After seeing the duke’s family off, I ran back to the mines.

There were a lot of adventurers

along the way, so I couldn’t help but remember the grell frogs.

It’s along the way anyway, so I guess I might as well catch a few.

As I thought that, I took out my suit from my Item Box and headed for the marsh.

“There sure are a lot of people…” [Ryouma]

There’s probably over 100 people in the area, but there are people going to other
marshes, so the total number of people here is even more than that.

As I thought that to myself while looking at the marsh, I noticed several people wearing
the same waders as me. Looks like it’s selling quite well…

One group of adventurers caught my eye. They were a group of five and all of them
were wearing the waders.

I remember them. They’re the ones who sold me the bloody slime. The Wharf of Shikumu.
I’m here anyway, so I might as well say hi.

I approached them, but something seems to have happened, as the people around an
unhappy Kai were lightly tapping him at the back, telling him not to mind it.

“Good afternoon.” [Ryouma]

“Hmm? You’re that guy from before… Ryouma, right? Thanks for the other day.” [Kai]

“Don’t sweat it. I got a good slime from it, after all.” [Ryouma]

As I said that, the drunk guy from before stepped forward.

“You’re the guy who bought that slime?” [Sein]

“Yes, that’s right.” [Ryouma]

“I see. Sorry about my behavior that day. I’m Sein. I was really drunk that time, and it
seems I picked a fight with you. I don’t remember much of what happened then
because I was drunk, but thanks for buying the slime and for the information.” [Sein]

Huh. He’s completely different from the way he behaved that time. I thought he was
just a drunkard, but it turns out, he’s actually a pretty serious guy.

“Please don’t mind it. That aside, did something happen? Kai-san doesn’t look too good.”
[Ryouma]

“It’s not exactly a problem… Before that, though, let me introduce you to these guys firs.”
[Kai]

As Kai-san said that, he turned to the two people who carried Sein-san before.

Kai-san placed his hand on the shoulders of the guy a little shorter than him and said
this.

“This one is Kei. He’s my younger brother.” [Kai]

“I’m Kei. It’s nice to meet you.” [Kei]

“It’s nice to meet you too.” [Ryouma]

“And this one is…” [Kai]

“Payron. Nice to meet you.” [Payron]

“Nice to meet you.” [Ryouma]

“And together, we five make up the party ‘the Wharf of Shikumu’. But you knew that,
right?” [Kai]

“Yep.” [Ryouma]

“Actually, we used to be fishermen.” [kai]

Fishermen? That’s nice, but why are they talking about this all of the sudden? But then
Shin-san suddenly switched places with Kai-san.

“Sorry, Kai sucks at explaining, so I’m taking over.” [Shin]

As it turns out, Shikumu is apparently a village by the bank of the biggest river of this
country.

They grew up there and are quite proficient as using nets. Because of that they have
an easier time catching stuff in the marsh compared to others. The marsh is different
from the sea, but they still have an easier time compared to the other adventurers. As
a result, they managed to catch a lot of grell frogs.

They’ve been making a killing doing this for the past few days. Today, they managed
to catch a considerable number too, but when they left their basket of grell frogs
unattended for a moment, someone had replaced it with another.

The baskets are provided by the guild, so there are a lot of adventurers with the same
basket.

“I see… So, your catch was stolen.” [Ryouma]

“I guess…” [Kai]

What’s with that halfhearted reply?

But then Kei-san showed me their basket, and inside could be seen 20 grell frogs, but
they were very weak.

A few of them even looked like they were about to die.

“If you just look at the numbers, there’s more after being switched, but…” [Kai]

“These things were handled very poorly. Because of that the grell frogs ended up being
so weak. Weak grell frogs like these don’t sell for much, and if they die, their value will
go down even more. In fact, they look like they’ll die along the way back to town.” [Shin]

“They switched these sorry grell frogs for ours.” [Kei]

“We could just catch some again, but it certainly doesn’t feel good.” [Sein]
I see… Oh, right!

“How much do you think these would go for if you sold them?” [Ryouma]

“If they’ve been weakened by the time we get to the guild, they’ll go for about 200 suits.
If they die, 50 suits. They’re really weak, so this pricing should be right. We learned our
lesson a few days ago, so our preliminary investigation should be perfect.” [Kai]

“And if the condition is good, about 1000 suits per grell frog, right?” [Ryouma]

“That’s right. What about it?” [Kai]

“How about selling these two me for 300suits per grell frog?” [Ryouma]

“I don’t mind, but are you sure?” [Shin]

“Your price is better than the guild’s, so it’s good for us, but…” [Kai]

“You’ll be losing out, you know?” [Kei]

“That would be true if I was planning to sell it to the guild, but I’m going to be using it
for myself, so that won’t be a problem.” [Ryouma]

“Using it for yourself? You make medicine?” [Kai]

“Yes. I plan to use these to make an antidote, so I’d like to buy them all.” [Ryouma]

“I see. In that case, thanks for taking them off our hands at a higher price than the guild.”
[Kai]

“We’ll just catch more to sell to the guild, so feel free to take them all.” [Shin]

“Thank you very much.” [Ryouma]

Like this I purchased 25 grell frogs from them for 7,500 suits.

“You sure are amazing…” [Shin]

“Ever since you took out a small gold coin to purchase our slime, I’ve always thought it
was amazing how you’re able to just take out huge wads of cash like it’s nothing.” [Kai]
“It all makes sense after seeing how popular your store is, though.” [Shin]

Ah, looks like they went to my store.

“Did you use my store?” [Ryouma]

“At first, we were just planning to try it out just once, but it was cheap, quick, and the
result was really great, so we decided to frequent it.” [Kai]

“And because of the marsh here, we’ve been dropping by everyday the past few days.”
[Shin]

“At first we were shocked, but it seems slimes can be useful, too, huh. When we tried
it out for ourselves it was pretty good.” [Kei]

Looks like they became regular customers. That’s good.

“Having to do laundry once we get home will be a pain in the ass, maybe you could
open a branch in our town? If you want I could talk to the fishing association for you
and introduce you to a good spot.” [Kai]

“A lot of people are actually asking for a branch store, but I don’t have any plans of
opening one just yet.” [Ryouma]

“Well, I understand it’s not so simple to open one, but if you ever feel like opening a
branch at Shikumu, then please contact us. I’ll help you find a store.’ [Kai]

“We normally don’t leave town, and even if we do, at most it’s just a nearby town, so
reaching us shouldn’t be a problem.” [Shin]

“You should be able to get a better place than the merchants guild can provide if you
go through the fishing association.” [Kai]

It seems the fishing association is more community oriented than the merchants guild.

“Thank you. I’ll call you when that time comes.” [Ryouma]

As I said that, I separated from them and went to the abandoned mines.
 2

When I got to the abandoned mines, I let the slimes and rimel birds out to play by
themselves, then I dug out a cave and built a place for me to live at and a room for
concocting medicine. I made furniture like shelves out of stone too. For the time being,
these should serve just fine.

“Now then… I think it’s about time to call the bloody and cleaner slimes.” [Ryouma]

I used the newly built medicine room and immediately got to work on the grell frogs.
After all, some of the grell frogs were really quite weak, so I had to work on them
immediately, I also took out the grell frogs I caught the other day from my Dimension
Home and placed them along with the new grell frogs inside the water tank.

Grell frogs can live for up to a week if caught in good condition; hence, a normal
medical practitioner would take their time to prepare the grell frogs, but with the
bloody slime, there’s no need for that.

First, I drew a Magic Formation of Separation on the floor, then I prepared enough
stone vessels to contain the harvested parts. Next, I took the grell frogs out and placed
them inside a cage by the corner of the medicine room.

I’ll begin with the grell frogs I purchased today.

“Bloody.” [Ryouma]

I randomly picked one from the grell frogs. It tried to run, so I killed it with a knife,
then I ordered the bloody slime to enter it from the wound I made and had it drain its
blood.

Now, it was time to dissect the grell frog. I used the knowledge provided by my
Pharmacy skill and dispassionately began cutting out the necessary parts of the grell
frog.

Not a drop of blood was shed during the whole process. The bloody slime’s work was
perfect.

Next, it was time to remove the mucus and wastes.

I washed the harvested parts and removed the attached dirt and mucus.

If you don’t remove the mucus well, the quality will go down. Unfortunately, they’re
very difficult to remove. To make things worse, too much strength will damage the
internal organs and push the quality down again, so one would have to take extra care
when doing this part of the process. At least, when done normally.

“Do it.” [Ryouma]

I ordered the cleaner slimes to clean the mucus and filth from the grell frog parts.

The cleaner slimes took the stone vessels into themselves and started removing the
mucus.

After a few seconds the harvested parts were sparkling clean.

I examined the cleaned goods, and as expected, they were cleaned perfectly without a
single injury.

What came next was my job.

I used the Magic Formation of Separation to separate the water content from the
harvest parts, causing them to quickly dry.

Normally, one would have to use wind or fire magic to dry the harvested parts, which
as a result of the heat and time would cause the medicinal effect of the part to decline,
but with this method, everything can be done quickly with no change in quality owing
from heat or spoilage.

After all was done, I checked all the parts with Identify, and they were indeed
processed perfectly. They were all at the highest quality. With this I’ve confirmed what
order to do things and the effectiveness of the slimes.

I repeated the same process for the rest of the grell frogs, and in the end, 6 out of 25
of those I purchased today got the highest quality mark from Identify. The remaining
19 were all praised as high quality too, so they weren’t bad by any means.

The reason the quality went down was because the grell frogs were caught too crudely.
The blood flow of the grell frogs worsened right as soon as I hurt them.
Also, I used the leftover grell frog hide and meat as feed for the rimel birds. I knew the
rimel birds loved grell frog meat, so I brought it to them, and as expected, they had a
great time. I hear rimel birds eat piratically eat anything, though, from meat to fish to
fruits to vegetables to grain… Anything.

They’re omnivorous, but I suppose meat would be the main part of their diet? I should
check with the tamers guild.

Before I knew it, it was already dark outside.

Just to be safe, I gathered the slimes and the rimel birds in the tunnel to ensure their
safety. The slimes have gotten stronger, but the night is still dangerous, so I also blocked
the entrance with some stones, making sure to just leave enough opening for the air to
enter.

“Now then… It’s been a while since I last spent the night like this…” [Ryouma]

Reminds me of the time when I first got to this world…

At the time, I read the letter from Gayn and the others, then I looked for a place to stay
at and found the cliff where I built my house.

That was how I learned my earth magic – by digging out a cave.

At first, my Break Rock could just barely make a crack, but somehow someway I was
able to dig out a hole big enough for my body to fit in, then I blocked the entrance with
a stone wall I made. My residence back then was that simple.

After that I gradually worked on the cave. I also gradually got used to the forest and
started training and hunting in the night.

“…I’m not really in the mood right now, though, so… I guess I might as well just use the
ingredients I prepared and make some medicine.”

As I entered the medicine concocting room aimlessly, I took out the ingredients I got
and preserved from the Forest of Gana, and stored them in the shelves.

I’d like to create a wooden shelf specifically for the medicinal herbs, but I’ll make that
some other time.
The medicine I can make right now with the ingredients at hand is an… antidote. I
have just enough to make an antidote that uses the liver of the grell frog.

The necessary ingredients are grell frog liver, a poisonous plant called ‘Kasuri’, a fruit
of Kunashi that can be used as antidote after weakening its poison, a flower of jusho
that has a strong nourishing effect, and an ufuru herb that has a diuresis effect.

After that I made a pot with earth magic, two spatulas to stir it, and a mortal and pestle.
Next time I’ll just buy the tools I need. I’ve gotten by so far by making my own tools
with earth magic, but it would probably be best to just buy my tools.

As I thought that, I filled the pot with water via water magic, then I put in the cut kasuri
herb and kunashi fruit, then I heated the water with the electric spell, Microwave [1],
as I stirred the pot.

I don’t always use this method because sometimes the ingredients are weak to heat,
but the kasuri herb and the kunashi fruit are strong against heat.

As the two ingredients boiled, the color gradually dissolved, and the liquid within the
pot turned violet.

Seeing that, I stopped heating the pot and let the pot cool by itself, while I crushed the
dried grell frog liver.

“Should be about time…” [Ryouma]

When the pot was at a good temperature, I threw the crushed liver in and started stirring
again.

When the liquid got even cooler, I added the joshu flower and ufuru herb as I ground
them into tinier parts with my hands, then I stirred the pot again until they sank.

After that I left the pot to let it simmer and allow the medicinal contents to permeate.

“What should I do until then?” [Ryouma]

When I left the room, I noticed the rimel birds.

I took out my guitar from Item Box and played two national anime ending songs. I
played because I saw the moon shining through the ventilation hole.
When I finished playing…

“…” [Rimel birds]

An incomprehensible sound resounded throughout the cave.

“Woah!? My ear hurts… Can you guys tone it down for a bit? Ouch…” [Ryouma]

The source of the sound was none other than the rimel birds.

They were making those beautiful chirps they made when I contracted them, but it
was hard to make out the sound because we were inside a tunnel, making the sound
really loud.

I ended up receiving a lot of damage, but the rimel birds seemed fine. What kind of
ears do these guys have?

The slimes didn’t have ears, so they were also fine.

After that the rimel birds quietened down, and after hearing their chirps, I ate supper,
and then went back to the medicine concocting room.

Extracting the medicinal effects of the joshu flower and the ufuru herb doesn’t take
much time, so it should be about done.

When I used Identify on the contents of the pot…

Incomplete Antidote (High Quality)

An antidote that uses grell frog liver.

Disintegrates poisonous content and activates one’s metabolism to expel poison from
the body. It works on a large variety of poison, but it is especially effective on paralyzing
agents. One should drink plenty of water when taking this antidote for best results.

“Alright. It’s been a success so far. Next is…” [Ryouma]

I took out a large cloth from my Item Box, then I had the cleaner slime clean it.
This cloth belongs to one of the bandits I killed in the forest. The spaces in between its
fibers is really small, so it’s perfect for straining the medicinal content from the herbs.

I covered an empty pot with the cloth, then I fixed it in place with the sticky slime’s
thread. After that I slowly poured the contents of the pot through the cloth. Like that
the medicine flowed into the empty pot as the cloth filtered it.

After transferring all the liquid, I removed the cloth and wrung out the medicine to the
last drop.

I stirred the completed medicine with the spatula, then I used Identify on it. When I did,
the ‘incomplete’ part vanished from the name of the product and the quality turned into
highest quality from high quality. Well, it’s complete now, so that’s only a given.

…Now then, it’s good and all that I managed to make the medicine, but what am I
supposed to do with this?

“Maybe I should’ve turned it into a pill instead to preserve it, but there weren’t enough
ingredients.” [Ryouma]

Now that I think about it, I have the poison resist skill, so a weak poison wouldn’t work
against me anyway, so there’s not a lot of uses of this antidote for me.

I should have one at hand just to be safe, but I definitely won’t need an entire pot’s
worth. If I transfer that entire pot into vials, I would have about 20.

For the meantime, I used earth magic to create a funnel and a dipper, prepared a lot of
vials, then filled them with the medicine one at a time.

After filling up 20 vials, I stored 19 inside my Item Box. As I fiddled with the remaining
vial on hand, I left the medicine concocting room and went to the living space.

“What to do… Should I sell it at Serge-san’s, or maybe I should give it to Jeff-san and
the others?” [Ryouma]

While I was thinking that, I accidentally dropped the vial.

“Acha~…” [Ryouma]
Because I kept fiddling with the vial, the cover got loose, so when it fell, all the contents
came pouring out.

“Somehow I’m just not in the mood today…” [Ryomua]

Maybe it’s because of that thing age regression thing that Kufo was talking about? For
some reason, I can’t change my mood very well. Who would’ve thought at this age…
Ah, but I’m actually 11, ain’t I? Still… that’s only on the outside. Mentally speaking, I’m
already 40, so it’s really hard to believe that I would actually be sad at this age…

In my previous life, a lot of my coworkers retired either because the work was tough
or because they fainted from overwork. So I thought I’d gotten used to it already.

Of course, I’m not actually sad enough to cry, but when I’m not busying myself, I can’t
help but become sad.

I pondered for about 10 seconds, and then, I made up my mind.

“…Let’s just sleep.” [Ryouma]

Rather than try to drag myself around like this, it’s better to just sleep. As I thought
that, I looked for the fallen vial to clean the spill, but for some reason, only the vial was
left and the medicine was already gone.

“Huh? Where did the medicine go?” [Ryouma]

There were several slimes loitering around the room, and there were cleaner slimes
among them, so maybe they’d cleaned it already? Huh. Well, that saves me the trouble,
so that’s nice.

As I thought that, I went to bed.

The next day.

I went outside when I woke up, but it was still dark.

Did I sleep too much yesterday? It’s still too early to go to town.

As such, I went ahead and used the time to add a kitchen and a storehouse to the
abandoned mines. I also arranged the contents of my Item Box. I stored most of my
herb-related stuff in the lab, but the Item Box was full of the unsold pelt.
Pelt, pelt, pelt, pelt, black tea… The black tea goes to the kitchen.

Pelt, pelt, pelt, pelt, pelt, pelt, money… Ah, these are the bandits’ possession… weapon,
armor, armor, weapon, weapon… Come to think of it, I completely forgot about that
bandit, Melzel’s, spear. Let’s mess with it later. Next is… more pelt.

“Pelt again. I have way too many of these things. Honestly, why did I have to go and take
everything? I should’ve just let the slimes eat them. At least that way they wouldn’t have
gone to waste.” [Ryouma]

As I continued arranging the contents of my Item Box, I found something strange.

“What is this?” [Ryouma]

It was a goblet.

Everything I’ve made is either made with stone through earth magic or with shaved
wood, but this goblet is made out of silver. Moreover, it’s also adorned with gold and
jewels.

Why is something so luxurious inside my Item Box?

I doubt this belonged to the bandits. I checked my possessions when I left the forest,
and this wasn’t on me then. I do recall seeing this once, though…
I used Identify on the goblet.

Divine Vessel. The Goblet of the God of Wine, Tekun.

A divine vessel created by the god of wine, Tekun.

It is imbued with the power of the god of wine and can produce an endless supply of
liquor in exchange for mana.

Owner: Ryouma Takebayashi

!?!?!? Wait a minute! What is this? Why would I have something crazy like a divine
vessel with me!?

…!!!

“Oh, wait! This is that goblet Tekun gave me when we met! I brought that back with
me!?” [Ryouma]

Thinking back on it, I just stuffed everything back into my Item Box, so it seems I
accidentally brought it back with me.

“Isn’t this like really bad?… I need to go to the church!” [Ryouma]

I stuffed the goblet back into my Item Box and put my slimes into my Dimension Home,
then I left the abandoned mine and hurried to town. I went as fast as I could.

I went straight to the church as soon as I got to the town. When I reached the entrance
of the churce, a girl opened the door.

“Oh, are you here to visit the chapel?” [Nun]

“Yes, can I?” [Ryouma]

“Yes, of course. It sure is rare to see someone come so early…” [Nun]

I don’t really have time to chat, but…

“I’ve been quite busy with work, so I didn’t have any other time to come than now.”
[Ryouma]

“I see.” [Nun]

The nun brought me to the chapel.

Honestly, I remember the way already, so I actually wanted to refuse her and just run
straight to the chapel, but I had to keep up appearances, so I just thanked the girl and
then took took a seat and prayed.

Tekun! Please take me to the divine realm!!

A few seconds after I prayed that, a white light filled my vision and brought me to the
divine realm.

My prayer worked!

When the light stopped, I turned around and Tekun was there.

At that, I heaved a sigh of relief.

“You called, Ryouma? Actually, how did you call me? I definitely heard your voice just
now.” [Tekun]

“I prayed at church.” [Ryouma]

“Oh, come on! As if just that would be able to call me a god so easily. If that were true
we gods would be getting calls everyday.” [Tekun]

“Even if you say that… Ah, but forget that, I have something I need to talk to you about.”
[Ryouma]

“What happened?” [Tekun]

Instead of words, I decided to just show him the goblet.

When Tekun saw it, he opened his eyes wide and looked alternatively between the
goblet and the hole made by my Item Box.

“Last time you left it behind when you ran off, remember?” [Ryouma]

“Ah, yeah…” [Tekun]

“After you left I opened my Item Box to look for some snacks to eat while drinking, but
because of that I ran out of time and stuffed all my belongings back in. Unfortunately,
the goblet got mixed in. I only noticed it this morning when I opened my Item Box to
arrange everything, so… Umm… Sorry. I didn’t mean to take it with me.” [Ryouma]

“I don’t really mind. So, you brought that with you to the other side?” [Tekun]

“Yes. I stuffed it into my Item Box along with my other belongings and was able to
bring it out in the other side.” [Ryouma]

“You were able to bring it out? But in the first place, magic is… No. What’s necessary
for magic is spirit and mana… So I guess he can use it?” [Tekun]

As Tekun said that, he scratched his head and said this.

“Show me that for a bit.” [Tekun]

I gave him the goblet just as he said, then he caressed it and stared at it as if he were
confirming something.
“…Ryouma, I don’t mind if you take this with you. Among humans it might be considered
a sacred treasure[1], but we gods can make something on this level anytime. And
besides, this already belongs to you.” [Tekun]

“It belongs to me? Come to think of it, when I used Identify on it, the information said
that its owner was Ryouma Takebayashi.” [Ryouma]

“It’s probably because I gave you the goblet and left you behind, so it was probably
assumed that I was giving the goblet to you. Either way this is completely yours
already, so enough of that. Have a drink.” [Tekun]

As Tekun said that, he took a bottle of liquor out of thin air and poured it into the
goblet, then he handed the goblet back to me.

“Are you sure it’s okay to decide it just like that? Also, it’s still morning, so…” [Ryouma]

“You’re a soul right now, so you won’t get drunk. Besides, if we’re going to be talking,
then liquor should come first, right?

As for the goblet, as I said just now, I can make as many of that as I want, so I don’t really
care.

There are also people who’ve received a sacred treasure from me in the past.

Abilities of stuff created according to the wishes of the otherworlders can go from
good to bad,

There are all sorts of blessings given to otherworlders, but the most common type is
a sacred treasure.

There’s nothing wrong with a human receiving a sacred treasure.

So enough of that and let’s get to the important stuff: drinking!” [Tekun]

Is it really okay to make that decision on a whim!?

“Well, it would cause a commotion if word were to get out that you’re in possession of
a sacred treasure, so make sure to hide it and just use it when you’re by yourself.”
[Tekun]
“I understand. I’m glad there’s no problem. I didn’t do it on purpose, but I was still
really scared when I realized I’d taken something from this side.” [Ryouma]

I drank from the goblet Tekun gave me. Today’s sake tastes good too. It feels like
there’s less alcohol in today’s drink than last time’s. Is Tekun being considerate?

“GAHAHA, there are certainly things that would be troublesome if brought to the other
side, but those are carefully watched, so you don’t have to worry about that. In fact you
won’t even get a chance to see it, so you don’t have to worry about that.

And besides, that’s just a goblet that produces wine.

It’s a lot safer compared to something that increases its wielders abilities or a sword
that allows one to cut castle walls like paper. If anything, I’mmore concerned of the
fact that you were actually able to take a sacred treasure with you, but… Eh, whatever.”
[Tekun]

“Am I not supposed to be able to?” [Ryouma]

“Of course not! There’s no way an item from the divine realm could be taken just like
that, right?… In fact, a human being able to come here is already plenty strange.” [Tekun]

Oh, yeah…

“I’ve come here so many times, I’d already forgotten.” [Ryouma]

“It’s partly because you came here, but it seems Gayn and the others repeatedly calling
you here is also having an effect.” [Tekun]

“I get told that a lot. Is it alright?” [Ryouma]

“Who knows? I’m the god of wine and craftsmen, so even if you ask me that, I can’t
answer. You should ask Fernoberia[2] instead. He might know something.” [Tekun]

Fernoberia? Who’s that?

“Who’s that?” [Ryouma]

“Ahh, you don’t know him, huh? He’s the god of magic. Fernoberia, the God of Magic.
He’s always shutting himself inside his domain, so I don’t really know him well, but he
should be the most knowledgeable when it comes to magic. Unfortunately, it’s really
rare to see that guy, so I don’t know if you’ll ever get to meet him.” [Tekun]

“I see… Well, I haven’t noticed any problems, and Gayn and the others said it’s nothing
bad, so it’s probably fine. It would’ve bee nice to know the reason, though.” [Ryouma]

“It’s only natural to think that way when strange things happen around you.” [Teku]

“As Tekun said that, the surrounding area started to dazzle. Huh? Isn’t it quicker than
usual?

“Oh, it’s time.’ [Ryouma]

I quickly emptied my drink and stored the goblet back into my Item Box.

“Ho~ so this is what happens you’re about to go back.” [Tekun]

“By the way, were you able to meet Gayn and the others?” [Ryouma]

“Yeah, managed to catch them when they were on the way home. They really did go to
your world.
I managed to make them agree to let me go next time and have a taste of Earth wine.”
[Tekun]

As Tekun said that, he heartily laughed.

“I see. Take care not to drink too— Oh, but you’re the god of wine, so you probably don’t
get drunk, huh?” [Ryouma]

“Of course I can’t! I’ll drink a shower’s worth of alcohol!” [Tekun]

“By the way, what will happen when you go around drinking? Will Earth’s liquor just
disappear all of the sudden?” [Tekun]

“That won’t happen. Whether it’s there or here, the liquor will be created by the power
of a god. It’s like how your goblet makes liquor with mana. No matter how much I
drink, other people won’t run out of liquor.” [Tekun]

“I see, I guess I won’t hold back with this goblet then.” [Ryouma]
“That’s how it should be. Enjoy liquor! Liquor should be enjoyed!” [Tekun]

When Tekun said that, I tried to answer back, but the world had already been dyed in
white, and before I knew it, I was back at the chapel.

“…Couldn’t make it in time. I wonder if he’ll be able to hear it if I pray?” [Ryouma]

Thank you. I will also enjoy liquor here. I hope you have fun in your alcohol tour too.

As I prayed that, I left a donation and left the church.

Now then, let’s go to the store. It’s a little late, though, as it’s already past opening time.

When I walked to the store, I heard a big crowd laughing near the store.

Sounds like they’re having fun. Where are the voices coming from?… Huh? My store?

The store was coming from my store. The people outside the store were all laughing.
What are they doing?

I took a peek and it turns out Leelin-san had knocked out two men.

Seriously, what are they doing?

“Good morning, Leelin-san.” [Ryouma]

“Ah, Boss. Good morning. I’ve just finished tying these men up. Please wait a moment.”
[Leelin]

Leelin-san quickly bound the two guys. While she was doing that, I asked Carm-san,
who was currently tending to the store, what was going on.

“What happened?” [Ryouma]

“It’s been a while since the last time, but they came to cause trouble.” [Carm]

“Huh? So, what’s with all the laughing? I’d understand if they were screaming, so why
are they laughing?” [Ryouma]
“Actually…” [Carm]

Apparently, the ruffians wanted to complain about the laundry quality to pull down
our reputation, so they’d intentionally stained their clothes with something hard to
remove, but it didn’t work on the cleaner slimes. Unfortunately, they didn’t bother
checking their clothes after getting them washed as they boldly called out to the crowd
of customers and said, “Look! They failed to clean my clothes!” Only, to then reveal a
perfectly clean piece of clothing.

The people started laughing one after another, until eventually, everyone was laughing.
When the men tried to get violent, Leelin-san apprehended them, and that’s when I
came in.

Moreover, it also so happens that some guards were passing by when they caused a
disturbance. One of the customers called them, and they took the ruffians away for
obstructing business.

“I don’t know if this is lucky or unlucky…” [Ryouma]

“We didn’t have time to hear them out.” [Leelin]

I called Carla-san and Fei-san inside the store and talked to them.

For the meantime, we decided to just maintain the status quo. We also decided to just
wait for the results of the guards’ investigation and do what we could for now.

Oh, speaking of which, why don’t I leave the antidote here?

“I made some antidotes yesterday, so just in case, I’ll leave some here.” [Ryouma]

“Understood.” [Carla]

As I said that, I handed enough vials for everyone to Carla-san and Fei-san.

Now, what? Isn’t there anything I could do to toughen up the store’s security?

Hmm… The store’s windows don’t seem to be very strong. How about I use that?
 2

I went back home to the mines to test out my idea.

I drew three magic formations in a wide-open tunnel, then I asked the sticky slimes to
fill a box with hardening liquid.

After that I placed the box on a Magic Formation of Separation and extracted half the
water content.

“Fill her up again.” [Ryouma]

I ordered the slimes to fill up the box with hardening liquid, then I extracted the water
content again.

I repeated that same process several times until the hardening liquid had become
concentrated.

Back in the forest, I once tested what would happen if I used alchemy to concentrate
the sticky slime’s liquid.

The result then was a product harder than normal. Normally, if you let the hardening
liquid dry, it would start cracking with just a little force. But after concentrating the
hardening liquid, even a spell would only be able to leave a crack on it.

There were two squares on the circular alchemical formation, shifted by 45 degrees
and conjoined together to form the Magic Formation of Transformation. The baseball-
sized lump of concentrated hardening liquid inside was so hard that not even my full
strength could easily crush it.

I’m going to use this to make a glass window.

“Why didn’t I think of this sooner?” [Ryouma]

This concentrated hardening liquid is highly transparent. It’s not completely

transparent, but its yellow tint is just barely noticeable, so it’s more than good enough
to serve as a glass window.

At the very least it’s more durable than the wooden windows of this country, and there
won’t be any need to open the windows just to let light in. Since the windows don’t
need to be opened, cold wind won’t enter either.

If it’s just for light, glass is also a thing here, but while blow glass for vials can be
purchased for cheap due to your average craftsman being able to make them,
unfortunately, glass meant for windows are produced with magic and are a luxury.

It’s also possible to make a sheet with blown glass to make them suitable for windows,
but only skilled craftsmen could make it happen, so the yield rates are really low.

I wanted to get some glass windows when making the store, but even with my
knowledge on construction cutting down on costs, the lowest I could go to make the
glass windows a reality was still 1 medium gold coin. As such, I had no choice but to
give u pon them.

But that changes today! Because I can use this concentrated hardening liquid in place
of glass! Moreover, it’s also geared toward increasing the security of the store and is
also very strong against fire and heat.

Also, I’m digressing, but as for concentrated sticky liquid it doesn’t solidify that much
and is brittle. It has a muddy color, so it’s not transparent, but on top of that it also
burns.

The usual dried sticky liquid is less combustible than cloth, but after concentrating
the sticky liquid, it becomes highly combustible. It was quite shocking to see it act like
the exact opposite to the hardneing liquid.

Hardening liquid is too hard, while sticky liquid is brittle and combustible. Because of
that I’ve ignored them until now. Honestly, who would’ve thought concentrated
hardening liquid would actually have a use like this?

“Well, with earth and barrier magic, I could endure the cold, so… I didn’t notice it at all.”
[Ryouma]

I would sometimes mumble to myself like this while working.

I kept working until it was evening.

By the time I was done. I’d already finished about 50 concentrated hardening liquid
planks for use with windows.
The next day.

I woke up in the morning, got ready, and gathered the slimes.

It was the usual routine, but then… A slime caught my eye.

What is this slime?

Before me was a slime I didn’t remember.

Strangely, though, it was indeed contracted with me.

I used Monster Identify on it…

Medicine Slime

Skills:
Produce Medicine Lv3
Poison Resist Lv3
Disease Resist Lv5
Physical Attack Resist Lv1
Jump Lv3
Digest Lv3
Absorb Lv3
Split Lv3
Spear Mastery Lv1

Medicine slime, huh. I don’t remember contracting this guy, so he must’ve evolved.

“Since it has the Spear Mastery skill, then… It must’ve been a poison slime!” [Ryouma]
When you think about it, medicine can be poison depending on how you use it. The
same holds true the other way.

“I’ve never had a slime evolve a second time after evolving once, but it seems there
really is a second evolution. But why all of the sudden? Did I clear an evolution
condition somewhere?” [Ryouma]

It’s been proven that slimes evolved according to what they ate, so the medicine
slime’s evolution condition is… medicine?

But when did I ever feed a slime with that?

Hmm… Come to think of it, the medicine I dropped the other night was cleaned by
itself. I thought for sure a cleaner slime had cleaned it, but could it be that it was this
guy who cleaned it instead?

To test that hypothesis, I gathered the poison slimes and poured a vial for them to
drink. When I did, 5 slimes approached and started drinking.

“Ohh, they’re drinking. So, I guess it really was a poison slime then.” [Ryouma]

Last time I spilled a vial and one slime evolved, so it should stand to reason that 5
slimes would need 5 vials to evolve. I’ve already given them a vial, so I guess I’ll be
needing four more.

I went ahead and made some vessels while the slimes were drinking, then I gave an
order to the medicine slime.

“Show me which medicines you can make.” [Ryouma]

As I said that, I pushed the vessel toward the medicine slime. The medicine slime then
started pouring out liquids one after another.

There were all sorts of liquids from more viscous ones to smoother ones.

I used Identify on the various liquids, and this was the result.

Ointment
Styptic
Antidote
Poison (Immediate Effect)
Poison (Delayed Effect)
Paralyzing Agent (Instant Effect)
Paralyzing Agent (Delayed Effect)
Antibacterial Medicine

“Ohh, that’s a lot… I suppose it can produce both medicine and poison… What’s with
this antibacterial medicine, though?” [Ryouma]

I used a more specific Identify on it, and this came out:

Antibacterial Medicine
Produced within the body of the medicine slime. A liquid that possesses strong
sterilizing effects.
Destroys all bacteria and virus when applied.
Quickly evaporates if not properly stored in an airtight container.
Harmless to humans.

This is an antiseptic solution! This is great! I was actually worried about going to
territories other than the Jamil Territory because of hygiene reasons, but with this,
that won’t be a problem anymore!

…Speaking of which, time sure flies! I better get to the store.

I hurriedly gathered the slimes and went to the store, but the store was already open.

I entered the employee entrance and met Carm-san.

“Good morning, Boss.” [Carm]

“Good morning, Carla-san.” [Ryouma]

“Boss, what have you been up to lately?” [Ryouma]

“Hmm? What do you mean?” [Ryouma]

“You came only after the store was already opened yesterday and today too. Did
something happen?” [Carm]
“Oh, it’s nothing. I was just too busy with work.” [Ryouma]

“Really? Well, that’s fine then, but be sure to talk to us if you have something or your
mind.” [Carm]

“Thank you.” [Ryouma]

“Oh, and could you start coming around this time?” [Carm]

Around this time?

“Why?” [Ryouma]

“If you come before the store opens, you’ll definitely end up doing the store
preparation, so the lower-positioned employees won’t have anything to do. They need
to do that as part of their training, so please leave it to them. Please do get used to
leaving work to your subordinates, Boss.” [Carm]

So, I was taking their work…

“Well, alright. I guess it can’t be helped…” [Ryouma]

I can understand if it’s for a reason like that, but with this, I have even less work to
do… Oh, right. I need to talk to her about the windows.

“Oh yeah, Carm-san. Are Fei-san and Leelin-san free right now?” [Ryouma]

“Fei-san’s tending to the store, but Leelin-san should be in the break room right now.
Do you need them for something?” [Carm]

“Actually, I have an idea to toughen up the store’s security and would like to talk to
them about it.” [Ryouam]

“I see. In that case, please wait at the office. I’ll call them over.” [Carm]

I waited at the office just as he told me, and he immediately brought Leelin-san.

They were just in the next room, after all, so it came as no surprise. In fact, I could’ve
just called her myself. There was no need for him to get her.
“Good morning, boss. You needed me?” [Leelin]

“Good morning, Leelin-san. It’s about the store window. Don’t you think it’d be quite
easy to break those and get in?” [Ryouma]

“Indeed. All you need is a hammer or an axe and you’d easily be able to break them.
We’ve taken that into consideration and are keeping an eye out for them.” [Leelin]

“Thank you as always. So, I was thinking of making those windows unbreakable.”
[Ryouma]

“That would save us a lot of trouble, but… how?” [Leelin]

I took out one plank of concentrated hardening liquid from my Dimension Home.

When Carm saw that, the color of his eyes changed.

“Is that a glass window?” [Carm]

“Not quite.” [Ryouma]

“But this shape and transparency… Surely, it must be glass window. And even if it’s not
glass window, we can use it instead of glass window! Did you make this, Boss?” [Carm]

Looks like he’s taken a liking to it.

I do intend to use it as a replacement for glass window, but I have no intention of

selling it right now.

“Sorry, but I’m not planning to sell it right now. The production rate isn’t there yet…”
[Ryouma]

“I see… Sorry, I got ahead of myself.” [Carm]

“It’s fine. And besides, you’re actually right in that I was thinking of using this in place of
glass windows. It looks like glass, but unlike glass it’s actually quite durable.” [Ryouma]

I hit the glass with my bare fists.

When Leelin-san saw that, she narrowed her eyes.

“Boss, could I give it a try?” [Ryouma]

“Sure. I have plenty of spare, so feel free to destroy it.” [Ryouma]

I let Leelin-san have a go at it.

She hit the plank several times, but it didn’t even crack. She used reinforcement magic
after that, but a crack was the most she could muster.

“…It really is tough. If we outfit the entire first floor with this, our assailants will surely
have a hard time getting in. But at the same time, we won’t be able to break the glass
to run away if driven into a corner. Please also take that into consideration as you plan
the store security.” [Leelin]

So, there was a downside to it!

“Now that you mention it, I should definitely come up of a way to make it easy to open
from inside. I’ll need to think about it.” [Ryouma]

“Aside from that one downside, though, it’s very good for defending against intruders.
If we outfit them here and there, we should be able to reduce the places that could be
broken into. Well, at least that’s one way to go about it. And also, if we know what’s
coming, we can deal with it much easier too.” [Leelin]

“I see. So, you’re alright with replacing the store windows with this, right?” [Ryouma]

“Yes.” [Leelin]

Like that we started upgrading the store’s wooden windows with these concentrated
hardening liquid planks.

We first changed the windows at the back of the store, where there were no customers,
then we worked on the side facing the nearby stores, then the side facing the road, and
then lastly, the store front, the windows facing the residential district… Or at least,
that’s what we were planning to do when all of the sudden we heard someone yelling
from the store.

“What did you to my clothes! Does this store have a policy of tearing its customers
clothes into pieces!? Well!?” [Angry Customer]
We hurriedly entered through the store entrance, and there, we saw an ill-bred man
arguing with Fina-san.

Fei-san was in the process of breaking them up.

Atop the counter was a piece of clothing that was torn from the collar all the way to
the bottom… But it’s impossible for this to be our fault since we don’t wash laundry
here in a way that could do something like this. I doubt this happened while the
employees were transporting it too.

Even though I know it’s just false accusation, it sure still feels bad. A proper claim
would actually be better. Anyway, I have no intention of accepting false claims like this.

At times like this, it’s important to firmly deal with the malicious claimant.

I called out to the man.

“What seems to be the problem, sir?” [Ryouma]

“Boss?” [Fei]

Fei-san responded before the man could.

I passed the man a fleeting glance, then I looked at Fei-san to signal to him that I would
be dealing with the man.

Fei-san was able to understand my signal, so he allowed me to come close, though he

kept alert.

“What’s your problem, brat!? Get lost!” [Angry Customer]

“That won’t do, as I’m the owner of this store. Do you have a problem with our store?”
[Ryouma]

The man’s eyebrows twitched and he started arguing with me.

“You better believe it! Your little store tore apart my only good suit! I want compensation!”
[Angry Customer]

“Could you show that suit to me?” [Ryouma]

After receiving the suit, I examined it. I need to make it look like I’m properly listening
to the claimant’s complaint, or my reputation will go down. I don’t particularly care
what this thug thinks about me, but the curious onlookers and the customers are
important.

The torn cuff of the suit clearly shows signs of having been cut with a blade of sort.
From there the tear seems to have been exacerbated through brute force. It’s certainly
possible for this to happen while washing it, but the cleaner slimes just eat filth. They
don’t do anything that could cause a tear.

This is clearly a false claim.

It’s impossible to use this to find fault with our slimes. And he clearly hasn’t done his
homework. I already announced on the first day of opening that the slimes are
responsible for doing the laundry here, so if he wanted to find fault, he should’ve
brought a melted piece of clothing instead.

“Dear Customer, it’s troubling for us if you bring up this sort of false claim.” [Ryouma]

After examining the suit, I faced the man and said that.

“What was that!? A false claim!? This torn suit is right in front of you and not only are
you not apologizing, you’re saying it’s my fault!!? Nice store you have here, you
immoral merchant!!” [Angry Customer]

The man said that out loud so as to let the other customers hear it.

“Then, allow me to prove it to you.” [Ryouma]

“Hah?” [Angry Customer]

The man made a confused face in response to my words, while the attention of the
surrounding customers gathered to us.

“Please wait a moment. I will give a demonstration of how this store does its laundry.
After seeing it, you will immediately understand why this sort of accident can never
happen.” [Ryouma]

I left the scene to Fei-san for a moment, while I went inside to get a cleaner slime.
“In order to perform the demonstration, I will be needing some laundry. Is anyone
willing to volunteer his laundry? If you participate, your laundry will be washed for
free.” [Ryouma]

Voices rose sporadically.

“That person over there. Thank you.” [Ryouma]

As I received a single-person-laundry-bag from a male customer, I laid out its contents

over the counter.

Laid out were a blood-stained pair of pants and a shirt. It was normal clothing, but
considering the man’s strong body, he is probably an adventurer.

“Please watch.” [Ryouma]

I ordered the slime to wash the clothes. It took the clothes into it as usual, and before
anyone knew it, all the blood and filth were gone from the clothes.

When the crowd saw that, they cried out voices of shock.

The entire process took no more than a few dozen seconds.

“Are you satisfied, dear customer? Just as you’ve witnessed, because of the way we do
laundry here, it is impossible for your clothes to be torn apart.” [Ryouma]

“N-No way…” [Angry Customer]

“If you believe this was merely a fluke, then we can repeat this until it pleases you.”
[Ryouma]

After doing about 10 person’s worth of clothing, the man couldn’t say anything
anymore. To put the nail into the coffin, I spoke one last time.

