Rose is 11 now, and it's time for me to honour my word. I had always assumed that we were about six years apart, but as it turns out, it was only three. Since she delivered her end of the bargain, I have no reason to stop her from joining a guild. She is ready and completely capable of protecting herself. Truth be told, she's what one would call a genius. Capable of doing just about anything, albeit not perfectly. Not to mention her stats were off the charts for an 11-year-old. You thought John, Lily, or even me had good stats? Wait till you see hers.
We had breakfast together before heading out. I did my very best to whip up a delicious meal for her today, and it turned out—pretty good, actually. Rose actually praised the meal that I prepared today. I believe her exact words were "Pretty good, not great, and nowhere one would call delicious yet". Guess it's way better than the bland ones that I've whipped up so far. Seems like increasing your skill stat does affect your daily activities, or maybe it's just practice makes perfect. Either way, I'm so close to unlocking the first hidden spell, just a few more to go.
I brought Rose to the townhouse to get a recommendation on what guild is suitable for her. As we were strolling, I noticed that Rose had gotten taller again. She no longer looked frail and has gained weight that is relatively suitable for her current height. Thank goodness, or I would have been worried if she maintained her frail, petite self. And no, I'm not saying she's fat now. If you've seen how she was previously, you would be thinking the same.
"Onii-chan? Why are you walking behind me?" She turned her head.
"Hm? Oh, I was just thinking that you're taller now and no longer look frail and petite like before. You might be hitting puberty soon," I told her as I put on a thinking face.
Rose placed her hand on her mouth and smirked at me.
"Onii-chan~ Are you perhaps... interested in your little sister? Heh heh~" she answered with a cheeky smile.
*Bonk!
"Get moving, young lady," I gently knocked her head.
***
We reached the townhouse, and it looked exactly as it was three years ago. It certainly brought back memories when the three of us started out. I found it strange that I had not seen Lily for more than a year now. Where exactly did she go? How is it possible for us not to stumble upon another by chance? Is she no longer here and has moved elsewhere?
The very thought of not seeing her is killing me. How and when did I get this obsessed with her? I mean, yeah, she left an impression on me, but that doesn't warrant this obsession with wanting to see her. Damn it. A part of me wishes that I'd accepted her that time.
"Onii-chan? Shall we head in?" asked Rose.
I clapped my cheeks with both of my hands. My facial cheeks, mind you, not the other one.
I followed behind Rose and was surprised to find how empty it was inside. It's still early in the day, but seeing the townhouse so relatively empty gave me the idea that I was inside a library instead of where we were. Perhaps other young adventurers aren't early birds, unlike this little adorable angel here.
A couple of receptionists were waving at us, and I gave Rose the option to choose who she wanted. I was genuinely surprised when she chose the exact same receptionist as the one that served us. What are the odds?
"Good day, how may I serve you?" asked the receptionist. Aw, what happened to her previous greeting?
"Hi, pretty lady. I'm here for a guild recommendation," said Rose.
"My, aren't you adorable? Are you sure you're 11? Kidding~ Allow me to brief you on what services we'll be providing for you," smiled the receptionist.
She gave Rose a similar briefing to what I had previously. Got the feeling the receptionist had already memorised everything by now. What I was more curious about was Rose's stats. The receptionist handed the scroll to Rose and awaited her to blow on it. I held my breath as I waited for the results, but she quickly rolled back the scroll before it showed anything.
"Rose? Why did you keep your scroll without even looking? How are you gonna know the result?" I asked her.
"I already know what my stats are. No need for me to see them again," she answered rather quickly.
"Do you mind if I see it then? I don't know what your current stats are," I asked politely.
"W— why, why would you want to see mine? There's nothing special about it," she looked away.
I squinted at her. Something is awfully suspicious right now.
"Rose? You saw mine before, right? Can you let your brother see yours, please?" I asked as politely as possible.
She fidgeted but eventually gave in. She unrolled the scroll to see the results for herself, as though she needed to make sure of something. Then she lowered her scroll until I could only see her eyes.
"Promise you won't laugh, right? Mine is not as great as yours," she squinted at me.
Why is she comparing mine with hers in the first place? I'm three years older than she is.
"I'm not going to laugh at my little sister, don't worry about it," I told her as I gestured for her to hand me her scroll.
She reluctantly handed me her scroll, and I glanced through it. My mouth flung wide open as I read through her stats.
Rose Starr
Strength - 18
Skill - 25
Agility - 20
Constitution - 15
Her stats were way higher than mine when I was her age! And what is with her skill stat? It's even higher than Lily's. Bloody hell, she had already hit the requirements to wield my gauntlets now, and she's three years younger than me.
