4

EP.38 Lesser Industries (2)

A monster that stood still with its stick to support its body on the ground and cut everything around it.

Those who hold a grudge against him will be like a mountain.

"For now, I will delete this sentence."

"How are you going to erase it?"

"Anyway, the metal parts are difficult to use again, so I plan to crush the letters with a laser and discard them."

"Do that."

Did you say that you don't know is a drug?

Sometimes it is better not to spread information.

As if I didn't tell Usher Hayes the full story.

Most problems will be solved with time.

If it still doesn't work, it's my turn to move.

"I am indebted to you in many ways."

"no. It's not that difficult. and… A lot of things happen in the city."

"When things are settled, I'll give you a shot."

"The text has been erased. Now we have to look inside."

Wilson added a new shape to the engraved parts.

The fact that something was engraved was similar to the previous one, but only the shape of the letters became unrecognizable.

After that, he collected them and organized them in one place, and the rest of the parts were put into a certain device.

Jiying-.

A red light beam passed through the disassembled handle with a harsh mechanical sound.

As the projection of the part where the light ray passed was output to the device, various characters were added to the screen.

jig. Jiying.

After examining the screen, Wilson manipulated the device a few more times, then pulled the handle out of the inside again.

"Most of the parts are alive. I don't think it will be difficult to fix."

"Good luck."

"The problem is this swordsman, but it's difficult for me to make a sword by processing metal myself."

"then… … ."

"There is someone I know, so I ask that person."

I agreed with Wilson's words.

Even looking around the surrounding facilities, it did not appear that metal forming was possible.

As he said, it would be better to seek help from a professional.

Wilson took out the tools nearby and tweaked the remaining parts a little more.

"We will head to another facility nearby. There are still a lot of people in the city who like cold weapons."

"Like the master of this sword."

"Haha, that's right."

"Is there any problem even if I come suddenly?"

"There will be no problem. I am a friend who listens to my requests quite well."

Somewhat finished, Wilson opened a bag and carefully tucked the handle inside.

shudder.

The lock on the bag was locked and the blue light came on.

Now it was time to move on to create a new blade that was broken.

* * * * * *

The site of Lesser Industries. A metal workshop located somewhere.

True to the name of the workshop, this place, where you can feel the heat just by entering it, was specialized in making-to-order rather than large-scale production.

The daggers that Spinel had were also produced here.

At a table located in the corner of such a workshop, Wilson was talking to an engineer named Kerry.

"You want me to make a sword of this standard?"

Kerry looked at the drawings and numbers Wilson had written on the paper, and pointed a finger at the paper.

Kerry was wearing thick gloves and an apron, in contrast to Wilson in his study suit.

At Kerry's words, Wilson pulled out another piece of paper next to him.

"I would like the following magic circuit to be engraved inside. When the sword is finished, I plan to pour a coating solution on the magic circuit."

"Well, it's not difficult. But where are you going to use it?"

"Because I am researching a new product."

"Because of releasing this as a new product… I don't know if it will sell. If it's for a gift, I don't know."

Kerry seemed to be paying attention to some extent, but it seemed as if he was just pretending not to know.

It seemed that Wilson's words that he was close to him were not lying.

Kerry folded the papers lying on the desk and put them in his arms.

Perhaps something much better than what I had told the swordsman would come out.

"Do you think it will take a long time?"

"It won't be very long. You should come and find it tomorrow."

"It seems to be coming out sooner than expected."

"If it was a long time ago, it would have taken a month. It is possible because it is now."

After organizing the blueprint, Kerry moved to deal with the delayed work.

Most of the preparations for repairs seemed to have been resolved.

The sword should come out within this week at the latest, so now it seemed like we would just have to wait for the completion.

With that thought in mind, as I was packing up my belongings, I heard the sound of the studio door opening behind me.

"You said you were here and it was true."

thump, thump.

A man with a strong physique entered the studio with the sound of heavy footsteps.

On the right shoulder of the man with golden hair, a sword with piercing wings was engraved.

Knights of Nighttail. It was a symbol that symbolized its members.

Whether he knew him or not, Wilson greeted the man warmly.

"It's been a while, Herio."

"Wilson. I went to your lab and they said they were here. I came to take over the repair of the armor. Is that a sailor?"

"I received help once before when collecting samples. I also brought them here for a field trip."

"It must not be easy to save strangers, but he is a rare and wonderful person."

A man named Herio looked at me and smiled.

Herio. It's a familiar name.

If it was Herio belonging to the Knights of Nighttail, only one came to mind.

Herio, who came this way, took off the chair in front of him and took a seat right next to Wilson.

Since there were only three round tables, it was a location that could be called right next to me.

"By the way, if you don't have armor, will you take a break from guarding the young lady?"

"If it's not a subjugation, the temporary use I made last time is enough. Above all else, you are not the kind of person who will leave you alone."

Flash Knight, Herio Nightline.

He is a figure who occupies a large proportion in the war city.

