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First Walk
That was a close call.
Jumping over the roofs and delivering the envelope quickly! .....how did I come up with such a stupid idea?
It was fine at first, but I guess it was to be expected, as I approached the heart of the city, that there were more eyewitnesses. Especially as I ran through the southern end of the main street that runs through the north and south - right at the three-way intersection - it was a bad idea to jump over the rooftop of a 5-story building to another. The people walking down the road stopped in their tracks, and they pointed as they looked up at me.
And then people who looked like curious onlookers start to move out of curiosity. Some idlers began to appear and chased after me, trying to catch me somehow. That was no joke.
So I hid myself in the shrubbery right near the port. I threw away the towel right there, took off my top, and rolled it up. I was only wearing an undershirt on top but at this point, it couldn’t be helped. From this point onward, I could not run atop the building anymore, and there were no other places where I could do so. I have to successfully catch up to the ship while hiding my physical ability.
With that in mind, I clutched the envelope and ran. A few hundred meters ahead, I saw a family of four, reluctant to part.
That tall and muscular middle-aged man was the captain. He was wearing a worn-out gray long coat. A rugged seafaring man. His trimmed beard suggested not dignity, but a touch of raw wildness. It makes him look cool and quite stylish.
Next to him was his wife, Wym’s wet nurse, Ran. Also, Ruud1 and Nagia. Apparently, they have another daughter, but as expected, they left her in the mansion.
「Please waaaaiiit!」
Damn it.
Nagia usually hated the very sight of me. Ruud shoved me for no reason. Why should I, work so hard, for the parents of these people?
As I got closer to them, I intentionally shortened my stride. If I rushed over at a speed like a horse, people might end up talking about it later.
Even as I approached, the captain crouched down and patted his two children’s heads, then got up and was about to leave.
「Captain! You forgot something!」
At this shout, they finally turned around. That’s great. Looked like I barely made it.
Now it was time to act. I actually still had reserve energy, but I deliberately stumbled. Then, I put my hands on my knees and breathe heavily. And finally, I looked up and say.
「This.....the secretary person said.....bring the letter inside here and deliver it quickly.....」
「Let me see it」
Handing over the envelope to the captain - who had a tense expression -...he noticed a piece of paper before he tried to examine the letter. That alone seemed to have made him understand the nature of the documents.
「Why is this here?」
「I don’t know, the details. Well, umm.....someone from the internal affairs forgot to hand it over for the ship’s departure or something」
「That means.....I see, then that person made another careless mistake」
Muttering that, the rugged yet dashing ship captain, whose beard suited him well, carefully tucked the envelope into his inside pocket.
「Thank you. You.....Fay-kun, was it?」
「Ah, yes」
「Thanks to you I was able to avoid making any mistakes
He warmly smiled at me while saying that to me. There was no unpleasant atmosphere I could commonly see from the people living in the mansion around him. How could children like Ruud and Nagia grow up with such a respectable father? It’s a little strange.
Suddenly looking to the left and right, I saw the two children had strange expressions on their faces. First, Ruud, it looked like he did not fully understand what was going on. While Nagia was a little more perceptive, she was starting to grasp the situation. But she did not want to admit the fact that I helped her father. Having said that, she could not just say mean things to me. She was in front of her parents right now. She has to act as the good kid.
「If I’m not mistaken, you are helping out Nagia with the reception work together, right?」
「Yes, I am always thankful for her support」
「Hahaha, support, huh. What a good kid. Nagia. How is Fay-kun. Are you guys getting along well with each other?」
Her lips tightened for a moment, and she suppressed her emotions there. The next moment, she said in a sweet, ingratiating voice, as though it were only natural, with a smile on her face.
「Yes, otousama. I feel reassured because he is always doing his best」
In truth, she could not help but dislike this situation. What’s more, even now, it had moved beyond mere dislike and arrived at a new stage, outright hate. Leaving his own children be and being partial to Fay. Even she could only receive his father’s affection once in a while when he happened to return home.
