Jigglypuff's Diary

Now that aside, I wonder what’ll happen if an otherworlder purposely tried to spread Klingon language. 😀

Suggestions: Better idea for artisan guild? As the name suggests, it’s a guild of craftsmen. 

Volume 3 Chapter 8

With me staying at Pioro-san’s place having been decided, Pioro-san brought me, and we entered the spice store of the Saionji Firm. Apparently, this store is connected to Pioro-san’s house. When we got inside, just like this afternoon, Miyabi-san was tending to the store.

“Welcome. Eh? What the, if it ain’t dad.” [Miyabi]
“It’s not “what the”. and I’m not alone, Ryouma’s with me, ya know?” [Pioro]
“Sorry for the trouble.” [Ryouma]
“Ryouma-san, tha guest room’s been prepared, so don’t hold back and go ahead n make ya self at home, k?” [Miyabi]

Did she already know that I’m saying over? But we’d only just decided it a while ago…

“I thought you’d be staying over, did I get it wrong?” [Miyabi]
“No, thank you, I’ll be in your care then. It’s just that it so happens that we decided me straying over just a while ago, so it was a little surprising.” [Ryouma]
“The guest room’s always in good condition, since we don’t really know when a guest might decide ta drop by.” [Miyabi]
“I see, thank you very much.” [Ryouma]
“Don’t mind it, don’t mind. Oh, right! Want me ta bring ya ta tha room?” [Miyabi]
“Please, thank you.” [Ryouma]

And so, Miyabi-san brought me to the guest room. As for Pioro-san, it looks like he went back to work.

“Here’s the guest room, please think it as if it’s your own house.” [Miyabi]

The room I was brought to was too big for only a single person, and was furnished with good furniture. It had a warm atmosphere to it.

“As for supper, I’ll bring ya some nice food that won’t bring shame ta tha Saionji name, so look forward ta it!” [Miyabi]
“Thank you very much. I’ll look forward to it.” [Ryouma]

As I said that, Miyabi-san appeared to be satisfied with my response as she nodded her head.

“I’ll be going then. Enjoy yourself till supper, k?” [Miyabi]

Miyabi-san quietly left the room.

“I wonder what supper will be.” [Ryouma]

Well, whatever’s the case, it won’t be like the preserved food I ate last night. Maybe it’ll be meat. Or maybe fish? There’s not a lot of fishes here in this country, so… Well of course, it’s not like there’s none at all, but it’s the inland area so there’re no waters to get fish from. Although there are plenty of river fishes and dried fishes, it’s difficult to acquire fresh marine products. An exception would be the few towns with a lake nearby where the fish industry is going strong, like the Town of Skoom for one.

Regarding marine products, as expected, it should be Japanese cuisine. I haven’t eaten any Japanese cuisine since I got here. There’re plenty of otherworlders, so I thought there’d be plenty of different cuisines, but I haven’t seen any Japanese cuisines at all. Should I ask Pioro-san if they have any miso or soy sauce? If they’re handling food products, then I might be able to get something that’s similar.

Afterwards I rested in the room for a bit and mediated, then a male servant came and told me that supper was ready. The male servant brought me to a room with a dining table.

“You came, Ryouma. Take a seat.” [Pioro]

At the center of the room, Pioro-san, Miyabi-san, and another beastmen fox tribe woman were already seated. The woman looked similar to Miyabi-san, so she’s probably Pioro-san’s wife. She’s beautiful.

I took my seat as I thought that. Sitting at one side of the table, in front of me was Pioro-san, by my right was Miyabi-san, and by my left was Pioro-san’s wife.

“Excuse me.” [Ryouma]
“You don’t haf ta be that stiff, ya know? I think you’ve already noticed it too, but this here is Miyabi’s mother, my wife, Kurana.” [Pioro]
“Kurana Saionji, a pleasure ta meet you.” [Kurana]
“Ryouma Takebayashi, it’s my pleasure as well.” [Ryouma]
“I’ve heard of tha rumors. It seems that you’re quite tha promising young lad.” [Kurana]
“Oh not at all, my luck just happens to be good. And it’s also because of the help of the people around me that I’ve been blessed with. All I’ve really done is employ and rely on them.” [Ryouma]

No, really. The store and the employees were mostly taken care of by Serge-san and the guild master, Carm-san and Karla-san advised me on the store’s management, and Fei-san and Li Ling-san protect the store. The other employees are helping me out with the rest of the work, so if everyone wasn’t around, then forget about getting a branch store out, it’d be strange if I even got a store.

All of my success is thanks to the people I’ve met and their help.

“If you’re able ta say such things from the bottom of your heart, then you’re plenty amazing.” [Kurana]
“’xactly, when young people succeed quickly, they lose sight of everythin’ around them and start thinkin’ that they can do anythin’.” [Pioro]
“Shops are around precisely because there are customers and servants. If a merchant forgets ta thank those around them and make light of their efforts, then it’s the end for that merchant. In that situation, regardless of how much talent one has, you won’t be able to get by unless ya play dirty. Being able to understand that, you’re already plenty amazing, Ryouma-han.” [Kurana]

Something like that, huh?

“A merchant’s conduct is something that will naturally be learned in the distant future. So it’s plenty amazing if ya can at least talk like one now. I mean look at Miyabi, she ain’t one bit polite is she?” [Pioro]
“Dad! Why am I being used as an example!?” [Miyabi]
“Eh, it can’t be helped, after all your already around so it’s easy to use ya as an example.” [Piroro]
“Miyabi, it’s better not to push yourself, and just talk normally.” [Kurana]

Ahh, so she really was pushing herself, huh?

“Ryouma’s also noticed too, ya know? That you’re pushing yourself to talk differently.” [Pioro]
“A little, actually. I don’t think it’s weird to change your manner of speech when talking towards customers, but I don’t think you’re that used to it, so please don’t mind it so much.” [Ryouma]
“See? Even Ryouma-han whom you’d just met even noticed that you’re only putting up a front.” [Kurana]
“How frustrating…” [Miyabi]

Ahh, looks like she’s started to become depressed… is it really something to be bitter about though?

“Sorry ‘bout this, please ignore this kid.” [Kurana]
“Miyabi’s been imitatin’ me ever since she became interested in merchant work and started helping me out. I’m happy, but whenever she shows an opening while negotiating with a customer, she becomes quite stubborn. In fact, just recently, a customer told her that she wasn’t like a woman.” [Pioro]
“It’s not like I want to be seen as a woman that I’m trying to improve. It’s just that…” [Miyabi]
“Just that?” [Pioro]
“I hate the old man that told me I’m not feminine! So I won’t be able ta get rid of this sense of defeat unless I become graceful!” [Miyabi]

That’s what you’re bothered about!? Well, I guess it’s better than being bothered by something weird.

“In other words, my daughter hates losing. You don’t need to mind it, Ryouma-han.” [Kurana]
“Enough of that, right now’s time for meal, ya know? Today, we prepared a rare meal.” [Pioro]

As Pioro-san said that, he signaled with his hand to the servant standing at a corner.

