Chapter 297: The Reward for Slaying the Centipede
And so, the aftermath unfolded. While casually dealing with the remnants of the centipedes, Rest and the others returned to the surface. The centipedes, having lost their queen, were in disarray, making them easy prey. The corpses of the centipedes were collected by subordinates sent by Andrew. It seemed that the centipede’s carapace was perfect for use as armor. These materials were purchased by the Adventurer’s Guild, and even when split among the three of them, the amount was enough to build a lavish mansion in the Noble District of the Royal Capital.
However, the most significant harvest was undoubtedly the Rainbow Crystals. Rest received a generous amount of these crystals as a reward from Andrew. The quantity was sufficient to craft rings for not just six, but even twenty individuals. The profits from selling the centipedes went directly into their pockets, ensuring they reaped rewards far exceeding their efforts.
“Really, I can’t thank you enough. No matter how much I express my gratitude to Lord Clover, it won’t be sufficient,” Andrew said, beaming with satisfaction as they reported the centipede hunt.
“Please, accept it without hesitation. There’s plenty more where that came from, so don’t worry about it,” Clover replied.
“Of course, I will accept it… but are you sure the remaining centipedes are under control?”
“Ah, those left behind have lost their leadership after losing their queen. They’re being hunted by adventurers while they mine. In fact, what I’m more concerned about is whether the adventurers might run off with the Rainbow Crystals. We’re conducting thorough body checks when they enter and exit the mine.”
“That sounds tough… By the way, those Rainbow Crystals are truly beautiful.”
Rest held a large Rainbow Crystal up to the light, squinting at its brilliance. The crystal sparkled in seven colors, shifting hues depending on the angle of the light. While Earth had stones like alexandrite that changed color, this gem was distinctly different. Perhaps it was due to the abundant magical power it contained.
(Magical power has a significant impact on the natural world. It brings forth magic, alters the bodies of plants and animals, transforming them into monsters, and even bestows mysterious changes upon ores.)
“Did you know? Rainbow Crystals are also used as protective charms. There’s a legend that they repel evil spirits.”
“Considering that monsters were nesting near the vein of those crystals, I find that legend hard to believe.”
“Well, that’s true… Regardless, this means we can get wonderful gifts for our loved ones.”
“Loved ones… Could it be that Prince Andrew has someone to present a gift to?”
Andrew had no fiancée. There had been talk of an engagement with Celestine at one point, but that had since fallen through. Rumor had it he was involved in a forbidden romance with someone of a different status, but what was the truth behind it?
“I’ll leave that to your imagination… But I will admit that I have someone special. Thanks to you, I’ll be able to bring joy to my beloved.”
“That’s great to hear…”
“What would make a good gift, I wonder… A ring might shatter when I throw a punch, so perhaps a pendant? That muscular figure would surely look splendid adorned with a rainbow gem.”
“…………”
Throwing a punch. Muscular. It was quite a curious and intriguing statement, but Rest’s instincts warned him not to delve deeper. It could lead to trouble, perhaps even a dragon emerging from the bushes.
(Well, there are women who excel in martial arts too, right? Muscles aren’t exclusively a male trait, after all. There are men who prefer muscular women, right?)
“I’ll ask a jeweler friend of mine to craft the pieces. If you’d like, I can place an order for you as well?”
“…I would appreciate that. For now, let’s go with six rings.”
Despite feeling an inexplicable chill, Rest nodded in agreement to Andrew’s offer.