Hey guys,
As promised, I’m linking to the where the new translator will be posting the chapters for NHAD. Their name is mii and they’re super chill.
Have fun! ^^
Category Archives: Nurturing the Hero to Avoid Death
NHAD 10.4
Read this from the beginning at Perpetual Daydreams.
Part 4 out of 4. Unedited. Someone has finally picked this novel up 😀
…The first day had a tough schedule.
We had to climb a mountain and ate our rations at the peak. As we walked through the mountains the teachers taught us which plants and fruits were edible, how to set up camp and make a fire, and how to hunt for game. After half a day had passed, we descended the mountain back to our accommodation. The students who were late were punished.
Isn’t this what survival training is like?
It’s too unpleasant. I want to go home. I’ve been saying I’m an indoor type of person!
By the time I return to our lodging, I’m extremely exhausted. Once nighttime arrives, the teachers and the volunteers confirm the route for the test of courage, along with the locations of the frights.
As originally planned, Jade (one of the three bullies) and I take position near the cliff. Nearby are the other two bullies.
Holding a lantern in one hand, Jade and I study the cliff side.
A large red sign reads “no trespassing,” “slippery,” and “beware of slipping,” and in front is the fence made of wooden poles tied with rope.
Lifting the lantern, I try to lean my body forward as much as possible.
I inhale.
While a person probably won’t die falling from this height, the cliff is still really deep. Moreover, the slope is steep, almost at a ninety degree angle. Looks difficult to ascend. But people who rock climb often shouldn’t have a problem.
Also…It’s pretty dark. I can’t see through the darkness but there’s a cave at the bottom where demon dogs live.
I shudder, rubbing my arm.
“Hey, Lian. If you look any more, you’ll fall over the edge. It’s dangerous.”
“Y-yes…”
“It looks dark and scary! If you fall here, we’ll cry!”
“Y-yeah…”
It’s here in this spot that I have to shove Alfred.
For tomorrow night.
I wonder if it’ll go well. No, it’ll be bad if it doesn’t go according to plan.
Oh that’s right. If it’s necessary tomorrow, I’ll hand him some recovery medicine. Ah, but it’ll be weird to pass him anything. I need to think of a reason.
“Lian? What’s wrong?” asks Jade. “Your face looks blue…”
“Ah, no. I’m just a little cold! It’s n-nothing. But it’s really dark…”
“Yeah!” Jade laughs maliciously.
Well, let’s also hand Alfred the recently-finished, pendant-type amulet, “Shining Self-Protection Number 7 (complete with flash blind function).”
There’s a lot of things I want to give him, but the training sessions are too exhausting. Not to mention, there’s always a crowd around Alfred.
I need to give these items to him soon…
I rub my churning belly.
My schedule is so packed until bedtime. (Who was the one who thought of this?) So I just haven’t had the opportunity to pass Alfred the items.
Tomorrow. I still have time. I’ll give them to him tomorrow.
Speaking of which, occasionally when Alfred catches sight of me, it looks like he has something he wants to say. I wonder what it is.
It makes me feel worried, but since there’s always so many people around us, I never had the chance to ask him about it.
Although I’m worried, this could also just be happening in my head.
Anyway, I’m worried about him.
With my thoughts in a mess, I end up staying awake until the brink of dawn.
The second day.
Today was also exhausting. We practiced how to relieve drowning while racing our rowboats through a lake. Then muscle training. Then cross country through the mountains.
Finally, we made a fire by hand and set up camp to cook.
Why does this feel like a sports team training camp?! Where’s the strolling through the woods to admire nature, the sketching of scenery, etc?! Who’s the musclehead that thought up this schedule?! You don’t need muscle training to climb a mountain, you know?!
…So.
The troublesome night has finally arrived.
Standing in front of the mountain trail leading into the dense forest, the teacher holds a box filled with paper lots.
These lots will be used to decide the pairs for the test of courage.
Alfred’s paired with the number one beauty of our class year.
As expected of the future Hero. Aren’t you lucky? Share some of your luck with me, won’t you?
This translation is the property of Sleepchaser athttps://sleepchaser.wordpress.com. If you read it anywhere else, it’s stolen.
After the brief meeting, we scatter to our designated positions.
The three bullies snuggle up close.
“I’m looking forward to this, Lian!”
“Me too!”
“Yeee.”
“Y-yeah…”
In the end, I regret that I wasn’t able to give Alfred what I had planned to give him. But there’s nothing I can do about it now.
Jade and I hide and wait in the shadows of the trees and grass.
A black sheet drapes over both of our bodies, devilish looks on our faces. In each of our hands is a fake scythe. Our faces and scythes are smeared with generous amounts of red paint.
Somehow, it almost seems real. That’s the handiwork of an art teacher for ya.
In the end, we successfully scare thirty pairs.
Then from the other side of the trees, my eyes catch the sight of a head full of blond hair, golden locks standing out even during the night.
He’s here.
I turn silent. Swallow.
By Alfred’s side is a girl in high-heeled sandals. Her long hair is puffy and maroon, her dress short with spaghetti straps. The girl rumored to be the hottest babe of this year’s class. Long, dark eyebrows, large eyes that are raised.
I signal to Jade.
My heart’s pounding in my chest and I have a headache from lack of sleep.
Please.
Let this event go well. I beg of you.
Swinging our bloody scythes, Jade and I burst out into the open.
To keep up the act, Jade chases after her with his scythe raised, the girl sobbing as she runs. He doesn’t follow her for long, though.
How scary. I also know how terrifying the devil face paint looks. Of course for me, it’s just a little scary.
Jade and I chase after Alfred and our hands catch up to him, gradually exerting a pushing force. But he doesn’t seem to move an inch.
Then the girl heads towards the cliff side.
The girl’s in a confused state and it’s dangerous for her to keep running. Sure enough, she trips on her own two feet, a scream escaping from her lips. One of her heels is broken, getting caught in a tree root. She falls backwards, heading towards the fence.
Her back hits the fence, and starting from there, her thin body draws a large arc.
Ah, I think this is bad.
Hopping on a coffin prop, I thrust my hands out to shove the girl to safety. Then the fence post breaks from the weight of two people. The other half must have been in the process of rotting because it broke so easily.
The rope that held the fence posts together snaps—
And I fall off the cliff.
It isn’t Alfred that falls, but me…
Aaand that’s a wrap. This is the end of translating NHAD for me. Thanks for staying with me for so long.
The next chapter will be posted soon by the nice person who adopted this novel.
I hate to say it but, uh, Lian falling off the cliff instead of Alfred seems so much like what Lian would do XD.
NHAD 10.3
Part 3 out of 4. Okay guys, I’ve finally found a translator for this novel. Chapter 10.4 will be the last release coming from me, and I will link to the new group in that post.
Since Lian’s father is out on a business trip in the capital and his mother is busy frolicking there too, I hand the summer training camp contact flyer to the steward Loendal. He’ll pass it on to my parents later. He’s an old, “dandy romance,” white-bearded steward. Ages like fine wine.
I’d like to age just like him. Hm. Let’s make that a goal.
“I see. Understood. Then please rest assure that I will do everything within my capabilities to accomplish this task. I will check again with you later, and if there is anything else you need please let me know.”
“Thank you. I’m saved because of you.”
Lian’s father and mother are often out of the estate. Besides, they don’t seem interested in school events, so I can’t rely on them.
The old steward smiles happily. His narrow eyes and oval face reminds me of my grandfather, and my heart throbs with a bit of pain.
“No, no. No need to say that. Please enjoy yourself. I think your three days, two nights trip with your classmates will be enjoyable and full of pleasant memories.”
“Haha…” Enjoy, huh… I feel like that’s impossible.
How good would it be if I can be like those guys, not having to worry about anything and just have fun?
I feel like I already want to go home even before going on that school trip. Can I just go home? Is that not possible?
“Lian!”
The dining room door suddenly bursts open with a slam.
I whip my head around and see Lian’s brother, eyes wide with surprise. He always behaves suspiciously. I don’t really understand it.
“Y-you’re going on a trip?! W-where?! And with w-who?!”
“W-welcome home brother. It’s just a school trip. I’m going to the mountain in the town suburbs during the weekend for outdoor training. It’s going to last three days and two nights.”
“W-what did you say?!” Lian’s brother widened his eyes even more, his shock obviously growing. Why is that?
“T-that’s not good! It’s too dangerous!”
“Dangerous? Ah, don’t worry. I’ll be fine. There’s a demon-repelling fence surrounding the premises. Plus, they’ll be teachers there. And my friends are with me too—”
“That part’s the most dangerous!”
“H-huh?”
“They’ll be around you from morning until night! My beloved, pure and beautiful as an angel, lovely as a flower fairy Lian! That’s like throwing a rabbit into a herd of starving beasts! It’s too dangerous! If anything goes wrong…”
“Hey. That kind of thing absolutely won’t happen.” What’s this idiot elder brother spouting again? You couldn’t have just thought this out of nowhere, could ya bastard? Bro-con to the extreme.
“You’re too oblivious, Lian! You’ve got no idea what you are! Such a defenseless appearance, spending the morning together, taking a bath together, exposing the soft skin reminiscent of snow, sleeping together, showing them such a unprotected figure and cute sleeping face—if you do these things those wild beasts won’t be able to leave you alone! What if you get attacked in the dark?” Lian’s brother presses a hand hard on his nose as if trying to hold back a nosebleed, leaning forward as he says this.
Sure enough, beads of red drip on the marble floor.
You’re the one who’s dangerous! What the hell is he thinking about me? This pervert!
Completely losing my appetite, I leave my seat. “Loendal. My brother doesn’t seem well so please help him back to his room.”
The old steward gracefully bows. “Certainly. I shall take it as my responsibility to lead master Robert back to his room. There should not be anything happening in the middle of the night, so I’ll assign some servants inside and outside of his room overnight as supervision. Please rest assure, master Lian.”
Two strong men dressed in black suits, who previously stood by the walls, came over. They carried my perverted brother away by his arms.
