#alsar

A spread I made to test out my Macabra color schemes. Their skin are usually super toned colors, with Profe and Ulta being exceptions for different reasons. 

Short profiles on all:

Ulta: Kidnapped from a young age from the South, she was taken North where she was trained to become the Fairy Princess’s guard.

Alsar: The prince of the Darkling country (still gotta come up with a name for it oof). He’s his mother’s political pawn, but is working behind the scenes to take back power. He dearly loves his younger cousin Dulce.

Dulce: The heavily sheltered Darkling princess. She is beloved by Gana and Alsar, who hide all the ugly reality that is taking place in the world. She spends her days having parties with other nobles and fretting over the next trends.

Beso: Gana’s loyal knight. He fell in love with her and helped her gain the power she has now. He knows he has committed several wrongs, but he’s a smitten fool who can’t stop protecting Gana.

Gana: The queen of the Darkling country. She keeps her son from his rightful title in order to continue playing her revenge against Lightners. She cares not for her country’s well-being or for the many lost in her petty wars. 

Girasi: Dulce’s attendant and closest friend. She’s been heralded as the most beautiful Darkling of their time, a title she loves to boast about. Frivolous and gossipy, she was made for the noble life, but her loyalty to Dulce is surprisingly strong.

Cheve: Alsar’s man behind the scenes and closest companion. He wears the facades of a flighty playboy to the public and of Gana’s spy on Alsar’s personal affairs. He was picked up at a young age from the streets to be Alsar’s manufactured ‘best friend.’ He was ready to be Gana’s puppet, but changed alliances after falling in love with Alsar. He controls a spy network to keep Alsar well informed on official matters. 

Profe: A prophet born with a rare skin mutation that allows them to go out in the sun. Their miraculous birth was heard all the way to the religious leader (must make up a religion now oof), and they were immediately taken from their parents to become their pawn. They were sheltered by the outside world and thoroughly brainwashed to serve their beliefs until they met prince Alsar by chance. Inspired by his sincerity and outside knowledge, they pledged to serve his purpose and now follow his cause to better the country.

Chapter 15 : Shopping! 

T/N : Anyone playing King’s Raid? I’m busy grinding King’s Raid~

“Ah that’s right, yesterday Malik-san gave me his old magic bag and turns out, there’s various things inside. Since Malik-san doesn’t use it anymore, he gave the bag along with its content to me.”

Ah that’s bad, I’m really forgetful. I almost forgot to tell Chris-san. It’d be a waste if I were to buy the same thing that Malik-san already gave to me before.

“Oh? So that’s your new magic bag. What kind of thing is left there?”

“There’s five set of sleeping bags and tents, some cooking utensils, cleaning utensils and tableware. Malik-san said the only thing I need to buy is food and clothing.”

If I may say, I think Malik-san already gave me the perfect equipment for camping.

“Hmm~ Then what about weapon? Do you have any dagger with you? I think dagger might suit you more since it’s not as heavy as ordinary sword~”

“I have one though since I spent my days collecting lulu grass in the forest, there’s almost no monster there so I don’t have any hands on experience to use it. I practice my combat skill with Malik-san in the training ground but.. Well, the result is quite unsatisfactory I think..”

I touch the dagger on my waist, the one that Malik-san gave me when I took my first lulu grass gathering quest. I never actually use it so I’m a little bit afraid.. I don’t know whether I can fight properly or not..

“That’s alright~ Knowing basic self defense mechanism is already good!~ What’s more important is how to know when to escape. If you think your life is going to be in danger, run away immediately! You can also use your support magic to help you escape~”

Clenching my fist and pump it into the air, I say,“Yes! When the time comes, I can use [Roots] or [Sleep] on the enemy and run away!”

I’ve trained my support magic with Tord-san, so far my success rate to trap the enemy is 100%. I will do my best in successfully running away!

“Hahaha! Hit them hard with your support magic, Ren-chan!~ Anyway, since Malik already gave you the necessary equipment, let’s start by searching for clothes and food.”

“Is there any specific clothes I need to look for?”

Chris-san seems to ponder a bit before he answers,“Hmm let’s see, since you will be riding a horse with me it’s better to buy long sleeved shirt so you won’t get cold. Also you will need a mantle and boots. Mantle and long sleeved shirt to protect you from the wind and boots to protect you when walking in the forest.“

Turns out, there’s still a lot of things I need to buy. Good thing Malik-san gave me some pocket money.

“I see.. I still have a long way to go huh..”

“Well, Ren-chan is a special case afterall. If you’ve been living in Alsar since birth, you will already have all the stuff needed, probably you only need to buy food for your journey.”

I see.

Looking at the street, mostly the people in Alsar wear boots instead of sandal like me.

Since I’ve only been living in Alsar for about 1 month, I don’t have proper clothing for every season yet.

I don’t know how hot it will be during summer or how cold it will be during winter.

“That’s right, I need to buy plenty of clothes then!”

“Yup, yup !~ I know a shop specializing in selling shoes for adventurer, let’s go there!~ I usually buy my shoes in bulk, about.. 4 or 5? So I will have spare shoes when I need them~”

I guess since most adventurer spend their time outside of town, their shoes will get dirty easily. Probably torn easily too.

But since I only will be out of town for half a month, I guess one shoes is enough for me.

“Yes, let’s go there.”

“Yup, this way Ren-chan~”

Chris-san pulls my hand along with him nonchalantly.

Is it strange that I don’t feel uncomfortable holding hands with Chris-san?

---------------------------

Inside the shop, there’s plenty of stuff from clothing to even magic bag. The shop line up the marchandise neatly, giving me the pristine and clean feeling.

“This way, Ren-chan~”

Chris-san take me to the clothing aisle.

“Hmm, there’s no clothing in Ren-chan’s size, we have to shrink it later. Ah, what about this cloak?”

Chris-san give me a dark brown cloak and he puts it over my body.

Touching the cloak lightly, I was surprised, “Oh this is waterproof? Nice, I don’t need to worry about rain then. Do you think it look good on me?”

“Yup yup, it’s good~ Hmm~ I think I’m also going to buy a matching one with Ren-chan~”

I really like this cloak, I think I’m going to buy this. Chris-san also said it looks good on me.

Wait, the price!

Huh? There’s no price tag?

“Chris-san, this cloak.. There’s no price tag to it..”

“Yup, in this shop you will need to ask the staff here for the price. Let’s just keep looking for nice looking ones for you and then we will worry about the price later~”

W-what?!

What if I didn’t have enough money??

Ah as expected, I’m really grateful that Malik-san gave me some pocket money.. Although if possible I don’t want to use it..

“Haa.. Next is shoes then?”

Although I’ve only known Chris-san for a short time, but I feel like.. I somehow already know his personality inside out.

He’s like the kind of person that hit first, ask later kinda thing.

So irresponsible.

Luckily, the shop’s assistant is close by so let’s just keep gathering the candidate for my clothes and think about the price later.

“Ren-chan, how about this one ? Since it’s black, it’s easy to mix and match. Also, it seems like it’s going to be easy to move while wearing it~”

Chris-san hands me a black boots.

It does seems easy to move with.

Although the size is too big for me, I will need to use [Small] magic on it.

I can just go to the kids section but honestly I really don’t want to do it. I would rather use magic to shrink the adult clothes to my size rather than wearing kids clothing.

“It looks good. Let’s put it into our cart.”

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Thanks to Chris-san, I can pick a lot of things relatively fast.

Chris-san also has good sense of fashion, so the clothes he pick always looks functional yet fashionable.

If I were alone.. I don’t think I will ever get things done..

“Yup, I think we already covered everything you need. Let’s go talk to the staff now Ren-chan~”

“Yeah.. We already have heaps of things…”

In front of me is the mountain of clothing that we’ve picked. I’m a little afraid to know the price..

Like the gentleman he is, Chris-san insisted to carry all the clothes to the shop assistant.

With a cheerful voice he says, “ All of these please!~”

Chris-san hands the clothes to the shop assistant along with his guild card.

“Eh!? Chris-san?!”

“Let me pay for it~” He smiles.

“What?! No! I can’t let you do that! This amount of clothes must’ve cost a lot!”

I already feel bad enough that he paid for my lunch, I can’t allow him to also pay for my clothing!

It’d be wrong! I don’t want to take advantage of Chris-san!

“Ren-chan, I think you misunderstand something about me. You must’ve think I do this out of kindness to you, right? But! The truth is, I do have ulterior motives! I was thinking to ask you to prepare my share of food for our subjugation quest in Calhea in return for all these clothes. You know during ordinary subjugation quest, my food ration is quite poor. Mainly because my cooking skill is not to be proud of. So, having you to cook for me is a huge advantage for me~”

“What? But even if you say so, the price of all of these clothes compared to the future food expenses doesn’t match!”

I don’t hate Chris-san, in fact he is enjoyable to be around so I don’t mind cooking for him.

Especially since I already planned to cook for Malik-san too, having one more person to cook is not a problem at all.

