《The Adventurers!》 Chapter 1: The Perverted Looter Our story starts here, in the Citadel of Nowhere for our voyage. Through the years of history and time, this was once an arid land, desolate for but a few struggling farmers. But one day the beast known as Courage evolved, the first of its kind. Its masters long dead, it worked earnestly to rebuild the land it called home. Through its efforts, Nowhere grew once again. Laughter of children could be heard in the streets. The town became a city, the city a metropolis, and the metropolis a citadel. In this land, all species of significance live in harmony. And here, the Cerberus Guild began. Through generations it once extended its reaches along the world. Now all it can do is cover the country it now lives. And from here does our story start. ***** Citadel of Nowhere, 1785 TC (Time after Courage) Erica walked along the shops, looking for someone to become her assistant in her travels. "I finally became a level 1 hero today, now where can I find someone?" Erica didn''t want guidance, she just wanted to chart the seas and explore the land. Like her own mother had done. Today she joined the famous Cerberus Guild like her mother, by her request. She asked them for a map and an assistant, as well as a sword and other materials. She couldn''t find an assistant. Erica checked her inventory: x1 Level 1 Novice Sword (Common) x1 Map of Nowhere Nation (Beginner) x3 Health Potions (20 HP) x1 Call of Cerberus (Emergency flare) x1 Cerberus Adventurer License x3 Antidote 500 Rials "Sigh, I don''t have anything. I need to found a person to help get loot when I fight." Erica wanted to focus on simply fighting the slimes and monsters she encounters. She needed to find someone that could help clean up after her the valuables. She went into the Nowhere Service Center, and stopped at the receptionist desk. "Hello, how may I help you?" A petite little girl talked. She was clearly an Elf from her ears as she smiled. Her gold hair only emphasized her clear skin and her big eyes. "I need an assistant. A good one. Someone that can help loot bodies when I''m done." Erica was straight to the point, adjust her inventory bag on the side. Her quiet demeanor and her fair skin won attention around, but her hair that cascaded down like a waterfall was what shocked others. A beauty. No doubt about it. "May I please have your license as an adventurer please?" The young Elf behind the desk spoke again with a sweet tone. Erica gave her card to the young lady.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. "From here it says you are a Level 1 Sword Fighter. I''m sorry, but the quality of Supporters will be quite low. The cost is 100 Rials for the initial contract fee." The Elf girl seemed to feel sorry for the young adventurer in front of her. 100 copper Rials were stacked on the table, already bundled into tens. "Thank you. The quality isn''t a problem. I just need someone." Erica was guided by the petite Elf girl to the back of the shop. "You said you wanted to get someone to help with looting right?" The voice of the petite Elf was merry and kind. Erica nodded. She looked in front, seeing three figures. "Greetings, Madame. Pleasure to make your acquaintance. A youthful man greeted Erica with courtesy, an inventory bag around his shoulder. "This is Charlie. He can not only help with looting, he is also a Level 1 Sentinel, and can protect you. He wants 5000 copper Rials." The young Elf was especially kind to Erica. Erica heard the price of 5000 copper Rials.I only have 400 copper Rials. I can''t afford this. "Can we, uhm, look at the other contracts?"Why are they so expensive? "No problem. Thank you Charlie." The young Elf maiden greeted Charlie goodbye as they went to the next person. "This is Gregor, he was a mining assistant before becoming a Supporter, and is very meticulous. He wants 1000 Rials." The young Elf was still kind and gentle like a spring breeze. Erica looked at Gregor. "Hello miss, I used to help the boss balance the costs before becoming a Supporter. I can help you be efficient and save." Gregor spoke kindly with a slight spunk in his voice. Erica heard the price and her hopes plummeted.600 copper Rials short. Why today of all days? "Ehm, can we look at someone else. I''m a bit low on funds." The petite Elf dressed in the Nowhere Service Center uniform hesitated before forcing a smile. "We have one more person. I hope that he is what you want." She guided Erica to the last person after greeting Gregor. "This guy''s name is Steve. He used to work for famous adventurers. He can loot very well and work as a supporter. He wants 200 copper Rials." The Elf girl pointed at the young man