Kays Translations
Just another Isekai Lover~
Chapter 171: The Butler of House Van Dyne
A week passed after Tauro moved temporarily into the Van Dyne residence in the Royal Capital. By then, Aeris’s schedule had finally begun to ease.
One major reason was the return of Sheeps, the family’s former butler.
As his name suggested, Sheeps was a sheepfolk beastman. He had fluffy white wool and proudly maintained a pair of rounded, curling Amon horns. More importantly, he was intelligent, highly capable, and thoroughly familiar with every aspect of managing House Van Dyne.
His return freed Aeris from much of the administrative work that had consumed her time. Mei was equally relieved.
“At last, I can concentrate on my own duties,” she said.
Her relief didn’t last long. After clearing the backlog at the Royal Capital residence, Sheeps announced that he was worried about the condition of the family’s main estate and departed to inspect it.
Before leaving, he recommended that Mei be appointed steward of the Royal Capital residence. Another servant was promoted to head maid, so the household wouldn’t lack anyone in Mei’s former position, but Mei herself was deeply unhappy with the arrangement.
“I’ve devoted my life to personally caring for Lady Aeris!” she protested.
Mei had served House Van Dyne for sixteen years. Sheeps insisted that her knowledge, loyalty, and ability made her the best person for the position. Aeris was delighted by the recommendation and signed the appointment order, leaving Mei unable to refuse openly.
While the household adjusted to those changes, a letter arrived from Sharga announcing that arrangements had been made for Tauro and Aeris to enter Babylon. Aeris’s schedule was now open enough for the visit, so Tauro asked Sharga to set a date.
Mei initially objected to Aeris entering the dungeon. Once Aeris explained that Tauro would accompany her, however, Mei reluctantly agreed.
“My lady, if anything happens, you must follow Tauro’s instructions for your own safety.”
Mei then bowed to Tauro, still looking slightly uncomfortable in the formal clothing of a steward.
“Tauro, please take good care of Lady Aeris.”
“I will. You can leave her safety to me. Aeris is also an accomplished adventurer in her own right.”
“Exactly,” Aeris said proudly. “The Adventurers’ Guild recognizes me as a rear-guard specialist. Tauro is the youngest and most capable member of our team, and both of us belong to Black-Gold Wings.”
“It still feels strange to think of my lady as an adventurer, but I trust Tauro, and I know you’re capable.” Mei looked worried again. “Please don’t get hurt.”
“We’re only going to the first floor. I’ll return as soon as I have placed flowers where Father disappeared.”
“Please offer some for me as well. I’ll remain here and pray that the master has reached the next world and found peace.”
Tears filled Mei’s eyes as she remembered Marquis Van Dyne. Aeris promised that she would deliver Mei’s flowers and prayers too.
On the appointed morning, Tauro and Aeris gathered at the Royal Capital’s northern gate. Sharga and Joshna came to see them off, and ten knights had been assigned as their escort.
Taichi was among them. He had commanded the escort during Sharga’s earlier investigation of the dungeon.
“It hasn’t been long, Tauro,” Taichi said with a laugh. “I didn’t expect us to meet again so soon.”
“Thank you for accompanying us today.”
“I’m not the captain this time. I’m serving as second-in-command. Our captain is Tsuyoku, over there.”
“You’re the second-in-command?” Tauro asked in surprise.
Taichi was a formidable knight with [Weapon Master]. If someone outranked him on an expedition like this, that knight had to be exceptional.
“Tsuyoku is stronger than I’m and an excellent commander. Very few knights can match him with a spear. Sharga trusts him enough to have cleared his schedule personally. He also knows Babylon well; he commanded the party that reached the dungeon’s deepest explored level.”
Taichi indicated a dignified knight wearing slender plate armor. Tsuyoku had long blond hair and blue eyes.
Sharga introduced Tauro and Aeris to the captain, and they thanked him for accepting the assignment.
“There’s no need for thanks,” Tsuyoku replied brusquely. “I’ve long regretted what happened to Marquis Van Dyne. I’m grateful for the opportunity to escort his daughter.”
His manner was blunt, but his sincerity was clear. Tauro and Aeris thanked the dependable knight once more.
I feel they might find her father which would allow her to be more free to adventure again. After all, he only “disappeared” so maybe it was a one-time teleport room.
that’s how things normally works. but it’s been years