Death and the Sword Saint: Death and the Sword Saint, #2

By Brian King

Two months have passed since Wiess arrived on Orta. Having established himself as an adventurer based in the small town of Quint, life has been quite enjoyable. Tasked with traveling to the kingdom's capital city, Wiess is asked to heal a friend's mother of her paralysis. on the way there he has a run in with the last person he wanted to meet. the princess of the kingdom, Lilliana Altest. What starts as a simple meeting leads Wiess and his family into getting entangled in a violent take over of the kingdom. Can Wiess persevere and save the kingdom? and what secrets lay at the bottom of a recently discovered dungeon that bears his crest?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Brian King
• Release date: Jan 15, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224744954

Book preview

Prologue

On a quiet residential street in Tokyo, a black limousine pulled up in front of a modest single-story home, the sign hanging next to the entryway written in English and Japanese told passersby this was the Fagan residence. A Japanese man in his mid-fifties, sat in the limo’s rear, eyes on the house as he swirled a glass of expensive liquor in his hand.

Boss, are you sure about this? one of the man’s subordinates asked, his eyes moving between the man he protected and the home they were parked out front of.

What do you mean? The elderly man asked.

This is that man’s home, the one we call the demon.

I know perfectly well whose home this is.

...

Minutes passed in silence, which was interrupted by occasional the clinking of ice on glass or the passing of a car. Next to the window, the man sat watching and waiting. He wasn’t waiting to see if anyone entered or exited the house, he already knew no one ever visited there. The home’s owner had turned his life upside down over thirty years prior. Takeda was a young man in high school at that time and he had his eyes on his school’s young idol and class president Yuki Yageshi, a strikingly beautiful girl with raven black hair and jade eyes. She had caught his eye at their school's entrance ceremony earlier that month. The first time he saw her as she walked up the podium set on the stage, he knew he had to have her. Her raven black hair shone spectacularly under the auditorium lights, and she walked with a confidence that had an allure all its own. Who else would be better seen hanging off the arm of the son of one of the thirteen heads of Japan’s most powerful criminal organization?

When he approached her after class and said she is going to be his woman, she just laughed at him before turning away. Losing his temper, he reached out to grab her by the arm when her bitch of a friend, Suzu Hatayama slapped his hand away. Angered to no end, he reared back to knock the girl on her ass, when he was stopped by one of the teachers, before being promptly escorted to the headmaster’s office.

Later that evening he couldn’t believe his luck when he was sitting in the back of one of his father’s cars with his men waiting in traffic. Just outside she was walking by when he noticed her. Emboldened by the presence of his father’s men he decided then and there that he would just take her, no matter what she said. Stepping out, he quickly caught up to her and grabbed her by the arm dragging her to a halt.

You should consider yourself lucky to have caught my eye. I told you I going to make you mine. He said to her, not realizing hell was quietly approaching.

I told you I want nothing to do with you Takeda-san. I know what your family does, and I want nothing to do with you. She yelled as she tried to pull away.

If you don’t want to get hurt, then you’re going to come with me. Or else after we finish with you, my men and I will go after your family.

Out of nowhere, a hand grabbed his wrist with a bone-crushing grip. The young lady has told you no, now leave her alone. Came a deep calm voice, that screamed danger.  His eyes moved from the girl to the son of a bitch who dared to lay a hand on him. He, Takeda, Hiroshi, son of the house Takeda. When his gaze took in the face of an American kid no older than him with short-cut hair wearing dark sunglasses and a coat as black as night. He should have known something was wrong. Looking back why would one teenager call another the same age, a young lady?

Get your fucking hands off me,  you filthy gaijin scum He yelled at the foreigner as he tried to pull his hand away. Only to have the grip tightened to the point it felt like the bones would crack in his wrist.

I advise you to take your boys and walk away.

Do you know who I am? he screamed back at the calm stranger.

I don’t give a damn who you are, you little shit. Now leave the teen’s voice calm yet filled with venom.

Letting his anger get the best of him, Takeda swung knocking the dark glasses off the teen's face as he leaned back barely avoiding his punch. When the glasses fell away, Takeda felt fear for the first time. Hidden behind those darkened lenses were the eyes of something not from this world. What happened next was like something out of a nightmare. The teenage foreigner with eyes like a demon tore through him and his men.  

First came the searing pain from a knee to his groin, and the snapping of his wrist. As he went down, he watched the first man rush in with a knife. The stranger again barely moved out of the way as his hand shot forward and crushed the man's throat. Before the first man hit the ground the second was already joining him as the crunching of a breaking jawbone rang out. The third man managed to last a few seconds longer than the first. Coming in with a flurry of punches and kicks that should have put the strange teen on his ass. Only to have each one either barely missed their mark or was batted easily away. Next came the sound of twisting metal as his man took a kick to the side, getting blasted into the limo’s door. Not taking his eyes off the stranger, he struggled to his feet. Takeda realized the true folly of upsetting this nightmare. From the side his driver swung his katana, attempting to take the thing’s head. Suddenly the blade came to a halt, stopped by a single crooked finger resting against the edge of the blade.  In a blur of sound and motion, the teenager snapped the sword’s blade with the second finger of his right before sending out a jaw-crushing blow with his left.

