Tenkomori: The Homecoming Club Conquers Another World
Chapter 185

Chapter 185. Invitation from the Village

Using [Operate Water] to dry myself, I put on my clothes while keeping watch to the south before we quickly left the lake.

Throughout our journey here, we hadn't found any traces of earth dragons trampling the area.

Just to be sure, we followed a small stream downstream to investigate, but everything seemed fine.

As I sighed in relief, an orc emerged from the depths of the forest, approaching us.

It came from the southwest—perhaps fleeing from an earth dragon?

And as usual, before I could even prepare to intercept it, my companions charged ahead.

Whether out of frustration or not, Broken Horn delivered a headbutt, and the remaining five followed suit, making the orc scream in pain.

Its desperately swung club hit nothing but air as it endured the relentless assault, dying within minutes.

Their strength was as formidable as ever, but they deftly dodged the orc's club. Despite their fierce temperament, they remained oddly calm in critical moments. One-on-one, I'm sure they could defeat an orc.

"Good work. I'll handle the rest."

After praising the Holber species, I used my knife to cut open the orc's sternum.

Unfortunately, no magic stone was found, and carrying it back was too much trouble.

Leaving the orc behind, we resumed our journey and reached the blank zone by evening.

From here, we could return before nightfall. Since the Holber species seemed tired, we walked back toward the dungeon.

However, as we approached, I tilted my head in confusion.

People were gathered around the plaza. I soon realized they were just sparring, but when I saw the two fighting, I frowned.

Tes and Ulk were crossing wooden swords.

Sahas was acting as referee, while others watched from the sidelines.

Miranda stood by the bonfire, her expression stiff as she observed the match.

I stopped at the edge of the plaza and watched.

Most of the cheers were for Tes—likely because the match was overwhelmingly one-sided.

Though their ages and training periods weren't far apart, there was a significant gap in their physical abilities.

Tes's attacks were all dodged, while Ulk landed precise strikes.

From the looks of it, this had been the case since the start—Tes was covered in bruises, while Ulk remained completely unharmed.

If he was fighting reluctantly, I'd stop it—but his expression wasn't lifeless.

Tes, despite her tears, tightly gripped her wooden sword. Her fighting spirit reached Ulk, who, despite dominating, was breathing heavily.

"Don't let her pressure get to you, Ulk!"

At Sahas's shout, Ulk roared in response.

Tes, too, raised her sword high, their wills clashing.

But no matter how determined she was, her stamina seemed to have reached its limit.

Ulk's wooden sword struck her forehead, and Tes collapsed silently.

That didn't look good.

"Here."

I immediately tossed a healing potion, which Ulk fumbled to catch.

Sahas, watching Tes receive treatment from the corner of his eye, stepped in front of me.

"It was her own choice."

"So it seems."

If she'd been forced, Miranda wouldn't have stayed silent.

As proof, Miranda was holding Tes while smiling at Ulk, who kept apologizing.

Watching this, Sahas bowed his head.

"I should've stopped it sooner. Wasting a precious potion—I apologize."

"We have plenty of healing potions. Using them for scratches is wasteful, but for serious injuries, don't hesitate. That said, ban their sparring for a while. They're both too inexperienced."

At my stern order, Sahas nodded solemnly.

I turned my gaze back to Tes, observing her battered state.

I could guess why she'd pushed herself like this. Tes had been so weak that even Zilv worried about her. Compared to the beastmen around her, she must've felt frustrated by her own frailty.

Still, I hadn't expected her to show such fighting spirit. People are unpredictable.

"By the way, how was Vigin?"

"There's something important about that. It's not urgent, but I want to share it. Gather everyone."

Sahas nodded stiffly and called everyone over.

Once everyone except Miranda and Tes had assembled, I cut straight to the point.

"We encountered an earth dragon."

A collective gasp filled the air.

After a pause, I explained everything in order:

Following the stream to the lake, the sparse population of Vigin, the earth dragon using the lake as a watering hole, and finally, a brief description of its size and strength.

As everyone fell silent, Sahas spoke up.

"It's likely a mature dragon, hundreds of years old. Earth dragons have especially hard scales among dragon species. Normal weapons bounce off, and magic barely affects them."

"Have you fought one before?"

"Only a juvenile, once."

He said it was smaller than Zilv, but Sahas and his entire party had suffered severe injuries.

In his youth, the hunter Nerio had taken down a thunder deer, an elite elf. When it aged, it was said to be as strong as a juvenile dragon. Back then, he hadn't fully understood, but seeing a mature dragon made it clear—dragon species are on another level. Their title as the strongest isn't for show.

As I pondered the vastness of the world, Eshin hesitantly asked:

"Even Alter-sama can't defeat an earth dragon?"

"Hard to say. If we can't break through its armor, it'd be tough."

Fil and I can usually outmaneuver most foes and retreat if things get dangerous.

But in exchange, our attacks lack the weight to exploit weaknesses.