“Rare?” [Ryouma]
“That’s right. Ryouma’s good at cooking, so it’s difficult ta surprise ya unless we prepare somethin’. So in the end I figured we’d make ya something queer.” [Pioro]
“It’d be great if it was to Ryouma-han’s taste though.” [Kurana]

When the smell of the dish reached my nose… this is!

“This smell is… miso soup?” [Ryouma]

When I muttered that, Pioro-san opened his eyes wide in disappointment, while Kurana-san laughed amused.

“What, so ya knew about miso soup, Ryouma? ~Sigh, and here I thought I’d be able to surprise ya.” [Pioro]

Not at all, in fact, it’s a huge success! I’m really, really surprised!

“N-no, I’m more than surprised enough. Pioro-san, you can get miso soup?” [Ryouma]
“Yeah, I can. Few sell it, so we don’t have plenty of stock, but… do you want some?” [Pioro]
“Yes! Please!” [Ryouma]
“It’s not that expensive anyway, so I’ll get ya some. If you come ta like it, feel free ta stop by and buy some.” [Pioro]
“Yes, thank you very much!?” [Ryouma]
“It’s fine, it’s fine. Ah, by the way, if ya know ‘bout miso soup, then d’ya also now ‘bout soy sauce?” [Pioro]
“You also have soy sauce!?” [Ryouma]
“Yep.” [Pioro]

Like this, while the servant was bringing us food, it’s been decided that I’ll be getting some miso soup, soy sauce, vinegar, and mirin.

To think there would actually be these kind of seasonings in this world! According to Pioro-san, these sort of stuff are being manufactured in an island where dragon newts lived. Unfortunately, because most people don’t know how to use it, it’s not very popular. What a waste.

“Let’s eat first. We’ll talk while we eat.” [Pioro]
“Oh, that’s right. Then, itadakimasu!” [Ryouma]

I took the dish and the chopsticks, and first brought the rice to my mouth. Delicious! This is my first rice in three years!! Bread’s staple here in this country, so I haven’t gotten any rice at all. Now it’s not like I hate bread or anything, but rice just happens to have that nostalgic taste. Next, is the fish in soy sauce, and the miso soup… ah delicious… it’s exactly how it was back in Earth…

“How nostalgic…” [Ryouma]
“Oh? Ryouma-han, did use ta live in a dragon newt village?” [Kurana]
“Eh? Ah, no.” [Ryouma]
“Really? Ya looked like a dragon newt that hasn’t gone back home in a long time though.” [Kurana]
“Is that so?” [Ryouma]
“That’s right, and what’s more is that Ryouma’s really good at using chopsticks. Those are really just furnishings, so it would’ve been fine if ya just left them alone. It’s really rare ta see a customer that’s not dragon newt use chopsticks well.” [Pioro]
“Ryoum-han, where did ya come from?” [Kurana]

During times like these, I bring out my grandparents card!

“I come from a small village. My grandmother used to make me lots of miso soup in the past. It was also from her that I learned how to use chopsticks. My grandparents are former adventurers, so apparently they’ve travelled the world a lot. They probably came to know of these sort of things during their travels.” [Ryouma]
“Oh, is that how it is?” [Pioro]

Did I manage to deceive them?

“By tha way, what are ya gonna do starting tomorrow? Tha employees of the store your store won’t be coming till three days later, right?” [Pioro]
“I plan to create furniture, practice, and do some adventurer work during that time.” [Ryouma]

It was there that Kurana asked me a question.

“Ara, Ryouma-han, you’re an adventurer?” [Kurana]
“Yes. Right now, I’m not really sure whether my main job is adventurer work or my store though.” [Ryouma]
“So that’s how it is.” [Miyabi]
“What’s your rank now?” [Kurana]
“Right now, I’m rank E.” [Ryouma]
“E? You’re younger by a year than our daughter, right?” [Kurana]
“I just became E rank two months ago.” [Ryouma]
“At that age, E rank’s more than enough. You also have experience with subjugation requests, right?” [Kurana]

After that, I talked about the subjugation request at the mine, and then I asked them about this town.

Apparently, this town was made by the otherworlder founder of the Saionji Firm for the sake of business. It might be because of that, that the shopkeepers and servants of the stores here go way back. There also seem to be a lot of people who use the Kansai dialect amongst the people who grew up here. Incidentally, Kurana-san was born in this town.

I don’t think the otherworlder purposely tried to spread the Kansai dialect, but when I think about how the otherworlder unconsciously left something behind, a feeling I can’t describe swells up inside me. Will I also leave something behind in the future? …Well, there’s no point thinking about this right now.

I also asked about the guild. From what I hear, there are four guilds, including the merchant guild, being gathered within those walls.

“There’re entrances from all directions, but inside that are the merchant guild, adventurer’s guild, artisan guild, and the dragoon guild.” [Pioro]

Dragoon guild? That’s new. When I asked about it, Miyabi-san explained it to me.

“What’s the dragoon guild?” [Ryouma]
“It’s a gathering of former tamer guild members who use slave magic to carry things with their flying magical beasts. When the airport was built, they went independent, so I guess you could say it’s a guild engaged in the air transportation industry. The tamer guild seems ta do any job, but tha dragoon guild specializes in exporting people and goods, as well as actin’ as bodyguards for those.

It’s quite difficult to have magical beasts carry people and fly in the sky, so the dragoon guild makes their magical beasts undergo special training. And although they’re independent now, they still seem ta have some connection ta tha tamer’s guild, ya know? It’s said that tha first slave magic user who could tame a flying magical beast that could carry people, also took a course from the dragoon guild once.” [Miyabi]
“To think that there’s actually a guild like that…” [Ryouma]

It’s obvious, but it looks I really still have a lot to learn.

“Tha gatherin’  of ingredients and resources are taken care of by tha adventurer’s guild. Then tha artisan guild deals with tha raw material, while tha merchant guild sells tha products and resources. And finally, tha dragoon guild’s responsible for exporting tha goods ta towns far away. And of course, all this is thanks ta our ancestor-sama’s efforts.” [Miyabi]

Said Miyabi-san as she puffed her chest. Pioro-san appeared to also share her sentiment. Apparently, they take great pride in this town, it’s airport, and their otherworld ancestor.

As I listened to their stories about the town, I gobbled up more of the nostalgic Japanese cuisine. After that, I went back to my room, used the cleaner slime shower, and quickly went to rest.

I wonder what I should do tomorrow. As I thought that, a wave of drowsiness attacked me because of a combination of being full and the pent up fatigue. I can endure it, but there’s no point in doing so right now anyway, so I guess I’ll just go to sleep now… I’ll think about what to do tomorrow, tomorrow… I have time anyway…

Reminder:
Regarding the schedule, it’ll come out every week and be posted on a random day. I’ve made a post about it before, you can check the announcements page for it.