He was a Chain Lightning user of Circle 5, and was also an executive of the Knights of Nighttail.

His Chain Lightning circulates an enormous amount of current within its range.

Herio was using it to operate mechanical armor that required huge power.

Unless you plan to carry an extra large battery, it was a device that only Herio could use in the city.

"This is Herio-san. As a member of the Knights of Nighttail, he is the bodyguard of Lady Belle."

After Herio had finished speaking, Wilson introduced him to me.

An information merchant who sells information and a self-proclaimed knight.

It doesn't seem like a very good combination.

The fortunate thing was that the man named Herio in front of him truly suited the title of a knight.

If we were to evaluate the members of the Knights of Nighttail except for him, the only words out there would be 'Well'.

"Nighttail's flash knight. I have heard of it."

"He is worthy to be called a true knight even in Nighttail. I think he's a really great guy."

"Wilson, it's overrated. What's your name?"

"Information merchant, Percival Smith."

Herio frowned at the word "information merchant".

I was expecting such a reaction, but it was a story that had no choice but to reveal its identity anyway.

The opponent is the person who escorts the executives of Lesser.

Accessing the information books that flood the city shouldn't be too difficult.

If you lied here, you will be exposed in the end.

"I am an information trader. It's not a good job to be inside."

"I hope you don't get me wrong. The information I process is all about wizards and wanted criminals."

"Trust anyone who saved Wilson. You won't be able to access the control area anyway."

After saying that, Herio got up from his seat.

I also had no reason to stay in the workshop for long, so I followed Herio and got up straight away.

Only Wilson, who was next to us, had a troubled face.

There would be no malice from his point of view, but the people he calls information merchants are not welcome from birth.

what to do though

All I have is information about the future.

Herio got up and took out a key and handed it to Wilson.

"Wilson. This is the key you need to unlock the lock."

"ah… Okay. What function is the problem?"

"The built-in display stuttered sometimes."

"I'll have to check the status first and give you a call."

"Don't wait for a call."

The door to the workshop opened and Herio ran out.

Wilson also took the key Herio had given him, and started moving to get out of the workshop.

As I followed Wilson out of the workshop, I asked Wilson who was walking in front of me.

"Wilson. I have a question for you."

"What are you curious about?"

"The flash driver told you to do the repairs. Aren't there a lot of great engineers in Lesser?"

"ah. No big deal, I designed Herio's armor."

Herio is one of the top ranks in the Knights of Nighttail.

It was Wilson who designed Herio's armor.

I didn't know it, but Wilson looked great again.

Only then did I finally realize what kind of person I was in a relationship with.

EP.39 Lesser Industries (3)

The next day after visiting Lesser Industries.

One person was eating lunch in a crowded office, and a delivery man came with a large parcel.

The long black box looked heavy even from the outside.

The delivery man who had put the large parcel on the floor took out the terminal and handed it to me and said,

"Percibal Smith, right? Please sign."

"Who sent it?"

"It says Wilson Eldair."

It's a package from Wilson.

It probably won't contain anything suspicious.

I scribbled my signature out loud on the delivery man's terminal.

Then he grabbed the handle of the long, tightly sealed box and lifted it.

As expected, the box weighed quite a bit.

"Good work."

"Thank you for using us."

The delivery man, who received the signature, immediately saluted and left the office.

As I proceeded to the table located in the center of the office with the delivered box, Geomseong approached me with anticipatory eyes.

Putting the box down on the table, I looked at the box, ignoring the gaze of the swordsman.

It is a box of unusual length even from the outside.

It looked like it had a sword in it.

"The sword has arrived."

"really?"

"Look at the logo."

The exterior of the box was engraved with the Resert Industries logo.

The contents are said to be the swords that the swordsman entrusted to repair, but it seems that Wilson paid attention to the packaging as well.

Gumseong also recognized the logo of Lesser Industries and reached out towards the box.

The swordsman, full of anticipation, quickly opened it and found a sword surrounded by a sophisticated mechanical scabbard.

"The sword, the sword is back… … ."

"You look happy."

"It is natural. My soul mate is back."

The swordsman carefully raised his sword, showing his golden eyes wet with emotion.

Then, perhaps in order to check the contents of the sheath, he immediately pulled out the sword from the sheath.

A gust of wind blew through his hair.

shudder. With a distinctive fricative sound, a silver sword appeared in the office.

I don't remember seeing the sword of the sword castle in good condition with my own eyes, but the sword that appeared before us was beautiful enough.

"It's a little different. But most of it is the same as before."

"I don't know, but it's a great looking sword."

"Is there any problem with the function?"

"I will check. Swordsmanship――."

As soon as the swordsman heard my words, he led the sword to the scabbard.

Immediately after that, seeing her naturally taking a stance with her feet, I couldn't help but be genuinely bewildered.

The place to wield the sword now is the office where we live.

And the inside of the office was filled with a lot of furniture and furnishings.