in the corner. He had black hair, and his skin a bit dry. In his hand was a bottle, on his chest his own inventory bag. The two ladies could here him snore while he laid on top of some crates and barrels, using a barrel as a pillow. He was smiling in his sleep, and even talking a bit here and there. "Deal." Erica knew that this was it. She was so happy to have this person named Steve on her team. She could just imagine it, becoming a Level 1000 Sword Fighter, Platinum Adventurer, a living Legend with Steve beside her. The Elf girl looked surprised, but then began to smile. "Miss, please give me the payment." Erica quickly gave her 200 copper Rials and then looked at Steve. In his hand was a bottle she hadn''t seen before. Seeing Erica''s confused expression, the Elf maiden put away the money and went to Steve, slapping him in the face. "OW!" Steve woke up, stumbling from the crates and barrels. "Marsie, why? I didn''t do anything this week. I didn''t annoy anyone!" "It''s not me. It''s your patron. Look!" The Elf''s face quivered with anger as she pointed at Erica. Steve picked the sand out of his eyes then looked at Erica. His eyes became lewd as he gulped. "A beauty with C cups! She signed my contract? And that figure, that waist, those hips, I could--" Steve looked like he was enamored in a fantasy before the Elf stomped on his foot. "OW!!!! That hurt!" He grabbed at his foot, massaging it of the pain. Erica looked at Steve again and her heart fell down again. "Why did he lose his old contract again?" Erica looked at the Elf maiden, embarrassed. The Elf girl hesitated again then spoke. "The last one was like you, a lady of Level 1 Magician. Steve was too much of a pervert and he drinks a lot. She told me he kept whispering to her lewdly." Erica felt terrible inside. How could I join a contract with a lecher? "Madam, I am not as perverted as I look. I am not a perverted looter. I promise!"Steve felt offended. He remembered his last buyer and started to fantasize again.That big sister, she had E cups. And her clothing was open in all the right places. If I had my hands on-- But before he could think, Marsie stomped on his other foot. It looked like she already knew whenever he was in "pervert" mode. Chapter 2: Cerberus Raspberry Pies Steve walked behind Erica, his gaze filled with his lewd thoughts. In his hand was his bottle of liquor, and around his shoulder was his satchel. He couldn''t believe that this beautiful woman had accepted his contract. "Miss, thank you for taking me. As thanks, I''d like to give you a gift." As they walked the streets of the citadel, Steve tried hard to get Erica to talk to her. He couldn''t help but stare at her hips as she walked.That movement could seduce emperors into making her the first wife! How I wish I had her beneath me..." "Oh really? What is this ''gift''?" Erica felt displeasure. If she had known that this man was so lewd, she would have never contracted at all. She merely wanted someone to help with efficiency. Someone to pick up the loot left over from monster kills and whatnot. What did she get instead? Salicious desires from this lecher that stalked her like he could barely keep bound his carnal desires, looming over her like a beast. The stares she received had traces of pity at her for her predicament. "This gift is a massage. And where I massage is your choice." Steve felt his blood pump within his body.Did I find a liberal one? After so long? Erica felt a headache coming on. She understood men were varying, from the intelligent to the bashful to the malicious to the lewd, but this Steve had not been with her for longer than seven minutes, and this was his 8th sexual suggestion. Erica decided to take the hardline instead. "Listen to me Steven. If you speak one more comment again, I don''t mind going to jail for murder." She attempted to make her voice cold and foreboding to freeze the assistant into submission. "Really, that''s a bummer." Steve was out of character, he looked at Erica with a frank face. "Wait, why?" Erica turned around. At the moment, she and Steve were in the restaurant district. The smell of Cerberus raspberry pies could be smelled along with the fragrance of Nowhere lavender. Such a mix was intoxicatingly divine, but Erica did not fall in its illusions today. She looked at Steve with a trace of caution. "You see, Miss Erica. There are four problems with your idea." Steve went on, sitting at a table. Erica subconsciously followed. "First, my name is Steven Rowenhal, not Steve. The cute Elf receptionist called me Steve, but its not my name. If you kill me without knowing my name, how will you be able to have your crimes acquitted through the