The village before the desert

That day, they spent one night at the lodging facility. Starting the next day, the three of them began concrete discussions on strategies for crossing the desert.

The conversation started in a room bathed in strong morning sunlight.

"Are there any other ways the sandworms might detect us besides sound?"

Turning to Gram, the reply came immediately.

"No, that's all I've heard. In reality, when we came from our homeland here, we did fight sandworms, but they didn't seem to react to light or heat. Their combat ability is limited to charging, so we can manage if there's just one. But if there are many, or if they attack unexpectedly, it becomes much more difficult."

"I understand your combat ability. If you only react to sound, there's no risk of being detected using detection magic. How loud does the sound need to be for you to respond?"

"I don't know. But I've always been instructed to move silently, without making a single sound."

"So you react even to small noises. That's quite troublesome... Detection magic can't determine precise distances when there are sand or walls in the way."

Is that so!? That's troublesome. But it's better than nothing, I suppose. We can avoid detours if we have to. As for the rest... we know the route to the Pruetz Kingdom. And information about monsters and bandits—there's no other way than to buy it from a spy.

"A info broker, right? I think I just need to head to the tavern."

That's right. They're basically over there. Shall we let them know if they're uncomfortable?

"No, everything's a learning experience. I'll come along too."

"Then let's head over in the afternoon."

We continued discussing the details of the route afterward.

As the time passed and afternoon arrived, we visited several taverns. However, it was currently an impossible time to cross the desert.

Even when we arrived at the taverns, they were either closed or completely empty.

"Never thought it'd come to this. Come to think of it, it's actually quite logical..."

"Yeah, we'd forgotten. Never thought everyone would have left this village."

"Should we just charge in without intel from the information broker? We can deal with bandits as they come."

"That's... a last resort. Since we're relying on Taro's help, we'd prefer to move as safely as possible."

True, having information would definitely improve our safety. I don't want to fight if I can avoid it. Let's try holding out a bit longer...

That was when I started to rise to my feet.

"Hey, you guys looking for an information broker?"

I turned around to see a smug-looking man with a simian face, hands on his hips, staring at us.

What? How do you know about our situation?

"You two were the talk of the town. Rumor has it there's some odd adventurers trying to cross the desert at the wrong time."

Graam stepped forward, taking the lead.

"We just started gathering information today. Even if it's been making headlines, knowing about this so quickly... What's their goal?

"I understand your suspicion, but you should listen to what I have to say. After all, I'm an information broker."

An information broker... Then it makes sense that they'd know about us? Hmm... I can't tell for sure. I just don't have enough experience to judge this situation.

"If you're an information broker, then name the place where the strongest thief in this region once had their stronghold."

Suddenly, Elin, who had been silent until then, stepped forward and declared this loudly.

"That's easy enough. But would someone from outside even understand if I told you?"

"No problem. We're from this very region ourselves."

"I see, so it's a test of skill. It's simple—head west, and you'll find a canyon right in the middle of the desert. It's riddled with holes because that's where numerous bandits have made their lair."

"And then?"

"Stay calm. There's an ancient ruin nearby. The hole that lies directly on a straight line with the entrance to that ruin—that's where the bandits' stronghold is."

Well, I don't quite understand it, but what's your verdict?

"That's right. It seems the information broker is genuine after all."

With that, Elin turned to face me.

"So you're willing to believe me, then?"

"Yes, I apologize for my earlier skepticism. But there's still more I'd like to ask. How about we head to a tavern and talk over drinks?"

"Sure thing! I'm Coil Doltor—just call me Coil. And don't worry about formality; I'm not used to it. Take it easy, okay?"

"Sato Taro. You can just call me Taro."

We entered a nearby tavern and immediately got down to business.

"Coil, why did you come to us? It's a bit odd for me to say, but I've heard it's not the right time to be moving through the desert."

"It's simple really. I want to cross the desert as soon as possible. I came here with faint hopes, but as expected, there are no adventurers or fellow travelers around. So I've been gathering information, just in case I need to move quickly when the time comes."

"So, the reward is for joining me on the journey, then? Why are you in such a hurry?"

The payment is fine with me. I'm not bragging, but I'm not really good at fighting. I'm better at traps and things like that. I'd like to handle that part. As for why I want to cross the desert... it's simple. There's a profitable opportunity in Puetoji.

"Profit talk?"

That's right. You look like you've got money and don't seem to be involved much, so I'll tell you—but keep it to yourself.

Got it. That's fine with both of you, right?

I avoided their eyes as I said that, and received a silent nod in return.

"In the Principality of Puetoji, they're planning to develop a new land. Supposedly, there are magic stones underground—apparently, they're incredibly soft."

"Softer magic stones?"

"Yeah, they say you can barely hold them before they slowly slip from your hand."

"Pfft, you're seriously crossing the desert just for something like that?"

Erin said, mocking him.

"If you want to laugh, go ahead and laugh all you want. I won't give up over something like this. I just want to live comfortably."

"What do you think, Taro?"

Graam asked.

I couldn't mock him like Erin had. I had cleared dungeons that were underground myself.

I couldn't believe there were no magic stones underground just because there were no dungeons. There had been underground resources in the original world too. So it wouldn't be strange if this world had them as well.

"Anyway, we won't know until we go check it out. We both want to head toward Petoji—my place is there, and I just want to investigate it. Our goals align. Is that acceptable for the deal?"

"Sure, no problem. Just let me know when you're ready to go. I'll always be prepared."

"Got it. Though, we're already ready too. Is leaving tomorrow okay?"

I glance around to confirm with the two of them.

Everyone nods. At last, the journey through the desert begins.