But really, at most.. I think the ingredient might only cost about 100.000 elk. Compared to that, this mountain of clothes must’ve cost a lot more!

Ignoring me, Chris-san says to the store clerk,”Excuse me, since I’m buying this as a gift, may I have the clothes gift wrapped? And also please help me putting it into Ren-chan’s magic bag~”

“Yes, let me assist you.” Suddenly, another shop assistant appeared behind my back.

Chris-san hands the clerk his guild card but I still don’t want to let this slide!

“Umm, Chris-san.. The payment..”

“Yes, everything has been paid by this gentleman’s guild card. Thank you for your patronage.”

What?!

Suddenly everything has been paid!

So guild card can also function as debit card some of sort.

Guild card is so convenient!

“Chris-san.. I would feel bad receiving this huge amount of gifts..”

“Ren-chan, do you dislike it? Please don’t show me such sad face.. Nothing would make me happier than seeing you smile so please, can you smile for me?”

Ugh..!

D-don’t show me that face! He looks exactly like an abandoned puppy!

There’s no way I can win against that kind of sad puppy face, so sly!

Ah… Fine, it’s my lost then.

Puffing my cheeks with a hands on my waist, I say,“Geez Chris-san! Fine! This is the last time, okay?”

When Chris-san said that he’s going to pay for me, it’s already a lost cause. He will never yield, never.

And then after sighing, I smile shyly and bow to Chris-san,” Thank you, Chris-san. I really appreciate it.”

Chris-san in return turn his back on me while covering his face.

“Ahh, I can’t stop smiling, he’s so cute..!”

I think Chris-san whispered something but I couldn’t really catch it.

“Did you say something, Chris-san?”

“Hmm?~ Nope, nothing ~ Anyway, you’re welcome, Ren-chan~”

Chris-san hands my magic bag to the store clerk and after they finished filling my magic bag with the neatly wrapped clothes, we head back to the street.

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“Chris-san, I just want to say that I’m really grateful for the clothes. Thank you once again.” I bow my back again when we left the store.

“Ren-chan you’re such a good boy~ It’s okay, don’t mind it so much. I’m happy enough that I get so see Ren-chan’s smiling face. Anyway, what’s your plan for tomorrow?”

“Even if you said it like that, I would feel bad if I don’t express my gratitude properly. Hmm.. Tomorrow.. I’m planning to just stay at home all day.”

A good child or not, it’s expected to express gratitude properly when someone gave you something expensive like this!

“Just staying at home all day?~”

“Yes, since I won’t be home for a long period of time, I want to start preparing the meal for Malik-san and for our journey too. I want to prepare a variety of food in advance. There’s a lot to do, from cutting,roasting, boiling... And so on. Since I’m going to prepare a huge quantity of food, it might take a whole day. After I finish cooking the food, I’m going to put it into a magic bag so it won’t rot.”

I’m going to buy the ingredient tomorrow morning at the market.

I wonder what kind of food should I cook ~

Malik-san says he can’t go without a rice so I should include rice for sure.

“Ren-chan I can see your excitement bubbling through. You really like cooking huh~ I was thinking of asking you out tomorrow but I guess you’re busy huh~”

“I love cooking and also housework! I really enjoy doing it~ Yes, I’m sorry but tomorrow I’m going to be busy.”

Chris-san gives me his dejected puppy look again.

Because he has natural droopy eyes, when he acts like that, it’s making him even more pitiful. My heart clenches looking at him.

Ugh! But I won’t yield! Definitely this time I won’t yield!

Preparing food for our quest is essential! I can’t put it on hold or I won’t be able to cook enough food for everyone!

Seeing I’m holding on my ground, Chris-san reluctantly give up and says,”Fine then since we’re going to depart two days from now. Is it okay if you come to the guild at 5 o’clock? The guild is open 24/7 so you don’t have to worry to wait for its open time.”

“I’m fine with it but isn’t 5 o’clock is too early?”

I know we’re going to have depart in the morning but 5 o’clock.. Isn’t too early?

“Yes, I always travel in the dead of morning because the sun is not up yet so temperature is relatively cool. If I wait until the sun is high, it’s going to be too hot to travel. When the sun is high, I usually take a nap in the tent and rest until the temperature is cool enough. If we travel in the blazing sun, the horse will get tired easily so traveling when the sun is high is not effective.”

“I see! That makes sense! I feel like recently it’s getting hotter too.”

But compared to the summer in Japan, this is nothing. The humidity during summer in Japan is really unpleasant..

I see, I guess it’s going to be summer soon. I need to remember it so the next time I go on a quest, I won’t get heatstroke.

“Well then, see you in 2 days! Thank you very much for accompanying me today!”

“Ah, let me take you home Ren-chan~”

“Ah it’s okay, I can go back on my own. I will meet you later Chris-san. I’m going to make lots of delicious food so wait for it!~”

I quickly part my goodbye before Chris-san shows me his puppy face again and run back home.

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Chris’s POV

Staring at Ren-chan’s leaving figure, I clench my hand,“Ahh, so dangerous.. Even though I don’t have anything planned with him, but I still want to see him tomorrow. He’s too cute that it’s practically a crime! I want to see Ren-chan again~”

“All these time, I never think about settling down. Never. But.. If it’s Ren-chan, I don’t think it’s a bad idea~”

All these 30 years, I’ve been getting numerous marriage proposal but I turned them all down but somehow.. Ren-chan is different. I think, I can finally settle down if it’s him.

“Fufufu~ In two days, I can meet with Ren-chan again. I can’t wait!~ For the time being, I’m going to treat him gently and aim to become his lover!~ Ah, now that I think about it.. This is the first time that I ever pursue someone like this huh~”

I can’t wait~

I want to kiss Ren-chan and do a lots of things to him but.. I want to see his smile the most~

I want him to keep calling my name with his gentle voice~

Today, when I slung my hand over his shoulder and waist.. He felt so small inside my embrace, like if I press a little bit too hard, he might crumble away. I thought to myself that I have to protect him.

Really.. This is not like me at all..

I never get attached to someone before..

This.. this might be my first love.

When Ren-chan told me where to eat, I choose to go to ‘Ken’ without any doubt even though I never bring someone there. All because I think by going to ‘Ken’, Ren-chan might show me his beautiful smile again.

What’s more, I hardly ever buy anyone presents before but if it’s Ren-chan, everything comes naturally easy.

“To become a man suitable for Ren-chan, I have to change myself to become a responsible adult!~ Ah~ I can’t wait to meet Ren-chan~”

I walk back to the guild while thinking about meeting Ren-chan again.

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T/N : There we have it, another side of Chris! I wonder whether Ren can be considered as sugar baby? He keeps getting things either from his legal sugar daddy (Malik) and another candidate for husband sugar daddy (Chris)

Chapter 14 

Index

Chapter 13 : First Date?!

T/N : Next update will be a little slow.. I’m busy reading mangas and grinding game. lol. 

From now the story will continue from Ren’s POV. Thank you!

-----------------------------

“Ren? Are you still asleep?”

“Ah! I was! I’m sorry, I’m going to prepare dinner now!”

When Malik-san came back from the guild, I was still sleeping.

I immediately woke up and I look at the clock in panic.

20:06?!

I’ve been sleeping for that long?!

I quickly run to the kitchen and prepare the ingredients for fried rice and simple soup.

I feel bad because I didn’t get to prepare dinner properly so I had to cook something fast instead but Malik-san said it was delicious and eat it happily.

“Even so, it’s unusual for you to sleep off like that. Are you tired?”, Malik-san asks while drinking the tea I prepared.

“*cough* I-I guess? I-I was laying on my bed and then I drifted to sleep..” I chokes after hearing Malik-san’s question.

Malik-san immediately grabs a napkin to wipe me and gently stroke my back. He asks,“Are you alright? Don’t push yourself, Ren. I’m getting worried.. Are you sure you want to take Calhea quest?”

There’s no way I can tell you that I fell asleep because I was too tired from masturbating!!

“I’m sure! I want to try doing subjugation quest and I already promised Chris-san that I will be going with him.”

Ah that’s right! I have to meet with Chris-san tomorrow!

Oh no, I don’t know whether I can face him properly…

My face gets hotter when I remember the things I did this afternoon.

Looking at my reddish face, Malik-san asks again,” Are you really sure? If you’re still feeling unwell tell me immediately, okay?”

“I-I’m fine! I’m perfectly healthy!” I stammer.

“Well if you say so.. Ah that’s right, I’ve prepared something for your first subjugation quest.” After saying that, Malik-san goes to his room.

He comes back a moment later with something in his hand.

“Carrying a tote bag for subjugation quest will become a hindrance so I want you to take this. This is my old magic bag that I used back when I was an active adventurer. It has smaller capacity than what I use now but I think it should be enough for Ren.” Malik-san says and he puts the bag on the table.

It’s a sling backpack with the size of 20x10cm. It’s really small but since it’s a magic bag the outward appearance can be deceiving. The colour is deep red, almost maroon like a wine.