This translation is the property of Sleepchaser athttps://sleepchaser.wordpress.com. If you read it anywhere else, it’s stolen.
As expected of a capable butler! You understand me even if I don’t say anything!
Seems like they’ll watch over pervert brother all night. Thank you, thank you Loendal!
I’ll buy your favorite first flush (ファーストフラッシュ) tea from the Twilight Garden Cafe!
“Thanks in advance,” I say out loud.
“Yes, please leave it to me.” The old steward returns my relieved smile with a graceful one of his own.
From now on, I swear to keep away from my brother as much as possible.
In no time, the day of the trip arrives.
The school is providing five twenty-seater carriages for our trip to the mountains. We’ll be staying at a two-floor wooden building. Looks like they’re renovating the building to be used. Each room will accommodate four people.
Whether the teachers have guts or not, the rooms have already been decided, rich with the rich, less affluent with less affluent.
And of course, Lian and the bully trio have also been assigned the same room—joking.
We weren’t.
Apparently, pervert brother over here pulled some strings and got me my own private room.
How worried can you be? You’re the only one with impure thoughts!
When I tell my homeroom teacher that I’m fine sharing a room he denies my request. According to him if my family finds out I had to share a room, they’ll stop donating huge amounts of cash to the school.
Even if they say that…
The most dangerous thing here is you, pervert brother!
“Waah… This sucks…”
“Terrible…”
“So terrible…”
The three bullies are already half in tears. But nothing really disappointing has happened?
“Well, well,” I say. “Do you guys want to come hang out in my room?”
“Y-yes!”
“I’ll come!”
“Me too!”
Having a room to myself can be a little lonely. Kind of ruins the mood.
Anyway, fast forward a bit. In front of me is our homeroom teacher that’s dozing off. He explains our schedule for the trip.
A large sigh escapes my lips.
Ahh, it’s coming soon. The teacher’s dialogue that will mark the start of this event.
“Tomorrow night is the test of courage. But it’s difficult for us teachers to prepare by ourselves. That’s why I’m looking for some helpers. If seven or eight of you can volunteer, I’ll be very happy.”
It’s here.
While holding my aching stomach, I raise my other free hand. “Yes. I’ll do it.”
“Ohhh! Thank you so much!” The teacher is full of smiles “As expected of you! I always thought you’d raise your hand! You’ve saved us!”
Flustered, the bully trio rush to raise their hands as well.
“If Lian’s helping out, then so am I!”
“Me too!”
“Same!”
“I’m so happy there are so many kind children in here,” the teacher says. “My eyes are tearing up. Now that you three have joined Lian, we just need four more people.”
Strangely, several people raise their hands at once.
What’s going on. Why are you guys so motivated?
It’s known that the more surprised one is, the easier it is to surprise others, but…
After the teacher assigns four more people to help prepare the test of courage, he looks satisfied.
“Alright then, the deadline is met! The people who will be helping me should stay behind after class. Then once everyone’s dispersed, organize your luggage appropriately in your respective rooms until the next training session.”
The students scatter, chattering noisily along the way. Meanwhile, the bully trio approach me with mysterious expressions.
The event begins.
I take a deep breath, preparing myself.
There’s no other option but to do this.
Making full use of my energy to form a smile, I turn to the three bullies. And I say the lines I’ve long since put into memory.
“…These days I’ve been thinking about that impudent Alfred. Why don’t we discipline him a little? Get him to cry?”
As soon as these words leave my lips, the eyes of the three bullies shine brilliantly.
Another quick chapter part. Last part should be up tomorrow.
Ugh, Lian’s brother is so weird. Who else is creeped out? I wish Alfred was in this chapter part.
Sorry for the rushed and rusty-probably-botched translations. I’ve edited like nothing of this. Will edit after the weekend as I’m trying to untangle this Chinese sentences of Story of Yanxi Palace. Yeah, shameless plugging right now. It’s not BL, but it’s kind of beautiful. Check it out if you guys can hehe.
As always, if you enjoyed this chapter, please leave a like or a comment below, and rate/review this novel on NU if you can!
NHAD 10.2
Part 2 out of 4. Minimal edits. Hello again dearies. Again, this novel is up for adoption.
Vacation time.
The bully trio and a few boys and girls surround me, envious and innocent.
“Lian! I’m looking forward to the trip!”
“I get to be together with Lian for three days!”
“Staying with Lian… I can’t wait! I can’t wait!”
“…Right,” I say, forcing out a smile.
The classroom is already up in a fuss. While these dangerous situations are still happening around us, I just can’t feel at ease during school excursions abroad. I’m not even sure how to describe how I feel.
I guess gloomy is the best way to put it.
…How’s Alfred doing?
He’s just a kid after all, so he should be pretty pumped for the school trip. A few male and female students sit nearby, the surrounding noisy and full of fun. As they chatter about the sweets and clothes they’ll pack for the trip, I glance sideways at the last seat by the window.
Alfred’s seat.
Those golden locks that seem to trap the light of the sun are conspicuous even among so many students.
Oh. Is the crowd around him as large as mine?
He’s just cruising along so smoothly. Truly the future hero.
The future hero peers out the window, his face sporting an annoyed expression.
Hmm.
He’s probably thinking that he has to skip his part-time job and not see the church for three days.
Yeah. That must be it.
But there’ll be disaster if he doesn’t go. The fate of the world is resting on his shoulders.
The sleepy clear-blue eyes that once stared out the window suddenly aim at me.
Gaaah! Those eyes!
I desperately try to hold down the cold sweat threatening to soak my back. So scary. I can’t read the emotions in his gaze. Not to mention, he’s staring at me.
For the time being, I’ll just bring out my usual smile. The trick is to raise the chin just a bit. I manage to do it in pressing times.
A well-shaped golden brow arches. He’s still looking at me. Even if I look away it’s no use. It’s a loss on my part.
What do I say? Ha! Yeah, there should be a classroom scene like this where Lian has a line of dialogue. Dangerous, so dangerous! I was distracted by his eyes and almost forgot this.
“Hehehe. Isn’t that good, Alfred? A trip that you don’t have to spend money for. Of course you’re coming, right?”
This translation is the property of Sleepchaser athttps://sleepchaser.wordpress.com. If you read it anywhere else, it’s stolen.
Say that you’ll go on the trip. I’ll go. I mean, it’s troublesome. Mainly for me. It’s a pain to go. But I’ll have trouble even if I don’t. This contradiction is very tiring.
All the while, Alfred’s unreadable blue eyes continue to gaze at me.
“…You want me to come?”
Woah!
Did he hear me?!
Eh?! H-hold on, there’s such a development?
S-since so much time has passed I can not remember the details. So I don’t understand it well.
That’s why I’m saying you, Alfred, are bad at ad-lip! Make it simple!
“Yea—I mean no, I mean you! Do you think you want to go?”
Blue eyes slightly narrow. Looks like he’s thinking hard about something. What are you thinking of? Stop being so expressionless. It’s really scary.
Still staring at me, Alred sighs. “…Understood. It can’t be helped. I’ll come on this trip too.”
So he’s going. Thank goodness.
I mean, he did say it can’t be helped. What can’t be helped?
Well, as long as he feels like coming on the trip, then it’s all good.
As Alfred breaks into a laugh, I feel relieved. What a laugh. But now he’s staring again.
“W-what is it?” I ask.
“Nothing much,” Alfred replies.
Nothing much apart from what? Argh, this bastard! Giving me such a troublesome answer!
“R-right…”
For now, I decide to plaster a smile on my face whenever I feel in trouble. Let’s try to retire now. I’m exhausted.
However, as soon as they see Alfred, the trio of bullies grumble.
“Lian! That guy’s been cocky recently!”
“Yeah, pretty audacious! And yet, he’s still poor!”
“Too bad!”
To be fair, he certainly has been standing out these days.
That’s why Alfred has a bad reputation among the poor male students.
“Now, now. We’re moving to a different classroom next,” I say. “Shall we go, everyone?”
“Y-yes!”
And so I rise from my desk. The faces of the crowd around me glow red.
Thank goodness. Thank goodness that we have to move rooms for the next class. It gives me a good excuse to end the conversation.
Within my heart, I secretly wipe the sweat off my brow.
A quick chapter part because you guys are amazing. Seriously though, anyone interested in adopting this novel XD
Luckily, splitting up chapters in so many parts seem to make it more manageable for me. But yeah, the translation isn’t very smooth because I am super rusty at Japanese. A lot of things I just Hail Marry’ed.
I got so annoyed with the “coming” and “going” part, cause it’s basically an entire three paragraphs of Lian contemplating that to himself LOL. Oh well. At least the scene with Alfred was cute. What “it can’t be helped?” He totally wants to go on the trip to be with Lian.
As always, if you enjoyed this chapter, please leave a like or a comment below, and rate/review this novel on NU if you can!
NHAD 10.1: I have Outdoor Summer Training Pt One
Thank you Shana2122, Nugzeh, yinrin, and xt3999 for the tea money.
Hi guys. I know I said I dropped NHAD, but the group that said they would take it didn’t realize the novel was in Japanese (They’re a completely competent Chinese translating group). Then me being the dumbo I am didn’t realize they emailed be as soon as they realized their oopsie, and this went on for a month. I am so sorry guys. This was completely my fault for missing their email. The group is Dummy Translations and they do incredible translations of Chinese BL novels.
To make up for this, I’m going to be translating chapter 10 and hope that someone else can pick this novel up. This chapter is 11,000 characters, 19 full pages, so I’m splitting it into four parts. Alternatively, Dummy Translations can still pick up the novel. Just keep in mind they specialize in Chinese.
If you are part of a Japanese translating group and would like to pick up NHAD, please let me know.
The sun shines brightly into the classroom.
Both the teacher who’s standing in front of the blackboard and the students who sit behind their desks wear their summer outfits and uniform, feeling nice and breezy.
