Chapter 31: A Human Worst Opponent Is Always Another Human

Ardent's thought quickly head to the worst possible scenario possible. After all, he had lived in a world where records of battle for resources can be found easily though the internet.

'In my world, nations with resources like coal, natural gas and oil often one of the richer one, as energy is one of the most important commodity for the people.

This world should not be any different, except there is a possibility of us being suppressed by any powerful factions. The good thing is, this area, despite being where I remember France supposed to be, did not have any strong factions and instead a bunch of villages, towns, and cities, for some reason.'

As Ardent mind went on a thinking spree, the adults were discussing the best course of action.

"So, what should we do? Do we try to sell the location of the dungeon to Cruom City?" one of the elders, one who lead the agriculture department, or what is close to one in the village asked.

"Can that way keep us safe?" another elder, one who responsible for the hunters, replied back.

"It's an option. But, we need to think of it more. There is a chance the other cities might hear it and will try to get their hands on the dungeon. And then the village will be in grave trouble." elder of guards said. Though, most agreed in their heads he almost underestimated the potential disaster.

'Grave trouble? More like destruction and enslavement.' was what the elders and Ardent thought.

"Elder Korl's suggestion is the best one so far. So, if there is no other suggestion, we will go with his plan and contact Cruom City."

The elders looked at one another before nodding, all in agreement to this course of action.

"The day after tomorrow, we will send a group to tell the city lord of Cruom City of the dungeon. Before that, we will discuss the plan on making sure the monsters will not end up outside the dungeon, and the patrol schedule." The village chief said, as the elders began their discussion once more.

This time, the youngster that were called for the meeting gathered.

"Wow, I don't think the thing we found would be such a big deal." Frank exclaimed, "sure, it will be important, I expect it to be. I don't expect it to be so important." he clarified his thought.

"Yeah. It's too bad I get put in another section of the village defence. If not, we get to explore the dungeon together." Catlin said.

"More like flirting during the patrol and making the guards cursed at Ardent." Frank mumbled.

"Oh, can you repeat that?" unfortunately, his mumbling can be heard by Catlin, her tone entering a deadly point.

"Nothing!" Frank squeaked, not eager to suffer under the hand of Catlin. She will not hurt him, but making his boots cold with her Ice Magic is not out of question.

"But, if I have to guess, your father will join in the delegation. Maybe old man Alfon as well. Both are 2nd Circle Mage, but both also the one that know the most about dungeon in the village." Frank said, after Catlin did not freeze him.

"Make sense. Normally, one have to stay behind to protect the village, but, Ardent is here." Catoin agreed, looking at her fiance.

She still could not believe the growth of her friend, turned best friend, turned fiance. In such a short time of two years, he manage to become a 2nd Circle Mage, surpassing her eldest brother, who was considered to be a top prodigy of his generation.

"Yeah. Besides, sending two 2nd Circle Mage will show how important the news they have to the higher up of Cruom City." Ardent nodded, also agreeing with Frank's assessment.

Cruom City is one of 8 largest cities in the region. They control a large swath of territory, with Slurom Village in that territory, to the point they can be considered a small nation in their own right. In fact, Ardent is positive there are many small nobledom and kingdoms during the Medieval Age.

For the city to not call themselves a new kingdom or nation is puzzling, to him at least. Though, there should be reasons he did not know of to why the cities' leaders did not proclaim themselves as a new kingdom.

"And Catlin might be put to guard the dungeon." Ardent said. It seem to make sense to him. While Catlin is a prodigy even better than her older brother, she still inexperienced in combat. Fighting against monster seem like the most efficient way for her to learn how to use her Magic in a proper battle.

"I agree. That's like the best place to put the Ice Witch at." Frank nodded.

"Ice Witch, eh, Frank?" Catlin's eyes twitched, showing her hidden fury. Realizing the absolute danger he was in, Frank wanted to bolt, except, his boots were frozen to the ground, along with his legs.

"I think someone need to learn some lesson in calling a beautiful lady as my own as a Witch." the fact she cracked her knuckles as she said beautiful lady did not get passed Ardent, but he did not question it. After all, look what will happen to him if he did such foolish thing. In fact, look at Frank!

-x-

After giving Frank his well deserved beat down, Catlin turned her attention to the elders.

"Now, we will give you the agreed schedule. Please memorize it and make sure to follow it. That's all." the chief said.

The elites looked at the schedule given to them. Using small wooden boards, the elders carved on it and gave it to the elites. Since papers are luxury item, they are rarely used by the village, with their sole used to on letters given to neighboring villages and towns. Or maybe the city that have claimed the land the village is on.

Ardent let out a well hidden sigh.

'I hope everything go well for the delegation."