Category: Island Maker: Tensei Shitara Slow Life Game deshita. Nonbiri shima o sodatemasu

Thanks to my report, all the kidnappers were arrested.

Claire is still asleep so I brought her to the Auberge in Gandalcia. It was closer than the mansion in Belluca mansion after all. I’m exhausted too.

Char hadn’t finished molting yet, so we both slept soundly in bed.

“Young Master”

I woke up to Mary gently shaking me.

“Good morning, Mary. Is it morning already?”

“The sun is already high up in the sky. I’m sorry to interrupt your sleep, but Claire-sama has woken up.”

I asked her to call me when Claire woke up. There are many things I want to ask after all.

Char is still asleep, so I slipped out of bed and headed for the auberge.

In the Auberge’s restaurant, Claire was sulking while drinking café au lait. Even when I walked in, she just glanced at me and remained silent.

“Good morning, Claire.”

“Morning.”

She’s trying to act as if nothing happened huh.

“I have a lot of questions I want to ask.”

“I don’t want to talk about it.”

I decided to ignore Claire’s words.

“How did you get kidnapped?”

“I…… I snuck out of the mansion and hired a carriage. That’s where I was kidnapped.”

“Why did you leave the mansion?”

“I just wanted to go out and play.”

“I heard Claire had a few days’ worth of clothes in her travel bag.”

Claire put down her coffee cup with a clunk.

“Oh, stop it! I just wanted to stay at Cedie’s place! Are you now satisfied with that!?”

“You want to stay here at the Auberge?”

“I just said so! School is starting soon, and I wanted to stay in Gandalcia before then.”

Is that why she snuck out of the mansion?

“But Rochelle betrayed me….…”

“It’s okay to stay at my place, but you need to get permission from Alexei-oniisan you know.”

“He’s not gonna let me stay here! It’s Cedie’s and father’s fault for fighting!”

Whoa, whoa. She even shifted the blame!

First of all, it isn’t even a sibling fight. It’s just that Alexei-oniisan is too stubborn. But persuading that selfish Earl is going to be a very difficult task.

“Alright, I can understand how you feel. But Alexei-oniisan was very worried about you, Claire. I felt sorry for how distressed he was.”

“That’s….…”

“I was worried too.”

“I’m sorry……”

Claire apologized so sincerely!?

This is the first time I’d heard Claire apologize.

—Uh, Gandalcia Island might sink….

Until last year, it’s unthinkable that she would apologize. Maybe Claire has grown up a little since she is already thirteen.

“What about Father?”

“I already asked Dawsill to go to the mansion and inform him.”

He left on Lulu’s boat early in the morning, so he must have already arrived there. I think it’s about time he comes back.

“What about lunch?”

“I’m just about to start.”

“Then I’ll join you here for lunch. Is that okay?”

“Do as you like, this is Cedie’s Island after all.”

As we are eating a late brunch, Alexei-oniisan came in with loud footsteps. He came alone on his horse.

“Claire! You made me worry!”

Alexei-oniisan’s voice was tinged with anger, but he also seemed relieved. Then he turns to me and gives me an embarrassed look.

“I’m sorry for causing you so much trouble. Thank you.”

I can’t believe Alexei-oniisan would say thank you. Apology and thank you is something that normally cannot be associated to this father and daughter after all.

Is this really the last day of Gandalcia!?

Jokes aside, the maid named Rochelle was also caught. Apparently, she was bought by Shylock.

“I really can’t forgive her. How dare a maid like her betray her master!”

Uhm… I think the master who was betrayed is also at fault.

“If Claire had treated her better, she wouldn’t have been betrayed, wouldn’t she?”

“………”

Claire went silent.

“Enough of that. What’s important now is that she’s back safely.”

Sigh. Alexei-oniisan can’t spoil her like this. I think he should be careful as well. In the first place, it’s Alexei-oniisan’s fault for taking a bribe from Shylock. I’ve never heard of a nobleman who doesn’t take bribes, though. I’m probably the only one in this country.

“Cedie has to be rewarded this time.”

Alexei-oniisan made another surprising statement.

For real?  Is he still my Earl brother who only thinks about his own profits?

“I’m grateful for that but……”

“Well, as a reward for your work this time, I will open the magical railway under your terms.”

Doesn’t that mean he’s going to sign the same contract as with Earl Simpson?

It’s not a reward or anything!

But considering my business with Emma, it’s not a bad deal. From now on, my products can be shipped by wagons. Besides, if Polymer – Lebon – Gandalcia – Belucca is connected by rail tracks, it would be much more convenient for the people of Findas.

Since Alexei-oniisan is willing to accept these conditions, I guess it’s okay.

We then signed a formal contract on the spot.

“Alright, let’s go back to the mansion.”

With a satisfied look on his face, he took Claire and walked outside.

I’ve signed the contract so I decided to see them off.

“Let’s go for a walk.”

Claire suggested, so the three of us walked a little.

What a strange feeling…

I never thought I’d be taking a walk with this father and daughter.

“I’d like to have melon soft-serve ice cream for dessert.”

“Hoh, that sounds delicious.”

“They sell it at the beach house over there. Let’s go.”

They seem to be on good terms, which is quite good.

“Hmm, so this is it huh. I’ll have two melon soft serve ice creams.”

As I watched, I saw that Alexei-oniisan was about to hand Kemoncy a gold coin.

“No, Father. You can’t use gold coin in a place like this. You have to use small change here.”

“Oh, Claire knows a lot.”

“Of course! Ohhohoho!”

But why would they have to pay using a large silver coin?

Spending all that 50,000 crown silver coins would be a huge nuisance.

Well, there seems to be a change for it…….

I saw off the troublesome father and daughter to the bridge on the island.

A few days after the kidnapping, Paul-oniisan came to the cottage.

“Welcome. What are you here for today?”

“Big brother asked me to come.”

Did he come at the request of Alexei-oniisan?

What on earth could it be?

Looking at him, he is holding a big box.

“What’s up with Charlotte?”

“It’s her molting time so she can’t move her body. It’s almost over though.”

“I see.….”

I invited my brother inside.

“Big brother asked me to bring something important today.”

“What is it? It’s the first time I’ve ever received a gift from Alexei-oniisan.”

“It’s not a gift. These are items that originally belongs to Cedie.”

“What do you mean?”

“Inside this box are the items of inheritance that Cedie was supposed to get.”

My inheritance something other than Gandalcia Island?

“Isn’t that supposed to have been taken by Alexei-oniisan?”

“Well, apparently, he accidentally forgot to give them to you.”

Paul-oniisan said and smiled wryly.

I guess I could say that he embezzled the money….

But why would he forget to give this box to me?

It’s been almost a year since Father passed away.

“.…But why is Alexei-oniisan only giving it now?”

“It’s probably because of Claire. He seems to be really grateful. And maybe he is starting to think about things as a parent……”

“As a parent?”

“I don’t know the contents of this hidden inheritance at first either. But when I saw it, I was kind of convinced. Take a look inside the box first.”

When I opened the large box, I saw what looked like a board wrapped in a clean cloth.

“This is….…”

“Be careful, it’s an important painting.”

The inheritance is a painting?

I hope it’s not a forgery like the one that Farh Jarg deals in……

I took out the painting and involuntarily gasped.

—It was a portrait of my mother.

“Countess Mersala Dantes, portrait by Lachor Ghosn, year 217 Moura. That’s what Mersala-dono looked like when she was twenty-five.”

Lachor Ghosn was an outstanding painter who later became a court painter. He was particularly good at religious paintings and portraits.

In the painting, Mother is looking at me with a graceful smile. The contours of the memories that had been fading within me suddenly became clearer. This painting really captures Mother’s features very well.

“It’s amazing, right? It’s said to be the greatest of all Ghosn’s portraits. Apparently, my father kept it to himself and only looked at it secretly when he was alive.”

“Why?”

“This is just my speculation, but maybe he wanted to keep Mersala-dono to himself. Well, it’s because he loved her from the bottom of his heart.”

