Let's become Treasure Hunters. It’s an old story, from when I was a kid, less than ten years old. We were a group that was always playing together, and one of my childhood friends had brought it up. A reckless, physically strong, yet heroic boy. Let’s become Treasure Hunters. Treasure shrines are all over the world, and riches and glory can be ours. Our aim will be just one thing: to be the strongest heroes in the world. If it’s us... Us six, it’s pretty much a sure thing. Together, we’ll face any danger, overcome every obstacle, and carve our names into legend. With our bonds of friendship as our greatest weapon, nothing can stand in our way. We’ll gather treasures, unlock secrets, and become the heroes we’ve always dreamed of being. Let the adventures begin! To this baseless proposal, the quick and dexterous friend agreed. The friend who loved to read books timidly complied, and the taciturn yet reliable. One gave a nod. The sister, always clinging to my back, peeked up at me expectantly, and I also gave my approval. Treasure Hunters who tour various ruins from all over to bring back mysterious relics have been shining stars from olden times until now. Wealth, prestige—there is no faster way in the world to obtain everything and become someone great. Of course, there are risks. There is an absurdly terrible risk called death. And after several years, as a result of working hard and supporting each other, we safely acquired the qualifications to be hunters. Although having said that, you can just apply for the qualifications and receive them without any real challenge. The reckless, strong, and heroic boy became an unparalleled swordsman. The quick, dexterous friend became a thief who could see through any trap to guide the party, not like they were actual criminals; it’s just the common name. Now, with our dreams within reach, we stand ready to embrace whatever adventures await us. For better or worse, each friend had a special talent that made them irreplaceable. Gems. But even before becoming hunters, something became clear when we were training. For our respective roles. I was the only one who had no special talent. Just the one... the person who was unable to be better than average at something was me. Four friends, my younger sister, and I. Only I of us six. One of us that couldn’t do anything. Among us all, I was the only one who couldn’t see a path to becoming a hero. Ever since the morning, I had been feeling the worst. Thick black clouds covered the sky. If you shut your eyes, you could hear the sound. Of raindrops hitting the ground. The water stunk. The smell of mud. The ground was completely muddy due to the bad weather that had been going on. For three days. It was daytime, yet it was gloomy outside. Despite the incessant rain, various men and women were lining up by the side of a sturdy-looking stone building. A person who looked dead on the inside. A person who was yelling out in a loud Voice. There weren’t just pure humans either, some had striking characteristics. That distinguished them as being from a different race. The only common point between them was that they all had imposing figures. Dirty armor that you couldn’t tell what kind of leather it was made from. An overcoat that concealed the whole body of its wearer. Some of them wore complete sets of metal armor. Not a small number held swords or other heavy, handheld weapons. Due to the bad weather, the streets were mostly empty of people, and so was only one. Block in the city was caught up in a bizarre fervor. Every person was gathered there for a slight chance. To flaunt their name and strength as a treasure hunter, in an attempt to enter a Party. The occupation of Treasure Hunter has always been that flashy kind of job. The risks were extremely high compared to other professions, but if you had talent. – wealth, prestige, power; you could obtain everything. The name of a noble house, or whether you were born into a merchant family, it’s the kind of glory that is beyond reach. Hunters often worked in groups called parties. If a hunter joined an experienced party from the start, they could dramatically lower their risks compared to starting alone. From nothing. Active hunters were always looking for skilled comrades. The people gathered together were also at that place for that kind of event. They exchanged stories of their past exploits, showcasing their talents and abilities, eager to form alliances that could lead to greater treasures and legendary quests. The air buzzed with excitement and anticipation, each individual hoping to prove themselves worthy in front of seasoned hunters. It was a chance to be seen, to be chosen, and perhaps to find the missing pieces that would complete their teams. As I scanned the crowd, I felt a mix of nerves and determination—this was our moment to shine, to step into the world of treasure hunting and forge our