The flashing of lights from an approaching police car brought respite, as the demon-eyed teen stopped his assault. Placing his hands behind his head and lying face down on the ground, the strange bastard waited for the police to take them all into custody. The girl ran to the approaching police and started recounting the event, as more police and ambulances came. Takeda remembered watching while cuffed to the gurney in the back of an ambulance. The thing was placed in the back of a police car, as the girl was still giving her statement. Chills ran down Takeda’s spine as the thing in the back of the police car turned its head toward him fixing him with that golden-eyed glare, as they pulled away.

Next came memories of his father’s anger, after he bailed his son out of jail. His father was so livid that he beat all four of the men to the edge of their lives for failing to protect his son. Not even Takeda escaped his father’s punishing blows. Thankfully, his beating was nothing like those of his subordinates, but it was still humiliating. He had brought dishonor on his father by losing what should have been a one-sided fight and almost paid dearly for it.

Later his father planned to outfit his best men, including his son with the finest swords found in Japan. He was standing outside the forge of the swordsmith by the name of Yageshi, Sato. The swordsmith was refusing to take on his father’s request, and his father was not one to be refused. On his father’s order, two men broke off and went inside the attached office dragging out a woman, and a girl. A smile came to young Takeda’s lips as he recognized the face of the class president he went after before and still wanted.   More of his father’s men forced the swordsmith and his assistants to their knees. Another man put on a thick pair of leather gloves, grabbing one of the glowing hot blades from the burning forge. As another grabbed the smith’s hand pulling his arm straight. The burning red blade was brought high overhead, then brought down to sever the swordsmith’s arm. Instead of screams of pain, a low deep growl was heard as the red-hot blade was stopped with a bare hand leaving the smith’s arm untouched.

Damn near pissing himself when he recognized the owner of the hand. Dressed as an apprentice.    His eyes closed, and in his left, he held a sword with a pure black blade with silver rune-like symbols running its length. Strangest of all there was a little white mouse that sat on top of his head. Next, the man who tried to take the smith’s arm went down with a blow from the flat of the stranger’s blade. Before the first man fell to the ground, the still glowing blade embed itself into the ground at his father’s feet and hell broke loose. Using just his unarmed fist and feet, the stranger took down three of their fifteen men before anyone could arm themselves with whatever blade they could grab. Takeda could only stand rooted in fear as he watched man after man goes down, under that monster’s assault.

Takeda could not tear his eyes away as he watched, the stranger’s eyes remain closed, wearing a smile that struck terror into most of those who laid eyes on it. Continuing, the bastard would lash out with a jaw-shattering left, before blocking an incoming blade with the sword now held in his right. In response, he kicked out his boot’s sole shattering the attacker’s knees.  Blade after blade bounced harmlessly off his dark weapon as more men fell to his rain of blows. The stranger ended his onslaught with the tip of that ominous blade pressed against his father's throat. His eyes slowly opened revealing those nightmare-inducing orbs. Twin golden irises with vertically slitted pupils, and a gaze that pierced straight through to a man's soul.

I would suggest that you take your men and leave.  

On his father’s order, those that were still conscious moved those that weren’t back to their waiting cars. The whole time the monster kept the sword’s tip pressed to his father’s neck. Once the last man was loaded and the final car left, did the blade finally get pulled away. Only then did Takeda realize that the mouse was still sitting atop the demon-eyed stranger’s head, with its arms crossed over its chest? Just then the girl came running up to him to grab his right hand while asking. Wiess, are you okay, let me see? She cried out in a panicked voice filled with worry.

Yuki I’m fine. He said to her in a cool and gentle voice, unlike the venom-filled calmness he addressed Takeda and his father moments before. Quickly he and his father got in their private car and fled. After months of waiting and millions of yen spent, they learned the true identity of the monster that called himself Wiess.

The clink of a bottle against his glass brought him back to the present, as his subordinate filled his drink. Setting the glass down in the custom door rest. I need to be clear-headed for this, Takeda said as he opened the door and exited the vehicle. Steady feet took him to the door of the home. Knocking then waited for an answer. One minute passed then two, nervously he reached out to knock a second time. Just as he was about to touch the hand-carved wood, the door silently opened. Once the door rested against the doorstop, he saw a wide-open empty entryway. Entering, his heart thrummed heavily in his chest.

