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Chapter 1: Don’t Fight Over Me! ~Mushroom Competition and Soup~

Chapter 1: Don’t Fight Over Me! ~Mushroom Competition and Soup~

DESPITE being born as a Fore Elf, I didn’t have any magical energy, fortune, or assets to my name. One day, my fiancé came to me just to say he had no desire to marry me anymore.

The man in question, Lance, was now standing right before my eyes.

Those handsome, elven eyes of his stared back at me from up close.

I could hardly believe it. He’d grabbed my arm and insisted I return with him to the Fore Elf woods.

“Mell? Why’re you spacing out?”

“I’m just shocked is all. I have no idea what to do.”

“I’m the one who doesn’t know what to do,” he said. “What’re you doing all the way out here working in the royal capital?”

“I’m here because you broke things off with me, obviously!”

Bringing that up seemed to annoy Lance, even though he was the one who called it off in the first place.

“…That was a joke,” he said after a long pause.

“Excuse me?”

“I was trying to get you to like me more.”

“You what?”

He told me the marriage was off because he wanted me to like him more? I wanted to shoot him a glare and ask what the heck was going on in his head.

“Um, that logic doesn’t make the slightest bit of sense to me,” I said.

“Andyou don’t make any sense to me! How can you run around, day after day, working yourself to the bone?!” he roared.

“Because my family is poor! How else am I supposed to help them?!”

“I’m aware of all that. But you’ve always worked abnormally hard!”

“Well, I have a very big family!”

I tried to shake his hand off my arm, but he didn’t budge. Lance was a hunter who could draw the string of his massive longbow with ease. I could never beat him in a battle of strength.

“Ngh! Mmmm! L-Let…me…go!” I ground out between my efforts to escape.

“You’ll just run away!”

“O-Of course I will!”

An older knight—one I recognized as the gatekeeper—happened to be passing by, so I cried out to him.

“H-Help me! I’m being kidnapped!”

“Oh, would you look at that. You’ve got another friend from the elf woods. You two get along now, okay?” he dismissed me.

“H-Heeeeeey!”

He thinks we’re playing around just because we’re both elves?! How did it end up like this?! I desperately wanted to cradle my head in my hands, but I couldn’t even do that—Lance was still gripping my arm.

“Lance! We need to discuss this!”

“I’ve been trying to talk to you this whole time!” he countered.

“Huh? You’re lying…”

“No, I’m not!” he shouted so loudly that my ears started to ring.

Lance went on to explain that, ever since he was little, he was constantly trying to get me to talk or play with him. I had only really recognized him as my fiancé when I was about six years old. He described a time when he had picked a flower off the side of the road, but when he presented it to me…

“Um, Mell, would you like this fl—”

“Please, get out of my way! It’s the first sunny day in weeks! I need to dry the laundry!”

“You ran off carrying a big load of laundry. You even brushed against the flower and broke it apart.”

“I-I did? I’m sorry. I had no idea.”

“But that’s not all!”

When we were eleven, Lance had invited me to see the meteor shower that was only visible once every hundred years. However…

“Hey, Mell. Let’s go see the meteors!”

“Sorry, but I’m completely exhausted from making clothes for my sisters all day.”

“But this is the only night it’s visible.”

“I’ll see it…next time… Zzzzz…”

“I couldn’t believe my eyes. You fell asleep standing up.”

“That actually happened?”

“Yeah, it sure did!”

When we were fifteen, Lance still hadn’t given up on finding any opportunity for us to spend time together.

“Hey, Mell! Look at this big animal I hunted!”

“We have plenty at home, thank you!”

“You thought I was a trader peddling something, so you took your basket and ran away.”

“Wh-What a rude person.”

“I’m talking about you! These are all stories about what you did!”

Each story filled me with more and more guilt. I couldn’t recall a single one, but they made it sound like I’d acted downright heartless in how I treated Lance.

“I thought if I called off the wedding, you wouldn’t be able to stop thinking about me. I wanted you to get desperate and start clinging to me. But I was wrong. You just accepted it and left it at that.”

“That’s because…”

Lance was the mayor’s grandson and had lots of followers. He possessed magical energy and was a skilled hunter to boot—earning him the interest of lots of girls in our village. I thought of him as someone who lived in an entirely different world from me.

“What are you talking about? We’re both Fore Elves, aren’t we?”

“I’m sorry…”

With my family and all, my world must have been full already, leaving no room for Lance to exist within it. But that might have changed once my siblings became adults and I got married.

Maybe there truly was a future where Lance became the center of my world.

But that all changed the day he called off our engagement and I didn’t so much as challenge it.

“I’m not returning to the Fore Elf woods,” I stated firmly.

“Don’t be ridiculous! Sure, you’re managing now, but that doesn’t mean you can keep this kind of life up forever.”

“I know that, but I’m not going back. There are things I care about in the royal capital.”

“What could be more important than living in our forest?!”

“Plenty of things!”

“Mind enlightening me?” he pressed.

I’d gained so much since I came to the city. The people at my workplace understood me. They’d accepted a Fore Elf like me. The kindhearted members of the Second Expeditionary Squadron saw me as another comrade.

I met the adorable Amelia, who loved me like a mother.

And then there was—

“Come on! I’ll be all ears after we get back to the forest,” he said, losing patience.

“Wait, Lance! I can’t marry you!”

“Why not?!”

“B-B-Because…”

“Because?”

“Because…I’m in love with someone else!”

“You’re what?!”

A terrifying look took over Lance’s face—a look even scarier than the massive bear stuffed and mounted in the mayor’s home.

“Who is he? What’s his name?”

“Um…his name is Zara…”

“Zara? Sounds like a real cityfolk name. Are you sure he’s not scamming you?”

“Yes, I’m sure! Zara isn’t like that!”

Why do I have to explain this to Lance? The embarrassment is borderline overwhelming.

“Go ahead, marry this city guy. He’ll have you working all day until you die due to exhaustion without a single penny to your name!”

“Um, that sounds a lot like my life in the Fore Elf woods.”

I had to go back and forth between the village and the river three times a day to wash the clothes for all my family members. I lived off the fruits and plants of the forest since I was never given my own spending money. Every night I slept like a log due to sheer exhaustion.

“Compared to those days, my current job gives me breaks, vacations, and a salary. Plus, since I’m not working as hard as I did back in the woods, I get a good night of sleep each and every night,” I explained.

Not even Lance could find the right words to respond.

“Now that you understand, please let go of my arm!” I demanded.

“I’m telling you, I can’t! Forget this. Just come back to the Fore Elf woods for the time being.”

“Lance! Why won’t you listen to me?!”

This was getting exhausting. I feared Lance was going to haul me back to the woods by force.

“S-Someone, help meeee!”

As soon as I shouted that, I heard a voice from overhead.

“Melly!”

It was Zara. I looked up at the sky and watched a white feather drift down toward me. Amelia was soaring above us with her wings spread wide. Zara, who was on her back, jumped to the ground once they were low enough.

“Wh-What the hell is that thing?! A giant bird?!”

Though Amelia had initially distracted him, Lance recoiled at the sight of Zara racing toward him.

“Let go of Melly!”

“Wh-Who are you?!”

“Zara, help me!” I yelled.

My cry for help only made Lance’s grip on me tighten. He pulled me toward him by the hips and wrapped his arms around me from behind.

“Hey! What are you doing?!” I screamed.

“So, this is Zara, huh? He looks just as shallow as I thought!”

“Don’t talk about him like that! You don’t even know him!”

“Kreeeeeeeeeeh!” Amelia put a stop to our quarrel.

“Whoa! What’s with this thing? It almost gave me a heart attack!” Lance cried.

“This is Amelia, the griffin I have a contract with.”

“A what?! How’d you make a contract with a mythical beast?”

“It’s a long story, so there’s no point telling it now.”

“Why not?!”

“Kreeeeeeeeeeh!”

Amelia scolded us again with a, “Knock it off!”

That was when another large shadow emerged from the sky above—it was Rih.

“Th-There’s a black one too?!” Lance yelped.

Rih landed next to Amelia and chirped the romantic words of, “What’s wrong, my Amelia?” Amelia was quick to remind him that she was not in fact his. But Rih, the strong-willed griffin that he was, didn’t mind her scathing words.

Lance, on the other hand, was completely dumbstruck by the overpowering presence of the two griffins. “Mell! Why are there two griffins coming after you?!”

“You see, I have a contract with the black griffin as well,” I said casually.

“What?!” Lance took another look at Amelia, Rih, and Zara before letting out a scream. “What the hell is going on?!”

“That’s what all of us want to ask you, I’ll have you know,” Zara answered.

“Huh?!”

The glare Zara gave Lance was scarier than any expression I’d ever seen him muster before.

“Who’re you to Mell anyway?!” Lance asked.

“The two of us live together,” Zara replied.

“Excuse me?!”

“I suppose you could say we have a pretty close relationship.”

“A what?! M-Mell, do you really live with this guy?”

“Yes, that’s right.”

To be more accurate, we also lived with Charlotte and Sir Aiskoletta, but Lance didn’t need to know those details.

“U-Unmarried men and women can’t live together! It’s unthinkable!”

“Isn’t that just a Fore Elf custom? Please refrain from pushing your values onto others. This is the royal capital, don’t you know?”

Lance gritted his teeth at Zara’s remarks. I knew it was probably the last thing Lance wanted to hear from anyone, especially from Zara.

Well, it was unusual for marriages arranged by the parents of both parties to fall through. I probably would have hurt Lance’s pride if I ended our engagement. But he was the one who called off our engagement—not to mention how long I had to live with the stigma of it.

Lance probably couldn’t fathom how much pain I had to endure. The pain of having to bow my head to my parents. The pain of waiting for them to find me a new fiancé.

Or maybe Lance was waiting for my parents to beg his parents to make him take me back. He probably didn’t expect my parents to give up on him upon learning he’d rejected me.

I could practically see sparks flying off the glares exchanged by Zara and Lance.

“Tell me, would you happen to be Melly’s ex-fiancé?”

“Not ‘ex.’ I’m still her fiancé.”

“I was under the impression you ended things with her.”

“What…? Mell! You told this guy our business?”

“Of course. It’s the whole reason I came to the royal capital in the first place,” I said.

“That’s because you didn’t know how to take a joke!”

“A joke?!”

That response came from Zara—his tone deeply intimidating.

“Do you have any idea how much pain your sorry attempt at humor caused Melly?”

“B-But it’s her fault for not hearing me out…”

“Don’t tell me. Did you actually end things with Melly to get her to chase you?”

“That’s because…she was always running around working on stuff! She never stopped for a moment to listen to me! What else was I supposed to do?!”

At the very least, that part did make me feel guilty. My family was always struggling to get by, so once I got started on something, it was hard for me to stop.

“You had plenty of options to discuss things with her without resorting to breaking up,” Zara scolded.

“That’s where you are wrong. I tried to talk to her all the time. All I ever got in response was, ‘We’ll talk later,’ or, ‘Can it wait for some other time?’ And then, every single night, she went straight to bed because she was so tired. We never got a real chance to talk face-to-face!”

Supposedly, it had been solely my fault that Lance felt as though his back was against the wall. Although, Zara didn’t see it that way.

“You’re making it sound like this is all on Melly, but you’re wrong.”

“H-How am I wrong? She would never talk to me!”

“There were plenty of ways you could’ve made time to talk.”

“I didn’t have any other options! I never even got a chance!”

“I’m talking about making time to talk, not finding time.”

“Making time? What do you mean?”

“If Melly’s busy with work and the like, then you could’ve lent her a hand. In fact, you could’ve used that time working to chat with her. Whether it’s cooking, laundry, or cleaning, time flies in the blink of an eye when two people get to spend it alone together. Then you get the job done twice as fast and have extra time to spend with each other.”

Lance looked irritated, but was otherwise lost for words.

“But, more importantly, let Melly go. Now.”

“Shut your mouth! This is between me and her, mind your own business!”

“I can’t just walk away when Melly is upset.”

“Enough out of you! I’m going to—”

“Kreeeh, kreeeeeeeeeh!”

“Stop this right now!” Amelia shouted.

“Kreh kreh kreh, kreh kreh kreh kreh kreh!”

Even Lance didn’t know how to respond to Amelia’s incessant squawking.

“Kreh kreh kreh kreh, kreh kreeeh!”

“M-Mell, what’s your griffin saying to me?”

“Um…”

I was embarrassed by the idea of translating her cries. But if I didn’t explain it to him, Amelia’s lecture would go to waste.

“She’s begging you to listen to the woman in front of you and to stop fighting.”

“Huh?! I am listening! And we’re not fighting. I’m just trying to take her back to the Fore Elf woods.”

“Kreh kreh kreh, kreh kreh, kreh kreh kreh!”

“All right, I’ve had enough of your annoying chirping.”

“Kreh kreeeh!”

Although Amelia could understand Lance, Lance couldn’t understand her. That was probably why she felt like she was talking to a brick wall.

That was until Rih, who’d been quiet, sprang into action—spreading his wings and jumping into the air. He flew close to the ground and swooped straight at Lance and me.

“Whoa!”

I thought Lance and I would topple over, but something caught my arm.

“Melly!”

“Zara!”

Zara swept me off my feet, cradled me in his arms, and dashed away.

“Kreh, kreh!”

Rih was swiping his talons at Lance, alternating between each paw as if he were trying to land punches. Of course, Rih’s blows weren’t actually connecting with his foe. He was just trying to buy us some time to escape.

Rih returned to Amelia’s side once he was certain that Lance was too frightened to make a move.

After Zara set me down, Amelia came up and nuzzled me.

“Kreh kreh!”

“Amelia!”

I hugged her soft feathers. Amelia explained that she brought Zara with her when she had sensed that I was in danger. Rih had followed shortly after hearing Amelia’s cries.

“Amelia and Rih, thank you.”

But this wasn’t the time to get emotional over the griffins’ kindness.

“Damn it… What the hell’s wrong with that black griffin…? Ah!” Lance quickly got back on his feet and glared at me from a distance. “Mell, you—”

“I’m sorry, Lance. I’m not going back to the Fore Elf woods. There are people I love and cherish here in the royal capital!”

“You really think that’s going to change my mind?”

Lance’s trip from the forest to the city took a month. His intention to take me back with him wasn’t some half-hearted belief. He was so stubborn that it was impossible to convince him no matter what I said. Then how do I get out of this situation?

Lance’s shouting had attracted a crowd. With my sensitive elf ears, I could make out their whispers about the lover’s quarrel they believed they were spectating.

Frankly, I was mortified. I wanted to make a quick exit from this situation as soon as possible.

Then, the image of a person—the one person Lance could never make back down—appeared in my mind. I didn’t hesitate to propose my idea.

“My boss…”

“Hm?”

“If my boss says it’s okay, I’ll go back to the Fore Elf woods.”

“Really? You mean it?”

“Yes, but only with his permission.”

“What about if I have to convince him? If I manage to persuade him, you’ll come back with me, right?”

“That’s right.”

I believed in Captain Ludtink. He would never tell me to go back to the Fore Elf woods.

When I looked at Zara, he nodded with a relieved look.

I just knew things would work out. This was Captain Ludtink we were talking about after all.

🥞🥞🥞

AFTER receiving permission to bring Lance into the knights’ headquarters, I led him inside.

Lance looked the buildings up and down with intense curiosity. “I imagined the Royal Order’s headquarters being significantly fortified, but it’s much more plain-looking than I expected.”

“This is where we train and wait for our orders to come in. If we stayed on constant high alert, we’d be exhausted.”

We conversed until finally arriving at the Second Expeditionary Squadron’s barracks. Charlotte was washing our laundry at the well, but she turned around to greet us.

“Welcome back! Oh, Mell, who is this?”

“Um… This is Lance. He traveled a great distance from the Fore Elf woods to come here.”

“I see.” Charlotte’s ears slumped, as if she’d picked up on Lance’s unpleasant mood. She greeted him with nothing more than a slight bow. “Should I prepare tea?”

“Please do, Charlotte.”

I led Lance to the parlor and had Zara keep an eye on him while I went to inform Captain Ludtink.

“What’s goin’ on, Risurisu? You’re early today.”

“Um, Captain Ludtink, the thing is…”

“What is it?”

“M-My ex-fiancé came here from the Fore Elf woods…and he wants to take me back with him.”

“He what?”

The captain had been stifling a yawn until he heard that. His face instantly transformed into that of a bandit. I only wished Lance had been on the receiving end of that look, not me.

“I don’t want to go back. I fully intend to spend the rest of my life in the royal capital. Amelia brought Zara to try and convince Lance he was in the wrong, but he just wouldn’t listen.”

“So, you brought him here so I could talk some sense into him?”

“Thank you for catching on so quickly.”

Captain Ludtink let out a deep sigh before standing up. He gave me a pat on the head before heading toward the parlor.

On the way there, we could hear an argument going on between Zara and Lance.

“You better stop talking bad about Melly!”

“I’m simply speaking the truth. She only thinks about herself. That’s why she left her family behind to come here.”

“She didn’t leave them behind. Melly’s always thinking of her family. Why, she sends them an allowance every single month!”

“Stop it! Do not fight about Mell! Be nice and eat sweets!” Charlotte tried to put a stop to their dispute.

Captain Ludtink let out another sigh before stepping into the parlor. “Shut your mouths, both of ya.”

“Argh! It’s a bandit!” When Lance took a look at Captain Ludtink, his eyes almost fell out of his skull.

The captain shouted back with his usual, “Who’re you callin’ a bandit?!”

“Lance, this is my boss, Captain Ludtink.”

“Boss?! This guy with the face of a bandit?!”

“Sadly, he’s an honest knight.”

“Sadly? What the hell do ya mean by that, Risurisu?” Captain Ludtink retorted.

“I-I’m sorry.”

Captain Ludtink sank down into the seat across from Lance while Charlotte served us tea.

“Eat cookies and have a nice talk, everyone.” She set down a plate of cookies at the center of the table before taking her leave.

As soon as the door closed, Captain Ludtink cleared his throat. “I’m Crow Ludtink, captain of the Second Expeditionary Squadron of Enoch.”

It was an intense, overpowering introduction. If this was my first time meeting the captain, I just might have pleaded for him to spare my life.

I thought back to my actual first time meeting him, when he had asked if my long ears meant I was a wild rabbit. He had followed that up by howling with laughter. I felt insulted at the time, but now I wondered if his intention was actually to ease my nerves.

If he’d shown me the same intensity that he was showing Lance now, I probably wouldn’t have been able to do my job.

Well, I do wish he had found a way to support me without calling me a wild rabbit.

“So, you’re Lance, huh? I heard you want to take Risurisu back to the woods.”

“Y-Yeah…”

“She’s the combat medic for the Second Expeditionary Squadron and an essential member of the unit. I can’t let you take her with you.”

His words left no room for interpretation. I’d worried the captain might tell Lance to put a leash on me and take me back home with him, but he didn’t hesitate to designate me as a crucial member of the team.

“However…”

“However?!” I leaned forward in a panic.

“What’re you gettin’ upset for, Risurisu?”

“Because…you already said he can’t take me. Shouldn’t that be the end of the story?!”

“I guess, but I don’t think this guy’s gonna be convinced by that alone.” Captain Ludtink nodded over toward Lance, who had his arms crossed as he glared at me.

It appeared that, even knowing how important I was to my squadron, Lance wasn’t ready to back down.

“Zara.”

“Wh-What?”

“You should battle it out with him. The winner gets Risurisu.”

“Huh?!”

“A battle?!”

Zara and Lance could hardly believe their ears.

“The prize is the right to marry her. That’ll work, yeah?”

“No, it absolutely won’t!”

I had to be the one to put a stop to this.

“Wait a minute! Why do Zara and Lance have to fight to marry me now?!”

“He wants to take you back to the woods so he can marry you, right? I bet Zara’s pissed that someone’s tryin’ to steal his woman too. That’s why it’s best to settle this for good with a competition.”

When I heard Captain Ludtink’s absurd proposition, I couldn’t contain myself any longer.

“Please don’t fight over me!”

The room fell silent. Everyone’s eyes were glued to me. I couldn’t help but feel embarrassed, wishing they wouldn’t stare at me so intensely.

“Um, so…you really intend to compete? With me as the prize?”

Lance was the first to answer. “I like it. Sounds like a good way to let off some steam. I’ll sock that pompous prick right in the face.”

“Oh my, what a dangerous man. But I like a challenge. I’ll gladly accept.”

The ferocious sparks between them reignited. Captain Ludtink stopped things from escalating.

“Hang on a second. Knights aren’t allowed to duel, so it’ll have to be somethin’ other than a scuffle.”

“What, are we supposed to compete with a card game or something?”

“No…you’ll be huntin’ mushrooms.”

“H-Hunting mushrooms?”

“Yep.”

But why that? Mushroom season lasted from summer to autumn, but it was currently spring, making them much harder to forage.

“Marina told me about these legendary golden mushrooms you can harvest in early spring. They grow in the woods surrounding the royal capital.”

“G-Golden mushrooms?!”

They were supposedly another variety of the “golden” food eaten in high society. I’d already tried golden cheese and golden apples before—both of which were truly delicious.

I knew golden mushrooms wouldn’t be an exception to this rule.

“All right. Whoever finds a golden mushroom gets to marry Melly.”

“Fine by me. I’ll do whatever it takes.”

Zara and Lance were both on board.

“Too bad we have to do this in such a roundabout way. This would be over in an instant if we were allowed to fight,” Lance grumbled.

I thought that it would indeed be over in an instant, just not in Lance’s favor. If this was a battle of might, Zara would no doubt come out on top. Zara even told me about how one time he picked up Captain Ludtink and threw him during a training session, so I knew he was incredibly strong.

“Um, are you sure about this, Zara? Taking part in this competition with me as the prize?” I asked.

According to the rules, the victor would be the one to marry me. That meant if Zara won, we would have to get married.

“Actually, Melly, I’ve been trying to ask you to marry me for a while now.”

“Wh-What? You have?”

“Uh-huh. But it’s the strangest thing. Every time I try, something interrupts us.”

“Is that right, Zara?”

“I’ll have you know that one of those interruptions has been you, Crow.”

“Me? I never noticed anything like that.”

In fact, neither have I. The captain and I must be incredibly thickheaded. 

“So don’t you worry one bit, Melly. You can still decide for yourself if you want to accept my proposal and marry me.”

“Zara…!”

The men had decided on a competition, but we still had a job to do, so I doubted we would be able to decide a victor anytime soon.

“We’ll be done with work three days from now, so why don’t we meet up in front of the barracks that morning when the bell chimes nine times?”

“Hang on. Why three days from now?”

“Like I said, we have work right now, Lance.”

“You expect me to wait three whole days for this?”

“All right.” Captain Ludtink crossed his arms before giving Zara and me orders. “It’s not like we’re gonna get any missions while Garr’s gone, and we don’t really have anything else to do in the meantime. Zara, Risurisu, let’s all take half the day off for the mushroom hunt. How’s that sound? We can wrap this up by the end of the day.”

“Very well. I’ll find that golden mushroom if it’s the last thing I do!” Zara exclaimed.

“Is that right? A city slicker like you thinks he’ll be able to forage mushrooms?”

It seemed Lance still believed Zara was born and raised in the royal capital.

Captain Ludtink spoke up to correct his assumption. “Actually, Zara grew up in a snowy region miles away from any other civilization.”

“What did you just say?”

“A place like that is far rougher than the Fore Elf woods, right?”

“I’ve never visited the Fore Elf woods, so I can’t say for sure,” Zara said. “But my homeland would get blanketed in snow for about half a year every year. Because of that, we got used to our land being barren and unable to grow much of anything.”

Lance’s face was getting paler and paler. He must have assumed a city slicker would be totally incompetent when it came to tracking down a golden mushroom.

“The mushrooms we foraged from summer to autumn were extremely valuable. I kept up with it even after I moved to the royal capital, so I’m more than familiar with the areas where mushrooms grow around here,” Zara said.

On the other hand, I knew full well that Lance hardly ever foraged for mushrooms. Male Fore Elves primarily hunted, as gathering herbs and mushrooms was the duty of women.

“Lance, it sounds like this will be a waste of time. Why don’t you give up now?” I said.

“Sh-Shut up! Don’t act like I’ve already lost!”

“Do you have any idea where mushrooms even grow?”

“I bet they’re all over the place in these parts!”

“But mushrooms don’t just grow along normal roads.”

“What?!”

There was an abundance of damp places where mushrooms grew in the Fore Elf woods. It was hard to even take a few steps without running into a new patch. But much of the royal capital and its surroundings were far too dry, limiting their growth to a few specific areas. 

The kindhearted Zara informed Lance about where the mushrooms grew.

“Mushrooms actually like damp places and the ground around tree roots.”

“I-I already knew that!”

Lance was definitely lying, but I kept that thought to myself to avoid angering him.

“Don’t forget that monsters roam the woods surrounding the capital, so keep your eyes peeled out there,” Captain Ludtink interjected.

“I’m perfectly aware,” Zara said.

“Who’d be stupid enough to get attacked by a monster during a mushroom hunt?”

Lance was famous for his archery skills. He knew how to keep an ear out for any potential threats in his vicinity, so he could probably make quick work of any monster with a single arrow.

“Mell, are you sure this guy’s a knight? He’s so pale and skinny. I can’t picture him fighting at all,” Lance said, pointing at Zara.

“Don’t worry about him. You’d be in for a shock if you saw Zara with his weapon in hand.”

“Oh yeah? What’s so shocking about holding a weapon?”

“Enough chitchat,” Captain Ludtink said. “Get ready before we head out. Oh, and don’t you dare wear your uniforms unless you want people thinkin’ it’s a duel.”

I doubted anyone would mistake a mushroom hunt for a duel, but better safe than sorry. I changed into a blouse and pants with a thick yellow-brown overcoat—the perfect outfit for walking through the woods.

Then I ran into Amelia and Rih outside the barracks.

“Kreh kreh?”

“Kreh kreh kreh?”

“Ah, they’re going out to the woods to see who can find a golden mushroom. Would you two like to come?” I invited them.

The pair nodded in unison. It seemed they were willing to watch over the competition.

Then, another member of our party made an appearance.

“Bring little ol’ Album too!”

“Of course, of course.” I draped Album around my neck.

Upon setting out for the courtyard, Captain Ludtink approached me.

“Hey, Risurisu.”

“Yes?”

“Are you really goin’ back to the Fore Elf woods if that Lance guy finds a golden mushroom?”

“A promise is a promise, so yes, I will. But I think it would be best if both of our families discuss the prospect of marriage first.”

“Yeah, that’s a good plan.”

“Of course, I’ll have to take some time off from work…”

My eyes started to sting. Even if I was granted a break from work, there was no guarantee that I would be allowed to return to the same unit. That realization was deeply upsetting.

A round trip from the Fore Elf woods to the royal capital took two full months—enough time for them to find a new combat medic for the Second Expeditionary Squadron. Even if I was able to resume work, I would have no place to return to.

“Well, it wouldn’t hurt to pop in on your folks from time to time so they know you’re alive and well. Don’t worry, we’ll have Ulgus be our combat medic while you’re gone. We could maybe even get a temporary archer if one’s available.”

“Huh?”

“What, you weren’t plannin’ on comin’ back?”

“O-Of course not! I want to be the Second Expeditionary Squadron’s combat medic!”

In the middle of my declaration, my voice broke. But instead of teasing me, Captain Ludtink patted me on the head. I quietly thanked the kindhearted bandit…I mean, Captain Ludtink.

Lance was next to arrive. He’d borrowed a basket and hat from Charlotte for our forest venture.

We waited outside until, to Lance’s shock, Zara arrived with his weapon.

“Wh-What the hell is that giant ax?!”

Lance’s eyes almost fell out of his head when he saw the battle ax on Zara’s back.

Today he was using his previous ax instead of Rhodochrosite, the sacred ax bestowed upon him by Sir Aiskoletta. Zara dressed light so he could stay mobile during the golden mushroom hunt.

“Mell, is he using magic to make his ax lighter or something?”

“No, Zara is just that strong.”

“There’s no way! How can someone so slim lift such a giant weapon? Can he even use that thing in combat?”

“Of course he can.”

Even I was surprised the first time I saw Zara lift a battle ax. It was that moment that I finally understood why people called him the “Ferocious Ax-Wielding Prince.”

Zara looked incredibly wild and fearsome when he swung his ax in combat. But there was a heroic beauty about him too, so the name seemed very fitting.

“No, I don’t believe it. He’s just carrying that thing around for show,” Lance huffed.

“Wanna fight me and find out?” Zara taunted.

“How am I supposed to fight an ax with a bow?”

“I see what you mean. In that case…Crow?”

“Hm?”

“Spar with me. How about we set the duration for a minute?”

“Hell no.”

“But spending all day in your office will just make your body stiff.” With a grin on his face, Zara swung his ax and brought it down hard into the ground.

“I definitely don’t wanna fight that guy…”

Now that I thought about it, I’d never seen those two spar before. Ulgus took a break from cleaning his weapon outside to come and watch.

“Wow, Captain Ludtink and Ahto are gonna fight for real?!”

“It’s a very unusual sight.”

“Exactly! Ahto said Captain Ludtink is stronger, but I think he can beat him. A prince will always come out on top against a bandit!”

The sharp-eared Captain Ludtink didn’t let that slide.

“Ulgus! You just said somethin’ stupid, didn’t ya?!”

“I-I said nothing!”

The captain ordered Ulgus to bring him his great sword, which was retrieved with lightning-fast speed. Lance was even more rattled at the sight of the great sword Ulgus was carrying.

“Why is that sword so huge?!”

“That’s Captain Ludtink’s personal weapon.”

The captain had requested his previous combat weapon, not the sacred sword called Dumortierite. He’d been using this one for practice battles as of late. 

“Wh-What’s with that thing?”

“They usually use wooden weapons for training, but I’ve heard they bring out the real ones sometimes too.”

“But knights aren’t supposed to use battle axes and great swords!”

I couldn’t exactly deny that. It was probably hard for knights to fight with any real coordination using giant weapons like Captain Ludtink and Zara did. But our expeditionary squadron was made up of elite members who made it work.

“Is this unit just a bunch of monsters? What weapon does the captain’s grunt use?”

“Do you mean Ulgus? He’s an archer.”

“He doesn’t use a bow as big as his body or something, right?”

“No, it’s normal size.”

Captain Ludtink and Zara were ready to begin sparring. An uncomfortable-looking Ulgus, who’d been ordered to act as referee, stood between them.

“O-Okay! Three, two, one, begin!”

The battle had begun. Captain Ludtink unsheathed his great sword and brought it flying down toward Zara.

“Damn. Look at that guy swinging his great sword around. Maybe he really is a bandit after all.”

I gritted my teeth to stop myself from laughing at Lance’s blunt suggestion, focusing on the battle before me.

Zara got into a defensive stance and maneuvered his ax with great skill. He brought the blade to the ground, impeding the great sword’s blow, then kicked the handle with his foot to press back against it. Captain Ludtink stumbled backwards, giving Zara the opportunity to raise his ax and swing it down.

Clang! The heavy sound of metal rang out as the great sword blocked the blow from the battle ax. But just then…

“That’s enough! Ahto wins!” Ulgus called out for them to stop, earning a glare from the captain.

“Why the hell are ya givin’ it to Zara, Ulgus? I haven’t lost yet!”

“Captain, your great sword is cracked. Another hit will break it.”

“What?!”

Captain Ludtink looked, and lo and behold, his weapon really was cracked. All he could do was click his tongue loudly.

“Why’d ya have to use so much strength, Zara?”

“Sorry about that. It’s been a while since I last sparred. Guess I got a little fired up.” Zara grinned at Captain Ludtink, then turned to look at Lance. “Now, do you accept that this is a real weapon?”

“Sure, whatever. Let’s just get started already!”

🥞🥞🥞

IT was finally time for the golden mushroom hunt to commence.

I decided to set up camp in a clearing within the forest. I scattered holy water all over to repel monsters before setting up a fire.

“Please come take a break here every hour. If you run yourselves ragged, you won’t be able to concentrate.”

“Sure thing!”

Lance just turned his head away without responding. I was starting to worry about how he would fare during the competition.

“I’ll prepare some soup for everyone too. It’s a cold day, so it should warm you up nicely.”

“That sounds fabulous.”

Still wrapped around my neck, Album let out a cheer too.

“The golden mushroom hunt has officially begun!”

Lance immediately broke out into a sprint. Zara waved goodbye to me before entering the woods.

“Now the two of us can get to work on the soup!”

“Okaaay!”

Amelia and Rih watched over us as we began.

Since Zara was a man of compassion, he’d pointed out to Lance where mushrooms grew on the way to the camp spot.

I planned to use the black pepper mushrooms we had found on the way to camp, along with some bacon, to make a soup.

First, I boiled dried mushrooms before adding the fresh black pepper mushrooms and bacon. I let these cook for a bit before adding medicinal herbs, salt, and pepper. The white foam on the surface became clearer after I let it boil for a while, signaling that the mushroom bacon soup was now ready. I tried a sip and found it quite tasty. I’d picked the dried mushrooms while they were in season, leaving them packed full of umami flavor.

“I love how nice and firm the mushrooms are!” Album sounded satisfied with the soup.

Zara returned an hour later. His basket was filled to the brim with mushrooms.

“I’m back, Melly.”

“Welcome back. Look at all the mushrooms you found!”

“I know, right? Even in early spring, so many are growing around here. But I couldn’t find a golden mushroom anywhere.”

Perhaps their existence was nothing more than an urban legend after all.

Lance joined us five minutes later.

“Damn it, I’m late!”

“It’s not a competition to see who can come back exactly within an hour.”

“I know that, obviously.”

Lance’s basket was full too. However, these mushrooms were brightly colored—red, blue, and yellow.

“Um, Lance, most of those mushrooms are poisonous,” I said.

“…I just picked whatever I could find.”

“And every single one is toxic.”

“Sh-Shut up.”

“Oh my gosh! That mushroom’s a really bad one.”

“What do you mean?”

Zara was pointing at a mushroom that was completely red, from cap to stem. “That’s the rare ‘inferno mushroom.’ It’ll burn your skin on contact.” He went on to explain how they only appeared once every ten years in his hometown. “They only grow where the snow doesn’t accumulate on the ground.”

“Lance, did it hurt your hand?” I asked.

“No, I’m fine.”

There was no sign of holes or scorch marks on Lance’s gloves. He removed them so I could take a closer look, but his skin didn’t appear to have been burned.

“Looks like your gloves are sturdy enough to withstand an inferno mushroom.”

“They’re made from the skin of a great hedgehog.”

Great hedgehogs were animals with sharp needles all over their backs. They were only very rarely spotted within the Fore Elf woods. From what I recalled, their very thick skin prevented the great hedgehogs from piercing themselves with their own needles. I couldn’t believe Lance had caught one and turned its hide into gloves.

“Let’s bury Lance’s poisonous mushrooms in the ground so they don’t hurt anyone.”

“Yeah, sounds good.”

Once we buried the mushrooms, it was time to have our soup.

“Oh my gosh, it’s so nice and warm. I love it!”

Zara’s praise really made me happy. Lance, on the other hand, just commented that the soup only tasted good because he was so hungry. As always, Lance struggled with opening up about his feelings.

They returned to the golden mushroom hunt after they finished their soup. One hour later, the pair once again returned to camp empty-handed.

“Do these things even exist?”

“I’m not entirely sure.”

It was certainly hard to rely on a mere rumor heard by Captain Ludtink of all people. But Zara, refusing to give up, left in search of a golden mushroom once more.

Amelia let out a big yawn. Rih did the same right after her, causing me to yawn too. We were shockingly bored.

Album had been setting out into the forest as well, returning occasionally with nuts and herbs that he found.

“I don’t think these golden mushrooms are out here at all.”

“I have to agree.”

I wished the competition had been something simpler, like a game of cards.

Or maybe that would be silly considering I’m the prize on the line here.

Another hour passed, and once again, Zara and Lance returned empty-handed.

“It’s going to get dark soon.”

“What do you say? Wanna head back?”

“Yeah, sounds good.”

Our surroundings were already getting dark. I extinguished the fire and gathered my belongings.

“Want me to carry your basket, Melly?”

“Thank you, Zara.”

I attached my pot to Rih’s saddle, took a step forward, and tripped on a tree root, tumbling to the ground.

“Gyah!”

“Oh no, Melly! Are you okay?!”

“Urk…”

Lance snorted and called me clumsy. Zara, being the kind man that he was, got on his knee and helped me return to my feet.

“Thank you, Zara.”

“Of course…”

“Zara?”

He was acting strange—staring not at me, but at something behind me.

When I turned around, a sparkling yellow mushroom entered my vision.

“Z-Zara, I think that’s a golden mushroom!”

“I-I think you’re right.”

Apparently, golden mushrooms sparkled at night. Album approached it for a better look.

“Ah, it’s a golden mushroom all right!”

Coming from Album, it had to be true. Zara reached out and gently plucked the golden mushroom. It continued to sparkle even after being removed from the ground.

“I guess finding these during the daytime is pretty much impossible, huh?” Zara commented.

“Maybe so.”

“I doubt I would’ve noticed it if I hadn’t crouched down to help you up.”