destinies. Since it was raining, I didn’t think many people would show up, but an extreme. The amount had come. With a sigh, I also took my place at the back of the line. Because there was no roof, everybody in line was dripping wet. I put on my overcoat's hood, drew my body in to make my body smaller, and waited. When you are standing in line without anyone you know, it quickly becomes Disheartening. “Aaaaaah! Why the hell, when there are this many people! Nobody has even entered. In yet!” An irritated yell comes out from the front of the line, I shrank myself in even further. Further. Even at the best of times, waiting can be horrible; it’s even worse in the cold rain. I I understand the annoyance, but everyone here feels the same. Hunters are a strong bunch. There are also a lot of hot-headed types. No one will Be happy if a fight breaks out and they get dragged into it. One of a hunter’s talents was their physique. I have an average physique, but most. The people in my vicinity were heads above me. They held power far above regular people and used it to fight on equal grounds. With monsters. The true nature of these people was that they were themselves monsters wearing. Human skin. All I could do was stand by and pray that the situation defused peacefully and passed. Me by. Unusually, this time my prayers were granted, and there were no further uproars. The line moved forward a small amount. While I was busy trying to make my body shrink further in and not making any eye contact, the person in front turned their Head around to look at me. Beautiful blue eyes stared back at me. “Hey, can I bother you? Were you also looking to join a party?” “Ah... Yeah” An unusually cheerful voice. It seems like I might cause trouble if I ignore it, so I begrudgingly look at a spot just below their eyes. The voice that greeted me was from a female hunter who seemed to be in their late. Teens. Well cared for light brown hair, and bright blue eyes. She wore a long coat and a thick belt with a large pouch set to it. Her attire was standard for hunters, but her undamaged hair and a friendly smile. Appearance didn’t give off the look of a hunter who spent their time searching. Hazardous ruins. Her clothes were practically brand new without a blemish on them. In modern times, it wasn’t rare to see female hunters, but in my experience, there. There are roughly two types of hunters. One that’s still full of hope just before or immediately after becoming a hunter. And those who have stuck through countless risky adventures without losing their Shine, ones that held outstanding talents. Like my friends from back then, genuine monsters. Nine out of ten cases were of the former type, but you can never be sure. In the Hunter World, numerous people concealed their abilities. Indeed, to my suspicious gaze, the lady hunter gave a forced smile, but then put on a. A brighter expression and offered her hand. Seems like they aren’t the type that immediately tries to beat you up. In my brain, I secretly gave the hunter a danger rating of E. This is the level given to those who look safe if you’re only judging by their surface-level appearance. My name it’s Ruda Runebeck. A Level 3 Hunter. Well, I only just rose to that level. The other day, though.” Level 3 Hunter... mid-range then. Seems like she’s better than she looks. I silently raised my danger rating of the girl before me to D. She’s not a fresh hunter. At least from the looks of it. The treasure hunters are under the management of a hunting association. Commonly called “Explorers”, which bestows levels dependent on one's Achievements. There are up to 10 levels that can be granted, and so a level of 3 guarantees mid. Level of ability and achievements. Some statistics say that 70% of hunters stop progressing at level 3, so for Ruda to reach that level while still young shows she has good prospects. There is nothing to be lost from remaining cautious. I open my lips. I haven’t had a drop of water to drink since morning, and I had been running to arrive here. The voice that came out was very dry. “......My name’s.... Cry Andoric... nice to meet you, Ruda” I answered without shaking her offered hand. The greatest thing I gained in my five years as a hunter is a sense of danger. You may get thrown if you take that hand, and if you don’t get thrown, they might crush you instead. In the instant you grasp their hand, there is potential for you to be killed. Of course, if you don’t shake their hand, there is also the potential that the other will. Consider them your enemy. Ruda furrowed her eyebrows for a moment, but then let out a spirited voice. “Are you also solo then? Everyone’s on edge.... It’s a pretty bad feeling.” “...........” “I’ve been hunting alone up till now, but recently I’ve hit a bit of a wall... at that. Time I heard that there was a large-scale hunter recruitment going on that I decided to join. to