Category: Kajiya de Hajimeru Isekai Slow Life

The next morning.

After finishing the morning preparation and worship, we head to the lake to pull up the game. There are five of us, just like the last time Liddy was here before. Perhaps because we had done it once, we were able to pull up the deer smoothly. Even though the three of them are strong women, it wouldn’t have gone so smoothly with just three people. That reminds me of how difficult it is normally.

Once we brought it home, the rest of the day went as usual. However, this time, I asked Liddy to dismantle it with Samia and Rike for her to get used to the knife. Diana and I will take the processed meat inside the house and clean up the unnecessary bones and stuff.

“This knife cuts really well, doesn’t it?”

Liddy says in a whisper but her voice is clearly audible.

“Of course! Boss’ custom-made products are amazing!”

It’s Rike, not me, who proudly brags about it. This kind of thing is becoming a normal scene. I don’t feel bad to be praised for what I made diligently but I’m still embarrassed. I wish I myself could say from the bottom of my heart that I was the one who made it.

Since the game was successfully turned into meat, I made something like a roasted meat for lunch with brandy made from pickled fruit. It is still popular with our meat-lover girls. Liddy didn’t dislike it and she also ate it deliciously. Apparently, she also likes the taste. I wonder if I should serve this on small special occasion from now on.

After we had our lunch, we spend time doing whatever we wanted to do. I’m working at the smithy for the delivery production and Rike is working with Liddy to study so what we’re doing is not much different from yesterday, it’s just that the time is shorter. It seems that Samia and Diana are training on swords. Samia teaches Diana how to use a bow, and Diana teaches Samia how to use a sword, they are doing so in order to improve their skills in case of emergency… that’s what Diana explained.

Considering the story I heard from Camilo just before I got home, it seemed like a good idea to have them do that. I hope they’ll do their best to increase our chances of returning home safely when we go back and forth on the road. The day ended with me making a good number of knives and Rike seems to be able to put more magic into it than before too.

“I think I’ll be able to retire from making high-end models soon.” I said to her jokingly.

“No, I haven’t been able to do it to the point where the material is used to the maximum.”

Rike replied with a serious face. Well then, I think I too have to do my best for her not to surpass me. But, I’m a cheat though…

For the next two days, to make high-end short swords and long swords, I had Samia and Diana pour the molten iron while I did the rest. I feel that Samia and Diana’s dexterity has improved again in these last few days. It seems that they are getting the knack of it from what they learned during mass production. If this is the case, it would be helpful if they could help me from time to time. If they can do the pouring of molten iron and deburring process when they have free time, it will be easier for me or Rike to finish it later. That way, we can have a complete free day about once a week, and we can make it a holiday. It’s like a dream come true.

While I’m thinking about such things, Rike and Liddy said that they would take a break from studying magical powers and maintain the fields in the courtyard, so I said that I’ll leave it to them. I’m always thankful for this.

Then the day when we’ll go to Camilo’s store for wholesale came. The inventory that Rike made in these past 10 days is quite large. Rike had come a long way in terms of the speed at which she is making general models.

We then load them up and we start pulling the cart. As usual, it’s my and Rike’s job. I told them about the roaming bandit and I asked the other three to be more vigilant than usual. There is a possibility that the rumored bandit has entered the forest.

“Speaking of which, that bandit attacks people, but there is no major damage, so what will they do after they catch him?”

While pulling the cart, I asked such question. From what I heard, that bandit did not cause any trouble.

“If you say he attacked someone, he should have caused injuries even a little so he’ll be punished for that. But if it’s the same damage as if it was a drunken brawl in the street, I think he would only end up entering the prison for a day or two.”

Diana answered my question. I see, it will be charged with assault huh. But it seems that it happens often and the punishment is not that serious, sort of.

“Then, as that guy is just looking for something, he won’t be given much punishment even if they catch him huh.”

“I can’t say for sure because I don’t know what that bandit is up to at the moment. However, that should be the case.”

“I see”

However, if the number of people going back and forth on the main road decreases, it will affect the circulation. As soon as Marius came back from the expedition he already has this problematic incident, I know it will be difficult but I hope he’ll do his best.

Whether because of the extra lookouts, or thanks to the work of the city guards, or maybe because the bandit was caught, we were able to arrive in the town without any problems. The guard standing guard at the entrance was a man I had seen several times before. He looked a bit surprised when he saw Liddy, an elf, but he didn’t say anything further. He was probably busy dealing with that rumored bandit. He may had tried to ask for reinforcements, but they had already left on an expedition. The reinforcements might arrive in a little while, so he’ll just have to be patient until then. We bowed to him and then we proceed inside.

We proceed to Camilo’s shop in the town but Liddy got a lot of attention along the way. Even if it’s once every two weeks, will the residents of the town get used to it if we come regularly? Well I hope that would be the case.

No one particularly cause trouble on us so we arrived at Camilo’s shop safely. As usual, we put the cart in the warehouse, talked to the clerk, and then we headed straight to the negotiation room. After a while, Camilo (and Clerk-san) came.

“Yo, it’s been a long time… isn’t it?”

“I got on your wagon the other day. But yeah, it’s been a while since I met you here.”

“Are the items as usual?”

“Yeah. There are a few variations in numbers. There are a lot of general items.”

“I see. That’s fine.”

Camilo glanced at Clerk-san and then he nods back and leaves the room. He had gone to do the delivery procedure.

“Isn’t the bandit caught yet?”

In the middle of the usual small talk, I asked Camilo. It would be a little easier to go home if he had been caught, but judging from the look of the guard, I guess he wasn’t caught yet.

“Yeah. I’ve been to and from the Capital twice since then, but I didn’t come across that guy. I asked the Count and he said they haven’t caught him yet.”

“I see……”

As expected, there are still risks on the way home. We have to be careful when we go home.

“Well, that’s it.”

Camilo says while standing up.

“Follow me for a bit.”

“Hn? Oh, okay.”

We also stand up and we follow Camilo in succession.

“Didn’t you say you wanted a horse before?”

Camilo says while walking. It seems that our destination is not the warehouse, but I wonder where we are headed.

“Yeah. Well you see, I think we’ll reach the limit that we can pull with human strength alone. Is it ready?”