“If you use this, you can use both of your hands freely.” Malik-san adds,”Ah though most adventurer doesn’t use sling bag anymore huh? Nowadays I see them using waist pouch or leg pouch instead..”

The one I’m using now is a tote bag type of magic bag with the size of 30x40cm. Since it’s a tote bag, my other hand can’t move freely because it hang on my shoulder.

For magic bag, the smaller the outward appearance is, the bigger its inventory size is.

My tote bag cost about 40.000 elk, and since the bag Malik-san presents to me is 5 times smaller that means it’s also about 5 times more expensive than my current one.

“I’m thankful if I can borrow this bag, but is it okay to hand it to me?”

“Yes, I don’t use it anymore. Sling bag is not convenient for everyday use because I have to reach for my back everytime I want to take something but for subjugation quest it is okay. You will be focusing more on the battle so the kind of bag that can make you move freely is better.”

That’s right, for everyday use it’s better to use bag that is easy to access.

Since Malik-san is not using it anymore, i’d be more than happy to use it !~

“Then I will borrow it, thanks Malik-san! One other thing, I’m going to go shopping tomorrow but can you please tell me what kind of things I might need for my journey?”

“Well since Chris is used to it you can actually leave it all to him but let’s see.. Hmm.. In that bag there’s 5 set of tent and sleeping bag as well cooking utensils and cleaning utensils.. So I guess the only thing you need to buy is spare clothes and food.”

Amazing!

That means I won’t have to buy much!

Ah, that’s a relief.. I was afraid whether my money would not be enough to buy all the necessities..

“Ah that’s great, so I don’t need to buy much. Malik-san, is there any advice you can give me? Is there anything else I need to prepare?”

“Hmm, well then how about if you prepare the meals for the journey beforehand? You can put the food inside the magic bag, the time works in different way in magic bag so it won’t rot. Even though there’s cooking utensils in the bag I gave you, I doubt you will be able to cook leisurely like you do now and while you’re at it, please prepare some for me too.” Malik-san smiles sheepishly.

I see, so you can also use the magic bag in that way. So clever!

That way I can focus on the quest without have to worrying about food.

“Okay! Since I will be meeting with Chris-san tomorrow, I will start cooking in 2 days from today. Of course, I will prepare a lot for Malik-san too.”

Really, now that I know it my life as house-husband will be even more enjoyable to do! I can prepare a lot of food in advance so that when I’m too lazy to cook,I can just retrieve it from the magic bag.

Ever since I arrived here, I’ve been in charge of the household chores and cooking. I was worried whether Malik-san will be able to at least eat properly while I’m gone but thanks to magic bag, I can be at ease now.

“Oh really? For me too? Ah I’m glad.Ren’s cooking is really delicious and I feel really happy when eating it. I would be really lonely if I can’t have Ren’s cooking. Also, rice! I’m already accustomed to rice that I will feel strange if I go a day without eating rice.”

“Fufu~ Thank you for the praise! I will put extra effort in cooking just for you, Malik-san!”

If someone praise you like that, of course I will feel pumped!~

I’m going to cook lots of delicious food for Malik-san!~

“Tomorrow is going to be the first time for you to go into the market without me huh.. I hope you will have fun.” Malik-san says.

“Yes, you could say that. Malik-san always accompanies me all this time, though I don’t know whether I can have fun or not since I’m going to shop for supplies instead for leisure.”

It’s a shame I can’t go with Malik-san but I hope I will have a good time!

After that, Malik-san and I talk for some more before we finally go into our own room and sleep.

Even though I already slept a lot in the afternoon, I’m still sleepy..

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“Nng… *yawn*.. I don’t want to take any quest today so I planned to sleep in but I’m already awake at my usual time..”

It’s 7 AM.

Since I’m already up, I’m going to make breakfast and boxed lunch for Malik-san and maybe after that I will clean this house thoroughly.

Today’s breakfast is western style. I make french toast, salad and corn soup. Yup, everything looks balanced.

At 8 AM, Malik-san comes into the dining room and sit down to eat with me.

“Itadakimasu. As usual, the food looks delicious.” Malik-san says as he munch on the french toast.

After Malik-san finish eating, I follow him to the entrance to see him off. I also give him his boxed lunch.

“You’re going shopping today, right? Don’t forget to bring the bag I gave you yesterday. I added a little ‘something’ for you. Ah and, I forgot to say it yesterday but just take the bag. No need to ‘borrow’ it. I don’t even use it anymore so don’t hold back. Well, I’m off now~” Malik-san wave his hand.

“E-eh? W-what? Ah, have a safe trip!”

What did Malik-san say again?

Ah.. Even though I honestly only wanted to borrow it..

Malik-san he really spoils me rotten..

Well, I already knew he would do it but I will still feel bad about it..

“Ah I knew it, he gave me money.. And a lot of it too.. Geez Malik-san, I would turn into irresponsible adult if you keep spoiling me like this!”

I count the money, he gave me 300.000 elk.

Right now, I only have 70.000 elk thanks to Lulu grass gathering quest. I’m really grateful for the extra money, that means I won’t need to worry whether my money will be enough when I go shopping but..

Malik-san, you pamper me too much!

300.000 elk is too much you know!

For the time being, I will only use my 70.000 elk. I won’t use Malik-san’s money unless absolutely necessary.

“Now that I think about it.. I promised Chris-san to meet with him at 12 o’clock. That means I’m meeting him during lunch time. Should I eat lunch first? Or should we eat lunch together?”

I didn’t remember whether I promised to have lunch with Chris-san or not.. Now I’m confused.. Ah….What should I do..?

Do we even have time to eat lunch together? Won’t we be too busy shopping?

But I don’t know whether we might take a long time to shop or not too..

Maybe we can buy something simple from the food stall and eat as we walk?

It’s almost 11:30 AM. From Malik-san’s house to our meeting point, it will only take about 10 minutes.

I guess I will leave in 10 minutes so I won’t be cutting it close.

“Ah because I was too busy thinking about Malik-san’s pampering me.. I forgot about yesterday’s incident! My heart is not ready to meet with Chris-san yet!”

Really, masturbating while thinking about the person you’re about to meet is not a good idea. Not at all.

Human is really weak to desire..*sigh*

“I should just act like usual.. Yes, the usual me.. The usual me.. But I just met him yesterday so there’s no way Chris-san will know what I act like usually, right?”

If I act all flustered, Chris-san will get suspicious so I have to keep my cool. I don’t want Chris-san to think ‘What’s up with this child?’! I want to leave good impression on him. Let’s just ignore yesterday’s incident and act like nothing happened!

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Alright I’ve arrived.

We’re meeting near the city bell tower.

There’s a lot of people in here because it’s a popular meeting place.

I don’t see Chris-san anywhere.. Well there’s still time before our meeting time but even if Chris-san did arrive first, it’d be hard for me to find him and vice versa since I’m smaller than average Alsar people.

Even if I stretch my neck I couldn’t see anything but the crowd’s head.

Well in time like this, there’s only one thing to do!

“[Search]!”

I chant the support magic [Search] while thinking about Chris-san in my head.

I’ve experimented [Search] with Malik-san, it seems like my maximum radius is 200m.

This is not the first time I use [Search] to look for specific thing. I also use this magic while gathering lulu grass.

Though during quest, [Search] magic is often used to detect if there’s any monster nearby or not. Using [Search] to look for something is not a common practice here.

Malik-san was surprised when I told him how did I manage to collect this many lulu grass.

“I didn’t think to use [Search] in this way!” Malik-san told me while praising me.

It felt good to be praised. I’m happy I can be helpful to Malik-san in any way.

“Ah Chris-san is heading this way. I will just stay here and let him come up to me.”

I detected Chris-san approaching me.

If I move from my spot, I’m afraid I won’t be able to cut through the crowd and end up losing him instead.

A couple minutes later, I finally see Chris-san but he hasn’t noticed me yet. He turn his head around while searching for me.

Chris-san.. He’s really handsome..

He’s wearing a simple short sleeved v-neck t-shirt with blue jeans and black gladiator sandal. (T/N: EUW GLADIATOR SANDAL ON MEN. EUW)

On his neck, there’s a simple dog tag and on his right thigh, a black leg pouch. Is that his magic bag?

Overall it’s a simple casual style but the outfit accentuates his long limbs and leg, making him even more gorgeous.

To top it all, his face is as sexy as ever. The combination between his style and his natural good looking face can make anyone turn their head.

“And on the other end, there’s me. The plain good ol’ me.. Somehow I really don’t want to walk beside him..” I sighed. My inferiority is kicking, Chris-san is just too handsome, I’m afraid people will look at me with scorn for walking beside good looking man like him.

Still, I already promised him so I can’t just back down because of my pettiness!

I see he’s still looking for me between the crowd.

With determined heart, I call out to him, “Chris-san! Over here!”

Hearing my voice, Chris-san immediately perk up and smile at me and say,”Ren-chan!~ I’m sorry I didn’t notice you. Did you wait long?~”

With a small jog, Chris-san approached me. Ah, the closer he is, the more dazzling he become!