Zara’s kindness had won out in the end, leading Lance to let out an irritated, “Damn it!”

We returned to the barracks and found Captain Ludtink waiting for us in the break room. I proceeded to present our discovery to him.

“Whoa! Look at the damn thing sparklin’ like that. I didn’t think they really existed.”

At that moment, I realized the captain hadn’t believed these golden mushrooms even existed—he just wanted us to go look for one anyway. How mean of him!

“Which one of you found it?” he asked.

“That would be me.”

“So, Zara won the competition, huh?”

It seemed I wouldn’t be returning to the Fore Elf woods after all. It was like the tension finally lifted, allowing me to breathe.

“Melly, will you accept this golden mushroom?” Zara presented it to me.

“Of course!”

Lance simply stared at the two of us in silence.

Captain Ludtink spoke to him first. “Remember, you gave your word. You’re not gonna bother Risurisu anymore, are we clear?”

“Yeah, yeah. I know.”

I started to feel a little sorry for him, but this was the time to stay strong. I didn’t want him to take advantage of any kindness I showed him.

It was time for Lance and me to say our farewells.

“Hey, Mell?”

“Y-Yes?”

“Do you remember when we were kids, how I used to come over to your house and eat?”

“Huh? Ah, yes.”

“I only came over to talk to you, but your mom invited me to come inside.”

“And you ended up joining us at the dinner table.”

It was so embarrassing how my dad would brag to Lance about how amazing the soups I made were. I remembered all of that to this very day.

“My dad used to say such silly things…” I said.

“No, he was right. They were delicious.”

“Huh?”

“I never got the chance to tell you that. Well, until now.”

He had never given me so much as a hint that he enjoyed my soups, but it seemed he liked them after all.

Geez, why did it take him so long to open up to me?

Our current relationship probably would have been very different if Lance hadn’t been so stubborn.

“Your mushroom soup is the best in the whole village. When I tried your soup today, I couldn’t help but remember that. Once we got married, I wanted to brag about your cooking to everyone…”

“Goodness! Melly’s soups are the best in the whole world,” Zara bragged. “You must have a very narrow view of things, huh?”

“Zara…!”

“Seems like you’re defeated on all fronts.”

Captain Ludtink put his hand on Lance’s shoulder, but Lance didn’t say a word. He just gazed out the window into the distance.

I didn’t know what to expect when I heard Lance and Zara were going to fight over me, but I was so relieved the day ended without any major incident.

Chapter 2: The Dark Dragon and the Mysterious Honey Candy

Chapter 2: The Dark Dragon and the Mysterious Honey Candy

THE conflict between Lance and me had been resolved. I doubted we would cross paths again.

“All right, everyone can head on home now.”

“No, hang on a minute!”

“What’s wrong?”

“It’s just…”

Lance was looking back and forth between Captain Ludtink and Zara. There seemed to be a matter he wanted to keep private.

“Is there something you need to discuss, Lance?” I asked.

“Yeah, can the blond sissy boy and the bandit knight leave for a minute?”

“Who’re you callin’ a bandit knight?”

“You, obviously.”

“What?!”

Lance… You’re fearless, aren’t you? Doubling down on calling him a bandit like that…

Or perhaps he’d already become accustomed to Captain Ludtink after initially being frightened by him. That level of adaptability was frightening in itself.

“If you won’t leave, then we will.” Lance reached for my hand, but Zara stopped him.

“Sorry, but I have no interest in leaving you alone with Melly.”

“What, are you her guardian or something?!”

“No, but I don’t trust you.”

Sparks were, once again, flying off between Zara and Lance. The thought of having to beg them a second time to not fight over me was mortifying.

“Fine,” Captain Ludtink interrupted. “Zara, you leave, but I’m stayin’ here. But that’s all the leeway you’re gettin’.”

Lance clicked his tongue, but that seemed to be his way of agreeing to the compromise. Zara reluctantly left the room.

“What do you want to talk about, Lance?” I asked.

“Ah…” He shot Captain Ludtink another glance.

“It’s all right. As you can see, the captain is very tight-lipped.”

“Huh? What do ya mean by that, Risurisu?”

“I-I’m sorry.”

I would never admit that, from my perspective, he looked exactly like a bandit.

“You’re wastin’ our time. We don’t have all day, so spit it out already,” he said moodily to Lance.

“Fine. Mell, our magic healer is here in the royal capital, and he wants to speak with you.”

“Huh? Doc is here?”

“Yep.”

The man who sealed away my magical energy is in town?

“He ordered me to join him in coming here to help find you.”

“I see. So where is he now?”

Lance looked off in the distance.

“Is he waiting for me at an inn?”

“I…have no clue.”

“N-No clue? What does that mean?!”

Lance went on to explain how they had gotten separated in the dense crowds of people as soon as they set foot in the royal capital.

“I was looking for him when I ran into you,” he mumbled.

“And the first thing you did was pick a fight with me?”

“I mean, I’d been pissed off all these years…”

I cradled my head in my hands. It was very difficult to search for a missing person in the heavily populated and maze-like capital. How did things end up like this?

“Captain Ludtink… Um, Doc is someone who’s done a lot for me… He’s also a High Elf, which is a very uncommon race,” I said.

Fore Elves lived in forests and had relatively short life spans of about 100 years. High Elves, on the other hand, could live up to a thousand years, and at times were believed to be extinct.

“Oh yeah? So, he’s not your everyday elf, huh? Sounds like he might be in trouble.”

“Exactly.”

“All right, go out and search for Doc with Zara, Risurisu. This guy here is comin’ with me.”

“Hey! Why me?!” Lance yelped.

“You expect to search for a guy in a place you have no clue about?”

“W-Well, yeah, but…”

“Don’t worry, I’ll take you to my place after this.”

“You’ll wh-what?”

Captain Ludtink was volunteering to look after Lance during his entire stay in the city.

“Are you sure you don’t mind, Captain?” I asked.

“Yeah, I don’t want him causin’ a ruckus if we let him run wild.”

“But you and Marina are newlyweds. Won’t he be spoiling your time together?”

“Nah, it’s perfect timin’ actually.”

“Don’t tell me. Are you and Marina fighting again?”

“No…” Captain Ludtink stared off into the distance. “Her parents are stayin’ with us for another week. With the mood all awkward back home, I can use this elf guy as a topic of conversation and a distraction.”

“I-I see…”

He explained that Marina’s parents were extremely curious, talkative people—making Lance the perfect sacrifice for their overwhelming enthusiasm.

“You oughta head out and find your healer as soon as possible, Risurisu.”

Terrible outcomes started to drift into my mind—what if he got scammed by someone or even kidnapped? We needed to find him quickly. The city itself could also be in a state of chaos over the arrival of a beautiful High Elf.

“Take Zara and head out right now. That’s an order.”

“Yes, Captain.”

Lance stood up with us, but Captain Ludtink grabbed him by the scruff of his neck.

“H-Hey! What’re you doing?!”

“You’ll be staying here at the barracks. Don’t worry, I’ll bring ya to my place tonight.”

“Huh?! Why do I have to go to some bandit’s hideout?”

“Who’re you callin’ a bandit?! My house isn’t a hideout!”

“I’m not buying it! Just look at you!”

“What’d ya just say to me?!”

While those two were busy making plans for the evening, I rushed out of the room. I found Zara in the hallway leaning against a wall with his arms crossed and brow furrowed, but when he noticed me, a smile appeared on his face.

“Zara! Um, I know this is sudden, but we have to go search for someone.”

“A friend of yours, Melly?”

“Yes. He’s my village’s magic healer.”

“Goodness! I see.”

“Captain Ludtink ordered the two of us to search for him together.”

“Zara, go find that healer with Risurisu!” came the captain’s booming shout from inside the break room.

“Alrighty then. We should make a sketch that shows off this healer’s unique traits and features,” Zara suggested before we set off.

“I agree.”

When it came to conveying that information, it would be faster to show rather than tell.

“But I can’t draw at all…” I said.

“And Garr’s not around either.”

Garr, the most talented artist in the Second Expeditionary Squadron, was on his honeymoon.

“Ah!”

“What is it, Melly?”

“Captain Ludtink has a book about elves in his office. I think there’s an illustration in it that looks like Doc.”

“Great, then let’s bring that along with us.”

We raced to the captain’s office and retrieved the book from his bookshelf.

“I didn’t know he kept books like this in here,” Zara said.

“Captain Ludtink said he got it just before I joined the unit.”

Supposedly, after my assignment was finalized, Captain Ludtink made the announcement at a morning meeting. “We’re gettin’ an elf, everyone. Read this book and study up on elf ecology.”

After I’d been a member for a while, it was Ulgus who had shown me the book.

“I heard the book came from Captain Ludtink’s parents’ collection,” I explained.

“Oh my gosh! The cover has gold tooling, the binding is made of black leather, and the illustrations are printed with silver ink. It was published a hundred years ago too. What a valuable book! I bet there are people out there who would just die to get their hands on a book like this.”

“Th-That’s likely true.”

This treasure of a book has just been sitting on the office bookshelf, collecting dust? That’s kind of sad…

“This book is about High Elves, not Fore Elves.”

“Are those the ones that make incredible sorcerers and can live a really long time?” Zara asked.

“That’s the one. Our healer told us he’s 400 years old.”

“It’s almost hard to believe.”

“Indeed. Doc refers to himself as an old grandpa, but he actually looks quite young.”

He would get mad when people treated him like a young man, demanding they call him Old Man Doc. When I was a kid, I remember being confused about Doc’s age since I didn’t know he was a High Elf.

“But 400 years is pretty young for a High Elf, huh? Why was he acting like an old man?”

“He said it makes people less demanding of him. He was the only doctor in our village, after all.”

At one point, Doc even drew wrinkles on his face with makeup to appear older. Although, that must have been too much work for him since he stopped doing it within the past few years I lived there.

“I used to go and help Doc quite often. He hated exerting unnecessary effort. The villagers would gift him food and he’d sometimes let it go rotten.”

I would clean his home, do his laundry, and cook him meals in exchange for the food he didn’t eat. Those memories were so nostalgic to me.

I’d heard he started living a quiet, comfortable life in his old age now that he had a few apprentices. Those apprentices must have been adequately trained if he was willing to leave them and come to the city.

“I see. He sounds like a unique guy.”

“He really is. When people try to picture an elf, Doc is pretty much what comes to mind.”

“So he’s like a true blue, original elf, huh?”

“Exactly.”

“Do High Elves and Fore Elves live together in your village?”

“No, it’s just Doc.”

Honestly, I never even questioned why he lived in our village, even though there was probably some reason for it.

I flipped through the pages until I spotted a beautiful elf printed in silver ink.

“Ah, this is it. This elf looks exactly like Doc.”

The elf had long, silky silver hair, slit-like eyes, a well-formed nose, and shapely lips. He looked to be in his mid-twenties or so. Despite his feminine beauty, Doc was a man.

Lots of Fore Elves were good-looking too, but we were no match for the sparkling beauty of a High Elf. Their looks were practically divine, making them exceptionally difficult to approach.

“He’ll definitely stand out if he’s in town.”

“Exactly. I believe this illustration will be helpful.”

“Shall we head out then?”

“Let’s do it!”

It was finally time to begin our search. We could hear Lance and Captain Ludtink shouting once we stepped into the hallway.

“Oooowww! Damn you! Why are bandits so strong?!”

“What’re ya talkin’ about?! Shut your trap and quit fightin’!”

The captain seemed to be struggling to restrain Lance. We needed to leave while we had the chance.

Zara and I exited the Second Expeditionary Squadron’s barracks, jogged across the grounds, and stepped into town.

“I wonder where Doc could have—”

“Mell! Is that you?!”

A familiar voice called out to me. Once I turned around, I was greeted by a beautiful elf clad in a full-body cloak and carrying a souvenir flag that said, “Welcome to the Royal Capital!” His other hand clutched the tall staff that all sorcerers wielded.

“D-Doc?!”

My village healer, clearly enjoying his time touring the city, was standing before me.

“Melly…is that…the High Elf healer?”

“Y-Yes…”

The cloak hid his elf ears, but there was no mistaking him. I never imagined our search would come to an end so quickly.

“Um…it’s been so long, Doc…”

“Hasn’t it only been two years?”

Two years was more like a week or two to the four-hundred-year-old Doc.

“I was following Lance’s magical energy signature, but then it went inside the barracks. So I didn’t know what to do next.”

“I see… I’m sorry about Lance.”

Doc told me he’d tried to follow him into the barracks but was denied entry.

“I could sense your magical energy as well, so I was relieved to know that you two had reunited.”

“I-I see.”

He’d been waiting outside in hopes of finding us ever since.

“I don’t know what to say. I’m sorry that Lance and I have caused you so much trouble,” I said.

“No, it’s quite all right. I’ve never set foot in such a lively place before. It’s most intriguing, to say the least.”

I was relieved to hear he wasn’t upset.

“Um, I heard you wanted to speak with me?”

“Yes, that’s right. It’s not something I can discuss here. I wish we could speak somewhere that was a bit more discreet…”

“How about the restaurant where I used to work?” Zara suggested. “They have private rooms, not to mention it’s dinnertime and all.”

Doc finally took notice of Zara, so I introduced the two.

“Oh, this is Zara Ahto. He knows about my magical energy.”

“I see. In that case, let us go to this restaurant and discuss matters, shall we?”

“Yes, all right.”

We walked to the restaurant in the center of town and were seated in a private room. Before anything else, we needed to place our orders.

“Are you hungry for anything in particular, Doc?” I asked.

“Hmm. My stomach craves some meat.”

“The meat pies here are fantastic.”

“Then meat pies it shall be.”

I ordered the grilled fish meal and Zara ordered noodles with vegetables. Ten minutes later, our food arrived.

“So, this is the food of the royal capital, is it?”

The waitress, who’d laid eyes on Doc, was blushing as she explained each food item.

“Please enjoy your meals.”

Once she bowed and left, Doc finally lowered the hood of his cloak.

“Phew. Now I can finally relax.”

High Elf ears were as pointy as knives—much longer than the round Fore Elf ears.

Zara was lost for words upon seeing a High Elf’s ears for the first time. It was a distinct reminder that High Elves and Fore Elves were completely different creatures.

“Let’s dine, shall we?”

“Let’s.”

Apparently, Doc intended to consume the entire pie himself. As much as he seemed like an ephemeral being who had no need for sustenance, he was actually quite the glutton.

He cut off a gigantic slice and stuck it in his mouth.

“So tremendously juicy… The crust is crispy and delicious as well.”

I was relieved to hear he liked it. I decided to also get started on my grilled fish.

I stuck my knife into the fish’s crispy skin and watched the juices seep out. When I took a bite of the meat, the savory flavors filled my mouth the more I chewed. Everything this restaurant served was delicious. I took my time and savored my meal.

Once the after-dinner black tea was brought to our table, Doc moved to the main topic at hand. “Forgive me. We came here to talk, but I was just so hungry that I couldn’t stop eating.”

“That’s all right.”

I suddenly wondered if Captain Ludtink had given Lance dinner. I could only imagine that those two were still back at the barracks bickering.

“First, allow me to confirm something. Mr. Zara Ahto, you intend to spend your life with Mell and have already heard certain information from her, correct?”

The question came as a shock to me, but Zara quickly responded with, “Yes.” Doc’s next question was directed at me.

“Mell, you feel the same about this man, correct?”

“Yes, I would say I do.”

“Understood. In that case, allow me to discuss Fore Elf history with the two of you.”

Though I expected this conversation to be focused on magical energy, it seemed to be something of a much grander scale. I sat up straight to listen closely.

It all began when a young Fore Elf man went berserk after having his marriage opposed. He had fallen for a woman despite being engaged to another. Of course, those around him openly expressed strong distaste for his situation.

The elf decided that he could no longer live in his village, so he formed a plan to escape. However…

“His elopement failed, and if he ever made more attempts to see his lover in secret, he was threatened with a week’s confinement in a storage shed. That was how strict his family environment was.”

So, to be with the woman he loved, he had no choice but to remove his family himself. With his back against the wall, the elf hatched a plan to summon a Dark Dragon.

When a mythical beast dragon underwent feralization for some reason or another, they turned into the dreadful Dark Dragon—a beast that consumed the flesh and blood of the living.

“The summon was successful. However, the young man was unable to control the dragon and ended up becoming its first meal.”

Now that Doc mentioned it, I recalled Vario Leffra—former director of the Magic Research Bureau—mentioning how monsters could never serve humans. But the Fore Elf man probably had no idea about that.

“The Dark Dragon ran rampant, devouring Fore Elves and attempting to burn your beautiful forest. It just so happens I had the unfortunate fate of passing by the Fore Elf woods at that exact time.”

At that point in his life, Doc had been a mere adventurer who wandered the world aimlessly. However, the villagers fleeing the forest begged him for help.

“I offered two options to the Fore Elves. They could simply wait for their forest to be destroyed. Or, alternatively, I could seal away the Dark Dragon, but a Fore Elf with powerful magical energy would need to be sacrificed to the beast every fifty years. The Fore Elves chose the second option.”

My heart lurched.

Fore Elves had been sacrificed to the Dark Dragon all these years. I never imagined our history was so stained with blood…

Doc sealed the dragon away and helped revive the village, deciding to stay behind and watch over the Dark Dragon even after the forest was restored to its full beauty.

“I gave orders to the Fore Elves. Those with strong magical energy were to marry and have children who could be used as sacrifices as needed.”

That was why Fore Elves were assigned their future spouses upon birth.

That brought us back to the present.

Nineteen years ago, I, a Fore Elf, was born and had my energy sealed away by the magic healer.

“Does that mean I…?”

“Yes, you were one of the potential sacrifices to the Dark Dragon.”

I was struck with tremendous shock. I never knew I had enough magical energy to make me a sacrifice for a dragon.

“Wh-Why did you seal my energy away? Doesn’t the dragon…need its sacrifices?”

“Because even now, despite all the Fore Elves I’ve already sacrificed, it eats at my conscience.”

Doc’s conscience was the sole reason I was still alive today.

I’d been teased about my lack of magical energy all my life, completely ignorant of the fact that it was actually protecting me.

“D-Does that mean the Dark Dragon is stabilized now?”

“No, it doesn’t. I didn’t simply seal your magical energy away without a backup plan.”

“You found another solution?”

“Exactly.”

“What is it?”

“I’ve decided to seal the Dark Dragon away using my own life.”

“What?!”

“The life of a High Elf such as myself should be enough to keep the dragon contained for all of eternity, never to return.”

“O-Oh no!”

It was nearly time for the Dark Dragon to take its next sacrifice.

“It will happen roughly a month and a half from now. Time truly flies, doesn’t it? You were so little, Mell. Now look at you. You’ve gotten so big in the blink of an eye. Being able to watch over your growth has been a blessing.”

“D-Doc…!”

He was going to save my life by sacrificing his own. Suddenly, tears spilled from my eyes.

“At first, I intended to quietly depart this world without telling anyone…”

“Th-Then why did you decide to tell me?”

I’d always believed that Doc sealed my magical energy away because it was too powerful for me to control.

“Because of the letter you sent me last month.”

“My…letter?”

I’d been writing to Doc once a month—at first, it was just chitchat about magical energy and life updates. But recently, we’d run out of things to discuss regarding magical energy, so we mostly just wrote about our lives.

“Did I write something special in my letter?”

“You absolutely did.”

I racked my brain, but I didn’t have a clue what he meant. I mostly only updated him about things like the delicious dried mushrooms I harvested in autumn or how the flowers had started blooming in our garden.

“Remember? You wrote about something in particular.”

“I’m sorry, but I don’t recall.”

Doc crossed his arms and sighed, exasperated. “What a pity. To me, your letter was full of hope.”

“H-Hope?”

“Yes, hope.”

Where did he find hope in my tedious, everyday life? But before I could ask, Zara suddenly gasped.

“Melly! The Dark Dragon Slayer!”

“D-Dark Dragon Slayer?”

“Yes! We have the Dark Dragon Slayer back at home! Sir Aiskoletta!”

“O-Oh yeah!”

How could I forget? We live with the Dark Dragon Slayer! Lately he’d been more like a mom to me and a grandpa to Charlotte, so his true identity completely slipped my mind.

Sir Aiskoletta was a great hero strong enough to take down a bona fide Dark Dragon all by himself.

“I was so surprised to learn that the great hero known as the Dark Dragon Slayer lived with you, Mell,” Doc said.

“It was just a strange series of coincidences…”

It seemed that Doc had come to the royal capital to request Sir Aiskoletta’s help in slaying the Dark Dragon.

“He’s still staying with you, is he not?”

“Yes. Today he’s…”

“He’s what?”

I…can’t bring myself to tell Doc that the Dark Dragon Slayer pulled weeds in the garden, baked sweets, and now he’s waiting for our return.

“May I come over this evening?” Doc requested.

“Of course. We live outside the city, so we’ll need to rent a carriage first.”

“No need. I can find the coordinates within your memory.”

“F-Find the coordinates?”

“To use a teleportation spell.”

Sir Aiskoletta had explained teleportation spells as being limited to places that the caster had visited before. But perhaps a four-hundred-year-old High Elf like Doc could cast such a spell under different conditions. I really shouldn’t have been surprised.

When he picked up the staff he’d leaned against the wall, I called out and stopped him.

“What is it? Are you embarrassed I might see something in your house?”

“No, I’m not a boy going through puberty. We have to pay for our dinner first.”

“Ah, that’s right. Will this do?”

Doc reached into his breast pocket and pulled out a gold nugget the size of his fist.

“What?! Where did you get that?!”

“I don’t remember exactly how long ago it was, but I healed an injured man with magic on one of my journeys, so he gave me this in return.”

“Eeeek!”

I didn’t know much about gold, so I wasn’t sure how much the nugget was worth—only that it wasn’t exactly appropriate for this setting.

“Um, I’ll pay for dinner, so please put that gold away. It’s not something you should be showing off.”

“Oh dear. Is that right?”

I’d been ignorant when I first came to the royal capital too, but shouldn’t someone well-traveled like Doc be a bit smarter about this sort of thing?

After I finished paying, we went out back so Doc could teleport us home.

I was nervous about how he might go through my memories, but in the end, we teleported straight home, and I never felt anything in particular.

We arrived in the garden where Sir Aiskoletta just so happened to be out pulling weeds. He stared at us, clad in his usual frilly apron.

“My, you’re home early on this fine evening.”

“Yes, I suppose so.”

“Are you Sir Aiskoletta, the man known as the Dark Dragon Slayer?” Doc asked.

“Aye, I am.”

It was a chance encounter between the living legend and the four-hundred-year-old High Elf.

Suddenly, I felt like I had been dropped into a storybook. Those two were just such unusual characters. But then I realized they were still staring at each other silently, and I remembered I needed to introduce them.

“Sir Aiskoletta, this is Doc, our magic healer at the Fore Elf village. He’s a High Elf.”

“A magic…healer?”

“That’s right.”

Magic healers conducted medical treatment using spells—an art lost to time. It wouldn’t surprise me if Doc was the only magic healer left in the whole world.

“My name is Ciel Aiskoletta, and I am currently assisting with house chores.” Sir Aiskoletta was probably the only great hero employed in the line of housework.

The two men shook hands.

“Um, Doc is here because there’s something he’d like to ask you.”

“Is that so? I’ve baked cookies, so let us partake as we discuss.”

Sir Aiskoletta seemed sort of fidgety. Perhaps he was just that eager to share the cookies he had worked so hard on.

We let Doc inside the house, took seats around Sir Aiskoletta’s cookies and tea, and began the discussion.

“…and so I’ve come to request your help in exterminating this Dark Dragon.”

“Very well.” It took less than five minutes of conversation before Sir Aiskoletta accepted the challenge. “You must be tired from all the talking. Here, enjoy a cookie, please.”

“Thank you.”

The stuffy atmosphere instantly cleared up. Doc gobbled up Sir Aiskoletta’s cookies and gave them high praise. I decided to try one too.

“Ah, these are delicious!”

“They truly are, aren’t they?!”

He told me he’d practiced in secret with Zara the other day and that today’s batch were the best cookies he’d baked so far.

“Such accomplishment I feel, getting the opportunity to treat an unexpected guest to my cookies!”

We’d brought Doc home to discuss a dragon extermination, but it seemed he wasn’t an unwelcome visitor to Sir Aiskoletta. The great hero was never one to be underestimated.

“All right, Wise High Elf. When shall we set out to defeat this Dark Dragon?”

“Yes, we ought to get to it as soon as possible. Will you join us, Mell?”

“M-Me?!”

Won’t a tiny Fore Elf like me just get in the way? The more I thought about it, the more frightened I became.

“The Dark Dragon won’t swallow me in one bite, will it?”

“You’ll be fine, Mell. Dark Dragon gullets are too small to swallow people whole. They have to chew them up first—”

“Doc! That doesn’t sound fine at all!”

“Wouldn’t you rather be chewed up in an instant than be dissolved slowly in its stomach acid?”

“No, not at all!”

I’d nearly forgotten. As a High Elf, Doc’s sensibilities were much different compared to those of an average person like me. This was far from the first time we had been on opposing sides like this. I cradled my head in despair.

But Sir Aiskoletta was the one to offer encouragement.

“Fear not, Miss Mell. No dragon shall swallow you on my watch.”

“Sir Aiskoletta…!”

His lovely assertion wasn’t nearly as impactful as it would have been without the frilly apron. Sir Aiskoletta could be somewhat disappointing for a great hero at times.

“If Miss Mell is joining us, then we ought to request the assistance of the Second Expeditionary Squadron as well.”

“I agree.”

I would need to explain the situation to Captain Ludtink first.

“Um, now what? Should we start tomorrow?”

“No, the sooner the better. What do you say, Wise High Elf?”

“I agree.”

With that, we used another spell to teleport back to the barracks.

Lance toppled out of his chair when a full suit of armor in a frilly apron suddenly appeared in front of him.

“Wh-What the hell is that?! Is that a monster?!”

Indeed, a monstrous suit of armor wearing a frilly apron would be horrifying. But I couldn’t let the thought distract me.

“We found him, Captain Ludtink,” I announced. “This is Doc, the magic healer who’s done a lot for me throughout my life.”

Captain Ludtink gave a proper, polite greeting. I nearly mistook him for a nobleman…well, no, he actually was a nobleman.

“Now, Doc and Sir Aiskoletta have something they’d like to discuss with you.”

“Fine then.”

We asked Vice Captain Velrey to join us for the very serious conversation. Everyone sat on the sofas and listened as Doc spoke.

“…and that’s how I came to ask the great hero for help. I’d like the Second Expeditionary Squadron to join us as well.”

This was a Fore Elf problem. We couldn’t place the responsibility solely on a great hero from a foreign country. Sir Aiskoletta requested that, if I was to join their party, it would be best to have my entire unit alongside me.

We wouldn’t demand their cooperation, of course. Fighting a Dark Dragon was an incredibly dangerous feat.

“What do you think, Risurisu?”

I would have been sacrificed to the dragon if Doc had never sealed my magical energy. From the dragon’s perspective, it was summoned without any say in the matter and then sealed before being offered the full compensation. But it wasn’t a creature I could pity.

“The young Fore Elf man selfishly brought this dragon into the world…and I want to be there to see its downfall.”

Perhaps it was strange to turn myself into a Fore Elf representative, but I doubted anyone was willing to take my place. I was going to take responsibility and watch the selfish deed of the Fore Elves be resolved for good.

“You wanna be there, huh? Understood.”

Captain Ludtink was going to report to his higher-ups and come back to us with their decision. But, for now, there was nothing left to be done on our side.

Lance really didn’t want to go to the captain’s house, so Captain Ludtink grabbed him by the scruff of his neck.

“Damn you! I don’t want to go to your bandit hideout!”

“I told you, I’m no bandit and it’s not a hideout!”

“Where’s your proof, huh?!”

“How am I supposed to prove that?!”

I couldn’t help but chuckle at the two of them.

Doc would be staying at our place for the time being. I asked Charlotte if it would be okay with her, and she quickly stated it would be no problem.

We teleported back home using a giant magic circle—big enough to transport Zara, Sir Aiskoletta, Charlotte, Umataro, Amelia, Rih, and me all at once.

Doc’s spell brought us back home in the blink of an eye.

“Welcome to our home, Doc! We actually own this place.”

“How wonderful.” He cast a ball of light to illuminate the house. “A honey-colored brick home. Yes, it’s lovely.”

“Thank you.”

I led him inside. Charlotte told us she would tidy up a guest room for him.

“You’re welcome to use the bath, Doc.”

“Shouldn’t the great hero bathe first?”

“I shall bathe after everyone else.”

“See?”

“Very well. I’ll take you up on the offer.”

I combined magic water stones and magic fire stones to heat the bathwater in no time at all. I also sprinkled some fatigue-treating medicinal herbs in the water. I hoped soaking in this bath would let Doc recover from his long journey.

“Would you like some dinner, Doc? I’m about to get started on it.”

We’d only just eaten at the restaurant, but I figured it would be safe to ask, given Doc was such a glutton.

“Why yes, it’s been so long since I had your cooking, Mell.”

“Then I’ll prepare you a serving too.”

I stood in the kitchen, put my apron on, and rolled up my sleeves. Album hopped up on the counter then.

“Little ol’ Album wants to help too!”

“Album… You stowed away in my bag again?”

“Uh-huh! I thought I’d get to eat something yummy if I did!”

“What a strange creature you are.”

Album had a contract with Lord Lichtenberger and the food at his house was surely much yummier, but he still seemed to prefer my cooking.

I filled a saucer with water and gave it to Album to wash his paws. Zara appeared in the kitchen next.

“Want some help, Melly?”

“Yes, thank you, Zara.”

I set the ingredients out on the counter.

“What’s for dinner tonight, Melly?”

“I was going to make hamburger steak using boar-pig and three-horned cow meat, but…”

I wanted to add something special for Doc. I crossed my arms and racked my brain for an idea.

“How about golden mushroom sauce on top?” Album suggested.

“Ah, the golden mushroom!”

Zara won that competition against Lance in the hunt for the golden mushroom. I’d been unsure of how to best use it for cooking since we only had one.

“Um, Zara, do you mind if I use this golden mushroom in a sauce?”

“Go right ahead.”

“Thank you so much!”

I could only imagine how delicious a golden mushroom sauce would taste.

“Okay, shall we begin?”

“Let’s do it.”

“Yeah!”

First up, I was going to fry a diced onion in three-horned cow fat instead of oil. I put the fat in a pan and placed it over the fire. Once the fat was melted, I added the onions and let them simmer until they were brown, pouring them onto a plate to cool.

Then I put breadcrumbs and milk in a bowl where I would add the onions. They needed to sit and soak for a while before it was time to use them.

Next, I prepared the minced meat. I had asked the butcher to make a six-to-four ratio of three-horned cow and boar-pig meat for my hamburger steaks.

“Please salt the meat, Album.”

“On it!”

He put salt all over the meat and then spread it with a spatula.

Once the minced meat was nice and sticky, I cracked an egg into the onions soaking in milk and breadcrumbs, then I seasoned it with medicinal herbs, salt, and pepper.

These were all the necessary steps to making delicious hamburger steaks. The salt brought a stickiness to the minced meat that sealed the moisture inside—as did the egg and breadcrumbs.

Now it came down to a race. I had to knead the mixture together, but the consistency would be ruined if I took too long.

I started by soaking my hands in cool water. Warm hands made it more difficult to keep the moisture trapped inside the meat.

Zara and I began to knead the meat with our cool hands and proceeded to mold them into patties. Then we struck them with our palms to get the air out. Skipping this step meant that the patties would fall apart during the cooking process.

We let the formed patties sit in a cold box for a while to chill. This was, of course, a measure to keep them nice and juicy.

“Now we can work on the golden mushroom sauce while they cook.”

“Sounds good.”

I was going to make a rich red wine and mushroom sauce for our hamburger patties.

First, I retrieved the golden mushroom from my bag.

“Ah, it’s still glowing!”

“How pretty!”

“It really is.”

Slicing it apart sort of felt like a waste. But this wasn’t just a prize; it was food. So I needed to use it while it was still good.

“O-Okay…”

I cut the golden mushroom apart, but it still shined brilliantly. Perhaps it would glow throughout the rest of the night.

I fried diced onions with thin slices of golden mushroom, added different sauces and medicinal herbs, then finished it off with red wine.

I let the mixture boil for a while, and with that, my golden mushroom sauce was complete.

“W-Wow, the sauce is sparkling!”

“It looks so divine.”

“I bet it’s yummy!”

It was time to cook the hamburger steaks now that this divine sauce was ready. We still had to be careful not to let the patties dry out.

I warmed oil in a pan at medium heat. It was important to indent the middle of the patties so that they could cook thoroughly. My heart was racing as I placed them on the hot pan, enjoying the sizzling sound they made. I was scared of the oil splattering on me, but I couldn’t step away for even a moment.

After flipping them over, I added water to the pan, put the lid on, and let them steam.

The delicious smell of cooking meat wafted in the air.

The patties would be complete once I pierced them with a skewer and saw a clear liquid emerge. I opened the lid and stuck a skewer into a patty, watching as the transparent juices seeped out onto the pan.

“Looks fabulous, doesn’t it?”

“Yes, this is good.”

Finally, I put them on a plate and covered them in sauce. My “Special Hamburger Patties with Golden Mushroom Sauce” were complete.

I made the patties large for Sir Aiskoletta, Charlotte, and Album who hadn’t eaten yet—plus the gluttonous Doc. Zara and I chose smaller patties.

“These turned out amazing, Melly!”

“It’s all thanks to you two for helping me.”

Zara smiled and Album stuck his chest out proudly.

I was setting the table with hamburger steaks and bread when Doc returned from his bath.

“That was a wonderful bath, Mell.”

“I’m glad to hear it.”

I called the others down for dinner.

Charlotte’s eyes lit up as soon as she spotted the hamburger steaks. “They smell so good! I bet they are yummy!”

“There’s enough for seconds, so please eat as much as you like!”

“Woo-hoo!”

I put my hands together and prayed before my meal.

I started by sticking my knife into my patty, watching as the juices oozed onto my plate. My mouth started watering instantly. Though I’d already had dinner, it seemed my stomach still yearned for the hamburger steak.

As eager as I was, biting right into the steak would burn my tongue. I covered it in golden mushroom sauce, blew on the bite to cool it down, and stuck it in my mouth.

“Mmmm!”

The juices seeped into my mouth as soon as they touched my tongue. I used my teeth to break it apart to really bring out all of the savory flavors. Our great care to keep the patties moist had been successful.

The sauce was rich with mushroom umami, creating a bold flavor that brought out the delicious taste of the meat.

Charlotte’s tail was wagging as she stuffed her cheeks with hamburger steak. “Mell, this is soooo good! I am so happy now!”

If Charlotte was happy, I was happy. All the effort we put into the dinner was paying off. Sir Aiskoletta had the mouth of his helmet open, dripping sauce onto his mustache as he ate the warm steak.

“Great Scott! What is this sauce?! The boldness, the richness. It pairs perfectly with the juiciness of the meat!”

“We made it with a golden mushroom.”

“A golden mushroom?!”

Despite all the delicious meals Sir Aiskoletta had eaten in his life, this appeared to be his first time trying a golden mushroom. That wasn’t surprising considering the mushroom was thought to be a mere myth.

“How is it, Doc?” I asked.

“It’s delicious. This must be what people mean when they say something tastes like ‘mom’s home cooking.’”

“Does it make you think of your mother?”

“No, I have very few memories of her. I simply thought that a meal like this must be what people tend to refer to.”

Why did he think my cooking tasted like a mom’s home cooking? Well, I probably didn’t want to dig too deeply into that question.

Doc had very unique sensibilities, after all.

Album had already finished his dinner and was now sprawled on top of the table, his stomach bulging with food. He still had sauce on his face and everything. I went ahead and wiped it off with a wet napkin.

Our dinner was a fun, lively occasion.

🥞🥞🥞

THE next day, we received a report from Captain Ludtink. The Second Expeditionary Squadron was to accompany us on the Dark Dragon extermination.

“They said they want to get some information on Dark Dragons for the record.”

Throughout all of history, hardly any materials that covered Dark Dragons existed. They were often written as evil villains in fairy tales, but most of those accounts were pure fiction.

“History books say they’re the true form of a demon king, but no one knows any of the specifics.”

This was going to be a very dangerous mission.

“We’re going a week after Garr gets back. Director Lichtenberger of the Royal Mythical Beast Preservation Bureau is comin’ too,” Captain Ludtink said.

“Father’s coming?!”

It seemed that Liselotte, the director’s daughter, didn’t know that Lord Lichtenberger would be joining us. The captain explained that it was only decided that very morning.

“Liselotte, are Dark Dragons mythical beasts?” I asked.

“No, they’re monsters. Mythical beasts don’t eat human flesh.”

“Right, of course.”

The director would be joining us to determine how this dragon, who was once a mythical beast, had turned into a Dark Dragon.

“All right. Make sure to prepare thoroughly, everyone.”

Doc was going to teleport us to the Fore Elf woods, meaning this mission had no travel time to account for. I would be returning home for the most unexpected of reasons. Between that and the dragon slaying itself, my heart nearly jumped out of my chest. I needed to use the time before the mission to make plenty of field rations.