Mr. Fagan, Miss Mia he called out softly as his feet pulled him inexplicably into the home. He moved from the entryway into a short hall before coming into the sitting room he had been to a handful of times. His eyes roamed around the room. Not a speck of dust marred a single surface of the antique furniture. Soft steps carried him closer to the low coffee table on which sat an envelope bearing his name.

If you are looking for Wiess, I’m sorry to say you missed him by two weeks. A man’s voice said from behind. Spinning around Takeda’s eyes fell on a man of unknown foreign descent wearing a black robe with the hood pulled back. Once dark hair now streaked with large swaths of grey, and crimson eyes sat in a chair that had been empty just a moment ago.

Please Takeda Hiroshi, have a seat so we can talk.

You know me, but who are you? Takeda asked with a fearful tremor in his voice.

Ah forgive me, I am Lord Azrael Thanatos. Though you may address me as Lord Thanatos. The tone of his voice was calm and gentle but promising death if Takeda did otherwise.

Swallowing nervously, he obeyed taking the closest seat. Wha-what do you wish to discuss, Lord Thanatos?

Your future, Mr. Takeda. That’s what I want to discuss.

My future?

Yes, I understand you are retiring soon, but are worried about the implications it entails for both you and your daughter.

...

And you came here to ask young Wiess for help, correct?

Before I answer that, where are Mr. Fagan and his maid?

They have been reunited with the woman you once fought over.

Takeda’s shoulders fell at the stranger’s words. How did it happen?

How did what happen?

How did Mr. Fagan die?

I never said he was dead.

What?

All will be made clear at the proper time. But I have an offer for you, one that you cannot refuse.

What kind of offer? Takeda asked as his eyes narrowed.

Young Wiess will soon be returning for a short while, but when he does you will find that his... family has grown. I want you to take management of his home here and prepare for his return. You will find the details inside that envelope you hold there. Do this and I will guarantee safety for both you and your daughter.

Something deep down told Takeda the words this mysterious man said were true, even with how unbelievable they sounded. Yuki had died twenty years ago this day, the same day as his son. Both were murdered by the same person. That was the reason he was here.  It had occurred to him earlier that day, perhaps Wiess could help protect his daughter. Takeda wasn’t worried that if he didn’t live through it, though he made damn sure his little girl had nothing to do with his criminal life.

How can you help my daughter?

I can offer you a new life here so to speak, as for your daughter she can have a new life somewhere not even your most hated enemy can reach her.

Chapter 1

The morning sun rose over the top of the barracks, as metal rang against metal. The members of the city watch stood at the edges of the training yard watching two figures locked in a sparring match. One of the combatants was a young man around the age of seventeen with short mahogany brown hair and gold dragon-like eyes. Dressed in black trousers, a dark blue button-up shirt with a long black hooded leather coat that reached his ankles. The training sword gripped tightly in his left as he deflected an incoming blow with the artificial black hand that was his right. The other combatant was another young man in his mid-twenties with yellow-blonde hair pulled back into a short ponytail. Dressed in the earth-toned leather and steel breastplate that was the uniform of the Quint city watch.

The uniformed man stepped back before rushing in with a slashing feint to his opponent's left, then changing his attack to a series of three rapid thrusts to the heart. The golden-eyed youth silently sidestepped the feint before blocking the three thrusts with the flat of his training sword. As the final thrust neared, the youth angled his sword to divert the blade causing the uniformed man to be carried past with the momentum of the attack. Using that brief window, a black booted foot swung out in a short sweeping motion. Only to have it avoided as the uniformed man dove over into a roll coming to his feet on the other side sword at the ready, as he faced his opponent.

Who’s your money on Sergeant? I got four silvers on the captain to win.

Four silver you say? I hope your woman doesn’t get upset at you for losing. Sergeant Orwell said with a confident smirk.

The captain lose? That will be... The guard’s words were cut short as the captain's sword flew free and landed in the dirt a few feet away. His hands raised in surrender as his opponent's training sword touched the side of his neck.

I give, looks like you win this round Wiess, The uniformed man said as he surrendered

Pulling the blunted blade back and resting it on his left shoulder You’re a damn good swordsman yourself Captain, you almost had me a few times. Wiess replied

I may be good, but I doubt I will ever be able to beat the Saint of Quint

Eh, who’s that, some legendary figure from the town’s past? Wiess asked with a raised brow.

Oh, you haven’t heard? a knowing smile crept up on James’ face as he asked.

Heard what?

So, you don’t know?

If I did, do you think we would be having this conversation, James?

It’s what they are calling you, my friend.

You’re joking right, please tell me you’re joking? Wiess said as he pinched the bridge of his nose with his right hand.