I smile back to him,”No, I just arrived a moment ago.”

“Fufu~ Our conversation is just like what people meeting for a date would say~ My first date with Ren-chan~ Have you had lunch yet?~”

D-Date?!

Well it is true our flow of conversation is exactly like what people meeting for date would say but still! D-date?! With Chris-san?!

My face heats up immediately. I know he’s just teasing me but it’s still embarrassing!

“Geez Chris-san, this is not a date, we’re going for errand, right? We have to shop for supply! As for lunch, I haven’t had lunch. What about you?”

“Eh~ That’s great, then let’s have lunch together Ren-chan~”

“Okay, where do you want to eat?”

At first, I thought I would get conscious of Chris-san because of yesterday incident but when I talk to him, I feel comfortable. The conversation flows smoothly and Chris-san is really friendly too.

With a hand on my waist, Chris-san pulls me closer to him to avoid people pushing against me and says,”Hmm, it’s been a long time since I last came here so I don’t know where to eat. Is there anything specific you want to eat, Ren-chan?”

I was taken aback that I almost at lost for word. He’s too close, way too close. My heartbeat won’t stop thumping.

“T-thank you, Chris-san.” I stutter my words.

Chris-san in return smiles gently at me and says ,”No problem. There’s too much people in here, let’s move somewhere else~”

His hand moves from my waist to rest on my shoulder.

“Ah, umm.. Your hand..”

“Hm? Sadly because of our height difference, holding your waist will be uncomfortable for a long period. That’s why, I will hold your shoulder instead~”

There’s only 30 cm difference between our height, I don’t think it would pose that much of a problem. Right?? Why is he so mean..

B-but! Two man walking so close like this, the people will stare!

“It’d be hard for me to walk like this, so can you please let me go?”

“No can do~ This is a date afterall~”

“D-date you say.. But I’m a ma- Ah wait, homosexuality is normal in this world..”

I completely forgot that it’s normal here. When I look around the street, there’s a lot of people in various race and gender walking together. The diversity in this world is amazing..

“Hm? Is it different in Ren-chan’s world?”

“Ah, yes to be specific, in my country the marriage between homosexual couple and polygamy couple is not legal yet.” I explains to Chris-san.

Hearing it, Chris-san in return gives me a strange look.

“Then, what about you Ren-chan? What do you think about homosexuality and polygamy?”

“To be honest, I’m still not sure. Because back in my world that kind can be considered as taboo, I didn’t get any chance to try it.”

Though yesterday I masturbated to Chris-san….

BUT I WON’T TELL HIM THAT. NO WAY

“Hmm, I see.. Since you never experienced it first hand, you don’t know what to think about it.” Chris-san lean his body to me and whispers to my ear,”Then, how about if you try it with me?”

I cover my ear immediately, blood rushes into my cheeks.

“N-No thanks! Right! Where do you want to go for lunch, Chris-san?”

“Aww, I got rejected~ Fine then, I will let you off this time but be prepared, I will give my all next time~ Hmm as for lunch, I saw a nice restaurant when I was walking here, shall we go there?”

“Ah yes, let’s go there.”

----------------------------------------

Chris-san take me to the restaurant he mentioned.

Instead of the shoulder, now he’s holding my hand as we walk.

I already give up on asking him to let go, at least it’s easier to walk this way.

Thinking rationally, holding hands has its benefit. I won’t get lost in the crowd if we hold hands and there’s no prejudice here in Alsar so there’s nothing wrong with holding hand.

But as I thought, we’re still attracting attention for a different reason..

“I knew it, because Chris-san is an ikemen.. People are looking at us, you know.”

“Ikemen? What’s that?”

Ah looks like the word ‘ikemen’ doesn’t get translated through.

I wonder why some words get translated and some doesn’t…What’s the difference between them?

Is it because it’s a popular phrase for modern japanese people?

“Umm, it means Chris-san is really cool and handsome.”

“Fufu, thank you for the praise~ Though I must say, the reason why people is looking at us is because Ren-chan is such a cutie as well~ Half of it is your fault too, you know~”

Uwah, looks like Chris-san is already used to people calling him cool.

He doesn’t look baffled at all.

But it’s to be expected, since he is really cool to the point people would yell, “How can there be a guy like him?!”

Sighing, I reply,” I’m not cute. Come on, I’m hungry Chris-san.”

“Eeh~ You’re really cute though. Oh, we’re almost there. That’s the place.”

Even though I already told him I’m not cute, he still insist saying I’m cute.

Somehow, we look like we’re flirting with each other.

You know, the kind when couple would go “Ah you’re so cute~” “Nooo I’m not, you’re the cute one~” “Nooo it’s you~”

Even though we’re not flirting! Totally not!

Anyway it looks like we’ve arrived.

Chapter 12

Index

Chapter 16 : Departure

Malik-san came back home at evening, we had dinner together and I told him about my day. Including my complain because Chris-san paid everything for me.

“Can’t you believe it Malik-san?! I didn’t get to spend any money at all today.. Chris-san bought them all for me..”

“Well isn’t that alright? I think that Chris guy seems to be a good person despite all the rumors about him.”

“Rumors?”

“Ah! W-w-well it’s an old story, don’t mind it!” Malik-san laughs a little awkwardly and then he starts,” Anyway tomorrow you’re going to start cooking, right?”

I can feel that Malik-san is trying to change the topic abruptly.. But I will let it slide.

“Yes, I’m going to cook lots of food!”

“Don’t push yourself, okay?”

“It’s okay, cooking is fun afterall~”

Gradually, I’ve stopped using polite speech with Malik-san. In just one month, I can feel the distance between us shrinking. I feel like our child-parent bond is getting stronger now.

Everyday, it’s become our routine to sit and lay back on the sofa after dinner and just talk about our day.

I’m really happy because I never had this sort of bonding time with my parent before.

“In 2 days, Ren will be gone. Be careful not to hurt yourself,’kay? Ah.. I’m going to be really lonely..”

“I’m also going to feel lonely but.. I don’t want to remain an F-rank forever! I will be careful not to hurt myself though, so rest assured!~”

….See?

Just like father and son, right?

I feel like our conversation has a strange mood going on but I don’t know.. I never had father figure before so maybe that’s why I feel strange.

----------------------------------------------------

~The day of departure~

“Fuu...Ah I’m glad I’m able to wake up right on time. I have to prepare myself and wake Malik-san up because he insisted that we wanted to see me off.” I yawn once again and stretch my arm out.

I’ve promised Chris-san to meet him in the guild at 5 o’clock so I woke up at 4 o’clock to prepare myself.

I quickly get out of my bed and change into the new clothes that Chris-san bought for me.

It’s a navy blue long sleeved shirt along with black pants.

My magic bag,mantle and dagger is inside the living room. I also already prepared the dark boots that Chris-san chose for me on the porch. For the time being, I’m going to wear my slipper while I’m inside the house.

After finished changing, I walk to Malik-san’s room and knocks on his door,”Malik-san? Wake up, Malik-san~”

I hear a bustling sound before Malik-san replies,”... Ah.. I’m awake.. I’m awake.. Go prepare yourself first Ren, I will join you later.”

Usually Malik-san won’t be awake for another 4 hours so it’s to be expected for him to feel sleepy but he was determined to see me off so there we have it.

Fufufu, I actually feel happy that Malik-san willing to go such length to see me off though.

-----------------------------------

I go to the kitchen and prepares breakfast for me and Malik-san.

After a while, Malik-san came. He already changed his clothes so we sit down and start to eat together.

“Ren actually there’s another two adventurers that I want to introduce to you. I already told them about you and since you’re going to depart with Chris, I told them to just meet with you in Calhea.”

“Eh? An adventurer?”

Ah I see.. So Malik-san wants me to give them my greetings as fellow adventurer since I’m Malik-san’s son?

“Yes, they are called Silver Wolf and Ice Prince. Right now, they are in the royal capital but they already planned on returning to Pedrell after Calhea quest so I want you to return together with them.”

The nickname they have for adventurer is really amazing.

Crimson Red Malik,  Lightning Twin Sword Chris.. The nicknames sounds really strong!

I wonder who come up with all those nicknames?

I heard the people that get nicknames have to be at least A-rank adventurer so that means both of them are an A-rank adventurer as well then.

Although it might be impossible, I wonder what kind of nickname will I receive when I reached A-rank?

“Together? Okay then I will tell Chris-san about this too.”

“In the past, Chris already took several quest together with them so I’m sure they should have known each other.”

Now that I think about it..

Aren’t I too acquaintanced with many high ranking adventurer?

Right now, there’s 10 S-rank adventurer and 50 A-rank adventurer.

I’ve met Malik-san who was a former S-rank and Chris-san who’s an A-rank adventurer and in addition I’m going to meet another two of A-rank adventurer.

“I see.. I wonder what kind of person they are. I can’t wait to meet them.”

“I already told them about you but.. I don’t know what kind of first impression they will have over you. Though I’m sure they will like you.”

