Chapter 133 - The Delinquent Adventurer Hunt
Most things in life happen abruptly. Only those with good fortune, who are so meticulous and cautious that they spend a fortune on surveillance, or who are superhuman geniuses in the right positions, can predict and handle them accurately. It’s rare, to say the least. Even when we consider the possibilities, pinpointing exactly when they will occur is a challenge. At least for us, it’s difficult.
The evening meeting of the executives began with a disturbing report. "Around this afternoon, one of our members was killed in the eastern district," said the speaker.
"Killed?" another voice echoed.
Fights happen all the time, but a killing is rare. "We’ve also received reports of similar incidents in the northwest. It seems they’re not targeting the Kikyo crest directly but are instead going after members of secondary organizations."
If the killings are happening in succession, it’s unlikely to be a coincidence. It suggests a deliberate intent. The targets are longtime locals who have been part of the Kikyo Society’s secondary organizations. The term "secondary organizations" might not be entirely accurate, but it’s a convenient way to describe them.
During the war with Retnark, many of our Combat Unit leaders were absent. These attackers took advantage of the mutual non-aggression pact to launch their assault. In the end, they were forced to pay tribute to us, a pitiful outcome. They don’t deserve sympathy; they should be grateful to still have their lives.
Frederica continued the report, followed by Paula. "It’s not just the killings. They’re also attacking civilians, destroying shops, and causing chaos. They’re doing whatever they want."
These are troublesome people. Their recent actions are more violent and chaotic than the usual troublemakers. "Who are they, and who’s behind this?"
"The culprit is clear. They don’t seem to be hiding it either. According to eyewitnesses, it’s the work of delinquent adventurers, and they seem to be connected to the ones who nearly killed Sarah at her school."
"I see. So, this is revenge for that incident. But to avoid targeting our members directly? That’s a bit cowardly."
They’re probably afraid of retaliation. After all, they were nearly killed once. Still, this is a nasty attack. Who would come up with such a plan?
"By the way, our members have also been attacked. The Combat Unit handled it, so we didn’t report it, but I didn’t expect them to resort to such tactics."
Ah, so the Combat Unit saw it as just another fight. "I also heard about this while patrolling today. There are reports of civilian deaths and serious injuries, as well as theft and kidnappings. This has been increasing recently."
"Unforgivable," Mary growled, her voice filled with anger. It’s a terrible situation. Attacking our members is bad enough, but involving civilians is crossing the line. This is a ruthless form of retaliation against the Kikyo Society.
"In any case, they’ve gone too far by attacking our secondary organizations and civilians. They’ve overstepped their bounds... We’ll make them regret it in hell."
Killing in retaliation for a near-death experience isn’t fair. We’ll make them pay for their actions. We’ll remind outsiders of the Kikyo Society’s fearsomeness.
"Then, the Intelligence Unit should identify and locate the perpetrators," Josephine suggested.
If we leave it to Josephine, she’ll quickly find the culprits. No matter where they hide, we’ll drag them out.
"Right. The Intelligence Unit, investigate the perpetrators and assess the damage. Combat Units, strengthen patrols and eliminate delinquent adventurers on sight."
"How far do we go? This time, we should wipe out all the delinquent adventurers, but if we kill those uninvolved in the attacks, it could backfire."
True, if we go too far, the Adventurer Guild will certainly react. But this is serious. We won’t tolerate complaints for justly punishing the perpetrators. Who’s to blame for letting delinquent adventurers run rampant? We can’t just let it slide, but we need to be careful.
"Yeah, but delinquent adventurers aren’t always easy to identify. Even if Josephine can pinpoint them, we can’t just judge by appearance, can we? It’s easier if they’re in the act."
That’s true. Some delinquent adventurers look like ordinary ones, and vice versa. It’s a tricky situation.
"Well, then, let’s make it a spectacle. How about declaring a specific period for a thorough crackdown?"
Hmm, declaring it from the start and warning ordinary adventurers. If we create a situation where only troublemaking delinquent adventurers are in our territory, it won’t matter who we take down.
If the warning deters delinquent adventurers, there will be fewer victims. Meanwhile, the Intelligence Unit can find the culprits and take them out immediately. This will also reassure residents and merchants.
It might affect business by deterring ordinary adventurers, but the impact will be limited in the short term. Letting delinquent adventurers run rampant would have far worse consequences.
"Sounds like a good plan. We’ll post warnings, use media for publicity, and warn the Adventurer Guild. We’ll do it with a bang."
"Can I handle the arrangements?"
Margaret spoke up. She’s not an executive, but as the public relations officer, she’s privy to a lot of information and is allowed to attend these meetings.
"That’s a good idea. You have the connections, so go ahead. This is a good opportunity for you, Margaret."
She’s still in training, but she can handle this. She’ll do better than any of us.
"Thanks, I’ll do my best!"
"Let’s get started, then." Once all opinions were exhausted, I made the final declaration. "Alright, we’ll start a delinquent adventurer hunt. We’ll drive every last one out of the Kikyo Society’s territory. Show them hell!"
"Right!"
The thorough delinquent adventurer hunt began.
---
To all adventurers:
In light of the recent misconduct by some adventurers, akin to thieves, the Kikyo Society, acting on behalf of the residents, will enforce strict measures. Any adventurer, identified by their appearance or equipment, will be eliminated on sight. Be prepared for no excuses, no questions asked, and no mercy for those who ignore the warning.
