Translator: flyingsakana
Editor/Proofreader: Jokoril
—
My name is Nanahoshi.
Nanahoshi Shizuka.
A high school girl hailing from another world. In other words, one of the teleported. Currently, in preparation for the fated day, I am living in Perugius’ castle while skipping ahead in time. To be blunt, it’s a decadent life consisting mostly of sleeping right after eating.
I started doing some exercise as I’ve been putting on a little weight lately. Mostly doing jogs and stretches. Also, under the instruction of Sylvaril, I am doing some hand-to-hand combat training. Apparently, I don’t have much talent in that.
Now then.
Today, as usual, I started exercising the moment I woke up, and got criticised by Sylvaril. Something like, “focus your killing intent onto your enemy when you attack”. As someone who is just doing this for the sake of slimming down, there’s no way I can do that. My mind is so occupied with thinking about burning fats that I have absolutely no space for killing intent.
Speaking of which, the effects of exercising are amazing. After my daily routine, my stomach goes completely empty. It lets out a nice big growl, begging for meal time to come.
Now then, who will be visiting today?
What will they bring for me?
I returned to my room holding those thoughts.
And then, sitting there at the table was Rudeus. Lately, when I see the figure of him, I feel a sense of relief.
A pleasant aroma of some sauce and bonito flakes drifted in the air. When I focused my eyes, I saw a bunch of brown spheres piled up like a mountain on a plate.
Looks like we will be having Takoyaki1. With this realisation, saliva rushed in to fill my mouth.
[Gulp]
Swallowing my saliva, I sat down on my seat. I want to eat it now.
[Morning.]
[… Ahh… Good morning… Nanahoshi…]
Unfortunately, while I am relieved that Rudeus came to visit, there is one downside to it. Sometimes, he comes to me asking for advice. Things like “This and that happened in my family, what do I do?”.
Of course, I am indebted to him. To my utmost limits, I would think about the matter and give my thoughts on it, hoping that whatever I said could be of some help.
However, sometimes, he brings up unbelievably heavy topics. In those times, Rudeus will have a look on his face like he was about to die, and greet me with a voice like he was about to die. Yes, just like how he is right now.
Not only that, the Rudeus today is lying flat on the table, still carrying that dying look. Without a doubt, the topic today is going to be awfully dark.
He sluggishly propped his own body up, and faked a smile.
[I made some Takoyaki today. There’s Takoyaki sauce and mayonnaise. The bonito flakes aren’t made from bonito, but it smells similar right? The octopus inside has a poisonous color but it’s safe to consume, so you don’t need to worry.]
[…Thank you. I-It looks very good.]
[Anyways, have a bite. I think it turned out pretty well this time round.]
Let’s enjoy it before the dark topic comes.
In that spirit, I picked up the takoyaki with the toothpick sticking out of it and ate it.
It looks like its fresh off the stove, but a little time has passed. It’s hot but not to the point where it would burn my tongue. There’s also the savory smell of the somewhat salty sauce and sweet mayonnaise. When I bite into the soft exterior, the runny filling rushes into my mouth. The burst of flavor hits every part of my mouth. Delicious.
By reflex, I took a second bite. Amidst the runny filling, I bit into something with a stiffer texture. It’s the octopus meat. I don’t have a tongue so sensitive that I could taste the flavor of the octopus, but there is a huge difference with or without it. It has been a long time since I ate octopus meat, was it ten years? At the very least, I haven’t had any octopus since I got teleported into this world.
[-Hofuu..]
Maybe because I stuffed my mouth full, such a sound leaked out. When I breathe in, the smell of the food passes through my nose and a subtle aroma of spring onions and red ginger2 remains. This smell further intensified my hunger, making me reach out for the next takoyaki.
[Is it good?]
[It’s good.]
[I see.]
While he also snacked, Rudeus watched me voraciously devour the takoyaki. It’s embarrassing to be watched while eating… but I can’t stop moving my hands.
This takoyaki has a nostalgic taste. How do I put it… it tastes cheap. The surface doesn’t have any crispiness to it. It does not seem like tenkasu3 or yam was used in making these.
Still, it tastes nostalgic.
Ah, I see. This tastes like the takoyaki mom bought me in the supermarket food court. The taste of temple festivals.
It definitely isn’t cheek-meltingly delicious, but I never would have thought that I could eat something like this just a few years ago. There were times where I thought about how I would never be able to eat takoyaki again.
I am on the verge of tears.
[Hey, Nanahoshi. It’ll be great if you can listen to this while you eat.]
Ah.
[I have something I want to talk to you about…]
Here it comes.