“It’s simply impossible for slimes to cause this sort of tear in your suit. After all, they
neither have fangs nor claws. In fact, they don’t even have the strength to make this
sort of tear.

This store’s slimes takes the clothes into their body and eats the filth on it.
Unlike the normal method of doing laundry, wherein one uses force to rub off the filth,
our slimes don’t use force. That’s why it’s impossible for anything to get torn.

I have been washing my clothes in this way for the past 3 years and have yet to
experience a problem. As such, I can say with full confidence that your suit wasn’t torn
because of our store.” [Ryouma]

When I said that, all the customers other than the thug were able to understand that
we weren’t negligent in any way.

Good. With this our reputation won’t be affected. Now that that’s taken care of, this
thug doesn’t matter anymore.

“Well then, since you’ve interfered with our business, we will be handing you over to
the guards. Please behave and come with us.” [Ryouma]

“!!? Like fuck I will!” [Angry Customer]

The man sent his fist flying toward me, but I twisted my body, took his arm, and sent
him flying with a throw.
The onlookers would surely not appreciate getting caught up with a thug, so I made
sure to throw the thug somewhere no one was around. A large dull sound resounded
throughout the store as the man’s legs hit the counter and his body fell into the ground.

“GOHA!?” [Angry Customer]

The man writhed in pain as he slammed into the ground.

“This is legitimate self-defense, dear customer.” [Ryouma]

Our reputation will take a hit if I beat him up too much, but this much should be okay.

“Fei-san, please take care of him.” [Ryouma]

“As you wish, Boss.” [Fei]

Fei-san quickly took the man and brought him inside.

Next, I’ll need to call the guards… Oh.

While I was thinking that, it suddenly came to my attention that the cleaner slime was
hard at work cleaning the counter.

Apparently some mud had fallen off the man’s shoes and onto the counter when I threw
him.

…Seeing the slime like that was a healing moment for me.

After that the store went back to business as usual and the guards came to take the
man away. By the time the situation had been settled, it was already afternoon.
Everyone gathered at the employee area of the store to eat.

Fina-san thanked me and Fei-san.

“Boss, Fei-san, thank you so much.” [Fina]

“This is part of my job. And also, I didn’t really do all that much today. It was all the
boss.” [Fei]
“I am the owner, after all. I should at least deal with those sort of people when I’m
around.” [Ryouma]

“Boss was so strong~” [Maria]

“But was that really alright, Boss? Washing the laundry for free?” [Leelin]

“That much won’t affect the store’s income. It was more important to let the other
customers know that the man was just slandering our store. Otherwise, if they believed
we were the ones in the wrong, then less people will go to our store.” [Ryouma]

“I see. You’re right.” [Carla]

I didn’t think everyone would accept me right from the start. I’m sure there are people
unhappy with my business, but that’s their right. It’s impossible to deal with all those
people, but it would be problematic if they made other customers hate me.

“Still, you should say beforehand when you’re going to deal with the situation. I was
sweating buckets.” [Fina]

“We didn’t know you were that strong too…” [Jane]

Oh, yeah. I look 11 on the outside… I keep forgetting that from time to time.

I didn’t have the opportunity to show my strength to the workers until now too.

“Sorry, I forgot to mention it.” [Ryouma]

Report, communicate, consult! These three are important!

Although we had to take care of this incident, we were able to safely replace the store
windows of the store.

Some time before evening, I dropped by Serge-san’s store. I wanted to buy some vials
from him. And there’s also the medicine slime.

“Welcome, Ryouma-sam.” [Serge]

“Good afternoon, Serge-san. I came today to buy something for myself.” [Ryouma]

“I see. What will you be needing?” [Serge]

“I’d like to buy a large number of vials for medicine.” [Ryouma]

“Vials for medicine? In large number?” [Serge]

“Yes. I learned how to make medicine from my grandmother, so since I have time now,
I figured why not use the time to make some medicine. It’s not unusual for me to be
exposed to danger as an adventurer, after all. So, in preparation for that.” [Ryouma]

“I see… But if you wish to procure a large number of vials, then it would be best for
you to register at the merchants guild as a pharmacy, then the guild will sell to you the
vials wholesale, allowing you to get them much cheaper.” [Serge]

Now that he mentions it…

In the end, I took Serge-san’s advice and didn’t buy from his store.

I also had more time now, enough to spare to make medicine, so I took some more
cloths from him to turn into waterproof cloths.

When I got to the merchants guild, I was brought to the reception office again.

“What’s do you need? More people?” [Grisiera]

“No, I came for something else this time.” [Ryouma]

I told her what I came for.

“I see. So you came here to buy some vials, did you? So, how good are your medicines?”
[Grisiera]

I took out a vial from my Item Box and handed it to her.

The guild master used Identify on it, and then she grinned.
“Not bad. This more than passes as a product. If you can make this, then you can definitely
open a pharmacy.” [Grisiera]

“I don’t have such plans for now, though.” [Ryouma]

“I suppose… since you’ll have more than enough if you just open a branch store. But
you should still consider it as a backup plan in case something unexpected happens.
And you could also sell them on the side to help with your branch store’s capital. Or if
you want, I could buy them from you.” [Grisiera]

“Is that alright?” [Ryouma]

“I’m expecting a lot from you, after all. Besides, I was also an expert in medicine before I
became the guild master. The quality of your medicine is good, so if I use my connections,
I should be able to sell as many of them as I want.” [Grisiera]

So, the guild master was an expert on medicine… I didn’t know that.

“Thank you very much. At that time, I’ll rely on you.” [Ryouma]

I thanked the guild master. I took the opportunity to also purchase all the tools needed
to make medicine like the pot and the funnel. I also bought some food along the way
to the gate before going back to the mines.

The sun still hadn’t set, so I ran back home instead of using magic.

I passed some adventurers along the way. They seemed to be coming home from hunting
grell frogs.

As I thought that while running, the smell from the marsh wafted to my nose.

I dealt with the stench by wetting a towel with deodorizing liquid and putting it over
my mouth.

Hmm… Can’t I sell this deodorizing liquid?

Deodorizing goods were a thing back in my previous life, so…

I should talk with Carm-san and the others about it.

 2

That night.

I had supper a little earlier than usual, then I spent the time investigating the medicine
slime. Unfortunately, I lost track of the time and ended up sleeping late.

Thanks to my investigations, though, I was able to confirm that the poison slimes I
gave antidotes to all became medicine slimes. It seems my hypothesis was correct. In
that case, the other slimes must also have other evolutionary paths… Slimes sure run
deep.

I was feeling fairly satisfied after seeing the slimes evolve, so I took out the goblet I got
from Tekun and drank by myself. But then an unexpected problem arose.

“I got it out of good will, so I’m not complaining, but… Isn’t this thing too thirsty for
mana?” [Ryouma]

Wine appeared in the goblet when I let mana course into it just as Tekun had told me,
but I had to consume 30,000 points of mana just to fill the goblet once.

I checked it with my status board, so that figure is definitely correct.

Even with my mana pool at full, I can only fill this goblet 6 times… Actually, isn’t 6 cups
too much when I’m just drinking by myself? How many would a person normally drink
when alone?

Hmm… Maybe it’s just because I’m creating wine out of nothing that the mana
consumption is so high. But regardless, I think I can manage if I just watch the amount
of wine.

I’ve only drank with others for the sake of socializing, so I don’t actually know how
much I’m supposed to drink when I’m by myself, but for the meantime, I decided to
just drink two cups.

I went to bed after drinking the goblet’s winne.

Today’s wine was delicious, but it’s too bad I didn’t have any snacks again. I’ll make
sure to prepare some next time.
Morning.

Normally, this would be the time when I leave the house, but I was asked to start going
to the store later, so I decided to go and build my house first.

“For the mean time, this should do for a rough draft…” [Ryouma]

To the side… A long house wall… A house with a door and a window.[1]

I gradually improved the image as I revised the map drawn on the ground.

I can just restructure the tunnel to fill in the necessary facilities needed for day-to-day
living, so all the house needs is a bedroom.

…But lately ruffians have been coming to the store.

What if they attack my house? It would be worrying if my house was weak then.

But it’ll take quite a bit of effort to make the house sturdy enough.

“Maybe I should camouflage my house.” [Ryouma]

I could turn the tunnel until here into a decoy.

“I could block the entrance of the tunnel with the house, and then make the interior
look just like a normal house, so when they enter they’ll think they entered the house
I live at.” [Ryouma]

That should buy me some time to prepare a counter attack or run away. I could also
set some traps in the decoy house.

“If I fuss over this too much, I’ll end up taking too much time again, so…” [Ryouma]
To make things simple, I’ll just set some slimes to pour acid, poison, or maybe sticky
slime on the intruders…

Hmm… But unlike acid and sticky liquid, poison won’t take effect unless it enters the
body, so a poison gas would be more effective than liquid poison.

Unfortunately, I don’t have a slime that could use potion magic.

Although if I used fire I could create poison smoke…

As I thought about it, I ended up going toward a direction that would take time.

For the meantime, I decided to just go with the acid and sticky liquid for the traps.

I should go and make the house first or there’s no point to any of this.

“The house needs to be easy to repair.” [Ryouma]

After all, there’s a chance it could get destroyed in an attack.

And the most important thing for a decoy is to look the part, so I just need to focus on
appearances while making sure that it’s easy to build.

In that case, a prefab should do the trick.

With prefabs, the parts are made in the workshop beforehand, and then the structure
is assembled at the scene.

There’s not a lot of actual work done at the scene, so it’s a lot faster than other
construction methods. It’s also a lot more consistent quality-wise than other building
methods when building the same structure.

I have to make the parts myself because there’s no factory to order parts from here,
but once I have the basic parts down, the whole process should go smoothly.

Also, I’ll be making the parts with Create block, so I already have a sure way of making
the building stones in a set size. If I just tweak that a little, everything should go well.

“Create Block” [Ryouma]

I tried making my thoughts into reality.

I used Create Block to make building stones and tweaked the shape.

I wanted a concrete block, so I made the building stones into the size of a brick, then I
opened a hole in the middle part. Simple enough.

If I pile these up, I should be able to make a wall.

I’ll be needing cement and sticky liquid if I were to just pile these up normally, so I’ll
just make a hole in the bottom and make a protrusion in the top so they can fit together
without any adhesive.

I’m going to be using mostly square blocks, so I’m worried that just one protrusion
won’t be enough. In that case, let’s divide each block into four and make four
protrusions instead.

Also, wf the protrusions are sharp, they could hurt people, so I should make sure to
round them off.

“…And there we have it. Lego, basically.”

Before I knew it, I’d transformed my building stones into the world famous Lego.

Isn’t this completely different from what I was aiming for?

But it helps a lot with the visualization…

I’ll name this new version of my magic as Building Block.

“Building Block Cube!” [Ryouma]

“Building Block Rectangle!” [Ryouma]

I built building stones as I pleased according to shape.

I tried making a wall with these blocks, and lo and behold, it actually took me some
strength to move the wall. Each block was heavy enough, so after adding them
altogether, the resulting weight was something.
When I tried even rubbing some clay on them and letting it dry, I was able to make a
good wall.

It’s basically precast concrete, but if I keep making the parts like this, I should be able
to make my prefab a reality.

…Now then, it should be about time for me to get going.

“Good morning. How is the store today?” [Ryouma]

I clocked in late at work today just as I was asked to yesterday. I wonder how the store
is doing.

“Good morning, Boss. There are several things I would like to report on. First of all,
Taylor-sama dropped by the store this morning.” [Carla]

“The branch head of the tamers guild? He didn’t come as a customer?” [Ryouma]

“No. It would appear that the men that caused us trouble the past few days were
apparently monster tamers of the tamers guild, so he came to apologize.” [Carla]

“In person? That’s really unfortunate…” [Ryouma]

Who would’ve thought an important customer would drop by on the very day I decided
to come late… It’s been a while since I happened across this sort of misfortune.

Hmm… What to do? I could go to the tamers guild and talk to them now. They’ll
probably accommodate me if I did.

“…What did he say about the culprits? They came twice, right?” [Ryouma]

“Apparently, they were working by themselves. As the story goes, they were annoyed
that someone like you, Ryouma-sama, was making a killing when you could only use
slimes… In other words, envy was the motive.

They figured it wouldn’t be a big deal if they just caused some ruckus in the store, so
they casually went and caused trouble. Unfortunately for them, that decision cost
them a significant fine that they weren’t expecting. If not that, then they would
probably be sent to perform some voluntary labor.

The guild master said that the guild is willing to negotiate the compensation for the
damages caused by their members.” [Carla]

Damages? There wasn’t anything too serious that could really be labeled as ‘damages’.
And I don’t need the guild master to come personally to know that I need to be careful.

“I don’t need compensation. They probably have a policy on how to deal with delinquent
members like them, so let’s just go with that.” [Ryouma]

“I thought you’d say that. The policy of the tamers guild say that the culprits must be
given penalty and the members of the guild must be properly informed of the gravity
of the crime committed. But…” [Carla]

“Is there a problem?” [Ryouma]

“There’s no problem regarding to the culprits’ punishment. Instead, it seems that

Taylor-sama is being criticized because of his decision to cover for us in this incident.”
[Carla]

“Criticize? The guild master? Why? Shouldn’t they be criticizing the culprits?” [Ryouma]

“It seems that the culprits have been working for a long time and have respectable
monsters, so their status is quite high.
They look down on us, so things became like this and we unfortunately ended up
incurring damages…
This morning the customers that caught wind of the rumors were quite worried for
us. I reassured them each time they mentioned it that there’s no problem and I also
thanked Taylor-sama.” [Carla]

It’s true we incurred damages, but…

“Is it just my imagination or is all this happening so fast?” [Ryouma]

“Maybe it’s because he’s in charge of the tamers guild, but yes… Things do seem to be
progressing quickly.” [Carla]

“It would be best if we could get more details regarding this incident.” [Ryouma]
“I understand. I’ll have Carm investigate it.” [Carla]

“Please.” [Ryouma]

There was nothing else noteworthy to report after that, so we just went through the
usual reports, then I went off to work on my own stuff.

“Please divide the horn rabbit meat into five pieces.” [Ryouma]

“Thank you for coming! What a nice kid, you are. Are you on an errand?” [Butcher]

“Ha ha… Something like that.” [Ryouma]

I know there’s nothing I can do about how young I look, but still… I can’t help but feel
complicated.

“Hey, if it isn’t Ryouma-kun. We have feed ready for your slimes.” [Zeke]

“Thank you very much. I’ll come get it as soon as I receive my purchase.” [Ryouma]

Zeke-san stepped out of the room where they prepared the meat to show his face, so
I thanked him. When I was about to go back to the store, he asked me to wait for a bit.

“Ah, could you wait a sec?” [Zeke]

“Yes? What is it?” [Ryouma]

“Could we ask your slimes to clean the store? Our clothes have gotten a lot cleaner
than before, so we’ve started to become concerned about the stench in our
workplace… Of course, we clean the place everyday, but the stench is indelibly
ingrained into the place and we can’t quite get rid of it.” [Zeke]

“In that case, I’ll bring you some deodorizing liquid. Unless there’s some other
problem, you should be able to solve it with that.” [Ryouma]

After saying that, I went back to the store and prepared the deodorizing liquid.
 2

That night.

While I was checking the documents, Carm-san came back.

“Good job out there. Did you find something?” [Ryouma]

“Yes.” [Carm]

Carm handed me some papers. Apparently, he’d compiled everything already. He sure
works fast.

“It seems rumors of the Gimuru branch’s tamer guild master being criticized have
spread quite far.” [Ryouma]

“Yes. There are some slight differences to the rumors, but not one of them is saying
anything good about Taylor-sama. Grisiera-sama of the merchant guild has also taken
notice of this event and is quite concerned. She says it’s possible there’s someone
intentionally fanning the flames against Taylor-sama. His position in the guild is
delicate, to say the least.” [Carm]

“Indeed…” [Ryouma]

As I went through the document Carm gave me, I got to the part with a figure of the
tamer guild’s influence framework and a simple explanation of their history.

I knew there were two philosophies in the tamer guild, but it seems that has also led
to the formation of different factions.

On one hand, you have tamers who prioritize strength among monsters, and on the
other hand, you have tamers who prioritize the wellbeing of monsters. The former is
the main faction presently, while the latter is a faction that seeks to coexist with the
monster beasts.

In the first place, it was Shiho Jamil, a previous otherworlder, who completed monster
taming and spread it throughout the world with the purpose of paving the path for the
humans and monster beasts then to coexist.

I’m sure it wasn’t easy. Not much details were given about Shiho’s endeavors, but after
showing to the people the benefits brought about by the monsters, people gradually
started accepting the tamer guild and Shiho Jamil’s ideas. As a result, the tamer guild
has continued to exist until now.

Unfortunately, with every passing year, less and less people are adhering to her ideals.

Most of the work in the tamer guild is mainly for monsters to replace human labor.

After all, there aren’t a lot of jobs that only monsters could do. If people needed to
subjugate a monster, they could turn to the adventurers guild. If they wanted to send
a letter or have small miscellaneous job done, a fast horse or a person could do it.
There’s just too much competition.

So, in order for the members of the tamers guild to work more efficiently and make a
living, they prioritized the taming of stronger monsters.

As such, and especially for the humans and the members of the dog tribe whose life
spans are short, people gradually forgot the ideals of the founder.

“Presently, only elves and other species that have long lifespans are the only ones
capable of spending a long time teaching and studying. And other than them, only the
people who have received their teachings are the ones who have been able to inherit
the will of the founder. Taylor-sama is one such person, but even though he holds a
high position, there are still people who hate him.” [Carm]

“I see. Is this related to why some people caused trouble at our store?” [Ryouma]

“They’re not wholly unrelated.” [Carm]

“Figures…” [Ryouma]

Could it be that they weren’t actually aiming at my store and instead just decided to
use it as tool because it was convenient?

Hmm…

“Can we start a rumor of our own? Not to spread a lie, but to spread a truth.” [Ryouma]

“The merchants guild is a treasury of information and there are a lot of merchants
sensitive to new information and rumors, so if we make use of that, it should be
possible. What would you like to spread?” [Carm]

“Actually, I’ve recently formed a contract with a rimel bird. 6 of them, in fact. So, I’m no
longer a monster tamer who can only use slimes.
According to the documents you gave me, it seems some people might be trying to find
fault with the branch leader for favoring a useless monster tamer. And the rumors also
seem like they might bring down our reputation, so… What do you think? Can we use
a rumor like this to dispel the current rumors surrounding the branch guild master
and make it appear as if he is a man of foresight?” [Ryouma]

Rimel birds are known to be difficult to tame.

When I proposed this to Carm-san, he smiled.

“Yes, that should do. It could end up as a funny story with the critics being the ones
with no foresight in the end.” [Carm]

“Also, if you can, please don’t be too harsh. We don’t want to make more enemies, after
all.” [Ryouma]

“I understand. Well, then. I’ll get right to it.” [Carm]

“Ah, wait… It’s already nighttime and we don’t know what our opponents are capable
of doing, so just to be safe, get Fei-san or Leelin-san to tag along with you. This won’t
be a part of their contract, so I’ll pay them extra. Also…” [Ryouma]

I also informed him that I will be taking steps to fortify the abandoned mine.

“So, you don’t have to worry about me.” [Ryouma]

“I understand, but please make sure not to do anything reckless.” [Carm]

After that he left the room.

I waited for him and Fei-san to come back, then I went back to the mines.
The next day.

“Good morning. Did something happen?” [Ryouma]

When I showed my face at the store, I noticed that people had gathered at the kitchen.

“Ah, Boss.” [Jane]

“Good Morning~” [Maria]

“It’s this.” [Fina]

The three girls cleared the place to reveal a plate of sausage atop the work table. There
were three long coils of sausages on the plate. It was a considerable amount.

“The housewife next door brought these as a gift to celebrate you being able to tame a
rimel bird~” [Maria]

“She also said that it’s for the deodorizing liquid you brought yesterday since she didn’t
think the feed they give you for your slimes was enough to thank you for that.” [Jane]

“Seems that deodorizing liquid of yours was a huge help. She was all smiles.” [Fina]

“I see. It seems we just missed each other.” [Ryouma]

“Let’s cook this for today’s lunch.” [Shelma]

Shelma, who was in front of the fridge, said.

Is she going to fry the sausages? Or maybe she’ll cook them into a soup? Either way,
I’ll be looking forward to today’s lunch.

As the three girls went back to work, I parted with them and went to the office to
receive Carm-san’s report.

“Looks like the rumors are spreading well.” [Ryouma]

“Well, it was true after all, so it didn’t take much effort to spread. We’ll have to see what
effects this’ll have on the situation.” [Carm]

“I see… And the store?” [Ryouma]

“Nothing has really changed. No damages too… Ahh, speaking of which, a housewife
asked me if we were selling deodorizing liquid.” [Carm]

“Deodorizing liquid? She must’ve found out from Zeke-san’s place… Do you think it
would sell if we can guarantee its safety and efficacy?” [Ryouma]

“There are already people asking it for it, so yes. It’s also not unrelated to our store’s
business, so I propose we display them in front of the store and see how people react.”
[Carm]

“How much of a burden will this place on the workers?” [Ryouma]

“If we put them in a bottle, anyone will be able to sell it. Caulkin-san and the others
are also researching stuff in their free time, so it should be fine if we just ask them to
watch over the display when they’re free.” [Carm]

“…Then just to be safe, have Caulkin-san and his group ensure that the deodorizing
liquid is safe. If nothing’s wrong, then we’ll put them on display. I’ll prepare the slates
to calculate the revenue from the deodorizing liquid.” [Ryouma]

I worked quietly in the store to prepare for the sale of the deodorizing liquid until it
was lunch time.

After lunch.

“I wonder what I should do in the afternoon…” [Ryouma]

I had no work left to do. There wasn’t much work to do in the first place, but now,
Caulkin-san and the rest of the manager candidates have taken them all.
If there’s nothing left to do at the store, then I guess I’ll have to work on my house (trap).

As i thought that, I went back home.

Along the way…

“If it isn’t Ryouma, de gozaru.” [Asagi]

“Asagi-san, good afternoon. Is it your rest day today?” [Ryouma]

“That it is. Resting from time to time is important, after all. Are you working today too,
de gozaru?” [Asagi]

“Actually, I don’t have any work left to do, so I’m currently on my way back home.”
[Ryouma]

“I see. That’s makes things easy then.” [Asagi]

Suddenly, Asagi-san unwrapped the furoshiki [1] from the thing he was carrying and
revealed a bottle of wine.
“Ryouma, you’ve received the divine protection of the god of wine, right? Won’t you
have some of this wine?” [Asagi]

“This smell… Is this nihonshu (Japanese rice wine or sake)?” [Ryouma]

“Oh! So you know this wine. That’s right. It’s a daiginjou (top quality sake brewed from
rice grains milled to 50% weight or less) made at my hometown, a kind of wine known
as nihonshu, de gozaru.” [Asagi]

“Well, thank you.” [Ryouma]

“I hear if one treats someone who has received the divine protection of the god of wine
with liquor, he’ll be blessed with good fortune.” [Asagi]

Oh yeah. That’s common sense in this world.

“In that case, I’ll pray for your good fortune while drinking.” [Ryouma]

Japanese wine, huh. This sure is nostalgic. It seems I’ll have the opportunity to enjoy
Japanese liquor for the first time in a long while.

“You sure know a lot about my hometown, de gozaru.” [Asagi]

“My grandparent told me stories of it.” [Ryouma]

“I see, de gozaru.” [Asagi]

“…By the way, where did you get your katana?” [Ryouma]

I didn’t want to talk about my background, so I asked him something I couldn’t ask
before. Security is currently an issue I’m tackling, so I’d like to get my own katana soon.

“I use what I’m regularly sent from my hometown. Do you just want a katana, de gozaru?
Or are you planning to use it?” [Asagi]

“I plan to use it.” [Ryouma]

I’ve studied how to use katanas, but this country mainly uses long swords. There
weren’t any katana in Tigger’s Arms Store either.” [Ryouma]
“Unfortunately, you’ll be hard-pressed to get one in these parts. But if you go to the
capital, you should be able to find a store selling them. Katanas are the weapon of
choice back at my hometown. And they are also works of art we are proud to display
to other countries. Katanas are the very symbol of our soul as samurai, de gozaru.

Therefore, if you wish to get one, it’s possible to have one exported, but it will take a
lot of money.

You have your store, but you’ll run out of money too if you just spend it recklessly. And
katanas are consumable like any other weapon, so it’s simply not an option to keep
buying one.

I too reluctantly tried purchasing one from the capital, but it was simply too expensive
to keep purchasing a new one every now and then.

I hear there are outsider swordsmiths who have been given permission to learn the
forging method, but there’s only a handful of them, and I’ve never met one myself, so
it’s not practical to rely on that option either.” [Asagi]

“Isn’t there an inexpensive way to get one regularly?” [Ryouma]

“Hmm… I believe there was a previous case wherein a disciple of a school is provided a
katana, but unfortunately, I’m currently still in training and don’t have the qualification
to take a disciple and a qualified person wouldn’t go here anyway.” [Asagi]

In the first place, Asagi-san left his hometown to train. It’s a custom of theirs, so he
can’t communicate with his hometown that much.

At most, he could send them a letter to let them know that he is safe and to receive a
Japanese wine as a good luck charm of sort. The katana is also sent to him because it
is a necessity.

“Ryouma, from whom did you learn how to use a katana? It would probably be best if
you get one through that person instead.” [Asagi]

“Grandfather forged katanas in the past. He was also the one who taught me how to
use them.” [Ryouma]

“I see… I thought you were strangely privy to my village’s matters, so it turns out it’s
because of your grandfather.” [Asagi]
Let’s just leave it at that.

“But if that’s the case, then there’s no other choice than to purchase an expensive katana
or to change the way you hold your weapon.” [Asagi]

“I see… Thanks anyway.” [Ryouma]

“Sorry, I couldn’t be of help, de gozaru.” [Asagi]

It’s not his fault.

I thanked him for giving me precious sake and parted with him.

As I left the town and walked on the empty and peaceful path, it suddenly occurred to
me.

…Can’t I just make the katana myself?…

The material used to make modern-day katana is tamahagane. A kind of steel made
from charcoal or iron sand.

Charcoal, I can make. After all, I am a former Japanese salary man. And the number of
times I’ve dreamt of living a peaceful life after retirement where I burnt charcoals
couldn’t be counted. It was also a very important resource during winter in the Forest
of Gana.

Procuring iron sand is even simpler. The representative black triiron tetraoxide is
different from the ferric oxide that I use as feed for my metal and iron slimes, but it’s
still a compound of iron (Fe) and oxygen (O) [1]. As such, using alchemy, I can get as
many as I need back at the mines.

As for the forging method, well I have that too.

Actually, my dad was a swordsmith. I’ve seen him work countless times as a kid. He
also used to bring me to the workshop where he manufactured iron. When I’d grown
up a little, he even asked me to help out. In that way, he secretly taught me how to
forge the katana.
But unfortunately, he quickly saw that I didn’t have any talent for forging.

I have the knowledge and I can procure the ingredients. The only thing missing is the
technology. Which is why I probably won’t be able to make something practical. Or at
the very least, I won’t be able to make it anytime soon. If I really want to make one, it
would be best to learn from someone first. But again, that would take time.

Still, making one by myself does seem like an interesting idea.

“I only wonder if this would break some rule. I should’ve asked.” [Ryouma]

Whatever. I’ll ask Asagi-san next time.

As I decided that, I suddenly realized something.

It’s not a katana, but I think I have something I can use…

“Item Box.” [Ryouma]

As soon as I got back to the mines, I set the monsters free in the open area, while I went
off on my own to look for something.

I’m pretty sure I put it here somewhere… Ah, found it!

The weapon I took out was none other than the weapon of a bandit I defeated in the
past, Melzen’s spear.

It’s a bit long, but it’s neither rusted nor deformed anywhere. Considering its length,
it was actually quite light. It wasn’t made out of iron, though… Flame crystal? I used
Identify on it, but I couldn’t really understand the result. I’ll have to ask someone about
it. Anyway, this should serve me just fine for now.

The metal slimes and the other slimes were rolling down a slope as they enjoyed their
free time.

After making sure that there weren’t any slimes nearby, I started swinging Melzen’s
spear.
“…No problem with swinging it. But as expected…”

The technique I inherited from my dad in its original form is said to be a technique
passed down by a samurai who lived through the warring period.

His social standing was up there, so he was fairly proficient in martial arts and was
himself also interested in the discipline.

But because he wasn’t the oldest son, he lived his life as he pleased. I don’t know if he
was kicked out of his family or if he left, but apparently, he lived quite the destitute
life.

He didn’t think much of it when he was young and passionate, but in his later years,
he changed.

He was poor. He had no children and no wife. He was skilled in the sword, but he wasn’t
famous. When he looked back to his life, he wondered what he’d been doing until now.
As he realized that he had no legacy to leave, he became sad.

As a result, he decided to leave behind his technique and knowledge. It is said that
from that moment on, he started looking for students and did his best to teach them.

The main weapon he used to survive the warring period was a spear. The katana was
nothing more than a secondary weapon for when the spear was lost. That’s why
samurais, as well as me, have inherited the skill and are able to use the spear effectively.

But honestly speaking, katanas are easier to use.

This doesn’t have anything to do with the times. If I had to put the blame on something
or someone, then I would say it’s my dad’s fault.

The things I’ve learned from my dad include the katana, the spear, the staff, the
wakizashi, the bow, the shuriken, the kusarigama, and the hidden weapons.

My dad taught me the techniques in a particular order. Hand-to-hand combat and the
katana were the most prioritized. In fact, I wasn’t even allowed to touch the other
weapons until I was good enough with them. And because Iwas learning for the first
time with the katana, I was instructed to spend a lot of time with it.

It wasn’t because he was a swordsmith that he favored the katana. No. Most probably
it was because the katana and the one’s unarmed fists were easier to use in modern
times.

After all, techniques with weapons can only be used when you have the weapon
equipped. But modern laws forbid citizens from carrying weapons.

Depending on the place, one would also be subject to a search via a metal detector.

It was a time where even carrying a stick of wood would subject one to questioning.

But hand-to-hand combat can be used without a weapon, and katanas are considered
as a work of art, so people are allowed to possess them. It’s also shorter than spears
or rods, so it’s easier to hide. So, I think that’s why he prioritized those two.

I didn’t actually hear the reason from him directly, though.

I do think his common sense is fairly unique compared to the world’s common sense.
Although he acted friendly to outsiders, so he was often appraised highly.

I wonder how much my katana can cut if it were used to cut humans.

“!?…” [Ryouma]

“KURURURU” [Rimel Birds]

Dad!?… Wait…

There’s no one around. There’s no presence of people. My monsters are just doing as
they please and no one’s acting like anything is out of the ordinary. If anything, I
supposed the rimel birds are a little shocked. But that’s my fault.

“…My imagination, huh.” [Ryouma]

I walked around and checked the place, but really… Nothing was out of the ordinary

I was probably just imagining things because I was thinking about dad.

“Still, I wish I’d asked for my dad’s katana before transmigrating…”

Dad wanted to test the katana for its original purpose, but if he’d cut someone, then
he wouldn’t be able to forge katanas anymore. That’s why he couldn’t cut anyone.

His personality aside, dad was a person who lived to forge the greatest katana.

He was someone who received acclaim as a swordsmith, so he should’ve been really

good.

If only I had his katana. How unfortunate.

“Let’s stop thinking about this… There’s nothing I can do about it now, so… Yeah.”
[Ryouma]

Anyway, if I recall correctly, this spear is supposed to be a magic weapon. If I let mana
course into it, it should be able to cast a spell.

Let’s try it out.

My interest shifted to the spear and I became excited at the prospect of another
experiment.

When I tried pouring mana into the spear, fire came out.

…So this spear can cast fire magic.

Can it cast anything else other than ignition and fire ball?

It seems it doesn’t really matter how much mana I feed it. Its output seems to be
standardized.

It doesn’t matter what attribute your mana is either.

…But it seems to consume less mana when you use mana of the same attribute.

So, it’s best just use fire with it.

Like this I investigated Melzen’s spear, or rather… I fiddled with Melzen’s spear.

“The sun is starting to set…” [Ryouma]

I should put an end to this soon.

…I fiddled with Melzen’s spear a lot, but it didn’t seem all that useful.

Magic weapons allow one to use magic easily like alchemy, but it’s not very flexible.

It’s useful for people who can’t use magic when fighting a monster that’s immune to
physical attacks, but the thing is I do know how to use magic. And in fact, my fire magic
is stronger than the one this spear casts. I can also cast a greater variety of fire spells.
So, as interesting as the weapon is, it’s not really much different than a normal spear.

As I concluded that, I stored Melzen’s spear into my Item Box.

Now then, I better make supper.

One month after spreading the rumor.

“Good work out there, guys…” [Ryouma]

“You too, Boss.” [Everyone]

Work at the store concluded today too without any problems.

The employees left the break room in droves as they headed back to their dorm.

The only ones who stayed behind were me, Caulkin-san, Tony-san, and Robelia-san.

“It’s already been a month since you started working here… Well? How is it? Do you
have any difficulties in work that you wish to address?” [Ryouma]

“Not at all, Boss! This is the best place I’ve ever worked at!” [Robelia]

“Not only do I not have any complaints with our treatment, the work is also fulfilling.”
[Tony]

“More than anything, it’s such a joy to see the slimes bringing in so much profit.” [Caulkin]

The other two nodded to Caulkin-san’s words.

“That’s good to hear. I asked you to help with researching stuff on top of training you,
so I was worried I might’ve been pushing you too much.” [Ryouma]

“Forget about us, Boss. What about you? The customers have been increasing lately,
and… That man came today too, right?” [Tony]

Ever since publicizing my contract with the rimel birds, rumors attacking Guild Master
Taylor have gone down. But in exchange, more and more people have been wanting to
meet with me.
“He left quickly… but what was up with that man?” [Caulkin]

“Apparently, he’s a middleman for selling monsters. Rimel birds sell high because there
are plenty who are willing to pay for them, alive or taxidermized. And there are also
those who wish to use them to carry letters.
Anyway, it was all money talk, so after finding out that that’s all he wanted to talk
about, I asked him to leave.” [Ryouma]

It was either selling the rimel birds or to hire me.

I’ve already decided not to sell the rimel birds, so that one’s out of the question. As for
hiring, if he wants to hire me, then he needs a letter of reference.

“It wasn’t all that problematic for me since I did refuse his abrupt request for a meeting.
Still, thank you for worrying for me.” [Ryouma]

“It would be troublesome if something happen to you, after all. Our situation now is
really good. It’s even better than when we were researchers at the lab.” [Robelia]

“Yes. Much much better than when I was just a researcher in name.” [Caulkin]

“Back then the future held nothing but despair…” [Robelia]

“Was it really that bad?” [Ryouma]

“It’s because you don’t know how terrible the lab is, Boss. The work conditions there
are so bad that people living in the slums are better off. They treat their researchers
worse than slaves.” [Caulkin]

“Really!?” [Ryouma]

You’d think a lab would treat their employees right, but apparently, there are some
pretty terrible labs. But then again… Even back at my world, despite all the labor laws,
there were still companies that abused the hell out of their employees. Such
employees even popularly came to be called ‘corporate slaves’…

It seems that even though the world has literally changed, people are still the same as
ever.

“The only ones who stay after being sent to the slime department are those obsessed
with research like me or those with nowhere else to go.” [Caulkin]

“It’s a position specifically meant for people the lab doesn’t like or outsiders, so it’s
only natural that the people in the slime department would be treated poorly… Slave
owners need to ensure the livelihood of their slaves, but the lab only needs to pay the
wages of the researchers. Their livelihood be damned…” [Robelia]

“That being said, they do pay a big enough salary to live off of, but it’s just barely enough.
Not luxurious by any means. Moreover, they will cut that wage over the pettiest of
things, so you’ll be forced to cut on your living expenses… If you complain, they’ll just
tell you to resign, so you have no negotiating power whatsoever.” [Tony]

Yep. That’s a corporate slave, alright.

“What do you mean by ‘pettiest of things’?” [Ryouma]

“Well, the most common reason is not being able to get results.” [Robelia]

“The main objectives of the slime research department is to explain the slime’s mode
of life and to grasp the taming method of the big slime. Unfortunately, no one has a
clue how to achieve those.” [Caulkin]

“And that’s why it’s used to demote people.” [Tony]

“So, why can’t you explain the slime’s mode of life?” [Ryouma]

I know even Earth, with all of its development in science, has animals they’ve yet to
figure out, but…

“For starters, slimes can be found pretty much everywhere. They’re too varied, be it
in environment or abilities, so even if you come up with a theory, there’s bound to be
a slime somewhere out there that goes contrary to that theory.” [Caulkin]

“Moreover, there’s simply too little information. When researching other monsters,
you start by dissecting the monster. From there you look at various stuff, like the shape
of their teeth and use that to infer information, such as whether they’re carnivorous
or herbivorous.

But when slimes die they just leave behind their nucleus while the rest of their body
disappears, so you can’t even dissect them. Not that there would be any point in doing
so, since their bodies are transparent and you can see everything. But with the nucleus
they leave behind being nothing more than a brittle stone, we can’t even tell if they
actually have any organs…” [Robelia]

Now that he mentions it, slimes do disappear when they die…

When I got to this world for the first time and I defeated a slime, it just disappeared
and left behind a nucleus.

For a moment, I thought the world had a drop item system going on, but when I
defeated other monsters, their body didn’t disappear, and I couldn’t loot them without
gutting them first.

Because of that I also wondered why only slimes disappeared upon being killed.

Unfortunately, I never really got to answer that since my interested turned toward the
evolution paths of the slimes.

“We also have countless incidences where the slimes evolved into a higher variant, but
we have no idea how to make the evolutions happen.” [Tony]

Hmm? They don’t know the evolution conditions?

“What kind of slimes did the slimes evolve into?” [Ryouma]

“All sorts. That’s about all I can really say. I mean each time they would evolve into
something different…” [Robelia]

“What kind of slimes did the slimes evolve into?” [Ryouma]

“All sorts. That’s about all I can really say. I mean each time they would evolve into
something different…” [Robelia]

Robelia-san held her head as if remembering something when she said that.

I wonder if something happened…

Putting that aside, though, what were they feeding the slimes at the lab?

“What were you feeding the slimes?” [Ryouma]

“Food? We just gave them whatever… Right?” [Tony]

Tony said in an asking manner, and the other two nodded.

“They wouldn’t give us any budget, so it was hard to procure food for the slimes.
Usually, we’d just get the leftover feeds from the other departments and feed that to
them. Our salary is barely enough just to support ourselves, so we cut down on costs
as much as possible.

There were even some researchers who ate the meat meant to be used as feed, so I
doubt there was anyone willing to use their salary to feed the slimes. ” [Robelia]

“Slimes can eat anything, so they were just fed whatever was available. Besides, slimes
are creatures that lived in completely different environments by eating whatever was
available.” [Tony]

When I heard Robelia-san and Tony-san say that, my jaws dropped to the ground.

It’s true that slimes will eat anything if you order them to, but…

Well, I understand why they did it, but because of that the slimes ended up evolving
randomly. And because of that they failed to pursue one of the main objectives of their
research.

Man… Assumptions are really scary.

Unconsciously, I ended up holding my head. When I lifted my head, the three of them
were looking at me.

“Boss, what is it all of the sudden?” [Tony]

“Umm…” [Ryouma]

What should I say?

…Do I just give it to them straight?

“Actually… The conditions for the slime evolution is… food.” [Ryouma]

“Huh?” [Tony]
“What?…” [Caulkin]

“What do you mean?” [Robelia]

“Like I said. Slimes evolve depending on what they eat.” [Ryouma]

I told them about my research findings about the evolution of slimes back at the forest.
I told them all the evolution conditions I knew. And when the three of them heard
everything, they were shocked.

“U-Unbelievable…” [Robelia]

“The theory we believed was wrong…?” [Tony]

Robelia-san and Tony-san held their heads as they said that.

I’m sure it must be hard to accept.

…Huh? Why is Caulkin-san oddly quiet—!?

“Caulkin-san!?” [Ryouma]

Caulkin-san stood frozen on the spot with his head hung down, not making the
slightest eek, when out of the blue, he suddenly started crying.

What!?

“Boss…” [Caulkin]

“Y-Yes…” [Ryouma]

Caulkin-san suddenly started talking quietly.

“I fully believe your explanation just now.

Actually, when I was at the lab, I was looking for a way to make the slimes evolve into
a Big Slime.

During the process, I noticed that there were many strong monsters in the places that
the big slimes could be found, so I hypothesized that slimes might evolve into a big
slime if they were fed the meat of powerful monsters.

It was a theory I came up with after seeing everyone else fail to get results. I thought
I’d look at things from another point of view.” [Caulkin]

Do they think the big slime is simply another evolution of the slime?

Regardless, he sure got pretty close to the truth.

“Just as Robelia said a while ago, slime researchers already struggle with just feeding
themselves, so feeding the slimes with the meat of strong monsters is simply impossible.

But I was a noble and I had some money.

I wanted to get some results and be moved to another department, so I used my own
wealth to hire adventurers and feed the slimes the meat of strong monsters.

Of course, I also had to cover the transport of the meat.

I continued that for a year, and eventually, the slime evolved.” [Caulkin]

A slime that ate nothing but meat? I wonder what slime it evolved into.

“In the end, the slime didn’t evolve into a big slime. Instead, it evolved into a meat
slime.” [Caulkin]

“Meat slime? Meat? That meat?” [Ryouma]

“Yes. Meat. The feed is meat. Meat. But…” [Caulkin]

Caulkin-san suddenly cut his words and bit his lips.

“It’s not just the feed. The slime itself became… meat.” [Caulkin]

“The slime became meat?” [Ryouma]

What is he going on about?

