The Honorable Wanderer: Mushoku Tensei

Lapan, the Labyrinth City, stood as a small oasis of grandeur in the middle of the Begaritt Continent's relentless desert. Its towering walls protected the city from marauding monsters and the harsh, sand-laden winds. Beyond the gates, the bustling streets teemed with adventurers eager to challenge the labyrinth, merchants hawking exotic goods, and inns offering respite to weary travelers.

Billy and Levi stopped a short distance from the city gates, parking their magic-stone-powered vehicle under the shadow of a small sand dune.

Billy patted the front of the vehicle with pride. "You know, I really hate hiding this. This car would blow everyone's minds in that city."

Levi gave him a flat look. "And it would also paint a giant target on our backs for every adventurer, merchant, and thief wanting to steal it. Keeping it hidden is the smarter choice."

Billy sighed, pulling out his storage ring, an artifact created for him by Ash. With a slight motion of his hand, the vehicle vanished in a faint shimmer of light, safely tucked away within the ring.

"Fine, you win this time," he grumbled, sliding the ring back onto his finger.

Levi didn't reply, simply nodding before starting toward the city gates. "Come on, we have a lot to do."

The city gates were heavily guarded, with armed sentries scrutinizing every traveler who passed. Billy and Levi waited in line, observing their surroundings. Adventurers of all races and appearances stood in line, some equipped with high-quality gear while others wore tattered clothing.

When it was their turn, a guard gave them a wary look. "State your business," he demanded, tapping a list on his clipboard.

"Exploring the labyrinth," Levi replied curtly.

Billy chimed in with a cheerful grin, "And maybe enjoying the city's sights while we're at it."

Levi shot Billy a brief sidelong glance but said nothing. The guard snorted, accepted a few copper coins from Billy as an entry fee, and gestured for them to pass.

Inside the city, the lively atmosphere exceeded their expectations. Narrow streets were crowded with vendors peddling goods from across the world, adventurers showing off trophies from their hunts, and locals bustling about their daily lives.

"This place… it's busier than I expected," Billy murmured, his eyes darting around the crowd.

Levi nodded. "That means more sources of information, but also more chances for trouble."

Billy pointed to a large wooden sign above a modest building. "Look, an inn. Let's start there."

The two entered the establishment, a simple but clean inn with a welcoming atmosphere. A middle-aged man stood behind the counter, smiling warmly. Levi handled the transaction, paying a few coins for a small room with two beds.

Inside their room, Levi sat at a small table by the window while Billy sprawled on one of the beds, his hands clasped behind his head.

"So," Billy began, staring at the ceiling, "what's the next move, General?"

Levi shot him a blank look. "You make it sound more complicated than it is."

Billy chuckled. "Just trying to lighten the mood. You're too serious sometimes."

Levi exhaled, then began explaining. "Our primary goal is to locate the victims of the teleportation incident. From what we know, there were thousands. It's unlikely they're all here, but some might have ended up in or around this city."

Billy sat up, his demeanor more serious now. "But we don't know anything about them. No names, no descriptions—just the assumption that they might be here. It's like finding a needle in a haystack."

Levi nodded. "Exactly. That's why we start with the basics. First, we need to find out if there have been any reports of people suddenly appearing without warning over the past two years. That kind of information might be in city records or local rumors."

Billy considered this, nodding slowly. "Makes sense. But how do we know if they're really victims of the incident? They could just be ordinary newcomers."

Levi paused, then answered. "The victims might lack knowledge of this continent. Their clothing or habits could also be unusual—things that set them apart. Those are the signs we'll look for."

Billy smirked. "You've really thought this through. Glad we've got your brain on this team."

Levi gave him a flat look. "And I'm glad we have your big mouth to talk to strangers. It'll be useful."

Billy burst out laughing. "I'll take that as a compliment!"

Levi stood, adjusting his sword at his side. "Alright, we'll start with the main market. People there usually know everything going on in the city. If we're lucky, we'll find clues faster than expected."

Billy leapt off the bed, grabbing his hat and plopping it onto his head at a jaunty angle. "The market, huh? Finally, something exciting. Lead the way, General!"

Levi shook his head but couldn't hide a small smile. As much as Billy's antics frustrated him, Levi knew his friend's charm and resourcefulness were invaluable.

"Alright," he said, opening the door. "But don't draw too much attention."

