We have walked more than 10 kilometers away already. These guys are lively. They always talk to me and tried to start a conversation with Hinata. But unsurprisingly, she ignored them. Not because she's being rude, but because she can't understand them. In that case, I always tried my best to avert their attention from Hinata and talk to me instead.
But I guess it won't be long before they start to question her behavior.
"Johan-dono, I'm sorry to ask, but is your sister okay? Is it because our actions before caused her to hate us?" Leroy asked.
See? Just as when I think about it.
"Well, she's pretty much a solitary person. Your action is part of her behavior, but mostly, she always likes that"
"I see, it's no wonder. Our actions are unforgivable anyway"
Leroy began to sink in his thought.
Poor guy. Being told lies.
But seriously, I have to think of a way out of this. Hinata's inability to understand this world's language would arose problems for us.
Ciel, is there any solution for this?
[I have one simple solution, but it will cause some drawbacks for Master]
Hou… What is it?
[For unknown reasons, Hinata stopped using her Magic Sense skill. The highest possibility of her reason is that she didn't find any magicules in this world, and concluded it would be no use for using a Magic Sense. If the possibility is correct, then using Master's magicule reserve, I could release some magicule to the air and help her to get her sense again]
I see... I get it. There are two drawbacks for me.
One, without any magicules in the air, I also would have a hard time regenerating my magicules reserve. And two, the magicules I released would form an aura that could be lethal to an ordinary human.
[For the second problem, Master doesn't have to worry since I will carefully control it so it won't be dense enough to harm the surroundings. Some people with sensitive senses might feel some of Master's aura, but it wouldn't be harmful enough to them.]
Ohhh! So reliable Ciel. So, the only problem right now is my magicules reserve.
Hmm… What should I do?
[In the current condition, the magicules reserve in Master's capacity would be sufficient enough to fulfill the energy for both Master and Hinata in 300 years without regenerating. But without having to release the magicules reserve and only use it for the Master's need, the reserve would last for 100 years more]
Woah! So I have an immense of magicules?
Wait, oh yeah I guess you're right. I'm already a part of True Dragon. The True Dragon had an immense of magicules inside them. Even Veldora manages to survive for 300 hundred years inside the infinite prison.
So there's no problem at all then! Who said I would stay here for more than 300 hundred years?
Heck, I don't even think I would stay here for a year.
Well, let's do it later. Let's talk about it when we are already on our own.
For now, I'll continue my journey to Cardinalis. I can't use teleportation to go here since I didn't have an exact coordinate. Well, even if I can, I wouldn't do it since I got more company than I have planned.
It's still a fun moment though.
I glanced at Hinata. She's wearing a light brown tunic, with a long sleeve on her arm and long brown leather pants. While I wearing a light blue tunic with a short arm sleeve, with the same pants as Hinata.
Our shoes are more like small boots. It might be a bit uncomfortable, but it's better than going barefoot.
Hinata doesn't seem to say anything and just looks around with her hand on her sword's hilt. Apparently, she just wanted to look like being on guard, even though she can perceive anything with her magic sense.
And by this time, Hilton, one of the knights started to talk to me.
"Johan-dono, may I ask you something?"
"Sure, what is it, Hilton-san?"
"Sorry if I'm being rude, but are you born in a knight family?"
"Huh? No, we're just a normal family."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes, why you ask?"
"No, sorry. It's just, Iza-dono's strength is very powerful. We have never been hit that bad by anyone. So I think Iza-dono has been trained in some swordsmanship, and her muscles must be very strong. I thought only a knight and nobility family can receive such training"
Umm… What should I say right now? What kind of white lie I could say to him?
Honestly, I feel bad for them that I kept lying. But I do not want to say we're from another world with magical power recklessly. At least, I would tell if it's necessary.
"Well, we've been living deep inside of the forest. We have to be strong to survive. Because if not for ourselves, then who would protect our safety?"
After hearing my answer, Hilton-san averted his eyes from me to Hinata. Then he let out a small laugh.
"I guess you're right, Johan-dono. But if I could be honest, I would love to become Iza-dono's protector"
Ahhhh…. This guy…
I see what you did there.
No, that's actually very normal. Instead, I would find it strange if none of them are interested in her.
But just give up my man. She's entirely in a different league in all aspects.
As a man, I know I shouldn't say this, but it's useless for you to struggle. No matter how hard you fight for her.
I suddenly recalled someone named Nicolaus. I think I remember him being overly head over heels to Hinata, but still being ignored.
Just don't be like that guy, Hilton-san.
"Well, I don't think you need to"
"I see, but it's not a wrong thing to try, right Johan-dono?"
