Rise Of The Hoarder

Using my heightened strength, I raised the heavy metal walls that blocked off the entrance.

The structure was well made, and low-level Demons could be guaranteed not to breach it. However, for me, it was quite easy.

>CREEAAKK<

The metal structure sounded as I slowly lifted it to prevent any loud noise. A commotion was the last thing I wanted.

After raising the metal gate, I ventured within, closing it as slowly as I lifted it. My next destination was the lookout verandah. Swiftly racing now, I reached there within seconds, climbing walls to get to the high surface.

“Finally…” I huffed a little.

Opening [Subspace], I looked at two Slots within the very long list of spaces I possessed. Two distinct humans were placed there, the oldest in my collection, not counting Tasha.

A smile formed on my face as I recollected how I got to possess them. It was linked to the reason I was able to leave the Camp undetected.

Realizing that it would be troublesome leaving the already agitated grounds of the Camp with the eyes of the sentries keeping watch around, I decided to go after them first.

I snuck up on the unsuspecting people and tapped them lightly, activating my Gift. By absorbing them into [Subspace], I kept them in a suspended state until I would return and restore them to their exact positions.

Since everyone around was antsy, I doubted anyone would bother visiting the sentries, giving me enough time to act.

‘Charles should be done with Ana and her team at this point…’ I reasoned, quickly tapping the two icons.

Instantly, they materialized in their designated posts, having the exact postures and reactions they made before being taken in. Without making my presence known, I made my exit. I heard faint traces of their conversations before leaving their range.

“Did you feel a tap behind you?”

“Yeahhh, nope… it’s probably your imagination.”

“Yeah… I guess I’m a little on edge. After all…”

********************************************

“Oh, Jeremy. Where did you go? We were just about to go out to look for you.” Ana asked as soon as I entered the room.

I observed their countenance and movements. Judging by their reactions, it probably wasn’t very long since the group had returned. I ended up spending more time than budgeted. It was a good thing I didn’t take much longer in returning.

“I went to use the toilet,” I replied.

Some may refer to the term I used as vulgar, but, after experiencing it once…

‘There’s no way I’m calling that a restroom!’

“Oh? I see.” Ana, as well as the others, responded.

Ana’s countenance fell a little as she smiled. I guessed it was due to the fact that she still somewhat felt guilty toward me. After her lofty words, in the end, the Camp wasn’t really a great place to live in.

The facilities were worse than where I was coming from. Food and supplies were less than encouraging. The big family she was so proud of had an internal conflict, resulting in some deserters.

However, the major event that was certain to bother her a great deal was that the Camp was soon to be overrun by a massive Horde of powerful Demons. I was safer back at my Base, since the ‘masked man’ had rescued me and killed every monster in the area.

‘She must also be considering the trauma I supposedly have. That’s cute.’ I smiled internally.

“Jeremy. There’s something I, no, we need to tell you.” Ana said, now pulling herself together to give me a stern expression.

Judging by the expression on her face as well as the other Camo members, I could guess what was up.

‘So it’s finally time, uh?’

“We’ll be returning to your Base to retrieve the remaining supplies there,” Ana stated.

I feigned surprise hearing this. It wasn’t like I could let them know I was the one who told Charles to make things this way.

“W-why? I thought the Expedition team members would be joining the Subjugation force.” I remarked, using my kind voice.

Ana nodded slightly.

“We’re an exception. Since only we know the location of the base, it’s best we go to retrieve the supplies since they’re still very useful.” Peter added.

“B-but, do all of you need to go?” I asked, showing slight nervousness.

“We work best as a team. Besides, you know how dangerous the journey to the Base is. Plus, with the Horde approaching, things could get more dangerous. We need to move as a group.” Ana explained, drawing close to me

“There’s also a chance Larry might lead the deserters to retrieve the remaining resources since he knows the location, so we should act quickly.” Daniel pointed out.

Ana hugged me, probably thinking I was ‘devastated’ by the news. The people who were my support and close family were leaving, of course, I would be devastated.

“L-let me come with you, then!” I remarked, hugging Ana back.

The young woman smiled softly at my gesture. As I looked at her longingly, she slightly shook her head and gazed into my eyes.

“You can’t. It’s too dangerous… I already told Charles to take personal charge of you. You’ll be kept safe in the Camp among the few kids we have here.” Ana gave me her big sister smile.

Once again, I hugged her, burying my face in her chest as though not wanting her to go. However, a smile was actually forming on my face. Things were progressing satisfactorily.

‘Good work, Charles.’

Even with our slight disagreement, he didn’t fail to keep his end of the bargain. It almost made me want to forgive him for crossing me, but it was too late for that.

“Don’t be a baby, Jeremy. We’ll be fine. We’ll be back in two days, so don’t worry. After we return, we’ll come to see you before joining the Subjugation team on the battlefield.” Peter said, rubbing my hair with his hands.

Looking up at him, I saw the genuine smile he displayed. Peter first started as a cold guy, but after some time he too had completely warmed up to me.

Lily gave a shy blush as she encouraged me. Daniel nodded in support. Now surrounded by my encouraging family, how could I not cheer up.

“O-okay, then. I’ll be waiting for your safe return!” I beamed a smile at them!”