Volume 3 - CH 13

“So about where would you say the ogre bases are?”

“They’re north from here. It’s built similarly to this village, so you’ll know when you see it.”

“…I see.” North from here, huh. “Roughly how many ogres are there?”

“…I counted about 50 of them.” Just looking at numbers, we should have a chance. Totaling the numbers in every tribe on our side, we have more than 100. That’s why although I can’t say we’re at a disadvantage, the ogres are still probably better in terms of stats.

We’ll need several of us in order to face a single ogre. Because of this, we can’t simply think that our numeric advantage makes us better than them.

Vanya was peering at me. She probably wants me to head out immediately for the rescue, but I can’t make that call yet.

“Vanya. Right now I can’t guarantee that we’ll win if we face them right now. So we’ll keep training a bit more. Is that alright?”

“…Yeah, I understand.” Although she doesn’t totally agree, she still gave me a nod. Our current course of action has been decided.

“I think I’ll keep strengthening this base and the stats of everyone here for now. So if you could, I want you to tell that to everyone at the south base.” I looked at Orphe, then he nodded.

“Got it. I’ll tell my comrades something like that.”

“I’ll leave it to you.” Orphe left the room. I turned back to Vanya. “So that’s how things are. Stay here and save up your strength for now.”

“I understand but, Crest. Didn’t we talk about how I can make magic tools? I’d like to get some magic stones if possible.”

“How do you want those magic stones?”

“The monsters around here should have them in their bodies. You can just kill those monsters and check inside.” That’s no different from usual then.

“Got it. But, for now don’t make those dangerous magic stones alright? You can make anything else.”

“I understand.” Leaving aside the issue of using them correctly, I can’t say I don’t have some caution towards them. If possible I don’t want to rely on them.

Our discussion ended around here. We separated for now, and I walked around the village to strengthen it.

That night. While I was making my way back to my house, Sufi came over.

“Crest, how about we spend tonight together?” Sufi came over to me while pushing her body closer. Her face appeared somewhat feverish. I made a bitter smile at her attitude, then Livia came out of my house. She had a smile on her face, but I could feel a bit of anger from her. It was probably directed at Sufi.

“Sorry Sufi. Livia’s waiting for me after all.”

“You can just ignore that.”

“Could you go home please?” Maintaining her smile, Livia pushed Sufi away with her hand. While looking at Livia with a dissatisfied expression, Sufi let out a sigh.

“Jeez, you’re mean Crest.” Said Sufi with a wink, before finally leaving. Livia was still glaring at her as she left. She even let out a growl. Although they usually get along well, sometimes they fight like this.

Even though I get that I’m the reason…

“Looks like Sufi really is aiming for you after all lord Crest.” Livia whispered to me. For some reason Sufi seemed to be interested in me.

“I wonder why though.”

“It’s because you’re cool lord Crest.”

“That’s not the case.”

“You’re cool. And you’re kind… Please be careful lord Crest.” Said Livia with her cheeks puffing up.

So cute, thought just thinking that isn’t enough so I told her, “Got it. I have you here for me after all.”

“…lord Crest.” Livia smiled happily as I honestly told her my slightly embarrassing feelings. After that, Livia put her hand on her chin as if she was thinking. I wonder what it is?

“No, that’s wrong. If I’m not more open minded―” Muttered Livia to herself. As I was about to ask her what she meant, Livia raised her head. “If you’re thinking that you want to have multiple lovers lord Crest, that doesn’t bother me?” “I, I’m not thinking that.” Well, I have dreamt about it before.