"W-Well…"
"Cut the crap, Hilton! Can't you see what we've done to her? How could someone as beautiful as Iza-dono going to fall with someone who's hurting her?"
Captain Alan rebukes him out of nowhere.
"Maybe you're right, Captain"
Hilton-san began to sulk. And then he walked a bit far away from me, with a little sad face being shown.
Believe me, you have been saved.
"I'm sorry on that guy's behalf, Johan-dono. He rarely has her eyes on women. So I thought he's a decent person in terms of treating a lady"
"Don't worry Alan-san. My sister is well-known for her beauty. In fact, I was a bit surprised that nobody had tried to hit on her from the start"
"Ahaha! If I had didn't do that disgraceful act, I probably would buy some nice accessories as a gift for her. But even so, I can't do that. I've already found my life's partner"
Hohoo… So Alan-san is already married huh? That's good for him. I honestly feel happy for him.
And a bit jealous of course.
"So you've been married, Alan-san? I'm happy for you"
"Hahaha! Thank you so much. Even if she's not as beautiful as Iza-dono, nobody is able to compare to her in my eyes"
"You're surprisingly a romantic person Alan-san"
"Please don't mind him, Johan-dono. He and his wife already have a reputation for being lovebirds everywhere they go" Leroy suddenly joined in.
"Hoho… That's actually nice. How about you, Leroy-san? Have you already married?"
"Yes, fortunately, I have. We already have two children too"
Woah! Even Leroy-san already has a child. I'm happy, but at the same time, I felt a little pain.
Is it jealous?
"Really?! Your marriage must be a happy life. I am really happy for you"
"Thank you so much, Johan-dono. My marriage life is fine, sometimes we quarreled but we always manage it"
"That's a high-quality couple I see. And how about the rest of you?"
"I fortunately already have"
"Me too"
"Me as well"
"I haven't, but I already engage with someone"
"…"
Some of them keep quiet and avert their gaze somewhere else.
Whoops. I guess I step a landmine on some of them. But surprisingly, most of them are already married. And they look young. Must be nice being a young couple.
Wait, why do I think about married life?
"How about you, Johan-dono? Do you actually have a wife?"
Ouch! I don't know why, but that question is a bit… hurt.
"W-well… I don't. And honestly, I don't think I would have one"
Because I'm sexless. I'm a man inside, but outside, I don't have any gender at all. All I have is a face resembling Shizu-san.
"Ehh? Why do you think like that? With your face, I'm sure you'll be taken interest by two or three ladies"
What? This is the first time I heard such a statement.
Seriously, I have never been praised for my face. Shuna and Shion might always praise my appearance, but never specifically about my face.
"Really? I thought my face is more girly rather than masculine"
I can't help but confess my true thought.
"Hmm… To be honest, I think you're right. But if you cut your hair, and wore a more masculine attire, I think you would be a lady killer, Johan-dono!"
Pfft!
I can't help but laugh at them. It's really amusing. It makes my confidence rise a bit.
"Thanks, that actually lit up my confidence a bit, guys"
"My my, don't mention it, Johan-dono. We're just telling you the truth"
We all laughed together. It's really a fun time.
And then, without no one realizing, Cardinalis already in our sight.
"Ohh! We've finally arrived!"
"Thank goodness. Now, what are we waiting for? Let's go!"
Captain Alan becomes a very high-spirited person as soon as Cardinalis is in our sight.
We fastened our walks, and not even 10 minutes later, we arrived at the front gate. There's a huge pit filled with water under the city walls, so we have to cross a bridge to get into the front gate. Some corners of the city walls had a tower where they put on a ballista. On my count, I found around 15 men guarding the front part of the walls.
This city seems to be pretty big. And it's pretty well fortified as well. No wonder Ciel found a big market here.
It seems I'm gonna find something fun here.
"Halt!"
Whoops, the gatekeeper seems to stopping us. Is there a need to show some ID?
Uhh… If it does, then Hinata and I were screwed.
"Don't worry Doran, we can vouch for these people"
"But Captain, are you sure? In this circumstance, we have to"
"Nahh… Don't sweat it. I believe these guys are a good person"
"Okay then, you can come in"
Fiuh, turns out we're saved. It makes me grateful for stumbling upon them along the way.
"Sorry about that guy, Johan-dono. He's one of our new recruits. He still young and stiff"
Uhh… you guys are pretty stiff too. Seriously, before we began to have a casual talk, they have been in formal attitude all the time. And honestly, I feel exhausted by that. Because I am always being treated like that in my world by my comrades. Especially Diablo.
But because of it, I get pretty used to strict etiquette.