“But Father made a will to keep this painting for me, didn’t he?”

“It’s not just that painting. Look inside the box. There are still items that were worn by Mersala-dono during her lifetime. They also belong to Cedie.”

Upon closer inspection, I found that they were all memorable items. Accessories such as rings, necklaces, a box for storing makeup, an intricately crafted hand mirror —all of which are associated with memories of my mother.

“But isn’t this terrible? Why would Alexei-oniisan try to embezzle these things in the first place? Sure, they may have great monetary value, but they’re only a tiny fraction of the Dantes family’s fortune!”

I was shaking with anger.

If this were cash or bonds, I wouldn’t be so angry. However, it is a different story when it comes to items that has connection with my mother. For Alexei-oniisan, she is a stranger, but for me, she is my only mother.

Paul-oniisan gently placed his hand on my shoulder.

“I understand Cedie’s anger. Big brother is a really selfish person.”

My brother narrowed his eyes at the portrait of my mother.

“Mersala-dono was a very kind person. Although she was a stepmother, she showered us brothers with equal love. Well, my brother and I were in a rebellious phase that time, and in hindsight, we often behaved aloofly. I feel embarrassed when I think about it now.”

“Is that so?”

“To be honest, I was so jealous of  how spoiled you were.”

Jealousy? Is it because of that?

From what I recall, there were almost no contact between me and my brothers in the mansion.

“Big brother’s jealousy may have been more intense than mine.”

“So that’s why he took my inheritance?”

Paul-oniisan shook his head with an indescribable look on his face.

“That’s not all. This is also just my speculation, but Big Brother…… perhaps Mersala-dono is his first love.”

“No way….…”

“I’m sure he felt the same way as Father. He probably didn’t want to hand over Mersala-dono to anyone. But maybe this recent incident has awakened something in him as a parent. I think that’s why he regretted taking her away from her child. He just didn’t say anything.”

“I understand what you’re talking about. …..Phew, I can’t get my thoughts together. I’ll make some black tea. You want some too right?”

“Yes. Add milk and sugar please.”

When I looked to the side, I saw the painting of my mother on the table smiling at us brothers.

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Authors Note:

The book is now on Sale in アース・スターノベル.

The webnovel series has been discontinued so this story will end to this part. Thank you for reading this far!

TL’s Note: Sorry guys, it’s a pit. Uwaaa. I really thought it was complete! 🙇

This is translated by Yume Neiji. Kindly read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com.

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 I searched every nook and cranny of Gandalcia, but Claire was nowhere to be found.

Could it be that Claire was really kidnapped?

Knowing her, it’s possible that she staged it all, but I don’t think she’d be that foolish..… Just where on earth could she be kidnapped though.

“Upa, I’m thinking of going to Belucca now. Will you come with me?”

“Okay. I’ll follow you anywhere.”

 Just as we are about to leave, Silver came in front of us.  Redas-san is with him.

“Brrrr”

 Silver bowed his head and seemed to be telling us to get on.

“Are you sure?”

 Redas-san explains with a smile.

“Silver knows that Cedie is in trouble. He even begged me to put a saddle on him.”

As expected of Silver. There’s no horse more reliable than him when it comes to emergencies.

“You’re going to help me look for Claire huh.”

“Heen!”

We then set off for Belucca.  We travelled along the road, asking people who passed by if they had seen Claire.

“Have you seen a blonde girl about thirteen years old? She is probably with a tall maid.”

“Hmm, I didn’t see anyone like that.”

He must be a farmer who lives in the neighborhood. The man hurried back to the village.

The sun has already set and it is getting dark. There were no more people walking along the road either.

“Are you tired, Cedie?”

“Not at all. But it’s getting dark already.”

There are many stars shining in the sky. This is a world where there are almost no street lights, so the brilliance of the stars is so vivid that it was unthinkable in my previous life in Japan.

“Shall we go back to Gandalcia first?”

“No. I think I’ll head to the mansion in Belucca after all. I don’t know if it will be of any use though.”

Just when I said that, a strange thing happened.

A ray of green light stretched out toward the Cygnus star shining in the night sky.

“That’s it!”

“What is it? Some kind of light magic?”

“Not really, but I’m sure Claire is under that light.”

“I see. Alright, let’s go!”

Before I could pull the reins, Silver took off.

The side road was narrow and the branches and leaves of the trees overlapped, making it difficult to find. The star guide seems to be operating further down this road.

 Upa and I get down from Silver and moved ahead with soft footsteps.

“We’re almost there. From here on, I’m going to go alone.”

“No, I’ll go too.”

“That’s no good. Cedie, you wait here. I’ll find out what’s going on over there first.”

As we argued, the light that was pointing at the Cygnus Star began to shake slightly. For some reason, it keeps flickering on and off.

“What does that mean?”

“I think she’s moving violently while wearing the star guide. Oh no! Maybe something happened to Claire!”

They’re not being violent right!?

Looks like there’s no time to sneak around and check what’s going on.

“Damn it, let’s go!”

 As we ran down the path, I saw a small cottage at a dead end.

“W-who is it? A horse?”

“Guwaa!”

Without hesitation, Silver knocked down the two men who looked like guards.

“No, Silver, stop. We haven’t determined if they are really the kidnapper.”

“Heen…… (They have villainous looks, so……)”

“No, it looks like you guessed it right, Silver.”

When I opened the door, I saw a thin elderly man trying to snatch the ring from Claire.

“Give it to me!”

“Let go, you old fool! You can take anything you want, but I will never give you this ring!”

Isn’t that Avon Shylock, who was expelled from Belucca?

“Shylock, you were the kidnapper!?”

“Huh!? Baron Dantes!”

In addition to Shylock, there were five other men in the room. They are all holding weapons in their hands. They must have already heard the commotion outside so they are ready to fight.

One of them quickly pointed the tip of his sword at Claire’s throat.

Seeing the stand still, Shylock seemed to have decided that he had the upper hand. He gradually regained his composure and his insolent attitude returned.

“If it isn’t the Baron. Welcome to this hovel.”

“Cedie, you’re here! Get lost, you scoundrels!”

“Shut up you stupid girl!”

Shylock pulled out a dagger and placed it to Claire’s neck.

Claire went silent.

“You kidnapped Claire to get back at Alexei-oniisan, right? But this is the end of it. Release Claire. If you release her here, I won’t go after you.”

Alexei-oniisan would be a different matter, though.

“Fuhahaha, what a silly thing to say. Baron, you see, all I need to do is shut your mouth.”

Hearing Shylock’s words, Upa stepped forward to protect me.

“Oh, and don’t forget that I got a hostage here. I’ll ask you to lay down your weapon, big man.”

Shylock pressed his dagger on Claire.

“Throw away your sword Upa.”

“But ….…”

“It’s okay. Throw away your sword and plug your ears with your fingers.”

“……Got it.”

He must have guessed my plan.

Upa did as he was told, He tossed his sword and plugged his ears with his fingers. Even Silver sat down on the spot, holding his ears with his front hooves. His posture was so cute that I almost burst out laughing. Thankfully I managed to hold back my laughter.

I quickly played the deep-sea flute.

Doremi Doremi Somiredoremire ♪

As soon as the melody of “Tulip” rang out, everyone in the room fell asleep immediately.

Upa, Silver, Claire, Shylock and his thugs all fell asleep. The overweight kidnapper seems to have sleep apnea. He is snoring so loudly and his breathing repeatedly stops and starts. He’s at high risk of heart failure, so I hope he tries to lead a regular life while incarcerated.

I first retrieved the kidnappers’ weapons. Then I shook Upa to wake him up. He had his fingers plugged in his ears so he should wake up earlier than everyone else.

“Guhehehehe……”

 I thought I heard a strange laughter, but I realized that it was Claire who was laughing.

 What a way to laugh…….

“Gehe~, Cedie really. You praise me so much, but I’m not giving you anything. Oh well~, I guess I’ll kiss you on the cheek then. Gehehe…”

How carefree….

As I watched Claire who sprawled on the floor, I continued to shake Upa’s body.