I rolled back her scroll and sighed. Rose looked worried upon seeing my reaction. She must have thought I was disappointed with her stats when I gestured for her to come closer. I placed both my knuckles on the side of her head and pushed them together while twisting them. She struggled and kept telling me "I give up, I give up!".
"You little twerp, how dare you act like some sweet innocent child earlier," I pouted at her.
"Huh? What do you mean?" She asked as she tilted her head.
I handed the scroll to the receptionist, who read through it. It took her a few seconds to register what she read, as she let out a loud "Ehhhhhh?!". She quickly riffled through her book to search for something after studying Rose's stats. All her primary stats were way above the level of an 11-year-old. Wonder if she'll be recommended to join the Elemental guild instead of what she's aiming for.
"Um— what I can recommend you is the Elemental guild. But seeing as most of your primary stats are this high, you're technically allowed to join any of the five guilds should you wish. Do you have a preference in mind?" asked the receptionist as she gave up searching for whatever she was looking for in her book.
"I would like to join the Light guild. Please give me a recommendation for that guild," Rose bowed to the receptionist.
"Are... you sure? The Elemental guild has special requirements that you must fulfil, and they don't simply allow any normal adventurers to join. You have a good opportunity with our recommendation, should you wish," asked the receptionist.
I sort of understand why she's insisting Rose to join the Elemental guild. I mean, have you seen their guild's building? If only I had forced myself to join the Elemental guild last time, I would have been set for life. That guild certainly knows how to appreciate its members well.
"Yes, I'm sure. The Light guild is the only one I wish to join. Either that or I won't be joining any," she answered. Woah, Rose is determined, I can tell you that.
The receptionist hesitated at first but eventually gave in. Is the Elemental guild giving the townhouse some sort of incentive for any new members that join their guild? How sus. Well, this decision is entirely up to Rose. She gave it her all and she deserves to join whichever guild she wishes. And after this, she'll have a whole private life for her to explore.
The receptionist handed Rose back the scroll, and I brought Rose over to the Light guild directly. She can use her rapier single-handed now as she is finally strong enough to wield it properly. I will just be escorting her to the Light guild, then I'll be heading home. Doubt I'll be invited to watch her initiation test since I'm not close with anyone from this guild.
Rose knocked on the front door of the Light guild before heading in. I stood outside to admire the building and felt glad that the building was somewhat similar in size to the Dark guild. With a glance, you will know this is the Light guild as it gave off that vibe. Glad all the other guilds are similarly modest, aside from the Elemental guild that gave off the rich men's vibe.
Rose peeked her head out of the front door and asked me to come in, which I obliged. A beautiful, prim and proper human lady dressed in white stood at the reception counter. She is indeed beautiful, but there's no 'doki doki' feeling, unlike... Ahh, damn it. Yes, I admit I have a "thing" for female elves; ain't even gonna deny it at this point. Sigh.
"Good morning, how can I help you?" the receptionist asked with a smile.
"I would like to join this guild," Rose handed her scroll to the receptionist.
"Oh—oh my… are you certain you wish to join us? You can pretty much join any guild with this approval stamp," asked the receptionist.
That's odd. Shouldn't you be jumping at the opportunity to have more members in your guild? Especially someone as special as Rose? Or perhaps they are understanding enough to give special adventurers a chance to change their minds. And what stamp did Rose receive? Some special stamp for geniuses only?
"Yes, I'm certain. This guild is the only guild that provides support spells to allies. Please allow me to join this guild," Rose bowed again.
The receptionist smiled and agreed to proceed with the paperwork. She gestured us to take a seat while she sought the approval of the guildmaster while she proceeded with the necessary process. I informed the receptionist that I'll be heading out since I wouldn't be able to view the test; I'll come back later to check on Rose.
"You're Zen, right? It's an honour to meet one of the Dark guild's renowned members. I believe... the guildmaster is interested in meeting with you. Would you be willing to indulge in his request as I inform him of your presence?" asked the receptionist with a smile.
Huh? The Paladin Lord wishes to see me? Colour me intrigued. And since WHEN am I a renowned member of the Dark guild?! Huh?! I don't recall doing anything remotely special that would have made me stand out from the other guild members. Is she just pulling my leg?
"Alright, I'll wait for him then," I told her.
She smiled and proceeded to do what was necessary. I sat at Rose's side and I noticed that her hands were shaking. I gave her a little pet on the head to calm her before her test.
"You must be nervous, aren't you? There, there," I continued to pet her head.
"I'm actually excited, Onii-chan. This is the first step for me to follow you on quests," she explained.