"That's okay, Captain Alan. Somehow, I get used to something like that"
"Thank you, Johan-dono. Now, as I said before, let's go to our base. I'll give you our provisions and money"
"Thank you very much"
We walked together for several hundred meters. The place they called a base is actually a barracks along with training grounds. There, we saw more than a hundred knights doing training. And there are dozens more in every hallway I saw. It seems like this Knight Brigade had a lot of members.
Captain Alan and the other 3 knights are following him into one of the rooms, while the rest led by Leroy-san are heading into a building that looks like a warehouse.
We were told to wait outside.
And while we waiting, some of the knights are checking out to Hinata. Some of them are also mistaking me for a lady. Probably because of this long hair. By the way, I changed my hair color to black before we departed, but I hadn't cut it since I thought it wouldn't be a problem. But it turns out, in this world, having long hair is identical as a female. Well, I guess I have to cut it short then.
But everyone is respectful towards us. They might be pondering us, but they didn't do inappropriate things. They're decent knights as expected.
Hinata looks unbothered by their gaze. And keep quiet during the whole time.
And luckily, not long after that, Captain Alan and Leroy-san arrived. They brought a pack of dried meat, one bag of coins, and four bottles of water. They also give us some extra bags. And the most precious one, a tent.
"I'm sorry this might be insufficient to repay the food we took from you. But we have added extra money to that bag. And I hope this tent would help since Johan-dono doesn't seem would stay in this city"
Leroy-san handed over the provisions.
"The other guys also share their own money in there. It has about 200 Zalc. I hope it will be enough to repay your kindness, Johan-dono, and you too, Iza-dono"
I wonder how much 200 Zalc is, but before I could ask, Captain Alan handed over the pouch of coins to me. I handed it over to Hinata along with the extra bag and the tent, while I carry the food and water. It looks like we're a sibling who just finished shopping.
But hey, we disguised ourselves as a sibling anyway. So that means, our disguises are successful.
"Thanks a lot, everyone. All of this is more than enough"
I thanked them sincerely. Both of them smiled.
"So, Johan-dono, what will you do for now?" Captain Alan asked.
"We would like to sightseeing for now. We probably departing again tomorrow morning though"
Actually, I was planning to teleport to where Shizu-san's soul was located tonight. It might be a good time to perform magic at night.
"That's unfortunate then. I wish I could accompany you sightseeing right now, but I have many reports to do. This dumb Captain wouldn't be able to handle it by himself"
Leroy-san said this with a casual tone.
"Oy Leroy! You can phrase it with better words you know. But truth to be told, yeah, our missing has made quite a ruckus in our ranks. It can't be helped without this guy's assistance"
Captain Alan made a little blush after admitting the truth.
I just laughed at them. I tell them that it's not a problem at all. I express my gratitude to them again, saying I had a good time with them. They look very pleased by what I said. Even Hinata looks amused by this sight.
Then we bid our farewell to them. We promised to meet each other again when the opportunity arise. I said to them that they don't have to worry about their honor being tarnished anymore since I already forgive them and received many things from them.
And then, we're leaving.
"Now where are we going?" Hinata asked after we walked quite a bit far from the barracks.
"Hm? I wonder? I was planning to sightsee for a while, and we teleport to Shizu-san's soul located tonight"
"All right, I leave that to you"
"Oh, and by the way, can I ask you something?"
"What is it?"
"Why didn't you use your Magic Sense?"
"It's obvious, isn't it? Because there are no magicules around"
"But isn't it can be used without magicules?"
"I've tried, but somehow I can't use it efficiently as in Cardinal world."
"So in short, you can't rely on it, and that's why you didn't use it?"
"Yes, even I had trouble right now with my sight"
"Eh? Oh right, I forgot. You have a myopic eye. But how did you manage to detect those knights before?"
Then she looked at me, with some disappointed look in her eyes.
"Sensei taught me a lot"
Oops, I guess she implying my words as the same as looking down on Shizu-san.
Sorry, I didn't mean that way. I was just genuinely curious.
"R-Right, sorry if I offend you"
Hinata only kept quiet. But she didn't complain anymore.
"Hey Hinata, I have something to discuss with you. Let's find somewhere quiet"
I intend to talk about my, no actually Ciel's plan on helping Hinata. And I thought Hinata might have negative thoughts about my intention given my words in asking her, but surprisingly she accepted it casually. I guess she already knew what I want to discuss.
After we found some alley, I started to explain Ciel's suggestion, without mentioning Ciel at all. I explain to her about my current magicule capacity, but I didn't mention my evolution into the True Dragon.
At first, she refused because she worried I would deplete my magicule for her sake. But after I said that it was fine, she hesitantly accept.
"The last time I let you drain your magicules out was when our first encounter. To be honest, it's not a pleasant memory"
Ohhh… So that's her reason for still being hesitant. I honestly didn't expect it. Moreover, I felt genuinely touched.