James threw back his head and gave a good-natured laugh running his hand through his blonde hair. I’m afraid it’s the truth my friend, come on, let’s talk more in my office, James said as he moved to pick up the training weapon. Wiess followed behind, placing his in the rack next to James’ before stepping into the guard barracks. Out of the corner of his eye, Wiess caught one of the guards handing over a small stack of coins to Sergeant Orwell. After a few turns down a couple of narrow halls, Wiess walked into the office while James held the door. Taking the seat in front of the desk he waited patiently as James poured two glasses of wine. Placing one in Wiess’ black hand before he sat on the other side, in his padded chair.

I’m surprised that you haven’t heard that in the guildhall, they call your party the saints.

Well, neither Paula nor Master Reese has said anything about it, Wiess said before he took a drink from the glass James handed him.

Be that as it may Wiess, the townsfolk themselves have coined the term.

Eh, why?

Let us just list all you have done in the few months you have been here. On the day you arrived, you subdued three criminals. Then just a few days later, killed a dire rock wolf and somehow freed a slave girl. Pausing briefly to take another sip of wine. Then you have revitalized trade through both Modo and the apothecary, taken over a rundown inn, and made it into what it is in less than a few hours. Asking only what you paid for the deed, at the twins’ convenience. Then you went on to cure a man that no other healer could help and saved his home, family, and business. All the while wiping out a rather nasty goblin infestation that could have destroyed the town itself. Only to turn around and not only give back the quest reward but also split half the spoils with the family. Which you have continued to do depending on the request and the client. You helped several of the farmers on the southern plain with that new irrigation method, helping to increase the yield and quality of their crops. Then there are also all the bandits that you have been helping the men and I bring in. Have I forgotten anything? James finished as he set down his wine glass.

Just the ass whooping I gave Garrett and his old party, Wiess replied before downing the last of his drink.

Oh yes, I almost forgot about that. Anyway because of these things and your... shall we say altruistic nature. It is only natural that the town would form their own opinion, and with you as the de facto leader are often referred to as the Saint of Quint. James calmly explained as he opened a desk drawer to pull out a dark brown ceramic bottle, chuckling at his friend's embarrassed expression at the same time.

How have you been doing Wiess? James asked, changing the subject, as he refilled his glass with a dark liquid that smelled of brandy.

I’ve been doing fine, why do you ask?

Well since last week you’ve been a little off, was that your first time killing someone?

... No, I’ve had to do so before and I know it won’t be the last. Still, there is always that bit at the back of your mind where you ask yourself, could I have done anything differently. Wiess replied with a heavy voice before taking a long swallow of the wine he was given.

I can understand that but let me remind you that you saved many lives that day. If it were not for your intervention many of my men would have died, me included.

I know James, and thanks for your concern.

Then perhaps a change of scenery is in order.

... Wiess remained silent raising a questioning brow

Wiess, do you mind if I ask you how you cured Raul? James’ asked, suddenly changing the subject once more.

I don’t mind talking about it, I used a spell I learned a while ago called nostrum.

...Nostrum?

Yeah, it’s not a forbidden spell or taboo right? He asked, seeing the shocked expression on James’ face.

No, how should I say this? Nostrum is considered a holy spell that only high-level priests can use.

Eh, are you sure? It’s not a spell that is difficult to cast. Wiess said chucking at James’ expression.

After a few moments of quiet contemplation James spoke again. Wiess I would like to ask you for your assistance with something personal, and it may prove to be the distraction you need.

I don’t mind, what is?

Taking a deep breath, James set down his glass, leaning forward in his chair. It is my mother; she lost the ability to walk several years ago. After consulting with countless healers, all hope was lost. That is until today.

I don’t mind, but why don’t you find a priest that can cast it for you? Wiess asked, realizing where this was going.

That’s because it been over forty years since there was a priest capable of casting it.  

Well, the girls and I have been wanting to go to the capital, I guess now we have a reason.

So, you’ll do it? James asked excitedly.

Yeah, as long as I don’t get involved with your uncle, I’m sorry but I am not comfortable being around royalty, Wiess answered with a heavy sigh.

I can understand, tell you what, I’ll put in an official request at the guild as well as a letter of introduction to my father.

That sounds fair, I’ll go inform the girls of the news and we’ll get prepared to leave in the morning Wiess replied as he got up from his seat."

I appreciate this Wiess.

Don’t thank me yet, I still need to go heal your mother first.

Right, you are my friend, James replied with his voice tight with emotion. A brief handshake later and Wiess was out the door leaving the guard barracks behind.

Multiple thoughts ran through his mind as he walked back to the Twin Moons Inn. Noticing the people around him, most just passing by. A few would stop and greet him, or politely wave from where they were. No one was afraid of him or gave him any kind of negativity. A small smile crept up his face as he felt like he was accepted. Unlike his seventy-five years on earth, where most people that saw his eyes would avoid him. Here they did not care if his eyes were strange or if half his arm was made of an even stranger black metal. Sure, there was the occasional adventurer at the guild hall that would get jealous because he was surrounded by four beautiful girls, but that was all it was. Walking down the road, his musings were interrupted by a familiar voice.