Also, we’re right on schedule when it comes to the chapter releases. I haven’t missed a chapter..

Japanese Terms:
You’ll see a word, boke, used in this chapter. It’s a Japanese term from a kind of Japanese stand-up comedy called Manzai. In there is a funny man, called a boke, and a straight man, called a tsukkomi.
More Info: CLICK HERE

Shinkansen = Train in Japan
More Info: CLICK HERE

Suggestion:
Thanks for all the suggestions. I decided to go with Kureyn’s suggestion, Renauph.

The next day.

I passed the night safely inside the ‘Dimension Home’, and then I started moving again. It was a little past noon when the walls of Renauph came to sight.

For the meantime I’ll head over to Pioro’s store, but before that, I better wash myself with the cleaner slimes inside the ‘Dimension Home’. It’s not really appropriate to visit someone while being this sweaty and dirty.

After the cleaner slime shower ended, I went out of the ‘Dimension Home’ and walked towards the town’s gate. Showing the guard my guild card from the adventurer’s guild, I was able to pass by easily. Incidentally, I took the chance and asked the guard about the location of the Saionji Firm. The guard told me to walk straight until I reach a dead end, and then turn right, after which I should see the firm.

I thanked the man, and then went as he taught me. Walking through the wide road, a building surrounded by robust walls eventually came to sight. There was a great number of people carrying things in and out of that building. I don’t know what this building is, but this is probably the end of the street.

Going right from there, I found sign with the words ‘Saionji Firm’ written on it.

“It’s big…” [Ryouma]

Lined up were an astounding number of stores, selling different things. There were meat, fishes, dried greens, preserved food, seasonings, and more. There was even a small store in a corner selling side dishes. It seems that all of these together make up the Saionji firm.

“I wonder where I should enter…” [Ryouma]

For the meantime let’s try entering the spice store, and ask someone there. Why the spice store? Well, I figured it’d be best to go to a store where there aren’t a lot of customers, so as not to get in the way. And spices are expensive, so there won’t be a lot of people. In fact, there isn’t even a single customer.

“Ex–“ [Ryouma]
“Welcome.” [Somebody]

When I entered the store, a voice called out to me. While I was wondering where the voice came from, a girl came out from behind the counter. She’s most likely around mine and Elia’s age. The girl had flowing, blonde hair, a fair complexion, and… fox ears?

The girl appears to have been working on something as her hair was disheveled, and she was lightly fixing herself, when she came out of the counter.

“What business do you have with us today?” [Girl]
“My apologies, however I’m not a customer. I’ve been entrusted with a parcel from the merchant guild of Gimuru for Pioro Saionji-sama.” [Ryouma]
“Oh? So ya came with a parcel for dad? Thanks a lot.” [Girl]

Dad? This girl… she’s Pioro-san’s daughter!?

“Excuse me, but would you happen to be Pioro-san’s daughter?” [Ryouma]
“You know my dad?” [Girl]
“Yes. We’ve been acquainted recently.” [Ryouma]
“Oh, I see. Sorry for the late introduction, I’m the daughter of Pioro Saionji, Miyabi Saionji. A pleasure to meet ya.” [Miyabi]
“Ryouma Takebayashi, a pleasure to meet you as well.” [Ryouma]
“Ryouma… Where have I heard that name before? In any case, come inside.” [Miyabi]

Being guided by Miyabi-san, we passed through the deeper corridors of the store into the reception room. Then after a minute, Miyabi-san came back with Pioro-san. Fast! She told me to wait a bit when she went out, but… I didn’t have to wait at all!

“Ryouma, it’s been two months! Looks like you’ve finally dropped by Renauph.” [Pioro]
“Long time no see, Pioro-san. I just arrived actually. And I came here to set up a branch store.” [Ryouma]
“Oh, so you’re putting up a branch store here? Then in that case, lemme give ya a tour of this town’s merchant guild.” [Pioro]
“But before that, the parcel…” [Ryouma]

I opened my ‘Item Box’, took out the parcel I’ve been entrusted with, and handed it to Pioro-san.

“Oh right, what’s this?” [Pioro]
“I haven’t been told of its contents.” [Ryouma]
“Oh?” [Pioro]

Said Pioro-san as he opened the parcel. Inside was a letter. After Pioro-san finished reading it, he said

“Ryouma, it’s been tough on you recently, huh?” [Pioro]
“Oh, was it about my situation?” [Ryouma]
“Just about the recent stuff. The letter’s Granny Gri asking me to help ya out. I would’ve even without being asked to though.” [Pioro]
“Thank you very much.” [Ryouma]
“It’s fine, it’s fine. Oh right, lemme introduce you. This one’s my daughter. She’s a year older than you, but if ya ever need anything, ask her for help, k?” [Pioro]

Since the conversation’s turned to her, Miyabi-san, who was keeping from interjecting all this time, spoke.

“Dad, what do ya mean, “this one”? I have a name ya know, it’s Miyabi. You should at least use my proper name when introducing. ‘Sides, I’ve at least already properly introduced myself.” [Miyabi]
“Eh, really? Then what about this? Miyabi’s actually the daughter of the founder, so I named her after the ancestor.”
“What cha talking ‘bout all of tha sudden? I’ve never heard of that!” [Miyabi]

Eh, what? Is this a two-person comedy? Whatever the case, I can’t just not react.

“Did your ancestor achieve some kind of amazing exploit?” [Ryouma]
“Haven’t heard of anythin’ in particular. As far’s I know, she was just a pretty poster girl, who got married and lived in bliss while being taken care of by her family.” [Pioro]
“I see, so you wanted your daughter to live a happy life just like she…” [Ryouma]
“Wait, wait! That ancestor, Miyabi’s, dad is the founder, ya know? And right now, I’m Miyabi’s dad. So in other words, it’s as if I’m the founder!” [Pioro]
“Are you the one who’s being named after!?” [Ryouma]

Oops! I ended up throwing a tsukkomi!

“Excuse me.” [Ryouma]
“It’s fine, it’s fine. It was a pretty good tsukkomi. A little weak though. Lately, my daughter hasn’t been throwin’ her tsukkomis, so it’s not bad.” [Pioro]

Whew, that’s a relief. Wait, tsukkomi exists in this world? This is the fault of an otherworlder, definitely.

Tsukkomi, huh? In my previous life I had a boss from Kansai that would snap at people for letting a boke pass. I guess it’s become a reflex? It was really annoying having to deal with a boke while being busy with work… But then letting it pass would’ve wasted even more time, so there were times when I couldn’t help but throw a tsukkomi. But there were also plenty of times were I unconsciously ignored it, so I got unreasonably scolded a lot.

As I was thinking that, I shrugged the thought off, and went to the merchant guild with Pioro-san. Pioro-san led the way, and now we’re standing right before the building with high walls that was right before the Saionji Firm. It’s my second time seeing it, but as expected, it’s really big. In fact even if these walls were castles walls, they’d probably still be considered good quality.

