Chapter 35

After a brief exchange with Liebe, I am having a conversation with Hasegawa-san and Mido-san.

Regarding my skills and titles, Hasegawa-san gives a wry smile, which is her usual reaction, while Mido-san, with sparkling eyes, takes notes and even takes photos of me on her smartphone, each acting in their characteristic ways.

Hasegawa-san, I suppose, just wants me to get the examination done as soon as possible. No matter what the results are, she seems to be the type who can't feel at ease without involving some scientific element or obtaining evidence. I understand that.

As for Mido-san... well, let's not go into it; it's the same old thing. She seems to be really upset about missing the Shining Yamagata yesterday and is giving off a strong vibe that she doesn't want to be apart from me for a moment.

I hope she doesn't move into the neighborhood or something. I get scared just thinking about it.

Anyway, the topic moves on.

Specifically, to my abandoned promotion test, which was about conquering the dungeon on the hill.

"Speaking of which, Mr. Yamagata's promotion to E-rank Explorer has been approved."

Hasegawa-san says this with a smile, which is quite a surprise.

"Indeed, the exploration of the dungeon in question was halted due to an unexpected stampede and the response to it... However, your performance during the stampede, where you scattered D-rank monsters and even defeated a B-rank dungeon-level werewolf, has been confirmed, and the Guild Council has recognized this as sufficient for promotion."

"Well, if you can take them down, then you can handle an E-rank dungeon, I guess."

"Yes. Therefore, Mr. Yamagata, if you apply at the reception, your F-rank Explorer certificate can be exchanged for an E-rank Explorer certificate."

"So, from now on, I'm an E-rank Explorer, huh?"

Hasegawa-san nods with a smile. Seeing this, I feel a sudden release of tension from my shoulders.

Promotion, huh? I'm an E-rank Explorer from today onwards.

I say this, but I don't really feel any particular emotion.

Of course, I became an F-rank Explorer just half a month ago.

For an explorer, the benefits and responsibilities that come with a higher rank haven't really clicked with me yet.

Seeing my reaction, Mido-san, sitting next to me on the sofa, explains with a gentle and serene smile.

"The changes that come with a higher rank were only briefly touched upon during the new recruit training. You will receive a detailed explanation when you apply at the reception, but I'll give you a head start. A preacher is sometimes a guide to a savior."

"Ah, yes. Thank you..."

It's amazing how such fanatic words can come from such a beautiful smile... In a way, it's impressive.

Since it's a regular occurrence, I only feel a little confused as I start to listen to Mido-san's explanation about the explorer ranks.

"To put it simply, the most significant change with a higher rank is that you can explore more types of dungeons. Until now, you could only explore F-rank dungeons, but now you can challenge E-rank dungeons."

"Along with that, the enemies will be stronger, right?"

"Of course. However, on the other hand, the value of the dropped materials will increase, and most importantly, E-rank dungeons are slightly larger than F-rank ones, so the value of the dungeon core will also increase."

This is a feature that becomes more apparent as your rank increases, Mido-san explains.

I see, this is quite straightforward. You can explore more difficult dungeons with stronger enemies, but in return, the value of the dropped items and the dungeon core increases, making it more efficient to earn money.

Hmm... to be honest, I'm not really attracted to that aspect.

Frankly, even at the F-rank level, I was already extremely satisfied with the money. Just the two dungeons I cleared yesterday brought in nearly 10 million yen.

Of course, there are taxes and contributions to the guild, so it's not all mine, but I'm definitely a wealthy student. I don't really feel the need to push myself to earn more.

Hasegawa-san seems to sense my thoughts and responds.

"To be honest, the financial aspect doesn't seem to excite many explorers, including Mr. Yamagata."

"Ah... I'm sorry."

"Not at all! Many people feel the same way. Therefore, other services are also made available."

"Services...?"

"Yes. As your rank increases, the quality of various services you can receive within the Explorer Guild also improves."

Hasegawa-san then rummages through her desk and brings out some documents.

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