「I see I see. Fay-kun, please take care of Nagia from now on as well. Ah, that’s right」
As if he had just remembered something, he quickly rummaged his breast pocket, pulled a pouch, and took out 5 silver coins from within.
「Fay-kun, take your time in going home today」
「Eh?」
「You haven’t gone out to play ever since you came to Pyris, right? Now you can have a little fun with this」
5 silver coins. For a child’s pocket money, this was an extraordinary amount. Using my previous life value, it was approximately worth 5000 yen, I guess. I didn't want to accept it. Ruud and Nagia were also glaring at me from the side.
「You’re so kind, but I can not accept it. All I did was carry out the work I was asked to do at the mansion」
「Hahaha, that’s right, that’s true」
That was great. Thank you for taking a step back.
「Then, let’s do this. I would like you to use this money, to buy sweets as souvenirs for the people in the internal affairs secretarial section. Each one should have a value of about one or two silver coins, I guess. Think of this as a way of my apology and to compensate for the mistake of one of my people. And, you can use the remaining money to buy lunch or buy anything you want to and take that back with you. How about it」
「Umm, eating without permission is also.....」
「This is also a task for you. You won’t be able to do any errand properly if you don’t know anything about the world outside the mansion. You also got lost this time, right? At this rate, you won’t be able to work properly, you know?」
Taking the logical side, huh. If it was going to be that way. I had some errands to run and would be back late, so I ate out. Un, it felt too rude to turn down his offer too much. If each sweet costs 2 silver coins, then I still have 1 silver coin left. And it would probably be over after lunch. Yosh.
「If it’s a task for me, then I will accept it」
「Un un, thank you, I’ll leave it in your hands」
He dropped the 5 silver coins into my hands while saying that. And, the next moment, he added 5 more silver coins.
「Eh!」
Not good. Nagia was glaring intensely at me. What to do. This money, I guess, I would keep for now and try to return it later. No, that was probably not the problem. I know. She could not stand the fact that I, someone practically a stranger to her and should be nothing more than someone for her to look down on, was suddenly being doted on so much by her father.
The captain - who only perceived my feelings as nothing more than modesty - flashed a teasing grin and retreated a step.
「Then, dear.....Ruud, Nagia, it’s time for me to leave. Take care」
「Yes, take care」
The wet nurse - who seemed to have presence earlier like air earlier - slowly bowed to her husband.
「Truly, thank you」
A calm voice sounded, as though water had quietly soaked the place. It was the wet nurse who had slipped in behind me without me knowing when.
「You must have been in quite a hurry. Dressed like this」
「Ah……」
Right. I was just wearing an undershirt. It wanot something presentable in front of other people.
「I’m sorry, being this ill-mannered」
「No no」
She was smiling gently, but she was not the person she appeared to be. She was one of the prominent, influential people, even in the mansion. Although she did not have the decisiveness of the head maid, her many years of service in a noble’s house show that she could be quite strict about etiquette and manners. They do not scold you on the spot but slowly pressure you later. That was the kind of person she is.
「That was probably not the case this time, right. Thank you very much for your hard work」
「Ah! Umm」
I quietly handed over the silver coins from earlier.
「 This money is too much for children like me to carry around, and it is unsafe. I would only take the amount for the task assigned to me, but could you please take care of the rest?」
It was better to get rid of this dirty money quickly.
「Ara. I did not notice」
Saying that, the wet nurse took out a purse from her bosom. Thinking it would be rude to give the money with one hand, I presented the 10 silver coins to her with my palm. But, I quickly pulled it back.
「Ara ara」
A monotonous voice. This was no joke. She was trying to add more silver coins.
This was bad. I didn't mind putting others in my debt, but I couldn't stand owing others. And yet, this wet nurse.
Of course, she was doing this on purpose. This was different from the captain, who gave me money with a feeling of just wanting to show his gratitude, and at most, so I could get close to her daughter. This was for herself and her husband. And for the children who would continue to live in the Viscount House from now on.
