The warm sunlight filtering through the tree's leaves above cast dappled shadows on Michi's peaceful face. His gentle breathing and relaxed posture betrayed no hint of the turmoil that lay beneath. The soft rustle of leaves and chirping birds filled the air, a serene symphony.
Suddenly, a soft voice disrupted his serenity.
"Michi, wake up."
Michi's eyes fluttered open, and he found himself gazing into Airi's bright, inquisitive eyes. Her long, raven-black hair framed her heart-shaped face, and her lips curled into a gentle smile. Her beauty was mesmerizing, yet Michi's confusion took center stage.
"Huh? What? Where am I? Who am I?" Michi's confusion was palpable, his brow furrowed in distress.
Airi's laughter echoed through the air, a melodious sound that eased Michi's tension.
"You're under a tree, and you're Michi, of course!" Her voice dripped with amusement.
Memories flooded Michi's mind like a bursting dam. Fragments of his past life, his transfer to this world, and the events that led him to this moment swirled together in a kaleidoscope of images.
"Oh yes! I was isekaid here, hahaahah!" He chuckled, acknowledging his unexpected transfer to this world. The term, familiar yet foreign, rolled off his tongue with a mix of excitement and trepidation.
Michi's attire consisted of a crisp white shirt and pants, topped with a sleek black jacket that seemed out of place in this fantastical world. A mysterious card rested on his chest, its contents unclear, like a puzzle waiting to be solved. A prominent forehead stone embedded in his middle forehead changed colors according to his mood; currently, it glowed a soothing green, reflecting his growing calm.
As Michi sat up, Airi handed him a small, intricately carved wooden box.
"This was beside you. I think it might belong to you."
Michi's eyes widened as he opened the box, revealing a small note with his name and a cryptic message:
"Trust Airi. She will guide you."
A shiver ran down Michi's spine.
"Who wrote this?" he asked.
Airi shrugged.
"I didn't. Maybe someone who knows you?"
Michi's thoughts swirled.
Five Days Ago...
A sudden door burst open, and a boy found himself amidst a group of girls in bath dresses. Shock and embarrassment filled the air as he hastily exited the building, revealing the girls' washroom and bathroom. The sign above the door, "Girls' Bathhouse," seemed to mock him.
Screams echoed, and the boy rushed back in, his face burning with regret. The girls, mistaking his intentions, attacked him with whatever they could find – towels, soap, and even a few loose stones. Amidst the chaos, someone shouted, "Ecchi Michi!" The boy was thrown out, his face bearing slap marks, forehead stone now pink, eyes swollen, and clothes torn.
Dazed, he sat on a nearby bench, questioning his reality.
"Am I isekaid? If I am, that's cool! I accept it, wow!" His thoughts swirled with excitement and trepidation.
A distant scream pierced the air, and he sprinted toward the sound. In a narrow alley, two boys harassed a girl. Michi intervened, standing tall despite his torn clothes.
"This is not right; you can't do this to a girl!" Michi declared, his voice firm but shaking slightly.
Unbeknownst to Michi, his words took on a different meaning. The boys fled, traumatized. Michi faced the girl, who laughed.
"Ohhh, you just saved me in the most weird way possible, hahahHHHa!" Her eyes sparkled with amusement.
Michi recognized the girl.
"You're the one who called me Ecchi Michi! How did you know my name?" His curiosity got the better of him.
Airi chuckled.
"I didn't know; I was just rhyming, hahaha! I'm Airi."
Michi's torn clothes fell, exposing him further. Airi restored his attire with magic, her eyes twinkling with mirth.
"Thanks, you're a lifesaver," Michi said, his face warming.
Airi teased.
"What were you doing in the toilet, peeking at us?" Her voice danced with playful accusation.
Michi defended himself.
"No, never! I don't know how I got there; it's like I was transferred."
Airi touched Michi's head, reading his emotions.
"You're right; you didn't have bad intentions. Sorry for judging you."
Michi learned about his emotion stone and accepted Airi's offer to visit her mage family.
"Let's go," Airi.
As they approached the grand mansion, Airi announced their arrival.
"We are here, Michi… Father, I have returned!"
Michi's eyes widened in awe.
"That's a big mansion!"
Suddenly, a middle-aged man emerged from the entrance, clutching his stomach.
"Oh, you're back! And who is this gentleman?" he asked, his face flushed.
Airi smiled mischievously.
"He is Michi; he saved me today from the bandits."
The man's expression transformed.