If the swordsman used his skills as usual in the office, it was clear that an irreversible catastrophe would occur.

"for a moment. Don't wield it here."

"--fan."

Fortunately, my worries were in vain.

A cool breeze blew through the entire office with the familiar technical name of a fan.

Sinel's expressionless gaze, whose bangs were turned over, turned to the swordsman who put the sword in.

It seemed that he had more solid technology than he had expected.

Still, it was unavoidable for the steam to fall out, so I naturally became frustrated and asked her.

"… … Are you satisfied with the performance?"

"If it was a black market, I wouldn't have been able to fix it this far. Thanks for your help."

"I just made the necessary effort for my subordinates."

"Load… … . yea, I got it. As long as we're together, we'll work hard."

The swordsman smiled and nodded his head.

The reverberation of telepathy was conveying to me the joy emanating from within her.

Unlike Sinel, he is a swordsman who is faithful to his feelings.

I was relieved to see her sincerely liking her.

If the swordsman himself was satisfied, that was enough.

Then we went back to where we had lunch and continued eating.

Because there was not much food left, it didn't take long for the meal to finish.

"Wow… … ."

Even after the meal was over, the swordsman looked at his sword for a long time.

Even if he stares blankly at the sword with a nervous expression, he smiles as he strokes the smooth blade with his fingers.

Except for the sword he is holding, he looks like a suspicious person.

How much love do you have to have for a sword to show such a figure?

It was to the point of admiration in my heart.

"The sword looks good."

"It looks like that."

"I think it would be okay if I married Gum."

"… … I'm afraid it's really going to happen."

I laughed out loud at Sinel's joke as we watched it together.

In fact, Sinel's obsession with cats wasn't easy.

If you are thinking like this, you may be obsessed with something.

At the same time, the delayed question came to mind, so I raised my head and looked at the sword castle opposite.

The swordsman who faced me with a staring gaze gave me a questionable expression.

It looked like a question mark would come to mind at any moment.

"If it's okay with you, I want to ask you something."

"yes. it's okay."

"Is your name Yuel?"

To my daughter Yuel.

The name found in the inscriptions on the sword.

There were still some doubts as to whether that was the name of the sword castle.

So this was a question to ascertain who the owner of the name was.

Hearing my question, Geomseong asked me without any hesitation.

"… … how did you know?"

"The swordsman's name can be seen just by looking at the sword."

"That's great. He is also a dark merchant."

I erased the words written on the sword.

In order not to be discovered by the swordsman, I returned a lie mixed with truth.

But what came in was an unexpected answer.

I had no memory of telling the swordsman the name of the Dark Merchant.

Naturally, I had no choice but to ask the swordsman.

"Where did you hear that name?"

"What Sinel told me."

"...."

As I moved my gaze, I saw Sinel stroking the blackbird.

Of course, Blackbird was struggling in Sinel's arms.

I stared at Sinel without saying anything, then got up to get a beer.

What are you obsessed with?

A little, but I felt like I knew about it.

* * * * * *

A dark alley in District 8.

In the alley where rats looking for food passed by in groups, a man covered in dust clenched his teeth and stood up.

Sanctuary Nicholas. That was the name of the man who made up a duo with a criminal called Runaway Tank.

quickly. The sound of sharp teeth reverberated through the alley.

Nicholas sharply sharpened his teeth as if his anger could not be resolved, glaring at the person who called him.

"you… What the hell did you call me with?"

A man wearing a mask stood in front of Nicholas.

The other party was a customer who had offered Calvin a deal several times.

The transaction in the past has been satisfactory to either side, but this transaction was markedly different from the previous one.

From start to finish, everything was a trap in the department store that he attacked after receiving an offer from him.

Shortly after the incident, the security forces moved from inside the department store.

And then, as if knowing more about Calvin and Nicholas, they choked their breath one after another.

Nicholas and Calvin, it was impossible unless information about the two was passed to the police in advance.

"I don't know what the problem is. It was you who accepted the job."

"You dug a trap and drove us in, what nonsense are you talking about!"

"The situation is twisted in the wrong direction, but it was not my intention for the police to be there."

Nevertheless, the masked guest was showing that there was nothing wrong with him.

Blood came up on Nicholas's face as he was talking.

Calvin was more than just a companion to Nicholas.

Nicholas pointed his finger at the man's mask and shot it.

"You killed Calvin!"

"To be honest, you lost to the security forces because you were weak. Am I wrong?"

"Die, you bastard!"

Nicholas pulled a grenade out of his pocket.

When I came here alone without an accompanying person, I knew that the other person was an unusual person.

Perhaps it was the culprit of the security guard.

I thought it would be okay if I could just kill the man and avenge Calvin.

"It's stupid."

The fuse-actuated grenade left Nicholas' hand.

However, the grenade flying through the air hit the wall and returned in front of Nicholas.

tung. Degur.

Seeing the grenade at his feet, Nicholas fell backwards and crawled on the ground.

"S, s, [Stone Wall]!"

