Chapter 14
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A certain man walked down a street, his head hung low. A long piece of paper was held in his shivering hand. The man's face was bright red as he held his breath in anger but he soon exhaled it, his heart was filled with helplessness.
The man placed it in his right pocket and rushed towards a certain direction. A small and unkempt penthouse was located at its direction. He climbed up the stairs, took out his keys, and opened a door, the one at the corner.
"Mother, I'm home."
There was no reply coming from within the room. Only silence reigned over the isolated place. However, the man showed no emotion of panic, only sadness was written all over his face.
He took off his shoes and proceed into another part of the house. The man had a bitter smile on his face as he stared at a certain figure, lying on the only bed inside the room.
An old woman was lying on top of the bed with her eyes closed tight. There was no sign of movement as if a corpse was placed on the bed. However, there is no foul stench coming from the room, indicating that she's still alive.
If one pays enough attention, one could see her diaphragm, moving so occasionally but it was too faint for most people to notice.
The man took a seat beside the woman and held her hands. Tears started to form on the man's eyes as he examined the condition of his mother.
"Mother, I saved up enough money. I will move you to the hospital tomorrow."
There was no reply from the woman. However, the man still continues to converse with her, despite receiving no reply.
This was a scene a few weeks ago.
The man in the story was currently standing in front of a familiar building. It was the building of Jake's guild, <Silver Wings>. The eyes of the man reflected his great resolution as he entered the building.
"Welcome~"
A sweet and energetic voice greeted him. The owner of the voice soon approached him and led him to a table for two.
"I'll have one <Fried Rice> and a glass of water."
"I understand. One <Fried Rice> and a glass of water. Is there anything else, sir?"
"No, that's all for now."
"Okay, please wait a minute."
The female waiter finally left him alone to approach the open kitchen. The man was surprised to see an underage girl working inside the guild. However, he soon dismissed his thoughts as he focused on his main objective.
The man's eyes soon scanned the surrounding, in search for something. The man's action was not noticed by anyone. It proved that this was not the first occasion for him.
Soon, the man's sight focused in one direction.
A female young adult was seated at a table near the kitchen. At first, she was using her laptop, appearing like a regular customer. However, the chef of the place often visited her in a friendly manner. Well, not so friendly in the perspective of the man. He would describe it as… flirty.
It was just enough to arouse his suspicion. However, he knew he found the right person when he saw a man walked over to the woman's seat and started to converse with her. The newly arrived man was special. He came over from the stairs leading up, the one restricted for employees.
The man stood up and was about to approach that particular seat but was stopped by the sudden change in expression from laughing to a rather bizarre one. It happened in a split second, but he noticed it.
The matter bugged him a little but he judged that it was no problem for him to continue with his purpose. At most, he would spend more time completing his objective.
"Good evening, may I sit with you?"
*
"Good work! That's enough for today."
"Yes, thank you, Master."
Jake was drenched in his own sweat as he instructs Kazuko. The boy had a smile on his face, contrary to the first time he entered <Silver Wings>.
The pair of siblings have long moved out from Ethel's room (supposedly) and received a new lodging inside the mysterious space. At least, that was what they call it.
Jake has purchased two rooms in the living section of the workshop for a total of $9,000. The first one was priced at $4,000 but the price increased after the purchase to $5,000. For the information, the third room cost $6,000. It seems that it will continue the trend to increase by $1,000 after each purchase.
"Go take a shower and then we'll eat downstairs. I'll wait for you after I did so myself."
"Yes, I'll be there as fast as I could."
"Haha, take your time."
Jake left the workshop and took a shower before going down. He met the busy Kana and approached. Soon, he noticed a certain gaze directed towards his location. However, it seemed to lack any evil intention so he ignored the gaze.
The shop has improved greatly for the past weeks as it slowly earned him a steady income. The supply from the professor played a big role in the development.
Sergio's truck was too eye-catching for the masses as they instantly recognize the logo painted on it. Then, the shop's popularity began to skyrocket. However, people soon lost interest due to the revelation of the potion's real price. Fortunately, there were still people who were willing to purchase his potion despite the fact. Which led him to the current situation, a decent but steady income.