At that time, she trapped me inside a Holy Prison Field, and its erasing magicules around me. I can't use my full power there since I have a limited magicule reserve. And most of all, Hinata is being serious to kill me at that time.
As she said, it's unpleasant memories.
I try to smile and cheer her up.
"Don't worry about that anymore. It's all past, just let it go. And now I'm,"
"Also, the idea of me relying upon you is a bit annoying"
….
The early feeling that I felt, suddenly got lost. I lost my smile too. In contrast, I saw a nosy smile on her lips.
So you're doing it on purpose!
"Geh! I should have known. All right, I don't care anymore. Just use the magicule I release so you can use your Magic Sense again."
"Fufu, then I accept your offer"
Hah… I am really easy to get teased.
Ciel, you can start.
[Understood. I'm beginning to release a small amount of magicules]
Thank you, Ciel.
Just as when Ciel finished reporting, I felt some small amount of magicules around me. I glanced at Hinata, and she nodded with a little smile.
All right, I guess she got no problem for now.
And then, we continue to walk around the city. I found the city quite interesting. It looks like a common town in an RPG game. We followed the main road and arrived at the market.
And the market is really huge.
The road got wider, and on every side, there was a shop or stall selling items. Some merchants also park their wagons full of sellable items on the side of the road. Most of them are selling herbs plants, fruit, and vegetables they found along the way. While in the store, mostly they sell armor, clothes, fabric, general need, and weapons. And the stalls sell many kinds of food. But none of them look appetizing.
Hm? I didn't find any restaurant.
[There seems no restaurant in this world due to a lack of demand. But there's a number of big taverns around the city]
Ohhh… Now that's something new to me. Right, I already made a bar in my country, but it's not a tavern where food is also sold there.
I guess I want to try it. The sky has been darkened a bit, but it still hasn't been night already.
Hinata also seems a bit interested in looking around. She didn't show any cheerful expression, but she seemed paying attention around her. I guess asking her to come along to a tavern wouldn't be a problem, right?
"Hinata, there seems no restaurant here. But there's a tavern, and it's pretty big as well. Would you like to try visiting it?"
"I guess there's no problem"
Yosh! She agreed without a hitch! Then let's go!
We go to a nearby tavern. I'm pretty happy, to be honest. This could be a new experience for me.
We got ourselves into a pretty huge tavern named "Old Martha". It was a two-story building, with one fireplace on the first floor. There's a bar desk, and many tables for customers. Some young girls are busy walking around serving every customer, their hands are full with a big mug and plates. There's no glass window, only a wooden one. So the only light illuminating the place came from candles.
It's honestly mesmerizing me. There's something I can't explain about this feeling. It sure has some hygienic issues, and the quality of food is questionable. But I felt something magical about this sight. Although there's no magic at all in this place.
So this is what Ciel meant by picking my interest. I see, you're very reliable as always Ciel.
[Thank you very much!]
Yeah, you deserve more praise, partner.
We take an empty table and sit there. In seconds, a cute teen girl came to us. She wore a dirtied yellow attire with an apron. Her face is full of sweat, but she manages to give us a happy smile.
"Welcome, dear customer. What can I prepare for you?"
She sounds pretty cute. A good little sister material. Eh, no, I didn't mean it in a bad way.
"Uhh… Excuse me, is there any menu?"
I asked since I don't know what they served. And then she let out a small laugh.
"Fufufu, it seems you came from a remote place. I guess this is your first time visiting a tavern, correct?"
"Ehehe… Actually yeah, it's our first time coming to such a place"
"Then, I'm honored to be the first tavern you ever visit my good sir. We don't have a menu, but we can prepare some simple food for dinner. Usually, people came by here to drink. If you want, we have ale, rum, and wine. Wine is the most expensive, but we guarantee the taste"
"Ohh… How much is it?"
"For a bottle of wine, it cost 30 Zalc for the cheapest one. And the most expensive one is costed 100 Zalc"
Woah! That's half of our budget! I guess we should forget to taste wine.
"U-Uhh… I think I pass for wine. In exchange, I want to order two meals with a glass of water, please"
"Oh really? It's fortunate then. I'm planning to give you a discount since this is your ever first tavern. Are you sure you won't order any of our wine?"
"Thank you for your offer, but you see, we need to save some of our money for our journey"
Yeah, we don't know what will happen to us later. It's safe to assume we'll be spending some money later.
But suddenly, Hinata interjects.
"Wait, sorry. How much discount you'll give?"
"Oh, are you interested young miss?"