[…What?]
To be honest, I don’t want to hear it. The topics Rudeus talks to me about are too heavy for me. Though it is true that I have been in this world for a while, I am but a mere high school girl in the previous world. Even if you ask me about things like family relationships, I don’t have any decent answers for you.
[Actually… Lucy…]
Lucy.
Rudeus’ eldest daughter.
The most outstanding of the kids, who has her act together.
That outstanding Lucy, what exactly has she done? It can’t be that she’s laid her hands on her little brothers… That incident with Aisha and Ars should have been resolved… Please spare me from another heavy topic.
[She brought Clive home the other day and told me, “I am going to marry this person.”]
Clive-kun.
Ah, that should be Cliff’s son.
To Lucy, he should be a childhood friend.
If I recall, he moved to Milis.
How old was Lucy again?
[… Sorry, Lucy-chan, how old is she now?]
[18.]
[And Clive-kun?]
[16.]
Ahh, they have already reached that age. They were only 14 the last time I heard about them. It might be due to my lifestyle now, but time really flies.
If I am not wrong, one is an adult starting from 15 years old in this world. Those young children have grown into splendid adults. Come to think of it, Lucy has surpassed me in age, not counting the years spent in this world. Wait, but- huh?
[Before this, you told me that Lucy-chan and Clive-kun were already dating right?]
[Yeah.]
Even though Clive-kun moved, if they kept in contact and marry when they reunite, it wouldn’t be strange. It might have been decided between them without the knowledge of Rudeus. Then is it a problem on Clive-kun’s side?
[Then, did Clive-kun not get employed?]
[Nope. He became a priest of the Milis Church. Having good grades, he was already someone of status when he was dating Lucy. He is indeed impressive.]
[…Then what is the problem?]
Did Rudeus get into a big fight with Cliff or Elinalize without me knowing?
If it’s that, then I can at least be the mediator.
[Ah, it’s not really a problem but… Somehow I am the only one that didn’t know.]
[About what?]
[About Lucy’s wedding… Notwithstanding Sylphy and Roxy, they even consulted Eris. But I was the only one who didn’t know and it came so suddenly.]
[Isn’t that normal? Aren’t meetings with the bride’s father all like this?]
Even I would probably do the same thing. I wouldn’t go out of my way to report every detail about my dating life to my parents. There’s nothing to hide, but until the decision to marry is confirmed and finalised, there wouldn’t be anything to inform.
[Is that how it is?]
[That’s how it is.]
[Then that’s fine, but… When she dragged Clive-kun to me, saying she would marry him, I asked about many things like Clive-kun’s future prospects and their goals. Hearing their answers, I felt that the way they think is indeed inexperienced, but steadfast and realistic. When I was in admiration of how much he resembled Cliff-senpai, Lucy suddenly said, “This probably doesn’t seem like much to Papa.”. For a joke, it sounds a little~ too sarcastic and felt a little sulky. Even though I didn’t think like that at all… It might be that I-I… am hated by Lucy…]
Rudeus has a face on the verge of tears right now. Even though he is a full grown adult, why is he making such a pitiful face? Regarding his relationship with his children though, he has completely lost his confidence ever since a few years ago.
[That’s why I told you to properly talk to your children.]
[I talked to them! Properly! Yeah… I intended to do that… but the kids, when they talk to me, they somehow use honorifics and are very stiff… it’s different for Lara and Chris though…]
[Ahh…]
It might not seem like it when he is interacting with me, but it seems like Rudeus plays the role of a strict father in his household. If that’s the case, then it would probably wear on the children. My family wasn’t like that, but one of my friends’ was. She was always complaining that she couldn’t talk to her father about anything.
Thinking about it, ever since I graduated middle school, I don’t think I have been properly talking to Dad. It’s not like I have a reason not to, but I was going through puberty. One becomes an adult at age 15 in this world, but puberty comes at around the same age. There’s nothing out of the ordinary going on here.
[Hey Nanahoshi, what should I do?]
[…What you told me just now, it would be good if you tell that to Lucy as it is. “Clive-kun is someone who is reliable and grounded in reality, I wish you both happiness.”]
As far as I know, Lucy did not hate Rudeus.
On the contrary, she should be working hard to meet Rudeus’ expectations.
Of course, I might be wrong as I haven’t met her for years.
[Ahh, I see. Okay. But how should I bring it up to her… perhaps in a bath?]
[In a bath? You are joking right? Seriously?]
[I’m joking. Sorry.]