Among them is a dude in a summer hoodie and flashy swim trunks. Moreover, the zipper is pulled all the way down. Does this guy think he’s already on vacation? Showing off muscles when it’s sweltering. Go dive into the nearby river and never return. Apart from the fact that I don’t have as much muscle, I’m not jealous. T-that’s right. Damn it.
When I’m under particularly strong sunshine, my skin starts to burn quickly. So I have to wear a thin cardigan, long-sleeved shirt, and breezy long pants even during the summer. I never get to have a nice tan. The girls are all jealous of my pale skin, but I’m not at all happy. It’s the color of light snow! Tell me what kind of man would be pleased about that.
I sigh heavily.
Ah… I’m depressed.
And now, summer has finally arrived. That event… also occurs in the summer.
As I listen to the teacher talk, I try to to recall my excitement while playing Arcadia. Ah, that was a fun time. Currently I am not excited, but rather anxious and afraid, stomach churning.
From my memories, this upcoming event is hard to beat.
Here’s an overview of what’s to come.
In the summer of Alfred’s third grade, there will be a school event called “Summer Outdoor Training.” It’ll last for three days and two nights.
Basically, an event where people practice what they have learned up until now in a remote mountain, where they will not disturbed. Sounds fine to me.
…The problem comes during the second night of training.
This translation is the property of Sleepchaser athttps://sleepchaser.wordpress.com. If you read it anywhere else, it’s stolen.
An event that will definitely be incorporated into the summer event: test of courage.
Just thinking about what’s in the test of courage makes my head spin. It’s okay. The teachers are busy and the event seems exciting.
By the way, I hate it.
It’s too scary to go to the bathroom at night! But no one else is scared besides me!? Those who say they’re not afraid are liars.
The real problem is the three bullies. And Lian…
Because of Alfred’s recent height spurt, Lian and the three bullies will devise a plan to take down this person who’s growing fast like a high-speed highway.
When the teacher asks for help for the test of courage, Lian will undertake the troublesome supporting role.
But when it’s Alfred’s turn, they’ll try to surprise him a little. Push him off the cliff.
So scary. But sometimes kids do terrible things.
And Alfred, who is shoved off a dark cliff all alone, will cry out for help. The scenario that Lian and his three goons think up is terrifying, where simple, clear, child-specific cruelty is a glimpsed.
Still, that he cries… Anyway, Alfred is silent and angry, but still afraid.
This is all in anticipation. And from here on, my stomach’s going to wreak havoc on me.
There’s a demon-repelling fence on this side of the cliff. So that area is relatively safe as long as you don’t cross the fence. Of course, if there’s a powerful demon or a bloody and ferocious demon, that’s a different story.
Also, there’s no such limitations on the other side of the fence.
I shiver. If it’s just a game, then I can keep trying until I beat that part. But in this world, there is no redo button. If you die, then it’s just “Game Over” for you.
I’m troubled thinking about how to avoid such a dangerous event. The problem is that if I do manage to avoid it, the storyline may diverge into something I have no knowledge of.
If we follow the plot, after Alfred defeats the demon dogs, he will receive an item that is integral to the main storyline. Nearby the den of demon dogs should be the scorched and weathered corpse of a priest. And next to the corpse should be a ring.
Goddess Faltie’s Ring of Divine Protection.
This event is absolutely essential in order to obtain the Sword of Dawn and Twilight. Without the ring, you won’t be able to reach where the sword is held, let alone defeat the Goddess Faltie, who is the guardian of that sword.
Needless to say, it’s a critical ring.
Anyway, without the Sword of Dawn and Twilight, you can’t take down the Demon King. So if I avoid the test of courage event, that means Alfred will not get the ring. Which in turn means he won’t defeat the Demon King, leading the future to a bad end.
Now that I’ve thought about it, not avoiding this event is the best course of action.
However, after Alfred’s been pushed down the cliff… I’ll have to request this from him. Whatever he does, he has to clear the event in one try. Because if he dies, it’s over.
Ahh. My stomach hurts.
Minimal editing done. Sorry. Again, this story is up for adoption.
As always, if you enjoyed this chapter, please leave a like or a comment below, and rate/review this novel on NU if you can!
Announcement
Hey guys,
I’m sure you’ve all been wondering where the translations been. I’m here to dish out the news.
After clawing through all the work I had and re-reading my old translations, I realized my beginner’s Japanese can never hope to give any of these novels justice. So I’ve decided to pass the baton over to people who can. They have completed projects before, so I think they’ll be able to complete NHAD.
Who are these guys? It’s Dummy Translations. (Violant of the Silver seems to have someone else translating it. Not too sure about that… Villain Days does not have anyone translating it right now.)
What does it mean for this blog?
I’m still going to translate, but not such long novels anymore. And even if I do, I’ll probably be translating Chinese, since that’s a language that I am actually semi-fluent in.
It’s been a hell of a ride, and I hope you all well. In the small chance that Dummy Translations also drops NHAD in the future, I might pick it up again. But I doubt it. I have faith in them.
Cheers and thank you so much.
NHAD 9.5: Alfred’s Dreamlike POV Part two
Thanks a bunch to Ann N. for the tip! R-15 scenes coming up.
My head’s pounding and I feel like death. I’m so nauseous I can’t even stomach lunch. Usually, people give me food but today I refuse each and every one of them. Otherwise, I might vomit it all out.
I have a shift at the bar today. Since the night wage is higher, I earn a lot more relatively for working a short amount of time. I can’t take a break.
The events of the day blur as I recall them, from the time that class ended to the point when I clocked out.
On my way to the carriages, I come across some drunk guys who are basking in the night life. 5 people in total.
This day sucks.
Whenever I catch a fever, like how I have currently, my vision would shake, unable to keep still. Fortunately, I can still move. I’m aware that my body is more robust than an average person’s.
Those drunkards approach me, a shot of alcohol in their mouths and a bottle in each of their left hands.
They call out to me, looking for trouble. I continue walking.
Ahh, this isn’t good. My vision is warping.
Something slams against me. Judging by scream escaping my mouth, I must have been hit hard.
I fall to the ground, remaining there, unable to summon enough strength to stand up.
My condition is especially bad today.
When does the last carriage leave? If I don’t make it in time, then it can’t be helped. Granny might be angry, but in such an event I’ll have to spend the night somewhere in town.
Sighing, I close my eyes.
“Alfred?”
The voice comes from behind me. I lift my head slightly, turning to the direction of the sound.
A small distance away and standing before a prestigious restaurant, one that looked like it would turn away people who didn’t abide by their dress code, is Lian. Silver-haired, round-eyed Lian.
He’s wearing a light blue shirt without a wrinkle in sight, a brilliant white tie, and a dark blue velvet jacket paired with slacks. Silver strands are picked up by the breeze, flowing against milky white skin.
Although his eyes are a shade of ice blue, a cold color, there is a touch of warmth somewhere within.
Lian stands up straight, posture impeccable. He’s so beautiful that no one can possibly come up with a complaint about his appearance. He’s dignified and eye-catching. It’s certainly as the guys in class say: he looks like a prince from the country where the Queen of Spirits resides, far off in the west.
To Lian’s side is his family, his mother in a low-cut scarlet gown and his father and brother sporting black suits. They’re all dressed to the nines.
Next to Lian’s father are several sharply-dressed men of the upper crust of society. Are they having a formal gathering?
Shooting another glance at me, Lian turns and says something to his father. From the looks of their crinkled brows and frowns, they’re having a dispute of some sort. In the end, he bows his head to the rest of his group.
And he runs towards me.
Hey, hey.
Why are you coming over here?
Don’t you have more important business to take care of? No matter how you look at it, those people are big-shots.
“Alfred?! Hey, are you okay?!” Pushing against his knees in a panic, he attempts to pick me up.
“…Why are you here?”
“How about you? Why are you laying on the ground like this? Don’t surprise me anymore! Wow, you’re actually a bit injured. Why are you hurt?!”
Do you have any ideas? I want to hear your thoughts.
Lian slips his hands beneath my armpits and hoists me up. It looks like he doesn’t mind getting his expensive clothes dirty.
As I shift my attention back to the restaurant, I see Lian’s father leading the men through the front entrance. His mother hides her mouth with a folding fan, eyes piercing through me as if I were something dirty. Something foul. And the way Lian’s brother is glaring at me… If only looks could kill…
“Hold on a second. I’ll call a coach over.” Walking to the edge of the street, Lian sticks out his hand in a wave. Sure enough, one cruises to a stop in front of us.
A coachman dressed in all black disembarks from the driver’s seat, tipping his hat and bowing in one fluid and elegant motion. “Where would you like to go, sirs?”
“Please take us to the church in Leis village,” says Lian.
“Understood. Please embark.” The driver shoots a quick glance at me. “Shall I offer you assistance?”
“Ahh, yes. That will be helpful, thanks.”
After opening the door, the coachman gets into position, standing opposite of Lian as he lifts me by the arms into the back seat.
As I sink into the fluffy cushioning, I’m struck with a hazy impression: what a high-class coach. I’ve difficulty stringing together thoughts though. Like everything’s blurring together at once. Without a doubt it must be the fever. My body’s burning up and the sweat just keeps flowing. Lian, who’s sitting right next to me, pulls out a fancy handkerchief, sparing no time in wiping my face.
“You’re feverish… So you were feeling ill today after all. Your face was subtly red this morning. I mean, why are you this injured? Where on earth have you been fighting again this time?”
What do you mean “again?” I’m not always brawling. “I’m not a delinquent. I was dealing with some drunkards.”
“Drunkards?! They haven’t been killed, have they?”
“Nope. They knocked me over.”
“Knocked you over… Really? With that body of yours?! Well, as long as it’s just a freak event for you.” Lian’s eyes pop. Then a strange smile slides across his lips. He places a palm on my forehead, brows furrowing.
“Your fever’s really high. Could it be that you still…”
“Still?”
“Ah n-nothing! Maybe it’s a good idea to pay Dr. Kuma another visit after all,” says Lian.
I shake my head. “I don’t have the money for it now. I’ll be better after I lie down.”
“I-is that so? No, but… Maybe even for you that’s, um, a bit of a stretch. You should really take some medicine…”
“I don’t need it.”
