Chapter 113 - The Royal Invitation

As soon as we arrived at the guild, an atmosphere similar to that of Guinovam hung in the air. The first thing I noticed upon entering the guild of the kingdom of Arclight was the remarkable difference in size compared to our modest adventurers' guild in Guinovam. Arclight's guild was significantly larger, and the movement of adventurers was much more intense. This strong initial impression made it clear that we were in a completely new environment.

Immediately, Adya headed to the counter to complete the order. After receiving the well-deserved reward, she promptly divided the earnings among all of us, ensuring that each group member received their fair share.

"What do you folks plan to do now? Need any help finding an inn to stay for a while?"

Adya asked, turning to me. Upon hearing her words, I seriously pondered the question. My goal was clear and obvious: to search for the dungeon so we could complete it. However, I thought this would be a good opportunity to ask Adya and her companions about it, hoping they might have some clues.

"Do you happen to know of any dungeons located around the kingdom? The reason we came to Arclight was to find one" 

I asked my companions. Upon hearing my words, Adya put her hand on her chin, seemingly contemplating the matter. Some time passed, but it seemed Adya couldn't recall anything. Our salvation came from Zephyra, who promptly shared what she knew.

"I think you're referring to the undead dungeon" 

Zephyra said, catching my attention. Upon hearing her words, the dungeon's name itself came to mind. It wasn't hard to imagine the type of enemies we might face there, thanks to that self-explanatory name.

(Aurora-sama, is this the right dungeon?)

I asked mentally. After a few seconds of silence, Aurora-sama's enthusiastic voice echoed in my mind.

"Pin pon, you got it! Your next dungeon is the Dungeon of Nightmares, although humans call it the Dungeon of the Undead" 

Aurora-sama replied excitedly. Hearing her words, I couldn't help but chuckle. The image of Aurora-sama giving a little jump while saying that was strongly projected in my mind.

"That's the dungeon we're looking for" 

I said, looking at Adya with a gentle smile on my face. Upon hearing my words, Adya nodded and quickly pulled out a map. She showed us our current location and pointed out where the dungeon was located. To be honest, the dungeon wasn't too far from where we were; it would take at most fifteen minutes of walking if we went slowly, and only six minutes if we hurried. In any case, our main objective was achieved, and now we just needed to enter the dungeon.

"But why are you so interested in this dungeon? It's true that it's famous, but it's a beginner's dungeon, and the treasures inside really aren't worth the risk" 

Adya questioned. Initially, I was confused upon hearing Adya's description of the dungeon. If we were talking about the same dungeon, it was impossible for it to be as simple as she was describing it. My doubts were soon cleared by Aurora-sama's voice echoing in my mind again.

"You don't have to worry about that, Makoto. Once you enter the dungeon, you'll be teleported to another space, but the monsters will still be undead" 

Aurora-sama explained.

"Not to mention, I thought this place would be a good spot for us to train from time to time. You know, getting rusty in this line of work can cost you your life" 

I commented, staring at Adya. Upon hearing my words, she nodded, seeming to agree with me.

"Alright, about the inn..."

I started talking about the next topic, but I was interrupted by the sound of the guild doors being opened. Everyone present, including me, turned their attention to the guild's entrance. There, I caught sight of some people wearing shiny and eye-catching armors. At first, I wondered what could be happening, but my attention quickly turned back to the men as I realized they were approaching us.

As they got closer, the one who seemed to be the leader stepped forward and removed his helmet, his eyes scanning everyone until they met mine.

"Young man, is your name Makoto, by any chance?"

The man asked, looking directly at me. Adya and her group watched the scene, exchanging glances between me and the men. I could feel their curiosity, wondering about my relationship with this man, but I must confess that I was intrigued myself, as I had never seen him before.

"Yes, it's me. But who are you?"

I replied, seeking answers. Upon hearing my words, the man turned his gaze to his subordinates, and they all nodded, as if agreeing on something.

"Could you and your companions please come with us? Her Highness Sylvia-sama wishes to properly thank you for your previous help"

The men said as they looked at me. When they mentioned Sylvia's name, the people around, including Adya and her companions, began to murmur. Upon hearing the man's words, I assumed he was referring to the girl and her servant whom I had saved when I first arrived in this world, if I can call it that. Although I had noticed that both of them were not ordinary, I admit I hadn't really thought that Sylvia might be a princess.

There was no reason to refuse the request, after all, the man wasn't acting arrogantly or unpleasantly. Besides, I didn't want to deal with the confusion that a refusal could cause. I must admit that my curiosity about Sylvia also weighed in on the decision, as saving her brought up questions about her identity and purpose. I suspected that her intention in calling me wasn't merely to express gratitude.

"I don't mind. Should we go now?"

I said, and the man nodded in response.

"If possible" 

He added. With that, I turned to Adya and her companions, who were watching us with curiosity.

"It looks like our stroll will have to wait" 

I commented, and Adya replied promptly.

"Oh, that's fine"

So, my companions and I stood up promptly and began to follow the man.