“Well, that’s where we are headed.”

As we followed Camilo, I found myself in a garden-like place behind the store. This is a place that is difficult to see from both the front and the warehouse side, and it is probably a place where they usually kept incoming goods temporarily. There is a reason why I said “usually”. There is something a little unusual there.

“It’s not a horse, but I prepared this one. It’s a Sōryū.”

TLYN: It’s 走竜(Sōryū), running dragon if translated so I used the way it’s read. You may comment if there is a good English counterpart for this.

Camilo declared proudly. There is a very short and stout lizard like creature there –the Sōryū that Camilo referred to.

“Kurururu…”

Making such tiny voice, it stared at us with its round and cute eyes.

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

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

This chapter is sponsored by Shane Tyo.

---

After the morning worship, Samia and Diana went hunting. Rike has made enough stock on general models in the past 10 days and I also made a lot of money from this expedition so I decided to let her stop the production for the delivery and make her practice with Liddy on how to put magical power instead.

Of course, I will be making the high-end model ones. After devoting myself on it for four days (starting from today), I plan to go to Camilo for delivery. It will be sufficient for Camilo’s business even if I only secure the number of general models anyway.

I started to prepare for work, but unlike in the branch office, I was able to proceed with the preparation quickly. Sure enough, there is really a difference between a place with proper workplace and a place without one. There is also a big difference in the tools that are available.

When it’s all set, I first heat up the sheet metal and when it’s hot enough, I start making knives. Repair and production are somewhat different, but the way of hitting the hammer remains the same. Even so, it is a work that I am accustomed to of course. And in this familiar environment, my efficiency is much different from that in the branch office. It’s hard not to inadvertently make a custom-made one.

While Rike and I were handling the steel, Liddy exchanged a few words with Rike and she suddenly came out and then she came back as if nothing had happened. When I asked her what she did, she told me that she went to check on the mint.

“As expected, the mint has a strong vitality.”

“So much?”

Liddy nods when I asked her.

“Although it seems that it has hardly been maintained, it is growing quickly.”

Liddy says with a slightly happy face. Such a place really fits the image of an elf. I think it’s better to manage the field early. I guess we should build a warehouse as well. Also, if I take a break from delivery for about two weeks, we should be able to build more things. Now that my family has grown, I’d like to stockpile as much as possible. I’d like to keep the dried meat there… Perhaps it would be better to say that we’ll have delivery every two weeks for a while. We’ll go ahead and build what we want to build.

It is said that there is a suspicious bandit wandering around so it is better to reduce the chances of encountering them. The only inconvenience is if it affects Camilo’s business. Even so, we have already wholesaled a considerable amount to Camilo. It seems that he has enough sales channels to sell them to, but I think he will not need that many in two weeks. If it becomes a problem, I’ll think about it then.

After making some high-end model knives, I focused on creating a custom model knives. There was no separate order. It’s for Liddy.

Although I am just somehow feeling it, I hit the sheet metal as I put in some magical power into it and form its shape. Both heating and forging are tasks that use cheats to identify the last-minute line, and even if it is a larger one, since I have made custom-made model knife many times before, the production proceeds smoothly. As usual, I added an engraving in the shape of a cat.

In the end, compared to the high-end model, it only took a little longer to make. It would be quite risky if I mass-produce 50 of these in a week or so.

“Liddy”

Now that the custom-made knife is finished, I called Liddy, who has been practicing Rike on how to put magic into the knife.

“What is it?”

“This is the knife I’m giving as a proof of being part of my family. I’ll give it to Liddy as well.”

I handed the knife to Liddy. Liddy received it and she began observing the knife. Well, it’s only recently that it became like a family token, or rather, it became so when I gave it to them for self-defense.

“It cuts very well so handle it with great care.”

I then vertically swung down my own knife into the wood. The knife splits the wood into two noiselessly. Liddy’s eyes widened for a moment in her surprise but she quickly regained her composure and in a calm voice, she said,

“I understand. Thank you.”

Then as if she received something precious, she placed it close at hand.

After finishing today’s work, I was cleaning up when a clang, clong sound echoed as the clappers in the workshop were triggered. I guess Samia and Diana are back. Shortly after, the door connecting the house and the workshop opened, and then Samia and Diana came in. We greeted each other with, “I’m home” then “welcome home”.

“How was your day?”

I asked. But since they were out until this hour, they must have caught something.

“It’s a deer today. A big one.”

“You did it again huh.”

It must have been a pretty big prey as Samia proudly declared it. Diana also talks about its size from a different direction.

“We had a hard time though.”

“Really, thanks for your hard work. We’re also going to clean up here and go in later so you guys wash up first.”               

「「Ye-s」」

「「Understood」」

When I declare the end of today’s work, four voices echoed. It’s a little interesting that the words are different between the hunting group and the production group.

In this way, a new “usual” began again.

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

Since the initial greeting to welcome Liddy was done, we decided to take the day off from work and have a welcome party. But before that, as everyone is dirty in our own way, we decided to clean off the dirt on us first.

I felt nostalgic boiling water in this magical furnace. After distributing the boiled water to everyone, we went to our respective rooms to wipe ourselves down and remove the dirt on us. The guest room will be Liddy’s room for the time being. And as expected, being the only male in the house, I was the first one to finish wiping myself off.

I better start preparing dinner then. There is a 10-day blank, but on the contrary, my body remembers the actions well enough because it’s only that long. However, it’s one thing to feel your body move half on its own, and another thing to feel nostalgic.

As for the women, Rike and Liddy were the first to come to the living room. Well, blacksmithing is also work where you’ll get dirty and sweaty.

“It is better for Boss to take a rest.”

Rike told me that.

“It’s been a while since I’ve done this so let me do it.”

I refused. I’m not tired with anything else as we just travelled back today while Rike was working properly. Thus I hope that she could take a rest.

“How about studying magic with Liddy? From now on, she can teach you as much as you want.”

Liddy nods when she hears that. I thought she liked teaching people and apparently, my impression wasn’t wrong. It seems that Rike couldn’t resist the temptation, so side by side at the table in the living room, Liddy and Rike started to watch the flow of magical power. Seeing that, I go back to preparing dinner again. I hope this kind of scene will become a new and usual one.