“But…” Lian’s brows are still crinkled, as though he were hesitating . His eyes are shut.
Right. I remember a similar incident.
On that day, my condition was as bad as it is now. I was involved in a massive brawl, and in the end I fell flat to the ground. My memory of that day is hazy at best. The line between reality and fantasy remains blurred.
According to Granny, a kind traveler found me. He took me to the hospital before bringing me back to the church. He even paid for my medicine.
Then he left without leaving his name. Apparently.
What kind of thing is that even? It’s way too cool. Impossible. These types of people don’t exist at this time of age. That’s what I thought, but both Granny and the kids gave me the same story when I asked them. Could it really be for real?
And is Lian measuring my fever as he gently pushes his palm on my neck?
Thin white fingers. A cool palm, pleasant to the touch. Spreading from his hand is a mild fragrance.
As always, Lian smells wonderful. It’s a faint sweet scent, subtle like a flower, and helps me relax—
Back then, when I had been ambushed in the forest, I smelled a scent similar to this. Extremely similar, in fact.
“…‘Magic Abundance.’”
At the sound of those words, Lian gasps and raises his head.
Granny said. That the symptoms I suffered through that day. Were told to us by the traveler.
“I-I see. Yeah. That may be it,” he says. “I heard that the body would accumulate magic power if there’s too much being produced.”
“Is that so?”
“Y-yeah. Ah, that’s right. I see! If there’s too much magic, then if you decrease it… Can you give me a bit of your magic power? You might feel better if you transfer some to me… Of course, we’ll be using the “skin contact” method. I think I’m capable of that.” There’s a hint of pink on his cheeks as he presents his wrist.
…Why would you go to this extent for me?
I’m in the lowest socioeconomic class and live in the church. I’m an orphan. You know neither my lineage nor where I immigrated from. Yet you return to help me.
You even give me absurdly expensive medicine.
Maybe he’s thinking too rashly about me… But.
Because I left him hanging, Lian, whose face is growing red, is starting to flare up in anger. “W-what is it?! I’m telling you to do this even though it’s embarrassing for me! I’ve had enough! If you don’t want to do it then fine! Just lie there in a clump until we reach the church!”
As soon as he finishes speaking, I grab his wrist. Focusing below the chest, I perform the technique, relying on the memory from the class lesson.
From the palm of my hand flows magic power, seeping deep within Lian’s flesh the moment the heat flares from my skin. Little by little. The slow pace is driving me insane. The relief comes, but barely. It does. It doesn’t. My condition dangles like a trapeze artist, a delicate balancing act.
…At this rate, it’ll take half a day before I’m better.
“The sun’s about to set.”
As I reveal my thoughts, Lian glares at me, face flushing once more.
“Stop complaining! I’m doing this for your sake, so be grateful!”
“That’s true, but…”
I collapse onto him and he bears the full weight of my body. Panicking, Lian tries to support me. But I am too heavy for him, and we end up falling into the space between the seats and the carriage door. It’s at this moment in time that I wonder if he always had such a thin and light body—oh, I see. It seems that before I knew it, I’m already bigger than him.
From the looks of it, Lian hit the back of his head on the carriage. He sucks in a few grunts of pain, obviously irritated. He pushes back against me with both hands using all his strength.
It’s painful. Like I’m going to die. Whether or not I’ll make it in time, the magic power can’t be suppressed any longer. As though it’s running rampant. Concerned the carriage might be blown away, I stop moving.
I smile wryly within my heart. Although the feelings of guilt accumulate bit by bit, I choose to ignore them.
…Ahh.
You’re really too gentle. You’re unintentionally worried about me. It’s not a position I can freely say I’m in, yet…
I seal his lips with my own.
Despite trembling ferociously, Lian doesn’t turn away. Rather than pouring my magic power into him like a rushing river, I let it slowly trickle in. It feels pleasant mixing it with another person’s calm magic… With Lian’s.
When our tongues brush, he shivers hard again.
As our lips release I begin to breathe roughly, shoulders rising and falling, face full of pain. He holds his breath. Although he looks annoyed when I tell him to breathe through his nose, he doesn’t say a word. Maybe he just can’t.
“…Is a little more okay?”
Letting it rush in is fine too.
Hearing my words, Lian blushes, face burning with anger. His eyes wander, and after looking like he would burst into tears, he squeezes them shut. A show of resolve for his decision.
Is this fine? He seemed so against it before. He said it himself it’s okay, but is it really okay?
Still, with his permission granted, I carefully press my lips onto his and search for his tongue. Both Lian’s tongue and body tremble throughout. But not once does he try to escape. The hands that attempted to push me away before now clutch at my clothes.
Warmth settles in my belly, flaring hotter and ever more daring. Soon, I feel as though I can’t restrain it any further. It’s getting dangerous.
Whenever my nose catches the calm and gentle fragrance from that time, i feel wrapped in a blanket of comfort.
…Without a doubt it was you. You were the one that had saved me back then, the impossibly kind traveler.
Since I feel like running off at high speed with this new development in mind, I keep quiet.
I wonder if I can think clearly, even a little, in my current condition. Pushing against that thin and shivering body, I cover him with my own on all sides so that he can’t escape. And I press our lips harder together.
By the time we arrive at the church, I’m able to walk on my own. Usually, it takes a whole day for me to recover. The symptoms are spasmodic, so I’ve forgotten about them.
Unlike the last time, however, I don’t unleash the dams to my magic power without holding back.
“I’ve recovered enough.”
“…T-that’s good.” Leaning against his seat, cheeks flushed and panting, Lian glances at me with half-lid eyes. I tried my best to moderate the amount of magic I transferred to him, but it seems I still went a bit overboard.
A flushed neck in front of me, I instinctively shift my gaze up. Spreading from his skin is a faint sweet scent, and my mind feels suspended in wreath of clouds. Surely it’s sweet to the taste. Yes, definitely sweet. But if I trace my tongue over it, he’ll be angry for sure. As my nose just about brushes his skin, Lian stirs.
“W-what are you doing?”
“Just a little more…”
”Dear customers, we have arrived. The church is just ahead… Oh. Were you in the middle of something?” The coach driver beams a knowing grin. “Hehe. A secret rendezvous. Two people of different standing, sharing a love that can be stopped by no one. How nice. How enviable. I remember when I was young,” says the driver in a dramatic tone, nodding exaggeratedly.
Well, I guess if you see a scene like this, that would be anyone’s first impression. The curtain separating us from the driver is parted.
Sure enough, Lian hops to his feet and yells at the coachman, face red.
“You’re wrong! That’s not it at all! I’m telling you it’s different! What are you talking about? You’re mistaken! T-this was a lifesaving technique!”
“Hehe. Please rest assured. Our Marlow City Carriage Association is committed to not divulging our customers’ personal information. Following our motto of security and confidentiality, our service to our customers is our first priority. Therefore, please enjoy a quick and comfortable ride courtesy of our association. Thank you for your patronage. We sincerely look forward to be of service again.”
Whether or not that’s something he’s required to say to all his customers, the driver removes his hat in a playful gesture and waves in thanks.
Truthfully, I’m a bit disappointed. I want to touch Lian more but we are already at our destination.
Upon disembarking, I suddenly remember something and look back. “You saved me, Lian. Thank you. Without your help, I would have been lying there all night.”
Lian, who drove me out of the carriage, sports a blank expression. Placing a hand on his forehead as though he were shocked, he sighs.
“Lying there all night…”
“I really couldn’t get up. You have my gratitude.”
For some reason, Lian’s face is a ripe tomato. He quickly turns away.
“N-no need! Later! Hey driver, hurry up and service me already.”
“Understood.” He shuts the passenger door with a smile. Not a beat later, the carriage pulls away into the distance.
I see the carriage off as I open the gates to the church. A soft, sweet fragrance teases my nose.
Ahh, I see. It seems a bit of Lian’s scent must have rubbed off on my own body.
A large and glowing smile spontaneously spreads across my lips.
…There’s no mistake. The scent from now and back then are one and the same. My senses are better than the average person’s.
I’ve found you at last.
But I won’t say it. Because if I do, I know you’ll just run away.
°•°•°
The next day, I head for school in the morning. As soon as I woke up, my physical condition was back to tip-top shape.
Lian sprints off in lightning speed whenever he catches sight of me, so the school day ends without us speaking to one another.
I don’t think he needs to go that far in avoiding me. Although I’m hardly a fragile person, it still hurts a bit. It’s kind of overdoing it.
Since he runs away from me, I don’t get the chance to apologize to him. So I decide to give it some time. Wait until Lian calms down.
I don’t have a shift later so I head to the library after school. According to the library’s newsletter, the newest addition to the Silk Hat Detective Series should arrive today. Just as I thought, I catch Lian loitering in the building. He likes the same book genres as I do.
As I approach him, he jumps in surprise, dashing off in a panic. But I predict where he is going to go at the last second and corner him. Once again, his cheeks flush.
“Forget about everything that happened yesterday!” he hisses, though still within the acceptable range for a library. As usual the honor student, he refrains from blowing over.
Because he’s talking so frantically, I gesture to agree.
His face retains the blush and his long silver lashes tremble. I want to touch them platonically. If I actually do without realizing it, he’ll jerk away, livid.
And in a loud voice, he’ll say “don’t touch me, idiot!”
Huh. Somehow, Lian reminds me of something.
Ahh, I got it. He’s like the stray neighborhood cat, silver-streaked and hard to miss. Whether it’s domestic or not, its coat is very beautiful. The kids love chasing the cat around whenever they spot it. Even so, it still returns to the church. Maybe it enjoys playing with the kids after all. Occasionally, the cat would approach me. I’d sneak it it some scraps from my part-time job.
As soon as you draw closer to it, it would run away. But it would always come back in the end.
Yeah, they’re really similar.
Lian escapes to the back of the bookcases, my eyes chasing after his disappearing figure.
…I wonder if you’ll let me touch you once we’re a little closer.