This is translated by Yume Neiji. Kindly read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com.

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As I was clearing away some rocks in the field, Alexei-oniisan came over, looking pale.

Anyway, it must be the Magic Railway again.

Char is sleeping as she is still molting, so I’m working in the fields alone. I’m busy, so I really want him to understand that I will not change my conditions for building the railway.

However, to my surprise, the reason why he came here was a completely different matter.

“Is Claire here?”

“Huh? No. I haven’t seen her in a while, is she running away from home again?”

“No, I think she’s been kidnapped.”

“What!? But how?”

Alexei-oniisan handed me a sealed letter.

Earl Alexei Dantes I have taken Miss Claire as hostage. If you wish for her to return safely, prepare 300 million crown coins as a ransom. I will contact you later with the details on the delivery. Don’t try to find out my real identity. If you do anything wrong, you won’t be able to save Miss Claire’s life.

The sender’s name is blank…….

“This letter was dropped at the gate of the mansion this afternoon.”

“Do you have any idea who the culprit is?”

“At first, I thought it was you.”

We do have a lot of grievance, but come on Brother! Really!?

If I’m going to get revenge, I’ll think of a different way. If I kidnapped Claire, it would just cause a lot of trouble for me.

“I’m not going to kidnap my own niece.”

“Well, I thought so too.”

In Alexei-oniisan’s case, he has made enemies all over the place, so it’s probably hard to identify the culprit.

A ransom of 300 million crown coins huh….

It’s not an amount that Earl Dantes can’t afford. In a way, you could say it’s just right.

“What were Claire’s guards doing?”

Even when she came to Gandalcia incognito, an escort force of five men had been keeping a close watch on her. They are all skilled as well. I don’t think they were defeated just like that by some random kidnapper.

“The guards haven’t seen anything. Claire suddenly disappeared from the mansion.”

“How about her maid, Rochelle?”

“That maid disappeared with her.”

Could it be that the kidnappers made it into the mansion?

Or, did Claire try to get out secretly and happened to run into the kidnapper?

“Damn it! Just where did that stupid girl go!?”

“Calm down for a moment, I’ll look around as well.”

“Please do that. I’ll go back to the mansion for now.”

Alexei-oniisan hurriedly left.

Even though she’s not a cute niece, I can’t really sit back when she’s kidnapped. I decided to explore the area around Gandalcia first and then go to the Belucca mansion afterwards.

When I got back to the cottage, I heard Char’s weak voice coming from the bed.

“Father, are you going out?”

“Mm. I’m going to the Belucca mansion. Char, stay here and rest. I’ll arrange for Mary to come here.”

“Char wants to go to too……”

“We’ll do that after you’re done molting, okay? We’ll travel around. First, we’ll head to Sambabano in Lebon.”

“Yes, I got it. Char is a good girl and I’ll be waiting for you here.”

I then left Char and went to Upa.

Because of the circumstances, I decided to ask for an escort this time.

“At last….…”

Upa is in tears.

“What’s wrong?”

“Cedie finally counted on me.”

“I’ve always counted on you, you know.”

“You’re talking about me being the manager, isn’t it? I want to be useful as an escort as well. I’m worried about Cedie.”

“You have such a worrywart attitude, how did you become a general anyway?”

“Oh, I am worried about my subordinates too, so I always fought on the front lines.”

As a general, what’s going on with that? Well, that must have boosted the morale of his troops, I guess.

I felt like I could see Upa’s back as he ran at the front of the whole army.

　＊＊＊

Let’s go back a little in time.

Claire was excitedly timing the right moment to sneak out of the mansion. She’s still wearing a disguise today, but it is not the usual eccentric look. She was wearing Rochelle’s everyday clothes, which could be seen around.

“Do you think I can fool the servants with this disguise?”

“It’s a lot less noticeable than usual……”

“Really? Well, that’s good. Rochelle, are you ready?”

“Yes. I’ve already hired people to act as kidnappers. They will send the letter of the kidnapping later.”

“That’s pretty full-scale huh. How about the carriage?”

“It’s in an inconspicuous vacant lot at the end of St. Richard Street.”

“Not bad. Let’s go.”

Claire walked down the hallway carrying a pile of sheets. The sheets conveniently blocked Claire’s face from the sight of the people she passed by. No one could have imagined that Claire would carry such a thing, so she was able to make it to the laundry room without being noticed.

Walking out of the mansion through the gate used by the servants, she and Rochelle ran to St. Richard Street.

It’s the beginning of an exciting adventure for Claire.

This time, I can be alone with Cedie. Now it’s time to tell Cedie that I like him.

“My lady, it’s that carriage.”

Claire shouted as she climbed into the carriage parked in the vacant lot.

“Let’s go!”

Two strangers nod at her silently.

“Who are these people?”

“T-they are our escorts. The regular escorts are gone, so….…”

“Alright. Work hard, I’ll give your reward later.”

The two men just nodded silently.

“What’s about the hiding place for tonight?”

“It’s ready.”

“It’s a proper place, right?”

“That….…”

“I don’t want to sleep in a dirty place. By the way, make me some fish for dinner. Sauté the white fish with almond butter sauce. Serve it with carrots and brussels sprouts.”

Claire will stay at the hiding place tonight and send a letter of kidnapping to the Mansion. People will look for her desperately then. Next, Rochelle pretends to have escaped and goes to Gandalcia to ask Cedie for help. When Cedie arrives, the bad guys run away. Then she confesses her love to Cedie. The two of them will be united forever.

—That was Claire’s perfect, hole-riddled plan.

The carriage drove along the highway towards Gandalcia. So far, everything is going well.

The island of Gandalcia came into view in the distance, and Claire’s excitement rose at once. Eventually, the carriage deviates from the highway and enters a side path. Then the narrow road came to a dead end where a shabby hut stood in place.

“My lady, we have arrived. This is the hiding place.”

“…..This?”

The hut in front of Claire is crumbling, and the roof is covered with moss. It is obvious that it has not been inhabited for a long time.

“Are you going to let me stay in such a place?”

Claire tried to glare at Rochelle, but it didn’t work. The two men accompanying them quickly tied Claire with ropes.

“You guys are being hasty. We can leave the rope just before Sadie gets here! This is why lowly people like you….…”

The men drag Claire into the hut as she grumbles.

Waiting for her inside was a thin, middle-aged man.

“Oh, your face look familiar. I can’t remember your name though.”

“Fufufu…… I’m Avon Shylock, and until recently, I was doing business in Belucca. I’ve met Miss Claire a few times.”

“Is that so?”

Claire sat down in a chair that was close at hand.

“So you’re one of the people hired for my plan?”

“No, no. That’s not the case.”

Shylock grinned. This further emphasized his innate evilness and gave it a bizarre eerie feel.

“This is my plan, Miss Claire.”

“What do you mean?”

“I took advantage of your foolish scheme. In other words, you were really kidnapped by me.”

“What!? But I planned this….”

Claire can’t keep up with her understanding.

“Fufu. You should have taken better care of your servants. You see, I was trying to find out what was going on inside the Dantes household when Rochelle told me about your plan.”

“What!?”

Claire looked around, but Rochelle was already gone.

“Kukuku, poor young lady, you were sold for only three gold coins.”

Shylock shook his shoulders in amusement and laughed.

“You bastard! Untie this rope! I’ll chop you up to pieces with my wind cutter!”

“Oh, how scary. You are truly the daughter of Earl Dantes. You are very strong-willed.”

Shylock approached Claire and grabbed her slender chin.

“Hiii……”

“I have a grudge against Earl Dantes, and I will use Miss Claire to clear my grudge.”

“Keep your filthy face away! Your breath stinks!”

Shylock’s back hand hit Claire’s cheek, and a dry sound echoed through the room.

“Ouch!”

“Know your current situation, you idiot! I’ll let you stay alone for a while.”

Shylock walked out with his men in tow.

At this point, Claire finally realizes her situation.

The small windows are covered with iron bars, making it impossible to escape.