“I know it’s hard to comprehend. I also don’t have any other way of explaining it other
than that the slime is meat. It’s a slime that looks like a lump of fresh meat squirming
about.” [Caulkin]

“Fresh meat squirming about…” [Ryouma]

Ugh… That’s a really sickening image.

“I think you could tell already, but the resulting slime evolution was really disgusting,
and I was immediately fired.

I poured so much of my wealth into my research that I spent pretty much all of my
wealth including my house.

Because of that I couldn’t continue my research anymore.

If what you said is true, then that would explain why my slime ended up becoming a
meat slime.

That’s why I believe your theory.

I know it’s a bit too late to be saying this, but I wish I’d known earlier. And when I think
about how things could’ve turned out had I just continued my research… It’s just too
frustrating!” [Caulkin]

As Caulkin-san said that, he started crying again.

That certainly is frustrating. After all, had he continued his research, he might have
uncovered one piece of the puzzle.

Jeff-san mentioned that Caulkin-san blew all of his money on research. Apparently,
this was the story behind that.

I better make sure that Caulkin-san gets a proper treasurer when he becomes a manager.

“I-It’s alright, Caulkin-san! We’ve already been employed by this store!” [Robelia]

“That’s right! We’ll be working under the boss from now on, so from now on, we can
work to prove to other people just how valuable slimes are!” [Tony]

“Right… You’re exactly right. This isn’t the time to be frustrated! If anything this is the
time to be working even harder!” [Caulkin]
Robelia-san and Tony-san’s words seemed to have resonated with Caulkin-san, and in
no time at all, he was back on his feet. He even appeared to be really motivated.

Actually, I already know the method to tame the big slimes, but if I tell that to them,
they’ll probably become depressed again.

I neither have the courage nor the ability to reveal that without letting them get
depressed, so I’ll just bring it up another time.

“Where were we again?” [Ryouma]

“We were just explaining to you how poorly the slime laboratory treated the slime
researchers.” [Tony]

“Right. And then from there we ended up talking about the evolution condition. Boss,
do you have any other questions?” [Tony]

I’m interested in the types of slimes.

“What other kinds of slimes evolved in the lab?” [Ryouma]

“Hmm… From the ones I’ve seen, there were at most the sticky slimes like the ones
you have. One theory proposed that if the sticky slimes were to accumulate enough
combat experience, they would eventually evolve into a big slime, so they were often
made to fight to the death against other monsters.” [Tony]

Well, that certainly won’t help it evolve.

“In my case, the slime I was raising at the research lab evolved into a tree slime.” [Robelia]

Oh! That’s a new one!

“What kind of slime is that?” [Ryouma]

“At first, it was just like any other slime, but as time passed by, a tree grew out from its
nucleus.” [Robelia

A tree grew out from its nucleus? Is that slime’s nucleus supposed to be a seed?

“And then?” [Ryouma]

“That’s it.” [Robelia]

“Huh?” [Ryouma]

“The tree gradually grew bigger and bigger, and then it rooted itself into the ground.
The nucleus was functioning properly within the tree, but the slime couldn’t move
anymore.” [Robelia]

“Was it useful for anything?” [Ryouma]

“Not particularly… I suppose you could harvest it for lumber.” [Robelia]

Lumber?

“You know, Boss. Useful slimes aren’t usually easy to find. Even sticky slimes are just
used for their adhesive.” [Tony]

“And you could use glue anyway, so it’s not in demand either.” [Robelia]

“Slimes that have evolved also means one less specimen for research, so they’re usually
treated as failures.” [Caulkin]

From the looks of things, the researchers at the lab just aren’t all that enthusiastic
about slimes.

Not only are the researchers treated poorly, they also don’t have much to look forward
to in terms of future prospects, so that’s probably why. Still, I think this sort of thinking
is just too bad.

Maybe I could tell other people about the usefulness of slimes? And then I could make
it my life goal in this world for everyone to know about it.

Actually, I don’t really understand why they’re not used much. I know they’re weak,
but even the lower variants are plenty useful.

“Although slimes are weak, they’re really sensitive to danger, so they can immediately
notice when monsters or bandits are nearby. They’re also easy to feed since they can
live off of morning dew or water. And they’re also able to get various important
information in order to survive in the wild.” [Ryouma]
“I’ve thought this before, but you sure are compatible with slimes, Boss.” [Caulkin]

“Indeed. You also control so many.” [Tony]

“That’s true too, but I was actually referring more about his understanding of them.”
[Caulkin]

Understanding?

“Just because a person is compatible with his monster doesn’t meant that their
personal differences won’t get in the way. For example, even if you gather a bunch of
tamers and pair them with a specific monster they’re compatible with, not all of them
will be able to understand their monster.” [robelia]

Apparently, there were many different ways for monster tamers to understand their
monsters. Some would do it purely by understanding their feelings, while some would
infer from their gestures to understand them.

“A monster tamer can’t really be said to have good compatibility with his monster if
he can’t understand his monster sufficiently. Unfortunately, such people are extremely
rare. But such people do actually exist. And you’re probably one of them, Boss.

As for me, at most, I can tell when my slime is unhappy.” [Robelia]

“Boss, if everybody could understand slimes the way you do, the slimes would probably
be an invaluable monster by now.” [Tony]

I see… Apparently, my ability to understand my monster is vastly different compared

to most monster tamers.

I do believe it’s limited to just the slimes, but this might be the reason why research
on slime hasn’t progressed much.

After that I asked them for more specifics about that last topic, and then I also asked
more about the different kind of slimes and their characteristics.

We continued talking like that, then before we knew it, it was already midnight.
…3 guys, huh.

It had gotten quite late after talking to Caulkin-san and the others.

I went back home afterwards, but on the way back home, I noticed that someone was
following me.

No one usually passes through here this time of the day, so I quickly walked away to
make some distance between us, but my suspect pursuers also sped up.

Looks like they really were going after me. After all, not only were they going in the
same direction, they were also keeping pace. Did they really have to make it that
obvious? Still, it doesn’t seem like they’re complete amateurs.

If the three of them are together, then they must be working together. But no one’s
blocking the path behind me and there’s no one in front either. Could they have people
waiting for me further up ahead?

At this rate, we’ll end up reaching the northern gate, where the guards are, so if they’re
going to make a move, they have to do it before then.

When the next corner came, I quickly turned right. As soon as I did, I heard a voice.

“Has he noticed?” [Thug]

“Doesn’t seem like it…” [Thug}

“…He took the corner!” [Thug}

“Oops…” [Thug]

When one of the men yelled, they started openly chasing after me.
I quickly tried to run away, but…

“…Over here!” [Thug]

I led them all over the place, but couldn’t quite shake them off. Normally, that should’ve
been enough, but for some reason, they always knew where I was.

…No one else is around me, though. And there aren’t any tall building within the vicinity
either. Hmm… In that case, let’s go there.

“Hey. Where’s the brat?” [Thug]

“He’s been running all this time. He should be hiding somewhere nearby right now.”
[Thug]

“He’s definitely realized that he’s being chased.” [Thug]

“Otherwise, we would’ve caught him already. Running into a place like this…” [Thug]

“Damn it! What a pain.” [Thug]

Northeast of Gimuru. This section of the city that’s near the slums is so dirty that it’s
hard to call it clean even as flattery. Obstacles littered the road and cloths seemingly
meant to cover from sunlight could be seen put up here and there.

Because of the dark of the night and this diminutive body of a child, my pursuers have
been having a hard time grasping my position.

They’ve already rendezvoused with their friends, so…

“Fortunately, there’s no one around and we also have the advantage in numbers. Let’s
check every—!?” [Thug]

“Wha—!?” [Thug]

“Get down! Archers!” [Thug]

“Teleport.” [Ryouma]
“Tch! From the other side!?” [Thug]

“What? Now it’s coming from that side!?” [Thug}

“Does he have someone else with him!?” [Thug]

“Teleport.” [Ryouma]

I teleported short distances from within the obstacles on the road as I shot poison
arrows (instant effect) at the enemy. I got the poison arrows from my Dimension
Home. They should be more than enough to suppress a small group like this.

“U…” [Thug]

“Damn it! The arrows are poisoned!” [Thug]

“You won’t be able to move well for the time being. I investigated that poison beforehand,
and it was surprisingly potent.” [Ryouma]

“Tch! Stupid brat!” [Thug]

“How could you do such a thing!?” [Thug]

“I should be asking you the same thing. What were you trying to do to me?” [Ryouma]

As I approached the men, I pointed my spear at them.

“Heh… Don’t think it’s going to end well for you after doing something like this. But if
you give us the rimel birds and some money, we’ll forgive you— It’s hot! It’s hot! Stop
it!” [Thug]

“Why are you talking as if you have the upper hand right now?” [Ryouma]

I shot them with the fireball from my spear, and while I missed on purpose, they could
still feel the passing heat.

“Ah.” [Ryouma]

Something flew at me and I reflexively cut it down.

“KIi!?” [???]

“Oh, so this was the reason.” [Ryouma]

A black owl-like monster. Regret Owl. There’s a poison in its claws that can make one’s
nerves oversensitive. There’s a chance of it cutting someone up when caught. In that
instance, the resulting pain from the wound is significantly heightened. It’s also
nocturnal, so it specializes in hunting in the night.

I know about it because its legs and claws are considered as medicinal ingredients. It
doesn’t live anywhere near here, though, so it definitely belongs to them. So, it seems
the reason they were making a fuss was to get this thing to take me by surprise.

“What!? How did you…” [Thug]

“I just hit it like usual. I was paying attention to the sky, so…” [Ryouma]

One of the owl’s wings broke and it tumbled onto the ground. The man yelled out loud
when he saw that.

I’d already predicted to some extent that they had a monster with them. After all, they
were able to find me even though they shouldn’t have been able to see me.

Of course, I didn’t know exactly what it was that they had with them. And with the owl
being black, it was only natural that I couldn’t see it. Especially, since it was high up
the night sky.

“Oh. It seems they’ve come.” [Ryouma]

“PIRORORORO!” [Rimel Bird]

“Is it here!?” [Guard]

“Freeze! Don’t move!” [Guard]

“The guards!?” [Thug]

“Why would they come here at this time!?” [Thug]

“Hey, Ryouma! You okay!?” [Wogan]

“Guild master? Why are you here?” [Ryouma]

I’d sent a rimel bird to the guards while I was running, so I’m not surprised about them
being here, but why is Guild Master Wogan here too?

“So, you were safe. On the way back home, I saw a rimel bird chasing the guards along,
so I figured you might’ve been in some trouble.” [Wogan]

“Sorry for worrying you.” [Ryouma]

“Oh, I wasn’t all that worried… To be honest.” [Wogan]

“Excuse me. Could you explain the situation here?” [Guard]

After that we went to the guards’ office to explain the situation.

The next morning.

“Thank you for your help.” [Ryouma]

“Don’t come back anymore.” [Guard]

The guard seemed like a straight-laced person at first glance, but he seems to be a
good person. Or maybe it’s just his nature, I don’t know. He’s a bit hard to understand.

Anyway, I thanked the weird guard, then I went back to the store.

Last night I went home really late and got attacked on the way back home, so the guard
had me stay the night at their office, saying, “Think I’ll let you go home alone after
that?”

Oh, and I wasn’t made to spend the night in jail. They gave me a proper room with an
actual bed. Apparently, it was mean for innocent people to use since they couldn’t just
release someone after an incident even if they weren’t guilty. In fact, it was best for
them not to.

“Good morning!” [Ryouma]

“Boss, good morning. You sure are early today.” [Leelin]

“Good morning, Boss. Did something happen?” [Carla]

When I got to the store, I happened upon Carla-san and Leelin-san.

I explained to them what happened last night, and when I got to the part that I was
attacked…

“I believe we should talk about this with everyone. I’ll gather everyone right now.
Please wait a bit.” [Carla]

Carla-san left the room. When she came back, she’d brought everyone with her.

“Umm… What are we going to be discussing?~” [Maria]

“We’re not getting fired, are we?” [Jane]

“You don’t have to worry about that. Now then, Boss. If you will.” [Carla]

I explained what happened last night again and a different kind of tension filled the
room.

“And so, as you can see, I got away safely. Not a single scratch on me. But everyone
should take care from now on to leave only when it’s bright outside and only when
there’s a lot of people passing the streets. Oh, and Fei-san, Leelin-san. The two of you
might have to work as guards more often now.” [Ryouma]

When I saw them nod, I continued.

“I’m considering increasing the number of guards, but that’s another topic for later.
Also, as mentioned just now, the guild master of the adventurers guild happened to be
present last night, and today also happens to be the day for the regular meeting of
guild masters to be held at the merchants guild, so I will be heading there later
afternoon to seek counsel. I would like to ask either Carla-san or Carm-san to
accompany me.” [Ryouma]

“In that case, I’ll go. Carm can take care of the store.” [Carla]

“Alright.” [Carm]
“Lastly, Shelma-san.” [Ryouma]

“You need me for something?” [Shelma]

“I asked the guild master what gift to bring to the meeting, and he told me to bring
food, so I’d like to use the kitchen.” [Ryouma]

“In that case, let me help too. We can make the store’s lunch together.” [Shelma]

“Well that about sums it up. I’ll let you know the results of the meeting later. Also, if
you notice anything strange – no matter how small – please make sure to report it…
It’ll probably get busy again, but do keep up the good work.” [Ryouma]

“Yes!” [Everyone]

After letting everyone know what happened, it was time to prepare for the store’s
operation. While everyone busied themselves with work, I followed Shelma into the
kitchen.

“Enter.” [Grisiera]

“Excuse me.” [Ryouma]

When I got to the merchants guild, unlike usual, I was first asked to wait at a separate
room, then I was led to another room. It would be my fist time visiting this room.

When I got to the room, a large long table could be found inside, and the guild masters
I’ve been acquainted with were gathered around it. They offered Carla-san and I a seat,
which we took.

“Now then, I know full well why you were called here, but first… Comes food!” [Wogan]

“Wogan, you’re really…” [Grisiera]

“Isn’t it fine? The meeting is over anyway. We’re all gathered here for private business,
and we can just talk while eating.” [Wogan]

At that, I took out the food from my Item Box and distributed it to everyone.
“Guild master.” [Ryouma]

“Call me by my name here. If you call me guild master, we won’t be able to tell who you’re
referring to.” [Wogan]

“Alright. Wogan-san, I’ve prepared a sausage soup and bread for you.” [Ryouma]

“Oh! Sounds delicious.” [Wogan]

“My cook did her best making it. Grisiera-san, your meal is over here. Taylor-san, this
one is yours.” [Ryouma]

“Oh my, you made me a hamburger. It’s like a festival. It’s frighteningly soft, though…”
[Grisiera]

“Hmm… And this bread with raisins kneaded into it. It’s crunchy like a pie and goes
well with the tea.” [Taylor]
Grisiera-san had weak teeth, so we prepared something soft for her, while Branch
Head Taylor had a small appetite, so we prepared something light for him.

Or at least, that’s what Wogan-san told me to do. I wonder if this is really alright.

“Hmm… this bread. It doesn’t smell like seed at all.” [Wogan]

“This one too.” [Grisiera]

“We made today’s bread using yeast.” [Ryouma]

The seed they mentioned is a kind of seed that functions just like yeast cell, and is sold
as bread seed.

It’s used by cracking the seed and adding its contents into the dough mixture. It’s easy
to use, easy to preserve, and easy to transport, so it’s commonly used to make bread.

Compared to that, the bread we’re using today is made from natural yeast. Well, even
though I say natural, both the seed and the yeast are technically natural. After all the
yeast is made by cultivating fungi for fermentation and a seed is a natural product of
nature, so… Whatever. Anyway, I added water to wheat and raisin, then I allowed it to
ferment naturally to create the yeast.

“I’ve had more time and money lately, and unlike when I was at the forest, I can just
order stuff from the store nowadays, so I can do stuff now that I couldn’t before.”
[Ryouma]

Making yeast would normally take a week, and would require one to stir the pot once
a day everyday, so it wasn’t something I could afford to do back in my previous life
when my work schedule wasn’t fixed and I didn’t know when I wouldn’t be able to
come home. It was for the same reason that I really admired the thought of making
charcoal.

But after leaving the forest and living in town, where it’s easy to procure the necessary
tools and ingredients, and making enough money to spare, as well as having the time,
there was no longer any reason for me not to do stuff like this.

I’ve also been doing other stuff like buying ingredients and creating stuff from
reagents in order to understand the medical efficacy of stuff and learn the ingredients
used in certain products.
In short, I’m no longer living like I used to in my previous life, where I simply went
back and forth between work and home!!

“What are you looking all happy for when you were just attacked yesterday? What a
carefree child you are.” [Grisiera]

“This is this, that is that.” [Ryouma]

“Good grief…” [Grisiera]

“It doesn’t seem like there are any problems, though.” [Taylor]

Problems?

“They’re talking about what to think about you being attacked in the dead of the night.
I told them not to worry, but…” [Wogan]

“I can only say that that opinion is based on hindsight, as we weren’t there last night.”
[Grisiera]

“After all, no matter how much support we offer, if the person himself decides to
withdraw, our good will will be nothing more than us sticking our nose where it
doesn’t belong.” [Wogan]

“Alright, alright. Anyway… These two were worried sick last night about you suddenly
deciding to close the store after being attacked.” [Taylor]

“Well, yes. After all, you were directly threatened, so we wanted to know how you feel
after such an ordeal.” [Grisiera]

“Who would’ve thought that you’d be completely unfazed.” [Taylor]

“Well, yeah. I mean after getting so much support, I couldn’t possibly just go and say ‘I
quit!’ just because I was attacked, right? That’s just too selfish. There are also people
working under me. If I were to just up and leave just like that, they’d be left without
any ways to make a living. And besides, I came here today specifically to talk about the
things to come.” [Ryouma]

“Alright, alright.” [Grisiera]

As Grisiera-san said that, she laughed in astonishment.

“That’s enough of the roundabout chatter. Ryouma, you go tighten the security of your
store and endure a bit more, then we’ll go deal with the problem.” [Wogan]

“Meaning?” [Ryouma]

“We’re saying that the guys who attacked you will disappear soon.” [Wogan]

“I’ve been doing my own investigations ever since bad rumors of me have been
spreading. In the process, I managed to find a good lead as to who it was that was that
was spreading the rumors, but unfortunately, just yesterday, we lost track of him. We
immediately widened the scope of our search, but the first information we got was a
report of you being attacked.” [Taylor]

“We investigated the people who attacked you yesterday, and it seems they just got to
this town two days ago. Apparently, someone had informed them that you were a rich
kid with a rimel bird. Moreover, it so happens that the person who told them about
you matches the appearance of the person we had our eyes on.” [Grisiera]

In other words…

“You’re positive they’re the same person?” [Ryouma]

“The possibility is high. Judging from the rumors he spread before, he probably knows
the relationship between us. If he aimed at you too, then he probably wanted us to
split our forces in order to protect you, even at the cost of getting attention.” [Grisiera]

“Unless driven by emotions, a person normally wouldn’t follow through with a request
to ‘take care’ of a person connected to the duke. It’s the sort of thing one would only
do as a last resort.” [Taylor]

“In other words, I was attacked in order to make it easier for him to run?” [Ryouma]

“That’s how it looks to us. But the person we’re dealing with is the sort to pull off a
stunt like this and disappear the moment he’s suspected. He probably won’t be coming
back anymore. Otherwise, he would have played dumb or laid low for a while. Though
it’s possible that he simply didn’t have the leisure to do so, but regardless, we’re not
about to just let him escape like this.
This might be a bit misleading, but you’re not just a normal kid. I believe you’re more
than strong enough to protect yourself. That’s why I want you to protect your store
with all your strength, without relying on others. Meanwhile, we’ll go after the
criminals with all of our strength.” [Wogan]

The suspects are hoping that they would split their forces to cover me, so he’s basically
saying that we shouldn’t let things develop as they please.

“We’ve already organized a search team to follow their trail with Wereanna’s party,
Jeff, and Raypin, an adventurer who can use dimension magic, as the members.”
[Wogan]

“Still, the culprits are professionals themselves, so there’s no guarantee that we will
be able to catch them… That aside, are you okay, Ryouma? You’ve been quietly
listening to us all this time, but what do you think?” [Grisiera]

As Grisiera-san asked me that, I became thoughtful.

“I’d freest like to thoroughly tighten the store’s security.” [Ryouma]

“Don’t worry. We never said we wouldn’t lend any help at all. I’ve talked with Gordon
and Cher. They’re not well suited for search jobs, but they’re skilled and also well
reputed in this town. They should be able to serve your store well as guards. That guy
called Jeff also recommended another trustworthy person, but he’s not registered at
the guild, so I can’t give any guarantees.” [Wogan]

So, those two on top of Fei-san and Leelin-san, huh? I don’t know about the guy Jeff-
san recommended, but I doubt Jeff-san would recommend someone unskilled. I’ll have
to put that guy on hold for the time being, but with this, the store’s security can be
upgraded to some extent.

“Carla-san, if we add our cooperation with the guards too, do you think it’ll be enough?”
[Ryouma]

“It’s worrying that we don’t know how big the enemy we’re dealing with is, but
considering the scope of our store, I think this is more than enough. That aside, what
about assigning some guards to protect you?” [Carla]

Not necessary. As for why, it’s because if the enemy is too strong for me to deal with
and I have someone with me, then I won’t be able to run. Having someone following
me around would just restrict me. I can’t take them with me with my dimension magic
either, and it’s hard to just leave them behind. And besides, if I was just going to leave
them behind, then I would have just gone on my own and either fought or ran.

“Is the person we’re dealing with human?” [Ryouma]

“There’s a possibility a familiar is being used, but they should still be fundamentally
human.” [Taylor]

“In that case, it would be best for me to be alone.” [Ryouma]

There are no monsters on Earth. As such, all of the techniques I trained in were
developed with human opponents in mind. Which is to say that the enemies I’m most
suited to fight against are human opponents.

“In the past, I did nothing but train with my grandfather, so I specialize in fighting
humans or humanoid monsters.” [Ryouma]

“…You do have your achievements behind you…” [Taylor]

“Wogan also seems to vouch for your strength.” [Grisiera]

“Don’t worry, compared to the two of you, I’m a lot better at judging someone’s strength
when it comes to fighting.” [Wogan]

Like that our conversation naturally progressed into coming up with a defensive
strategy and what to do in case the enemy attacked.

Lastly, Branch Head Taylor handed me two documents.

“‘It is therefore acknowledged that sufficient skills have been proven by taming a slime
and a rimel bird… ’ What is this?” [Ryouma]

“Those are legal documents proving that I have acknowledged you as a proper
monster tamer. The other document clarifies that although your store uses monsters
in its business, you are under the management of the merchants guild.” [Taylor]

Apparently, these documents aren’t usually produced because the guild card is more
than enough to prove one’s skill, but both documents do have Branch Head Taylor’s
signature and stamp, so they might still prove useful later. I should keep them. Or at
least, that’s what he told me.

I wonder if the branch head is worried about getting me caught up in this mess.
One month later.

In the dead of the night when everyone was asleep, at a corner of Gimuru Town, could
be heard the cries and angry voices of men.

“Run! We can’t win!” [Assailants Leader]

“Brat— GYAahhh!?” [Assailants 1]

“Ku…” [Assailants 2]

“Idiots! I told you to run! Why are some of you going toward him!?” [Assailants Leader]

The source of the voices was none other than men who came to attack Ryouma. Right
now they were currently in the middle of receiving Ryouma’s counter attack and were
immediately being suppressed.

When the leader of these men realized that they couldn’t win, he immediately gave the
order to run. Unfortunately, his remaining three allies were too angry to listen to his
orders. As a result, they each respectively ended up breaking a leg, an arm, and a jaw
before losing consciousness.

“W-Wait! I surrender! We won’t involve ourselves with you anymore!” [Assailants

Leader]

“Unfortunately, your excuses will have to fall on deaf ears. You will be dealt with the
same way as those before you have been dealt with. Please understand.” [Ryouma]

“No— KAHA…” [Assailants Leader]

The man wanted Ryouma to let him off, but unfortunately, Ryouma had no intentions
of doing so. And before he knew it, Ryouma was already right next to him. In the next
moment, he was knocked unconscious.
“Well that settles that.” [Ryouma]

As Ryouma looked around him, he saw the 13 men he’d fought on the floor, either
knocked unconscious or with a broken limb.

“Sure has been a while…” [Ryouma]

A few seconds after muttering that, four men approached Ryouma from a distance.
They were the guards of Gimuru.

“Who goes there!? Oh, it’s just you, Ryouma. Are these guys today’s criminal?” [Guard
Leader]

“Yes. I’ll leave them to you as usual.” [Ryouma]

“Yeah. Tie up the ones without any major injuries! As for the wounded… You’re doing
it today too right?” [Guard Leader]

“Yes.” [Ryouma]

“Have at it then.” [Guard Leader]

“Right on it.” [Ryouma]

Ryouma brought out a heal slime and started healing the limbs of the men. After
healing the limbs that were broken by none other than he himself, he handed the men
to the guards to be arrested.

“That’s seven men today, totaling to 12 bones all in all… Looks like today’s gonna be
pricey too.” [Guard Leader]

“One cast of High Heal is 1,000 suits. It takes 6 casts to heal a broken bone, bringing
the costs up to 6,000 per bone. 6,000 times 12 bones and you get 72,000 suits. I’ll give
you a small discount and we’ll make it a nice and clean 70,000.” [Ryouma]

The guard’s face twitched when he heard that.

“I know this needs to be done, but still… You sure are terrifying.” [Guard Leader]

“…I wouldn’t want to do this either, but they just won’t leave me alone.” [Ryouma]
“Anyway, come with us to the guard’s office. We need to pay you.” [Guard Leader]

“Copy that.” [Ryouma]

Ever since Ryouma was first attacked, all sorts of people have started attacking him,
from people who said they were just instigated to people who outright said they just
targeted him because he was rich. But just like today everyone who attacked him failed
in their attempt. And each and every time, Ryouma would heal them and charge them
an exorbitant fee.

Hurting someone when done in legitimate self-defense isn’t a crime in this country.
The injured party can’t complain and their wounds don’t need to be tended to either.
But in the case that they are healed, they must pay an appropriate price for the
treatment received.

Beating someone black and blue, healing them, and then asking for payment is quite
frankly extortion. But given the laws of this country, as long as it is done in self-
defense, then it just barely passes as legal.

Ryouma himself originally didn’t want to do this sort of medical extortion, but as the
risk of being attacked increased, Ryouma had to further better his ability to defend
himself as well improve the store’s security. Grisiera convinced Ryouma to start doing
this sort of scheme in order to set an example and improve the situation as quickly as
possible.

It was unfortunate that Ryouma looked too much like a child. Because of that it was
difficult for people to be wary against him. At most, the greatest effect their previous
methods had was akin to the ‘Frequently Patrolled by Police’ or ‘All Activities
Monitored by Video Camera’ signs that would get posted in the stores on Earth.

This new method Ryouma is a bit violent, but by hurting his assailants both physically
and financially, Ryouma finally started seeing a decrease in his assailants.

“This is for today’s medical costs. 70,000 suits. Please take a look.” [Ryouma]

“…Confirmed. Thank you.” [Ryouma]

After receiving the payment for the medical expenses at the guard’s office, Ryouma
thanked the guard.
“Don’t worry about it. It’s not like this could make a dent on our purse. Besides, we’re
just shouldering another man’s debt temporarily. That’s all. In the end, those guys will
be the ones footing the bill. It’s not all that bad too since from time to time we get
people asking for a reform against forced labor.” [Guard Leader]

Ryouma thanked the guard again and then left the office.

“Good work out there today.” [Guard Acquaintance 1]

“Good job.” [Guard Acquaintance 2]

Being attacked on the way home and having to go the guard’s office has already become
a daily occurrence for Ryouma. As such, Ryouma has already gotten acquainted with
many guards.

These new acquaintances of his called out to him and waved at him. Ryouma greeted
them back, then he went back home.

The next day.

Early in the morning, Ryouma dropped by the store before opening time. At the time,
Carla was working at the reception.

“Good morning, Carla-san. How was last night?” [Ryouma]

“Good morning, Boss. There were no attacks last night too. What about your side, Boss?”
[Carla]

“I was attacked by 13 guys. This is the money from that. Just put it in the treasury for
now. You can deposit it later at the guild when you go to deposit the store’s income.”
[Ryouma]

“Alright.” [Carla]

Carla was still preparing for the day, so Ryouma left her and went inside. Along the
way, Ryouma greeted the employees that were rushing here and there to prepare for
the store opening. Ryouma didn’t want to get in the way, so he entered the break room,
but when he got there, a report on the store’s security was being given.
“Good morning!” [Ryouma]

“Good morning!” [Leelin and her dad]

“Oh, morning.” [Gordon]

“Good morning, Ryouma-kun.” [Cher]

“Sup!” [Guard recommended by Jeff]

“Are you in the middle of a meeting?” [Ryouma]

“We were just about done, actually. There were no problems last night too.” [Gordon]

Presently, there were 5 people in charge of the store’s security. The dad and daughter
pair, Fei and Leelin; the adventurers, Gordon and Cher; and the young man, Dolce, who
was recommended by Jeff for his experience working as a vigilante at the slums.

Fei and Leelin have been apprehending the thugs that caused trouble at the store even
before the attacks began, but when the attacks did begin, they were able to show even
more of their abilities as former assassins.

Gordon and Cher were recommended by the guild master of the adventurer’s guild,
Wogan, himself, so their skills were guaranteed. Many people would favorably call out
to them when they watched the store in the morning.

In Gordon’s case, many boorish men knew him. It wasn’t limited to just adventurers
and commoners, so whenever it looked like some smalltime trouble was about to start,
such as when two people bumped each other, Gordon could easily stop it. As for Char,
he dealt with the customers politely, so he was popular with the middle-aged and
older women.

The man Jeff recommended, Dolce, was a rough-looking man of few words. His
relationship with his peers and his attitude toward his job was completely professional.

But regardless, thanks to these five’s efforts, the store could stay safe against the night
attacks of the enemy. The most losses the ruffians could cause was when they would
forcefully enter the store, which at most would just result in some cracks on the door
and windows. That was something that could easily be fixed with some materials and
mana.
Of course, the bill for the repairs would be covered by none other than the thugs
themselves. But in the first place, the store was originally built with magic and
essentially cost Ryouma nothing, so whatever damages the thugs caused was nothing
to him. In fact, Ryouma even found the thugs’ attacks to have brought unexpected
income.

And by profit, Ryouma was referring to the opportunity they gave him to learn about
the customers and his employees.

“Hello! I am the delinquent adventurer! Look! I’m causing problems!” [Ryouma]

In an untouched area of the store lot, a wall was erected and an explanatory-like voice
could be heard from a Ryouma dressed in overalls. When Ryouma said that line, the
three girls working away from home took a transparent shield from inside the counter
(made by magic) and equipped it.

“Dolce-san!” [Jane, Fina, Maria]

“!” [Ryouma]

“Oops. Can’t have you making a mess of the store!” [Dolce]

As the three girls quickly ran, Dolce came holding a sasumata [1]. When Ryouma saw
that, he ran away while screaming unnaturally. At the same time, balls came flying at
him, but he skillfully dodged and got away.

“…Good. I think you’re starting to get the hang of it.” [Ryouma]

Ryouma’s terrible acting was actually done in order to facilitate the store’s crime
prevention drill.

In the instance a dangerous customer were to appear, the noncombatants are to

quickly equip themselves with a shield, call for help, and run. This training is meant
so that the employees could immediately respond. Other parts of the training also
include throwing colored balls at the thief and refraining from pursuing the thief too
far. The opinions of the five guards regarding how the employees should act during
emergency were also taken into consideration.
It was for this purpose that Ryouma recreated the crime prevention tools used in his
country in his past life.

“Dolce-san, how was it?” [Ryouma]

“No one got in my way… Boss.” [Dolce]

“Looks like you did great! Just do it like that, okay?” [Ryouma]

“Boss, lunch is ready.” [Carm]

“Thank you, Carm-san. Well then, everyone. Let’s clean up and have lunch.” [Ryouma]

“Yes.” [Jane, Fina, Maria]

Since they were now expecting to be attacked, Ryouma had to further fortify the store
defenses. As a result, he needed to stay at the store more often than before. He stopped
living like an executive, who would come to work late and leave early, and would now
stay at the store from morning until midnight. But he didn’t spend all his time on work.
Some of it, he spent interacting with his employees and customers.

Save for Fei and Leelin, who were used to carnage, the normal employees were bound
to be uncomfortable in a violent workplace, so Ryouma bought some goods meant for
self-defense and introduced it to them. In this way, he could make them feel more at
ease, even if it was just a little. As a result, no chaos ever occurred in the store and no
one resigned either.

Moreover, the conversations between Ryouma and the workers also increased, allowing
him to become closer with them.

And so, they headed for the break room.

“Oh, good job training out there.” [Gordon]

“We ate ahead of you.” [Cher]

Within the break room was Gordon and Cher.

Ryouma extended his hand for the bread that was prepared for them.

“Huh? This bread… It’s fluffier than usual.” [Ryouma]

“Ufufu. It’s that natural yeast bread that you taught us about. Fina-chan and the others
tried making one with grain berry, and the result was a delicious fluffy bread.” [Shelma]

“That red thing? Oh, after a closer look, it seems the inner part of the bread is slightly
pink.” [Ryouma]

“It’s really fun seeing the difference in result when using yeast. It not as messy too.”
[Fina]

“Right, right. It takes time to make yeast, but it’s really easy to use.” [Jane]

“Seed shells are a pain~ And the contents come out as soon as you break them, so it’s
easy kind of messy~” [Maria]

“But if you can’t get the yeast cleanly, it won’t be delicious anymore, right?” [Jane]

“Which is why you need to monitor the process carefully when making it.” [Ryouma]

“I see… I guess it’s impossible for us to make yeast at home then.” [Gordon]

“It’s not that hard to make, actually, you just need to sterilize the container, and… Wait
a moment. I thought you didn’t cook?” [Ryouma]

“Yeah, but your problems have already mostly been dealt with, right? If so, then my
contract with you will be ending soon. And that means it won’t be long before I won’t
be able to eat the food here anymore.” [Gordon]

“Shelma-san’s cooking is delicious, after all. It’s also nice not having to worry about
what to eat.” [Cher]

“Her food is bliss.” [Dolce]

“Oh my. Please wait just one moment. You’ll be able to fill your bellies soon. Today’s
meat was cooked with… charcoal, was it? Anyway, it was cooked using the fuel the
boss provided. It’s really delicious.” [Shelma]
Shelma was bringing the food in when she heard the favorable comments, so she was
very happy when left the break room. When she comes back next, she’ll probably have
a boatload of meat with her.

Like that Ryouma and the people of the store happily spent their lunchtime without a
whiff of care for the criminals who caused this situation.
~Side Ryouma~

After smacking my lips at the charcoal grilled yakiniku, Carla-san called out to me.

“Boss, I’d like to talk to you about the second store.” [Carla]

“Yes, what is it?” [Ryouma]

“We have more than enough money from the medical treatment and the store proceeds,
so I think it’s about time we put up the branch store.” [Carla]

“Already? Don’t we need more time to teach the managers how to manage a store?”
[Ryouma]

“That’s true, but in the first place, Caulkin-san and the others are former researchers,
so they already know how to read, write, and compute. Normally, we’d have to teach
that on top of also teaching them how to stock the store and how to haggle with other
stores and customers, which is why it normally takes so much time. But our store
doesn’t even need to negotiate with competing stores or haggle with customers, so
Carm and I just focused on teaching them what to do if a problem arose and how to
work the books. We’re done with that, so all that’s left now is for them to put what
they’ve been taught in practice.” [Carla]

“…In other words, you want to put up a branch store not just to make money but to
teach them?” [Ryouma]

“Exactly. But of course, either Carm or I will work at the store temporarily at first to
teach them the ropes and see if the store could be entrusted to them. There’s another
reason.” [Carla]

Carla-san handed me a document. When I glanced over it, it turned out to be a summary
of the store’s income.
…The store’s income from the first day until yesterday is here, but… Hmm? The page
is still continuing.

Below the earnings call is the expected income and expenses. Several documents have
been bundled together as if these have been rewritten several times. Based on the ink
and the feel of the paper, these seem to have been written a long time ago.

…At first, when the store had just opened, probably because I was using whatever I
could get my hands on to publicize and advertise the store, there’s a huge difference
between the predicted numbers and the actual numbers… No, even before that they’ve
been using the number of customers and other businesses as a reference to come up
with these numbers.

“…Is this information meant to help us with coming up with a strategy?” [Ryouma]

“Very insightful. Presently, we are the only business that focuses solely on laundry. It’s
an extremely rare industry. As such, there’s no information to use as reference, so we’ve
had to rely on various data such as our earnings. We’re sort of just fumbling our way
through, but this is necessary to ensure that we don’t miss customers and proceeds.

So far the predictions are good, but that doesn’t change the fact that we don’t actually
have a good way to reliably predict our future earnings. As such, I would like to
increase our stores and gather more data in order to improve our predictive abilities.”
[Carla]

We’ve been managing just fine without Caulkin-san and the others, and the other
workers have gotten used to work, and we’re also not just throwing Caulkin-san and
the others to manage a store, as there’s a training period, so I think it’s okay. The attacks
have gotten a lot less too, and there’s also the guards protecting the store. There’s also
no problem with me going out by myself now. Moreover, I also need more places to
deposit my steadily increasing cleaner slimes if I am to continue this business.

I’d love to say that I could just take all the excess cleaner slimes with me, but I don’t
actually know my own limit when it comes to the number of slimes I can tame. So,
that’s one more reason in favor of increasing the number of stores.

I can also look at this as opening the business up for franchising. If nothing else, it’s a
way to immediately cull the numbers of the ever increasing cleaner slimes in order to
protect the store’s secret! But that’s not really a concern right now. We should just
focus on the topic at hand first.

Hmm… I just realized it, but I think I’m still acting too much like an employee instead
of a manager. Back then our job was just to make things meet the deadline regardless
of how absurd the request is… I’m really glad that Carla-san and Carm-san are here.

“I understand. Let’s start that branch store. What I need to do now is to decide the
town where we will be putting up the branch store, acquire the land, and then prepare
the store, yes?” [Ryouma]

“Yes. Is that alright with you?” [Carla]

Since it’s the advice of a manager like Carla-san and also an idea that I personally agree
with, then sure.

As I told her that along with how I got to that conclusion, Carla-san heaved a sigh of
relief and laughed.

“Thank you for understanding. I’ll leave it to you then.” [Carla]

“And I’ll leave the employees to you. I’ll drop by the guild and ask about the store.”
[Ryouma]

Like that I ended up going to the merchants guild.

“You came.” [Grisiera]

“Thank you for always taking care of me. I’ll get straight to the point. I want to talk
about opening a branch store.” [Ryouma]

“So, you’re finally opening it. I’ve prepared a list of recommendations for the choice of
towns. There’s Delma, Azul, Shikumu, Zilman [1], Rufes, and so on…” [Grisiera]

So she’d already prepared a list of recommendations for me beforehand. I’m really

grateful. It’s my first branch store, so I’d like to have it somewhere near Gimuru, so I
can easily reach it if something goes wrong…

“Somewhere near would be best, right? I’ve also prepared that.” [Grisiera]
I’m started to get used to it already… This mind reading ability of hers.

“Thank you.” [Ryouma]

“For the mean time, these are the towns I recommend that’s near here: Shuchiro,
Harken, and Renauph. Renauph would be the nearest town.” [Grisiera]

“Can I buy land there?” [Ryouma]

The guild master meaningfully smiled.

“I’ve already prepared it. I don’t have any lot big as your current one, though.” [Grisiera]

The lot she showed me was just half of my current store’s, but it was near the center
of town and came with a building that could be used. As I asked her details about it
while looking at the blueprint, it turns out that it used to be a general store. As such,
it also had a storage room. That being the case, it won’t take a lot to get the place
functional again. Of course, if that’s no good, then I could always just break the place
down and remake it.

“This lot is diagonal Pioro’s store, so I’ve had him check the place for me, and he says
it’s well built. There should be no problem. Ah, but you’ll need to process the papers
through the guild there.” [Grisiera]

“I see. Thank you. I’ll go with this lot then.” [Ryouma]

Like this I decided on my new store. There’s someone I can rely on, who also happens
to be a specialist, so everything is able to go so smoothly.

I immediately returned to the store and told Carla-san and Carm-san about my
exchange with Grisiera-san at the guild. After that I spoke to Caulkin-san and the
others about the branch store and once again made them promise that they wouldn’t
hand the cleaner slimes to anyone else. They’ve already formed a contract that forbids
them from doing so when they were employed at the guild, but just to be safe.

Caulkin-san and the others promised without any hesitation.

 2

And then dusk came.

“Excuse me.” [Ryouma]

I left the store early today and dropped by Serge-san’s store before going home.

I told him that I will be leaving for Renauph very soon to prepare my branch store, so I
got a huge number of cloths. I will be preparing for my trip starting tomorrow, but I want
to make as many waterproof cloths before I leave. That way we won’t run out of stock.

Serge-san says that the waterproof cloths are starting to get around and that there’s a
good demand for them now. The customers are usually adventurers and peddlers.
That’s probably because there’s a lot of adventurers who want to reduce the things
they carry with them in order to make themselves lighter and more mobile.

As for the peddlers, Serge-san says they mostly use the waterproof cloths on their roof
and as curtains for their cart to keep the rain from their goods. They’ve been using a
leather cover until now, but it’s heavy, takes up space, and adds more burden to the
horse.

Peddlers can’t overburden their horses too, since doing so would make it hard to flee
from monsters and bandits. If they overburden the horses, there’s also a chance they
could die, and they’ll be forced to buy new ones. That would be huge loss in profit.
Moreover, peddlers also consider their horses as their partners. It’s more of a tacit
understanding, but it’s well known among the peddlers that any peddler that doesn’t
treasure his horse doesn’t have the right to become a peddler. If others were to find
out that a certain peddler treated his horse poorly, they would immediately give him
the cold shoulder.