Darling, how did the match go?

Turning around he found two young women approaching him. One had waist-length hair the color of cherry blossoms, with violet eyes. Her lower body was that of a snake’s tail covered in scales that matched her hair. Sakura was a young lamia girl that he and Misha had saved their first week here. Due to some misunderstandings around the slave collar, she once wore, now she was one of his finances. The reason she was made a slave was that she could change her tail into a pair of human legs. The other was a girl with silver hair and emerald, green eyes, that could see into one's soul.

Noelle Hiepest was the adopted daughter of Azrael Thanatos, the grim reaper himself. They had met decades before while Wiess was a soldier on earth, in the middle of a mission to rescue her and her family. Years after she managed to hold to the feelings that she had developed for him so strongly, that even Death took notice and made her an offer she could not refuse.

It went well, James is getting better though he still lost. What are you two up to this morning Sakura?

We just came back from Gwen’s shop. Sakura had to have some adjustments made to her gear. It seems like her armor was getting a little tight. Noelle said with a wicked grin.

Noelle!! Sakura‘s voice rose as she puffed out her cheeks in mock anger, causing both Noelle and Wiess to let out a good-natured chuckle.

Sakura, I wouldn’t worry about it, he said causing a blush to rise to her face as she cast her violet gaze to the road.

It’s only natural when we met you had not been eating well and were malnourished. Now you are eating healthy, and it is to be expected that your body fills out to what it should be.

Nnn came her wordless reply as she fidgeted nervously with the pale purple skirt of her sundress.  Stepping closer he gently lifted her chin with his left as he took her hand in his right.

You’re more beautiful now than the day we met.

She closed her eyes as she placed her free hand on his left, bringing it to her cheek, before smiling at him and favoring him with her violet gaze once more.

Nnn

Turning his head to Noelle with a warm smile. So, my sweet reaperess, what do you two have planned for now?

We were on our way to Claire’s store, so we can get a few things. Care to join us wild beast?

I don’t mind, what are Misha and Yuki up to?

Last I saw they were teaching Mia and a few of the kitchen staff a few new recipes

Let’s hope Yuki doesn’t try teaching them the curry dish she fixed for me when we first started dating, Wiess said with a somewhat hollow look in his eyes.

Wild Beast?

Hmm?

Are you all right darling? Sakura asked with a look of concern that matched Noelle’s

Yeah, I’m fine just remembering that hell. She put so much spice in I might as well have been eating lava.

That sounds... painful. Noelle’s face paled trying to think about it.

Chuckling a bit as he replied Oh painful doesn’t quite describe it. Anyway, let’s get going we also need to stop by the guild later.

Do you have business with Master Reese? Sakura asked as she moved to his left side wrapping her arm around his.

No, James is putting in a request for us to go to the capital.

And what exactly are we going to the capital for, wild beast? Noelle asked, moving to his right.

You’ll just have to wait and see, Wiess said with a wry smile. Opening a mental connection to his closest companion over his many years.

Hey Mouse, are you and Yuki done with your lesson? He asked through the mental bond.

We just finished Husband. Is there something you need? Came the reply of a truly seductive voice.

Can the two of you meet us at the guild in an hour?

The guild, are we going on a quest?

Yeah, James is putting in a special request for us. I’ll explain when we meet up.

We’ll be there in an hour Husband. Is there anything else.?

Nah, I’ll fill everyone in once we get there. See you then. He replied before closing the connection.

WIESS, LADIES GOOD morning

Morning Claire, I was hoping you were in today

Oh?

Yes, Sakura here needs some new clothes it seems, He said with a warm smile placing a hand on the small of her back as he spoke. Claire’s gaze fell on Sakura as she fidgeted in her tight-fitting sundress.

I see, well no matter. I have some things in the back already prepared. Noelle, Sakura follow me please. Claire said as she started walking to the back of her shop.

Have fun you two, I’ll wait here. He spoke.

Ah Wiess, I thought I heard you come in. a familiar burly voice called out

How are you doing today, Garrett? Wiess asked, returning the greeting of the large muscle-bound tailor that stepped in from the back of the store.

I’m doing well very well my friend, The large man replied with a hearty smile before continuing in a lowered voice. I got your order in late last night.

That’s good to hear, your grandmother currently has Sakura and Noelle busy for the moment. So, let’s see what we got.

Opening a nearby cabinet Garrett pulled out a large box, that was about eight inches deep by two feet across, setting it down on the counter. Opening the box brought a warm smile to Wiess’ face as he saw the contents.

This is perfect Garrett I'm sure Yuki will be thrilled.

I’m sure she will like it, hopefully with will give her a slight feeling of home.

Thank you, Garrett I know she is going to love it. How much do I owe you? Wiess replied as he placed the box in his [storage].