At the very least, it would have been nice if she could use wind magic, but since her hands were tied with ropes, she is not able to activate magic.

She felt that the darkness in the room had become even thicker.

It’s getting dark outside, and the stars are starting to shine brightly in the eastern sky.

Her right cheek ached as she was hit.

“Help me, Cedie……”

Tears rolled down Claire’s cheeks.

This is translated by Yume Neiji. Kindly read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com.

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All repairs to the parts damaged by the typhoon have been completed. It was fortunate that there were no abnormalities on the tracks of the Magic Railway. The damage to the buildings were also minor and it was possible to repair them by spending points. There are no carpenters on this island, so this is my job as the lord.

I also had the Goddess’ Hoe, so repairing the fields was easy. I immediately sowed the seeds of tomatoes, zucchini and other summer vegetables. Even though there’s no temperature difference here, it’s possible to grow highland vegetables here.

Maybe I should try growing celery and lettuce too. Lynn will surely make delicious dishes out of them.

“Alright, that’s enough farm work for today.”

Char helped me out today as well.

“Father, I’m hungry!”

“Okay. Let’s make French toast with the eggs that Redas-san brought.”

“Yeey! French toast is Char’s favorite food! Uu……”

Is she trembling because she’s so happy?

Char suddenly trembled.

Huh? No. Something is wrong.

“Char, what’s wrong?”

“M-my body is hot……”

“Are you sick? I’ll call Nowald-sensei.”

“No……it’s different…… I……I think it’s about time of my molting period.”

I’ve heard that dragons molt regularly. And apparently, their activeness level drops when they do. It is said that if they stay still, the molting will eventually end.

“Anyway, let’s go back to the cottage first. You need to sleep in the bed.”

“I-, I can’t walk well.”

Her activeness has already begun to decline huh.

“I’ll hold you. Come on, let’s go home together.”

Char happily hugged me.

“Does your body or head hurt?”

“I’m fine, but I can’t move well. After I shed my skin, I have to give my scales to Sambabano.”

Right, we made that promise.

“Remembering your promise even at a time like this, you’re really amazing Char.”

“Ehehe, you’re so kind Father.”

I went back to the cottage with Char in my arms.

　＊＊＊

Estate of the Count Dantès in Belucca.

In the long corridor, the owner of the mansion and his daughter were arguing.

“You big idiot! How many times do I have to tell you? You’re not allowed to go play at Cedie’s place!”

“You’re a stubborn old fool, Father!”

“S-stubborn old fool!?”

Claire tried and failed to escape the mansion. This is the third time this week.

Unable to meet the man she loves, Claire explodes in adolescent rage.

“Sebastian! Let me go or I’ll hang you up!”

“Please forgive me, Miss Claire. This is an order from Alexei-sama you see.”

“Kii!”

“Gyaa!”

Sebastian was scratched on the cheek and fell to his back on the spot.

“Take the young lady to her room!”

Claire, who was under house arrest in her room, sat at her desk, her trembling fingers were smudged with ink. Her father, Alexei, scolded and forced her to write a letter of remorse.

No, she’s not writing that.

“Me and Cedie, Operation to Make Summer Memories.”

That’s what the title says.

Although the handwriting is not that beautiful, it is bold and powerful. Claire was pleased with her finished work.

“School is about to start. Before that, I am going to make some memories with Cedie!”

But even if she wanted to stay over at Cedie’s place, her father, Alexei, would not allow it. Cedie probably wouldn’t approve of her running away from home, either. Cedie is shy after all…

That’s what Claire thinks so.

That’s where her plan comes in.

Claire boldly (foolishly) comes up with a plan to elicit sympathy with a fake kidnapping case. She decided to hire people to fabricate a kidnapping and have Cedie look for her. Until now she hadn’t been able to show her affection, but the moment she was rescued, she’ll be able to hug Cedie.

In her mind, if things went her way, Cedie would surely be gentle with her. She’s sure that he’ll hug her back tightly as well.

And in that moment, she will confess.

Cedie, I’ve always liked you. I’m sure Cedie feels the same way. I can tell by looking at your attitude.

The day when I will dedicate my first kiss to Cedie is near!

“O-hohohoho!”

Claire laughed and called her maid, Rochelle.

“Rochelle, tomorrow we are going to Gandalcia, pack your bags.”

“Yes, but the Earl….…”

“That doesn’t matter.”

“But if you go out secretly, you’ll be scolded.”

“Do you want to be fired!? Just pack your things!”

“Y-yes……”

Claire is ruthless when it comes to achieving her goals.

This is translated by Yume Neiji. Kindly read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com.

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Summer is in full swing, and the hot days are continuing.

Kemoncy seems delighted that shaved ice is selling like hotcakes on the beach. It’s cold, delicious and inexpensive, so it’s very popular. I guess it was a good idea to let customers add as much syrup as they want.

It’s simply to make up for the shortage of staff though.

At the beach house, the salary system was abolished, and the commission system was introduced. Hermine is also confident that she will be able to pay off their debt early. Since the money is controlled by Hermine, Kemoncy can’t spend it on gambling.

They’re so busy, so I’m helping out at the beach house today.

“Welcome! Would you like some shaved ice?”

“One Blue Gandalcia please.”

“Here, you can add the syrup yourself. It’s 300 crown coins.”

The most popular item this summer is Blue Gandalcia. I don’t know why, but it has a reputation for being delicious.

Hn?

I thought there’s a strange woman, but it turned out to be Claire.

She’s wearing a wig, sunglasses and a slightly more mature summer dress. Her back and chest are daringly open too. I don’t think it suit a child though……

She’s also wearing long gloves that cover her upper arms.

Perhaps she doesn’t want to get sunburned?

But in that case, she shouldn’t have come to the beach at all.

Or is that part of the disguise?

She must have sneaked out of the mansion again and came here to play.

“I’d like a Blue Gandalcia as well.”

“Why are you dressed like that, Claire?”

“No, I’m not Claire. I’m Miss Charmy Green.”

It may sound like a kind name, but she’s not kind at all. I mean, Claire offered a gold crown coin worth 100,000 to buy shaved ice that’s worth 300 crown coins. Only a naïve young lady would do such a thing.

“There’s no way we’d have a change for that gold coin! You can’t use that in a store like this.”

“Do something about it! Cedie is part of the nobility after all!”

“Where did the character design of Miss Charmy Green go? This is all so sloppy!”

“Shut up! That’s all I have so there’s nothing I can do about it!”

I motioned for Claire to put away her gold coin.

“It can’t be helped then. As your uncle, it will be my treat then. But you’d better go home after finishing it. I currently have a disagreement with Alexei-oniisan about the Magic Railway.”

“I don’t care. I do what I want. Please don’t drag me into your siblings’ fights. I’m already struggling myself. If Father finds out that I am hanging out with Cedie, he’ll be upset for sure.”

“So that is why you’re wearing such a strange disguise?”

“What do you mean strange disguise? This is the latest fashion!!”

“-Uh. That was rude of me then.”

I can’t keep up with Claire’s sense of style.

“Just hurry up and get ready.”

“Ready for what?”

“Get ready to play in the beach with me!”

Sigh…… Being selfish again.

“You can see it too, right? I’m busy. Isn’t that your maid, Rochelle-san? Why don’t you play with her?”

Rochelle-san was standing behind Claire, looking disregarded. It must have been hard for her to be bossed around by Claire.

“I don’t want to play with the maid!”

“You’re so selfish you know. Here’s the shaved ice. You put the syrup on it yourself. Here, have some too Rochelle-san.”

When I handed her the shaved ice, Rochelle-san looked embarrased.

“I-, I can’t take it..…”

“It’s so hot, don’t be shy about eating it. I’m sorry that my niece is always causing you trouble.”

“I’m not causing any trouble!”

“Okay, okay so be it. I’m leaving.”

“Where are you going?”

“I have to improve the mountain trails.”

The path to the summit has been completed, but we still need to cut down the overhanging branches and reinforce the areas that are likely to collapse.