come along.” Linked to the belt on her waist was a scabbard. She tapped on the dagger hanging. There. Inside treasure shrines, there are various gimmicks. Having just a dagger with Low killing potential, Ruda is probably a hunter who excels at solving these. Gimmicks rather than having great combat abilities. No, all those abilities are essential for solo hunters. Capturing a treasure shrine requires several different skills, it’s next to impossible. To cover them all on your own. Not every treasure hunter explores shrines, but to receive a level 3 ranking, the Achievement of capturing a shrine is necessary. If you can do that solo, then I would agree with giving a ranking of Level 3 in such a short time. It’s what one might call a『genius』I suppose. I don’t know what I should say, so I give a reluctant smile. When something seems impossible, you should laugh; it was something I picked up. In the last few years. “Being alone... It’s unreasonable, isn’t it?” “Yeah! It’s just like that! I went to the 『White Wolves Den』 but I couldn’t cut it. on my own...” Ruda’s eyes sparkled as if she had been starved for a conversation partner. “That’s the reason why... I thought I’d try and enter another party. If there were another five hunters at level 3, then we could fully capture the 『White. Wolves Den』. “Hah. 『White Wolves Den』 you say? Do you understand the kind of place you’re in right now?” All at once, Ruda’s expression turned severe because of the words spoken, like they were looking down on her. From the direction of the voice, a large man was standing in front of us. They were wearing combined leather and metal armor with an overcoat, darkened. From bloodstains. Ruda was like a shiny first-year hunter, and the man a grizzled long-service veteran. It’s not like hunters were just made up of guys like this, but there indeed were Countless hot-blooded types. Furthermore, the more skill a hunter had, the greater the tendency they had to be hot-blooded. In the Explorers, it’s even said that being hot-blooded is part of hunter culture. Sure enough, Ruda yelled back at the man who was two heads larger than her. Without any fear. “What’s that? Just gonna butt in? If you have a complaint, then say it already!” “Sheesh, a level 3 hunter? The 『White Wolves Den』? This isn’t the place for newbies to get together.” The large man's cheek twitches with a smile that you wouldn’t call a smile. Other people in the line are looking back like they are seeing something, too. Annoying or something amusing. I stealthily took a step back. I tried to prudently avoid getting involved in the Quarrel. It’s another thing I learned being a hunter. If you get caught up in something and get injured, nobody will come to help you. “The only people gathered here can be confident in their abilities. After all, the party that’s recruiting members today is 『Footprints』, understand? It’s a rising clan, but it’s currently the one with the most momentum in the entire. Imperial capital. No matter how you put it, having fresh dregs like you around is just an annoyance to the rest of us!” A clan is a group of hunters. A group that acts together on a routine basis is a party. If many parties gather together, they can form a clan. There are various reasons to come together. For example, sharing information or Lending items. If members are missing from a party, they can be borrowed from another party. And if a treasure shrine is of high difficulty, parties can challenge it. Together. Building a network of relationships is necessary for smooth hunting. Therefore, the Explorers Association also recommended that hunters form clans. This occasion's party member recruitment is also being held by a clan. 『Footprints』 is a clan that has made a name for itself in the imperial capital. Zebrudia. The formal name is 『First Step』. It’s a clan that many parties are made up of young people. People belong to. Even with its short history, it’s a clan that has gained a lot of Influence within the Imperial Capital. Originally, hunter party recruitment was done on an as-needed basis, but each year, 『Footprints』 gathered parties to hold a large-scale member recruitment. That was where we were currently. Regardless of age, level, and so forth, candidates were offered a test. If they passed. They would be accepted as members. Of course, the average level of a member of 『Footprints』 was high. There were only a few people who were accepted. But for a hunter who had confidence in their skill but was without Connections, it was a great opportunity. But they are usually mistaken. The party members of Footprints were the cream of the crop of the Imperial Capital. Like my friends, the level of talent needed is on the level of at least being a genius. Most people who take the test will have their self-confidence shattered and ground. Down to motes of dust. “Haa? The recruitment note didn’t mention a level