That's why we aim for the neck—but earth dragons have armored, thick necks. A terrible matchup.

And yet, all of its attacks are instant-death level. Their wide range would cause massive collateral damage. If it attacked us, fine—but I'd rather not provoke it.

As I explained this, I recalled Sahas's earlier words.

"Come to think of it, the Beast King Särveg hunted dragons relentlessly, right?"

"Yes. The exact number is unknown, but he supposedly slew many dragon species."

"Truly worthy of the title Beast King. To take down so many of those things..."

I was genuinely impressed.

Human elites challenge dragons; dragon elites challenge gods.

Even with cheats, the hierarchy feels hollow.

Shifting my thoughts, I questioned one of Quid's subordinates.

The earth dragon's territory should stretch south.

Giselo is further west, but it wouldn't be strange if it fell within the range.

Other villages we don't know about might also be wary of the dragon.

But when I asked, the subordinate hesitated, seeming genuinely unaware.

Markant had spotted the dragon about a year ago, and Giselo's revival had only just begun.

Would Giselo be safe?

◇◇◇◇

About a week had passed since Quid's departure.

Considering travel time and negotiations, it wasn't particularly late.

Still, anxiety gnawed at me—had something happened? After a restless night, noon approached the next day when Quid and his group returned.

"We're back."

Hearing his voice, I left the dungeon to find Quid bowing.

He showed no signs of injury or distress.

"You must be tired from the long trip. I'd tell you to rest, but I need your report first."

"If it's about the earth dragon, I just heard. As far as I know, Giselo is safe. No sightings have been reported, so it seems secure for now. But I have another matter to discuss."

"Understood. Let's talk inside."

With the usual members—plus Fil—gathered around the table in the hall,

and after Miranda served tea and hot water before retreating to her room, I began.

"So, what's this about?"

Prompted, Quid took a deep breath before speaking.

"The matters I brought up have all been tabled. The representative of Rezepel, Own, wishes to invite you, Alter-sama."

"Sudden, isn't it? And all news to me. So Rezepel was your destination, and Own is their leader—their village chief?"

"Yes. Before any negotiations, they want to extend an invitation first."

Instead of answering immediately, I exchanged glances with Hymes.

Suddenly, Sahas muttered in a suppressed voice.

"What are they planning? Explain, Quid."

"Exactly what you're thinking. Nothing else."

Quid's tone was dismissive as he turned to me and bowed deeply.

"The invitation is genuine—but depending on the situation, they may try to kill you."

"Again...? I really have a knack for attracting assassins. Care to explain why?"

Quid nodded and elaborated.

The beastmen villages operate under a council of representatives for major decisions. After Giselo's battle, some representatives became favorable, while others remained skeptical. The invitation was proposed by the favorable ones, but the skeptics insisted on the condition that they could kill him if necessary.

"I see. But why tell me? I thought you'd prioritize the village over me."

"Honestly, you're right. But after living here, I'm convinced this isn't an ordinary dungeon. If you act as usual, the skeptical representatives won't attack."

"Makes sense. Whether they attempt it or not, revealing the plan would create a rift. Not just with the village, but with you too."

"Which is why I'm telling you. Even if someone acts recklessly, I'll mediate."

Quid spoke with resolve.

I sensed no deceit in his words. The situation was becoming clear.

Quid was from Giselo, so its representative was likely favorable. And the beastmen villages' combined strength probably couldn't kill me. Since assassination would almost certainly fail, he disclosed it preemptively.

He must've agonized over this after the representatives decided. Middle management is tough.

Amused by the thought, I nodded at Quid.

"Your sincerity is noted. Whatever the village does, I won't hold it against you. By the way, were the tabled matters left untouched?"

"Huh? The alchemist should've been informed, but... Wait, the assassination—"

"Trust isn't earned easily. If even some representatives want to invite me, that's a good start."

Quid slumped at my laughter but soon straightened, his expression serious.

"If anything happens, I'll fight too."

"Your intent is enough. If you turn against the village, there'll be no mediator left."

After calming Quid, I glanced at Sahas, who still looked grim.

That said, Sahas caught on fast. How did he deduce the assassination plot just from the invitation?

Cross-referencing past information with the invitation, I pieced it together.

Ah, I see. They have to kill me because of the invitation.

"The village's concealment power—it can't be deactivated, can it?"

"How did you...?"

Sahas and Quid were stunned, but the assumption fit.

First, the offer to welcome me as an ally was likely genuine. Even the skeptics were probably conflicted—otherwise, they wouldn't agree to a conditional invitation.

As for the concealment, it's the villages' lifeline in a forest prowled by earth dragons.

If it could be turned off, the invitation wouldn't be an issue. They could reactivate it after I left, or blindfold me if necessary. There were ways around it. Sahas would know that, so it wouldn't directly imply assassination.

But if it can't be deactivated, that changes everything.

