Chapter 18 - A Base of Operations
The main goal of exchanging the treasure from the thieves is now complete, and I feel a weight lifted off my shoulders.
I refresh myself with a mint-flavored recovery potion, feeling the tension drain away.
"Changing the subject, why were you driving the truck at that hour?"
It was unusual for a Commerce Guild director to be out alone, so I was curious about the circumstances.
Jallens, taken aback, began to explain.
"Actually, I was staying in a neighboring city for a guild meeting. I had to return home urgently, so I left alone. I didn't want to wait for a proper transport, so I took the truck. Despite the unexpected encounter, I made it in time."
"So, it was some kind of emergency?"
"Well, it's embarrassing, but it was my wife's birthday. The meeting went longer than expected, and I couldn't return on schedule. The only available transport was the truck, so I had no choice. Fortunately, thanks to you, I made it in time."
I couldn't help but laugh at his explanation. To risk so much for a birthday seems excessive, but everyone has their values. It's in the past, so it's fine.
Perhaps his respect for his wife is why he didn't look down on us, a group of women.
"I see. Just be more careful in the future."
"Ha, yes, I will. In fact, my wife gave me quite an earful when I explained the situation. Speaking of which, you mentioned a place to stay, right? Are you planning to settle down?"
"Ideally, yes."
"Ah, that's interesting."
Jallens' eyes sparkled with the enthusiasm of a merchant.
"What's so interesting?"
"Well, every city is currently short of capable people. With your skills, you'd be welcomed in any city, regardless of gender."
"Not everyone in our group is thinking about contributing to the city."
We're a group of misfits, not known for selfless dedication.
"I understand, but you can't ignore the challenges that come your way. With the shortage of security forces, monster hunters, mercenaries, and adventurers, your skills will make the application process smoother. If you'd like, we can handle the paperwork for you."
"That's convenient. But do you have other motives?"
"You're perceptive. I can smell the potential for profit from you. It's a merchant's intuition, perhaps."
Of course, he's right. The healing potion I gave him and the aluminum cup I'm using now have caught his attention. A group of capable women is also a rare find.
"Your intuition is correct. Either way, I hope we can build a good relationship."
A win-win situation, indeed.
So far, I think we can work well together.
"Do you have any preferences for your place to stay?"
Jallens called for a stack of documents using a bell-like magical device and quickly flipped through them, looking for suitable options.
What should we do? I pet Valeria's ears and head as I pondered.
I'd like to see a few options before deciding. I'm still not familiar with the city's layout.
As I hesitated, Jallens seemed to find a promising option.
"If you don't have specific preferences, I can recommend a place."
He suggested a property.
"What's it like?"
"It's a spacious building, with a bit of a backstory, but it's very affordable. It's not too far from here. Would you like to see it?"
Seeing it in person would be faster. A picture is worth a thousand words.
"Valeria, let's take Frederica and go see it."
"Yes, Onee-sama."
"Jallens, please lead the way."
"Certainly, let's go."
We returned to the lobby, where the tough women were lounging in the luxurious lounge, looking out of place.
"Sorry for the wait. We've successfully exchanged the treasure and will split it via Record later. We're going to check out a property nearby. Is that okay?"
There were no objections, so we left the Commerce Guild with Jallens leading the way.
To our surprise, everyone followed along.
As we walked through the city's winding alleys, the streets became more diverse.
"This area is the craftsmen's district. There are many workshops and stores. You should check it out later. You can find equipment, clothing, magical devices, and daily necessities. They also offer custom orders. It's different from the large stores on Central Avenue, and I recommend it."
Interesting. We'll definitely check it out later.
After a longer walk than expected, we finally arrived at our destination.
"That building over there. We can show you the inside as well."
We turned a corner into a dead-end alley. The building at the end was different from the others.
I imagined an apartment or a house, but this looked more like an office building made of stone.
The first floor had an open garage-like space with a wide staircase leading to the upper floors.
We followed Jallens up the stairs.
He opened the door with a card-key-like magical device, and we entered a spacious, office-like room.
"This building... It's not a regular residence, is it?"
"No, it's being sold at an unbelievably low price due to some issues. Given your group, I believe the issues won't be a problem. The size is also suitable for your needs."
There are some oddities.
"Oh, you're all living together?"
"Why, that sounds interesting!"
"If it's a good deal, why not?"
"Yeah, we're rich now! Why not just buy it?"
"Sounds fun!"
The former camp members were already excited.
