warning in sight. As soon as they heard Grey's loud declaration boom throughout their ears, their faces were painted white as panic and urgency struck them deep.
The Monster of the Deep has arrived.
CHAPTER 235 END