A gigantic wall rose quickly, separating Nicholas and the grenade.

Shortly thereafter, an explosion rang out, shaking Nicholas' ears.

Kwagwang!

Vibrations came from the aftermath of the explosion from the stone wall Nicholas leaned against.

When the vibrations from the stone wall that had been in contact with it subsided, Nicholas got up again and took the stone wall away.

Beyond the wall that disappeared like that, a man wearing a mask was standing without any wounds.

"What, what… … ."

"I am weak. body and mind."

"What kind of magic did you use?"

"It's magic. That's not wrong. Of course, it's up to you to uncover the trick."

shudder.

Nicholas's hand stopped at the cold touch on his head.

Suddenly, a mask appeared from behind Nicholas, pointing a gun at him.

Surprised, he quietly raised his hands.

He was wearing the same mask as the man in front of him, but looking at his body and height, he was a completely different person.

"… … You're not the same guy."

"Did you think you could defeat us alone?"

"We?"

"That's right. Our 'Ghost Legion' is not singular."

"Yoo, the ghost corps… … ."

He had heard of it too.

Rumors of a criminal who appears everywhere and disappears without leaving a trace.

Despite the fact that the security forces have offered numerous bounties so far, there is a fear that cannot even be confirmed whether it is an individual or a group.

He thought that the guests visiting Calvin were suspicious, but he didn't even think that they were the infamous ghost corps.

"By the way, I haven't introduced myself yet. I'll greet you again."

"All, you… … ."

"Nice to meet you. I am 'Commander'. He is the commander of the popular 'ghost corps'."

The most wanted criminal of the security forces.

And the 6th Circle Archmage.

A figure under a veil whose name was not known was laughing through the mask that covered his face.

Goosebumps rose from Nicholas's back as he heard his laughter.

EP.40 Pathfinder in the Dark (1)

There are three restaurants that are known to be the best in the city.

Each of them is well-received by gourmets for its unique cuisine, and is located at a high level in both price and taste.

Florence, located in District 3, was one of those restaurants.

It was a fine dining that served luxurious dishes, but it was also a place where you could not enter without a dress code.

"This dish is truffle miso soup."

At the table in Florence like that, I and Wilson were sitting facing each other.

As I told Wilson before asking for a job, it was to serve a meal in return for fixing the sword of the swordsman.

Sinel was also wearing a suit, sitting next to me and eating as an escort.

Of course, the suit she's wearing was bought by me.

Even the new plate the waiter had brought, Sinel, who had destroyed all the contents in an instant, glanced at my plate and said.

"The food is delicious."

"… … It's a high-end restaurant."

"It would be."

Leaving Sinel alone looking at his plate with a regretful expression again, he turned his gaze to Wilson in front of him.

Like Cinnell, Wilson, in a suit, was touching his glasses several times, apparently in a quirky way.

When he made eye contact with me while fixing his glasses, he greeted me with a friendly smile and thanked me.

"I heard that they would treat me to a meal, but I didn't know they would invite me to such a great place."

"Compared to the help I received, it is nothing in return. On the contrary, I am worried that it will not be enough."

"What do you mean? Rather, it is over-divided."

"But isn't the menu a bit disappointing?"

Wilson shook his head at my question.

He immediately denied my words as if he was absurd.

"I can. I am very satisfied."

"It's delicious, but… … . "

Both Wilson and Sinell are clearly satisfied.

Still, I had a hard time agreeing with their opinions.

If you simply asked whether the delivered food had a taste or not, it was definitely a taste that could be enjoyed.

If you look at it apart from the fact that it's a high-end restaurant, that's it.

"You don't like it?"

"I feel a little weird."

But is it like entering the world of a novel?

For a menu in a high-end restaurant, the combination feels very strange.

It felt like seeing the other side of the playful setting created by the writer of War City.

"Because the world is ugly these days. If you eat some delicious food, you might feel better."

"I will. I remember the last time I was in danger because of work at the company, is the company worth going on?"

"I think it's a good place. There are many people who take good care of you. Still, sometimes I feel a bit queasy."

After answering that, Wilson took a sip of wine.

As he said, this city has many dark sides.

It's not just about crimes taking place on the outskirts of cities.

Putting aside who Wilson Eldair was, the Lesser Industries was a place where problems could arise.

"Money dead people are everywhere."

That was the case with the errand that Wilson immediately ran out of.

The errand of sending a researcher alone to a place where there is danger is not something that can be revealed to the outside world by any means.

Wilson took another sip of the wine and quietly set the wine glass down.

"It sounds like a lot of things to think about."

"Because anyone can be like that."

"Since Percibal is an information merchant, all kinds of people must have gathered to buy information."

"I… … ."

"I think you must have put a lot of thought into that process."

"… … At least, I'm not selling information to anyone."

"It's an honorable belief."

I don't even know where my office is located, let alone crowds of people to buy information.

In terms of frequency, the clerk at a restaurant where I order frequently may be the best known for my address.