bureau?" Steve looked to a waiter, ordering for a slice of pie. The waiter was dressed in a suit, white lace at his neck. He seemed a reasonable fellow, and gave common courtesy to the couple. His kindness grew when Steven bought a slice, and he quickly assured the buyer it would be prepared quickly. Shock arced across Erica''s slender body. How did he know that I was going to do that? The Cerberus Guild had a bureau that allowed adventurers to be acquitted under a few circumstances. One of those circumstances were an unbelievably unruly Supporter, and that required the name of the Supporter for the coronary records of the Citadel of Nowhere. Her mother was an adventurer, so under her guidance learned the rules of the Cerberus Guild several months in advance. She didn''t know when Steven found out her intentions for such a situation. This Steven Rowenhal was proving to be quite a character, elusive, enigmatic, and more than lewd. "Second, you need to know that collecting loot will be tiresome. From the way you looked at me back in the contract station, you clearly don''t have much gold. Even if you made me quit and even refund the mandatory half cost, you still wouldn''t be able to find another person willing to be as cheap as me." The waiter brought the both of them a drink of Pink Amour and a slice of pie. Steven began to enjoy himself on the pie, Erica watching with regret. This Steven, he is right. Can I really find someone? "Third, I have been with adventurers before and could help you ascend in guild rank. Who knows, as you stay with me, becoming a Level 2400 Sword Over-Goddess, Obsidian Ranked Five Starred Adventurer, with a Living Myth title would probably be feasible over the years." Steven seemed to really enjoy the slice of pie, joy filling his face. Erica, on the other hand, did not touch her pie, instead feeling Steven was absurd.A Sword God. Did he say I can become a Sword God? Who is he fooling? Seeing that Steven didn''t wink or gesture anything, Erica changed her thoughts.Is it really true? Can I surpass Mother and become a Sword Over-Goddess? "And fourth. You can''t kill me. Just because I am a Supporter doesn''t mean I am weak." This dialogue sent Erica''s thoughts in a mess.A Supporter claiming he can''t be killed? Just who is he? "You see, I have been with many adventurers before. Many campaigns and many raids. Many interguild wars. My Level from all that loot collecting made me a Level 1000 Thief." Steve carried on his words casually, as if it was the old past. But to Erica, these words were blaring sirens. "You''re lying! A person as young as you Level 1000 as a Thief? You must be lying?" Erica didn''t dare believe that a person not much older than herself was a Level 1000 Thief. If such a thing was true, she would feel a jealousy that she never knew. "Sigh. You don''t believe me, your Supporter. If you don''t trust me, then who will you trust, eh? Ok, forget it. I''ll just show you my information. You have to just show yours at the same time. Deal?" Erica looked to Steven, but then nodded. She really wanted to know about this character.
Name: Steven Rowenhal (Level 1000)Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. Age: 18 HP: 7130??MP: 1010??SP: 2500 Title: The Remembered, The Great Historian, The Great Witness Occupation: Emperor among Thieves, Respected Adventurer Skills: Assassinate, Eviscerate, Berserk Massacre,Stab, Slash, Blitzkrieg, Stealth, Ninja''s Curing Technique Guild: Cerberus Guild (Gold Ranked One-Star)
Name: Erica Espirit (Level 1) Age: 18 HP: 100??MP: 10??SP: 100 Title: Newbie Adventurer Occupation: Sword Fighter Skills: Slash, Strike Guild: Cerberus Guild (Bronze Ranked One-Star)
Erica could not believe the data that was set in front of her. [The System] was a device that allowed adventurers to party up, and was the test to find who is capable to be an adventurer. All one had to do is send a message through [The System] and then they would be accepted as a novice. Then, under the leadership of a guild member of a specified rank, they could try their hand at joining a guild after obtaining their novice graduation certificate. Erica had her mother in the Cerberus Guild, and through her she was able to attain her Bronze Ranked One-Star license at the age of 18, compared to the average age of 25. But this fellow named Steven was already far beyond her. It was akin to her meeting a God in front of her. She felt the need to wipe her eyes, and look at the stats again. "How...how are you so high?" Erica looked at Steven, a trace of respect now in her voice. Regardless of a person''s demeanor, Level 100 and above adventurers were respected, above Level 500 were rare but