“That reminds me, Captain. How did things end up going with Lance?”

“I dragged him home with me. He was whinin’ the whole way there.”

It sounded as if Lance truly believed Captain Ludtink was a bandit hauling him back to his hideout. But Marina and her parents not only welcomed him into the home—they even doted on him like a child.

Although, he doesn’t really have the personality that tends to be doted on. He’s not a kid, either.

“Marina and her parents were real excited to show him around the city today.”

“It sounds like things are going better than expected.”

“Uh-huh.”

I was relieved to hear that someone was looking after Lance. Doc and Sir Aiskoletta, on the other hand, were staying at my home on their own. I wondered what those two might be up to. At the very least, disaster was unlikely to befall our house so long as Sir Aiskoletta was there.

“All right, dismissed!”

Lance had interrupted me yesterday, but it was time to finally go out and buy food to preserve. I asked Ulgus to join me this time. I didn’t want to run into any more trouble.

Between the shopping, cooking, and organizing our food storage, the rest of the day came and went in no time at all.

🥞🥞🥞

GARR was finally back at work after his honeymoon trip. He’d only been gone for a week, but strangely, it felt like I hadn’t seen him in years. Garr came back with plenty of souvenirs in tow as well.

“Garr, Sly, welcome back!”

Sly had turned a tan color and Garr’s fur was darker too, as if discolored by the sun. He explained that his coat dried out after spending so much time in the sea breeze. They spent their honeymoon sightseeing, swimming in the ocean, and eating delicious food.

Garr gave the first souvenir to Captain Ludtink.

“Hm? What did ya buy me?” Captain Ludtink quickly unwrapped the long, narrow present. “Hey, look at that! It’s booze! You know me too damn well, Garr!”

It was a red wine exclusively sold in that local region. Unsurprisingly, the clever Garr knew exactly what would please Captain Ludtink.

Next, Vice Captain Velrey unwrapped the small box for her. “I wonder what it is?” She undid the strings carefully to reveal a wooden box with a flower print. When she opened the lid, a pair of pearl earrings was sitting inside. “They’re beautiful.”

“How lovely. They’ll definitely look great on you, Vice Captain.”

She blushed when I said that.

“Thank you, Garr.”

Garr said that Fredrica, his wife, picked them out. She clearly wasn’t someone to be underestimated either.

Garr gave Zara the next souvenir.

“Oh my! You have one for me too?” He unwrapped another wooden box slightly larger than Vice Captain Velrey’s. “Oh my gosh! It’s beauty lotion!”

It was the perfect gift for someone who put so much effort into looking beautiful. Zara smiled and thanked Garr.

Next, Garr handed a large bundle to Ulgus.

“Wow, there’s even one for me! Thank you!” I could see the excitement all over his face as he unwrapped it. “Whoa! I-It’s…!”

Inside was a large tin full of assorted cookies—the specialty sweet of the town Garr and Fredrica had visited. Ulgus cradled the tin like it was a priceless treasure as he thanked Garr for the gift.

Then Sly handed two bundles to Liselotte and me. As soon as we accepted them, Sly stuck her chest out proudly.

“Did you pick these out for us, Sly?”

Sly gave a big thumbs up. What could she have possibly bought for Liselotte and me?

I unwrapped my present. Inside was a seashell-shaped compact full of lipstick.

“Wow, so cute!”

“You’re right. How adorable.”

My lipstick was light pink and Liselotte’s was red. Apparently, these were very popular souvenirs among women.

“Thank you so much, Sly and Garr.”

“I love it. I can’t wait to use it.”

Garr told us that Fredrica selected Charlotte’s souvenir.

“Huh? You have gift for me too?” Charlotte’s ears stood straight up and her tail started to sway. It was easy to recognize her eagerness and delight. She unwrapped the present to reveal a seashell hair ornament. “W-Wooow! So cuuute! I can really have this?”

When Garr nodded, Charlotte’s tail started wagging vigorously.

“Thank you! I am so happy!”

She wasted no time putting it in her hair and gazing at her reflection in the break room mirror. She was already so cute—how were we supposed to handle her with this new addition?

“Well? Do I look cute?”

Asking such an adorable question made Charlotte the cutest person in the whole world.

We were all so grateful that Garr picked out the perfect gifts for us. As much as I wanted to revel in the celebratory mood, the time had come to reveal our next mission to Garr.

Garr listened to Captain Ludtink’s explanation with an unusually stern look on his face.

“…so that’s why we’ve decided to join ’em on their Dark Dragon hunt. I just found out today that members are allowed to sit outta this mission if they want. So if you don’t wanna come along, don’t worry about it hurting your performance evaluations in the future.”

The mission involved joining us on a quest to kill a Dark Dragon known as a demon king. There was no telling what might happen, so the higher-ups left the decision up to us.

“I’m going to join the squadron.”

Vice Captain Velrey was the first to volunteer. She looked at Captain Ludtink without a trace of hesitation in her eyes.

“Fine. Be sure to tell your family.”

She nodded gravely.

“I’m going too. I’ve always wanted to see Melly’s hometown.”

“Zara…!”

My family would probably be so surprised meeting such a wonderful person like Zara. I’d mentioned him many times in my letters, though never stating what our exact relationship was.

“What about you, Ulgus?”

Ulgus flinched when the captain said his name. Unlike Vice Captain Velrey and Zara, he seemed to still be making up his mind.

“Are you comin’ to the dragon slaying or not?” With his bandit face in full effect, Captain Ludtink pressed Ulgus for an answer.

“U-Uh, uuummm…”

“Okay, got it. Ulgus is stayin’ behind.”

“H-Hang on! Please don’t leave me behind!”

“Are ya sure about that?”

“Y-Yeah…”

“Don’t come if you’re not sure!”

“I-I want to join the rest of you! Please let me come too!”

Ulgus probably wasn’t mentally prepared yet, even though he had the desire to accompany us. I still hadn’t mustered the courage to face the Dark Dragon myself.

“What about you, Lichtenberger?”

Liselotte, on the other hand, looked unconcerned.

“Of course I’m going.”

“Dark Dragons aren’t mythical beasts, y’know,” Captain Ludtink reminded her.

“I’m perfectly aware. One job the Royal Mythical Beast Preservation Bureau carries is to oversee things that used to be mythical beasts. And isn’t it the duty of us knights to protect the Fore Elves from this so-called demon king?”

Captain Ludtink’s eyes widened. He never expected to hear Liselotte lecture him about the role of a knight. I felt like Liselotte had grown the most out of all of us over the past year.

“Liselotte, I’m so proud of you…!” I sort of felt like her mother.

“Well, I suppose I’m also concerned that Father will cause trouble.” She murmured those words under her breath, though they sounded deeply sincere.

Trouble-causing aside, Lord Lichtenberger was the most powerful restoration magic user in the country. Having him with us would be very reassuring.

“What about you, Garr? I won’t force you. It’s probably best for you to stay behind…”

But Garr shook his head and volunteered to accompany us. Even Sly wanted to come. It warmed my heart to know they’d be fighting alongside us.

“I guess there’s no point asking you, Risurisu.”

“Of course I’ll be accompanying you.”

If I was going, Amelia and Rih would probably come too.

“I wanna go with Pancake Girl!” Album scampered up to me.

“Album, our next journey is to go and exterminate a Dark Dragon. It’s a very dangerous mission. Are you sure about this?”

“Uh-huh. There’s nothing to fear as long as I’m with Pancake Girl.”

“Album…”

I scooped him up and gave him a big hug. He let out a strange giggle, but just for today, I wouldn’t poke fun at him for it. Even the tiny Album was brave enough to join us in the dragon slaying.

“I stay and wait for everyone here. I make room nice and clean when you come back.”

“Charlotte…!”

Charlotte might have wanted to join us too, but she understood her role in the unit.

“Be sure you come back safe, okay? If you don’t, I will cry.”

“Don’t worry, Charlotte. We’ll have Sir Aiskoletta with us too.”

“Uh-huh. Mr. Armor is very, veeery strong, so I know he will bring you back to me.”

“Exactly. We’ll do our best to come home soon, so watch over the barracks while we’re away.”

“Okay! I stay and protect barracks.”

I was starting to get emotional, but it wasn’t even time to set out yet. I needed to make sure I was completely prepared before the day of the mission.

🥞🥞🥞

A few days passed until, finally, it was time to head to the Fore Elf woods the very next day.

I checked over my field rations before we set off. I had jerky, bread, dried fruits and vegetables, roasted almonds, biscuits, chocolate, and baked sweets. That felt like more than enough, but I wanted one last food item.

After some thought, I decided on candies that we could eat as we walked. I could make them with things I had on hand—sugar, honey, ginger, and citrus juice.

I hadn’t made candies in so long. It felt sort of nostalgic.

I used to make them once every three months when I lived in the Fore Elf village. My grandma, mom, and I worked on them together. However, these candies weren’t desserts. They were only eaten when someone had a cold or an inflamed throat.

The secret was in the ingredients. Honey possessed antibacterial properties while ginger warmed the body.

The Risurisu family candies passed down for generations were delicious. However, certain rude people would lie about having a sore throat just to eat them.

Mom made sure to conduct a thorough medical exam in those cases. First, she checked to see if their throat was inflamed, then put her hand on their forehead to feel for a fever. If there were no signs of illness, she would spank these rascals for being untruthful.

It was a lesson that lying could have painful consequences.

Once I had my ingredients set out, it was time to start cooking.

I began by grating the ginger and wrapping it in a sterilized cloth. Then I squeezed the juice into a pot with the other ingredients and mixed them together.

Next, I turned the heat down once it came to a boil and let it cook until it turned an amber color. Once the mixture had solidified more, I poured it onto oiled paper, let it sit until it hardened, then sprinkled it with powdered sugar. My honey candies were now complete.

I tried licking one, but I must have cooked it for too long. The rich flavor was gone, and instead, it tasted a bit bitter.

“Oh no! I messed up!”

I simmered the candies for too long since I hadn’t made them in years. Still, the flavor of the honey and the kick of the ginger remained, so I hadn’t completely ruined them. I decided to eat these on my own instead of giving them to the others. I would have to reimburse the Royal Order for the ingredients I used too.

I wrapped each one in oil paper. I would bring a few with me on the next expedition—maybe Album would eat them, at least.

It’s a shame. I haven’t ruined anything I cooked in a while.

Maybe I was nervous about the upcoming mission. I needed to calm my nerves. This called for some deep breaths. I inhaled and exhaled a few times.

All right, I’m good, I tried to convince myself.

When I returned home, I realized I wasn’t the only one on edge.

Everyone was acting restless—even Charlotte, who wasn’t coming on the mission with us.

Sir Aiskoletta was the only one operating as usual, though that didn’t come as a surprise. He and Komerv were boiling medicinal herbs together.

After dinner, Zara told me he had something he wanted to discuss. I had no idea what to expect from that. His discussions were usually things like tea party plans and invitations to sew with him. I was a little…no, I was very nervous for this conversation.

Amelia and Rih would join us too, since Zara wanted them to be there. They were seated in a corner of the room, though Rih let out a big yawn.

I decided to make medicinal herb tea with plenty of honey to ease my nerves. I served myself a plate of three varieties of sweets too. Tomorrow was our next expedition, so I wouldn’t have time to sit around and enjoy tea.

I placed a cake with dried fruit, cookies with nuts, and other baked goods made with plenty of butter out on my table.

It was almost time for our discussion. I was pouring tea into my cup when I heard a knock at the door.

“Yes?”

“It’s me, Melly.”

“Ah, please come in.”

Zara entered my room holding a plate of baked goods.

“Oh my gosh! Did we have the same idea?”

“I wanted to indulge a little before tomorrow’s expedition.”

“Same here.”

Zara had made baked meringues, bite-sized cream puffs, butter sandwiches, and more. Each treat was so dainty and cute. They were nothing like the sweets my mom made, even though they were all delicious.

Zara and I began our tea party together. We put spoonfuls of honey in our tea before drinking it.

“Mmm, this is delicious.”

“I’m glad to hear it. Sir Aiskoletta shared some of the herbs he picked with me.”

“So the great hero picked these, huh? I hope I absorb some of his strength.”

“Me too.”

I tried one of Zara’s baked meringues. It was crisp, yet it dissolved into nothing almost as soon as it hit my tongue. It was sweet and slightly fragrant—a treat like something made of magic.

The two of us discussed these sweets for a while. Eventually, the clouds parted in the sky, revealing a glimpse of the moon. That was the exact moment Zara’s expression changed.

“We’re finally going to the Fore Elf woods tomorrow, huh?”

“Yes.”

It was a homecoming I never could have predicted. How would my family react to my arrival? I didn’t know what I would say if they asked me to move back home with them. They already told me my little sisters’ dowries were more than adequately funded.

In other words, I’d completed my initial goal of earning money for them.

“Melly.”

“Y-Yes?”

“There’s something I want to ask of you.”

“Wh-What is it?”

I set my own concerns aside and sat up straight, prepared to listen to Zara’s serious request.

“What do you want to ask me?”

“Will you introduce me to your parents?”

“Of course. I’ve already been wanting to introduce you to them.”

Zara was the person who’d helped me out the most, both at work and privately. I wanted my family to know that too.

“Um, Melly, what I meant by that was…” Zara stumbled over his words. But that was when I finally realized what he was really asking.

He didn’t just want to talk to my family—he wanted to tell them we’d vowed to spend the rest of our lives together. My face was suddenly burning up. I had no idea Zara was thinking about that sort of thing. I was embarrassed to be so slow.

“Ah, y-you mean…that kind of introduction? I see. Yes, it’s not every day that you get to visit the Fore Elf village.”

“Right, but consider the circumstances. I thought maybe another time would be better, so that’s why I wanted to ask you.”

“S-Sorry I didn’t figure that out until now.”

“It’s fine. I was being indirect about it too.”

We would be going to exterminate the Dark Dragon the day after we arrived in the village, so there was plenty of time to introduce Zara to my family.

“Now that I think about it, I guess I never really asked you clearly, did I?” he said softly.

“Asked me what?”

Zara stared at me and sat up straight. I felt like I should do the same, so I imitated him.

“Melly…will you marry me?”

As soon as I heard those words, goosebumps formed on my skin. Pure joy welled up inside of me.

The old me probably would have gotten hung up on my doubts. “Can someone like me really marry a person like Zara?”

But things were different now. Zara had chosen me as his life partner, so there was no need for me to deny my own desires anymore.

“I want to marry you too, Zara.”

“Really? I’m so happy, Melly.”

With Amelia and Rih watching over us, I accepted Zara’s marriage proposal.

“Kreh kreh kreeeh!”

“Kreh kreh!”

The pair wished us a blessed future together.

I’d never felt so happy in all my life.

🥞🥞🥞

THE next morning, it was time to head to the Fore Elf woods. Everyone gathered at our house early in the day. The sun was barely illuminating the world outside. A frigid breeze blew past us.

Everyone had stiff looks on their faces. I could tell how nervous they were. Captain Ludtink let out a big yawn.

“That’s quite a yawn, Captain.”

“Yeah, I barely slept last night.”

Not even Captain Ludtink was able to get a good night’s rest.

“I was wanderin’ around the house when Marina came and yelled at me. Then she dragged me to bed and tied me to it with a rope. How mean is that?”

“She’s probably just worried about you going on a mission while sleep-deprived.”

“But I’m still sleep deprived.”

“Then please rest well tonight in the Fore Elf village.”

“I can’t even sleep without my usual pillow,” he grumbled.

“Then how were you sleeping when we camped outside during expeditions?”

“I wasn’t.”

Liar! Who else could have been snoring at our campsites like that?

Our Captain Bandit couldn’t possibly be so delicate.

“Well, we’ve got a full day before takin’ on that dragon, so it’ll probably be fine.”

“Exactly.”

We would be heading out to find the Dark Dragon tomorrow, but until then, the plan was to spend the day in the Fore Elf village.

Judging by how pale everyone looked, I could tell they were too nervous to sleep.

“This guy was the only one who slept like a damn baby.” Captain Ludtink was pointing at Lance.

Lance was dressed in city clothes today. He wore a light green shirt with a stand-up collar, leather pants, and a brand-new bow and quiver on his back.

“Where did you get all of those things, Lance?” I asked.

“Captain Bandit’s in-laws bought them for me, even though I said I didn’t want them.”

It sounded like they really adored Lance. He was a cocky person, but he was also the most beloved child in our village. I just didn’t expect his charm to work in the royal capital too.

Unlike Captain Ludtink, Vice Captain Velrey was sharp and alert. I knew better than to underestimate her. She was just like her usual self.

On the other hand…

“Oh my gosh, I’m so nervous.”

Zara was unusually melancholic. But a little melancholy was to be expected in the face of a Dark Dragon extermination.

“Are you all right, Zara?” I asked.

“I know I keep telling you I’m fine, but I just can’t calm down whenever I think about meeting your family.”

“You’re more worried about my family than the Dark Dragon?”

“Yeah, because Sir Aiskoletta will kill it for us. But I’m the only one who can make your family like me, Melly.”

“I’ve written about you in my letters already, so there’s no need for concern. Mom and Dad even said they’d like to thank you for everything you’ve done for me,” I told him.

“R-Really? I never knew you wrote to them about me.”

“I certainly did.”

“Why, thank you.”

That seemed to be a huge weight off Zara’s shoulders.

Ulgus and Album were shuddering together in a corner of the garden.

“Is it just me, or is it really cold in the woods this early?”

“It’s sooo cold…”

I thought they were shaking from nerves, but it turned out that they were huddling together, taking warmth from each other. It was actually kind of sweet.

The Lichtenbergers were staring at Amelia and Rih from afar. It was the very start of the day, but they were already so happy. I didn’t have to worry about them—so long as mythical beasts were around, they would always have boundless energy.

Garr and Sly were staring up at the sky together. The sun was rising, turning the sky into a pleasant shade of blue. Garr had a sad look on his face for some reason. Perhaps he was sad about going on an expedition less than a month after his wedding.

Sly beckoned me over when she noticed me watching them.

Once I approached, Garr pointed at the sky.

“What about the sky…? Ah!”

One cloud in particular looked exactly like bread. Just then, I heard someone’s stomach growl. Garr looked at me shyly.

“Oh, did you not have breakfast today?”

He nodded.

There was still enough time before our departure to whip up something simple.

When I went around and asked the others, it turned out no one else had eaten either—perhaps because the meetup time was so early. It seemed that their complexions were pale because they were running on empty stomachs.

“Then allow me to prepare a light breakfast,” I announced to the group. “Please wait here.”

I was putting on my apron in the kitchen when Charlotte poked her head in.

“What are you doing, Mell?”

“I thought I’d make a light breakfast, since everyone’s hungry.”

“Can I help too?”

“You don’t mind?”

“Nope!”

Charlotte and I began to cook. We toasted some bread lightly and topped it with a layer of cream cheese and drizzled honey. For Captain Ludtink, who hated sweets, we added ham and sliced cheese, then grilled his toast a bit longer. Finally, we brewed piping hot black tea and added plenty of milk and sugar to each mug.

It took less than ten minutes to complete. Charlotte and I handed out our toast made with simple ingredients from the kitchen.

“Here you go, Zara.”

“Thanks a bunch. The hunger hit me when I finally relaxed a little.” Zara looked so happy as he chowed down on the cream cheese honey toast. “It’s delicious.”

“I’m glad to hear it.”

I handed out toast to the other members too. Ulgus and Album seemed to have warmed up thanks to their cups of tea.

Everyone’s faces regained some color after eating breakfast and drinking hot tea. Now there was nothing to worry about.

It was finally time to depart. Sir Aiskoletta and Doc had been discussing the dragon extermination inside, but now they joined us in the garden. Fortunately, there was no concern about their hunger, as they’d already eaten breakfast.

“It’s time to head out. Are you all prepared?”

Without hesitation, everyone nodded to Doc’s question.

Charlotte waved both hands to say goodbye. “Everyone! Make sure to come home safe, okaaaay? I will be waiting for you!”

With Charlotte looking after the house for us, we needed to make sure not to return to her in a bad state.

“Goodbye, Charlotte.”

“Have a safe trip!”

The magic circle of the teleportation spell formed over the ground. It was finally time to return to the Fore Elf woods.

“Kreh kreh!”

“Kreh!”

Amelia and Rih stood on either side of me, chirping, “You get to see your family soon, huh?”

I left the Fore Elf woods after Lance called off our wedding. I thought I would never set foot in that forest again…but there I was with the most unlikely homecoming of all.

I didn’t know how to put those feelings into words.

I wasn’t exactly excited or eager. It was a mysterious emotion swirling around inside of me.

As I faced those thoughts, the scenery before me suddenly changed.

My honey-brick home was replaced by the depths of a forest. It was still early enough that a faint mist wafted between the trees. I shuddered, as this place was much colder than the woods surrounding the royal capital.

There was no mistaking the bounty of green stretching on endlessly around us. I was back at my place of birth.

“So this is the Fore Elf woods where you grew up, Risurisu?” Captain Ludtink asked.

“Yes! This is…my forest!”

It hadn’t even been two years since I left the forest, but I was still overwhelmed with nostalgia.

“This place is amazing, Medic Risurisu! The air is so fresh!”

Ulgus was right. The air felt pure and clear.

Captain Ludtink, however, choked on that clean air. Is he going to be okay?

“It really hasn’t changed,” I mused.

“Mell, you’ve only been gone two years. Of course the forest didn’t change.”

“I guess that’s true.”

No one seemed to be nauseous from the teleportation spell despite how far we traveled. Even Lord Lichtenberger, who got sick last time, looked completely normal. Doc’s magic was probably just that superior.

“All right, keep safe, everyone. We’re headin’ in.”

We began to walk forward in the forest.

“Hey, Risurisu. Is the Fore Elf village really up ahead? I feel like we’re gonna wander into a bear’s den.”

“How rude. Of course it’s ahead!”

But despite my protests, the more we walked, the more uneasy I felt. I had a good sense of direction, but I hadn’t traveled this route in so long. I let Lance take the lead, not wanting to actually guide the others into a bear’s den by mistake.

We walked through the trails, sunlight filtering in through the trees above us. Then we slipped in between their densely growing trunks and passed by the lake where flowers grew under the water’s surface.

That was when the Fore Elf village came into view.

“Holy crap, there really is a village! Look, there’s houses in the middle of the woods!”

Captain Ludtink whirled his head around with a look of shock. What, you didn’t believe me?

“We’re called Fore Elves because we live deep within the forest,” I stated dryly.

Forests were normally cut down to make way for villages or towns. But Fore Elves only cut the trees necessary to build our houses and didn’t develop any other land. That was why even our next-door neighbors were sometimes five or ten minutes apart from us.

“Look at the wooden houses. So this is how Fore Elves live, is it?” Liselotte was shocked to see the Fore Elf village too.

I’d been surprised when I saw a human village for the first time as well. Not only were the houses built so close together, but there was no forest around them at all.

“I always thought it was normal for there to be houses in the woods.”

“But no one would stumble on to ’em when they’re this deep in the forest.”

“Exactly. We rarely ever had adventurers and travelers show up.”

I remembered hearing that, in ancient times, a magic barrier was cast over the entire Fore Elf woods. The barrier prevented entry to anyone who didn’t have business with us Fore Elves.

Only a few traders were allowed to pass through it.

“We oughta go and speak to the mayor first. That’ll be your family, right, Lance?”

“Uh-huh.”

“Then lead the way.”

“Yeah, yeah.”

Reluctantly, Lance led us to his house.

Lance’s grandfather was our current mayor. I’d been a bit scared of him ever since I was a kid, since he seemed extremely stern. It was probably five years since I last met with him directly. Despite being engaged to Lance, the mayor was still a distant figure to me.

The mayor’s house was a large, wooden single-story building. “I’m home,” Lance declared triumphantly from outside. His mom opened the front door in response.

“You’re back, Lance?”

“Yeah.”

“Oh my! And you brought visitors?”

“They want to talk to Gramps.”

“I see. But he just left about an hour ago. He’s probably praying at the lake.”

The mayor was out at the moment, apparently saying his daily prayers. He was a very devout Fore Elf.

“All right, let’s head to the lake then.”

“Should we really be interrupting his prayers, Lance?”

“I’m sure it’s fine. It’s just another part of his daily routine.”

I thought it was a sacred ritual… Well, we didn’t want to waste time waiting around, so Captain Ludtink ordered us to head for the lake.

The beautiful water, sparkling and blue, came into view after a fifteen-minute walk through the forest. This was a place I’d been told not to go under normal circumstances. There we found the mayor, Lance’s grandpa, standing at the shore.

“I’m home, Gramps.”

The mayor turned when he heard Lance’s voice. Unlike our magic healer, he was an elderly-looking man covered in wrinkles. As always, he had a very unapproachable atmosphere.

The mayor’s eyes almost fell out of their sockets. “It’s my idiot of a grandson!”

All the birds flew out of the nearby trees. The mayor’s shout had startled them.

“Wh-What’s with you?” Lance said.

“What’s with me?! I thought I’d die of shame when I heard why you went to the royal capital!”

Before Lance could make sense of anything, the mayor swept the feet of his grandson out from under him, sending him toppling to the ground.

“Oof!”

Then the mayor took to his knees and bowed his head.

“Forgive me, Great Healer. This dunce of a boy disobeyed his orders.”

“Ah, so that’s what you mean?”

It seemed the mayor didn’t know the details of my breakup with Lance. He only heard the story from Lance’s parents after he left for the city.

“You have my apologies, Mell Risurisu.” The mayor spanked Lance on the behind, shouting at him to apologize to me too. “C’mon, say it already!”

“Ow! That hurts!”

“It’s nothing compared to the pain Mell Risurisu felt in her heart!”

“Okay, I get it, just stop spanking me!” Lance, still on his knees, looked up at me hesitantly. Then he bowed his head. “Um, yeah. I was in the wrong.”

I wasn’t ready to forgive him right away, but I accepted his apology. The rest would heal with time.

“I’m truly sorry. As you already know, Lance is lacking when it comes to brains,” the mayor said.

“Oh, no, I’m quite glad that he ended our engagement,” I said.

“But that’s no good. You need to bring the next generation of children into the world.”

“About that, Mr. Mayor. I come with a plan to stop the ritual of offering sacrifices.”

“Wh-What?! You mean to send the Dark Dragon out into the world?” The mayor explained that, judging by the state of the woods and the lake, he sensed the Dark Dragon would soon be desiring a sacrifice. “Great Healer, it’s far too dangerous. The world will be plunged into peril. I beg you to reconsider! I’ll even offer up an old fool like myself as the sacrifice!”

“Really, it’s perfectly all right.”

“A-All right? But how?”

“I brought us the great hero known as the Dark Dragon Slayer.”

“The what?”

“His name is Sir Ciel Aiskoletta.”

The sight of Sir Aiskoletta—wearing a full-body suit of armor that was hardly ever used these days—made the mayor’s eyes go as wide as saucers.

“D-Don’t tell me. Did you summon a hero, Great Healer?”

“No, I found him by total coincidence.”

“A great hero? By coincidence?”

“Correct.”

Sir Aiskoletta now spent his days weeding the garden, picking medicinal herbs, and baking cookies at my house. It sounded unbelievable, but it was all completely true.

“I shall vanquish this Dark Dragon with my trusty crystal sword.” Sir Aiskoletta unsheathed the sword and made his declaration. His sheer power sent a shudder through me.

“We plan to depart tomorrow. May I ask you to prepare accommodations for Sir Aiskoletta and these knights?”

“I-I’ll do it at once!” The mayor jumped to his feet, grabbed Lance by the scruff of the neck, and made him stand up. “Be sure to clean your room, Lance.”

“Huh? What for?”

“For the knights to sleep there, obviously!”

“Then where am I supposed to sleep?”

“The henhouse will do just fine!”

“What?! That’s too cruel!”

“Not as cruel as breaking up with Mell Risurisu to try and make her want you! Now sleep in the henhouse and think about what you’ve done!”

The mayor was going to take care of Lance’s punishment. I hoped he would reflect on his own foolishness inside that henhouse.

“You’ll be staying with your family, yes, Mell Risurisu?”

“That’s right.”

“Then have a good rest before tomorrow. I intend to apologize to your family later on.”

“Oh, no, there’s no need for that.”

“No, he did something terrible to you, so I need to make things right.”

As a kid, I always thought the mayor was so scary. That hadn’t exactly changed, but now I saw he was a serious person with a strong sense of justice.

“Okay, everyone’s dismissed for now. We’ll meet tomorrow morning in front of the mayor’s house.”

We all split up at the captain’s orders.

Sir Aiskoletta, Doc, Captain Ludtink, and Vice Captain Velrey had things to discuss before our mission. Garr and Sly were going to take a walk around the village. Ulgus found himself surrounded by young children, excited to see a real-life knight. He told me he planned to teach them his style of archery when he had some time. The Lichtenbergers were going around to ask about mythical beast sightings. Their love for those creatures blossomed no matter where we went.

“Zara, um, would you like to come to my family’s house now?” I asked.

“Absolutely.” Zara’s expression stiffened again.

Album stuck his head out of my bag and murmured to himself. “Time to meet the Pancake Family…?”

“Pancake Family? Really?”

Album’s ridiculous remark brought a smile to Zara’s face. That seemed to ease his nerves a little.

“Amelia and Rih are coming too.”

“Kreh kreh!”

“Kreh!”

“Album too!”

“Of course, Album will be joining us.”

“You betcha!”

I knew my family would be surprised when such a large party arrived.

“It’s a five-minute walk from here.”

“Okay. Do you think my souvenirs will be good enough?”

I didn’t know Zara brought gifts for my family until then.

“They’re cookie cream sandwiches from the royal capital. Will they even like them?”

“Aren’t those the famous sweets you have to stand in line to get your hands on?!”

“They sure are. I swung by on my lunch break yesterday. I ordered them a week in advance, so I didn’t have to wait in line.”

“I didn’t know you could do it like that!”

We ended up arriving at my family home while we were still chit-chatting. It was a wood house a bit smaller than Lance’s.

Baskets of dried mushrooms and foraged medicinal herbs were sitting outside. Freshly cleaned shoes and hats were lined up to dry, and a single glove had fallen on the ground. Even from the outside, I could tell the house was still full of life just like the last time I saw it.

We walked around back to see the shack with shelves of random goods. This was the one and only store within the Fore Elf village. Traders from outside entered the forest every few months to bring us new goods. While we didn’t sell much, business was still decent, since there was nowhere else to buy anything.

Of course, the money didn’t last long with such a big family to care for.

“So this is where you grew up, Melly?”

“Yes…”

I could hear my family members bickering inside. It sounded like someone ate someone else’s treat—not at all uncommon in our household. One had to learn how to stash their food away if they wanted to keep it for themselves.

“Um, I’m sorry they’re so loud.”

“It’s nice. They sound so lively.”

“Lively…”

Suddenly, the door went flying open.

“I’m running away from home! I’m gonna live in the royal capital like Big Sister Mell!” The girl storming out of the house was Mill, the sister who was nine years younger than me. As soon as she spotted me, she pointed at me and yelled, “Ah!”

Mill appeared to be too shocked to think. She stood there as still as a statue.

She’d gotten so big since the last time I saw her. Mill had really grown into her big sister role.

“I’m home, Mill.”

“S-Sis? Is it really you?”

When I nodded, she shot straight at me like a bullet.

The force almost knocked me over, but I managed to stay on my feet. The old me probably would have fallen. But I was a knight now, and my training felt like it was paying off.

“Sis! Why did you move to the royal capital? I missed you!”

“Mill…”

“I don’t want your money, or the food from the city! I don’t care if we stay poor! I just wanted you to be here with us forever and ever!”

When Mill started bawling, I pulled her into a hug. Mill was the most glued to my side out of all of my siblings. Maybe she hadn’t understood the purpose of my move to the royal capital when we said goodbye.

As I rubbed her back to soothe her, another person emerged from the house. He was a middle-aged man with a beard and graying hair—my dad.

“Mill! One stolen sweet potato isn’t something to cry over… What the hell?!”

Not only was Mill sobbing, but there I was, back without any warning. I had Zara, Amelia, and Rih with me too.

The rest of my family came out when they heard Dad’s shout.

“Ah, it’s Mell!”

“Mell’s with a man!”

“What are those big birds?”

“Those are mythical beasts!”

The scene turned to one of chaos as they started to shout their every thought.

“Quiet, all of you!” Mom’s single order made everyone fall silent. As soon as she saw me, she smiled and said, “Welcome home, Mell.” I nearly cried when I heard those familiar words again.

“I-I’m home.”

“You didn’t even write that you were coming, Mell. What in the forest happened?”

“W-Well…”

“The knights are gonna arrest you, Mell! Look, that guy’s got a griffin crest on his shirt! It’s the logo the knights use!”

No, I’m not actually under arrest. The silly comment came from Lolo, my brother who was three years younger than me. Still, it was very rude. I wasn’t some criminal who’d come to see her family’s faces one last time.

“You’ve got it all wrong! This is Zara! He’s the person who’s going to do the unthinkable and marry me!”

“Wh-Whaaaat?!”

Everyone cried out in shock. Well, I understood how they felt. No one thought I could ever get married once Lance ended things between us.

“Um, it’s nice to meet you all. My name is Zara Ahto.”

Dad gave a stilted bow to Zara. Mom covered her mouth and stared at me in disbelief. My little sisters squealed with joy, while my little brothers’ mouths hung open.

Like a puppet that needed its joints oiled, Dad approached Zara with stiff, awkward steps. “F-Forgive me, b-but are you really…going to marry Mell?”

“Yes. With your permission, I’d like Mell to be my bride.”

Dad broke out into tears and clutched Zara’s hand. Zara looked nervous, so I knew I had to give him an explanation.

“Um, Dad’s crying because he’s happy.”

“He is? That’s a relief.”

“D-Dad, why don’t we talk inside?” I suggested. “It’s chilly out here.”

“Ngh! R-Right…”

Amelia and Rih probably couldn’t come in, so I asked them to wait for us outside. My curious little brothers tried to get close to Amelia, but Rih stopped them.

“What’s with this guy? I wanna play with the cute white bird!”

“Hey, the black one has a scary face.”

Rih spread his wings and stood in front of Amelia protectively. She would probably be safe if I left her in his care.

I showed Zara inside.

“Sorry our house is so old…”

“Thank you for having me.”

Many pairs of hunting boots were set out just past the front door. When I stepped inside, the floorboards let out a terrible squeak. Every smell, sound, and even the air itself was just like I remembered—I was home. Dad led us into the combined living and dining room.

There was nothing more than a long table for all of us to sit at and a small fireplace that only gave off a little light. Despite how cold it was, they were only lighting a fire the size of my hand. The Risurisu household was, as always, nearly as cold inside as it was outside.

“It looks exactly the same,” I observed.

“Of course. We’d never splurge on luxuries with your income.”

It seemed they hadn’t been using the allowances I sent. They told me they were saving it in case I had an emergency in the royal capital.

“We were grateful for how much you cared, Mell. But we want you to spend the money you earn on your own life.”

“Mom…!”

Now was the time to officially introduce Zara to them.

“Um, you’ve heard about him in my letters, but this is Zara. He’s my coworker and my roommate at our new house.”

“My name is Zara Ahto. It’s an honor to meet you.”

My parents were blinking rapidly. I wonder what’s gotten into them?

“O-Oh, so you’re ‘Zara,’ huh?”

“I’m sorry, we just always assumed the ‘Zara’ in your letters was a woman.”

“Huh?!”

I remembered how I described him. He came from a snowy country, was an honest and kind person, and a true beauty who’d mastered needlework and cooking.

“Hm…? I wrote all that, but never said his gender?!” I cried.

“Nope.”

“No. I would have never expected him to be a man.”

“I-I’m sorry…!”

I’d written so many letters about all the ways Zara helped me in the royal capital, but somehow managed to forget to mention that he was a man. What an unbelievable mistake!

“But now someone as brilliant as Mr. Ahto wants to marry our Mell!”

“I’m not brilliant. I still have many areas to improve in…”

“Oh, and he’s humble too! We’re thrilled to see you marrying such a wonderful person, Mell.”

Mom was right. I’d probably used up my whole life’s worth of luck by getting to marry Zara.

“So…how did you two start dating?”

Dad’s question startled me. It was like he still had doubts that I was really going to get married.

“Dad, that’s too—”

“I spent a lot of effort showing off to make Mell fall for me.”

“What?!” I cried.

He was showing off?

“You never noticed, huh?” he said when I looked at him. “You see, cross-dressing used to be a hobby of mine.”

“Goodness! I see.”

“Yep, you’ve got the good looks for it.”

I felt that Zara might have been the most beautiful person in the whole royal capital when he cross-dressed.

“Once I met Mell and fell in love with her, I started thinking it would be best to dress like a man. I cut my hair short and wore men’s clothes, but she still wouldn’t look my way…”

When Zara hung his head sadly, my parents both glared at me. But then he raised his head and quickly put on a smile. It was almost scary how quickly his attitude changed.

“But I ended up falling for Mell even harder when I realized she didn’t care what kind of clothes I wore. I’m so glad that we got to this point where I can come and inform you of our marriage.”

My parents wept while Zara shared this with them. They even praised him for sticking it out all this time.