When I finished preparing the soup and as I started preparing to make unfermented bread, I glanced at the living room. Samia and Diana are now also in the living room and they joined the study session of Rike and Liddy. From what I could see, Rike was the most receptive, followed by Diana and then Samia. I feel that this may be due to the difference in magical power of their races.

Supper was then completed so we all lined up on the table. It’s not as sumptuous as the meal at Eimurl House that I ate last night (although it seems to be rather simple because this is the family style). This is the menu and taste of Eizou Workshop, which Liddy has also eaten before. It’s a welcome party, so there’s also something like a brandy made from pickled fruits.

The welcome party eventually doubled as my expedition story session. This is because three people wanted to hear about it. I don’t have to hide the details of the battle inside the cave to these three so I honestly told them what I had defeated. The reason why Liddy came to our house was also explained in the flow of the expedition report.

“We are here too. You can talk to us about anything.”

When Diana heard that, with tearful look, she immediately said that to Liddy. Other than Liddy, Samia was also in a delicate situation but everyone came here on their own initiative. Liddy was the only one who had to come here without a choice.

“Eizou is the only man here so let’s take it easy.”

“Yeah, I think Samia should learn to be a little more graceful.”

Samia and Rike also encouraged Liddy. Rike makes fun of the sullen Samia, Diana calms her and Liddy looking at them is now smiling. Life from now on will probably go well. I had no proof, but I was convinced so.

The next day,

I was able to sleep in my bed for the first time in a while so I went out to fetch water while feeling refreshed. The morning air in the forest feels good. When I returned from the lake with water, Liddy put her hand on the tree and was taking in some magical power.

“Good morning Liddy”

“Good morning.”

At the welcome party yesterday, I told Liddy that we didn’t need to use honorifics, but she said, “This is my natural tone”, so that being the case, it went like that.

“I know it’s just yesterday, but if you have any concerns about living here, please tell me immediately.”

“Everyone is kind and I’m not worried when I think about when I came here before.”

“I see. That’s good then.”

So we go back to each other’s work. With such a sense of distance from Liddy, I think we need to connect more with her. After finishing the morning preparations and meals, I will resume with blacksmithing work from today.

“But, before that”

I took out the statue of the goddess I made during the expedition from my luggage and put it on the Kamidana. It is another housemate (god housemate?) who joined us this time. When enshrined in such a place, the atmosphere looks different.

“When did you make this?”

Samia asked in an amazed tone.

“On the way to the expedition. Well, I had time to do it.”

“You can make something like this too, Boss?”

“There’s a certain charm on it huh.”

“Somehow I feel a magical power on it.”

Although the women commented on it, it was not a bad evaluation, so we all worshiped as it is.

Alright! Let’s do our best again today.

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

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

Today’s chapters are sponsored by Raymond Anthony-san. Thanks again for your support guys! Happy reading!

---

The owner of those footsteps, who came toward us without minding the bushes, finally appeared in front of me. It’s a female beastman covered in tiger-like hair―

“Oh-, it’s Samia huh.”

I put the sword I was holding in its scabbard. The tension dissipated at once and then the feeling of exhaustion kicked in. After Samia got near me, she began to hit me in the chest. I’m sure she did not mean it but it hurts.

“It hurts you know. What are you doing?”

“She’s sulking… I mean, she doesn’t know what to do.”

Suddenly, I heard a voice from another direction. It was Diana. I then caught Samia’s fist with my palm as she still keeps on hitting me silently.

“Are you guys in the middle of hunting?”

“Yes. Then Samia said, “I can smell Eizou” and she suddenly start running here.”

Diana looks completely amazed. She wasn’t out of breath for someone who had been following Samia through the forest. Her physical strength is steadily getting stronger huh… No, that’s not the point here.

“What should I do then?”

“Well, you haven’t come back for a long time. She’s happy as it’s been the first time in a while but you don’t know how to pamper her.”

As those words were spoken, Samia stopped moving for a moment and then she suddenly shot a punch in the palm of my hand.

“Ouch!”

“Hmph! Come home sooner next time.”

After saying that, Samia turned around and then she moves forward in a stomping like manner. That direction is towards the house.

“Is it fine?”

Apparently, Samia intends to call off today’s hunting, so I asked Diana.

“We killed a big one the other day, besides, there’s plenty of time for tomorrow.”

“It’s fine then if that’s the case.”

If Samia came back for the first time in a long time, I would also leave my work and pick her up. I’ll take her word for it and go home together then.

“Hey, don’t walk too fast!”

I called out to Samia, and the four of us walked home together.

As we come close to the house, I saw the smoke through the trees. Rike is probably doing blacksmithing work. Looking at it like this, once we get close to a certain extent, it seems that my place can be reached normally. Even without those conditions, there’s no guarantee that bad people won’t come, so we’ll have to take some kind of countermeasures.

As we were walking, I said that to Samia and Diana.

“I don’t think it’s necessary.”

Liddy-san murmured.

“Really?”

“Yes. Simply put, that house can “ward off” people. Only those who belong to the house, including the invited guests, or those who are strong enough to counter or recognize that protection will be able to know that there is a house nearby.”

Liddy-san asserted in a strong tone. I didn’t know that house had that kind of effect… Maybe that was the reason why I didn’t recognize my house when I came to this world.

Come to think of it, aside from beasts, lost people or beastman living in the Black Forest have never visited my house. The smoke is so noticeable that a curious beastman is likely to come. So that’s the reason why they didn’t come huh.

The four of us continued to walk inside the forest. Every time I find a familiar tree in the forest, I feel like I’m really back. It seems that Samia is not the only one who has been sentimental, I too felt that way after returning home after a long time.

When we arrived at the house, I opened the front door. The sound of a slightly muffled naruko echoes inside. Rike came out of the door leading to the workshop with a rattling noise.

“Sa-… Boss!? Welcome back!”

Rike, who seemed to think that Samia and Diana had returned earlier than planned was surprised to see me but she immediately rushed over. Of course, she didn’t hit or hug me.

“Oh, I’m back.”