It will be three gold and seven silver, it did come all the way from Erasake after all, Garrett replied with a tense look.

That’s fair, here you go, Weiss said as he paid the price Garrett stated.

Garrett I was wondering if you might know of a shop or two in the capital that deals in accessories and such.

Grandmother has a friend that owns such a shop, Elegant Elwyn’s if I remember correctly. From what I’ve heard they are one of the best the capital has to offer. Was there something specific you’re looking for?

Not in particular. I’m not much when it comes to designing jewelry and such, so I figured I will get something for the girls if I get the chance.

Well, if it is Elwyn’s, I’m sure you will find something they all like. Though I warn you with as many ladies as you have you may go into debt if you take them with you.

That expensive? Wiess asked with a raised brow.

No, my friend, but I visited a time or two when I was a child. Let’s just say that her selection is vast. Garrett answered with a thoughtful nod.

Well even if they did, I assure you I wouldn’t complain. So how have things been going for you, Garrett?

They have been going well, I find being a tailor to be very relaxing.

So, you don’t miss adventuring?

... Well, I’m not going to lie and say I don’t, but it’s only a little. Besides, I find this life to be better, even got myself a woman now. I’m sure you’ve seen her around the guild.

Oh? Got yourself a lady adventurer? Wiess asked with a raised brow and a sly grin.

No, quite the opposite she’s a guild staffer named Beatrice, Garrett answered with a deep chuckle and a sheepish grin. Anyway, be careful on your way to the capital. I’ve heard the number of bandit attacks between Garm and there have been on the rise.

Thanks, that is good to know.

Dar... darling Sakura called out from behind him as his conversation with Garrett ended.

Wow, the both of you look... gorgeous. He said with a stunned expression.

Sakura stood wearing a thin blouse the color of dusty rose, with a black pleated skirt that fell just above her knees. Next to her, Noelle stood with her silver hair brushed back, wearing a light white sundress with flowery stitching. While Noelle stood proudly with her hand on her hip. Sakura fidgeted nervously with her hands folded in front of her.

See dear I told you there was nothing to worry about, Claire said placing a comforting hand on her shoulder causing a small smile and a faint flush to creep up on Sakura’s face.

Is there anything else you girls need? We’ll be leaving in the morning and will be gone for a week or two.

Don’t worry wild beast, we have it taken care of, and the bill has been settled Noelle answered moving to wrap her arm around his left and giving him a playful smile.

Acknowledging her with a nod, Wiess turned to Claire as Sakura took his right hand in hers. Claire thank you for your time, have a good day.

Wiess, ladies as always it has been a pleasure, Claire replied as she waved them off.

Leaving the shop, the three of them headed to the southern district where both the inn and the guild were located. With some time to kill they would stop by the occasional stall grabbing a bite to eat or picking up any item that seemed unusual or interesting. Before long, the guildhall started coming into view as a familiar voice called out interrupting their conversation.

Wiess-kun there you are, how did the match go.

It was fun, James ended up losing though he has improved, Wiess answered the raven-haired girl with jade green eyes of Japanese origins.

Sister, you doubt Husband’s skill with a sword? The crimson-haired girl with icy blue eyes asked her as they approached.

I would never do such a thing Misha-nee the raven-haired girl replied teasingly.

Unlike Sakura who was a native of Orta. Wiess, Misha, Yukki, and Noelle were all from Earth, each older than seventeen years they appeared to be here. Wiess himself was seventy-five and from a race called Nephylim, some rare union of humans, demons, and a mysterious race called the Arcanum. It was thanks to Death’s intervention that Wiess was now here.

Misha the crimson-haired one was in all actuality a succubus that had been waiting almost a thousand years before being summoned by Wiess and his uncle when he was four. He called her mouse due to her turning into a little white mouse to hide from his mother. After his mother discovered what she was when he was six. At that time, he was lying in a hospital bed dying from the mana his soul was overloading his body with. While Misha was in the middle of saving his life through a soul-fracturing kiss. His mother forced her into making a vow that was annulled before their journey here.

Yukki was a native of Japan, with looks that would put any of the idols from her country to shame. She was his late wife whom he met when he was thirty-four and she was still in school. Wiess had saved her from being abducted by an unscrupulous student and his father's goons. It was about a year after that while Wiess apprenticed under her father when they started dating and later married. Fifteen years later she passed away in his arms due to being caught in a drive-by shooting in Tokyo. Her being here was another of Death’s blessings when Wiess was sent to Orta.

With them all together, Wiess explained to the girls what the request James submitted would entail. Their conversation carried them to the steps of the guild hall. Like most mornings the guild was a bustling hub of activity. Opening at dawn and closing by midnight, the guild was always busiest in the early mornings and just before dusk. Inside half of the first floor was filled by the guild bar. At its tables, adventurers sat even at this time of day. Many engaged in tales of past achievements or recent exploits, most being done so in an overly exaggerated manner. The other half of the guild had the typical counter with partitions running its length. At its end, large colored billboards hung from the walls displaying quests ordered by rank.