The number of guests at the beach house is decreasing, so it’s time for me to go.

“Then I’ll go with you.”

“It’s dangerous, so no. Claire, just stay here and eat your shaved ice.”

“You’re just Cedie, don’t talk like you’re so superior! Rochelle, I’m going to help Cedie. You stay here and rest.”

Claire shoved her portion of shaved ice onto Rochelle-san.

“Hey, why don’t you just go and check out the family ranch?”

“I’ve taken a quick look at it.”

“Have you seen Redas-san? He is a very nice guy. He’s very popular with children and mothers.”

“Hmph! I’m not interested in him.”

Redas-san can get close to any animal, but he’s no good with Claire huh. Even Silver got close to him too.

“To me, Cedie is better……”

“Really?”

“I’m not saying Cedie is cooler or anything like that! I’m just saying that you’re better!”

“Yes, yes, you don’t have to fret about it so much.”

When I was about to pack my things and go, Claire followed me.

“Are you really going to help me?”

“It’s not for Cedie’s sake, it’s to prove my competence.”

“Hmm……”

The other day, she helped me harvest apples too…….

“Claire, have you become more mellow since you turned thirteen?”

“Don’t talk like I’m a grandma!”

“I’m complimenting you. You used to be mean, but Claire is kind these days.”

“Oh! I……I’m going now. Follow me.”

Claire stood in front of me and walked slowly.

Children of noble families train in magic from a young age. It’s the same with Claire, so she can use magic too. Even among those of the same bloodline, the type of magic they can use varies from person to person. I’m good at fire magic, but Claire is good at wind magic. Alexei-oniisan is a user of earth magic and Paul-oniisan is a wind magic user like Claire.

“Wind Cutter!”

Claire used her signature wind magic to cut the branches that overhung the trail. Every time she uses magic, she strikes a weird pose, but she does her work carefully.

“How’s my wind cutter?”

“Claire is doing great!”

Char, who is also helping with the maintenance, claps with her small hands.

“Right? Why don’t you say something Cedie?”

“Thank you. You’re very helpful.”

“…………”

Uh-. What’s with her reaction again…….?

I complimented her obediently, but she glared at me.

Claire turned away and wiped the sweat from her forehead with her handkerchief.

“Whew…… it’s hot.”

She went into the shade of a tree and takes off her long gloves.

“Oh, you are wearing the ring I gave you as birthday present.”

The large Gandalcian pearl is glittering on Claire’s finger.

“T-this…… I’ve put it on specially to save face for Cedie! I usually keep it in the back of a drawer though.”

I knew it.

“Is the star guide broken? Does it work properly?”

“Yes, it works well. I use it every night and it’s pointing at Cygnus.”

“Every night?”

“I’m just using it because it’s kind of fun. I’ll get tired of it soon!”

She may be acting like this, but maybe she likes it too. If so, it was worth the gift.

After a break, we went back to the cottage. 

An unexpected person was waiting for me in front of the cottage though.

It was Alexei-oniisan.

Maybe he came all the way here looking for Claire?

“Hey, Cedie. I’ve brought you a new compromise proposal on the Magic Railway. Let’s go over it together.”

Sigh…… He hadn’t given up on the compromise yet.

Alexei-oniisan, who was about to enter the cottage without permission, noticed Claire who’s frozen behind me.

Oh no, is he going to explode in anger?

I thought so, but Alexei-oniisan poked my side with his elbow.

“Is she your girlfriend?”

Brother, she’s your daughter!

Did he really not recognize her? To think that he wouldn’t recognize his own daughter in such a strange disguise…

He looked at Claire with a smirk, but suddenly he made a serious face and said something sensible.

“I can’t just ignore this though. If you’re serious about dating, make sure you choose someone based on their family background. Cedie is a member of the Dantes family after all.”

“No, did you really not recognize her? It’s Claire.”

“What!?”

Alexei-oniisan’s eyes widened. He walks up to Claire and rips off her wig and sunglasses.

“Claire, why are you here!?”

“I just came to visit Uncle Cedie.”

“Without my permission?”

“I’m already an adult! Don’t make such a fuss!”

“A thirteen-year-old doesn’t count as adult!”

Hey, hey, brother. You kicked me out of the mansion when I was 12 years old saying that I’m already a grown man!

Did those lines really come out of the same mouth? Well…… I’m his half-brother and she is her daughter, so I guess we are treated differently.

“We are going home now. Come on, Claire!”

“Hey, don’t drag me!”

Claire and Alexei-oniisan get into the carriage while swearing at each other.

Oh, they’ve both popped their heads out the window.

“I’ll come again!”

“I’ll be back!”

Looking at it this way, the two of them are very similar…..

But lately, I feel like Claire has become kinder than before.

I wonder if it’s because she has acquired common sense.

Anyway, it was a noisy day.

This is translated by Yume Neiji. Kindly read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com.

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When we returned to Gandalcia Island, it was already dawn. The morning sun is truly beautiful. Redas-san squinted his eyes and smiled at the scenery. Well, it’s been a long time since he has seen the sun.

“Redas-san, I’ll take care of a few errands first then I’ll show you around the island.”

First of all, I fiddled with the settings of the teleporter to block the Night Queen from coming. By now, she is probably screaming after she found out that Redas-san has escaped the Night Island.

“With this, the Night Queen can’t come to Gandalcia.”

When I told him that, Redas-san also looked relieved.

“Let’s go to the auberge first, we need to have breakfast and get some rest.”

We had been busy all night so both Redas-san and I were exhausted.

When we arrived at the Auberge, I used 2 points to make a pond before going inside. This pond is for releasing the koi that Argo gave me.

Hmm, I guess I’ll take this opportunity to decorate the pond with lotus flowers as well.

The koi swimming among the bright pink lotuses is truly beautiful. The guests who come to the auberge will be delighted for sure.

“You guys will live well here.”

When Redas-san said so, the koi poke their heads out of the water, opens and closes their mouths as if to reply.

“Do you understand what the koi are saying?”

“Koi don’t speak, but they can convey their feelings. They seem to like the new pond.”

As the one who built the pond, hearing that made me happy.

When we walked inside the restaurant, Char and Upa jumped up and hugged me.

“I’m sorry for worrying you guys. But look, I’m fine.”

I explained to them that happened in Night Island.

“Did Farh Jarg misbehave again? Char will pluck off his beard this time!”

“Calm down, calm down. But it’s indeed necessary to put a nail on Farh Jarg’s head. Anyways, let me introduce you guys to a new friend on the island. This is Redas-san. I’m going to have Redas-san take care of the family ranch.”

As Upa shook hands with Redas-san, he once again looked worried.

“But, is it really okay for such a kind person to do that work? Not to mention Lucio and the other animals, he’ll take care of Silver as well, right?”

“Uh-, that’s right……”

Silver is a difficult horse. When he gets too excited, he’ll nudge people on the back with his nose and even knows how to play pranks at times.

—But it turned out, our worries were completely unfounded.  It’s because Silver immediately liked Redas-san.

It was so surprising that we were all dumbfounded. Even though Silver hates having people ride him, he’s very eager to let Redas-san ride him. Well, that’s to be expected I guess. Redas-san has a special power over animals.

The family ranch, where people could interact with animals, didn’t become all that popular. I thought it would be a hit with families. However, unlike Japan in my previous life, livestock are common to people in this world. There are a lot of goats and chickens around so people won’t bother to come all the way to Gandalcia just to see them.

However, I am grateful that Redas-san has come to take care of the animals. Thanks to this, I have more time for myself. And the animals are very lively. Silver and Lucio are better groomed, goats are milking more, and chickens are laying bigger eggs.

I’m pretty sure it’s all because of Redas-san. The animals love Redas-san. Even the island’s birds, rabbits, and squirrels flocked to the family ranch.

I went to the cave to complain to Farh Jarg.

I’m angry  about what had happened. I had been tricked and I was almost involved in a kidnapping case.

“What do you mean by poor lady? The Night Queen is the kidnapper herself!”

