H28.3.31 Revised.
H28.4.21 Revised again.
H30.7.31 Typo correction
①Alicia is dressed as a town girl and offers a fitting saludo, but when nobles are the recipients, her noble background seems to be overlooked. → … she was seen through…
1. Each Half △
Six months after my bittersweet parting with Alicia, I celebrated my 15th birthday. During that time, I was living a busy daily life, juggling two roles: “Slave Trader Apprentice” and “Adventurer.”
In my first role, “Slave Trader Apprentice,” I had become capable of handling “Patrol Purchases” alone. However, I was still being instructed daily by Gaspar Daro, the Head of Slave Acquisitions, and Ms. Larissa, the young acquisition manager, that my assessment of slaves was still too lenient.
Meanwhile, my other role, “Adventurer,” was considered “play adventuring” by my father and his associates. In reality, I had named my Adventurer Party “Princess Harem,” secured a magnificent base mansion, and it had grown into an unexpectedly powerful party with five beautiful girls belonging to it: Elise, Mai, Swan Hilda, Lyushenne, and Kirika.
My father, by the way, was a significant figure, concurrently serving as an executive in the “Slave Merchant Guild.” His influence, a sort of inherited prestige, was immense. My birthday party, which doubled as my coming-of-age ceremony, was lavishly held, with many attendees, starting with influential figures in the town, visiting to offer their congratulations.
By this time, Alicia had become a beautified, hazy memory. Even when her image surfaced unexpectedly, the thought that she might no longer be alive pricked at my heart like a thorn.
I had also encountered beautiful, well-regarded maidens in towns and villages, whose “purchase assessments” led to them being treated as slaves due to their family circumstances. However, none surpassed Alicia.
It seemed that within these past six months, I had become able to treat even the neighborhood’s most admired beautiful girls as “merchandise” after purchasing them as slaves.
Was this what it meant to become an adult? I wondered as I was swept up in greeting the party attendees, not even having the leisure to slowly savor the food.
Even if limited to appearance alone, the five beautiful girls in “Princess Harem” were all “nation-toppling” beauties. However, they were so “out of reach” that the idea of them as romantic partners was unthinkable, at least for my true feelings.
Lately, however, Elise and Mai have been finding excuses to be near me… And Lyushenne has also been giving me meaningful glances recently.
I am well aware that I am inexperienced in the subtleties of male-female relationships, partly due to my long history as a virgin, including my past life. On the other hand, most of them are bound by my “Slave Contract Magic,” but in reality, it has become a mere formality, and I allow them freedom of action.
Well, at the end of my previous life, my dearest wish was to marry a beautiful girl…
“Happy birthday, big brother.”
My sister, Miuuki, also celebrated while munching on cake. I wiped the whipped cream from Miuuki’s cheek with a napkin. Come to think of it, Miuuki is also 10 years old. In a few more years, she will surely become a beautiful girl, just like my mother, Shakura.
My name is Elise Lisha Umb Portland. I am the third princess of the now-defunct Kingdom of Portland, and I am a shy 16-year-old. My slightly thicker waist used to be my only flaw, but it has improved greatly since I began my life as an adventurer.
My charm point is my silver hair that shines brilliantly in the sun. It’s a bit unruly, which makes it a bother to care for, but I’ve been complimented on it by everyone since I was little. I am also proud of my well-developed bosom. Despite their size, they don’t sag at all—they stand perky and point upwards. Well, I may not be able to match Lyushenne’s in size, but I’m confident my
As I relaxed and felt lethargic, I remembered something a lady-in-waiting from the Inner Palace once told me. It appears I, of all people, experienced a “splash” …
Like Hal, I have also reached the age of adulthood, and my body seems to have “reached its full moon.” I wish for Hal to soothe this body’s ache soon…
***
## 2. Personal Slave!?
My birthday party at home had become lively on its own, even without me as the center of attention. I excused myself from my mother, Shakura, and went to the base mansion of “Princess Harem” located on the outskirts of the Imperial Capital Granza.