Compared to the leather cover, the waterproof cloth is light, doesn’t take up much
space, and is super effective against water. As such, it’s gotten popular among the
peddlers, or at least, that’s what Serge-san says.

I should probably start feeding the sticky slimes a lot to get them to increase their
numbers more, as it seems I’ll have to create even more waterproof cloths in the
future. Gotta reduce the burden on each individual slime…

As I thought of things like that, I went home.

 2

4 days later.

I asked the others to take care of the store, so I could prepare for my trip. There were
some changes in the store’s management that came with that.

One such change was the introduction of the bag with a bamboo and slime logo on it
and the name ‘Bamboo Forest’. The craftsmen Serge-san deals with makes the bag by
stamping the bags with a custom stamp they made. The branch store will be using
these bags right from the start. As for the main store at Gimuru, the customers can
exchange their old bags with this new version.

The second change that came is the fixed day off system. Until now, the workers have
been taking their day offs in turns, but that makes it harder for the workers to get to
know each other, so I changed that policy.

In order to let everyone know of the changes, I put a board in front of the store that
said, ‘the following changes will be implemented in the next month~”.

The 3rd change is regarding the management of the cleaner slimes. Caulkin-san and
the others will all be going to the branch store, so there won’t be any monster tamers
at the main store for a while. If so, then I won’t be able to go on any extended trips
while they’re away. That is a problem.

Fortunately, one of the three girls working away from home, Maria-san, has been
studying monster taming these past two months. One day, while I was talking to her, I
found out that her mother was a magician. Unfortunately, her mother passed away
and she lost the opportunity to study magic, but she had the mana pool necessary to
cast spells.

In a later date, when the time was right, I asked her if she’d be interested to learn the
art of monster taming, and she agreed, so I had Robelia-san, whom she got along with,
teach her in their day offs.

She can form contracts with slimes now, so I can leave the management of the slimes
not just to Caulkin-san’s group, but also to her. I will have to retrieve the cleaner slimes
once they hit the maximum number of slimes that they can tame, however.

Still, I wonder if I really have a limit when it comes to the number of monsters I can
tame. The otherworlder who founded monster taming supposedly didn’t have one, but
then again, that was her specialty. I should ask Gayn and the others.

Oh, it’s almost time.

As I exited through the front door of the store, all the workers saw me off.

“I’ll be going.” [Ryouma]

“Take care, Boss.” [Everyone]

Like that I started walking.

When I eventually exited through the gate, the morning rays of the sun, the peaceful
blue sky, and the ever extending road was there to greet me.

My first trip alone since coming to this world.

Let’s go!
It takes 3 days to reach Renauph by carriage and I will be passing through 4 villages
along the way. I hear it’s not as big as Gimuru, but it’s still a big town in it’s own right.
Normally, 3 days would be considered fast, but since I’m moving by using dimension
magic and ki reinforcement, I should get there a lot faster.

I’m practicing my Warp while travelling, but it’s good practice to leave some mana just
in case, so after consuming a certain amount, I stop using Warp and run the rest of the
way while reinforcing my body with ki. During that time I’m able to recover my mana,
so the resulting pace is really fast. Normal people can’t copy this method , though.

I thought I’d take my time and fight with some monsters along the way, but
unfortunately, only weak monsters appear around these parts. I don’t even need to
reinforce my body with ki or use my magic to defeat them.

Well, actually, I already knew about that when I tried exploring the area outside of
town during my two months of going to and fro work, but lately it seems that some
strong monsters might appear near Renauph, so I was thinking I could get there
sooner and try my hand at the monsters, but then again just very recently, Grisiera-
san handed me a package to give to Piero-san, which I accepted since I would be
meeting him anyway, so I probably should just do that first.

And so, I teleported and ran the through the forest, past the plains, through three of the
four villages, and by the time I got to the fourth village, the sun was just about to set.

I think I’ll call it a day here…

I opened my Dimension Home beside the road, went inside, and started preparing
supper.

Today’s menu is made up of several kinds of packed meals which I bought before
leaving Gimuru. I bought them from a store in Gimuru out of curiosity.
I wonder how the packed meals of this world taste like.

First, let’s try the thin square-shaped biscuit-like food.

“…It’s crunchy, but it tastes like flour…” [Ryouma]

It’s neither particularly tasty nor disgusting. I poured myself a glass of water and
drank it, then I tried the brown-colored dice-shaped lump next.

“Let’s see… Ah, it’s hard… I can bite it, but… Yeah, this is a hard biscuit, alright. It’s
probably because it’s so thick that it’s so hard.” [Ryouma]

Next was the dried meat.

“Salty… It’s really salty… The more I bite into it, the saltier it gets… I can’t even taste
the savoriness of the meat. It’s just… salt. Let’s stop. This seems really unhealthy.”
[Ryouma]

Last was the green bread.

“This looks pretty hard too… I’m just holding it in my hands, and I can tell already.”
[Ryouma]

It’s like a piece of rock. The store grandma said not to let it absorb any fluids or it will
taste really sour. As in so sour that I absolutely won’t be able to eat it.

But, hey! There’s nothing else to it! Let’s do our best and take a bite!

“Owww!! It’s hard… What’s wrong with this bread? It’s way too hard.” [Ryouma]
I literally couldn’t make a dent on the bread, so I had to use ki to reinforce my jaws.
When I tried biting it again, I succeeded, but I didn’t taste anything, so I tried again,
but then…

“KAH… GEHO!… This is terrible!!!” [Ryouma]

I quickly reached out for my glass of water and emptied it, but it wasn’t enough to
wash the taste away, so I added more water to the glass and drank again.

“…What the hell was that!!” [Ryouma]

What was that taste? Herb? Medical herb? It seemed like there were all sorts of taste
mixed together, I can’t really tell. But the more I tried to bite into it, the more my saliva
mixed with the bread, and as a result, some grassy-smelling and herb-like liquid came
out with a bitter, astringent, acrid taste!! Yuck!!

The dried meat I got from Hyuzu-san was still edible, but this is just…

That’s it. I’m never buying packed meals out of curiosity again. Ever. Or, okay… I might
give the others a try again, but I’m definitely not buying this green thing again.

As I decided that in my mind, I sank my teeth into a fruit to wash away the terrible
taste. Thank goodness I’d stored this in my Item Box.

I’d completely lost my appetite after that shocking taste, so I ended my supper after
eating just one fruit, then I went to sleep in my Dimension Home. I need to pay
attention when leaving, but Dimension Home is a really handy magic that makes tents
unnecessary.

The next day.

After safely spending the night in the Dimension Home, I continued along my journey
again. When it was past afternoon, the walls of Renauph finally came to view. Anyway,
I’ll be entering the town and be going to Pioro-san’s store, so I should wash myself first
inside the Dimension Home.

“Fuu.” [Ryouma]
After washing my body with the cleaner slime, I left the Dimension Home and went to
the town gate. Just like in Gimuru, I was able to easily get pass the guards by showing
them my adventurer guild card. Moreover, when I asked the man about the Saionji
Firm, he told me I could reach it by walking straight from the east gate and taking a
right at the end.

I thanked the male guard and followed the directions he gave me. When I got to the
end of the street, a building surrounded by tall, sturdy walls came to view. People
could be seen endlessly going in and out of it, carrying what appeared to be various
packages.

I don’t know what building this is, but I should take a right turn here, and… Voila! I
saw a board that says ‘Saioji Firm’. A couple of boards, anyway.

“This place is huge…” [Ryouma]

The stores lined up included a butcher’s shop, a grocer, a fish store, a dried food store,
a preserved food store, and a spice store. Every one of them had ‘Saionji’s Firm’ written
on their signboard. There was even a small delicatessen in the corner.

“Which store am I supposed to enter?” [Ryouma]

For the meantime, I decided to go into the spice store to ask someone about Pioro-san.
As for why I chose the spice store, it’s because I didn’t have an appointment, so I
figured it would be best to go to the place with the least customers. That way I won’t
get in anyone’s way. It’s probably because spices are generally expensive that there
aren’t a lot of people. In fact, it’s not just that there’s not a lot of people, there isn’t even
a single customer.

“Exc…” [Ryouma]

“Welcome.” [Store Clerk]

When I entered the spice store, a voice called out to me. I couldn’t see the person
talking, but when I turned to the voice, I saw a girl come out from the back of the
counter. She’s probably the same as Elia and I. Blonde hair like Robelia, white skin,
and… fox ears?

Was she doing some kind of work just now? Her hair’s somewhat of in a mess, though
she fixed it as she came out of the counter.
“How may I help you today?” [Miyabi]

“I’m sorry, I’m not actually a customer. I came from Gimuru’s merchant guild to deliver
a package to Pioro Saionji-sama.” [Ryouma]

“You came to deliver a package for dad? Thanks much.” [Miyabi]

Dad? This girl… She’s Pioro-san’s daughter!?

“I’m sorry, you were Pioro-san’s daughter?” [Ryouma]

“You know my dad?” [Miyabi]

“Yes, we met by chance some few days ago.” [Ryouma]

“Right. Ah, sorry for the belated introduction. I’m Miyabi Saionji, Pioro Saionji’s daughter.
It’s nice to meet you.” [Miyabi]

“Ryouma Takebayashi. It’s nice to meet you too.” [Ryouma]

“Ryouma… I feel like I’ve heard that name before… Anyway, please come inside. [Miyabi]

Miyabi-san led me inside the spice store, then we passed through the hallway and
entered into the reception office. Around 1 minute later Miyabi-san came back with
Pioro-san.

That’s quick! She said it wouldn’t take long. She wasn’t kidding, was she? I barely had
to wait at all.

“Ryouma, it’s been about 2 months hasn’t it! I can’t believe you came to Renauph!”
[Pioro]

“Long time no see, Pioro-san. I arrived just now, actually. I’m here to open my branch
store.” [Ryouma]

“In this town? In that case, please allow me to bring you to this town’s merchants guild.”
[Pioro]

“Before that, here’s your package.” [Ryouma]

I opened my Item Box and took out Pioro-san’s package.

“Oh, right… What is this?” [Pioro]

“I wasn’t told the contents.” [Ryouma]

“Really?” [Pioro]

As he said that, he opened the package. A letter was inside. When he read it, Pioro-san
nodded and closed the letter, then he came to me.

“Times have been hard for you, haven’t they?” [Pioro]

“Was the letter about me?” [Ryouma]

“The last part, a little. Old Gri told me to help you out. Not that she needed to. Would’ve
done so either way.” [Pioro]

“Thank you.” [Ryouma]

“It’s fine, it’s fine. Oh, right. Let me introduce you. This here is my daughter. She’s a year
older than you, but do get along.” [Pioro]

When the topic turned to her, Miyabi-san, who hasn’t said anything until now, finally
spoke.

“Dad, what’s with the ‘this’. I have a name, you know? It’s Miyabi. If you’re going to be
introducing me you, you should at least call me by name. Although of course, I’ve
already informed him of something as simple as that.” [Miyabi]

“That so? Then what about this?

The name Miyabi actually comes from the founder of the Saionji Firm. I gave her that
name, hoping that she would take after her.” [Pioro]

“What are you talking about all of the sudden!? No one was asking about that!” [Miyabi]
Huh? What? Are they starting a two-person comedy act? Ah, it would be bad if I don’t
say anything.

“Did that ancestor of yours achieve something amazing?” [Ryouma]

“Not particularly. She was a pretty girl who attracted customers to her store and then
eventually married and settled down. Hers was a normal family and she lived a happy
life.” [Pioro]

“I see. So you want your daughter to live a happy life too…” [Ryouma]

“Oh, no, no. I mean that’s not it. The founder was actually Miyabi’s dad, right? Well, I so
happen to be Miyabi’s dad, so that means I will be able to share his good luck!” [Pioro]

“As if!” [Ryouma]

Oops! I accidentally threw a tsukkomi.

“Excuse me.” [Ryouma]

“It’s fine. It’s fine. That was a pretty good tsukkomi, no? You’re still a bit green, but my
daughter hasn’t been throwing them lately, so it’s nice” [Pioro]

Oh, thank goodness he’s not offended… Still, I’m surprised tsukkomis are a thing here
too. It’s probably the fault of some otherworlder again, as usual.

Still, it’s probably because I had a kansei-person type boss who liked to play the boke
(funny man) and be corrected with a tsukkomi (straight man’s response) that it’s
basically become a reflex for me now. It was annoying being pestered with the whole
comedy duo act when I was busy, but I’d end up wasting even more time were I to
ignore him, so in the end, I had no choice but to play the straight man for him. There
were more times when I ignored the guy, though. He got mad at me a lot because of
that.

While I was remembering that, Pioro-san and I headed to the merchants guild. The
place he led me to was that building with high walls that I saw before going to Saionji’s
Firm.

It’s my second time seeing it, but this building sure is big. These walls may as well
belong to a castle.
“Well? Impressive, isn’t it? Our merchants guild.” [Pioro]

Pioro asked me what my impressions were after reaching the reception office.

“It is. The outer walls are just like castle walls.” [Ryouma]

“Well, yeah. I mean this building is by nature a fortress.” [Pioro]

“A fortress…” [Ryouma]

“That’s right. A long time ago, when there was a war, this area here was the front line.
And it was in this town that they built the fortress back then. That’s why the guild built
its building to look like a fortress.” [Pioro]

“I see.” [Ryouma]

“Besides, there’s another reason behind why this place looks like this. Look out the
window.” [Pioro]

The window Pioro-san pointed at could be seen through. Maybe it’s because this room
is the reception office that they made the windows here out of glass to make them look
good. As a result, I could see the outside.

“Amazing… It’s my first time seeing so many large monsters.” [Ryouma]

Outside the window were many monsters. They were either medium- or large-sized
bird-type monsters. There were even dragon-types that were probably wyverns. A
saddle could be seen on the nape of their neck extending to their back, atop of which
people could be seen people riding. It was the very image of a fantasy world.

“All of these monsters are here just to carry goods and luggages.” [Pioro]

“All of these!?” [Ryouma]

“If you can use flying monsters, then you can transport things quickly and in large
amounts. But in order to accommodate the monsters, several things need to be
provided. A place to wait, a place to store the luggage, a landing place… and so on. A
lot of facilities needed to be provided, so they decided to build the guild after a
fortress.” [Pioro]
“I see…” [Ryouma]

It’s true that monsters need a place to wait at. Especially, if they’re large-sized.

“The one who thought of this method of transport, planned out this town, coined the
term ‘airport’, and made all of this a reality was none other than the founder of the
Saionji Firm himself. How about it? Don’t you agree he has good taste?” [Pioro]

Actually, that name wasn’t his idea, but I can’t say it!

Most likely, in the future, I too will be on the receiving end of the same fate from other
otherworlders, as they see my store chains and think to themselves, ‘that’s not original
content!’

Just like how Pioro-san and Miyabi-san talks and behaves, it seems there are all sorts
of traces of the influence of otherworlders, even ones spread unknowingly.

“An airport, huh. Well, a port city is a place to gather all sorts of stuff. Makes sense.”
[Ryouma]

“Right? You get it!” [Pioro]

Pioro-san happily hit my back, then an employee of the guild entered the reception
office and we finally got to business.

At first, she was shocked to hear that it wasn’t Pioro-san, but I, who would be
purchasing the land. After that momentary shock, however, everything else proceeded
smoothly.

Apparently, because Pioro-san had already inquired about the store before, the guild
was able to prepare, allowing them to quickly process everything. Although the buyer
was different from the one they were expecting, everything still went smoothly.

After that, we went to the store I just purchased from the guild to take a look inside.

The store was two-stories high. The first floor had a storehouse and a space for
business operations. The second floor had the reception office and the other offices.
And then behind the store could be found the house of the previous owner. The house
came with the lot.

If you exclude the living room and the shared areas, there were 5 empty rooms all in
all, so we could use the house for lodging. I can’t give the employees their own room,
but 2 or 3 per could certainly share each room. That’s normal practice, I hear, so it
should be fine.

“Any problems?” [Pioro]

“No. So long as I make the furniture and the shelves, it seems we can put this store to
use immediately. It’ll take about 3 days for my employees to come from Gimuru, and
that would be the best case scenario, 5 days being the worst.” [Ryouma]

As I said that, I took out my rimel bird from my Dimension Home.

“Ready? Drei?” [Ryouma]

The rimel bird I brought with me was Drei. It means ‘3’ in German. Some few days ago
Elia told me that she named her rimel birds, so I followed suit. It’s been a while since
I last named a familiar.

At first, I did name the slimes individually, but as their numbers exploded, it became
too difficult to manage them with names. The monster contract makes it a breeze to
distinguish my familiars from each other, so a name wasn’t really necessary. Still, it
sure feels nostalgic.

By the way, I named my nightmare rimel bird, Eins, for one, then the rest as Zwei, Vier,
Funf, and Sechs, respectively. Elia apparently named hers with the musical language
as a reference.

“Haa~ It’s true. You really did tame a rimel bird.” [Pioro]

I took out a writing instrument from my Item Box and started writing, while Pioro-san
gazed fixedly at my rimel bird.

Once, when I linked my senses with a rimel bird and had it fly, the flow of the world
felt much like when I rode the bullet train. Assuming they’re traveling at the same
speed, that would mean that the rimel bird could basically fly from 200kph
(124.27mph) to 300kph (186.41mph). They fly so fast already without magic, but they
could fly even faster by invoking wind magic and riding upon it.
To the rimel birds, a distance of three days by carriage is nothing. Even if they had to
take a detour along the way, they could still reach Gimuru within the day. The numbers
are just something I inferred on my own, but the point is that they’re really really fast.

“Alright.” [Ryouma]

I stored the letter inside a special pipe, then I attached it to the rimel bird with a metal
attachment and a red cloth. With this even Drei can get into town by himself.

“I’m counting on you!” [Ryouma]

“PIRORO!” [Drei]

As I let Drei out, he cried back at me in affirmation, and then flew high up above the
sky. Just when I thought he’d flown around in the sky near the clouds, he kept going
faster and faster, and just like that, he was gone.

“Good.” [Ryouma]

“Now, we wait, yes?” [Pioro]

“Yes.” [Ryouma]

“Have you booked an inn already?” [Pioro]

I forgot!

“Actually, I forgot.” [Ryouma]

“Great! In that case, why don’t you stay over at our place?” [Pioro]

“Is that okay?” [Ryouma]

“Of course! No need to be shy! Make yourself at home!” [Pioro]

“Thank you. I’ll take you up on that offer then.” [Ryouma]

Like that, I ended up staying at Pioro-san’s house.

After it was decided that I would be staying at Pioro-san’s place, he brought me to the
spice store of the Saionji firm. Apparently, the store and their house was connected.

“Welcome. Oh, it’s just dad.” [Miyabi]

“What do you mean it’s just dad? Besides, it’s not just me, you know? Ryouma’s here too.”
[Pioro]

“Sorry to disturb.” [Ryouma]

“Ryouma-han, the guest room has been prepared. Make yourself at home.” [Miyabi]

Miyabi was tending to the store just like this afternoon.

But how did she know that I would be staying over? It was decided just now, wasn’t it?

“Oh, are you not staying over?” [Miyabi]

“No. Thank you for having me. I was just wondering how you found out when we
decided it just a while ago.” [Ryouma]

“The guest room needs to always ready so that it can be used whenever necessary, so
I’m always tending to it. Besides, it’s dad we’re talking about. I figured he’d offer you
to spend the night at our place.” [Miyabi]

“I see. Thank you.” [Ryouma]

“Don’t mind it. Want me to show you to your room?” [Miyabi]

“Sure.” [Ryouma]

Pioro-san would be going back to work, so it was Miyabi-san who accompanied me to

the guest room.
“Think of it as your own place.” [Miyabi]

The room she brought me to was big for one person and was furnished with high
quality furniture. It had a warm feeling to it.

“I’ll be sure to cook you up a supper that won’t shame the Saionji name, so look forward
to it!” [Miyabi]

“Thank you. I’ll look forward to it.” [Ryouma]

Miyabi-san nodded in response, apparently satisfied by my reply.

“I’ll be going then. You rest up until supper.” [Miyabi]

Miyabi quietly left the room.

…And now, I’m all alone. I wonder what the supper is going to be.

…I had nothing but those preserved food last night, so I’m a little hungry. I wonder if
they’ll be serving meat. Or maybe fish? But this country doesn’t have a lot of seafood
dishes. It’s an inland country, so it doesn’t have its own sea. And the only fish it’s able
to procure are either those from the river or dried fishes. Fresh marine products are
either expensive or just straight up impossible to purchase.

An exception to that would be the towns situated near a lake like Shikumu. Places that
have marine products as their main industry tend to have more seafood dishes.

But when it comes to seafood, the first thing that really comes to mind is Japanese
cuisine. But, dang… I haven’t eaten any since coming here…

I was thinking it would have spread to some extent considering how many
otherworlders have been brought here, but I couldn’t find even a single Japanese dish
in Gimuru. Maybe I should try asking Pioro-san if they sell soy sauce and miso around
here. They deal with food products, so in the worst case, they might have something
similar.

I rested in my room while thinking about food. After a while, a male servant told me
that supper was ready.
 2

“Ryouma, you came. Please. Have a seat.” [Pioro]

When I got to the dining room, Pioro-san, Miyabi, and another fox-tribe woman were
all already seated. The fox woman looked like Miyabi-san, so she’s probably Pioro-
san’s wife. She sure is pretty…

“Excuse me.” [Ryouma]

“You don’t have to be so formal. And I think you’ve noticed her already, but this here is
my beloved wife and Miyabi’s mother, Kurana [1].” [Pioro]

“Kurana Saionji. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.” [Kurana]

“Ryouma Takebayashi. The pleasure is mine.” [Ryouma]

“I’ve heard the rumors. Word says you’re quite the promising young man.” [Kurana]

“Not at all. My luck just happened to be good. I’ve also been blessed with good people.
All I’m doing is hiring talented people and relying on them.” [Ryouma]

No, really. If not for everyone, I probably wouldn’t even have a store.

The only reason I’m where I am today is because of the people I met.

“If you can say that from the bottom of your heart at that age, then you’re already a
brilliant young man.” [Kurana]

“Indeed. When the young see some success, sometimes there are those who let it get
to their heads. They stop seeing what’s around them and they start thinking there’s
nothing they can’t do.” [Pioro]

“Business consists of the customer and the employees. Business exists because there
are people. If a merchant were to ever forget those around him and act as if they don’t
exist, then it’s the end of for that merchant. When you hit the bottom, regardless how
much talent you have, you’ll be forced to turn to dubious means. The fact you
understand that means you’re plenty brilliant yourself, Ryouma-han.” [Miyabi]

Is that how it is?

“You can learn how a merchant should conduct himself in the future. Right now, just
being able to talk politely is already amazing. Just look at Miyabi. She doesn’t talk
politely at all.” [Pioro]

“Dad! What are you comparing us like that for all the sudden!?” [Miyabi]

“Well, there was an easy comparison nearby, so…” [Pioro]

“Miyabi, you don’t have to force yourself, you know? You can just talk like you normally
do.” [Kurana]

Oh, so she really was forcing herself?

“You noticed too, right, Ryouma? That Miyabi is forcefully changing the way she talks.”
[Kurana]

“A little. I didn’t think much of it though since it’s normal to change the way you talk
to customers.” [Ryouma]

“See? Even Ryouma, whom you just met, saw through you. Like this you’re just being
a shrewd child who’s trying to talk in a dialect she doesn’t really know.” [Kurana]

“This is so mortifying…” [Miyabi]

Ah, she’s down… Still, is it really something to mortified about?

“Sorry about this, But you needn’t mind her.” [Kurana]

“Since young Miyabi has been imitating me and has held an interest in business. She
even to offered to help at the store on her own. But once, in the past, when I showed
her how to negotiate and stuff with a customer, she started becoming persistent.
Apparently, a customer had told her that she’s not womanly.” [Pioro]

“I’m not trying to become more womanly or anything just because I was told that. I
just…” [Miyabi]

“Just?” [Kurana]

“I just couldn’t stand that old man called me unwomanly! If I can’t properly change
myself into a lady, I’ll feel like I lost!” [Miyabi]
That’s why!? Hmm… But then again, I suppose it’s better than becoming conscious of
something weird.

“In other words, my just daughter can’t stand losing. As mentioned previously, you
needn’t mind her, Ryouma-han.” [Kurana]

“Enough about that, let’s eat. I brought out some strange dishes today.” [Pioro]

Pioro-san signalled with his hands at the servant waiting by the corner of the room.

What does he mean by strange dishes?

“You’re good at cooking, so without any prior preparations, it would probably be hard
to surprise you with just the taste. So I took it upon myself to prepare something
unique.” [Pioro]

“Would be great if it suited your tastes, though.” [Kurana]

When the smell of the food being brought over reached my nose…

This smell! It’s—

“This smell… is this miso soup?” [Ryouma]

When I muttered that, Pioro-san was surprised and dejected, while Kurana-san only
laughed with interest.

“So you knew about miso soup. And here I thought I’d surprise you. I failed~” [Pioro]

Nah, you surprised me plenty!

“A-Actually I’m plenty surprised. Pioro-san, you have a way to procure miso?” [Ryouma]

“I do, but there’s not a lot of interest, so I don’t get too many. Want some?” [Pioro]

“Yes! Absolutely!” [Ryouma]

“It’s not that expensive, so I can share some with you, but if you come to like it and
want more, do feel free to purchase from my store.” [Pioro]
“Thank you so much!” [Ryouma]

“It’s fine. But since you know about miso, do you know about soy sauce too?” [Pioro]

“You have soy sauce too!?” [Ryouma]

“We do.” [Pioro]

Like this the servant ended up bringing us a tray, upon which was miso, soy sauce,
vinegar, and mirin. Pioro-san would be sharing them with me.

I can’t believe such seasonings exist in this world! According to Pioro-san, these are
being produced in one part of the island that the dragonewt live at. It’s made at a
village that culturally considers a simple life best, so they prioritize making their food
delicious through the ingredients. Unfortunately, there’s not much demand for it, so
it’s considered a luxury item that doesn’t get traded much. What a waste.

“Let’s eat first. We can talk while eating.” [Kurana]

“Right. Itadakimasu!” [Ryouma]

Chopsticks were brought along with the food, so I took my pair and took a mouthful
of rice.

Yummm! It’s so good! I can’t believe it’s been 3 years since I last had rice. This country
has bread as its staple food, and that’s nice and all, but rice is really nostalgic.

Next up is the fished fish with soy sauce, and then the miso soup… Ah, so good… It’s
just like the food back on Earth.

“What a nostalgic taste…” [Ryouma]

“Oh, Ryouma-han? Did you live in a dragonewt village?” [Miyabi]

“Huh? Oh, no. Not at all.” [Ryouma]

“Really? Your reaction reminds me of a dragonewt who hasn’t been able to return to
his village for a long time, though.” [Miyabi]

“Really?” [Ryouma]
“Really. On top of that, you even know how to use chopsticks. It suits the cuisine, so it
was brought over, but usually, only dragonewt customers use them.” [Pioro]

“Ryouma-han, where do you come from?” [Kurana]

At situations like this, there’s only one answer!

“From a small village in the forest. My grandmother often made miso soup for me.
That’s how I got to learn how to use chopsticks. Grandma is a former adventurer, so
she probably found out about it during one of her travels. As for the ingredients, she
managed to make do with wood magic.” [Ryouma]

“Is that so?” [Kurana]

Did I fool them?

“By the way, Ryouma, what will you be doing tomorrow? Your employees won’t be
coming until three days later, right?” [Pioro]

“I’m planning to build the furnitures and renovate the store until then. I’ll take the
opportunity to do some adventurer work too.” [Ryouma]

Kurana-san asked me a question.

“Oh, my. Ryouma-han, you’re an adventurer?” [Kurana]

“Yes. Although right now it’s become a bit hazy whether I’m an adventurer first or a
store owner first.” [Ryouma]

“What rank are you?” [Kurana]

“Right now I’m E Rank.” [Ryouma]

“E? You’re one year younger than me, right?” [Miyabi]

“I just got promoted to E Rank 2 months ago.” [Ryouma]

“Being an E Ranker at your age is an achievement. Do you have experience doing

subjugation quests?” [Pioro]
After that I talked about my experience hunting monsters at the mine, then I asked
them about the town.

Apparently, the otherworlder founder of the Saionji Firm made this town for business.
Apparently, since a long time ago, there have been many among the store owners and
employees, as well as the other people born and raised in Renauph, who spoke in the
kansai dialect. Kurana-san was also born here.

I don’t think it was intentional, but when I think of how the otherworlder naturally left
traces of their influence, I can’t help but feel strange. I wonder if I’m going to leave
behind something too.

“Anything else you want to ask?” [Pioro]

“What about the guild? It’s my first time seeing such a huge building.” [Ryouma]

“But of course. There are entrances in every direction, but inside that huge building is
the merchants guild, adventurers guild, artisan guild, and dragon guild.” [Pioro]

Dragon guild? That’s a new one.

As I thought that, Miyabi-san started explaining.

“In the past, they were a group of monster tamers with flying monsters that
transported people and goods, but after the airport was completed, they branched off
and became an independent guild that mainly dealt with air transport. The tamer
guild uses monsters for hunting, fighting, anything really, but the dragon guild is just
for monster tamers that transport people and things by air. They also specialize in
keeping the flights secure.

It’s not easy having monsters ferry people and goods through the air, so the dragon
guild raises up their own people. Also, although they branched off and became
independent, it seems they still have some sort of connection with the tamers guild.
Word says that monster tamers who are able to form a contract with a flying monster
can receive training from the dragons guild.” [Miyabi]

Looks like there’s really a lot I don’t know about just yet.

“The adventurers guild gatherers all sort of stuff. The artisans guild uses those things
to create goods. The merchant guilds treats those goods as products to be sold. And
the dragon guild transports them to distant towns. Like this the four guilds are able to
work together to develop the tow.n This too was because of the efforts of our ancestor.’
[Miyabi]

Miyabi-san puffed out her chest as she said that. Pioro-san seemed equally proud. This
town, the airport, and their ancestor must be their pride.

I heard more about their town as I treated myself to some long awaited Japanese
cuisine.

After that, without even returning to the room, I cleaned myself with the cleaner slime
and quickly went to rest.

As I wondered to myself what to do tomorrow, the satisfaction from a good meal and
the fatigue from a long trip lulled me to sleep. I could resist it, but there wasn’t any
point in doing so. Let’s just think tomorrow… I have time, after all…
The next day.

After quickly getting ready, Miyabi-san visited my room.

“Good morning, Ryouma-han.” [Miyabi]

“Good morning, Miyabi-san.” [Ryouma]

“I thought I’d wake you up, but it looks like you’re the early type. Anyway, breakfast is
ready, so if you can eat, you should have some first.” [Miyabi]

“Thank you.” [Ryouma]

I ate at the same dining room last night. Everyone here eats at such a fast pace. But
then again, so do I.

“I’ll leave the rest to you, Miyabi.” [Pioro]

“I’ll do my best!” [Miyabi]

“Good luck!” [Pioro]

What are they talking about?

“Ryouma-han, where are you going today? Ryouma-han, you haven’t gotten used to
this town yet, right? In That case, I’ll be your guide.” [Miyabi]

“I’m grateful, but what about your work?” [Ryouma]

“Don’t mind. Don’t mind. The president’s daughter is still just 12 years old. It’s normal
for me not to be working. Tending to the store is just practice for the future.” [Miyabi]

I guess that does make sense.

“Although there is a certain 11 year old kid with a store who’s even about to open a
branch store. I wonder if that boy is an exception.”

Well, since she’s going to be showing me around, I should put off the adventurer work
and just make furniture today.

“Alright. In that case, I want to make some furniture today. Can you show me to a store
I can buy wood from?” [Ryouma]

“Just leave it to me. I’ll be sure to bring you to a good store.” [Miyabi]

As she said that, she puffed out her chest and went outside. I followed her, but as soon
as we got out, the rimel bird I’d sent out yesterday, Drei, returned.

“Oh.” [Ryouma]

“What’s— Kyaa!?” [Miyabi]

Drei perched himself atop my shoulders. He flew right between me and Miyabi, so it
couldn’t be helped that Miyabi was startled and ended up jumping aside. Oh, her tail
is moving a lot!… I feel like I’ve once heard that the foxes in my otherworld don’t show
their emotions much through their tail, but I wonder if that’s not the case for the fox
tribe here.

But then again, it’s only now that she’s moving her tail a lot, so it might just be how
she reacts when surprised. Like a spinal reflex of sort.

Anyways, I should apologize for startling her.

“Sorry for startling you. This one here is my familiar.” [Ryouma]

“Familiar? So, that’s what it was. I don’t believe I’ve seen such a beautiful monster
before, though.” [Miyabi]

“It’s called a rimel bird. I had it bring a letter to my store at Gimuru.” [Ryouma]

While explaining I took out the letter inside the pipe attached to Drei’s leg. It was the
response from Gimuru. Apparently, Drei reached them yesterday before closing time.

Everyone will be departing early morning today for Renauph. They should arrive in 3
days. Just as planned.

I passed that info onto Miyabi-san too, and we started walking again.

After buying some wood at the store, I stored the wood in my Dimension Home, then
we went our way to my store.

I chose the storeroom as my workplace. The acid slimes began making components,
while the sticky slimes and I put them together and reinforced them with sticky liquid
and nails. Gradually, we produced chairs, desks, and shelves.

Miyabi-san just quietly observed while we worked. I thought she didn’t have much free
time, but she’s really just watching.

Eventually, though, she asked me a question.

“Ryouma-han, what are these critters?” [Miyabi]

“You mean the slimes?” [Ryouma]

“No, no, no, no, no. That’s definitely wrong. Definitely. There’s no way slimes like these
could exist! Why in the world are slimes making furniture!?” [Miyabi]

“They can make them if you teach them. They can even learn martial arts and weapon
arts.” [Ryouma]

“Seriously!?” [Miyabi]

“Seriously.” [Ryouma]

I made a rod with Polish Wheel, then I handed it to a sticky slime and ordered it to
show Miyabi its moves.

“…It’s using a staff!” [Miyabi]

“See?” [Ryouma]

“Were slimes always so dexterous?” [Miyabi]

“At first, they were just normal slimes, but after a lot training, they became like this.”
[Ryouma]

“I see… I had no idea they could turn out like this.” [Miyabi]

“Most people don’t. Everyone who’s seen them for the first time were shocked.” [Ryouma]

“Why don’t you publicize this? It’ll be a huge discovery, won’t it?” [Miyabi]

“I wonder… People don’t seem very fond of slimes, and I don’t plan on announcing it
just yet.”

That would be a waste, after all. As I muttered that to myself, Miyabi-san watched the
slimes again.

After that a few seconds of silence lingered, then Miyabi-san asked me this.

“…Ryouma-han, what are you doing next year?” [Miyabi]

“What do you mean?” [Ryouma]

“You’re eleven now, right? Are you going to the academy next year? After all, you’ll be
turning twelve. Your store seems to be making a lot, so you can probably afford it. Are
you going?” [Miyabi]

School, huh…

“I don’t really feel like it. Right now, I just want to train and adventure as I please. And
from what I’ve heard, the social aspect of the academy is rather troublesome, so
there’s not a lot of opportunities to actually study.” [Ryouma]

As I said that, Miyabi-san sighed deeply.

“Haa~ So you knew.” [Miyabi]

“You know about it too?” [Ryouma]

“Of course. I’ll be going to the academy starting this year, so I’ve already gathered intel
about it. Dad also taught me all sorts of stuff regarding it.” [Miyabi]

“I see… So, why did you bring this up all of the sudden?” [Ryouma]

“Well, you seem to have a good personality, so I was thinking school would be easier
if there was someone I knew. People there are probably stiff when it comes to
relationships, but more than that, I’m good at magic. If I went to the academy and
stood out, it wouldn’t end with just some weird noble following me around.” [Miyabi]

“If it’s that bad, why go?” [Ryouma]

“I’m going to be a merchant, so I need to make connections. The academy makes it a

policy not to differentiate between nobles and commoners, so it’s much easier to get
close to nobles there than elsewhere. So, I was thinking it would be nice to have
someone I could talk to without having to be so tense. Moreover, you’re really good at
magic, so it would put me at ease if you were going to school too.” [Miyabi]

She’s quite determined despite only being a child… Merchants sure are scary. Though
it seems it’s not really that strange for students to enroll with this goal in mind. Still,
is she really that good at magic that other people would become envious of her?

“Are you good at magic?” [Ryouma]

“Just enough to use an intermediate fire spell, but that’s already enough to put you
ahead in school.” [Miyabi]

When I asked more about it, apparently, most students can only use beginner magic
upon enrollment. And there are even students who will be learning magic for the first
time. If those are her peers, then being able to use an intermediate spell is more than
enough to put her ahead of others.

Speaking of which, although the fox tribe people are beast people too, I hear they have
unusually greater mana than the others. I feel like I’ve talked about this with someone
at the guild, but maybe that’s why Miyabi is good at magic.

This country doesn’t discriminate against other races, so it doesn’t matter even if one
is a half. If someone tries to discriminate against someone in this country, they’ll only
end up being shunned. Apparently, there was quite a bit of discrimination in the past,
but an otherworlder who came before me set things right. There’s still some envy left
when it comes to the advantages that races have over each other, though.
“I see.” [Ryouma]

“Well, it can’t be helped if you’re not going. I’m not gonna try and force you. It’s not
like I was expecting anything in the first place. It’s just that if you were going to school,
I was planning to help you stay away from weird nobles and introduce some good ones
to you.” [Miyabi]

She was thinking of supporting me? What a determined child. Doesn’t seem like a bad
person too. She seems to have her work cut out for her, though. Still, I wish her the
best.

As I encouraged her internally, I continued working. I got her help on the simpler stuff
too, and like that, we managed to complete the furniture and tools.

After completing the furniture, I told Miyabi-san that I would be going to the adventurers
guild, then go back to the store.

“Ryouma-han, there are no jobs in town for adventurers right now. At most, there will
probably only be herb collection jobs or jobs that require one to hunt small animals.”
[Miyabi]

“Really? In Gimuru I heard that a strong monster appeared in this town.” [Ryouma]

Has it been hunted already?

“Ah~ You heard about that? It’s because of that that only E Rank and above can pass
the north right now.” [Miyabi]

“Is the monster than strong?” [Ryouma]

“No. A D Rank part would be more than enough, but unfortunately, there are no such
adventurers in this town.” [Miyabi]

Because of the presence of the dragon guild in this town, large monsters like the
wyverns frequently fly its sky, scaring the nearby monsters, so there’s usually not a
whole lot of monsters that could be found nearby.

As a result, the higher ranked adventurers don’t have any prey left to hunt, so they end
up going elsewhere. It’s only natural for a person to leave town if he can’t make any
money.

The guards just patrol the gates and the streets, so the area the monster is lurking isn’t
under their jurisdiction. Without any adventurers to turn to, times like this are quite
problematic. Anyway, that’s why people aren’t allowed to go to the northern part of
town unless they’re E Rank or above. Fortunately, the requirement isn’t above D Rank.

“So as long as one is E Rank, he can go, right?” [Ryouma]

“That’s right. The guild will also request some lumber and herbs that can be gotten
from the northern woods… Oh, right. You’re an E Ranker, right? I won’t tell you not to
go, but do be careful. You have make sure to run away if the monster finds you.”
[Miyabi]

I thanked Miyabi-san and headed to the guild. It’s hard for a non-adventurer woman
to approach the adventurers guild, so I didn’t take Miyabi up on her offer to show me
the way.

I went to the reception desk as soon as I got to the guild and gathered some
information. May source was the male clerk tending to the reception. He was the sort
of guy who just did his job without much care, so when I showed him my E Rank guild
card, he didn’t say anything and just brought me the available jobs for the north. I got
some intel regarding the monster that appeared in the north too, and as it turns out,
it’s apparently a monster known as Smash Boar.

The smash boar is a monster with short fangs. Its body is big and durable. Its skin is
tough, so its hard to hurt it without sufficient strength.

After confirming the above details, I was sure that I had the right monster in mind.
Only D Rank and above could accept the subjugation job for it, so I just took a herb
collection job and went back to Pioro-san’s store.

Along the way, I thought back to the letter I got when I first got to this world.

The grandparents the gods used to give me a credible background are actually real
people. Gayn and the others went out of their way to summon their souls and even got
their permission to use their names for my sake.

The place my grandparents lived at is a place called Cormi Village, located within the
Great Shurus Forest.

The Great Forest of Shurus is a treasure trove of medicinal ingredients and many
precious stones could be found within the caves that dotted it. Many villages were
founded in it in hopes of gathering these precious resources. Cormi Village was one
such village.

But the Great Forest of Shurus was den to many monsters, and was renowned within
the kingdom as a dangerous region. Even its shallowest areas are fraught with D Rank
monsters and greater. To make things worse, the adventurers that died seeking
precious resources continue to lurk the forest as zombies, skeletons, ghost, or some
other type of undead.

The road to Cormi Village was fraught with danger on a level far beyond that of
Renauph. It’s not a place one should tamper with mindlessly. But not only did I receive
permission to use their name, they even gave me ownership of their belongings. They
didn’t have a successor, they just hid their stuff, so they told me they would like me to
be inherit those things along with their will.

It’s just something they’re hoping for, so it’s not really something I have to do, but in
order to get their things, I would have to go get them myself. As such, Gayn advised me
to go practice with a monster that moves similarly to those in the forest first before
going. One such monster I could use is the smash boar.

It actually wasn’t impossible for me to reach the village as soon as I got to this world
if I relied on my ki and my martial arts, but there wasn’t any guarantee that I would be
able to come back alive. As such, I just stayed in Gana Forest. And before I knew it,
because of my hobbies, three years had already passed.

I’ve left the forest now, so I might as well go. There are strong monsters in the treasure
trove of resources. They’ll make for good training. And besides, although it’s just in
name, they’re still my grandparents, so I’d like to fulfill their request.

I’ll have to make some preparations to go the Great Shurus Forest.

