It has been a week since they visited the black market. The squad members accepted the children and the elf as the new members and opened their hearts to them. Even cold Lisha taught them her customs, traditions, and language for their future journey, knowing they would return to the north.
Most importantly Licht gave them new equipment that could help them to defend themselves. Yelena got a magic bow which is temporarily her main equipment since divine wood is difficult to find and buy. It was both a rare and expensive material that was sought after by many people who used it for many purposes like weapon making, potion brewing, and shipbuilding.
" Why are you so grumpy recently? Is it because she rivals your talent?"
Licht leaned on the wall, looking at Leah who was sulking in the corner. Leah clicked her tongue when she heard him, not wanting to admit that he was right. As an assassin, her stealth ability was much stronger than anyone in her squad, so she was often regarded as a scout with Mikael who also had sharp sight.
However, after seeing this elf whose talent was outrageous as a ranger, she had no choice but to shrink back. This elf was agile and had spirit magic, so she could camouflage herself easily.
" Don't talk like that. I don't like it. Besides, you know I could slit everyone's throat whenever I want it."
She grinned cruelly despite her beauty. Sheer bloodlust of hers could overpower anyone even if they were veterans, but Licht who was trained by Viktor, his parents, and iceborns didn't bathe his eye. He was already numb to such a thing as he hit her head.
" Don't say such things to me. We are comrades, not enemies. You know I could also kill you if I truly desire so, so do everyone. We are a bunch of irregular people that were gathered under the banner of our kingdom."
Licht said lightly, closing his eyes with a thought. Leah carefully looked at his face which looked like a divine sculpture in the capital. Even if he closed his eyes, his charm was fatal for both genders. However, the one shouldn't miss his body which was hidden under a thin line of armor and clothes. The lean muscles that were packed neatly and the calcuses on his hand showed his true prowess. The same applied to other members.
Even mage Cynthia and sniper Regina had calluses on their hands, showing their hard-working trait. During their stay in the North, they gained quite fame through the kingdom and became a topic in the upper circle. Especially their identities were strictly managed by army upper echelons and royals, so no noble could advance to them with impure thoughts.
" We need to depart to the capital before the sun sets. The Desert is a cruel place when it comes to night. As you saw before, monsters lurk in the shadows of stars, preying on those who are unfortunate enough to enter their mouths."
Agam spoke with a grave face, believing they needed to hasten. Indeed, his words were right. In this world, humans could survive in extremely cold north to the hot deserts of the South, but they didn't dare to underestimate these places.
Desert and Jungle were the most notorious places to survive. The former one was too extreme while the jungle was too humid. These locations had different eco system and most adventurers and survivalists avoided these places out of their fear and experience.
" If you say so. Daemon, wrap the things and throw them on the carriage. Mikael, go fetch water and food. Others put your luggage inside."
Regina commanded them while handing out the inn fee. Sweat droplets formed on her forehead, indicating how hot the outside was. Even so, she had no choice but to follow Agam who was an experienced traveller and native. His words were law except for his mischievous side.
" Agam, I dare you to look at my luggage again. I swear I will cut your fingers."
She threatened him with a sharp look as she sipped her drink. Licht patted his shoulder with a sigh, signaling him to move.
" Lili, should I get camel cream as a sunscreen? I know they aren't effective like ours, but I might get badly sunburned."
Cynthia asked with curiosity.