As I replied, I was biting on the fact that I was home. This time, albeit a little injured, I was able to come home almost unscathed, but there was no guarantee that I would be able to do so the next time or the next time after that. This is my second life, and I should take good care of it.

“Well, once again,” As soon as I unloaded my luggage, I looked around at everyone gathered at the table in the living room and said,

“Liddy-san will be joining our family. I’ll talk more about it later, but please know that.”

I don’t think that’s the case but, what if they don’t like that? With that in mind, I looked at the facial expressions of Samia, Rike, and Diana. The three of them looked stunned at first but they grinned after.

“I knew it would definitely happen.”

“You’re the master, aren’t you?”

“Right. It’s Eizou’s call.”

I want to say something on the way they got convinced but I was relieved because it was not a refusal.

“Then, Liddy-san, no…”

There is no need for honorifics because we became a family. It is said that there is etiquette even between friends, but let’s leave this out of the scope of etiquette. That’s the way we do things at Eizou Workshop.

Then the voices of four people (other than Liddy) overlap.

「「「「 Welcome to Eizou Workshop, Liddy 」」」」

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

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

The next morning.

I get up quite early and then I arranged and readied the things for our departure. Today is the day we’ll finally go home. I’ve been away from home for the last 10 days. I wonder why is it that I want to go home as soon as possible when it is confirmed that I can finally go home. Well I guess that’s because I feel like I belong in that house.

Marius had asked me to have breakfast with him but I refused, saying that he is probably more tired than I was yesterday, so he should get more rest. I told him that I would like to have breakfast with the servants instead. Of course, I didn’t know where the servants’ dining room was, so I decided to wait outside the room assigned to me.

When I went out of the room, I saw Liddy-san standing there, she also seemed to have finished her preparations.

“Good morning, Liddy-san.”

“Good morning, Eizou-san.”

We exchanged morning greetings. From the moment I get home, Liddy-san will be a part of my family…I think. Well, unless the other three refuse. However, I believe that they will all naturally accept her. It would be better if five people of different races and positions could get along with each other in the morning greetings and in worshiping the Kamidana.

Then a servant came after we had a couple of idle chat. It was Bowman-san. I’m sure he’s a pretty great servant of this family and I remember him well because he is a man with a good body build.

“Good morning Bowman-san.”

I said hello. Bowman looked a little surprised but he promptly replied to the greeting.

“Good morning. Eizou-sama, Liddy-sama. To be remembered by Eizou-sama…”

Hmm, don’t you usually remember the name of the servants? Even though I have a family name in this world, I’m not really a noble.

“Well, you told me your name so it’s rude if I don’t remember it, right?”

“No, that’s ludicrous. There is no such thing.”

It is not strange to assume that I am in a certain position since I am a friend of his master, but I’m an old blacksmith with no official position at all.

While soothing Bowman-san, who was frightened, I and Liddy-san were guided to the servant’s dining room. It seems that everyone in the servant’s cafeteria is supposed to gather at breakfast. Well, except for those who have work and those who are off duty from the morning. However, those who are off duty usually wake up at this usual time in the morning so as a result, almost everyone is gathered here except those who have a work to do now.

The Eimurl House is not an insanely large house, but it is still a Count’s house after all. The number of people gathered here is close to double digits. I can also see Matis, who was with us in the expedition. Well, he is a groom in this mansion after all.

If everyone thinks I’m an ex-aristocrat turned blacksmith, then the situation is a bit like the “naive young lady wants to go to a hamburger joint” template from the previous world, but I guess it seems better not to worry about it.

During breakfast, a young girl asked about my experience so I told her the story about the expedition. I wonder if being a “tomboy” is in the Eimurl family, that girl wanted to hear about the most recent cave subjugation rather than the life in the camp.

Although she was a servant of the Eimurl family, I didn’t tell her that I was the one who killed the hobgoblin just in case. “It was dark and I don’t know if it was the commanding officer or someone else.” Is what I said. Liddy-san was a little unhappy but I’m sure she would understand why I’m doing so.

After breakfast, I decided to leave quickly so as not to interfere with the work of the servants but Bowman-san put it as, “It’s also our job to help the guests in their departure.”

Then a familiar face appeared at that moment.

“Oh-, if it isn’t Camilo?”

“Yo! I had some business here yesterday. I heard that the subjugation team had returned so I sent someone to ask if I could give you a ride home as I’ll also be going back today. However, it is said that you were leaving now so I rushed over.”

“Oh, I’m sorry for that. I was planning to go home on foot you see.”

“So, do you want to go home together?”

“Alright. I’ll take up on your offer then.”

My relationship with Marius and Camilo is what you call human fate.

Thus in the end, Liddy-san and I ride on Camilo’s wagon. As soon as he got up, Marius came over so it turned into a brief farewell greeting.

“Alright, see you again.”

“Yeah. See you again, Eizou.”

Marius, Bowman-san and the other servants wave their hands as they see us off leave the mansion. The familiar scenery from the wagon drifted by as we approach the outer city, and although it is a fairly early time, we pass through a busy road and then we eventually exit the gate of the outer wall. I looked back at the towering outer walls, the castle, and the mountains behind it.

I wonder when will I be here again. At that time, I would like to stop by at Oyasan’s shop.

Clouds that seem to be heavy with plenty of water flowing inside flow far away. A milky white sky spread out here, drawing a contrast with the meadow. It’s the usual road.

Along the way, Camilo asked me a lot about the expedition. I didn’t tell him about who defeated the hobgoblin but he probably guessed it already. It’s Camilo we are talking about after all. He would not do anything that would be disadvantageous to Eimurl House either.

I was vigilant, but nothing happened on the road. As we are on the way, Camilo told me that there had been an increase in the number of attacks on people lately. The strange thing is that they are only looking for something, and when they find out that the victim doesn’t have it, they just let the victim go.

Although the number of patrols is increasing, it seems that the criminal has not been found, so he warned me, “It seems that there is no real damage, but be careful when you come to wholesale next time.”

We got off Camilo’s wagon at the entrance to the forest, waved goodbye, and then we parted ways. I see him once a week, so our parting is rather casual.

We then walked through the forest, which I now knew very well. Occasionally, we can see a small animal like a squirrel on a tree. They reminded me of Miss Frederica, but I wondered if that was too rude of me.

