“It’s a big nest. I wonder if we are like adventurers exploring unexplored areas.” (Litty)

“To call this Scarb’s nest an unexplored area is a bit of an exaggeration…” (Branch Manager)

“But, Branch Manager. Nobody knows where the Queen is, or what’s going on. Isn’t it what we call a fine unknown dungeon?” (Litty)

“Yeah, indeed…” (Branch Manager)

“Then it’s an unexplored area! We will be the first ones to break through this place! It will be a great sense of accomplishment!” (Litty)

“Fu, fuhahaha…” (Branch Manager)

As Litty declared, the other adventurers simply laughed at her naive statement. How could she even think of such an idea under such circumstances? Could it be that this child had no sense of despair?

This is not the time for me, who is both elder and more experienced, to break down. The branch manager slapped his own cheeks with both hands.

“All right! After a break, we’ll go on with our spirits up! Don’t let those bugs get us!” (Branch Manager)

“Branch manager! I want to try that Spiral Thrust! Can I be the one to guard and instead you guys rest?” (Litty)

“Litty, you’ve got two full hours to rest. The others too. Dimos and I will take the watch. For now, leave it to the more experienced guys.” (Branch Manager)

“Eeeh…?” (Litty)

Other than Litty, the rest of the adventurers were grateful for the guarding arrangement, but a sense of awkwardness prevailed. Perhaps sensing the atmosphere, the Branch Manager looked around, making sure to keep an eye contact with everyone.

“Well, geez. This is what it means to be a higher up. I’m the branch manager. What kind of adventurer are we if we don’t take care of the younger generation?” (Branch Manager)

The branch manager scratched his chin in embarrassment. His words were heard by adventurers of Rank 4 and below, including Litty.

However, only Dimos was of a good age. Such a man, of course, had to lend the branch manager some hand to alleviate the awkward situation.

“That’s why rest yourselves properly. Also, let me tell you…” (Branch Manager)

“…I will not let you die. I promise for sure. Is what you were about to say, right?” (Dimos)

“Hey, Dimos-san. I hope you don’t interrupt me when I am having a moment.” (Branch Manager)

“If you’re embarrassed, then get off the topic. Also, you’re stroking your chin too much.” (Dimos)

The branch manager, having his habit exposed by Dimos, hurriedly removed his hand from his chin.

Despite being in such a place like this one, after listening to the branch manager, everyone felt that there was some power in his words. It gave hope and spirit to the group of adventurers, which had been engulfed by despair.

“Litty, let’s take a break.” (Roma)

“Yes, Roma-san, let’s all recover our strength and get going again!” (Litty)

“Yes…” (Roma)

The branch manager looked at Instructor Toito to signal that he would be the next one to guard. Toito was disappointed, but did not reject the suggestion.

Toito was serious in his own way, though timid, but he never let it show on his face so as not to appear pathetic in front of his juniors. However, he never let his juniors live up to their potential, as he was lazy and never cared about them. Branch Manager reminded Instructor Toito how he was brought up to correct his path.

“Leave this to us. Right, James?” (Branch Manager)

“Yeah, especially Litty, get some rest.” (James)

“Me?” (Litty)

“You have to control your excitement for now. Okay?” (James)

The Branch Manager and James in charge of guarding were more motivated, and the lively situation of everyone was a relief for the Branch Manager.

Normally, when a party took a break, they were supposed to share the work, regardless of who was proficient.

It was Litty who made the Branch Manager change the arrangement. Her enthusiasm made him more determined to protect everyone.

It was also because she reminded him of his adventurous spirit during his younger years, which he had long since forgotten.

But above all, people like her were the ones who should really be cherished. If she and other future generations of greats succeeded in developing themselves, Scarbs could become nothing more than a minor hindrance to them.

The branch manager thanked Litty in his heart for giving him the opportunity to look at the situation from a broader perspective.