I went back to Pioro-san’s store while thinking that to myself. I had supper at the store
too.
When I told them that during mealtime that I would be going to the north tomorrow,
Pioro-san asked me, “Won’t you please get rid of that smash boar?”

In the next moment, Miyabi-san rammed into Pioro-san and Kurana-san chided him
with a terrifying smile.

To me the smash boar is a training tool of sort, but to Pioro-san, it’s an obstruction to
trade and something that could be good merchandise. Apparently, the smash boar’s
meat is soft, odorless, and delicious.

If I do hunt one, I should bring it here. I might not have accepted a job, but it can’t be
helped if I were to accidentally meet it and end up killing it. After all, no one would
just stand and watch himself get killed, so there’s no way I can hold back if I do come
across it.

I’m sure no one will complain if I get rid of it after accidentally coming across it, right?

…Huh? D-Did I always have this sort of personality? C-Could have I degenerated after
fighting so many thugs?

No. I have to be careful.

The next day.

“Be careful!” [Miyabi]

Miyabi sent me off, and I headed to the northern gate of the town. I watched the hustle
and bustle along the way as I walked, and when I neared the gate, I braced myself.

It’s a gate, so naturally, the guards would stop me, but I was able to quickly deal with
them by showing proof that I was an E Rank adventurer.

Now it’s time to gather some medicinal herbs near an area the smash boar is known
to frequent.

My equipment for today is a bow and a knife. I have a spear in my Item Box too, but
I’m not planning to use it. Great swords and spears are effective against smash boars,
but in order to make it look like I just came across it, I can’t bring weapons that are
effective against the smash boar. That would be just too coincidental. The bow is also
listed as my main weapon owing to the time when I first registered at the adventurers,
so if can’t come too prepared, or they’ll be suspicious of me.

I gathered herbs for a while, but… I couldn’t find the smash boar.

It’s not really guaranteed to find a monster just because you know where it’s
frequently sighted. Monsters aren’t herbs, after all; they do walk. Still… I feel like it’s a
first for me to have so much trouble finding a monster. Actually, there aren’t any other
monsters around either. It seems Miyabi-san really wasn’t kidding. There really are
few monsters around here.

I started going around to areas other than those teeming with herbs to look for the
smash boar while completing my herb collection job, but in the end, I still couldn’t find
the smash boar, but now my quota has been met.

But then again it’s not like I have to find the smash boar today, since I still have another
day before I meet up with the employees, so… But on second thought, since it’s difficult
to get permission to pass the northern gate, I’ll probably be able to sell as much herbs
as I have, so it shouldn’t hurt to gather more than my quota.

While I was thinking that to myself, a faint voice reached my ears.

“—uaAAA” [???]

Is that a person’s voice? Seems a bit far, though. Hmm… Maybe I’m just hearing things.

“——Save me—” [???]

…I heard it again! I’m not just imagining it. Someone was clearly asking for help just now!

I readied my bow, hid my aura, and walked toward the direction of the voice, where I
found two adventurers being chased by a monster that seemed to be a smash boar.

I think calling it a pig would be more apt for its appearance, honestly. It might have
some fangs, but they’re small and they’re not sharp. The only thing it really has going
for it is that it’s really big, about as big as a cow.

Wait! This isn’t the time to be thinking about that!

I nocked an arrow and timed it with the movement of the boar. The arrow flew through
the gaps between the trees and toward the smash boar.

The smash boar was charging through the helpless slender trees when my arrow
landed right in its right eye, causing it to let out a painful cry that resounded throughout
the area.

When the two adventurers heard that, they stopped and turned around.

What are they doing!? Keep running!

“Keep running!” [Ryouma]

I told them, but when they saw me, they became flustered. I tried calling out to them
again, but the smash boar had already noticed me and was looking at me with its left
eye.
This is going quite differently than what I expected, but… yeah. Let’s do it.

I unequipped my bow and put it on my back, then I reinforced my body with ki and
glared at the boar.

The smash boar had a body like that of a pig’s, but it also had two small dull fangs
growing from its lower jaw that extended toward the sides of its face. Its fangs aren’t
venomous, but they do pack a punch when rammed into someone, so I still need to
watch out for it.

But what I really need to look out for is its constitution. It might resemble a boar, but
it’s about 1.5 times bigger than the cows I’m familiar with, so it’s clear as day that it’s
covered in a thick armor of meat. Countless scars could be seen all over it – those two
adventurers probably tried to hurt it – but those are probably all superficial. I doubt
they managed to leave any internal damage to it with those shallow wounds.

Attacks against its body seem like they wouldn’t amount to much… In that case, I’ll go
for its head where there’s not as much meat!

“GUOoOOOOO!” [Smash Boara]

The smash boar bellowed out a cry and charged toward me, but the trees seemed to
have hindered its movements, as it was easy to see despite moving so much.

I dodged to the right, and the smash boar kept going and crashed into a tree. After
mowing down the tree, the smash boar turned around and started charging toward
me again.

This time I dodged to the left, but unlike before, when we passed each other, I hit its
right temple with a ki-reinforced palm strike.

“PIGIi!?” [Smash Boar]

It was quieter compared to before, but the smash boar definitely stopped moving and
cried out in pain.

Looks like that was effective. I can tell from that last attack too. The head definitely
doesn’t have as much meat to it.

Alright! One more time!

The smash boar shook its head, then it tried to strike me with its fangs, but I took a
step back, causing it to miss. I used that opening, to throw a kick toward its left temple.

“PI, GIi…” [Smash Boar]

The attack this time was a lot more effective, as the smash boar’s right foreleg gave
way and the boar fell to its knees.

I attacked again. This time I gave it a nice uppercut to the jaws, grabbed its fangs, then
drove my right elbow into its head.

“!” [Smash Boar]

A dull sound resounded as I clearly felt the feeling of crushing a bone. At the sam etime,
the smash boar’s legs shook and then it fainted.

Did I kill it just like that?… Huh. It seems it really is dead.

“U-Umm!” [???]
“Thank you for rescuing us!” [???]
“Oh, you’re welcome. You’re not hurt, are you?” [Ryouma]

After confirming that the smash boar was dead, the two adventurers walked up to me.
I didn’t notice it before because of the distance and their armor, but apparently, one of
them was a woman.

“If not for you, we would’ve…” [Male Adventurer]

“One of our friends is wounded. We can’t thank you enough for saving us, but we need
to go help him.” [Female Adventurer]

If they have a wounded friend, then maybe I should go too.

“If you don’t mind, I can come along too. I can use healing magic.” [Ryouma]

“Really!” [Male Adventurer]

“Thank you so much! Please come with us!” [Female Adventurer]

“Ah, but we can’t just leave this smash boar here without anyone watching it…” [Ryouma]

“I’m sorry. I didn’t catch your name…” [Male Adventurer]

“Oh, excuse me. I am Ryouma Takebayashi.” [Ryouma]

“Ryouma-kun, then. Ryouma-kun, you stay here. We’ll bring our party member here.”
[Male Adventurer]

“There are some bad adventurers around these parts, so do be careful.” [Female
Adventurer]

The two of them left after saying that.

Bad adventurers? This is a flag, isn’t it?

I’m sure some real bad ones are gonna come around any moment now.

I braced myself for the inevitable, but I couldn’t sense anyone nearby.

Hmm… Anyway, let’s go drain this thing’s blood first.

I had the bloody slime deal with the smash boar’s blood, then I took out my heal slime.

Huh? Done already? The bloody slime sure works fast.

I waited for a while after that, but in the end, no bad adventurers showed up, and the
two adventurers from before came back carrying a wounded female swordsman.

“Bring her here! I’ll heal her!” [Ryouma]

…Her body appears to have been hit with significant force. Probably took one of that
smash boar’s charges head on. There are scratches and fractures all over her
shoulders and legs. She’s sweating a lot too. Fortunately, there’s not much damage to
her ribs or her body. Her internal organs will take a while to heal, but I should be able
to heal her wounds now.

“‘High Heal’ ‘High Heal’ ‘High Heal’ ‘High Heal’…” [Ryouma]

“…Thank… You…” [Female Swordsman Adventurer]

After casting high heal many times on the wounded adventurer, her sweat finally
stopped and she started groaning. She was even able to thank me. A huge change in a
short period of time.

“Thank you so so so much!” [Male Adventurer]

“Thank you. We owe you a lot.” [Female Adventurer]

“You’re welcome. Her wounds are better now, but the fatigue remains, so please make
sure she keeps resting.” [Ryouma]

We introduced ourselves, and I found out that the wounded swordsman is called Firi-
san, while of the two adventurers being chased, the man was Ken-san and the woman
was Ruri-san.

“This is nothing. Your healing spells really saved me. The slime too.” [Firi]

“Unfortunately, we don’t have much to repay you with.” [Ruri]

“Take this for now. If it’s still not enough, I’ll pay you when we get to town.” [Ken]

Ken handed me a pouch full of money.

They don’t really have to, honestly. I’m not lacking any money and they’re just E
Rankers. That’s a level where they should still be struggling to make ends meet. I’ll
just accept this pouch, but I won’t ask for any more.

“Thank you. This will do. Instead of more coin, just tell me more about those bad
adventurers you were talking about just now.” [Ryouma]

“Are you sure about that?” [Ruri]

“You’re losing a lot out in this, but alright. We normally go adventuring with us three
partied together, but today we had two more with us.” [Firi]

As the story goes. they hit it off at the bar with some C Rank adventurers from another
town, who then told them that they wanted them to lead them to the smash boar.

As compensation, they offered to teach them how to fight, help them accumulate
experience, and give them a very small portion of the reward.

“They showed me their guild card and I was sure that they were C Rankers. You know
how the guild lists at the back of the card all the problems that an adventurers has
caused in his career, as well as the cases when they’ve breached any contract? Well…
They didn’t have any of those, so I thought I could trust them.” [Ken]

“The compensation was the right amount too.” [Ruri]

“But those guys just made us fight under the pretense of gaining experience, then
when things got bad, they used us as decoys and abandoned us. When I got hit by the
smash boar, these two used themselves as a decoy to protect me. The rest of the story
is as you know it.” [Firi]

“I see.” [Ryouma]

Were they tricked or were the C Rankers just too weak themselves? Either way, those
adventurers aren’t very nice. I don’t think these three are lying since the smash boar
was chasing two of them and one of them was heavily injured to the point of being
unable to move. They’re risking way too much for this to be a mere lie.

“Umm… Are you really sure you’re okay with just this? We can pay more money if you
want.” [Ruri]

“It’s fine. I’m the one who suggested to use healing magic anyway. Consider it a free
service this time.” [Ryouma]

“But…” [Ruri]

“Ruri, I understand you feel sorry being unable to pay him back, but it’s rude to keep
refusing. At times like this, you should just gratefully accept.” [Firi]

While Firi was saying that, an idea suddenly came to mind.

“I know. Why don’t you help me carry the smash boar to town? It would also be great
if you could help me explain to the guild that my encounter with the smash boar was
really nothing more than an accident.” [Ryouma]

The smash boar has already been drained of blood, so it’s not that heavy anymore. It’s
at just the right weight where I can carry it after reinforcing my body with either ki or
reinforcement magic. Unfortunately, my body is tiny, so even if I can carry it, I’ll still
end up dragging it along the ground. I also need some eyewitness to help me prove
that meeting the smash boar was really nothing more than a coincidence.

“If you’re okay with just that, then sure!” [Firi]

“Please allow us to help!” [Ken]

“Thank you.” [Ruri]

Like this I got the help of the three adventurers and we carried the smash boar to town.
The guards looked quite shocked, but after a short explanation, they let us through.

As expected, all eyes were on us until we got to Pioro-san’s store.

“Uwaah!?” [Customer 1]

“What is that!?” [Customer 2]

“Sorry, please let us through.” [Ryouma]

The customers in front of the store were shocked when they saw us carrying the smash
boar.

“Ryouma-han!? What is with that big thing!?” [Miyabi]

“Oh, Miyabi-san. This is a smash boar.” [Ryouma]

“I can tell that just by looking, thank you! What I’m asking is why that big thing is here!
Did you go fight it even though we told you it’s dangerous?” [Miyabi]

Miyabi-san was clearly furious as she approached me, but Pioro-san calmed her down.
After that the three adventurers explained what happened.

“So, it’s our fault that he ended up fighting with the smash boar.” [Ken]

“If he hadn’t helped us, who knows what could have happened to us.” [Firi]

“Please don’t blame him!” [Ruri]

“U…” [Miyabi]

Seeing the three plead for me, Miyabi-san heaved a sigh of relief.

“So you were out saving some people, huh?… Well, I guess it can’t be helped then.

And according to them, it doesn’t seem like you were fighting a reckless battle either,
so I guess it’s fine?” [Miyabi]

“Sorry to worry you.” [Ryouma]

“Seriously… But, let’s leave it at this for today. Dad, we need to process the smash boar
immediately or the meat will spoil.” [Miyabi]

“Right! We can’t just leave it here. Take it to the store!” [Pioro]

Pioro-san led us to the butchering room of their butcher.

“Shall we start?” [Employees]

“Wait a minute!” [Kurana]

Just as the employees were about to begin, Kurana appeared and asked everyone to
wait. Apparently, a person from the adventurers guild came.

“Can’t it wait for a bit? We’re at the good part right now.” [Pioro]

“They need to inspect that smash boar first. It’s the monster responsible for causing
so much problem in the north recently, so they need to confirm that it’s been dealt
with.” [Kurana]

Oh, right. We told the guards that we would be selling it at the Saionji Firm, so they
probably passed that info to the adventurers guild.

After a while, the male clerk I met yesterday entered the store. Pioro-san greeted him.

“Welcome.” [Pioro]

“Sorry to disturb you while you’re in the middle of something. I’ve come here to
confirm that the smash boar has been dealt with.” [Male Clerk]

As the male clerk said that, he walked around the smash boar, heaved a sigh, and then
nodded.

“This is undoubtedly the same smash boar that has been causing us much problems.
Thank you for your cooperation. With this we can lift the restriction on the northern
gate.” [Male Clerk]

As he said that, he was about to leave, but before he could, the three adventurers
hurriedly approached him.

“I see… I’ll write a record for those two. Can you three accompany me to the guild?
Takebayashi-sama, you can come any time with the smash boar’s trophy to claim your
reward.” [Male Clerk]

“Thank you.” [Ryouma]

The man took the 3 adventurers and left. The three adventurers thanked me again
before leaving.

After sending off the four, I went back to the butchering area, where the employees
were waiting for the butchering to start.

“Someone got in the way there for a bit, but now that that’s out of the way, let us begin!
Commence the butchering!” [Pioro]

“Yes!” [Employees]

“Ryouma, you sure you’re okay selling all of these meat to us?” [Pioro]
“Yes. I don’t have anywhere else to sell it anyway. Oh, but can you spare some meat for
me to eat too? I’ll sell everything else.” [Ryouma]

“No problem. Right, everyone?” [Pioro]

The employees all nodded to his words and the butchering of the smash boar began.
But when they started, they suddenly let out voices of inquiry.

“What’s the matter?” [Pioro]

“This smash boar doesn’t have a single drop of blood.” [Employee]

“What do you mean? Has the blood coagulated? But even then, a drop should at least
come out.” [Pioro]

“No. There’s really nothing.” [Employee]

Pioro-san checked the meat himself and found himself equally bewildered.

Oh, yeah! I used the bloody slime to drain it of blood.

“Sorry, I forgot to mention that I’d already drained its blood.” [Ryouma]

Everyone turned to look at me.

“Without opening a wound? And can you really drain a beast of blood so throughly?”
[Pioro]

“I used a special method. Do you know about the slimes called bloody slime?” [Ryouma]

As I asked that, one of the employees answered.

“That’s a slime that sucks blood, right? I remember seeing one in the forest when I was
a kid…” [Employee]

“That’s right.” [Ryouma]

“You have a slime that could suck blood?… I’m guessing you must’ve used that to suck
the blood of the smash boar then?” [Pioro]
“Yes. I always have it suck the animals I hunt. Especially the smash bear since it’s
bigger than normal, so I wanted to make it lighter. The meat is still safe to eat, but will
this in any way affect the selling of the meat.” [Ryouma]

“I used Identify on it and can confirm that there are no issues with the meat. In fact,
its quality is even better than normal. So, no. This won’t affect the price, but this does
make me want your slime.” [Pioro]

After that I talked to Pioro-san about the bloody slime. Right now, I only have one with
me, so I refused him after telling him that it might run loose without an owner and
might cause some problems.

I am willing to lend him the bloody slime in the future, though. Provided there are
some trustworthy monster tamers under him. It’s good to make the world know the
value of slimes and I’m sure I can entrust the slimes to his store. Also, unlike the
cleaner slime and the scavenger slimes, the bloody slime can actually be found out in
the wild. So, it’s not like there’s a lot of merit to monitoring them too much.

While I was thinking that, they finished butchering the smash boar. They gave me a
medium gold coin and some meat for me to eat. For the trophy, I took the tusks of the
smash boar.

I’m tired today already, so I’ll just hand over the herbs I collected to the guild tomorrow.
The next day.

In the morning, I got the miso, the soy sauce, and other seasonings from Pioro-san

I was feeling good, so I decided to hand in the herbs I collected as well as the tusks of
the smash boar to the guild. The clerk at the front desk told me that they would
immediately prepare the reward. It seems the male clerk had properly informed them
yesterday.

I thought of all sorts of reasons to prove that it really was just a coincidence, but it
seems it wasn’t necessary… Well, I’m just saying that now because things turned out
like this. But normally they would have pursued the matter to some extent. It’s just
that Ken-san and Co. were around that I don’t have to deal with that anymore.

While I was thinking that, the clerk came back with my reward and thanked me
personally. When I asked him why he was thanking me, apparently, those three were
his friends. I asked him about the other two adventurers, and it turns out that they’ve
already been apprehended.

The E Rank adventurers were having a party at the bar after work last night, and the
guild got word that those two adventurers were there, so they swiftly went into action
and caught them. The two admitted to their crimes and it was also found out that their
guild cards were fake. They were involved with other crimes too, so the guild decided
to expel them from the guild. After a through investigation, it was decided that they
would either end up working in the mines for 5 years minimum or be slaves for an
indefinite period of time.

“You can fake the guild card?” [Ryouma]

“Well, the guild itself does add and remove information to the card, so it’s not
impossible. But you’ll need a special magic tool to do the job, so it’s not something that
a mere adventurer could do. In this case, the method they used was much simpler, and
they simply used ‘another person’s’ card.
They picked up another person’s card and left one side as is while destroying the other
side, then they connected that to the important part of another card. It’s not unusual
for the guild cards to end up damaged due to poor handling, but – and not that it’s
something praiseworthy – but they managed to make the combination of the two
cards appear natural. It seems they learned from some workshop as apprentices,
though they were also expelled from there due to again causing some trouble.” [Clerk]

So they forged a card by combining two genuine products, huh? Their character aside,
it seems they’re rather skilled.

“It seems I need take better care of my card.” [Ryouma]

“Fu fu. Please do.” [Clerk]

“Thank you for the information.” [Ryouma]

I thanked the clerk for the information and left the guild.

Now then… What to do? I’ve already finished what I came here to do. I should go back
to Pioro-san’s store for now.

“Takebayashi-sama, the president was looking for you just now.” [Employee]

When I got back, an employee told me that. I told him that I could meet him now and
was brought to his office.

I wonder what could possibly be so urgent.

Pioro-san and I talked over tea.

“Ryouma, can you think of any dish that uses smash boar meat and ingredients like
soy sauce or miso?” [Pioro]

“A dish?” [Ryouma]

If you want to make Japanese cuisine using pork, then there’s Pork Miso Soup, Pork
Shabu (Shabu-Shabu with pork instead of beef), Butadon (rice with pork and veggies),
and pork fried with ginger.
“I know a few.” [Ryouma]

“Could you teach me? grilled fish and miso soup taste good, but it’s tiresome eating
the same thing over and over. I’ve always believed that ingredients like miso and soy
sauce would sell more if there were more ways to sell them.” [Pioro]

I see. It would be great for me too if Japanese cuisine became more accessible, so I guess
I’ll teach him.

“Alright, how about pork fried with gin— I mean smash boar meat fried with jija?”
[Ryouma]

There’s meat, soy sauce, and mirin, and as for the ginger, it can be bought from a
pharmacy, so we can make a real pork fried with ginger!

“I know it’s not right to ask this from a guest, but can you cook me that dish? You can
use as much ingredients as you want.” [Pioro]

“You sure?” [Ryouma]

“If anything, I’ll be profiting since I get to learn a new dish.” [Pioro]

Like that I ended up making our lunch. Surprisingly, though, Kurana-san and Miyabi-
san were going to be cooking with me. I thought I would be teaching a servant, I told
them, and they laughed.

“Mom often says that cooking is something that women should be interested in. I don’t
hate cooking myself, but not being able to cook when we sell food ingredients just ain’t
right.” [Miyabi]

“I’m looking forward to seeing the new dish and your skills, Ryouma-han.” [Kurana]

As the two of them looked at me, I got the ingredients and tools prepared beforehand
and started cooking.

First was to wash the rice and cook it over fire. I never did cook rice on a stove back in
my previous life, so this is a new experience for me.

I have to make some pork miso soup too to eat alongside the pork fried with ginger, so
I made dashi (stock soup) using kelp-like seaweed and some small fishes, then I added
onions, great burdock, mushrooms, and smash boar meat with all sorts of vegetables
to the soup. Ever since going out to town, I’ve noticed that there’s a lot of vegetables
with the same name or similar to those from Earth. This might be another one of the
otherworlders influence.

While I was making the pork miso soup, Miyabi-san was mostly taking care of the rice,
she looked how I was doing.
When I was about done with the pork miso soup, I made a little more than would be
needed, so I took out a vial from my Item Box, and filled it with the excess stock soup.
I then tuned its taste with a combination of soy sauce, mirin and vinegar.

When Kurana-san saw me add the ingredient in, she asked me a question.

“Ryouma-han, what is that?” [Kurana]

“Flavoring made with soy sauce, mirin, and stock soup. The taste changes according
to the ratio of the ingredients, so it’s best to make it according to one’s taste. If you
want, you can also add some ramon juice to give it a refreshing taste. It works well for
salads, meat, and fishes.” [Ryouma]

“To think there was something like that…” [Kurana]

Kurana-san stared at the vial for a bit, but then she quickly went back to the pork miso
soup.

After a while, the pork miso soup was done. Next, I should make the pork fried with
ginger.

I cut the meat into thin slices and fried it. At the same time, I grated the jija and mixed
it together with soy sauce and mirin to create a sauce.

I put that over fire and when its color changed, its fragrant smell filled me, causing me
to exclaim. Kurana and Miyabi were focused on the meat, but all that’s left now is to
mixed it with the sauce. And voila! The pork fried with ginger is done! Simple and
delicious.

There are various ways to make pork fried with ginger, some marinading the meat
with the sauce, but this is how I make it. As for why, that’s because in my previous life
I preferred food that were quick an delicious. Although, I suppose I can try my hand at
those other methods now, but let’s leave that for another time.
After that I cut the cabbage into fine thin strips and divided an oddly sized tomato –
bigger than a cherry tomato but smaller than a normal tomato – into four. Good. The
rice is also done, so…

When I approached the rice, I noticed a man with black hair at the corner of my vision.

“Pioro-san? Since when were you there?” [Ryouma]

Pioro-san walked out from the shadow of the kitchen’s entrance and revealed himself.
It was strangely awkward.

“Ah~ Forgive me~ The smell was so good I couldn’t help myself. Before I knew it, I was
already standing here.” [Pioro]

The smell of cooked rice and pork fried with ginger must’ve whet his appetite.

“Dad, it’s not good to sneak around. If you want to watch, just say so.” [Miyabi]

I ignored the scene of the daughter scolding her dad as I served four portions for
ourselves.

“All done.” [Ryouma]

“Really? Then, what are we waiting for? Let’s eat!” [Pioro]

Pioro called for the servants to bring the food to the table.

At the dining table…

“This is smash boar meat fried with jija. Please enjoy.” [Ryouma]

“It looks so delicious. Don’t mind if I dig in. Itadakimasu!” [Miyabi]

Miyabi-san started eating. She skillfully took a piece of meat with her chopsticks and
took a bite. In the next moment, her ears perked up and stretched themselves, then
she exclaimed.

“Delicious! It’s so delicious!” [Miyabi]

“Oh, my. You’re not kidding. It’s so good. I thought it would be delicious even while it
was still being cooked, but having a taste of the real thing, I have to say it’s even better
than I’d thought.” [Kurana]

“The fried jija is good, alright, but this soup is also something else. What do you call
this? Pork miso soup? It’s delicious. On top of that, it’s healthy too with all these
vegetables. If this dish were to gain popularity, soy sauce and miso will surely sell!”
[Pioro]

Looks like they like it. I’m glad they’re enjoying themselves. Pioro-san keeps looking at
it from a merchant’s perspective, but there’s no doubt that he genuinely enjoys it too.

While explaining the dish myself, I tasted the food I cooked and was filled with
satisfaction.

Pioro-san liked the pork fried with jija so much that he declared that he would have it
made available in the delicatessen starting this evening.

He sure works fast…

The next day.

After having breakfast, I went out the front door to go to the store, but then a carriage
stopped right in front of the Saionji Firm.

Hmm? Is that…

“Carla-san!” [Ryouma]

“Huh? Boss!” [Carla]

So, it really was her. She had her back on me and was giving orders to some people
that’s why she didn’t notice.

“So, you’ve arrived. It was a long trip, wasn’t it?” [Ryouma]

“Sorry to keep you waiting, Boss. Where’s the store?” [Carla]

“It’s across the street. That one.” [Ryouma]

I pointed at the store and gave orders to people I don’t know to bring the carriage to
the store. They must be the new recruits.

After that I took Carla-san and Caulkin-san’s group to greet Pioro-san, then we went
ahead and began preparations to open the store.

4 days later.

We took two days to decide the particulars of the store, then after checking everything
and making sure everyone knew their roles, we opened the store on the third day.

There are five new recruits for the branch store. They had a short course of training
previously, so they were able to work well. Of the five, one was the chef, and the
remaining 4 were the employees and bodyguards of the store.

As for why they’re also working as bodyguards, that’s because they’re former C Rank
adventurers. When I asked them why they would want to work at my store, they said
that they did just fine as adventurers, but when they were approaching their limits, a
monster appeared and cost them two of their friends.

At the time, they didn’t know a thing about the monster that appeared, and they could
do nothing more than run. The only reason they survived was because of luck and
because their dead comrades got the monster’s attention. Their two friends knew that
they couldn’t run anymore because of their injuries and that they wouldn’t last long
enough to reach town, so they used whatever remained of their lives to get the
monster’s attention.

When they managed to reach town, they immediately went to the guild and told them
about the monster. Fortunately, there was an A Rank party at the time, and the monster
was easily dealt with. When they went to see the monster and the place where it died
in order to sort out their feelings, they found out that it was a B Rank monster.

A monster that was so strong that they couldn’t do anything against it but run was just
one rank above theirs. To make things worse, there was a party that could easily hunt
said monster. After that they gave up trying to become B Rankers.

They could make enough money just working C Rank jobs, so they started saving up
and looked for another job where they could settle down. That’s when they found my
store.

They’re former C Rankers. They might not be a match for B Rank monsters, but they’re
more than strong enough to deal with some ruffians. As such, the guild master gave a
stamp approval, certifying that they’re suitable to bodyguards.

Knowing I’m an adventurer too, they gave me some advise, telling me to prioritize
safety above all. They’re definitely good guys. If it’s them, I’m sure they’ll be able to get
along with other people.

Speaking of which, a few days ago, when the store had just opened, Ken-san and the
others came. There were barely any customers just yet, so I gave them a short
explanation of the store, how it works, and asked them to become regulars, but… The
conversation very quickly turned to the smash boar. Their experience resonated with
the experience of my adventurer employees, so as a result, my employees ended up
giving them various advice and even told them their story of why they gave up being
adventurers. Actually, this was when I first learned about their story.

Anyway, with the store functional, there was no longer any reason for me to stay at
Renauph. As such, I decided to leave the store to Carla-san and go back to Gimuru.

Pioro-san, Carla-san, and the others saw me off.

“Ryouma, do your best. It’s a match from now on, you hear me? You have to keep building
more stores!” [Pioro]

“Be careful.” [Kurana]

“Boss, don’t worry. I’ll be sure to take good care of the store.” [Carla]

“We’ll do our best to learn store management as quickly as possible!” [Tony]

“Leave it to me. I won’t waste money like before anymore. Just you wait, I’ll show you
a store overflowing with money!!” [Caulkin]

“Boss, please take care of your body.” [Robelia]

“You take care too.” [Ryouma]

“Ryouma-han, be sure not to push yourself too hard, alright? I don’t know when we’ll
meet again, but please don’t die.” [Miyabi]

“But of course. I don’t plan on dying just yet.” [Ryouma]

There were still a lot of things left to do. My grandparents inheritance and research…
My slimes… My promise with Elia…

Oh, right. Miyabi did say she’s going to the academy. In that case, she might meet Elia.
Elia said she didn’t have any friends and Miyabi is going there with the sole intention
of making connections, so…

“Miyabi-san.” [Ryouma]

“What’s up?” [Miyabi]

“You’re going to the academy at the capital this year, right?” [Ryouma]

“That’s right. What about it?” [Miyabi]

“In that case, there’s something I’d like to ask you.” [Ryouma]

“Oh? What is it?” [Miyabi]

“There’s a girl who’ll be enrolling this year. Her name is Elialia. If you can, it would be
great if you could get along with her. She’s a good girl and she’s also a noble, so you’ll
be able to make one of your connections with her. Also, can you pass her a message
from me? Tell her ‘Good luck’.” [Ryouma]

“As long as that girl isn’t involved with some weird people, then sure.” [Miyabi]

“Thanks. I wish you well too.” [Ryouma]

“Of course. And you too.” [Miyabi]

I thanked everyone for sending me off, then I went back to Gimuru.

The next day.

After arriving at Gimuru around noontime, I decided to show my face at the store.

“Welcome back, Boss.”

“It’s been a while, Carm-san.”

After greeting each other, Carm-san gave me a report of the store’s recent activities.

“There have been no impediments to the store’s operation recently, but there was an
incident a few days ago.” [Carm]

“An incident? What happened?” [Ryouma]

“You know that charcoal you left in the kitchen? You said it had the ability to absorb
humidity from the air, so having it around could improve the air in the kitchen, right?”
[Carm]

“Yes, though the effects vary according to the amount and quality of the charcoal.”
[Ryouma]

“Actually, Fina-san and the others tried that charcoal thing out several times, but all of
the sudden, the charcoal disappeared. A charcoal thief had appeared and caused a
commotion for some time.” [Carm]

“A charcoal thief… Since you said ‘for some time’, I take it you’ve already dealt with it?”
[Ryouma]

“Yes. It turns out the culprits are none other than the cleaner slimes.” [Carm]

“The cleaner slimes?” [Ryouma]

Don’t tell me!

“It ate the charcoal?” [Ryouma]

“Yep. They ate all of the charcoal we left at the slime waiting room. And according to
Maria-san, those cleaner slimes stopped being able to eat the filth off the laundry. They
might have gotten sick.” [Carm]

“It’s probably something else. Anyway, can you show me those slimes?” [Ryouma]

“Of course.” [Carm]

Carm-san left the office. He’ll probably be back with the slimes very soon.

Charcoal-eating slimes… Charcoal, so carbon? Or maybe they’ll evolve into something

else again.

“Excuse me. I’ve brought Maria-san and the slimes.” [Carm]

“Hi, Boss~” [Maria]

While I was thinking to myself, Carm had already returned.

Behind him was a slightly uncomfortable Maria-san. The both of them each carried
several cleaner slimes in their arms.

“Please. Over here.” [Ryouma]

I listened to Maria’s story while observing the slimes. Apparently, when she told the
slimes ‘you can eat now’, the slimes that ate charcoal left.

“I hear they can’t eat anything else but charcoals.” [Ryouma]

“Hmm~ They prefer charcoals, so~ They’re really halfhearted when it comes to
laundry~ As a result, the other slimes ate their portion.” [Maria]

“I see.” [Ryouma]

The slimes can keep on working, but it’s not really necessary to make them work when
they don’t want to.
“The slimes aren’t sick. Most likely they’ve started to evolve. Upon evolution a slime’s
diet and abilities will change. Please leave these two slimes to me. If something like
this happens again in the future, please be sure to contact me. Depending on the
situation, they might end up damaging the laundry, so at that time, Carm-san, you
decide what to do.

Maria-san, I’ll leave the management of the next slimes to you. Should the laundry get
damaged, we’ll compensate the customers and quarantine the slimes.”

“I’ll do my best!” [Maria]

“I’m counting on you. Carm-san and I will help you too, so you don’t have to think that
hard about it… In fact, I even want to thank you.” [Ryouma]

A new slime being born makes me really happy. So happy that I don’t mind giving her
a gift of money for this. I’ll make a charcoal kiln as soon as i get back. While we were
talking, Maria finally became relieved.

After passing the contract of the two slimes to me, the slime incident was concluded.

I sent Maria-san back to work, and this time I gave Carm a report of my own.

“…The Renauph branch store was able to open without any problems. They’ll send us
a report regularly.” [Ryouma]

“It’s good to hear that everything went well.” [Carm]

“Yes. That’s it for the reports regarding the stores. But there’s actually a private matter
I need to report too.” [Ryouma]

I informed Carm that I won’t be able to come back to town for a while in order to get
my grandparents inheritance.

At first, he was just someone Serge-san introduced to me, but after everything we’ve
been through, he’s already someone that I trust.

“As such, I’m thinking of gradually increasing the number of adventurer jobs I take.”
[Ryouma]

“I see. So you’ll be going back to your original plans.” [Carm]

“Sorry for troubling you.” [Ryouma]

“It’s fine. Just leave the store to me. I’ll be sure to let you know when we need you.” [Carm]

Carm-san smiled with a face brimming with resolve.

With this I can leave the store to him.

“By the way, where is your hometown? I don’t think I’ve ever heard the name of your
village.” [Carm]

“Ever heard of the Great Shurus Forest? It’s inside— Why are you making that face?”
[Ryouma]

The moment I mentioned the name of the region, Carm made a face he’s never shown
before.

“*COUGH. Excuse me. I was just taken by surprise… I’m impressed you actually managed
to survive…”

That’s his reaction?

“I guess it really is a dangerous place.” [Ryouma]

“It’s a dense and giant forest with countless monsters living in it. If you go deep inside,
you’re bound to meet an A Rank monster. I’m told that if not for all the bases that have
been constructed there by people in the past, there wouldn’t even be a way to refill
one’s supplies. Just being able to get out of that place is a miracle.” [Carm]

“Ha ha ha… Well, to be honest, I want to get back through official channels, so I’ll have
to raise my adventurer rank first. I’l use that time to prepare myself sufficiently.”
[Ryouma]

“In that case, please be talk to Serge-sama. I’m sure he can help you with the supplies…
Moreover, the Morgan Firm has many branch stores, so I’m sure his help will be
invaluable.” [Carm]

It looked as if Carm was worrying whether to try and stop me or not, but in the end,
he just gave me some information and encouraged me.
 2

Afterwards…

I dropped by the Morgan Firm before going home, and it seemed to be more hectic
than normal. I was considering just dropping by another time, but then the clerk
greeted me and I was able to meet with Serge-san.

When I talked to him about my plans, he gave a similar reaction.

“So you were from the great forest… It must have been difficult for you.” [Serge]

“I was desperate to get out at the time, so I don’t really remember the details.” [Ryouma]

“I see. I suppose that makes sense. In any case, I’m not sure how to describe the place,
but it’s a harsh place that challenges the most tenacious adventurers. Or at least, that’s
what the adventurers say. It’s not a place someone like me could enter. Still, why all of
the sudden?” [Serge]

“A few days ago, I happened upon a monster similar to those of Shurus and was
remembered some things. Also, I hear there’s no more people left inthe village.”
[Ryouma]

“Considering where the village is situated, it’s possible…” [Serge]

“Another reason I’m going is to confirm it. It’s still some time way away before I
actually get to it, but I’ll be setting it as one of my goals as an adventurer.” [Ryouma]

“I see. You have my support, Ryouma-sama. If there’s anything you need, please drop
by our Morgan Firm.” [Serge]

“Thank you… By the way, is there something going on today?’ [Ryouma]

It really seems more hectic than usual.

I wonder if I came at a bad time.

“No. In fact, it was good that you dropped by today, as I’ll be going to the magic tools
fair in Kereban starting tomorrow. It’ll be a week long trip, so we’re preparing for the
trip.” [Serge]
“Magic tools fair? That sounds interesting.” [Ryouma]

“Are you interested?” [Serge]

Hmm? The color of his eyes changed. Are these… the eyes of an otaku?

“We haven’t had a lot of opportunities to talk, but… Could it be that this is something
you’re very fond of?” [Ryouma]

“As a matter of fact I am actually known as a collector among my contemporaries;

hence, my trip to the fair is half work and half hobby.” [Serge]

“I see. It does sound fun just taking a look around.” [Ryouma]

“Indeed. After all, even magic tools of the same kind differ from each other depending
on the artisan and workshop that made them. Moreover, the items that appear in the
fair aren’t your usual ones. The items that appear are either made by apprentices or
are one-of-a-kind items. Finding interesting things or finding people with a promising
future is also something worth looking forward to.” [Serge]

Serge-san’s eyes were on fire.

“I myself have tried to make a magic tool, but it really doesn’t work unless one is a proper
artisan.” [Serge]

“Serge-san, you can use enchantment magic?” [Ryouma]

“Oh, no. Not at all. My mana pool is so small, I can’t even use elemental magic. But some
magic tools can be made even without mana. Give me a second.” [Serge]

Having already entered his otaku mode, Serge-san left the room and came back with
a wooden box.

“Take a look.” [Serge]

Serge-san took out a cog from inside the box.

At first glance, nothing seemed strange about it, but…

“Ah, it turned.” [Ryouma]

When Serge-san allowed his mana to course through the gear, the gear started rotating
atop the desk.

“This gear has been enchanted with the neutral magic, Spin. As you can see, allowing
mana to course through it causes the gear to rotate. This is usually included in bigger
tools as a power source. Of the more popular ones that use it is the ‘Magic Automobile’.

So, literally a magical version of the automobile? I’ve never see one…

“Unfortunately, it’s not very practical. Although the magic automobile can move using
a person’s mana and magic stones, after adding the weight of one’s luggage on top of
the weight of the people riding inside and the frame of the magic automobile itself, it
ends up being a little slower than a horse. On top of that, it costs magic stones to run.
As such, it’s much more practical to just use a normal horse.

That being said, a huge race is held in the capital once a year for these magic
automobiles. In fact, I happen to have one myself as part of my hobbies.

He’s talking really calmly, but you can really feel the fire behind his words!

“Oh, dear. It seems we’ve gone off topic. Anyway, there are all sorts of types, but you
can use a magic tool procured externally to create a new magic tool without being able
to use mana at all. There are many artisans who specialize in this.” [Serge]

“I see. That’s really interesting.” [Ryouma]

“If you’d like, you can have this.” [Serge]

“Oh, I couldn’t possibly…” [Ryouma]

Serge handed the gear to Ryouma along with the box.

Naturally, Ryouma thought it would be shameless for him to just take it, but Serge-san
scratched his head and said:

“I bought it from last year’s fair, but I couldn’t figure out what to do with it…” [Serge]

Apparently he bought it because he liked it and because he wanted to invest in the

young apprentice that made it.
But the thing is that he didn’t actually need the gear.

It was just taking up space in his storage room, so in the end, I decided to accept his
goodwill.

“Thank you. Sorry to disturb you so suddenly. I even got a present…” [Ryouma]

“I should be saying that for pushing my dead inventory to you.” [Serge]

“If I ever think of an interesting tool, I’ll be sure to make it and show it you.” [Ryouma]

“Oh! I look forward to that.” [Serge]

Like that we parted with a smile on our face.

I feel like I got closer to Serge-san today.

Now then, I guess it’s about time I went back home and took care of the slimes.
“I’m home~” [Ryouma]

When I got back, all the rimel birds went out to greet me. The slimes were present too,
but they couldn’t say anything.

As I let out a lifeless voice in the mines, I fed the slimes and arranged my luggage.

“Next is…” [Ryouma]

In order to feed the charcoal-eating cleaner slimes, I started building a kiln for them.

“Here should be good…” [Ryouma]

The place I chose was the wall of rocks next to my house, in an area between a tunnel
entrance and the entrance.
I dug a hole right next to the existing tunnel, then gradually expanded it until it became
a room shaped like an ellipse.
It was good enough for me to just use Rock to supplement the room from time to time,
so it didn’t take that much effort to make.
By the time I was done, the room was high enough for a child to walk around and big
enough to accommodate one or two adults as a tent.

Next up are the slimes.

I called an earth slime and a huge scavenger slime. As the earth slime rode the huge
scavenger slime, the huge scavenger slime raised it up near the ceiling. When it was
near the ceiling, it caused a part of the ceiling to turn into sand and collapse. Like that
the slimes were able to gradually bore a hole through the ceiling.

“Good job!” [Ryouma]

After creating an entrance from the tunnel, we went a step further and created a path
leading to the tunnels above.
The slimes looked like they still had a lot of energy left, so I had them reinforce the
walls as they came back. With this the chimney was mostly completed, which meant
that the charcoal kiln was also mostly complete.

It was so easy that I couldn’t help but wonder to myself if it was really okay like this,
but the kiln works, so I guess that’s that.

There are other ways to make a kiln. There’s the traditional method which involves
digging a hole for the kiln, building a frame, stuffing it with wood, then burying it with
wood and dirt. There’s also the drum method which involves a drum and a fire. There’s
a lot of ways to make a kiln, but the key point is to prevent the heat from escaping and
to maintain the air to bake the wood.

In my case, I’m going to put a cover over the chimney to keep the heat from escaping.
As for the maintenance of the air, red soil kneaded with stone and water will do.