As we were walking along, hoping that we wouldn’t run into a wolf or a bear on the way, I heard a fierce approaching sound from a distance. It wasn’t running towards us by accident, it definitely knew that we were here and was aiming for this place.

I pulled out my shortsword as I tried to figure out what is approaching.

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

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

“Hey, wait a minute! What do you mean by this?”

“As you can see, it’s a reward.”

“No, I know what this is, I mean…”

I’m talking about the sum! Like, what is the repair rate and how did you calculate the money for going inside the cave. When I told him that, Marius answered with a wry smile.

“You usually talk about money but you are very particular about the legality of the things you receive huh.”

“I just can’t afford to receive unjustified money you see.”

“You sound like a stubborn craftsman.”

“Well, I’m a stubborn craftsman alright.”

“That’s right. My mistake.”

Marius and I laughed at each other.

“It’s not an unjustified amount. It’s just right.”

“Just right?”

Marius nods and continues to speak.

“Didn’t Eizou once made that important item for me?”

That…? Ah-, the heirloom?

I guess he didn’t mention the specifics because Liddy-san is also here.

“There’s that indeed.”

“At that time, that was the upper limit of the amount of money that could be moved without it becoming unnatural. However, this time, there are a lot of cover up. The amount I thought you deserve to have at that time was added on top of it. That’s why it’s just right.”

“I see”

At that time, Marius thought that the amount he gave me was not enough, and he is trying to give it to me now. I won’t ask too much about how he covered that up. However, it’s likely not the usual method. So if he took such a step to prepare it for me, it wouldn’t be sincere of me not to accept it.

“OK, I’ll receive it this time.”

“Please do. That’s a legitimate reward that Eizou should receive.”

I put the pouch full of gold coins in my backpack. No one would think that such an old man’s backpack would contain enough money to play and live for a while.

“Alright. That’s all for the rewards. Will Eizou now go home?”

“Yeah, I don’t have any other particular business to do you see.”

“But you will not go home today, right?”

“Yeah, I guess so. I’m thinking of going to an inn or something.”

I can’t forcibly go home and I don’t feel the need to go that far either. If we go to an inn somewhere (of course, me and Liddy-san will have a separate room) and leave the Capital early tomorrow, we should be able to reach my house that same day even if we just go on foot.

“It’s better if you stay at my place then. There are vacant rooms. Let’s have a chat while eating dinner.”

It’s a timely offer. I was a little worried whether it would be okay for Liddy-san to stay in an ordinary inn, so I’ll take his word for it.

“Thank you. We will do that then. Is it alright with you Liddy-san?”

Liddy-san nodded as she added, “I don’t know much about the Capital.”            

“Alright then, let’s take you to your rooms first. I’ll leave it to you guys.”

The second half is for the two servants who came with him. After they nodded in response, they started to guide me and Liddy-san, saying, “This way please.”

Both of them are women, but my cheat tells me that they are skilled in martial arts. If a superficial person tried to push them down, he would be the one lying on the floor the next moment. This House is quite scary.

It’s not extravagant but we proceed through a well-made corridor then I and Liddy-san are invited to different rooms.

“I will bring you some hot water so please relax here for a while.”

“Oh, that would help. Thank you.”

During the expedition, I had cleaned myself as much as possible with a cloth or something damped with water, but doing the same thing using hot water would feel much different compared from doing it with cold water. Maybe I should build a Goemon bath (五右衛門風呂) in my house next time…

I was given a hot water and change of clothes –since it was a simple one, I didn’t need someone’s help to get changed. I then cleaned myself up and felt comfortable. I was told that if I washed my clothes now, they would be dry by tomorrow morning. But since they offered to wash them for me, I took their word for it.

I lay down on the bed. It was the first time in a long while that I had such soft and comfortable feeling. By the way, the ride quality on the wagon along the way was terrible. It seems that there is a suspension system with chains and leather straps, but there is no suspension system beyond that yet so the rough ride was unavoidable.

However, it seems that leaf springs have been around for a long time in the previous world, and there was not much development in suspension for a while after that, so it might be a good idea to introduce leaf springs a little ahead of time.

As I was thinking about this, before I knew it, my consciousness sink into the darkness.

“…ma, …sama. ….up please. Eizou-sama!”

I felt that someone is shaking me. I thought I was dreaming so I gently grab the hand that is shaking me.

“Kyaa!”

I wake up hearing that surprised voice. When I opened my eyes, I was greeted by the sight of the servant of the Eimurl family who had her eyes wide open –my hand is on top of her hand which is holding my shoulder. For a moment, I felt confused with this situation but I immediately realized what happened so I hurriedly let go.

“S-Sorry!”

“N-No, I was just surprised so don’t worry about it.”

When I apologized, the servant smiled and replied that.

“How long did I sleep?”

“I think it’s about an hour or so. After guiding you to the room, I came here after dinner was ready.”

“I see… You could have struck my wrist. I would have woken up in one go then.”

“If Eizou-sama does something unscrupulous, I won’t hesitate to do so.”

The servant chuckled, then she said, “Excuse me”. She fixed my tousled hair and then she began to lead me to the dining room.

The three of us, Marius, me and Liddy-san, had dinner together. The topic of our conversation inevitably focused on the expedition. I gave a detailed account of the events inside the cave. Marius listened attentively while Liddy-san occasionally added something.

Marius talked about being in charge. I understand that it is very difficult to be the in charge of the overall command. Even though there are specially assigned personnel in the supply, management of wounded soldiers, and command and control of each platoon, Marius is responsible of the overall command. Even if Leroy takes part of the responsibility, Marius is the one who has to make the final decision. This time, the goal was clear and it was good because the opponent was not likely to change its base, but if the battle was against other monster race or humans, Marius said that it would not be so easy.

Since warfare is commonplace and difficult to avoid, I hope that Marius will become a great commander who can bring back as many people as possible, including himself, safely. That’s what I thought.

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

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

We followed the female servant down to the Capital’s inner street. There is some noise, but compared outside of the inner wall, it is much quieter here. I am grateful that Liddy-san, an elf, is with me now as I won’t draw too much attention to myself.