Just as I’d missed all of Lance’s advances, I never noticed all the things Zara was doing for my sake. Raging waves of guilt washed over me.

“I’m truly grateful that Mell’s agreed to marry me.”

“Thank you for being so patient.”

Mom and Dad were bawling as hard as Mill had been now.

After that, I introduced Zara to the rest of my family. Most of them reacted the same way my parents did.

My giddy siblings swarmed us, but thanks to Mill’s strange suggestion that “the young couple get to spend some time alone,” Zara and I were able to escape and take a stroll through the village.

We stepped on the crunchy leaves as we walked.

“I’m sorry about that, Zara. My family completely mobbed you.”

“No, I had a blast. Where I grew up, you’d get too hungry if you were loud and full of energy, so we were always told to sit still. Especially in winter.”

“It sounds very hard to live in such a snowy place.”

“Definitely. But we were still allowed to chat as much as we wanted, since you could always melt down snow in case of a parched throat. That’s why my family liked to sit down and have conversations with each other.”

“Your family… You have a lot of older sisters, right?”

“Uh-huh. My parents were busy and didn’t have time to make boy’s clothes, so I always wore my sisters’ hand-me-downs. I guess it makes sense that I turned out how I did, what with so many girls around, huh?”

Zara had grown up with an appreciation for beauty thanks to them. I wished I could tell his sisters what a lovely person they’d helped raise him to be.

“I’d love to see your hometown someday.”

“You mean it? I’m sure my sisters would mob you too. You might get crushed, Melly.”

“Crushed…?”

“Don’t worry. I’ll be sure to protect you!”

“Thanks, Zara.”

Zara and I strolled through the endless forest. Outsiders probably saw the Fore Elf woods and the Fore Elf village as the same thing, and frankly, they did look the same. But we were able to live safely in the village thanks to the large monster-repelling barrier protecting it.

“I used to climb this tree all the time. That one over there, I broke the branch when I tried to hang a swing on it. And the one over there is…”

Even I was surprised by how many trees there were. All together, they made up the forest.

“Thank you, Melly. Getting this chance to see the forest you grew up in makes me really happy.”

“In that case, I’m glad I showed you around.”

Nuts and mushrooms would have been growing in the summer, but the winters were much sparser.

“We live a quiet life, hunting for meat and living off the preserves we make in the summer season.”

“And all that experience has been a big help on expeditions.”

“Exactly.”

Growing up in the Fore Elf village helped me get by as a member of an expeditionary squadron. I was incredibly grateful to my parents for the way they raised me.

“It’s so strange. Forests are totally different things in snowy regions.”

“What were the woods like where you grew up?”

“They’re made of nothing but tall, white trees everywhere you look. The ground is covered in snow. Even the trees and air are white, so it’s like you’re inside a monochrome world. But the Fore Elf woods are so lovely and bright. I’ve never seen red and orange leaves on the ground like this.” He crouched down and picked up a leaf. Now that he mentioned it, the trees in the royal capital never changed colors. I hadn’t even noticed until now.

Zara and I were able to spend a relaxing time together.

“Melly, want to go see what the others are doing?”

“Certainly.”

The first people we ran into were the Lichtenbergers. They’d been conducting a survey about mythical beasts, but were frustrated about the lack of villagers they could find.

“Everyone will be out hunting and picking herbs at this time, so the village is relatively empty,” I explained.

“Why go out into the forest when you already live in the forest?”

“This is a village, not a forest.”

The village was the safe area protected by a monster-repelling and beast-repelling spell. These creatures were present in the rest of the forest, but we still went out to harvest nuts and herbs anyway.

Fore Elves distinguished between the village and forest, though both were indispensable to our way of life. But Lord Lichtenberger looked at me with a puzzled expression. He didn’t understand the difference.

“More importantly, have you ever seen mythical beasts in the area, Mell?”

Unable to find any other Fore Elf villagers, Liselotte began to question me in their place.

“No, unfortunately not.”

“I see.”

Amelia was the first mythical beast I ever laid eyes on. The creatures rarely showed themselves around mortals, after all.

“We met a child who told us his neighbor is an old man who knows a lot about fairies and spirits. Is this the right direction to find him?”

“Oh, you mean Old Man Talos?”

“I didn’t know his name. We couldn’t find him even after thirty minutes of walking. I always thought I had a good sense of direction, but perhaps not”

“Don’t worry. You’re headed the right way.”

“Thank goodness. Does he live nearby?”

“No, he’s about thirty minutes from here on foot.”

“Hang on! How can someone’s neighbor live an entire hour away?!”

“It’s surprisingly common in the Fore Elf village.”

Families lived close together, but it was unimaginable to live right next door to others. This was just common sense as far as Fore Elves were concerned.

“I was so surprised when I first left the village. Everyone was packed very close together in the city,” I said.

“Yes, that’s perfectly normal to us.” Liselotte stared at me, unable to grasp the concept. She was just like Lord Lichtenberger in that way.

Zara nodded in understanding. “So that’s why you liked our house outside the city, huh?”

“Exactly. There aren’t any neighbors, and I can relax in a standalone, isolated house.”

“I feel the same. It wasn’t uncommon to walk a full hour before reaching our nearest neighbors.”

Zara’s hometown was a very different environment from the Fore Elf village, but we still experienced similar upbringings.

“Anyway, are you still going to see Old Man Talos, Liselotte?”

“I have to now that we’ve come so far. Even though he might not know anything about mythical beasts, we’ll still be paying him a visit, right, Father?”

“Of course.”

“Then let’s continue. It’s thirty more minutes ahead, so we can’t waste time.”

We waved goodbye to the Lichtenbergers as they pressed onward into the forest.

The next person we stumbled across was Ulgus. He was teaching the village children how to use a bow. One of the kids threw a small tree nut into the air, which Ulgus struck perfectly with his arrow. They were treating him like their hero.

“Good work with the kids today, Ulgus.”

“Medic Risurisu!”

“I’m sorry you’ve had to look after all the children.”

“No, I’m having loads of fun. No one in the royal capital ever calls me ‘cool.’”

He was right about that. Knights who used swords were usually the most popular amongst city folk, who saw archery as somewhat boring. But Fore Elves hunted with bows, so skilled archers were beloved by all.

“The young, beautiful moms have been doting on me too. I’m in heaven here!”

“I’m glad to hear that.”

He explained that he’d received snacks and light meals from them already. I wasn’t sure I’d ever seen such a sunny smile on Ulgus’ face. Ulgus probably would have been the most suitable marriage candidate in the whole village if he was born as a Fore Elf. I could already imagine how crazy the girls would be for him.

“Just please make sure not to overdo it today, all right?”

“Got it!”

After parting ways with the delighted Ulgus, Zara muttered something under his breath.

“He’s probably going to keep playing around until he collapses.”

“I agree. Ulgus does get carried away pretty easily.”

But at least he should recover after one night’s sleep. He was still young, after all.

“Hm? What’s that?”

Up ahead was a group of young women squealing with delight. Are they gathered around Lance to welcome him home?

But I was wrong. They were forming a circle around none other than Vice Captain Velrey. They stared at the vice captain, devoting their attention to her entirely. They’d even brought snacks and tea for her to enjoy.

“Is every knight in the royal capital as cool as you, Lady Velrey?”

“May I come to the city with you, Lady Velrey?”

It seemed she was just as popular with female Fore Elves. Vice Captain Velrey’s appeal was a constant factor everywhere she went in the world.

“We probably shouldn’t get in their way.”

“I agree with that.”

Zara and I quietly slipped away from the scene.

A little up ahead, we found Garr with Sly on his shoulder. For some reason, these two were surrounded by the village grandmas and grandpas.

“Thank you for patching up our roof, young man. Here, take some dried fruit with you.”

“I roasted these here nuts myself. Take ’em as thanks for fixing my door.”

Garr’s hands were absolutely filled with things like bread and nuts. Sly had to transform into a bag and start storing them inside herself at one point.

It seemed that, in just this short period of time, Garr and Sly had been going around to do repairs on the elderly elves’ homes. He was truly a model knight.

“He’s still our Garr anywhere we go.”

“I really respect him.”

I put my hands together like I was praying to him.

Finally, we came across Captain Ludtink and Lance in front of the mayor’s house.

“Take that!”

“Damn you! Just die already!”

The two were having a mock battle with wooden swords. Captain Ludtink used a sword on a regular basis, meaning Lance was no match for him. He sent the elf flying backwards with just a single hit.

“That’s about what I’d expect from Captain Ludtink.”

“Yep…”

Lance rolled around on the ground, getting himself covered in the fallen leaves. “Damn it!” he groaned.

“It’s not all about muscles. You have to train each and every day if you wanna be a good knight.”

The mayor, who’d exited his home, was the one to respond to Captain Ludtink. “Captain, no more headhunting from our village, I beg you. We already felt a big loss when you took Mell Risurisu.”

Lance was in line to succeed his grandfather’s role, so they couldn’t let him leave the village so easily.

“All right, I’ve got some tea and snacks ready for you all. C’mon, rest up for a while.”

He even invited Zara and me in, who just happened to be nearby. The mayor’s wife served us potato rice cakes and tea.

Captain Ludtink was staring at the rice cake, unsure of what to make of it.

“Captain Ludtink, this is a traditional sweet in the Fore Elf village. We grate potatoes harvested in the forest, knead them together with flour, fill it with different ingredients, and bake them until they’re crisp.”

“Huh, never seen anything like it before.”

We were served two varieties—one with ground meat inside, and one with sweet, cooked beans.

“These ones are sweet and these ones are salty, Captain.”

Captain Ludtink went straight for a salty rice cake, since he disliked sweets. Zara and I both chose the sweet bean version. The outer layer was crunchy, but the inside was soft and springy. Something about the sweetness of the beans made me feel relaxed.

“Mm, this is really good.”

Maybe they tasted even better to the captain after all the exercise he’d gotten. Lance was alternating between bites of the salty and sweet rice cakes. Frankly, that was the best way to eat them.

“By the way, what happened to Doc and Sir Aiskoletta?” I asked.

“Ah, the magic healer said he was going home to sleep. Sir Aiskoletta left for a walk through the woods an hour ago.”

Just as we were speaking about him, we heard an, “I have returned!” from the front door. “Oh, Miss Mell! I was wondering where I might find you. Just look at this bounty of medicinal herbs I’ve plundered!”

“You picked quite a lot in such a short time.”

Sir Aiskoletta stuck his chest out proudly. “But what a strange area you have here. The air in this forest is flush with magical energy.”

“Yes, I can feel that too.”

I used to find it a little harder to breathe outside of the forest. I was used to it now, but the Fore Elf woods had a different quality to its air compared to the outside.

“Why, simply take a look at what it’s done to Komerv.”

Komerv’s eyes were usually squinting, but today they were wide open. “The air in the Fore Elf woods…is so delicious…”

“I’m glad to hear it.”

Sir Aiskoletta had also managed to hunt a few mountain rabbits. He told us that he was going to butcher and roast them whole—eager to show off his cooking skills as thanks for letting him stay at their house.

“I also slayed a boar-pig for you to feast on with the rest of the Risurisu family.”

“Wow! Thank you so much.”

Boar-pigs were domesticated animals, but they often escaped their enclosures and wandered into the Fore Elf woods, so we treasured them for their valuable meat. Once we stepped outside, we found Sir Aiskoletta’s prey lined up on the ground.

“Seven mountain rabbits, and as for the boar-pig…”

“It’s enormous.”

“It really is.”

“Thank you very much for this gift.”

It was already skinned and drained of blood, wrapped in a giant leaf with antibacterial properties to protect the meat.

Zara lifted the three-foot-long boar-pig right off the ground.

“Are you all right? You’re sure it’s not too heavy?”

“Don’t you worry about me. Thanks a bunch, Sir Aiskoletta.”

We thanked him again before returning to my house.

That was when Zara and I spotted my little brother and sisters riding on Rih’s back. Amelia was watching over them from behind with a pained expression.

“I’m a knight of Enoch!”

“Outta the way, bad guys! Can’t you see I’m on a griffin?!”

“Hey! What are you doing to him?!”

Griffins were proud creatures. They only let people they approved of on their backs.

My brother and sister quickly jumped off Rih.

“No riding on the griffins!” I scolded.

“Awww! But the black one crouched down so we could get on!”

“We wanted to play with the white one, but he said we could ride him instead!”

I gathered that Rih abandoned his own pride and let the children play with him to protect Amelia. He’s doing this out of love for Amelia? I-I could cry!

“Maybe Rih allows it, but I sure don’t! Now please apologize to him.”

“Awww…”

“But, but…”

“Mythical beasts are noble creatures. They’re not animals for playing with!”

I launched into an explanation of concepts and ecology relating to mythical beasts—most of it recounted from things Liselotte had told me. In the end, they seemed to understand. They all apologized to Rih together.

That was when Mom called out from inside the house to tell us that lunch was ready, so my siblings scrambled inside to be first.

“I’m sorry, Rih. I never expected them to do this.”

“Kreh kreh, kreh.”

“It’s nothing. I was only protecting the woman I love,” he replied coolly. Amelia was looking at him with tears in her eyes. I’d been recently getting the feeling that Amelia’s attitude toward Rih was changing. That was probably thanks to Zara’s lessons. He was teaching Rih how to be a proper gentleman.

“Kreh kreh, kreh.”

“Shouldn’t we have lunch?” Amelia suggested.

“Good point.”

The boar-pig could wait until dinner. I set it in the shadow of our house so we could go in and have lunch.

“Mell, Zara. I made lots, so eat until you’re nice and full.”

I couldn’t remember when I last ate Mom’s home cooking. The table was covered in fluffy meringue omelets, mushroom pies with spring mushrooms, bacon soup, and fried potatoes. I almost forgot this was only lunch when I took in the tremendous feast. Mom probably went all out for Zara’s sake.

But this was no time to sit there and be moved. The trays were going to be cleared if I didn’t hurry. My brothers and sisters were still growing, so if I wasn’t paying attention, they would eat and eat until nothing was left. I needed to make sure to get food for Zara, so I waited for an opportunity and swiftly scooped up his portions.

“Here you go, Zara.”

“Thanks, Melly.”

“Of course.”

I smiled at him for exactly three seconds. Then I went back to claim my own share of food. I could take my time and eat only once that step was over.

“I’m sorry, Zara. It’s like this every day…”

“I think it’s fun.”

“Hahaha…”

I could only muster a hoarse laugh. How thankful I was that Zara was such a generous person.

“Your mom’s cooking tastes just like yours, Melly.”

“I learned from her, after all.”

“The daughter learns from the mother, and then the little sisters take over for her someday. I think that’s lovely.”

Listening to Zara as I ate made me tear up. Even though it tasted the same as my cooking, for some reason, it felt especially delicious.

After lunch, we went outside to begin preparing the boar-pig from Sir Aiskoletta.

“Okay, now the problem is how to cook this thing.”

“Yeah…”

Zara and I were in charge of dinner. A family as big as mine would probably finish the entire boar-pig tonight.

“Let’s cut the meat into pieces first.”

“Sounds good.”

Each cut was incredibly high quality—there were shoulders, roasts, fillets, thighs, ribs, and shanks. It took a lot of work to butcher the giant animal. Although, Zara split the thick bones without so much as a change in expression.

We placed each cut of meat on top of a leaf once we’d finished.

“All righty. That should just about do it.”

“I think so too.”

We decided to split up and cook separate cuts of the meat since there were so many. I was going to cook the shoulders, thighs, and shanks, while Zara took on the fillets, roasts, and ribs. We also had to discuss our recipe plans so that we wouldn’t make the same dish.

“I’m sorry. I know this is a lot of work.”

“Don’t you worry. You can leave it to me!”

We needed to start right away and make good use of time to finish before dinner. Zara was going to cook inside, while I worked in the simple outdoor kitchen.

“All right, let’s get started!”

Amelia and Rih appeared just as I was pumping myself up. It seemed they wanted to be there to witness my hard work.

“Kreh kreh!”

“Kreh!”

“Yes, I’ll do my best!”

First up was the shank meat—a slightly tough cut. I sliced the muscles with my knife and minced them up, then mixed together a bowl of herbs, salt, pepper, eggs, and breadcrumbs until they were all sticky. I kneaded them with the minced meat and fried them in oil to make meatballs. All that was left was to simmer them in an oyster sauce. But when I checked the time, I was shocked. The whole process took me an entire hour just for this one dish. Although, there wasn’t much I could do about that, since I had to mold each meatball by hand.

As for the shoulder cuts, I hit them with a mallet to flatten them, dipped them in beaten eggs, and covered them with breadcrumbs. I would fry them right before dinner to complete my boar-pig cutlets. Flattening the meat made it look much larger, so it would be a satisfying dish to see on one’s plate.

My third dish would be made with the thigh meat. It was a pretty pink color and I could tell it must be tender.

I sprinkled herbs in the center of the meat and rolled the cuts up, tying them in that position with string to roast them. Then I sprinkled them with salt before letting them cook while I moved on to the sauce. I decided on a special sauce made with grated forest apples and wine. It was rich, but simple and should pair perfectly with the boar-pig meat.

The sun was gradually beginning to set. My family would probably be back from work soon. Amelia and Rih were sleeping nuzzled up against each other. I was glad to see them getting along.

Now that I think of it, I wonder where Album went? I checked my bag as a precaution and found him fast asleep inside. Judging by how warm he felt, he must have been out for a long time. I would make sure to wake him up for dinner.

I poured oil into a pan and began to grill up the boar-pig cutlets I prepared earlier.

A fragrant scent wafted over me once they started to sizzle. I was getting hungry after the long afternoon of work. But I encouraged myself to hold out just a little longer.

Once I’d finished frying that final cutlet, I was filled with a sense of accomplishment that words couldn’t even describe.

I brought them inside the house and piled the cutlets onto a large platter, not bothering to add any garnishes for coloring. Then I sliced up the shoulder roasts and placed them on another platter. I thought about drizzling the sauce over them to make them look nice, but it felt like a waste with such large portions. Instead, I finished by setting my meatballs on another tray.

“Ah, you’re finished too, Melly?”

“Yes, I somehow managed.”

Zara was carrying a pot of soup with flower-shaped slices of vegetables bobbing on the surface. I’d expect nothing less of Zara. He didn’t neglect appearances, even when serving food to such a giant crowd.

“This is boar-pig soup with a broth made from rib stock.”

Next, he brought in the fillets simmered in black tea. They glistened with an appetizing luster. Finally, he carried in the boar-pig roast baked with ginger and garnished with shredded green vegetables.

We’d successfully made dinner using an entire boar-pig’s worth of meat.

“We actually finished in time.”

“Right? Gosh, I feel so accomplished!”

“Me too.”

That was when I remembered Album was still asleep in my bag.

“I get to eat with the Pancake Family!”

Who is he calling the Pancake Family? No, it’s probably best to just ignore him.

One by one, my family members returned home. Their eyes lit up when they saw the mountain of food on the table.

“Wow, it looks yummy!”

“I wanna eat it already!”

“Please wait for the others, okay?”

Dinner began once everyone was gathered around the table.

“Welcome home, Mom, Dad.”

“Thanks. Looks like a real feast you’ve got here.”

“I can hardly believe you made all this since we’ve been gone!”

“Zara made half, after all.”

Male Fore Elves couldn’t cook anything at all, so my parents stared at Zara in disbelief.

“Now I see. You got to Mell’s heart through her stomach, huh?”

I made sure to tell Dad that Zara had other good qualities aside from his cooking.

“All right. Shall we eat?”

The thirteen of us gathered in the living room, packed tightly around the table as we raced to secure our portions. I was seated next to Mill.

“I haven’t had Big Sister Mell’s cooking in so long.”

“But it’s not so different from Mom’s cooking…”

“Well, I like them both!”

I wanted to hug Mill for saying something so adorable. But there was no time. I had to stay alert for the evening dinner race.

“I’ll grab my own servings tonight, Melly,” Zara informed me.

“Really? All right. Give it your best shot.”

“Yep!”

The battle had already begun. I could take my cutlet at the end, since there was one serving for everyone. I started by grabbing a couple of the meatballs, knowing there was only a limited amount. They were big enough that two was plenty.

I dipped a roasted fillet slice in sauce and brought it to my plate. One slice was all I needed for this one. Then I served myself healthy portions of Zara’s ginger-fried pork, soup, and black tea pork. Finally, I obtained my fried cutlet and set it on a separate plate.

“Phew! That should do it.”

Mill had already started eating her dinner next to me. “This boar-pig stew is soooo good!”

“Zara made that one.”

“I knew it. It tasted kind of fancier than normal.”

What, exactly, does fancy food taste like?

That question aside, had Zara been able to secure food for himself? I glanced over and saw him carrying a plate with a beautiful pile of food on top.

But not only was he serving his own portions, he was arranging them on the plate based on their color scheme. His restaurant experience really shone through at times like these.

“Let’s eat, Melly.”

“Indeed.”

We put our hands together, said a prayer of gratitude, and began to dig in. I started with the “fancy-tasting” black tea pork that Mill was praising.

“Wow! The meat is so tender!”

I could hardly believe how well-cooked it was. Zara told me he’d boiled the meat in black tea before dipping it in red wine sauce and letting it simmer for a bit. Mill was right—it really did taste fancy. It was like something straight from a high-class restaurant.

The rib bones made for a rich, delicious flavor in the boar-pig soup too. It was a simple combination of salt and herbs for seasoning, but it turned out wonderful.

The ginger-fried pork was much richer. Dad had been gobbling it down with his booze, and it seemed my brothers favored the dish above the rest. Mom even asked Zara for the recipe.

“Your meatballs are delicious, Melly.”

“Thank you.”

They’d taken me the longest to make, so I really appreciated his praise.

The mountain of food was gone in what felt like no time at all. Seeing my family finish every last crumb made me glad I put in so much effort.

All that was left was to get a good night’s sleep.

My family prepared simple tents for Amelia and Rih to use. Dad even made them two cushions out of straw and bedsheets.

“Kreh kreeeeh!”

“Kreh kreh!”

They were quite pleased with their beds. Dad also gave them separate spaces to sleep in, perhaps because I told him they weren’t mates yet. But I appreciated his consideration.

Zara would be staying with my older brother, who’d moved out of the family home. Mill offered to share her bed with me, so I crawled in next to her. She was so warm that the air under the blankets quickly became the perfect temperature for sleeping.

“Hey, Big Sister Mell.”

“What is it?”

“Come back again sometime, okay?”

“Of course.”

I wondered if I might even come back quite frequently now that Sir Aiskoletta was so taken with the Fore Elf woods. I would ask him to take me along on those occasions, since teleporting made the month-long journey take an instant.

“You promise?”

“I promise.”

We squeezed each other’s hands. I must have been exhausted, since I fell asleep instantly. I knew I’d be out cold until morning…that was, until Mill kicked me right out of the bed in the middle of the night.

I’d completely forgotten what a restless sleeper Mill was. I spent the rest of the night sleeping against the wall to avoid a repeat of that disaster.

🥞🥞🥞

THE next day, we gathered in front of the mayor’s house first thing in the morning.

Judging by the healthy coloring in everyone’s faces compared to yesterday, they must have gotten some good rest. Lance, prepared to accompany us on our Dark Dragon extermination, had his bow and quiver strapped to his back.

“Ah… Right, Lance is an archer too.”

“I’m a magic archer.”

“M-Magic archer…?”

“Yep.” Lance took out an arrow to show Ulgus. “The arrowhead has a magic stone attached that activates spells when I fire.”

The nock of the arrow had a spell engraved in it that allowed him to cast magic spells without chanting anything each time he fired it.

“Wow…”

Ulgus had a depressed look on his face. Not only was Lance an archer just like him, but one capable of magic too. That realization probably came as a big shock.

“Don’t worry, Ulgus. He can’t fight like you do, since it’s impossible to use a lot of magic arrows in succession.”

“R-Really? That’s a relief…”

Then came the pep talk from Captain Ludtink.

“This Dark Dragon extermination will be our most dangerous expedition yet. Don’t any one of you let your guards down, got it? Slaying the dragon is our main objective, but comin’ back alive is part of the mission too.”

Come back alive…! Those words echoed in my heart. I would need to focus on staying out of sight. I didn’t want to get in the way while the others were fighting, after all.

Vice Captain Velrey had never looked so cool and composed.

Garr and Sly had equally stern looks on their faces.

Zara looked like he was practically burning with a fighting spirit.

Ulgus was clutching his racing heart.

Liselotte was squeezing her staff tightly. Lord Lichtenberger at her side was also holding a staff I’d never seen before—one about as tall as he was. I knew he meant business.

Sir Aiskoletta, to no one’s surprise, was perfectly calm. He certainly didn’t look like someone who was about to vanquish a Dark Dragon. Doc didn’t look any different either, but maybe that was thanks to the wisdom he’d gained over his long life.

“All right, let’s go!”

“Yes, Captain!”

The Dark Dragon was sealed inside a shrine deep within the forest. Doc was going to teleport our entire party straight there.

My heart pounded in my chest. It was finally time to face the Dark Dragon.

A magic circle appeared under my feet, and instantly, the world in front of me changed. We’d arrived in a dark area of the forest surrounded by densely packed trees.

Before us was a stone building covered in ivy.

The air felt heavy. Was that because of our moods, or because of the rich magical energy found this deep in the forest? At this point, I couldn’t tell. I fought off the urge to run in the opposite direction.

“Is this…the mausoleum where the dragon is sealed?”

“Correct. There’s a small shrine in the back.”

I had no idea such a thing existed in the depths of the Fore Elf woods. Doc explained that he’d been coming here every fifty years to pray and subdue the Dark Dragon.

“I never imagined you were taking on such a role.”

“Well, yes, I made sure to keep it a secret.”

He prayed when the full moon was out, continuing the ritual until the sun rose the next morning.

“So that’s why you seemed sleepy sometimes, Doc? You were here praying the night before?”

“Right you are.”

Next year, it would be time to select someone new to conduct the prayers. Doc said the adults had discussed it amongst themselves and offered up Mill as a potential replacement.

Lance listened to Doc speak with a look of mixed feelings. It seemed that not even the mayor’s grandson knew of this arrangement.

“It must be a relief knowing your sister won’t have to tend to the shrine.”

“Y-Yes.”

“Of course, that’s if we manage to slay the dragon.”

With those final words, Doc began to chant the spell that would unseal the stone mausoleum.

“Are you all right, Medic Risurisu? You’re really pale.”

“Y-Yes, I’m sorry.”

I was the unit’s combat medic, yet I was the one feeling sick. It was so embarrassing. I needed to get a hold of myself.

“Hey, Risurisu. Don’t pass out without tellin’ us first.”

How am I supposed to tell someone in time? How can Captain Ludtink say that with such a serious expression? Unfortunately, I didn’t have the energy to protest.

“I’ll…try my best.”

That was all I could respond with.

As we talked, a faint magic circle appeared over the mausoleum. The stone door started to open with a loud rumble. The first thing we saw inside was a staircase. Past that, it was too dark to see.

“Rainwater has pooled inside and allowed moss to grow on the floor. Please be careful where you step.” Doc cast a ball of light so we could see properly.

“Ulgus, Risurisu, be sure you don’t slip.” The captain apparently saw Ulgus and me as the most careless members.

The staircase was only big enough for one person to stand on each step. We had to be careful, as the steps themselves were quite tall. Doc led the way, followed by Sir Aiskoletta and then Captain Ludtink.

Garr gave me a reassuring pat on the back each time we looped around past each other. Even Sly was stretching her arms out. It felt like she was cheering me on.

“He says there’s moss, Medic Risurisu, so let’s be extra careful.”

“Right.”

Ulgus wanted the both of us to exercise caution. Lance was looking at me in anger.

“Mell, you better watch out. If you trip, so will everyone else behind you.”

“I know that.”

Lance was still so cocky after all this time. Well, it was just part of his character.

“It’ll be all right,” Zara smiled and encouraged me. I kind of felt like crying.

Doc called out to me calmly. “Shall we continue, Mell?”

“Y-Yes…”

Liselotte followed behind me, with Lord Lichtenberger behind her.

“Father says he’ll carry you if you fall, Mell.”

“R-Really?”

Despite his frightening appearance, Lord Lichtenberger was surprisingly caring. I bowed slightly to show him gratitude.

“Don’t bother with that. Just keep moving, or we’ll get separated from the others.”

“O-Oh, right.”

Even Album stuck his head out of my bag and said, “Little ol’ Album’s cheering you on too!”

I stroked his head, causing him to let out a strange cry of, “Hyaaah!” I couldn’t help but laugh at that.

Amelia and Rih followed behind Lord Lichtenberger. Once Vice Captain Velrey stepped inside at the very back, the door automatically closed behind her.

It was quite damp inside the mausoleum. I made sure not to slip, since a thick layer of moss was growing all over the interior. The sound of water droplets hitting the ground echoed off the walls. It was a very mysterious space to be inside of. With each step I took, a chill shot down my spine.

“Help me! Help me!”

“It hurts! It hurts!”

“Eek!”

“Melly?!”

I covered my ears. I could hear someone calling out for help.

“What’s the matter, Risurisu?!”

“S-Someone’s crying out for help!”

“Someone you know?!”

It was an odd question. Why would I hear a familiar voice at a time like this?

“It was a child, or maybe a woman, but I didn’t know them.”

“I didn’t hear any of that at all.”

“R-Really?” My frail voice echoed inside the mausoleum.

“I heard a voice too, Melly. But it was so quiet, I just wrote it off as the wind.”

“Really, Zara?”

“I thought I heard a strange whispering sound as well.”

“You too, Liselotte?”

Lance, Garr, and Lord Lichtenberger confirmed what I’d heard. I let out a sigh of relief, thinking I’d been the only one.

Doc explained the source of the confusion. “Please don’t mind the voices, everyone. They belong to the Fore Elves who were sacrificed.”

“Eeek…!”

Even Doc had heard them. My whole body got goosebumps when he revealed the shocking source of those voices.

“Those who would be suitable sacrifices are capable of hearing the voices.”

In other words, Captain Ludtink would be rejected as a sacrifice. That thought eased the horror I’d been feeling just slightly.

“Try to ignore them. Let’s keep going.”

“All right.”

I heard even more voices after that. Even with Doc telling us not to mind them, they were just so frightening.

“Are you okay, Pancake Girl?”

“No, I’m not.”

“You can cuddle me if you want!”

I decided to take him up on the offer, retrieving Album from my bag and squeezing him tight. It actually did make me feel a little better.

We descended the stairs for about thirty minutes until we reached a massive door looming over us. This was the last thing separating us from the Dark Dragon. The air felt heavy and suffocating. This door was sealed shut too, so Doc began to chant a spell, causing a faint magic circle to glow over the top of it.

“That reminds me…” Captain Ludtink’s voice was much more cheerful than this place deserved. “If we complete this mission, the higher-ups said they’ll give us all-you-can-eat passes for life at the cafeteria.”

I almost laughed out loud. I get a cafeteria pass just for being here while they exterminate the Dark Dragon?

“They’re givin’ you one too, Lord Lichtenberger.”

“No need.” Lord Lichtenberger rejected the offer without a second thought. This even got a chuckle out of Vice Captain Velrey.

The other knights would probably feel too awkward to eat with Lord Lichtenberger amongst them. No one would be brave enough to sit at his table, so he would definitely eat alone. Such lonely meals they would be. But picturing it caused me to giggle.

“What a trivial conversation to have before taking on a Dark Dragon…”

Next to the irritated Lord Lichtenberger was Sir Aiskoletta, who suddenly raised his hand.

“Will I be granted one of these ‘all-you-can-eat passes’ as well?”

“Not you too, Sir Aiskoletta!” I couldn’t hold back my shock. My voice echoed off the walls of the chamber.

I always bit my tongue and kept my retorts to myself, but I couldn’t help it this time. Not only that, but I’d chosen Sir Aiskoletta as my first person to mock. I started to break out into a cold sweat. But Sir Aiskoletta gave me a grand smile.

“I’m quite eager to fill my stomach with splendid cafeteria food!”

Everyone cracked up when they heard that. Even the scary-looking Lord Lichtenberger was chuckling.

Doc stopped chanting his spell to double over and clutch his sides with laughter.

I’d never experienced anything like it before. We were about to face a horrific dragon, yet all the tension disappeared in the blink of an eye.

After calming down, Doc resumed his chant until the seal on the door was broken.

It opened to reveal a wide space, probably big enough to host a formal ball.

Doc cast a large ball of light into the chamber.

That was when I saw some sort of massive boulder-like object ahead of us.

“Th-That’s…!”

It was no boulder. The black, bumpy mass had four limbs, a long tail and neck, a spiky crest on its head, and a serpentine face with closed eyes.

“Is this…the Dark Dragon?”

“Indeed.”

It had turned to stone thanks to Doc’s sealing spell. He explained that, when it was time to make a sacrifice, he would create a magic cage to keep it contained.

“Urk!”

“Medic Risurisu?!”

I nearly fell as my body went limp. Vice Captain Velrey was close enough to grab me.

Just what was this feeling? I made sure to get proper food and sleep so that I would be in perfect health. And yet…

“Wh-What is…?”

“The Dark Dragon has taken you to be its sacrifice. It’s now coiling its magical energy around you.”

“Eeek!”

So this is how the Dark Dragon welcomes me? Give me a break!

“V-Vice Captain, you might want to stand back. I-I think I’m going to throw up,” I warned.

“It’s all right. Throwing up might make you feel better.”

“Urk…!”

The vice captain was such a kind person.

I felt a gentle hand against my back. A warm sensation started to circulate through my body.

“Blessings abound. Heal the sickness that plagues this soul.”

I could hear Lord Lichtenberger’s stern voice. It appeared to be a low-grade recovery spell, easing my nausea with each passing moment.

“How’s that? If it’s not working, I can try a more advanced spell.”

“No, I feel much better. Thank you, Your Lordship.” I bowed deeply to him.

“The dragon is likely to go straight for Mell when I undo the seal,” Doc said. “You’re going to be exposed to even more magical energy than the previous time.”

“In other words, I might get in everyone’s way while you fight.”

“Indeed.”

Then what was I supposed to do? After some discussion, they concluded that Lord Lichtenberger would carry me on his back until it was safe.

How did it end up like this?!

But there was no time to protest. Lord Lichtenberger lifted me onto his back right away.

“I-I feel terrible about this. I might explode with guilt.”

“There’s no need for that, Mell. Father’s magical energy is the type the dragon absolutely can’t handle.”

Lord Lichtenberger specialized in restoration magic—a sacred power granted directly by God. There was nothing the Dark Dragon would despise more. In other words, I was safe so long as I was on the marquess’s back.

“I’m sorry, Lord Lichtenberger. I must be so heavy.”

“That’s of no concern to me.”

“Eek…”

Lord Lichtenberger’s tone was much more cheerful than usual. That was because Amelia and Rih were there to watch over me as well.

“Little ol’ Album will protect Pancake Girl, too!”

Album stood on top of Rih’s head wielding Gud Eetz, his sacred tableware.

That’s when I remembered something. I’d left my own weapon—the one with the voice of an old man—in the barracks, where it was hung up to dry my laundry. Although, I wouldn’t exactly have been able to use it in my current position. I just hoped it would forgive me.

The sacred weapons Sir Aiskoletta gifted to the Second Expeditionary Squadron would probably deal enormous damage to the Dark Dragon.

“All right. I will now break the seal.”

Doc brought his staff down on the ground and began to chant violently. I could see gleaming drops of sweat flying off of him. Sealing such a monster must use up a massive amount of magical energy.

The seal on the Dark Dragon was breaking. Its stone skin began to crack open, revealing beautiful obsidian scales underneath.

A wind picked up from somewhere.

With his cape fluttering behind him, Sir Aiskoletta drew his crystal sword from its sheath.

The battle had finally begun.

“ROOOOOAAAAR!”

Its cry shook the ground underneath us. The layer of stone covering the dragon instantly crumbled to dust. As the ground rippled, some sort of black mist formed in the air. It seemed the seal was finally broken.

“ROOOOAAR…!”

The Dark Dragon then spat out a large mass of blood. I wondered if it was poisonous, since it melted into the ground as the black mist intensified.

“That’s the miasma. Be careful not to breathe it, as it will steal your magical energy.”

Losing one’s magical energy meant certain death. In other words, this miasma was incredibly dangerous.

But that was when Lord Lichtenberger began to chant a spell. A dazzling light erupted from his staff and cleansed the miasma from the air.

“Is that a high-grade purification spell?”

He told me it was a high-grade light spell that not even Doc was capable of casting. Lord Lichtenberger was definitely more than just an old man with a love for mythical beasts. He was once a magic knight who served in His Majesty’s elite bodyguard unit. It seemed what Liselotte told me about him was true.

Just as the miasma was cleansed, the Dark Dragon began to move. It heaved its tail down and split the ground apart. No one would escape with their lives if they were struck with that full force.

“ROOOOOAAAR!”

The dragon was spitting out more black blood to produce miasma. Lord Lichtenberger wasted no time in casting a second purification spell.

Once again, the dazzlingly bright spell cleared away the miasma.

That was when the marquess began to cough—perhaps having overexerted himself with two powerful spells. When he brought his hand away, his white glove was stained with blood.

“Oh no! Are you all right, Your Lordship?” I asked.