I thought that to myself as I followed Pioro-san. When we got inside, I couldn’t help but be amazed at how even its interior was like a castle. After walking for a while, we got to the reception room, and Pioro-san spoke.

“How’s it? Amazing, right?” [Pioro]
“Yes. I thought the outer walls were like that of a castle’s.” [Ryouma]
“But of course. After all, this building used to be a fortress, ya know?” [Pioro]
“A fortress?” [Ryouma]
“ ‘xactly. A long, long time ago, during wartime, this place was apparently used as the frontline base. And this town was built at the site of that fortress. So they built this guild, that’s at the center of the town, with the fortress as reference.” [Pioro]
“I see.” [Ryouma]
“But there’s one more reason why the building was built like this. Take a look outside this window.” [Pioro]

The window Pioro-san pointed out was made with glass and was easy to look out of. When I tried looking through it…

“Amazing… It’s my first time seeing so many large-type magical beasts.” [Ryouma]

Outside the window were many magical beasts. From medium-type to large-type, and even the bird-type, Wyverns, which are thought to be of the dragon race were present. A saddle could be seen affixed to the Wyvern’s neck, and a number of people riding on them could be seen. This scene that felt like it was proclaiming, “This is a fantasy,” spread before my eyes.

“These magical beasts ‘ave all been gathered ‘ere all for tha sake of transporting goods.” [Pioor]
“All of it!?” [Ryouma]
“ ‘xactly. Flying magical beasts can transport things quickly, but several facilities are needed for them to work. Such as a place for them to wait, a place to load and unload the goods, and a terminal for them to land. So they referred to a fortress to build a place like that.” [Pioro]
“I see.” [Ryouma]

Magical beasts would definitely need a place to stay at. All the more so with large-types.

“With the structure having been designed specifically to transport goods using magical beasts, the founder of the Saionji Firm who ordered the construction of this town and made this all a reality, called it an “Airport”. What do ya think? It’s good taste, yeah?” [Pioro]

No, because that person didn’t come up with that name at all! But I can’t say that! Ah, in the future otherworld might think the same of my store, huh? Where they’ll see it and go, “That guy didn’t come up with this at all!” or something. Just like Pioro-san’s Manzai-like routine with his daughter, there seems to be traces of the otherworlders’ tone and casual actions.

“Airport, huh? It’s probably because a port city gathers a lot of things.” [Ryouam]
“So you understand!” [Pioro]

Pioro-san, being in a good mood, hit my back as a female employee of the guild entered. Talking business, the one who said I’d buy a store wasn’t Pioro-san but me. She was slightly surprised at the start, but after that everything went smoothly and we were able to finish the procedures. From the looks of things, since Pioro-san was able to see the state of the store I’d bought before, the store seems to have been prepared beforehand, and we were able to smoothly finish the deal after deciding on the purchase.

After that, I left the guild and went to the store I’d just bought.

The store I’d bought was 2 stories tall. The first story had space for the storage room and the store itself, while the second story was for the reception room and the office. Moreover, behind this store is the house used by the previous owner. That was also included with the purchase I made. Excluding the living room, that house had five rooms in total. It doesn’t seem feasible to give the employees individual rooms, but it seems to be normal to share a room with a few others, so there shouldn’t be any problems using it as lodging for them.

“Any problems?” [Pioro]
“None. It seems I’ll be able to make use of this store as soon as I make the furniture and the shelves. I’ll contact Gimuru immediately, so at the fastest, it’ll take three days, and at the slowest it’ll take 5 days at most before the employees come.” [Ryouma]

When Pioro-san heard my words, he inclined his head.

“Really? It should take three days just sending a letter from here.” [Pioro]
“There’s no problem on that front, because I have a superfast way to contact them.” [Ryouma]

As I said that, I opened my ‘Dimension Home’ and took out the Rimel Bird. I normally let them do as they want in the abandoned mine, but I took just one with me as a way to contact the others.

The name of this rimel bird is Drei. From what I’d heard before, it’s three in the German language. It kind of sounds cool, no? By the way the Nightmare Rimel Bird’s named Eins, meaning one. The other birds are Zwei, Vier, Funf, and Sechs respectively.

If you’re wondering why I suddenly named the Rimel Birds, well it’s because Elia sent me a letter saying she named hers. Apparently she used musical terms to name them. Because of the contract it’s possible to distinguish between different beats of the same type, so there’s no need to name them, but I figured I’d try naming them too.

While I was thinking that, Pioro-san fixedly stared at the Rimel Bird.

“Ha~, certainly, if you have a rimel bird you’ll be able to contact them quickly.” [Pioro]

The Rimel Bird can fly at 200kph to 300kph. When I used ‘Sensory Link’ and looked at the world through its eyes, the scenery felt like when I ride on the Shinkansen, so it’s probably around the same speed. Regardless, it’s definitely fast.

The Rimel Bird already flies fast normally, but when they used wind magic and ride on its tail wind, their speed goes up even more, and they’re able to fly even further. If I ask the Rimel Bird, what would take a carriage three days would only take them until morning by tomorrow, if fast, then it could even get there by the end of the day.

Taking a pen and ink out of my ‘Item Box’, I wrote a letter. Then I took out a small pipe and a metal fitting with a red cloth attached to it. I inserted the letter into the pipe, and attached it to Drei’s leg. Lastly, I rolled the red cloth onto Drei’s neck, and affixed it with the metal fixing. With this the preparations are complete.

That cloth I put last is the sign that it’s a magical beast used for communication. If I don’t attach something that stands out, it might cause a commotion when it enters the town, and get shot by the guardsmen.

So with this, all the preparations are completed, and I went out of the store to send Drei off.

“I’m relying on you.” [Ryouma]
“Piroro!” [Drei]

Drei chirped as if replying to me, then he flapped his wings, and flew into the skies. It revolved in the sky once, going faster and faster, and then it headed over to the direction of the Town of Gimuru, until I could no longer see it.

“Good.” [Ryouma]
“All that’s left is waiting then.” [Pioro]
“Yes.” [Ryouma]
“Ryouma, didja book a hotel already?” [Pioro]

Ah, not good. I forgot!

“I forgot.” [Ryouma]
“Then, how ‘bout stayin’ over at my place then?” [Pioro]
“Is it alright?” [Ryouma]
“Of course, no need ta be reserved.” [Pioro]
“Then, I’ll take you up on your offer.” [Ryouma]

Like this I decided to accept Pioro-san’s offer and stay at his house. 

The next day.

I went to the store in the morning. When I got there, I noticed that Karla-san was at the reception desk.

