The Garbage Collector Who Stumbled Upon Mythical Weapons! - Chapter 21
“Uraaah!!”
The members of “Albatross” slashed through the countless monsters swarming around them.
The creatures crawling toward them were insect-like monsters with multiple legs and hard shells. Each one was about 40 to 50 centimeters long.
However, no matter how tough their shells were, they couldn’t withstand a single strike from Macaus’ battle axe. The monsters were crushed and scattered.
The other members of “Albatross” wielded greatswords and hammers—perfect weapons for smashing through tough defenses. To them, these monsters were no real threat.
“Individually, they’re not much of a challenge, but there’s just so many of them.”
Golem, one of “Albatross,” rested his large hammer on his shoulder, sounding tired.
At the rear, Maria from “Minazuki” swiftly cut down the insects that “Albatross” missed. Her sword strokes were precise, slicing through the creatures in a single swing.
Even Macaus was impressed by her skill.
“Looks like we can leave the rest of the monsters to them.”
Thanks to the efforts of “Albatross” and “Minazuki,” the party made it to the deepest part of the tunnel as planned. There, part of the wall had collapsed, revealing a large hole.
“This must lead to the labyrinth… Let’s go in. Stay alert.”
Macaus and his group entered the hole, followed by “Minazuki.”
Lastly, Garm and the “Great Eagle” party stepped inside.
“We haven’t done anything at all, have we?”
Garm voiced his frustration.
“Isn’t that fine? We’ll get the same reward as long as the job is completed, and this way is easier.”
“I guess… but still…”
Garm was slightly annoyed by Sophia’s indifferent attitude, but he also knew that not contributing at all was a problem.
After all, this mission was about proving himself to Clay.
If he failed, he might be kicked out of the party. He also wanted to wipe the smug look off Macaus’s face.
—And honestly, he just wanted to show off in front of “Minazuki.” (That was his biggest reason.)
But opportunities to prove himself were rare. Just as he was thinking that, a large insect-like monster scuttled toward him.
“Oh! Finally, a chance!”
Garm switched his torch to his left hand and drew his sword with his right. It was a brand-new weapon he had bought just for this day.
“Let’s test this blade on you!”
He swung his sword with all his strength. He was well-prepared for battle, equipped with the “Oni God Vedernes Gauntlets” and the “Sky God Hermes’ Greaves.”
—He was fully ready for combat!
With a sharp swing, his sword struck the monster’s shell.
Snap! A loud crack echoed.
“Huh?”
His brand-new sword had snapped cleanly at the base and was now spinning through the air.
Garm stood frozen in shock.
“It’s dangerous! Fall back!”
Maria rushed to his side. Her sword flashed as she drew it, slicing the monster cleanly in half.
The creature died instantly, and Maria smoothly sheathed her blade. The efficiency of her movements drew a chorus of admiration from the “Great Eagle” members.
“My apologies. I missed one.”
Maria stood in front of Garm and apologized. Seeing her up close, her beauty was even more striking. Garm found himself staring in awe.
“Maria! There’s no need to apologize. These guys are adventurers too. They should be able to protect themselves!”
The one who stepped forward was a tall woman with a shield. Her long limbs were covered in armor, but the muscles on her exposed thighs and stomach were clearly defined.
“Exactly! If you can’t even handle a simple insect, that’s just pathetic!!”
A small girl in a white robe glared at Garm with scorn.
“So, you’re the E-rank adventurer Macaus was talking about.”
The one who spoke was a slightly older woman with a mysterious aura. She wore a black robe and a wide-brimmed triangular hat, studying Garm with an evaluating gaze.
“W-wait! I may be E-rank now, but I used to be D-rank! I just had a break from adventuring, so my rank dropped!”
“Either way, that’s still a low rank!”
“Ugh… I mean…”
As the small girl mocked him, Garm struggled to find a comeback. Maria stepped in between them.
“Sorry, my team has a sharp tongue. Let me introduce us properly. I’m Maria, the leader of ‘Minazuki.’ And—”
She glanced at the members behind her.
“The tall one is Rosa, a strong warrior who can stand toe-to-toe with any man.”
Rosa crossed her arms and snorted.
“This is Celesti, a white mage who specializes in healing and purification magic.”
Celesti, the small girl, frowned at Garm with distaste.
“Calvan specializes in support magic. She may not use attack spells, but she’s a vital member of our party.”
“Nice to meet you!”
Calvan waved cheerfully with a bright smile.
As “Minazuki” finished their introductions, Van stepped forward.
“I’m Van, the leader of ‘Great Eagle.’ The ones behind me are Amber, a mage, Sophia, a monk, and Clay, a warrior. And—”
Van turned to Garm.
“I’m Garm! I’ve been an adventurer for over ten years, so if you need advice, just ask me!”
Garm confidently introduced himself, but Celesti scrunched up her face in annoyance.
“You’re the weakest one here! Stop acting all high and mighty!!”
“H-high and mighty!?”
Celesti’s words left Garm completely speechless.