Chapter 882

EP.882 [Light Novel Side Story] Death Dinass Chapter 1 Volume 029

“Um, are you sure it’s okay to do this?”

Xian stuttered with a tense expression. Their face was as red as a ripe persimmon, and Yuna facing them was no different.

“Yes. If not now, I don’t think I’ll ever be able to do it.”

“But still…”

Yuna cut off Xian’s words. Yuna’s hands were trembling from nervousness and fear.

“It’s something we have to do at least once in life… Hold my hand, please, Xian-sama. Then I won’t be so scared.”

Yuna extended her hand, and Xian swallowed hard before interlocking fingers with Yuna.

“Alright. Let’s go in, Yuna!”

“…Yes!”

– At the Hero Academy Student Affairs Office, while submitting a withdrawal form.

* * *

“I feel so relieved.”

Yuna happily smiled while eating the salad on her plate. Xian found Yuna’s forced bright attitude somewhat awkward.

“Yuna, are you really okay without telling your parents?”

“Yes. I’ll just say I withdrew to explore other paths.”

After deciding to withdraw before getting expelled, Yuna didn’t mention anything else to her parents. When they asked about future plans, she only briefly said she’d help a friend’s startup business using Xian’s funds, without revealing her intention to become a guild master.

“If I tell Dad I’m becoming a guild master, he’ll definitely spread it around the neighborhood. And if that happens, there might be trouble.”

“That makes sense.”

Currently, only the initial guild members—Raon, Nuri, and Guild Master Xian—knew about Yuna’s potential. Even Gaon, who was on the provisional member list, was unaware of Yuna’s true abilities. They intentionally kept it secret.

“At least until I reach level 96 or so, I need to keep it hidden.”

“That’s reasonable.”

“…Still, at this level…”

Yuna traced a “D” on the table with her index finger. Since realizing her true potential, Yuna’s previously dormant magic power had started flowing through her veins little by little. Xian sighed wistfully.

“It would be good if other attributes awakened too.”

“Just having light attribute is already great. People who greed for more often get into trouble.”

“So what’s your real wish?”

“If I get the chance, I’d like to paint the sky with seven-color rainbows. Hehe. Just kidding.”

Xian scanned the surroundings worried someone might overhear. Fortunately, being a weekday lunchtime, there weren’t any eavesdroppers, and they were speaking very quietly anyway.

“Yuna, what do you want to do?”

“What about?”

Xian projected a small screen above the table. Unlike Raon and Nuri’s screens filled with achievements, Yuna’s screen was completely blank.

“There are too many possibilities, and I don’t know what to do. I can literally become anything, right?”

“…Why don’t you look up people with light attributes?”

“Light attribute?”

While cutting her steak, Xian paused to think.

“Gawein-knight is a prime example, and there’s also ‘Light Blade’ here. Though both are swordsmen.”

“Hmm, that’s difficult to reference. Grumble.”

“We have time. Let’s think carefully about which path would be best.”

Xian pointed at magical gear while lowering their voice.

“If you wish, I’ll make any path you choose a flower-lined road.”

“…”

While slicing the steak, Yuna’s knife paused momentarily but, now developing some resistance, calmly changed the topic.

“So when are we going to the dungeon?”

“Huh? …Yeah, we should.”

Xian scratched their cheek awkwardly.

“We’ll go in the evening after Nuri finishes her part-time job. So…”

Xian displayed a core weapon catalog in front of Yuna.

“Pick whatever you want. I’ll buy it all.”

Yuna’s eyes lit up while flipping through the catalog.

* * *

<7 PM, Xian's Office.>

“So you’re choosing the Light Mage route?”

Nuri questioned Yuna’s chosen growth direction with an unsatisfied expression. Yuna pointed at the magical staff she had selected along with its matching ring.

“I’ve researched quite a bit over the past year. I want to see how I can grow as a healer-type with light attribute.”

“We’ll follow the plan Yuna has set for now unless another attribute awakens. Two frontline fighters like you and Raon are enough, right? You’ll take care of healing and secondary ranged attacks. The main ranged attacker will be Gaon.”

“That seems sufficient…”

With arms crossed, Raon couldn’t take her eyes off the ring on Yuna’s left ring finger despite sitting demurely.

“It’s a staff and set ring. It’s a magical item with a protective spell.”

“It was on discount as a bundle, so I got it cheap.”

Why does Xian seem particularly annoying today? Both Raon and Nuri felt uneasy about the ring on Yuna’s left ring finger.

Clunk. The vibration bell on the table rang.

“I’ll go grab the coffee.”

Yuna quickly took the bell and went downstairs. With the heavy atmosphere, Xian picked up a cup of water.

“The boss said they wouldn’t use it anymore.”

“Because of Miss Nuri, they’ve gotten too busy. They said they’re even hiring new part-timers.”

“By the way, Uncle. Did you put that ring on Yuna-neesan’s finger?”