I usually ride in a carriage so I don’t have time to look at such sight slowly. However, when I look at it from a low line of sight like this, it’s quite enjoyable. Basically, there are many stone houses and the streets where the carriages cannot pass by are quite complex and the walls are high. I wonder if this is the same story as that of the Japanese castle towns where it is easy to get lost.

I was curious about that so I asked the servant.

“Well, it’s not without its purpose, but the truth is much simpler.”

Was her reply.

“What do you mean?”

“Now we have an outer wall, but in the past, this area was on the edge of the town. Everyone adequately built their buildings and as a result, the road became complex.”

“I see. It’s convenient for protection. So when they tidied those building, they left the partition as it is?”

“Yes. I heard that everyone had reached a certain level of status by then and it was too difficult to take away their land.”

It’s a very realistic story. In other words, it has never been a burnt field due to a great war. If that happens, there is nothing to take up. There won’t be a proper cadastral map and the land readjustment will just begin here and there.

Anyway, we walked along such winding road then the servant said, “This way please.” Then she opened the metal door on the side of the road. It’s probably a back door. Liddy-san and I went inside.

As expected, it was a back door. When we entered, we found ourselves in a small room. There was a table but its top was unusually thick. The window looked more like an arrow slit than a window. The edge of the window is more like a decoration as it’s slanted down from the inner side of the room, however, this makes it easier to shoot an arrow into the room from the outside. In addition to that, the only exit from the room is the heavy metal door on one side. This is perhaps…

“A mechanism to repel intruders from the back door…?”

“You understand well. That’s right. You couldn’t break through easily from the back door.”

The servant said with a laugh. Not all the nobles in this city are, but rather because the Eimurl family has built themselves up through meritorious deeds in military. I’m a little confused as to whether I should be impressed on the training they applied up until their servants or be left speechless.

Liddy-san and I were led straight to the reception room I entered when I came here before. “Please wait here for a moment”, said the servant and then she left. As usual, the interior of the reception room looked like a picture of fortitude and vigor but, for a person who is not a noble like me, this is better because I felt more comfortable here.

Liddy and I talk about the future. Since we’ve been living together for a while, she already know who lives there and what kind of life we lead. I decided to leave that matter and I asked her what she wanted to do. Apparently, she wants to grow plants.

“I have something “close” to a field so you can use it. I will help you if you want to expand it.”

When I said that,

“Is that ok!?”

Her eyes were shining. I nodded in response.

“Rather, it would be great if someone could manage it. I and Rike are blacksmiths, Samia and Diana are in charge of hunting and collecting. Besides we don’t have proper knowledge on that so it’s okay for you to cultivate it. I feel like we’ll neglect it too.”

That was why I chose peppermint, which requires little care. It was correct not to plant it in the ground according to her advice.

“I see. Then leave it to me.”

“Yes, I’ll leave it to you.”

In this way, the means of securing food for our home was to be carried out in two ways: hunting-gathering and farming.

That said, it’s not like we can plant tomatoes in the morning and then it will be grow at night. So hunting and gathering is still the main means of securing our food for a while. And if we don’t continue to buy from Camilo, it will be difficult to secure enough food for five adults even if the farm starts to do well.

While talking about that, Marius came inside the room with two servants behind him. He has taken off his luxurious clothes and splendid armor. He is now dressed quite casually.

“Did I keep you waiting? Or, am I interrupting something?”

While grinning, he said something like that at the beginning of the conversation, to which I replied bluntly, “Neither”.

“I know both of you are tired, and to be honest, I’m also pretty tired, so let’s go straight to the topic.”

“Please do that.”

“First of all, let me thank you two first. That was a great help.”

Marius bows his head. It would be a big fuss if he did it outside. A Count bowing to a blacksmith… Well, he can do that now because we are inside the house.

“So, for Eizou, I have to show it in a proper way, like when I requested you to do the job.”

“Okay”

I participated because there was a reward. Well, if I was asked by another noble, I think I would have refused. I don’t know what to do if the Marquis made a request though…

“First of all, this will be the reward for the request.”

One of the servants presented a leather bag, documents, and writing tools to me. Once I checked the content, I find a lot of silver coins. I think it’s a little less than one gold coin. Since the number of soldiers is a little smaller, it’s good to see that the repair fee is included properly.

“Certainly”

I put the leather bag in my backpack and then I signed the documents. It is a document showing that the reward has been received. There is also the name of Miss Frederica in something like the person in charge part. So this will be another page in her war that starts tomorrow. I thought back to her struggling with the document like a squirrel with its food. I cheered her on in my mind.

As I handed the papers back, Marius quickly checked it and then he handed it to the servant. This is the end of my work……is what I thought.

Marius continued to talk.

“And this is for your direct participation in the subjugation, plus an additional percentage for repairs.”

The other servant holds out a small leather bag to me. When I took it to examine it, I found that it was rather heavy for its size.

It was filled with gold coins!

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

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

It’s been 3 days since we left the garrison on the cave. Today was the day we would finally arrive at the capital. In the morning, everyone went on with their business as usual, but during the rest stops at the watering holes, many of the soldiers washed their heads (of course, just flush it with water) and wiped their faces and bodies with damp cloths, cleaning themselves as best as they could.

When the break was over and the convoy started moving forward again, the mountain range rising beyond the capital came into view. When it came into view, the distance to the capital was no longer so great. Seeing that, we all feel motivated and such feeling was probably to be transmitted to the horses so our speed increased slightly.

It’s not the kind of speed that makes you run through the wind so you won’t get drunk, but at this rate, we’ll reach the capital long before the sun sets.

As we still have to do something, it’s unlikely that we’ll be able to go home by the end of the day so I and Liddy don’t have much benefit on this but I’m grateful to the soldiers and Oyasan.

Then the outer wall of the city comes into view. It’s time. There is a strange silence in the line, there’s only the sound of the horse’s hooves and the wagon’s wheels turning. The tension and silence were broken when we approached the gate of the wall.

“The subjugation team is back!”

A soldier watching over the gate shouts. Various people in a line trying to enter the city looked back at the same time, and soon the voices of applause and shouts of joy filled the area.