Sigh, she's like an overprotective, clingy little sister. Hope she doesn't turn into some Yandere when I start dating someone in the future.
***
"Hold on, Mommy is either Lily or Rose, right? Are there some "other" women in this story that could potentially be Mom?" Daisy raised her eyebrow.
"O—of course. I assure you that your Daddy isn't some playboy. Mommy is definitely either Rose or Lily, okay? Don't get mad now," I explained.
Rather glad she accepted my explanation and calmed down. Guess I should cut out some parts where I got involved with some other women should I wish to tell the remaining parts of the story.
***
The receptionist came back to deliver the news. She informed Rose to proceed to the arena for her initiation test, while she gestured me to follow her. Guess I'll be meeting the "White Boss" after all.
The receptionist led me along and gestured me to enter some room with a smile. I knocked before opening the door, revealing an enclosed area with glass overlooking the arena. There was only one person in this room, which is the Paladin Lord himself. I hope I'm not about to get interrogated. Or is he plotting to kill me? I am from his rival guild after all, and this is the best opportunity for him to get rid of me without my guild knowing. Then he can blame it on some misfortune that I met on my journey, which led to my death. Damn it, I was a fool to be led by the carrot here. I'm not going down without a fight, I can assure you.
"You... must be Zen. Wow, you really do look like your father. Although…" he trailed off towards the end. What was it that he wanted to say?
"H— huh?" Was all I could utter. I was caught off guard by his choice of words.
"I have met your father before, and we fought together in the Demon War. I can certainly see his features in you. You really are his child," he placed his hand on my shoulder and smiled.
"From what I heard, you're quite the remarkable individual. Never have I heard the Dark Lord praising an individual thismuch. Who even knew that his son was still alive? Have no fear, the Dark Lord and I will never expose your family name. Your father was a hero to all of us. But the Queen… she turned him into some heretical figure and decimated the entire Hawthorn bloodline. We still have no idea why the Queen committed genocide on his bloodline, even today," he sighed as he continued.
The Paladin Lord had the appearance of a frail eighty-year-old man. Based on his age alone, he might really have met my father before. Guess I'm inclined to believe his words then. Since Kirin is so hesitant in talking about my father, perhaps I can gain more information about him.
"Mister Paladin Lord, sir, I would appreciate hearing more about my father—or my mother if possible. I barely knew or even heard stories about them; even my grandfather rarely spoke about my father," I said to him.
"Why, of course, of course. It's the least I can do for the son of a war hero. But before we continue further, come closer; the initiation is about to begin," he gestured for me to come closer.
"Is that your lover down there?" he pointed.
"What? No. She was just a little girl I rescued from a horrible caretaker. I treat her like a little sister," I explained.
"Huh, I see. Well, you're not blood-related, so anything can happen. She is beautiful and will be a real beauty when she gets older. Will you eventually get jealous, I wonder. Heh heh," he chuckled.
What is he insinuating? That I would eventually see Rose as a woman? I don't see that happening since I don't feel any attraction towards her. If anything, I think of Lily more as a potential than Rose. Dang it, get over her already. For all you know, she might be dating someone already by now.
"I don't see that happening. She's just a little sister to me and nothing more. I'll be protecting and treating her like what an older brother should," I squinted at him.
"Hmm, give it time. Let us observe what your little sister is made of," he lifted a tiny glass window that was sliced out for him to speak from up here.
"Will the contestants proceed into the arena?" shouted the Paladin Lord.
I observed Rose coming in from the right. She had changed into a training outfit and was holding a wooden sword. Who is her opponent gonna be? W— what the? That guy is freaking huge! Are they seriously expecting her to spar with such a buff dude? As her first contestant too?! Oh Lord above, please protect her.
The Paladin Lord shouted "Begin!" and I placed full attention on the test. Just a few heartbeats later, the match was over. Rose emerged victorious while the dude lay flat on the arena floor.
The Paladin Lord turned his attention to me and squinted.
"I see you had taught her well. Let's make things a bit more interesting, shall we? From what I've heard, you fought a Shadow Knight during your test and almost won. I wonder… is your sister capable of doing the same?" he made an evil smirk.
"Um, sir? I don't think that'll be necessary," I tried to stop him.
"Henry, head up to the stage. Feel free to use your spells too," said the Paladin Lord.
Hey wait, are you crazy? That would give Rose a huge disadvantage! Not to mention that guy looked like Superman too!
"Excuse me, sir, is this even necessary? I won't stand idly and watch my little sister getting hurt for your entertainment," I warned the Paladin Lord.