Ending Notes:
“I want to touch them platonically.” Yeah, sure Al XD. Things getting spicy here haha. And ALFRED KNOWS OMG.
I’ll edit this a bit more later. Thanks for being patient guys. I had a lot of trouble with this chapter. Next update will probably be VD 52. As always, if you enjoyed this chapter, please leave a like or a comment below, and rate/review this novel on NU if you can!
Quick Apology
Hey guys. Just wanted to let you know that Alfred’s POV Pt.2 will have to be pushed back until ~4/24. So will the other projects. I’m totally swamped right now.
Sorry about that and see you guys soon.
NHAD 9.5: Alfred’s Dreamlike POV Part one
Thanks a bunch to Michelle O. and Wojciech R. for the tip!
Light streams through the windows.
It’s morning.
I have to get up, but try as I might I can’t seem to pull myself out of bed. My body is a bit stiff, making it impossible to move. My breath comes out in harsh puffs and sweat clings to my body. How gross.
For a second, I thought I had returned to the past. It’s been a while since I’ve had such dreams.
Normally, the memories of them fade once I wake up. However, that’s not the case currently. It’s as if some higher power has made it so I will remember.
The dreams always begin at night. In pitch darkness, my mother and I sprinted through the town’s back alley, a mixture of smells thick in the air. Chasing after us were several organized crime members.
As we zipped past other people, desperately crying out for help, the onlookers turned from us in disgust following a single glance. They ignored me and my mother, walked away from us as if they hadn’t seen anything. As if we were just air.
No one was willing to help us.
The country my parents and I were from was said to be the largest on the continent. Everything from as far as the eye could see was beautiful, big, and bustling. It was a country overflowing with talents.
However, such a great place naturally drew the interest of outsiders. Immigrants flocked over like moths to a flame. But these people were from all over the world with clashing cultures. They were uncivilized and dirty, a hindrance to all.
As such, no one batted an eye if a crime was committed before them. Even if that crime was murder. No, they were all the more happier that the immigrant population was cannibalizing itself. Law and order? Justice? Don’t make me laugh.
The country’s inhabitants had come to a tacit agreement. This was a place where all would be forgiven.
Every few months, my father returned home from his business trip. Listening to his travel tales was one of the few pleasures in my life. In his stories, he often mentioned a smaller neighboring nation. Despite its size, its immigrants lived in peace and harmony with the citizens. It seemed like something out of a dream.
Then one day, my father didn’t return. Several months rolled by, but he was still nowhere in sight. My mother believed he would definitely return one day. I, however, had my doubts.
Perhaps he lost his life on his way home. Or maybe he found a better life and no longer felt like coming back.
One day, as I was shopping at the market on the way home, I encountered a group of gangsters. I took my mother and ran. However, as a child and a woman, we were no match for their speed.
The dreams always start when they cornered us in the alley, and repeats over and over again.
The wind that whipped past as I ran. My mother’s screams.
Over and over.
The fear that gripped my entire body as I dashed off without her.
Run.
Run.
Run.
Daggers of guilt pierced my heart, causing me to come to a full stop. Questions of how I could abandon my own mother attacked my psyche ceaselessly. I condemned myself. Without wasting time, I turned around and ran in the direction from which I had fled.
But, when I had finally reached that place, my mother lay cold and still, the whole ground drenched in red.
I screamed.
If I wake up at this scene, I usually have a headache or feel nauseous for the remainder of the day. The latter is slightly better than the former but both are still terrible.
Yet right now, the dream is still continuing.
When I arrived at the scene of my fallen mother, our pursuers caught sight of me.
Fear devoured me as I made a mad dash for it. Yet it was too late. Despite my struggle, I was beaten and kicked to the ground, my legs broken until they lay limp. In the end, they caught me.
Disgusting smiles slid across their faces. One of the men wrapped his putrid hands around my neck, squeezing tighter and tighter. I clawed at his hands, trying to peel them off, head flailing, legs still as motionless as before. I couldn’t breathe. With each passing second I grew more and more panicked.
And then my vision dyed red.
As always, my sight abruptly cut off. Following a slight pause, it returned.
Before me lay corpses, scorched black and ripped in pieces. Blood and organs littered the ground.
And my hands. They were dripping with blood.
A hoarse scream ripped from my throat once more.
Whenever I wake up during this scene, that’s when I know it’ll be one of the worst days ever.
°•°•°
To this day, I still recall when I stumbled into this village alone.
After my mother had begged me to escape the country by myself, that I had to live, I did exactly as she had told me.
I gathered the money my mother and I had saved up. The smuggling fee was expensive, but I managed to leave the country by hiding in a livestock wagon. From then on, I did my best not to come into contact with other people or demons. I made my way east, running or hiding whenever required.
I held on to the belief that the country to our east was amazing, relying on my father’s stories to fuel my determination. As long as I reached the promised land, I would find happiness. In my childish, immature mind, I also dreamed of the possibility of meeting him again.
Yes, I had to believe.
Even when my steps no longer kept in a straight line, my vision growing hazy, I continued to walk, holding on to my belief.
While I still had money, I bought food for myself. But soon, the last of it ran out.
However, I was resilient. I hunted small river fish and game, gathered wild fruits and edible weeds. And I managed to survive.
Since I looked like a vagrant, no one tried to approach me anymore.
I walked and walked. Just kept on walking.
Starving and sleep-deprived, I finally collapsed in the middle of the road. I must have looked like I died. A good samaritan came across my prone body and felt pity for me. Thinking I should at least be mourned, he carried me to the church. At that point, I was already standing by death’s door.
As I was laid into the child-sized coffin, I suddenly opened my eyes, surprising the nun who was by my side.
I escaped being buried in the graveyard by a hair. Eventually, the nun took me in and raised me.
Whether this was the amazing country my father had always spoke of I did not know. However, compared to how life was back then, this place was definitely like a dream.
That’s why to me, where I was now and the country my father had always mentioned were one and the same. They were both the places promised in our dreams.
I am now attending the municipal school. Although I wanted to work after I graduated from the elementary track, granny pleaded for me to continue my education. So, here I am.
The nun is a very good person. She’s taken in orphans from all over the place. The kids leave when they become independent, but new ones always replace them. As such, the church can barely afford to roof them.
More robust than the average person and not a stranger to physical labor, I had planned to work and help support the church. To help ease the financial burden. Yet, granny always donned a troubled expression whenever I mentioned this idea. She would say the money I earned belonged solely to me.
I just wanted to do what I could do.
As I enter the dining hall, granny catches sight of me.
“Oh my, Al? Are you okay? Do you have a fever?”
“I don’t.”
“That’s a lie! Your face is red!”
I don’t want to be told this by a granny with cheeks as red as apples. “Well, even though that’s true, I’m fine. I can move without a problem.”
“But still!” Granny sighs. “You’re totally indifferent toward yourself… What a troubling child. Please don’t push yourself too hard.”
“I know.”
“I wonder if you actually do know or if you’re just saying that.”
“I’ll be back.” Just when her nagging begins, I make a quick break for it, grabbing coffee and some bread before heading out.
As soon as I step into the classroom, I feel a plethora of stares aimed at me, ranging from good-willed to hostile. Like always, it’s a bit annoying. What is it about me that’s so interesting?
Standing at the center of the room is a silver-haired boy.
Lian. The second son of the lord who lives in the biggest mansion in the village.
Noticing my arrival, he narrows his ice blue eyes, tilts his chin up slightly, and smirks. He gives off the appearance of looking down on me, but his gaze is too gentle to really be arrogant. A little more, and it looks like he’ll burst out in laughter.
Which reminds me…
When I had first arrived at this village, he looked at me differently. His gaze was not as gentle. In fact, those eyes had sized me up with scorn, as though he hated being too close to someone like me. His eyes were like the ones from where I had came from.
Since when has this changed? The person he was long ago and the person he is now are as distinct as night and day. It’s like they’re different people altogether…
A little while ago, I met Lian at the church after I got injured at work. I was surprised to find him collapsed in a heap at the bottom of the stairs.
Was he that weak? I had no clue. This had never crossed my mind. He’s as strong as ever with the sword. Unfortunately, I’ve yet to beat him in a spar.
Upon closer inspection, his face was blue, body on the verge of freezing to death. Extremely exhausted. One phrase zipped through my mind at that moment: magic deficiency. From what I’ve heard in the past, that’s what his symptoms suggested.
Was it like a chronic disease? I had no idea.
He immediately refused when I offered to take him to the hospital. And when I offered to take him home instead, he refused that as well.
What does he want then?
He declined all of my attempts to help him, and in the end told me to leave him alone. It’s like he’s a brat throwing a tantrum.
What happened? He’s usually a reasonable and exemplary honor student. Yet, he actually said he didn’t want to go home.
Even though I didn’t have all the facts at hand, I was starting to think Lian’s running away from something. Ahh, was that the reason he escaped to the church?
In order to hide his weakness, he spread his shoulders and elbows wide, practically overdoing it.
And although he’s talking like a brat, all audacious and conceited, in reality, he was worried about me. I’d proof of this. Whenever he saw me hurt, he’d fly to my side and give me a recovery item, face all blue.
Looking at this troublesome guy, I lend him a hand despite his words of refusal.
Deep down inside, I was sure he’s a kind person. He’s popular with the middle and lower class students. He seemed to be trying hard to associate with the other upper class students too.
Because he looked like he’d faint at any moment, I forcibly performed a magic transfer. And also to return the favor.
…But I appeared to have overdone it. Now he’s unable to move.
Well, I had an inkling I was overdoing it during the process. But it felt too pleasant to stop. For a moment, I had forgotten myself and kept silent. By the way Lian’s eyes were trembling, it must have felt pleasant for him too.
Finally running out of energy, he stopped fidgeting around. I carried him to my room and attempted to lay him on my bed for the time being.
As I was about to pull away, he clung on to me like a child, eyes still shut in slumber. From his lips left soft and desperate pleas. Don’t die, he muttered. Don’t leave me.