“W-what are you talking about……?”

Still trying to quibble huh.

“You two tried to trick me.”

“No! I didn’t know the details either. She just told me to help her because she is in trouble.”

“Really?”

“Of course! I did it out of kindness. I didn’t get anything in return.”

“That’s a lie. There were lots of paintings lined up in the Night Queen’s mansion. And they were all fakes!”

“Uuh!”

Oh, now Farh Jarg is in a hurry.

Perhaps he sold the forgeries under false pretense of it being genuine.

“I wonder if I should tell the Night Queen……”

“W-wait! No, don’t do it, Baron!”

And there it is, Farh Jarg’s attitude has completely changed.

“It’s true that I didn’t know the details. I introduced her to Baron because she said that if you would cooperate, she would buy my paintings. This is the truth, I can swear. So please don’t tell the Night Queen that the painting is fake!”

“Then you swear you won’t bother me or Redas-san over this matter again. Can you swear?”

Farh Jarg put his hands on his chest and swore an oath.

“Farh Jarg will never be involved in the kidnapping of Redas again, and I will never cooperate with the Night Queen to embarrass Baron Dantès! I swear.”

Sprites can’t break their vows, so that’s a relief.

Farh Jarg bowed his head and removed a painting on the wall.

“Please bring this masterpiece. It’s my token of apology.”

Farh Jarg gave me a painting titled “The Milkman.”

“This is fake too! If it were real, there wouldn’t be so much milk.”

“Tch!”

“Don’t click your tongue!”

“Hii!”

Farh Jarg had sworn not to cause any trouble over this, but it didn’t seem like he was sorry.

This is translated by Yume Neiji. Kindly read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com.

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I was a little agitated as the carriage moved so slowly.

But this is my fault. The carriage was shaking so badly earlier that I ordered the horse golem to move slowly. However now is different, we can’t afford to be leisurely on the way back. Argo might wake up and chase after us.

“I’m going to retract the order I gave you earlier, please speed up a bit.”

“………”

The golem was still silent, but the carriage speeds up.

“O-ouch!”

It’s good that it’s faster, but now my butt is starting to hurt. The carriage moves up and down vigorously, so my body is bouncing up and down as well. Redas-san, who is sleeping in the back, is also bouncing.

I hope he doesn’t get bruises, but this is unavoidable.

“Ugh…… uh, ugh……”

Redas-san has woken up?

He must have woken up because of the pain all over his body. I made the horse golem stop and parked the carriage.

I walked up to Redas-san.

“Are you okay?”

“Eh? This place is…..?”

Redas-san looks around in a daze.

“I’m Cedie Dantes. I’ve come to rescue you at the request of the Night Queen.”

“Eh?”

Redas-san looked at me incredulously.

“What do you mean? It was Argo who rescued me from being held captive by the Night Queen.”

“What!?”

“I drifted to this island, where I was rescued by the Night Queen. I’m grateful for that. But when I told her I wanted to go home, the Night Queen wouldn’t let me. She closed off the island and forced me to marry her.”

They’re not lovers!

“T-then, what happened?”

“I refused because I had never thought about getting married. The Night Queen was so mad that she used her golem soldiers to imprison me.”

So she has golem servants after all.

“Argo, the giant, took pity on me. He broke the iron bars on the windows to let me escape. Argo was so powerful that even the Night Queen couldn’t touch him. I was in the process of building an escape squid with the help of Argo.”

“Do you want to cross the sea in a squid?”

“It’s better than being caught by the Night Queen……”

I was completely deceived.

Could it be that Farh Jarg was also in this?

Using the deep-sea flute, not only Argo but also Redas-san will fall asleep. The Night Queen must have thought that if I took Redas-san back while he’s asleep, everything would be fine. But it was her mistake to not maintain the roads on this island.

“I’m sorry, I was deceived.”

“It’s fine.”

Redas-san smiled kindly.

I feel at ease when I’m with this person. I sense a warm, gentle vibe from him.

“Cedie-san, can you please go back to Argo?”

“I understand. I’m sorry for the trouble.”

Now I don’t care about how golems are made. I have to protect Redas-san from the Night Queen.

We drove the carriage back to Argo’s cave. When we returned to the rock house, Argo was still sleeping. All of his hundred eyes remained closed.

“Argo. Argo, wake up.”

Redas-san is gently shaking Argo’s body.

After doing so for a while, the eyes on the top of Argo’s head finally opened.

“Argo, I have something to tell you, wake up.”

“Mm, I feel like I slept soundly for the first time in my life……”

Argo stretches out and opens his eyes one after another. Then he immediately noticed me.

“Who are you? I’ve never seen you before.”

“Good evening. I’m Cedie Dantes from Gandalcia.”

I explained to Argo what had happened so far.

“So you were tricked by the Night Witch into bringing Redas back to her.”

“Yes, that’s what happened. I’m sorry.”

“No, it’s the Night Witch who is at fault. Don’t be too embarrassed.”

Even after hearing that, I’m angry at myself for never suspecting Farh Jarg and the Night Witch, well the Night Queen.

“Then I’m going back to Gandalcia.”

“When you say you’re going home, do you have a ship?”

Redas-san looked at me with expectant eyes. I’m sure he wants to be sent back to his hometown.

“Unfortunately, I don’t have one. I actually went here via teleporter.”

“Oh, you mean that box in the meadow?”

“You know about it Argo-san?”

“Normal humans can’t see it, but I, with my hundred eyes, can see it. However, only the Night Queen can use it.”

“Don’t worry about that, I can use it too.”

Argo crossed his arms and pondered.

“Then why don’t you take Redas to your island. I don’t know when the Night Queen will play tricks again. It would be safer for him to stay there.”

The Night Queen can make golems after all…….

“I’d like to ask you to take me with you.”

“Is that really okay, Redas-san? You might be further away from home.”

“It doesn’t matter. The Night Queen’s heart will be calmer when I’m gone.”

Despite being imprisoned, Redas-san doesn’t seem to hold a grudge against the Night Queen. As expected, he is a kind person.

“By the way, where is Redas-san’s hometown?”

“I’m from the Kingdom of Primula. I was on an ocean-going trading ship and got lost. I was washed ashore on the Night Island.”

“Primula is a country very far to the north, right? I don’t think there are regular sails there.”

“Mm. I’ve almost given up on going back to my hometown too. Well, if I could, would you let me work on your island, Cedie? I’m good at taking care of animals.”

At that moment, my status screen opened.

The conditions for the construction of ranch have been released. Condition: Acquisition of employees with a benevolent heart What can be made: Family Ranch Description: This is a small ranch where you can interact with animals. Points Required: 10

Someone like Redas-san is very much welcome.

“I’m going to build a small ranch, would you like to work there?”

“With pleasure.”

There is one thing I have to thank the Night Queen. The teleporter in Gandalcia is at level 1, but the teleporter here is at level 4. In other words, it is possible to transfer with up to four companions. I’m sure it’s high level because the Night Queen takes her golems with her when she goes to another island.

Argo saw us off as we arrived at the teleporter on Night Island.

Argo said goodbye to Redas-san and turned to me.

“Cedie Dantes, take this.”

He handed me a big bag containing four koi. I haven’t seen koi on Gandalcia Island either.

“Can I get such a rare fish?”

“There are a lot of them on Night Island. You can get a lot of gold, silver, and jewels too. I don’t think you’ll be punished if you bring back some fish as a memento of your visit.”

“Thank you, Argo-san. I’ll try to keep them in the pond right away.”

A lemon-colored moon hangs over the same place on the mountain. Even if it’s an island where treasures can be crunched up, I prefer the island where the morning comes.

Waving at the gentle giant standing in the meadow, I pressed the transfer button.

This is translated by Yume Neiji. Kindly read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com.

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I went in a carriage along the path taught by the Night Queen. 

In less than 300 meters, the yellow brick road embedded with jewels turned into unpaved dirt road. The surrounding environment is also not very good either.

The grass is unkempt, and many branches overhang the road, making it very difficult to navigate. There are large stones everywhere too, so the carriage rocked up and down for a while.