idolized, and Level 900 and above were elsewhere fighting in the grand Guild Wars or on Dungeon Raids. Steven being in the Citadel of Nowhere was bewildering, to say the least. "I was a kid of one of the guild commanders, so he took me and his wife everywhere. She, my mom, was the vice guild commander and taught me to pick loot and whatnot. Eventually, picking after my father gave me my level and the Thief status simply by doing chores. My father and mother now oversee the Guild Wars and can''t see me anymore. So I stayed and decided to become a Supporter. It''s still an Adventurer, just someone who does less work." Steven didn''t mind telling Erica his life details, not seeing the awe in her face. A deep envy arose in her heart. "Oh, I didn''t notice, but your Espirit''s daughter. That''s nice. She used to give me little Tonkle Berries back then. I''m sure she wouldn''t mind us being together." Steven genuinely smiled at Erica before continuing to eat the pie. He cherished each bite with a happy expression. Erica felt a deep sense of distress.His parents oversee the Cerberus Guild War Operations, he is a Level 1000 Thief, and he knows my...my Mother? She didn''t think this lecher had such a powerful background. She didn''t notice the slight subtlety of Steven''s words when he said "us being together." "Then...why are you here?" Erica couldn''t understand why such a skilled character was not in the Guild Wars. After all, wouldn''t he then be able to reach closer towards becoming a Thief Over God by going to the Ancient World? "Well, my parents had me watched by a fellow commander in the war. I grew up under her, the commander, ever since ten years ago. The commander taught me everything the Guild knew on the surrounding territories, such as the novice adventurer lands. I decided to become an Adventurer two weeks before you came, and got my license with the minimum Guild ranking I would have at my caliber." "As for that Level 1 Magician, that older sister rejected my request to massage her, calling me a perverted man, a would-be rapist without a leach when I helped her cover a rip in her clothing. She wore a revealing outfit, and when she had a battle with another Adventurer her bosom...became visible. With my speed I easily made it and helped her cover, but she called me a beast instead. All I did was hug her." Steven tried to explain himself to Erica, but she already made up her mind.You might have noble intentions, but you will forever be a perverted man. She nodded to this thought inside of her heart. "But there are several reasons I am here. First, I''d like to see the early levels anew, and gain experience that way. Books are as useful as you apply them." Erica felt as if she was looking at a sage for a moment, a man that crossed many lands. It wouldn''t be wrong. "Second, I wanted to meet a beautiful woman. My Mother and Father want grandkids, and I told them they could only wait till I found a beautiful skilled adventurer to marry, someone who was beautiful, and smart, and courageous, and bus--" Steven noticed Erica''s livid face and stopped at that word, instead taking another spoonful of pie. "And third is this. I don''t like to pay for meals." Steven smiled as he finished his meal. The waiter from earlier came to the table, giving Erica the bill. She felt a bit angry at Steven, but her rage continued to grow. On the bill was labelled the price, a total of 150 R$. "But I didn''t eat my pie?" Erica asserted that she hadn''t touched her pie. The waiter only looked at her with a cold glare. He motioned with her eyes towards her plate, a hint of displeasure in his eyes. Her face as she looked at her plate had a trace of confusion, anger, and disbelief. She looked at Steven''s plate. The two pie slices each came with a Varspir cherry on each. On Rowenhal''s plate were the remaining stems of the two cherries. "You!" She stared at Steven, her gaze filled with anger, "Pay for your meal!" "I''m sorry Miss, but my bottle of liquor costed me the contract money of 200 R$. I don''t have any more." Steven shrugged, only sparking Erica''s anger. Erica felt a premonition as she looked at the face of the waiter, his hand outstretched. She sighed at his gaze. Erica checked her inventory bag, only wanting to cry.
[Inventory System] activated. You have:
  • x1 Level 1 Novice Sword (Common)
  • x1 Map of Nowhere Nation (Beginner)
  • x3 Health Potions (20 HP)
  • x1 Call of Cerberus (Emergency flare)
  • x1 Cerberus Adventurer License
  • x3 Antidote
  • 200 copper Rials (200 R$)
Why did I have to accept his contract? Erica could only feel the urge to release her pain as she handed the 150 R$ to the waiter, who left soon after.