As far as I knew, I wasn’t dead yet. I just fell off the roof. The old man’s alive and kicking too. With the sinking suspicion that he woke up, I turned my attention to his face. He’s still asleep.
Shivering, he latched on to my shirt.
He’s crying.
…What the. Could it be? Was he lonely?
No, that couldn’t be it. Lian was always surrounded by people and he had his family too.
At least, that should be it, but… Now that I thought about it, even when there were people physically around him, Lian sometimes sported a lonely look in his eyes.
And I knew those eyes well. They’re similar to my mother’s when she yearned for my father’s return, a shadow crossing her gaze.
For some reason, that same shadow existed in Lian’s eyes. That said, lately it’s been gradually receding. I felt nostalgic whenever I saw it, and when it subsided even further, I felt relieved.
Meanwhile, Lian’s staring intently at me while I was engrossed in my thoughts. It’s strange. Usually, he looks on forward. His brow slightly furrows.
“Alfred? You…”
Before he can finish, the bell rings. The teacher enters the classroom and he flips back forward in his seat.
In case some of you didn’t see the rushed little announcement in the previous chapter, I’ve decided to split chapters up if they exceeded 20 pages, keeping ~10 pages per part. Part two will be out in like 9 days or something. Exams and projects due. Sorry for not updating the other novels yet. I’ll get to them when I have the time.
Man, poor Al. It was really heartbreaking translating that first part… And wow, underneath that silent and expressionless demeanor is a strong and mature soul.
As always, if you enjoyed this chapter, please leave a like or a comment below, and rate/review this novel on NU if you can!
NHAD 9: Three Years Later
Thanks a bunch to Lori C., Michelle O., and Wilson H. for the tip!
3 years later.
I’m fifteen years old. My birthday’s in the spring. In another three years, the ‘Starting Village arc’ will end. That means after three more years of hard work, the goddess will probably return me to my world. Keyword, probably.
That better be it, goddess! Why haven’t you shown your face yet?! The silence is too cruel. What’s going on?
Even after Granny Marie spent many days praying, she still did not pay us a visit. In fact, it’s strange she never contacted us. What does it mean—
Oh! Can it be… No way.
Is it possible she’s in a situation barring her from keeping in touch with us? Is she in trouble? Could something unforeseen have happened to her?
I shudder.
Nonono. No way.
Besides waiting for her call, there’s not much else I can do. I’ll just complain, I mean, pray whenever I’m at the church. That way, I can be reached as soon as possible.
My prior conversation with Marie has sparked a new addition to my routine. Now I visit the church most weekends, except when I have business at home.
One reason is so I can consult with Marie about future events, along with confirming and reporting the current situation to her. For example, to see if the goddess has met with her.
Secondly, Marie offered me a spare room dedicated for my defense research and materials storage. Naturally, the room is lockable and comes with a key. Both have been replaced recently in case. I have also linked a hand-made security device to it, so that no one besides me can enter the room. Well, in theory that’s the case. Finally, I can store materials and completed defensive tools free from prying eyes!
Back at the lord’s mansion, I’ve no privacy or a secure place to call my own. The butler and maids have master keys and can pretty much enter any room.
Another reason I visit the church so often is because of Lian’s elder brother. He keeps chasing me. It’s hard to relax. These days, his hand that frequently strokes my head has migrated to touching my shoulders and face, back and waist. It’s frightening. It feels like I’m encountering perverts even at home. It’s the worst. I can’t even report it to the proper authorities since we’re related.
Therefore, I feel safe at the church. Each time I visit I bring a box filled with donuts, cakes, and cream puffs, the kinds of confectionery the kids love. I’ve done my research. There’s no mistake that these are their favorites. As such, the kids are now absolutely obedient to me. I’ve strictly informed them not to tell Alfred I’m at the church during the weekends. The job the goddess gave me is supposed to be kept secret. In fact, she has said that if I break that promise, the consequences will be severe.
Basically, carrot and stick¹.
One time, I dreamed that in the dead of night, a blood-stained goddess turned up by my bedside… It more or less seemed like something out of a horror film, the fear the image inspired enough to make anyone burst into tears. Although it was bad for my heart, the effect was immediate. I doubled down hard on the kids.
If you kids run your mouth to Alfred, then I’ll never bring sweets over again. I’m starting to feel like applying scare tactics will be more effective than threats. However, these children seem to be fulfilling their part of the bargain so far.
Every time I visit the church, they stick their hands out waiting for the sweets. Plus, they puff up in happiness whenever I praise them. I don’t really understand kids, but I enjoy their company very much. Well, because kids love secret missions, just secret things in general, that might be part of the reason they don’t mind helping me out.
Despite being orphans, they’re spirited and cheerful, and are rarely seen without smiles on their faces.
Granny Marie raises the children with love, at times kind and at times strict. I can tell that she enjoys watching them play. Such a sight is soothing, wiping clean the daily buildup of stress…
Anyway, Alfred heads out in the morning on weekends for his part-time job and doesn’t return home until late at night. Rarely does he get half a day of break. I have his schedule memorized and taught it to both Marie and the children. Because I’ve confirmed this information before starting my weekly church routine, I’ve never bumped into him, saving me plenty of stress.
On my way to church I sometimes encounter the village’s elderly. However, they seem to think my visits are fueled by the itch to pray away my concerns. Every now and then, they will approach me with a kind expression. They will say that if I keep praying and doing my best, eventually the goddess will answer my call.
Since the villagers are usually busy with farming, they don’t often pay the church a visit. So it doesn’t really matter if they know I’m going there or not. For that reason, I spend my entire weekends at the church.
°•°•°
Saturday rolls by.
According to the compiled report on Alfred’s schedule, he’ll be at work all day and has been gone since the morning. There, there. This is great because I can’t go to the church unless he’s away.
Today’s bribe are the newly-released triple chocolate scone and redberry and blueberry scone. I bought it at a famous bakery yesterday while coming home from school. They’re fluffy and just the right touch of sweetness. I’m fond of them as well and purchase them occasionally. The kids will definitely dig it.
In high spirits, I leave the residence with my luggage, skipping on the way. The butler thinks I’m heading to the library for some independent study. It’s obviously a lie, but there’s no one to doubt or confirm it.
Lian’s family is apathetic to everyone besides themselves. Or rather, they practice the principles of laissez-faire, a family of egotists. His father often skips out at work, his mother is busy chasing the kingdom’s latest beauty and fashion trends, and his brother is shadowing his father for the day to learn the ropes as his successor. But when it comes down to it, he’s just going out to play.
Craning my neck, I take in the warm sun and crisp blue sky. A few white clouds float over the horizon. Little by little, a wave of dizziness catches up to me. I drop my head and try to shake off the feeling. Maybe I’m mentally drained. I did leave the school late at night, after working on the alarm devices for the village. So far, I’ve created the first prototype. I tried testing it with a mouse-type demon, which I had caught past the village’s borders.
The risk of getting injured from a small demon is low. If I don’t set up these traps, they won’t attack. However, they’ll target the crops, so the farmlands will sustain a ton of damage if I stand by idly. These mouse-type demons wreak havoc on the farms every so often.
During my test, the alarm device had sensed the mouse-type demon. For now, it’s a success. The fruits of my hard labor. I sacrificed so much sleep for this and worked myself half to death!
That said, even though sleep is precious, increasing the village’s defense is crucial as well. I also need to make several of these devices. Only one won’t cut it.
I plan to expand the search range, increase the alarm’s volume, and add an electric barrier to the second prototype. I’ll call it “Alarm No. 2 (Electric Execution).” By the time I reach No. 5, I should be close to something with practical use.
Another thing on my list is drawing up a map of the village and marking the areas where demons will strike. Then I’ll have to distribute them to the villagers as a disaster prevention measure. As long as I designate a few evacuation centers on the map, people should head there in times of need. It’ll be a good idea to litter the perimeter of these shelters with demon traps and barrier devices. For these countermeasures to last a full night is my current goal.
The demons appear to be weak against daylight, movement slowing into a trudge as soon as the sun rises, and as such giving the villagers an opportunity to escape.
I sigh. I need to be certain that I won’t collapse from dizziness. After careful consideration, I rule out that possibility.
Naturally, there’s still a long list of things waiting for me to check off, as there will be a ton of demons swarming the village in the future.
As usual, Marie greets me with a smile after I knock on the church’s doors, her cheeks reminiscent of apples. “Welcome, Mr. Lian! Hehe. The children have been loitering around as they eagerly waited for you.”
“Hello, Ms. Marie. Haha. Is that so?”
“Yep!”
Well, it must be because I’m always bringing goodies along. Sugar is very expensive in these parts.
Unfortunately, this country doesn’t produce sugar. Since sugar trees only grow in tropical climates, we won’t be able to make any sugar even if we try. For this reason, we have to rely on pricey imports from the south, which drives up the price of confectionery. Kids don’t normally get a chance to taste them, let alone eat them every week.
Similarly, in my original world, the general public can’t eat frivolously.
Noticing my presence, several kids that are playing in the courtyard rush toward me.
“Ah, it’s Mr. Lian!”
“Mr. Lian!”
“Hooray! Mr. Lian is here!”
“Hello,” I greet them with a smile. “Looks like everyone’s doing fine today, hm? It’s good to be healthy.”
The kids burst into laughter. The little shorties’ cheeks flush pink, shy smiles showing on their lips.
Three little kids tug on the hem of my spring coat. All three sport a head full of brown curls, the one on the right with red eyes, the one on the middle yellow, and green on the left. According to Marie, from right to left are the elder brother, elder sister, and youngest sister, but to me, they’re indistinguishable.
“Mr. Lian, pway!”
“Pway with!”
“Come pway!”
“Sure. In a little bit.” I pat each of their heads, flashing them a bright smile. Ohh, so cute. I feel soothed. “Now, now. Mr. Lian is a busy person, so he can’t push himself too hard, okay?”
“See you later, Mr. Lian!”
“Later!”
“Yes, yes.” I wave my hand and see them off to the garden.
