落とし穴番外：男たちのロマン (Part2)
"Yes, it’s perfectly functional. It’s more attuned to magic than ordinary wood, making it easier to bolster with mana and faster to cast spells with. Though, for us, the difference is negligible."
"Well, I’ve throttled the specs to match the locals, just in case. Let’s go with these."
With that, we chattered away, picking out our gear and confirming that we looked exactly like a group of greenhorn adventurers. With our disguises set, we headed toward the greatest hurdle of the day.
The place was known as the Adventurer’s Guild.
*Bustle, murmur...*
It was as crowded as ever. The Weed Adventurer’s Guild focused primarily on dungeon exploration. After all, it would be a waste not to utilize the dungeon we had right here. The guild purchased the resources harvested from within.
Actually, any area in Weed that required dealing with dangerous monsters was strictly off-limits, and the monsters roaming the residential districts were harmless to humans, so there was no point in exterminating them.
"Alright, from here on out, no careless talk or idle chatter. We head straight to the reception desk. Stay quiet, and if you’re asked anything, keep your answers to single words."
"Understood."
We held our breath, moving quietly and swiftly toward the counter. It was a distance that shouldn't have taken more than ten seconds, but I felt a prickle of tension as I hoped the receptionist wouldn't recognize us. My heart hammered against my ribs until we finally reached the counter.
"Welcome. You don't look like you're here to request a job. Are you looking for work?"
"Yes. We were hoping to start working as adventurers today."
That was it. Our goal was to become rookie adventurers. And what we were aiming for was dungeon exploration—the kind of adventure story everyone dreams of. We were going to challenge an uncharted cave and claim the treasures within.
Never mind the fact that it wasn't "uncharted" at all, considering the guild had already mapped it to the deepest level and even placed the treasures there themselves. And never mind that we were the ones who built the dungeon in the first place. Setting those details aside, we were here to live out that romanticized dream.
"I see. So, you're newcomers. In that case, you should first study at the school..."
"Actually, we’ve already graduated."
I cut the receptionist off and presented a letter of recommendation, confirming we had completed the adventurer curriculum level that I’d had Mauve draft. I was certainly glad I’d made it possible to bypass those requirements through academic credentials.
Usually, the guild required an exam for new registrations. The written test would have been fine, but the practical exam would have been a disaster. Even with our specs throttled, it would be suspicious if we were mistaken for anything but ordinary rookies. If we were labeled as "prodigies" and drew attention, my wives would find out immediately. I had to avoid that at all costs, which was why these forged documents were essential.
"Ah, I see. A recommendation from Mauve-san. Please, wait just a moment."
With that, the receptionist disappeared into the back—presumably to prepare our adventurer cards.
"That went well."
"Yeah. I made sure to check the guild’s shift schedule and picked a day when the staff on duty wouldn't be familiar with us. Still, you never know when a surprise shift change might happen, so I’m relieved it went according to plan."
"But, Yuki-kun, lowering your specs is one thing, but why not change your appearance? I know you’re wearing hoods, so it’s harder to be noticed, but still..."
"Taizo-san, it’s surprisingly difficult to use a body that isn't your own when you're adventuring. Getting used to a new doppelganger every time is quite a chore..."
"I see. So that’s why you’re all using the same doppelganger form."
"It’s only until we get into the dungeon, Taizo-san."
"Look, the receptionist is coming back."
At Zargis’s prompt, I looked toward the counter. The woman who had helped us was indeed returning, carrying a tray with our adventurer cards.
"Sorry to keep you waiting. Here are your adventurer cards. In the event of loss..."
She gave us the standard explanation.
"Now, the first quest you can take together is the clearing of the beginner’s dungeon. Even if it’s for beginners, people do lose their lives. Don't forget that if you feel you're in danger, you should flee."
Having successfully accepted the quest, we turned to each other.
"Alright. Let’s go on an adventure!"
"Yes!"
"This is great. This kind of thing really gets the blood pumping."
"Indeed. It’s wonderful."
And so, the four men secretly set off on their adventure. A little breather. The men were heading out on an adventure all by themselves. It’s something you just have to experience at least once when you come to another world.
Adventurers!