Lately, he talked with Kana about rumors and other casual topics. They even joked around like in the older days. The moment brought joy to him. Adam also started to blend in with the group.
"Hey, Kana! How's your day going?"
Kana glared at the innocent Jake as she began to rattle.
"Argh… you tell me about it! I would be really happy just to get a decent amount of sleep these days. Not to mention… argh, nevermind."
Kana's gaze turned towards Adam at the end of her sentence. Their eyes met and Adam simply gave her a wink as he flicked his wrist, showing off his skill of cooking <Fried Rice>.
Jake saw the scene and laughed.
"Hahaha, is he still trying to flirt with you?"
"Wha— how do you— argh… YES! I can't even concentrate if he comes over. That mouth never stopped moving. I am working very hard to make this place popular just because of him. At least he will leave me alone if he got orders."
Jake tried to hold his laughter but failed at the end. He couldn't help but offer his gratitude to Adam in a certain aspect.
"Well, at least he's a good guy you know?"
"Urgh… I know that. That's why its hard to just reject him outright."
"Hahahaha…"
At that moment, Jake's face froze for an instant before revealing a serious expression. The culprit for his change in expression could be seen on the TV.
=====
A MYSTERIOUS WELL WAS FOUND, NEW DUNGEON?
A witness claimed to have seen someone fell into the 3-m deep dried well. However, when he and another person wanted to help him out, he couldn't see anyone at the bottom of the well. Let's ask!
"My friend thought it was weird and went to get a rope, giving me one end of the rope and holding the other one. However, when he reached the bottom of the well, he disappeared."
"At first, I thought it was a dungeon. But, he should be able to get out of the dungeon if he wants. Now, I'm worried."
That's the only information we know now. Is it really a new dungeon? Stay tuned for the answer.
=====
"Bingo!"
Finally, Jake found a hint for a potential <Demon's Mark>. If the well was proven to be a dungeon, he was planning to visit it to take it. After all, it will be too great of a risk to let someone else enter it.
The first and main risk was to let it develop by itself and successfully bring over an army of monster to Earth. There was also the fear of causing any more unnecessary casualties.
The second was to risk letting the <Demon's Mark> get destroyed by someone who might accidentally channel their mana into it. He felt that it contained a great secret if he managed to collect all 12 of it.
"Kana, I have a plan for the guild!"
It took Kana by surprise but she soon shifted her concentration towards Jake. However, the concentration was broken by a sudden visit by an unfamiliar man.
"Good evening, may I sit with you?"
The man had a medium build. The scar on his left cheeks left a deep impression in Kana's heart. The man had a weird smile on his face, clearly, he was not someone who smiles a lot. His appearance was rather unkempt but could still be considered casually dressed.
Kana tried to exchange a glance with Jake to let him take the decision. However, he only saw the surprise in Jake's eyes.
Jake was greatly surprised by what he saw. As a habit, he used his skill, <Inspect> on the newly arrived man. He knew that this man was the one keeping his gaze on his table but he didn't expect him to come over.
The most surprising thing was a familiar name from the result of <Inspect>.
==
Roger Massey
Age: 20
Job: Knight
Level: 24
==
It was the man he met not too long ago, at the administration office when he went to take his money. He almost couldn't recognize him due to the difference in appearance, especially his hairstyle.
"Ah yes, please have a seat."
"Thank you."
Roger pulled out a chair and sat in between Jake and Kana. Unexpected to him, he was not the one who initiates the conversation.
"Hello, we meet again. Do you remember me?"
Jake had a large grin on his face. He felt that it was fate that brought them together as they met at another place.
Roger was surprised by Jake's respond. Once again, he took a clear look at Jake's face, knitting his eyebrows as he dove deep into his memory.
"Ah! That time at the administration office? I think your name is… Jack?"
"Yup! But the name's Jake. Jake Atkins. I remember you. Roger Massey, right?"
"Yeah, the world is really a small place."
They both laughed for a small period of time, leaving Kana in a daze. From their conversation, Kana figured that they might have met somewhere before but only exchanged a few words before parting. As such, she decided to watch the situation unfold.
"So, what brought you here?"
"Oh right. Actually, I want to ask about the recruitment and advantage for your guild members here."
