They were too exhausted to do anything else, so they slept for the rest of the daytime. It was late when Shaji and Roxy finally woke up. They had dinner downstairs. They were expecting Joyce to come down, but she did not make it. They decided to enter the room. Upon entering the room, Joyce was standing with her eyes closed. They were worried. Despite Shaji's attempts to wake her, she remained asleep. A distinguished gentleman entered the room and introduced himself. I am a healer, and I live in another room. He thought it might be a curse. Have you encountered any conflicts or instances of black magic? specifically witchcraft? Ms. Roxy claimed that the last known incident was a wand carved from demon bones, which seemed to be clasped by two hands. The magic store from where we bought it was believed to be cursed. The old man asked about the wand's location. Roxy pointed out where the wand was located. The healer was taken aback. Why had she it, he asked? It had been believed that the wand was evil. He asserted that the curse caused her companion's current condition. They have been fighting for a while. Fill her mouth with a mix of human and demon blood. The healer appeared afraid and hurried away. Roxy was worried, too. Shaji remembered Mysteryman's remarks about him. Shaji was also concerned. Blood poured onto Joyce's lips after he cut his palm. Joyce's black eyes focused as she opened them later. Black smoke spilled into it from the wand as she crept, grabbed it, knelt, and yelled, "Come back, I am your new master. He began speaking normally only after that.
[[Shaji]] Joyce, what happened to you?
[[Joyce]] I've been told this: the one from the Magic Shop. I need to deal with the wand's curse. It seems that I've passed it on to him. Thank you for your blood.
[[Roxy]] Hold on, Shaji, are you demon-blooded? Earlier, the healer advised using both human and demon blood.
[[Shaji]] I'm not entirely sure, but I'm trying to explain this to you. I still don't understand everything. Perhaps I should tell you what has happened to me since I entered this world.
[[Roxy]] We are a new group, and we have taken an oath, so don't worry, Sir Shaji. One person's problem is a problem for the whole group. We succeed together because we help each other. Therefore, we need to trust one another.
[[Shaji]] you are right; I understand that you need to know my status and the reason behind my presence here. I hope that as I share my thoughts, you can see the sincerity in my words. There is a part of me that remains unsure about the reality of my situation—sometimes it feels like a dream, and I wonder if I will wake up to find everything was just a fleeting illusion. Ms. Roxy, you are aware that I come from another world, a place far removed from this one, and importantly, I am not one of the summoned heroes. My involvement in this realm happened entirely by accident. Because of this, the king didn't grant me hero status, as my existence here isn't 'official' in the way that others are. However, despite my unconventional circumstances, I have managed to adapt to life in this world. I've learned to navigate its complexities and build a semblance of normality, even while everything feels so foreign. Like you, Joyce, I grew up in an adopted home, searching for my sense of belonging and identity. Deep down, I'm curious to know where I came from. who my parents are and why I ended up here. Recently, I have been visited by a mysterious figure who appears seemingly out of nowhere. He claims he can sense something unique about me, referring to me as a demon abbadon. It is a term I'm not familiar with, and it makes my heart race with both fear and curiosity however, I am just aware that it is my last name. To complicate matters further, this enigmatic person offered me demon meat then I ate it, a gesture that left me questioning the very essence of my heritage. If what he claims is true, it raises unsettling questions about my ancestral roots in this world. This quest for understanding has become my mission—to uncover the truth of who I am and where I originated. So, Joyce, if it turns out that I possess demon blood, it might correlate with what the healer suggested earlier regarding your returning to your normal self. I recognize that the journey to find the truth can be daunting and fraught with challenges, but despite that uncertainty, I find joy in the path I'm taking. As long as I have you with me, I feel a profound sense of happiness that transcends the search for answers. I'm getting a bit too emotional, Ms. Roxy. Speaking of which, I've been intrigued by your abilities. What kind of power do you possess? From what I've witnessed, you are not only a skilled healer and archer but also adept in close combat. Honestly, your prowess in battle took me by surprise—I never expected someone with your elegance to be so formidable in a fight.
[[Roxy]] Before I respond, I want to emphasize the importance of unity in addressing the challenges we face. Regardless of our differences, we must collaborate effectively. Are we all clear on this point, Sir Shaji and Ms. Joyce?
[[Joyce]] Absolutely, Sister Roxy. I wholeheartedly agree...
[[Shaji]] Yes, I'm on the same page. We need to focus not just on the group's well-being, but also on our personal growth.
[[Roxy]] Sir Shaji, I want to assure you that everything you have observed is indeed accurate. I am not just a combatant skilled in battle tactics; I also possess the ability to heal, which I believe can be invaluable to our team's success.
[[Joyce]] Thank you, Sister Roxy and Angkol Shaji. From the moment we met, I have considered you both family. for now, please assist me in refining and enhancing my hunting skills, as I know they will be essential for our journey ahead.
At a minimum, the individuals involved were allowed to articulate their thoughts and feelings, an essential practice that greatly contributes to the enhancement of group dynamics, particularly when each member is contending with personal challenges. They must unite and share their concerns so that these issues can be effectively addressed. Subsequently, they proceeded directly to the guild to submit their quest paper request. Upon arrival, they were drawn to a prominently displayed announcement concerning the kingdom's need for a substantial quantity of meat, specifically high-quality and rare types, in preparation for the kingdom's anniversary celebration scheduled for the following week. This announcement highlighted the considerable reward available for any individuals willing to secure such valuable resources. The presence of numerous hunters at the guild was thus understandable; many were ready to undertake significant risks for the promise of considerable compensation. After carefully reviewing the announcement, they confidently submitted their quest paper. The guild staff then informed them that the guild master wished to convene with them in a private setting upstairs. As they ascended the staircase, a sense of unease permeated the atmosphere, as they pondered the reason for this request. Upon entering the guild master's office, they were met with a warm greeting. The guild master acknowledged their efforts with commendation, stating, "You have exceeded the role of mere hunters; you embody the spirit of rescuers. Compassion is a fundamental attribute of hunters, and your actions have warranted a bonus of 100 gold coins." He further informed them of their promotion to a Rank D party, indicating that their dedication and teamwork had been recognized. He gestured to a new card positioned on his desk and encouraged them to examine it closely. Those are your new card hunters. Only a few people can receive this. When you get off, pick them up from the guild staff. The card not only signified their advancement but also denoted the beginning of a new chapter in their professional journey, replete with increased responsibilities and opportunities for growth. The group thanked each other and vowed to do better. Outside the guild, the three were overjoyed. Shaji immediately invited them to the park, where he missed his favorite grilled food and the view of the melons. On the way, they looked at their new card, which said "hunter/rescue team member." They were eating and conversing while sitting in the park. Ms. Roxy watched Shaji eat with great attention, even if his gaze seemed to be wandering. He had women in his sights. Ms. Roxy struck him on the head for that reason. Ms. Roxy added that the large number of women was the reason you invited us to a break here.
[[Roxy]] You have no shame. You just remarked that entering our world was like a dream. You're still having dreams about ladies, though. You will not be liked by anyone. Shaji is a pervert. Yay!
[[Shaji]] Roxy!? The food here is excellent, particularly the grilled food. Then there's the melon juice, which tastes fantastic when sipped. I'm not interested in ladies. I'm simply amazed. But I have no bad intentions; I am only gazing at it.
[[Roxy]] Whatever you say, you have a terrible sickness. Let's go to my aunt's coffee shop to get some coffee. Hurry up.
[[Joyce]] (just keep laughing)
[[Shaji]] Ugh, I feel like I wasted an entire melon. But I'll take a tiny sip.
[[Roxy]] You are nuts!