CH 103

Chapter 103 – Set Sail! Head For the Republic and The Elven Country

Strelka suddenly appeared from inside the ship and greeted us.

“Welcome, Rasty-sama. Everyone. We are finally setting sail. Are you ready?”

“Ah, we have no issues here. However…”

“However?”

“This red-haired lady, her name is Blair.”

“Eh, yes… I know. I saw her yesterday. But isn’t she the princess of the Glaznov Republic? Why are you allowing her to accompany you?”

“A lot has happened. Various things.”

Once I explained that Blair was working for the sake of her country, Strelka understood.

“Well, she is technically from a country that is portrayed as an enemy. I understand. If it’s a request from Rasty-sama’s, it doesn’t matter. Besides, even though the Empire and the Republic are not on good terms, trade between them is thriving. As this ship is a merchant vessel, we can easily enter the port without any issues.”

“Oh! As expected of Strelka. I leave it to you.”

“Y-Yes…!”

Strelka readily agreed. That’s great, now I can send Blair off.

With that settled, we decided to make a stop at the “Glaznov Republic” first. It seems that we will enter the “Rusalka Continent” in the north direction from my island. Apparently, it will take half a day to enter the continent from here. When I think about it, there was quite a distance.

However, the Elven country, “Borodin,” is located further east on the “Oratorio Continent.” It’s a bit of a detour, but it can’t be helped. If we don’t return Blair to the Republic, it could become a big deal. In that sense, this voyage holds significance.

The anchor was raised, the gangway was released, and the ship slowly moved away from the island.

“We are finally leaving the island. Come to think of it, I had spent over a week in that place since Havamar sent me there.”

“Yeah, Big brother did his best. You’ve grown so much without giving up.”

“Thank you for your kind words, Havamar. It’s all thanks to you.”

I was so happy that I stroked Havamar’s head.

“Uhehe. I’m kind of embarrassed.”

The ship’s hull gently rode the waves. As the island got further and further away, various thoughts welled up in me. ―― Will I come back again?

“Raise the sails and set sail!”

When Strelka gave the order, the ship automatically set sail. I was surprised, what kind of mechanism is that? Moreover, it seemed like the ship was moving and steering itself —ah, I see, it must be magic.

“I can sense the magical power.”

“You’re very perceptive. Yes, the Tethys is borrowing the power of the Great Spirit Okeanos. Since it’s on the sea, its magical power is almost infinite.”

“T-that’s amazing.”

The ship picked up speed. Hmm, the refreshing sea breeze feels good. I never thought the day would come when I would board a ship and leave the island. There was a time when I tried to build a raft and try to escape, but now that I think about it, I’m glad I settled on the island.

I am deeply moved to be able to ride such a splendid ship.

“Rasty-san, it’s a sea voyage.”

“Is this your first time on a ship, Skor?”

“Yes, when I drifted, I just fell into the sea from the cliffs of Borodin, so this is my first time.”

“Ah, when you first washed up on the shore. Why did you do something so reckless?”

“Hmm. I feel like someone pushed me from behind. But I don’t really know. Before I knew it, I was being swept out to sea… and I was on Rasty-san’s island.”

I guess she’s just a clumsy person. But she feels like someone pushed her? That’s a little concerning. As I was deep in thought, Havamar pulled on my clothes.

“Big brother, aren’t you going to fish? You’ve finally completed the fishing rod set.”

“Oh, right. Let’s try it out right now.”

[Sturdy Fishing Rod] [Effect]

A tool for catching fish.

It has a sturdy construction and equipped with a strong line and hook. Suitable for targeting big catches. Bait is required for fishing. Insects are used as bait.

I have some worms as bait that I collected on the island. I took out a small box from the item box and opened the lid. At that moment, Skor and Havamar turned pale and kept their distance. Well, I can understand why.

“H-Hee… Rasty-san, that’s a bit…”

“Ah, Big brother, what is that?!”

“Listen, you two… it’s a common knowledge that worms are used as bait for fishing. Well, there are other options like shrimp, but we don’t have such luxury bait. So, this will have to do.”

I tied the worm onto the hook. Preparations are now complete. I asked Strelka to lower the speed of the ship. Oh, it can even go at a slower pace. This magical ship is just too comfortable.

Now then, I’ll catch a big one.