Chapter 1

Compared to a short sword, it is somewhat longer and more difficult to handle.

When compared to a long sword, its reach is somewhat lacking, making it disadvantageous in combat.

The bastard sword is a sword of intermediate length.

In my previous life, there was a saying, "too short for a belt, too long for a sash," which perfectly describes this weapon. Still, it’s not as if swords are completely unused in the world; however, I’ve never heard of any particular school of swordsmanship using them. At the very least, they are not adopted by the military.

Despite this, I like this sword of intermediate length.

The inconvenience of handling and the short reach can be compromised if one is willing. If one can overlook the poor aspect of being versatile, it is not impossible to use it effectively.

I met my beloved bastard sword in a dreary weapon shop.

It was carelessly stuffed into a basket near the entrance, and I bought it mainly because of its low price.

When I bought it, there was no scabbard, and I had to prepare various things myself, so it wasn’t really that cheap despite the discount. But now, it’s a good memory.

"Here we go."

"Ugh!"

The bastard sword swung, deeply cutting into the chest of a goblin.

This is the third one. The last one, whose leg I cut, will die from blood loss soon.

"Ugh..."

"Sorry, but I don’t have any personal grudge. You’re dying for my salary."

The mission was to eliminate a group of stray goblins that appeared in the outskirts.

A slightly larger goblin, likely the leader of the strays, is lying around nearby. There might be other groups, but killing the leader should complete the mission. In this world, even ordinary villagers who do farm work can kill goblins on their own.

"Namu Amida Butsu"

I thrust the bastard sword into the last goblin, ending its life.

After that, I cut off the goblins' stinky noses and put them in a bag. This is the proof of the kill. I always wonder why it’s not the ears. The goblins' noses are so stinky...

"Ugh, snot on it."

I thrust the dirty tip of the bastard sword back into the goblin’s heart to clean it with blood. I prefer blood to snot, which I really hate.

I’ll wash it in the river later, but it’s my beloved sword, after all.

"...Phew. This should earn me enough contribution points for this month. I’ll just gather some herbs and head back."

Then I collected some wild herbs and medicinal plants that would sell well, washed my equipment by the river, and set off on the return journey. It’s a two-hour walk, not exactly an easy trip, but it’s still considered a short distance in this world.

I guess I’ve adapted to this feeling, which means I’m doing pretty well.

"Is this the proof of the stray goblins in the outskirts? The exchange ticket for the kill parts... Yes, indeed. Four goblins, including the leader, should qualify for an A rating. Good work, Mongrel."

"Thanks."

I returned to the guild, exchanged the kill parts for a ticket at the processing area, and submitted it to the reception.

The reward is minimal, but I get contribution points. The purpose of this mission was to earn these contribution points.

There are profitable and unprofitable guild missions. Goblin hunting is one of the least profitable. However, if no one did these unprofitable jobs, the guild would set the contribution points to be easier to earn. Guild members like me can receive various benefits and preferential treatment by earning these contribution points. Most importantly, if you accumulate enough points, you won’t be called up for high-risk large-scale operations, which is crucial for a long life.

"Still, to take down four goblins solo... Mongrel, have you considered taking the promotion exam?"

"No way. I’ll just get more dangerous missions."

The receptionist and other guild members always hint at my promotion.

I’m currently at the Bronze level. If I reach Silver, I’ll get better-paying jobs. However, it’s also more troublesome. The missions become more dangerous, and I’ll have more obligations.

For a laid-back life, it’s best to stay at Bronze.

"...Well, I won’t force you. Are you heading to the bar after this?"

"Sure. Milene, want to join us? I’ll buy you a drink?"

"I still have work to do."

"Aw, you’re no fun."

Ordinary face, half-hearted work, no ambition.

There aren’t many women who would be attracted to such a man.

Especially not a guild receptionist, who is considered an elite in the city.

But being rejected every time is, in its own way, a reassuring interaction.

"Alright, let’s drink."

"Hey, Mongrel, done with work?"

"Yep, Balgar. Just earned some contribution points. Took out some goblins lightly."

"Good job. The usual place? Let’s drink together."

"I’m not buying, though."

"You don’t have the money. I’ll pay myself."

This unimpressive bearded man is Balgar.

A guild member who uses a small shield and a short spear, another unimpressive weapon setup.

Despite his unimpressive appearance, he is a top-notch fighter, known for his steady and reliable combat style. He has been a veteran Silver member for years.

I often learned the basics from Balgar when I first started and relied on him a lot. He’s like a big brother to me in this world.

Now, we occasionally meet for drinks, two unmarried, mediocre men.

"What, Mongrel, you’re still using that bastard sword?"

"Is that a problem? I’ll keep using it until it breaks."

"It’s not a problem, but it’s heavy for one hand and light for two. It’s hard to use, isn’t it?"

"It’s not a problem once you get used to it. I really like it, especially its intermediate length."

"What’s that supposed to mean?"

Well, let’s go for some beer and skewers today.

I wonder what I’ll do for work tomorrow.