Whenever I come here, it’s always lively. Totally different from the deathly silence of Lian’s mansion.
I hand the paper bag with the scones to Marie. “Today’s tea desserts are scones. Here you go.”
“Oh my. What a delicious scent! Thank you as always. But even if you don’t care about such things, is it really okay for you to spend so much money on the kids?”
“It’s not a problem. Especially since you’re letting me use that room. Besides, I’m just buying what I want to eat, so don’t worry about it.”
As I smile, Marie laughs and her cheeks dye red. “Hehehe. Is that so? Then I will serve some delicious tea!”
“Great! I can’t wait to try it.”
“Yes! Please look forward to it. I’ll be working on some documents on the first floor, so if you need anything, please call out. I’ll be able to hear it from the stairs.”
“Okay.”
“Tea will be served at noon!”
“Thank you very much.”
I bring the lunch and Marie brings the tea. Although in the past she has told me that she would prepare lunch as well, I don’t want to be too indebted to her. I’ll be an idiot to have the church pay for my food expenses every weekend.
Waving goodbye to Marie, I climb the stairs to the second floor, heading for the laboratory at the back.
I place my hand on top of the identity scanner, a transparent stone fitted in the center of a small box made of waterproof wood. I pour magic into the device until the stone glows orange. Even in a world like this, where the concept of electricity and batteries do not exist, there are some fundamental rules that cross over. For example, appliances need energy in order to perform their intended function. In that same regard, magical products require magic in order to work in this world.
Well, that’s only natural. That’s only natural but…
Anyway, this is a world of sword and magic. Thus, I want to act as if this were a soft and hazy fantasy world, goddess.
I sigh after completing three Alarm No. 2’s. Despite being the size of my palm, they’re highly efficient and pack a huge punch.
All of a sudden, my vision goes dark. The dizziness fades away immediately, but my head feels as heavy as lead. Perhaps I used too much magic to power those devices. My body’s still slightly shaking, the symptoms similar to those of anemia.
I guess I should take a break for now, get some of that tea Marie’s brewing. Pushing against the desk’s surface, I slowly rise to my feet, body swaying in the process. However, the feeling of falling flat on my face subsides once I stop moving, so I’m able to leave the room.
Finally, I feel better.
When I reach the bottom of the stairs, my legs give in and I’m forced to sit down.
How regrettable.
My blood is drained of magic power. I can’t move. Try as I might, I can’t push myself to my feet, the limbs heavy and lame.
It’s useless. I can’t even twitch my fingers.
It can’t be helped. Let’s just rest a bit like this. Maybe after a while I’ll be back to normal. I lean against the wall and shut my eyes.
“Hey. Are you okay?”
What the. For some reason, this voice sounds familiar.
No, no way. That guy should be at his part-time job by now. He’s definitely not here.
“Hello? Pull yourself together.”
He shakes my shoulders.
Eh. What is it?
Why is it you? No, it can’t be. I’ve already confirmed his schedule. He’s supposed to be working all day. That’s what I originally thought, but—
As soon as my heavy eyelids flit open, I’m greeted by the sight of familiar and bright golden strands. Symmetrical face. Furrowed brows.
It’s Alfred.
I cry out in surprise. Why is here? Breaking free of shock, I try to shrink away but my back hits the wall. My head smacks into the hard surface, making me even dizzier.
“H-hey. You okay? What’s going on with you? …Are you not feeling well?”
“W-what are you doing here…?”
“Me? Oh, during my part-time job, the grandpa who was repairing the roof with me slipped. I tried to save him and ended up falling and breaking my arm.”
“Hah?!”
“Anyway, he’s fine so I’m happy. He told me to go see the doctor and take the day off. So here I am.”
For some reason, the fact that he can just say this without a care in the world makes me upset!
“The bone is f-fractured?!” Upon closer inspection, there are bandages wrapped tightly around his left arm. “T-that’s right! I have a top-class recovery item! W-wait a second, I’ll g-give it to you. It’s not strong enough to mend bone, but it can temporary reinforce it. Not to mention, offer some pain relief…”
As I thrust a hand into my jacket pocket, he suddenly restrains my arm.
“No need. Dr. Kuma already set the bone a while ago. As long as I don’t move it around too much, it should heal without an issue.”
Recovery items aren’t some sort of panacea. There are things they can’t heal. For example, bone fractures. However, there are more powerful remedies that can deal with serious injuries. Just be sure to dish out a lot of cash in that case. The common masses? Don’t even dream of getting your hands on it. Even the wealthy can’t buy these remedies whenever they want.
That’s why, there are people like Dr. Kuma, who can set bones without the help of these overpriced items. That’s impossible to do unless one studies medicine and magic technique.
Alfred leans in slightly. “Won’t it be better if you use it instead of me?”
“Me? No, I don’t need it.”
“Really? But your face… It’s really pale.”
Is that true? I don’t really understand it myself. “No worries. It’ll be back to normal after I rest…”
Even after I say that, Alfred’s brows remain crinkled. Why’s that? It’s just magic deficiency. It’s almost the same as having anemia. As such, recovery items can’t offer any relief.
“Should I bring you to Dr. Kuma?”
“That’s not necessary,” I say, shaking my head. It’ll be a pain to explain everything to him.
“Well then… Do you want me to take you home?”
“No, I don’t want that. I don’t want to go back.” I’ve already told everyone at home I’ll be at the library. If they see Alfred taking me home, that’ll just raise too many questions. And I don’t have the patience to deal with that.
Alfred sports an unusual and troubled expression. He lets out a sigh. “Then stay put at least. You shouldn’t even walk to the living room—”
“Yes, yes. I’ll stay right here. I should probably be better after resting a bit. Quickly return to your room. Don’t forget, you’re injured too. I don’t mind if you leave me alone.”
“I won’t leave you. Because even when I had fallen in such a place, you…” Grasping my arm, he lends a shoulder to me to hold on to, but I shake it off.
Anyway, I just want you to quickly leave already.
It’s too much of a hassle to elaborate any further. My head’s spinning and my body doesn’t move the way I want it to. I don’t think I can successfully deceive him they way I am.
Oh, that’s right. I need to spin a good story to Alfred explaining why I’m here. What’s a good excuse—
“My father asked me to check and confirm if the church’s management has improved.”
“I see. It’s fine if you don’t talk anymore.”
With great effort, I turn my head but am stopped short of a full round. Alfred’s hand rests on my forehead, holding it in place.
“…You don’t have a fever. On the contrary, isn’t your temperature too low? It’s really cold… Hey, are you sure you’re okay? I think it’s better to bring you to the doctor after all—”
“I’m not going. Leave me alone already!” As soon as I shout, Alfred’s face grows sullen. His glare is sharp enough to cut.
Ahh, looks like he hates me now. Well, since he’s disliked me in the past, it shouldn’t be that big of a deal, right? Since there’s no way to escape being disliked, this should be fine, right? Indeed. That’s correct.
To be hated is part of my role. So, why am I shocked about this?
Right now, I want you to admit it. In any case, you hate me, don’t you? I know at least that much.
“…Go to your room.”
I say this, but Alfred stubbornly crouches before me, giving no hint of leaving anytime soon. He’s pouting, brows furrowed and deep in thought.
“Could it be ‘magic deficiency?’” he whispers.
In the past, Alfred suffered from an illness due to an opposite underlying cause. Unlike his, mine is the result of magic overuse.
“I wonder if I can transfer magic to you.” He’s still muttering something to himself.
Magic transfer.
As the name implies, this is the transfer of magic power from one person to another. However, there’s no guarantee for success. If the magic between the two is not compatible, the act will cause more harm than good. In that regard, it’s like a blood transfusion. You’ll feel pain and discomfort if a rejection occurs. During that lesson in our intermediate magic technique class, I tried performing a magic transfer with a classmate. I ended up doubling over with pain and felt ill afterward. That was seriously an awful lesson.
Thus, I shake my head to his suggestion.
“…No need. You’re injured. Anyway, I’ll be better in a flash. Otherwise, Ms. Marie and the children will worry about you…” And me too. I’ll also be worried. Why are you always hurt? You realize you’re injured but you hesitate to go to the hospital, opting to let it heal on its own because of your financial status. Well, it seems to work. Miraculous resilience as the future hero and all that.
Somehow, I manage to move my arms and thrust the recovery item into his breast pocket.
“I have an extra, so I’ll give this to you. Thanks for being concerned for my sake. Oh, you don’t have to worry. Unlike you, I’m rich. I have a ton at home and they’ll just rot if no one uses them.”
Just accept it. You forever-injured person.
Alfred looks at his breast pocket, then turns his attention to me. He’s expressionless. As expected, I don’t have a clue what he’s thinking. Out of nowhere, he grabs hold of my wrist and rolls up my sleeve.
The place where his skin meets mine gradually grows warmer. It’s like a hot compress.
No way.
“…Does is hurt? Does it feel uncomfortable?”
“What are you doing…?”
“It hurts?”
“No, it doesn’t hurt but, you…”
“Are you feeling sick?”
“No, but…”
“…Then, do you feel okay?”
What’s going on?
“…Yeah. Like the doctor said, the transfer of magic through the skin takes too long,” says Alfred, a thoughtful look to his eyes. “And the amount is not enough. The sun’s about to set.”
He looks at me.
What? What are you looking at?
He says, “I wonder if through the mucous membranes is the quickest way after all.”
Stop it.
He’s not wrong; there should be an emergency procedure like that.
Artificial respiration.
He grasps my chin. I want to put a stop to it but my body doesn’t move.
And our lips meet. I feel something warm flow into my mouth. It’s kind of like when you drink sake.
Then Alfred tilts his face back slightly, breaking into a smile.
“…Looks like we’re compatible.”
In such a case, the magic powers mix well, permeating and blending with the body, giving both parties an intoxicating, pleasurable sensation…
When the professor had lectured about magic transfusions in class, he smiled like a criminal during that section. There’s no mistake about it. Perverted geezer confirmed.
He also said that the compatibility increases at night. But that information is unnecessary.