“I just haven’t used heavy spells in a long time. It’s nothing for you to worry about.”

But he wasn’t actually answering my question. I could tell his throat must hurt, since his voice was so scratchy.

That was when it hit me. My cooking had the magic to grant people energy. I retrieved a piece of candy from the pouch on my belt. It was one of the honey candies I made before the expedition. I unwrapped the paper and brought it up to Lord Lichtenberger’s mouth.

“Lord Lichtenberger, this candy might help your throat a bit.”

At my suggestion, he took the candy and ate it. I gave one to Album too when I spotted his jealous look.

Actually, maybe Album’s a real big shot to be more worried about food than a Dark Dragon.

A magic circle appeared under Sir Aiskoletta’s feet, indicating that he was about to cast some sort of spell. Meanwhile, the Second Expeditionary Squadron and Lance were drawing the Dark Dragon’s attention.

Captain Ludtink slashed at the beast with Dumortierite, his sacred sword. The dragon did seem to detest sacred weapons after all. It jumped dramatically to avoid the hit.

Garr was waiting for it on the ground with Staurolite, his sacred spear, but the Dark Dragon struck the spear back with his tail. Not wanting to attempt a battle of strength against that giant tail, Garr abandoned his spear and jumped up into the air. However, Sly had coiled herself around the handle, so it came snapping back into his hands. It was a most impressive strategy.

The Dark Dragon moved slowly, using its tail for attacks. When I looked closer, I saw the monster had some sort of stakes hammered into its wings. Maybe those were stopping it from moving how it wanted.

Vice Captain Velrey came up from its blind spot and sliced into the dragon with Phenakite, the sacred twin blades.

“ROOOOAAAAAAAR!”

I thought she’d cut open its throat, but it turned out to be nothing more than a scratch.

However, the Dark Dragon appeared to be in pain.

Ulgus shot an arrow with Serpentine, his sacred bow, into the wound Vice Captain Velrey inflicted. It hit its mark perfectly, but instead of blood, white smoke began pouring out.

“What is that stuff, Lord Lichtenberger?”

“It’s not something malicious.”

“Well, that’s good…”

The Dark Dragon slammed its tail into the ground over and over again, slingshotting rocks at us when the ground cracked.

Captain Ludtink had such a terrifying, bandit-like look on his face, I was certain any monster who saw him would turn and flee in an instant.

“Damn this thing! Why’s it gotta sling rocks at us?!”

Zara, on the other hand, was getting closer to the beast by using Rhodochrosite, his sacred ax, as a shield. Then he swung the blade not at the Dark Dragon, but into the ground. The rose’s vines extended from the handle and coiled around the dragon’s tail. He couldn’t use his weapon now, but he’d succeeded in restraining the Dark Dragon’s tail.

“RRRRR. ROOOAAAR!”

As it tried to free itself, Lance used the opportunity to fire arrows enchanted with fire spells, stitching them into the dragon’s legs. Liselotte followed up with a fire spell from Orpiment, her sacred staff. It turned the flames from Lance’s arrows into an inferno.

“All units, fall back!”

Captain Ludtink gave us orders. It seemed they were done buying time.

That left Sir Aiskoletta alone on the front lines.

When he raised his crystal sword, a pillar of light shot upward.

“Wh-What’s that, Lord Lichtenberger?!”

“It must be the great hero’s instant death spell. I had no idea anyone in this day and age could use such a thing. It gives off an intense light, so it’s best to close your eyes.”

I did as the marquess told me.

Sir Aiskoletta activated his light spell—the kind of magic the Dark Dragon hated most. “Brilliance of life, ignite!”

The light was still incredibly bright, even through my closed eyelids. I heard the Dark Dragon let out one final cry.

“ROOOOOAAAAAAAR!”

It sounded like it was being consumed by Sir Aiskoletta’s light.

Once the light seemed dimmer, I opened my eyes again. The Dark Dragon was gone. All that was left was Sir Aiskoletta, who’d fallen down to his knees.

“Sir Aiskoletta!” I jumped off Lord Lichtenberger’s back, raced toward him, and put my arm around his shoulders. “Are you all right?!”

“Yes, I’m fine. I merely used too much magical energy.”

Magical energy couldn’t be recovered with a spell. But Lord Lichtenberger cast a restoration spell on Sir Aiskoletta anyway, saying it would bring him some comfort.

“You have my thanks. It’s a most warming, pleasant spell.”

Despite those words, Sir Aiskoletta still couldn’t get back on his feet. I didn’t know how to help him. Komerv couldn’t feed him one of his leaves to heal him either, so he slumped sadly from his seat on Sir Aiskoletta’s shoulder.

“Right, you can’t restore magical energy with magic…”

“Restoration… That’s right. Hey, Risurisu!”

“Wh-What is it?!”

Startled, I stood at attention when Lord Lichtenberger called my name.

“Give him one of those candies.”

“Ah, you mean…the same one I gave you?”

“What other candy would I mean?! Just hurry up!”

Lord Lichtenberger explained that, as soon as he ate the honey candy, he lost the sense of fatigue that came with overuse of magical energy. I never would have thought my candies had such a power…

“U-Um…”

I stuck my hand in my leather pouch, but it was empty. I never even gave the other members candies since it had been a failed batch.

“I’m sorry, but…I’m out of candy. I just gave the last one to Album.”

Everyone’s eyes turned to Album.

“Huh?!”

Album was clutching the wrapped candy against his chest. But all the attention seemed to be too much for him, because he scampered up to Sir Aiskoletta and offered him the candy.

“H-Here…”

Sir Aiskoletta was too weak to pick it up, so I took it and brought it to his mouth.

“I thank thee.”

“Of course.”

As soon as he took the candy in his mouth, his dry, purple lips started to grow red again.

“Why, I can hardly believe it.” Sir Aiskoletta got right back on his feet. It seemed the magical energy had returned to his body. “Pray tell, where did you obtain this candy? It instantly restores magical energy, but such a thing should be impossible.”

“Oh, I actually made them…” I said.

“You what? You really made these, Miss Mell?”

“Yes.”

That was when Lord Lichtenberger explained my power.

“I once visited a sorcerer’s village and had them investigate the nature of Risurisu’s magical energy. They found that she’s able to enchant her cooking with ‘the power to make people healthy.’”

“The power to make people healthy…you say?”

“But that conclusion could be mistaken. Perhaps each food she cooks has a different effect.”

“I see. What a splendid form of magic.” Sir Aiskoletta took my hand and bowed his head. “Thank you, Miss Mell. I owe you for this gift of health.”

“Y-You’re welcome…”

Lord Lichtenberger warned me that it was best to stay quiet about this. “This country would use your power for their own gain if it came to light, just as they used mine.”

The words of Lord Lichtenberger, who was once known as the most skilled user of restoration magic in the country, carried much weight. Sir Aiskoletta agreed with him.

“I once met with a similar fate. While my country exalted me as a great hero, I was forced to take on whichever odd jobs they needed done.”

“O-Oh no…!”

How could they treat such a wonderful man that way? I was lost for words.

“But I get to enjoy my own life now, and that’s why I choose to protect only the ones I care about most. Miss Mell, I ask that you use that power of yours in the same way.”

I nodded vigorously at Sir Aiskoletta’s words.

That was how the Dark Dragon came to be vanquished after its long reign of terror over Doc and the Fore Elves.

Even now that the dragon was gone, they were going to continue their prayers.

“I don’t think we should hide the fact that there was a Dark Dragon here,” Lance murmured to himself in front of the stone mausoleum. “We’re only alive today because of this history and the sacrifices that were made, so we should keep praying to honor their memory and thank them.”

“Yes…that’s true.”

The breeze that blew past us felt strangely warm.

Spring would soon arrive in the Fore Elf woods.

Surrounded by flowers, I prayed that those who had passed would be able to rest in peace.

🥞🥞🥞

THE mayor’s family moved quickly after that. They gathered the villagers and discussed the Dark Dragon’s history with them.

“It wasn’t the Dark Dragon that was evil, but our own hearts. Please carry that knowledge with you for the rest of your lives.”

The system of arranged marriages was abolished. From now on, the mayor told them they’d be able to marry the person they loved.

I wondered how the Fore Elves would fare after that. Though it was impossible to know for sure, I got the sense that they weren’t heading in a negative direction.

After all, there was no Dark Dragon left to fear.

Side Story: Pancake Girl and Album

Side Story: Pancake Girl and Album

TWO varieties of fairies existed in this world.

The first resided in the fairy realm, only appearing when summoned by a human.

The second dwelled in the human world and coexisted with their kind.

No notable differences existed between the two varieties. Fairies were still fairies, after all.

There was a weasel fairy of the second variety who resided in the human world. However, he was something of a unique case as he had formed a contract with a human. The fairy even frequented the Royal Order of Enoch and participated in their missions.

But this fairy’s contract wasn’t with a knight. He merely came and went from the barracks as he pleased.

To get to the bottom of this behavior, one had to go back in time to a year earlier.

This weasel fairy was merely nameless back then. He was also the most powerful being in the forest where he resided, ordering the other fairies to supply him with food. He lived a comfortable, lazy life.

This fairy spent his days eating mushrooms, nuts, and young leaf buds from the forest. That all changed one day when a forest spirit brought him something much different. A kind of manmade food known as “bread.” A trader passing through the forest had dropped it.

Wary of this brand-new form of food, since he believed all manmade food was poisonous, he left it alone without giving it a taste. It gave off a fragrant wheat scent, but other than that, the rich aromas were unfamiliar to the fairy.

But after there had been four straight days of snowfall in the forest, preventing the fairies from harvesting any food, the weasel fairy had no other choice but to resort to the bread.

It had turned hard as a rock by then, but the strong jaws of weasel fairies meant they could eat pretty much anything—from tree bark to branches.

The inside of the bread was a different color, just like a tree nut. Not only did it smell like wheat, but there were other aromas he couldn’t quite make out. But regardless, it seemed like it might actually be delicious.

He didn’t hesitate to take his first bite. Not only was the crust crispy and flavorful, but the inside was nice and chewy. The more the fairy chewed, the richer the flavors he tasted. Food of this ilk didn’t grow anywhere in the forest.

It was the very first time the weasel fairy had ever eaten human food. It left him in awe after a lifetime of living off the land.

The snowfall continued after that. As always, the fairy spent his days relying on tree bark, sticks, and sap for sustenance. During the winter, tree sap with increased sugar from the cold solidified like candy.

But now the weasel fairy knew that something existed in the world that was much more delicious than sap. Each time he ate the sweet crystals, he was left unsatisfied.

He wanted bread—that savory, rich-flavored bread.

His appetite for manmade bread grew with each passing day.

One day, a man arrived in the forest with a large rifle on his back—a hunter looking for game.

The forest was human property, so it was common for humans to show up during wintertime to do their hunting. The hunter left his belongings in a clearing before setting out into the forest. This presented an opportunity, one which the fairy did not intend to let pass him by.

When he rummaged around in the hunter’s pack for bread, its rich scent started to waft into the air around him. 

Finally, he had found what he was looking for inside a metal box.

The fairy carried the box back into his den—a hole he had dug out inside a tree. It took him some time to open the lid, but once he did, what he found was not bread at all. It was round like the moon and gave off a sweet scent. When he split it in half, he noticed that the outside and the inside were the same color.

Still, it smelled very much like bread. The fairy had never seen this food before, but he wasted no time digging in.

It was crunchy—so, so crunchy! This food was sweeter and even richer than bread.

This left the fairy in an almost trance-like state, going back for bite after bite of the hearty food.

Once he was finished, he returned to the hunter’s belongings and found the man shouting, “My cookies are gone!”

It seemed the food was known as “cookies.”

The fairy preferred the sweet cookies to the bread.

Human food had turned out to be delicious after all. They had complex flavors that nuts and mushrooms just didn’t have. More and more, the fairy found himself wanting to eat human food. So much so that he stopped looking for forest food and began to hunt solely for human food. Since the forest was human property, lots of people passed through depending on the season.

Tree sap would liquify again in spring. This brought in crowds of people to harvest it—the perfect opportunity for the fairy to strike.

He waited for them to leave their belongings, occasionally ordering the other forest fairies to help him rifle through their food. He feasted on well-seasoned “sausages,” cured “bacon,” and thinly-sliced “ham.” The fairy couldn’t help but lose himself each time he tried a different variety of food.

However, he was particularly fond of sweets that used plenty of “butter.” The rich aroma and flavor in things like bread and cookies turned out to come from butter.

The weasel fairy started to learn the favorite foods and ingredients of humans by listening in on their conversations.

Once summer came, the sap season ended and hunting was prohibited. This meant hardly any humans came to the forest at all.

However, one person did come once a week to patrol the area. He kept his bag on him, carried a rifle on his back, and kept a knife on his belt. If the weasel fairy were caught, he would almost certainly be skinned for fur.

But, in the end, the fairy’s stomach won over logic. He never dove into a person’s bag and stole their food directly off of them—until that very moment. Succeeding was probably the worst possible outcome as the fairy developed a taste for robbery.

Humans appeared to fear fairies as they refused to attack them even when confronted. The weasel fairy began to force the other forest fairies to join him in stealing food directly from people. He was hooked. However, the weasel fairy would face his punishment within a year’s time.

A group of knights dispatched to the forest caught him with total ease.

The human world was built to prevent wrongdoing. After discussing amongst themselves, the knights decided that the fairy would have to pay for his crimes.

The Second Expeditionary Squadron of Enoch had apprehended the thieving weasel. They were a strange assortment of characters made up of a bandit-looking captain, a pretty vice captain woman in men’s clothing, a wolfman, a pretty man in women’s clothing, a normal boy, a young lady who loved mythical beasts, and a Fore Elf.

The Fore Elf cooked pancakes that looked absolutely delicious. The weasel fairy was desperate to get a taste, but the mischievous fairy wasn’t granted so much as a single bite.

Even after he was stuck in a leather pouch and carried around the woods, there was nothing but pancakes on his mind.

I want pancakes… I want pancakes… I NEED pancakes…

He was still a bit fearful that he might be killed and skinned.

But his hunger for pancakes felt far more pressing.

After a few hours, the fairy realized just how dire the situation was. He was put in a metal cage where he thrashed around, unable to bear the hunger. As a result, he was brought to a middle-aged man who, judging by his scary face, couldn’t possibly be a good person.

“That’s a mythical beast, isn’t it?!” he shouted upon laying eyes on the weasel fairy. The man’s expression was utterly terrifying.

He turned out to be Marius Lichtenberger, director of the Royal Mythical Beast Preservation Bureau—an institution with the purpose of protecting and researching mythical beasts.

He later found out the knights had brought him to this man because they suspected that he was in fact a mythical beast.

However, if Marquess Lichtenberger refused to take him, the weasel fairy would be sent to the Monster Research Bureau. Hearing that filled him with so much terror that he screamed that he wasn’t a monster, but a fairy.

“Please don’t kill me! I’m just hungry!” he pleaded. That was when Marquess Lichtenberger made a proposal.

He would form a contract with the fairy and let him roam freely as long as he didn’t misbehave. When the creature learned that this offer included three meals a day, he accepted instantly.

Once it was finalized, the weasel fairy was granted the name “Album.” It meant “white” in an ancient language.

And ever since, Album resided at Marquess Lichtenberger’s house.

Album thought he was doomed to spend his days inside that cage that reeked of iron, instead he found himself able to go where he pleased as long as it was within the manor. The marquess even cast a spell on Album to prevent him from leaving.

His three meals were prepared by the house servants. When they served him nuts and fruits, Album asked for human food instead. With Marquess Lichtenberger’s permission, Album was able to start receiving bread and sweets. It appeared the marquess was actually a quite understanding man despite his terrifying face.

For breakfast, Album ate toast with lots of butter, rich mountain chestnut potage, and crispy bacon.

Lunch consisted of sandwiches with thick, juicy cuts of meat with fried potatoes on the side. At night, Album filled his stomach with dinners of broiled fish in sophisticated sauces, flavored ice to cleanse his palate, and three-horned cow beef simmered in wine.

The food at the Lichtenberger manor was more luxurious than anything he’d ever experienced.

However, the desire for pancakes was still an unbeatable force in Album’s life.

One day, he asked Marquess Lichtenberger’s chef to make pancakes. The kind chef obliged the request, even though it didn’t come from his employer.

A sweet aroma came from the pancakes. Album’s mouth was watering. He spread butter across the warm cakes and drizzled honey over the top. His greatest desire was finally right before his eyes.

When the chef cut a piece for him, Album stuffed it right into his mouth.

The first bite was soft and fluffy, delicate-tasting, and as sweet as a dream. It was a bundle of happiness, causing him to reminisce about the warmth he had felt surrounded by family as a child.

Album went back for bite after bite, coating his mouth and paws with honey. But he hardly cared—the pancakes were just that delicious. He started to wonder if those knights were bullying him when they refused to share their pancakes with him.

After finishing his plate, the fairy started to wonder about something. As delicious as those pancakes were, was it possible that the ones made by the Fore Elf girl were perhaps even better?

There was one problem—Album had no idea where she was now.

He did, however, remember one piece of information. He was pretty sure Marquess Lichtenberger’s daughter, Liselotte, served in the same unit as the Fore Elf girl who had made the pancakes—or “Pancake Girl” for short.

When Liselotte returned home from work, Album bolted right to her so he could gather any possible information about Pancake Girl.

He was confident she would tell him everything he needed to know. Album was very popular with young girls. Wherever he went, they always squealed about how adorable he was.

Liselotte was surely no different. She would be so delighted by his presence that she would easily give up the information she had on Pancake Girl.

But Album had been naive.

Liselotte just coldly stared at Album the moment he approached.

In the end, Album fled the scene in tears. That was the day he vowed never to approach Liselotte again.

After that, the much kinder employees of the Lichtenberger family made pancakes for Album on a regular basis. He ate them happily, but the question of Pancake Girl’s version still lingered in his mind.

“I want pancakes… I want pancakes… No, I want Pancake Girl’s pancakes…!” He even babbled those words in his sleep on some nights.

But things finally reached a turning point. One day, Pancake Girl herself came to visit Album. She wanted his help in searching for food. For holding up his end of the bargain, Album asked for pancakes in exchange. Pancake Girl agreed to the deal without hesitation.

That was how Album found himself going outside for the first time in a long time. He was even cruelly affixed with a collar to prevent him from fleeing. Of course, he had no intention of doing anything of the sort. He took his job of finding food seriously.

Once they came across something edible, Pancake Girl kept her promise and made pancakes for Album.

Unlike the thick, fluffy pancakes that the Lichtenberger family chef made, Pancake Girl’s pancakes were thin and flat. She served them in a stack of three. After she’d drizzled them with the tree sap she’d boiled into maple syrup, Pancake Girl’s special pancakes were complete.

Album inhaled all of the sweet scent. It smelled like the forest in spring. The fairy’s heart ached upon remembering that he would likely never be able to return to that forest.

If an opportunity did happen to arise someday, the first thing on his agenda would be to apologize to the other forest fairies. With those thoughts swirling in his head, Album finally tasted these long-awaited pancakes.

“Mm, mmmmmmmmm!”

The edges were crispy, the surface was grilled to perfection, and the batter inside was incredibly condensed. It was even more filling than the thicker, fluffy pancake. Album went back for bite after bite.

“Sooooo yummy!”

No pancake in the world could possibly be more delicious.

Ever since that day, Album started to crave Pancake Girl’s pancakes above all else. He was prepared to do whatever it took to make that happen, but Pancake Girl rarely ever visited the Lichtenberger house. He didn’t dare ask Liselotte, the one connection the two shared. He knew she would just glare at him, and that would be the end of it.

That was when, one evening, Album witnessed a servant receiving their month’s wages. It seemed that people were compensated for their work here.

That made Album wonder something. If he was to assist Pancake Girl in some task, would she cook pancakes for him in return?

He acted fast after that. Album went to Marquess Lichtenberger and asked if there was any kind of assistance he could provide Pancake Girl.

As soon as Album brandished one of the feathers he’d picked up from when Pancake Girl’s griffin came to the house, Marquess Lichtenberger accepted the trade without a second thought.

That was how Album became Pancake Girl’s official helper.

Working at her side allowed him to learn many new things.

The first thing he learned was that food tasted better when you cooked it with someone else.

“It’s so good, isn’t it?” you would say to them. “It sure is,” they would reply. This process made the food taste even more delicious.

He started by carrying dishes for Pancake Girl. This resulted in many mistakes—either dropping them or bringing her the wrong amount.

Each time he was met with lectures from Pancake Girl. But no matter how many times he messed up, she never abandoned him—giving the fairy gentle instructions on how to improve instead.

Album learned about kindness from Pancake Girl as well.

Being nice to someone meant they would be nice to you in return. Album learned what it meant to be nice to other people.

Gradually, Album started to spend more time with Pancake Girl than he did at the Lichtenberger home. He wanted to put in the hard work it took to become a member of a knights’ squadron.

But one day, he suddenly felt a big sense of isolation.

That was because Pancake Girl showed up with a new black griffin, having already formed a contract with him.

Whenever Album tried to get close to Pancake Girl, the black griffin kept him in check. He told the fairy it might be impudent of him to stay at her side all the time when they didn’t even have a contract together.

The black griffin had a point. Album’s contract was with Lord Lichtenberger, so in any normal circumstance, it was the marquess he should be spending so much time with.

Album realized that Pancake Girl was putting up with him because she was so kind. He especially hated hearing that from the brand-new member of the group, of all people.

But there was nothing actually tying Album to Pancake Girl at all.

One morning, Album witnessed Pancake Girl lovingly brushing the black griffin’s coat. Album had been with Pancake Girl much longer, but she’d never looked at him like that or brushed his fur at all.

He couldn’t bear to watch, so he fled the scene right then and there.

Soon enough, he arrived at the Lichtenberger manor—the place where Album was supposed to belong. Album trudged along until he ran into Marquess Lichtenberger, who scooped him up.

“Eeeeeeek! I’m scaaaaared!”

“What are you scared of? I’m your master, aren’t I?”

“His voice is scary tooooo!”

“What a rude little creature you are.”

Marquess Lichtenberger brought Album to his office and placed him on a table.

“I don’t taste good, I promise! Please don’t eat meeee…”

“Don’t be stupid. I’d never eat you.” Marquess Lichtenberger let out a long sigh. Then he spoke, his voice incredibly deep in tone. “The knights have been saying good things about you.”

“Huh?”

“They tell me you’ve been working hard in your unit, even though your master isn’t around.”

“Ah… I see. Well, yeah…I guess so!”

Album had only started helping the Second Expeditionary Squadron with the ulterior motive of eating Pancake Girl’s pancakes, but he never expected to have so much fun on missions with her and her likable comrades.

But Album didn’t belong in the Second Expeditionary Squadron. His purpose was to stay in the Lichtenberger manor without raising a fuss.

“You won’t get up to more trouble, will you?”

“Nope. It’s more beneficial to do good things instead of bad.”

“Very well. In that case, I’m going to dissolve our contract.”

“Huh?”

Album couldn’t believe his ears. “Wh-Why?!” he shouted back.

Marquess Lichtenberger responded with clear irritation. “Did you hear me? I’m setting you free!” With that declaration, he placed his large hand on Album’s forehead.

The marquess’s hand was warmer than Album expected. As he noticed this, a magic circle appeared overhead and erupted with a snapping sound.

“Whoa!”

The magical energy inside Album’s body was no longer restrained. Marquess Lichtenberger had truly ended his contract with Album just like that.

“Huh?! Are you sure this is okay?”

“I already said it’s fine.”

“Ah…right. Um…thank you…for everything.”

Album bowed deeply. He’d been frightened of Lord Lichtenberger’s face, aura, and voice, but he turned out to be not so scary in the end. Not once did he give Album orders or lock him away in a cage. When Album asked to go and help Pancake Girl, his master allowed him to leave. Though his looks and voice were frightening, the marquess turned out to be a kindhearted person after all.

“Are you just going to stand there? Hurry up and get out of here.”

“Eeeeeeek!”

He took it all back. Album realized he was, indeed, terrifying as he scampered away.

The weasel fairy returned to his room and packed his belongings. It wasn’t as if he had very many in the first place. There was the apron Pancake Girl made for him, his sacred tableware called Gud Eetz, and a few tree nuts for emergency rations—that was all. He wrapped them up in a paisley cloth and carried the bundle over his shoulder.

The servants smiled at Album and asked where he was off to. They were completely unaware that his contract with Marquess Lichtenberger had been dissolved.

Just when he was about to say goodbye, his voice faltered. The thought of never seeing them again was far too sad.

His voice trembling, Album could only answer, “I’m just going out for a bit.”

He left the Lichtenberger manor at a quick pace, turning back to take one last look at the massive house and gardens. Everyone had been so kind to him—excluding Marquess Lichtenberger and his daughter, Liselotte.

Before the tears in his eyes could pour out, he turned and ran from the property.

Album walked around, trying to decide what to do next.

The only option on the table seemed to be returning to the tree sap forest. If Album was going to do that, he needed to apologize to the forest fairies and get their permission to live with them again.

He could always search for a new forest full of friends. Album had been separated from his family for life, but perhaps there was another forest out there with lots of other weasel fairies. It wouldn’t hurt to try and find such a place.

But the word “friends” made the faces of the Second Expeditionary Squadron appear in his mind.

The captain, with his bandit-looking face, was a very accepting man who’d allowed Album to come along on missions.

Velrey, the vice captain, would sometimes give Album head pats.

Garr, the wolfman, shared his sweets with Album from time to time.

Ulgus, the normal boy, always played with him.

Zara, the pretty man who cross-dressed, liked to chat with Album.

Liselotte, the mythical beast-loving noblewoman, hadn’t been staring coldly at Album as of late.

Then there was Charlotte, the Second Expeditionary Squadron’s personal maid. She liked to ask if Album was hungry, and if he was, she gave him some of her desserts.

Mell, also known as Pancake Girl, always treated Album so kindly no matter what.

It was so hard to say goodbye. He couldn’t even bring himself to say it to the servants at the Lichtenberger home. Saying goodbye to Pancake Girl after all the time he spent with her would probably be devastating.

If he left without saying a word, he wouldn’t feel so sad. With that decision in his heart, Album was about to take a step forward, only for his tears to instantly pour out.

No, he needed to say goodbye before he left the royal capital. Album spun around on his heel. He headed straight to the Second Expeditionary Squadron’s barracks.

Pancake Girl was there, making something in the kitchen. A sweet scent tickled Album’s nose. It appeared she was baking biscuits to bring on expeditions.

Album snuck into the kitchen, but Pancake Girl spotted him right away.

“Ah! Album. I see you’re here again today.”

“Ah, yeah.”

When he hopped up on the counter, Pancake Girl smiled at him.

“These are rations for expeditions, so no taste testing, okay?”

“Okay.”

Album was already on the verge of tears just from seeing Pancake Girl. He moved his paws around nervously, trying to find the words to properly say goodbye. However, he couldn’t muster up anything.

“What’s the matter, Album?”

“Huh?”

“You’re acting a little funny. Are you hungry?”

“N-No, it’s not that. It’s…”

“I bet you ate something off the ground, didn’t you?”

“I didn’t. I’m fine.”

“You don’t have an appetite?”

“It’s not that either.”

“Then what’s wrong?”

“Nothing…”

As soon as those words left his mouth, Album’s stomach let out a growl. Then he remembered that he never had lunch that day.

“See? You are hungry!”

“Urk…”

Album thought about eating his emergency stash of nuts, but that was when Pancake Girl suggested something unexpected.

“Please wait a little longer while I make you some pancakes.”

“Huh?!”

“You’re hungry, right?”

“Y-Yeah, but…”

“But?”

“It’s too much to ask. We don’t even have a contract, you know.”

“Where did that come from all of a sudden? You’ve eaten plenty of my cooking before.” She told him she didn’t mind since she was already on her break. “How about we eat them together? What do you say?”

“O-Okay.”

Since he would never be able to eat her pancakes again after that day, Album decided to take her up on the offer.

“Little ol’ Album will help you.”

“Thank you. Could you bring me eggs?”

“Okay!”

The pair started by sifting flour with baking powder, adding sugar, eggs, and melted butter to the dry ingredients, then mixing them together gently. This was the batter that would soon turn into pancakes.

Next, they dropped butter into a pan and let it melt over the surface. Once it started to sizzle, they poured batter into the pot and cooked a pair of pancakes together.

A sweet aroma began to waft up toward them. As the surface of the batter started to form bubbles, they flipped them over. The pancakes had turned an appetizing golden-brown on the other side.

“Wow, they smell so good!”

“They do, don’t they? Let’s cook some more!”

The stack of freshly cooked pancakes grew to two, three, four, and then five layers high.

“Whaaaat?! You’re really making that many?!”

“Each one is so small we could still finish them on our own.”

“You think so? What if it’s too much?!” After Album posed that question, Pancake Girl burst into laughter.

“Please don’t make me laugh, Album. You of all people shouldn’t be worried about finishing a meal.”

“Huh? Did I say something funny?”

“Yes, you did.”

When he looked at the chuckling Pancake Girl, Album wished this moment would last forever.

“All right, that’s the last one. Here’s the finished result!”

Pancake Girl topped the pancakes with a healthy serving of syrup she’d made from tree sap. The pancakes smelled just like the forest. Album felt an ache in his heart. Pancake Girl cut a pancake into fourths so that it would be easier to eat.

“All right, let’s eat!”

“Yeah!”

Album picked up a piece and stuck it in his mouth. The pancake was sweet and plump when he chewed on it. It was absolutely delicious. Suddenly, tears overflowed from Album’s eyes.

“Album! Why are you crying?”

“Your pancakes…are so good…!”

“Gosh, Album. That’s not something worth crying over.”

“But they’re really, really good.”

“Is that right? Then please eat as much as you like.”

“Thanks.”

After that, they ate their pancakes in silence. Album’s tasted a bit salty from his tears, but he kept that part to himself.

Pancake Girl must have taken pity on him after seeing him burst into tears. She ended up cooking more pancakes for him, tucking them away in his paisley bag.

“Don’t eat them all in one go unless you want to get sick, got it?”

“Okay.”

“I’ll cook you more another time.”

“…Okay. Thank you.”

His heart broke. There wouldn’t be another time. Album heaved the bag over his shoulder and gave Pancake Girl a deep bow.

“Um, goodbye. Thank you for everything.”

“That’s a bit dramatic. It was only a few pancakes.”

“You made me…really happy…!”

Speaking to her any longer would only be more painful. Album stopped himself before he started weeping, but just as he was about to leap down from the counter…

“Ah, hang on a minute!”

“Wh-What? Little ol’ Album’s incredibly busy today.”

“I highly doubt that.” Pancake Girl scooped Album up—perhaps because he refused to turn and look at her. “Whoa! What’s wrong?! You’re crying so hard!”

“Y-Your pancakes… They were just that good…”

“That can’t be the whole truth, can it? What happened? Was someone mean to you?”

“No… The people here…are so nice… Every last one of them…!”

But that just made Album cry even harder. He started to wail, so Pancake Girl reached out and gently stroked his fur. Once he calmed down, Album began to feel embarrassed. He’d never cried so much in all his life.

“Sorry for getting tears on your clothes, Pancake Girl.”

“That’s all right. I have my apron on, after all. Will you tell me what happened?”

“Do I have to?”

“After all the fuss you made, yes, you do. Please hold yourself accountable by telling me everything.”

“Okay. I understand.”

He would tell Pancake Girl before he left, but no one else. Album stood up straight and began to speak.

“U-Um, you see, little ol’ Album was officially set free.”

The contract between Album and Marquess Lichtenberger had been a strict one that demanded obedience. Album had little to no room to go against his master’s wishes. It was for that reason that Album felt as though the contract made him a prisoner.

“Set free? What do you mean?”

“To put it more simply, I had my contract dissolved.”

“Your contract? You mean with Lord Lichtenberger?”

“Uh-huh. He said I could go free because I’m a good boy now.”

“So, now that you’re free, you wanted to leave the royal capital?”

“H-How did you know?!”

“It wasn’t hard to figure out. Not only were you acting suspicious, but you’ve been crying so much.”

Despite his best efforts to hide it, Pancake Girl could see right through him. Album stared off into the distance.

“Are you going back to that forest?”

“Uh-huh. This time, I won’t boss around the forest fairies. I’m going to gather all the mushrooms and nuts myself so I can live a quiet, peaceful life.”

“But why?”

“Huh? Because I have no friends there, so I’ve gotta get food all on my own.”

“No, I’m asking why you’re leaving.”

“Why…?”

If he was to stay, he would take advantage of Pancake Girl’s kindness. The black griffin she had a contract with certainly wouldn’t like that.

“Because I don’t belong here anymore.”

“And that’s because you don’t have a contract now?”

“Uh-huh.”

When Album nodded, Pancake Girl stuck out her hand.

“Here.”

“Huh?”

“Would you like to form a contract?”

“A contract with Pancake Girl?”

“Who else could I mean?”

Instantly, a torrent of tears exploded out of Album’s eyes.

“B-But why do you want a contract with me?”

Mell lifted Album up so that her eyes were level with his.

“Because your carefree attitude is a tremendous help to us.”

“R-Really?!”

Expeditions were unforgiving ventures—endless loops of battling foes and sleeping in the wilderness at night. Pancake Girl explained that Album, who had no other care in the world besides the food he whined about when hungry, was like a breath of fresh air in those environments.

“Ulgus is actually quite sensitive, so sometimes after monster battles, he can’t even eat a single bite. But ever since you started joining us on our missions, he has never missed a meal.”

Apparently, Album scarfed down food with so much enthusiasm that it was impossible not to work up an appetite just by watching him.

“Also, when things get stressful, I feel at ease just looking at you. We all need you here, Album. So please don’t say you’re going back to the forest, or you’ll make us sad.”

A deep warmth grew inside Album’s heart. It made him so happy to know these people wanted to be with him. Then his tears started to blur the world around him.

“Do you not want to form a contract with me, Album?”

“I-I doooooo!”

Album reached out and gently placed his paw on Pancake Girl’s fingers.

“Album will now enter a contract with me, Mell Risurisu.”

“I accept!”

Once they both expressed their agreement, a magic circle appeared above Album’s head before it burst apart with a snap. The contract was successfully put into place. But this time, Album didn’t feel the same servitude like he felt toward Marquess Lichtenberger.

“This is…a contract…?”

It was like he was enveloped in something warm, something comforting.

“Let’s make the best of our contract, Album.”

“Yeah! We’ll have a great contract, Pancake Girl…I mean…Mell!”

“Yes!”

It was the first time he ever addressed Pancake Girl by name. He’d felt too shy to do it before this point.

“Thank you for forming a contract with little ol’ Album, Mell.”

“Thank you too, Album.”

That was how Album and Mell came to enter a contract together.

Before anything else, they had to inform Amelia and Rih of the news.

The mere thought of doing so made Album feel a bit awkward. He was already well aware that Rih didn’t think very highly of him.

When they went out to the courtyard, looking for the griffin pair under the tree where they usually napped, they stumbled across an unbelievable scene.

“Kreeeeeeh!”

Amelia sent Rih flying with a kick. The two griffins were usually nuzzled up against each other peacefully, but it seemed Mell and Album arrived in time to witness their very first fight. Rih was letting Amelia get her attacks in without any resistance.

“Hey, Amelia! What are you doing?!”

“Kreh, kreeeeeeh!”

Amelia explained that Rih had said something unacceptable, so she was now directly punishing him instead of leaving it to God.

“Punishment? What for?”

“Kreh, kreh kreh, kreh!”

Rih, jealous of the weasel fairy, had been saying cruel things to him.

“Jealous of Album? Did he really say that stuff to you, Album?”

“Ah, um, yeah, I guess.”

“Kreh kreh kreh, kreh, kreeeeh.”

“Oh my!”

Amelia revealed how Rih resented Album for hogging Mell all to himself, even though the two weren’t even in a contract together. Rih, probably embarrassed and never wanting anyone else to know this, covered his face with his wings in shame.

“But I don’t brush Album, and I tried giving you thorough brushings to make up for the fact that I couldn’t be with you all the time…”

“Krrrrreeh…” Rih shyly voiced an apology.

“Say it to Album, not me.”

The griffin peeked his eyes out from behind his wings. This time, he apologized to Album.

“Kreh, kreeeh…”

“Ah, yeah, it’s okay.”

“Kreh?”

“I was jealous about how Mell always brushes you, too.”

“You were? But with your short hair, you’d go bald if I brushed you.”

“Eek…!”

A sad realization came to Album that he would probably never get the brushing he so desired. He certainly didn’t want to go bald, after all.

“Please get along, you two. Okay?”

“Kreh.”

“Okay.”

After the apology, Mell announced that she’d entered a contract with Album. Amelia and Rih both accepted this, which was a huge weight off Album’s shoulders.

That was the tale of how Album and Mell’s contract came to be. Album would never have to live alone in the forest again. He also wouldn’t have to sneak his way into her bag again.

“Mell!”

“Yes?”

“We’ll be together forever, won’t we?!”

“Together forever might be a bit too much…”

“Aww! That’s mean!”

Despite the same old rude treatment, Album’s heart was jumping for joy. He was truly happy to have finally become a full-fledged member of the group.