Most adventurer that I see in the guild is too rough and buff looking.

Since Malik-san told me to come home together with them, they can’t be a bad person.

Ah~ I wonder what kind of people they are.

“I hope I won’t disappoint them then. Ah! It’s already 4:40! I have to go soon!”

I forgot the time because it’s comfortable talking with Malik-san.

I quickly collect the plates and wash them.

“It’s only 5 minutes by foot to go to the guild so take your time Ren. You have to make sure that you don’t forget anything before you leave, okay?”

“Umm.. I have my magic bag, my dagger, mantle and also.. My boots.. Ah! What to do, my heart won’t stop beating! Somehow I feel really excited!~”

“I’m sure you can finish the quest perfectly! It’s okay Ren, everything’s going to be okay.” Malik-san says while he strokes my head.

Malik-san often strokes my head whenever he had the chance.

I don’t dislike it though, in fact I really enjoy it.

I never had anyone stroke my head so affectionately like this ever since I was a child so it’s a little embarrassing but it feels good to be stroked so I don’t mind the embarrassment.

“Ah.. Okay I’ve calmed down. Let’s go Malik-san!”

I will be late if I let Malik-san keep stroking me like this! I need to go soon!

“Ha.. I feel like I’ve put the nails on Chris’s coffin.. ”

“....Nails?”

In 5 minutes, we’ve arrived at the guild. Chris-san already waiting inside on the first floor with Tord-san beside him. It seems like they had just finished breakfast too.

Rushing over to their table, I bow my head in greeting,” Good morning Chris-san, Tord-san. Chris-san, thank you for waiting. Tord-san, do you have the night shift? Thank you for your hard work, Tord-san.”

Chris-san smiles in return,”Good morning Ren-chan. No, I didn’t wait at all. In fact, I just got up a moment ago. You came right on time when I finished my breakfast.”

“Good morning Ren-san! Today you’re going to depart to Calhea, right? Be careful there!” Tord-san adds. Even though it’s still in the dead of morning, Tord-san is as cheerful as ever. We’re only apart by one year but his spirit is really amazing. Maybe it’s because he’s a beastman?

“I’m glad you didn’t have to wait for me, Chris-san and yes Tord-san. I’m going to depart now, I have Chris-san with me so you don’t have to worry about my safety.”

“Actually, I think being with him is the most dangerous thing…” Tord murmur in low voice.

“Eh? What?”

Tord-san said something but it was too low for me to catch.

The monsters in Calhea is at most a B-rank monster. Other than Chris-san, there’s also plenty of other A-rank adventurer that take part in Calhea quest so I think without a doubt, I’m going to finish the quest safely.

“N-nothing!” Tord-san quickly replies.

Chris-san gets up from his table and says,“Fufufu~ Thank you for your concern, Tord. I’m going now~”

“Please come back home safely, Ren-san!” Tord-san hold both of my hands with too much force, it hurts but he seems to have a really serious look on his face that I can’t ask him to stop.

Chris-san in a beat stopped Tord-san when he noticed my discomfort,“Yup, that’s enough Tord~ If you hold Ren-chan with your cat power without any self restraint like that, you’re going to hurt Ren-chan~”

“Ah! I’m so sorry!” Tord-san immediately releases my hand.

It’d be bad if I get hurt even before I start the quest so I’m grateful Chris-san stopped Tord-san.

“It’s okay Tord-san, I’m not hurt. Thank you though Chris-san, I will be counting on you for today as well.” I bow my head to Chris-san.

“Yup~ Just leave it to me~”

I’m going to spend quite amount of time with Chris-san, so I have to make sure I have a good relationship with him. I don’t want Chris-san to hate me.

“You guys… Don’t forget about me..” Malik-san suddenly appeared from behind me.

I completely forgot about Malik-san!

“Ah! Master! I didn’t realize you were there! Isn’t a bit too early for you to wake up?!” Tord-san says, equally as surprised as me.

“Usually, yeah but today is a special day. Today is the day my cute son going to depart for his first subjugation quest. So I’m going to see him off.” Malik-san proudly says. He turns his eyes to Chris-san,” I will be counting on you, Chris.”

“Of course~ I’m going to return Ren-chan here properly without any scratch!~ Leave it to me~”

Malik-san is really like an overprotective father. I feel cherished.. Thank you Malik-san.

“Okay Ren-chan, let’s head out to the stable. I’ve made reservation there to rent a horse.”

“Okay! Then Tord-san, we will be leaving now, goodbye.”

“Have a safe trip!”

I leave the guild together with Malik-san and Chris-san to the stable.

The stable provides the place for adventurer to store their private horse and the service to rent a house for a certain period of time. It need a pretty big land and the stench of animals is really pungent there so the location of the stable is on the outskirt of town, away from the central to not disturb the people.

Malik-san and Chris-san is walking in front of me, while talking to themselves. I can’t quite catch their conversation, only bits of it.

“--------------- alright ------------ “

“------I don’t mind---------”

Judging from Malik-san’s personality, they must be talking about me.

Malik-san really cherishes me a lot but I wonder whether he’s too protective of me?

“I see then.. I will be looking forward to it.. Father..?” Chris-san smiles to Malik-san.

“It’s too soon to be calling me father, Chris.” Malik-san replies.

The two of them are smiling at each other but I can feel their ice cold tension.. So scary..

“Ah, I can see the stable!” I exclaimed.

We’ve walked quite the distance from the guild, I already can see the stable. The closer I get, the more I feel excited. It’s like, ‘Ah I finally will get out of Pedrel to properly do a subjugation quest’ kind of feeling.

“Yes, let’s go pick our horse~”

Chris-san goes to the reception desk. Looking around, I can see multiple horse behind the fence.

Since the people in Alsar is bigger than the people in Earth, naturally the horse is also considerably bigger.

There’s also magical horse here, like devil horse and half-horse half-human kind of creature. All of them are properly domesticated so they won’t hurt us despite looking so scary.

They’re also faster than normal horses and can properly run away if there’s a monster attacking. Though if the situations forces to, they can do self defense with the horn on their forehead.

That’s why even though the cost to rent a magical horse is a lot higher than normal horse, the demand for magical horse is always high.

“Thank you for waiting~ This is the horse that I often rents, it’s a male horse. His name is William~”

Chris-san brings a black magical horse with him. He’s really big and his fur is really shiny too. He has one black horn protruding from his forehead. Standing normally, I can’t even reach the horse head but the horse greets me while bowing his head so I can see his face properly. He has gentle looking deep blue eyes.

“Waaah~ What a cool looking horse! Nice to meet you, William.”

“Right? Let’s get on him~ Ah but since William is too big for Ren-chan so it’d be hard for you to climb him, right? I will carry you then Ren-chan~”

There’s a saddle for two people on William’s back. Ah I wish I can climb him on my own but looking at his monstrous height… It’d be impossible.. I want to search for stepping stair but there’s no such thing in here.

But to be carried like a child even though I’m already 21 years old.. Ugh..

“I understand, please help me Chris-san..” I says dejectedly.

Chris-san grabs me under of my armpits with both of his hand and lifts me up. “Wow, Ren-chan you’re so light~”  

He then continues to climb on William while hugging me. I don’t want to say it but truth is I fit snugly under Chris-san embrace like this. There’s nothing I can do though because the people in Alsar is considerably larger than me.

Chris-san then put me on the saddle on the front and he took the seat on the back saddle.

Turning my head to Malik-san, I say, “Well then Malik-san, I’m going now.”

“A-ah.. Y-yeah.. Have a safe trip, Ren.”

Malik-san seems flustered and surprised. I wonder why?

“Is something wrong Malik-san?”

“Eh? N-no. It’s nothing. Be careful not to hurt yourself, okay Ren?”

“I will. Goodbye Malik-san.”

I wave my hand to Malik-san who waves back as we leave the Pedrell City.

Thus, begin my first journey.

--------------------------------------------------------------

Malik’s POV !

“I can’t believe it.. For him to put Ren on the front..” I murmur while looking at Ren’s leaving figure.

Usually for a 2 seaters saddle like that, the people that hold the reins will be sitting on the front.

Instead of sitting on the front, Chris sit on the back with Ren on the front.

That way of riding in Alsar is usually done between lovers.

It has the feeling like ‘I always want to hold you close.’

“And also.. Our conversation earlier..”

Before we reached the stable, I was talking with Chris about Ren.

“Nee~ Malik-san, is it alright if I start to pursue Ren-chan with the purpose to become his husband?~”

“Ah.. I don’t mind it but don’t you dare put your hands on Ren yet! Also, I had Silver Fox and Ice Prince asking about Ren too. They’re going to meet with you two in Calhea. I want all of you to return home together to Pedrell after finishing your quest, okay?”

When I speak the name of those two adventurer, I can feel Chris’s bloodlust rising but he immediately suppressed it in an instant. If I was a lesser man, I wouldn’t have noticed it.

“I see.. I will be looking forward to it then~ Is it okay if I call you father now?~”

“It’s still way too soon to call me father..”