The selective selling of information was also not intentional.

It wasn't completely empty words, though, so I had become a person worthy of Wilson's respect.

It has become a difficult situation to deny.

"It's overrated."

"It's okay to listen a little more. At least for me."

"Stop talking about unfamiliar things. I'd rather have some interesting rumors circulating in the city."

"It's an interesting rumor… … . Come to think of it, they said that the black market is an emergency."

After hearing my story, Wilson has changed the subject.

And the subject he brought up was a very interesting story for me to hear.

Black Market is a large conglomerate that has established a significant presence in the outskirts of the city.

I couldn't help but pay attention to the story of an emergency in such a black market.

"Emergency?"

"It seems that several weapons technicians in the office we moved in have lost their lives or have their secrets stolen."

"...."

"Percival, do you have any guesses?"

There are a lot of guys who deal with weapons even in the black market.

Not only do they sell weapons that have flowed backwards, but they also often illegally modify or manufacture homemade weapons.

It is said that there is a mysterious assailant who attacks the engineers in such a black market alone and steals their secrets.

The security of the black market is by no means something to be taken lightly.

They were more likely to have special abilities for covert actions, including person-to-person combat.

"Let me think about it."

Among those who met the criteria, there was one guy who could guess.

And if that guy is the culprit, then Lessert Industries will also be one of his targets.

Dangerous technologies are dotted with Lesser Industries.

It would be better to prevent the leak of technology if possible, but in this case, it seemed that I did not have to go out.

"If you sell information to the black market or report it to the police, you will receive a fairly large compensation… … ."

"no. You don't have to."

After all, Usher and the others are the criminals they're after.

In the end, he was the guy who would be captured by Usher or Nei.

There was no need to move from this side first, unless the security forces asked for help.

After all, they won't even ask for help.

"I made a mistake. He said he doesn't sell information to anyone."

"There is no need to apologize. It was helpful enough."

"I'm glad it was helpful."

Needless to say, it was helpful.

Even while I take my eyes off Usher, events big and small keep going.

Time doesn't wait for me to move.

He had to constantly check where he was now and be vigilant.

If possible, it wouldn't be a bad idea to pay Brian periodically and subscribe to important information.

"Sinel."

"yes."

I turned to Sinel again.

Was it difficult to wait while the plate was empty?

Sinell, who was standing next to me, was watching my conversation with Wilson, wagging his fingers.

It would be difficult to leave it like this, so I handed her the menu and said.

"If you can order something, you can order more."

"Does anything matter?"

"Does not matter."

"Here, I want to eat shark fin ramen."

He quietly nodded at Sinel's spell and closed his eyes.

It's a place that gives me a headache just hearing the name of the menu.

It seemed that there was no way I would come back here with my own will.

* * * * * *

Dinner at the restaurant.

At a meal with Wilson, I decided that I wouldn't get involved in the weapons raid.

There must be some adversity, but it was expected that Usher and Nei would surely catch him.

But as if to ridicule my expectations, two guests came to the office the day after meeting with Wilson.

"Long time no see. Dark Merchant."

One is Nei Terdos, the watchman of the security forces.

And the other was Usher Hayes, a member of the 7th Special Task Force.

I felt frustrated and greeted Nei, who was sitting on the other side.

"You are the tomboy of the security guard. I never thought he'd be here again."

"… … You're a tomboy girl, isn't it a bit harsh?"

"After hearing those words, if you look at them, it seems that something is bothering you."

Whoa. Nei let out a short sigh.

Even with such appearances, he does not deny my words until the end.

Predictions began to form in my head to some extent as to what Nei would say in front of me.

"okay. As you say."

"What is the purpose?"

"Recently, there are criminals who attack only combat equipment technicians. Have you heard of it?"

"You seem to be talking about the black market problem."

This is what I heard from Wilson the day before.

He also came to talk about the weapons raid.

"It's not just a story limited to that. As long as people die in the first place, it cannot be overlooked."

"therefore?"

"If you have any information you would like to share, please."

Who is the culprit you are pursuing?

Of course I knew about it.

Guide Euglas.

He is a 5th circle wizard who uses a 'pass wall'.

He was a direct subordinate of the most wanted criminal 'Ghost Corps', and was also one of those involved in the organization.

EP.41 Pathfinder in the Dark (2)

"It's not just a story limited to that. As long as people die in the first place, it cannot be overlooked."

"therefore?"

"If you have any information you would like to share, please."

Who is the culprit you are pursuing?

Of course I knew about it.

Guide Euglas.

He is a 5th circle wizard who uses a 'pass wall'.

He was a direct subordinate of the most wanted criminal 'Ghost Corps', and was also one of those involved in the organization.

"Before I give you an answer, may I ask you something?"

"What do you want to know?"

"There must be personnel in the police force to investigate. Why did you have to come to me?"

Giving information is not that difficult.

However, it was also foolish to give out any information blindly.

After all, it is the protagonist who drives most of the story.