Roger took out his phone and used it to display a certain picture. It was a poster that Kana posted on their social media, announcing about the guild's recruitment.
Roger's words cause Jake to almost dance in joy. Roger's potential and prowess would be a great addition to the guild. Honestly, his leveling speed was crazy fast as Jake remembered that last time, Roger was still in level 16. Only a few weeks have passed but he gained 8 levels. It was a speed only known to genius in Aestes. As expected of someone with a potential of A-.
For the first time in a while, Jake became serious as he explained about the benefit in joining his guild. His speech was a bit exaggerated, showing his great desire to recruit Roger into his guild.
Roger's face gradually brightened as he heard and analyzed each benefit that was offered. This was not the first guild he visited but it was the first one who satisfied his condition for joining. He was deeply contemplating his decision when Jake landed a critical blow.
"In fact, I am planning on raiding a certain dungeon. I will put it as a guild mission and offer a special reward to those who joined it and an additional reward for the most active member in the conquest."
The topic was brought up due to Jake's great analysis power. From his previous meeting, he knew that Roger was, for some reason, desperate for money. His behavior as he listened to Jake's speech further strengthened the hypothesis. Jake felt a bit bad for taking advantage of Roger's weakness but there's no harm in it. Jake believes that Roger will not regret joining his guild.
On the other hand, Kana was oblivious of Jake's plan as she squinted her eyes and stared used her legs to hit Jake's as if asking him 'Why have I never heard of this!?'
Roger clenched his fist as he made the decision. He took another meaningful look at Jake and declared.
"I'll join!"
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A certain man walked down a street, his head hung low. A long piece of paper was held in his shivering hand. The man's face was bright red as he held his breath in anger but he soon exhaled it, his heart was filled with helplessness.
The man placed it in his right pocket and rushed towards a certain direction. A small and unkempt penthouse was located at its direction. He climbed up the stairs, took out his keys, and opened a door, the one at the corner.
"Mother, I'm home."
There was no reply coming from within the room. Only silence reigned over the isolated place. However, the man showed no emotion of panic, only sadness was written all over his face.
He took off his shoes and proceed into another part of the house. The man had a bitter smile on his face as he stared at a certain figure, lying on the only bed inside the room.
An old woman was lying on top of the bed with her eyes closed tight. There was no sign of movement as if a corpse was placed on the bed. However, there is no foul stench coming from the room, indicating that she's still alive.
If one pays enough attention, one could see her diaphragm, moving so occasionally but it was too faint for most people to notice.
The man took a seat beside the woman and held her hands. Tears started to form on the man's eyes as he examined the condition of his mother.
"Mother, I saved up enough money. I will move you to the hospital tomorrow."
There was no reply from the woman. However, the man still continues to converse with her, despite receiving no reply.
This was a scene a few weeks ago.
The man in the story was currently standing in front of a familiar building. It was the building of Jake's guild, <Silver Wings>. The eyes of the man reflected his great resolution as he entered the building.
"Welcome~"
A sweet and energetic voice greeted him. The owner of the voice soon approached him and led him to a table for two.
"I'll have one <Fried Rice> and a glass of water."
"I understand. One <Fried Rice> and a glass of water. Is there anything else, sir?"
"No, that's all for now."
"Okay, please wait a minute."
The female waiter finally left him alone to approach the open kitchen. The man was surprised to see an underage girl working inside the guild. However, he soon dismissed his thoughts as he focused on his main objective.
The man's eyes soon scanned the surrounding, in search for something. The man's action was not noticed by anyone. It proved that this was not the first occasion for him.
Soon, the man's sight focused in one direction.
A female young adult was seated at a table near the kitchen. At first, she was using her laptop, appearing like a regular customer. However, the chef of the place often visited her in a friendly manner. Well, not so friendly in the perspective of the man. He would describe it as… flirty.
It was just enough to arouse his suspicion. However, he knew he found the right person when he saw a man walked over to the woman's seat and started to converse with her. The newly arrived man was special. He came over from the stairs leading up, the one restricted for employees.
The man stood up and was about to approach that particular seat but was stopped by the sudden change in expression from laughing to a rather bizarre one. It happened in a split second, but he noticed it.