“Good morning, Karla-san. How was last night?” [Ryouma]
“Good morning, Boss. We weren’t attacked last night, how about you?” [Karla]
“13 people came to attack me, you know? Anyway, here’s the money I got. Please store it in the store’s treasury.” [Ryouma]
“Understood. By the way, there’s something I’d like to discuss regarding the branch store.” [Karla]
“What is it?” [Ryouma]
“Honestly speaking, we have more than enough funds from our sales and the medical bills now, so how about starting the branch soon?” [Karla]
“Already!? Shouldn’t it still take more time for the others to learn about managing a store?” [Ryouma]

“That’s true, however, Caulkins-san and the others were all former researchers, so they didn’t have any problems with things like literature or arithmetic. Normally, it would also be necessary to learn how to bargain with the customers, and with other stores, as well as for stocking up. However, this store neither has any competitors, nor bargaining customers. So Carm-san and I prioritized teaching them how to deal with problems. Moreover, they’ve already finished learning how to use the account book, so all that’s left now is to pile up some experience.” [Karla]

Ahh, so it’s like that…

“So in other words, the branch store isn’t only there to make more profits, but also as a training school.” [Ryouma]
“Exactly. But of course, either I or Carm will work at the store, to give them guidance. Afterwards, we’ll decide when they’re good enough to take care of the store by themselves.” [Karla]
“I see…” [Ryouma]

We’ve been able to get by just fine before Caulkins-san and the others came… and the others should have also gotten used to their work by now… So while I can’t leave the store to them right off the bat, it’s something like an internship, so I guess it’s fine? 

“I don’t think it’s a bad idea. Let’s do it. Then next is the location of the branch, the plot of land to build it on, and then lastly the store, right?” [Ryouma]
“Yes, please take care of it.” [Karla]
“I understand, then I’ll leave the employees of the new store to you. I’ll go to the guild now and see what I can find out about the store.” [Ryouma]

And so Ryouma went out of the store, and headed towards the merchant guild. There he was brought to the reception room, where the guild master received him.

“You came.” [Grisela]
“Sorry for troubling you all the time. Getting straight to the point, I came here today to inquire about setting up a second store.” [Ryouma]
“So you finally feel like setting up a branch store, huh? I’ve already prepared a list of recommendations regarding the towns you could set up your next store in. They are Delma, Azul, Skoom, Jillman, Lufes, and others.” [Grisela]

To think she would actually prepare that for me, I’m grateful. It’s my first branch store, so a place that’s nearby and easy to get to from Gimuru will be good…

“It’s better to have one near here, right? I’ve also prepared those.” [Grisela]

This manner of reading minds… Frankly, I’ve somewhat gotten used to it by now.

“Thank you very much.” [Ryouma]
“For the meantime, the towns near here that I recommend are Shuchiro, Harken, and Renafu. The town closest is Renafu.” [Grisela]
“Can I buy land in that town?” [Ryouma]

When the guild master heard that, she grinned.

“Preparing it’s no problem, but there’s nothing as big as your store right now.” [Grisela]

The land she recommended to me was around half the size of my current land with a building already built on it. I asked her about it while I looked at the rough sketch, and I found out that it was originally a general store. It already has a storage as well, so with just a little renovation it should be good to go.

“This store is diagonally opposite Pioro’s. He’s also already checked the building, and it’s well built. You won’t have any problems with this. You do have to deal with the documents at the guild over there though.” [Grisela]
“So that’s how it is. Thank you very much. I’ll go with this.” [Ryouma]

Like this I decided on my new store. Discussions really go fast when it’s someone you trust, and all the more so when it’s a specialist. Really, she’s been such a big help.

When I went back to the store, I told Karla-san and Carm-san about the guild master’s recommendation. After that I talked with Caulkins-san and the others about the branch store, and had them promise again not to hand the cleaner slimes to others. This is in the contract, but just in case. The three promised without any hesitation.

After that I left the store early. But before I headed back home, I stopped by Serge’s store. There I told him about the second store, and the fact that I’ll be going to Renafu in order to prepare for its opening. Afterwards I took a lot of cloth, and went back home. I have to start preparing for the trip from tomorrow onwards, but in the meantime I should treat as many cloths as I could. With this many I shouldn’t run out any time soon.

According to Serge-san, the products made from the waterproof cloths had become quite popular, and are now selling really well. Especially amongst the adventurers and the merchants. It’s not too strange though, after all, adventurers want to bring as few things as possible with them in order to be able to move easily. So it’s only normal they’d want to be lighter.

As for the merchants, the ones who were buying were mainly those who didn’t have carriages with roofs, and were using them as rain protection. It’s true that there are leather covers for the carriages in this world, however, using those as a roof to shelter from the rain will make the carriage heavier and take up space. Meaning, not only will it increase the burden on the horses, but it will also cause the number of cargo the merchants can take with them to decrease.

If they do try to forcefully overload the carriage, then in the instance where they happen to run into magical beasts or bandits, they won’t be able to run. Moreover, that much burden on the horses will significantly decrease its lifespan, causing them to have to buy a new one faster. Like this their profits will again greatly decrease. But that’s not all, there’s an unspoken rule amongst merchants regarding horses. A horse is considered to be a merchant’s partner, so a merchant who fails to take care of their horse is considered to be a failure. A merchant that treats his own horse poorly will be given the cold shoulder by his fellow merchants. Contrary to all these demerits, a cover made from waterproof cloth does not take up space, is light, and is extremely effective. Because of this there are many merchants who have started to adopt it.

With that in mind I should feed the sticky slimes a lot and have them split faster. The demand will probably increase from now on, so it could be bad if I don’t decrease the burden on the sticky slimes soon.

I went back home as I thought those things.

And then 4 days passed.

In these past few days I informed those who have helped me until now about my trip and settled the necessary preparations. More specifically, I told the guild master of the adventurer’s guild, Wogan, who is one of my first acquaintances, that I’ll be leaving for a bit. I’ve also changed some of the store’s policies.

The first change is the store’s logo. Since there’s a branch store now, I decided to put a logo on all our bags. The logo has the image of a slime, a bamboo, and the words ‘Bamboo Forest’ on it. I made a deal with Serge-san’s store to get a craftsman to make and imprint the logo for our new bags. I plan to have the new store use these new bags right from the start. As for the customers in the Town of Gimuru, we’ll exchange their bags with the new one.

The second thing that will change are the employees’ day offs. Until now everyone’s been taking turns to get a day off, so the employees haven’t been able to go out together at all. So I figured I should change way the day offs work.

I need to let everyone know of these changes, so I better put up a sign letting people know that the changes will be implemented in approximately a month. The bags will also be changed within that time.

The third thing that’ll change is the slime’s management. Caulkins-san and the rest will be going to the branch store, so there won’t be any slave magicians left back here in the main store. Normally, that would mean I won’t be able to leave the store unattended for an extended period anymore, but that’s not actually the case.

In these past two months, one of the three girls who are working away from their home, Maria-san, has been studying slave magic. Apparently her grandmother is a magician. So if it was just a question of magic power, then she should have more than enough. Unfortunately though, her grandmother died while she was still young, so she wasn’t able to learn any magic. But since she got along well with Robelia-san, she’s been practicing slave magic in her off days, and now she’s able to make a contract with slimes. So I decided that from now on the management of the slimes will be left to Maria-san and Caulkins’ trio. My job from now on will only be to retrieve the extra slimes when there are too many for them to contract.