Nuri’s sharp question almost made Xian spit out the water.

“Cough…hack… Yes, I did put it on, but can I ask first? To avoid any misunderstandings.”

“Ah, I see.”

Xian preemptively sought understanding while Nuri gave a challenging look as if daring him to explain.

“In Korea, asking someone to put a ring on your left ring finger has a different meaning than in America, right? As far as I know, it’s something done during marriage proposals.”

“…Xian. By any chance…”

Raon stopped Nuri, who was about to explode, and asked.

“Did Yuna-san specifically ask you to put it on?”

“Eh, yes. It came with the staff set as a gift, and she said since it was a present, she wanted it on her ring finger. So I put it on for her. She said the size fit perfectly.”

“…Oh dear.”

Just as the saying goes, the cat that jumps onto the kitchen counter first gets caught. Seeing Yuna’s aggressive moves after withdrawing from school made Raon sigh.

“It’s a friendship ring. Uncle, you’re too out of touch with trends.”

Nuri answered while trembling, looking at Xian. Xian tilted their head.

“Friendship ring?”

“You don’t know? It’s common among guild members exchanging accessories like rings or necklaces with protective spells. Right, Raon-nee?”

“…That’s correct. While I’m not sure about America, it’s fairly common in Korea.”

“Is that so?”

Xian let out a sigh of relief mixed with disappointment while wiping their chest. Raon and Nuri exchanged glances.

“But why specifically the left ring finger? I thought it was a proposal. The staff even misunderstood and I broke a sweat. Nuri, do you know why?”

“…If you’re curious, why don’t you just ask Yuna-neesan directly!! Ahhhh!”

Nuri slammed the table and fumed. Xian, frightened, sent a rescue signal to Raon.

“T-that’s… I can’t ask her directly, so Raon-san, could you ask for me?”

“No.”

“What? Please don’t…”

“No, I clearly said no.”

Smiling faintly, Raon refused, making Xian feel like sitting on thorns and wanting to leave immediately. Someone, anyone, break this atmosphere.

Creak. The office door opened.

“Who… Onee-san?”

Nuri tilted her head at Gaon entering with Yuna. Shouldn’t the person supposed to be nursing be here?

“I left her temporarily with the nurse… Can I borrow this person for a moment?”

“Perfect timing. I had something to discuss too.”

Xian stood up cheerfully.

“What is it? Why does Uncle insist on taking someone alone?”

“…Yes.”

Gaon nodded seriously. Sensing they shouldn’t interfere, Nuri’s spirit was slightly dampened. Yuna brought drinks from the box to the table and bowed her head.

“Please return safely.”

“Yes, I’ll be back soon to talk for a bit.”

Taking Gaon’s hand, Xian left the office. Yuna sat silently under the gazes of Raon and Nuri. Nuri huffed and sat down.

“Onee-san, that ring-”

“It’s a friendship ring.”

Yuna’s calm reply sent shivers down Raon and Nuri’s spines. Smiling faintly, Yuna dropped a nuclear bomb.

“For now.”

* * *

“Why did you have to come out here to talk?”

Shivering in the chilly winter weather, Xian trembled as the cold air hit their cheeks because they hadn’t worn a coat.

“……Why are you doing this here?”

“What?”

Xian feigned ignorance while looking around. There was no one nearby in the alley except the two of them. Gaon raised a slight amount of magic power to create a water barrier.

“Hmph.”

Running a hand through their bangs, Xian sighed deeply. The sudden change in atmosphere made Gaon swallow hard nervously.

“Was it wrong of me to use ‘Code’ and give an order?”

“N-no! If you hadn’t given the order, I would have been unaware of my parents’ crisis. Bu…”

“Just call me Xian. If you realize I’m using a pseudonym, you should immediately understand I’m hiding my identity. Right?”

Gaon turned pale. Xian sighed repeatedly seeing Gaon stiffening up.

“Don’t be so tense. Watching you makes me feel bad.”

“S-so, may I ask one question?”

“Hm? What is it?”

Swallowing hard, Gaon asked.

“Why did Commander come to Korea and start a guild?”

Xian frowned noticeably.

“I told you to call me by name. I hate being called by aliases. All these titles make me embarrassed to death. Rather, call me Alchemist if you must. How about I properly address you as Undine-sama?”

“I’ll correct myself!”

Gaon’s face lost all color. Xian found it strange how someone resembling Nuri could get so worked up.

“Try calling me just ‘Xian.’ Other members and even Raon-san call me that. The reason I’m starting a guild here is simple.”

Xian ground their teeth in distaste.

“Rather than enduring constant headaches and possibly getting cancer from those unruly Round Table members, I’d rather gather people I like and cultivate them.”

“Still, so…”

“Hmm. I also intend to establish Esquire Guild quietly without others knowing. Since only Oracle and Gawein know my true identity, don’t be too disheartened about Matryoshka appearing. Rest assured, I’ll ensure your reinstatement to the guild-”

“I will dedicate my life to Merlin-sama’s guild!!”

