Chapter 100 – We Are The Forest Rangers 6
At the office of the Forest Security Guards, a new recruit, who was supposed to confidently embark on a mission to exterminate monsters, returned in a defeated state, on the verge of tears, with broken armor. The rookie reported the failure to an old man with a stern expression and a Kaiser beard named Izel.
(Izel’s pov)
“S-Sorry, Captain Izel. The secret of the armor has been exposed.”
“…So, how many orcs are left at the scene?”
That’s why rookies are like this.
That armor is not meant to take a single blow; they should have skillfully distinguished between the replica and the real thing. Come to think of it, the rookie’s real armor wasn’t finished yet.
“But by the time I arrived at the scene, they had all been defeated by someone named Aix.”
“You fool!”
Without thinking, he struck him.
And then, he trampled on him.
You incompetent fool, die! Die and apologize!
“Ugh, ugh.”
“Nevertheless, it’s Aix once again. The Viscount also withdrew the exceptional compulsory summoning recently… Who on earth is he?”
The townspeople who had suffered damage turned into a mob and caused a commotion outside. They were just increasing the workload.
“Izel! Get out here. Explain that ridiculous paper armor of his!”
“Due to your late arrival, the civilians had to fight the orcs themselves.
“Yeah, that’s right!”
Getting a grasp of the situation from the jeering crowd, anger overwhelmed him due to the rookie’s disastrous failure.
Dragging the rookie, who had become like a rag, by the neck, he rolled him outside and gave a stern shout, glaring at the mob.
“I am the hero Izel. I won’t run or hide! What business do you all have today?”
“Well… um…”
“You… go away.”
It’s no good to rile up the mob. However, suppressing them too much is also a bad move. This cunning man understands that balance.
“However, regarding the fact that this foolish rookie deceived all of you and I didn’t notice at all, I deeply apologize.”
“O-Okay. Well, if that’s the case, then it’s fine.”
“Yeah. You understand the situation.”
He easily sells out the rookie who caused the problem and controls mob anger. Furthermore, the man who created the manual continues.
“It seems that there’s someone who saved the town in place of this traitor.”
“Aix, the defective mage.”
I’m going to ride the winning horse and enjoy its meat.
“I want to commend that person as a comrade of the Forest Security Guards. I want to officially welcome them as a proper member in place of this traitor.”
“Wow! That’s amazing. Aix really pulled it off nicely.”
The Forest Security Guard is an aspirational profession, and this is an extraordinary offer, so the ignorant masses perceive it as good news.
Hehehe, Aix. I’ll make you work under me.
“Please give me another chance.”
The rookie persisted.
A silent tension fills the air. It’s not good to get involved in this, but the decision is somewhat perplexing, so should I leave it up to judgment?
“Oh, deceived and innocent people. What should I do?”
“A chance? That’s Impossible!”
“I can’t believe it.”
“Please! Give me a chance!”
Alright, let’s dismiss him. Just as I thought that, a lone adventurer blurted out something unnecessary.
“Recently, even the new barrier has stopped, and the security has become lax, hasn’t it? We can’t go on adventures freely!”
Hmm? Oops, what did he just say? Adventuring is risking danger, after all. However, it seems to be the majority opinion, and the situation is becoming suspicious.
“I understand. Your concerns are valid. Three days from now, we, the Forest Security Guards, will make our move in the forest. The era of just protecting has come to an end. You may place your hopes in the hero Izel.”
“Ohh! As expected of the Forest Security Guards!”
Ignoring the rookie, I return to the office and give instructions to the communications staff.
“It seems the new barrier has stopped. Make sure it’s operational by tomorrow.”
“Yes, I will convey that.”
“Good, I’m counting on you.”
Entering the captain’s office, I sink into the plush chair. Outside, I can hear voices praising me.
“Good grief, the ceremony to honor me with a statue is approaching, and yet the troubles never cease. Ah, that’s right, I have some special tea leaves.”
I put scraps of magic stones into the magic kettle and boil the water. This is a luxury that commoners, who are worth one goblin per cup, cannot afford.
“Hmm hmm ♪”
I wait for ten minutes until the water boils, then pour the hot water from the magic kettle into my favorite cup, intending to enjoy a cup of tea. But as I do, a crack appears in the cup.
“Argh.”
At a time that further exacerbates my frustration, someone knocks on the door.
“What is it? Come in.”
“Yes, excuse me. Regarding the new barrier you instructed earlier, it seems it’s ‘impossible without Aix-kun.’”
“Aix again…”
In an attempt to calm my rising anger, I took a sip of the tea, only to have the handle break.
“It’s hot!?”
“Are you okay, Captain?”
Hot water spilled inside the armor.
Damn it. Aix, you…
I’ll make you work under me!
“Can’t you see? Of course, I’m not okay. Hurry up and help me take off the armor.”