The matter bugged him a little but he judged that it was no problem for him to continue with his purpose. At most, he would spend more time completing his objective.
"Good evening, may I sit with you?"
*
"Good work! That's enough for today."
"Yes, thank you, Master."
Jake was drenched in his own sweat as he instructs Kazuko. The boy had a smile on his face, contrary to the first time he entered <Silver Wings>.
The pair of siblings have long moved out from Ethel's room (supposedly) and received a new lodging inside the mysterious space. At least, that was what they call it.
Jake has purchased two rooms in the living section of the workshop for a total of $9,000. The first one was priced at $4,000 but the price increased after the purchase to $5,000. For the information, the third room cost $6,000. It seems that it will continue the trend to increase by $1,000 after each purchase.
"Go take a shower and then we'll eat downstairs. I'll wait for you after I did so myself."
"Yes, I'll be there as fast as I could."
"Haha, take your time."
Jake left the workshop and took a shower before going down. He met the busy Kana and approached. Soon, he noticed a certain gaze directed towards his location. However, it seemed to lack any evil intention so he ignored the gaze.
The shop has improved greatly for the past weeks as it slowly earned him a steady income. The supply from the professor played a big role in the development.
Sergio's truck was too eye-catching for the masses as they instantly recognize the logo painted on it. Then, the shop's popularity began to skyrocket. However, people soon lost interest due to the revelation of the potion's real price. Fortunately, there were still people who were willing to purchase his potion despite the fact. Which led him to the current situation, a decent but steady income.
Lately, he talked with Kana about rumors and other casual topics. They even joked around like in the older days. The moment brought joy to him. Adam also started to blend in with the group.
"Hey, Kana! How's your day going?"
Kana glared at the innocent Jake as she began to rattle.
"Argh… you tell me about it! I would be really happy just to get a decent amount of sleep these days. Not to mention… argh, nevermind."
Kana's gaze turned towards Adam at the end of her sentence. Their eyes met and Adam simply gave her a wink as he flicked his wrist, showing off his skill of cooking <Fried Rice>.
Jake saw the scene and laughed.
"Hahaha, is he still trying to flirt with you?"
"Wha— how do you— argh… YES! I can't even concentrate if he comes over. That mouth never stopped moving. I am working very hard to make this place popular just because of him. At least he will leave me alone if he got orders."
Jake tried to hold his laughter but failed at the end. He couldn't help but offer his gratitude to Adam in a certain aspect.
"Well, at least he's a good guy you know?"
"Urgh… I know that. That's why its hard to just reject him outright."
"Hahahaha…"
At that moment, Jake's face froze for an instant before revealing a serious expression. The culprit for his change in expression could be seen on the TV.
=====
A MYSTERIOUS WELL WAS FOUND, NEW DUNGEON?
A witness claimed to have seen someone fell into the 3-m deep dried well. However, when he and another person wanted to help him out, he couldn't see anyone at the bottom of the well. Let's ask!
"My friend thought it was weird and went to get a rope, giving me one end of the rope and holding the other one. However, when he reached the bottom of the well, he disappeared."
"At first, I thought it was a dungeon. But, he should be able to get out of the dungeon if he wants. Now, I'm worried."
That's the only information we know now. Is it really a new dungeon? Stay tuned for the answer.
=====
"Bingo!"
Finally, Jake found a hint for a potential <Demon's Mark>. If the well was proven to be a dungeon, he was planning to visit it to take it. After all, it will be too great of a risk to let someone else enter it.
The first and main risk was to let it develop by itself and successfully bring over an army of monster to Earth. There was also the fear of causing any more unnecessary casualties.
The second was to risk letting the <Demon's Mark> get destroyed by someone who might accidentally channel their mana into it. He felt that it contained a great secret if he managed to collect all 12 of it.
"Kana, I have a plan for the guild!"
It took Kana by surprise but she soon shifted her concentration towards Jake. However, the concentration was broken by a sudden visit by an unfamiliar man.
"Good evening, may I sit with you?"
The man had a medium build. The scar on his left cheeks left a deep impression in Kana's heart. The man had a weird smile on his face, clearly, he was not someone who smiles a lot. His appearance was rather unkempt but could still be considered casually dressed.
