Episode 14. Quest Completion!
Episode 14. Quest Completion!
The Adventurer's Guild looked no different from any other building except for the sign reading "Adventurer's Guild," appearing like just another tavern to distant observers.
Given that most adventurers wield weapons, exert strength, and shed blood, the guild was conveniently located near a blacksmith, general store, and clinic.
When I opened the guild door and stepped inside, the pungent smell of blood and earth assaulted my senses-the scent embedded in adventurers' weapons after battling through mud and gore.
"Hey, check out that girl. Should I talk to her?"
"She's stunning... Was there an adventurer like her in this region?"
"Maybe she came from another area?"
Countless eyes locked onto me as I entered. Having started this work solely to earn money without wanting to split rewards, I'd always worked solo without forming parties. With no acquaintances here, everyone whispered curiously as if seeing me for the first time.
Ignoring the uncomfortable attention, I strode to the reception desk and placed the leather pouch containing the Succubus' ashes before the clerk.
"Succubus subjugation in Hush Forest-mission complete."
"R-really? May I see your Adventurer's Badge?"
"Yes, here. C-Rank Adventurer Triae."
"C-Rank Adventurer Triae... Please wait here a moment."
The receptionist startled at my claim of defeating a Succubus, then looked shocked again upon verifying my rank. She took the pouch inside, conversed with other staff, then ascended to the second floor.
Left under countless stares for several minutes, I stood motionless at the counter awaiting her return.
"Ah, apologies for the wait...! Since we needed additional verification for quest completion, please proceed to the second-floor conference room. The Guild Branch Manager-nim awaits you."
"...The Guild Branch Manager-nim?"
The imposing title made me nervous, but I reassured myself this was just routine procedure. Bowing slightly, I headed upstairs.
Other adventurers watched in surprise as I ascended to the staff-only floor. Suppressing anxiety, I climbed the stairs.
Seeing the "Conference Room" plaque on the first door upstairs, I entered.
A seasoned middle-aged man with burn scars covering half his face sat on a sofa. I cautiously approached and sat opposite him, shoulders hunched.
"So. You're the one who killed the Succubus in Hush Forest."
"Ah... Y-yes."
"No need for nerves. I simply wish to hear about your mission process."
He poured tea and handed me a cup. I awkwardly laughed, sipped once for courtesy, then set it down.
"You realize that Succubus was a Mid-tier Demon?"
"I didn't know when accepting the quest... Only upon encountering her."
"As you know, solo subjugation of Mid-tier Demons requires at least A-Rank strength. Yet you're an ordinary C-Rank adventurer. This discrepancy makes reward disbursement difficult without proper explanation."
"I... understand."
"Then explain. How did a C-Rank adventurer solo a Mid-tier Succubus, and what occurred during the process."
Hmm, honesty is best here-just omit problematic details.
I truthfully recounted losing to Succubus Misha and being violated, but explained how I exploited her momentary carelessness to strike her head with a grabbed weapon, killing her.
I added that I'd immediately sought proper treatment at the church afterward, noting Sister Cecilia of Hush Church could verify this.
The Manager nodded, wearing a satisfied expression.
"Complacency turns certain victory into instant defeat. You don't appear deceitful, and a clergy member's guarantee suffices. Good, I'll authorize your reward."
"Ah, thank you!"
"Fortune favored you. That beautiful appearance likely made the Succubus spare you for violation. Are you physically recovered? The trauma must've been severe."
"Haha... I overcame it in my own way."
"Very well. Another matter-your capabilities and achievements warrant promotion to B-Rank Adventurer. Any objections?"
"Me? B-Rank? But killing the Succubus was..."
"Call it luck? In adventuring, luck is skill. Moreover, you provoked her complacency to survive solo. Frankly, your current power... doesn't seem C-Rank caliber. With sufficient achievements, I'd promote you to A-Rank immediately."
Ugh, the Manager title isn't just for show.
He'd clearly discerned my Vital Energy-enhanced strength. I gulped, tensing.
"Why so frightened? True strength often explosively grows after life-or-death experiences. Surviving that battle likely triggered your growth."
"...Yes."
"Then matters are settled. Here's your Succubus subjugation reward. Your B-Rank badge will be ready tomorrow-return your C-Rank badge then. Don't lose it."
He slid a gold-filled pouch across the table. I immediately counted the coins, confirmed payment, then stood. After exchanging silent bows, I hastily exited.
Personal speculation: The Manager likely suspects something about me.
Promoting me anyway suggests: "Without evidence, I won't interrogate you. Use this power responsibly."
Regardless, mission accomplished with promotion and ample money... Time for shopping?
Descending stairs cheerfully, tension melted into earning euphoria.
Ah, right. Should check the quest board. Though I've months' worth of funds, more money never hurts.
Wading through adventurers at the board, I found only low-reward/high-difficulty quests. When someone groped my butt, I immediately withdrew.
Ugh, I'll let it slide today. Just go clothes shopping.
* * *
"Oh my, customer! That suits you perfectly~"
"R-really? Hehe..."
"Our clothes seem delighted being worn by such beauty~"
Deciding quality clothes were worth investing in, I visited Pesto's premier boutique. The owner excessively praised my looks, sweeping me into trying her recommendations.
But a major issue arose...
"Um... Do you have larger sizes? The chest is too tight..."
"Eh... That's our largest size..."
"...Ugh..."
"Ahem! You clearly need custom tailoring. Your bust and hips far exceed standard sizes-ill-fitting clothes would discomfort you and waste that figure!"
"Then... custom orders please."
"Underwear as well? Given the clothing situation..."
"...Include underwear."
"Certainly! We'll deliver everything upon completion. Total: one gold coin~"
After measurements, I ordered custom outfits for later delivery, only taking Cecilia's gift clothes today. Surprisingly affordable for Pesto's top boutique-likely discounted because the owner enjoyed dressing me.
Pretty things are the best... Hehe.
Heading next to the blacksmith for leather armor, I halted realizing custom armor would also cost dearly.
Hmm, I'm twice stronger now-maybe leather armor's unnecessary? Enhanced Strength and Agility make armor feel restrictive anyway.
Laziness prevailing, I skipped the armor and returned toward church.
En route, I luckily encountered a merchant wagon heading my direction. The carriage driver requested a kiss as fare. I readily agreed, sitting beside him on the driver's seat while exchanging passionate kisses reeking of tobacco.
"Smack, Chuup...! Ugh, such a pretty face swapping tongues like a harlot...!"
"Chup♥ Jjok♥ Just repaying the ride♥ Churup♥ Pure transaction♥"
"Ohoho, seems you're enjoying this most, missy?"
"That's♥ Because your spit's so tasty...♥"
"A natural-born pervert! Alright! I'll feed you all the spit you want!"
"Ebe♥ So tasty♥ Stinky spit galore♥ Churururup♥♥♥"
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<Successful Soul Absorption increases Stats. Strength +2, Intelligence +3>
<『Princess Maker』 increases fetus's Level and Stats.>
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