[Inventory System] updated. You now have:
  • x1 Level 1 Novice Sword (Common)
  • x1 Map of Nowhere Nation (Beginner)
  • x3 Health Potions (20 HP)
  • x1 Call of Cerberus (Emergency flare)
  • x1 Cerberus Adventurer License
  • x3 Antidote
  • 50 copper Rials (50 R$)
Chapter 3: Bronze Ranked Cerberus Office "Remember this. You owe me 150 rials. Don''t forget it!" Erica rose from her seat, frustrated at having such a character as her Supporter. Not only is he a lecher, he is also poor. If his family left him any money, he probably spent it on booze. Erica noticed the finished bottle in Steven''s hand, enjoy his pained expression. Steven noticed her joy and came up with an idea. "Miss, do you mind getting me another bottle?" Steven walked beside Erica, shaking the bottle in her face. "I''m all out, and I need it to stay calm." "A bottle costs 200 R$ right? Sorry, but I don''t have money. You spent it all!" Erica pretended to car, until yell at him for spending the majority of her money. She couldn''t believe in about 3 hours all the money her mother gave was used up. As she yelled at Steven, she felt a her heart calm down. "Tch. Poor." Steven felt displeasure at hearing Erica not have enough money, and began walking towards the guild branch. The Cerberus Guild had several branches, and as one rose in rank as a guild adventurer, one would have to go to a larger branch to trade for better items and apply for better missions. Steven noticed that Erica didn''t have money and steadily guided her there. "Poor? Look at you! Feeding off me to stay alive! I bet that the commander stopped taking care of you, that''s why you had to become a Supporter, right?" Erica yelled at Steven as he kept walking, getting him to stop with her words. "No, you''re wrong. That commander had her own reasons. Besides, I don''t like having to pay for things. Why pay when someone else can?" Steven shrugged, making Erica much more angry. Erica chased after Steven, pulling out her Level 1 Novice Sword to at least strike him once.If I can slash him 7130 times, I can end him once and for all. As Steven walked, Erica dashed after him. However, Steven was a Thief so even his normal walking speed was greatly accelerated thanks to his Stamina. It was quite difficult for Erica to catch up. Steven walked across every street he could think of, repeating sections to gradually make Erica tired. He occasionally saw her face to make sure that once she revealed several traces of scarlet on her cheeks, he would stop. After about 15 minutes of running around the Citadel of Nowhere, Erica showed signs of weakness. Seeing this, Steven Rowenhal adjusted his course, making it to the Bronze ranked branch of the Cerberus Guild. Erica had long ago began to run into trouble. Her lungs felt like they were going to give way as she struggled to take the next few breaths. It was already past lunchtime, and she hadn''t eaten a thing, whereas Steven has had two pies to eat this whole time. Sweat ran down her temples and stained her green clothing, making her seem more as if she worked in the fields.You pervert. Stop right now! Steven stood in front of the Cerberus branch office, waiting for Erica to stand beside him. The branch office seemed cylindrical and had four doors for those entering and existing the building. The name of the office was distinct on the front, an opaque black against the rosy pink color of the building. The top of this creation featured a pair of ears and a nose that belonged to a dog. The doors, white, resembled the dog''s teeth when its mouth was wide open. "You finally made it. Congratulations." Steven gave a round of applause to Erica, seeing her busty figure struggle to breathe beside him. To her, his words felt more like sarcasm that the honesty he meant. Just before she was going to speak, she noticed where they had stopped. "What are we doing here in front of the branch office?" Erica looked at the memorable pair of pink ears, forgetting her anger. "You said you are poor right? And you want to become a Level 2400 Sword Over-Goddess, Obsidian Ranked Five Starred Adventurer, with a Living Myth title right? Then why not do some missions for Bronze One Star adventurers then? It''s an easy way to make money, you know." He stared at her as he reasoned with her, before take a silent look her voluptrous figure.One of these days, Steven. One of these days. She will be yours. Then you can feel all you want! "But I''m a level 1 Sword Fighter. The minimum needed is Level 2 for most missions, so attempting them would be asking for death." Erica explained, a bit of displeasure in her voice.Doesn''t he understand something like this? "No worries. For groups, the average level of the group applies. So if I go with you, you can still do those missions. Okay?" Steven had already read the majority of the regulations before, explaining one of the finer points.Just what are her three measurements? It seems like her Bust is 97...no 96. Now her waist is...Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. Erica noticed the lewdness in Steven''s eyes were return, and weapon in hand she made an effort to strike him. "Hyah!" She spoke, putting her energy into her arms for a diagonal strike. Steven watched the blade come, pitying Erica.Her body might be amazing, but her form is too weak. She needs training. Seeing Erica''s stance, Steven already noticed seventeen different gaps in her defense.I might have to train her also so that we don''t lose in the future. By becoming a Supporter and a Mentor. He grabbed the blade, stopping it in place with a flick of his wrist. He smiled at Erica as she looked back with a bit of shock.So can this teacher and student commit some forbidden play? Steven began to fantasize of Erica coming to his courtyard to learn how to fight with the "sword." Master, please, the sword is too sharp. Let''s take a break. His lewd thoughts ran into overdrive as he thought of having Erica meet his sword. "OW!!!" Steven looked at his right foot, seeing that Erica stomped on it flat. The pain was manageable for him, but it was still pain.Don''t tell me I''m going to accompany another woman who hates me for who I am? Erica entered the building, hoping to leave the perverted Supporter behind her. As she entered in, she looked in awe at everyone present. The area was a single room, a circle and the doors were just behind her. In the center, four different secretaries were helping adventurers find their way around. The left side featured a restuarant, where assorted Orcs, Demons, Humans, and more were eating. Clearly they were all adventurers, a few talking among their parties. As for the opposite side, it was the mission wall of this branch, with several adventurers gathered around it. Many of them were new members or groups trying to find a suitable mission on the wal. Each sheet had a minimum requirement, the name and details of the quest, and a reward. However, to take the paper one had to verify with a secretary. Erica could see that in the back a set of stairs led to the next floor, but a guard was near the stair well.Maybe it''s to prevent novices from going up? Steven entered next to Erica, waiting for her to finish taking in the scene.So she''s never been here then, eh? Steven grabbed Erica''s hand, only for her to pull it back away. She looked at him with contempt. "First of all, put away your sword. Second of all follow me." Steve began to walk closer to one of the secretaries. Erica hesitated, but eventually put up her sword and went behind Steven. "Miss, you grew a cup size since I last say you!" Steven looked at the young lady in front of him. She was the head secretary at this office, and at the moment she was checking files. The secretary wore dark blue uniform that was expected of any employees of the Cerberus Guild, her skin a dark magenta. From her head a single horn pointed upright, her nails painted a cosmic purple. Before Steven spoke, anyone who neared her could see she was quite youthful and had an oval face. She was not a beauty, but still won quite a few persons willing to date her. To them, she would flatly deny without reason. "Who do you think you--" The young lady behind the desk rose her head, her green eyes carrying a trace of shock as she looked at the young man. "Steven?" "Yep, that''s me. Now seriously, Sis Siana, your cup size grew in only two years! That''s really amazing. What have you been eating?" Steven looked at the young orcess with a dazzling smile. Siana looked at him, laughing a bit at him. Erica couldn''t believe there was a person that enjoyed Steven''s perverted words.Is she crazy? "It''s good to see you too, Steven. How is Commander Elena?" Siana smiled back at Steven, looking at him with kindness. A few of Siana''s suitors that remained dedicated couldn''t believe what they saw. Siana really seemed to enjoy Steven''s company. "She was great last time I saw him. I''m here because my Assault partner needs to find a mission." Steven spoke straight to the point, not mincing any words. "You chose to become a Supporter instead of an Assault yourself. I''m surprised." Siana looked at Steven, feeling out of the loop. She hadn''t seen Steve in two years, so it was only natural. "Yup. And I found a real beauty. Erica, this is Siana. Siana, this is Erica Espirit." Steven introduced Erica to the Orcess, feeling it natural to do so. It didn''t seem he was aware of the multiple numbers of men behind him who were gnashing their teeth at him. "She''s Espirit''s daughter? I''m quite surprised. She''s so young." Siana felt a trace of amazement at Erica. Not many adventurers could become official at age 18. "Hello, my name is Siana Overwood. I am the head secretary of the 1st Bronze branch of the Cerberus Guild. Pleased to meet you." Siana exchanged pleasantries with Erica, a bit of happiness in her eyes. Apparently she liked meeting new people every day. "How can you be okay with this pervert''s way of speaking?" Erica felt that seeing Siana was a woman, she should be hoisting Steven''s body all over the place, or call the Cerberus guards on him. "Well I was at first. But then it grew on me." Siana gave her reply, confusing Erica even more.It''s fine if he is a pervert, but he simply does it too much. Can one really adjust to his level? Steven lecherously smiled at Erica, noting the rise and fall of her chest with every breath.It doesn''t jiggle in place, so that means her melons are firm. But are they soft? I have to find out. "Well then Siana, I hope that you can make it easier for us from here on out ok? Come Erica." Steven grinned and waved goodbye to Siana before pulling Erica towards the Mission Board. Erica turned around, snatching her arm back and then scolding