It’s starting to hurt my butt.

“Try to walk around the stones as much as possible.”

“……”

The golem did not reply, but it slowed down a bit, and it became more careful so the wheels don’t run on stones.

It’s pretty smart, it understood what I’m saying.

Eventually, the road led us to a dark forest. The moonlight doesn’t reach inside, so it’s pitch black in the forest. Occasionally, I can hear the sounds of owls and insects.

I got scared, so I took out the deep-sea flute. Even if there are bad guys lurking in the darkness, they will all fall asleep if I go while playing the deep-sea flute.

Misososo ♩ Falalala ♪ Tititilati Doremi ♪

I played the cheerful “Little Brown Jug.”

And guess what?

The cries of owls and the sounds of insects that had been heard until then had ceased completely. The only one moving must be the golem and me.

The carriage rattled through the silent forest. After about an hour and a half, we went out of the forest. As soon as my vision opened, I could see a rocky mountain illuminated by moonlight in front of me.

That must be Argo’s home.

After a while, I parked the carriage.

“Listen, you should wait here until I come back. Don’t go anywhere.”

“………”

As expected, the golem did not reply, but the order seemed to be understood. It stayed there and didn’t move.

Alright, time to explore Argo’s cave.

I crept towards the cave with soft footsteps.

When I actually saw it, Argo’s home was more like a grotto than a cave. 

It is a dwelling carved out of the rock, with doors and windows on the front. I had imagined something similar to the cave on the Gandalcia Island, but I was wrong.

There were various tools in front of the rock house, and it was more civilized than I expected. It’s already midnight, but the light of the lamp inside is leaking from the window.

When I peeked through the gap in the shutters, I saw a man who seemed to be more than 3 meters tall sitting on a chair while reading a book. He only wears clothes that look like boxer-type trunks, and the rest of his skin is bare.

It was said that he got hundred eyes, and it was indeed true. In addition to the two eyes on his face, there are eyes lined up all over his head, forehead, cheeks, shoulders, chest, arms, hands, back, buttocks, legs and feet.

His eyes on the face are closed now, and he appeared to be reading the book with the eyes on his chest. I had heard that Argo is a giant, so I imagined a giant one that could climb over a high wall and attack, but he was just a man about four meters tall at most.

Perhaps such imagination is also the influence of my past life…

His face was much less frightening than I’d expected, and in fact, he even looked intelligent. As far as I can see, there is no one who looks like Redas, but I could look for him after I put Argo to sleep.

I took out the deep-sea flute.

Eh?

When I tried to play it, my hands and feet started to tremble. 

If Argo found me before he’s completely asleep, I might get caught. When I thought about it, I started to get scared. I leaned against the rock wall to keep myself from shaking as much as possible, and then I started playing.

So Do Si Do Re La Re ♪ Do Si Ra Si Do ♪

This is the most tranquil one in my repertoire, “Aura Lee”.

As I look at him while playing the flute, Argo’s eyes start to close one after another. The eyes on his head seems to be all closed now.

I thought he’d be curious about the sound of the flute and come looking for me, but he’s just listening intently..

Eventually, I finished playing “Aura Lee,” so I continued to play “Hometown”.

Argo’s eyes closed one after another, leaving only the one on his forehead.

Okay, this is the last song I’m best at. “Frog Song”

Dodoreremifafami-re-do ♪

All of Argo’s eyes were closed, and he seemed to have fallen into a deep sleep. I can even hear his deep breathing.

Alright, it worked!

By the way, the last part of the lyrics of “Frog Song” seems to be slightly different depending on the region. I learned it as “Gerogerogerogero gwah gwah gwah.” But apparently, some say it’s “Gwagwagwagwa” or “Kekekeke kwa kwa”.

The door was not locked, so I was able to enter the room without difficulty. Argo is lying face down on the table and is snoring loudly. He won’t wake up for a few more hours.

As I looked around, I found that there was a door at the back of the rock house. There, a young man is sleeping in the bedroom.

I’m sure this person is Redas-san.

I think he’s in his mid-twenties. As the Night Queen called him “beautiful Redas,” he indeed has beautiful features. He is pale, delicate, and had an androgynous beauty. He seems to be a very kind person. I can see why the Night Queen was so obsessed with him.

But is this person and the Night Queen really lovers?

Something seems off…….

Well, everyone has different tastes, and the age difference may not be a factor, but they still seem mismatched. That being said, I’m just an immature kid who doesn’t know much about love either. I don’t have any memories of that kind from my past life.

Wait, does it mean that the number of years I’ve been single is the same as my age in my past life?!

……Oh well, I’ll stop thinking about it too deeply.

Anyways, I have to carry Redas-san. 

I went out, walked back to horse golem and led the carriage in front of the house. 

I was worried, but thankfully, Argo is still asleep.

I then proceeded on carrying Redas-san. Although he looked light, it was very difficult for me to carry an adult person as I’m not that strong. I could only drag him on the floor. Well, even with that, Redas-san showed no sign of waking up. That’s how great the power of the deep-sea flute is.

With great difficulty, I lifted Redas-san onto the back of the carriage. I also sat down on the spot.

I don’t have time to rest. 

I adjusted my breathing, play the flute one more time just in case, and then we left the house.

This is translated by Yume Neiji. Kindly read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com.

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The Night Queen, who’s breathing heavily, grabbed my sleeve.

“Bring Redas here as soon as possible! I’ll give you anything on this island. Take as much gold and jewels as you want!”

The Night Island is a place where a lot of such things are produced. I feel like there was an island with such a setting at Island Maker too. I rarely got to go there, though.

But how does the Queen mine it?

There’s no house or living quarters on the way to the mansion and I didn’t see a single human being either.

There’s no way the Queen is mining it herself, right?

I can’t imagine the Night Queen holding a pickaxe…….

Well, maybe I just can’t see it now, but there must be residents somewhere.

“Redas was taken away by a giant named Argo, right?”

“That’s right. He must have fallen in love with beautiful Redas!”

“…I understand. Please tell me where Redas-san is held so I can rescue him.”

“Well, then I’ll explain the specific plan.”

The Night Queen regained some composure and began to speak.

“Argo lives in a cave on the rocky mountain on the other side of the island.”

“How far is it from here?”

“It’s 10 kilometers away.”

That’s quite far. It would probably take about two hours on foot.

“Redas-san is also there, is that right?”

“Yes. By the way, did you bring the deep-sea flute?”

“That’s a given. After all, without the flute I would not be able to get Redas-san back.”

The deep-sea flute is tucked into my belt and hidden behind my waist.

“The cave is full of holes, so if you approach it gently and play the flute there, Argo should be able to hear it. But be careful. Argo is a monster with a hundred eyes all over his body. I think it’s going to take a while to get him to sleep completely.”

Once you listen to the sound of this flute, a normal person will fall asleep in about five seconds, and even Char fall asleep in ten seconds.

However, while Char only has two eyes, Argo got hundred eyes. If I multiply that by 50, then playing it for 500 seconds should make Argo fall asleep, right?

500 seconds is 8 minutes and 20 seconds. Even if I play it for a full second just to be sure, it’s still a lot of effort. It’s not so much a matter of stamina, it’s a problem with my repertoire. Well, I can play the same song again.

“There are two problems though.”

“Tell me.”

“First of all, even if I bring Redas-san back, Argo may attack again.”

“Hmm, indeed. Don’t worry, I’ve strengthened the defenses of this pavilion, it’s impossible for him to break through.”

The queen seems to be full of confidence, so I don’t think I need to worry about that part.

“The other problem is that I can put Argo to sleep, but if I do that, Redas-san will fall into a deep sleep too. When that happens, it will be hard for me to carry him back.”

There’s also the possibility that Argo will wake up first before Redas-san. It will be a problem if he got angry and chase after us.

We have to get into a safe zone before Argo catches up.

“Why not just bring him back while he’s asleep?”

“Even if you say that….…”

I’m only a thirteen-year-old boy you know.