[Maybe while eating… No, invite both of them to a meal, wouldn’t it be good to talk it out over the three of you? And then talk about Lucy-chan’s good points. Maybe something like, “She is my pride and joy and I will never forgive you if you bring her unhappiness.” to Clive-kun wouldn’t be bad? You can even talk about her weaknesses and say something like, “My daughter is like this but please take care of her.” I think that would be good.]
[Hmm, you are right. I’ll do that. But wouldn’t it be better not to talk too much about her weaknesses?]
[… Her good and bad points, it would be better if you talked about everything. At times like this it is best to be frank. It would be very obvious if you tried to sell some weird pleasantries.]
[…Got it.]
Somehow, Rudeus is making a face as if he was saved. It seems like I have been of help this time round,though I don’t know how it will turn out in the end.
Speaking of which, I wonder how I managed to make such bold statements about something I have never even experienced before? Perhaps this is what I want Dad to tell me when I get married.
…Dad, huh…
How is he now? He must be worried…
[Ah, go ahead, eat up.]
[Alright.]
For the time being, that ends the sentimental talk. Rudeus and I started reaching out for more takoyaki.
Alright. When I get back, I will definitely eat takoyaki.
If possible, with Dad.
[Hou, looks like you are eating something unusual today.]
While having those sentimental thoughts, a certain man arrived at the table. One can feel a majestic aura emanating from his white regalia, a man with silver-grey hair.
It’s Perugius.
Behind him follows Sylvaril, as usual.
When Rudeus brings in food, he would always appear like this. As a food connoisseur, he cannot resist trying avant-garde food such as this.
[I shall have some too.]
[Please do, please do.]
With a face full of smiles, Rudeus served up a plate of takoyaki. Perugius grabbed the fork offered by Sylvaril, got a piece of takoyaki and ate it.
[Hou… I see, this has a cheap taste.]
[Well, it’s a dish of the common man.]
[But this does not taste bad at all… Hmm… there is something cartilage-like inside. What is this?]
Ah…
I wonder how Perugius-sama feels about eating octopuses. In this world, I have never really heard of anyone eating octopus. Even in our previous world, westerners do not really eat octopus. If they found out we fed them octopus, wouldn’t they get angry…?
[It’s from a Great Tentacle.]
Rudeus said it simply like that.
[Great… Tentacle… you say?]
Perugius’ actions froze. With a stiff facial expression, his gaze fixated on the takoyaki served in front of him. Maybe because of that, the air around Sylvaril changed. She’s making a face as if she was saying, what did you just let Perugius-sama eat?
Hey, the one who said he would eat it first was Perugius…
[Such a nostalgic name.]
Unexpectedly, Perugius’ expression softened. With a hint of sentimentality, his eyes narrowed. Using the fork, he cut open the takoyaki and took out the octopus meat.
Uwaa… I shouldn’t have seen this.
It’s green, a green octopus. Red on the surface with green flesh.
[If I recall, you were attacked by one of these and lost all your rations during the laplace war right? The tentacles remaining on deck were then grilled for food.]
[Yeah, it was Urupen’s idea. Given its color, I thought it was definitely poisonous but surprisingly it was not. Since it was the moments right after a battle, it tasted very good… I see, to think that I would be able to eat this again.]
Phew, looks like there wasn’t a problem. It seems that Rudeus already had knowledge that Perugius had octopus before. Without anyone noticing, Sylvaril went back to her normal demeanor.
[Sylvaril.]
[Yes Sir!]
[Take down the recipe.]
[Understood!]
Rudeus muttered something like “I knew you would say that”, took out a piece of paper and handed it to her.
[I made these soft and chewy this time, but a way to make the surface crispy was also written down in the recipe. Please do use it as a reference.]
Crispy takoyaki.
Ah, I want to eat it too.
What should I do? Should I request for it?
But requesting it is… it seems a little too overbearing and I don’t want to be…
[For Nanahoshi, I will bring some next time.]
[… Alright, please do.]
Did he learn magic to read my mind?
Nah, if he could read minds then he would not have agonised over the issue of his daughter.
It must be that I am easy to read.
Well, we have known each other for a long time, so it can’t be helped.
Still, I’m a little frustrated.
[Hmph… Sylvaril.]
[Yes Sir!]
[My throat is dry. Bring us some drinks. Shione’s Second Flash, with a few drops of Asuran Wine.]
[Understood!]
Before I knew it, Perugius started preparing drinks.
[Oops, my apologies, I wasn’t thoughtful enough.]
[Your preparations are always one step lacking, Rudeus Greyrat.]
[I have no excuses.]
Turning around, I see that Sylvaril is moving her hands quickly, preparing tea using the tea set that the room was equipped with. Then, I noticed Armanfi carrying something to our table – three cups of tea, steaming hot and fully prepared, in front of us.