Kana tried to exchange a glance with Jake to let him take the decision. However, he only saw the surprise in Jake's eyes.
Jake was greatly surprised by what he saw. As a habit, he used his skill, <Inspect> on the newly arrived man. He knew that this man was the one keeping his gaze on his table but he didn't expect him to come over.
The most surprising thing was a familiar name from the result of <Inspect>.
==
Roger Massey
Age: 20
Job: Knight
Level: 24
==
It was the man he met not too long ago, at the administration office when he went to take his money. He almost couldn't recognize him due to the difference in appearance, especially his hairstyle.
"Ah yes, please have a seat."
"Thank you."
Roger pulled out a chair and sat in between Jake and Kana. Unexpected to him, he was not the one who initiates the conversation.
"Hello, we meet again. Do you remember me?"
Jake had a large grin on his face. He felt that it was fate that brought them together as they met at another place.
Roger was surprised by Jake's respond. Once again, he took a clear look at Jake's face, knitting his eyebrows as he dove deep into his memory.
"Ah! That time at the administration office? I think your name is… Jack?"
"Yup! But the name's Jake. Jake Atkins. I remember you. Roger Massey, right?"
"Yeah, the world is really a small place."
They both laughed for a small period of time, leaving Kana in a daze. From their conversation, Kana figured that they might have met somewhere before but only exchanged a few words before parting. As such, she decided to watch the situation unfold.
"So, what brought you here?"
"Oh right. Actually, I want to ask about the recruitment and advantage for your guild members here."
Roger took out his phone and used it to display a certain picture. It was a poster that Kana posted on their social media, announcing about the guild's recruitment.
Roger's words cause Jake to almost dance in joy. Roger's potential and prowess would be a great addition to the guild. Honestly, his leveling speed was crazy fast as Jake remembered that last time, Roger was still in level 16. Only a few weeks have passed but he gained 8 levels. It was a speed only known to genius in Aestes. As expected of someone with a potential of A-.
For the first time in a while, Jake became serious as he explained about the benefit in joining his guild. His speech was a bit exaggerated, showing his great desire to recruit Roger into his guild.
Roger's face gradually brightened as he heard and analyzed each benefit that was offered. This was not the first guild he visited but it was the first one who satisfied his condition for joining. He was deeply contemplating his decision when Jake landed a critical blow.
"In fact, I am planning on raiding a certain dungeon. I will put it as a guild mission and offer a special reward to those who joined it and an additional reward for the most active member in the conquest."
The topic was brought up due to Jake's great analysis power. From his previous meeting, he knew that Roger was, for some reason, desperate for money. His behavior as he listened to Jake's speech further strengthened the hypothesis. Jake felt a bit bad for taking advantage of Roger's weakness but there's no harm in it. Jake believes that Roger will not regret joining his guild.
On the other hand, Kana was oblivious of Jake's plan as she squinted her eyes and stared used her legs to hit Jake's as if asking him 'Why have I never heard of this!?'
Roger clenched his fist as he made the decision. He took another meaningful look at Jake and declared.
"I'll join!"