requirement, and in the first place. Place I’m a level 3, you know!” “Hmph! Level 3 is certainly a mid-range level, but you see-! Footprints already have More level 3s than it has any use for!” The large man’s teeth were bared at Ruda as he yelled at her. It was as the big man says. Level 3 is only mid-range... purely put, it’s average. For a famed party, a level 3 had little worth. Most members of Footprints were above that level. However, Ruda’s level of 3 is only for the current moment. Seventy percent of hunters end their growth at level 3, but as long as you have the ability, your level will rise. For a person who raised themselves that far solo, quickly gaining experience with the support of a party wouldn’t be difficult. With the right mentorship and opportunities, Ruda could surpass expectations, transforming that average level into something formidable. The potential was there—raw and untapped. All it would take was the right challenges and a commitment to push beyond the limits. As whispers of his determination spread, I couldn't help but feel that Ruda was destined for greatness, a hidden gem waiting to shine in the treacherous world of treasure hunting. It’s for this reason that Footprints has no level requirements. Those were my inner thoughts, but it would probably be bad to make any. Arguments, so I held my tongue. I probably shouldn’t say anything unnecessary. While I stood by and watched silently, the big man and Ruda were quickly getting along. Heated. While the large man was hurling abuse, he touched the sword at his waist. It’s a Long sword about one meter in length. Unlike Ruda’s dagger, it’s a weapon made for cutting down monsters and Phantoms, killing them head-on. With just a dagger, Ruda is at a large disadvantage. The large man is not. lower than level 3.“Oh-? You’re not going to do anything? Fine by me, I’ll be the one to do it.” However, even with that, Ruda showed no indication of backing down. Her graceful Lips became warped, and a wild smile showed on her face. In the same way as the large man, she caressed the dagger on her hips with familiarity and then pulled it out. Treasure Hunters are treated differently from ordinary people. If a hunter fights with a regular citizen, the hunter will be blamed one-sidedly. But in the case of a quarrel between fellow hunters, it’s the one who draws their blade first who gets demonized. This unspoken rule creates an atmosphere thick with tension, where every glance and gesture is scrutinized. The dagger glinted menacingly in the light, a reminder that their lives were often on the line, not just from monsters but from each other. It was a dangerous game of respect and power, where one moment of impulsiveness could lead to dire consequences. As she held the blade, I could see the resolve in her eyes—she wasn't just prepared to defend herself; she was ready to assert her place in this unforgiving world. Ruda had been losing her cool just like the large man, and it was for that reason. That he didn’t draw first. Must be experienced in starting brawls. Even if Ruda was to be beaten up by the large man, she didn’t even know his name. Any extenuating circumstances would not be taken into account. Even if there’s a level difference between them, the courts won’t consider it. They’re both monsters. Why do I have to go through this when we were just lining up? Growing tired of the wind and rain and the tedious fight that was breaking out in front of me, a man in the white uniform of the Imperial military emerged from the building. On his collar was a mark of silver footprints. It was proof that he belonged to the Clan First Step. His grizzled looks were in no way inferior to the large man in front of me. His cheek carried a deep scar, and he stared at Ruda and the large man with a dangerous gaze. The tension in the air thickened as he approached, each step deliberate and heavy. It was clear he was no stranger to conflict, and as he surveyed the scene, I could sense that he was weighing his options. The raw energy of impending violence hung between them, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that this confrontation was about to escalate in ways none of us could predict. Would he intervene, or was he here to witness the chaos unfold? He shouted in a rough voice that was equal to the other two. “Hey! Quit your bitching! Go find another spot to fight! You two, I’ll kick you both. out without letting you go through testing!” The large man who had drawn his sword smacked his lips and returned to his spot. In line. Ruda also sheathed her dagger. And so, the line slowly moved forward. It doesn’t always make much sense in English. -For example, Footprints is the nickname of First Step. The Kanji that makes the First Step is “Origin of Footprints”; therefore, taking just Footprints out makes. It is the shortened form. Just keep in mind they both refer to the same clan.