Those with business should report to the Kikyo Society Headquarters on Lightning Street.
This warning will be posted throughout the Kikyo Society’s territory, along with the start date and duration.
In Exembra, even those uninvolved with the underworld know the name of the Kikyo Society. Newcomers might be unaware, but regular adventurers in this city certainly know. Anyone new to the city will likely visit the Adventurer Guild, where they will see or hear this warning.
True adventurers are also frustrated by the misdeeds of delinquent adventurers. Those who have issues with us are likely a minority. For those who frequently visit the shops on Sixth Avenue, some inconvenience is inevitable, but we can be flexible if consulted in advance.
Adventurers can enter the territory freely if they are not armed and dressed normally. Those who cause trouble will be dealt with, especially if they are identified as delinquent adventurers. There will be no mercy.
As for retaliation, we’ll see what happens.
After issuing warnings through various channels, the reaction was dramatic. The biggest response came from the residents. Many were directly affected, and even more were witnesses or related to victims. The positive reaction to the Kikyo Society’s declaration to thoroughly punish the culprits was greater than expected, indicating their pent-up anger.
The groups who lost members are actively searching for the delinquent adventurers. The Kikyo Society’s determination to eliminate them has made them more cooperative than before.
Notably, information from adventurers is spreading rapidly, as expected. Despite the warnings, some delinquent adventurers still cause trouble, turning residents into informants. The delinquent adventurers have gone too far.
During patrols, the Combat Units receive immediate information about suspicious individuals or those causing trouble, in addition to sightings of delinquent adventurers. They are dealt with mercilessly. Those identified by Josephine are singled out, while others are beaten severely and relieved of their belongings.
We’ll ensure they never dare to cause trouble in our territory again. There will be no second chances. This is not just the Kikyo Society’s will but also the will of the residents. The delinquent adventurers’ victims extend beyond our territory, and our efforts are welcomed in other areas as well.
The delinquent adventurer hunt was proceeding smoothly, but we hit a snag.
"Any leads on the remaining ones?"
"They’re quick on their feet. Every time we catch a glimpse, they vanish."
"Well, unless they plan to leave Exembra, it’s only a matter of time before we catch them."
The main concern is a particularly malicious delinquent adventurer. This one was among those who nearly killed Sarah at her school and has been leading the attacks in our territory. We haven’t caught him yet.
However, he’s been spotted near our territory, suggesting he hasn’t fled far.
As we discussed in the office, Josephine entered, looking tired. "Actually, I found them. We’ve been tracking decoys and temporary hideouts, but this time, it’s the real deal."
"That’s great. You finally found them!"
"Good job. Where are they?"
Josephine spread out a map and pointed. "...This is—"
"Didn’t this used to be a small group’s territory? We’ve never had any trouble with them, right?"
As Gradena noted, it was a small organization adjacent to our territory, part of the McDallian Family’s domain. We’ve never directly clashed, but it’s a strategic location for causing trouble. It makes sense if they’re involved.
The organization sheltering the delinquent adventurers is a minor group. They’re a fourth or fifth-tier organization with little influence or resources. Attacking them would be like swatting a fly, as evidenced by the fate of the Marzio Family.
However, their ability to evade Josephine’s team is concerning.
While we were pondering, Frederica spoke up. "This is a fourth-tier organization under the McDallian Family. If Josephine is certain they’re there, we can take decisive action. Given the current situation, it’s acceptable."
"Frederica, even if it’s a fourth-tier organization, it’s still under the McDallian Family. What about the non-aggression pact?"
True, I’m hesitant to break the pact. What’s your point?
"If we raid them while the delinquent adventurer is there, we can justify everything. After all, the McDallian Family has also declared their support for the delinquent adventurer hunt!"
The Kikyo Society’s hunt has been well-received by Exembra’s residents and newcomers, even boosting our territory’s economy. We’ve made it safer than other areas, attracting more people. The Five Great Families, including the McDallian Family, have followed suit, at least in words.
Of course, the McDallian Family has publicly denounced the delinquent adventurers’ actions.
"I see. If it’s revealed that they were harboring delinquent adventurers, the McDallian Family’s reputation will suffer. If we raid them and capture the delinquent adventurer, they won’t complain."
That makes sense.
"Then, let’s get it over with. Dealing with delinquent adventurers is a waste of time."
"Shall we go now?"
"Given the time, the delinquent adventurer should be in their hideout. It’s the perfect opportunity to raid them."
Gradena grinned and stood up, while Josephine confirmed it was the right time.
Our target is a single delinquent adventurer. We don’t need a large group. The McDallian Family’s organization is small and not worth a full-scale operation.
I, Gradena, and Josephine are enough.
"Let’s go. Gradena and Josephine, come with me."
"Sounds good. This is a chance to learn, and we can’t go much further into the McDallian Family’s territory."
I agree. This is an opportunity for Josephine to gather information. While I doubt a minor organization has crucial information, the delinquent adventurers’ activities suggest a more extensive support network. Any information we can gather will be valuable.
"Should we take them all down?"
"No, focus on the delinquent adventurer. We’ll only target those who interfere. This is a delinquent adventurer hunt, not a full-scale attack on the McDallian Family."
"Agreed. Good luck."
We set out immediately, leaving Frederica behind.