Billy chuckled. "No promises."

With that, the two stepped out into the bustling streets of Lapan, ready to begin their search in a city where mystery and danger intertwined.

---

Billy, with his ever-cheerful demeanor and wide grin, weaved seamlessly from one group of people to another. Among merchants, shopkeepers, and even a few female adventurers who seemed charmed by his easygoing nature, Billy moved like a fish in water.

"I'm just curious," he said in a casual tone, his eyes sparkling with what appeared to be genuine interest. "Have you heard of anyone showing up here out of nowhere in the past few years? People who might've seemed… out of place?"

A young woman selling spices smiled at him, her cheeks tinged pink. "Oh, I've heard stories like that. A couple of strange people appeared around here about two years ago. They looked confused."

Billy nodded, his expression attentive. "Really? That's super helpful! Do you know where they are now?"

The woman shrugged. "Not sure. They didn't stay long. Some might've moved on to other cities. But if you're looking for more information, try speaking with the city officials or the labyrinth guards. They usually know more."

Billy bowed slightly, his grin widening. "Thank you so much! You've totally made my day. Oh, and your spices look amazing. I'll come back to buy some later!"

The woman chuckled softly, her blush deepening. "Don't forget that promise!"

Billy walked away with a spring in his step, pleased with the lead he'd uncovered. But just as his smile was at its brightest, a commotion from a bar across the street caught his attention. His grin faded immediately.

Levi, who preferred actions over words, had chosen to gather information in what he deemed the most "efficient" location: the local bar. Unfortunately, his blunt and cold demeanor didn't always yield the results he wanted.

Inside the bar, packed with rowdy and half-drunk adventurers, Levi stood face-to-face with a hulking man clad in battered armor. The man, reeking of alcohol, glared down at Levi.

"So, you think I know something about that teleportation incident?" the man snarled.

Levi's cold gaze didn't waver. "You were here two years ago, weren't you? If you have information, share it. I don't have time for pleasantries."

The man let out a booming laugh, drawing the attention of others nearby. "A little runt like you thinks you can order me around? You don't even look strong enough to survive the labyrinth!"

Levi said nothing, but his hand drifted to the hilt of his sword. His calm yet resolute stance only served to anger the man further.

"Got a bit of an attitude, don't ya? Alright then, I'll teach you a lesson!" The man rose to his feet, his fists clenched as if ready to pummel Levi.

At that moment, Billy entered the bar, immediately sensing the rising tension. He sighed deeply, bracing himself for what promised to be a long night.

"Hey, hey! What's going on here?" Billy called out, his voice cheerful as he approached.

The hulking man turned his attention to Billy. "Your little friend here doesn't know how to talk to people. He thinks he can intimidate me!"

Billy stepped closer, raising his hands in a gesture of peace. "Come on, buddy. My friend might be a bit… stiff, but he doesn't mean any harm. He's just looking for information. How about I buy you a drink? Let's talk this out calmly."

The man glared at Levi for a moment longer before huffing and sitting back down. "You're lucky you've got this guy to smooth things over, kid. Next time, watch your tone."

Billy patted the man's shoulder, his grin returning. "That's the spirit! Now, let's chat."

Levi stood still, his icy gaze fixed on Billy with a hint of annoyance. After a moment, he sighed and moved to a quiet corner, letting Billy handle the conversation.

After leaving the bar with some additional information, Billy and Levi walked down the now-quiet streets of Lapan. The cool night air carried the sounds of distant revelry and the occasional clinking of armor.

Billy glanced at Levi, his expression a mix of exasperation and fondness. "You know, Levi, I like your directness, but you really need to work on your diplomacy skills," Billy teased.

Levi scoffed, his eyes fixed ahead. "I don't have time for nonsense. If they know something, they should just say it."

Billy chuckled, clapping Levi on the shoulder. "That's why I'm here—to make sure you don't turn every person we meet into an enemy."

Levi shot him a sidelong glance, his face as stoic as ever. "And I'm here to make sure you don't get so distracted flirting with women that you forget our mission."

Billy grinned broadly. "Hey, that's a tactic, Levi. You've got to use every advantage you have."

Levi shook his head, but a faint smile tugged at the corner of his lips.

With the information they had gathered—including reports of individuals who had appeared suddenly and might have moved to other cities or ventured into the labyrinth—Billy and Levi returned to their inn to plan their next steps.