Then, as prompted, I explained the situation so far to Mitera.
After hearing everything, Mitera gave a wry smile and said, “That’s just like you, Isto.”
“Is that so?” I replied.
Because if she were in my position, I’m sure Mitera would have done the same.
However, Mitera didn’t seem to think that it was something just anyone could do.
“You’re working hard for the children. It’s wonderful. You’ve always been the type to take the lead when it matters,” she said with a gentle gaze.
I scratched my cheek in embarrassment.
Next to me, Filoé was nodding deeply, over and over again.
“I’ve made my decision,” Mitera said.
From experience, I knew this look. Once Mitera had made up her mind, she wouldn’t waver.
“I’m going to help you, Isto. I’m coming with you.”
Honestly, I didn’t expect that.
“Mitera, are you sure? Don’t you have work at 【Barba】? Things won’t function without you.”
“About that,” she said.
She slowly leaned back into the sofa.
“I’ve been thinking about it for a while now. I’m planning to quit 【Barba】.”
“What!?”
Unlike my surprised reaction, Mitera wore a serene expression.
“I’ve been with the guild for quite a while, so I’m attached to it, but… since they implemented the level cap, it’s gotten worse. Their attitude towards adventurers and clients, their arrogance, thinking they’re above everyone else…”
She let out a long, heavy sigh.
“It feels like it’s time to move on.”
“Mitera…”
“But the biggest reason is you,” she said.
Her delicate eyebrows furrowed slightly.
“The people at 【Barba】 have always treated you coldly. I tried to make sure they didn’t have their way as long as I was around, but they went too far—they kicked you out. All over a ridiculous reason, like you monopolizing my time!”
“That’s right! It’s unforgivable!” Filoé suddenly interjected.
She had clenched her fists.
“To drive someone as amazing as Isto out! And to do it by bullying him!”
“Did Isto tell you something?” Mitera asked.
“He told me a little bit about being kicked out. But he didn’t go into detail. Hearing your story just made me angrier.”
She was practically snorting in anger.
I apologized in my mind. I didn’t mean to keep it from her… but who would want to hear such a pathetic story?
Mitera smiled.
“Filoé, right? I think we’re going to get along.”
“Me too… You kind of feel like an older sister,” Filoé said, blushing.
They had become fast friends. When did that happen…?
“Alright,” Mitera clapped her hands.
“Strike while the iron’s hot. Let’s head to the guild and hand in my resignation to the guild master.”
“That’s so sudden!”
“No, no, I’ve been ready for this. I only stayed at 【Barba】 so I’d be there if you came back, Isto. But now that we’ve reunited, it’s time. Hehehe…”
Her smile was a little scary.
“Oh, are you heading out?” Griffo showed up.
“I heard the conversation. Sounds interesting. I’ll tag along.”
…Why?
Griffo turned to me and said, “I need to visit the Guild Association anyway. Besides, hearing your story made my blood boil too. I’ll give them a piece of my mind. I know 【Barba】’s boss, so this is a good opportunity. I’ll tell them about your accomplishments, Isto, and show them just how big of a catch they let slip. I’ll be your witness.”
“Isto,” Mitera took my hand.
“I believe that our reunion and your connection with Griffo are blessings from the gods, recognizing your hard work. This is your chance. You’ll clear your name with your own hands.”
“Do your best, Isto-san!” Filoé cheered.
I smiled wryly.
The world isn’t all bad, is it?
I was grateful.
“Alright. I’ll show the guild master that I’m not the same as before. Help me, everyone.”
◆◇◆
We arrived at the front entrance of Guild 【Barba】.
Even accounting for the early hour, the area in front of 【Barba】 was eerily quiet and deserted.
We followed Mitera inside.
The interior was empty. No adventurers, not even clients.
The bulletin board, which usually displayed job requests, was conspicuously bare.
Instead, what stood out was the mountain of documents piled high. It spilled over the reception counter and into the waiting area.
“This is awful,” Griffo muttered in disbelief.
Mitera nodded. “This is what happened in just a few days after Isto left. I’ve been sorting paperwork non-stop, but staff members have been quitting one after another, and I just couldn’t keep up.”
“I see. So Isto isn’t just skilled in combat but also in administration.”
“That’s right, Griffo. In my opinion, Isto’s knowledge, processing ability, and discernment are the best in 【Barba】—no, in all of Wigarus.”
“If even Mitera says that, then Isto must be quite the man. Kicking someone like that out, 【Barba】 must be hopeless.”
Both of them were fuming.
I appreciated their anger on my behalf, but still… it felt a little overwhelming.
After all, Mitera was a talented receptionist, one of the most beautiful in all of Wigarus, and Griffo was a veteran adventurer with enough skill and accomplishments to own a mansion.
No matter how you looked at it, I was the least impressive of the three.
But even I had my pride.
I wasn’t as weak as I was back then.
I wouldn’t just take it anymore. I’d make sure they knew I was right.
Wait for me, Guild Master.
