Chapter 53

"Half of it will be sold, that's the deal."

"Thank you. But, is it really okay?"

Heather asked, looking surprised.

"The guild must have various ways to utilize it, now that it's a Guardian class, right?"

"...Yes, that's true. It's certainly appreciated, but—"

In the guild's lobby, the massive body of the Sword Boar was placed. However, it was only half. Since it was neatly cut into two, there wasn't much need to discuss whether to sell it or not. Even just one half of a Guardian, with no wasted parts, could fetch a high price.

First, the fur from the boar could be mentioned. Even in death, its toughness remained. The fur boasted armor-like defensive capabilities, being light and durable. Its usefulness was beyond question. They would need to think about how to use the fur.

Additionally, the meat was edible, and it could produce a considerable magic stone. Even the tusks could be carved into spear tips.

"Wow. I've never seen a Guardian's corpse before."

"What's up with that fur?"

The half of the Sword Boar that was brought to the guild's lobby was surrounded by a crowd. The onlookers, who had gathered, were excitedly chattering.

"Who killed it?"

Someone asked, and they leaned in to whisper among themselves.

"Hey, you know... that guy..."

"Yeah, the Demon Slayer?"

"Is that kid over there the one?"

"Did that kid really kill a Guardian after the demon? Not one of his companions?"

No, Grace killed it, not me.

"Maybe his companions are similar. They seem to have gone to fight the Guardian."

"Those girls?"

"Since the Demon Slayer is with them, they must be pretty strong, right?"

The crowd was staring at Grace and the others with wide eyes. Well... I can understand their reaction. If word spreads that Grace is strong, it might help avoid conflicts, but being the subject of rumors isn't exactly comfortable.

According to Heather, the adventurers who were transferred earlier were receiving treatment in a room at the back of the guild. Since we can't leave until the sale of today's loot is calculated, and my Circulation of Qi or Ashley's healing magic might be useful, I decided to visit them.

As I walked to the room, I heard a clear song and the sound of a harp. The melody was soothing, making my heart calm and my fatigue disappear. The source was the room. It was probably the same group I met when I visited Ilmihilt. I knocked and opened the door, and the monster girls stopped singing and playing, turning their gaze towards me. Dominic the Harpy and Justia the Siren were singing, and Ilmihilt was playing the harp.

The adventurers were lying on the beds, looking much better than when I saw them in the dungeon. Ashley had finished her healing magic.

The three of them, a Lamia, a Harpy, and a Siren, had the ability to infuse their songs and music with magic. In this case, the effects were calming, pain relief, and enhanced regeneration. The harp might have been provided by the guild to showcase their usefulness. If so, the guild's strategy was correct. At least, there wouldn't be many adventurers who would complain about the treatment team.

"Ilmihilt."

Sheila ran over and took Ilmihilt's hand. Ilmihilt's eyes widened in surprise.

"Shiela. I heard you and Theodore and the others fought a Guardian. Did you get injured?"

"No, that's not the case. Since we brought them here, we thought we should check on them."

"Oh, I see."

Ilmihilt sighed in relief and finally smiled.

"You gave us quite a good performance."

"Oh, thank you. I'm not as good as the other two, so I feel a bit embarrassed. For Lamias, this ability is more like a bonus."

That's true. I didn't mean it as a compliment, but I think the performance was worth paying for. In terms of skill, it was quite impressive, but the effectiveness of the song and the technique don't necessarily correlate. I'm not an expert, so I don't know much about the specifics of cursed songs.

"We've been asked if we want to work for the guild."

"Yes. Even if you don't have a place to go, you won't be treated poorly here."

Dominic spoke, and Justia nodded. Linette had intended to sell them, not because of their singing or playing abilities, but their cursed songs were highly useful. They affected the mind and body, with a wide range of effects, making them troublesome if used against you. Their application in healing was also excellent, enhancing the effects of healing magic. In the game, bards had this ability, but they were a minor class in BFO.

Hmm. If they work as a treatment team for the guild, they could establish their position and reduce the adventurer death rate. It seems like a win-win situation. However, Ilmihilt might feel like she's being supported by the other two, making it hard for her to agree.

"Mr. Theodore. The calculation is done."

Heather appeared and peeked in.

"Understood. I'll come over."

"Before that, Heather. Can I talk to you for a moment?"

Sheila stopped Heather.

"What is it?"

"Can Ilmihilt not go back yet?"

"That's— it's better if she stays for a while. The authorities are on edge, so it's safer for her to stay here."

"Um... I understand, but—"

"Shiela, I'm fine. Please tell everyone I'm doing well."

"...Okay."

Sheila's ears drooped, and she looked downcast. Even if the negotiations with the knights are settled, Ilmihilt's position is still delicate. From Heather's tone, it seems the authorities are overly nervous due to the aftermath of the demon incident.

The guild might be holding Ilmihilt for protection. I had thought about going to the beach with everyone once she was released, but there are still many obstacles to overcome.

"Everyone?"

"The children from the orphanage in the West District."

...I see. There is such a place.

"Um, if someone can vouch for her, she should be allowed to go out. I'd be happy to help if I can."

Ashley, who had been watching the situation, spoke. As a noble and a lord, it was a situation she couldn't ignore.

"I'll help too."

"Really?"

I nodded. I could see Grace smiling happily at the corner of my eye. Her future, Ashley's path, and my stance don't conflict. I recognize Sheila as a party member, and helping them isn't a problem. Sheila looked at Heather with hopeful eyes, and Heather smiled wryly in response.

"Lady Ashley and Mr. Theodore, right? In that case, I think it should be fine."