There, five beautiful girls were waiting to celebrate my birthday and coming of age.
Elise, Mai, Swan Hilda, Ly, and Kirika, who became my slaves by a twist of fate, I am grateful for our encounter. In truth, I don’t just see them as slaves, but as invaluable allies.
“Master Hal, congratulations on reaching adulthood.”
Elise offered her congratulations first, then…
“Master, … congratl…”
Mai, though brief, cheerfully congratulated me.
“Master Hal, please continue to treat me well.”
Swan Hilda spoke with a tone that seemed to ask for something.
“Lord Hal, this truly is a joyous occasion!”
Kirika, the newest member of this Adventurer Party, congratulated me with a rather grand attitude.
“I offer my congratulations and blessings.”
Ly concluded our private birthday party.
Most of the food seemed to have been prepared by a restaurant in the Imperial Capital Granza and was quite luxurious. Among them were a few dishes that looked a bit shabby, apparently homemade by one of the “Princess Harem” members.
This is because, except for Mai who had a peculiar upbringing, the others were all genuine princesses. They used to have chefs cook for them and maids attend to other chores, so generally, their “girl power” was low.
Though they might have been quite frustrated, given their proud nature, my cooking skills were currently superior. The base mansion had a well-equipped kitchen, but it was currently in a state of disuse, gathering a thin layer of dust.
As for their adventuring skills, they had improved. Except for Kirika, the latest addition, whose guild rank was F, the others had reached D. Consequently, their adventures became more challenging, involving “escort requests” and hunting in mid-level dungeons. The rewards they earned were vastly different from when “Princess Harem” was first formed.
They truly were princesses of noble blood, and their rank advancement was unprecedented. In other words, although they were once demure “princesses from sheltered homes,” as pure-blooded royals and imperial family members, their physical abilities were inherently high.
And after these few months of adventuring life, we had developed a comfortable relationship.
***
The morning after my grand birthday party, I was summoned by my father. When I visited his office a while later, he had paused his work and beckoned me over.
“Hal, you’re finally all grown up!”
My father congratulated me on reaching adulthood, but his demeanor suggested it wasn’t just that.
“As a special coming-of-age gift for you, Hal, I shall bestow a special celebration upon you.”
Then, my father rang the call bell on his desk.
*Ting.*
Soon after, the door connecting his office to the adjacent secretary’s room quietly opened, and a beautiful girl dressed in a pristine dress entered. She had tied her beautiful blonde hair up, and a calm aura suited her perfectly.
And upon closer inspection, she was Alicia, whom I had parted ways with!
She had grown a bit taller in the past six months, and her maidenly curves seemed more pronounced.
Moreover, her appearance was more beautiful and lively than in my admittedly beautified memories of her, and I couldn’t help but suppress my racing heart.
“W-Father, what is going on?”
I stammered out my question.
“This girl I bought six months ago turned out to be a real find…”
My father poured water from a carafe on his desk into a glass and drank it in one gulp.
“So, I thought, what if I made her your ‘personal slave’? I secretly planned to educate her.”
Then, my father glanced at Alicia.
“However, if she remained a slave, I feared you might be overcome by temptation, so I have already ‘freed her from slavery.’ Therefore, she is now a civilian, Miss Alicia.”
My father paused for a moment.
“Ultimately, she is to be treated as your ‘personal secretary’.”
My father paused again.
“Take good care of her!”
With that, my father’s surprise present explanation concluded.
Then, Alicia approached me and bowed her head.
“Master Hal, it has been a long time. Also, my current name is Alicia Garland.”
Alicia, blushing, took the surname Garland, which belonged to a branch family of the House of Raymond.
It was likely my father’s doing that Alicia was adopted into a branch family.
This must be my father’s way of saying that I could take Alicia as my official wife.