Side Story: Lord Lichtenberger’s Solitary Meals ~An Omelet Stuffed with Rice and Happiness~

Side Story: Lord Lichtenberger’s Solitary Meals ~An Omelet Stuffed with Rice and Happiness~

THE Royal Mythical Beast Preservation Bureau. Under the direction of Marius Lichtenberger, this organization studied mythical beasts and oversaw their safety.

This national institution was sometimes compared to the Magic Research Bureau and Monster Research Bureau. Unlike those, however, they received no government funds whatsoever. The massive organization was funded solely by Marius Lichtenberger’s personal assets.

Just who was this man? Let us go back in time and take a closer look.

Marius Lichtenberger.

He was born to the previous Marquess Lichtenberger—head of one of the five most prominent noble families in the entire kingdom. He had good looks, a sharp mind, and many other gifts bestowed upon him by God. The magical energy he possessed was excellent as well. No sorcerer existed who could surpass his talents in restoration magic.

Marius joined the Royal Knights of Enoch to fulfill his duties as a nobleman. There he found himself assigned to the king’s squadron of elite bodyguards.

With his magic, he saved and healed many people.

His feats earned him the full confidence of the king and the rest of the royal family. At the young age of fifteen, he’d already amassed more medals and compensation than he could count.

Marius was commonly referred to as a once-in-a-generation prodigy. But such a title came with its downsides. Despite his talents, Marius struggled to consider the feelings of others. It wasn’t extreme enough to bring consequences, though he earned a terrible reputation due to his habit of sometimes looking down on people out of arrogance.

But the gossip and nasty rumors didn’t bother Marius. They never directly affected his life, after all. Although, that all changed once he started being openly harassed. The mental toughness everyone believed he possessed crumbled in an instant.

As mature as he seemed, Marius was only fifteen—somewhere in between childhood and adulthood. Boys at that age could be particularly sensitive. The experience made him shut himself away inside his home, closing off his heart from everyone else. He refused to take a single step outside of the Lichtenberger manor.

Marius spent two years with no objective in life once he’d left the Royal Order. He turned seventeen, officially making him a young man, but he refused to ever see anyone—perhaps because of his long absence from high society.

His father, the marquess during that time, turned to a relative for help.

He brought in Marius’s cousin—an outgoing and optimistic young woman who was the same age as Marius. Her grandmother even had a contract with a mountain cat, a type of mythical beast. His cousin and this creature worked together to mend the young man’s emotional scars.

The mountain cat and his kindhearted cousin thawed Marius’s frozen heart. The following year, Marius married the young woman and the two were soon blessed with a daughter.

But after the birth of their firstborn, Marius’s wife set out on a journey to do charity work, telling him how much she desired to help others around the world with whatever problems were ailing them.

To this day, he still feared his marriage had been nothing more than another act of charity work in her eyes. Marius was left with only his child, Liselotte, and the memories of the wife who loved mythical beasts.

That was how he came to pour all of his love into mythical beasts and his daughter.

Marius inherited his father’s title, becoming the next Marquess Lichtenberger. Nearly twenty years after his marriage, his wife had yet to complete her journey of charity work.

Liselotte once spent most of her time at the Royal Mythical Beast Preservation Bureau, but after she joined the Royal Order, Marquess Lichtenberger found himself primarily all alone in his home.

He’d spent the past year secretly cherishing Album, the weasel fairy, but was never successful in winning his affection. He knew Album didn’t care for him, but he still felt a sense of loneliness once the creature left.

Perhaps he shouldn’t have ended his contract with Album. Even the servants of the Lichtenberger home turned out to miss him dearly.

Marquess Lichtenberger had no idea that he wasn’t the only one with such a fondness for the fairy. He thought the fairy would simply return to the forest where he had once lived. That was until Liselotte returned home with shocking news.

Album had formed a new contract with Mell Risurisu. She’d stopped him from going back home to the woods. Album had been frightened by Marquess Lichtenberger, so Marius thought it was best to be satisfied with this outcome.

🥞🥞🥞

MARQUESS Lichtenberger’s routine began first thing in the morning.

Due to spending so much time in his house, never visiting anyone at all, his clothes were of the utterly standard variety. He stripped off his pajamas, put on an ironed shirt and a pair of trousers, layered a vest and jacket, and put on the ring that functioned like a magic staff.

Then he took the time to neatly shave his facial hair, wash his face, and brush his teeth. He finished the day’s preparations by applying a bit of hair product.

On the way to his office, Marquess Lichtenberger stopped to gaze at the portrait of his wife. Even though she sent him letters once a week, she hadn’t returned home in nearly half a year this time. He let out a gloomy sigh.

He spent the morning looking over written appeals from the people of his territory, finalizing decisions about the land, and replying to letters.

Then he headed for the dining room when the sun had fully risen.

It seemed that Liselotte was away at work that day. She’d completely stopped eating breakfast with him after joining the Royal Order.

Album used to at least show up and eat with him from time to time…

The butler serving his breakfast cast a sad look toward where Album always sat. But the marquess had ended their contract. Album was never coming back.

Nothing good would come of dwelling on those who were gone.

With that resolve, he bit into a crunchy piece of toast…and accidentally cut his mouth on a sharp edge in the process.

Album had loved the bread at the Lichtenberger manor. He preferred hard bread because of all the tree bark he used to eat in the forest, but, for a middle-aged father, it was far too hard.

Album isn’t here anymore. I wish they’d go back to the old bread already.

But he didn’t dare voice such a request to his servants, who were still mourning the loss of Album.

Once the sun was high in the sky, Marquess Lichtenberger left for the Royal Mythical Beast Preservation Bureau. The employees, having already arrived for work, bowed to him as he walked by.

Upon reaching his office, Vice Director Rou Rocky stood up and promptly bowed to him.

“Good morning, Director.”

“Morning.”

Rou had been headhunted from the Magic Research Bureau. He was a young man of twenty-seven, the third son of an earl, and an earnest, friendly person. He’d once served as the aide to Vario Leffra, former director of the Magic Research Bureau. Marquess Lichtenberger saved his life after coincidentally crossing paths with him while Rou was on the verge of death after expending too much magical energy.

Vario Leffra treated people terribly. Rou was more like his servant than a subordinate.

It reminded Marquess Lichtenberger of himself during his younger days. As unusual as it was for the man, he sympathized with Rou and decided to lend him a hand.

After that, Rou went on to serve as the vice director of the Royal Mythical Beast Preservation Bureau for the past six years. When he was first poached, he was nothing but skin and bones with dark circles under his eyes, but he’d regained a healthy complexion all these years later.

However, despite how much time had passed, Rou’s attitude had yet to relax. He always acted like a new hire working under a hellish boss. Rou and Marquess Lichtenberger didn’t have the kind of boss-subordinate relationship where they went out for drinks together after work.

Marquess Lichtenberger actually thought that sounded kind of nice. But he knew Rou wouldn’t be interested. Instead, he gave up. He understood that the living creatures of this planet simply didn’t see him as a friend.

Rou had spent the morning sorting documents until they were perfect. Then he left them out on Marquess Lichtenberger’s desk. He was an incredibly capable man. It was why the marquess had no choice but to come to work so late.

When he came in early, Rou always ensured the marquess arrived to find his documents nice and organized.

In other words, Rou was coming in even earlier than Marquess Lichtenberger to get his tasks done. The marquess didn’t believe it was worth all the effort, but it appeared to be an unbreakable habit from Rou’s days working under Vario Leffra.

Marquess Lichtenberger intentionally started coming to work later in the day to grant Rou more time with the documents in the morning. But this also had a residual effect on others. It turned out that everyone had been leaving their homes early to beat Marquess Lichtenberger to the office. Certain employees who weren’t the morning type would even collapse later on in the day.

Everyone was able to do their jobs more calmly once they got to come to work later. The transformation was entirely thanks to Rou.

Pushing himself too hard would force his colleagues to do the same. Depending on the circumstances, the entire workplace would crumble.

You truly learn something new every day. Marquess Lichtenberger tried to remember that there were still plenty of things he didn’t know.

“I see. No changes to the mythical beasts in our care.”

“Correct.”

The bureau currently had roughly 100 mythical beasts in their possession. Once the kingdom passed the “Mythical Beast Conservation Bill,” the bureau spread out over many regions to ensure the safety of mythical beasts while also studying them.

Some mythical beasts in their custody were injured, some had become violent in the environments where they were found, and others were too reliant on humans. Generally, they were able to release the creatures back into the wild once they solved whatever problem they were dealing with.

The bureau’s role wasn’t to forge a path for mythical beasts and humans to live alongside each other. The most positive outcome they sought was to see mythical beasts live in the wild, as much as possible.

They never recommended humans forming contracts with these creatures.

There were currently fifteen mythical beasts in captivity at the bureau’s main office. The animals were kept in a wide variety of cages.

First, there was the cage that encompassed their entire courtyard. This was home to a third-class mythical beast known as a Tigraki.

The massive cat was over six and a half feet long. He’d gotten injured after jumping in front of a carriage.

The Tigraki was quite tricky to capture. In fact, many mythical beasts were quite ferocious. In the process of capturing the creature, Marquess Lichtenberger ended up with a nasty bite on his abdomen, leading the marquess to heal himself with restoration magic.

They took the Tigraki back to the bureau and quickly treated the injury. The creature appeared to be in a state of agitation for the next month, but once his caretakers fed him fruit and spoke to him every day, the mythical beast finally understood that Marquess Lichtenberger wasn’t the one who’d caused his injuries.

The Tigraki used to growl every time he saw Marquess Lichtenberger’s face. But now, he simply ignored the marquess. The Tigraki didn’t even stop playing with his ball to glance at Marquess Lichtenberger when he approached him today.

The cat had beautiful golden fur, eyes that sparkled like gemstones, and an elegant tail that bobbed with each step. He was extraordinarily cute. Marquess Lichtenberger resisted the urge to scream that out loud.

“Um, Director? Is something wrong?”

He gasped when Rou called out to him. The marquess had become so taken with the Tigraki that he had been completely lost in thought.

“It’s nothing.”

“I see. You had an angry look on your face, so I thought maybe it was something I needed to be made aware of.”

Though the marquess thought he was giving the Tigraki an affectionate gaze, it seemed to be interpreted as an angry glare to others. Even the Tigraki growled at him.

The marquess cleared his throat and changed topics. “Have there been any changes?”

“They say he recently meowed sweetly to his caretaker.”

“Meowed sweetly?”

“Y-Yes.”

“What does that sound like? Did anyone use a spell to record it?”

“N-No, as he only did it once while he was alone.”

The bureau would probably never be able to hear the Tigraki make such a delightful noise again. After all, he’d recovered from his agitation and was nearly ready to be released back into the wild.

Marquess Lichtenberger spent his morning checking on the other mythical beasts.

The Royal Mythical Beast Preservation Bureau’s cafeteria was open to the public, having earned a reputation for serving cheap yet delicious food. But this was no ordinary cafeteria. It was a place for the bureau to spread their love of mythical beasts to all.

Today’s special menu consisted of Tigraki omelet rice. The eggs were sculpted into the shape of a Tigraki and placed over a bed of guinea fowl rice. It was a meal drafted and supervised by Marquess Lichtenberger himself. He created a unique drawing of a mythical beast, had it deciphered by Liselotte, and handed the draft over to the cafeteria’s head chef. The dish was perfected after a month of work.

These special menu items came with adorable artwork of mythical beasts on postcards, as well as explanations of each dish. They were very popular orders with not only the townsfolk, but also the other members of the bureau.

Marquess Lichtenberger ate his lunches alone in his office. He’d visited the cafeteria once before, but the room fell silent as soon as he stepped inside. After that, he avoided the place as he was far too worried that his presence would spoil the mood.

The bell signaling the end of the morning chimed. Marquess Lichtenberger’s secretary knocked on the door.

“Enter.”

The secretary brought in a tray with the Tigraki omelet rice he’d been anticipating. Behind the secretary was a cafeteria server pushing in a cart with condiments.

An appetizing scent filled the office, reminding the marquess of his empty stomach.

He sighed and cleaned his desk of documents, trying not to let the others see how excited he was. Then the server covered the desk with a tablecloth and set out silverware.

The meal consisted of water, black tea, salad, soup, and the Tigraki omelet rice.

The guinea fowl rice dish was molded into the shape of a cat and topped with a thin omelet. The features were drawn on with demi-glace, and its two round eyes appeared to be small beads of chocolate.

Getting those chocolate eyes just right turned out to be a great struggle. Marquess Lichtenberger went back and forth with the chefs before finally finding chocolate from a downtown candy shop that was the exact color of Tigraki eyes. He brought it back with him for the chefs to recreate.

The dish was also served with two meatballs on the side—meant to represent how much the Tigraki in their custody loved to play with balls. The meal’s utter perfection was overwhelming. Marquess Lichtenberger practically trembled.

So cute! The marquess gulped, swallowing those words before they could sneak out of his mouth.

“Where’s the postcard?”

“Right here.”

“I see.”

The bureau’s record keeper had provided an adorable illustration of a Tigraki. Seeing it alongside the explanatory text, Marquess Lichtenberger gave a satisfied nod.

“It turned out nicely.”

“I’ll inform the others that you’re pleased.”

“Good. Now leave me be.”

“Yes, Director!”

As soon as the secretary and server were out the door, Marquess Lichtenberger retrieved a binder from his desk and stuck the Tigraki postcard inside. He’d been secretly collecting postcards from his favorite meals, always taking a look at them when he felt overwhelmed by life.

After taking a moment to appreciate his growing collection, he stuck the binder back inside the drawer. He couldn’t allow himself to get distracted. The Tigraki omelet rice was something to be eaten while it was still hot.

Marquess Lichtenberger started with a spoonful of soup to warm his belly. It was a well-made consommé with vegetables that had been cooked until they were tender.

Next, he tried the salad and found the lettuce to be of perfect crunchiness. Finally, he grabbed his spoon to scoop up some of the Tigraki omelet rice.

“Ah!”

As he brought the spoon in closer, he realized he was on the verge of ruining the dish’s cuteness. However, he couldn’t let good food go to waste. The marquess gritted his teeth and sank his spoon into the omelet.

That perfect Tigraki face collapsed inward. Sadness welled up in the marquess, but he managed to fight it off.

Finally, he brought a scoop of rice and egg up to his mouth.

Marquess Lichtenberger could hardly believe it. Every last grain of rice was cooked to perfection, and the tomato sauce was the perfect addition to give it an acidic touch. The guinea fowl meat inside was shredded and lent a savory flavor to the rest of the dish as well.

Even the eggs had been cooked perfectly, leaving the omelet incredibly thin without any browning at all—the exact color of a Tigraki’s fur. These eggs had a slightly sweet taste to them.

The meatballs were made from ground three-horned cow and boar-pig meats. Biting into one, Marquess Lichtenberger found it to be incredibly tender. A mixture of mushrooms and spices gave it an extra kick. But the meatballs were best when dipped in that demi-glace.

Today’s Tigraki omelet rice received 100 million points out of 100. The marquess made sure to record this score in his notebook.

After his lunch, he was brought that day’s dessert—a Tigraki-shaped cookie.

Marquess Lichtenberger stood up—cookie in one hand and a cup of tea in the other—as he gazed out his window. There he spotted the Tigraki napping in his cage. He wasn’t moving a muscle, but that didn’t bother the marquess. Cookies tasted much better while simultaneously gazing at a mythical beast. His cup of black tea also had a particularly delectable flavor that day.

After finishing the meal, the marquess attended meetings and completed paperwork until the evening. Then he sent Rou home so he could do a bit of overtime.

“U-Um, Director, are you not…going home?”

“I’ll leave in an hour or so.”

“I see. Um…in that case, I’ll be taking my leave now.”

“Sure.”

Once Rou was gone, the marquess turned his attention to his paperwork and began to move his pen. It wasn’t anything demanding urgent attention. So why was Marquess Lichtenberger putting in so much effort? Well, that was because there was no one waiting for him at home.

Liselotte had left on an expedition, sending word that she wouldn’t be back that night.

Album had left for greener pastures.

He didn’t have the slightest expectation of his wife returning home.

He thought he’d become accustomed to loneliness by now, but confronting it was still painful.

Marquess Lichtenberger wondered if others had mistaken him for a widower.

One time, an acquaintance had offered to introduce him to a woman. This enraged the marquess so much that he physically kicked the acquaintance out of the room.

The thought of having a relationship with a woman other than his wife made him shudder. Men of that ilk repulsed him.

But he’d once been told that this way of thinking was highly unusual. They said that part of being a man is following your natural instincts and loving as many women as possible.

Such rules meant nothing to Marquess Lichtenberger. He simply didn’t feel love and affection for very many things.

It was a loose, foolish definition of what it meant to be a man. Those sorts would be much better off declaring that they were the types who loved lots of people at once in the first place. But probably few existed even capable of such a thing. That was why wars started, after all.

The things he cared about were his wife, his daughter, mythical beasts, and people who loved mythical beasts. That was all. He kept things plain and simple that way.

He wanted to protect those things that pulled him out of the darkness. It was his life’s mission.

Though he was lost in thought, Marquess Lichtenberger continued to work diligently. The tasks he thought would take an entire hour were finished in under thirty minutes.

Just like that, he found himself with nothing but time left on his hands. He even searched Rou’s cabinets and desk for work, but ended up empty-handed.

The marquess sighed unconsciously. He had no other option now but to return home.

Ever since Liselotte hit puberty, all she did was stare at him coldly. But it would still make him happy if she returned home.

Sadly, his daughter was away on an expedition at the moment.

The marquess considered sleeping at his office, but the concern his absence would bring his servants nagged at his mind.

He glanced out the window. It was too dark to even see the Tigraki now.

All Marquess Lichtenberger could do was return home.

He turned off the lights and exited his office. As he trudged along, he spotted a white mass in the hallway.

“Hm?”

It was Album. The fairy jolted upon seeing Marquess Lichtenberger’s face.

“…Album?”

“Y-Yeah…”

Had Album missed him? When the marquess approached to lift him up, Album stumbled backwards.

“Wait, Album.”

“Eeeeeek!”

He’d come to the Royal Mythical Beast Preservation Bureau, yet he fled at the mere sight of the director’s face? Irritated, Marquess Lichtenberger chased after the fairy.

“Where do you think you’re going? The only thing that way is the great hall.”

“Somebody, save me!”

It didn’t make any sense. Why would he come to the bureau so late, when everyone had already left, and then cry out for help?

The more Marquess Lichtenberger chased, the more Album attempted to flee. This made catching the fairy an impossible task, leaving the marquess gasping for breath after running so much.

The marquess clicked his tongue—an uncharacteristic expression for him.

Just what was he doing, chasing so desperately after Album? Even he found it foolish, but now that he’d started, he just couldn’t bring himself to stop.

“I told you to wait.”

“N-No waaay!”

Finally, he chased Album to the door leading to the great hall, but it was a dead end.

“There’s nowhere left to run.”

“Eeeeeeek!”

Album had tears in his eyes. Was he really that frightened? Marquess Lichtenberger felt a bit hurt, but he continued his steady approach.

“Just stay still, got it?”

“S-Stay baaack!”

With his back against the door, there was no hope for Album…until the door cracked open slightly, allowing him to slip inside the great hall.

Marquess Lichtenberger clicked his tongue for the second time. That door was supposed to be kept locked. Of all days, how could the custodian make such a mistake today? The marquess made a mental note to make the custodian write an apology later.

But right now, Album was his top priority. He needed to cast a ball of light to illuminate the dark ballroom.

Just before he began his chant, somehow, the room lit up—revealing an impossible sight.

A crowd of people were gathered around a long table full of food.

They all shouted in unison.

“Happy birthday, Lord Lichtenberger!”

“Huh?”

Once he regained function of his brain, the marquess remembered that it was, in fact, his birthday. Before him were the members of the bureau, the knights of the Second Expeditionary Squadron of Enoch, both the black and white griffins, and…

“Happy birthday, my dear.”

The woman who raced forward to hug the marquess was his wife, who’d been away for so long.

“Happy birthday, Father.”

Even Liselotte gave him a fleeting smile.

“Is this a dream?”

Those words slipped out of his mouth. It was all just so infeasible.

How could any of this be true? A surprise birthday party? At such a scale?

He wondered if perhaps he’d died in his office and was now dwelling in a dreamworld. Surely his cause of death was loneliness.

“Heavens! It’s no dream, dear.”

“Mother is right. You’ve seemed lonely ever since you severed your contract with Album, so I asked her to come home.”

“And since it just so happened to be your birthday, I thought it would be perfect to have a surprise party.”

“Why…would you do such a thing?”

“You ask that, but I can tell you’re happy.”

His wife was right. Of course Marquess Lichtenberger wasn’t displeased. He thanked each guest at the party for their attendance.

After they toasted with their wine glasses, the party officially began.

“Here you are, dear. Happy birthday.”

His wife handed him a mask that resembled the face of a monster, telling him a distant race of people had crafted it. Just how far had his wife’s adventures taken her this time? Marquess Lichtenberger scowled and let out a sigh.

“Mother, you ought to come back home more often than once every six months. Don’t you know that Father is lonely?”

“I’m sorry. Though I’d heard about people struggling out there, it appears my own family has been struggling here. From now on, I’ll come home once every month.”

“You don’t have to return that often…”

Marquess Lichtenberger never expected Liselotte to scold her mother on his behalf. A warm feeling grew in his chest.

“Here’s a present from me, Father.”

Liselotte handed him a stuffed animal made to look like Album, explaining it was a joint project between the Royal Mythical Beast Preservation Bureau and the plushie maker they had contracted. It was a soft toy that felt a lot like Album’s fur.

“Mell is the one who planned all this food.”

“I see…”

Supposedly, all the meals were intended to be recreations of what they ate on expeditions. This included whole-roast guinea fowl, bandit-style soup, soft bread, and more. The bureau members seemed puzzled by what they were eating.

“Mell!”

At Liselotte’s demand, Mell Risurisu rushed over. She was wearing Album around her neck like a scarf.

“It’s been a while, Lord Lichtenberger.”

“Indeed.”

“Happy birthday.”

Mell handed him quills made using feathers from Amelia and Rih. Marquess Lichtenberger’s hands shook at the mere sight of such an unexpected gift, though he would never divulge those feelings to anyone.

“I heard you formed a contract with Album.”

“I did. As you can see, Album is doing very well.”

“Indeed.”

He glanced at Album, seeing the fairy bow to him awkwardly. It was a strangely human reaction, although, that was part of Album’s charm.

Album had been given the important role of leading Marquess Lichtenberger to the party venue. It was an act he’d fallen for completely.

“Please say thank you to Marquess Lichtenberger, Album. He took good care of you, right?”

“Y-Yeah. U-Um, thanks for everything.”

The marquess reached out to pat his head, but this time, Album didn’t even flinch.

Album seemed to be happier now. Marquess Lichtenberger knew he’d done the right thing in dissolving their contract.

“Take care of Album for me, Mell Risurisu.”

“Of course.”

Next to approach him was Rou, wearing a guilty look on his face.

“I’m sorry for not telling you, Director.”

“Isn’t that the point of a surprise party? Don’t let it get to you.”

“Thank you.” Rou looked at all the other bureau members. Seeing them enjoying themselves brought a smile to his face. “Please take a look around. Everyone here adores you, Director Lichtenberger. They told me they were so eager to come to your party.”

“They adore me?”

“Yes.”

“Aren’t they all afraid of me?”

“Of course not! Everyone at the Royal Mythical Beast Preservation Bureau deeply respects you.”

He paid nearly twice the salary of both the Magic Research Bureau and the Monster Research Bureau, didn’t force overtime, and gave employees plenty of days off. Everyone who worked for him adored mythical beasts, so the bureau became famous for being able to produce good results. Rou’s eyes lit up when he explained that it was a dream to work in an environment like that.

“Everyone is incredibly satisfied with this work environment. That’s all thanks to your leadership, Director Lichtenberger. They’d been trying to figure out how to properly express their gratitude toward you for a while now.”

“I see…”

“I believe everyone puts distance between themselves and you as a way to show respect, since you’re such a wonderful person. Perhaps you mistook their intentions as coming from fear.”

On the inside, Marquess Lichtenberger was quietly relieved to hear the members of his bureau weren’t afraid of him. He finally took a sip of wine from the glass he’d been given. For some reason, it tasted better than any wine he’d ever tried in his life.

“That reminds me, Rou.”

“Yes?”

“Have you given marrying my daughter any more thought?”

“O-Oh, I…”

His daughter, Liselotte, was already nineteen years old. The survival of the Lichtenberger family hinged on ensuring she got married.

Fortunately, women had the right to inherit titles in this country. Liselotte would become the next marquess, meaning she needed a husband skilled in managing assets.

After much thought, Marquess Lichtenberger couldn’t think of a man more fitting for his daughter than Rou.

“I’m simply not good enough for someone like your daughter…”

“That’s my judgment to make, not yours.”

Noble parents selected spouses for their children, and their decision was absolute. Even Marquess Lichtenberger’s marriage to his wife had been decided by his father.

Although, the marquess had fallen in love with her prior to the wedding, and he intended to take that secret to the grave.

Rou was probably just being modest. The marquess knew how to push things along in times like these.

“If you really oppose, have your father send me a letter of refusal before next month. If I don’t receive anything, I’ll move things ahead on my end.”

“But, um, even if I were to agree, how would Lady Liselotte feel about this…?”

“That’s of no concern. I’m her father, so I arrange her marriage. If you come from nobility, I’m sure you understand that love and romance have no role in noble marriages.”

“R-Right…”

But Marquess Lichtenberger was no demon. If Liselotte had the slightest dislike for Rou, he would drop him as a candidate.

Liselotte had interacted with Rou many times as a member of the Royal Mythical Beast Preservation Bureau. Judging from her attitude toward him, her father had no reason to believe that she thought poorly of Rou.

He even once asked her directly if she saw Rou as a potential marriage candidate. But she simply told him, “I want you to take care of all that stuff, Father.”

“Let me say one more thing.”

“Y-Yes?”

“If you ever take a mistress, make sure Liselotte doesn’t find out. However, if you think that may not be possible, notify me and I’ll prepare a secondary residence for you.”

Most noblemen had mistresses. As ridiculous as that was, Marquess Lichtenberger had no intention of forcing anything on Rou. Noble society was very difficult to exist in, and Rou had already suffered greatly. The marquess felt he should allow Rou to take at least one mistress after everything he’d gone through. When it came to family, the marquess was a generous man.

However, women certainly didn’t want their husbands to have mistresses. Some noblewomen took lovers of their own, but it was extremely rare. Such a concept was probably difficult for people to grasp.

Marquess Lichtenberger didn’t want such a matter to bring harm to Liselotte.That was why he gave Rou a very stern warning.

“If Liselotte ever finds out that you have a mistress, I will never grant you my forgiveness. In the event things reach the point where you come crying to me for help, I’ll kill…”

“Kill?!”

“No, never mind.”

He’d gotten a bit agitated. The marquess cleared his throat and calmed himself.

“Anyway, just keep things under control if you end up seeing someone. It’s the least you can do out of respect for your spouse.”

“I have no intention of taking a mistress. Marrying your daughter would already leave me plenty busy, Director Lichtenberger.”

“Hmm. Well, this is your only chance to change your mind.”

Rou was an earnest man who probably had no interest in taking lovers. Marquess Lichtenberger knew this, but there were cases where men changed after getting married.

Marquess Lichtenberger didn’t believe he would change after marrying his wife. Even having children was nothing more than a requirement to pass down his title, and surely, he wouldn’t feel real love for them.

But reality was quite different.

The marquess loved his wife deeply and adored their daughter.

Getting married changes men—both for better and for worse. That was why he wanted to make sure Rou knew his feelings in advance.

Of course, this was all very hasty seeing how the two weren’t even married yet.

Marquess Lichtenberger had been drinking more than usual, so perhaps his lips were getting a bit loose. He began to feel awkward.

That was when Liselotte approached the men.

“What are you two whispering about, Father?”

“It has nothing to do with you.”

The marquess gave a clear response, but Rou wasted it by choking on his wine.

“Heavens. Are you all right?”

Liselotte rubbed Rou’s back gently. This left her father with mixed feelings, but at the same time, he could tell the two weren’t on bad terms.

“Father said something mean to you again, didn’t he? Poor thing.”

“Hey, what makes you say that?”

“Because when I looked over, you were lecturing him about something with a frightening look on your face.”

Even putting his expression aside, perhaps it had been a frightening conversation. After all, he nearly threatened Rou’s life. Marquess Lichtenberger silently felt regret for how he’d approached the topic.

“Don’t let Father take up the rest of your evening, got it?”

“But it’s my party.”

“Yes, and you’re mean to Rou every time you’re around him. Let’s go, Rou.”

“Hey!”

Liselotte grabbed Rou by the arm and led him away from her father. As they left, Rou looked over his shoulder and gave the marquess a few silent bows.

Marquess Lichtenberger watched the pair with a look of sadness.

That was when his wife approached, placing her hand gently on his arm.

“You can’t be by your daughter’s side forever.”

“I know that.”

“Since you look so sad, let’s spend some time together right now.”

Those words were the greatest birthday present of all.

When he looked out over the great hall, everyone had smiles on their faces.

Marquess Lichtenberger’s birthday had been a much more joyous occasion than he ever could have imagined.

Side Story: A Picnic with Charlotte! ~Lunchboxes with Butterfly Tuna Sandwiches~

Side Story: A Picnic with Charlotte! ~Lunchboxes with Butterfly Tuna Sandwiches~

CHARLOTTE was a fox girl who once lived in the forest. Her father was a great hunter, her mother was a skilled cook, and her older brother was a kindhearted person. Charlotte spent her days going out into the woods, picking medicinal herbs, collecting nuts, and sometimes even hunting small game like rabbits and birds.

Her family had a rule that, whenever they fought, they had to make up by the next morning. That was why the mood in their home never felt strained, even with the occasional argument. Their days together were largely peaceful.

Charlotte believed that happy life would last forever. But one day, tragedy struck.

Slave traders came and set the foxfolk forest on fire. The men were killed and the women were captured. Charlotte and her mother were caught together. Her father and brother were murdered.

Her mother bit one of the slave traders to give Charlotte an opportunity to flee. But that decision led to the slave trader killing Charlotte’s mother on the spot.

The only remaining member of Charlotte’s family was Charlotte herself.

Charlotte couldn’t even make use of this chance to escape—the chance her mother died to give her. She was taken from the forest and put up for sale as a slave.

The slave auctions were conducted in many different places. Charlotte was locked in a cage and appraised by people who looked at her with repulsive eyes.

One by one, her fellow foxfolk were sold off.

Charlotte didn’t speak a word. She didn’t want anyone to sense weakness in her. That was why no one ever purchased her.

Once no one in the country showed any interest, the slave traders took her overseas.

All the slaves were packed into large cages on the ship. The air felt thin, like it was hard to get any oxygen, and the rocking of the ship made her sick. This was the horrible environment she endured for the entire three-day sea voyage. Charlotte hated being in crowds ever since.

Finally, they arrived in a foreign land. Beastfolk were uncommon in this part of the world, so Charlotte drew the eyes of many.

In the midst of all her suffering, Charlotte began to consider joining the rest of her family. She had lost all hope for the remainder of her life. But that was when Charlotte met a young Fore Elf girl. This kind girl shared a delicious steamed bun with Charlotte.

Its dough was soft and fluffy, and the red bean paste inside had a gentle flavor. Charlotte couldn’t remember the last time she ate something truly “delicious.” It was as if warmth began to pour into her heart.

It tasted like happiness. It took Charlotte back to the meals she shared with her family.

Even Amelia, the mythical beast with Mell, helped encourage Charlotte and bring her back from the depths of despair.

Just knowing she wasn’t alone made Charlotte’s heart feel full. She couldn’t give up yet. There were still compassionate people in the world who cared about her. She knew she would probably be treated terribly once she was sold to someone, but Charlotte decided to be strong and live for the people who’d once treasured her.

Despite her resolution to face the grim future awaiting her, things turned out much differently than she had imagined.

Mell was actually a knight going undercover at the slave auction. She rescued Charlotte from those horrible slave traders.

“No one will ever hurt you again.” Charlotte didn’t speak her language, but that was what she felt like Mell was saying.

She waved goodbye to Mell, hoping to see her again one day.

In this foreign land, Charlotte was cared for in a facility full of people in white coats who looked after sick people.

The kind-looking woman tried to explain Charlotte’s situation using hand gestures. Charlotte was too skinny, so she would need to stay there and receive treatment for a while.

Charlotte got to take hot baths, eat as much food as she liked, and sleep in a clean bed each night. The facility felt like something from a dream. Everyone was nice. They didn’t treat Charlotte like she was bad. It was the first time since losing her family that Charlotte got any real sleep.

Once her energy was back, she was sent to a separate facility within a giant castle. Charlotte was taught the local language in a room full of books. The others there had circumstances similar to hers. Once she spoke enough of the language, she learned that this place existed to give them the knowledge they would need throughout their life.

The teacher was a nice person who didn’t scold Charlotte when she forgot her words. She did her very best to educate Charlotte, and all the fellow students were good-natured people too.

But there was one problem. Charlotte hated crowds, so gathering in the cafeteria for each meal made her lose her appetite. Some days, she couldn’t even take a single bite.

As time went on, she lost more weight and energy. The teacher grew concerned. Charlotte didn’t want to cause more trouble for the person who was treating her so well, but eventually, she was honest about her problem. The teacher prepared a separate room where she could eat her meals alone.

Now that she had learned the language, she was able to communicate. Charlotte’s wounded heart was slowly healing once again.

After that, Charlotte was offered a few paths forward.

She could study under the castle chefs, become a maid for a noble family, or be adopted into a commoner’s home. Her teacher recommended adoption—that she could live a happy life with a new family.

Charlotte appreciated her concern, but she was more interested in repaying the knights who saved her. She expressed a strong desire to go and help them, even though it wasn’t one of the options presented.

After lengthy discussions, Charlotte was allowed to become a maid for the Royal Knights of Enoch. Not only that, but she was going to be the personal maid for the Second Expeditionary Squadron. That was the unit where Mell, her savior, worked.

Charlotte jumped up and down with joy when she realized she would be able to repay them directly.

But it wouldn’t come right away. First, Charlotte needed to train to become a maid.

The training facilities were full of women from around the country. They had to learn how to brew tea, work in the kitchen, do laundry, and clean rooms. There were many skills involved in being a maid.

Even though she had to stay in large groups, Charlotte fought through these difficulties in order to see the people who saved her again.

Two months later, Charlotte was finally reunited with Mell.

It had been so long, but Mell and Amelia still welcomed Charlotte with open arms. Charlotte couldn’t imagine being any happier than she felt in that moment.

She went around and met the other members of the Second Expeditionary Squadron. Mell even compared each of them to a family member, like a mom or a dad or siblings, so Charlotte would feel more comfortable.

Everyone was so kind to her. They told her she could treat them like they were really family.

Working for the Second Expeditionary Squadron healed most of the remaining scars on Charlotte’s heart.

Some days, her chest still ached when she thought of her deceased family. But she decided to view these memories as something precious too. Charlotte was the only one left to grieve for her family, after all.

Charlotte truly loved her new peaceful life.

Every day, she prayed that it would last forever.

🥞🥞🥞

WHEN Charlotte came to work as the personal maid for the Second Expeditionary Squadron, she resided in a dormitory at first.

There were two-person and four-person dorm rooms available. Each one was spacious, with beds placed up on the second floor. The maids could pull a curtain around their bed to give themselves personal space too.

Charlotte, however, was granted a private room due to her unease in crowded spaces. Private rooms were usually only given to girls from good families. Some people weren’t pleased that Charlotte got special treatment, so they harassed her and made snide comments. It wasn’t a very pleasant environment to live in.

However, it hardly mattered when she thought back to the time she spent as a slave.

The nasty things young women came up with were practically cute in comparison. The slave traders had treated her so cruelly, like she wasn’t a person at all.

Charlotte did go to the dormitory leader once to ask if she could live with roommates. She didn’t want to get special favors, since everyone was supposed to work under the same conditions.

However, the dormitory leader didn’t agree. She explained that Charlotte was a “priority citizen” now that the kingdom was in charge of her care. That was probably because she was forcibly brought there as a slave.

She also considered living on her own. But one look at rent prices took the wind right out of her sails. She would have to pay two-thirds of her salary to rent a house in the royal capital. There were even additional monthly administrative fees on top of that.

Every day would consist of nothing but cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, and paying rent. Just imagining it left her feeling exhausted. It wasn’t a livable environment for Charlotte, who’d grown accustomed to having food, clothing, and shelter provided for her.

So, she gave up on living alone and decided to stick it out in the dorms. But that was when Charlotte received an unexpected offer out of the blue. Mell and Zara approached her, asking the girl if she wanted to live in a house outside of the city with them. It was the best possible outcome after all the hardships she encountered in the dorms.

She wanted to cry, “Of course!” right away. But instead, she stopped to think.

Mell and Zara had feelings for each other. They hadn’t told her that directly, but Charlotte simply sensed that the way they looked at each other was something special.

She’d merely been pretending not to notice all this time.

