Episode 22: New Member

 

"...Huh?"

 

What's she suddenly talking about?

 

Confused by the abrupt invitation, the crowd that had been surrounding Lisha until just now approached us.

 

Turning around, Lisha addressed them with a few words.

 

"Sorry! I appreciate all the invitations, but recruitment for this round is closed!"

 

With that, the gathered crowd dispersed.

 

"I thought I could get closer to the admired Lady Lisha..."

 

"Oh well. I guess that's that. There'll be another chance, right?"

 

"But seriously, who are those girls that caught Lady Lisha's attention? Never seen their faces before..."

 

It's kind of pitiful, isn't it?

 

Anyway, putting that aside...

 

"What's your intention? Suddenly talking about parties like that."

 

"I'm Lisha Gracia. Until yesterday, I was with the 'Black Mist Blades,' but now I'm a freelancer. I'm looking for strong companions, and when I saw you two, I felt a connection and decided to invite you."

 

Well, I had a feeling it was something like that.

 

Although I wanted to say that if she's inviting, there should be some order... but she doesn't seem to have any bad intentions, so I can't really blame her. Well, whatever.

 

"What do you mean by 'felt a connection'?"

 

When I asked, Lisha answered with a cheerful expression.

 

"You can tell who the strong adventurers are just by looking at them. It's like they have a different aura or demeanor that exudes strength. My eyes don't deceive me. So, what are your names?"

 

"...Rain Shadow."

 

"I'm Milia Shadow."

 

"Oh? So are you two a couple? Siblings?"

 

Lisha rapidly looked back and forth between me and Milia.

 

Oh boy. Thanks to Milia's complicated family name, she's misunderstood again.

 

"No, we're not. It's a coincidence."

 

"Such coincidences exist, huh. Well, whatever."

 

...Is it really 'whatever'?

 

Lisha spun around on the spot and reached out her hand towards us.

 

"Rain, Milia, join my party. Let's aim for greater heights together!"

 

"Decline."

 

As I immediately replied—

 

"Huh?! W-why?! I'm strong, you know?"

 

"Milia and I are already in a party. I'm not interested in joining your party to the point of disbanding ours."

 

Certainly, we want strong companions too, but it's essential that I maintain leadership.

 

My reason for being an adventurer is to defeat the Demon Lord and rid this world of monsters. It's a means, not an end. There was no mention in 'Sieg' that Lisha is aiming for the Demon Lord's defeat, so our values might differ.

 

If Lisha would follow my lead, I'd welcome her, but she's already an accomplished adventurer. She probably wants companions for her own sake.

 

"Well... then, is it okay for me to join Rain and Milia's party?"

 

"Um, yeah... I guess so."

 

With a confirming intent, I glanced briefly at Milia.

 

"I think that would be fine."

 

Upon hearing this, Lisha clapped her hands.

 

"Great! It's settled then! I'll join Rain and Milia's party! Since I'm alone anyway, it's better to join your party if you have one!"

 

"Wait, Lisha, aren't you interested in being the leader of your own party?"

 

"I'm not interested in such things. Until now, I had to be the leader because I was the strongest. If you can do it, you're more than welcome!"

 

...Well, things are progressing quite smoothly.

 

It would be beneficial for us in terms of strength if she joins like this, but there are still things I need to explain and make sure she understands.

 

"Our party's ultimate goal is to defeat the Demon Lord who controls the monsters and demons of this world. It's highly dangerous, and there's a high chance it will be a long journey. Is that okay with you?"

 

"Oh... that's amazing! ♡ I knew it, I have good judgment. Yes, adventurers should aim for that goal. It's not about money or status, that's what being an adventurer is about!"

 

Lisha wriggled with excitement, clearly thrilled.

 

...Well, regardless of her personality, our interests align, and if it's convenient for both parties, that's what matters.

 

"Got it. In that case... Milia, you're okay with this, right?"

 

"Yes!"

 

I reached out my hand towards Lisha, this time in a reversed scenario.

 

"Lisha, welcome aboard. Let's work together."

 

"Oh yes! Let's aim for greater heights together!"