“I will serve Master Hal to the best of my ability, so please cherish me forever.”
Receiving Alicia’s heartfelt greeting, I couldn’t suppress my desire to make her happy, and before I knew it, I was hugging her.
“Alicia’s room has been prepared in the empty room next to your private room. From today, Alicia will live with you in the main residence of the House of Raymond.”
With my father’s final explanation, we were dismissed.
***
Incidentally, Elise, Mai, Swan Hilda, Kirika, and Ly, who became my slaves after I parted with Alicia, are living in a base mansion I purchased on the outskirts of the Imperial Capital Granza. That mansion was purchased with funds acquired by selling trinkets such as the tiara Elise wore, and then expanding my capital through futures trading, utilizing my past life’s cheat memories, which I had previously restricted myself from using.
As expected, when there’s someone to support, you have to go all out.
“At the right time, I must introduce her to them…”
As I embraced Alicia, I thought about the members of “Princess Harem.”
***
## 3. Blessing’s Grace
It is said that after I parted ways with Alicia that day, the following events unfolded.
“Excuse me, Master, the negotiation for the Viscount’s Daughter has been successfully completed.”
Gaspard entered his master Dalos Raymond’s office, located on the same fourth floor as the special containment room, and reported.
“And how did it go?”
My father interrupted his paperwork and turned his face towards Gaspard.
“The young lady’s purchase price exceeded the budget at 150 Platinum Coins (equivalent to 150 million yen), but I am confident she will be satisfied once she meets him.”
Gaspard reported with a face full of confidence.
“Is she even more beautiful than initially anticipated?”
“Precisely.”
“Then, how was Hal’s reaction?”
“Master Hal was nervous, as it was his first experience, but he seemed to be quite taken with the young lady.”
“Hal, that dense blockhead, who is so level-headed for his age?”
“Yes, that is correct.”
“I see… I’ve become interested in this girl myself, so bring her to this room.”
“Understood. Please wait a moment.”
Gaspard temporarily left the office and returned with Alicia.
“Master, I have brought the young lady.”
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Master. I am Alicia, who will be registered as a ‘Level 2 Slave’ starting today.”
Although nervous at being summoned so suddenly, Alicia greeted him flawlessly with a flowing curtsy.
“Are you Alicia?”
While confirming, my father inwardly admired, “This is a rare find,” and understood that it was only natural for Hal to be infatuated.
“Yes, that is correct.”
As he listened to Alicia’s responses, Dalos fell into deep thought.
He realized that although he could make a large profit by selling her, she was a necessary person for the next generation, Hal. He also deduced the need to confirm his wife Shakura’s reaction as a potential concern.
“Well then, I apologize, but please wait over there for a while.”
My father gestured towards the reception set, and Alicia moved to the wall near the reception set, assuming a standing posture. This appropriate slave-like behavior further improved my father’s evaluation of Alicia.
“Please sit on the sofa and wait.”
When my father re-instructed her, Alicia hesitantly sat on the sofa.
“Gaspard, go to my residence and bring Shakura.”
“Understood. I will leave now.”
After a bow, Gaspard left the office. My father returned to his piled-up paperwork, and a quiet atmosphere returned to the office.
***
Approximately 30 minutes later, Gaspard returned to the office with Shakura.
“Is there something you need?”
At this time, my mother appeared somewhat tense.
Thinking about it, my mother, who herself had experience as a “Level 2 Slave,” didn’t feel very good about visiting the trading company.
“Hmm. The matter concerns the girl we purchased today.”
My father directed his gaze towards Alicia. Alicia then stood up and curtsied to my mother.
“Could it be that this girl is the ‘Level 2 Slave’ Hal acquired during his first negotiation?”
“That’s right. Her name is Alicia, and she was formerly a Viscount’s Daughter.”
“What is the purpose of bringing me to see Alicia?”