Our line moves slowly this time through the crowd and we are given priority through the gate. As far as I could see, no one complained about that. Everyone was actively opening a way for us to pass. The applause spread through the city faster than the procession and we heard it all the way through the streets.

I guess it was thanks to the troops who came back first that we were welcomed so soon after our return. It was only because they had announced that we had come back victorious. The cheering continued even after we passed through the gates of the inner wall of the capital and it did not stop until we reached the square where we were first stationed.

The soldiers lined up when they reached the square. The same goes for the members of the squad that had returned earlier. We, the supply team lined up behind them. There are many nobles living inside the inner wall and there is also the part of the high-class residential area, but judging from their clothes, it seemed that the servants on errands and men and women of noble birth had come to see the scene, and it was quite noisy.

As I scampered about, I looked around and I made eye contact with a few people. At first I thought they were looking at me but I soon realized that they were looking at Liddy-san who was standing next to me ―in other words, since the elf race can rarely be seen, she was noticed quickly. Except for one.

His Excellency the Marquis was unexpectedly so laidback? When our eyes met, I only gave him a nod as there are so many eyes on us. He grinned and nodded back. He’s not a bad guy after all.

As I continued to scurry around, the girl next to me, Miss Frederica, tugged at the hem of my clothes, and I stopped hurrying. A step stool (the same one used to get in and out of the wagon) was set up, and Marius climbed up on it. The crowded place suddenly became completely quiet.

“Gentlemen, thank you for your hard work on this expedition. It is a shame that the Elven village were so badly damaged before we arrived. I would like to offer a moment of silence for the victims.”

We all closed our eyes and prayed for the victims of the village, Liddy-san’s acquaintances and possibly family members. It’s quiet and the onlookers seem to be saying a silent prayer as well.

“However, thanks to your efforts, we were able to defeat our enemies. I believe that this is something to be proud of. I hope that I can count on your help again in the future when the Eimurl House goes into battle. Finally, I would like to express my thanks again for your hard work in this expedition.”

The soldiers drew their swords and gave a sword salute. Even from behind, it’s rather spectacular. We are civilians so we only bowed lightly. There was no need to be rude.

The crowd erupts again. Now the upper class knew that Marius, or the Eimurl House, had succeeded in going to war. Proclaiming success at such a ceremony will have various advantages in the future.

“See you then! Please come to the store!”

“Okay, I’ll drop by with my family.”

I waved goodbye to Oyasan, Martin, and Boris. It’s a little sad to say goodbye to someone you’ve known even if it’s only for a little over a week.

“Thank you for your help Eizou-san. I was saved because your work was quick. Also, thanks for the cushion.”

I then saw that Miss Frederica’s luggage was bulging, it seemed that she had taken that simple cushion. If I know she would like it that much, I should have made it better.

“I know that Frederica-san will be busy from now on but you have to eat and sleep properly. A beautiful lady should take care of her personal appearance after all.”

“Yes, I understand.”

Miss Frederica says with a lovely smile and laughs. I patted her head involuntarily but it didn’t seem to be disliked by Miss Frederica. So after stroking for a while, we shook hands and then we bid goodbye to each other.

Delmot, Matis and the others had to clean up the place. I didn’t want to get in their way so I just said a quick goodbye. Apart from Delmot, Matis is a member of the Eimurl House so I’m sure I’ll see him around.

The other soldiers then start to clean up and there were no more spectators. His Excellency, the Marquis had also disappeared before I knew it. While I was feeling the aftermath of such a flurry of goodbyes, Marius’ bodyguard, or in other words, the servants of the Eimurl House, came to call me.

“Eizou-sama, my lord ordered us to escort you to the residence.”

“I understand. Thank you very much.”

Well, I have another job to do. With that in mind, I followed the servant with Liddy-san.

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

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

This chapter is sponsored by Raymond Anthony-san.

---

On my way back to our tent, I saw a wagon and several cavalrymen leaving. Perhaps they were returning ahead of us, as harbinger of the things this time.

That night, I could see the excitement here and there. There are various people who dance and sing near the bonfire. They didn’t seem to have brought any alcohol so they were all sober despite the excitement. However, the joy of victory must have been enough to intoxicate them.

I’m now eating dinner with Oyasan, Matis and the rest of the supply team while watching all this. We ate it as late lunch but it was supposed to be our dinner if the monsters didn’t get eradicated today. Since all that was left was for us to return home, they both served lunch and dinner.

The number of jobs for Oyasan and the others has increased but Oyasan said,

“Well, it doesn’t change whether we make it once or twice.”

He laughed as he said that but I don’t think it’s really the case.

It’s already late, so Miss Frederica, who also finished her paperwork for today, is eating with me. I don’t know why but she’s sitting next to me, just like a puppy who has grown attached to me. If Diana sees her like this, she’s going to hit me on the shoulder repeatedly and say that I should take her home. Our conversation naturally focused on today’s victory and I was asked a lot of questions, mainly by Oyasan and the younger guys. Of course, I didn’t tell them who defeated the hobgoblin in the end.

“Then, Eizou should make a lot of money.”

Oyasan spoke.

“Not really”

“Really? Well, I hope Eizou is satisfied with it.”

“Thank you, Oyasan”

“Ou”

Oyasan is unusually shy. The two younger guys teased him which ended them being yelled at resulting for us to have a great laugh.

The next morning,

After I finished tidying up, I then headed to the wagon. Liddy-san was already waiting there.

“Good morning, Liddy-san”

“Good morning”

When I greeted her, she replied in a soft voice. I tried to help her in bringing up her luggage but as I looked at her, I found that she had only one bag on her back and nothing else.

“Oh, you don’t have much luggage huh.”

“Yes. We don’t have that much stuff to begin with.”

Is that so? I wonder if there is a decrease in attachment to things when one’s lifespan is long. She may end up having no possessions at all in this case.

“Ah! By the way…”

Liddy-san makes a slightly panicked voice.

“For that matter, the one that moved to another village will do it, so don’t worry about it.”

Is what she said. I wonder what that matter is though. ……Ah-.

“Are you talking about the crop seeds?”

“Yes. It was supposed to be delivered to Camilo-san’s place.”

“Given such circumstances, it would have been fine. You didn’t have to worry about it.”