Steven for touching her hand. Siana watched the two talk with each other, amused by the way they treated each other. Her gaze focused on Steven as she began to sigh.To think that long ago, he once loved me. It seems he''s moved on since then. A thought entered Siana''s mind as she remembered the young fellow who asked for her hand in marriage at age sixteen. She chuckled as she remembered those fun memories. Chapter 4: The First Mission Erica and Steven walked closer to the mission bulletin in the branch office. Already in front were various adventurers of various backgrounds. Erica could pick out a Priest, a Warlock and several parties as well. Many of their faces hinted at how perplexed they were with the missions from the board. Others were trying to persuade their teammates to challenge a stronger mission together. "Which mission are we supposed to get?" Erica looked at the various people picking at mission scrolls. She looked at the board from a distance. The [Mission Board] was visible in any guild''s office. Here, adventurers could choose the mission they would like to undertake and earn rewards, rewards ranging from Rials and experience to even items. To ensure that one was qualified, a secretary of the guild would have to approve of the mission choice. This was to prevent new adventurers from possibly dying during quests. "Seeing as how you are a Bronze ranked One-Star, it¡¯s only fitting we start with the weakest missions, Miss Erica." Steven smiled at Erica, only for his smile to be ignored. Unfazed, he guided Erica past different parties to the board. Erica followed on, watching as various parties took notice of Steven and made way for him. It¡¯s all because of the [License]. The Cerberus Adventurer License was more than a card signifying one¡¯s guild. Among licensed adventurers it served also as a warning system. The stronger the bearer and the higher their rank, the greater the invisible signal of pressure it would give. As Steven was level 1000 and also a Gold Ranked One-Star, his presence was more than enough to send many of the new adventurers into a panic. Gazing at Steven, these adventurers couldn¡¯t help but notice Erica Espirit. Their gazes, however, had no hint of lust, only envy and fear. Envy at winning the patronage of such a powerful figure, and fear of offending Steven in any way. ¡°Let¡¯s see¡­¡± Steven¡¯s hand flipped through the mission scrolls nailed on the bulletin board, looking for a suitable one. Erica watched him look through missions of various ranks. These [Missions] were ranked similarly to an adventurer¡¯s ranking in the guild. ¡°Great, found one.¡± Steven tore one off the wall, satisfied with the scroll in his hand. He inwardly read the contents, before giving the paper to Erica. Erica began to read the mission at hand.
[Mission] Selected: Greenhollow Slimes Requirements: Level 2, Bronze Ranked One-Star Description: The Greenhollow region is a parcel of land near the Citadel of Nowhere. Here young adventurers begin their journey to become legends. Slimes are known to inhabit Greenhollow, and are perfect for training. Success: Return 5 Bronze Tiered Slime [Cores] for 100 R$
Erica didn¡¯t have any issues with hunting Slimes. They were perhaps the weakest beasts in any dungeon, in any field, and only knew how to tackle. Although at her level it might be troublesome battling three at once, Erica knew she could manage against three Level 1 Bronze Tiered Slimes. As for collecting the [Cores], she had Steven. That was his job as a [Supporter], after all. Steven, on the other hand, had different ideas in mind. Can I use the Slimes to my advantage like back then? Steven thought back to a moment he ventured out with another group, and their rare but ¡°energizing¡± encounter with slimes. ¡°Miss Erica, why?¡± Steven held his right foot in his hands, a small indentation left from Erica¡¯s shoe. Clearly she noticed Steven¡¯s lewd expression had returned to his face and gave him his dues. Lecherous baboon! Erica took the mission scroll to the secretary Siana, leaving Steven behind to massage his injury. Siana was amused, laughing from a distance. She saw it all happen from afar. ¡°Is this alright?¡± Erica gave the mission scroll to Siana, awaiting her approval. She ignored the pained expression of Steven as he made his way beside her.The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Siana nodded, stamping the mission with her personal seal. She handed the mission scroll back to Erica, watching as the duo leave the office. Not only Siana was watching them leave. A few aging adventurers also took notice of the two, smiling at how the two youths were acting. Youth was truly a great time. ***** Erica and Steven made the Greenhollow region. It was about an hour long walk, butErica could barely stay calm. Steven pestered her with lewd requests back and forth. Moreover, he had learned from earlier to keep his distance from Erica to avoid being stomped on. Instead of a massage, let¡¯s take a bath? That request made Erica cringe the most. Cringe at how erotic it was, but also at how ignorant it was. From as far as Erica could see, there wasn¡¯t a single pond or lake nearby. She couldn¡¯t even make sense where he got his ideas. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Miss Erica, I am well known for making skin smooth and supple.