"_Screams_ THANKS FOR HELPING MY DAUGHTER! JUST WAIT, I'LL COME BACK SOON!"
Michi recoiled, shocked.
Airi reassured him.
"Don't worry, my father always has loose motions. He'll come back soon. Come on, let's go inside, okay?"
Michi followed Airi, still bewildered.
Inside, Airi led Michi to a lavish dining room. A beautifully set table and comfortable chairs awaited them.
"Please, sit here," Airi said.
As Michi sat, the middle-aged man reappeared, composed.
"Ahhh, what a relief. Oh, nice to meet you, son. My name is Jigenshi Knevesnia. And you, young man?"
Michi stood, bowing slightly.
"Hello, sir. I am Michi."
Jigenshi's face lit up.
"Nice name, nice name! Thanks a lot for saving my daughter. You must stay with us today."
Michi hesitated.
"Um… sure. It's not like I have a better place to stay."
Airi excused herself.
"I'll call Mom, okay?"
Jigenshi nodded.
"Yes, go, Airi."
As Airi left, Jigenshi turned to Michi.
"So, young man, what is your occupation?"
Michi faltered.
"Um... for now, I just want to be an adventurer."
Jigenshi's eyes sparkled.
"That's a nice dream! Have you joined the guild?"
Michi shook his head.
"No, I will join soon."
Jigenshi smiled.
"I'll help you. My older son, Yakop , is the guild master of the adventurer's guild. He'll accept you soon."
Michi's eyes widened.
"Whoa... you mean Airi's big brother?"
Jigenshi nodded.
"Yes, though he's too busy with his work to come home often. Let me tell you something – he's my first child. I tried and waited a long time for him, but nothing happened. Then I left my wife for ten years and went to the mountains to gain power. After a lot of training and blessings, when I returned, I found out my son Yakop was born. I was so happy!"
Michi's mind reeled.
"Wow... wait a minute... 10 years of separation, and how did you have a baby?"
Before he could ask further, a soft hand touched Michi's head, and a beautiful lady approached him from behind, stroking his hair.
"I heard you saved my daughter. Oh, I am so happy, dear Michi. My name is Velina Knevesnia."
Michi's forehead stone turned pink as Velina cherished his cheeks.
Suddenly, the table lurched upward on Michi's side, as if pushed from below. Jigenshi's soup spilled onto his face, and a foul smell filled the air.
Velina wrinkled her nose.
"Dear, what's this bad smell?"
Jigenshi rushed to the bathroom.
"WHUHMM... wait, I'm coming in five minutes!"
Airi chuckled.
"Mom, Michi and I want to know about his forehead stone. It changes colors with emotions."
Velina smiled.
"That's a very rare sight. Wait for your father; he may know something. Michi, don't be shy; eat whatever you like."
Michi's face flushed.
"Yes, ma'am."
Airi teased.
"Wow, you're so famous in my family that I'm kinda jealous, haha. Don't worry, just eat and relax today. Tomorrow, we'll go to the adventurer's guild, where Oni-san will register your name as an adventurer, and you can take quests."
Michi nodded.
"Sure, thanks."
Jigenshi returned, composed.
"I'm back, haha! Oh, by the way, Michi, you have a nice forehead stone. What is this for?"
Airi asked.
"You don't know it too, Dad?"
Jigenshi shook his head.
"Sorry, dear, but I think I heard about this mark when I visited Euromia, the land of earth."
The evening unfolded with lively.
The darkness of the night enveloped Michi like a shroud, until a haunting howl pierced the air. He bolted upright, his heart racing like a wild stallion. The sound sent shivers down his spine, and his mind reeled with questions.
"What is this noise at this hour?" Michi asked, his voice laced with concern, as he turned to Airi.
Airi's gentle voice calmed him, like a soothing balm.
"Heyy, I know, sorry. It's the wolves. Don't worry, Litia will take care of them soon."
Michi's curiosity piqued, he threw off the covers and swung his legs over the side of the bed.
"Wolves? Litia?" he pressed, his eyes locked onto Airi's.
Airi explained, her voice matter-of-fact.
"Every night, wolves come to attack our farm at midnight. Litia is our family maid, an ex-sword class fighter. She'll defeat them in no time."
Michi's eyes widened in awe.
"Wow, can I watch?" he asked, his excitement palpable.
Airi's expression turned stern, her brow furrowed.
"No, you can't. Sorry, Litia doesn't allow anyone to watch her fight. It's too dangerous. Don't worry, you'll meet her in the morning."