I tend to forget about this because I was not interested in immediate money but for a young slave like me, 10 silver coins were more than enough. If you remembered that a normal young slave was around 500 gold coins, then you would understand what I meant. In other words, just today alone, I have earned one-hundredth of the amount of money needed to buy a young slave. ……well, given how I know how much I sold for, this was nothing more than drop in a bucket, though.
There was no way I would get cornered by such a small amount of money.
「Let’s go back, Ruud, Nagia」
She changed her mind and said that in a somewhat sterner tone. The farewell was over. It’s back to normal life again.
「I will report about your situation to the people back in the mansion so you can return slowly」
「Yes. Thank you very much」
After giving a slight bow, she walked away, bringing the 2 children with her.
Once the 3 of them disappear in the crowd of people, I finally breathed a sigh of relief.
First, I recovered the towel and the top I threw away earlier. It had gotten quite dirty because it fell on the shrubbery near the wharf. Couldn't be helped. I had to wear this. Couldn't afford to get sunburn. My face might get a little tanned, but it was unavoidable in this situation.
And then I began walking.
Right now, a sense of liberation fills my chest. That’s right. I have more than enough pocket money right now. Moreover, right in front of me was the cityscape I was seeing for the first time. I could enjoy the feeling of being on a trip a little.
What to do. First, I have to eat.....so I thought but then I remembered reality.
That was right. The effect of Physical Enhancement Magic would disappear after around 30 minutes. Once that happens, there would be side effects. So before that happens, I have to find someplace to relax, such as a restaurant.
I looked around my surroundings while thinking like that. Anyway, there were no such establishments on this wharf.
There was a firm stone base underneath. There were protuberances here and there installed, used for mooring. Several wooden ships were moored and floating in different places. The glittering sunlight on the waves was blindingly bright.
As someone who grew up and likes reading in this world, this was one of the places I had actually wanted to see at least once. The siege battle of Pyris of the Esta Forestia Kingdom. The progress of that battle changed with the escapees from the city. The princess, carried outside the defensive walls by the ocean current, betrayed her country. It was quite a dramatic story, so I remember it clearly.
But, now that I was standing on the actual spot, it felt somewhat dull. Although it was a beautiful wharf, there were no signs of any historical remains from that time. To begin with, there was no accurate record of where the princess landed. Oh well, the city of Pyris at that time was located further west, so this area was definitely outside of the defensive walls.
On the other side, at the landside, there were several warehouses lined up. It was densely packed with shrubberies except for a few pathways. Because of that, the scenery was pretty but it was probably inconvenient for transporting luggage. Just who pays for this sort of stuff anyway? Ah, right. This was also a measure against high tide, just in case?
Well, listening to the continuous sound of the waves was also pleasant in its own way. But, I’d rather choose a slightly better location if I was going to collapse from the magic’s side effect. I’d rather not lie down for an hour on the ground here with such strong sunlight. I could avoid sunburn if I lay among the thick plants, but I was afraid of insect bites.
This was the southeast corner of the city, so let’s go a little further north from here.
Around 15 minutes later. Things did not go quite as I had hoped, and I felt a flicker of anxiety.
If I had known this kind of thing would happen, I would have asked to get a simple tour around the city at some point. There was not a single restaurant around me. Narrow, winding pathway that weaved chaotically between small houses. Furthermore, there was an elevation difference, so a horse-drawn carriage could not enter.
It was like a slum city just looking at the structure alone, but fortunately, there was no filth or sense of danger one might expect from a slum. On the contrary, the place was filled with vigor. Even now, lively pounding sounds could be heard coming from a nearby building.
Right, this was a craftsman’s district. Apparently, the city was divided into zones, blacksmith zone in one area, a cabinetmaker zone in another area, and each craftsman was busy at work.
It was inevitable if you think about it. This Pyris city was fundamentally a city that prospered as a trading hub. The coastal area was developed first, then roads were built extending inland from there. The three-way intersection I saw was built a very long time ago.
On the western side was a nicely shaped elevation. Inevitably, a fortress would be constructed there. On the other hand, as the population increases, there would be various demands that also increase. Also, craftsmen begin to gather here, seeking to purchase the inflow of goods and turn them into products. So what areas were left for them? This was the only place.