I hadn't intended that, but... Hmm, what to do?
"Yukari-dono, can we live here with you?"
The Siegrunes also seemed eager to join.
Frederica looked resigned, while Valeria seemed slightly annoyed but also a bit excited.
Well, it might be fine. If they don't like it, they can leave. I might leave first.
Living together in a new city for a while might not be bad.
"By the way, Jallens, what issues did you mention?"
"Oh, someone's here. They just walked in."
"What? It's open?"
"I told you. We've seen people coming in."
"Hey, is anyone in here?"
Several rough-looking men entered the room. Everyone was quietly observing them.
"Who are you? This is private property. Leave immediately."
Jallens stepped forward to handle the situation diplomatically.
I signaled everyone to wait and observe.
"Ha? Who are you, old man?"
"Who are you? We're the Bruno Gang!"
"Old man, is this the Commerce Guild? If so, hand us over to the boss."
"Painful, huh? Women like you shouldn't be doing this. We'll let you off easy this time."
"Oh, a good catch! The one with the big chest can be my girl!"
They laughed lewdly, their eyes roving over us.
No, this is unacceptable. There's no need to hold back. Let's take care of them.
"Jallens, is this the issue you mentioned? If so, we can take care of it right away."
"That's correct, but the timing is... They don't seem to be official members. I doubt it will be resolved here."
"Then, I'll settle the score with their boss. Everyone, I'll guard the non-combatants. You can handle the grunts."
Ange, Valeria, and the others stepped forward.
Since we're in the city and they aren't armed, they can handle the situation with their bare hands.
They've trained with me, so they should be fine. The thugs look weak, even to me.
The numbers are equal, and the thugs are clearly underestimating us. Valeria and the others are furious.
"No killing! Just beat them up!"
This might be our new home, so we should avoid fatalities. Still, it's fine to let them vent their frustration. As long as no one dies, it's manageable.
Ange, in a surprisingly quick move, charged at the biggest thug and tackled him with a shoulder charge.
The others followed, shouting as they clashed. The thugs were quickly silenced, far too weak to put up much of a fight.
The thugs, now sprawled or sitting on the floor, groaned in pain. Ange dragged the leader to us.
His power and presence were intimidating, even to the brash thugs.
"You said you're the Bruno Gang, right? Where's your boss?"
Zeklune, in a rare playful moment, grabbed the thug's hair and leaned in.
Perhaps she's getting used to our ways. It's good to see her enjoying it.
"Dad... Yeah, he's on a trip! He's not here. Besides, what right do you women have to do this? You'll pay for this!"
Sigh. He's just trying to save face.
Zeklune, with a wicked smile, drew a sword and placed the tip under his chin.
"I hate liars. Remember that. Now, where's your boss?"
The thug, intimidated by Zeklune's genuine threat, quickly broke.
According to him, the boss's office is right behind this building. Surprisingly close.
The buildings are tightly packed, and there's no shortcut to the back. We'd have to go through the alleys.
They probably wanted to expand their office and were eyeing this building. Their plans don't concern us.
Jallens, it turns out, already knew the location of the Bruno Gang's office. We didn't need to ask the thugs.
"Then, let's go and settle this. I'd rather get it over with quickly."
"Yukari-dono, I'd like to come along."
Hmm, I wanted Zeklune to guard the non-combatants, but...
It's fine if she's eager. I think we have enough strength to handle it, but it's important to make a strong impression.
Half-measures are the worst. It might be better to overwhelm them with our numbers.
"Then, let's all go. Those who don't want to come can stay behind."
No one opted to stay behind.
"Alright, bring a few of the thugs with us. Carry one of the strong ones."
I grabbed the leader's collar and dragged him along, ignoring his complaints. If he doesn't like it, he can walk.
Unexpected trouble, but it's kind of fun.
The enthusiasm of the group is infectious. I'm enjoying this, too.
Here we go. On our first day in the city, we're making a statement.
I'll keep an eye on Jallens, who seems a bit hesitant.
"That's the situation. Any objections?"
"Cough! No, no objections. A bit of commotion is normal, but don't overdo it. If it escalates, we'll handle it."
Good to know.
"You're helpful. We'll be back soon. We haven't finished discussing the building yet. It shouldn't take long."
"Understood. I'll wait."
The rush of Physical Enhancement Magic fills me with excitement.
I'm about to storm the Bruno Gang's office. I feel no fear, only anticipation. Maybe I'm a bit off.