Michi nodded reluctantly, though his mind whirled with questions.
"Okay."
As they spoke, the howling ceased, replaced by an unsettling silence.
"Wow, that was fast," Michi said, impressed.
Suddenly, a figure emerged from the shadows, her presence commanding attention. Litia stood tall, her piercing gaze surveying the room.
"I had to kill more today because of this boy," Litia stated, her voice firm, her words dripping with an unspoken accusation.
Airi intervened, her tone soothing.
"Don't say that, Litia. He's our guest."
Litia's gaze lingered on Michi, her eyes narrowing.
"Okay, but he has some unusual powers. I can feel it."
Airi's curiosity was piqued.
"Hm, why don't we discuss this in the morning? Litia, go and take rest. Good work."
As Litia turned to leave, she accidentally bumped Michi, sending him tumbling backward. His head hit the bedframe with a soft thud.
Litia's expression remained stoic.
"Yes, good night, Lady Airi."
Airi rushed to Michi's side.
"Yes, good night… wow, Michi, you're a fast sleeper."
Michi's limp form slid onto the bed, unconscious.
Airi's smile faltered.
"Michi?"
No response.
Airi's concern deepened.
"Michi, wake up!"
But Michi remained still, lost in a deep slumber.
As Airi watched over him, Litia's words echoed in her mind:
"Some unusual powers…"
The morning sun cast a warm glow over the bustling town, illuminating the cobblestone streets and wooden buildings. The air was alive with the sounds of merchants hawking their wares and adventurers sharing tales of their exploits. Airi led Michi through the winding streets, her bright smile and infectious enthusiasm guiding him through the throngs.
"Welcome to the adventurer's guild, Michi! My big brother, Yakop, is the guild master," Airi said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
Michi's nerves fluttered as they approached the sturdy stone building adorned with the guild's emblem: a sword crossed with a staff, surrounded by intricate runes.
"Will he be okay with me joining?" Michi asked, his brow furrowed with concern.
Airi reassured him with a gentle touch on his arm.
"Don't worry, Yakop's a bit serious, but he's fair. Just be yourself. Besides, he's always looking out for me, and since you're my friend, he'll be nice... mostly."
Michi chuckled.
"Thanks for the warning."
As they entered the guild, the atmosphere shifted. Adventurers of all shapes and sizes milled about, sharing tales and seeking quests. Airi guided Michi through the crowd, nodding at familiar faces and exchanging warm smiles.
"Hey, Gorvoth! How's the quest going?" Airi asked a burly warrior.
Gorvoth grinned.
"Ah, Airi! We cleared the goblin nest. Thanks for the tip!"
Airi beamed.
"Anytime! Michi, this is Gorvoth, one of our veteran adventurers."
Gorvoth's eyes narrowed.
"New recruit, eh? Welcome to the guild, kid."
Michi nodded.
"Thanks, sir."
Upon reaching the guild master's office, Airi knocked on the door.
"Enter!" a deep voice boomed.
Airi pushed open the door, revealing a tall, imposing figure with piercing blue eyes. Yakop's sharp jawline and chiseled features made him look every inch the authoritative guild master.
"Yakop, this is Michi. He wants to join the guild," Airi said.
Yakop's gaze narrowed.
"Ah, Michi. I've heard about you. You're the one who saved Airi."
Michi bowed.
"Yes, sir."
Yakop's expression turned stern.
"Very well. As guild master, I must inform you of our rules. You'll be required to complete quests, follow guild regulations, and respect your fellow adventurers."
Michi nodded eagerly.
"I understand, sir."
Yakop handed Michi a thick tome.
"Read the guild charter. It outlines our laws and expectations."
Michi took the book, feeling its weight.
"I will, sir."
Yakop led them to a hidden chamber deep within the guild.
"This is the Weapon Selection Chamber. You'll choose your primary weapon. Touch each one, and the chosen weapon will glow."
The room contained an array of weapons: a sword, claymore, bow, hatchet, scythe, book, and knife. Michi approached the pedestal, his heart racing.
Yakop watched intently.
"Begin."
Michi touched the sword. It glowed softly.
"Ah, interesting," Yakop murmured.
But as Michi touched each subsequent weapon, they all began to glow.
Yakop's eyes widened.
"Impossible!"
Airi's jaw dropped.
"Michi, how...?"
The room fell silent, with all eyes on Michi. Yakop stumbled backward, his face pale.
"This can't be... You're... You're an Omni-Weapon wielder!" Yakop exclaimed.
Airi burst into laughter.