A certain man walked down a street, his head hung low. A long piece of paper was held in his shivering hand. The man's face was bright red as he held his breath in anger but he soon exhaled it, his heart was filled with helplessness.The man placed it in his right pocket and rushed towards a certain direction. A small and unkempt penthouse was located at its direction. He climbed up the stairs, took out his keys, and opened a door, the one at the corner."Mother, I'm home."There was no reply coming from within the room. Only silence reigned over the isolated place. However, the man showed no emotion of panic, only sadness was written all over his face.He took off his shoes and proceed into another part of the house. The man had a bitter smile on his face as he stared at a certain figure, lying on the only bed inside the room.An old woman was lying on top of the bed with her eyes closed tight. There was no sign of movement as if a corpse was placed on the bed. However, there is no foul stench coming from the room, indicating that she's still alive.If one pays enough attention, one could see her diaphragm, moving so occasionally but it was too faint for most people to notice.The man took a seat beside the woman and held her hands. Tears started to form on the man's eyes as he examined the condition of his mother."Mother, I saved up enough money. I will move you to the hospital tomorrow."There was no reply from the woman. However, the man still continues to converse with her, despite receiving no reply.This was a scene a few weeks ago.The man in the story was currently standing in front of a familiar building. It was the building of Jake's guild, Silver Wings. The eyes of the man reflected his great resolution as he entered the building."Welcome~"A sweet and energetic voice greeted him. The owner of the voice soon approached him and led him to a table for two."I'll have one Fried Rice and a glass of water.""I understand. One Fried Rice and a glass of water. Is there anything else, sir?""No, that's all for now.""Okay, please wait a minute."The female waiter finally left him alone to approach the open kitchen. The man was surprised to see an underage girl working inside the guild. However, he soon dismissed his thoughts as he focused on his main objective.The man's eyes soon scanned the surrounding, in search for something. The man's action was not noticed by anyone. It proved that this was not the first occasion for him.Soon, the man's sight focused in one direction.A female young adult was seated at a table near the kitchen. At first, she was using her laptop, appearing like a regular customer. However, the chef of the place often visited her in a friendly manner. Well, not so friendly in the perspective of the man. He would describe it as flirty.It was just enough to arouse his suspicion. However, he knew he found the right person when he saw a man walked over to the woman's seat and started to converse with her. The newly arrived man was special. He came over from the stairs leading up, the one restricted for employees.The man stood up and was about to approach that particular seat but was stopped by the sudden change in expression from laughing to a rather bizarre one. It happened in a split second, but he noticed it.The matter bugged him a little but he judged that it was no problem for him to continue with his purpose. At most, he would spend more time completing his objective."Good evening, may I sit with you?"*"Good work! That's enough for today.""Yes, thank you, Master."Jake was drenched in his own sweat as he instructs Kazuko. The boy had a smile on his face, contrary to the first time he entered Silver Wings.The pair of siblings have long moved out from Ethel's room supposedly and received a new lodging inside the mysterious space. At least, that was what they call it.Jake has purchased two rooms in the living section of the workshop for a total of $9,000. The first one was priced at $4,000 but the price increased after the purchase to $5,000. For the information, the third room cost $6,000. It seems that it will continue the trend to increase by $1,000 after each purchase."Go take a shower and then we'll eat downstairs. I'll wait for you after I did so myself.""Yes, I'll be there as fast as I could.""Haha, take your time."Jake left the workshop and took a shower before going down. He met the busy Kana and approached. Soon, he noticed a certain gaze directed towards his location. However, it seemed to lack any evil intention so he ignored the gaze.The shop has improved greatly for the past weeks as it slowly earned him a steady income. The supply from the professor played a big role in the development.Sergio's truck was too eye-catching for the masses as they instantly recognize the logo painted on it. Then, the shop's popularity began to skyrocket. However, people soon lost interest due to the revelation of the potion's real price. Fortunately, there were still people who were willing to purchase his potion despite the fact. Which led him to the current situation, a decent but steady income.Lately, he talked with Kana about rumors and other casual topics. They even joked around like in the older days. The moment brought joy to him. Adam also started to blend in with the group."Hey, Kana! How's your day going?"Kana glared at the innocent Jake as she began to rattle."Argh you tell me about it! I would be really happy just to get a decent amount of sleep these days. Not to mention argh, nevermind."Kana's gaze turned towards Adam at the end of her sentence. Their eyes met and Adam simply gave her a wink as he flicked his wrist, showing off his skill of cooking Fried Rice.Jake saw the scene and laughed."Hahaha, is he still trying to flirt with you?""Wha how do you argh YES! I can't even concentrate if he comes over. That mouth never stopped moving. I am working very hard to make this place popular just because of him. At least he will leave me alone if he got orders."Jake tried to hold his laughter but failed at the end. He couldn't help but offer his gratitude to Adam in a certain aspect."Well, at least he's a good guy you know?""Urgh I know that. That's why its hard to just reject him outright.""Hahahaha"At that moment, Jake's face froze for an instant before revealing a serious expression. The culprit for his change in expression could be seen on the TV.