The journey from Carne Village to E-Rantel would take about three days and two nights, just by walking. Streetlights were only found in the center of town, and most of the pedestrians on the streets were adult men. From time to time, the sounds of people drinking and laughing could be heard from the shops lining both sides of the street.
Genji and Leticiel returned to the tavern recommended by the Adventurer's Guild. As the door opened, those who had once expressed their opinions about Genji fell silent.
"That guy is the adventurer who reached Mithril rank in just one week."
"Is that really true?"
"They fought against an entire army of ogres and goblins."
"Those two might be as powerful as Blue Rose and the others."
There was a hint of jealousy in their voices. After all, not only was Genji extremely strong, but the girls around him outshone everyone else. When the two entered, the previously indifferent boss approached them respectfully.
The prices at this tavern were cheap, and they always arranged the best rooms. However, no matter how good it was, it couldn't compare to the luxurious configuration of the Great Underground Tomb of Nazarick. The tavern was simple, even crude—like a stable.
This time, Genji and Leticiel didn't choose to order food or stay the night. Instead, Genji spent the evening mingling with the adventurers, chatting about various topics. Not only could he gather valuable information, but he was also laying the groundwork for his future status.
"Everyone," Genji began, clearing his throat to interrupt the lively atmosphere.
"There's a very powerful monster in the forest outside the city."
The mention of a powerful monster immediately captured their attention. They knew this monster was related to the 'Forest Sage,' a topic they had discussed before, but they didn't understand why Genji was bringing it up now. Even someone at Mithril level wouldn't claim they could defeat a creature that had lived for centuries.
"As for that demon beast," Genji continued, "it has already been conquered."
Spreading this news would boost Genji and Momonga's reputations. It could help them gain recognition and eventually level up to 'Steel Level' adventurers.
The adventurers laughed in disbelief.
"How is that possible? Unless it's the top adventurer team."
"I heard it lived for hundreds of years—how could anyone defeat it?"
Seeing their skepticism, Genji pressed on.
"I saw it with my own eyes. The group is about to arrive in this town."
"And they're coming here riding on the 'Wise King of the Forest.'"
The noise in the tavern grew louder, echoing down the street.
"That's the Wise King of the Forest? How could that be? If it's true..."
"Then it must be Blue Rose and the others!"
"That's possible."
But Genji's next words were beyond everyone's expectations.
"That team is Lord 'Dark Momo.'"
A few days ago, the adventurers had seen a man in black knight armor, accompanied by a beautiful woman—an imposing duo. One reckless individual had tried to provoke them, but everyone who witnessed the confrontation was left stunned. That man still doubted his life to this day.
Even Nfirea Bareare had asked Genji by name to be his bodyguard.
After hearing the details, the adventurers' disbelief turned to envy and jealousy. A powerful person was always accompanied by a beautiful woman—a combination that they found hard to compete with.
Once the story was spread, it was time to let others in the guild and at other inns and restaurants know.
...
Genji then remembered he should visit the pharmacy. Lizzie Barea might be able to make advanced potions. If they could mass-produce them, it would be incredibly beneficial for Nazarick. After all, there was a limit to the number of recovery potions in the game, and a large stock would be necessary.
It was an old place, but it seemed an extraordinary person had arrived. A girl in a black cloak was pacing back and forth, her behavior indicating that she was either waiting for someone or looking for something. Her anxious pace made her purpose clear.
However, Genji's objective wasn't to find her.
"Well, well, I didn't expect to meet a Mithril-level adventurer here."
Genji sighed, recognizing the situation. He had been hoping to avoid her, but she was too perceptive.
"Little brother and little sister, where are you going?" she called, her voice teasing. "Do you want to play with your sister...? Hahaha."
Genji quickly interrupted her.
"Ma'am, I think it's best if we just pretend we've never met."
If she were killed here, it would ruin the course of events and damage his influence.
"But if I don't fight, that guy's hands will itch again…" Genji muttered to himself, torn between his options.
"It's a difficult decision."
"You're right, Clementine," he said, acknowledging the complication.