Perhaps there were other practical reasons for the sloppy urban planning. It would be great if there were a large hill like in the western side that allows for neat fortifications, but this side was not so fortunate. So when the situation was like that, I was sure they thought it would be better to build a city with these hard-to-navigate pathways as it was more convenient for defense against invaders.
Yosh. Even if it was a little forced, let’s cut across the west side. It would never be boring to just look around the small stores run by all sorts of craftsmen but I could not stay here forever.
I came out to the main street. This was the center of Pyris. In other areas, the buildings were only 2 stories at most but there were 5-story residential buildings here. The lower floors were usually for stores and in some places, the second floor as well. There were also inns for sailors around here.
To enter Pyris from the landward side, one normally enters through the northern gate. The main street from that gate leads directly to this main street. This place was the only place extremely and properly developed, with the width of the street able to allow 3 horse-drawn carriages running side-by-side at the same time. Additionally, the sidewalks were wide. Earlier, when I headed to the wharf, there was just this road that was impossible to jump over.
At the southern end of this main street, the road splits into two branches that curve gently to the east and west. Each of them becomes a little narrower in width. There was a residential area on the west side that eventually led to the naval port. The east side was the commercial port. And thus, the establishments such as restaurants on the west side soon thin out, and colorful signs were everywhere on the east side.
At first glance, this three-way intersection seemed quite inefficient. At any rate, there were no clear traffic rules. It seemed that some people departed in the morning and some arrived in the afternoon, so for some reason or another, there was a flow of people. Also, there were not many horse-drawn carriages coming from the west side. Once, I saw a group of carriages speeding past but everyone just stopped in their tracks to let them through. They were probably on official business.
It was now lunchtime, and there were delicious smells wafting around coming from the shops all over. Wonder where it should be good? Places that were too crowded were a no-go. It should be a nice place where I could sit down for around an hour or so. A slightly open place with some shade.
And just at the right timing, there was a shop with a calm atmosphere in front of me. Since it rises up to the fifth floor, of course, it was solid stone all the way down, but the shopfront on the ground floor was neatly covered with dark brown wood. It was more rugged than delicate and had an air of age rather than cleanliness. The atmosphere of the shop was reminiscent of the cracked yet warm hand of an old man.
Even when I entered, there was no voice calling out to welcome me. Perhaps they thought I just wandered in because I’m just a kid.
The inside of the shop was moderately dim. Considering the building’s strength, they could not have put in such large windows. Also if I had to say, the whole area of Pyris was in the southern country. You should block the sunlight as much as possible.
There were several men at tables inside the shop but they were eating and drinking in silence. There was one place with a group of 3 people drinking together while chatting but the rest of the place was quiet. Looking around the place, I saw a staircase leading to the upper floor.
I see. So this place was also an inn that doubles as a restaurant. It was a place where rough sea men or burly merchants on their travels gather, but would such people really be lazing around in the inn’s dining hall in broad daylight? They usually wander around outside and eat some food sold at the stalls. They basically eat here only in the morning and at night.
This was convenient. If it was not crowded, then even if a single kid takes a long break would not result in a complaint from them.
I rushed up to the counter and called up to the shopkeeper, who was concentrating on washing dishes.
It was a terrible hour. Honestly, I underestimated the side effects.
Even after I last fought with Jusa, I was left feeling fairly worn out. It was so severe that it was hard for me to get up, but I was prepared for something like that.
It was completely different. This time, I adapted to the situation and ran with all my strength and repeatedly making big jumps that would make even Olympic athletes jealous. And it was a great burden a 7-year-old body could not endure.
As a result.....as soon as the effect of the pill wore off, I was suddenly attacked by fever and pain as if my whole body had swelled up. I could not even move a finger, even with all the food in front of me. The shopkeeper looked at me with suspicion, not trying to eat the food while it was still warm.
