“Honestly... I still don't quite believe you, you know…”
She told me before sighing.
“I apologize, I usually respect and believe elders... I have principles.”
I understood her. You can't let your guard down.
I remember bringing my old Aurum badge, so I took it out of my pack before sliding it onto the table.
“Hoho~ A veteran~”
She whistled.
“I believe you more. However…”
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She yawned slightly.
“One, you may have stolen it. Two, you could have borrowed it from someone else. Three, it's likely expired. Badges need to be confirmed every decade.”
“Look, Sir Pax. It's not that I don't believe you, like I said. I just can't accept that you are of higher rank. I have experience with many folks who just barge in with Argentum or higher ranks with the most…”
She scoffed.
“Baby-faced expressions~ People who definitely don't align with the ranks. Using someone else's badge to get a huge start on income.”
She sighed softly.
“…So, Sir Pax. You may have been Aurum, however, currently you are Lapis. I will be confiscating this Aurum badge.”
She gently grabbed the badge and put it in a chest.
I understood her. I'm not viable for that rank. I am unquestionably rusty.
“Of course, I understand. Ellis.”
I told her politely.
“Hm~ of course, that doesn't mean you can't go up higher, however... I'll keep your badge here~ and as you climb and are able to get Aurum, I'll give it to you. Deal?”
She held her hand out for me.
I held her hand as she firmly shook it.
“It was a good decision to show me your old badge, though, since you could've been fined for grabbing a quest that doesn't align with your rank.”
She rested her cheek on her palm as she smiled softly.
“I'll excuse that~ however, do not do it again.”
She waved her free hand at me.
“You may go now, I'm done scolding your old butt.”
She chuckled slightly.
“Remember, you are Lapis.”
She told me as I began walking away.