[Please enjoy your tea, it’s Shione’s Second Flash.]
I am served one of the cups.
Takoyaki and red tea. Certainly, there is the aftertaste of the sauce remaining in my mouth and I’m starting to get thirsty… But I feel like these two items won’t make a good match. What drink goes well with takoyaki? Cider? Cola?
[Hmm? It’s good?]
Sipping it with those thoughts, a gust of spring breeze blew in my mouth. Surprisingly, the taste of the tea did not clash with the intense flavor of the takoyaki sauce and mayonnaise. In fact, it accentuated it. After gulping it down, my mouth feels fresh with only trace amounts of the bonito flakes’ aftertaste remaining. I instinctively crave the next bite of takoyaki. It feels like the combination of having milk right after Anpan.3
[To have tea that goes well with takoyaki… as expected of Perugius-sama.]
[Hmph. That goes without saying. I have experienced food from all sorts of places and time periods. I am different from the likes of Baglah Haglah4 who’s interested in only filling his stomach.]
When complimented by Rudeus, Perugius puffed out his chest with pride. While Rudeus is an expert at flattery, this is another level of amazing.
Food from our previous world, paired with drinks from this world. There properly exists something that goes well together. In the past, I didn’t care so much about that and merely pursued the taste of our original world, huh…
[If you are so inclined, I would even personally pair every meal you bring here with my drinks.]
[Ahh, that would be a great help. By all means, please do. I can use it as reference for my food habits going forward.]
[Hahaha! Very well!]
Perugius laughed. I have no idea what triggered that reaction, but Sylvaril also seems to be in a good mood, and Rudeus looks relieved. The takoyaki I’m having in this pleasant atmosphere tastes really good.
[Thank you for the food.]
Having finished the takoyaki, I joined my hands together to give thanks. The color of the octopus gave me a little shock, but the taste was not bad. Well, it’s been a while since I had octopus after all.
By the time I ate my fill, it was sunset. Rudeus is already in making preparations to leave. It seems like we meet just about every other day to me, but it’s once a month for him.
[Ah, Nanahoshi.]
[Yes?]
[Here, an addition. I thought of some more things I wanted to add. I’ll leave it to you.]
Lastly, Rudeus handed me a piece of paper. Folded four times, it was a small letter.
[Alright, definitely.]
I don’t look at the contents, carefully placing this letter into a small pocket that I never let leave my body.
—
When the time came to see Rudeus off, it was completely dark out. As I walked to my room, I thought about today’s events.
Lately, it feels like Rudeus has been coming less frequently. As he adds on more years to his age, he too gets saddled with various responsibilities. That’s right, age. Compared to when I first met him, he has aged considerably. Rudeus is now 35 years old.
His children too, are becoming adults one by one. That small and cute Lucy-chan is going to get married soon…time goes by too fast. There will come a day where Rudeus will just suddenly stop coming altogether.
Somehow, I feel like I am being left behind.
Ah, that’s wrong.
Of course I knew.
It isn’t me that is being left behind, it’s the opposite.
I am the one that is jumping ahead into the future.
Returning home to our previous world in the end.
When I think about that, I feel a tinge of loneliness. How many more times will I be able to meet Rudeus or Zanoba like this…?
[…]
I patted the small pocket that I never let leave my body. Inside it, contains several letters Rudeus wrote for his family back in the previous world. He writes a new one every few years. He too, is now giving his all, living in this world.
I am deeply indebted to Rudeus. In my life, I will probably never meet another person who would take care of me as much as him. He is someone similar to Dad and Mom.
I don’t know whether delivering these letters would suffice as repayment for his kindness. But if I manage to make it home, I will see to it that they are delivered. Then I will tell his family about how he is living properly in this world and how much he took care of me without leaving out a single detail.
[…Alright, I am in your care, Sukeakoto-san.]
[Yes.]
With my head filled with those thoughts, I once again go back to sleep.
—
Some translator notes:1. A kind of fried dumpling containing octopus meat: Video link
2. Also known as Benishouga, they are ginger that is pickled into a red color. You often see these in sushi restaurants, along with the Soy Sauce and Wasabi.
3. Also known as Agedama, they are small pellets of crispy fried tempura batter. Often used as toppings in a variety of Japanese dishes:Video link
3. Bread with red bean paste filling: Video link
3. It’s not strange if you completely forgot about this guy. He is an extremely minor character who appeared in one of the extra chapters in the Main Story, Volume 6. The chapter name is “The Two Who Met”.