And that’s that for the kiln. Next, I’ll go and do some rounds around the mine.

This part of the mine hasn’t been reached by the management much, so the area
around my house is full of weeds. But when you think about how all these weeds can
be used for fuel, it’s not so bad. The weeds have grown high enough for me to be able
to hide in them, but if I trim them and place them under the sun, depending on the
weather, I could use them to get material I can easily start a fire with.

Of course, I could also use them to make charcoal.

I did my rounds around the mine while trimming the weeds, but then—

“PIRORORORORO!” [Rimel Bird]

“PIIPIRORORO!” [Rimel Bird]

“Hmm?” [Ryouma]

—I suddenly heard the cries of the rimel birds. When I looked up at the sky, my rimel
birds were flying together as usual, but something was different.

“A flock of birds?” [Ryouma]

The light in the backdrop made it hard to see clearly, but it seemed like there were a
lot of other small living creatures flying. The rimel birds surrounded them in the air.
They seemed to be using magic too, as the other flying creatures were… Ah.

“KUKEH! KUKEH! KUKEH!” [Ryouma]

When the movement of the other flying creatures were restricted, Eins let out a shrill
cry, and in the next moment, all of the other flying creatures fell at the same time.

“…So they were hunting.” [Ryouma]

They’re like a pod of dolphins hunting. Even though they’re supposed to be birds…
Surround the enemy, then use the nightmare bird’s special mind-type attack.
I don’t know if their targets all fainted or not, but they all fell into the ground as if
they’d lost control.
I saw some of the rimel birds eating some of those other flying creatures while still in
the air, though. Were they snitching food?

“I should take a look…” [Ryouma]

As I thought that, I went to the area near the top of the mountains were those things
fell.

“Found it. Hey!” [Ryouma]

“PIRO!” [Rimel Bird]
“PIRORO!” [Rimel Bird]
“Ah, never mind. Just eat.” [Ryouma]

My timing was a bit bad when I called out to the rimel birds, as a result, they ended up
replying while their beaks were still full, creating a rather splattery sight.

So, those other flying creatures were cave bats, huh.

“Where did you find these critters?” [Ryouma]

“…PIRO!!” [Rimel Bird]

When I asked that, one of the rimel birds took off and came back after chirping in front
of a tunnel. It seems they’re in that tunnel. It’s not to the same extent as before, but it
seems some monsters have made a home for themselves again after I left for a while.

“…PIRORORO?” [Rimel Bird]

“You don’t have to bring me any.” [Ryouma]

Does he think I want some because I was staring? Drei had brought one with him, but
I don’t really want to eat a bat. Still, if there are any leftovers, I’ll be sure to preserve
them. How much they want to eat, however, is completely up to them. It’s their kill.

It’s a load off my back if they’re hunting the bats, so I just wished them luck and left.

…Sure was a surprise to see the rimel birds hunting together, though…

In the past, whenever I saw them hunt, they hunted alone, so it’s a bit unexpected to
see them hunt together.

…Come to think of it, since they can use wind magic, I wonder if they can use Sound
Bomb if I teach it to them.

If they can, then that’ll make it even easier for them to hunt. I’ll try teaching them next
time.

The next day.

“Good morning.” [Ryouma]

“Oh, Ryouma-kun. Are you working here today?” [Maelyn]

When I dropped by the adventurers guild early in the morning, I happened into
Maelyn-san who was sticking some jobs onto the bulletin board.

“Yes. There’s not a lot of work to do at my store right now, so I’m thinking of going
back to my adventurer work.” [Ryouma]

“Oh! Really? That’s good to hear. What kind of job are you looking for?” [Maelyn]

“Actually, there’s something I need to deal with and was hoping to get some advice.”
[Ryouma]

“Don’t worry. Part of our duties is to support the adventurers. So if there’s something
you need to talk about, I’m all ears. I can’t promise I’ll be very helpful, though. It’ll
depend on the topic. Afterwards…” [Maelyn]

“Y-You can’t!” [Receptionist]

Hmm? The reception area is getting noisy.

“Oh… Excuse me.” [Maelyn]

“Can’t be helped,” Maelyn-san muttered as she approached the two men and the
unfamiliar receptionist girl.

“Hey, you two! Can you please not tease our receptionist so much?” [Maelyn]

“Oh, Maelyn-san.” [Male 1]

“Sorry. We might have been pushing it.” [Male 2]

The two men quickly apologized and left, and now the receptionist girl is apologizing
to Maelyn-san? Why?

While I was wondering what was going on, Maelyn-san called for me.

“Is something the matter?” [Ryouma]

“Let me introduce you. This girl here is Paena-chan. She just started last week.” [Maelyn]

“H-Hi. I’m Paena. I-It’s nice to meet you.” [Paena]

“Ryouma Takebayashi. It’s nice to meet you too.” [Ryouma]

“I think you get it already, but she’s a really shy kid, so it’s easy for young men to tease
her.” [Maelyn]

“Uu… I’m sorry.” [Paena]

Hmm… I guess she’s about the size of a high-school student? She looks human to me,
but her small stature gives her an aura that resembles that of a small animal. She
doesn’t stand out as much when lined up with Maelyn-san, but she’s good-looking and
she’s also unsophisticated. She’s the sort of person that’s easy to get involved with.
…Oops. I started going down the gloomy road there. Let’s change the topic.

“So, Maelyn-san, did you need me for something?” [Ryouma]

“As I’ve said before, it’s part of our job to hear out adventurers. So I was wondering if
you’d be okay having this girl hear you out instead. Of course, I’ll be present too of
course in case she needs help.” [Maelyn]

“Oh, that’s no problem at all. I’ll be in your care, Paena-san.” [Ryouma]

“Y-Yes! I’ll do my best!” [Paena]

After that I brought to another room.

It wasn’t particularly big, but there was a chair and a desk, so it was more than enough
for a little talk.

“Didn’t know there was a room like this here.” [Ryouma]

“It’s often used to guide neophyte adventurers and interrogate adventurers that have
committed a crime… Ah! Please. Take a seat. Also, tea…” [Paena]

“Oh, it’s alright.” [Ryouma]

“Sorry to keep you waiting. I’ve brought drinks. Now. Let’s start.” [Maelyn]

After finishing sticking the jobs on the bulletin board, Maelyn-san came back with
drinks for all three of us and urged us to start the counselling process.

“So, what did you want to seek advice about?” [Paena]

“It’s about my future activities as an adventurer. I’ve managed to set a goal for myself,
and although I’m only an E Rank right now, in the future, I should be able to rank up
to a C… So I was wondering if it would be possible to get a list of jobs related to the
monsters in this list that I could do while working toward my promotions.” [Ryouma]

“Can I see that?… Treant. Mad Salamander. Karifu Monkey…” [Paena]

When I handed her the list of monsters that could be found in the Great Shurus Forest,
she started comparing the monsters in it with those in her documents.
“…There are monsters here that are beyond an E Ranker’s jurisdiction.” [Paena]

“That’s alright. I’ll just take those on when I’ve been promoted. Still, it would be nice
if I could get some information on those monsters right now. I hear the guild also deals
with information on geography and monsters. Would it be possible for me to get such
information too?” [Ryouma]

“Absolutely! It would cost you money and several days’ worth of time if you’re looking
for much information, but it is definitely possible. How much information do you
need?” [Paena]

Let’s see… I’d like to at least know basic information of the monsters in the list, such
as their habitat and ecology.

The most-up-to-date information would be great, but I’m sure that’s impossible… Still,
there’s no point in knowing where the monsters have been spotted if a long time has
already passed. I think I’ll just ask them to provide whatever information they can.

“Also, if you can get the information on the Great Forest of Shurus and all of the
monsters living in it, that would be great too.” [Ryouma]

“Wait.” [Maelyn]

“Is something the matter?” [Ryouma]

“The Great Forest of Shurus… And this list of monsters… Are you planning on going
there?” [Maelyn]

“That’s my goal.” [Ryouma]

I gave her the same explanation I gave to Serge-san and the others.

“…And that’s the gist of it.” [Ryouma]

“…I see. Sorry for butting in. So long as you increase your rank and do the proper
preparations, the guild has no right to stop you. Continue.” [Maelyn]

“…This much information would take quite a while… Sorry, senpai.” [Paena]

“For the documents, the completed documents will require enough money to cover
the costs of the paper used, as well as the ink, and then there’s also the salary of the
people that worked on the documents. The scope of the information you’re looking for
is fairly expansive, so it’ll take more than two weeks but less than a month to gather
everything. In the worst case scenario, you’re looking at 10 small gold coins in
damages or in the best case scenario, just one small gold coin — Is what she should
have told you at a time like this.” [Maelyn]

“The costs won’t be an issue. I would rather not try to haggle with the price, only to
end up with insufficient information. I’ll pay as much as necessary, so long as you can
get me accurate information.” [Ryouma]

“The guild guarantees the accuracy of the data. After all, since it’s you we’re talking
about, I’m sure you’ll be able to pay… Well then, Paena-chan, can you please prepare
the contract and the blank form for the exchange. I’ve taught you the process, right?”
[Maelyn]

“Yes!” [Paena]

After she left the room, only Maelyn-san and I were left.

“I can’t believe you’re from that place.” [Maelyn]

“Are you familiar with the great forest?” [Ryouma]

“Hmm~… Only because of work. But I do know that it’s a dangerous place. But after
finding out where you’re from, it’s all starting to make sense.” [Maelyn]

“What do you mean?” [Ryouma]

“Your abilities are simply too great compared to normal children. Even back there at
the mines, you were put in a B Rank group, and you even fought hordes of goblins…
You don’t know about this, but you’re actually a rather popular topic among the
employees…” [Maelyn]

“R-Really?” [Ryouma]

T-They were talking about me? Scary…

“Ufufu… We weren’t talking about anything bad. It was all praises. Something along
the lines of how skilled you are or how you got rid of the work that have been piling
up in the dust.” [Maelyn]

“That’s fine then.” [Ryouma]

“Talking about skills, though… I guess if you were able to get out of that place alone…
If you were skilled enough to leave… I guess it’s only natural that you’d be strong, huh?
I hear the monsters there are on a completely different level. Even if two monsters are
the same type, their individual strength, the frequency of their attacks, and even the
likes of goblins are different when they’re at that place…” [Maelyn]

“Sorry to keep you waiting!” [Paena]

Paena-san is back. Did she forget something?… No. Just now she said ‘Sorry to keep
you waiting’…And she’s also handing a document…

“…Yup. Good job. This’ll work.” [Maelyn]

“Thank you very much! Umm… Please confirm the contents and sign here.” [Paena]

“Ah, sure…” [Ryouma]

…I don’t see anything wrong with the contents. The things I mentioned earlier have
also been included.

“Done.” [Ryouma]

“Thank you!… This is the proof of your exchange with the guild. You’ll need to
exchange it with the document when the time comes. Please don’t lose it.” [Paena]

“Understood. ‘Item Box’.” [Ryouma]

I doubt I’ll lose it if I store it in here.

“Umm… This settles this case, and uh… Next… Oh, what job will you be taking today?”
[Paena]

“Let’s see… I need to rank up. Do you know of any difficult jobs nearby? Preferably,
one that doesn’t take much time to do and something that could easily bring up my
rank.” [Ryouma]
“If you want a hard job, I think there should be a couple, but… Oh! Please wait a bit. I
have just the job for you.” [Paena]

Paena left like the wind and came back with a sheet of paper.

“Sorry to keep you waiting! Here it is. Umm… Just to confirm, that spell you used
earlier, that’s dimension magic, right? So you can use dimension magic, right? Because
if you can, this job might just be what you’re looking for.” [Paena]

“A transport job… The destination: Kereban. I know this place. I heard a magic tools fair
is meant to open in it soon. But… The fixed date is ‘as quickly as possible’?” [Ryouma]

“Umm… Apparently, after loading the transport carriage with the goods and sending
it on its way, the client forgot to load this one package… The client wants this delivered
on the afternoon of the day after tomorrow if possible, but you won’t have to take
responsibility even if you fail to make it. After all, the client was the one who made the
mistake. So long as you don’t lose it or break it along the way, the job won’t be marked
as ‘failed’.

If someone had noticed the package when the next transport was being loaded, we
wouldn’t be in this predicament…

So, anyway, I was thinking that since you can use dimension magic, you might be able
to make it in time… So… Umm… I’m so sorry…” [Paena]

“You don’t have to apologize! I won’t fail and you’re really doing a good job, so…”
[Ryouma]

She was frighteningly fast in preparing the documents and she even brought a suitable
job for me after seeing me using dimension magic nonchalantly… The documents were
also properly formatted even though she worked on them so fast. It can’t be helped if
she doesn’t fully understand the contents of the job, right? At first, I thought she was
a clumsy girl, but considering how it’s only been a week since she was recruited, isn’t
she actually really talented?

When I turned to Maelyn-san, she made a troubled face and nodded her head while
smiling.

“She can do her job well. It’s just that she’s really timid. That’s why I keep telling her
she should be more confident…” [Maelyn]
“Sorry…” [Paena]

What a difficult person…

But the job she recommended is pretty good, so I think I’ll take it.
2 days later.

“All clear.” [Guard]

“Thank you.” [Ryouma]

I was able to reach Kereban without any problems. Didn’t even get attacked by bandits
or anything.

“Would you happen to know where the Dinome Magic Tool Workshop is? It seems
that’s where I’m supposed to deliver the package.” [Ryouma]

“It should be in the eastern part. Go straight down this path, and on the 24th street…
Erm… Actually, the directions afterwards are a bit complicated. I don’t think you’ll get
it even if I tell you.” [Guard]

“I see. That’s alright. Thank you for telling me that much.” [Ryouma]

“Well, be careful. Ah, right. If you use the stagecoach over there, your trip should go
much faster.” [Guard]

I thanked the guard watching the gate and went to the stagecoach stop.

There was a stagecoach ready, but it had no curtains or seats. It was basically a giant
wagon.

There was only one person inside too: the driver.

This is the right place, right?

“Excuse me. How much would a trip to the 24th street cost?” [Ryouma]

“24th? 2 copper coins.” [Driver]

“Alright.” [Ryouma]

“Get on then. It’s about time to leave.” [Driver]

“Okay.” [Ryouma]

After confirming that I had entered the stagecoach, the driver whipped the horses and
set off.

“Can’t you sell this pot cheaper?” [Townswoman]

“Give me a break, lady!” [Townsman]

“Hey! Don’t you stray away!” [Townsman]

I watched the people in town as we passed them by.

It feels like there’s more people here than before, and the road is also that much more
congested.

“Where you from, boy?” [Driver]

“Gimuru.” [Ryouma]

“Not too far from here, eh? You sightseeing by yourself?” [Driver]

“I’m an adventurer, so there’s a job I need to complete first, but I might go sightseeing
afterwards. I hear there’s a fair that’s opening soon.” [Ryouma]

“Yeah. It opens tomorrow. This time it’s for magic tools.” [Driver]

“There are other fairs?” [Ryouma]

“What? Didn’t you come from Gimuru? I’m pretty sure the fairs are popular even there.
Actually, I’m pretty sure it’s popular all over the region. The fairs occur six times a year.
The main products vary each time, but each time it would be held in the center plaza
and stalls of all sorts would be seen here and there. It happens every year, so for us
who live here, we’ve already gotten used to it.” [Driver]

Six times a year? That would mean a fair every 2 months. No wonder they’re used to
it already.

“Our income gets a boost each time too, so it’s pretty nice. Hey, try to make yourselves
fit!” [Driver]

The stagecoach stopped and more customers got on. This town sure is quite dense
population-wise.

“Hmm?… Grab onto something tight! This is going to get rough!” [Driver]

At that, the customers grabbed onto the edge of the stagecoach. I imitated them and
held onto the edge as well, but what’s going? Is the road uneven or something?

As I was thinking that, a small cart passed slowly on the right side of the road up ahead.

“Stop taking you’re time!!”

“Walk faster, you old fart!”

An old man was pulling a cart with barrels piled atop of it, when a bunch of carriages
driven by youths overtook him one after another.

“Talk about dangerous…” [Driver]

The driver of the stagecoach knit his brows. Those young drivers certainly seemed
quite reckless with their overtaking, but at the same time, you can’t help but agree that
the old man was really going too slow. Either group could be seen as an obstacle
depending on the person. I wonder who the driver wasreferring to.

“You’re kidding…” [Fellow Passenger 1]

“Is she planning to ride?” [Fellow Passenger 2]

This time it was my fellow passengers who started making a fuss.

When I glanced at the next stop, I noticed a woman with the body of a sumo wrestler
standing by the stop.

“24th street… Whoops!?” [Sumo wrestler?]

“GUFU!?” [Ryouma]

She put too much strength when she tried to enter the stagecoach that she ended up
falling in.

“Sorry!” [Sumo wrestler?]

“It’s okay…” [Ryouma]

I told her that she just startled me and I wasn’t hurt or anything, but because of that
little incident, the woman ended up sitting beside me, and the already cramped
carriage became even more cramped.

“This is the place.” [Sumo wrestler?]

“Thank you!” [Ryouma]

“Don’t mention it. Good luck on your job.” [Sumo wrestler?]

I was able to get the woman who sat beside me to lead the way. Thanks to her I was
able to safely reach the ‘Dinome Magic Tools Workshop’.

If not for her, I might have gotten lost. I’m glad I asked for her help.

“Item Box” [Ryouma]

I took out the package and the job form.

“Welcome! Oh, what a cute customer we have here.” [Receptionist?]

When I passed through the door, a counter was there to greet me. Behind the counter
sat a woman with a nice body.

The store was pretty small, though. Kind of like those stores that also doubled as one’s
residence.

“Never seen you around here. Are you a messenger? If you need a lamp, we have some
over there.” [Receptionist?]
The woman pointed at the small magic tools lined up along the shelves.

I’m not one of her customers, though, so I told her that I’m an adventurer and that I’m
here to deliver a package.

“A package?” [Receptionist?]

“Yes. Could you please sign here.” [Ryouma]

“Wait. Dad!” [Receptionist?]

“I’ll be there! Give me a sec!” [Receptionist’s Dad]

A few minutes later, a bearded man appeared

“What’s up?” [Receptionist’s Dad]

“A delivery, apparently. It’s for you, so it’s be best that you receive it.” [Receptionist]

“A delivery?… Ah, a component. I thought it wouldn’t make it anymore… Here you go.”
[Receptionist’s Dad]

With the form signed, the job was complete. All that’s left is to report to the guild.

“Thank you. I’ll take my leave then…” [Ryouma]

“Wait. You came all the way from Gimuru, right? At least have a cup of tea first. Nothing
expensive, though. Hey, I’ll leave him to you.” [Receptionist’s Dad]

“Sure, sure.” [Receptionist]

After the bearded man said that, he went back inside. Meanwhile, the daughter was
already pouring a cup of tea.

…Well, might as well, I guess.

“Here.” [Receptionist]
“Thanks.” [Ryouma]

I took the tea and drank it at one corner of the counter.

Hmm…? This tea… It tastes like coffee.

“Well? Do you like it?” [Receptionist]

“Yeah. It tastes great.” [Ryouma]

“That’s good to hear. I was a little worried since it is rather odd for a tea.” [Receptionist]

“I’ve drank something like it before. Did you make it from roasted beans? Or maybe
from the root of a flower?” [Ryouma]

“Supposedly, it’s made from the root of a flower called Dante. I don’t know the details,
but it’s supposed to be good for your health.” [Receptionist]

I see. Dandelion (Dante) Coffee, huh. That sure brings me back… When I was still
employed at the company, I would aways find the time to drink it everyday.

“Where can I buy this?” [Ryouma]

“You like it that much?… An old man from a nearby florist always gives me some of it, but
it’s not an actual product and just something he came up with himself.” [Receptionist]

“I see. Thank you.” [Ryouma]

Since I know the name of the flower already, I can just make it myself. From my Earthly
knowledge, dandelion coffee is made by washing the roots with water, drying it, and
then roasting it… Doesn’t sound too hard.

“Thank you for the tea.” [Ryouma]

“Sorry it wasn’t much. Are you going already?” [Receptionist]

“Yeah. I need to find a place to stay at.” [Ryouma]

I thanked her and left the store.

But in the same moment I tried to turn the door knob, I felt it open from the other side.

“Oops.” [Ryouma]

“Oh, my bad—” [???]

When the door opened, the person on the other side and I tried to avoid each other, so
we stopped for a moment. But because of that we ended up realizing who the other
party was, causing us to be even more shocked.

“Ryouma-sama?” [Serge]

“Serge-san?” [Ryouma]

Standing before me was none other than Serge-san.

He called my name too, so it’s not just someone who looks like him.

“Good afternoon. What a strange coincidence. I did hear that you’d be going to the
magic tools fair, but…” [Ryouma]

“Indeed. Ryouma-sama, may I know what brought you here?” [Serge]

“I had a package to deliver. Adventurer work. It was urgent, so the decision was made
in haste.” [Ryouma]

“What a surprise… I’m currently going around greeting some people I know. This
workshop happens to be one of the workshops I’m friendly with.” [Serge]

“I had no idea.” [Ryouma]

“Master Serge! You’ve come at last.” [Receptionist’s Dad]

“Oh! Excuse me. Dinome-dono, it’s been too long.” [Serge]

“You exaggerate. It’s only been 2 or 3 months at most. You seem to be doing well,
though. By the way, would you happen to know this boy here?” [Dinome]

The bearded man appeared once again from inside the workshop, and after a short
exchange of greetings with Serge, looked at me with an odd gaze.
“My name is Ryouma Takebayashi. Serge-san is a benefactor of mine.” [Ryouma]

“Likewise… Dinome-done, Ryouma-sama might appear young, but he’s a person worth
having a good relationship with. He’s also interested in magic tools.” [Serge]

“Oh? You appraise him so highly? I’m Dinome. If you’re interested, you can take a look
if you want.” [Dinome]

“Would that be alright?” [Ryouma]

“I’m inviting you. It’s fine. Either way, I have something to show to Master Serge, so…”
[Dinome]

After saying that, he went in without bothering to hear my reply. Serge-san followed
from behind as if he were already used to it.

I bowed my head to his daughter and followed the two of them in.

“It’s here.” [Dinome]

“Ooh…” [Ryouma]

Beyond the door deeper inside was a room far bigger than anything one might have
imagined from the earlier room.

There were four boxes with wheels attached to them. Most probably the rumored
magic cars.

Various components and workbenches could also be seen in the corner of the room.
On the other side was a large door and a wide window that’s probably meant to allow
materials to be brought in and out of the room. The room was bright and open.

“Remember. No touching. Only looking.

Master, over here…” [Dinome]

I don’t really know where to go, though, so I think I’ll just follow Serge.

“Is this the newest model?… It hasn’t changed much.” [Serge]

“On the outside, perhaps, but on the inside… Not only is it more mobile now, it is also
much lighter. Unfortunately, the main problem remains unsolved.” [Dinome]

“Is it impossible to load anything onto it?” [Ryouma]

“It’s fine as long as it’s light, but any more than that and it’s no good. It’s a delicate
problem. And I can’t make the body any lighter without compromising the strength of
the body. I can’t sacrifice safety.” [Dinome]

“That is indeed the problem. Accidents happen even in races, after all.” [Serge]

This topic about magic car races would come out from time to time. Maybe they’re
planning to participate. I guess you could liken the relationship between Dinome-san
and Serge-san to that of a mechanic and a sponsor.

At first, I could still follow along, but as the conversation continued, the two maniacs
started drifting off into their own world.

I left when they started talking about the number of revolutions.

After that I looked around the workshop, but honestly I couldn’t really understand much
just by looking.

Just what are they making?

Hmm?

“This is rather… Normal.” [Ryoma]

Among the magic cars was something that resembled a normal carriage.

Well, the only real difference was that it could accommodate a horse in front and had a
seat for the driver. Maybe this one isn’t a magic car and is instead some other magic tool.

I was curious, so I went back to the two and waited for them to stop talking for a moment.

“Dinome-san. What magic tool is that one?” [Ryouma]

“That one? That’s just a normal carriage. A neighbor asked me to fix it.” [Dinome]
I could easily accept him repairing a normal carriage, but Serge-san, who knew him
longer, was confused.

“You accepting normal repair work? That’s rare.” [Serge]

“Yeah, well…” [Dinome]

While he was hesitating to talk about it, I asked Serge-san why it was so strange for him
to repair the carriage.

“He’s gotten a lot more mellow since his grandchild was born a few years ago, but he’s
someone who doesn’t work on anything other than magic tools. I thought for sure he’d
refer someone looking to repair a carriage to a shop that specialized in that.” [Serge]

“…Actually, I need money… For my grandchild.” [Dinome]

The bearded man seemed really embarrassed to say that. His face was beet red.

“Planning to buy him a gift? I can help.” [Serge]

As the air turned tepid, Serge-san came swinging with a proposal.

But the bearded man, Dinome, refused him.

“It’s not for a gift. It’s for tuition.” [Dinome]

“For the imperial capital’s academy?” [Serge]

“Yeah. Actually—” [Dinome]

This guy keeps acting like he doesn’t want to talk, but it’s clear as day that he’s dying to.

…Could he be?

“—My grandkid is a genius! He’s only four, you know? He frequently comes to listen to
us talk about work. And then my lowest ranking disciple started explaining to him like
a big brother. I was wondering to myself what an apprentice was talking all big for, but
then… Look at this!” [Dinome]

This guy’s gone full doting-grandpa-mode and he isn’t even bothering to hide his loose
face.

He opened a drawer from the workbench and brought back some cogwheels, then he
suddenly picked one from the bunch and allowed his mana to course through it.

“Oho?” [Serge]

The cog started spinning. It seemed to be the same kind of magic tool Serge-san
showed me a few days ago. But this one is a lot slower in comparison, and from time
to time, it would stop as if it were rusted then start moving again.

“Judging from the flow of the conversation, I take it this was made by your grandchild?”
[Ryouma]

“That’s exactly right, boy! Isn’t he amazing? We can’t sell this just yet, but my grandkid
who’s just 4 years old actually managed to make this.” [Dinome]

“He really learns fast.” [Ryouma]

“I know right! I think he might’ve picked up something because I sometimes worked

while carrying him on my back… It’s really shocking, isn’t it?” [Dinome]

“What an enviable kid. I can’t even use enchant magic.” [Ryouma]

When it comes to people like this, it’s best not to contest them and just agree with
whatever they say.

That’s something I learned from my past life. As such, I ended up listening to the guy
as he boasted about his grandchild.
“Good job.” [Serge]

“You too.” [Ryouma]

After accompanying Dinome-san in his boasting about his grandchild, Serge-san and I
walked around town.

Thanks to Serge-san skillfully changing the topic, the sun was still high up when we left.

“Still, he was really taken by you. Spectacular performance, Ryouma-sama.” [Serge]

“Oh, no. All I really did was to avoid making the situation any worse. It was your ability
that got us out of trouble.” [Ryouma]

What is with this villainous-sounding exchange?

“By the way, what are you going to do with that?” [Serge]

“What indeed…” [Ryouma]

Within my hand was a small box that contained a gear. Dinome-san calls it ‘the early
work of a future famous magic tools artisan’…I wonder if it’ll ever have value.

“So how talented is his grandchild?” [Ryouma]

“Hmm… From time to time, there are cases when a young child imitates his parents
and ends up learning a spell. It’s rare, so it could certainly be a sign of talent, but
whether that talent will continue to bloom in the future is another story…” [Serge]

“Figures…” [Ryouma]

“Dinome-dono is a lot mellower now, but in the past, he was a really difficult person.
Although it was only really because of how much responsibility he felt for his work.
He was also really strict on his disciples. So, even if he might be a little biased over his
grandchild, if he thinks the child has potential, then that’s one more thing to look
forward to.” [Serge]

I hope those expectations don’t bear too heavily on Dinome-san’s grandchild, though.

“By the way, I’ve been meaning to ask this since a while ago, but where are your guards?
Isn’t it dangerous for you to be walking around? This town’s public order is pretty bad.”
[Ryouma]

The president of a company should have at least one bodyguard with him, but I don’t
see even a single one with him.

It doesn’t seem like they’re just hiding either.

“I’ve stayed at this town countless times already. There’s no real threat until the sun
sets. And with the fair opening soon, security in town is tighter than usual. It should
be fine as long as it’s a place with many people. If I do find myself victim to a pickpocket
or a thief, well, that’s just because I wasn’t paying enough attention.

Besides, some of the people I need to greet don’t like it when I bring people over. And…
It’s not like I’m completely defenseless.” [Serge]

As he said that, he knocked against the buckle of his belt. At first glance, the belt seemed
no different than your usual belt, but…

“Is that a magic tool?” [Ryouma]

“That it is. One of my collections. When fed mana, it can erect a defensive magic barrier.
And this bracelet of mine is a magic tool that can conjure a smoke screen. Given these
two magic tools, I can hide myself and gather people’s attention. People will think
there’s a fire, so they’re bound to gathere. I may not be able to fight, but when it comes
to protecting myself, I am more than prepared.” [Serge]

I see. My worries were unneeded.

“What will you be doing now, Ryouma-sama?” [Serge]

“I need to find a place to spend the night. I’m here already, after all, so I figured I might
as well look around first tomorrow before going back.” [Ryouma]
“In that case, allow me to introduce you to the inn I’m staying at. It’s inexpensive and
right in front of the main road, providing easy access to the stagecoaches.” [Serge]

Thanks to Serge-san’s assistance, I was able to find an inn quickly.

Serge-san still had people to greet, so we parted ways and I went to the inn.

But before parting we promised to have supper and go through the fair together.

30 minutes later.

I managed to find an inn, but now I have nothing to do.

Nothing was in need of urgent attention, the magic tools fair was tomorrow, supper
wasn’t until Serge-san returned, and the slimes have all been fed already; hence, there
was nothing to do.

It would be a pain if I went out and happened into Serge-san again, so…

You know, at times like this, I really can’t help but realize just how useful phones were.
I wish we had a magic tool like that.

Hmm… Magic tool. Speaking of which, since there’s nothing else to do, why don’t I try
my hand at making one?

That spinning gear that I got before is still in my Item Box and I do have some iron in
my Dimension Home. If I use my alchemy with it, I should be able to change it into
various things. I don’t know if I can make something with just those, but if possible I’d
like to make something that I can use in my day-to-day life.

When I started thinking of a magic tool that fulfilled those conditions, it suddenly
occurred to me.

“…Huh? There’s actually quite a lot, aren’t there?” [Ryouma]

Electric fan, ventilation fan, electric drill, a lawn mower that uses a rotating blade…

Rotating shafts can be found in wheels and carriages, which fall under my knowledge
in woodwork [1], so I think I can just reuse those. The next question would be whether
I can gather the necessary parts or not, and then… I wonder if I can somehow
incorporate gears into it? The gears just rotate using mana, so they might actually be
quite simple to make.

Hmm. I’ll think about it as I make it.

Like that I went to work.

“Ryouma-sama, are you here?” [Serge]

“Huh?” [Ryouma]

Oh no! I lost track of time again!

Serge-san’s back already.

“Welcome back, Serge-san. Supper, right? I’ll be right there in a jiffy. Just give me a sec.
I’ll just clean my room real quick.” [Ryouma]

I didn’t want to keep him waiting, so I just threw all my stuff in my Item Box.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.” [Ryouma]

“Let us be off then.” [Serge]

The place Serge-san brought me too was a Japanese-bar-like store frequented by

muscular men. Most of the customers seemed to be laborers considering how strong
bodied they were. Serge-san was the one choosing the place, so I thought for sure he’d
take me to a luxurious store, so I was really surprised to see a low-class store. But then
again… He might be just trying to be considerate.

“The meat here really fills you up. It goes well with liquor, so I always end up eating
too much whenever I come here…” [Serge]

“Oh, Serge-san! Will you be in your usual seat?” [Female Waiter]

The waiter here remembers Serge-san by face and name. It seems he’s a regular here.

“Yes.” [Serge]

“Alrighty then. Oh, what a cute child. Are you together with him? Is he your son?” [Female
Waiter]

“Excuse me!?” [Ryouma]

“He’s… a customer.” [Serge]

I know I look young, but having it thrown at my face like that really leaves one speechless.

Even Serge-san is making a funny face.

“Please follow me to the second floor then.” [Female Waiter]

We followed the waiter up the stairs.

“? Oh.”

When the door was opened, a refreshing wind blew past me. There were no walls nor
windows in the second floor, only a roof and some columns to support it, leaving the
city in full view. People could be seen below going to and fro the streets under the
illumination of the lightings of the nearby buildings.

The place was like a beer garden with how noisy it was, but the tables were separated
by a partition woven out of hide, so there was also a hint of calmness mixed into it.

“Can I take your order?” [Female Waiter]

“Two sets of the usual please. But before you serve it, I’d like to have a drink first. What
wine do you have today?” [Serge]

“You’re in luck, Serge-san. The head chef managed to snag some higher quality ale
today.” [Female Waiter]

“Then give me some snacks and a beer mug full of ale. How about you, Ryouma-sama?”
[Serge]
“I’ll have the same.” [Ryouma]

“Ale then. I suppose you’ll be having that in a… glass?” [Female Waiter]

“A beer mug will do. Don’t worry. This body has been blessed by Tekun-sama.” [Ryouma]

“In that case, the first drink will be on the house.” [Female Waiter]

I showed my status board as proof (just the part with the God of Wine’s Blessing), and
the waiter suddenly said that.

“…Is that okay?” [Ryouma]

I was just planning to use my status board like a license or ID, but for some reason, it
got turned into a coupon instead. I’m not sure how to describe what I’m feeling, but I
hope this is alright.

“For someone blessed by the God of Wine to visit our store on the very same day that
our head chef just so happened to snag some good ale, this is clearly the God of Wine’s
will!” [Female Waiter]

“The quality of wine affects the sales of restaurants, so there are many of them that
are superstitious.” [Serge]

“…In that case, I shall gratefully accept.” [Ryouma]

“Alrighty then! Please wait a moment.” [Female Waiter]

I accepted the offer and sent the waiter on her way. I’ll just pay if something happens.

“What a beautiful view.” [Ryouma]

“This view is the town’s life itself.” [Serge]

“But despite all this hustle and bustle, you can still see the stars so clearly. Maybe it’s
because one of the lights is weak that it’s able to naturally blend in with the artificial
lights.” [Ryouma]

“Sorry to keep you waiting! Here are your ale and snacks.” [Female Waiter]
“That’s fast.” [Ryouma]

“This restaurant serves ale and snacks really quickly.” [Serge]

“People ask for them all the time, after all! So, go ahead and drink as much as you want!
We’ll serve them in a jiffy.” [Female Waiter]

It seems this store is making quite a bit.

“Ryouma-sama, would you honer me a toast?” [Serge]

“Of course.” [Ryouma]

“Cheers!” [Ryouma and Serge]

We knocked our beer mugs against each other and drank from our respective mugs.

“Mmm!” [Ryouma]

As soon as the ale entered my mouth, its delightful fragrance filled me. It was sweet
like fruit, but there was some herb mixed in as well. Bubbles welled up around my
mouth as the ale slid down my tongue and into my throat. With barely any bitterness
or strength to the liquor, I allowed the ale to keep on pouring.

“…PUHA! That’s really good!” [Ryouma]

“You said it! It goes great with the snacks too… Yes. Very delicious.” [Serge]
The ale was accompanied with salted nuts. Probably lightly roasted as well, as they
emanated a faint aroma.

The sweetness of the ale coupled with the aroma and saltiness of the nuts was truly a
match made in heaven.

“What a perfect combination to let loose after work.” [Ryouma]

“Oh, we’re just getting started, Ryouma-sama. Wait till you have a taste of their meat.”
[Serge]

I’m looking forward to it. Hopefully, I don’t drink myself full before the meat arrives.

“Fuu… By the way, were those magic tools in your room earlier?” [Serge]

“You saw? How embarrassing. After our trip to Dinome’s Workshop, I couldn’t help
but try my hand at it as well.” [Ryouma]

“Oh! So, they really were magic tools. What kind of magic tool did you come up with?”
[Serge]

It’s not a secret or anything, so I decided to show him the smaller ones of the tools I
made.

“What do you think?” [Ryouma]

“…I say, Ryouma-sama, your imagination is truly unique. I’ve always felt that about
you.” [Serge]

“What do you mean?” [Ryouma]

“For example, this ‘electric fan’ and ‘ventilation fan’ of yours. Both magic tools are
meant to move wind, yes? Ventilation magic tools aren’t rare, but it’s very rare to see
something that incorporates the rotation of a blade like yours does.

After all, if all one wants to do is to move wind, then enchanting a tool with wind magic
would more than solve the problem. That’s common sense among magic tool artisans.
In doing so, not only do you save on the costs of making a blade, you also make it easier
to mass produce your tool. Of course, there are also those who try to prioritize user-
friendliness, but they’re a minority.” [Serge]
Huh. I guess that was the cheaper way to do it.

“This way of doing things is somewhat similar to the magic car though.” [Ryouma]

“I agree. In the first place, magic cars were first invented based on a memo found in-
between the pages of an important historical book. That memo contained ideas for
several magic tools, but didn’t include any details. Fortunately, we were able to make
some of them a reality.

For example, the ‘heater’ magic tool, which raises the temperature within a room, or
the ‘air conditioner’ magic tool, which does the opposite. There’s also the ‘cooler box’
which cools food and keeps them fresh.

Although these magic tools all function differently, they follow a similar philosophy to
yours, Ryouma-sama. A philosophy most similar to the person who wrote that memo…”
[Serge]

…Based on that naming-sense, I’m guessing that person is an otherworlder like myself.

Of course, I can’t tell him that, so I just nodded and did my best not to let anything slip.

“Well, I didn’t really think I would be able to make something good right at the start.”
[Ryouma]

“Oh, actually. This one is pretty good.” [Serge]

“Huh? This one?” [Ryouma]

Serge-san pointed at one of the magic tools I laid out on the table. It was a misshapen
music box that looked like a toilet paper holder with a small comb attached to it and
an uneven surface.

When mana is coursed through it, the gears within turn, and a children’s song can be
heard playing from the uneven surface. But the melody played is nothing more than a
simple tune that can be played with one finger on a piano.

“You sure about that?” [Ryouma]

“Of course. I’ve seen many magic tools as a collector, but a magic tool that can play
music on its own is really interesting. It may not be very useful, but as a toy, I believe
it has more than enough value. There are many nobles that fancy toys like these. If you
take better care of the design, I’m sure it’ll sell.” [Serge]

When Serge-san started talking in hushed voices, I knew for sure that he was serious.

The music box was invented around the middle ages in Earth’s Europe. But the
prototype, Carillon (a church bell meant to inform people of the time[1]), existed long
before that. At least, that’s what I recall from one of my classes in college.

Anyway, they took that prototype, made it automatic and outfitted it with a clock—

—Wait. Didn’t the Jamil Household give me a magic tool clock? If I recall correctly, it’s
supposedly so complicated that there was nothing else like it.[2]

“Are there really no magic tools like this that make sounds? Like for example, the bell
church. I hear it a lot, and it would be a huge hassle if it was late for even a moment,
so maybe something like this is used there?” [Ryouma]

“…Nothing really comes to mind. Magic tool alarms that use a whistle are a thing, but
a magic tool that gives a musical performance on its own aren’t. Normally, commoners
would invite a travelling entertainer or a troubadour, while nobles would invite a
musician if they wanted to listen to music.

The church bell is tended to by the friars and the nuns. It’s a systematic part of their lives,
so there’s no magic tool to substitute for them. I haven’t really looked into it, though.”
[Serge]

So, I guess they don’t have any recording technology? In that case, maybe a gramophone
or a recorder would gather attention. I don’t need to think about that now, but I do
understand that the music box is surprisingly valued in this world.

“It seems you weren’t planning on selling it, but I think it would be a waste to just leave
it to dust.” [Serge]

“…If I were planning on selling it, how would that work? I can’t exactly mass produce
it by myself.” [Ryouma]

“Well, we…” [Serge]

“Sorry to keep you waiting! Here’s the store’s special steak, Herb Pork.” [Female Waiter]
Oh, the food is here.

The fragrant aroma of the pork and the herb emanating from the steam really whets
one’s appetite.

“Let’s continue this topic after the meal.” [Ryouma]

“Of course. More ale please.” [Serge]

As Serge-san ordered more ale, I quickly cleaned up my stuff on the table.

After supper, I went back to the inn in a good mood.

I gave the slimes the ale that I’d brought back, then Serge-san and I continued our
conversation from earlier.

“Commissioning the music box would be best.” [Serge]

“I suppose that really would be the best way to go about it, isn’t it?” [Ryouma]

I can’t produce enough on my own and I don’t have any technical knowledge either.
But then it begs the question, to whom should I commission it to? Serge-san and the
Morgan Firm can take care of the sales, but what about the craftsman?

“I know many people we can ask, but for starters, how about trying Dinome-dono
first? His skills are guaranteed and because of his work in the development of magic
cars, he has some knowledge in magic tools like your music box. He also likes new
things and he’s already met you before, so he should be much easier to deal with.”
[Serge]

“But won’t it put too much burden on him?” [Ryouma]

“That would depend on how he goes about it, but I think it will be fine since he has
three disciples under him. Moreover, your music box is really simple such that even
someone like me could understand it, so I think there will be a lot of imitations once
we introduce it to the market.
We can incorporate some countermeasures for that and patent the music box, but…
Wait. I’ve already talked to you about this before with the water proof cloth, haven’t I?”
[Serge]

“Yes.” [Ryouma]

Although he did give me an explanation about patents, it wasn’t really any different
from Earth’s.
An application is submitted to the merchants guild, then once the guild has certified
it, they will crack down on anyone who infringes upon the patent. But to that end, it
will be necessary to reveal the materials and technique used to the entire artisan guild.
Supervising the patent would be difficult without this step, so it’s not possible to
refuse this step. Also, once the patent has been passed, anyone can then pay a fee to
be able to use the technique or technology used legally.