On the far side of the counter, Wiess saw Paula waving them over. Paula was a young pretty woman in her mid-twenties with shoulder-length chestnut hair. Because she happened to be the staff member responsible for his membership. Guild Master Reese made her his party’s personal guild representative, meaning anytime they entered the guild she was their first point of contact almost exclusively.

Wiess, Ladies I’ve been expecting you. She said greeting them as they walked up to the counter.

Morning Paula, you have a request for us?

That we do, I see you are still on top of things.

It’s not that hard when I spoke with the client a little over an hour ago.

I see your point, now if you will follow me and we can take care of the paperwork. She replied as she came around the counter and started up the stairs.

Wiess’ eyes moved from Paula to Misha and the others who gave him bewildered expressions. Shrugging his shoulders in response before stepping aside to let the girls go first. Following last he heard a few grumbles of jealous male adventurers, that were quickly silenced when others would remind them of what happened when Garrett and a few others experienced when they picked a fight with him. Setting such thoughts aside with a chuckle, he instead wondered why Master Reese wanted to see him today.

Paula led them past the guild library to a door with the crossed sword and staff over an unfurled parchment carved on its surface. Opening the door Paula stood to the side as Misha entered followed by the other girls with Wiess bringing up the rear before she entered, closing the door behind her.

Good morning, Master Reese. Did we come at a bad time? Wiess asked noticing there was an additional person in the room

"Excellent timing. Let me introduce to you Master Relieshia head of the adventurer’s guild in Naranse, the kingdom’s capital. Reese motioned to the woman sitting across from him. shoulder-length blonde hair tinged with green fell around her shoulders, with intricate braiding around the crown of her head. She appeared to be in her early twenties, yet her grass-green eyes contained wisdom only gained after a lifetime of experience. Dressed in a form-fitting sleeveless leather jerkin that showed off her more than modest cleavage. Matching leather pants that closely hugged her toned legs were tucked into a pair of brown leather boots that rose to the top of her shins. The only thing more striking than the woman's beauty was the pair of pointed ears on either side of her head.

It is a pleasure to meet you Master Relieshia, I’m Wiess and these ladies here are Misha, Yukki, Sakura, and Noelle. They are both my fiancés and fellow party members. Wiess said as he introduced the girls in order of how they stood.

Yes, brother has told me all about you and your group as well as its exploits. I must say you are an interesting man. Not only you but three of your lovely wives are from another world, while two are not human themselves. She said leaning forward in her chair as she spoke, giving them a dazzling smile. Now tell me which of you was it that broke my creation?

If you mean the elemental Orrery then that would be me, Wiess answered raising his hand slightly.

Now Relieshia you know as well as I that was an accident besides aren’t we getting off-topic.?

Right, you are Korran forgive me, brother.

Wiess raised a questioning brow at her calling Reese brother for the second time. As he studied her face, he noticed a few familiar traits they had in common, namely the color of their eyes, and the shape of their cheekbones. Both masters Reese and Relieshia gave a small laugh at his obvious confusion. I’m half-elven on our mother’s side, hence why our ears are different, Reese stated as he moved his hair away revealing a human ear with a slight point.

Oh, to be honest, I didn’t know elves existed here let alone half-elves, Wiess replied giving an intrigued look.

Are you familiar with elves Wiess? Relieshia asked

No, where I’m from elves and others only existed in myth and works of fantasy. Humans were all there were as a sentient species.

If your old world only had humans, then how do you explain your succubus bride? Master Relieshia asked.

That would be due to his uncle summoning me when husband was but a small boy. Other than me there were only humans. Misha answered with a hint of pride in her voice. Smiling at the shocked expressions on the faces of the two guild masters, Wiess turned to see Yukki was barely able to contain her excitement.

Miss Yukki are you well? Relieshia asked

Yes... it is just, well I have always wanted to meet an elf. Now I have so many questions. Yukki replied almost bouncing on her feet.

Hmm, I do not mind answering a few questions if you will do the same for me. It is not every day one gets to learn of things beyond our world. Relieshia replied wearing a pleased smile. Yukki gave him a look that just screamed, please!!!! Chuckling a little, he gave her a nod before they moved off to somewhere amongst the cases and bookshelves that filled most of Reese’s large office.

I have a small table and some chairs set up back there for when I’m doing research or just need to step away from my duties for a bit, Reese spoke up answering Wiess’ unasked question.

Reminds me of my study back home.

Wild beast wasn’t your study just a small room lined with bookshelves with just your desk and a few chairs? Noelle asked with a raised brow.

That’s because you didn’t ask to see the collections Misha replied with a sly grin.

Huh?

You remember where Husband kept his sword?

