In a room inside the auction house, Rae was surrounded by Eric and the two people who bought him.

The older man with a scar on his face was extremely powerful. Even before Rae appraised him, he felt that the man was a savage beast just waiting to be let loose and tear its opponent limb from limb.

『Status』

『Titles』: 『Leader of the Humble Foxes』『Calamity of Beasts』『Calamity of Monsters』『Human Slaughterer』『War Veteran』『Dungeon Conqueror』『A Ranked Adventurer』『Thunder』『Survivor』『Rescuer』

『General Information』

Name: Landis Colts Gender: Male Age: 43 Years Race: Human Level: 39 Class/Level: 「Berserker LV42」「Elite Mercenary LV38」

『Resistances』:「Lightning: 25%」「Fire: 0%」「Wind: 0%」「Water: 0%」「Earth: 0%」「Light/Holy: 0%」「Darkness: 0% 」「Poison: 0% 」

『Status』

Health Points: 2992 / 2992 (+29.92/s)

Mana Points: 1650 / 1650 (+16.50/s)

Stamina Points: 2244/ 2244 (+22.44/s)

『Attributes』

Strength: 764

Endurance: 732

Intelligence: 345

Dexterity/Agility: 642

Perception: 423

Wisdom: 480

Charisma: 58

Luck: 15

『Skill List』

「Enhanced Agility LV5」「Crisis Perception LV9」「Leap LV7」「Sense of Balance」「Enhanced Strength LV10」 「Intimidating Aura LV10」 「Lightning Manipulation LV8」「Lightning Infusion LV6」「Two-Handed Affinity」 「Warhammer Techniques LV10」 「Warhammer Mastery LV8」 「Hand to Hand Combat LV6」「Pain Resistance LV8」「Berserkers Rage LV10」「Rage Control LV10」「Strength From Pain LV10」「Armor Penetration LV10」「Rage’s Avatar LV6」「Enhanced Endurance LV10」「Battle Spirit LV9」「Dash LV9」

‘Strong! Although this man’s stats aren’t nearly as strong as Yva’s; that vicious aura he’s emitting makes him ‘feel’ more dangerous than her.’ The aura Landis was releasing actually wasn’t something a normal person could feel without him purposefully directing it. It was just that Rae’s perception and senses were too sensitive so he could feel the very faint danger Landis was exuding.

He was also surprised by the fierce and beautiful red-headed woman who came with Landis as well. ‘Even this young woman is powerful…’

『Status』

『Titles』: 『Calamity of Beasts』『Calamity of Monsters』『Human Slaughterer』『War Veteran』『Dungeon Conqueror』『C Ranked Adventurer』『Maiden of Flames and Steel』『Survivor』『Mage』

『General Information』

Name: Selena Colts Gender: Female Age: 24 Years Race: Human Level: 29 Class/Level: 「Blade Dancer LV30」「Flame Elementalist LV28」

『Resistances』:「Lightning: 0%」「Fire: 20%」「Wind: 0%」「Water: -15%」「Earth: 0%」「Light/Holy: 0%」「Darkness: 0% 」「Poison: 0% 」

『Status』

Health Points: 1422 / 1422 (+14.22/s)

Mana Points: 1888 / 1888 (+18.88/s)

Stamina Points: 1066 / 1066 (+10.66/s)

『Attributes』

Strength: 403

Endurance: 308

Intelligence: 475

Dexterity/Agility: 437

Perception: 446

Wisdom: 469

Charisma: 65

Luck: 32

『Skill List』

「Enhanced Agility LV6」「Crisis Perception LV5」「Dash LV5」「Sense of Balance」「Fire Infusion LV6」「Fire Magic LV10」「Enhanced Fire Magic LV2」「Mana Control LV7」「Swordsmanship LV7」「Hand to Hand Combat LV4」「Mana Perception LV7」「Footwork LV7」「Body Flexibility LV6」「Sword Manifestation LV5」「Evasion LV7」「Presence Perception LV6」

‘I suppose strong people in this world are just cabbages…,’ thought Rae. ‘Well, at least my “owners” are quite reliable, judging by their strength alone.’

“I just need to remove my bond with his collar,” he heard Eric Say.

Rae stood still as Eric placed his index finger on the red crystal embedded within his slave collar and said in a low voice, “I revoke this bond.”

The crystal’s red color began to fade in an upward motion towards Eric’s finger until it became completely blue.

“There, now his collar is bondless,” he said. Eric then turned to Selena and Landis. “Which of you two are going to bond with him? Or will it be both of you?”

Landis looked at Selena with a smile. “Just you. You will be his only master. Think of it as making up for the loss of Inferno’s Tongue,” he said.