But of course, it’s up to the rightful claimant whether to reveal his product to the
public via a patent or keep it a secret. In the case of the waterproof cloth, I chose not
to publicize the method since I could easily sell it through Serge-san. And in the case
that people found out how to make it, well, that wouldn’t be too bad either since it
would shed some light on the usefulness of the slimes.

“Should the music box sell well, I’m sure other people will start to make a move. But if
we turn to Dinome-san, we will most likely be able to limit the possibility of being
flooded with orders.” [Ryouma]

“Exactly.” [Serge]

Serge-san wants to patent the music box, but…

“Is there something worrying you?” [Serge]

“I have to register at the artisans guild before being able to file a patent, right?” [Ryouma]

“Yes. That is correct.” [Serge]

“Although the only reason I will be registering to the guild is to allow me to apply for
a patent, I am currently registered at the tamers guild, something I’m sure you’re well
aware of. As such, even if I register, I won’t be able to accept any work. I don’t think it’s
very nice for a person to be affiliated with an organization and not work…” [Ryouma]

The rimel birds can deliver letters, but there are experts that do the same job. And as
for the slimes, well… nothing more needs to be said, really. Branch Head Taylor is very
kind to me, but that just makes the guilt of not working even worse.

That’s why I want to work at least a little if I’m going to register myself, but frankly, I
have my hands full just with the adventurers guild and the store already. I could
probably get something done if I were to push myself, but the duke’s household told
me not to push myself, so…
…I can’t believe I’m actually thinking like this.

Back in my previous life, I would just go “I can do it if I push myself a little? Then let’s get
to it!”

I wonder if this is what it means to grow up.

“I know. Since I’m going to be commissioning the music box to another person anyway,
maybe I can just ask that person to submit the application in stead?” [Ryouma]

“That’s… possible, but… UMUMU…” [Serge]

Serge-san suddenly held his head and appeared troubled.

“Anyone can serve as the applicant, but Dinome-dono… That man would surely say,
‘You think I can just claim someone else’s work!?’ and refuse.” [Serge]

So, it’s pride.

“Also, if someone else applies for the patent, then the holder of the patent won’t be you
anymore, Ryouma-sama. In the worst case, he might take the profits for himself. What
do you think about that?” [Serge]

“It would depend on the circumstances, but…” [Ryouma]

When you think about it, I don’t really have any right to the profits either. If anyone
did have a right to it, it would be a person from a long long time ago. All I really did
was imitate what he did and make it here. It just so happens that there’s no one to
rebuke me for what I’ve done. A stroke of luck that happened to fall right into my lap
without doing anything. A windfall even greater than that of the cleaner slimes.

As such, I’m not really that attached to the proceeds made from the music box. But at
the same time, I also don’t have the pride or sense of justice to straight-up refuse any
money made from it. In short, I’ll take what I can, and if there’s no income, then there’s
none. I feel bad for Serge-san, but this is how I personally view things.

Hence, my response to Serge-san was…

“Regardless of who we partner with in the end, I don’t really plan on asking for a huge
cut. If the person we’re working with is a magic tools craftsman, then I’m sure he will
have some things that I will be needing as an adventurer; hence as compensation, it
would be enough if I could consult with him and get some preferential treatment.

I have no intentions of making things difficult over trivial matters, but if say… said
partner is somewhat lacking in manners, then… I still have an idea up my sleeves.”
[Ryouma]

“…I take it this is not just a music box with a different melody?” [Serge]

“Of course not. And I haven’t made a prototype yet either, but if it works, then it will
eclipse the music box. So much so that the music box’s value plummet.” [Ryouma]

Serge-san placed his chin over his hand and became thoughtful.

The gramophone and recorder that I thought of back at the store are both things that
were developed after the music box. It is also said that they replaced the music box
afterwards. If I could make them in this world, then…

“…So what you’re saying is that even if the rights to the music box is taken, you have a
plan to crush them.” [Serge]

“It’s just a possibility.” [Ryouma]

The gramophone had a build kit for children included with a magazine in my previous
life and I do know how it works to some extent. It shouldn’t be an issue making it with
magic. The problem is the recorder. I’m not really sure how far I can go with that one.
It’s a bit vague, so I can’t guarantee I can make something that will become popular in
society.

“And in the case that my new product can’t compete with the music box, we’ll just have
to owe it to my lack of foresight, knowledge, and ability. But that’s a story for then.”
[Ryouma]

In other words, there’s no telling what will happen unless we get to it.

When Serge-san heard that, he sighed.

“I understand. We’ll go in that direction then.” [Serge]

“Are you sure?” [Ryouma]

“Yes. I’m a bit surprised, though.” [Serge]

…What?

Serge-san laughed when he saw me confused.

“Although I’m surprised to hear that you have an idea for a product that’s better than
the music box, I was even more surprised to hear you suggest to use that to steal
someone’s customers. I thought for sure you would choose a more pacifistic route and
try to talk things through.” [Serge]

“I do prefer that, in fact, but there are times when you need to do things the hard way.
Like when attacked, for example. Although, I do admit that I’m usually the easygoing
sort.” [Ryouma]

“Although this would mean I’m yet inexperienced myself, this also means that I’ve
misread you, Ryouma-sama. What an interesting turn of events.” [Serge]

“What are you talking about?” [Ryouma]

“Fu fu fu… My expectations for you have just gotten even higher.” [Serge]

Was there a factor like that? Or is he just drunk?

Since we were already done talking and I was starting to worry for Serge-san, I decided
to end the day.

I saw Serge-san to his room, then after confirming our promise tomorrow, went back
to my own.

The next day.

After leisurely eating breakfast, Serge-san and I went to town. The main street was
even livelier today than it was yesterday. Crowds of people would pass to and fro the
already narrow street, and it was not until after much effort that the stagecoach was
able to reach the central plaza.

“So this is the fair. Fuu…” [Ryouma]

Many tents were lined up in the plaza and carriages were forbidden inside. Luggages
had to be brought from the carriages via wagons, and the pedestrians were free to
walk around.

“The master over there! How about giving our store goods a look!” [Clerk 1]

“Young master, we have some interesting toys here!” [Clerk 2]

“New magic tool designs from the capital here! Our products are cutting edge!” [Clerk 3]

“…There’s so many people calling out, I don’t know where to go. So, what’s the plan?”
[Ryouma]

“Actually, I also just drop by any store I find interesting. Ryouma-sama, don’t you have
something you’re looking for?” [Serge]

“Hmm… Well, I was thinking of building a kitchen in my house, so something that

would be useful for that would be nice. Also, something useful for the maintenance of
the mines or something that would prove useful in my travels.” [Ryouma]

“Then let’s go around and look for those.” [Serge]

And so, we roamed around the tents.

“This one is all farming tools.” [Ryouma]

“Yes. Most of them are farming tools enchanted with physical strengthening magic.
These tools can make one’s life much easier at the cost of mana. There’s a high demand
for these.” [Serge]

“Oh?… I think I can use these in the maintenance of the mines.” [Ryouma]

“Welcome. What would you like to purchase?” [Clerk]

“Do you have a lumbering axe and a sickle for mowing?” [Ryouma]

“We have several axes here, but for the sickle, we only have this one.” [Clerk]

“That’s a scythe.” [Ryouma]

“The small ones are easy enough to use without enchantment, so we’ve already sold
out our stock.” [Clerk]

…Well, it’s not that bad. I mean with a bigger sickle, I can cut more at a time. I just have
to get used to it.

“Fine. I’ll take that scythe along with that axe, and then that… Pitch fork.” [Ryouma]

“Would you prefer the tools that consume magic stones or the ones that consume one’s
own mana?” [Clerk]

“The latter, please.” [Ryouma]

“That’ll be 29,000 suits all in all.” [Clerk]

“Do you have change?” [Ryouma]

“Of course. Please come again.” [Clerk]

I paid three small gold coins and got back a medium silver coin.

I stored my purchased items into my Item Box and proceeded to the next store.

“What are these?” [Ryouma]

Before me were some mysterious products lined up.

“Hmm… This seems to be a store aimed at traders. This magic tool, for example, is
meant to be used for things related to construction.” [Serge]

A metal rod with seven round bumps equally spaced. How do you use this?

“These round bumps have been imbued with varying strengths of the earth magic,
‘Break Rock’. If you use this rod on a stone wall or anything made out of stone, you will
be able to measure how resistant the wall or object is toward earth magic. This is
useful even if the target has been painted with earth-magic-resistant paint, as the
effect of such paint declines over time.” [Serge]

“Huh. So, tools like this are a thing too.” [Ryouma]

“Incidentally, the building stones you sold me were rated quite favorably by this tool.”
[Serge]

“Somehow, it feels like that was ages ago.” [Ryouma]

“It hasn’t even been a year, though— MU?” [Serge]

“What happened?” [Ryouma]

“A store caught my eye.” [Serge]

I followed after, and Serge-san stooped over a corner of the plaza, where several products
were laid over a carpet.

“Mind if I take a look?” [Serge]

“P-Please go ahead!” [Clerk]

The young man looked really nervous, but Serge-san just seriously examined the
products.

“This millstone… Has this been enchanted with Spin?” [Serge]

“Yes! In fact, all of the products here have!” [Clerk]

“If you don’t mind me asking, what workshop are you affiliated with.” [Sereg]

“I’m… not presently…” [Clerk]

Serge-san smiled when he heard that, and after purchasing the small millstone,
handed the man a letter. When the man saw that, he bowed his head deeply and saw
us off as we left his store.

“Serge-san, isn’t that heavy? I can store it in my Item Box for you.” [Ryouma]

“Thank you.” [Serge]

“No problem. By the way, what was that just now?” [Ryouma]

“That man didn’t have a tent, right? Well, those tents are actually loaned by the steering
committee to stores and workshops that have applied for a position. So if someone is
without a tent, that means they’re here alone. This is usually taken to mean that they
are currently looking for an employer or somewhere to hone their skills.

In his case, he was probably chased out of his workshop. His skills are still somewhat
lacking, but the rotation of this millstone is something. He seems like a serious kid, so
I though if he had a place to hone his skills, he might be able to develop himself
further.” [Serge]

So, he saw a promising individual? In that case, that paper must be a letter of introduction.

“Exactly. It’s addressed to Dinome Workshop.” [Serge]

“…You hope to use him to speed up your magic car?” [Ryouma]

“Hopefully, in the future, he’ll be able to do just that.” [Serge]

It’ll be some time before his investment bears fruit, but Serge-san sure doesn’t let an
opportunity pass.

We chatted while continuing to walk around the fair.

“The adventure over there! Look! This quiver might look like just any other quiver, but
with the enchantment of the Item Box spell, it can store up to 300 arrows! With this
quiver you’ll never have to worry about running out of arrows again! What was that?
300 arrows isn’t enough? If you can’t finish a hunt with 300 arrows, then you should
stop give up the arrow!” [Merchant]

A merchant was enacting a short play to attract customers.

“How much for the quiver?” [Male Adventurer]

“You can get it for just… 20,000 suits!” [Merchant]

As soon as the merchant said that, the customers distanced themselves.

“It seems 20,000 suits is too expensive… Is it?” [Ryouma]

“It’s not overpriced. Crafting a magic tool requires an artisan to know enchantment
magic as well as the spell he wishes to imbue his tool with. In other words, it’s not
possible to enchant a tool with a spell one doesn’t know of. And with dimension magic
being one of the hardest disciplines, there aren’t many magic tool artisans out there
that can enchant a tool with a spell of its type; hence, the price tag.

But that quiver and the farming tools you bought just a while ago are meant to be used
for several years. So, while they might seem expensive at first, they are more than
worth it considering how long they last.” [Serge]

I see.

“The young master over there. Are you interested in magic? Why don’t you take a look
at my selection?” [Merchant]

“What are those?” [Ryouma]

At the store of the man that called out was a pile of metal rods and books bound together
with a string.

“Teaching materials for magic. The books can give information on theory, while the
magic tool can invoke said magic and allow the student to have a better grasp of the
image needed. But, these aren’t published by the magicians guild.” [Serge]

“I assure you that these are not illegal goods.” [Merchant]

“I know perfectly well that it is legal to produce one’s own instructional sets and sell
them, but without the certification of the guild, there is no knowing whether the
instructional materials provided can be trusted. Even if the spell is the same, there’s
no way to know whether the example provided by the magic tool and interpretation
are correct. Unless of course you’re willing to let us test the tool and read the book
first.” [Serge]

“No!… You can read if you want but only if you pay first.” [Merchant]

“That won’t do. Let us go, Ryouma-sama.” [Serge]

“Tch!” [Merchant]

“It seems there are bad stores here too.” [Ryouma]

“Indeed. That’s why it makes me so happy when I’m able to find a good product or a
promising individual… Oh? Ryouma-sama, look at that.” [Serge]

When I followed Serge-san’s gaze, I saw Dinome-san, whom we met yesterday. He was
under a huge tent and was gaving orders to his daughter and a young man, who
seemed to be his disciple.

“I was thinking of greeting him and talking to him about our discussion yesterday.”
[Serge]

“Isn’t he busy?” [Ryouma]

“Doesn’t seem to be the case. Look.” [Serge]

“…Oh.” [Ryouma]
When I took another look, I noticed that a small child was clinging to his legs. And then
after Dinome-san finished giving orders, he immediately went to seat on a wooden
box and started patting his kid. He was completely in doting-grandpa mode.

“So, that’s Federe-kun. He left the customers to his family. Are you sure he won’t get mad
if we drop by?” [Ryouma]

“He’s not that narrow-minded. And besides, we’re going there for business. He’s the
sort of guy who’ll lend you an ear as long as he’s not in the middle of work.

By the way, you know how to make a sound-concealing barrier, right? Can you use that?”
[Serge]

“Sure.” [Ryouma]

It’s related to me too, so I don’t really have any reason to refuse.

When we went to the tent, the disciple noticed us and nodded to us.

“Pops! Master Serge is here!” [Disciple]

“Hmm? Master! And Ryouma too! Welcome. Look, this is my grandchild, Federe, who
I spoke to you about. What do you think? Hmm?” [Dinome]

“Hello. I’m Ryouma.” [Ryouma]

“Ryouma?” [Federe]

“What a cute kid.” [Ryouma]

“Right!? But why is he looking at you like that?” [Dinome]

“Dinome-dono, I’ve seen how cute your grandchild is now. Actually, I have something
I’d like to talk to you about.” [Serge]

“Huh? You should’ve said so earlier then. Follow me.” [Dinome]

Dinome-san led Serge-san to a corner of the tent where some chairs were. That area
is probably meant for resting. It’s not very spacious, but it should be more than enough
if they’re just going to talk.
“Umm… Is there something the matter?” [Ryouma]

For some reason, though, Federe-kun was holding onto my clothes.

“Ryouma, play with me?” [Federe]

“Oh, seems he likes you.” [Dinome]

“Let’s play?” [Federe]

“Uhh… Serge-san.” [Ryouma]

“Don’t mind me. I can talk to Dinome-san by myself. Go ahead and play.” [Serge]

“Dinome-san, is it alright?” [Ryouma]

“Talking with us will just bore you. Go ahead. Have fun.” [Dinome]

It’s probably safe to leave the negotiations to Serge-san.

But before playing with Federe-kun, I did as we planned and put up a sound-concealing
barrier.

“Did you just make a barrier?” [Dinome]

“Yes. With this no one will be able to eavesdrop on you. I’ll go play with Federe-kun now.”
[Ryouma]

Dinome-san was a little shocked at my display, but I left him and went outside the
barrier with Federe-kun.

The tent was the same as before.

“So, what should we play then?” [Ryouma]

“Shiritori (Word-chain game)! Let’s start with the ‘gu’ from magic tools (mahou dougu).

It seems the rules are no different from Earth’s.

Like that we started playing Shiritori.

We started playing Shiritori, but…

“I lost… Alright one more time. Let’s start from Gu again!” [Federe]

“Alright !” [Ryouma]

How long are we supposed to do this? I’ve been winning once every three times, but
this is already my 15th victory. I haven’t been keeping count, but I’m pretty sure we’ve
already played more than 40 times and for over 2 hours already. I’ve spent all my
words already. He seems to be enjoying himself, though, so I guess it’s fine?

“Thanks for keeping him company. And sorry too for troubling you. Here.” [Dinome’s
Daughter]

“Thank you.” [Ryouma]

The daughter handed me a drink, and I was able to quench my thirst with a cold fruit
juice.

“Ryouma, from ‘Gu’.” [Federe]

“Hey. Let him rest already.” [Daughter]

“It’s fine, really.” [Ryouma]

I’m all refreshed now, after all. I can still keep on going.

“Really? Aren’t you fed up with it already? Dad would happily go along with it, but…”
[Daughter]

I can’t hear Serge-san and Dinome-san because of the barrier, but from the looks of
things, they were still happily talking. They would look at me from time to time,
though. I wonder if negotiations are going poorly. Either way I shouldn’t try to
interfere.

“Ryouma, ‘Gu’!” [Federe]

“Oh, right. ‘Gray (Gurei) Wolf (Urufu)'” [Ryouma]

“Federe [1]!” [Federe]

It seems it’s okay to use your own name.

We clashed three more times after that.

“Again! From ‘Gu’!” [Federe]

“You really like Shiritori, huh.” [Ryouma]

But when I said that—

“Not really.” [Federe]

—Federe denied it.

“Huh?… You hate Shiritori?” [Ryouma]

“I don’t hate it, but I don’t like it either.” [Federe]

“Huh? So what is it that you want to do?” [Ryouma]

“I want to go outside! But mom says I shouldn’t go outside, and I don’t have any toys
either, so I just play Shiritori!” [Federe]

…So the reason he keeps playing Shiritori is because he doesn’t have anything else to do.

I wish I’d asked him earlier. But in that case…

“Then, want to play another game?” [Ryouma]

“Sure!” [Federe]

“Excuse me. Can I borrow that trashcan?’ [Ryouma]

“This? Sure.” [Daughter]

“Thank you.” [Ryouma]

I took a cloth from my Item Box and stretched it out over the trash can, then I fixed it
into place with a string.
“What are you going to do with that?” [Federe]

“This is a stage… Ever heard of ‘Beigoma (spinning tops)’?” [Ryouma]

I’m sure any Japanese would recognize that name, but I’m not so sure about the
children of this world. Actually, scratch that. I’m not even sure anymore if even
Japanese children can still recognize the name, but at the very least, it was popular
when I was young.

The spinning top is supposed to be made with lead, but the tops I have with me are
made from iron since I made them yesterday along with my other magic tools.

I have two spinning tops and two strings. I placed those atop the stage, while Federe
closely watched. He didn’t know what I was up to, but he looked interested.

“This is how you play… HOI!” [Ryouma]

“AH!” [Federe]

It’s been a long time, but my body still remembers. I threw the spinning top and it
drew a circle around the stage until it eventually gathered at the center.

“It’s spinning!” [Federe]

“Give it at try. I’ll teach you.” [Ryouma]

“Teach me! Teach me!” [Federe]

“Let’s start with how to wind the top.”

I did the best I could to make everything simple for Federe-kun, but it seems to be too
difficult for a 4-year-old kid, as he kept failing.

I handed him a top that’s been winded already before he lost interest.

“This is how you throw it. Like this!” [Ryouma]

“Let me try!… Ah.” [Federe]

“You have to put more strength into it when pulling.” [Ryouma]

I stood between the stage and the store just in case he made a mistake. This way, even
if the top is thrown poorly, there won’t be any damages.

Federe-kun continued training how to wind up the top and throw it, and eventually…

“Sorry to keep you waiting.” [Serge]

“Federe~ Grandpa is finally done with work~” [Dinome]

Serge-san and Dinome-san finally left the barrier.

“Gramps!” [Federe]

“Serge-san. How was it?” [Ryouma]

“Everything went fine. Dinome-dono accepted the conditions you brought up last
night.” [Serge]

“I see. Thank you very much, Serge-san, Dinome-san.” [Ryouma]

“Don’t mention it. This is an equal trade. We get to make some profit and you get to
avoid some needless trouble. Although, how much ‘favorable treatment’ I can give you
will depend on how much of a profit your magic tool will be able to bring us. You can
drop by to get advice on magic tools as long as I’m not in the middle of work. Drop by
the store whenever you need to.” [Dinome]

“I look forward to working with you.” [Ryouma]

“Same.” [Dinome]

“Grandpa, wind this up!” [Federe]

“Oh~? What is this~?… No, really. What is this? Boss, do you know what this is?” [Dinome]

“A torunero?” [Serge]

“It’s a spinning top. What’s a torunero?” [Ryouma]

“A wooden toy that looks like this, but it’s a lot bigger and has a rod in the middle. You
play it by holding the rod with both hands and turning it like this.” [Serge]
Serge-san made a gesture like when one makes a taketonbo fly [2].

“This toy is a bit different. You wind it up with a string like this and, then throw it like
this!” [Ryouma]

“Oh~” [Dinome]

“So it is a kind of torunero. Toruneros vary from region to region, so is this how they
do it where you’re from, Ryouma-sama?” [Serge]

“Yes.” [Ryouma]

“So, this is how people from the Great Shurus Forest do things…” [Serge]

“Wind it up. Wind it up.” [Federe]

“Hey, Ryouma. Am I doing it right?” [Dinome]

“Huh?” [Ryouma]

Huh. Dinome-san doesn’t know doesn’t the toy, but he knows how to wind it up?

“Yes. That’s right.” [Ryouma]

“And then you throw it like this, right!?” [Dinome]

“Ah, yes…” [Ryouma]

“It’s spinning!” [Dinome]

Dinome’s spinning top was spinning wonderfully atop the stage.

“You know this toy?” [Ryouma]

“No? I just copied what you did when you wound it up yourself and threw it. How long
do you think I’ve been living on these fingers of mine? Something on this level is child’s
play!” [Dinome]

“Grandpa is amazing!” [Federe]

“Really~? Thank you~?” [Dinome]

I think he’s amazing too, but he’s back to doting-grandpa mode again as soon as his
grandchild praised him.

…Might as well give them both spinning tops.

“You sure you don’t mind giving these to us?” [Dinome]

“Yes. Please teach Federe-kun how to play. Once you’re both able to play, you can also
throw both tops and have them clash against each other. Federe-kun, you want to play
with grandpa too, right?” [Ryouma]

“Yeah!!” [Federe]

“I see, I see! Then I’ll happily accept it. As thanks… Are you free tonight?” [Dinome]

“Yes.” [Ryouma]

“In that case, why you don’t drop by? We’re going to have an awesome party after the
fair.” [Dinome]

An invitation to a closing party, huh.

Which means that we’ll have a relationship after this too. That being the case, I accepted
his invitation.

Like this I ended up making a connection with a magic tool artisan.

2 days later.

Serge-san still had something to do, so I left him and went back to Gimuru.

It was already late into the night when I got back to Gimuru. I was planning on just
taking care of my slimes, and then going to sleep but apparently that wouldn’t be
possible.

Within a room in the abandoned mines was me and a cleaner slime. This cleaner slime
is one of the cleaner slimes I got from the store. It started evolving a lot faster than
expected. There’s no way I can sleep now.

Each time the cleaner slime released and sucked in mana, its transparent body became
a little blacker. The evolution process was a long way from finishing, so I happily
waited. Eventually…

“Oh! It’s done!”

The mana stilled and the slime started crawling in the room. Its body was dull black
with no lustre. Like a powdered charcoal molded into a dumpling. A closer look shows
that it has the same gelatin-like body of the slime, so perhaps calling it a lustre-less
black viscous liquid would be more apt.

But enough of that. Let’s see what kind of monster it is! Monster Identify!… Oh!.

Deodorant Slime

Skill
Absorb Odor Lv8 Extract Odor Component Lv6 Erase Odor Component Lv8 Odor
Defense Lv5 Stench Lv2 Irritating Stench Lv2 Odor-Absorbing Liquid Lv7

Odor Component Extraction Liquid Lv5 Odor Component Erasure Liquid Lv7 Odor
Defensive Liquid Lv4 Liquid Stench Lv1 Irritating Liquid Stench Lv1 Disease
Resistance Lv5

Poison Resistance Lv5 Physical Attack Resistance Lv1 Clean Lv4 Sweeping Lv1 Jump
Lv3 Split Lv1

Deodorant Slime, huh. I expected it to be a carbon slime, but who would’ve thought it
would end up taking this path instead…

This slime… It probably specialized in getting rid of odor. All of its skill are basically
deodorants, so it’s easy to understand what they do. Anyway, let’s go test this guy out.
We’ll be dealing with stinky stuff, so let’s do it outside.

After changing locations and investigating the new slime, I found out the following things.

The Absorb Odor skill absorbs odor from the air.

The Extract Odor Component skill absorbs odor from an object that the slime is in
contact with.

These two skills might appear to be similar, but the area that they are able to affect is
different.

The Erase Odor Component skill literally erases the stench, and the Odor Defense skill
suppresses the smell and prevents it from latching onto others.

The Stench skill works just like the Scavenger Slime’s, wherein it releases a foul odor.

The Irritating Stench skill also releases a foul smell, but it’s more irritating.

It’s not poisonous

It’s just that the odor released is so strong that it’s able to cause one to tear up, so it’s
a skill that needs to be handled with care. The Irritating Stench skill has the potential
to become as effective as a tear-gas grenade. The liquid variants of the skills just means
that the slime releases the skill in liquid form instead of gas. The liquids are all black
and sticky, so I personally can’t help but liken them to mud. And then the rest of the
skills are just hand-me-downs from when it was just a cleaner slime.

As for feed, it can eat either charcoal or dirt.

That’s probably why it couldn’t become a carbon slime… I should also investigate the
liquids a little more.

I collected the Deodorant Slime various liquid skills with the exception of the Stench
and Irritating Stench skills. To have a point of comparison, I also collected the Cleaner
Slime’s deodorizing Liquid.

“…It’s a bit different compared to a cleaner slime’s.”

The Cleaner Slime’s Deodorizing Liquid is being sold in the product after the results
of the investigations of Caulkin-san’s team.

We sell the products according to the concentration of the deodorizing liquid. The
weakest concentration is sold as ‘normal’. The stronger variant is called ‘super’. And
the strongest variant is called ‘hyper’, which is just the source liquid, but regardless,
all three are used toward other liquids or rubbed on something.

Unfortunately, using the Deodorant Slime’s Odor Component Erasure Liquid like the
Deodorizing Liquid results in the target object being stained with black. Which it
makes it difficult to use as a deodorizing agent for laundry.

But the Odor Component Erasure Liquid of the Deodorant Slime has a special trait
which allows it to be diluted when placed atop a person’s hand or mix with other
liquids. This is a unique trait that the cleaner slime’s deodorizing liquid doesn’t have.

I don’t know why, but when you add water or other liquids to the deodorizing liquid,
its efficacy plummets.

Which is why all three types of deodorizing liquid sold at the store are prepared by
the cleaning slimes themselves. They mix the concentration of the liquid inside their
body before puking it out.

“Did the composition change because of the charcoal?… Is it still safe?”

I used Identify, but it didn’t give me an answer.

The mysteries remain mysteries, while the possibilities only increase.

“If I check the key points of the Odor-Absorbing Liquid and the Odor Component
Extraction Liquid…”

There’s another downside to the Deodorizing Liquid of the Cleaner Slime. It’s certainly
effective, but a female member of the Catman tribe said this about it.

“I can get rid of the smell from the landfill by using this, nyaa. But as soon as the next
pile of trash comes around, it starts stinking again, nyaa…”

There were also other people who shared her sentiments. They would use the
Deodorizing Liquid on shoes and the smell would go away, but when they wore it again,
it would start stinking again.

The Cleaner Slime’s Deodorizing Liquid is only able to eliminate the odor from the
object it is directly touching and its vicinity. The effect also doesn’t last long, so if you
apply it in a bigger scale or in an environment where stinky stuff are expected to be
brought over and over, it’s not very effective.

Presently, the deodorizing liquid is popular among the Catman tribe and other customers
with similarly sensitive noses.

If I sell the Odor Component Erasure Liquid to those customers as a product able to
remove stubborn odor, then it should be possible to turn up an even greater profit.

The next problem would be the durability of the Odor-Absorbing Liquid and the Odor
Component Extraction Liquid… But finding that out will take time.

I also need to find out if they can be used in a normal residence and not an environment
like this abandoned mine. In any case, I’ll cut my investigations for today here.

“…Anyway, I should take a shower for now.”

Based on the time indicated on the clock, I should be able to leave for work at a good
time even if I prepare myself at a leisurely pace.
 2

“And that’s the gist of it.” [Ryouma]

“You didn’t even sleep before coming here?” [Carm]

When I reported the events that occurred this morning to Carm-san, he looked at me
with a fed-up expression.

“I couldn’t find a good point to stop. By the way, would it be a problem if I did the
experiment here too? ” [Ryouma]

“So this sack contains the Odor-Absorbing Liquid? It should be fine as long as it’s not
dangerous.” [Carm]

“I want to find out if this Odor-Absorbing Liquid would still take effect while in this
state. I also want to investigate how long its effect will last and how much of an effect
it will have in an environment were people are active. The experiment won’t be
anything special. I will be just leaving this sack here. I’ve already confirmed that the
Odor-Absorbing Liquid works just as described, but there’s a limit to how much odor
it can absorb, and in the case of the scavenger slime, it quickly reaches that limit.”
[Ryouma]

“Once it reaches its limit, it becomes useless?” [Carm] ”

“Yes. But it’s possible that the stench released by the scavenger slimes just so happens
to be too strong, so I plan to leave these sacks in various places and gather information
like that. They’re not poisonous, so it should be safe.”

“In that case, there’s no reason for me to be against it either. If things go well, it might
become a new product too. Let’s hope for a good result.”

“I’ll be going now then. I need to find people willing to help me with my experiment.
Oh, and I almost forgot. Here. Souvenirs. Baked sweets from Kereban. They’ve been
popular lately. I tasted some myself and thought they were delicious. Not overly sweet,
just the right amount.” [Ryouma]

“Thanks. I’m sure the women will be elated.” [Carm]

After leaving the distribution of the souvenirs to Carm-san, I dropped by the nearby
florist.

“Good day, Pauline-san.” [Ryouma]

“Oh, if it isn’t Ryouma-kun. Haven’t seen you in a while. Are you well?” [Pauline]

“Yes.I had to go to Renauph and then Kereban immediately after, but I’m doing just
fine. I brought you some souvenirs by the way. They’re baked sweets and last for a long
time, but you might want to give them a try sooner than later.” [Ryouma]

“Oh, you’ve brought us some nice things, haven’t you?

The children will be delighted. Did you come just for this?” [Pauline]

It was then that I asked her if she minded helping me with the Odor-Absorbing Liquid
test.

“Alright.” [Pauline]

Pauline-san happily agreed to help me.

“You’re always helping us out. It’s the least we can do. Besides, I also look forward to
seeing a new product from your store. Leaving one sack around our store won’t be a
problem.” [Pauline]

“Thank you very much. If anything happens or if there’s anything that should displease
you, please do inform me. We can make a much better product after receiving feedback.”
[Ryouma]

“Then I’ll be sure not to hold back if something happens.” [Pauline]

Pauline-san happily laughed.

“Oh, one more thing. Would you happen to have some Dante Flower here?” [Ryouma]

“We have some stock from yesterday.” [Pauline]

As she said that she went to a corner where the flowers were lined up and came back
with a container. Inside were bouquets of yellow flowers. Large petals were connected
to the flower and the stem, but because they were yellow colored, I couldn’t help but
be reminded of dandelions.
So this is a Dante Flower. It’s what I’m looking for. Only, all the flowers have already
been cut. The roots are missing.

“Where are the roots?” [Ryouma]

“I cut them after purchase. Did you want the roots?” [Pauline]

“Yes. In my hometown, we have a drink made from boiling a flower similar to the Dante
Flower.” [Ryouma]

“Unfortunately, I’ve already thrown them away. You’ll have the wait until the next… Wait.
You grew your lawn before, right? I mean, you can use Wood Magic, right? ” [Pauline]

“Yes. I can.” [Ryouma]

“In that case, what about this? The seed of a Dante Flower. New stock won’t arrive until
net week, you see.” [Pauline]

“That will do. How much for it?” [Ryouma]

“50 suits per bag.” [Pauline]

When she showed me the contents, I saw dozens of seeds that looked like sunflower
seeds. I’ll be making tea with these, so…

“Just one bag probably won’t be enough.” [Ryouma]

“These seeds are meant for people that like to raise their own flowers, so there’s not
a lot per bag, but the storehouse should have 30 more bags.” [Pauline]

“In that case… Since I’ll be experimenting at first, I’ll take 10.” [Ryouma]

“Alright. I’ll get them now. Just wait a bit.” [Pauline]

With 10 bags of seeds, I should have enough even if I fail a couple of times. I can get
more later once I’ve confirmed that I can mass produce these things.

…Oops. Gotta pay.

“Here you go. 500 suits all in all. Do be careful of monsterification if you use wood
magic, though.” [Pauline]

“Monsterifi— What? ” [Ryouma]

“Sometimes plants grown through Wood Magic can turn out different. Scholars would
probably have more complicated terms for it, but basically, the plants and trees edn
up with a different color, become imbued with poison, and could even become able to
move like monsters. Apparently, it’s because of mana. Some plants or trees are more
prone to monsterification and some less so, but that’s about all I know. I’m not an
expert on the subject.” [Pauline]

“I see. This is my first time hearing that.” [Ryouma]

“Ahaha. Well, unless several people cast spells or at least use a similar amount of mana,
Monsterification probably won’t occur. It’s not really something that happens a lot, so
don’t worry. Enough about that. If you manage to make some delicious drink, let me
know, okay? I’ll get you all the flowers and seeds you want as long as you’ll buy them.”
[Pauline]

“Thank you very much. At that time, I’ll be sure to rely on you.” [Ryuma]

Monsterification, huh… I feel like I’ve heard of it before. It seems there are all sorts of
different mutations. I’m a little curious how mine will mutate. One day, I’ll bring my
experiment along that direction too, but for now, let’s just make my Dandelion Coffee.

I stored my purchased seeds into my Item Box and left the florist.

Next let’s drop by the butcher and talk to them about the Odor-Absorbing Liquid. If
the opportunity permits, maybe I can also get some blood. After that I’ll drop by Miya-
san’s house. And then… Raypin-san? And then…

Like that I went around town looking for people to help me with my experiment.
The next day.

Today, I’m going to make charcoal and look after the abandoned mine.

Until now I’ve been relying on my charcoal reserves, but I’ve almost it up already. If I
don’t make some more before I really run out, the deodorant slimes won’t have
anything to eat. Also, the weeds I cut the other day are in good condition now, so…

“Oh, that feels good.” [Ryouma]

It hasn’t been raining recently, so the weeds have already been dried. If not for that, I
would have had to use my alchemy to dry them in a flash.

“Alrighty then. Let’s give it a shot.” [Ryouma]

I used my newly purchased pitchfork to gather the weeds scattered on the ground.

“Oh! This is pretty good.” [Ryouma]

I poured my mana into the metal fixtures attached to the handle of the pitchfork and
invoked the Body Reinforcement spell imbued in it. Suddenly, it seemed as if the
weight of the pitchfork had vanished from my hands, and I was able to easily gather
the weeds.

As a result, gathering all of the weeds into a single pile and storing it in my Dimension
Home looked like a trifle job. This is actually fun.

“Next I have to cut out weeds for use next time.” [Ryouma]

I took out my ‘Scythe’ from my Item Box. Light Novels would have you believe that this
is a weapon, but this is a farming tool. It has a handle like that of a one-handed sickle,
only bigger. It has a blade, and there are two poles parallel to each other.
“Am I doing this right?” [Ryouma]

There were metal fixtures similar to those of the pitchfork on the two poles, so I tried
holding the scythe there. When I did, the giant sickle was positioned parallel to the
ground with the edge of the blade facing forward. I’ve never used this tool before, so
I’m not confident with how I’m holding it, but I think this should be about right.

“Heave-ho!”

I had my right hand on the front while my left hand pulled. Most of the grass caught
were just pushed down, but the scythe had cut them a little, so I seem to be using it
right. I’ll need to keep practicing.

“Fuu, fuu, fuu… Un.”

After an our of trial error and practice, I gradually became better at using the scythe.
The key point was to position the blade similar to how I would position a katana. Also,
the power comes from the hips rather than the arms. The arm is just there for support,
and the part of the blade that should be hitting the weeds is the part near the edge of
the blade.

When I stuck to those key points, I was easily able to cut the weeds.

Gradually, the boundary between the weeds that have been cut and those that haven’t
were changing. The scythe is much more efficient than a sickle that can only cut what’s
immediately in front of you, and it’s also really fun to use when you know how to.
Looks like I managed to snag another good purchase.

“…This much should do.” [Ryouma]

I left the mowing at that, and went down to the foot of the mountain to cut some
lumber to turn into charcoal.

Naturally, what I’ll be using here is none other than my magic axe. Axes are generally
heavy, but that’s also the source of their strength, so you can’t just make them lighter.
This magic axe of mine, however, is imbued with a spell so that its wielder can use it
as if it were light without reducing its actual weight.

Depending on the person, this axe might be easier to use than attack magic.
4 or 5 trees should do. After cutting them down, I carried them back up, then I cut off
the branches and divided them into appropriate parts, and then… Before I knew it, the
sun had already risen to its highest point.

Should I take a break and have lunch now?

…? This sound…

“Dange—” [Ryouma]

I shifted my body slightly to then side, and in the next moment, an iron ball passed
where my head was just a while ago.

“Be careful!” [Ryouma]

The iron ball that passed was my Iron Slime. It wasn’t moving from where it fell after
I warned it.

“You can go.” [Ryouma]

When I said that, the slime turned into an iron ball again and rolled back up the
abandoned mine.

…Lately, the iron and metal slimes have been growing quickly.

When I remembered about them turning into a ball when I caressed them, I made
them practice the motion, and the metal slime was able to turn into a ball. Eventually,
the iron slime was also able to do the same thing.

I thought they were just gradually growing up, but a few days later, the metal and iron
slimes started rolling around wherever they pleased.

A closer investigation showed that although their body was hard and heavy, inside,
their nucleus could quickly move as it pleased, so they could shift the center of their
gravity to move themselves where they pleased. At first, I thought it was nothing more
than a coincidence, but eventually that coincidence turned into their main method of
getting around.

The slimes that used to be the slowest from my goo of slimes were now battling for
1st or 2nd place in terms of speed. What’s more is that the two of them learned the
High-Speed Movement skill.

That being said, it’s only on level ground that they are able to move as they please. On
hills or slopes, they could easily find themselves being taken by gravity.

But the slimes actually enjoy that, so when I leave them on their own, they can usually
be found rolling down the hills. When they roll down too quickly, though, they can end
up out of course and fly off just like that one slime just now. Their bodies are made of
metal so it’s really dangerous.

The metal and iron slimes have also been increasing their numbers lately due to the
abundance of food. All of those slimes are able to roll.

…I might have to make a special track for them in one of the tunnels…

I’ll think of something in the near future.

After lunch.

It’s finally time to start making charcoal.

First, I stuffed the furnace with lumber, then I lit the bundle of weeds and pile of
branches that I’d gathered. Dinome-san gave me a magic igniter as a free sample, so I
used this opportunity to give it a try. It had a long handle, so it was easy to use.

After that I waited for the furnace to get hot. White smoke gradually billowed out from
the chimney, the flames eventually turning into a partially blue transparent flame,
then when the smoke changed, I blocked the entrance and chimney of the furnace with
a couple of red soil blocks.

It might sound simple, but the timing is rather difficult to grasp unless you’re used to
it already.

The first time I made charcoal was when I came to this world. Back in my past life, I
neither had the environment nor time for it, so I always just looked on in awe whenever
I saw people making it in television or in the internet. When I first tried it out myself,
there were a lot of times when I carelessly burned everything in the furnace or the
opposite case where the fire died before the wood could become charcoal.
But I’ve already gotten used to it by now. I know from experience that the smoke will
still change some more, so I can just watch for now and wait.

“…I need to get stronger.” [Ryouma]

I have to go to the Great Shurus Forest. Gathering information and hunting monsters
is fine and all, but it’s hard to say that just that would be enough. Isn’t there something
else I could do? I doubt I could get through the forest with a hasty preparation, so I
figure I might as well try to improve my skills.

To that end, I thought of four possible aspects where I could improve myself in.

One was equipment.

I mainly fight using my body and my weapons, so providing myself a set of good
weapons and armor should help but. But this is pretty basic…

The second candidate is to develop and train my magic.

Frankly, I’m not very good at offensive magic. Despite my All-Attribute Affinity trait,
an adventurer that specializes in magic is still far and above me. There’s no other way
to it. I have to train myself and slowly learn the techniques.

But I have an advantage from my previous life. If I use that, I might be able to come up
with new spells. Only, I don’t exactly know how I’m going to accomplish that. I need
information on the environment oft the Great Shurus Forest too, so I guess I really
need to rely on the guild’s information.

The third candidate is research on medicine and poison.

I received medical knowledge when I came to this world. I haven’t used it for anything
other than medicine, but I should be able to make poison too. The slimes are experts
in poison and medicine too, so they can definitely help. Also, I should be able to
procure the necessary ingredients right now by ordering them. If I choose this path,
I’ll be able to add poison to my arsenal.

Grisiera-san, Fei-san, and Leelin-san are also around to consult.

The last candidate is the development of tools.

I don’t know if any of the tools I develop will be new to this world, but I could certainly
bring some survival tools and convenient tools from my previous life to this world. If
the tools already exist in this world, then that’s fine, but if not, then that will be my
fortune. I don’t have any concrete plans yet… Ah.

I could hear the sound of metal from the distance.

“Did they fall again?” [Ryouma]

I wonder which one fell this time. I know both variants can’t get hurt by falling, but I’d
really appreciate it if they could stop. I know they’re happy since they learned to roll
and move quickly and all, but…?