Yes

Husband sometimes has a childish side, even at his advanced age. Misha’s sly grin turned into a devilish smile.

That’s a bit harsh. Wiess retorted as he averted his blushing face.

What is the name of the book hiding the switch? Noelle asked as she stifled a giggle

The invisible library. He said with a shrug.

Wild beast isn’t that just too obvious?

Would you have checked that one if you suspected I had another secret room?

Well, no... Noelle said somewhat quietly. In response, Wiess just gave her a pleased smile.

Amused laughter drew their attention to Master Reese. I must say, I always enjoy these meetings with you and the ladies, but we do have some business to discuss.

Right, I was wondering about that myself. Not bad news I hope. Wiess replied

"Nothing bad I assure you. Let's start with the captain’s request. Paula if you would please. Giving him a silent nod as she opened the large book on her lap removing a sheet of parchment, she started reading aloud.

The client, Captain James Altest had requested specifically for purple-ranked adventurer Wiess Fagan and party to travel to Naranse the capital of the Altest kingdom. After arriving you are to meet with the Duke to provide aid to his wife Lady Rose. Upon completion and turn-in, you will be awarded a promotion to the red rank, along with appropriate compensation. You will also receive travel expenses upon acceptance of the client’s request. Finished with reading the parchment, she looked up and asked. Do you accept? Due to the unusual nature of this request, the client did add the stipulation that if it is not possible to complete it, no action will be taken against you. If no harm befalls Lady Rose.

I already told James I would go, so yeah. Though I’d rather forgo the whole promotion bit for a while. He answered with a sigh. Paula gave a small smirk shaking her head as she made notes in her book.

Now on to our other business, Wiess I need to have you and the ladies meet with Master Relieshia in Naranse to have your stats officially logged. I would have it done here but I am afraid you may end up destroying the status artifact. Reese said as he flashed a nervous grin.

My stats? Can you explain what you mean?

Well, it’s just a general assessment of your level, abilities, and such. We have all adventurers do this once they achieve red rank promotion. The reason we do this is simple. Due to the difficulty of red rank, we need to make sure you can handle the work.

Level? Isn’t that the same as one’s rank in the guild? Wiess asked seeking clarification.

Well now everyone has levels here, though most pay no attention to them. Those that do are mostly associated with the guild or military. You gain what we call experience based on the monsters you dispatch. Once you hit a certain amount you gain a level increasing your stats and abilities, as well as gaining the occasional skill. Thankfully, it is only monsters that one can gain experience from killing. Can you imagine what would happen if one were able to gain experience by dispatching people? Reese explained, ending with a horrified expression and a shudder.

So, you can only gain skills by gaining levels?  Noelle asked, anticipating Wiess’ next question.

No, there are a few professions that can gain skills. Artificers being chief among them, another would be priests. Though is always an ongoing debate whether it is due to them performing their duties or blessing from their gods.

I’m surprised this is the first we’ve heard of this. One would think that more people would be talking about their levels if not outright boasting. Misha said with a raised brow.

That is because it is a bit of an unspoken rule not to talk about it outside of official business. Plus, unless you have either the tool or a skill that allows you to view one's status, no one other than the person in question can be able to know one's status. Reese explained calmly. Yukki must have said something amusing because Master Relieshia’s boisterous laughing could be heard emanating from where the two of them were talking.

Is there anything else you will be able to, see? Wiess asked.

Just standard things like name, age, race, whether one is a criminal or not. As well any given titles one may have received. Reese said showing a bit of a grin when talking about titles.

That sounds rather interesting Wiess replied as he thought about the changes to his status screen present in his implant’s interface. Originally it was a three-dimensional model intended to display the location, type, and severity of any damage his body sustained. But once he woke up on Orta and activated them for the first time everything was different. Now it looked more like a character sheet from an RPG or video game, the biggest mystery was why all the numbers were either blank or displayed something like corrupted data. Wiess had a few theories as to why the data was messed up, mainly because he had no tangible way to measure things like health and attack damage.

Now then Wiess with your acceptance of the quest we can now issue the money for your travel expenses to the capital that Captain Altest provided, Paula stated as she passed over a leather pouch containing twenty gold coins.

Does it usually cost so much to travel to Naranse? Wiess asked seeing the amount of gold the pouch contained.

It has been some time since I last traveled to the capital but considering you will have to travel for seven days. Plus, he did say he added a little extra to do some sightseeing afterward. Paula informed him with a small grin.

Fair enough, if that is all then we should get going, Wiess replied as Relieshia, and Yuki stepped back into the primary office.

After exchanging their farewells Wiess and the girls left Masters Reese and Relieshia, with Paula escorting them back downstairs. Once the door closed and they were alone Relieshia spoke.

"You were right Korran, that man is just as you say. We should be expecting remarkable things from their party. I cannot wait to see what