"Not really, my little brother over there is full of curiosity. Since I have the money, I want to let him experience anything he wants. At least for now"
"So that's why… Fufufu, you're a loving older sister, young miss. I thought you were going to be the one who drinks. Then, for this very kind young miss, I'll give you a special cut. How about 75 Zalc for our best wine?"
"70 Zalc"
Woah! Is Hinata going to barging? Pretty bold I have to say.
"Eh? No no, how about 74?"
"Then, 65"
"Ehhh! No no no! How about 72 then?"
"66"
"No! Then, 71! We bought the wine for 65 Zalc. We can't make a good profit if we sell lower than that"
"Okay, sorry. 70 Zalc then"
"Fuu… Thank you for your understanding, young miss. Eh? No! I said 71 Zalc!"
She made a panicky face. Her tone become uncontrollable, and even the other customer started to look at us.
Oy oy! Hinata, stop teasing her!
But she let out a grin on her face. This girl! She's enjoying it!
"Sorry. As compensation for what I've done, I'll buy it for 72 Zalc. I hope you forgive me"
Hinata apologizes to the waitress. And the waitress seem to be relieved after hearing Hinata would pay a bit more than their deal.
"Fuu… I forgive you, young miss. But please don't do that again. It exhausts me"
Poor girl. I genuinely feel pity for her.
But seriously, since when has Hinata had this kind of personality? All I see this time was a serious, dry, undisturbed-by-anything personality.
"Thank you. Then, how much is it for all?"
"It would be 82 Zalc, young miss. Every meal cost 5 Zalc. And… no, actually, never mind. Sorry"
She seems to want to offer something more, but after being teased by Hinata, she holds it back.
"Okay then, here." Hinata gave the money.
"Thank you, young miss. I'll serve it once it's ready"
Then she leaves us in a hurry. I think she has many tables to serve too. But now, I'll reprimand Hinata a bit.
"Oy Hi, Iza! You can't do that you know, it might arise trouble for us"
"You're surprisingly stiff, Johan. I do that to gather some information as well."
"Information? You mean about the prices?"
"A part of it, yes. But that's not all. Look, here we come"
I was detecting some people are approaching us, but I thought they just going to walk by. But it turns out, they coming over to us.
"Oy oy… Look, we got a nice lady full of money. Care to share a table with me?"
"Hey! Don't be a fool. Nobody wants to have a friendly chat with a drunkard like you"
"Ehh… I'm a friendly person you know?! I'll prove it with my fist! Here! Take some!"
"Oy!"
What a pain. Two men started to fight each other.
One of them clearly looks drunk. His attire looks pretty decent though. He wore a clean brown tunic while carrying a mug of ale. The other one wearing a black robe. He looks a pretty good man. I think he look like wanted to prevent this kind of thing.
But unfortunately for him, he just got what he wanted to prevent.
Some other men gathered. Most of them tried to separate them, while others tried to protect us. Geez, I feel like a real lady here.
But then, suddenly,
*Bugh!
"Ow!"
*Smack!
"Ouch!"
The two men who were fighting suddenly growl in pain. Whoops? Looks like someone is giving them a pretty good smack.
The crowd suddenly disintegrated and came back to their seats. But their gaze still looking at us. Geez, somehow it doesn't feel comfortable.
Then, I saw the two men lying down on the floor. The drunk one holding his stomach, while the other one holding his waist. It doesn't look like they're having serious injuries, but they might stay down there for a while.
Standing near them, a young man with a bulky figure, wearing leather armor around his body, and holding his unsheathed sword. He might be around 195cm in height, and he got white skin, short black hair, and a handsome face.
Woah, he looks like a main character in every RPG game.
Even though he has a bulky and handsome face, he looks pretty innocent. His expression is telling us something like, "Huh? Is that hurting them?"
"Ohoho… I think you hit them too hard, Eric. Help them stand on their feet again, especially that guy with a black robe, it looks like he has good intentions"
A sweet-looking old man suddenly came behind from that young man who seems to have Eric as his name.
Eric nodded and helped the guy with the black robe first. Some other guy also helping. It seems like he is really a pretty good guy since many people are willing to help him.
But as he tries to help the drunk one, nobody bats an eye on him. Whoops? It seems he's a pretty hated person here. Nonetheless, that guy named Eric is bringing that drunkard out of the tavern.
Then, the old man walks to our table, followed by Eric.
"Excuse me, it seems the other table is full. May I ask to share your table for this old man and my grandson?"
"My pleasure, good sir. Take a seat."
Hinata accepts them. She gave him a gentle smile.
"Ohoho… What a sweet lady. Oh? But it seems you're not a female, no?"
He look at me after taking a seat beside Hinata, while his grandson Eric took a seat beside me. And that old man comment was making people around look at us more intently.
