Chapter 31: DILEMMA
[Melanos Branch]
The heavy wooden doors of the Melanos guild creaked open, revealing a dimly lit interior. The vast hall was eerily empty, devoid of the bustle of adventurers exchanging stories or planning their next quests. Only a single receptionist sat at the counter, her head resting on her folded arms as she dozed lightly. The sudden sound of boots against the stone floor startled her awake. She shot up, her hair slightly disheveled, and bowed quickly.
"Welcome back, Branch Master!" she greeted, her voice cracking from disuse.
The branch master waved her off dismissively. "Bring refreshments to my office for our guests," he commanded, not even sparing her a glance.
"Yes, sir!" she replied, hurrying away as if relieved to have a task to focus on.
Yomi’s sharp eyes scanned the guild as they walked further in. The structure was sturdy, built with thick stone walls and reinforced beams, exuding an air of practicality rather than grandeur. The banners of the Aegis of the Fates hung above, their insignia weathered but proud. Yet to Yomi, the purpose of the establishment was unclear.
What’s the point of this place? he mused silently. The lack of people only deepened his confusion.
The group soon approached an intersection, a hallway branching into private rooms and offices. Just as they neared the branch master’s office, Ash abruptly turned and stepped in front of Yomi and the beast girl, blocking their path.
"Beyond this point is for authorized individuals only," Ash said coldly. "The slaves will wait here."