Chapter 61

Chapter 61: Merchant Guild Promotion Exam - Part 2!

After completing the Rank B exam, the receptionist brought a crystal.

I confirmed with my [Appraisal Eye], but there doesn't seem to be any tampering.

To confirm the skills for the Rank A exam, I place my hand on the crystal.

The appraiser informs Rox that their [Appraisal Eye] and [Negotiation] levels already meet the Rank S passing line.

With this, the Rank S skill confirmation is also considered a success.

Though Rox doesn't say a word, they wear a frustrated expression.

The written exam became a bit more challenging, but it's still at an upper elementary school level.

For the specified item, Rank A, 'Blue Trout: One Fish,' I take it out from the [Item Box] as usual.

"This is not it."

The appraiser judged it as different.

"What! No way!"

"The submitted item is 'Indigo Trout.'"

Rox looks extremely pleased!

I'm starting to get annoyed with this guy.

"Is it this one?"

Once again, I submit the 'Blue Trout.'

Rox looks surprised.

When Rox pulls out a 'Dragon's Whisker' at Rank S...

"Hahaha, too bad. This is the biggest miss among the prizes at this rank. You have a limit of ten days, 240 hours."

They say with a laugh.

Indeed, I don't have the 'Dragon's Whisker.'

"I'll be right back, going to the restroom."

"I don't mind. Time keeps passing even while you're doing this."

Rox sounds quite triumphant.

For now, I contact Al.

"Hey, Takuto, it's been a while. What's up?"

"I contacted you because I have something to ask! Sorry, but can you pull out one of Granil's whiskers?"

"Well, I'm right next to him, so I guess it's fine. But are you up to something interesting? I want to join too!"

"No, I'm not doing anything interesting. Just come to the place we met before in the Maze Forest for now!"

"Alright, got it."

Answering immediately without Granil's permission...

I'll have to thank Granil later.

I enter the restroom and use [Transfer] to go to Al's location.

"Hey, Takuto!"

Al and Granil were already there.

As soon as I arrive, I grab Granil's whisker and pull it out.

Granil is surprised and in pain.

"Is this okay?"

"It doesn't matter, Granil. Don't worry about it. It'll grow back soon anyway."

No, Al, not you...

"Take this while you're at it."

About twenty scales fell from Granil's back.

"They shed and regrow during the growth period, and I'm having trouble finding a place to keep them. Giving them to humans would cause conflicts, so I'm giving them to you, Takuto."

"...I'm a human too, you know."

"Takuto is a trustworthy human, and my master, so it's no problem!"

"I see, I'll accept them gratefully."

"Don't worry about it! The black ones are Granil's."

"I apologize."

"It's only natural as your disciple."

Although I don't quite understand their reasoning, I decide to thank Al and Granil and return.