NOVEL NEXT Chapter 39 - Chapter 39: Meh
Chapter 39: Meh
After that, I talked about everything regarding the hideout.
“So you were living near the Hell’s Cauldron after all. Well, I kind of figured that after seeing Pink.”
“What do you mean?”
“Our settlement is located right east of the Tamir Mountains, near the Hell’s Cauldron. So, when we become adults, we form teams of about ten people in the village and challenge weaker Kidanakemo creatures in the Hell’s Cauldron.”
“The onis that defeat them become heroes.”
“Yeah, well, it’s mostly just bragging rights in the village. But yeah, that’s how we often encounter Kidanakemo creatures. So, we can somehow sense their presence or aura.”
“I see.”
“Hehehe.”
Pink is tickling Shiro’s neck with its tail.
What’s it up to…?
But still… Is it also of the same species as Kidanakemo?
Well, there may be a clear definition, but I’m not quite sure.
“Oh, right. Wait a moment.”
“Hmm?”
With that, Gisella went to the workshop and rummaged around before returning.
“Here, this is for you.”
She handed me a bag filled to the brim with coins.
It’s too heavy to hold.
“W-what should I do with this?”
“Use it however you like. It’s the money I’ve saved up until now.”
Suddenly handing over her entire savings… She’s similar to Shiro in that regard, too.
But she saved up quite a lot.
Clearly, she’s wealthier than me.
But still, once they consider you family, they become incredibly open and lose all sense of caution. That might be normal for onis, but it could lead to trouble with humans. No matter how close you are to someone, maintaining a certain level of distance is important in long-term relationships. I’d like to tell them that, but it’s probably pointless now…
“Got it. I’ll use the money for everyone’s benefit. But could you hold onto it for now?”
“Yeah, I’ll leave it in the workshop again! I’m going to do something about Bonus’ weapon from now on.”
“Huh?”
“I’ve been curious about it for a while. That wooden club of yours, it’s just inviting trouble if you keep using it.”
“Huh…”
“It’s better if you stay empty-handed.”
“Seriously?”
“It’s considered rude to point that out to outsiders.”
Shocking.
So, all this time, have people been thinking, “He’s so lame, just carrying that club around”?…
“But isn’t it too sudden to do it now?”
“No, I’ll make a simple and light one quickly. I already have the base for it.”
“Can I watch too?”
“Yeah, sure!”
And so, I’m here at the forge, observing, but it’s incredibly hot.
Gisella seems to be making a small staff-like weapon.
She’s completely different from usual when she’s working at the forge.
She becomes completely expressionless and swings the hammer with full concentration.
Even though she’s sweating profusely, her expressionless, beautiful face illuminated by the fire swaying is somehow divine.
But compared to usual, she has a goddess-like beauty when seen like this.
With such beauty, one would expect many people to flock around her. Rather, maybe that’s why weirdos keep coming up to her.
But still, are all onis good-looking?
If that’s the case, I’d like to visit the settlement at least once.
“It’s done. It’s a staff that prioritizes lightness. Anyone who sees it will understand. With this, you shouldn’t be underestimated easily.”
The size looks like a regular staff.
The tip isn’t very sharp, but it should still be able to pierce.
It’s sturdy yet delicately designed, and even an amateur can see its beauty.
The grip feels great too.
Ah… Compared to this, the club is like something a monkey would carry.
It looks like it would be quite expensive if bought.
“Thank you, Gisella. I’ll treasure it.”
“Hahaha. Feel free to use it up. I’ll make you a new one anytime. I’ve sweated quite a bit. I’ll wipe myself down.”
Kuro has already prepared hot water and a towel.
I’m grateful.
“Hahaha. It tickles! Hahaha!”
“Gyah-uguah!”
Careful Kuro is already wiping Gisella’s body.
Thinking that, I turn around to see Shiro holding a towel, looking at me.
“…I’m fine! I can wipe myself perfectly fine, you know!?”
“I’ll help.”
――――Once again, I’ve become a toy for Shiro.
My dignity has been shattered, but thanks to her gentle and meticulous wiping, I feel refreshed.
I’m scared of gradually getting used to this kind of treatment.
“Well then, good night, everyone.”
“Gyah-uguah~”
“Good night.”
“Oh, by the way, Bonus, want to make babies?”
“Meh.”
Well, that’s not happening.
Thanks to Shiro and Kuro, I slept peacefully, well-guarded.