No one could take the place of Usher Hayes.

Even if that's a country that knows most of the stories that are going to happen.

Not to mention, I am now in the spotlight from one of the executives of the association, Spinel Clover Bloom.

I had no intention of getting involved in the incident without knowing the reason.

"that… … ."

"Is it difficult to answer?"

tock. tock. tock.

The sound of tapping the table with your fingers reverberates.

Nei's troubled eyes wandered for a while, losing their way.

She looked at Usher for a moment, standing next to her, then glanced at him and patted Usher's coat with her arm.

"Oh, I really can't help it. Usher, it's all your fault."

"Yes. Anyway, it was necessary to have at least one external helper."

"Anyway, what are we going to do when the security forces tell the insiders out?"

"We don't have as long as you think we have left. When you find traces, it would be best to uncover at least a little bit."

With a sigh, Nei's gaze turned to me.

Judging by her attitude, it didn't seem like a story that could be easily brought out.

Nei began to talk about the security forces while showing a resigned look as if it had no choice.

"I feel bad for handing over information from the security forces, but we have no choice but to seek cooperation."

"It's the intention of getting me involved."

"That's right. It's funny, but there's been some friction inside the police force."

"Is there something wrong with the security guard?"

The head of the security force is Abel Terdos, Nei's older brother and a city council member.

Even apart from the glory of Terdos, Nei is a parachute enough threat within the security guard.

No matter what, the security forces won't go against Nei's heart.

So, Nei's story that there was a friction in the security forces was not easily acceptable.

"It's strangely unmotivated to do things at the upper level."

"Considering the number of incidents that go into the police force per day, I don't know if it is strange that they are not interested in this case."

"If you stop at that level, you won't be able to say anything like this. Investigation results are delayed, and requests for assistance are not heard. You are deliberately ignoring this."

"It smells a lot more suspicious than I thought."

"In this case, it would be no wonder if the incident was buried."

"Is that even if the maiden of the Terdos family moves?"

In the contents of the War City that I read, the circumstances inside the security force are not detailed.

But it seemed understandable for what reason her investigation was being thwarted now.

The identity of Abel Terdos. And the relationship between Abel and Nei.

When you think about these two things, it wasn't that hard to understand.

Usher, who had been standing next to Nei the whole time, came forward to the front of the conversation and helped her talk.

"okay. Even if you moved, it didn't respond."

"You seem to be guessing where you moved."

"Probably it has something to do with Nei's family, Abel's side."

"So you came to me? After all, there is a limit to how much help you can get from within the police force, right?"

"I mean that."

I was able to hear directly from Usher's mouth, which was not shown in the work.

The upper level of the security force is obstructing investigations related to the association.

That was the reason why Usher and Ney had to chase after the guide Euglas up until now.

The current security forces are completely unreliable.

So they came to me with a big decision.

He probably didn't come to me just to get information about Eu-Glass.

What was needed was probably more.

"It seems that they want not only information about the culprit, but also some cooperation in catching the suspect."

Help arrest Euglas.

That's what Usher Hayes was hoping for of us.

"You're also a bounty hunter, aren't you?"

"Can you trust your skills?"

"He has magic that specializes in escaping. If they are caught by clumsily increasing the number, it will be better to be able to surround them in moderation."

Pass Wall Magic.

The wizard using this magic can move freely, ignoring walls and terrain.

In a way, it seems like magic without much danger.

But this narrowed city is full of walls and obstacles on all sides.

Euglus, called the guide, was a wizard with superior mobility than anyone else only in urban warfare.

No matter how much Usher uses Blink, it cannot move faster than that in a building.

If there were too many people, Euglas might notice it first and run away.

"On that point, I agree."

"Good luck."

I picked up my cup and took a sip of the coffee in front of me.

This incident is an opportunity for Usher to reveal the traces of the union.

So, I tried not to interfere as much as possible.

However, if Nei made such a judgment, it would be more suspicious of me if I didn't come forward.

If the cost of the request was appropriate, it would have been better to quietly accept it.

"Then what are you going to do with the cost? If it's something that moves people on our side... … ."

"I have no intention of paying any extra."

"… … You don't think that makes sense, do you?"

At Usher's unexpected reply, I looked at him with curious eyes.

I will not pay for cooperation.

If so, what are you going to say to move me?

The answer came back quickly.

"Instead, let's close this case with the story that you caught the wanted criminal."

"Are you going to pass the bounty?"

"That's the cleanest way for the security guard, for Nei, and for you."

Instead of expanding the investigation in the preceding cases, the police placed an additional bounty on Euglas.

Eventually, the amount of the bounty on him was comparable to the average of first-degree wanted criminals.

Instead of the quest fee, I will hand over all of Euglas' bounty to us.

It was the story of Usher himself participating in the arrest of Euglas, but giving up his stake in him.

"Certainly, there is no way that the police can take issue with the arrest of a wanted criminal."

"There will be no problems either way."