Selena placed her attention on the elf-like goblin standing before her. She honestly did not know what to make of this mutated goblin that looked like he could be the prince a kingdom. ‘He’s obviously quite special, but…’ She then thought about what her father asked before. Norton also seemed to have high expectations of him; she decided to trust their judgment.

“Alright,” she said.

She then took out a dagger from her boot and made a small cut on her finger. A droplet of blood began forming from the opening. Selena placed the cut finger on the blue crystal and spoke. “I place my rule on this one.”

The crystal flashed briefly and a reverse of what happened earlier took place. From where Selena placed her finger, the blood from the cut began disappearing while crimson invaded the crystal until it was completely red.

Rae looked on at her as she bonded with his collar and began thinking. ‘So bonds are formed through the owner’s blood… Is the reason the collars don’t work on me because I’m an Origin Vampire? It must be. I’m the Sovereign of blood. How could I be controlled and ruled by it?’ ’ Rae reasoned.

『Akashic System』Wisdom +1!

After the bonding was complete, Landis spoke up. “Haha, welcome to the Humble Foxes, little fella. We bought you for quite an amount, so I hope you don’t disappoint. Or…” Then he took a finger and ran it horizontally across his neck.

Rae knew he was joking around, but with Landis’ scarred face and that aura, Rae felt, Landis appeared extremely vicious. He shivered at the sight.

“Y-yes Master,” he replied timidly.

Selena looked at Landis. “Father, enough. You’re scaring him.”

Landis laughed. “I’m just messin’ around with the new fox,” he said while patting Rae on the back hard enough to break the bones of a normal man.

‘Just like Norton, a muscle freak,’ Rae complained to himself. 'Well, at least they don't seem like the type to abuse and treat me like trash.' Then he thought about what just happened. 'Not on purpose, at least...'

Selena sighed inwardly. ‘Embarrassing…’

Eric interrupted the father and daughter banter. “It has been a pleasure doing business you. I hope the Humble Foxes do come back someday.”

Selena bowed politely toward him.

“I suppose it’s time we get going now,” Landis said.

As the three were about to walk out the door, Eric made a complaint. “Mr. Colts, I do hope you remember to… behave the next time you’re at one of our auctions,” he said with a smile that was not a smile. He was referring to how Landis essentially strong-armed the auction twice.

Landis rubbed his head and smiled awkwardly and chuckled. “Heh heh, I’ll be sure to remember. Give my regards to your captain,” he replied. And then they left.

'So he's acquainted with Norton. That explains their seemingly decent nature toward me. I'm gonna miss him a bit,' thought Rae.

********

‘”Remember,” my ass!’ Eric cursed afterward.

********

When they left the auction house, the group was greeted by a very ample and beautiful, scantily dressed, dark-skinned woman.

“Mr. Colts of the Humble Foxes, correct?” she asked.

‘This woman’s voice is very familiar for some reason…,’ he then appraised her and was shocked.

『Status』

『Titles』: 『Hunter』『Assassin』『Elder Beast of Shadow』『Holder of Arteriax’s Will』『Calamity of Beasts』『Human Slaughterer』

『General Information』

Name: Yva Darkstrider Gender: Female Age: 46 Years Race: Shadow Panther [Human Form] Level: 98 Class/Level: 「N/A」

『Resistances』:「Lightning: 0%」「Fire: 0%」「Wind: 0%」「Water: 0%」「Earth: 0%」「Light/Holy: -55%」「Darkness: 65% 」「Poison: 0% 」

『Status』

Health Points: 2410 / 2410 (+24.10/s)

Mana Points: 2208 / 2208 (+22.08/s)

Stamina Points: 1807 / 1807 (+18.07/s)

『Attributes』

Strength: 620

Endurance: 585

Intelligence: 561

Dexterity/Agility: 752

Perception: 571

Wisdom: 519

Charisma: 183

Luck: 43

『Skill List』

「Shadow Strike LV10」「Enhanced Agility LV10」「Greatly Enhanced Agility LV10」「Crisis Perception LV10」「Silent Steps LV10」「Assassination LV10」「Enhanced Smell LV10」「Telepathy」「Dark Magic LV10」「Enhanced Dark Magic LV10」「Mana Control LV10」「Presence Concealment LV10」「Presence Perception LV10」「Human Form」「Enhanced Hearing LV10」「Shadow Blink LV10」「Night Vision」「Leap LV10」「Claw/Fang Techniques LV10」「Sense of Balance」「Dash LV10」「Mana Perception LV10」「Evasion LV10」

‘Fuck, I was so tense when I first saw her stats, I failed to take note of the「Human Form」skill she has. And is she here for me?’ he wondered.

Landis became wary. From his experience, he could tell this woman – despite her appearance, was incredibly dangerous.

“That’s me,” he answered with a finger over a ring he wore.

