The Vestiges of Kindness

Someone asked for assistance? I am Darunis of the Baruoki Guard.

Oh, you came! I'm sorry, but I need some help.

That is what I'm here for. What is the problem?

Thank you. Recently a band of beasts have been causing trouble a little further down this road.

A band of beasts?

Right. They've been attacking travelers and stealing their things. And what's more, the timing couldn't be worse. While I'm here guarding the road, there's no one to protect the town.

So basically, you want me to take over guarding the road?

I guess so, yes. I'll take care of this area, so if you could patrol the other parts. You'll need to go to the Karek Swampland. Can you do it?

Of course, it would be no trouble.

Thank you. If you see any trouble, just report back to me.

Understood. Farewell.

...So basically just a normal job.

Krrraaargh!

The monsters are blocking the way!

Darunis!

I think we've done enough, don't you?

We should carry on, for the merchants' sake.

No. If you beat an animal too long, they're liable to strike back.

Remember, we can't hunt every single monster. This is how you remind them it's our territory.

I get it. It's like if someone came and destroyed your home.

Hmph, well remembered.

If we over hunt them this time, they may see us as intruders.

If that happens, the monsters will get stronger, and the damage will only get worse.

So this is the wisdom of a veteran.

Just something I picked up from hunting. We have to learn how to co-exist.

There's more. You need to take this to heart. Too much of anything is going to be a bad thing.

Here we go...

Remember, you need more than brute strength to protect something. There are things to watch out for, things you must do, many things to consider.

I know. Of course you're right, Darunis, as always. You've always known what needs to be done.

Aldo, if only you'd apply yourself you'd surpass me in no time.

I'm just not cerebral like that...

I guess you're only interested in physical strength.

That's why I need you, Darunis!

What are you saying?!

Ha ha ha ha!

Heh...

Gagh! Guagh?!

That voice...sounded close!

Perhaps it's one of the powerful beasts! Darunis, let's go!

Somebody, help! Save meee!

Such pitiful weeping. The people around here are so undisciplined.

Yer not wrong!

Please, spare me my life...

Do you honestly think pleading will work?

Not that I care. Pretty soon you won't have a mouth to scream from.

Wait! I'm here to put a stop to your foul deeds!

Damn, the guards. Take care of him!

Aldo, remember, saving the merchant is top priority! Don't get caught up in a fight!

Got it! Let's do this!

Gyaaagh! My face! My beautiful face! W-Wait! I've had a change of heart! I'll move on, nice and peaceful.

Darunis?

Can you truly promise that you'll never attack another human?

Ah! Aaah! I promise! I do!

In that case I shall spare your life, this time. However you must still pay for your crimes.

Heh, guess there's no fooling you!

Guh!

Darunis!

Hah! That's what you get for taking pity! Never underestimate the enemy! It's kill or be killed out here!

Darunis! Are you alright?

So, the monster escaped.

Please accept my apologies. This is all my fault.

Don't worry about it. Thanks to you many lives were saved. You two performed your duties as guards very admirably. And thanks to your actions, the monsters will think twice before attacking again. That's enough for now.

Yes.

Here, the reward. Take it.

The beast escaped, and it was because I was weak... Was I wrong to...

Darunis...