… Be that as it may, I do wonder if I myself have a limit. From what I’d heard before, the founder of slave magic, who is an otherworlder, had no limits… I got mine from Gayn’s trio as well, so does that mean I don’t have any limits? …I haven’t reached any limits yet too, so I guess I’ll ask them about it later.

I finished my preparations in this way. And now is the day I set off.

“Then, I’ll be going.” [Ryouma]
“Take care!” [Everyone in the store]

Everyone from the store sent me off, and I left the town.

As I stepped out the town’s gates, what greeted me was the sun’s dazzling rays, the clear blue sky, and the road seemingly stretching endlessly. Then I ran. It’s finally here! My first adventure – that’s all by myself – since coming to this world!!

Renafu is a town you get to by passing through four small towns. And it takes three days all in all to get there. Also, while it may not be as big as Gimuru, it’s also quite big in its own right. Now, getting there in 3 days would normally be considered fast, but since I’m using space magic along with qigong, that time is significantly shortened.

Qigong is used in the same way in this world as you would back in Earth, however, the effects are completely different. Back in Earth you could see plenty of performances being shown on TV where practitioners would hang their throat on a spear. With a little bit of practice anyone could do that, and as a matter of fact, I’ve actually managed to do just that. However, in this world, qigong isn’t something like that. In this world, Qigong is able to strengthen and harden the human body in the same way magic is able to. In fact, it’s able to do it even more efficiently.

By circulating the Ki through the internal organs and the skin. And by circulating it throughout the entire body, inside and out, qigong is able to greatly strengthen the body. Thereby greatly increasing the strength of one’s muscles, and endurance against shock. And with the effects of the Ki instilled in the body, not even blade or arrow can penetrate it. Moreover, it does not require an incantation, so with enough practice, it’s faster than magic.

I heard that using qigong is exhausting, but since the body is strengthened by using it, it becomes easier to move, and it also becomes harder to become tired. When I used it, it felt like the stamina consumption just got cancelled off by the ease of movement qigong provides. But what’s more is that with enough mastery over qigong, the body will become less susceptible to disease and will heal faster, making qigong more convenient for fighters that prefer to get up close and personal than magic.

As for the cons, you could say that there’s a downside of having to go through harsh training for a long time before being able to use it… Putting it bluntly, if you can use qigong, then there’s no point in using strengthening magic. But in my case, I’m more interested in magic so I’ve been using it more, but… Well, whatever. There’s nothing wrong with being able to use both anyway. In any case I should get moving now.

I’ve been using the space magic ‘Warp’ to move in this trip, but I figured I should leave some magic power just in case, so I strengthened my body and started running. By allowing my magic power to recover as I run, I’m able to proceed at a pace that normal people can’t imitate.

I’ve also considered going slowly and hunting some magical beasts, but the magical beasts here are so weak I don’t’ even need to use my qigong and magic. This is something I’ve come to understand in these two of months of going back and forth my house to the store, going on my errands, and going as far as I can while doing so.

It does seem like a slightly stronger magical beast has been appearing near the Town of Renafu though, so if I go quickly, then I might get the chance to fight with it. It would be nice if I could get to it before it gets hunted by someone else.

Also, since I’m going anyway, I’ve been entrusted by the guild master of the merchant guild with a parcel for Pioro-san. I took it since I’m going to pay him a visit anyway, but I should still make sure I finish this job quickly. And so because of that, I decided to hurry to the Town of Renafu.

I proceeded quickly using my magic power and my stamina. As I left the forest, I crossed the meadows, and then I passed through the small towns. It has only started to get the dark by the time I reached the fourth town, but I guess I’ll stop here for the day…

I went off the road a bit, and used my ‘Dimension Home’. I opened the ‘Item Box’ inside and I took out a cup and various meals for travelling that I bought before leaving. There were all sort of delicious stuff back in my world, so I can’t help but wonder how the food here are…

First is a square-shaped, thin sheet that looks like a biscuit.

“… It’s crispy, but it’s mostly flour… not delicious.” [Ryouma]

I poured some water in my cup with water magic, and drank it. Next is this tawny, dice-shaped lump.

“Hmm… it’s hard… but I can still bite through it… Tastes like cracker. It’s probably this hard because it’s so thick.” [Ryouma]

Next is the jerky.

“Salty… yep, that’s pretty much it, salty. A little bite and salt erupts… There’s no umami either, just salt. Yeah, I should stop eating this now. It’s not good for the body.” [Ryouma]

Last is this green bread.

“This also seems to be hard… I can tell just by touching it.” [Ryouma]

After psyching myself, I took a chomp.

“Ouch!? It’s hard… what is this? It’s way too hard.” [Ryouma]

My teeth literally couldn’t bite it. Sigh… There’s no helping it, so I reinforced my jaw with qigong. I took another chomp, but this time I was able to bite it. “Hmm… this doesn’t seem to have a taste…” or so I thought as I munched, when…

“Ek… glurgh! This tastes horrible!!!” [Ryouma]

I disconcertedly drank water, but it wasn’t enough, so I poured another, and drank more.

“Ahhh… Alright, I’ve calmed down… but still, what the hell is this!!?” [Ryouma]

What was that? Grass? Medicinal plants? There were all sorts mixed together so I can’t tell, but… It blended with my saliva just as hard as I bit it! And some sort of grassy odor invaded me followed by the budding taste of something astringent, bitter, and harsh! It tastes horrible!! I’ll never buy these kind of travel foods out of curiosity again! Actually, I don’t care much about the other food, but I will absolutely, never, ever, buy that green thing again!!

After I carved that decision into my mind, I took a fruit out of my ‘Item Box’ to wash away the taste, and sunk my teeth into it.

After supper ended, I entered the ‘Dimension Home’ and went to sleep. Normally, it’d be necessary to pay attention to one’s surrounding when going out, but with the ‘Dimension Home’ that’s not the case. Really, what a convenient spell. 

It’s been two months since I’ve parted with the Jamil Household.

Around the time when the sun had set, and the sky darkened, the screams and angry voices of men can be heard coming from a corner of the Town of Gimuru. Those voices came from the men who attacked Ryouma, but was quickly subdued by Ryouma’s counterattack.

“Run! We can’t win!” [Ruffian Boss]
“This brat – gyaaa!!!” [Lackey 1]
“Guga!?” [Lackey 2]
“Ku…” [Lackey 3]
“Morons! Didn’t I tell you to run?!” [Ruffian Boss]

One of the assailants, sensing they couldn’t win, told the other three men to run. However, the three men, whose leader had not yet fallen, ignored their leader’s order in their rage, and they went after Ryouma. As a result, their arms were broken, their legs crushed, their chins smashed, and their consciousness taken.