“No, I can’t do that.”

When she first came to my house, she must have been already half certain that they would leave the village so she took the request into consideration.

At first, it was not that Liddy-san will go to our house, but maybe, even if it’s far away, Liddy-san plans to go to Camilo’s place. Considering this, the condition may have been a mistake. In the future, when I make similar conditions, I’ll first ask how far the other party’s residential area from the city is.

After me and Liddy-san, Matis came, then Miss Frederica, and finally the guys who had cleaned up the kitchen came in a flurry and boarded the wagon. As soon as Miss Frederica got in, she laid the cushion I had given her under her butt. She still had it huh.

“Iya-, Elf are really beautiful huh.”

Oyasan gave his impressions straightforwardly. It’s a content that can be called sexual harassment in the previous world so I’m anxious deep inside.

“Oh, I see. Indeed, if you have such a beautiful wife, you’ll have to make a lot of money at least!”

He said that with a laugh. At that moment, I found Miss Frederica turning her head like a broken tin doll and she start to stare at me. I’m a little scared, so please don’t do this!

“No, she’s not my wife or anything. Besides, it’s a pity for her to accompany an old man who seems to be living in seclusion for some reason, right?”

I frowned and denied it. Even if I hear that it won’t have a big impact, I’m still an irregular in this world. I still can’t think of myself having a family. It’s hard to say this as my reason because no one will understand it.

When I said that, Miss Frederica looked away, and at the same time, Liddy-san began to stare at me. What the heck is going on today…?

Other than this story, there was no particular topic that made me anxious.

If you consider the two points, “the elf village suffered a damaged” and “thus along with that, Liddy-san moved places so it wasn’t a marriage or anything”, you could imagine what happened. Not so many people would run into such a minefield then.

In this way, during the three days of the return trip, although Oyasan occasionally showed his lack of delicacy, the atmosphere was not particularly awkward and the wagon went safely to the capital.

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

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

This chapter is sponsored by Raymond Anthony-san.

---

After a joyous ovation, the soldiers then returned to the garrison. Liddy-san went back to the village together with the elves and by tomorrow, she will come to the garrison again and will be returning with me. When I returned to the garrison, Sandro-oyasan and the others already prepared the meal and they were waiting for us. Come to think of it, it’s already past noon.

“Good work everyone! Come, enjoy your meal!”

Oyasan shouts out loud, not to be defeated by the boisterous soldiers. As the tension is released, the soldiers who suddenly became conscious of hunger run to the simple dining room.

“The amount of meal will not change even if you are in such a hurry you know!”

After Oyasan said that, the place was surrounded by the laughter from the remaining soldiers. I have something I want to do first so I headed for the branch office. The commanding officer of the unit who escorted me there called out to me, “Hey!”

“You really helped a lot today. And… I’m sorry.”

The commanding officer’s brow furrowed. He knows that I was the one who defeated the Hobgoblin so I’m sure he’s worried that the credit won’t come to me.

“Hey, you know an old man like me who does blacksmithing will not be happy receiving such an honor so don’t mind it. It won’t give me money either you see.”

I laughed and extended my right hand. The commanding officer took my hand with an embarrassed look on his face. His calloused hands gripping mine shows his experiences so far. It’s better if it’s someone like him who receives the honor than me, who is covered by cheats. I thought so once again.

When I returned to the branch office, I put the statue of the goddess in my bosom on the shelf and thanked it for our safety. The spear was also surprisingly very helpful and I regret that I have to leave it behind. After thanking it in my mind, I took off the handle, leaving only the spearhead. When I get home, I’ll put a handle and butt end on it again.

I then head to the command post. It was more efficient if I come here first but I wanted to put the goddess statue back on the shelf first. When I entered the command post, it was quite noisy with the joy and excitement along with the preparations for tomorrow’s departure.

I looked around and found Miss Frederica focused on her desk. She’s writing a lot. She should be busy for the next week or so after this. The best place for her to have a rest might be in the wagon on our way back.

I felt bad, but I need to talk to her because this is also work related.

“Frederica-san, can I talk to you for a second?”

“Oh, Eizou-san. Yes. Please wait a moment.”

Miss Frederica quickly finished what’s she’s writing on her notebook and then she faced me. Speaking of which, I wonder what she does when she gets back to her original job.

“What is it?”

“Ah, I want to check if there is any repair needed to be done today. And, in addition to that, I want a little manpower to clean up the materials and other things at the smithy.”

“Oh, I understand.”

Miss Frederica flipped through the documents on her desk and then she speaks while looking at it.

“Hmm, I don’t have any repair request today. I have some broken armor but on our way home, I’ll cover it with the spare I have. After I get back, I’ll send them all together for repair. I’m sorry for this Eizou-san.”

Well, if I fix it here, they will be paying me for it. Though from my point of view, it means that I’ll not be making any money.

“No, don’t worry about it. I’m also tired for today so I’m rather grateful.”

It’s not that I’m being humble or reserve, but it’s a true feeling of mine. I was able to act as usual but, I just came from a fight after all so I’m not so energetic that I’ll be declaring, “It’s time to do some repair!”

“Thank you very much. I’ll send some personnel for the demolition later so please leave it to them.”

“Okay, thank you. Frederica-san too, please do your best not to overwork.”

“Yes”

Miss Frederica had a relieved smile on her face and she replied with a laugh. Seen off by that cheerful smile, I then leave the command post. If there is no repair to be done, all I have to do is to clean up.

I then returned to my post. While I busied myself clearing away the charcoal and bricks from the fire bed, dumping water from the water barrels and making it possible to move the bellows, four soldiers arrived. I asked them to take what they could bring with them first.

“I’m sorry to make you come and do the hard work.”

“No, this is also part of our job.”

The young soldiers then carry out the things in the branch office in pairs. In the meantime, I stowed the statue of the goddess on the shelf, folded the tatami that was laid there and eventually, the branch office disappeared. It was only a short time, but I feel a little sad when my workplace is gone. The traces from the installation of tools left in places add to the sadness of seeing an abandoned workshop.

“I’ve been in your care. Thank you.”

I gently put my hand on the traces, expressed my thanks, and then I left the branch office.

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

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---