Did he knew that I was trying to make all of them become candidates for Ren’s husband?

“My intuition is correct. Christ must’ve fallen for Ren already and soon enough, the two of them will fall for Ren too.”

When I listened to the story when Ren went shopping with Chris, I knew for sure that Chris already deeply in love with Ren.

I might be become like a meddlesome old man, but I can’t help myself.

I do this because I’m worried about Ren’s future.

Living in Alsar is hard if you’re weak and frail so it’s better if Ren can have a strong husband(s).

“Ah it’s a long way to go home but there’s Ren’s home cooked meal waiting for me. Well, there’s still a few hours left before I have to go to work, I guess I will sleep for a few hours first.”

After praying for their safety, I walk back home.

-------------------------------------------------------------

Horse (?) Introduction!

Name : William

Shoulder Height : 180 cm (it doesn’t include the height of his head when standing straight)

Eye color : deep blue

Fur color : Black

Usually, the normal shoulder height for magical horse is around 160-170cm.

T/N : SO! We have the clue for another members of the harem! What kind of person is Ice Prince and Silver Fox? *drumrolls* For the next chapter, we will finally be able to see Ren’s first step to become a proper adventurer!~

Chapter 15

Index

Chapter 1. Where Am I?

A/N

This is my first work ever, I tried to put a lot of things I like through this story. My story might be bad but please bear with me.

Translator/N 

This is my first time translating web novel as well. Lol. I hope you guys like it ! I’m sorry if there’s any error with my translation!

~*~

For some reason my back hurts so I toss around in my sleep. I try to go back to sleep but I can’t seem to get comfortable no matter how I move. I decided to get up and start my day.

I open my eyes and I see a vast green forest surrounding me. I turn my head around and I see a lake on my right side.

“Nngh.. Huh.. Why I.. Did I fell asleep outside?” No wonder my back hurts so bad, since I've been sleeping on the ground like this. But wait! “Huh? I’m pretty sure I went to sleep in my room yesterday.” Anyway for the time being let’s try to remember what happened yesterday. “Yesterday I attended class for a whole day, then I went to the convenience store at 22:00 and arrived at home safely by 22:30. I had dinner, took a bath and I guess I finally fell asleep at 01:00? Since tomorrow is weekend, I went to bed while thinking about all the laundry I have to do.” Yup. Just my usual day to day life. “Where am I?!?!?!” I look around myself frantically, suddenly I don’t feel sleepy at all. “Just what the hell is happening..” Did I sleepwalk? But even if I did sleepwalk, since I live in a big city, there is no forest like this nearby “Anyway, just standing in here and do nothing is useless. I better try to explore this place, I might be able to find someone here.” I look at the lake right in front of me. The lake is so beautiful, the water is crystal clear I can even see the fish swimming around. “I’m so thirsty.. I wonder if the water is safe to drink..?” I don’t know for sure but I guess it’s been 3 hours since I last woke up? No wonder my I feel parched. I want to drink this water but I don’t know whether the water is safe to drink. “I’m going to drink it! If the water this clear I’m sure it’s going to be alright!” I walk to the edge of the lake, although I said I’m going to drink it, I still feel a little bit hesitant. What if I get stomach ache?

I scoop the water with both of my hands. The water feels cold to touch. So nice, it must be refreshing if I drink it….

I brace myself and gulp the water in one go. Somehow the water tastes sweet, it’s so delicious! “Huh? Someone’s here?” I bristled when I heard someone speaking. I feel like I leaked a little.. Just a little bit though! It’s because I haven’t peed since I woke up!

I was about to go pee after I finish drinking but I guess I need to hold it in. I turn my body around quickly and I see a handsome middle aged man, around 30ish I think with dazzling brown hair. His face looks like a westerner and he is carrying a fishing rod with him. And he is really, really big. Probably around 2 metres? “Umm…” “It’s okay, I’m not a suspicious person, boy. My name is Malik. Malik Cleva. I’m the guild master from the Adventurer Guild in Pedrell.” “A-ah.. My name is Himukai Ren. May I ask where is this exactly? Pedrell ? Where is that?” I introduce myself to him since he already gave me his name first then I started to shoot barrage of questions to him. “Himukya? Umm.. Himukya, right now we’re in a forest by the Pedrell City.” Malik-san.. he looks like a foreigner so I guess it must be hard for him to say Japanese name. It’s Himukai not Himukya but I feel like it would be rude of me to correct him. He said Pedrell City? Where is that? I never heard about Pedrell City before. “Please call me Ren, Malik-san. Actually I was sleeping in my house but when I woke up suddenly I ended up here.” “I don’t quite understand but I guess you’re lost, huh? Anyway are you hungry, Ren?” I ask him to call me Ren because it’s easier to pronounce. Malik-san doesn’t look like a Japanese but his Japanese is really good and he seems like a nice guy.

“A lost child? I guess I am. Thank you for the offer! Though, is your house close? Actually I really need to pee right now, is it okay if you wait a little while I go do my business first?”

“Well it’s a little far. You can go pee first, I will wait for you here.”

Since I’ve been holding it for a while, I run hastily to relieve myself. I’ve said it before but Malik-san Japanese is really good! I wonder where am I actually? It’s rare for me to see westerner speaking such fluent japanese.

When I returned I see Malik-san sitting on a large rock by the lake. Even though he’s only sitting normally, he looks really handsome.

“Thank you for waiting, Malik-san”

“Ah. Don’t worry about it. Come on, let’s walk. We have so much to talk about.”

After 5 minutes of walking, I finally see the road. I guess I’m not that far deep into the forest yet, huh.

Another thing, when I was peeing I just realized that I’m barefooted. Well that is given afterall, I was sleeping in my room.

There’s nothing I can do so I have to bear with it.

Though I’m sure I’m going to hurt myself by walking barefooted in the forest.

At the very least I have to be careful so I won’t stab myself by stepping on a twig or something!

~*~

We’ve only walked for 30 minutes but Malik-san have already taught me a lot of things!

Apparently this world, Alsar is a world of magic and sword where there are elves and monsters roaming around the world. I’m definitely not in Japan. Heck, I’m sure there’s no place like this on earth!

This is a forest next to Pedrell City, in the kingdom of Aspel.

And Malik-san is a local here.

Once every 5 years a person from different world will be transported into Alsar so this is a normal occurrence. According to Malik-san, it seems like I’m one of those other world people. Ah, my head hurts.

What’s more, at first I thought Malik-san was speaking in Japanese, but according to him I’m the one speaking in the official language of Alsar. I guess it’s like auto translator? I hear Malik-san speaking Japanese and in return Malik-san hear me speaking in Alsar language.

The legal age in Alsar is 18 years old and Malik-san here is actually 47 years old! He didn’t look like 47 years old! Sadly, he thought I was 15 years old even though actually I’m already 21.

The average height for male in Alsar is 2m, for female is 180m. No wonder he thought I’m still a child since I’m only 175cm tall.

Thankfully this world use the same metric system back in earth and the measurement for time is the same too. So I don’t have to learn new measurement system.

Sigh.. there’s a lot of new information my head feels like it’s going to combust.

~*~

Finally we’ve arrived in Pedler City. Thanks to Malik-san, I can go through the gate checking relatively easy.

We walk past the market, there’s various stall selling all kind of things I’ve never seen before. From food, clothes to knick knacks, everything!

As I was too busy getting fascinated by the various things here that I didn’t realize we’ve already arrived at Malik-san’s house. His house is not that far away from the market and it’s really big. It’s bigger than the average house I saw in Pedrell.

“Sorry, I haven’t prepared anything since I didn’t plan on receiving guest today. Please take a seat anywhere you want while I make some tea for you.”

“Ah thank you very much.”

Malik-san take me to the dining room, there’s 4 chair there so I sit on the chair closest to me.

I look around the house inconspicuously. For a single man that has been living alone, Malik-san house is really spacious but also really tidy. Somehow, I feel kinda nervous.

While I was too busy looking around, suddenly a cup of steaming brown liquid appeared in front of me.

It looks like the usual black tea from earth.

I was extremely parched when I drank the water from the lake, but now that I’m in the right state of mind somehow I feel scared to drink something from another world.

Malik-san take the chair in front of me and staring at me, waiting for me to drink the cup he gave me. Since we’ve walked quite a distance, I actually feel thirsty but still, I’m afraid to take the first gulp.

After a while, I finally give up and I lift the cup with both of my hands gently and blow the steam ‘fuu fuu’ like that.

“Ah! It IS tea! Delicious!”

“I’m glad you like it. Actually this ‘tea’ was brought by an otherworlder too, like you. People will feel more at ease if they experience something familiar to them, right? I hope it will calm your nerves.”

“Ah.. yes..”

After I hear that the tea was brought by otherworlder, I drink the tea in one big gulp. To think this is actually the same tea from earth..

Malik-san is really a gentleman, he saved me from being lost,he even gave me tea because he wanted me to feel at ease. He is a really kind man.

“Ren, the thing that I told you before, about other worlder, do you understand it now?”

