Published: January 15, 2026
We somehow managed to fend off the assault on Centena and even reached the point of negotiating a favorable alliance with the Shelvia Confederation.
Though seriously wounded, Jarpa remained alive, and Centena’s defense capabilities had significantly increased. That was more than enough.
Moreover, the battle between Yelinetta and our main forces was undoubtedly advantageous. Considering that they had brought tens of thousands of troops to Centena, the conflict would likely be resolved quickly.
With such optimistic thoughts, I returned to Seato Village.
Wanting to get home quickly, I only stopped by two towns and bought a modest amount of souvenirs.
I was quite exhausted, but when Seato Village and the adventurers’ town came into view, I felt an overwhelming sense of relief. After all, I suppose Seato Village had truly become my home.
“Welcome home.”
“I’m back, Espada.”
As the castle gates opened, Espada and the others immediately came out to welcome me. The knights of Seato Village seemed to have faced no trouble either. Amidst the lively chatter from everyone, I entered Seato Village and headed toward the lord’s manor.
“Lord Van!”
“Welcome back!”
“Hi! Everyone, I’m home!”
Bathed in cheers reminiscent of an idol, I was the first to move toward the lord’s manor.
“Finally, you’ve returned.”
Upon arriving at the lord’s manor, Til was the first to leap out of the carriage. Seeing that made me smile, but then Espada, who was following close behind, deliberately cleared his throat.
“Before questioning your behavior as a lady, you, being Lord Van’s maid, should not be acting like that…”
“S-sorry!”
Having not been scolded for a while, Til must have let her guard down. Espada ended up lecturing her about conduct unbecoming of a maid.
Their exchange felt somewhat nostalgic. Watching them with a wry smile, Kamushin then came outside and looked at Row.
“Lord Row! Please train me!”
“Eh!? Right now!?”
Row, just off his horse, was astonished. Kamushin looked full of enthusiasm and had already started swinging his sword, giving off an aura impossible to refuse.
Though his shoulders slumped in resignation, Row grabbed his sword and trudged toward Kamushin.
After all, he was a considerate man.
With Til being scolded and Row and Kamushin heading off for training, Arte finally stepped down from the carriage.
She was somewhat lively now, but whenever her expression suddenly darkened, Til grew quite worried and tried to cheer her up with tea and sweets. Though it was a childish method, Til had undoubtedly thought deeply about it.
Thanks to that, Arte brightened considerably, but I had also seen her shedding tears over a doll during the recent night camp.
“…Alright! Now that we’re back, let’s hold a barbecue party today! Espada, do we have the ingredients?”
Trying to lift Arte’s spirits, I asked Espada, who was still in the middle of the lecture. Til turned around with a look of admiration, though unfortunately, I hadn’t said it to stop the scolding.
Well, she was happy, so I’d let it slide.
“The adventurers recently brought back an abundance of demonic beast meat from their dungeon expeditions. Since there is a limit to how much smoked and preserved meat can be stored, I believe using it for a barbecue won’t be a problem.”
Hearing Espada’s reply, I nodded and looked at Til.
“In that case, contact the Bell Rango Trading Company and ask them to prepare for the barbecue party. If they need anything made, tell them to let me know.”
Til answered joyfully.
“Yes! I’ll head there right away!”
Til happily began skipping off to start the preparations. Watching her silently, Espada then looked at me.
“…We have a little over two hours, so there’s something I’d like you to make during that time, Lord Van.”
“Huh? What do you need me to make?”
I asked back, and Espada pulled out a stack of papers resembling account books. She flipped through them, stopping about halfway.
“About one month ago and two weeks ago, the population increased. Approximately one thousand immigrants flowed in from the marquisate and count’s territory, similar to before, and the Bell Rango Trading Company and Mary Trading Company brought about three hundred slaves. I purchased them at my discretion.”