The next day, I stood in front of the party house for Nachtlibelle.
Nachtlibelle (also known as night dragonfly)
The biggest A-rank adventurer party in the city, with over a hundred members.
They've taken down thirty percent of all known floor bosses, and joining them requires strict screening.
Heidemarie is the so-called genius who skipped the audition entirely. She got scouted directly.
Since joining, she's kept racking up achievements and is now seen as a rising star. Rumors say she's a candidate for the next executive spot.
Her job is "Sage," a rare class that lets her use every type of professional magic.
From the start, we're on completely different levels as people.
The only reason I can even talk to her is because we're from the same hometown.
Even so, the building is massive. It looks like a full-on mansion.
"Is there something I can help you with?"
While I wandered around looking for the gate, a young man who seemed like security called out.
Yeah, this looked weird.
"Um… yes, a friend introduced me, and I have her business card."
As I reached into my bag, the guard tensed up.
Damn, that made me look even more suspicious.
He stepped back a little and gave a harmless smile…
"Hehehe."
Oh no. I got nervous and laughed. Now he's extra wary.
"No, I'm not suspicious! Um, look, here, this! Please take it!"
I shoved the business card Heidemarie gave me toward him. He took it with a puzzled expression.
"…You're friends with Heidemarie?"
Is it "a friend of Heidemarie-san"? Or "Heidemarie-san's friend"? Apparently I don't qualify as having friends.
"It does have the permission crest."
He compared it to something.
"That's what Heidemarie said… well, hehe, I don't really get it either."
When I said that, the guard seemed to remember.
"So you're that Wim Strauss?"
"Um, yes, Wim Strauss." what did he men by 'that Wim?'
The guard suddenly looked embarrassed.
"Oh, my apologies! I've heard about you. We've been waiting. It's a bit early, so sorry about that. I'll call Heidemarie right away."
"Welcome to Nachtlibelle, Wim."
Heidemarie led me through the entrance hall with its gorgeous fountain.
"But what about you, Abel? I told you Wim was coming."
"I'm sorry. I shouldn't say this, but I really wanted to see 'that' Wim for myself." Ok, there it was again.
"How could you be wrong?"
"Well, Heidemarie said he is an incredibly handsome man."
"I didn't say that! I didn't say that, Wim!"
The guy from earlier isn't security. His name is Abel.
Oh, so she has people to joke around with. That's a relief.
"Hey, Heidemarie."
I whispered.
"Hey! …What's up, Wim? You startled me."
"What do you both mean by 'that'?"
"Oh, you're actually kind of famous."
Huh?
They showed me into a large, open room.
The vibe felt similar to the table on the first floor back in Dragon's Wings.
Like a chat area mixed with a conference room.
A bunch of Nachtlibelle members were gathered, getting gear ready. It looked like they were prepping for a dive.
Everyone carried this quiet dignity. If Heidemarie hadn't been there, I would've turned and run.
Among them, one person stood out right away.
She was built solid, but definitely a woman.
Silver armor that prioritized mobility, and a strange weapon with an unnaturally long handle hanging at her waist.
I recognized her instantly because she's famous.
"Camilla, I brought him."
"Ah, 'that' guy."
Nachtlibelle's leader, "Silver-haired" Camilla.
One of Fielbron's absolute strongest warriors.
"Oh, it's you. You're smaller than I imagined, excuse me."
"…Hahaha." Huh?
Up close, she towered over me.
She was impressive
I mean, really impressive. And stunningly beautiful. Just wow.
"Welcome to Nachtlibelle. I'm Camilla, the leader."
"Um, um, hello, I'm from Dragon's Wings, uh, I got fired, my name is Wim. Thank you very much. Nice to meet you."
When I offered my hand, she gripped it firmly. What an insane handshake.
"I've heard about you from Heidemarie. We welcome talented people. Come experience our atmosphere and see for yourself what you're worth."
"Yes?"
"It'll be different from Dragon's Wings, so this time you'll just be a guest, providing support from the rear. Depending on the situation, you might have to fight, but I think you'll be fine."
....?
I pulled Heidemarie aside.
"Hey, Heidemarie."
"What is it?"
"What is she talking about?"
"I told you, it's an experience. We're going together now."
"Yes?"
"Show us your power."