Selena also readied her finger over her ring.

Yva noticed their caution and laughed. “I apologize for appearing out of nowhere. My name is Yva Darkstrider.”

After introducing herself, she continued. “It’s just that… I’ve been on my own for quite a while but there’s been word of a band of mercenaries doing quite well for themselves. I thought I would try and join up to spice up my life.”

“You have?” asked Selena in doubt.

Yva frowned. “Why, yes. Are you not willing to accept me?”

Rae could see black particles begin to condense around Yva’s fists.

‘This woman is crazy! She’s really going to attack these two if they don’t take her.’ Rae was really worried that he would have to go on the run if all hell broke loose because of her.

Luckily, Landis stepped in. “Selena, this woman is clearly strong. Why not take her in?”

“Father, we have no idea where this woman comes from. And someone as powerful as her, wants to join us right when war is about to break loose?” Selena said with severe skepticism.

“Maybe that’s all the more reason for her to join us,” he said with a smile. He continued. “Plus, it doesn’t look like Ms. Darkstrider will take no for answer, right?”

Landis gave in because when he sensed how Yva responded to Selena’s resistance, he could tell Yva would have started a fight. Although he didn’t necessarily think this woman could best him – that was only if he was alone.

“Hahaha, Mr. Colts is certainly one of reputation. I really wanted to join the Humble Foxes,” she said with a hinting smile. She continued. “But do not worry. I mean your Humble Foxes no harm. I just wish to take part in your activities and travels.”

Not minding the undertone of her threat just now, Landis laughed. “I’m glad we’re attracting such strong people. It seems our hard work is paying off.”

“But Father –,” before Selena could finish, Landis shook his head.

He turned to look at Yva. “Welcome to the Humble Foxes, Ms. Darkstrider. We’re currently headed to the Silk Dungeon north-east of here.”

“Oh? May I ask why?” she asked with curiosity.

“We are taking this goblin that we purchased to evolve.” He pointed at Rae who was just standing there as if he had nothing to do with Yva.

That’s when Yva looked at Rae since she had appeared before them. “This is a goblin?!” she said while feigning surprise.

“Yes, he’s a mutated goblin,” said Landis.

She walked up to Rae and started rubbing her soft hands on his white cheeks. Her dark hand and his white skin made for a nice contrast.

“He’s quite handsome for a goblin, no?” she said teasingly.

Yva in her human form was incredibly beautiful so Rae started to blush.

“I was planning to kill the person who won you at the auction, but that strong human got ahold of you. He’s not someone I can kill in my human form and I can’t afford to wreak havoc in my true form. So, this is the next best thing to be near you.”

Rae heard Yva’s voice in his head again. ‘So she's here for me. What is it about me that interests her?’ Then he remembered something that he forgot to do. ‘Appraise『Holder of Arteriax’s Will』!’

『Akashic System』『Holder of Arteriax’s Will』- Holds Arteriax’s Will.

‘…’ Rae couldn’t help but feel that the System was being a smartass now. He remembered when he appraised 『Electra's Gift』and it gave him the same sort of answer.

Rae’s cursing of the System was interrupted by Yva.

“Does he have a name?” asked Yva.

“No.” Landis and Selena answered at the same time.

Yva gave Rae a wink and said, “Since that’s the case, then how about ‘Rae’? That’s a good name isn’t it?”

Rae's eyes twitched a little when he heard her.

Landis shrugged and looked at Selena. “The goblin is bonded with Selena. It’s up to her.”

Selena thought for a second and she didn’t really care what his name was. She also thought ‘Rae’ wasn’t a bad name.

“Alright. Goblin, from henceforth, your name is ‘Rae’,” she said.

Rae felt a twang in his heart. Despite his slight wariness toward Yva, he was truly grateful. One of his worries in this world was going about it without anyone knowing or saying his real name. And he couldn't offer up his own name as that would be extremely odd and out of place as a "slave."

He looked at Yva and he mouthed the words “thank you” and smiled.

“I’ve created a connection between us with「Telepathy」. As long as we are not too far away, I will be able to hear you as long as you direct your thoughts towards me,” she replied. “Also… you’re welcome,” she uttered. But this time she said it without her usual teasing tone or seductiveness. It was almost like a sweet whisper.

Rae thought nothing of her change of tone as he didn't know her well enough.

Despite Yva's feigned surprise earlier, Selena was expecting a bigger reaction from Yva toward Rae. "You don't find it too strange that a goblin looks like he does, do you?"

Yva smiled at Selena. "The world is quite a big place. Who's to say there aren't weirder things out there."

Yva then released Rae’s cheeks and clapped her hands. “So, when do we leave for Silk Dungeon?”

Then Rae remembered what Landis had said before. “Didn’t Landis say “evolve” and “dungeon”?!’