¡± Steven spoke as if his intentions were pure, completely opposite of his raunchy ways. Erica prepared to give him another strike, but he quickly fled. A level 1000 Thief truly had great Stamina. ¡°Where are the Slimes?¡± Erica asked Steven, trying to change the topic. She felt a strange sense of unease when she saw Steven¡¯s smile only grow more lewd. ¡°The Slimes are just over that hill. Trust me, Miss Erica, they live in valleys as groups and rarely venture alone.¡± Steven¡¯s face returned to normal as he pointed towards a valley in front. At the mouth of the valley, Erica and Steven could see various slimes of different colors mingle on the floor. Occasionally, one would eat a nearby plant, its color changing to match. They looked relatively harmless as they slid back and forth. ¡°How are we supposed to hunt Slimes if they are over there?¡± Erica understood that to hunt the Slimes, it would be best to avoid packs. In the valley, there were at least hundreds of slimes all in a small area. Steven was a Thief, and she was a Level 1 Sword Fighter. Neither of them were made for aggroing such an amount of Slimes. Even if Steven could get their attention, there was no guarantee Erica could survive if a group of Slimes turned around and came her way. ¡°I have an idea.¡± Steven looked around, searching for something. He found a small rock the size of an orange, and picked it up. Eyeing the nearest Slime, he threw the stone towards the herd, the rock stopping just a short distance away. The nearby Slime noticed the new stone, along with several of its comrades, about fifteen of them surrounding the stone. Erica thought for a moment, and it made sense. Slimes feed on things that have energy. But they can only sense movement. That¡¯s why so many neared the stone. It seemed like it ¡°moved¡± to them. Erica felt a trace of respect for Steven. Maybe he isn¡¯t just a pervert after all. Erica looked for another stone, finding a grey stone below her feet. Just as she threw the stone, Steven tried to stop her. ¡°Miss Erica, wait!¡± Steven made his way close to her, but by then the stone was already into the air. It flew all the way to the center of the slime horde, hitting one of the slimes on the head, killing it. The nearby slimes noticed it die, their cute eyes now carried a shade of red. All of them looked straight at Erica, understanding from where the stone flew. Erica wanted to move, but her legs stood still. Steven pulled Erica by her hand, both of them running from the small valley of slimes. Just behind them, a multicolored sea of Slimes followed behind the adventurers, steadily gaining ground. A red tinge was given off by the Slimes, angry at the death of their comrade. Steven spoke in between his ragged breaths. ¡°You attacked the slimes from the center, gaining all of their attention. I was getting them to slowly leave the valley, Miss. Only then could you have easily hunted them down, and then we wouldn¡¯t have to worry about this.¡± At the moment, Erica was clinging to Steven¡¯s back as he sprinted along the plains. He was too focused on avoiding the Slimes to worry about the amazing sensations he was feeling from behind. Slimes were indeed one of the weakest [Monsters], but nothing in the world of adventurers were truly weak. Slimes had the best innate senses among many of the monsters, and also grew exponentially in power as a group. They could even merge to become much stronger. Luckily Erica and Steven had yet to provoke them to such a point. The difference between veteran and new adventurers were many, and one of those was how to handle slime hordes. If an error was made, what was a simple Bronze Ranked One-Star mission could easily grow to become a Bronze Ranked Four-Star mission, at least 300 levels above Erica¡¯s strength. Legends of Gold Ranked missions involving Slime Masters existed throughout Nowhere and beyond. Only the foolish and the inept would take these stories as jokes. With Steven now supporting both of them, it became difficult for the herd of Slimes to catch up. On the other hand, carrying Erica and dashing at top speed was whittling away at Steven¡¯s strength. His breath easily became labored as he took countless steps. Erica watched as the Slimes disappeared into the horizon. Erica could only marvel at Steven¡¯s agility. She felt a tinge of envy at how powerful he was compared to her. She hoped to bridge the gap in their strengths soon. Steven finally stopped at one point, his Stamina depleted. His legs gave way as both of them tumbled onto the ground. Neither of them carried items that regenerated Stamina, and Steven felt a heavy need to sleep. Only through sleeping could he regain all of his energy. Erica watched as Steven drifted off into slumber. She surveyed her surroundings, noticing trees and bushes. Steven had brought them to a forest near Greenhollow, and its size was quite large. Seeing no [Monsters] or the Slime horde, Erica quietly fell asleep on the grass near Steven, dismissing her worries of an ambush. The short distance she ran before being carried by Steven had emptied her of strength as well. The rustling of flora could be heard as a small monster came from the forest. It eyed the two adventurers, making its way towards Erica. A glint of joy filled its eyes as it noticed Erica¡¯s heavy breathing in her sleep. Her tiredness was proving to be her own undoing.