“Umm, when I first heard it I feel skeptical because to me, you seem to be speaking in Japanese. I thought I might be dreaming but the urge to take a pee, the thirst, the tiredness after walking, everything is real. After seeing the city, it finally sinked in. I guess I am in other world now.”

Yes. I have no other choice but to believe that this is not earth.

After all, the people in here carries sword like it’s normal, Malik-san included.

What’s more, I’m just an ordinary student, there’s no benefit for someone to try and trick me anyway.

“It’s okay to take everything slowly. I’ve met a couple of otherworlder that hurt themselves because they were confused and overwhelmed when they first came to Alsar.”

Well it’s normal to react in such a way. It must’ve been hard to accept the whole concept of other world because that kind of thing only exist as fantasy in earth.

“I am confused but I have no other choice but to give up and just accept it, right? I’m really blessed to be able to meet Malik-san from the start, thanks to you explaining things to me, I can let the reality sink in.”

I am really blessed. If I didn’t meet Malik-san, I would’ve went and got myself lost in the forest and probably die. I don’t have any capability to life in the wilds so my survivability is close to zero.

“Ah well, you’re actually my type, of course I would be willing to help.”

“Pardon? What did you say?”

Malik-san said something but he said it in low voice so it’s hard for me to catch it.

“Nothing! Don’t mind it! Anyway, you’re welcome to stay here while you get used to your new life. I live alone anyway and I have lots of empty room to spare.”

“Eeeeh? To trouble you anymore than this.. I will look for work that provides a live-in space for their employee, please I would feel bad if I were to intrude on you.”

After all the things he has done to me, he is still willing to help me more? And what’s more, wouldn’t he feel afraid that I will steal something? I’m a stranger you know!

“You really are very high spirited huh. Well there’s an unspoken rule that the first person that found an otherworlder are required to take care of the otherworlder until they settle down. After all it’s not everyday you find an otherworlder. So don’t mind it.”

Is that so. To think there’s that kind of rule regarding the otherworlder..

“And the people from the other world is much much smaller than the people in Alsar. Ren you look like at most 15 or maybe even 6 years old and you look really seductive! Even though you look like a child, you’re bound to get in trouble somehow. That’s why, it’s okay for you to stay here until you settle in.”

“Se-seductive? I don’t really understand but if there’s such unspoken rule like that, for now I will be in your care.”

When it Rome, do as romans do. I guess I will be in Malik-san care for now.

And so, I’ve decided to live with Malik-san.

Index

Chapter 4 : My First Time to The Market & The Shocking Truth! 

A/N : They went to the market and Ren was surprised! *Boom*

~*~

“Ren are you awake? Come now, rise and shine.”

Malik-san knocks the door as he calls out to me. I was surprised that I almost fell to the floor. I look around the surrounding room, my head is a little hazy because I suddenly woke up in an unfamiliar room.

“Ah, right. This is not my house.”

I murmurs as I recall what happened yesterday. I was transported to Alsar and met Malik-san, that’s right.

“Wait, I’m awake now! Wait a minute!”

I walk to the door to greet Malik-san.

“It’s okay, no need to rush.”

As I thought, I really am in another world right now. At first I thought maybe if I go to sleep, I would wake up and everything would go back to normal.

Ugh. Thinking about my current situation makes my head hurts.

Well, first thing first. I better pull myself together. Time to start another day in Alsar!

“Good morning, I’m sorry I slept in. I’m going to wash my face first.”

I see Malik-san is sitting on the sofa. He hands me a bundle of clothes.

“Yesterday when Ren was sleeping, I just realized I can use [Small] magic on my old clothes to fit your body. Sorry I didn’t realize it sooner.”

Ah that’s right, yesterday Malik-san said he doesn’t have clothes in my size.

“Thank you very much! I didn’t know magic can be used in such convenient way.”

“Shrinking clothes using [Small] magic is easy. [Big] magic to enlarge clothes is harder. Because if we want to increase the size of clothes, that means we have to produce more clothes from nothing, right? [Small] magic only decrease the existing things, but [Big] magic can produce something out of nothing. Well, a proper magician can use [Big] magic easily.”

I guess magic is not that easy to use despite being convenient.

“I see. Well, once again thank you for the clothes. I’m going to wash my face now.”

I hold the bundle Malik-san gave me and head to the sink. I wash my face and when I’m done, I spread the bundle of clothes.

I have one long sleeved white shirt, a black vest, a long dark brown pants with suspender attached to it.

“Wow, it fits me better than I thought and so comfortable too. It’s easy to move, not restricting at all.”

It’s simple but when I put it on, I look amazingly good. The size fits me perfectly too. Malik-san really have a good sense of fashion.

Back in Japan, Golden Week was almost over so it’s March in Japan right now. Since both Alsar and Earth have the same rotation, I guess right now it’s spring? Either way the clothes suits the season so it’s fine.

I walk back to the living room to show the clothes to Malik-san.

“Malik-san, does the clothes suits me?”

“Wow, you look good! Now we only need shoes for you. In the meantime, you can use this sandal. When we get to the market, let’s visit the shoemaker and get shoes in your size.”

“Umm.. Malik-san.. Right now.. I don’t have any money with me. I will just borrow your sandal.”

Since right now I’m penniless, I have to restrain myself from borrowing too much money from other people otherwise I will be in trouble when it’s time for me to pay my debt!

“What are you saying? In the first place, if you don’t even have a pair of shoes, it’s going to be hard to get a job.”

“Ugh when you say it like that….. Fine! Please lend me money, I will be sure to pay you back when I get a job!”

I have to work extra hard so I can repay Malik-san!

“Ren you’re such a good kid! Okay, I understand but leave the food expenses to me, alright? Even though right now because of an injury, I already retired. But I still have some savings from back when I was an adventurer.”

Malik-san says as he pats my head gently.

Wa-wait! Injury? What?!

“Ehh? Are you injured? Is it painful? Are you fine now?”

“Ah it’s okay now. It was 10 years ago, I was fighting a monster and it got my left leg. I managed to kill it and returned to the town. As time pass by, I’ve recovered my leg but I’ve decided to quit being an adventurer and choose to manage the guild instead. Ah right, I need to show you around the guild too!”

Malik-san replies, he is still stroking my head.

That’s right, this is fantasy world after all. Of course monster exists here. Because the situation somehow turned gloomy, Malik-san immediately perks up and changed the topic.

“Anyhow, it’s all in the past now! I’m perfectly fine now and there’s no monster inside the city so you’re safe! Let’s hurry up and go to the market! First, we need to go get breakfast, we can get some from a food stall in the market. Then, shoes and clothing for Ren. After that, lunch at another restaurant and then.. We need to purchase ingredient for tonight’s dinner. I will put it inside my magic bag and then we can head to the guild!”

I already heard about the magic bag yesterday. It seems like you can put a lot of things inside despite the size of the bag. I also want one if possible..

“Sounds exciting! I wonder what the market and the guild looks like! There’s bound to be bunch of food I never see before too! Interesting!”

“Is that so? Well let’s go!”

~*~

I follow Malik-san as he goes outside. It takes about 5 minutes of walking before we reached the market. I think right now it’s around 7 am? But the market is already packed with people!

I didn’t get to take a good look yesterday so I didn’t realize but turns out in the city, there’s a bunch of race living here. There’s elves with pointy ear and beastman with animal ears. Amazing!

The sight of rabbit ears on that bald uncle though, that sight is too traumatizing.

“Even though it’s early in the morning, the market is already crowded!”

“That’s right. The market is always crowded. We have to be careful not to get separated. We will go get breakfast at my usual place.”

“Right!”

Malik-san increases his pace. If I lose the sight of him, it’s the end for me. I desperately run up to him, the length of our leg is too different!

In fact, almost everyone in the market is a lot taller than me. Even the woman is super tall here. No matter how you look at it, I look like a small child compared to them.

If I were to permanently live in Alsar.. Would I be able to even have a girlfriend here? Do they even consider me as love interest??

I was too depressed that I didn’t realize we’ve arrived at our destination. Almost immediately, I smell a really delicious aroma coming from the stall.

“You see, that stall sells delicious roasted pig meat with bunch of spices and ritas bread.”

“Ritas? I don’t know what it is but it smells amazing!”

“Is the name of ingredients in your world is different? Anyway you should try it first, I’m sure you will get hooked.”

I’ve never heard of it before, it must be the kind of food that only exist in Alsar. But it sure smells delicious!

Malik-san then orders for us and hands me my portion.

Is this vegetable ‘ritas’?

I gather my courage and take the first bite.

*chomps*

Wow! The pig meat is so full of flavour! The juice and herbs from the pig absorbed by the ritas bread is extra delicious as well! Wow!

Apparently ‘ritas’ is like some sort of lettuce in Earth and pig is well.. pork meat.

‘Ritas’ and lettuce has similar sounds so I guess it’s kinda easy to remember.

“Malik-san! This is so delicious! The pig is so juicy and the ritas is so crispy! Amazing!”