“W-Wait! We surrender! We won’t get in your way anymore!” [Ruffian Boss]
“I am truly sorry, however, I no longer have any intentions of listening to such excuses. People like you have recently increased, so if I let you off with an apology, my troubles will never end.” [Ryouma]
“No… Gek…” [Ruffian Boss]

In a flash, Ryouma had knocked the man out.

“And case closed.” [Ryouma]

As Ryouma looked around him, it could be seen that there were already 13 men lying around him, groaning. Their limbs crushed.

“Seriously, how long is this going to continue for?” [Ryouma]

A few seconds after Ryouma had whispered that, four men ran towards him from a distance. These four men are all guards of the Town of Gimuru.

“What’s with all the commotion!? – Is what I’d normally ask, but as expected, it’s you, huh, Ryouma? I won’t ask anymore, are these today’s criminals?” [Guard 1]
“Yes. Thank you as always.” [Ryouma]
“Yeah. Tie up the ones who aren’t injured much! As for the injured ones… are you going to do it today as well?” [Guard 1]
“Yes.” [Ryouma]
“Then do it quickly.” [Guard 1]

Ryouma took out a heal slime, and together with it, he used ‘High Heal’ on the limbs of the ruffians. Under the power of healing magic, the broken bones were quickly healed. As soon as the healing completed, Ryouma handed over the criminals to the guards.

“7 people… adding them up, that totals to 12 bones… It’ll be quite costly again.” [Guard 1]
“A ‘High Heal’ goes for 1,000 suits per cast. It takes 6 casts to heal a bone, so with 12 bones, that will total to 72,000 suits. As service, I’ll shave it a bit, and settle for 70,000 suits.” [Ryouma]

The man’s face stiffened.

“I know it’s needed, but it’s still terrifying.” [Guard 1]
“The ruffians have decreased quite a bit since I’ve started doing this, but there’s still quite a few coming… If these sorts weren’t around, I wouldn’t want to do this either…” [Ryouma]
“At any rate, I’ll have you come to the guardhouse first. After all, we need to pay you.” [Guard 1]
“Alright.” [Ryouma]

Recently, Ryouma has been the target of some ruffians. It was as if they were waiting for the Jamil Household to leave. And the day right after the Jamil Household had managed to return home, the ruffians’ activities suddenly started to increase tremendously. Ruffians like these ones have been coming quite frequently since a month ago.

When the ruffians came to realize how difficult it was to find fault with the store, they started fabricating and spreading ill rumors. However, with the store’s steadily built-up reputation, along with the help of Grisela and Serge, the rumors were quickly put to rest. Having realized that not even their fabricated rumors had taken effect, the ruffians finally decided to do things directly.

Since then, a lot of ruffians attacked the store at night, while others tried to ambush Ryouma. But with the slimes, Fei, Li Ling, and Ryouma all working together, the ruffians were unable to win. As for the damages – such as when the ruffians tried to forcefully push their way into the store – it was only on the level that could easily be fixed with some materials and magic.

Of course, those expenses were more or less covered by the guards after the criminals were caught. Moreover, since right from the start Ryouma had used magic to build the store, the damages were fixed at little to no cost, causing the compensation to become a part of the day’s profit instead.

Speaking of which, the ruffians who broke the buildings were made to pay the repair expenses. When they didn’t have enough money to cover the bill, the guards covered it for them in advance. Of course, this isn’t free, but an advance. So the guards made the ruffians work as punishment until they were able to pay it back.

A lot of the ruffians have been caught since they started attacking, but they still didn’t give up despite having no other choice left but violence. Because of that, Ryouma has been the target of their attacks nearly every day. In response to this, Grisela, Serge, and even Wogan huddled together to discuss the issue. They then decided that all the assailants who have been injured or poisoned by the poison slime will have to receive treatment from the heal slime or an antidote, causing them to have a long list of medical expenses. With this, the risks will be higher, and the assailants will now have to think twice before attacking. This is something they decided after taking into account Ryouma’s strength and the store’s defense.

In this world, it’s legal to injure your assailants provided that it’s under the pretext of self-defense. That’s why the ruffians can’t complain. In fact no one would complain even if they were left alone after being injured. But if you do heal them, then you’ll have the right to demand payment from them for the medical bill afterwards. Beating someone up, and then charging them medical bills? No matter how you look at it, this is clearly extortion. However, since it’s self-defense, it’s still barely legal according to the laws of this world.

Ryouma wasn’t happy with this kind of method, but while the current situation wasn’t a problem for Ryouma, at the rate it was going it would eventually become dangerous for the employees except for Li Ling and Fei, so Ryouma had no choice but to agree.

As a result, Ryouma has been plucking apart the ruffians who have either attacked him or the store. And right after incapacitating them, Ryouma would then heal the ruffians, and then push a huge medical bill on to them. Thanks to this, a rumor started to circulate amongst the ruffians that a legal but ludicrously high medical bill was being pushed on to them, causing the number of assailants to greatly decrease.

“Here’s the payment for today. 70,000 suits all in all, please confirm.” [Guard 1]
“The amount’s correct, thank you very much.” [Ryouma]

Ryouma gave his thanks after he received the payment for the medical bill at the guardhouse.

“Don’t mind it. It’s not like it’s hurting our pockets or anything. All we’re doing is just shouldering the debt momentarily. We’ll have those guys properly pay up later. Besides, this is also beneficial to us. All the ruffians have been going to you, so lately, they haven’t been bothering other people much. Moreover, there are also those who have started to reform while under forced labor, so this really isn’t a bad thing.” [Guard 1]
“Hearing that makes me relieved. Thank you very much.” [Ryouma]

Ryouma gave his thanks one more time, and then he left the guardhouse.

“Good work.” [Guards]
“Thanks for today.” [Guards]

It’s become a routine for Ryouma to be attacked while on the way home, and have to go to the guardhouse. As a result, the guards at the guardhouse and the northern gate have somewhat become acquainted with Ryouma. Like this the guards would wave and call Ryouma, while Ryouma would do the same back as he went on his way home.

Around the same time, at a different place, inside a room.

Within the dimly lit room were two figures. Those figures were the guild master of the tamer guild, Matthew, and a suspicious masked man.

“It seems that boy’s store is still in business… What’s going on? I believe I ordered you to crush his store, but…” [Matthew]

Said Matthew as he sent a glare at the mask man. The masked man bowed deeply.

“My apologies. I did not expect this result as I hired skilled bouncers, but that boy was stronger than I had anticipated…” [Masked Man]
“Incompetent fool! It’s only a brat! What the heck have you been doing!? I’ve been giving you money after money, and yet you have no results to show!?” [Matthew]

The man bit his lips. This man was an expert who would take dirty jobs, put up a plan according to the client’s wish, and execute it. People who work at this field will do anything for money, but there are also those who had a sense of aesthetics or pride. This man was that type. He had took pride in his work. But right now, that pride is being trampled on, causing him relentless throes of vexation.