It is impossible for me to walk 10 kilometers with an adult man on my back.

“Alright, I’ve thought about that problem. You can use my horse and I’ll lend you a carriage.”

I didn’t see any stable, and I didn’t sense its presence either.

I wonder if there is really a horse here….

Well, with my physical strength, I should be able to carry Redas-san to the carriage. 

But not all problems have been solved.

“I’m grateful for the horse, but if it hears the whistle, it will fall asleep too, right?”

“Don’t worry, my horse won’t fall asleep. I already arranged them at the back door, you can ride on it and go. I really wish I could go with you……”

That would be impossible. After all, the Night Queen is already out of breath after just a short walk. Even if she came with me on the rescue mission, she’d only end up being a hindrance.

But, what does she mean when she said her horse won’t fall asleep?

I was skeptical but I still went to the back door. When I saw the horse, I was convinced. 

What was waiting for me there was a horse-shaped golem. Its entire body shines silver as if it was chrome plated. Indeed. With this, I will not be able to put it to sleep even with my deep-sea flute.

Hmm…., which one should I try and play?

So-ra-so do So-la-so ♩ Amaryllis ♩

Oh, it really won’t sleep!

It can hear the sound, but the horse golem only glanced at me then it continues to scratch the ground with its metal hooves. 

This would allow me to ride close to the cave then.

I didn’t know there was such a horse. There was no signs of people in the mansion, but there may have been golems taking care of the Night Queen. It’s evident as the Night Queen is not exercising enough. It’s also impossible to maintain such a large place. Yet the entire place was clean from corner to corner. I don’t think robot vacuum cleaners can do that.

There are a lot of golems working here for sure.

She said that if I helped Redas-san, she would give me anything. If possible, I’d like her to give me some knowledge about golems. If I can get a book about it, it will be a good souvenir for Nowald-sensei.

I got into the carriage and set off to the cave where the giant, Argo, lived.

This is translated by Yume Neiji. Kindly read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com.

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A mountain trail has been set up. The trailhead is right next to the cave, and a narrow trail stretches toward the summit.

“Okay, let’s go.”

Upa, carrying a great sword, walked out in the lead. Char followed after him.

“Upa, are you really going to come with us?”

“Of course! Cedie is going to slay a giant monster, right? What are you going to do if you don’t have a bodyguard?”

“No, no, I’m not going to kill Argo. I’m just rescuing the kidnapped young man. And Upa, you are not my bodyguard, you are the manager of the Auberge, you know.”

“No need to care about the details. Besides, there are no guests staying today. Even Lynn has given me the permission, so don’t worry about it.”

“That’s right, Father. We’re all going to have fun and defeat the kidnapper!”

All I have to do is put Argo to sleep and rescue the captured young man though….

We walked steadily and reached the top of the mountain in about 40 minutes. Sigh. It’s not easy to use the teleporter.

If I level up, I can add things like ropeways to the mountain trail, but that requires a fair amount of funding. There are not so many tourists, and it seems that it will take a considerable period of time to recover the invested capital, so I have to give up on it for now. Besides, I think there aren’t many opportunities to go to other islands either.

For now, I’m going to do my best and work hard.

There were no trees on the summit of Mt. Gandalcia, and the view was open. From here, I can see Lebon, Belucca, and even the city of Polymer. It would be convenient if the Magic Railway could connect these three cities. However, the biggest obstacle is Alexei-oniisan, so that will be a long way off.

With that in mind, I approached the teleporter.

It is located on the edge of a small flat area at the top of the mountain. But it’s not that high tech. It’s more like the small refrigerator in a hotel. It’s about that size. It’s a similar rectangular prism with decorative carvings on each corner. It’s exactly the same as the one that came out in Island Maker, so the usage will be the same.

“Cedie, where is the teleporter you talked about? There’s nothing here…..”

“Mm. There is nothing at all.”

“Eh? You two can’t see this?”

The two of them couldn’t see the teleporter huh.

Something similar had happened before. I think it’s because it’s one of those that only I, the lord of the Island, can see.

“The teleporter is right in front of me. Let me check if it works.”

When I touched the top of the teleporter, a string of characters appeared.

First, I searched for the island I want to visit. As soon as I typed “Night Island” on the keyboard, the target was selected.

Good, I’ve got permission to teleport.

The teleporter cannot be used to travel back and forth without the consent of both parties. As for how I got the permission of transfer, Farh Jarg must have told the Night Queen about me. She’s ready to receive me over there then. All I have to do is press the transfer button and we should be able to go to the Night Island.

“It’s ready. Both of you, stay close to me.”

“Yeah, anytime!”

“Let’s go!”

The three of us huddled together and then I pressed the transfer button.

There was no dizziness or such. It was a very quick transfer in a blink of an eye.

This is the Night Island huh.

The lemon-colored moon shines above the mountain in front of me, so I can see the surroundings well. Perhaps, as the name suggests, this is an island is without daylight.

“Char, Upa, are you okay? ……Huh?”

I looked around, but I could not find the two of them. I’m the only one on this dimly lit plain.

Uh-! Is that teleporter for one person only?

I’m sure the two of them left behind on Gandalcia will be worried, so I decided to go back for the time being.

Seeing me suddenly appear, Char and Upa breathed a sigh of relief. In particular, Upa, who is anxious, looks like he is about to cry. He’s a very dandy manager when he’s acting normally though.

“Cedie, where have you been?! Are you hurt? Is your stomach okay? They didn’t do anything strange to you, right?”

“No one has done anything to me. I’m sorry for disappearing suddenly.”

I checked the teleporter.

I knew it.

The teleporter is only at level 1. If I upgrade it, I can teleport with multiple people, but at the current level, it seems that only one person can be teleported. The upgrade costs 50 points and 170,000 crown coins. I have cash, but I don’t have enough points for the upgrade.

“It seems that only one person can go to the Night Island. I’m going alone this time.”

“No!”

“Char wants to go with you too!”

“Even if you two say that, it’s impossible to go with the two of you. But if I don’t go, I will feel sorry for the Night Queen. That won’t do, right?”

“That’s right, but ….…”

Upa still looks dissatisfied.

“I have the deep-sea flute so I will be fine. Well then, I’m going.”

Before they could stop me, I pressed the transfer button.

I’m on the Night Island again. Even though some time has passed, it seems like the moon above the mountain hasn’t moved at all. As expected, it’s always night here.

When I looked around, I found a small signboard. Roses are drawn around the board, and written on the center of it was, “The House of the Night Queen ↑” .

I guess I should follow this guide.

After walking for a while, I saw a large pavilion on the hill.

The roads and other amenities were also starting to come into place. This island costs a lot of money. The bricks of the streets are embedded with jewels, and the lamp posts are even gold-plated.

Is it real? I don’t have to pay for anything, do I?

In Island Maker, there were some islands where you could get a lot of gold ore so that possibility is not zero. It may seem a little lacking in dignity due to its nouveau riche tastes, but the impact is quite impressive. If the sun had come out, I might not have been able to keep my eyes open because of the dazzle.

I walked down the flashy road and came to the pavilion.

“Hello there. I’m Cedie Dantes from Gandalcia.”

“I’ve been waiting for you.”

A woman with a soft voice greeted me.

She’s much older than I expected.

I had heard that her lover had been kidnapped, so I had imagined a young couple, but the Night Queen looked to be over 40 years old. She has an overly plump figure wrapped in a black dress, jet-black hair, upturned eyes, and her makeup is striking.

Well, she’s fat, but she looked haggard. She got dark circles under her eyes. She must have been heartbroken.

“Farh Jarg introduced me already, right? Please come in.”

It was a big house, but it was quiet and there were no other people.

“Are you alone here?”

“That’s right. I used to live with my lover, Redas, but Argo….…”

The Night Queen gritted her teeth in annoyance. She suddenly had such a fierce expression and I can hear her gnashing. It’s so scary to watch.

I was ushered into the reception room and was immediately given the details of the situation.

This is translated by Yume Neiji. Kindly read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com.

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