“Hal was quite taken with this girl. Therefore, I intend to buy her, educate her, and give her to Hal when the time is right. I called you here to hear your opinion.”
Upon hearing the reason for being summoned, my mother observed Alicia closely again.
Then, my mother gestured for Alicia to sit on the sofa, and taking a seat on the opposite sofa, she began to talk with her.
“My dear, I heard Alicia’s purchase price was 150 Platinum Coins. What do you intend to do about her treatment?”
With the reply, “For now, I plan to educate her while she remains a slave, and then give her to Hal to become his ‘exclusive slave’.”
“That won’t do. May I see the contract?”
Mother asked to see the ‘slave contract’ that bound Alicia.
Mother carefully read the ‘slave contract’ she received from Gaspar.
“Did you do something to this girl already?”
Mother confirmed whether any magical restraints had been placed on Alicia.
“No, I haven’t done anything yet,” Gaspar immediately denied.
Normally, purchased slaves might try to escape or commit suicide out of despair, so it was common to take measures to restrict such actions.
In Alicia’s case, the reason these measures were not taken was twofold: she was an expensive purchase and they didn’t want to add any unnecessary flaws, and moreover, as a “young lady from a sheltered upbringing,” she wouldn’t survive even if she escaped.
“Thank you, Gaspar. How about making this girl an adopted daughter of the Garland family?”
Then, Mother unceremoniously tore up the ‘slave contract’ in her hand.
Gaspar, who had made the contract, and Alicia, the party involved, were dumbfounded by this action, but Father, who seemed to have foreseen Mother’s actions, was smiling.
“Gaspar, you heard what I said.”
He gave the instruction, “Proceed with the procedure to make Miss Alicia an adopted daughter of the Garland family.”
And so, Alicia was ‘freed from slavery’ on the same day she fell to ‘Level 2 Slave’ status, and furthermore, through ‘adoption into the branch family,’ she became related to Hal.
Ultimately, the fact that Alicia had fallen into slavery was quashed without being reported to the authorities, and only the record of adopting the daughter of the fallen Viscount Rendol family as an adopted daughter of the Garland family remained.
Even within the branch family, Alicia was treated with great care as the top candidate for Hal’s legal wife, the next head of the family, and has reached this day.
Hal could be sure, from his memories of his past life, that the ‘Blessing of Protection’ he bestowed upon Alicia had acted as a tailwind for these sudden developments.
Over the past six months, I too have had many experiences, and my ‘slave trader’ and ‘adventurer’ skills have greatly improved.
As a slave trader, I will be able to operate without problems with Alicia’s help.
The remaining troublesome issue is deciding when to explain to Alicia about the five beautiful girls—Elise, Mai, Swan Hilda, Kirika, and Ly—and the adventurer party I formed with them, called ‘Princess Harem’.
4. Sleeping Together
After receiving Alicia from Father and returning to the office on the first floor, my seat was moved to a private room partitioned off like those of the executives of the Raymond Trading Company, and beside it, a seat was prepared for Alicia, who had become my ‘exclusive secretary.’
My office work that day barely progressed, as I was worried about Alicia, who was by my side, but when the time came, I took Alicia with me and caught a carriage to return home.
Alicia herself had never visited the main residence of the House of Raymond, where she would live from today, so she seemed a little nervous.
“It’s okay. Mother and my sister will welcome you!”
I gently squeezed Alicia’s hand and spoke to her.
“Yes!”
Alicia nodded, responding energetically.
Upon arriving at the mansion, Mother Shakura and my sister Miuuki, accompanied by the butler, head maid, other maids, and the chef, welcomed Alicia’s arrival.
“Welcome! Alicia!”
Mother said, embracing Alicia warmly.
“Yes, ma’am,” Alicia replied nervously to Mother.
“Call me Mother,” Mother said, demanding a correction with a slight pout.
“I’m back. Mother-in-law,” Alicia hastily corrected herself.
