Kays Translations
Just another Isekai Lover~
Chapter 311: The Future of Black-Gold Wings
After returning from the deadly encounter near Floor 114, Tauro found himself busier than ever.
He continued supporting the dragonfolk’s long-held ambition to conquer the dungeon and researching magic circles that adapted dragonfolk techniques into usable technology.
He also intended to remain based in the dragonfolk village as an adventurer and work alongside his companions in Black-Gold Wings.
At the same time, obligations awaited him in the Royal Capital.
He needed to thank Marquis Van Dyne, attend a dinner with Count Dareder and other members of the Prime Minister’s faction who had helped bring the evidence against Viscount Saissi forward, and—most importantly—discuss his future with Count and Countess Graunewald.
Count Graunewald had promised that Tauro could continue traveling as an adventurer. Even so, Tauro was now the count’s adopted son and heir. That freedom couldn’t continue unchanged forever.
Aeris was the person who forced him to face the issue.
“You won’t remain a child forever, Tauro. This is the right time to think seriously about what you intend to do.”
Her unusually firm words surprised him.
“I’ve thought about many things while we were apart,” she continued. “The battle in the dungeon reminded me that an adventurer can die at any time. I’ll also turn sixteen soon and be recognized as an adult. I have responsibilities as a noble.”
Aeris hesitated, then added, “Mei is pregnant and has apparently returned to Father’s territory. Father hasn’t said anything to me, but why else would he send his lover away from the Royal Capital at such a time?”
“Congratulations.”
Tauro responded instinctively to the news.
“Thank you. It appears I may soon have a younger brother or sister. With all of this happening, I can’t be the only person who continues doing whatever she pleases.”
“I suppose not.”
Tauro was impressed by how seriously Aeris had considered her future. For a moment, he felt absurdly like a parent watching a child mature.
“The same is true for you,” Aeris said. “Even though you were adopted, you’re the eldest son of House Graunewald. Eventually you must fulfill the duties that position carries. You’ll have less freedom than when you were a commoner, and your years as a full-time adventurer may be limited.”
Tauro nodded.
“Count and Countess Graunewald are now legally your parents. Speak honestly with them about what you want. They’re kind people and will listen, but don’t use their kindness as an excuse to avoid every responsibility.”
When Tauro next met Count and Countess Graunewald, the three of them therefore spent a long time discussing his future.
Meanwhile, Ragune and Ankh spoke privately at Marquis Van Dyne’s residence.
“What will you do, Ragune?” Ankh asked with a sigh. “Aeris sounds as though she may stop adventuring when she reaches adulthood, and the leader will eventually have to settle into his duties as the count’s heir. Perhaps our time together is finally approaching its end.”
“I originally joined because Tauro helped my people, but that doesn’t mean I’ll stop being Aeris’s or your friend,” Ragune answered. “Even if Aeris returns fully to House Van Dyne, our relationship won’t disappear. Tauro still has work in the dragonfolk village and won’t stop adventuring immediately. I intend to follow him. What will you do?”
Ankh was silent for a moment.
“My contract ended when the leader’s adoption by Count Graunewald became official. Count Graunewald and Marquis Van Dyne hired me to protect Tauro and Aeris and to report on them regularly. That assignment is now complete.”
The admission confirmed what Tauro had once suspected.
“When Aeris returns to her house and the leader begins living as the count’s heir, I may return the magic greatsword and armor Tauro gave me and retire from adventuring.”
“What are you saying?” Ragune demanded. “We’re companions and friends. Why should an expired contract end that? We also exchanged a blood pact. As long as Tauro continues adventuring, Black-Gold Wings can continue together. Even afterward, you and I can remain adventurers. Don’t say something so lonely to a friend.”
Ankh felt his chest tighten at her words.
“Good grief. I didn’t expect someone younger than me to lecture me so effectively. Very well. I’ll remain active for as long as I can.”
He gave a small laugh, then remembered another concern.
“What will happen to the three temporary members of Black-Gold Wings? Viscount Saissi is dead and the immediate danger to Tauro has faded, but the matter of the Assassins’ Guild itself remains unresolved.”