Translator: flyingsakana
Editor/Proofreader: Jokoril
—
My name is Nanahoshi.
Nanahoshi Shizuka.
A high school girl hailing from another world. In other words, one of the teleported. Currently, in preparation for the fated day, I am living in Perugius’ castle while skipping ahead in time. To be blunt, it’s a decadent life consisting mostly of sleeping right after eating.
I started doing some exercise as I’ve been putting on a little weight lately. Mostly doing jogs and stretches. Also, under the instruction of Sylvaril, I am doing some hand-to-hand combat training. Apparently, I don’t have much talent in that.
Now then.
Today, as usual, I started exercising the moment I woke up, and got criticised by Sylvaril. Something like, “focus your killing intent onto your enemy when you attack”. As someone who is just doing this for the sake of slimming down, there’s no way I can do that. My mind is so occupied with thinking about burning fats that I have absolutely no space for killing intent.
Speaking of which, the effects of exercising are amazing. After my daily routine, my stomach goes completely empty. It lets out a nice big growl, begging for meal time to come.
Now then, who will be visiting today?
What will they bring for me?
I returned to my room holding those thoughts.
And then, sitting there at the table was Rudeus. Lately, when I see the figure of him, I feel a sense of relief.
A pleasant aroma of some sauce and bonito flakes drifted in the air. When I focused my eyes, I saw a bunch of brown spheres piled up like a mountain on a plate.
Looks like we will be having Takoyaki1. With this realisation, saliva rushed in to fill my mouth.
[Gulp]
Swallowing my saliva, I sat down on my seat. I want to eat it now.
[Morning.]
[… Ahh… Good morning… Nanahoshi…]
Unfortunately, while I am relieved that Rudeus came to visit, there is one downside to it. Sometimes, he comes to me asking for advice. Things like “This and that happened in my family, what do I do?”.
Of course, I am indebted to him. To my utmost limits, I would think about the matter and give my thoughts on it, hoping that whatever I said could be of some help.
However, sometimes, he brings up unbelievably heavy topics. In those times, Rudeus will have a look on his face like he was about to die, and greet me with a voice like he was about to die. Yes, just like how he is right now.
Not only that, the Rudeus today is lying flat on the table, still carrying that dying look. Without a doubt, the topic today is going to be awfully dark.
He sluggishly propped his own body up, and faked a smile.
[I made some Takoyaki today. There’s Takoyaki sauce and mayonnaise. The bonito flakes aren’t made from bonito, but it smells similar right? The octopus inside has a poisonous color but it’s safe to consume, so you don’t need to worry.]
[…Thank you. I-It looks very good.]
[Anyways, have a bite. I think it turned out pretty well this time round.]
Let’s enjoy it before the dark topic comes.
In that spirit, I picked up the takoyaki with the toothpick sticking out of it and ate it.
It looks like its fresh off the stove, but a little time has passed. It’s hot but not to the point where it would burn my tongue. There’s also the savory smell of the somewhat salty sauce and sweet mayonnaise. When I bite into the soft exterior, the runny filling rushes into my mouth. The burst of flavor hits every part of my mouth. Delicious.
By reflex, I took a second bite. Amidst the runny filling, I bit into something with a stiffer texture. It’s the octopus meat. I don’t have a tongue so sensitive that I could taste the flavor of the octopus, but there is a huge difference with or without it. It has been a long time since I ate octopus meat, was it ten years? At the very least, I haven’t had any octopus since I got teleported into this world.
[-Hofuu..]
Maybe because I stuffed my mouth full, such a sound leaked out. When I breathe in, the smell of the food passes through my nose and a subtle aroma of spring onions and red ginger2 remains. This smell further intensified my hunger, making me reach out for the next takoyaki.
[Is it good?]
[It’s good.]
[I see.]
While he also snacked, Rudeus watched me voraciously devour the takoyaki. It’s embarrassing to be watched while eating… but I can’t stop moving my hands.
This takoyaki has a nostalgic taste. How do I put it… it tastes cheap. The surface doesn’t have any crispiness to it. It does not seem like tenkasu3 or yam was used in making these.
Still, it tastes nostalgic.
Ah, I see. This tastes like the takoyaki mom bought me in the supermarket food court. The taste of temple festivals.
It definitely isn’t cheek-meltingly delicious, but I never would have thought that I could eat something like this just a few years ago. There were times where I thought about how I would never be able to eat takoyaki again.
I am on the verge of tears.
[Hey, Nanahoshi. It’ll be great if you can listen to this while you eat.]
Ah.
[I have something I want to talk to you about…]
Here it comes.