"Yakop, you're speechless!"
Yakop's face turned beet red.
"Airi, this is no laughing matter! Omni-Weapon Holders are legends!"
Michi looked bewildered.
"What does it mean?"
Yakop composed himself.
"It means you can wield any weapon with mastery. You're a rare talent, Michi."
Airi grinned mischievously.
"Looks like you're special, Michi."
Yakop's gaze turned icy.
"Yes, special. And potentially dangerous."
The air thickened with tension as Yakop's eyes locked onto Michi.
"I'll keep a close eye on you, Michi. You're under my protection... and scrutiny."
Airi intervened.
"Yakop, don't be too hard on him."
Yakop's expression softened.
"For your sake, Airi, I'll guide him. But Michi, remember: with great power comes great responsibility."
Michi nodded.
"I won't let you down, sir."
As they left the chamber, Airi whispered.
"Welcome to the guild, Michi. It's going to be an interesting adventure."
Michi stood before the Adventurer's Guild, his heart racing with anticipation. His first commission, and Airi had graciously offered to accompany him. The task seemed simple enough: eradicate a cluster of slimes terrorizing a nearby village.
"I'll show you the ropes," Airi said with a reassuring smile. "Just remember, slimes are easy prey."
Michi nodded, his forehead stone glowing a determined blue. Together, they ventured into the lush forest, the sunlight filtering through the canopy above.
As they walked, Airi briefed Michi on slime behavior and weaknesses. Michi listened intently, his eyes wide with excitement.
Suddenly, a quivering mass of goo emerged from the underbrush. "Ah, our first target!" Airi exclaimed.
Michi drew his sword, its blade glinting in the sunlight. With a mighty swing, he struck the slime. However, his inexperience showed; the blade bit too deep, and the slime exploded, showering Michi and Airi in sticky, translucent goo.
"Ahh!" Michi yelped, slime dripping from his hair.
Airi giggled, her face smeared with slime. "Well, that was... enthusiastic."
Michi's eyes widened as more slimes emerged, their quivering bodies advancing on the duo. Panic set in; Michi swung wildly, sending slime flying everywhere.
In the chaos, Airi slipped, her feet flying out from under her. As she fell, her hand grasped Michi's pants, inadvertently yanking them down.
"M-tiny," Airi stammered, her face flushing.
Michi's face turned beet-red as he hastily retrieved his pants and retreated behind a nearby bush to adjust them. Airi quickly scrambled to her feet, avoiding eye contact.
The battle continued, with Michi struggling to control his strength. Slime after slime exploded, coating the duo in a layer of sticky, gooey mess.
Finally, the last slime dissolved, leaving Michi and Airi standing amidst the quivering remains.
Without a word, they walked back to the guild, their faces burning with embarrassment. The usually vibrant atmosphere seemed muted as they passed through the halls, slime-drenched and mortified.
At the commission counter, the guild receptionist raised an eyebrow. "Ah... welcome back. Completed the task, I presume?"
Michi nodded curtly, handing over the commission slip. Airi silently stood beside him, her eyes fixed on the floor.
The receptionist's gaze lingered on their slime-covered attire before stamping the slip. "Well... congratulations on your first commission. You two... certainly made an impression."
Michi and Airi exchanged a brief, sheepish glance before beatifying a hasty retreat, leaving a trail of slime in their wake.
As they stepped out into the evening air, Michi whispered, "Next time, I'll do better."
Airi smiled softly. "I know you will."
Their eyes met, and for an instant, the slime-covered debacle was forgotten.
The warm glow of the setting sun cast a gentle light upon Airi's home, where Michi and she sat in the cozy living room. Their slime-covered adventure still fresh in their minds, Michi's expression turned serious.
"Airi, I appreciate your hospitality, but I shouldn't stay here anymore," Michi said, his voice laced with determination.
Airi's eyebrows furrowed. "What do you mean? You're welcome here."
"It's not right," Michi insisted. "We barely know each other, and I can't impose on you indefinitely."
Airi's face lit up with a stubborn glint. "You're not imposing! Besides, it's just until you get settled."
The debate continued, with neither yielding. Finally, Airi's expression softened.
"Fine, I understand," Airi said. "But I'll speak to my brother about converting the guild's guest room for your exclusive use."
Michi's face lit up with gratitude. He took a step forward, arms open, as if to hug Airi. But his face flushed, and he hastily dropped his arms.
Airi's cheeks bloomed pink, and she smiled. "Good night, Michi."