Charlotte had learned the subtleties of relationships between men and women from the books she read and her conversations with other maids. That’s why Charlotte feared she might be a nuisance to Mell and Zara if she moved in with them.

However, try as she might, Charlotte struggled to guess how other people felt. She decided to be brave and ask Mell directly. That was when she learned they wanted Charlotte to live with them, because they would draw attention as an unmarried man and woman living alone.

That came as a relief. She would be happy to move in with them if it was a way she could help.

Mell and Zara chose a house outside of the city, surrounded by a quiet forest. The wind rustled the leaves of the trees, the air was fresh, and the adorable chirping of birds could be heard all around.

Charlotte very nearly cried. It reminded her of the forest she was raised in.

This was Charlotte’s brand-new home. That warm feeling grew in her chest again.

The honey-colored brick house was in a state of disrepair after being abandoned for so long. To fix it up, they stripped the floorboards to put new ones in, wallpapered the rooms, touched up the paint, and changed the home into something that suited their tastes.

The three also embroidered tablecloths, bought new sets of tableware, and planted seeds in the flowerbeds. They were all chores, but every last one of them was so much fun.

That was how Mell, Zara, and Charlotte’s home came to its completion.

Charlotte was deeply moved to have a place to call home.

🥞🥞🥞

FOXFOLK possessed a unique gift. This was the power to look at someone and immediately discern their abilities.

Charlotte’s father told her, “We may not have sharp fangs and claws like wolffolk, nor lots of magical energy like felinefolk, but foxfolk have our very own gift that helps us survive.”

If they were out hunting and ran into something they couldn’t defeat on their own, their foxfolk instincts warned them right away.

But this power also worked on people.

Charlotte was incredibly startled when she went to work for the knights. Every last one of them was much, much stronger than her. The Second Expeditionary Squadron members were even more elite than the rest.

Captain Ludtink wasn’t the strongest of the unit, but he was a skilled leader. If he was foxfolk, he would have been one of the extremely rare bunch who could make the others follow him.

Vice Captain Velrey was fast and quick to react. No one would be able to escape her if they were at a close distance.

Garr Garr possessed the power to analyze and comprehend battles, no matter which stage they were at. This shone through when he was fighting two opponents at a time, rather than one-on-one, and it helped him provide support so the other members could make use of their own skills.

June Ulgus’ ability to concentrate was unparalleled. However, that only applied to the moments he fired his arrows. Otherwise, he was a scatterbrain and usually in a total daze. But perhaps it was best that way.

Every last one of Zara Ahto’s skills was exceptional. He was the strongest member of the Second Expeditionary Squadron, but he hid it with a gentle demeanor, not allowing anyone to perceive that fact.

Liselotte Lichtenberger could cast devastating inferno magic. But since it was so strong, she struggled to control her flames.

Mell Risurisu was the most normal of them all. However, that mundaneness allowed her to support the hearts and minds of the other, very non-normal members. Without her, the Second Expeditionary Squadron’s success rate would no doubt be much lower.

Charlotte had the ability to perceive all of these strengths in the other members.

But the most shocking of all was when she met Ciel Aiskoletta—a great hero from a foreign land. He was stronger, braver, and kinder than any other knight. The longer he lived with them, the more Charlotte began to love Sir Aiskoletta like a grandfather.

These days, the two liked to go outside and pick herbs together.

Today, Charlotte was going out into the fields again with Sir Aiskoletta. She would also bring Umataro, the monoceros she had a contract with.

First, she packed them both lunchboxes. Charlotte had splurged on butterfly tuna that day. She seasoned the fish with salt and pepper, then sprinkled it with herbs to remove any unpleasant odor. Next, she cut it into thick slices and covered the fish with potato starch, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in that order. Finally, she only had to fry them up in oil.

These were the “butterfly tuna cutlets” that Mell taught her how to cook. Charlotte had been eager to make them again after trying them at Garr’s wedding party.

Once the butterfly tuna finished frying, Charlotte sliced some bread, buttered the surface of each slice, topped them with leafy vegetables, and placed a big cutlet on top. After a healthy drizzle of tartar sauce on each cutlet, she covered them with a second slice of bread.

But they were too big to fit in their lunchboxes, so Charlotte cut them in half.

“Yay! My butterfly tuna sandwich lunches are all done!”

It was perfect timing, since they were just about to depart. She left the house and found Sir Aiskoletta waiting for her already.

“I am sorry! I was making lunch.”

“No, I just arrived here myself.”

“Oh, okay!”

As soon as Charlotte stepped outside, Umataro bent down so it would be easier to mount him. She attached their lunchboxes and the baskets they needed for herb picking to his saddle before climbing onto Umataro’s back.

Sir Aiskoletta put his foot in the stirrups and swiftly mounted his horse in one motion. No matter how violently he moved his body, Komerv never budged from his spot atop the man’s shoulder. That was one of the greatest mysteries surrounding Sir Aiskoletta, as Charlotte saw it.

Sir Aiskoletta led the way deep into the forest.

Umataro was slightly smaller than a normal horse, although he could easily keep up with their speed.

Riding through the woods on Umataro’s back felt incredible. It was like Charlotte herself had transformed into the wind.

After about two hours, they arrived at a field. Everything was a vibrant green at this time of year, just before summer. Charlotte took a deep breath of fresh air. She dismounted Umataro and told him to roam freely. This seemed to delight the monoceros, as he began to hop and dash around the field.

“All right. What say we begin the day’s harvest?”

“Okay!”

As beautiful as the field was, monsters were known to appear on occasion. Charlotte made sure to harvest herbs without straying too far from Sir Aiskoletta.

The pair chatted as they picked herbs. Today, Charlotte decided to ask him something she’d always been curious about.

“Gramps, do you ever take your armor off?”

“When I take my baths, yes. But then and only then.”

“Whaaat?! You sleep with it too?”

“Indeed.”

“But isn’t it too uncomfy to sleep?”

“I have lived this way for many, many years now. It’s become second nature to me.”

“I see…”

During meals, he merely opened the mouthpiece of his helmet to eat. Even though he never made exceptions, Charlotte was still shocked to learn that he slept with the suit of armor on too.

Charlotte decided to ask him the question at the very heart of the matter. “Why do you wear armor all the time?”

Sir Aiskoletta had his back to her as he picked herbs, but Charlotte turned around to ask him that question anyway.

“It is not a pleasant tale. Would you like to hear it anyway?”

“Is it okay for me to know?”

“I never tell anyone this story, but I would make an exception for you, Miss Charlotte.”

“Then okay, I want to hear.”

“This will take some time. Let us prepare tea.”

Sir Aiskoletta retrieved a pot and water from his bag. Then he built a circle with nearby rocks, filled the inside with dry leaves and twigs, and lit a fire.

He filled the pot with water and placed it on the flames, and after some time, they could hear the sound of it boiling. Sir Aiskoletta took a few different herbs from his basket, placed them in a teapot, and poured the boiling water inside. Their fresh herb tea was nearly ready to drink.

Sir Aiskoletta retrieved his pocket watch to measure how long the tea needed to steep. “Hmm. Already afternoon, I see.”

“Let’s have lunch now, Gramps.”

“Mmhm. Indeed.”

They spread a blanket out over the grass and placed their lunchboxes in the center. Sir Aiskoletta handed Charlotte a cup of herb tea, which she filled with plenty of honey and sugar.

“Mmm, it taste like leaves. So yummy!”

“I’m glad to hear it.”

Now that they were nice and relaxed, it was time to eat the butterfly tuna sandwiches Charlotte had worked so hard on. The bread was soft and tender, while the savory juices from the tuna cutlet were already starting to seep out. It was the perfect flavor combination with the rich tartar sauce dressing.

“How delectable!”

“I know! I made them nice and yummy.”

The two of them finished lunch in no time at all. They had another cup of black tea after their meal, as well as a serving of cookies Sir Aiskoletta had baked beforehand.

“Okay, Gramps. You tell story now?”

“You wanted to know why I always wear this armor, correct?”

“Yeah!”

Sir Aiskoletta stared up at the sky. Charlotte couldn’t see his eyes under the helmet, but she got the sense that his gaze was fixed on something distant.

“It’s already been fifty years, hasn’t it?”

“That is a long time.”

“Most certainly. I’ve worn this armor for half a century now.”

Sir Aiskoletta was born to one of the three most prominent noble families in his kingdom. Both his education and his training in fencing and magic were on par with what any future king would receive. By the age of fifteen, he’d already slain many monsters during his time in the royal order.

Just as people began to wonder if any being in the world could rival his skills, that was when Sir Aiskoletta found himself facing a trial. It happened on a winter day when he was eighteen years old.

“A demon king descended upon the earth.”

“A demon…king?”

“It is a dreadful being capable of plunging this world into darkness.”

The demon king was a wicked monster, his every last thought tinged with evil. He led an army of monsters to attack people and burn down their villages.

“A team was formed at once to slay this demon king. We set out on a journey to reach him.”

Sir Aiskoletta’s party consisted of four men and women of varying ages.

“The first member insisted on being called a holy woman. This holy woman had a pure, maidenly heart, a strong body, a merciful soul, and the most powerful restoration magic throughout our kingdom.”

“Then why insist on nickname?”

“Because…he wasn’t actually a woman.”

“I see.”

Judging by how Sir Aiskoletta seemed hesitant to elaborate, Charlotte decided it was best not to press him any further. It seemed like the kind of thing that was difficult to explain.

“The second member was a bashful knight who fought with a large shield. She would never let any attack slip past her.”

“So she was strong woman?”

“Yes, I would say so.”

“The third was an assassin, and quite the show-off. He’d never successfully assassinated anyone, but he was strong, so we brought him along.”

“Sounds like he picked the wrong job.”

“Right you are about that.”

“And the fourth?”

“He was a sorcerer everyone called a sage, though he was also a shut-in. This man was an alchemist, and he taught me everything I know about magic.”

“Oh, I see.”

It was a nice group of people who left on the journey to slay the demon king.

“The trip was a difficult one. Even fifty years later, I think of it as the hardest struggle of my life.”

They slaughtered demons as they tried to make their way to the land where the demon king had taken up a stronghold.

“After half a year of travel, we finally reached the demon king.”

The demon king had taken over a dragon’s body and transformed into a Dark Dragon. To their shock, they found the demon king had absorbed still-living children into his own body.

“He was truly a despicable creature. Thanks to that move, I could not cast a magic spell that would defeat the monster in a single blow.”

They tried to rescue the children, but it was impossible. The battle merely continued at a total standstill. In the end, the children perished alongside the demon king.

“I was on the verge of turning around and leaving the demon king’s corpse behind me. But I never predicted what was to come next.”

The demon king’s severed head suddenly jumped forward and attacked Sir Aiskoletta.

“That creature devoured the lower half of my body. I thought that would be the end of me…but then my teacher burned the dragon’s head to the ground, taking half of my body with it.”

Charlotte gulped. It was a far crueler tale than she had been expecting. When Sir Aiskoletta saw her reaction, he asked, “I’m sure that’s enough for now, isn’t it?”

“No, I want to hear the rest.”

“I see. In that case…” Sir Aiskoletta resumed the story where he’d left off. “Restoration magic wasn’t enough to heal my missing lower half.”

Not even the strongest restoration magic user was able to bring back so much of his body.

“I lost half of my body, bled profusely, and began to lose consciousness. I believed my time had come.”

“But…it didn’t.”

“Indeed.”

Sir Aiskoletta was still alive. That meant there must have been some method to save him.

“I mentioned that my teacher was an alchemist, did I not?”

“Uh-huh.”

“He was able to restore my missing half out of nothing.” Sir Aiskoletta knocked on his leg with his fist. He was murmuring quietly now. “These are not the legs I was born with. They were forged with the power of alchemy.”

It took less than five years for the process to be complete, then another three years until he could move his new legs.

“Just as I began to return to a normal life, that was when the next problem arose.”

“What was that?”

“The Dark Dragon’s curse.”

The Dark Dragon’s blood had mixed together with Sir Aiskoletta’s, and there was no separating it now. Each day, the Dark Dragon’s blood ate away at Sir Aiskoletta’s life force. It was something that couldn’t be called anything less than a “curse.”

“Once again, my elderly teacher was forced to find a solution on my behalf.”

After one year of work, the teacher alchemized a suit of armor that negated the curse’s effects.

“This armor has been a part of my life ever since.”

“You mean, the dragon’s curse wakes up if you take armor off?”

“Correct. I put my life on the line with each bath.”

“I-Is that safe?”

“A few minutes at a time will do me no harm.”

“I see.”

The secret behind Sir Aiskoletta’s armor turned out to be much graver than Charlotte imagined.

“I nearly died in that moment, but now, I’ve outlived the rest of my party. There is no telling what the ups and downs life may bring.”

“I think so too.”

Charlotte’s forest had burned down. She watched her family be taken from her. Then, after a long series of events, she ended up in this country.

“I was so happy everyone accepted me here.”

“As was I. I didn’t expect such hospitality for a person who cannot even reveal his true face to the world.”

“Everyone here is so nice, aren’t they?”

“Yes, they are.”

A gentle wind blew across the field. Charlotte and Sir Aiskoletta drank their tea in peace.

When they returned home, they found that Zara and Mell had just arrived themselves.

“The bath is ready, Sir Aiskoletta. Feel free to go first.”

When Zara announced that, Charlotte’s cry came instantly.

“Oh! Please take bath together with Gramps!”

“What?!”

Zara was startled. But how could he not be? They weren’t exactly close enough to spend time together naked.

“Gramps is old, and bath can be dangerous alone, right?”

“Huh? Um, well, I guess so.”

“Then go with him, okay?”

“I don’t mind, as long as it won’t bother Sir Aiskoletta.”

When Zara asked if the great hero wanted him to scrub his back for him, Sir Aiskoletta gave a lively smile.

“Indeed. I shall take you up on the offer!”

That was how Zara came to see Sir Aiskoletta’s face for the very first time. Supposedly, no one aside from Sir Aiskoletta’s wife had ever laid eyes on it.

Sir Aiskoletta returned wearing his full suit of armor. “What a refreshing bath,” he declared.

“That’s great!” Charlotte answered him, her voice full of delight.

Side Story: Piping Hot Meat Plus Zara and Mell’s Romance Support Squad

Side Story: Piping Hot Meat Plus Zara and Mell’s Romance Support Squad

MELL was irreplaceable to the Second Expeditionary Squadron.

But Mell was not an ordinary girl.

She was born and raised in the Fore Elf woods, abandoned by her fiancé, Lance, and thanks to her strong will, she decided to move to the royal capital and work for a living. Mell had another problem on her hands: she possessed extremely strong magical energy but was unable to actually use magic.

She discovered her magical energy was unimaginably powerful only after measuring it for the first time. What, exactly, was stopping her from using it as she pleased?

That answer turned out to be directly related to an issue plaguing the Fore Elves as a whole.

At first, her village’s magic healer told her that he sealed her energy away because it was simply too powerful. However, that wasn’t the full truth. There was a Dark Dragon locked away inside the Fore Elf woods—requiring sacrifices of people with strong magical energy.

The healer’s plan was to spare Mell’s life and sacrifice his own in her place.

The Dark Dragon had been offered sacrifices of Fore Elves for many years already. Yet that grim history came to an end once Sir Aiskoletta, the great hero, slayed the monster.

No Fore Elf would have to give up their life for the beast ever again.

However, the seal on Mell’s magical energy remained in place.

Even after the Dark Dragon’s defeat, the threat of Mell losing control of her magic still existed.

She had no talent for casting spells and didn’t have a need for so much magical energy in the first place. Even the seal on her energy had no negative effects on Mell or the healer who cast it. That was why, after some discussion, they decided to leave it in place.

The Fore Elves lived for many, many years under a system of arranged marriages. But now, they could marry the person they loved.

That was when something shocking happened.

Lance, Mell’s ex-fiancé, came to her and proposed marriage. Everyone watched the scene in anticipation of her answer, but Mell bluntly told him, “I can’t. I’ve already promised to marry Zara.”

Mell finally had her shot at true happiness.

Everyone wished the couple well. However, three months passed after the Dark Dragon slaying, yet Zara and Mell had yet to even announce their engagement to the world.

Were the two ever going to get married?

This is the story of Ulgus and the “Zara and Mell’s Romance Support Squad”—formed out of concern for the future of their relationship.

🥞🥞🥞

THE workday was over and a few of the Second Expeditionary Squadron members were gathered in the break room for a discussion.

“I spotted Ahto and Medic Risurisu drinking tea together today, and they totally looked just like a husband and wife. They weren’t acting shy at all. It was just a warm, comfortable moment between them.”

Ulgus, a member of the Zara and Mell’s Romance Support Squad, delivered this testimony. He wore a very serious look on his face as he reported on the scene he witnessed.

“I kind of got the sense that, maybe since they already live together, they feel like there’s no need to get married.”

“That will need to change.”

Velrey, her hand on her chin, was the one to say that coolly. Garr, the wolfman at her side, nodded solemnly. On his shoulder was Sly, the artificial slime—a like-minded member of the group.

The four of them made up the Zara and Mell’s Romance Support Squad.

“How do we make them treat each other more tenderly, like a real couple…?”

Ulgus crossed his arms in thought when Velrey asked that. But nothing immediately came to mind.

“This is difficult…” As soon as Ulgus said that, it hit him. His shoulders lurched as he gasped. “A new restaurant just opened up, and everyone’s saying it’s amazing. It’s a little expensive, but I hear it’s quiet at night and has really pretty decorations.”

“In other words, it’s the perfect date spot? All right, Ulgus. I want you to bring that restaurant up around the two of them, and make it sound natural.”

“Understood.”

The next day, Ulgus worked up the courage to speak to Zara and Mell in the break room.

“U-Um, did you guys hear? There’s this fancy new restaurant called ‘Nocturnal Song’ that just opened.”

“Oh, really? I didn’t know that.”

“What sort of stuff do they serve?”

“I heard they have giant cuts of meat with the bone still attached.”

“Oh, that sounds delicious.”

“Want to swing by tonight?”

“Sounds good.”

The plan was a success. Ulgus was dancing on the inside. But then…

“Will you show us the way, June?”

“Huh?!”

“Yeah, why don’t the three of us all go together?”

“Oh, no, I thought you two youngsters could go alone!”

“But we don’t even know where it is.”

“And don’t you want to try those big cuts of meat?”

“Urk…!”

“Your eyes even lit up when you described it.”

“Argh…!”

With his back against the wall, Ulgus’ voice trembled.

“I… I do want to eat the big cuts of meat!”

“Okay, then it’s decided!”

“I’m looking forward to tonight.”

The plan was a total failure. Somehow, Ulgus ended up going along with Zara and Mell to what was supposed to be their date.

Ulgus wept as he reported his failure to the other members. The Zara and Mell’s Romance Support Squad had gathered behind the barracks during their break.

“F-Forgive me, but I ruined the plan. They invited me to come with them for some reason, so I’m going to the restaurant too. I’m really sorry!” 

Vice Captain Velrey patted Ulgus on the shoulder. “Everyone makes mistakes. Don’t let it get you down.”

“V-Vice Captain!”

Despite the vice captain’s kindness, Sly showed him no mercy. She used hand gestures to describe where Ulgus went wrong.

First, she pointed out the incorrect way in how Ulgus conveyed the rumor to Mell and Zara. She transformed into the shape of meat with a bone attached, giving him a thumbs down.

“Um, I shouldn’t have told them about the meat?”

She gave a thumbs-up.

“Now that you mention it, I guess big slices of meat with the bone attached isn’t really what you eat on dates…”

Garr nodded. Ulgus had gotten so carried away thinking about the food he wanted to eat, he couldn’t stop himself from passionately describing it to Mell and Zara.

“What’s done is done. Just enjoy the restaurant tonight.”

“Ngh… Okay…”

Ulgus made up his mind to leave as soon as possible.

After work, he showed Mell and Zara to the restaurant in question. It was a quiet place located on a back street near the town square. But its reputation had traveled through town by word of mouth, so it was quite crowded inside.

“Wow, I never knew there was a place like this nearby.”

“I’m surprised you know about restaurants like these, Ulgus. It has a lot of atmosphere.”

The inside was very dimly lit—frankly, it could almost be called “dark.” But there was a good reason for that. Up on the ceiling, a sky full of magic stones glittered like stars. It felt just like dining under a beautiful night sky.

The waitress showed them to a four-person table.

At this point, Ulgus realized he’d really messed up. He’d taken the lead without a second thought.

Should Zara and Mell sit next to each other? Or did they want to sit across from each other? He had no idea which one would be better. Once Ulgus sat down, their choices would be limited.

The waitress looked at him strangely, seeing Ulgus refuse to take a seat. But he pretended not to notice her and addressed the others instead.

“Um! Please go ahead, Ahto, Medic Risurisu!”

“Thanks, June.”

Zara chuckled and took a seat. He seemed to have figured out what he was doing. Ulgus started to feel embarrassed.

Zara and Mell sat next to each other, so Ulgus took the seat across from Zara.

“Please call for me once you’ve decided on your orders.”

The waitress handed them two menus and left.

Ulgus sighed, covering his face with the menu. It was really hard to play matchmaker for these two.

Then the next problem arose. Something else showed up without warning, literally getting in between Zara and Mell.

“Hmmm, what should little ol’ Album order?” Album sat himself down between the two to get a look at the menu.

“L-Little Album! C-Come share a menu with me!”

“Huh? Well, I don’t mind.”

Album came over to look at Ulgus’ menu. He was incredibly relieved that the problem resolved itself so quickly.

“What should I get?”

“I’m not sure what I want either.”

Everything on the menu sounded sophisticated—like the sort of thing you wanted to eat on a nice date.

“Starry Night Soup, Stardust Salad, Star-Colored Fried Fish, Meteor Pie… I bet they all taste fancy too.”

If he’d only explained the menu better, maybe the couple would have decided to make it a date. Ulgus gritted his teeth. Knights loved to eat large quantities, so fancy restaurants like these never really became topics of discussion.

Ulgus had only heard about one item on the menu, which read: “Star-Crushing Ax (*Bone-in grilled meat).”

“I’ll have the Star-Crushing Ax.”

“Me too!”

Album was on the same page as Ulgus. He gave him a high five.

Mell ordered the Star-Colored Fried Fish and Zara chose the Meteor Pie.

The waitress brought out Starry Night Soup as an appetizer. Its name came from the root vegetables sliced into the shape of stars floating on top of the broth. Next came the Stardust Salad. It was topped with crushed croutons made to look like stardust.

Finally, Ulgus’ long-awaited meat dish arrived.

The long stick of meat on the bone resembled a club—it was much larger than he ever imagined. Now he understood why they named it after an ax. The waitress brought the meat out on the pan, where it was still sizzling in its oil. The smell was incredibly appetizing.

“Whoa!”

“Woo-hoo!”

Album and Ulgus were overjoyed. Zara and Mell looked at them like an elderly couple amused by their hyperactive grandkids. When Ulgus noticed that, he held his hand to his forehead. He’d accidentally turned them into grandparents instead of a young couple on a date.

“Ulgus, Album, please eat up before it gets cold.”

“Yep, it’ll be best hot.”

“I’m sorry for the fuss. All right, I’ll have some now.”

Album handed Ulgus a fork and knife. “Let’s eat!”

“Yes, sure thing.”

His heart raced. Ulgus held the meat down with his fork and cut a bite off with his knife.

“Wow! It’s so tender!”

“Soooo yummy!”

It wasn’t seasoned with anything other than salt and pepper, but as soon as he bit down, the meat’s juices seeped out and filled his mouth. It was rich enough to taste like a sauce on its own. The meat was bigger than his hands, but he kept going back for bite after bite. It took less than ten minutes before nothing was left on his plate but the singular bone.

“Mm… That was amazing. I’m so full.”

“Little ol’ Album’s full too.”

Zara and Mell’s main dishes arrived after they’d finished their meat.

Mell’s Star-Colored Fried Fish was white fish cooked in butter, then sprinkled with breadcrumbs to look like stardust. It sat on top of a plate the color of the night sky. Zara’s Meteor Pie came with a filling of minced meat. It was named for the way the meat juices sparkled as they dripped from each bite.

Zara and Mell were both smiling, so their meals must have been delicious. Ulgus was already full, but he felt even more satisfied seeing them looking happy.

After dinner, they were served Shooting Star Ice Cream. The extra creamy treat came with a topping of chocolate sauce and nuts cut into tiny star shapes. The nuts had a fragrant flavor, and when paired with the sweet chocolate, the rich taste of the ice cream was brought to life. 

Ulgus had intended to leave early, but in the end, he sat and enjoyed himself for the entire meal.

“Thank you for showing us this wonderful restaurant, Ulgus,” Mell said.

“Let’s come here with the others sometime, okay, June?” Zara added.

“Of course.”

He ended up accepting yet another group invitation. Ulgus deeply felt just how kind these people really were.

The next day, Ulgus went into work and announced his failure.

“I’m sorry… I had so much fun…”

“There’s nothing you can do about it now. Don’t let it get you down.”

Velrey was lenient in the face of Ulgus’ failure. Garr patted him on the shoulder to cheer him up. Sly shrugged in resignation.

“This time, I’ll try to play matchmaker myself.”

It sounded like Velrey had some sort of plan of her own. But before she could implement it, they received word that they were going on a mission.

Their task was to investigate claims about an accused swindler in a certain harbor town. This person was offering work referrals to youngsters coming from rural areas in exchange for one gold coin. However, those referrals never came, and the suspect ran off with their gold coins instead.

All members of the Second Expeditionary Squadron donned disguises, making themselves look like unsophisticated young men and women who didn’t come from a big city.

Ludtink dressed as a man from a farming town looking for work. He pulled his hat down low enough to shroud his eyes, but was otherwise wearing a worn-out shirt with his sleeves rolled up, a pair of frayed trousers, and a large bag on his back.

“Well? Don’t I look the part?!” Ludtink sounded very confident, but it was impossible not to stare at the massive muscles of his arms.

Ulgus murmured under his breath, “I’d never try anything with you if I was a swindler…”

“Why the hell not?!” He glared at Ulgus and squeezed his fists.

“That’s exactly what I’m talking about.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“It’s a bad idea to proposition anyone who could fight back.”

Ludtink turned his eyes away and gazed out the window, perhaps agreeing with Ulgus’ argument.

Velrey debuted her outfit next. She had on the usual shirt and vest she’d worn hundreds of times before, pairing them with faded trousers and boots. These were men’s clothes, not women’s. But strangely, they suited her perfectly.

“Ah, I get it. You’re dressed up like a boy.”

“Right.”

“That looks great. You’re exactly the kind of frail-looking boy a swindler would want to approach.”

Ludtink glared at Ulgus for his approval of Velrey. On the inside, he wished Ulgus would give his outfit a second look.

Garr and Sly emerged next. Garr wore a ragged overcoat with the hood pulled down tightly, so you couldn’t tell he was beastfolk. The rope wrapped around his waist was, in fact, Sly in disguise.

“Oh, you look good too, Garr.”

“You can never underestimate Garr! He’s hunched over too, so he doesn’t look as large.”

Garr and Sly had teamed up to create the perfect costume.

Zara came out next. His face was hidden by a large straw hat. For clothes, he was dressed in a commoner’s shirt and trousers. He was still Zara, even with his face mostly obscured, but for some strange reason, he really looked like any normal person you might see walking around.

“That looks nice. It’s so normal, which might make you easy to approach in the harbor town.”

“Thanks, June.”

Ludtink didn’t hold back his retort. “Make sure no one can see your face, Zara. Got it?”

“Oh? Whatever for?”

“……”

Ludtink definitely didn’t expect a response to that. He furrowed his brow, clenched his jaw, and got a stern look on his face. But he had no choice but to answer the question. The captain’s voice came out loud and full of anger.

“Because your face makes you look like a stage actor. They’ll think you’re there preparin’ for a role!”

“Oh my, really? I never expected to hear you praising my looks, Crow.”

“It wasn’t praise!”

“Heehee! Thank you. I’ll make sure to take your advice.”

Zara was much more skilled at this sort of thing than Ludtink. Ulgus made a quiet note that he needed to learn from Zara, the master.

After Zara came Mell. Her long Fore Elf ears would stand out in the harbor town, so she kept her head covered with a large bonnet. She also wore a yellow-brown overcoat and a bag strapped to her back.

Ludtink whistled when he laid eyes on her. “Now that’s what I’m talkin’ about. Great work, Risurisu. You look exactly like a girl who came from nowhere and is frettin’ that she won’t be able to find herself a job.”

“Yes, that comes from experience.”

“Oh yeah. Now that I think of it, you’re an actual country bumpkin, aren’t ya?”

Mell didn’t seem bothered by that rude remark. But Zara silently stomped down hard on Ludtink’s foot.

“Ow!”

“Oh dear. Whatever is the matter? Did you step on a thorn?”

“Zara, you little…!”

Since Ludtink was clearly in the wrong, no one tried to help him out.

Finally, Liselotte emerged with a displeased look. “I really hatethis sort of thing…!”

Her long hair was in braids, and her glasses were purposefully fogged up. She wore a wrinkled dress and shoes with holes in the bottom. No one expected this look for her. All of her beauty and elegance was gone, replaced by a plain, unsophisticated young woman.

“I tried my best,” she said. “How did I do?”

“Sorcerer Lichtenberger…what a wonderful disguise! You get an ‘A+!’”

“Oh my. Is that so?” Liselotte’s mood improved a bit thanks to Ulgus’ praise.

“Although, you should never let Lord Lichtenberger see you like this…”

“Oh, did you say something else?”

“No, it was nothing.”

“Hey, Ulgus, those are the clothes you came to work in,” Ludtink pointed out. “Where’s your disguise?”

“Ah, the people from the Covert Squadron said I could walk around in my usual clothes and I’d probably be approached by the swindler.”

Ulgus had on the worn-out jacket and pants he had left for work in. The disguise was completed with a large pack strapped to his back. The young man looked no different than his usual appearance. He was born and raised in the royal capital, yet for some reason, he was told not to wear a disguise.

Ulgus didn’t know what that meant, but he had no choice but to accept it.

“Well, whatever. Let’s get to that town and catch our swindler.”

“Yes, Captain!”

The expedition had begun. Amelia and Rih would stay behind with Charlotte this time.

“Be safe, everyone!”

“Kreh kreeeh!”

“Kreh!”

The members said goodbye before finally departing.

They traveled to the harbor town in a carriage this time and were even given a driver from the Royal Order, allowing the Second Expeditionary Squadron members to all ride inside.

“We hardly ever get to be in the carriage all together like this.”

In fact, perhaps it was the very first time. But there was a reason for this. They’d received new instructions that they needed to implement on the mission.

“They say most people approached by the swindler are comin’ off boats. So we’re gonna get carried onto a ship in wooden crates, then walk off lookin’ none the wiser.”

Once ships arrived in the harbor, items for delivery to the royal family were hauled off before passengers could disembark. The knights would use that brief window to be stowed away on the ship.

“They say it might be a little hard to breathe, but that we’ve just gotta tough it out.”

“I’m sure the Covert Squadron have to hide in crates all the time…”

Ulgus suddenly realized how difficult their job must be.

Each member would generally operate independently on this mission. However, someone had to be close by as a lookout in case anyone was propositioned by the swindler.

“We’ll all pair up. I’m with Risurisu, Velrey’s with Ulgus, Garr’s with Lichtenberger, and sorry, Zara, but you’re on your own.”

“Understood.”

Ulgus, dressed in his everyday attire, just hoped that it wouldn’t make him a target for the swindler. He also vowed to buy new clothes next time he was paid.

“Would you care to eat something before the mission starts, everyone?”

Mell reached into her bag and pulled out a sweet called “chocolate salami.” It was made from crushed biscuits mixed with melted chocolate. Then she handed normal salami to Ludtink, since he hated sweets. She’d made this one herself too.

“Damn it! This is stuff you eat with booze! Someone get me some booze!”

“Why would we have any booze with us?!” Mell snapped at Ludtink’s question. He didn’t say anything out loud, but Ulgus thought it was a very cool retort of hers.

The chocolate was nice and smooth, filled with bits of crunchy biscuit. It was a delicious snack. However, it was quite sweet. As soon as Ulgus had that thought, Mell handed him some roasted beans with salt.

“Here, to cleanse your palate.”

“Wow, thank you so much!”

The savory beans had the perfect amount of salt on them.

Mell was so perceptive. She had exactly what he wanted and pulled it out exactly when he needed it. Ulgus wished he could learn that same consideration for others. In that moment, he decided to make Mell his teacher in all matters of the heart.

The group arrived at the harbor town as they were enjoying their snacks. It was the same town where they had previously settled a dispute involving the fishermen’s union. None of them had set foot in the town since.

There was a lot of foot traffic in the harbor town just like last time. It would be difficult to spot the swindler in such a large crowd.

The strategy of going in disguise was going to be very efficient.

A member of the Covert Squadron, disguised as a merchant, quickly approached and led them into a storehouse.

“Gosh, you really surprised me. Your disguises are so good, I didn’t even recognize you as knights.”

They weren’t displeased with this praise—excluding Ulgus, of course.

Their ship would be arriving soon. One by one, the members climbed into the wooden crates prepared for them. It was a tight fit with all of their belongings crammed inside with them too. From a distance, Ulgus heard Ludtink shout, “Damn it!” All the crates were the same size, so it must have been too small for someone Ludtink’s size. The next words he heard was a cry of, “Ow, ow, ow!” Ulgus wondered if the captain was being forcibly shoved inside the crate.

But just for today, he was relieved to have such a small stature.

The crates were sealed up to be transported onto the ship.

Surprisingly, it wasn’t too difficult to breathe inside. It wasn’t exactly pleasant, but Ulgus could make do for a little while.

The men at the docks lifted the crates and hauled them onto the ship.

Ulgus started to feel sick as his crate rocked strangely back and forth. He covered his mouth to stop himself from throwing up. Once they were set down in the ship’s storage area, the crew members opened the lids back up for them. Ulgus squeezed his eyes shut at the bright light being cast by the magic stone lamps.

But the light must have revealed how sick he looked, because the crew members called out to him with concern.

“You all right?”

“Urp… Yes, I’m fine.”

Mell wasted no time handing Ulgus medicine for his nausea. “Here, Ulgus. You’ll feel better once you drink this.”

“Th-Thank you very much.”

But someone else started feeling sick as soon as they reached the ship. It was none other than Ludtink.

“Oh, you too, Captain? But the ship is docked right now.”

Perhaps Ludtink hated both the air inside ships and the way they bobbed on the water too.

It was nearly time to disembark, which meant their mission had begun. Ulgus picked up his bag and stayed close enough to Velrey that they wouldn’t get separated.

The ship’s entrance was packed with people—the place where third-class to fifth-class passengers gathered to disembark. Everyone’s clothing resembled the knights’ disguises, and the passengers seemed to originate from many different locations.

As soon as the door opened, Ulgus felt himself being shoved from behind.

“Whoa!”

He nearly choked at the pressure on his back. He looked at Velrey, wanting to ask if she was okay, but she beat him to the punch.

“Hey, you all right?”

She gazed at Ulgus with concern in her eyes. She’d been just as badly mobbed as he had, but didn’t seem particularly distressed by it at all.

Velrey had turned his worries around to make sure he wasn’t having trouble. Ulgus realized this side of the vice captain was probably what made her so popular.

“Oh, um, I’m fine. What about you, Vice… I mean, Velrey?”

“Yeah, no worries.”

The pair managed to make it out of the ship despite the surge of people against their backs. They disembarked to find traders outside with sweets, alcohol, newspapers, and lunches for sale.

Ulgus scanned the area. Everyone was trying to sell them something different. It was actually kind of fun.

“Want a meat skewer slathered with sauce?”

“I’ve got fresh bread straight from the oven!”

“Who wants fresh fruit?”

Ulgus had just eaten that chocolate salami earlier, yet he couldn’t stop his stomach from growling.

They were still on a mission, but everyone else who’d disembarked was purchasing food from the traders. Ulgus thought it might help him blend in if he bought something too. But just then, someone crashed into him from behind.

“Wh-Whoa!”

“Ah, I’m sorry!”

When he spun around, he found a man in his early thirties with glasses standing there. His hair was styled with product and he wore a nice-looking overcoat. He wasn’t a noble, but Ulgus could instantly tell that this man was well-off.

Ulgus’ back stung a bit where they’d collided. His bag could have blocked most of the impact, but unfortunately, he was carrying it in his arms at the moment.

He looked at the man curiously.

“I truly apologize. Are you hurt?”

“No, I’m fine…at least, I think so.”

“Wow, you speak your words very well. Where were you educated?”

“Ah, I…”

Ulgus twitched. Most people coming from across the ocean didn’t speak with a metropolitan dialect. This was an undercover mission, so he was supposed to be acting like a country bumpkin. But at least now he knew better. He would be able to speak less formally if that swindler ever approached him.

Ulgus mentally convinced himself that he hadn’t failed. Not yet, anyway.

“Perhaps you worked somewhere where you interacted with wealthy families?”

The words “wealthy families” made him think of Liselotte and Ludtink.

“Ah, yes. That’s right.”

“I see. It must be difficult work.”

“It sure was. I got yelled at all the time.” It wasn’t technically a lie. Ulgus gazed off into the distance as he spoke.