“You’ve worked hard these past six months,” Mother said, smiling as she stroked Alicia’s head.
“Elder Sister Alicia! Please take care of me too, Miuuki!”
My sister Miuuki, standing next to Mother, also seemed to like Alicia.
“This young lady is Miss Alicia Garland from the branch family, who will be living with us in this mansion from today.”
After the greetings with Mother and my sister, Mother turned and introduced Alicia to the servants.
Then, Mother herself led Alicia to the room next to my private room.
“I redecorated it according to Alicia’s preferences, as heard from the branch family. What do you think? Also, the luggage from the Garland family has been placed over there.”
“Thank you, Mother-in-law. And… I really like it.”
“Oh, good. If there’s anything you need, don’t hesitate to ask. Hal, I’ll leave the rest to you.”
Mother, perhaps being considerate, left us alone.
“Hal-sama, that was an amazing welcome.”
“Indeed.”
“By the way, could you call me Hal?”
“Yes… Hal,” Alicia responded in a small, whispering voice, blushing as if embarrassed.
“Still, this is a magnificent room? It’s twice as spacious as my private room at the Rendol mansion where I used to live, and the furnishings…”
Alicia changed the subject out of embarrassment, reconfirming the state of the room.
“May I see the bedroom, please?”
“Yes, please do.”
Perhaps she didn’t yet feel attached to the private room or hadn’t acquired anything of her own, she readily agreed.
Entering the bedroom, I tried to open the door on the right wall, but it was still locked.
“Hal, is something wrong?” Alicia asked with a puzzled look.
“Actually, this door connects to my bedroom.”
“Eh, why?” Alicia asked, her cheeks immediately flushing.
“Originally, this room was for the person who would become my legal wife, and it had always been vacant,” I explained, looking at the door.
“That’s why Mother had Alicia live here. But the fact that this door is locked probably means that conjugal relations will be after the formal wedding ceremony,” I explained to Alicia the meaning of the locked door.
Turning around, Alicia seemed somewhat relieved.
“Well then, shall we go to dinner? I’ll guide you to the dining hall.”
As we headed to the dining hall, the preparations were already complete, and dinner began as soon as we arrived.
Mother Shakura seemed to be extremely fond of Alicia, as she wore a constant smile. The chef also seemed to have worked hard, as it was a feast. After taking separate showers to wash off the dirt and sweat, we decided to sleep in our respective private rooms as we were tired.
We went to bed in our respective bedrooms, but in the middle of the night, I heard a quiet knock on the door. When I opened it, Alicia, changed into her nightgown, was standing there.
“What’s wrong? Can’t sleep?” I asked Alicia gently.
“Hal, I’m anxious! Can we sleep together?” Alicia tilted her head and asked something outrageous in an adorable way.
By the way, Alicia was wearing a light blue negligee that seemed to be made of silk. Because the fabric was thin, her nipples and the shadows of her crotch were vaguely visible, a very alluring sight.
I had a concern that if I took her to my bedroom like this, things might go all the way, but seeing Alicia’s anxious expression, I couldn’t refuse.
“Alright. Come here,” I said, and led Alicia into my bedroom. We lay down on the bed, holding hands.
“Hal, I’m sorry,” Alicia apologized, while I struggled to hide the beating of my heart.
After a while, Alicia fell asleep with cute snores, but I, bothered by Alicia’s warmth and sweet scent, couldn’t sleep a wink and stayed awake until morning.
As the morning sun rose and its light entered my bedroom, Alicia awoke.
“Good morning, Alicia.”
“G-good morning, Hal.”
As we exchanged morning greetings, Alicia, perhaps remembering her visit to my room in the middle of the night, responded with a completely red face.
Alicia’s bashfulness stimulated a mischievous thought in me.
“Alicia, may I give you a morning kiss?” I asked, half-jokingly.
“Yes,” Alicia, taking me seriously, closed her eyes and accepted my kiss.