The man has been taking jobs from Matthew for a long time. This time was also the same. He received a payment, and as soon as the Jamil Household got home, he hired some men and went after Ryouma’s store. However, he hasn’t been able to bring out a single result.

At the start he may have simply been adopting a wait-and-see strategy as he randomly chose people, but right now is different. He has been calling skilled people from other towns, paying them, and ordering them to attack. A regular store would have long folded by now.

But until now he hasn’t been successful. There are three reasons behind this. One, Ryouma is protected by several influential people making it difficult for his men to move. Second, Ryouma himself was simply far too strong. And lastly, in order to hire people it’s needed to pay up the appropriate amount, but Matthew hasn’t been paying.

“If we don’t hire an expert now, then…” [Masked Man]
“That again!!? I believe I’ve informed you that I will NOT be releasing more money than that! Any more than this won’t be appropriate for a little kid like that! If you think you can exploit money from me like this, give it up!” [Matthew]
“I don’t have any other methods aside from this.” [Masked Man]
“This useless bastard… To begin with, why is that boy’s store still open? Even though he’s been using such a low-class magical beast like a slime… Oi, could it be? Is that boy’s store actually profitable? You could investigate at least this much, right?” [Matthew]

When the masked man heard that, he couldn’t help but wince back at Matthew’s incompetence.

This masked man and Matthew may not have a deep relationship, but they have been working together for a long time. Because of that, he had a good grasp on Matthew’s jealousy. And he couldn’t help but wonder, why? Why is it that Matthew won’t even bother to investigate the matters surrounding the people he wants hurt?

“Are you not aware? And here I thought you wanted him hurt because of his store’s profits.” [Masked Man]

Of course, that was not the masked man’s true feelings. He’s already fully aware that this man, Matthew, is doing this out of jealousy, and had said that as sarcasm.

Until now it was the masked man who had been responsible for putting together all the plans, and Matthew has not done a single thing till now except give approval. The masked man knew that as well, but he asked that only to put a stop to the conversation.

If one were to give an easy analogy for the man called Matthew, then he’s like a kid who received a toy called authority. He desired authority, then upon receiving it, he wanted to use it. And Matthew would use those two toys of his, authority and money, to eliminate anyone he didn’t like. He was that kind of man. That’s why, perhaps… it’s useless to think of a reason.

Matthew may not be a person who could be said to be above others when it comes to ability, but he was able to accumulate money and build connections through his position and authority. Matthew used those tools to slither his way to the good graces of those above him. And through bribery, he was able to ascend to an even higher position. It was through repeating this sort of unscrupulous method that Matthew was able to take the seat of a guild master at a tamer guild’s branch. Moreover, there were also plenty of times when Matthew would use the masked man to deal with future rivals.

“Hmph! Why must I be concerned about a brat like that? Besides, I do know something! Even if it’s just a rumor I hear from time to time, I do know that he washes clothes cheaply, and a lot of customers come to his shop. In fact, he’s even hired people. So I know that there’s no way he could make a profit. Even if he does, it’s probably a laughable amount.” [Matthew]

At such a response, what else could the masked man do? Nothing. There was nothing else but disgust.

“It’s certainly a miniscule amount from Matthew-sama’s perspective.” [Masked Man]

When Matthew heard that, he couldn’t help but twist his face in delight. However the next words, were like a downpour of cold rain.

“But to small creatures like me, a store with enough profit to make a branch store can’t be called small.” [Masked Man]

Those words were clearly sarcastic. He might lose a good customer because of this as Matthew was a high-paying customer who would bring out money at the pettiest things. However, he’s too stupid.

So far the masked man has had no problems with the people he has arranged. Each time, the men he has hired was always able to accomplish the job given. However, Ryouma was not a normal boy. Therefore, a normal method which worked for normal people couldn’t work on him. So the masked man offered a change of plans, but Matthew wouldn’t have any of it. That was the biggest reason they failed. And that failure hurt the masked man’s pride.

If someone with the ability were to investigate Ryouma’s background, then one would find out that he is someone who possesses connections to several influential people. The guild master of the adventurer’s guild, the guild master of the merchant guild, the president of a leading firm in the country, and even the duke’s household. For someone to lay his hand on a person like that, he must either be uninformed, or someone who possesses unyielding confidence. Matthew is the former, and the masked man is the latter.

Even if he were to go against the duke’s household itself, the masked man is confident that they won’t be able to catch him, but Matthew can only get in the way. If the masked man were to continue to associate himself with someone like Matthew, then he might just trip. At this rate, the risks won’t match the reward. If Matthew were to do something like this again, then… it might be better for him to resign.

“Branch store!? What’s the meaning of this!? I was told that his laundry services were cheap! There’s no way he could make a profit with that!” [Matthew]
“It’s true that’s he’s making a lot. In fact, the branch store seems to be a story from way back. And while it’s true that he charges at a low price, a lot of customers come every day, you know? A single person might only pay 10 suits, but with a 1000? Then that’s 10,000 suits. And because it’s cheap, there are plenty of people who become regulars. Moreover, as long as people live, there will be laundries every day. In other words, he’ll never run out of business. It’s a really well-thought-out business plan.” [Masked Man]
“True, true… that’s definitely true. However! There shouldn’t be any way for him to deal with that many laundry! Otherwise his employee expenses would pile up!” [Matthew]

The masked man blatantly sighed.

“That store can wash over a thousand laundries every day. Who, no, what do you think is washing those?” [Masked Man]
“Huh? It’s a person of course! That’s why I’m telling you it’s not possible, because his expenses will pile up!” [Matthew]
“True, if it was a human, then his expenses would definitely pile up. However, what’s washing the laundry is not a human, but a slime.” [Masked Man]
“Slime… you say? You, what are you saying?” [Matthew]
“It’s exactly as I have said. That slime you’ve been making fun of is what’s washing the laundries, so there’s no problem with expenses. That’s all. I have nothing else to say to you.” [Masked Man]

As the masked man said that, he took out a bag, and tossed it to Matthew.

“Huh? Money?” [Matthew]
“It’s my portion of the money you have entrusted to me until now. I’m withdrawing from this request.” [Masked Man]
“What!? Wait! Now you’re telling me that YOU’RE withdrawing!?” [Matthew]

Without paying attention to Matthew’s panicked, angry voice, the masked man admonished Matthew with a voice that carried a tinge of disgust.

“I’ve returned the money I’ve been entrusted with. You should quickly stray your hand from the boy called Ryouma. That is not an opponent that you can manage. If you listened to me, then it might have still been possible, but…” [Masked Man]

As the masked man finished saying that, he quickly used space magic without even giving Matthew the time to stop him. The masked man vanished from the room, Matthew was left all alone. A few seconds passed, and a vein bulged from Matthew’s forehead. In his rage, Matthew kicked a nearby chair, and briskly strode out of the room. In his eyes glimmered hate and jealousy far more intense than before.