“They’re so violent and selfish, aren’t they? I know exactly what you mean.”

Ulgus nodded enthusiastically. This man really understood where he was coming from.

“Oh, I know. Let me buy you those meat skewers you were looking at.”

“A-Ah, no, there’s no need for that.”

“It’s my way of apologizing for bumping into you. Please, I’d like you to accept.”

The man purchased a salted meat skewer and one with sauce, then handed them both to Ulgus. He wasn’t sure if it was all right to eat while on duty, but when he shot a glance at Velrey, she nodded stealthily.

The pair escaped the crowd and sat down next to a stack of crates.

Velrey was following them, but not close enough to be spotted. It was easy to observe the disembarking passengers from this spot.

“Come on, now. Eat up.”

“Th-Thank you, I will.”

First, he tried the skewer with sauce. The meat had been grilled nice and crispy on the outside, but was still full of juices once he bit into it. It was the tastiest meat skewer he could have asked for.

“How is it?”

“Really delicious…!”

Ulgus had tasted heaven despite still being on an active mission. He was touched by the kindness of this man.

“Are you going to the royal capital for sightseeing?”

“No, I’m moving there.”

“I see. Do you know someone in the area?”

Ulgus shook his head. He’d already decided on a backstory to go along with his disguise. He was a young man brimming with hope who’d come to the royal capital in search of a job and board.

“No, I don’t. I haven’t found a place to live yet.”

“That must be stressful.”

“It is, but I’ve heard the royal capital is full of places to live and work.”

“Sure, as long as you’ve got money and status.”

The man’s face suddenly turned very serious. It startled Ulgus, who accidentally gulped down a bit of salted meat without chewing it. That felt a bit wasteful. But this was no time to let the skewer distract him. He needed to focus on the mission.

“What do you mean by that?”

“I mean that everyone says the royal capital is like a dream, but that’s not true at all. Nobles throw their weight around in the city so that the townsfolk have to live meekly. You won’t get a job unless you have either money or status.”

“……”

The man was right—townsfolk could never defy nobles, and work wasn’t exactly abundant either. Ulgus himself had joined the Royal Order because, after spending his life in the low-lying side of town, he heard becoming a knight was a way to make a good living.

“Most nobles are bad people. Make sure you watch yourself around them.”

“O-Okay…”

But that was one thing he couldn’t agree with. The man probably didn’t know that many knights were born into noble families too. In exchange for the privilege they were blessed with, these people stood and fought on the very front lines.

Nobles put their lives on the line in battle.

Although, Ulgus had no intention of discussing that with a total stranger. It was probably best not to stay and chat for too long. Velrey was watching him too, after all.

“Um, these skewers were delicious. Thank you again, but I’m going to be on my way now.”

“Hang on.” The man grabbed Ulgus’ arm when he tried to stand. He leaned in and whispered something to him. “I have a good offer for you.”

“Wh-What do you mean?”

“Come on, sit down.”

Ulgus sat back down as instructed. He should have turned the man down while he was on a mission, but his words piqued Ulgus’ interest.

“So? What’s this offer?”

“I can get you a job in the royal capital.”

“A…job?”

“That’s right. I work as an intermediary for various lines of work, helping people coming from rural areas like you.”

“Oh, really? I had no idea.”

The man wore very nice clothes, so he was probably doing well for himself, Ulgus thought.

“The biggest advantage is having access to jobs that require a referral letter to be hired.”

“Wow! That’s amazing!”

It was a great thing for people to come from rural areas without having to worry about whether or not they could make a living. Ulgus was touched by how forgiving times had become.

“What sort of jobs are available?”

“For a young man like you with a good manner of speech, I could see you working as a butler for a noble family.”

“Wh-Whoaaa!”

There was no way anyone could work in a noble household without a letter of referral. The more options someone had for work, the more possibilities their future held.

If Ulgus had met this man when he was job hunting, he might not have ever become a knight.

“My cap— I mean, my boss yelled at me every single day, so I thought I wasn’t suited for that line of work,” he confessed.

“Good thing you ended up quitting, huh?”

Not only had Ulgus not actually quit, but that boss in question was now watching him from a distance. Mell was nearby too. It seemed they’d come to meet up with Velrey at some point.

Ulgus trembled in fear. He’d gotten caught up in conversation over a snack during a mission. He knew he was on the verge of another terrible scolding.

“That’ll be one gold coin.”

“Huh?”

“That’s my agent’s fee. Give me a gold coin and I’ll refer you to whatever job you like.”

One gold coin was the starting salary for a knight in the Royal Order of Enoch. It was as much as three months’ pay for someone in the poorer parts of the city.

“How does that sound? You can make three gold coins a month if you work for a noble family. Not so expensive in the grand scheme of things, is it? Just a single gold coin can buy your happiness.”

That was when Ulgus gasped. He finally remembered that the swindler they were looking for offered work referrals in exchange for a gold coin. The man before him was the swindler!

On the inside, he was filled with despair. He’d become the criminal’s target within minutes of stepping off the ship.

The man first spotted Ulgus staring at the meat skewers. That meant he thought he really was a careless country bumpkin and had bumped into him on purpose. He wanted to treat him to meat skewers to get one foot in the door for his scheme.

Ulgus had been completely fooled. He took the meat skewers without thinking and even started discussing his personal life with the man. It took until this very moment for Ulgus to have any idea he was dealing with the swindler.

Maybe Velrey had noticed. That first glance and nod they exchanged could have been a warning to watch out for the man, not permission to eat the skewers like he originally thought.

Ulgus knew exactly what he needed to do. It was time to be deceived.

“Um, can we seal the deal right here?”

“I have an office. What do you say I take you there?”

“I’m sorry for all the trouble.”

“No, don’t be!”

The man patted Ulgus on the shoulder. It still ached a bit from where they’d collided earlier, but he gritted his teeth to bear it.

“My office is this way.”

“Okay!”

Once the man started to lead the way, Ulgus cast glances at Ludtink and Velrey. They both nodded. They were going to tail them from behind.

Later, they linked up with Zara, Garr, and Liselotte. Ulgus felt better knowing the entire Second Expeditionary Squadron was at his back.

The man led Ulgus to a warehouse for rent in town.

“Here we are.”

“Wow, what a big warehouse.”

“Not too shabby, huh?” He opened the door and let Ulgus inside. “It’s more like a place for storage than an actual office.”

The man was right. Inside were stacks of wooden crates sitting all over the place. He was clearly lying about it being an “office” and had simply brought him to a random, unlocked building.

Since there wasn’t anyone else around, the man was probably working alone.

“I have a real office in the royal capital. This is just my temporary place of work.”

“Um, do you have colleagues in the capital?”

“Yes, we’re a small company with only five members in total.”

Ulgus knew better than to press him too hard. It would only draw suspicion, and before that, he needed to exchange money for the promise of work.

“So, may I ask how this goes?”

“It’s simple. Once you’ve paid the fee, you’ll have a job arranged within a few hours. All you need to do is wait here while I prepare your carriage to the royal capital.”

“I see.”

The man’s voice echoed off the walls of the warehouse. The others would probably be able to hear him outside.

The conversation continued.

“So you want the butler job at a nobleman’s house, yes?”

“But do you think I’m qualified?”

“Don’t worry. They won’t yell at you if you mess up like at your last job.”

“Wow… I-I’m so happy…”

Ludtink, his boss, was definitely listening, so Ulgus resisted the urge to cry out with joy.

“All right, then. The butler job, please.” But then he remembered that he didn’t actually have any gold coins on him. “Ah, I’m sorry, but I don’t have a gold coin at the moment…”

“You can give me what you have now and pay the rest later. In exchange, I’ll hold on to your belongings as collateral.”

Ulgus gave the man everything in his wallet, then handed him his knife as collateral. The handle supposedly had a silver inlay. Ludtink had given Ulgus the knife, and though he always thought it was something ordinary, it turned out to be quite valuable.

Ulgus mentally cried out with appreciation for his boss.

“Okay, I’ll be back in two hours. Sorry to ask this, but can you wait here until I return?” 

“Of course! Thank you very much.”

The man sauntered out of the warehouse. Ulgus knew one of the members would follow him to his next destination…but then he heard a shriek outside.

Had he been ambushed by a bandit? Ulgus raced out of the warehouse to look.

“Ow! Ow, ow!”

“C’mon now, don’t fight!”

A massive person with bulging muscles was leaning his weight on the man. Ulgus couldn’t contain his own shriek.

“B-Boss!”

“Who’re you callin’ boss? Garr, tie this guy up with Sly!” Ludtink ordered.

Garr sprang into action. He threw Sly at the man, who coiled around his arms and legs.

“Wh-Who are you people?! Some sort of bandits?!”

“Hell no, we’re not!”

Ulgus could hardly believe how quickly they’d arrested him.

“Captain Ludtink, shouldn’t we have arrested him once he was caught in the act?”

“As soon as he came outta the warehouse, he was already mumblin’, ‘What a sitting duck. I’m gonna spend his money on food.’”

That was when the man realized that not only did this group work with Ulgus, but they were, in fact, knights.

“You people are knights?!”

“Yep. Why’d ya call us bandits, huh?”

No one standing behind Ludtink had the nerve to correct him—that the man had called him a bandit, not the rest of them.

“We’re takin’ you back to the royal capital to make you confess everything you’ve done. You better be ready, got it?”

“D-Damn you!”

Ludtink and Garr hauled the man away, and with that, the case was resolved.

Velrey gave Ulgus a pat on the shoulder.

“Good work today, Ulgus.”

“Th-Thank you.”

“I can’t believe you recognized the swindler just like that.”

“Haha… What can I say…? It was my intuition…”

Ulgus would take the truth to his grave—that he’d only gone along with the man because he was excited to eat free meat skewers.

The culprit had been apprehended. No one else would fall victim to his swindling.

The results were what actually mattered—not how they got to that point.

That was how Ulgus felt about it, at least.

🥞🥞🥞

THE next day, Zara and Mell’s Romance Support Squad met up after work once more. Orange sunlight streamed through the break room windows as night began to approach. The other members of their unit had already gone home, so no one could disturb their meeting.

“All right, let’s begin.”

They started by recounting the events of their previous meeting. Ulgus had made a lethal mistake when he accidentally tagged along on Zara and Mell’s date.

This time, they needed to guide them to a place for just the two of them.

“Didn’t you have a strategy in mind, Vice Captain Velrey?”

“Yeah, I did.” Velrey held up tickets to a concert. She had five in total, with two of them designated for special box seats. “I’m going to give these two box seat tickets to Zara and Medic Risurisu.”

“That’s perfect! A concert might feel nice and romantic for the two of them!”

Velrey, Ulgus, and Garr would take the other three tickets to watch over Zara and Mell. The tickets had become a part of the strategic efforts of the Zara and Mell’s Romance Support Squad.

“Where did you even get these?”

“I won them in the shopping district’s raffle.”

“Ah, that’s right, I forgot about that.” Ulgus also received a raffle ticket when he purchased shoes, but he only won a piece of candy as a consolation prize. “But are you sure you don’t mind?”

“Don’t mind what?”

“You don’t want these tickets for a date of your own, Vice Captain?”

“No, it’s fine.”

Velrey stared off into the distance.

Realizing he may have brought up a subject he shouldn’t have, Ulgus glanced at Garr.

Garr patted him on the back gently, telling him not to worry.

Two years ago, before Mell even joined the squadron, Velrey had informed them she got engaged to a man she met through an acquaintance. But after that, the topic of their wedding never came up again. Ulgus had accidentally stumbled right into the question that no one dared ask.

“Sorry, I told you all when I got engaged, but I guess I never explained what happened after that.” Velrey wrinkled her brow. She had a grim expression on her face once she spoke. “To put it simply, we called things off.”

“I-I see…”

“Yeah. It happened pretty soon after the engagement. It’s actually been two years now, but I never told you guys, did I?” Velrey asked if she could tell her story, so Ulgus and Garr nodded. “We broke up because he wasn’t faithful.”

“What…?! He has you for a fiancée, and he still cheats?! He must be an idiot.”

“Yeah, I really couldn’t believe that man.”

Velrey explained that, on her way home after an expedition, she caught him entering an inn with another woman. She stood outside, waited for them to exit, and immediately hounded him with questions.

The man insisted that it wasn’t cheating if they weren’t even married yet.

“But that wasn’t something I could forgive.” She broke things off with him on the spot, and that was the end of their relationship. “It feels like you can’t know anyone’s true nature unless you have a long relationship with them.”

Garr and Sly both nodded.

“I must be a bad judge of character.”

“That’s not true.”

Velrey explained that the person who set them up had been a boss of hers. Since the boss always took good care of her, she accepted the marriage proposal as soon as she heard it. The man, on the other hand, saw marrying her as a way of getting a promotion.

“Well, men like him just make up ridiculous reasons to cheat even when they’re married, so I’m glad things fell apart in the end.”

“I guess…that’s true.”

When she finished, Velrey bowed her head deeply and thanked them.

“Wh-What’s wrong?! Why are you bowing?”

“I’d been feeling really pent-up with all these emotions, but now that I’ve told you guys, I feel a lot better. Thank you, Ulgus, Garr, Sly.”

Indeed, one could sometimes get relief by sharing their feelings with another. Ulgus thought he had screwed up badly when he mentioned the subject, but now he was glad he stumbled into it in the first place.

“Sorry, we got off topic, didn’t we? The plan was to give Medic Risurisu and Zara these concert tickets.” Velrey would give them the tickets tomorrow. “I’ll try my best to make it look natural.”

“Yes, that would be great.”

With that, Zara and Mell’s Romance Support Squad was dismissed.

🥞🥞🥞

VELREY succeeded in her mission of giving the concert tickets to Mell and Zara.

Their busy schedule continued until, finally, it was the day of the concert.

Velrey, Ulgus, Garr, and Sly sat on the third floor.

“I wonder if Medic Risurisu and Ahto are here yet?”

They looked up at the balcony hanging over the first floor, but couldn’t spot them.

“Those seats must be protected so that you can’t see into them from above, huh?”

“I think so. Sorry, I don’t usually come to places like this.”

Garr and Sly had sat in the private box before, but didn’t know what it looked like from the outside.

“Well, I’m sure they’ll enjoy the concert, don’t you think?”

“Yeah, I agree.”

The stage lit up for the opening performance. The concert consisted entirely of rhythmic, drumming battle hymns. Velrey’s eyes glazed over at the sheer intensity of songs coming one after another. This was by no means the type of romantic music that made couples want to cozy up with each other.

After the concert…the group gathered to discuss what went wrong.

“I’m sorry, I had no idea the concert would be nothing but battle hymns.”

“No, they were all really cool songs, so I had a fun time…although, I guess that doesn’t help anything.”

Velrey’s strategy had failed too.

“We’ll just have to try again next time.”

“Yeah, good call.”

The next volunteer raised their hand to submit a plan. It was Sly.

“Do you have any good strategies in mind, Sly?”

Sly made a fist and pounded her chest proudly when Ulgus asked that. She seemed to be saying, “Leave it to me!” Then she began to lay out her plan with hand gestures and body movements. She first transformed into many little stars and began to stretch up toward the ceiling.

“Um, is that supposed to be the starry sky?”

She gave a thumbs-up. Then Sly made another star shape and moved from left to right.

“Is that…a shooting star?”

Sly gave a thumbs up to Velrey this time.

Next, she retrieved a calendar from Garr’s breast pocket. She used a pen to black out the square with the current date, then drew a single star on the next day, followed by a group of stars on the next. Finally, on the third day, she drew a meteor in the box.

“Sly, are you saying there’s going to be a meteor shower three days from now?”

Sly grinned and gave her biggest thumbs-up yet.

“Now that you mention it, it’s almost time for the Griffinids.”

“The Griffinids?”

“Yeah. It’s a night where beautiful meteors trail across the sky, just like a griffin sailing overhead.”

“Wow, I see!”

It was an annual event that took place at the start of summer.

“I’ve never heard of that before.”

“It’s hard to see in the royal capital, since there’s still a lot of light at night.”

“Ah, I see. That makes sense.”

Velrey described the beautiful meteor showers she used to watch in the harbor town where she was raised. Mell and Zara might be able to see it too, since their house was outside of the royal capital. It would definitely be worth mentioning to them.

Sly was up for the challenge this time. She was going to use Garr’s calendar to try to convey this information to them. Mell always understood what Sly wanted to say, so they knew she’d be able to get the message across.

The next day, Sly called Mell and Zara over and began to explain the Griffinid meteor shower. Ulgus was reading a newspaper, trying to act like this didn’t concern him. Still, he was very nervous.

“Oh, the Griffinid meteor shower? It will be visible two nights from now?”

“How lovely!”

Mell and Zara expressed their interest. Ulgus surely had a smile on his face behind that newspaper. He was absolutely confident that the pair would experience a romantic night together. However…

“Let’s invite Charlotte and Sir Aiskoletta to watch too.”

“Sounds great. We should make warm drinks for the four of us.”

When he heard that, Ulgus tumbled right out of his chair. The loud thud echoed inside the break room.

“Oh no, Ulgus! Are you all right?” Mell called out to him.

“June! Gosh, did you doze off in that chair?”

“No…I’m…all right…”

Sly had put her entire body into this plan, but she seemed to have forgotten about the couple’s housemates.

How did it end up like this…?!

Every member of the Zara and Mell’s Romance Support Squad in that room shared the exact same thought.

🥞🥞🥞

THE next morning, the group scrapped their Griffinids plan and went back to the drawing board. The Griffinids had been visible the previous night, but just as Velrey explained, there was too much light in the royal capital to see them.

“What should we try next?”

“One of the maids mentioned a new general store in town, but—”

That was when Mell and Zara entered the room. The others greeted them naturally so as not to arouse suspicion.

“Good morning, Ahto, Medic Risurisu.”

“Good morning.”

“Morning, June.”

Liselotte was next to arrive. This was unusual, as she usually stayed outside to be near Amelia and Rih.

“Oh, is something wrong, Sorcerer Lichtenberger? You don’t usually come to the break room in the morning.”

“Mell and Zara Ahto told me they wanted to speak with me.”

“Speak with you?”

Ulgus looked over at Mell and Zara, finding them both with smiles on their faces. He cocked his head curiously.

Charlotte poked her head into the break room next.

“They tell me to come here too.” Charlotte took the seat next to Velrey.

“I’m sorry to gather you here first thing in the morning.”

“We thought about telling Vice Captain Velrey separately, but since you’re already here…”

“That’s all right. What’s this about?”

Ulgus sat up straight. Hearing that they had something to discuss suddenly made him feel nervous.

“You see, the two of us are going to get married soon.”

“Whaaaaat?!” Ulgus let out a cry of shock. Liselotte, who was next to him, told him to quiet down.

“Congratulations, Zara, Medic Risurisu.”

“Thank you, Anna.”

“Thank you very much, Vice Captain.”

The two explained that they’d only made a casual agreement to get married and hadn’t settled on any definitive plan yet.

“But yesterday, as we watched the Griffinids, we started talking about granting wishes with the shooting stars.”

Both of them had prayed for a happy marriage that night.

“When we realized that, we decided we should go ahead with it and get married already.”

The gloomy expression on Sly’s face had blossomed into one of delight. She threw her hands up in the air, rejoicing.

Garr’s ears were perked up and his eyes opened wide—both from shock and joy.

Velrey, overcome with emotion, had tears in her eyes.

Ulgus was weeping openly. He was so moved to know their romance was finally growing into a lifelong love.

“Oh, Ulgus! Why are you crying?” Mell asked.

“B-Because I’m so happy y-you’re getting married…”

“You’re crying for us, June? You’re such a sweetie. Thank you.” Zara wrapped his arms around Ulgus.

Ulgus began to sob into his chest.

But Mell and Zara’s marriage wasn’t the only news they had to deliver.

“The Royal Order has a rule that husbands and wives can’t be in the same squadron. But the Second Expeditionary Squadron needs Melly, right? So I went and requested a transfer. However…”

Ludtink told them it was Mell, in fact, who would be transferred.

“Whaaaaaat?! M-Medic Risurisu’s leaving?!”

“Um, it isn’t set in stone yet, but the Royal Order had already been coming to Captain Ludtink to request that I transfer to a new department they’re planning.”

Ludtink had denied their requests each time, supposedly. But now that Mell was getting married, it was finally the right time for her to transfer to that department.

“Does that mean we’re getting a new combat medic?”

“Probably. But don’t expect them to do all the things Melly does, okay?” Zara warned.

“Right…”

Ulgus felt sad and lonely. He’d always believed that, no matter what hardships he faced during expeditions, he would always be able to get by as long as Mell was there with them.

“Ulgus…even if we’re in different squadrons, you’ll still spend time with me, won’t you?” Mell asked.

“Of course. I’ll be…your friend forever…Medic Risurisu.” As he tried to get the words out, tears began to stream from his eyes again. “You’ve helped me over and over again since I met you, Medic Risurisu.”

When the battles were long and exhausting, Mell made him delicious food. It was hard to describe just how much strength that had brought to his heart. Mell’s outgoing, positive personality was a source of salvation. She was the person who brought comfort to the Second Expeditionary Squadron.

“I really don’t know how to thank you…”

“You helped me plenty of times too, Ulgus.”

“I…did?”

“That’s right.”

The Second Expeditionary Squadron was a group of elite knights. They were all grown-ups who didn’t let trivial things get to them. But Ulgus was different.

“Whenever I thought something was shocking, scary, or funny, you always felt the exact same way I did. Sometimes I felt like the Second Expeditionary Squadron didn’t even need me so long as you were there with them.”

“Medic Risurisu!”

Mell took out a handkerchief to wipe the tears from Ulgus’ messy face. “Ulgus, you’re crying way too much.”

“You’re crying too, Medic Risurisu.”

“You started it.”

It had turned into something emotional, but Mell and Zara’s decision to get married was a big step forward. Ulgus struggled to imagine anything that could make him happier.

“Congratulations, Ahto, Medic Risurisu!”

It wasn’t just Ulgus. Liselotte, Charlotte, and the members of Zara and Mell’s Romance Support Squad all congratulated them on their marriage.

Mell and Zara thanked them, grinning ear to ear.

Chapter 3: The Wedding and the Expedition Cooking Feast

Chapter 3: The Wedding and the Expedition Cooking Feast

SLY had told us about a meteor shower known as the Griffinids. She described how shooting stars soared gracefully through the sky just like a griffin in flight.

I knew I wanted to see it. Even though we had work the next day, Zara and I weren’t going to miss this opportunity. One late night wouldn’t be the end of the world.

On the evening of the Griffinids, we left work early.

We invited Charlotte and Sir Aiskoletta to have dinner with us outside and watch the meteor shower.

Zara spread out his handmade rose-pattern blanket and set dishes out for us on top. Meanwhile, Sir Aiskoletta and Charlotte got a fire going. Amelia and Rih came outside for the occasion too. They seemed to take an interest in the Griffinids.

Umataro, on the other hand, sprawled out in the garden and fell asleep. Komerv didn’t like fire, so he sat on a nearby tree stump and played a flute he’d made with a leaf. His performance seemed to accompany the chirping of the bugs.

“Mell! I brought utensils!”

“Oh, thank you, Album.”

Album brought forks and knives from inside and laid them out on the plates. He was a helpful creature to have around. I stroked his head, getting a pleased chuckle out of him.

Sir Aiskoletta treated us to sausages he’d made. He informed us that he learned the recipe from a book in the national library. “It is made with herbs I gathered in the forest and minced boar-pig meat. I ask that you pay close attention to its flavor.”

We all stuck our sausages on skewers and roasted them over the fire.

Album had greedily chosen one of the biggest sausages. But it was so heavy, he almost couldn’t hold it up.

“Whoa, whoa!”

“It’s too big for you, Album.”

“But this one looked the best!”

“Yes, I’m sure. Just please don’t fall into the campfire, okay?” I cautioned.

“Eeeek…!”

Sir Aiskoletta, appearing to take pity on the fairy, roasted Album’s sausage for him.

“Wow, thanks a bunch, Gramps!”

“It is no trouble.”

The only sound in the garden was the crackling of the campfire. Every now and then, fat from the sausage would fall into the fire with a loud sizzle.

“It has been seasoned with great care, but by all means, pair it with your sauce of choice!” Sir Aiskoletta had prepared chili paste, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and more for us to choose from.

“Hmm. I think I’ll try my first bite plain.”

Charlotte was roasting her sausage with a look of intense concentration. It was already starting to turn a nice golden-brown.

“I think they’re just about done.”

“Here, I have finished roasting Album’s portion.”

“Woo-hoo! Thank you!”

Album chomped down on the sausage Sir Aiskoletta cooked for him. The juices seemed to have burst from the sausage, as they were now dripping down the sides of his mouth.

“I-It’s soooo hot! But it’s soooo good!”

The sausages looked too dangerous to bite directly into. I decided to remove mine from the skewer and cut a bit off with my knife instead. Vowing not to forget Album’s sacrifice, I took a bite of my carefully sliced sausage.

“Mmmm!”

The skin burst apart to allow the juices within to ooze out—juices that hadn’t been lost even once I cut the sausage into pieces. The strong taste of herbs made me wish I had a glass of alcohol with this meal.

“It’s delicious, Sir Aiskoletta.”

“Melly’s right. This tastes like something a veteran chef would cook up.”

“I love the sausage too!”

“Is that so? I am most pleased.”

After that, Sir Aiskoletta placed a steel plate on top of the fire to grill large cuts of three-horned cow meat. The meat was seasoned with nothing more than salt and pepper. Album started drooling once the beef began to sizzle.

When the meat was finished grilling, Sir Aiskoletta sliced it up with a silver knife.

“It is ready. What portions do you choose?”

“Want the fatty cut!”

“Very well. Eat up.”

“Thank you!”

The great hero divided up the grilled beef for all of us. He told us he’d bought the three-horned cow meat during his afternoon trip into town, going from butcher to butcher until he found the perfect cut.

We wasted no time before we tried our first bites.

Charlotte’s eyes were sparkling as she cried out, “Aaaah, the meat is melting in my mouth!”

“It’s sooooo delicious! I wish I could live here too!”

“You do live here, Album.”

“Oh yeah! That’s right!”

“I want to live here forever and ever!”

“You can live here forever too, Charlotte.”

“What? Really?”

“Of course.”

“Th-Thank you. I am so happy.” Charlotte came over and gave me a big hug. I stroked her soft ears.

Maybe she’d been worried that she would have to move out one day. I felt like I could see her eyes growing wet, and I wished I could have reassured her much sooner than this. She was a precious member of my family. I hoped to be with her forever, if it was possible. Once I had that thought, I looked at Zara and found him smiling softly.

In the middle of this emotional moment, I received a completely unexpected question.

“Miss Mell…may I become a member of this household too?” Sir Aiskoletta’s voice was so serious, I nearly spit out my tea.

“I’d love it if you stayed here as long as you please, Sir Aiskoletta.”

“I see. You have my gratitude for adopting me into your household.”

I couldn’t help but laugh. The night was turning out to be a delightful one.

We sipped hot chocolate and gazed up at the night sky. Just then…

“Ah, a shooting star!” Sir Aiskoletta was pointing at a glinting trail in the sky.

“He’s right.”

One by one, more stars began to rain across the night sky. The Griffinids had begun.

“They’re beautiful…”

“I never see shooting stars before.”

After we watched them for a while, Charlotte suddenly sneezed.

“Mmm, it is cold…”

“Want little ol’ Album to warm you up?”

“Uh-huh.”

Once she had a source of warmth, Charlotte started to doze off.

“Let’s get you to bed, Charlotte. You still have work tomorrow.”

“I shall turn in as well. I have plans to attend the morning market.”

Sir Aiskoletta lifted Charlotte onto his back and carried her inside, all while Album remained draped around her neck. Komerv ceased his flute playing to return to Sir Aiskoletta’s shoulder as he departed.

Amelia and Rih were tired too, so they were the next to go inside.

“What about you, Melly?” Zara asked.

“I want to keep watching a bit longer.”

“Then I’ll do the same.”

Charlotte was right—it was a bit chilly. When I wrapped my arms around my body, Zara draped his coat over my shoulders.

“Oh, it’s so warm! But aren’t you cold, Zara?”

“Did you already forget, Melly? I grew up in a snowy land.”

“Ah, that’s right!”

In that case, I decided to accept the kind favor.

“With so many shooting stars, I bet we’ll be able to get all of our wishes granted.”

“That’s true!”

The legend was that each wish made on a falling star was soon to come true.

“Let’s see… I wish that the Second Expeditionary Squadron, Charlotte, and Sir Aiskoletta will be healthy! I also wish that good things will come to Lord Lichtenberger! And that my family will be happy! Oh, and that Amelia, Rih, and Album will stay happy and healthy forever!” I made wish after wish, never feeling satisfied. Zara chuckled from his seat next to me.

“Shouldn’t you wish for something for yourself, Melly?”

“Oh, that’s right.”

I pressed my hands together and made my wish. The one and only thing I wanted was a happy marriage with Zara.

“Whatever your wish is, it looks like you’re really hammering it home.”

“Yes. I want to make sure it comes true no matter what. Did you make a wish, Zara?”

“Uh-huh. I wished that the two of us would have a happy marriage.”

“What?! Th-That’s exactly what I wished for!”

“Oh my gosh! Did you really?”

I couldn’t help but laugh. It was such a funny coincidence.

“If that’s true, Melly, why don’t we get married already?”

“Yes, I agree.”

There was no need to wish on a shooting star after all. This was something the two of us could do together.

My wish on the stars was already on the verge of being granted.

🥞🥞🥞

THE next day, we went to inform Captain Ludtink of the news.

“You two… I’d been worried about when the hell you were finally gonna tie the knot.”

“Oh dear. I’m sorry about that,” I said.

“Sorry to scare you, Crow.”

It seemed that Captain Ludtink had been nervously awaiting news of our marriage ever since we asked for permission to live together.

“Well, that’s all in the past. Congratulations. That’s great news.”

“Thank you, Captain.”

“We really appreciate your congratulations.”

“What, you didn’t expect it? Anyway, when’s the weddin’?”

“We’d like to have it next month if possible.”

“N-Next month?!”

“Yes.”

We didn’t want a large party or ceremony. We’d decided on a Fore Elf style of wedding, where we invited our closest friends to our home and ate delicious food together.

“Weddings are like that in my hometown too.”

“For real?”

Weddings between noble families were simply too grand. Even commoners living in the royal capital often had modest weddings.

“Besides, I already made Melly’s wedding dress, so we don’t have much else to prepare.”

That was true. Zara had made me an absolutely breathtaking wedding dress. He told me he started making it on the day we first promised to get married. As always, Zara never let a single minute go to waste.

“Anyway, we were hoping you’ll keep your schedule open for the wedding, Crow.”

“All right, I can do that. But now there’s the issue of what comes next.”

“Yes, I know.”

The Royal Order didn’t allow husbands and wives to be a part of the same squadron. That meant either Zara or I would have to transfer out of the Second Expeditionary Squadron.

“Melly is indispensable to this unit, so I’ll be the one to transfer.”

“Yeah, that’s what I was thinkin’ too, except…” Captain Ludtink retrieved documents from his desk and handed them to Zara and me.

“This is…!”

The documents outlined the creation of a new department within the Royal Order.

“The knight support department…?”

“Yeah, it’s a place that sends out tasty food for the knights who struggle on their expeditions. They’ve been askin’ you to join them for a while now.” He explained that the department didn’t have enough personnel yet and wasn’t able to get started. “I think this is a job only you can do.”

“Only…me?”

My heart skipped a beat. I didn’t want to say goodbye to the others, but the thought of working in this new department fascinated me.

“It might be harder to go on expeditions once you’re married. What do you think? Wanna transfer and take the new job?”

I didn’t know what to say.

“Well, I’m sure it’ll take a while to make up your mind, so think it over first.”

“All right.”

My heart was still pounding even after we left the captain’s office.

“Are you okay, Melly?”

“Y-Yes. I was prepared for you to transfer, Zara, but I never imagined another department would ask for me personally.”

“Yeah, it’s all so sudden.”

I wanted to make use of my knowledge however possible. But the thought of leaving my squadmates was so depressing…

“I’m glad they want my help, but it’s very hard to say goodbye to the Second Expeditionary Squadron.”

“It’s okay, Melly. Even if you go your separate ways, all the members will think of you as a lifelong friend.”

“Y-Yes, I suppose that’s true.”

I didn’t know what we were going to do about the transfer. But for now, I decided to look to the future. It was probably better that the Second Expeditionary Squadron kept Zara too. If I left, I could come up with ways to support them from this new department.

“How about the two of us think about it some more later?” Zara suggested.

“All right, thank you.”

We wanted to go and report the news to Vice Captain Velrey next, but she was nowhere to be found. Finally, Charlotte directed us to the break room.

“Why don’t we just tell everyone together, at this point?”

“Yes, I agree.”

Liselotte happened to be passing by too, so we asked her to come to the break room.

Once we shared the news of our wedding, everyone looked completely shocked. Ulgus even started crying. Perhaps he was sad to lose Zara, whom he saw like an older sister…or rather, an older brother.

Hearing them congratulate us made me so happy.

“It’s all thanks to Sly. She’s the one who told us about the Griffinids.”

“Yep. We just never found the right moment before that.”

Sly gave us a thumbs-up and a big wink. It was like she was saying, “Well done! Congratulations!”

We were truly in her debt.

🥞🥞🥞

WE decided to hold the wedding halfway through the next month. That left us with lots of preparations to make before the party.

Captain Ludtink had told us that, at the very least, we ought to hire chefs for the day of our wedding. But I was highly motivated to cook for our own wedding guests.

Zara and I seemed to be on the exact same page with this.

“The people getting married are usually the ones who do the cooking at Fore Elf weddings.”

“My hometown was the same. Helping my sisters prepare for their weddings was a lot of work.”

“Weddings in small towns are nothing more than gatherings of all the local villagers, after all.”

“Exactly. It turns into a competition to show off your cooking skills. Things can get really crazy.”

We weren’t going to have that many guests at our wedding. We planned to invite the Second Expeditionary Squadron members, Charlotte, Sir Aiskoletta, Lord and Lady Lichtenberger, Captain Ludtink’s wife, and Garr’s wife.

“We should definitely be able to feed this small a crowd.”

“I agree.”

Zara and I were also receiving a week of vacation after our wedding. We were going to visit Zara’s hometown so I could meet his family. I wished I could have done that before the wedding, but the trip took five days by carriage and two and a half days by griffin. There simply wasn’t enough time to schedule it.

“I feel bad about getting married before I’ve even met your family…”

“Don’t worry about it. My parents had already given up on ever seeing me get married.”

I’d exchanged multiple letters with Zara’s parents at this point. Not only did they approve of our marriage, but they even invited us to come and visit them any time we pleased.

“Now I know how you felt when you were so nervous to meet my parents.”

“I don’t think I’ve ever been as terrified as that moment I introduced myself to them.”

“And I’ll probably be equally as terrified.”

Since it didn’t feel like something I could solve on my own, I had no choice but to wish on a shooting star that Zara’s parents would like me.

“What about the transfer? Did you think about it some more?”

“Yes, I did.”

Ulgus had sobbed when we informed him earlier in the morning. Vice Captain Velrey looked sad too, and even though Liselotte’s expression was blank, I knew she probably had her own thoughts about it. Even Garr and Sly looked crestfallen. 

“I spent the day thinking about it, and I feel it might be best for you to stay with the squadron so I can transfer out.”

“Yeah, I’d feel better knowing you’re working at the barracks instead of going on expeditions without me, Melly.”

Now that he mentioned it, if I transferred, I would have no choice but to sit at home and wait for Zara’s return from expeditions.

“O-Oh no. I don’t know if I can take that.”

Charlotte was so strong to see us off with a big smile every time.

“Do you think I can do it?”

“Don’t worry. I can’t imagine Crow ever letting us be defeated, can you?”

“I guess that’s true.”

Captain Ludtink always prioritized everyone coming back uninjured. He seemed like a rough and careless person at first, but he actually looked out for those around him.

“He still has a lot of experience to gain, but Crow is a really strong captain. That’s why I don’t see the Second Expeditionary Squadron ever being taken down.”

“Yes, you’re right. I don’t either.”

I hoped he would continue to show off his bandit strength so long as he was their captain.

The longer Zara and I discussed it, the more I began to make up my mind.

After that, I discussed the issue with Captain Ludtink, Vice Captain Velrey, and Zara many times. Garr and Sly let me ask them for advice too. They encouraged me to choose whatever path I had faith in.

Then we invited Liselotte to tea and told her everything. At first, she asked me not to transfer, saying she could never go on expeditions without me. But finally, with a few tears in her eyes, she declared, “I can do it just fine without you. I’ll prove it!” I very nearly cried too.

Ulgus came up to me and said, “I’ll support whatever you decide, Medic Risurisu!” before I could even tell him anything.

Charlotte and I discussed our futures as we washed the laundry together. I knew she was probably unsure about my transfer, but once I told her we would get to go home together every day now, we both broke out into smiles.

Finally, I had made up my mind. I was going to transfer out of the Second Expeditionary Squadron.

🥞🥞🥞

ANOTHER day brought us another expedition. Everyone was rushing around to complete their preparations.