"Yes, I'm actually a man"
"' What!? '"
I hear a murmur around us. Sorry guys, it seems I have disappointed you somehow.
"Well, I thought he was a girl. His voice sounds girly"
"Yeah yeah, his slender body looks like a fine lady"
"Hmph! No wonder his way of walking doesn't look feminine"
"Yeah! So that's why the chest is flat!"
Oy! That's sexual harassment!
Hinata seems to be holding her laugh, while I am in mixed feelings between embarrassment and upset.
"Hohoho… What a lively place it is. I may not know everyone, but I'm sorry if anyone of them offends you, mister…"
"Johan, nice to meet you, good sir"
"Ohh… So your name is Johan. My apologies, I haven't introduced myself. My name is Gray Pulfric. As you might already know, I'm his grandfather"
He pointed to Eric.
"And I'm Eric Pulfric. Pleased to meet you, Johan-san"
"I haven't introduced myself too. My name is Iza. I'm Johan's older sister"
"Ohhh…So both of you are siblings?"
I heard another murmur around us.
We both nodded at the same time.
"I see… It's a pretty rare occasion to meet siblings in such a place, especially a brother and sister. Excuse me Johan-kun, do you smoke?"
Eh? Smoke? Do you mean, smoking tobacco? Is there such a thing in this world? It's been so long I haven't heard that word.
"Smoke? No, unfortunately. I never smoke actually"
It's true. I just remember. In my original world, some of my colleagues always have a cigarette during lunchtime breaks. I was never interested to try it, so I never smoke in my entire life. But I totally forgot about it, and honestly, it makes me interested now somehow.
"Oh, that's a bit unfortunate. This old man would like to have a chat with a pipe in his mouth, but it's okay Johan-kun. Then, do you mind if I smoke here?"
"Not at all, Gray-san. Please do as you like"
"Then, excuse me for the smoke"
He takes out a pretty long pipe from his pocket. Then he takes a pack of tobacco out of his other pocket and puts some of the tobacco inside the pipe. He burns a small twig in his hand from a nearby candle and put it in the pipe.
Moments later, a puff of smoke was flying into the air.
I am genuinely interested. I mean, I have never been remember anything about smoking. It's a complete loss from my memory when I want to recreate earth cuisine in the Cardinal world. Although I probably would never smoke, perhaps my other colleague would find it interesting.
Yeah, I'm imagining someone like Hakurou, Gadra, or Kaijin might like it. Heck, even I think Gazel might gonna like it.
"I'm sorry for my grandfather, Johan-san. The whole family has tried to stop him since it's bad for your lungs, but he would never listen even though it's bothering other people too"
Eric said this to me with an apologetic tone. I think what he meant is the smoke from Gray-san might harm our lungs as well.
I appreciate that concern but I don't have a lung, and I think Hinata won't be in trouble too.
"It's okay Eric-san. No one can beat an old man, right? Hahaha…"
I tried to lighten up the mood by joking around.
"Ahahaha! You surprisingly understand this old man's feelings, Johan-kun. See Eric? Why don't you learn from him? Johan-kun, please enlighten my grandson a bit more!"
"Grandfather! Johan-san is only joking, right Johan-san?"
"E-Eh? Oh yeah! Smoking is not a good thing for your health, Gray-san!"
"Ehh… But you just said you're okay with me smoking here?"
"Urk!"
I knew I could never win against this kind of situation.
For another next minute, we continue to exchange a banter of words while laughing. Hinata and Eric seem a bit more reserved. Man, I feel like an old man by having a good time with Gray-san.
"I'm sorry for the wait! Here are your orders"
A girl from before comes back with a tray. She brought two plates of bread, two bowls of corn soup, two mugs of water, and a bottle of wine.
Gray-san and Eric-san saw our orders and were shocked after seeing a bottle of wine being served.
"Eh?! Johan-san, are you ordering a wine?"
"Technically, my older sister there is the one who orders it. But truth be told, I was the one who wanted it"
Hinata nodded when Eric-san and Gray-san looked at her for confirmation.
"Hohoho… No wonder there's been a ruckus before. Young lady, we order the same, except the wine, please"
"Understood, I'll be right back, good sir"
Gray-san nodded gently to the waitress. Then he looks at Hinata.
"Iza-san, are perhaps from a wealthy family?"
"Unfortunately not. We just happen to have a good discount"
"Ohhh… What kind of discount is that?"
"The little lady before said it's a discount as an honor for having this tavern as our very first time visiting one"
"Hohoho… What a generous tavern. But I guess, even with a discount, it is still pretty expensive. How much exactly you're paying for this?"
"We bought this one bottle for 72 Zalc"
"My word! And you said you're not from a wealthy family?"