I lightly touched our lips together, giving Alicia a kiss that lovers would likely share for the first time. And with just that simple act, both of our faces turned bright red.
“Well then, shall we get up?”
“Yes, Hal.”
Alicia’s cheeks were flushed red, and she was very cute. As she was half-awake, her blanket slipped, and her beautiful breasts peeked through her light blue negligee, making it impossible for me to look directly at her.
“Hal, I’m sorry. I’ll change right away,” Alicia said, remembering her state of undress from my reaction, and hurried back to her room.
I had the day off from Father to help Alicia with her move. After breakfast, we helped unpack Alicia’s belongings, finishing that task in the morning, and in the afternoon, I planned to take her to the suburban mansion that served as the base for ‘Princess Harem’.
Although I had nothing to hide, it’s best to get these things done as soon as possible.
5. The Main Act Arrives Late
After spending the entire morning sorting out Alicia’s personal belongings from the Garland family, we had a slightly late lunch.
“Alicia, do you know that I work as an ‘apprentice slave trader’ and a fledgling ‘adventurer’?” I asked casually.
“Yes, I heard from Master Dallas,” Alicia replied without seeming to be in doubt.
“In the afternoon, I’ll take you to the mansion where my party members live.”
Thus, I decided on the afternoon’s plans while maintaining a natural demeanor.
We caught a carriage running in front of our house and headed directly to the ‘Princess Harem’ base mansion. After a while, a forest surrounded by a wall appeared on a hill in the suburbs. Getting off the carriage there, we entered the gate leading to the road on foot, and arrived at the entrance of the mansion built within what looked like an ornamental tree forest.
“Alicia, we’re here,” I announced to Alicia, informing her of our arrival at the base mansion of “Princess Harem.”
“What a large mansion. Is it a villa for high-ranking nobles?” Alicia asked, gazing up at the mansion built within a grove of ornamental trees.
“Apparently, it used to be a villa owned by a certain Count, but after he passed away, his family couldn’t manage it and put it up for sale.”
“So, the current owner is Hal?”
“Yep. That’s right.”
As I said that, I opened the entrance door. A doorbell chimed, “Tirin, tirin,” announcing our arrival, and a beautiful girl with luxurious curly blond hair appeared from within.
“Welcome, Hal-sama.”
The blond beauty greeted me in high spirits.
“The visitor is Hal-sama,” she announced to the other party members of “Princess Harem” before noticing Alicia, who was standing behind me.
“Is this a new person?” Lyushenne asked, tilting her head.
“No, this is Alicia Garland. She’s the young lady who was adopted by a branch family of House Raymond. She became my ‘exclusive secretary’ yesterday. I brought her to introduce her to everyone.”
Lyushenne momentarily looked surprised, but quickly recovered.
“…I see.”
For a fleeting moment, Lyushenne’s eyes seemed sharp, like a hunter eyeing prey, but it must have been my imagination. She then welcomed both Alicia and me inside.
I decided to gather everyone in the reception room within my private quarters on the second floor for introductions. However, I sensed something odd about the behavior of the “Princess Harem” members. It was similar to when I brought new members before, but this time it was particularly pronounced.
“Thank you for the grand birthday party the day before yesterday.”
Since I couldn’t just stay silent, I broke the ice by thanking them for yesterday.
“And the next morning, my father summoned me and informed me that Alicia here was appointed as my ‘exclusive secretary.’ I brought her today thinking we would be seeing each other often from now on.” I nonchalantly explained Alicia’s background, giving her a knowing glance.
“My name is Alicia Garland. Yesterday, I was appointed as Hal-sama’s ‘exclusive secretary.’ I ask for your kind indulgence.” Alicia stood up from her chair, bowed, and offered a polite greeting befitting a commoner.
Although Alicia was dressed as a town girl and offered a fitting greeting, her noble background was immediately seen through by the former royals.