[…What?]
To be honest, I don’t want to hear it. The topics Rudeus talks to me about are too heavy for me. Though it is true that I have been in this world for a while, I am but a mere high school girl in the previous world. Even if you ask me about things like family relationships, I don’t have any decent answers for you.
[Actually… Lucy…]
Lucy.
Rudeus’ eldest daughter.
The most outstanding of the kids, who has her act together.
That outstanding Lucy, what exactly has she done? It can’t be that she’s laid her hands on her little brothers… That incident with Aisha and Ars should have been resolved… Please spare me from another heavy topic.
[She brought Clive home the other day and told me, “I am going to marry this person.”]
Clive-kun.
Ah, that should be Cliff’s son.
To Lucy, he should be a childhood friend.
If I recall, he moved to Milis.
How old was Lucy again?
[… Sorry, Lucy-chan, how old is she now?]
[18.]
[And Clive-kun?]
[16.]
Ahh, they have already reached that age. They were only 14 the last time I heard about them. It might be due to my lifestyle now, but time really flies.
If I am not wrong, one is an adult starting from 15 years old in this world. Those young children have grown into splendid adults. Come to think of it, Lucy has surpassed me in age, not counting the years spent in this world. Wait, but- huh?
[Before this, you told me that Lucy-chan and Clive-kun were already dating right?]
[Yeah.]
Even though Clive-kun moved, if they kept in contact and marry when they reunite, it wouldn’t be strange. It might have been decided between them without the knowledge of Rudeus. Then is it a problem on Clive-kun’s side?
[Then, did Clive-kun not get employed?]
[Nope. He became a priest of the Milis Church. Having good grades, he was already someone of status when he was dating Lucy. He is indeed impressive.]
[…Then what is the problem?]
Did Rudeus get into a big fight with Cliff or Elinalize without me knowing?
If it’s that, then I can at least be the mediator.
[Ah, it’s not really a problem but… Somehow I am the only one that didn’t know.]
[About what?]
[About Lucy’s wedding… Notwithstanding Sylphy and Roxy, they even consulted Eris. But I was the only one who didn’t know and it came so suddenly.]
[Isn’t that normal? Aren’t meetings with the bride’s father all like this?]
Even I would probably do the same thing. I wouldn’t go out of my way to report every detail about my dating life to my parents. There’s nothing to hide, but until the decision to marry is confirmed and finalised, there wouldn’t be anything to inform.
[Is that how it is?]
[That’s how it is.]
[Then that’s fine, but… When she dragged Clive-kun to me, saying she would marry him, I asked about many things like Clive-kun’s future prospects and their goals. Hearing their answers, I felt that the way they think is indeed inexperienced, but steadfast and realistic. When I was in admiration of how much he resembled Cliff-senpai, Lucy suddenly said, “This probably doesn’t seem like much to Papa.”. For a joke, it sounds a little~ too sarcastic and felt a little sulky. Even though I didn’t think like that at all… It might be that I-I… am hated by Lucy…]
Rudeus has a face on the verge of tears right now. Even though he is a full grown adult, why is he making such a pitiful face? Regarding his relationship with his children though, he has completely lost his confidence ever since a few years ago.
[That’s why I told you to properly talk to your children.]
[I talked to them! Properly! Yeah… I intended to do that… but the kids, when they talk to me, they somehow use honorifics and are very stiff… it’s different for Lara and Chris though…]
[Ahh…]
It might not seem like it when he is interacting with me, but it seems like Rudeus plays the role of a strict father in his household. If that’s the case, then it would probably wear on the children. My family wasn’t like that, but one of my friends’ was. She was always complaining that she couldn’t talk to her father about anything.
Thinking about it, ever since I graduated middle school, I don’t think I have been properly talking to Dad. It’s not like I have a reason not to, but I was going through puberty. One becomes an adult at age 15 in this world, but puberty comes at around the same age. There’s nothing out of the ordinary going on here.
[Hey Nanahoshi, what should I do?]
[…What you told me just now, it would be good if you tell that to Lucy as it is. “Clive-kun is someone who is reliable and grounded in reality, I wish you both happiness.”]
As far as I know, Lucy did not hate Rudeus.
On the contrary, she should be working hard to meet Rudeus’ expectations.
Of course, I might be wrong as I haven’t met her for years.
[Ahh, I see. Okay. But how should I bring it up to her… perhaps in a bath?]
[In a bath? You are joking right? Seriously?]
[I’m joking. Sorry.]