=====A MYSTERIOUS WELL WAS FOUND, NEW DUNGEON?A witness claimed to have seen someone fell into the 3-m deep dried well. However, when he and another person wanted to help him out, he couldn't see anyone at the bottom of the well. Let's ask!"My friend thought it was weird and went to get a rope, giving me one end of the rope and holding the other one. However, when he reached the bottom of the well, he disappeared.""At first, I thought it was a dungeon. But, he should be able to get out of the dungeon if he wants. Now, I'm worried."That's the only information we know now. Is it really a new dungeon? Stay tuned for the answer.====="Bingo!"Finally, Jake found a hint for a potential Demon's Mark. If the well was proven to be a dungeon, he was planning to visit it to take it. After all, it will be too great of a risk to let someone else enter it.The first and main risk was to let it develop by itself and successfully bring over an army of monster to Earth. There was also the fear of causing any more unnecessary casualties.The second was to risk letting the Demon's Mark get destroyed by someone who might accidentally channel their mana into it. He felt that it contained a great secret if he managed to collect all 12 of it."Kana, I have a plan for the guild!"It took Kana by surprise but she soon shifted her concentration towards Jake. However, the concentration was broken by a sudden visit by an unfamiliar man."Good evening, may I sit with you?"The man had a medium build. The scar on his left cheeks left a deep impression in Kana's heart. The man had a weird smile on his face, clearly, he was not someone who smiles a lot. His appearance was rather unkempt but could still be considered casually dressed.Kana tried to exchange a glance with Jake to let him take the decision. However, he only saw the surprise in Jake's eyes.Jake was greatly surprised by what he saw. As a habit, he used his skill, Inspect on the newly arrived man. He knew that this man was the one keeping his gaze on his table but he didn't expect him to come over.The most surprising thing was a familiar name from the result of Inspect.==Roger MasseyAge: 20Job: KnightLevel: 24==It was the man he met not too long ago, at the administration office when he went to take his money. He almost couldn't recognize him due to the difference in appearance, especially his hairstyle."Ah yes, please have a seat.""Thank you."Roger pulled out a chair and sat in between Jake and Kana. Unexpected to him, he was not the one who initiates the conversation."Hello, we meet again. Do you remember me?"Jake had a large grin on his face. He felt that it was fate that brought them together as they met at another place.Roger was surprised by Jake's respond. Once again, he took a clear look at Jake's face, knitting his eyebrows as he dove deep into his memory."Ah! That time at the administration office? I think your name is Jack?""Yup! But the name's Jake. Jake Atkins. I remember you. Roger Massey, right?""Yeah, the world is really a small place."They both laughed for a small period of time, leaving Kana in a daze. From their conversation, Kana figured that they might have met somewhere before but only exchanged a few words before parting. As such, she decided to watch the situation unfold."So, what brought you here?""Oh right. Actually, I want to ask about the recruitment and advantage for your guild members here."Roger took out his phone and used it to display a certain picture. It was a poster that Kana posted on their social media, announcing about the guild's recruitment.Roger's words cause Jake to almost dance in joy. Roger's potential and prowess would be a great addition to the guild. Honestly, his leveling speed was crazy fast as Jake remembered that last time, Roger was still in level 16. Only a few weeks have passed but he gained 8 levels. It was a speed only known to genius in Aestes. As expected of someone with a potential of A-.For the first time in a while, Jake became serious as he explained about the benefit in joining his guild. His speech was a bit exaggerated, showing his great desire to recruit Roger into his guild.Roger's face gradually brightened as he heard and analyzed each benefit that was offered. This was not the first guild he visited but it was the first one who satisfied his condition for joining. He was deeply contemplating his decision when Jake landed a critical blow."In fact, I am planning on raiding a certain dungeon. I will put it as a guild mission and offer a special reward to those who joined it and an additional reward for the most active member in the conquest."The topic was brought up due to Jake's great analysis power. From his previous meeting, he knew that Roger was, for some reason, desperate for money. His behavior as he listened to Jake's speech further strengthened the hypothesis. Jake felt a bit bad for taking advantage of Roger's weakness but there's no harm in it. Jake believes that Roger will not regret joining his guild.On the other hand, Kana was oblivious of Jake's plan as she squinted her eyes and stared used her legs to hit Jake's as if asking him 'Why have I never heard of this!?'Roger clenched his fist as he made the decision. He took another meaningful look at Jake and declared."I'll join!"
