The Guild After A Long Absence

Ever since I arrived here, I’ve felt that even though every single day is a frantic blur, my life is incredibly fulfilling.

Having welcomed a new companion into our ranks, I feel our overall combat potential has been significantly reinforced as well.

Today, I received a formal summons from the Guildmaster. It has been quite a significant chunk of time since my last visit to the Royal Capital Guild Headquarters.

“Time to head out~”

I called out to Hana and Misa. The Guildmaster had explicitly requested that I bring my companions along for the meeting.

“Understood!”

“I am fully prepared to move out as well.”

Both of them looked completely locked in, with zero oversights in their preparations to depart.

“Alright, we’re off to the guild. We should be back around midday.”

“Understood, my Lord. I shall ensure that lunch is fully prepared and waiting for your return.”

With James seeing us off, we left the estate behind and guided our steps toward the guild.

The guild building came into view after a short walk of several tens of minutes.

“It honestly feels like ages since the last time we paid a visit to the guild, doesn’t it?” Hana remarked, stepping right alongside me.

“Yeah. You’re completely right.”

Once an adventurer scales the ranks to reach S-rank, the vast majority of their workload shifts strictly to direct, personal nominations. Most of the clients tend to be high-ranking government officials of the kingdom. In my case, because I maintain a close, intimate relationship with the Emperor himself, a massive portion of my requests come explicitly from His Majesty.

Since I usually report directly to the Royal Palace to accept my assignments, it had truly been a long absence since I last set foot inside the guild itself.

“This place never changes, does it?”

An adventurer’s guild, where mercenaries and warriors congregate, always possesses a remarkably unique aura. Depending on the specific branch, that overall atmosphere tends to vary slightly from place to place.

“I have a formal appointment with the Guildmaster.”

I addressed the receptionist stationed at the main general inquiry desk.

“Ah, Lord Vim and his party, correct? The Guildmaster explicitly briefed me regarding your arrival. Please allow me to escort you.”

The receptionist placed an “Away from Desk” placard on her counter and immediately guided us toward the Guildmaster’s quarters. We climbed the central staircase, at the absolute far end of which sat the Guildmaster’s executive office.

“I have brought Lord Vim and his companions, sir,” the receptionist announced, knocking crispry against the door.

“Enter.” The Guildmaster’s voice drifted through instantly.

“Right this way, please.” The receptionist threw the door open for us.

“Thank you very much.”

Offering our thanks, we stepped across the threshold into the room.

“It has been quite a significant chunk of time, Sir Helmut.”

“It has indeed been a long absence. Hearing reports of your magnificent exploits brings me immense joy. Please, make yourselves comfortable and take a seat.”

The Guildmaster gestured toward the plush sofas positioned in the center of the office.

“Thank you for your assistance. You may return to your station.”

“Pardon me, sir.”

Answering the Guildmaster’s command, the receptionist quietly closed the door behind her as she exited.

“Now then, I believe this is our absolute first time meeting face-to-face, isn’t it? I am Helmut. I highly hope we enjoy a magnificent working relationship moving forward.” The Guildmaster shifted his gaze squarely toward Hana and Misa as he delivered his greeting.

“I am Hana Sharon.”

“And I am Misa Flumen.”

The two offered their names, their voices carrying a distinct edge of nervous tension.

“There is absolutely no need for you to be so remarkably rigid, I assure you. My standing operates on a plane far below that of His Majesty the King, so please, allow yourselves to relax your shoulders,” the Guildmaster noted, using a perfectly gentle, soothing tone.

“Thank you very much.”

Even for Hana—who had only recently managed to comfortably clear the boundary of awkwardness when speaking with the King—a figure like the Guildmaster was bound to be added to the list of people who triggered a natural nervousness.

“So, what is the core nature of our business today?” I broke the ice, cutting straight to the point.

“I must apologize for diving straight into the deep end without delay, but considering the absolute height of your party’s raw capabilities, there is a certain matter I desperately need to request of you. That is precisely why I requested that you make the journey here today.”

The Guildmaster delivered his words, his features tightening into a thoroughly serious, grave expression.