Kays Translations

Chapter 10 - The Protection of the Village

"...So that's the situation."

After explaining the series of events, both Rolo and Fimia had stern expressions. Villages, towns, and cities, regardless of their strength, usually had barriers in place to some extent to prevent the intrusion of monsters. It was a kind of territorial claim by the human side.

If this territory is easily invaded, and there are even damages, it implies a considerable laxity in this village's crisis management. In the past, there should have been those with the means to fight, but the results of depopulation and aging are evident.

"I can set up a simple Church-style barrier... but it will be only a makeshift solution."

"Yeah, I also have a few magic artifacts that can set up a barrier, but they don't last very long. We need a proper barrier using the key stone."

"I know the location of the key stone. Let's go check it now."

With Rolo's words, I nodded, and we walked towards the outskirts of the village. Fimia sighed softly, observing the villagers who averted their eyes in fear when they saw me.

"It seems like they look at you with eyes similar to those of monsters?"

"To them, I'm not much different from the monster."

"Oh, Jurg always turns things sour like that."

Leading the way, Rolo continued to speak in a reproachful tone.

"Everyone in the village is at fault too. Jurg has been working hard alone for a long time, but no one paid attention or offered help. He was lonely back then because everyone in the village was indifferent."

"...Your mother was different, right?"

"Yeah. She probably couldn't ignore it. Jurg has always been reckless, brave, and kind, you know? Do you remember rescuing me from the monsters? Jurg has probably forgotten."

"I don't remember."

Fimia, who was watching our exchange, chuckled from beside me.

I thought she was silent, but she was listening, right?

She has a good hobby.

"Rolo, you really becomes talkative when it comes to Jurg."

"Hmm..."

"Hey, don't make fun of Rolo. Anyway, isn't it about time?"

Rolo, leading the way, nodded slightly and stopped. There was a small shrine in the direction he pointed.

"...It's a Church-style barrier, but it's quite old. The key stone is quite worn out, and this barrier probably hasn't been maintained."

"As expected. Well, what should we do now?"

"For the time being, I'll reset the barrier. It will be a makeshift solution, but it's better than nothing."

Standing next to Fimia, who began to chant quietly, Rolo and I remained vigilant around us. Since the barrier wasn't functioning, we were essentially in unexplored territory. During the chanting, I had to protect the vulnerable spellcaster.

"Alright, it's okay here. Rolo-san, how many key stones are there?"

"Let's see, there should be five including this one."

"Good. A pentagram barrier should provide a decent effect even if it's simple. Let's go."

Nodding to Fimia, Rolo began to guide us. As the two of them walked ahead, I suddenly turned around and glanced behind me. It felt like something from the quiet unexplored forest was watching us.

◆

After completing the installation of the barrier, we visited the Mercia residence to discuss our future plans. Aunt was a bit surprised when I handed her the cheese, but she quickly prepared a gratin with plenty of cheese, and I enjoyed the taste of the familiar flavor.

"Weren't things dangerous?"

"Yeah, it was fortunate that Fimia was with us. Nothing was functioning properly, and it's a mystery that you all have been safe until now."

Sipping on tea after the meal, I explained, and aunt's face turned slightly pale.

She can't help but be surprised since she had let her children out of the house in such a condition.

"Don't worry. It was just a temporary measure, but I've reset the barrier. It should be safe for a while."

"It's appreciated. Truly, you are like a 'Saint,' Miss."

"Not at all. I'm honored to be of service."

Fimia smiled warmly. As expected, or what should I say... her background as a priestess seemed to be contributing to her quick acceptance by the village.

"By the way, where will Fimia stay?"

"Well, it seems the village chief will lend me a room..."

"Hey, Aunt, sorry, but how about letting Fimia stay over?"

Even before Fimia finished her sentence, I made the suggestion. Both Rolo and Fimia, as well as aunt, widened their eyes.

"That's fine, but if you do that, your sleeping place will be gone, you know?"

"I don't mind. It's called 'Ladies First.'"

"...Did you pick up something strange in the city, Jurg?"

"Jurg, is it an 'Antidote' or 'Sanity' potion?"

Both of them were being excessively rude. It was a statement made with my own thoughts, but still...

"The village chief's son can't be trusted. There's a possibility he might approach Fimia."

"Yeah, that's a concern."

The next village chief, Kent, had a bad reputation with women. Of course, considering the bad reputation is within this rural area, it might be known, but still, there's no guarantee he won't cause trouble in front of a woman like Fimia who has been pursuing Rolo so persistently. I wanted him to spend as much time with her as possible.

"So, I'll set up camp on the boundary side as a lookout."

"Jurg! Are you going to live in the forest? I want to go too!"

"Hey, hey, this isn't a game, Bitz. Instead, you can accompany me in collecting Morborine grass, so bear with it."

I tousled the still young Bitz' head, then pulled away. Maybe when he grows a bit more, I'll teach him how to fight, or at least how to defend himself.

"Hmm... Are you sure about this?"

"Back when I was a kid, I used to sleep around there. Having preparations for camping is better than nothing."

"You're such an unruly child once you get started. Fine, but you better return for meals and bathing. Got it?"

"Yep, yep."

With a nonchalant response, I got up from my seat.

"Well then, I'm off. Let's think about more concrete plans starting tomorrow."

"Wait a minute, Jurg! Again, you're doing things on your own...!"

"That's right. If we cram, maybe two people can sleep here, probably."

I returned a light smile to the two of them, who had accusing looks. Even if I interfere with their love affair here, it's not as boorish as that. I've become an adult.

"Don't worry about me. Sleep well tonight, and I'll rely on you again starting tomorrow."

Waving my hand lightly, I left the Mercia residence.

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