As she turned to leave, she paused. "I forgot to tell you – now that you're an official adventurer, you can summon a pet."
Michi's eyes widened. "A pet?"
Airi nodded. "A partner in battle. Let me teach you the ritual."
She guided Michi through the ancient words and gestures, using his ability-enhanced book. Michi's excitement grew as he began the summoning.
The dragon settled onto Michi's head, its eyes sparkling.
Airi's jaw dropped. "A… dragon?"
Summoning a dragon required immense magical power, typically beyond a beginner's capabilities. Airi's thoughts drifted to the morning's events, and her face flushed.
"Congratulations, Michi!" Airi exclaimed, hastily changing the subject. "What will you name your new partner?"
Michi's eyes locked onto the dragon. "Henu."
The dragon emitted a delighted chirp, nuzzling Michi's cheek.
Airi smiled. "Welcome, Henu. You two will make an unbeatable team."
As the night fell, Michi sat with Henu perched on his shoulder, feeling an unprecedented sense of belonging.
The sun had barely risen over the Adventurer's Guild, casting a warm glow over the bustling hall. Michi and Airi stood before the quest board, scanning the available missions.
"Hey, Airi, why are you wasting your time with a newbie like me?" Michi asked, his brow furrowed in curiosity.
Airi's laughter echoed through the hall, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "You're not a waste of time, Michi."
She produced her adventurer card, revealing her A-rank status. Michi's eyes widened in awe.
"A-rank?!" Michi exclaimed. "I'm just F-rank."
Airi smiled mischievously. "To reach S-rank, I need to complete specific quests. One requires mentoring a newbie until their first rank upgrade."
Michi's face flushed. "And you chose me?"
Airi nodded. "You're a convenient newbie."
Their quest led them to a sun-drenched meadow, where emperor hornets buzzed menacingly.
"Be careful," Airi warned, her voice laced with concern. "Their stings are vicious." As if on cue, a hornet swooped toward Airi. Michi swiftly pushed her aside and beheaded the insect with his hatchet.
But Airi's eyes widened in horror as the hornet's stinger lodged in Michi's buttocks.
"Ah! Ah! Ah!" Michi screamed, blushing and crying.
Airi rushed to his side, attempting to extract the stinger. Michi's face contorted in pain.
"Please, Airi, hurry!" Michi begged.
Airi finally freed the stinger, but Michi's buttocks looked inflamed.
"Crybaby Michi," Airi teased. "Summon Henu; his dragon breath can heal."
Michi called Henu, instructing him to breathe on the affected area.
Michi's screams echoed as Henu's hot breath enveloped his buttocks.
Airi struggled to contain her laughter. "Bear with it, Michi. Just a few minutes."
After five agonizing minutes, Michi's buttocks healed.
"Thanks, Airi… Henu," Michi said, relieved.
Airi cherished Henu. "Good dragon. Just don't be a hentai with a name like Henu."
Henu growled softly.
Suddenly, a swarm of emperor hornets descended upon them.
To Michi's shock, Henu teleported away with Airi, abandoning him.
Michi faced the hornets alone, his buttocks soon covered in stingers.
An hour later, Michi stumbled back into the guildhall, his face swollen.
Airi and Henu awaited him, apologetic.
"I'm sorry, Michi," Airi said. "Henu panicked."
The receptionist approached, plucking the stingers from Michi's buttocks.
Michi screamed anew.
"Good work, Michi," the receptionist said nonchalantly. "These stings are top-quality."
Airi rushed to heal Michi's buttocks once more.
As they left the guildhall, Michi's expression remained calm, but his eyes hinted at a brewing storm.
"Henu," Michi said, "we need to work on your bravery."
Henu looked up at Michi with innocent eyes.
Michi's thoughts swirled with questions. Why did Henu abandon him? Was it fear or something deeper?
The walk back to Airi's home was silent, Michi's mind consumed by the day's events.
As they reached the doorstep, Airi turned to Michi.
"Michi, I'm sorry again. Henu didn't mean to leave you."
Michi's expression softened. "It's okay. We'll work on it."
Airi smiled, her eyes sparkling. "Together."
The morning sun cast a warm glow over the Adventurer's Guild, signaling a new day. Michi stood before Airi's home, his belongings packed and a mix of emotions swirling within.
"Time for me to move into the guildhall," Michi said, his voice tinged with determination.
Airi nodded, her eyes sparkling with understanding. "The guest room is ready. You'll love it."
Michi took a deep breath, feeling a sense of independence wash over him.
