Published: August 25, 2025
Today, four chapters are posted simultaneously.
This is the fourth chapter.
The tasting party, which was essentially a banquet, was a great success. Time flies when you’re having fun, and before we knew it, the event was over and it was time for everyone to leave.
“Thank you for all the delicious food today,” said Mr. Reinhardt as we stood in front of the entrance to Gana Forest. Actually, everyone looked quite full and heavy-bellied.
“Haha, I probably won’t be able to eat dinner tonight. I’ll have to apologize to the Bats.
Well, if I show the ingredients Ryoma-kun gave me to my subordinates, I think their eyes will light up and they won’t even glance this way anymore,” he chuckled.
“The dishes prepared by the Duke's household’s chefs were delicious. I’m curious to see how they’ll cook the ingredients from the Tree Sea,” I said.
“You can always come and eat anytime. It’d also be helpful if you could arrange for more Tree Sea ingredients. Of course, we’ll pay handsomely.”
“At that time, I’ll do my best to prepare the highest quality items possible,” I replied.
Because of Korumi, we’ll probably be going back and forth frequently, and since we have a base, it isn’t much trouble. Compared to an ordinary adventurer, it should be much easier.
If Ms. Eleonora comes, communication will become smoother, which will reduce my burden and allow me to focus on other things.
“Ryoma-kun, are you heading to Gimul now?”
“Yes. I thought about staying here for a night, but there are people waiting for me in Gimul too. Using spatial magic, the distance isn’t significant, and the limule birds are there as well.”
During the exploration of Shurus Great Tree Sea, I couldn’t freely bring them outside, so except for inside Korumi’s main body, they had stayed inside the dimension home the whole time. Even though it was for safety, I felt bad keeping them cooped up indoors, so I wanted them to fly freely under the open sky.
Besides, there are still many people I want to give souvenirs to. I’m careful with preservation, but it’s better to deliver them quickly.
“The sun is still high, but be careful on your way,” said madam. Mr. Reinhardt gave me a knowing look, Mr. Sebas bowed, and the four bodyguards formally surrounded us for a few seconds. The Duke's household group waved or bowed and then disappeared.
After they left via spatial magic, a slight loneliness lingered in the quiet.
“Well then, I’ll be heading back too!”
I released the limule birds from the dimension home, and they soared quickly into the sky, flying off toward Gimul. Watching them depart, I followed using spatial magic.
▪️▪️▪️
By evening, I had gotten used to long-distance teleportation with my familiars and arrived in Gimul before nightfall. I greeted the security personnel who had become somewhat familiar with me after the incident at the end of last year and passed through the gate.
There were many places to go, but first I headed to the laundry service. The route was lined with artificially constructed streets, and people’s voices were constantly heard. Naturally, the air smelled different.
Feeling the contrast between forest and town as I walked, the laundry service came into view. It was open, but the peak time seemed to have passed since there was no line outside. It was just the right time to drop by without being too busy.
“Welcome—”
As I entered, Ms. Jane, who was sweeping the floor, turned around with a lively greeting that quickly faded. Her eyes opened wide, and the broom in her hand stopped mid-motion.
“—Ah! Everyone! The owner, not just the manager, has returned!”
Her voice rang loudly in the empty shop, almost throwing down her broom. From the back, many footsteps approached.
“Owner!!”
Before I knew it, all the employees came out from the back, surrounding me, joyfully expressing relief that I was safe, and greeting me warmly.
“Everyone, the owner just got back,” Mr. Calm said, looking out for me, and the employees dispersed for the time being. I was led to the reception room, where it was just the three of us—me, Mr. Calm the manager, and Mr. Eudam—for a minimal exchange of information.