“Nice to meet you. I am Elise. My position in the adventurer party is ‘offensive mage.’ By the way, Alicia-sama, are you not actually a noble’s daughter? I haven’t seen you in high society…” Elise asked, her expression unusually stern.
“I can’t hide it, can I…” I sighed.
“Alicia was originally a Viscount’s daughter, but her birth family fell into ruin. Through various circumstances, she was adopted by the Garland family, a branch of House Raymond.”
“As I thought…” Elise and the others looked even more serious.
“Hal-sama, I’d like to have a heart-to-heart talk with Alicia-sama, not just a superficial greeting. Is that alright?” Lyushenne also pressed.
“In that case, I’ll introduce everyone chronologically.” As the conversation began to veer off course, I decided to introduce everyone. It seemed the “Princess Harem” members were getting restless about the closer-than-expected relationship between Alicia and me.
“Allow me to reintroduce myself. There are things Alicia doesn’t know yet.” I looked around at everyone.
“As you all know, I, Hal Raymond, just turned fifteen the day before yesterday and became an adult.” I then turned my gaze to Alicia. “And, Alicia, I haven’t told you this, but I am also a ‘Support Mage.'”
When I explained that I was a mage, Alicia’s eyes widened in extreme surprise.
“This is a secret even from my family.” I emphasized, making eye contact with Alicia. “The magic I can use includes ‘Healing Magic’ and ‘Resurrection Magic,’ which are ‘Curative Magic,’ bestowing ‘Blessings’ from the gods, and ‘Slave Contract Magic’…”
“You had such talent, Hal!” Alicia exclaimed, astonished by my self-introduction.
“But ever since the ‘Blessing of Good Fortune’ you bestowed upon me as we parted in the special containment room, my fate has been turning around…” Alicia murmured to herself, deep in thought.
“And before my coming-of-age ceremony, I accompanied Gasper, an executive of the Raymond Trading Company, to negotiate the purchase of Viscount’s Daughter Alicia Mia von Rendol, who was scheduled to become a slave. Alicia was bought for 150 platinum coins (equivalent to 150 million yen). I heard she was sold the very next day.”
“In other words… Alicia, you had your entire body seen by Hal-sama, didn’t you?”
“…Yes.” Lyushenne confirmed on behalf of everyone. A deeply flushed Alicia nodded in a small voice.
“I found out yesterday… my father and mother took a liking to Alicia. They tore up the ‘Slave Contract’ the same day she became a slave and arranged for an ‘adoption’ into the branch family. That’s the truth.”
“My word, what a fairy tale!” Swan Hilda exclaimed dramatically, having been silent until then.
“And so, after parting ways with Alicia, I continued as a ‘slave trader apprentice.’ However, during a ‘patrol purchase trip,’ I picked up an ‘assassin’ with a fatal wound to the side. That was my encounter with Mai.”
“Why would you help a dirty ‘assassin’?” Kirika, who didn’t know the circumstances, asked.
“Well, at the time, I just wanted to see the face of the ‘assassin’ who was about to die out of mild curiosity. But she turned out to be a cute beautiful girl…” I scratched my head as I explained.
“Hmm.” Mai looked as if this was only natural.
“And then what happened?” Kirika pressed.
“I healed her wound with ‘Healing Magic,’ then removed her suicide pills and hidden weapons. After that, I dispelled the magical restraints that made her a disposable ‘assassin,’ a ‘Killing Doll,’ and bound her with a slave contract.”
“You went to quite a bit of trouble.” Lyushenne remarked, then began stroking Mai’s head. “It’s good that you were saved.”
“Hmm.” Lyushenne coaxed Mai with a smile, and Mai nodded happily.
“And then what?” Kirika interjected again.
“Then, I went to confirm the assassination target.” My gaze shifted from Mai to Elise. “There, I found a knight who had fallen while fighting Mai, and inside the carriage were Elise von Portland, the third princess of the now-defunct Kingdom of Portland, and her two attending maids, all dead.”
