A week had passed, and I was finally well enough to walk on my own. By the time I started moving around again, I had already heard about the incident with the Viscount's family.
"Hey, how are you feeling, Alve?" Ramon's voice echoed through the library as he stepped in.
Sitting at the desk surrounded by scrolls and papers, I looked up. "Good enough to move around now. Since I was bored, I figured I'd start reviewing the ledgers—updating the recent records from the demon and monster attacks in the capital."
Ramon sighed, shaking his head. "Did anyone ever tell you you're _way_ too restless for your own good?"
I gave a half-smile. "Oh, that? I mean... I was bored. Besides, this stuff's important, and I'm the only one authorized to maintain these records anyway."
His sigh only deepened, but he smiled lightly before continuing, "Since that incident, we've been investigating other nobles and merchants too. There's a strict check on the city's entry gates now. No more surprises."
He paused and looked at me seriously. "We need to grow stronger, and fast. So Silver, Emma, Lily, and I—we've decided to head back into the dungeons. Fight more monsters. Push our limits and get stronger."
"You've got a plan?" I asked.
Ramon nodded. "Yeah. First step is finding a fifth member for the team. I realized it during the Sunderhold battle… we need someone to take the front with me while the others support from behind."
"Makes sense." I leaned back slightly. "So, how do you plan to find this new member?"
"There's an S-rank adventurer at the Guild—famous, well-known for his strength and track record. We're planning to recruit him."
"I guess that's a good choice," I said, nodding. _An S-rank adventurer, huh? Someone who can keep up with him without collapsing like I did…_
If I remember S -rank is highest rank for Adventurers. And someone famous even among them?
"I'm glad you agree." Ramon grinned. "We'll be departing soon. Just came to check in before we leave."
This time, we didn't say goodbye with words alone. He raised his fist, and I met it with mine—a quiet but firm fist bump.
A bond between two people who'd come to understand each other, beyond titles or power.
"Take care, Alve."
"You too, Hero."