Chapter 261: Goblins Lord (1/2)

He had to leave his family shortly after as the task wouldn't solve itself. With his black robes of the explorers with the silver uniform underneath, Arthur gave out an air of authority as he walked toward the train station.

He could've teleported straight toward the mountain range, but he felt slightly nostalgic as he arrived at the train station. Seeing his robes and the badge – that was shaped in a J sign – pinned to his chest, the people whispered and looked at him with reverence.

A kid who wiggled free from his mother, who tried to grab him, came rushing toward Arthur with a figure of a mage with a staff.

”Mister, mister!” The kid said nothing else but simply showed Arthur his toy with his eyes glistering in admiration. The mother rushed to grab him but Arthur smiled and raised his hand.

With a tap on the toy, it levitated from the kid's hand and started circling him. The kid tried to follow it with his eyes as his mouth was agape.

”Careful, it might fly away.” Arthur patted the kid's head as the toy landed in his hands. Arthur nodded toward the apologizing mother and left to catch his train.

The incident that has just happened made Arthur smile for the rest of his way toward the mountain range. This was the first time he enjoyed this type of admiration, which he held toward awakeners as a child as well.

'The people respect awakeners because they protect them.' Arthur thought to himself. 'However, for how long can that protection last?'

When he reached the mountain's range station, he found Ellen waiting for him. He nodded and she followed after him. The two started walking toward the mountain range together where a camp has been set up by the Golden Warhammer Guild.

The place has been cleared from civilians or adventures alike, making it look like a military post. As he was about to enter the camp, two guards obstructed him with their spears.

”What business do you have here?” One of them asked curtly. ”This area is off limit.”

”I'm a Jerano Student.” Arthur showed his badge. As soon as he did, the guard's face was drenched in sweat.

”I-I-I'm sorry, sir. I didn't see that at first.” The guard started stuttering. ”I'm sorry for my rudeness, I...”

”It's alright, man. You're doing your job, that's all.” Arthur patted his head, making the man's face flush and salute him.

”Thank you, sir!”

”Can you lead the way?” Arthur smiled and the guard nodded before starting to lead him into the camp.

As they walked toward the largest tent in the middle, the guild members looked at them with both fear and wariness. It wasn't only because of their status as Explorers, but also because most Jerano students were nobles or influential people.

They reached the tent in the middle of the camp, who Arthur has spied on before. The guard guided them inside where several men were seated around a table.

”Welcome, Sir.” The Pig was the one who welcomed him with open arms. ”My name is Norman Kanefsky.” This would be the first time Arthur took the time to look at him probably.

With a bowl cut and raised nose, this guy looked like the person who'd steal from kids.

”Glad to meet you, I'm Alexie Linan and this is my assistant, Ellen Dervo. We're here to help in the investigation.” Arthur shook his hand and introduced himself. However, the men laughed.

”No offense, sir.” One of them coughed. ”We realize the formalities here. One first-year student won't be much of a difference, no?” The man stroked his beard. ”You can enjoy your time here until this matter is resolved.”

”Ah-hah.” Arthur furrowed his brows. He knew that his existence wouldn't be appreciated, but maybe this was normal? Either way, he wouldn't mind it. After all, that meant he would get to work on his plans. As he was about to agree, Ellen sprung up to answer.

”This matter is Jerano's responsibility. If anything happens, wouldn't be the one held responsible? Please stop such nonsense and allow us to do our job.”

Her righteous word made the men upset but they couldn't refuse it. After a moment of tension, the man who talked earlier tried to shift the atmosphere.

”Of course, I was simply saying some pleasantries.” The man said with a smile. ”We'll be honored to have you here, please let the guard take you to your tents.”

Arthur wasn't upset by Ellen's interference, but surprised. This was the first time he had seen Ellen take the initiative, and in such a conferential manner too.

They left the tent and followed the guard who took them to their two tents. On the way, Arthur tried to satisfy his curiosity.

”What was the reason for that?” He asked and Ellen turned to face him. Unlike her usual self, she had a serious face.