Story Reader / Festival Event Story / Dreams Inscribed / Story

All of the stories in Punishing: Gray Raven, for your reading pleasure. Will contain all the stories that can be found in the archive in-game, together with all affection stories.
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Old Friend

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So...

When the squad finally reaches the city, they meet Changyu, who has been waiting for their arrival.

As a member of Akdilek accompanying Sophia to Babylonia, Changyu also became a participant in this game.

According to Sophia, the intention is...

With the two of us working together, we can find more opportunities for promotion.

I'm adding an assassin role whose job is to rob passing merchants right now.

Since this is his first foray into a role-playing game like this, he scratches his head in puzzlement.

As he finds it hard to grasp Gray Raven's current situation.

So... you're stuck in this toddler form for the time being, huh?

Well... maybe it'll just take some time for me to get used to this, but whenever I lay my eyes on Commandant, I can't help but feel this strange urge.

How about... a quick demonstration?

Having said that, Changyu extends his arm toward you.

Hey...

With a hint of disappointment in his voice, Changyu retracts his raised arm.

Anyway, it makes me really want to pat Commandant's head.

Awww... Just look at you, you little cutie.

Changyu affectionately rubs your head, somehow assuming the role of a caring big brother.

Then we won't raise any suspicion while moving alongside Changyu.

Well... That should be the case... I guess? But why? Was it easy for you to be suspected by someone before?

Fall from the sky? Oh, are you asking about how I spawned in this world?

Since this is my first time playing this game, my character is newly created with a different entry approach than yours.

Speaking of Sophia, she took away all my starting money, saying she wanted to check the local market.

Probably making a fortune already with Akdilek's knowledge.

Mid-conversation, Changyu abruptly pauses, his gaze sweeping over each member of Gray Raven.

Uh, guys...

Are you having a [zero bonus] challenge run right now?

As Changyu observes, it becomes apparent that the Gray Raven members barely hold any resources beyond their equipped outfits, the large sea conch hanging from Lee's waist, and the crab you just removed from your hair.

"Zero bonus" is even too generous of a way to put it.

I've been wanting to ask the same question. Control system, give me more information.

Ayla

Control system currently under maintenance. Please try again later.

Humph... See?

But how should we start our adventure, then?

Such as?

Four majestic statues stand tall, basking in the radiant mid-day sunlight.

Even from a distance, the masterful craftsmanship and intricately painted colors of those vivid statues can be easily discerned.

Sounds like you're saying it just to make yourself feel better, but sure...

Let's wait here for Sophia to return first, and also, the hero parade will be passing by soon.

Hero?

Parade?

But we, the heroes, are all here.

Huh? That's what I read on the notice board. It mentioned that a new hero has arrived, who will soon head to the Realm of Dragons to address the withering issue.

You and other Gray Raven members exchange perplexed glances, as you clearly remember how you were entrusted with the mission of retrieving the [Ancient Triangle] from the Realm of Dragons as heroes during your previous adventure.

Does this imply a change that will strip you of your roles as heroes?

Ayla said that she would never use the same setting twice.

Is this new hero played by a member of another squad?

I don't think Ayla would create a new setting by simply changing the cast of characters.

Bingo! Congratulations, Lee and Commandant, your speculation is correct.

The hero role this time is not being played by someone from Babylonia, but rather by an old friend from this very world.

Let us welcome the new hero of this world onto the stage!

A growing crowd gathers as music emanates from the opposite end of the street.

On the flower-strewn path and amidst the jubilant beat of drums, an open carriage gracefully advances.

The hero, unfazed by his surroundings, is sitting upright, exuding an aura of composure and reliability.

Who is none other than an acquaintance every Gray Raven member knows well.

Commandant, I just want to double-check with you—I didn't mistake what I saw, right?

I think it's the one we all know.

Is this some magic messing with my vision? I'd rather believe it's the Realm Guardian sitting up there instead.

Memories of the past flicker before your eyes like scenes from a movie, unfolding one after another.

First, he deceived you and then seized the opportunity when everyone in Gray Raven was reduced to childlike forms, claiming all the bounty for himself.

Later on, he assumed a completely different guise, taking on the fabricated title of the Nameless Sage, all while aiding your squad in its heroic mission.

I'm no agent! I am the Sage who summons heroes to help our people. I have never lied to anyone!

In the name of gods, I didn't lie.

Flash magic!

You know him?

Yeah. We met him during our previous journey—a sly trickster who fooled us with his schemes.

It's only been a year, and he has already managed to claim the title of hero with his cunning tricks.

Look carefully at his posture. Do you find it strange?

It's not that I'm against an investigation...

But judging by the portrait I saw on the notice board, I think this guy is the real deal.