"Yes, we happen to have some money to buy it"
"My my Iza-san. I knew I'm not in a place to lecture a young'uns like you. But let me give you some advice. At this time, it's better to save money as much as possible"
"May I ask the reason?"
After Hinata gave the question, Gray-san take out his pipe and lean forward toward us. He lowered his voice.
"This should not be talked about in public, but consider this as a warning. The future of this kingdom is uncertain. It's best to save ourselves before anything bad happens"
"Is it because of the civil war?"
This time, I was the one who asked.
"Correct, Johan-kun. The civil war has been running for a whole year now. There is a lot of suspicion that the Crown Prince is being given a lot of backup from dozens of neighboring kingdoms who sought to take interest in this land. As you might already hear in rumors, Crown Prince Terrance is a puppet of other kingdoms and some of the corrupt house nobles. On the other hand, Prince Constance can only rely on people who love him. Luckily, almost the whole people in this kingdom love Prince Constance. So for now, Prince Constance will able to make a resistance because many people are willing to pick up on arms for him. But, if this war keeps going on, one side would certainly begin to collapse. Either Crown Prince's backup who ran out first, or Prince Constance's loyal people."
"I see… This has become a battle of attrition. By the looks of it, the most possible who came to collapse first is Prince Constance's side because the people, no matter how loyal they are, didn't have political power. I guess, the army also follows the nobleman, right?"
"You have it right, Johan-kun. Sadly, the one who has a right to make legal conscription is the king. This rule also included the right to use the royal treasury for good use to the army they conscripted. And all of those rights, are in the hands of the Crown Prince for now. As you can see now Johan-kun, Prince Constance didn't have anything to support his resistance. No right to the throne, no money to pay the soldiers, no weapons to equip his army, and no political support from the nobles. All he have are the love of the people"
I gave my huge respect for this Prince Constance. But in the same way, I felt very sad for him. He must be under huge pressure right now. I can imagine the stress that fell on him.
At a moment, I genuinely thought that even if he was not the one who possess half of Shizu-san's soul, I would still help him with everything I have. But again, no matter how noble this Prince Constance is, nor how holy this civil war is, my only goal here is to find Shizu-san's soul, help Hinata redeem herself, and send the love that the kids have sent to Shizu-san.
If I meddle too much in this world, I'm afraid there will be unforeseen problems arising.
Heck, even I already cast aside my true intention for having a break!
"The situation is dire. I think the only possible way to end this war in Prince Constance's favor is to have a decisive battle"
Hinata made a comment.
"You're right Iza-san. That's why I wanted to join the army here. Before that happens, I want to take part in it as Prince Constance's loyal army"
So Eric-san wanted to join the army. I genuinely praised him for his bravery.
I took a glance at Gray-san. He look at Eric-san with a worried look, but it seems they have talked about this and Gray-san accepted his grandson's decision.
If that was really the case, I only have huge respect for him. Because it means he has been through a deep conflict inside him. If I ever have a child, I would never want him to go into a war. Losing the one we love, is terrifying.
Right, losing the one I loved forever is the most painful thing I can imagine. I was lucky I can become a Demon Lord and have the power to revive my people. What would really happen to me if I can't bring my people back to life? What would happen if I can't see Shion anymore?
With that thought, comes a memory of Shizu-san. Her smile, her gentle hug, her sweet voice calling me "Slime-san". I wonder what would happen if I have the power to revive the people when Shizu-san's dying? Would it make Hinata didn't have to redeem herself? Wouldn't that make the kids didn't lose their mother figure? Wouldn't that make Yuuki a better person now? Wouldn't it make people I know be more happy?
And also, wouldn't it make me happy?
"Johan-kun?" Gray-san's voice made me come back from my deep thought.
"Eh?! Yes? Sorry, I was thinking about something. What's going on?"
"Hohoho… still young but already have a deep thought. You seem to become a wise man, Johan-kun"
"Ahaha… oh please don't tease me like that Gray-san. I'm still childish in many ways. I still have a long way to go to become a full-fledged adult"
"Hoho… Is that what you think Johan-kun? Then let me tell you something. By the way you are now, you're already mature enough as a man. I'm telling you because it's the truth"
"Ehh… What makes you think like that Gray-san? I'm pretty much a childish person you know? Ahaha…"
"Johan-kun, you cannot fool this old man's eyes. You might didn't talk about it, but you have been through a lot, are you? And forgive me if I cross the line, but you have experienced losing a person you love, and not just once, but twice, right?"
Eh?! This old man… No, I mean, Gray-san. Why are his words feel stabbing inside my chest?
