Chapter 13 - Chapter 22 Building Hope

“You two sure took your time,” Guild Master Enkin said with a grin as he handed Mixarnt his new adventurer’s guild card, which also contained the serial number for his guild bank account.

“Use your money wisely, lad,” Enkin advised. But before he could turn to leave, Mixarnt spoke up with something unexpected.

“Guild Master, please use all my money—the 3.1 million gold—to rebuild the villages destroyed by the bandit leader. Also, I want to fund an orphanage here in Caspade. While Mika and I were heading to the tailor shop earlier, I overheard people talking about children orphaned by Kaelzar’s attacks. I even saw some of them in the alleyway…” Mixarnt said innocently.

Mika was stunned. She had only noticed Mixarnt complaining about being called the “Pajama Warrior,” but she hadn’t realized he had also been quietly observing everything around him. His thoughtfulness took her by surprise.

Enkin’s expression softened at Mixarnt’s sincere request, his usual gruff demeanor giving way to a glimpse of the kind heart beneath. He looked at the young adventurer with newfound respect, his eyes lingering on the determination in Mixarnt’s face.

"Young man, I’m impressed by your generosity and compassion," Enkin said, his voice warm. "Using your entire fortune for such noble causes is a selfless act, something we don’t often see in our line of work."

He paused, thinking over Mixarnt’s proposal. "Very well, I’ll make sure your wishes are carried out. The funds will be used to rebuild the villages and establish an orphanage in Caspade Town. It’s the least we can do to honor those who were lost and help the survivors heal."

Enkin handed Mixarnt a sealed document, the official guild order for distributing his wealth.

Mixarnt signed the paperwork without hesitation, grinning as he grabbed a large stack of quest papers—all gathering quests. Gathering quests were open to all ranks, as long as the adventurer understood the risks. The rarer the item, the higher the reward, but that also meant greater danger.

"I’ll take 50 of these gathering quests," Mixarnt declared confidently.

Enkin raised an eyebrow, glancing between the young adventurer and the towering stack of papers. "50, huh? That’s quite the workload for someone your age."

He sighed, then nodded. "Well, your enthusiasm is admirable. Just remember, gathering quests aren’t as simple as they seem. Some of these require you to venture into dangerous territory, deal with aggressive creatures, or navigate hazardous terrain."

Handing Mixarnt the approved quests, Enkin’s tone grew firm. "Be smart about this. Assess each task carefully, stay safe, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed. We don’t want to lose a promising adventurer like you."

Mika, watching the exchange, placed a hand on Mixarnt’s shoulder, her expression a mix of pride and concern. "Just promise me you’ll be careful, alright?"

"Oh yes! I'll be careful! I’ll be back in no time! Once I earn more gold, the orphanage will be financially secure!" Mixarnt declared with determination.

Enkin’s expression shifted as he realized Mixarnt’s true intent. It wasn’t just about building the orphanage—he wanted to make sure it never ran out of food or supplies. With half of his 3.1 million gold already allocated to rebuilding the village, Mixarnt was thinking ahead to ensure the orphanage’s future stability.

Enkin studied the boy for a moment before nodding in approval. "I see... You’re not just giving them a place to stay—you want to make sure they’re cared for long-term. That kind of foresight is rare, especially in someone so young."

A small smile crossed his face. "You have a good head on your shoulders, Mixarnt. Managing resources and planning ahead isn’t something most adventurers think about. That kind of thinking will take you far."

Then, in a more formal tone, he continued, "As Guild Master, it’s my responsibility to recognize talent and guide those with potential. From today forward, I officially appoint you as a Representative of the Adventurer’s Guild, responsible for overseeing the orphanage’s financial stability and ensuring its continued success."

Mixarnt's face twisted in protest. "Geh! Guild Master, can't you just give that task to Mika? I'll even give her my bank card. Here!" He shoved the card into Mika’s hands, much to her surprise. She stared at him, baffled by how easily he entrusted her with his finances. Was he just that trusting, or did he simply want to enjoy adventuring without any responsibilities?

"Okay, bye-bye!" Before Enkin could respond, Mixarnt bolted out of the guild.

Mika couldn't help but giggle as she watched him disappear.

Enkin let out a deep sigh, rubbing his temples. "That kid is going to be the death of me..." he muttered, though there was a clear hint of fondness in his voice.

Mika smiled gently, tucking the bank card away. "Well, he's young and impulsive, but that energy is what makes him a great adventurer. Don't worry, Guild Master—I’ll make sure he doesn’t get into too much trouble."