"The Dark Lord did the same, but did you reject his proposal? No, you faced your opponent head-on despite knowing that fact. You saw her stats. You think your little sister is weak because you saved her. But I can assure you that your little sister will be the one protecting you in the future," he nodded as he glanced at Rose.
"Begin!" shouted the Paladin Lord.
Rose readied her stance. She knew her opponent was strong, so she kept her guard up and didn't rush in blindly. Her opponent began chanting and shouted "Accelerate". A spell that doubles your speed. Will Rose react quickly enough to block his incoming attacks?
***
*Rose's Perspective*
Since when was Onii-chan so chummy with this guildmaster? He's literally observing me from above. I'll show you whatI'm capable of doing today, Onii-chan. I will show you that I'm fit to stand by your side.
The guildmaster called someone named Henry to the stage. This person is strong and ridiculously handsome. Could had been an actor, but I guess he took the adventurer's path instead. I get the feeling that he's the same rank as Onii-chan since they both gave the same intense aura. A wonderful opportunity to test myself; let's see how much I've improved from training with Onii-chan.
He began chanting some spell, and I immediately raised my guard. The guildmaster did say he's allowed to use any spell he wishes, which means I'm at a huge disadvantage here. I need to be careful and only strike when I have a clear opening. Henry chanted "Accelerate!" and readied his stance. Here he comes.
Huh? He's—gone? I just blinked, and he's no longer there! Where did he go?! Ugh, calm yourself, Rose, don't panic. Remember your training with Onii-chan; when an opponent is faster than you, he'll still need to get in close to strike you. Breathe, breathe—your opponent will always aim for your vitals. There!
*Clank!
Ugh, I managed to block his attack that was aiming for my collarbone. That would have hurt badly if it struck me, even with a wooden sword. He leapt back and rushed in for another attack. Look at his smug face; he thinks he can win since I barely blocked his attack earlier. I'll show you what I'm capable of. Onii-chan's speed is way faster than yours. Even on a snowy terrain, he's so fast that even my eyes couldn't follow. Bring it on, you handsome man, I'll parry your next attack.
Clank clank clank!
He started attacking me from different angles, constantly aiming for my vitals. But now that I've adjusted to your speed, my eyes can follow your movements now. I'm gaining more combat experience the longer this fight drags on. Fighting such a strong opponent is forcing my body to react faster, reducing unnecessary movements that I had before. I just need to wait for an opportunity to catch him off guard.
There! His movement had slowed down, which means his spell's duration must have ended. Now is my chance to attack him. His side is exposed!
Clank!
Damn it, I wasn't fast enough, and he blocked it. Look at him with that smug face of his. Why, you—I'll show you! Eat my leg sweep!
He lost balance as he was caught off guard and dropped to the ground. Now's my chance! I was tempted to beat him to a pulp, but I stopped myself. I shouldn't show the other members my temper, or they'll be terrified of me.
"Yield!" I shouted at him as I pointed my wooden sword at his face.
***
*Zen's Perspective*
"Hahaha! She's ferocious, I can tell you that! Henry was certainly not expecting a leg sweep from her. Her tenacity to win is remarkable, and dangerous if she ends up as your opponent. Keep that in mind when you train with her next time," the Paladin Lord explained.
"You might have heard people calling you a genius, but your little sister, ho, she's a prodigy. This is the first time I've ever seen a human having such high stats at her age. She's gonna be powerful," he continued.
I was speechless. Rose actually won against her opponent who is much stronger than her. Sure, her opponent was caught off guard, but still, a win is a win. Her quick thinking is one of her strongest traits, constantly finding her opponent's weak points and exploiting them. This was what I found out after training with her so many times. Indeed, she's definitely gonna be someone powerful in the future.
"Alright, I've made my decision! Rose Starr, starting today, you're officially a member of the Light guild. Come up here and we'll talk more," shouted the Paladin Lord.
"I'm sure you wouldn't mind waiting for your sister? Or do you actually mind if she knows of your story?" asked the Paladin Lord as he raised his right eyebrow.
"Of course I'm fine with it. Rose has every right to know about my story. Let us await her," I bowed to him.
***
Rose arrived with her default clothing, and I approached her, placed my hand on her left shoulder, and gave her a thumbs up. All she responded was an awkward smile.
"Now then, take a seat, both of you," said the Paladin Lord.
"Guildmaster, with all sincere respect, if I may, can you grant me one request? Just one," she bowed expressively to the Paladin Lord.
"Ho, and what would that request be, young lady?" he smiled.
"For any quest that involves party members from other guilds, I wish to follow Onii-chan whenever he's in any of them," she spoke aloud.
Rose… what the hell did you just say to the Paladin Lord?!