“I’m glad you like it! Let’s take a seat so we can take our time eating.”

Malik-san pulls me to sit on the nearest bench and then we chomped on our meal delightfully. At first I was worried whether it would be safe for me to eat different world food but it was surprisingly delicious that I finished eating in a beat.

While I finish my first bread, Malik-san already eating his second and he takes a water bottle from his magic bag and pass it to me.

“Here, take this. It’s tea.”

“Thanks! *gulp gulp* Ah, I’m full.”

“Ren you eat so little. You should try to eat more. Ah but, you shouldn’t force yourself to eat too much either.”

Because the different in our physique is too great, I guess the amount of food I eat might seem too little to Malik-san?

Malik-san takes the bottle from me and put the bottle back into his magic bag.

“Well then, shall we go look for clothes? I have quite a lot of money so need to hold back!”

“Eeeeh? Then it will be hard for me to repay you back. I will just buy the basic necessities. “

“Hahahaha! Ren you’re already like my son, so it’s okay to see me as your father”

Son..?

Father..?

My parents divorced when I was 3 years old and my mother raised me alone. I’ve never met my father ever since then.

Even though I have new father thanks to my mother remarrying, I didn’t meet him often because I’m busy with my study and they also live so far away. We’ve met a few times but I’m not that close to him yet.

“I actually never had a father figure in my life before but I guess it’s nice to have such cool looking father like you.”

“I see.. Well, I’ve been living alone too all these years. I bought that huge house thinking I might settle down and build a family one day but years pass by and here I am, still alone. But now I have Ren so I’m very happy!”

I knew it, that house is too huge for one person. But is this alright? I mean we were practically strangers, I’ve only know Malik-san for about 2 days but.. From the bottom of my heart, I feel safe with him.

“I don’t have a wife too, I’m still single but.. In the future I also want to have a family, I might get a wife someday, though I don’t know whether the woman in Alsar would even consider me as love interest because of how short I am. But as right now I’m still single, please let me live with you.”

I practically look like a minor if I were to compare myself to the average height in Alsar. It’s probably almost impossible for me to get a wife and somehow, everyone in here is so physically fit. It’s not like all of them have such big muscle like extreme bodybuilder but they seem to be physically fit, the muscle in them are pretty defined and the woman has nice bodyline as well.

Rather than a love interest, the woman in here might see me as little brother or something.

“Rather than a wife, I think it’d be better for Ren to search for a husband, maybe around 2 or 3 husbands to protect you. Since the other female looks manly compared to Ren, they might feel inferior if they were to become your wife. Hahaa!”

“Eeh? Wh-whaat?!”

Husband?! What?!

What’s more, 2 to 3 husbands??

What does he mean??

“Ren? What’s wrong? You have strange expression on your face. Hmm, though I told you to search for a husband, I would only approve if you marry the man that I acknowledge. They better earn my respect first before trying to marry you. I can’t let a jerk sullied you!”

I’m so surprised,so my face look really weird right now. But that’s not something a father would say to his son! It’s something that a father should say to his daughter!

“Umm.. Malik-san, I’m a man you know, is it okay if I marry a man? What’s more, multiple man instead just one??”

“So what if you’re a man? Is it forbidden in your world? Homosexual marriage is normal here in Alsar and marriage here is not limited to one couple. You can have more than one partners. Although I say it’s not limited to one, usually people only have about.. 5 partners at most?”

W-what?!?!

This is the biggest culture shock I’ve ever experienced in Alsar!

Well back in Earth same-sex marriage is already approved in some country, I even have some gay couple friends back in university. Even in Japan, having a concubine or more than 1 wife is quite common especially during the war era.

Now that I think about it.. It’s not that different huh? I guess it’s alright.

But to imagine myself actually marries more than one man…

“Well it’s not that common in the place where I lived, in Japan especially. Because if there’s a lot of same-sex couple that means the population will decrease, right? Because no procreation will happen. Especially Japan already experienced the decrease in population, it would be bad if there’s less heterosexuals couple in Japan.”

“Well that may be right, having more children would help the population more but why would the population decrease ? Same-sex couple can also have children anyway.”

Whaaaaat?!?!

Did I hear it right?!

Same-sex couple can have children together?! Not adopting but like, give birth to children together?!

I don’t understand.

“Eh? But how? Even though both are guys??”

“Hmm.. I see. So it’s not like that in your previous world,huh? I will explain more after we finish picking up clothes for you, okay? I don’t want you to get overwhelmed.”

“Ah..Yeah, you’re right.”

~*~

We then start to walk to the clothing store, we didn’t walk too far away from the ritas bread stall but the amount of people decrease considerably.

“Ren, let me confirm once again. So in your previous world, same-sex marriage and monogamy is not that common ? And same-sex couple could not give birth to child together?”

“Yes. In Japan, my country haven’t acknowledged same-sex marriage and monogamous marriage yet. I think in some country they already accepted it but not Japan. And same-sex couple could not have child together although there are other way to have a child like through adoption or through surrogate mother. But there’s no way a procreation can happen between homosexual couple.”

Yup, I’m sure that’s the condition in Earth.

“I see. No wonder Ren was so surprised. Well as you heard before, same-sex couple can have children together here in Alsar.”

“Yes, I understand but..how..?”

Yup, that’s the big question!

From what I’ve learned from sexual education class, there’s no way same-sex couple can give birth together!

“Well in Alsar both homosexual or heterosexual couple need to go to the church and pick up the fruits from Yamu tree growing on the church’s ground.”

“Yamu tree?”

“Yes, if you eat it while you’re still unmarried, nothing will happen though. But if you go pick up the fruits and eat it together as a married couple, a child will be born. After eating it, the effect of that fruit will last for a week so you better have sex together soon before the effect disappear.”

So that’s how homosexual couple have child together.. What a mysterious fruit..

But the condition for the effect to appear is to be married? So that’s mean there’s no such thing as shotgun wedding in Alsar then. All children born will be between marriage life.

“Then if someone were to have multiple spouses, that means everyone has to eat it together?”

“No. Not everyone has to. Let’s say if you have three husbands. A, B and ,C. If you want the father of your child to be A then only you and A need to eat the Yamu fruits together. B and C don’t have to eat it. The effect will still appear but only A will be able to impregnate you. Most people are pretty particular with the parent of their child so this kind of thing happens quite a lot.”

I see. So if I don’t care who is the father is then I can eat it together with A, B and C.

So with this system it’s impossible to have a children if you were cheating. Like if there’s person D. A cheats with D so because A is not married to D, even though A already eats the Yamu fruits with B and C, A won’t have a children with D.

Oh and if A, B and C eat the fruit together, if somehow the children looks like B in 3 consecutive rows, it’d be sad for C then. That means for C to properly continue his bloodline, it’d be better for A and C to eat the fruits together without including B.

The Yamu fruit is so convenient but what about the people who live far away from the church? That means they cannot have children??

“Malik-san, what if someone lives far away from the church? What to do then?”

“Oh the church is not the only place Yamu tree can grow. Yamu tree can grow in other place than the church but since there’s no one to properly take care of the tree, it will be hard for the tree to bear fruits.”

“I see, ah there’s a lot of new things to absorb…”

This world, is really the fantasy world.. Even obscure thing like pregnancy-inducing-fruit exists in here.

“Though now I know that pregnancy is not limited to heterosexual couple, I still think that I don’t think I will ever have a husband because I’ve never consider a man to be love interest at all. I’ve only likes girl.”

“Ren, it’s not like that I oppose of you to have a wife but I really think it’s going to be difficult for you.”

“Eh? Why is that?’

“Well to be honest, Ren’s appearance is more attractive to the men here. Ren is really beautiful, I think even woman might admit that Ren is beautiful but I don’t think they might be interested in having you as their husband.”

I knew it.

I already knew it but hearing the truth from Malik-san really convinced me that I was right.

“And because Ren never practice sword and magic before, I really think it’s better for you to have a more than one husbands to protect you.”

“But I’m also a man! I can’t stand being protected! I want to be able to stand on my own too!”

Though swordsmanship seems impossible for me but my pride as a man won’t allow me to just let myself be protected and do nothing!

“I know but the current you.. Let alone female adventurer, I don’t think you can even win against normal female villagers here.”

“W-well that might be right..”

I guess, having a loving wife and protect her like the proper man is impossible for me huh.

Nah, rather than that I think the most possible outcome for me is to be protected by my wife instead. “I will protect, Ren-kun!” like that maybe.

Ugh! My pride as a man…

Ah,I can’t keep lamenting! I better move forward instead!

That’s right! First, I need clothing!

“Malik-san! Let’s go to the clothing shop! Let’s stop talking about my love life and look at clothes instead.”

I stand up abruptly and pull Malik-san hand.

“Hahhaa, okay okay. I know a good shop here, if the size doesn’t suit you, I can use [Small] magic to adjust it to your size. So you can pick the design you like, the size can be adjusted later.”

“Okay!”

Malik-san finally stands up and guide me to the clothing shop.

Chapter 3

Index