After going through the entrance, we see a ballroom with many people chatting. I feel various eyes on me, and I’m wondering how many people know I’m the main player in this welcome party… No, wait. I think people who saw those videos would know who I am. Could it be that the people here don’t know?
As I think that, one of the few familiar faces enters my line of sight.
“Ah, Ryuu!”
“Hello boy. You look well!”
Ryuu, the branch manager of the 128 high rank dungeon. I quickly go over to him and bow.
“Thank you for those very valuable swords.”
“It’s nothing compared to those requests.”
Several people approach us as they see me speak to Ryuu.
“Hoo, is that him?”
“Oh, Amachi! Those requests really helped me.”
“Oh my, he’s more adorable in real life than in the videos.”
“Is he Miki’s new son?”
“G-geez. Don’t tease him…”
Yes, their reactions and the branch manager’s response tell me who they are. They’re all branch managers in this region. Aki and Maki are always under their care, so they introduce us as I greet them.
They’re friendly, but they’re all branch managers. I just greeted eight people, so there really are a lot of dungeons around here.
…I’m getting excited. I’ve been away from dungeons for a while and I’ve been pampered by the girls, so I thought I lost that spirit quite a bit, but…
It looks like I still have my fangs. I’ve only conquered one dungeon yet, and thinking about not only having this many dungeons nearby, but even having their leaders be cooperative with me, gets my blood feeling hot.
And I have to thank the girls, because it’s thanks to their efforts that I have these connections.
“You look like you’re having fun.”
“Does it?”
“Yes.”
“It’s fine. I like your face that way.”
Say Maki and then Aki, who happily hug me. But as I once again thank the miracle that brought them into my life, I feel the air around me change.
I turn my eyes to the people giving off a strange presence, and see one in particular who is more conspicuous.
Witch.
That’s the first thing that crosses my mind when I see the head of the Houjouin family.
◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇
Sakuya is the first one I notice, but the other members of the Houjouin family are here, so the welcome party is now underway.
Ayane and I are called forward by Sakuya, so she can introduce us and officially acknowledge our relationship.
I feel like I should’ve gone to Sakuya and greeted her first… Isn’t the order wrong? Oh well… If she’s willing to announce it in such a grand fashion, that must mean she accepts it.
Not that I’d know anything.
As I wonder about all that, Sakuya finishes her greeting, and retreats to the back.
The air in the room returns to normal, and everyone goes back to their conversations. Even though I haven’t greeted her yet.
“Don’t worry darling. She will probably call you later.”
“I see. Good, then…?”
Is it really good?
I can’t keep up with what’s going on, but a guy that came out with Sakuya starts talking to me.
“You’re Amachi, right? It’s a pleasure to meet you. I am the eldest son of the Houjouin family, Yuzuru.”
“N-nice to meet you, I’m Amachi Shouta.”
Ayane’s older brother, so my brother in law. I shake hands with Yuzuru, but he doesn’t let go as he keeps talking.
“I was curious about the one Ayane found and grabbed before our mother, but… You seem tough.”
He keeps gradually grabbing my hand harder. At this point, a normal person would be screaming, but is this a test?
“How about you be the vice-captain of our second unit? I feel like you could bring some good results.”
“Ah, no thank you. I treasure my freedom, so I have no intention of being under someone else.”
“…What?”
The pressure he exudes gets stronger, as does his grip on my hand. This might be enough strength to break a normal person’s bones. He really is a high level adventurer, but… It has no effect on me.
“You might be getting carried away because my mother approved of your union with Ayane, but you don’t have enough worldly experience. Someone on par with Ayane would be lost the moment he left the beginner dungeon. You can hunt a few rare monsters, but your limits will show themselves soon. Consider this good advice.”
“Well, I do get carried away. I get to be engaged to such a gentle and cute girl after all. And did you see my videos? You look kind of strong, but I can’t say I can imagine you beating rare II monsters.”
“You… You’ve gotten pretty haughty for someone who can only show that much power. You know I’m offering to take you in as a subordinate?”
What’s with this guy? He showed his true colors so quickly. He’s about as easy to rile up as a goblin.
I think Ayane is right, and he’d try to act superior because of his level if given the chance.
I need to hold back, because despite everything, this guy is going to be my brother in law. Still, it’s one thing if it’s with me, but he’s looking down on Ayane a lot…
What should I do here?
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Thanks for the treat.