CASE 3. The Case of Natalia, a Black Rank Adventurer (2)
Natalia and everyone from Wildcat Claws were given enchanted cloth with the “Sensory Protection” spell, and our preparations were complete.
The lake where the Phantasm Wings reside was on the opposite side of the mountain, so we have to travel quite a distance.
It’s about a three-day journey one way.
Anyway, we loaded up on supplies and set out for that lake.
The monsters along the way aren’t that strong.
Since Phantasm Wings feed on them, most are black-class monsters.
Still, their numbers make it challenging.
“I apologize, everyone, for having you escort me.”
“Don’t worry about it. We’re on a request too.”
Natalia’s combat abilities are not low, but compared to the coordinated Wildcat Claws team and me with Talat, she inevitably fell short.
Additionally, her equipment looked a bit shabby for a Black-ranker.
She explained that she hasn’t found a weapon that suits her, and she’s reluctant to buy an expensive one.
However, risking her life over it isn’t worth it.
Once we’re back, I’ll take her to the Adventurers’ Guild’s training grounds to pick a weapon and get it for her.
Due to rain on the way, we arrived at our objective, the lake, with delay, on the fifth day.
Several groups of monsters with white feathers and yellow beaks were floating on the lake’s surface.
Those must be the Phantasm Wings.
… They’re swans after all.
Now, how should we attract their attention?
Dealing with them in groups might be manageable, but if they all attack at once, even if we give it our all, it could be dangerous.
What should we do?
“Um, at first, I’ll show myself alone to lure them out.”
“Huh? Natalia, are you sure?”
“This is a request to determine my familiar. Please let me take a bit of a risk.”
“Mhm… I get it. If it seems even a bit dangerous, we’ll forcibly evacuate you, okay?”
“Yes, please. Thank you.”
With the plan settled, Natalia appeared alone in front of one group of Phantasm Wings.
Initially, they seemed to be observing her, but suddenly, one of them threw feathers at her.
The feathers didn’t hit her, instead sticking to a nearby tree.
What just happened?
“Everyone, please lend me your strength. If the Phantasm Wings acknowledge my power, they’ll consider forming a contract.”
“Does that mean you can tame them?”
“Yes. I heard their words clearly. Now, all we need to do is show our strength and make them listen to my commands.”
Since it seems they have acknowledged our assistance, we revealed ourselves from the hiding spot.
There were eight Phantasm Wings, and even with Talat, they outnumbered us.
Moreover, we mustn’t kill them.
Now, how do we win this?