[Maybe while eating… No, invite both of them to a meal, wouldn’t it be good to talk it out over the three of you? And then talk about Lucy-chan’s good points. Maybe something like, “She is my pride and joy and I will never forgive you if you bring her unhappiness.” to Clive-kun wouldn’t be bad? You can even talk about her weaknesses and say something like, “My daughter is like this but please take care of her.” I think that would be good.]
[Hmm, you are right. I’ll do that. But wouldn’t it be better not to talk too much about her weaknesses?]
[… Her good and bad points, it would be better if you talked about everything. At times like this it is best to be frank. It would be very obvious if you tried to sell some weird pleasantries.]
[…Got it.]
Somehow, Rudeus is making a face as if he was saved. It seems like I have been of help this time round,though I don’t know how it will turn out in the end.
Speaking of which, I wonder how I managed to make such bold statements about something I have never even experienced before? Perhaps this is what I want Dad to tell me when I get married.
…Dad, huh…
How is he now? He must be worried…
[Ah, go ahead, eat up.]
[Alright.]
For the time being, that ends the sentimental talk. Rudeus and I started reaching out for more takoyaki.
Alright. When I get back, I will definitely eat takoyaki.
If possible, with Dad.
[Hou, looks like you are eating something unusual today.]
While having those sentimental thoughts, a certain man arrived at the table. One can feel a majestic aura emanating from his white regalia, a man with silver-grey hair.
It’s Perugius.
Behind him follows Sylvaril, as usual.
When Rudeus brings in food, he would always appear like this. As a food connoisseur, he cannot resist trying avant-garde food such as this.
[I shall have some too.]
[Please do, please do.]
With a face full of smiles, Rudeus served up a plate of takoyaki. Perugius grabbed the fork offered by Sylvaril, got a piece of takoyaki and ate it.
[Hou… I see, this has a cheap taste.]
[Well, it’s a dish of the common man.]
[But this does not taste bad at all… Hmm… there is something cartilage-like inside. What is this?]
Ah…
I wonder how Perugius-sama feels about eating octopuses. In this world, I have never really heard of anyone eating octopus. Even in our previous world, westerners do not really eat octopus. If they found out we fed them octopus, wouldn’t they get angry…?
[It’s from a Great Tentacle.]
Rudeus said it simply like that.
[Great… Tentacle… you say?]
Perugius’ actions froze. With a stiff facial expression, his gaze fixated on the takoyaki served in front of him. Maybe because of that, the air around Sylvaril changed. She’s making a face as if she was saying, what did you just let Perugius-sama eat?
Hey, the one who said he would eat it first was Perugius…
[Such a nostalgic name.]
Unexpectedly, Perugius’ expression softened. With a hint of sentimentality, his eyes narrowed. Using the fork, he cut open the takoyaki and took out the octopus meat.
Uwaa… I shouldn’t have seen this.
It’s green, a green octopus. Red on the surface with green flesh.
[If I recall, you were attacked by one of these and lost all your rations during the laplace war right? The tentacles remaining on deck were then grilled for food.]
[Yeah, it was Urupen’s idea. Given its color, I thought it was definitely poisonous but surprisingly it was not. Since it was the moments right after a battle, it tasted very good… I see, to think that I would be able to eat this again.]
Phew, looks like there wasn’t a problem. It seems that Rudeus already had knowledge that Perugius had octopus before. Without anyone noticing, Sylvaril went back to her normal demeanor.
[Sylvaril.]
[Yes Sir!]
[Take down the recipe.]
[Understood!]
Rudeus muttered something like “I knew you would say that”, took out a piece of paper and handed it to her.
[I made these soft and chewy this time, but a way to make the surface crispy was also written down in the recipe. Please do use it as a reference.]
Crispy takoyaki.
Ah, I want to eat it too.
What should I do? Should I request for it?
But requesting it is… it seems a little too overbearing and I don’t want to be…
[For Nanahoshi, I will bring some next time.]
[… Alright, please do.]
Did he learn magic to read my mind?
Nah, if he could read minds then he would not have agonised over the issue of his daughter.
It must be that I am easy to read.
Well, we have known each other for a long time, so it can’t be helped.
Still, I’m a little frustrated.
[Hmph… Sylvaril.]
[Yes Sir!]
[My throat is dry. Bring us some drinks. Shione’s Second Flash, with a few drops of Asuran Wine.]
[Understood!]
Before I knew it, Perugius started preparing drinks.
[Oops, my apologies, I wasn’t thoughtful enough.]
[Your preparations are always one step lacking, Rudeus Greyrat.]
[I have no excuses.]
Turning around, I see that Sylvaril is moving her hands quickly, preparing tea using the tea set that the room was equipped with. Then, I noticed Armanfi carrying something to our table – three cups of tea, steaming hot and fully prepared, in front of us.