We can get a bounty for Euglas, and Usher and Nai can investigate without being caught by the police.

It is a win-win strategy in which both sides benefit.

As far as the proposal goes, it's not a bad story.

It was well worth accepting.

"Let's start with simple information. The guy's name is Guide Euglas. He is a magician of the 5th circle who uses the 'Pass Wall' magic."

"Dark Merchant. Are you accepting deals with us?"

"However, there is a procedure to deal with before catching him."

All I know is not just his magic or his name.

I knew his next destination.

So, in order to fully capture Euglas, it was necessary to establish contact with someone prior to the operation.

As soon as we talked about the condition, Nei, who was still listening, asked me.

"What is the procedure?"

"All of the raids so far have been just rehearsals for attacking the Lesser Industry."

"Then, maybe… … ."

"Lesert's mithril processing technology. That's the goal these guys want. So, it would be better to contact the Lesser in advance."

Catching Eu-Glass will be on the grounds of Lessert.

Of course, in order to proceed with the work, prior consultation with Lesser is required.

At the information about Euglas's purpose, Nai made a worried face.

"But if you move so openly… The criminal will find out."

"So, you should quietly push him through your personal connections."

"I? Am I a security guard?"

"Who else but you?"

"...."

Nei's eyes moved toward Usher.

"You don't want to catch it?"

"… … All right, I'll try."

EP.42 Pathfinder in the Dark (3)

Right after Usher and Nei, who had visited the office, disappeared.

The swordsman who leaned against the wall and listened to our conversation sat down on the empty chair opposite him.

The sword of the swordsman who sat on the chair was caught on the floor and tilted in an oblique direction.

The swordsman untied the tied sword and placed it on his lap, and pointed his sparkling golden eyes at me.

"Percival. Did you have any connections with the security forces?"

Seeing Nei and the party I met today, I think I had a lot of thoughts.

The infamous security guards went directly to the intelligence merchant and asked for help with the investigation.

At first glance, it was not an easily understandable sight.

"It's a relationship… … . It would be right to see them as guests."

"Still, you might be able to get some help if you're still."

"If you make them your network, they are not bad people."

Hagi, looking back, I have made ties with quite a few people since I came here.

An executive of the Order who hides in the darkness of the city.

A young lady of a security guard belonging to a powerful family.

A competent researcher at Lessert Industries.

The boss of a criminal organization with many subordinates.

Even information merchants who directly collect information from behind the scenes.

I feel like I am becoming a healthy person, different from the first time.

"Percival is great."

"In a difficult world, information is a pretty good means of self-defense."

"I don't think it's called the Dark Merchant for nothing."

"...."

"I must work hard to become a true swordsman."

The swordsman's hand caressed the mechanical scabbard on his knee.

To become a true swordsman.

The truth is, there was still work to be prepared for her.

She had been off work for too long in the name of repairing a broken sword.

I took a briefcase that was nearby and held it to the swordsman.

"Accept it."

"What's this?"

The swordsman who received the envelope took out the documents inside.

What she received was material from the second-degree wanted criminals that I had asked Brian for.

Enemies that do not match the fighting style of the swordsman were excluded as much as possible, and enemies that were unlikely to be affected in battle were selected.

"Data on wanted criminals you need to catch."

"… … Wanted?"

"I was selected as a second-degree wanted criminal. You won't have any problems catching it on your own."

The contract between me and the swordsman has a time limit.

There was no intention of letting the sword castle, a useful power, play all day.

It was beneficial to go out during recess and earn even a small bounty.

Geomseong, who received the wanted criminals' personal details, looked at it for a while and then tilted his head.

"Are you telling me to go out and catch the wanted criminal?"

"It won't be the first time I've done it. Is there something wrong?"

"Didn't you clearly say that you were going to catch a wanted criminal named Euglas?"

"There is still a lot of time left before the operation. There is no need to rush into things that have not been agreed upon with Lessert."

The operation must be conducted within Lesser Industries.

This was the last opportunity to accurately predict where Euglas will appear.

The swordsman looked disappointing, sighed and set his sword sheath on the floor.

"I see. It's a little different from what I imagined."

"What did you think you were going to do?"

"The sword castle and its comrades defeat notorious criminals?"

"You are strong enough to fight alone. Unless we catch a first-class or higher wanted criminal, there is no reason to move in chains."

nod.

The swordsman agreed to my words and stood up.

The sword, which had been temporarily removed, was also attached to his back.

"okay. You just have to work."

"To work hard. In the meantime, let me think about how to raise the reputation of the swordsman."

"Really?"

As soon as he heard the word reputation, the corners of his lips naturally rose.

He was really easy to understand.

sword and honor. Only these two words are the driving force behind swordsmanship.

It wasn't that difficult to soothe her, who had become pale.

"okay. I promise you on the honor of the Dark Merchant."

"okay. I work hard too... Ugh, it's dazzling... … ."

While answering, the swordsman raised his arm and covered his eyes.