Selena looked at the new addition and still felt vigilant to the woman, but couldn’t go against her father’s orders as he was still the leader. It also didn’t help that Yva’s assets were much bigger than hers either… But that definitely doesn’t have anything to do with her dislike of Yva! Definitely!

“We leave this instant,” she said in a neutral tone. Trying to hide her dislike of the idea of Yva joining them.

********

A Day Later

Three white and majestic looking horses were racing across a dirt-covered plain. The horses – Instead of hair for manes and tails, they had strands of glowing green particles that sparkled and shined in the sunlight. Every time when of their hooves hit the dirt, green dots of light would spring forth out of nothing. It made for quite the moving scene.

On the back of two of the three horses were Selena and Landis. While Rae rode with Yva with his hands wrapped around her waist.

Landis did not want the pretty goblin riding with him. And Selena was not comfortable with Rae. That left the more than happy Yva, to take him.

While Rae was riding with Yva, sometimes her breasts would rub against his arms. He would move his arms down but the Sylph Horses were incredibly fast, so his arms would shake their way upwards again. Not only that, he found Yva to be quite… soft.

He had to try and think of unpleasant things to not get a reaction.

Sometimes it worked… Other times it didn’t.

During their journey, Rae heard Yva snicker in his mind. “And to think, I called you “little one” when we first met.”

The blush on his face made him look like a tomato.

While Rae was thinking of ways to fight his body, he heard Landis yell. “We’re close to the dungeon!”

After about an hour while the sun was still high, they finally arrived in front of a cave. The cave was surrounded by webs and if you looked closely, skeletons with outstretched hands could be seen, buried within the webs.

They got off the Sylph Horses.

“Finally! Those Sylph Horses were too rough,” Yva said while rubbing her behind.

“You’re just a poor rider,” retorted Selena.

Yva responded by sticking her tongue out at her.

“Enough. We’re all going in, but we’re going to stay far behind,” Landis said to the group. He continued. “Remember, let Rae handle everything. Don’t want to share the experience.”

Selena and Yva nodded.

“Rae, you lead. We’ll be behind you,” said Landis. He tapped the ring on his finger and a steel sword instantly appeared.

‘Their rings are some kind of storage device? Neat. After this is over, I need to ask Yva about some things in this world.’

“Good luck, Rae. I’m sure you can handle it,” Yva said through telepathy and quickly winked at him.

Landis and Selena tapped the rings on their fingers and a torch appeared in their hands.

Landis handed a torch over to Yva and Rae. Although Rae did not need one as he had「Night Vision」. Selena then used her magic to light them.

The group then entered the cave, torches in hand.

‘Okay, first dungeon. Breathe, Rae.’

The cave was almost completely covered in webbing. Rae had to wave his torch around constantly to walk through.

As he walked further in, the cavern corridors began getting wide. Wide enough that the cavern no longer looked like a cavern. It looked more like a large hallway about 50 feet in height and 40 feet wide.

Rae began hearing clicking noises echo against the cave walls. ‘That’s definitely not something bad.’

*Click*

*Click* *Click*

‘That’s definitely, definitely, not something bad.’

*Click* *Click* *Click*

The noise kept getting closer.

*Click* *Click* *Click* *Click*

Rae could now sense something crawling on the ceiling, moving toward him at a rapid pace.

*Click* *Click* *Click* *Click* *Click*

‘Okay, it looks like it’s coming toward me. I don’t have to go toward it. This way, I hold the initiative.’

*Click* *Click* *Click* *Click* *Click* *Click*

Rae looked at the ceiling and managed to catch a glimpse of a hairy eight-legged creature. ‘Appraise!’

『Status』

『Titles』: 「Human Killer」「Thread User」

『General Information』

Name: 「N/A」 Gender: Male Age: 2 Months Race: Giant Spider Level: 14 Class/Level: 「N/A」

『Resistances』:「Lightning: 0%」「Fire: -40%」「Wind: 0%」「Water: 0%」「Earth: 0%」「Light/Holy: 0%」「Darkness: 0% 」「Poison: 15% 」

『Status』

Health Points: 458 / 458 (+4.56/s)

Mana Points: 268 / 268 (+2.68/s)

Stamina Points: 193 / 193 (+1.93/s)

『Attributes』

Strength: 126

Endurance: 103

Intelligence: 50

Dexterity/Agility: 175

Perception: 150

Wisdom: 84

Charisma: 0

Luck: 0

『Skill List』

「Thread Control LV4」「Spider Thread LV4」「Leap LV3」「Thread Sense LV4」「Presence Perception LV3」「Night Vision」「Poison LV4」「Poison Strike LV4」「Poison Magic LV3」「Mana Perception LV3」「Mana Control LV3」