“I’m fine now so… Alfr—”
He presses his mouth against mine once more. This time, there’s a huge burst of warmth.
“…Nngh…”
It’s as though warm sake is being poured into my mouth mercilessly, in an endless fashion.
A terrible wave of intoxication crashes into me. Like heat, it is difficult to shape, and flows into me, crushing all hopes of resisting. It surges through, swirling and coiling within the body at its own convenience.
That said, my body does not reject it. In fact, it gobbles it up like a dehydrated man in the face of water. I know that this is just the start, this act of greedily absorbing. I know this, but my body feels so hot and painful. Furthermore, my head is spinning. And burning up. Sweat flows down my skin like a waterfall.
It’s hot, so hot. Trembles run through my entire body. I want it to stop. I’m already at my limit. I can’t accept anything beyond this. It’s overflowing. I’ve had enough. It has completely exceeded my capacity.
It’s too hot and it hurts.
What is this? I really don’t know.
But why is there pleasure mixed in with the pain?
Although the strength of the exchange is slowly waning, I still can’t control my body. There is nothing I can do.
The lips that press against mine retreat. Opening my eyes, I’m greeted by trembling blue orbs, orbs that peer down at me. I lean in, face painted with surprise, throwing my arms forward to support myself.
He’s holding me.
Why does his body seem bigger than mine? Because of this, I really can’t move an inch.
After confirming my dazed condition, Alfred opens his eyes curiously and tilts his head. This bastard. What did you do? I can no longer raise my arms. I can’t even twitch a single finger.
“…Huh? How strange. And here I thought the magic transfer was working fine.”
Even though I’m pressing my lips tightly together, he somehow manages to spread them apart.
“…You… you suck at adjusting…”
“Adjusting?”
“The amount transferred… there was too much…” Every person has a set amount of magic they can hold in their body. Past that, and it will overflow, causing one to collapse.
Kind of like what’s happening to me right now!
Muttering to himself, Alfred nods as though he understands what I said.
“That’s no good. I see, so I gave you too much magic power. Yeah. Moderating the transfer is harder than I thought.”
Speak for yourself! Your magic is strange.
By the way, why did I even let him use this method on me? That shitty geezer said the “mucous membrane contact” method should only be applied in emergencies. So why did he do it? Not only that, but why doesn’t he seem worn out at all? What’s he thinking? Screwing around?
That bastard’s so calm after kissing me—
Nononono.
“…You… Idiot… Fool… Better believe it…”
“It was wrong of me to do that. However, your temperature’s gone back to normal. Before, you were way too cold. Like a block of ice. Ah, but then later, you started burning up. Yeah. I’m not sure… I should take you to Dr. Kuma after all—”
“I’m not going.”
Summoning his willpower, Alfred quickly stops himself from saying anything, and instead responds with a sigh.
“…I’m fine… I just need to… lay down for a bit …. So calm down…”
“Are you positive?”
I nod. I’ve relaxed a little so as long as I keep still, the heat should fill my body.
“Understood.” As soon as the words leave his lips, he scoops one hand under my knee and tosses me over his shoulder.
His body is as ridiculously strong as ever. However, his way of holding me is too forceful! Plus, the blood’s all flowing to my head! Oh, my vision’s growing dark…
Meanwhile, Alfred’s climbing the stairs without a clue in the world about my current condition. Where are you taking us?
Cut it out already.
Despite having more complaints, I can’t sustain my consciousness any longer… My last thought was whether he can finish carrying me up the stairs.
°•°•°
I wake up to an unfamiliar room. It’s dreary and slightly unpleasant, containing only the bare minimums. After scanning the area, I realize Alfred’s not present. I place a hand on my chest, gently stroking it.
Perhaps I went out of character due to how distressed I had been.
No, you can’t be serious!
This guy totally lacks common sense! I should have kissed one of my fangirls first!
I’m going to cry.
No, it’s not the same. Right, that kiss didn’t count. Alright. Finally in a better mood, I climb out of the bed. I tiptoe to the door to the living room, cracking it open just a little. Soft streams of light flow in.
Marie sits at the table alone, scribbling on some documents. The children are nowhere in sight. Neither is Alfred.
When she looks up, her face morphs into the picture of surprise. The pen drops from her hand, the sound of impact echoing throughout the room. “…Oh my! Mr. Lian? Are you feeling better already? After hearing that you collapsed, I was seriously worried!”
“Y-yes, I’m fine now all because of Ms. Marie! So please don’t worry too much.”
“You say this but…” The look of concern remains. “Are you sure you’re feeling better?”
“Yes. Sorry to worry you.”
“It’s fine, it’s fine. It’s good as long as you’re okay. I feel like a weight has been lifted from my chest,” says Ms. Marie, placing her hands on top of her heart, a look of pure relief painted on her face.
“Anyway, where is Alfred?”
“Alfred? He’s off at his night shift. I told him to take a break yesterday, but it looks like he didn’t listen. What a troublesome child.”
“I-is that so?”
Thank goodness!! I’m practically leaping for joy!
Now that it’s mentioned, I recall seeing this revision on part-time schedule report! His shift’s at a night bar!
Eh?!
Didn’t he just break his arm?! Is he an idiot? What is he thinking? No, he’s obviously dumber than me. His face doesn’t match his foolishness!
“U-um, excuse me Ms. Marie. I should really head home soon.”
“Oh my. Is that so? Maybe you should take your time…”
“I-it’s fine! The sun’s already setting!” Sure enough, it’s pitch black outside.
Looks like I was out cold for a while. Probably slept soundly for half a day. Hey, hey. I was super tired.
After a moment of contemplation, Marie agrees with my decision. “Please take care of yourself. And please, give yourself a break occasionally. Lately, you’ve been looking very tired.”
“Eh, r-really?”
“Yeah! You’ve been working too hard! It makes me worried about you. Please don’t push yourself so much!”
“T-that’s kind of…”
But Marie’s stubborn. “It’s true. Please take it easy tomorrow. The body needs an occasional break. You’ll collapse if you work without rest!” Puffing her cheeks, Marie points a small finger at me. Despite its size, the strength of its push was surprising.
“S-sorry.”
“Hehe. Oh yeah, you’re welcome to come by any day. You don’t have to limit yourself to the weekend. As long as you say it’s for worship, even Al won’t think it’s strange. This church is open to the public after all.”
“Y-yes…” Although I feel emotional from what she said, I manage to hold in my tears. Please don’t issue a surprise attack with such kind words. Otherwise, I won’t know what to do.
My head is clear on the way home. Moreover, my body no longer feels heavy. Perhaps it’s due to sleeping half a day. Now I’m alert in the dead of night. In hindsight, pouring so much magic power into those Alarm No. 2’s was a bad idea.
My brain is shutting down from recalling everything.
Anyway, sleep is important. From now on, let’s make sure I don’t stay out too late.
°•°•°
Monday morning.
As soon as Alfred spots me, he heads straight in my direction, not paying the three lackeys around me any mind. Stuck in the classroom, a public space, I can’t escape in the opposite direction. I’m stuck watching him come closer and closer, dread sinking in as I kick up a cold sweat.
He’s here!
I’m begging you, please! Don’t come any closer!
“Hey.”
I click my tongue. “W-what?”
“Have you gotten better?”
“Eh? I don’t know what you’re talking about!”
He arches a brow. I wait for his reply, heart thrashing against my chest. If he’s going to go on about what happened Saturday, I’ll just deny everything. That’s right, wash it away without a trace.
‘Oh, was there such a thing? I don’t remember anything.’ I feel like that’s the best tactic.
So, ready when you are. I’ll skillfully cut through your words.
Simulations of every possible path our conversation can take zip through my mind. Each lack a vein of subtlety. My impatience is flaring up.
That’s why I say I suck at adlib and irregular development!
“…You.”
“W-what is it? Oh, class is starting. How about you get to your seat?” That’s right! I’m rushing to my desk! So scurry off to yours too!
As he watches me, Alfred lets out a large sigh. What the heck. Such a rude guy. He actually sighed in front of someone’s face.
“…Well, I thought you were okay, but…”
“You thought correctly! I am totally fine! …Thanks to your help…” I mutter the last part. Although it’s true he had a hand in my recovery, thanking him bluntly is the worst!
Once the words leave my lips, no matter how soft they were, Alfred drops his jaw. Why is he smiling like that? Like he’s teasing me. That’s my trademark! You’re not allowed to steal it!
In the blink of an eye, he draws close to my face. “…If you’re running low on magic again, let me know.”
I sputter. “W-what are you saying?! Just go sit down in your seat!” The three lackeys step between me and Alfred, forming a wall. I’m saved!
Never have I thought there’ll be a day I’ll depend on them so much!
“That’s right, what are you getting so close to Lian for? This poor person really has guts!”
“You don’t have permission to approach him!”
“That’s right, that’s right!”
Shrugging, Alfred returns to his seat with a laugh.
That’s why you’re such a bully! Damn it! I’ll make you pay during the noon sword lesson. I’ll wear you down until you can’t stand.
Just thinking about it is making me giddy with excitement.
- carrot and stick¹: Raws actually say “candy and whip” 飴とムチ, but I believe this phrase makes more sense in English.
24 pages, I kid you not. Holy. I’m so tired. As promised, chapter 9 is out roughly 2 weeks from chapter 8’s release. I’m arching my eyebrows at the “mucous membrane contact method” part. Pretty sure that’s just the literal translation. There’s probably a better way of saying it, which I’ll figure out after I edit this some more. Chapter 10 is 23 pages haha… It’s also in Alfred’s POV. Edit: I think from now on I’ll start splitting up chapters if they’re more than twenty pages. So ~20 pages will be split into two parts, ~30 pages will be split into three, etc. That way, I can update more regularly. Since I have a string of exams coming up and my break is practically over, NHAD 10 Part 1 will be out in a little over a week. Next release for this blog, however, will probably be VD or Violant, depending on the length.
As always, if you enjoyed this chapter, please leave a like or a comment below, and rate/review this novel on NU if you can!
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