Because there was a sudden, intense brilliance from her left side.

When I turned my head and looked in the direction where the light appeared, I saw a black man wearing green goggles.

flash. flash.

The goggles that glowed overhead were Sinel's.

"Ummm… … ."

Sinel was grabbing the goggles-covered blackbird and eating cookies in the corner.

I've heard that goggles emit light, but I didn't expect to see it this way.

I asked Sinel, pointing to the black man wearing the goggles.

"… … Sinel, what is that?"

"It's a transformation."

"Nya-."

"Awesome… … ."

Blackbird was waving his arms in the air, emitting light from the goggles that covered his eyes.

As I watched it silently, an indescribable emotion began to bloom in my heart.

No matter how many times I think about it, is she really... She was a difficult person to understand.

* * * * * *

River Scarlett.

He is a technician who runs a weapon shop called 'Scarlet and Balls' in District 8.

River was a backstreet veteran who had previously worked as a researcher at Lessor Industries.

Currently, crude parts distributed outside are processed and sold directly into plausible weapons.

Because it had decent performance for its price, Scarlett & Balls was always one of the most popular shops in District 8.

"Ts. I didn't want to come back at night."

Area 8 was one of the places where security was serious even in the outskirts.

The broken security is Scarlett & Ballz's most reliable ally, but the streets at night never obscure Pia.

Without the reliable bodyguard standing behind him with a gun, River wouldn't have come out in the dark at night.

Click, click.

River pushed the key into the stiff iron door and turned the key vigorously.

A metal fricative sound resounded, and the lock on the door was unlocked.

"It's terribly noisy."

In the case of Lesser Industries, where he worked before, most facilities had electronic locks.

It was quite outdated compared to when I was working there.

Of course, money is a lot more than when I was working for the company, though.

In fact, there is no need to go to Lesser Industries, and if you look at the shops in the central district, there are more places that use electronic locks.

River, too, would have been replaced with the latest version if 'Scarlet and Balls' had not been located in District 8.

"When you come in, lock the door. Some thieves might crawl in."

"All right."

thump, thump.

River's footsteps echoed through the silent hallway.

A flickering light from the ceiling illuminates the river's path through the hallway.

River, who passed through several rooms and went deep into the building, headed towards the room marked the research lab.

The bodyguard next to River also locked the door and followed him into the lab.

"Where did you put it? It must have been at the desk."

The reason River came to 'Scarlet and Balls' on a dark evening.

It was because the material I had left behind in the laboratory was urgently needed.

He would have tried to deal with it the next day, but this time he couldn't, as he was his opponent.

River rummaged through the documents on the desk and began to find the material he was looking for.

"Can I help?"

"done. I alone is enough."

The sound of flipping paper filled the room.

River, who was flipping through the papers one by one, looking for the material he wanted, turned his gaze to one of the files in the filing cabinet.

He reached out and looked at it, and a satisfied smile appeared on River's lips.

Having found the necessary documents, he immediately tried to call the bodyguard.

He had no intention of spending time in the lab until late in the midst of a lot of bad news.

"Ouch… … !"

However, when he turned his head, what he saw was a bodyguard lying on the floor holding his neck.

Blood was gushing out from the palm of the bodyguard who grabbed his neck.

Embarrassed at the sight of the bodyguard who had fallen, River took his hand to the holster that was on his waist.

Then he tried to find the assailant with his eyes near the bodyguard.

"Hey, what is this… … ."

However, the attacker was nowhere to be seen.

no one attacked There are only those who have fallen.

The moment River, bewildered by the ridiculous situation, tries to turn around.

A hand protruding from the wall pointed a sharp dagger at River's neck.

"Shh. It's going to be a lot of fun if you do something stupid."

A hand stretched out from over the wall was aimed at River's own neck.

Magic. Otherwise, it was an unexplainable phenomenon.

River had no choice but to raise both hands at the blade pointed at his neck.

"I heard rumors that shops in the outskirts were recently attacked, and it seems that the culprit has come."

"If I had known, I shouldn't have gone alone."

"...."

"Oh, you weren't alone, were you? I'm sorry about this."

A young man appeared from behind the blocked wall with a smile.

Red blood stains remained on the sleeves of the young man wearing the hat.

It was not difficult to guess who had knocked down the bodyguard behind River.

River asked the young man with the dagger while making eye contact.

"What is the purpose? Are you coveting the weapons I have?"

Technicians in the Black Market were attacked by a gangster.

It was River who had heard such rumors many times.

River's guess was that the reason the young man in front of him came was probably because he was aiming for River's own equipment.

However, the young man simply denied River's conjecture.

"That's been the reason until now, but in your case, it's a little different."

"Is it different in my case?"

"Are you an elite from Lesser Industry?"

"What does that matter?"

"I need the architectural drawings of Lesser Industries. Do you know how to save it?"

The young man's dagger flashed sharply in the light of the light.

EP.43 Pathfinder in the Dark (4)