[Master, continuing the talks with Gray might be making you remember a painful memory. I suggest you ended the conversation as soon as possible]
No no, it would be rude if I did that. So I can't.
[Understood. Would you like to temporarily block the possibly painful memory?]
Eh? Is that could be done?
[Of course. Anything for Master's sake]
Then… No, I guess not. Facing my own past is what I should have done. I should not erase it, what I should do is make peace with it.
But what should I reply to Gray-san?
I glanced at Hinata spontaneously. I didn't mean for asking help all right, I just instantly looked at her.
But because of that, I saw Hinata's facial expression. She seems to be… pitying me?
Her eyes are a bit wistful as she looks at me. Her head is a bit down. And after a brief second, we exchange looks, and Hinata speaks up.
"I'm sorry Gray-san. But what you said is true. You've crossed some line. My brother has been through a lot. So I humbly ask you to not pursue the matter"
Gray-san suddenly changes his expression into a nervous one. He immediately leaned back again.
"Yes of course! I'm very sorry Johan-kun. It seems my bad habit of not controlling my mouth a still there. Once again, I deeply apologize to you, Johan-kun"
Now I'm the one who felt bad for him. It's not as bad as the one who made sexual harassment to me before you know.
"No no! Please don't worry Gray-san. You don't have to feel so down like that. But what my sister said is true, so I also humbly ask you to not pursue the matter for a while"
I know I was the one who should make peace with my own feelings before, but I guess it shouldn't be done in one night right?
"Ohhh… my deepest gratitude for pardoning this old man. Of course, I would never pry into your situation anymore. I promised that, Johan-kun"
"Thank you for your understanding, Gray-san. Then, how about we change to a more friendly topic for now?"
"Hohoho… sure thing. I have a lot of interesting tales. How about hearing some of them?"
"Ohhh! I would love to!"
"Then, let's begin with the legendary dragon"
After a while, we hear a lot of tales of this world from Gray-san. He really is an old man with many stories to tell. I hold my little laugh about that legendary dragon tale though. Since it sounds like Veldora.
The four of us keep talking around while eating. The food honestly tastes pretty bad. It almost has no flavor. But because we eat together, it doesn't taste that bad.
And we also talked a bit about their journey. After many tales have been told, Gray-san told us that he is originally a merchant. He evacuated himself with Eric after Eric's parents evacuate much earlier. They intended to meet up in another town, south of here. But Eric has decided to join Prince Constance's rank along their journey. Eric's father already joins the army too, but still in training. I can conclude that they are also on Prince Constance's side, even after knowing the difficulties and prospect of winning.
And after our meals are finished, we almost run out of topics. And by the looks of it, we have spent many hours here. It seems Gray-san and Eric-san also notice it.
"Oh my, it seems it's already almost midnight. We're sorry to take up so much of your time. We're preparing to leave now if you excuse us"
"Ahh don't worry about it Gray-san. Oh! By the way, please let us drink this wine I bought. A good drink is for a good time. That is if you're fine with alcohol"
"My my! Are you sure, Johan-kun?"
"Is that all right, Johan-san?"
Woah, even Eric-san seems eager to have a taste.
"Sure, the more the merrier right? Now now, don't be shy! Let's pour the drink into our mug!"
I glanced at Hinata, and she only give a nod. But it seems it made the two of them a bit anxious about Hinata's reaction.
"A-Are you okay with this, Iza-san?"
"Right, this wine is actually the one you bought for Johan-kun, right Iza-san?"
"You don't have to worry. If my brother says it's okay, then it's fine. I bought it for him, so it became his. Not mine. But I would like a little bit of it"
Ohhh… It seems Hinata looks wanted to taste it. Right! Then nothing is wrong. Let's pour it into our mug.
But sadly, one bottle of wine divided into four people, could only fill a quarter of our mug. This little fella is surely a high commodity in this world.
Nonetheless, both Gray-san and Eric-san look overjoyed.
"Hohoho… I have only ever drunk wine once in my whole life, and it's unforgettable memories. This one would also be the memory I would take to my grave"
"Thank you Johan-san! This will be the first time I drink a wine. I'll remember it for my whole life"
I smile at them. At this point, I don't care how good the wine is. Seeing both of them overjoyed is already made me feel happy.
We all stand up, holding our mugs.
"Then! What should we cheer for?"
"We all have our own goals right? How about it?"
"It's too heavy. I want a simple one"
"Hohoho… How about for our new friendship?"
"That's it! For friendship!"
"All right, I follow in"
"Me too"
"Hohoho… Then it's decided then. Johan-kun, lead the way"
"Then! For our friendship! Cheers!"
"' Cheers! '"
We all drank it in one gulp. I don't know how exactly the taste is, but all I know, for now, I feel genuinely happy.