[Please enjoy your tea, it’s Shione’s Second Flash.]
I am served one of the cups.
Takoyaki and red tea. Certainly, there is the aftertaste of the sauce remaining in my mouth and I’m starting to get thirsty… But I feel like these two items won’t make a good match. What drink goes well with takoyaki? Cider? Cola?
[Hmm? It’s good?]
Sipping it with those thoughts, a gust of spring breeze blew in my mouth. Surprisingly, the taste of the tea did not clash with the intense flavor of the takoyaki sauce and mayonnaise. In fact, it accentuated it. After gulping it down, my mouth feels fresh with only trace amounts of the bonito flakes’ aftertaste remaining. I instinctively crave the next bite of takoyaki. It feels like the combination of having milk right after Anpan.3
[To have tea that goes well with takoyaki… as expected of Perugius-sama.]
[Hmph. That goes without saying. I have experienced food from all sorts of places and time periods. I am different from the likes of Baglah Haglah4 who’s interested in only filling his stomach.]
When complimented by Rudeus, Perugius puffed out his chest with pride. While Rudeus is an expert at flattery, this is another level of amazing.
Food from our previous world, paired with drinks from this world. There properly exists something that goes well together. In the past, I didn’t care so much about that and merely pursued the taste of our original world, huh…
[If you are so inclined, I would even personally pair every meal you bring here with my drinks.]
[Ahh, that would be a great help. By all means, please do. I can use it as reference for my food habits going forward.]
[Hahaha! Very well!]
Perugius laughed. I have no idea what triggered that reaction, but Sylvaril also seems to be in a good mood, and Rudeus looks relieved. The takoyaki I’m having in this pleasant atmosphere tastes really good.
[Thank you for the food.]
Having finished the takoyaki, I joined my hands together to give thanks. The color of the octopus gave me a little shock, but the taste was not bad. Well, it’s been a while since I had octopus after all.
By the time I ate my fill, it was sunset. Rudeus is already in making preparations to leave. It seems like we meet just about every other day to me, but it’s once a month for him.
[Ah, Nanahoshi.]
[Yes?]
[Here, an addition. I thought of some more things I wanted to add. I’ll leave it to you.]
Lastly, Rudeus handed me a piece of paper. Folded four times, it was a small letter.
[Alright, definitely.]
I don’t look at the contents, carefully placing this letter into a small pocket that I never let leave my body.
—
When the time came to see Rudeus off, it was completely dark out. As I walked to my room, I thought about today’s events.
Lately, it feels like Rudeus has been coming less frequently. As he adds on more years to his age, he too gets saddled with various responsibilities. That’s right, age. Compared to when I first met him, he has aged considerably. Rudeus is now 35 years old.
His children too, are becoming adults one by one. That small and cute Lucy-chan is going to get married soon…time goes by too fast. There will come a day where Rudeus will just suddenly stop coming altogether.
Somehow, I feel like I am being left behind.
Ah, that’s wrong.
Of course I knew.
It isn’t me that is being left behind, it’s the opposite.
I am the one that is jumping ahead into the future.
Returning home to our previous world in the end.
When I think about that, I feel a tinge of loneliness. How many more times will I be able to meet Rudeus or Zanoba like this…?
[…]
I patted the small pocket that I never let leave my body. Inside it, contains several letters Rudeus wrote for his family back in the previous world. He writes a new one every few years. He too, is now giving his all, living in this world.
I am deeply indebted to Rudeus. In my life, I will probably never meet another person who would take care of me as much as him. He is someone similar to Dad and Mom.
I don’t know whether delivering these letters would suffice as repayment for his kindness. But if I manage to make it home, I will see to it that they are delivered. Then I will tell his family about how he is living properly in this world and how much he took care of me without leaving out a single detail.
[…Alright, I am in your care, Sukeakoto-san.]
[Yes.]
With my head filled with those thoughts, I once again go back to sleep.
—
Some translator notes:1. A kind of fried dumpling containing octopus meat: Video link
2. Also known as Benishouga, they are ginger that is pickled into a red color. You often see these in sushi restaurants, along with the Soy Sauce and Wasabi.
3. Also known as Agedama, they are small pellets of crispy fried tempura batter. Often used as toppings in a variety of Japanese dishes:Video link
3. Bread with red bean paste filling: Video link
3. It’s not strange if you completely forgot about this guy. He is an extremely minor character who appeared in one of the extra chapters in the Main Story, Volume 6. The chapter name is “The Two Who Met”.