As they walked to the guildhall, Henu trotted alongside Michi, his scales glistening in the sunlight.
"From now on, Henu, follow me closely," Michi instructed, his eyes serious. "Never leave my side."
Henu gawrred in understanding, his ears perking up.
Michi's eyes misted, and he hastily covered them with his hands.
"Ah, stupid dust," Michi muttered, concealing his emotions.
Airi smiled knowingly, her expression soft.
At the guildhall, Michi and Henu approached the receptionist.
"New quests, please," Michi said, his voice firm.
The receptionist raised an eyebrow. "Five hunting quests this time? You're ambitious."
Michi nodded. "Need to strengthen my bond with Henu."
Airi joined them, her eyes sparkling. "Count me in. I'll help you two."
Their first quest targeted the elusive mountain bear.
As they climbed the rugged mountain, Henu suddenly darted ahead.
"Wait, Henu!" Michi shouted, his heart racing.
But Henu had already reached the bear's den.
The bear swiped at Henu, who promptly hid behind Michi.
Michi sighed. "Henu, you're supposed to help."
Airi chuckled. "Looks like Henu needs training."
Together, they devised a plan.
Michi distracted the bear while Airi struck from behind.
Henu, sensing victory, breathed fire.
The bear surrendered.
Their next quest led them to the rock crocodile.
Michi attempted to sneak up but tripped on a rock.
The crocodile chased Michi, who frantically shouted.
"Henu, help!"
Henu breathed fire, scorching the crocodile's tail.
The creature surrendered.
As they rested, Airi teased Michi.
"You're clumsier than a newborn giraffe."
Michi blushed.
Their third quest targeted the mushroom snake.
Airi cautioned, "These snakes blend into their surroundings."
Michi nodded, his eyes scanning the forest floor.
Suddenly, Henu pounced on a mushroom.
"Wait, Henu! That's not—"
But Henu had already swallowed the mushroom.
The snake emerged, its body resembling the mushroom.
Michi face-palmed. "Henu, you ate the bait."
Airi giggled.
After a series of mishaps, they defeated the snake.
The monster cockroach quest proved comically chaotic.
Michi shrieked as cockroaches swarmed him.
Henu stomped on the creatures.
Airi laughed. "You're more scared than the cockroaches.
Michi blushed.
Their final quest targeted the deadly duck.
As they approached the lake, quacks filled the air.
Michi whispered, "Don't startle it."
But Henu charged forward.
The duck unleashed a sonic quack.
Michi and Airi covered their ears.
Henu, unaffected, breathed fire.
The duck exploded.
As they returned to the guildhall, Michi grinned.
"Today was… eventful."
Airi chuckled. "You and Henu make a great team."
Michi's eyes warmed.
"Henu, you're learning."
Henu gawrred proudly.
The receptionist greeted them with a smile.
"Welcome back! Your quests were successful."
Michi and Airi exchanged a look.
Their bond had grown stronger.
And so, Michi's adventures continued.
Morning dawned on the Adventurer's Guild, casting a pale light on the somber faces gathered in the hall. The news spread like wildfire: Gorvoth, a seasoned adventurer, had fallen prey to wolves.
The guild's members murmured among themselves, their suspicions fueled by Michi's rapid growth and unconventional abilities.
"He's been here for what, a few weeks?" Ryker, a burly adventurer, asked, his voice laced with skepticism. "And already he's taking on quests meant for veterans."
Lila, a lithe archer, nodded in agreement. "I've never seen anyone progress so quickly. It's unnatural."
The hooded figure spoke up, their voice dripping with malice. "We don't even know where he comes from. He just appeared out of nowhere."
Airi, standing at the edge of the crowd, frowned. She knew Michi's past was shrouded in mystery, but she believed in his innocence.
Suddenly, his door burst open. Adventurers stormed in, dragging Michi out.
"You're the reason Gorvoth's dead!" Ryker shouted, his face twisted with anger.
The crowd surged forward, their accusations escalating into chaos.
Michi struggled to defend himself, but the adventurers overwhelmed him.
Fists flew, connecting with Michi's jaw and stomach. He doubled over, gasping for breath.
Henu, sensing Michi's distress, charged forward. "Let me go!" Henu roared.
But magic barriers blocked the dragon.
Michi's cries echoed through the guild. He felt helpless, trapped
"You're the reason Gorvoth's dead!" Ryker shouted, his face twisted with anger. The same adventurer who had whispered about Gorvoth's death now led the charge against Michi.