“Stop using aliases!!”

“I-I’ve been a fan of Court Magician-sama since long ago! Please grant your grace to my magical gear-”

“YAAAAAAAAAAH!!”

It took quite some effort for Xian to calm down the frenzied Gaon.

Afterward, signing their magical gear and issuing a command to treat Xian normally again, even when alone…

“Still, Xian-sama, should I follow orders even when we’re alone?”

“……Please, please do.”

Seeing Gaon’s stifling behavior, Xian reflected deeply.

A while later.

After sorting things out with Gaon, Xian returned to the office.

“Hey! You’re back, Uncle?!”

“Welcome back, Xian.”

“…Huh?”

Xian tilted their head at the completely different atmosphere compared to when they left. Laon and Nuri greeted Xian with lively voices. Sitting beside the sullen Yuna, Xian casually asked.

“What were the three of you talking about?”

“……Just girl talk.”

Yuna’s complaining tone made Xian jump in surprise and refrain from asking further. The three women’s ‘you’ll regret knowing’ atmosphere prompted Xian to quickly motion Gaon to sit and change the topic.

“Alright! Now that Gaon-san is here, let’s head to the dungeon.”

Rubbing their hands together, Xian looked around at the group. Despite ending up with only females, each was a reliable and trustworthy comrade to Xian.

“February 12th, 8:25 PM. Starting from this point…”

Xian curved their lips upward.

“<Team Death Dinass> officially declares its establishment and activities.”

“So what dungeon are we tackling?”

“Huh? Of course, the D-Rank Goblin Dungeon. Before the new member joined, we were planning to test our strength at the Slime Dungeon…”

“…”

Chapter 1. Team Death Dinass. Complete.

* * *

On the rooftop railing.

The maiden sat astride the railing, watching Xian enter the office below. Through the café window on the first floor, the gray-haired Oracle was seen giving an interview to a reporter.

“Of course, following Oracle was the right decision. Fool.”

The girl stuck a straw into her strawberry milk and slurped it up. Enjoying the spreading strawberry aroma in her mouth, the girl stared at the office for a while before smirking.

“Thought something serious happened when they suddenly disappeared, but here they are playing around setting up a team.”

Seeing Xian chatting casually with the seated female members—laughing sometimes, looking troubled other times, even yelling occasionally—the girl twisted her lips.

“Pretentious. Using people however they please then discarding them like trash.”

The girl tapped her magical gear, losing interest. Soon, a black figure appeared on the screen.

“This is P. Respond, F.”

[Why did you call me, darling?]

The completely unserious tone of the black figure, F, made the girl, P, rip the veil around her neck.

“Can’t you take anything seriously?”

[Seriousness? What’s that? Are you trying to show off now? Too much, really. Ahem, storing magic in your chest to gain seriousness?]

“Die, you bastard?”

Chomp. P bared her teeth. Clearly irritated, P’s face made the black figure, F, laugh while waving their hands.

[Ahaha, so why did you summon me?]

“Hmm. Nothing much, just wondering if you could eat some people for me.”

[Oh ho.]

The black figure’s green eyes gleamed.

[So you called me specifically because you need ‘secrecy’?]

“Right. Since you’re a specialist in assassination, you can eliminate targets quietly without a sound. Trustworthy.”

F shrugged upon receiving the coordinates from P, then tilted their head.

[But this place is too far? I can reach it in 10 minutes running, but there’s someone closer than me. Lazy bum.]

“That guy will definitely leave a 100% trail. Too lazy to clean up after himself. I can’t trust anyone but you, please handle it well.”

[Yeehee! Still the boss, aren’t you! Alright, I’ll do it. When’s the deadline?]

“Quicker is better, but ideally…end of February?”

P’s statement made F furrow their eyebrows.

[Two whole weeks left?]

“Why? Not confident?”

[Nope, too many! Trust me on this, yeehee!]

Click. Lowering the screen, P sighed deeply.

“Figures they’ll start by the deadline.”

Had P set it for March 14th, F would have likely begun on March 13th. P peeled the wrapper off the sandwich beside her and took a big bite.

“Hmph. I was going to kill them today, but I’ll let it slide because of this.”

Muttering complaints while stuffing the sandwich into her mouth, P didn’t care that her mouth was full of strawberry paste as she grabbed the second sandwich.

“Ah.”

Lifting her head toward the sky, P saw a golden sword descending like lightning toward her crown.

“Even dogs don’t bother food during meals, but some crazy dog must be proving a point.”

Making a sour face, P flicked her finger.

Whoosh. Blue flames enveloped P’s body. Simultaneously, P, the blue-clad maiden, turned to ashes and disappeared. The golden greatsword falling from the sky shattered the poor railing.

Crackle. Above the office where Xian intended to sign a contract, named <Megrez>, a strawberry sandwich fell onto the sign.