I'd inevitably encounter the concealment. And since there must be a way to bypass it (or Quid's group couldn't come and go), untrustworthy parties leave only one option.

The reality might be simpler or more complex, but Sahas and Quid's reactions confirmed my guess.

Besides, Quid's disclosure ruled out most alternatives. If I refused, that'd be the end of it.

Though concealment was the core, both sides' perspectives were understandable.

Frankly, I'd side with the skeptics.

Allies aren't comrades—they're separate entities. Exposing a lifeline's weakness is risky. The favorable representatives likely intended to show resolve, but trusting so soon is rash.

Well, it's their decision. They have their own thoughts and feelings—outsiders shouldn't interfere.

I shelved my thoughts, but Sahas and Hymes still looked uneasy.

After a moment, I addressed them.

"Refusing the invitation and keeping relations shallow isn't bad. My goals can still be achieved. But continuing with little mutual understanding might lead to conflict over trivial matters. So to foster familiarity, I'll accept this invitation."

Sahas reluctantly nodded, but Hymes quietly met my gaze.

"Even so, I oppose it. Dialogue in Giselo suffices, and its residents should be favorable to you. Even if not, Garneless is there. They'd support you in a pinch. Still, I understand your reasoning. Entering their territory could win trust. My stance remains unchanged, but if you sense danger, retreat immediately. And if Lord Fil accompanies you, I won't strongly object."

Suddenly put on the spot, Fil wagged his tail emphatically—clearly willing to come.

Seeing this, Sahas also volunteered, but I shook my head.

"Stay here, Sahas. With the Holber species, things are livelier. Rizai isn't ready to lead."

"But—!"

"Lately, the heat's been rising. I don't plan to leave the dungeon unattended for long. A small group for speed is best. Besides, Quid said it himself—if I act normally, nothing will happen. Don't worry too much."

Seeing I wouldn't budge, Sahas relented.

I thanked him and turned back to Quid.

"Speaking of which, how's Giselo? Have they activated the concealment yet?"

"Not yet, but once they do, even earth dragons won't approach."

"Then we should hurry. Until then, let's ask Garneless to assist with evacuations. They can move underwater, avoiding the dragon's attacks. Before the invitation, we head to Giselo."

After finalizing the schedule, I called Miranda from her room.

"How long would that dish take to prepare?"

"Starting now, it'd be past noon. But I have some from practice ready."

"Let's go with that. I don't know Garneless's tastes, so I'd like their feedback. Please prepare it."

Miranda bowed and left to fetch the goblin dish.

Meanwhile, I adjusted my gear and tried cooling the dungeon's depths by deactivating [Earth Wall].

With Mei's spatial control, the temperature could be maintained, but the recent heat was concerning. If a heatwave struck, we'd be in trouble.

Plus, Fil was coming this time. If something happened, we wouldn't know immediately.

This is when frost magic tools would be handy.

But wishing for what we don't have won't help.

After some thought, I decided to seal the deepest area.

Moving potions and supplies to the hall, I cooled the area and used [Earth Wall] to block the passage. The complete barrier should retain cold better.

As a precaution, I left a signal rod against the stone wall, asked Mei to monitor things, and left the dungeon.

Outside, Miranda was waiting by the entrance.

"Here you go."

The wrapped package contained condensed goblin soup.

Though carefully wrapped in deer hide, the pungent smell seeped through.

It reeked like concentrated animal musk mixed with waste and vinegar.

Thanking her, I took it—noting it was much softer than in my past life.

Now that I thought about it, it had been thickened with flour back then.

Unfortunately, we don't even have substitutes now, but I should mention it. Looking up at Miranda, I noticed her pale face.

"Did you... taste it?"

"Yes. In case it didn't suit your palate, I thought to improve it..."

"Well, about that..."

Despite my warnings, she'd finally tried it.

Her pained smile made me uneasy, so I fetched a potion from the dungeon.

"Drink this antidote, just in case. And a healing potion to cleanse your palate. General's Tea is good too—bitter, but it settles the stomach. Try it."

"Thank you."

Miranda accepted it with a wry smile and handed me another package.

This one contained ingredients—dried or roasted goblin meat and organs, far less pungent than the soup.

Wrapping both packages further in cloth and fur, I stashed them deep in my backpack while asking about the cooking process.

Once ready, I addressed the beastmen keeping their distance.

"This time, Fil and Quid will accompany me. It'll be shorter than last time—likely ten days. Hymes has final authority in my absence; Sahas handles field command. If Mei signals an emergency, send someone to Rezepel. We'll return as soon as we detect it."

"Understood."

After listening, Hymes raised his hand.

"Currently, I won't leave the dungeon. Would you consider using me as the emergency signal instead?"

"Then, if trouble arises, head toward the grasslands or the stream. If you're unable, leave it to Miranda and Tes. Once we detect movement, we'll rush back at full speed."

The three acknowledged, and Fil wagged his tail.

With preparations complete, we'd head to Giselo first, then Rezepel.