Michi struggled against his captors. "I didn't do anything!" he pleaded, but the adventurers wouldn't listen.
Airi, enraged, stormed into the scene. "Stop this madness!" she shouted, her eyes blazing. Her sword flashed in the dim light.
Guild Master Yakop followed, his face stern. "Enough!" Yakop boomed, his voice echoing through the hall. His presence commanded attention.
The room fell silent.
Some adventurers snarled. "Guild Master's under Michi's spell." The hooded figure spoke up, their voice dripping with malice.
"He's not human," Lila added, her eyes wide with fear.
"A demon's child," Ryker spat.
Yakop's gaze swept the room. "Enough!" he repeated. His eyes lingered on each accusatory face.
Airi rushed to Michi's side. She gently cleaned his bruised face with her handkerchief. Her touch soothed Michi's battered skin.
"Thank you, Airi," Michi whispered, his eyes meeting hers.
Airi's expression softened. "I'll always stand by you, Michi." Her voice was barely audible.
Yakop's voice rose above the din. "We have a special quest for Michi." He paused, surveying the room.
"Kill the wolves, and you'll apologize." Yakop's gaze locked onto Michi.
An adventurer sneered. "What if he fails?" Ryker asked, his tone dripping with skepticism.
Yakop's gaze hardened. "Then it's up to you." His voice left no room for argument.
Michi stood, determination burning. "I'll complete the quest!" he screamed. His voice echoed through the hall.
The room fell silent.
Yakop handed Michi a parchment. "The wolf den's location." The map detailed the treacherous terrain.
Michi's eyes locked onto the map. His mind racing with strategies.
With Henu by his side, Michi departed. The dragon's presence bolstered his confidence.
Airi walked alongside him. "Be careful, Michi." Her eyes shone with concern.
Yakop halted her. "Let Michi prove his innocence alone." His expression firm.
Airi's eyes narrowed. "I'll wait." Her voice was laced with determination.
As Michi vanished into the morning mist, Airi's thoughts swirled. What secrets did Michi hide? Why were wolves targeting adventurers? And what lay within the wolf den?
The guild's members dispersed, their whispers lingering.
Michi walked alone, Henu's presence his sole comfort. The forest loomed before them, its shadows hiding unknown dangers.
Michi steeled himself. He would prove his innocence. And uncover the truth behind the wolves' attacks.
The journey was long, the sun dipping into the horizon. Michi and Henu rested, their campfire a beacon in the darkness.
Henu's eyes gleamed in the firelight. Michi smiled.
"We'll do this, Henu." Together, they would face the unknown.
The darkness of the forest enveloped Michi and Henu as they approached the wolf den. The trees seemed to loom over them, casting long, ominous shadows that stretched and twisted in the fading light. Michi's wounded face throbbed with pain, but he pressed on, driven by determination.
As they neared the den, Henu sensed Michi's distress and nuzzled his cheek, offering comfort. Michi's eyes fluttered closed, and he leaned against Henu's scaly side, letting the dragon's warmth seep into his battered skin.
"Everybody hates me," Michi whispered, his voice cracking as he struggled to hold back tears. Tears welled up in his eyes, and he felt a lump form in his throat. He thought of Airi, the only one who seemed to believe in him, and the memory of her smile gave him the strength to continue.
Henu's ears perked up, concerned. He wrapped his body around Michi, shielding him from the darkness. The dragon's scales glinted in the moonlight, a protective barrier between Michi and the unforgiving world.
"I only want a happy life with all," Michi continued, his words barely audible. "Is there no place for someone like me?" His thoughts drifted to the guild, where adventurers whispered behind his back, their suspicion and fear palpable.
Michi's rage boiled over. He drew his claymore, its blade shining with a faint, otherworldly glow.
"Let's go!" he shouted, charging forward.
The battle raged on. Michi wielded his sword, claymore, and daggers. Wolves fell, one by one. Henu watched in terror, offering bursts of healing flames.
A wolf lunged, jaws wide. Michi sidestepped, striking its flank.
As the wolf crumpled to the ground, Michi shouted, "Die!" His blade sliced through the wolf's fur, releasing a warmth that spread through his chest.
Another wolf attacked. Michi parried, riposting with deadly precision.
Henu's flames scorched a wolf's fur.
"Thanks, Henu!" Michi called out.
A massive wolf emerged from the shadows, its eyes glowing like lanterns in the darkness. The air seemed to vibrate with its presence, and Michi felt the ground tremble beneath his feet.