After about 30 minutes, I could finally move my fingers, so I forced myself to take a spoon and put the food into my mouth. However, I could barely swallow it. Just chewing was hard. I mostly didn't know what it tasted like. And so, I slowly forced myself to stuff the cold food into my body. I was sure I have eaten, but my stomach was not moving.
And after another hour, I was finally freed from the pain and got up. I leave the money for the food and leave the shop.
As I step out into the main street, I check the remaining money in my hand.
Now then, my remaining money.....9 silver coins and a few copper coins. Of these coins, 2 to 4 would be used to buy souvenirs for the internal affairs and secretaries. I could go to a slightly elegant store and buy baked sweets to bring back. The problem was the remaining money.
It was fine if I returned them to the wet nurse or Nagia, but I’m sure they would not accept it. In that case, I could just keep them as my personal money but we were talking about that children's room after all. There was no privacy whatsoever. I could not leave any valuables behind, and I have kept the ring Myluc gave me around my neck and the aquamarine brooch tucked inside my undershirt. I had never carried any money until now, so I managed to get by but.....if those kids found out about this money, it would become troublesome.
In that case, that’s right.
I went back to the way I came and headed to the craftsmen’s district.
「I 'm back」
Returning to the dimly lit internal affairs’ team office, there was Ina-san looking tired but she turned around while still sitting. This person, she always looks so stressed.
「I think you should have received the message.....」
「Yes, I know」
It seemed to be a good thing that the problem did not come to the surface. The light returned to her eyes for just a moment.
「Looks like you made it just in time. Thank goodness」
「Looks like I was lucky. So, here.....」
I handed over the two thin wooden boxes.
「It’s a token of apology from the ship captain for the trouble. I was looking for this, so I was a little late in returning」
「Sure, then, I will also keep the portion for the secretarial section」
「Well then, I will go back to work」
「Ah, you can rest for today」
「Eh?」
Letting out a sigh and adjusting her posture, she spat out in a fed-up tone.
「Adults will be adults, while children should act like children. I know that you have finished your own work. The rest will be taken care of by the other children」
She smiled - mixed with sarcasm - while saying that.
I saw the figures of several children crouching as I walked my way to the servant’s dormitory through the garden in the early afternoon. It seemed they also noticed me, too, as they kept staring at me. But, they didn't say anything. This was troublesome. Apparently, they thought that I was the one telling the adults they slacked off.
「Hey! You brats just do your own task!」
When the young man watching over them raised his voice, the children immediately looked away. And so, they would continue their work under the blazing sun.
I contemplated all sorts of things while walking. My action this time, it was a failure.
At the end of the day, the fault lies in my good-naturedness. They were certainly in trouble, and I was able to deliver the envelope safely. But in order to get that result, I took the risk of having my own identity exposed, and I consumed a precious magic pill. And what did I get?
Since I was hiding my abilities, my success in delivering the envelope was considered mere luck. Even if Ms. Katug and the secretarial section felt slightly indebted to me, what I got this time did not amount to much. And the silver coins the ship captain freely handed to me with a smile were confirmed by the wet nurse.
To sum it up, what I gained today was only a few silver coins and a little bit more rest time. I just managed to get through a misfortune that happened suddenly. If I had never shown up at the office at that timing from the start, this would not have happened.
I had to act more skillfully and smartly. If not, I would not be able to survive in this mansion.
Also, using my ability had its advantages and disadvantages. Just because I could use it did not mean I should use it casually. And even these magic pills, I should not take them around with me. Because if I had them on me, I would end up using them. And I’d like to put away the silver ring and the brooch, too, while I’m at it.
I lightly flicked the remaining silver coin I had left with my thumb. Where were the rest?
I used them to make a small, custom savings box. Such a funny story. The money I should have set aside was almost gone. On top of that, the item was still not in my hands. It seemed that it would be delivered to the mansion in several days. Dear me.
I looked back once more. The straw hats the children wore while crouching occasionally reflect the sunlight.
It would be nice if there were a little more wind.
Oh well, it was a fun walk after such a long time. I could only think that way. www.ihavesinnedtranslation.com
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TL Note :
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Changing Rud to Ruud
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