“Wait a moment. Transforming their body into a ball is no different from the other
slimes transforming parts of their bodies into tentacles. The only difference is that
their body is made out of metal. If so, then…” [Ryouma]

Does this mean that they could change into other shapes too? Like a sword or a
hammer? In the first place, the reason they learned to become a ball is because I rolled
them up, so if I shape them into what I want them to transform themselves into and
slowly train them, it should be possible.

The moment I realized that, I had to try it out.

I immediately called two types of slimes over and shaped the iron slime into a knife
while keeping an eye on the furnace.

“Ohh! This can work! It definitely can!” [Ryouma]

Turning into a ball day after day seems to have improved the slimes’ abilities, and I
was able to mold one into a rough shape after supporting it just a little. All that’s left
now is for the finer details. I need to make the blade part thinner.

“I guess this can do for now?” [ryouma]

After shaping the slime, I ordered it not to move, then I tested it against a bundle of
dried weeds.

“…I see.” [ryouma]

I’m definitely grinning right now.

The iron slime knife is terrible at cutting. There are too many parts in the blade that’s
either thick or bent. If a store were to sell this, it would definitely be labeled a broken
product.

But it was able to cut the bundle of weeds. That might not be wholly true, but it was
definitely able to cut it; hence, if I am able to forge it into a better blade, if I am able to
train the slimes and correct the mistakes, then they should be able to transform into a
promising product.

“Let’s do this!” [Ryouma]

Like that I focused wholeheartedly in polishing the iron and metal slimes while keeping
an eye out for the furnace.

As a result, the charcoal making was a failure.

The next day.

“Boss, there’s a customer for you.” [Carm]

“A customer?” [Ryouma]

When I dropped by the store, I was immediately informed that a customer was waiting
for me.

“Miya-sama has something to talk about regarding your experiment.” [Carm]

In that case, bring her to the reception office, I told him.

“Miya-san?” [Ryouma]

“Ryouma! I’ve been waiting, nyaa!” [Miya]

“Good morning. Sorry for making you wait.” [Ryouma]

“Nah, it’s my fault since I just showed up without an appointment, but I just really had
to get more of this odor-absorbing liquid.” [Miya]

“I take it that means it was effective?” [Ryouma]

After hearing her out it would appear that the effect lasted from yesterday afternoon
until evening the next day. So, about a day at most.

“Was it effective in the morning?” [Ryouma]

“Nyaa doubt it! This liquid of yours is amazing, nyaa. It got rid of the stench coming
from the landfill so well that I could actually take a deep breath and be refreshed for
once. Although when a neighbor came to throw trash, he looked at me like I was some
weirdo or something, nyaa.” [Miya]
“Well…” [Ryouma]

When you think about it, breathing in air fresh from the landfill and making a satisfied
face would have surely looked odd, to say the least.

“But when he approached the landfill, he quickly realized that there was no smell, and
he was able to understand why I was acting like I did. Since even that guy could tell
the difference, there’s no doubt that Ryouma’s liquid is super effective, nyaa!” [Miya]

“I see… But one day is just too short.” [Ryouma]

“Nyaa? You can tell, nyaa?” [Miya]

“More or less.” [Ryouma]

As soon as I started this experiment, I found out that there’s a limit to how much the
odor-absorbing liquid can absorb. For example, if I were to use Identify on this sack of
odor-absorbing liquid…

Odor-Absorbing Liquid

A sack filled with the deodorant slime’s odor-absorbing liquid.

Due to the odor-absorbing liquid having already absorbed as much odor it can, it no
longer has any effect.

That’s what it says.

Just as it says, this odor-absorbing liquid has already absorbed as much as it can and
can no longer absorb any more odor. Unfortunately, I found out that its capacity to
absorb odor that is relatively small. Even if it is able to last longer than the cleaner
slime’s version of the odor-absorbing liquid, also known as the deodorizing liquid, it
can at most last up to a week. But I doubt it can actually take effect that long.

“But in that experiment I was using the scavenger slime’s Stench, so it wasn’t
representative of a normal household’s environment, which is why I had to ask you
for your help.” [Ryouma]
“I see, nyaa~ So, don’t you have anything that lasts longer, nyaa?” [Miya]

“Then how about trying the Odor Component Extraction Liquid next?” [Ryouma]

Given th same amount of stench from the scavenger slime, the Odor-Absorbing Liquid
could only last for a few minutes, whereas the Odor Component Extraction Liquid
could last for almost an hour. The downside is that it has a smaller area of effect.

So, it lasts longer, but it’s area of effect is also smaller. That’s how the Odor Component
Extraction Liquid works.

“Got it, nyaa. I can just leave it in the same place as before, right, nyaa?” [Miya]

“Please.” [Ryouma]

“Leave it to me, nyaa. I also want this experiment to be concluded as soon as possible,
nyaa! It’s for my sake too, nyaa!” [Miya]

As she said that, Miya-san took the sack of Odor Component Extraction Liquid and
went home.

“Conclude, huh…” [Ryouma]

Actually, I can already see the conclusion. It’s right before my eyes, after all.

I turned to the deodorant slime that was puking out Odor Component Extraction
Liquid while its body shook.

As one might infer by this point in time, the deodorant slime is capable of combining
the Odor Component Extraction Liquid with the Odor-Absorbing Liquid inside its
body. And just like the cleaner slime it can puke out that combined liquid. Unlike the
cleaner slime’s liquid, however, the deodorant slime’s liquid can be diluted and
combined with other liquids.

So, why don’t I do just that and mix it up?

If we were to combine the Odor-Absorbing Liquid that has a much greater area of
effect with the Odor Component Extraction Liquid that has a greater capacity to
absorb more odor, then it might just be possible to overcome each liquid’s individual
weakness. It might be possible to use other ingredients as well.
But regardless what product we end up making, we won’t be able to sell immediately.
As for why, that’s because the deodorant slimes are still too few in numbers. Hmm?

The deodorant slime seems to be trying to absorb the sack filled with used Odor-
Absorbing Liquid. It looks like it wants to eat it.

…Could it be? Is the Odor-Absorbing Liquid actually a trap for the deodorant slimes to
acquire their food?

Time slowly passed as I pondered on the deodorant slime.

After finishing my job at the store and lunch, I visited the people cooperating with my
experiment and asked them how things were going. Other than Miya-san, no one else’s
sack has lost its effect. Miya-san’s circumstances were an outlier, as expected.

Even the sack at Zeke-san’s butcher still hadn’t lost effect. While thinking something
rude like that to myself, I arrived at my destination.

“Excuse me.” [Ryouma]

“Welcome—” [Clerk]

As soon as I entered the store, a voice called out to me from the right side. When I
turned to the right, there was a young man resting his chin on his hands on the counter.
He didn’t appear enthusiastic.

“Huh? Aren’t you that Bamboo Forest kid?” [Clerk]

“Yes. I am Ryouma Takebayashi. You know about my store?” [Ryouma]

“I’m Dansbel. As you can see, I work at this store. Not that I want to, mind you. My dad
just sort of pushed the job to me. Your store has been word of the town recently. If
there’s a book you’re looking for, just say it and I’ll help you find it.” [Dansbel]

The guy was unexpectedly talkative as he glanced at the crowded book shelves of the
dark store. The shelves were so packed that there wasn’t even a bit of gap between
them. Finding a book from that looks like it’ ll prove a challenge.
“Thank you. I don’t have a particular book in mind, but I was hoping to find some
illustration books on medicinal plants and books related to medicine.” [Ryouma]

Whether it’s medicine or poison, making either requires that one possesses the
necessary knowledge and technology. I already have knowledge on medicines, but
that knowledge is just something that was given to me. I don’t think it’s a bad idea to
study it from the basics, but I don’t have the time to become someone’s apprentice, so
I figured I could get myself some reference books instead.

“Follow me then.” [Dansbel]

Dansbel led me to the bookshelf near the opposite corner.

“The books here are all related to medicine. I’m not sure if you can read them, though.
They’re rather difficult.” [Dansbel]

“I’ve studied a little under my grandmother. It should be alright. There’s just a few things
I want to confirm.” [Ryouma]

“Hmm… In that case, I recommend these.”

Dansbel took out three books. Two were illustration books on medicinal plants and
poison, while the last one was handbook on mixing medicine. Every one of the books
had ‘Edited by the Medical Guild’ written on the cover.

“How much for these three?” [Ryouma]

“Huh? You’re buying all of them?” [Dansbel]

“Depending on the price. Is there a problem?” [Ryouma]

The store clerk shook his head.

“Now that I think about it, your store is quite popular. If you can buy them, then it’s
fine. It’s just that books are expensive, so there aren’t a lot of people who would so
easily buy one.” [Dansbel]

“Is it that expensive?” [Ryouma]

“Long-lasting paper would cost 10 suits at the cheapest, so with books having hundreds
of those, it’s only natural that the price would end up in the thousands. On top of that,
there’s still the ink used and the author’s share.” [Dansbel]

All three books cost 15,000 suits in total. It’s not a problem for me, but it is indeed
expensive. Definitely not something a person could buy frivolously.

“In that case, how about these ones too?” [Dansbel]

Seeing how much money I had, the male clerk started recommending more books to
me, but there were no more books that had been edited by the medical guild. They
were probably self-published.

“I’ll just go with these three for now.” [Ryouma]

“I see. Alright then.” [Dansbel]

He didn’t force the issue and quickly processed my purchase.

“Come again if you need more books. I’ll give you a little discount if you pick a book
that doesn’t sell, so do drop by regularly.” [Dansvel]

The male clerk sent me off listlessly.

He doesn’t seem like a bad person, so I might come back once I’m done with these books.

“!? What is this smel…” [Ryouma]

When the wind carried a foul stench with it, I turned toward its direction. There I saw
some children pulling a carriage with heaps of trash piled atop it. I even recognized
one of the faces with them.

“Hello. Wist-kun, right?” [Ryouma]

“Ah. R-Ryouma-kun?” [Wist]

I called out to the boy with a tall stature, and apparently, he remembers me.

“Hey! What are you stopping f— Ryouma?” [Berk]

“S-Sorry!” [Wist]
“I’m sorry too.” [Ryouma]

After a boy small for his age called out to Wist, Wist started walking again.

It was Berk, from the Small Monkey Man Tribe, who called out to Wist-kun, who
himself was from the Big Monkey Man Tribe. These two participated in the abandoned
mine subjugation job.

“Didn’t mean to interfere.” [Ryouma]

“Nah, it’s cool. That guy’s just too much of a scaredy cat.” [Berk]

“So, the same as ever, huh.” [Ryouma]

“What did you want? We can talk while walking.” [Berk]

“I just called out because I happened to notice you… Are you working today?” [Ryouma]

“I’m supervising them.” [Berk]

Now that he mentions it, these children carrying trash all look young. Except for Wist-
kun, that is.

“Is that the town’s garbage?” [Ryouma]

“That’s right. Gathering all of this town’s trash and dealing with them is a common job
for slum brats.” [Berk]

“What do you with the trash?” [Ryouma]

“The adults either burn them at the designated location or bury them outside town.
We did the same job before becoming adventurers, but it’s the adults who are
responsible for dealing with the trash, so I’m not that particular about it.” [Berk]

That’s probably because of the monsters.

“But it’s dangerous even in town. You could get run over by a carriage or bump into
people. Adults could do this job early in the morning or late in the evening, but doing
it in the afternoon is easier. These guys are still no good, though. If you leave them for
even a second, they end up like that. Ruth and the others are escorting other groups
too.” [Berk]

“…So this isn’t a job from the adventurers guild then?” [Ryouma]

“Our senpais who’d become adventurers themselves also watched over us when we
did this. It’s not anything weird, you know.” [Berk]

“I don’t know about being normal, but I think what you’re doing is admirable.” [Ryouma]

Although it might not bring them any profits, they made sure to pass on the good will
that they’d received themselves in the past. It’s because of that that they’re able to
work together as a group and help each other.

And if they really consider doing something like this as a matter-of-fact, then even if
they might be poor financially, they’re rich in terms of spirit.

“Admirable? W-What are you looking at me like that for?” [Berk]

“I don’t have an agenda. I really do think you’re admirable.” [Ryouma]

“The hell are you going on about? That’s gross…” [Berk]

“Sorry, sorry. Anyway, I’ll be going now.” [Ryouma]

A lot happened when we first met, but I’m sure they’re alright now. The color of their
face looks much better now too. At the very least, I can’t feel that tense atmosphere
they carried with them before. As I prayed for them to be able to keep that up, I went
home alone.
It has already been a month since I got back from Renauph.

When I opened my eyes and went out the front door, the refreshing blue morning sky
came to view. The morning is still cool, but lately, the afternoon has been hot. I’m sure
the temperature will rise today too. Adventurers that can use ice magic have also
started to become active, thinking it’s the season for them to make money. Yep, this is
summer, alright.

The weather is even more refreshing for me because I’ve been cooped up this past few
days, making waterproof cloths to prepare for my long trip. But it would be a waste if
I just stayed cooped up in my tunnel when the weather is this good.

…I’ve made some progress already, so… Let’s make today a rest day!

I decided that so energetically, but I didn’t actually have any plans, so in the end, I
dropped by the store. Unfortunately, the store was closed today.

Now that I think about it, the fixed day offs are supposed to start this month.

I actually forgot my own store’s policy. It can’t be helped, so I decided to just walk
randomly around town for now.

“Oh, if it isn’t Ryouma-kun. What are you doing?” [Pauline]

A voice called out to me from next door.

“Good morning, Pauline-san. The store’s closed today, so I’m just walking around town.
The weather is great out today. It would be a pity if I just stayed at home.” [Ryouma]

I said as I approached her. Pauline-san laughed.

“You said it. Can’t spend a good weather like this cooped up in your room. Since you’re
here, why don’t you drop by my husband’s store? You can get some more feed for your
slimes.” [Pauline]

“Thank you as always.” [Ryouma]

I followed Pauline-san and got some blood, meat, and bones from Zeke-san’s butcher.
There’s a lot more meat than usual. Maybe it’s because the summer heat has made it
easier to spoil.

Seeing how they’ve helped me out so much, maybe I should gift them a refrigerator.
Nah, if I did that I’ll get busy again. The store’s refrigerator can’t work without me too.
I can’t gift them a refrigerator.

While I was thinking that, a loud voice suddenly resounded within the store.

“Mom!” [???]

“I can hear you just fine without yelling, you know!” [Pauline]

The owner of the voice was Pauline-san’s mischievous son, Rick.

“Ryouma, you’re here too?” [Rick]

“Good morning, Rick.” [Ryouma]

“Greet him properly!” [Pauline]

Pauline-san poked him a little and Rick rubbed the part he was poked.

“So, what is it?” [Pauline]

“Oh, right! Tall’s here already, so I’m leaving!” [Rick]

“Oh? It’s that time already?” [Pauline]

“Are you going somewhere?” [Ryouma]

“What, you don’t know about? Today’s the church’s cleaning day.” [Rick]

“Once every two months, the children of this town cleans up the church and does
various odd jobs.” [Pauline]
“We’re going to clean up the church as thanks to the gods!” [Rick]

So it’s like a community service of some sort.

I was somewhat impressed by Rick’s words, but Pauline-san wryly smiled and said this.

“Don’t be fooled. This son of mine couldn’t possibly be so amazing. He’s just repeating
what he heard from someone else. What he’s really after are the sweets after the
cleaning.” [Pauline]

At that, Rick turned the other way. Bullseye, huh?

“That aside, will you be going too, Ryouma?” [Pauline]

“Well it’s my first time hearing about it.” [Ryouma]

Hmm… Maybe it would be better if I participated? I don’t have anything else to do today
anyway.

“Would it be alright if I came along too?” [Ryouma]

“I don’t mind.” [Rick]

“Then I’ll go too.” [Ryouma]

“Great! Let’s go then!” [Rick]

As Rick happily raised up his right and walked ahead, I followed after bidding Pauline-
san goodbye.

“Ryouma! You’re slow!”

“I’m going. I’m going.” [Ryouma]

Rick says a lot of cheeky stuff, but he was properly waiting for me. Perhaps he might
actually grow up to be a helpful big brother.

While I was thinking that, we rendezvoused with Tall and Leni in front of the store.
When we got to the store, the girl dressed in nun’s clothing that I met sometime in the
past instructed us to go to the chapel by following the signboards. Just as she said,
there were indeed a bunch of signboards inside with arrows for direction. No way we
could get lost with all these.

Inside the chapel was a huge crowd of children, but only one woman in charge of them
all. There were about 60 children all in all. Since this counts for all th e children in
town, or at least all those that willingly participated, I wonder if 60 is big or low.

Anyway, I decided to sit down and wait until it was time to clean the church. I took a
seat with Tall and the others.

When I did, light suddenly filled my vision— Light!?

“…Where is this?” [Ryouma]

That’s odd… I didn’t pray, but light still appeared. This isn’t that same room of pure
white, though.

“Is this a library?” [Ryouma]

When I looked around me, I was surrounded by giant wooden book shelves. Every one
of which was full to the brim. There were even shelves floating in the sky. At that, I
knew that this wasn’t just your ordinary library.

“Hmm… So even I can summon you.” [???]

An unfamiliar voice said.

When I looked up, a young man was floating there. He slowly floated down.

…For the mean time, I decided to greet him.

“Hello, I’m—” [Ryouma]

“I’ve heard of you. You are this age’s otherworlder. Rumor has it that an interesting one
has come.” [???]

If he knows that, then he’s definitely a god.

“I am the god of magic and knowledge, Fernoberia. This here is my domain. You seem
surprised at how different it appears, but this is without doubt the same divine realm
that you have visited before. When the time runs out, you will be able to return, so
relax.” [Fernoberia]

“Thank you very much.” [Ryouma]

The God of Magic, Fernoberia. So this is the god Tekun says is hard to meet. He seems
moody though. At least, compared to Tekun.

“This much is a given. After all, it was I who summoned you here. I heard that the others
gods were able to summon the soul and consciousness of a living man into this realm,
so I wanted to try it out myslef. Rest assured I won’t treat you poorly.” [Fernoberia]

Apparently, he was in the middle of investigating why I’m able to come here, and it just
so happened that I stepped into the church, so he summoned me to look for a clue that
would aid him in his investigation. An experiment, in other words.

“I have a few questions I would like you to answer. Do you mind?” [Fernoberia]

I don’t have any reason to refuse. Actually, I can’t refuse, so I just honestly answered
his questions.

He started with questions about my previous life and my life here in this world, then
he asked me about various trivial things such as what food I like and what I think of
being summoned in the divine realm. From there he went to questions regarding war
and slavery, and so on and so forth.

I just answered his questions honestly, but I can’t really find a pattern in his questions…
Oh, this one seems to be the last.

“I thank you for your cooperation. Last question: what do you think of this world?”
[Fernoberia]

What I think of this world? The question is vage, so I don’t really know how to respond,
but… I think it’s a good world. Of course, I haven’t gone around the whole around, so I
don’t have that much information, but of the people I’ve met, everyone was nice to me
and I’ve even managed to make some friends. There’s a lot of interesting stuff too like
magic and slimes, so I think I’m living a fairly fulfilled life. I don’t have any complaints.
I can say from the bottom of my heart that I’m glad to have come to this world.
“Hmm… I see.” [Fernoberia]

“Huh? Did I say that out loud?” [Ryouma]

“No. I read your mind.” [Fernoberia]

…So, he read my mind. I didn’t realize at all.

“Sorry. I read your mind just to be safe.” [Fernoberia]

“To be safe?” [Ryouma]

“Unfortunately, not all otherworlders are like you.” [Fernoberia]

Apparently, some of the otherworlders lost themselves in the power they were given
and became criminals, and some didn’t know how to use their powers properly and
ended up causing a calamity, so since this was our first meeting, he wanted to see what
sorto f person I was first.

Well, it makes sense. I’m sure it sucks if the power you gave to someone was abused
wantonly.

“Exactly. Which is why we never bring people with dangerous thoughts to this world,
but there’s nothing we can do if the otherworlder loses his mind after being brought
to this world. We can’t interfere with them as soon as they are brought to this world,
so at most we can tell try to persuade them in their dreams to repent or to stop sinning.

If they cause a calamity that will bring the destruction of the world, then we can interfere,
but such cases are rare. In the first place, if things reach that point, then it’s already too
late… I’m glad you’re understanding. It’s a huge load off our back.” [Fernoberia]

He read my mind again.

Fernoberia seemed to be complaining when he said those things. As he turned around,

he told me this.

“A lot more will be happening from here on, but I’ll do my best not to lose myself in the
power you’ve given me. Unfortunately, I can’t say with certainty that I won’t.” [Ryouma]

“Not like I could trust a person who so easily says something with certainty. It’s enough
if you earnestly consider what I’ve said.” [Fernoberia]

“Thank you. I’ll do my best.” [Ryouma]

As soon as I said that, light started shining again.

“It seems the time is up. I’ll tell you one last thing. There is an abnormality occurring
in your body, but it’s not that special of a case. There has been a similar trend in the
past that occurred with otherworlders.” [Fernoberia]

By abnormality, is he referring to me being able to go to and fro this world, as well as

take sacred treasures with me?

“I’m not sure what the cause is, but there were people in the past capable of doing
things that should be impossible for humans. It just so happens that it’s more obvious
in your case. It’s precisely because there were precedents that Gayn and the others are
able to say that there’s nothing wrong with your mind or your body. None of the
otherworlders in the past with oddities like yours suddenly went mad or suddenly
died.” [Fernoberia]

Come to think of it, when Kufo talked about the saint that died, he mentioned that all
the illnesses vanished. That’s certainly not something a human should normally be
able to do.

…I didn’t think I was worrying over my strange circumstances, but maybe I was
actually worried over it since for some reason I feel relieved after hearing Fernoberia-
sama say that there’s nothing wrong with me.

“Thank you for letting me know.” [Ryouma]

At the same time, light wrapped my body, and in the next moment, I was back in the
chapel.

…I wonder if he heard me. It’s hard not to be anxious when there’s no telling when the
light will take me away.

It seems my thoughts showed on my face, thougho, as Tall and the others who were
sitting beside me suddenly asked me why I was making a weird face all of the sudden.

Everything happened so suddenly that I forgot about these three…

I gave the three kids some random excuse, then we waited until the woman in charge
took the lead. She first thanked us for participating, then she started giving out jobs to
each child.

I started sweeping alongside the other children too, but I didn’t bring out my
scavenger slimes or use my magic. Sure, it would be faster, but with the children
working so hard, it just didn’t seem right, so I just went and cleaned normally using
tools.

Because of that it took us until afternoon to clean the big church. We were given
sandwiches for lunch, and then the sweets. When it was time for the sweets to be
handed out, Rick couldn’t sit still anymore.

Are their sweets that good?

“Thank you for helping out today.” [Nun]

“Thank you too for letting me participate.” [Ryouma]

The woman handed me a small pouch tied closed with a ribbon. Inside were 4 cookies.
Everyone was already eating theirs, so I took a bite myself. When I did, the fragrant
smell of baked sweets coupled with moderate sweetness and the strong taste of the
fruit jam filling filled my mouth.

When the children were done eating their sandwiches and cookies, they formed
groups and played at the garden, but some were just looking at the entrance of the
church as if they were waiting for something.

…I get the children playing around, but what are the other children doing?

Tall, Rick, and Leni also seemed to be waiting for something, so I asked them about it.

“What are you three doing?” [Ryouma]

“We’re waiting for uncle!?” [Rick]

Rick was the first one to answer, but all I found out was that they were waiting for
someone.

“There’s an uncle that comes every time we finish cleaning the church. He teaches us
swordsmanship and how to fight.” [Tall]

“How to fight?” [Ryouma]

According to Tall, an uncle who happens to be a former adventurer is sure to drop by

whenever they’re done cleaning the church. He doesn’t come here just to give a
donation to the church, but also to teach the orphans here how to fight, so that when
they come of age they’ll be able to live on their own. He does everything for free, so
he’s a volunteer.

It has also become common practice for the children cleaning the church to join their
training. Of course, just enough training for their age. Although, from my perspective,
as someone who is a working adventurer, it’s not exactly very interesting, but that
can’t be helped.

“Rick, I get, but Tall and Leni, you’re interested too?” [Ryouma]

Rick is rather mischievous, so it’s not weird to see him want to participate, but I never
thought Tall would also want to. Is it because he’s a guy? Does he admire adventurers
too?

“There’s nothing wrong for a girl to know how to fight. Who knows? Maybe one day I
might get tangled up with some no good guy. Besides, I have to watch over Rick.” [Leni]

“As for me, my mom told me to train my body. Not that I was particularly planning on
neglecting my own physique that much.” [Tall]

“It’s because your personality is so weak! If you train, I’m sure you’ll become manlier!”
[Rick]

“S-Sure…” [Tall]

So, that’s why… That aside, Tall, aren’t you being pushed around too much?
While I was thinking that, the children nearby grew noisy.

“He’s here!” [Child 1]

“Uncle!” [Child 2]

“Scary uncle!” [Child 3]

When I turned toward the entrance, a scary man was walking toward where we were.

“Hey! Who called me scary!? That was uncalled for!” [???]

“Ah…” [Ryouma]

The scary man was apparently none other than the guild master, Wogan, himself. It
seems the children are already used to him, as they weren’t startled by his yelling. In
fact, there were even some who clung to him. While he was dealing with those
children, he noticed me.

“Oh, if it’s isn’t Ryouma!? What are you doing here?” [Wogan]

“The store is closed today, but it also happens to be a rest day for me, so I was walking
around town aimlessly when I heard about the cleaning event at the church. As such,
I decided to participate. I thought it would be better to participate so I could get to
know the people living in this area better.” [Ryouma]

“That’s great. Oh, right. If you have time, why not help me out?” [Wogan]

“Help?” [Ryouma]

“Yeah, lend me your ear for a bit…” [Wogan]

“…I see.” [Ryouma]

“After hearing him out, I decided to lend a hand. While the children that were receiving
training were running around in an open area and practicing their fundamentals, I
opened my Dimension Home and took out 20 slimes.

“Alright! Today, we’re going to do something different! We’re going to have practical
training! Ryouma!” [Wogan]
“Okay.” [Ryouma]

I led the scavenger slimes to stand before the children. The children seemed startled
by the slimes. It seems this is their first time training with monsters.

“Today, you’ll be facing these slimes.” [Wogan]

“We can heal the slimes with healing magic, so don’t hold back.” [Ryouma]

Although, to be honest, I think it’s the children who are going to get hurt.

The scavenger slimes have not only trained themselves diligently, they have also
learned the Taijutsu and Physical Attack Resist skills. To make things worse, the
children are using wooden swords with the strength of a child. I doubt they could hurt
the slimes.

Just to be safe, I told the slimes to prioritize dodging and limit their attacks to just body
slams. With that, at most, they’ll just ram their body against the children and make
them break posture, so the worst injuries the children can get are scratches from
falling.

“Ryouma, are you ready!?” [Wogan]

When I said I was ready, Rick said he would like to be the first to fight.

I glanced at Wogan-san, and he seemed fine with it. Alright then, let him have at it.

“Let’s do this!” [Rick]

“Let’s do this!” [Rick]

Rick said enthusiastically as he wielded the wooden training sword. The other children
watched with rapt attention as Rick faced against the slime.

“…” [Scavenger Slime]

The scavenger slime didn’t attack and just waited. When Rick saw that the slime
wasn’t moving, he slashed down with his sword.
But Rick had only studied the form of the sword a little, so his attack was slow and full
of openings. Although that was expected given Rick’s age, because of that the
scavenger slime was easily able to dodge.

Frustrated, Rick started attacking the slime relentlessly, and eventually, his posture
broke and his attacks turned into mere swings. Rick continued for a couple more
minutes, but eventually, he ran out of gas, and when he raised his sword up one more
time, in the next moment, the slime rammed itself into him.

Rick didn’t appear to be hurt, but he did fall on his backside.

“That’s enough! Rick, you’re still too young and you haven’t trained properly yet, so
it’s not unusual for you to lose. Still, you shouldn’t let your blood get to your head just
because you failed to hit your target. Your form was only good at the start. After that
it collapsed completely and everything you did was full of holes. Think carefully when
you make your move!” [Wogan]

Rick nodded with frustration before going back to the crowd of children.

After that all the children went up and fought the slime in front of everyone, then
Wogan-san gave them some pointers.

“Good! Now think about what I’ve told you and try again!” [Wogan]

At that, we divided the place, and I assigned a slime to each student, then the students
practiced at the same time. I assigned a metal or an iron slime to the students that
were poor at striking.

While they were doing that, I went around to watch them and heal whenever necessary.
Wogan-san went around giving advice. Training continued until dusk and we ended
before it started to get dark.

“Bye uncle!”

“Be careful when you go home!” [Wogan]

After sending the children on their way, Wogan-san and I were finally able to rest.
Although all we had to do was to walk around and watch the children, there was a
possibility of them getting hurt, so it was quite tense. It’s good that training ended
without anyone getting hurt.
“You did great.” [Ryouma]

“Couldn’t have done it without you. You really helped me out.” [Wogan]

“It was supposed to be a rest day, but I didn’t really know what to do after getting so
much free time, so this worked out just fine for me.” [Ryouma]

“Really? In that case, why don’t you help out whenever you’re free? Your slimes are
really good sparring partners for the children. In fact, we can even have them train the
new members at the adventurers guild.” [Wogan]

“Hmm…” [Ryouma]

If it’s just target practice, then sure, but if he asks me to work as an instructor, I’m not
so sure. I’ve trained subordinates countless times, but I’ve never taught another
person how to fight. And I wasn’t a good teacher even when it came to jobs that I’m
experienced at.

Teaching others will certainly benefit me, but these are new adventurers we’re talking
about. Their lives will depend on the things they learn. Teaching them poorly would
hurt them a lot, so if someone is going to be teaching, it should be someone who
knowns how to properly teach someone.

Besides, if I were to try and teach them, I’ll end up teaching them like my dad taught
me.

He’ll teach you a technique, then demand that you do it immediately. He’d tell you to
practice kumite, but hit you anyway. If you fall, he’ll keep hitting. If you don’t get up,
he’ll hit you even more. He doesn’t stop his attacks right before hitting you, and he
doesn’t allow breaks either. My dad’s policy is to never stop.

After all, there’s no way the enemy is going to stop just because you got hit or fell to
the ground.

I agree with him, but if I did something like that, most of the adventurers are bound to
find themselves carried away on a stretcher. I’ve never really learned how to hold back
against humans.

“Really?” [Wogan]
“I’ve always had just one sparring partner, and that was my master. No reason to hold
back then, right?” [Ryouma]

Whether it’s in this world or in my previous world, there are a lot of people who
becomes someone’s disciple, and there’s not one of them who would hold back when
sparring against their master. After all, doing that is no different from looking down
your own master. And there’s also no reason to hold back in an actual battle.

“That’s true, but I’m sure you’ve had scuffles with your friends, no? Didn’t you catch
them with your techniques then?” [Wogan]

“If it’s just a petty fight, then there’s no reason to use martial arts. Instead, one should
strive to talk it out.” [Ryouma]

“What’s with the sagely response?… You’re right, though.” [Wogan]

“When under attack or when it comes to bandits, there’s no point in talking and there’s
no point in holding back either. If you need them alive for whatever reason, then it’s
best to just go for their limbs barehanded. After all, it’s a lot harder to kill them that
way even at full strength compared to going after their head or their main organs.”
[Ryouma]

“…Oh yeah, you broke some bones, didn’t you? And when you didn’t break bones, you
used the slime’s liquids to keep your targets from moving.” [Wogan]

If you know when and how to use your strength, then there’s no reason to ever hold
back. Which is why, it has been taught for generations to either use 0% or 100% of
your power. And while I won’t say that I’ve never held back at all, I’ve mostly dealt with
quarrels in my previous life by using ukemi. It would just cause more problems if I
fought back in my previous life, so I felt that was the best way to go about things.

Unfortunately, because of that way of thinking, I accidentally killed a lot of slimes when
I first started teaching them. I also messed up when I hired Dolce-san as a guard for
the store.

“We’ve brought you some drinks.” [Nun]

While we were talking, two nuns brought us some drinks.

“Wogan-san, thank you for your help today.” [Nun]

“Ryouma-kun, thank you for your help too. Take this as our thanks.” [Nun]

“Thank you very much.” [Ryouma]

I happily accepted their drinks.

We talked a little after that. I found out that the woman who made my status board
was called Betta-san and the girl was Bell-san. What was surprising was that they
were the only two people managing this church despite having to watch over some
orphans and manage the building.

“Aren’t you short of hands?” [Ryouma]

“It’s not easy, but this is also part of our discipline as nuns.” [Betta]

“Thank you for worrying for us, but the children who think about us and the adults of
town support us.” [Bell]

That was their way of saying that everything was going fine.

It wasn’t just me asking questions, though. They asked me some too.

“Is it hard to raise slimes?” [Bell]

“I suppose one really needs to learn Monster taming first, huh?” [Betta]

Apparently, they want to raise some slimes in church, as they kept asking me questions
about slimes.

I answered them politely, then when they were out of questions, I asked them why
they wanted to raise slimes.

“I think they’re cute.” [Bell]

“I thought it would be good education for the children to raise them.” [Betta]

Is she sure about that!? But then again, I suppose it would be kind of like the rabbit I
raised up in elementary… Still, I never expected that the people of this world would
actually consider this method of education.
“Nothing’s set in stone yet, but we might consider adopting some slimes.” [Betta]

“Do let me know when you’ve decided. I can give you some advice if you need it.”
[Ryouma]

“Really? Thank you so much.” [Bell]

The conversation was slowing down, and it’s already getting dark, so I think it’s about
time I left.

As such, I excused myself.

Along the way, I thought back on the events today, and I felt like today was different
than the other days.

When I participated in the volunteer activity in the church, I feel like people accepted
me without any discrimantion.

By participating in the events of this town, I feel like ‘ve gotten closer to the people of
this town.

…I’ll do my best tomorrow too.

“Na… Fi…” [???]

“Hoe…?” [Fina]

As I woke up, my body still swaying, I heard a voice…

“Fina, wake up!” [Jane]

“…Jane?” [Fina]

“Good grief! Why are you so bad at waiting up when you’re usually so organized?” [Jane]

…That’s not good. It seems I fell back to sleep, but today is a day off, so…

“Did you forget we’re supposed to go out to town today?” [Jane]

“Oh, right!” [Fina]

From today onwards, we will be able to take our day off together once a week. Which
is why we decided to go out to town together!

“I’ll get ready immediately. Wait a bit!” [Fina]

Hurriedly, I got myself ready, and then I went to the lobby. There, Maria and Jane, who
left our village with me to work, and our dormmate, Leelin-san, were waiting.

“Sorry for making you wait! I woke up late.” [Fina]

“Good morning~” [Maria]

“Don’t sweat it.” [Leelin]

“We’re used to it already.” [Jane]

I wanted to say refute Jane’s words, but I had nothing to say. Why am I so bad at waking
up?

“Now, let’s go!” [Jane]

Jane enthusiastically said as she led us to town. Leelin-san consoled me about being
late while we walked, so I started feeling better.

We had breakfast at the stall that was popular among bachelor laborers. It’s a store
catered toward muscular laborers, so Maria and I was able to get our fill with just one
order.

After that, we bought daily necessities and shopped for clothes. We enjoyed life at town
together.

Like that time passed in a flash. It was morning just a while ago, but before we knew
it, it was already afternoon.

Who would’ve thought that we would be able to live like this after leaving our village?
We got lucky. When I was still at the village, I thought that even if I worked early in the
morning until late in the evening, I still wouldn’t have enough money to spend as I
wished. After all, that’s what everyone who left said when they came back.

Jane and Maria probably thought the same, but reality turned out different. Each one
of us was given a room of our own, Shelma cooks us delicious food everyday, and we
get a huge salary to top it all off. In fact, I make so much that I could send money home
twice as much as they need and I would still have enough to eat outside, shop once a
week, and save money.

From time to time, Maria would trip and fall from being dazed, and she would get her
wounds healed with healing magic. According to Leelin-san, Fei-san also had his
broken bones healed. For free too.

Healing magic normally isn’t something you can rely on just like that. But the employees
at our store can enjoy its benefits anytime and for free. That’s because the boss left a
heal slime in the store when people started getting in the way of our store’s operation.

At first, the boss had to manage the slime, but eventually, Robelia-san and the others
took over. Nowadays, Maria, who learned monster taming, is in charge of it. I hear it’s
a precious slime, so I was wondering if it was really okay to entrust that to us just like
that, but it’s a huge relief to be able to rely on healing magic whenever needed.

Some time ago, my parents sent me a letter, asking what kind of person our employer
is. They’d clearly sent the letter out of worry, so I told them from the bottom of my
heart that they didn’t have to worry.

“Fina, what are you dazing off for? Are you still asleep?” [Jane]

“I’m awake already. How long are you going to keep dragging that story out for?” [Fina]

“For the mean time, let’s go to that store we were talking about.” [Jane]

The store she’s talking about is the teahouse that’s gotten popular lately because of
it’s relatively affordable but delicious sweets. Maria and Jane wanted to visit it as soon
as I heard about it, so we thought we’d rest there after concluding our shopping.

When we entered the store, we were greeted by lines of wooden tables and chairs and
decorations of flowers here and there. There’s also a large fireplace in the corner, and
although it’s not lit because of the season, it helps complete the warm atmosphere of
the store.

We were led to a table near a window. We gave our orders to the waitress, then while
waiting, Jane asked me.

“Hey, what were you thinking about awhile ago?” [Jane]

“Nothing special. I just thought we’re really lucky.” [Fina]

“So, that’s what. But yeah, if we were hired at a normal store, we would have never
been able to live this luxuriously.” [Jane]

“We’re able to send back home the money we need~ We get day offs~ We found a really
good job~” [Maria]

“Oh yeah, the three of you came from the same village, right?” [Leelin]

“That’s right~” [Maria]

“Average land, no special goods of its own, and no strong monsters. It’s the picture
image of a poor village.” [Jane]
“Since you’re working away from home, will you be retiring eventually?” [Leelin]

It’s true that there are people among those who leave home to make money who
eventually come back, but we don’t have any plans to do so for the mean time.

“If the boss doesn’t mind, I’d love to work for him forever~” [Maria]

“We can send back more money than other jobs, and if we retire there’s no telling if
we’ll be hired again.” [Fina]

“People will probably come pouring in if the boss puts up a ‘hiring’ sign. What about
you, Leelin-san? I hear you were peddlers before.” [Jane]

“Our country is really dangerous. Neither me nor my dad have any plans on coming
back home.” [Leelin]

Zilmar… I wonder what sort of country it is. It’s big, but it’s a long way away, so all I
know about is its name. When I was living at the village, I figured it would be good to
know the name of this country and the name of the villages near it, so I didn’t have
time to ask about countries as remote as Zilmar.

It seems Maria and Jane also don’t know much about it. I understand that it’s
dangerous, but I don’t know how dangerous. Leelin-san seemed to have noticed that,
so she explained.

“Zilmar has been in war for a long time now. Not with a foreign country, but with itself.
A battle among the nobles. The reason behind their fighting is because they want to
get the equipment of the empire’s founder, which he left behind after his death.”
[Leelin]

“A war to get a weapon?” [Jane]

“Not weapons, but a set of armor. Every piece of its set is said to have great power
imbued in it. If one could acquire the entire set, he would acquire the strongest power
and be able to rule the country… Or at least that’s how the bedtime stories go.” [Leelin]

“Are they still fighting?” [Jane]

“Right now they’re just taking vengeance on each other. That’s why the country is in a
mess and there are many bandits. We don’t have any family left in Zilmar, so we plan
to live in this peaceful country.” [Leelin]

“I suppose that means we’ll be together from now on~” [Maria]

“I look forward to continuing working with you.” [Fina]

It was then that the tea and sweets we ordered came.

“Sorry to keep you waiting. Here’s your tea and your seasonal fruit pie.” [Waitress]

Jane and Maria’s eyes dazzled at the sweets and tea brought by the waitress.

“It’s here! It’s here! I wanted to eat this so badly!” [Jane]

“Itadakima~su” [Maria]

Leelin-san and I followed suit and ate our portion. Inside the pie were various kinds
of fruits mixed together. The freshness and sweetness of the fruits expanded within
my mouth.

“Yep. This lives up to its reputation alright.” [Jane]

“I’m so happy~” [Maria]

As Jane and Maria said that, Leelin-san seemed to agree. After that we continued
chatting while drinking our tea and taking a bite out of our pie. After our conversation
on the clothes we bought today ended, Jane suddenly brought up the topic.

”Hey, what do you guys think about the boss?” [Jane]

“What is this all of the sudden~?” [Maria]

“Letters came from the village, right? Well, in my letter, I kept being asked questions
about my relationship with the upper brass. Stuff like if they hadn’t overstepped their
boundaries as boss or senpai or if I’m not being given the cold shoulder or something
like that.” [Jane]

There were employers like that, so Jane’s family was naturally worried. Actually, my
letter also inquired about that.
“For the mean time, I told them that the store is great and that there are currently no
men who’ve abused their position to approach me, but… It suddenly dawned on me
that I don’t actually know much about the boss.” [Jane]

“Really?” [Fina]

“I mean all we know about him is his store and that he’s a good kid, right? And that he
has a loooot of slimes and has a house in the abandoned mine.” [Jane]

Now that she mentions it, she’s right. Most of the stuff the boss has talked about with
us are stuff pertaining to the maintenance of the store, how to handle customers, and
about our benefits and what’s expected of us as his employees. He hasn’t really spoken
much of anything outside that.

Everyone started racking their heads at that, but in the end, the conversation ended
with everyone agreeing that the boss is a good kid. I should try and get to know the
boss gradually. Leelin-san and I don’t really plan on probing into it that much, but Jane
and Maria are really enthusiastic about asking the boss all sorts of stuff. I think it
would be better to take care and not be a hindrance to the boss, though.

While I was thinking of stuff like that, we finished our tea and pie. We realized that
we’ve been staying at the teahouse for a long time already, so we left. After that we
walked around town and went back to our dorm before it got dark.

My purse got lighter today, but if it’s just this much, it should be fine. I’ll save up some
money and have fun with everyone at the teahouse again.