It struck michi's left hand, severing it with a swift swipe of its claws. Michi screamed, his voice echoing through the forest.
Henu rushed to his side, his scales bristling with fury. With healing powers, the dragon reattached Michi's hand, restoring circulation and soothing the pain.
The shadow wolf mocked Michi, its voice dripping with malice. "You're weak," it sneered, pacing around Michi with an air of superiority. "Having too much power doesn't make you powerful, Michi." The wolf's words cut deep, but Michi refused to yield.
As the wolf continued, its voice wove a spell of despair. "You're drowning in despair," it whispered, its breath cold against Michi's skin. "Maybe I'll defeat you today, but you'll never be happy." Michi's heart sank, but he remembered Airi's words, spoken in a moment of tender vulnerability.
"I'll always support you, Michi," her voice whispered in his mind.
Michi sat, heaving, his chest tight with emotion. The forest seemed to darken around him, as if the very trees were closing in.
"Shut up!" he screamed, slamming his fist into the ground. The earth shook beneath him, and the wolf's eyes narrowed.
The wolf replied, its voice laced with venom. "Do you even know yourself?" it taunted, its words striking Michi's heart. "Who are you? Do you have an existence?" Michi's thoughts swirled, memories fragmenting like shattered glass.
Henu flew at the wolf, his wings beating fiercely. But the wolf dodged, its movements fluid and deadly.
Michi felt defeated, his strength waning. But then, his forehead stone began to glow golden, illuminating the darkness.
A black coat materialized around him, its fabric rippling like silk. A card appeared in the coat's pocket, its surface etched with mysterious symbols.
Airi's thoughts filled Michi's mind, a warm presence that dispelled the shadows. "I'll always support you, Michi," her voice whispered.
Michi stood, his claymore shimmering golden. One slash, and the shadow wolf fell.
"It's good, but not enough," the wolf said, its voice fading. "Take this." The wolf touched Michi's forehead stone.
It glowed gray, a hue that seemed to hold secrets and mysteries. The wolf's shadow power coursed through Michi, a dark energy that stirred his senses and awakened a newfound strength within him.
As the wolf's power merged with his own, Michi felt an unsettling transformation taking place. His senses grew sharper, his reflexes quicker, and his heart heavier.
"I've added my shadow power," the wolf whispered, its voice barely audible over the pounding of Michi's heart. The words echoed through Michi's mind like a promise.
The wolf's body began to dissolve into mist, its form blurring like a watercolor painting. Michi watched, transfixed, as the wolf's essence dispersed into the forest.
With the wolf's departure, the forest seemed to awaken. Trees creaked, leaves rustled, and the wind carried the whispers of ancient secrets.
Henu rushed to Michi, concern etched on his scaly face. Michi's exhaustion hit him like a tidal wave, and he collapsed onto the forest floor.
The world went dark.
Next morning, sunlight filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the ground. Michi stirred, his body aching.
Airi appeared beside him, her hair shining like gold in the morning light. Her smile illuminated the forest.
"No one will hurt you again, Michi," she said, her voice warm and soothing. Her words wrapped around Michi like a gentle blanket, comforting him.
As Airi spoke, Michi's thoughts drifted to the guild, where adventurers whispered behind his back. But Airi's presence chased those doubts away.
Airi handed Michi a wooden box. "From Yakop," she said.
The box was adorned with intricate carvings, symbols of the guild's respect.
A note inside.
"Believe in Airi," Yakop's handwriting read. Michi's heart swelled.
Airi smiled.
"You're a D-rank adventurer now," she said, her eyes sparkling. "You've earned respect." Her words painted a picture of a future filled with possibility.
Michi checked the card, his fingers tracing the intricate symbols etched into its surface. The script remained illegible, but the card's texture seemed to hold secrets.
Unimportant, he thought, tucking the card into his pocket. For now.
As he stood, Airi's gaze met his, her eyes shining with warmth. Michi's heart swelled, and he felt a sense of belonging.
Michi closed his eyes, letting the forest's silence envelop him. Airi's fingers intertwined with his, her touch sparking a sense of peace.
"Hero!" she whispered, her breath caressing his ear.
The word echoed through Michi's mind, conjuring images of legendary warriors. He smiled, feeling the weight of responsibility.
He knew he'd found his place, among adventurers who respected him, and with Airi, who cherished him. Henu's presence reinforced this sense of belonging.
As Michi drifted off to sleep, the forest seemed to whisper its secrets. The trees leaned in, their leaves rustling with ancient wisdom.