Elise listened intently to my explanation.
“I recovered Elise’s body from among them and revived her with ‘Resurrection Magic.'” All eyes turned to Elise, who blushed. “And, just like with Mai, I bound her with a ‘Slave Contract Magic.'”
“Why did you bind her with ‘Slave Contract Magic’?” Kirika asked again.
“Because I figured it would be troublesome if she caused a commotion the moment she was revived.” I sighed, looking at Kirika.
“From then on, the three of us decided to become ‘adventurers’ and purchased this base mansion.” Elise and Mai nodded at my explanation.
“And during our adventures, we found Swan Hilda collapsed by the roadside.” My gaze then shifted to Swan Hilda. “At first, Swan Hilda went by the name Jumilande… At that time, she was the only daughter of Demon King Gandaro and had a bounty of 1,000 gold coins on her head.”
All eyes focused on Swan Hilda. Lyushenne, Kirika, and Alicia, in particular, were astonished.
“And strangely, Princess Jumilande couldn’t use any major magic.” Swan Hilda seemed restless, recalling the past.
“When I investigated, her holy and evil bloodlines—that is, ‘Valkyrie’ and ‘Demonkin’ blood—were in conflict.” Elise and Mai, who knew the circumstances, watched Swan Hilda with a knowing, slightly amused gaze.
“When Mai and I used ‘Holy Magic’ to eliminate the ‘Demonkin’ factor, she became the ‘Valkyrie,’ Swan Hilda.” Thus, one of “Princess Harem’s” major secrets was shared.
“My, being stared at like this is quite embarrassing.” Surrounded by everyone’s gazes, Swan Hilda had become completely red.
“Next is Lyushenne. She is also the fourth Imperial Princess of the now-defunct Wahl Imperial Kingdom, and her full name is Lyushenne Silveria Wahl.”
“Princess after princess, and now an Imperial Princess…” Alicia’s astonishment continued at the shocking revelations I was making.
“Lyushenne was a slave exhibited at a members-only ‘slave auction’ known as the ‘Princess Auction.’ During the auction, she spotted an enemy among the customers and attacked, but failed. She was then executed by hanging according to the ‘Slave Law.'” All eyes now turned to Lyushenne.
“I revived Lyushenne’s abandoned body with ‘Resurrection Magic,’ bound her with a ‘Slave Contract Magic,’ and brought her here.”
“…I… am grateful to you, Hal-sama.” Lyushenne shyly expressed her gratitude to me.
“The last is Kirika. She is the fifth princess of the Kamiyar Holy Nation, and her full name is Kirika Turyuka Kamiyar. Kirika was being offered as a ‘Sacrificial Princess’ to the ‘Earth God,’ but since we accidentally defeated the ‘Earth God,’ she had nowhere to go.”
Under everyone’s gaze, Kirika looked hesitant. “So, to become our comrade, she willingly bound herself with my ‘Slave Contract Magic’ and is here now.” Kirika’s eyes darted around, as if wishing the ground would swallow her.
“In other words, all the members of ‘Princess Harem’ are in danger of being pursued by assassins if their true identities are revealed.” Thus, my long explanation concluded.
“When I think about everyone again, it’s a miracle that you are all alive here.” By the time Lyushenne summarized, Alicia had become our comrade.
After that, the gathering transitioned into a tea party, and the women, including Alicia, were happily chatting about everyday matters. It was quite memorable how happy Alicia seemed, as she hadn’t made her debut in high society due to family circumstances during her time as a Viscount’s daughter and thus had no female friends her age.
Chapter 6: The First Bath Meeting
By the time my exposé was finished, the conversation among the six maidens, including Alicia, had become lively.
“Alicia, you’re in almost the same situation as us, aren’t you?” Elise said, acting like an older sister to Alicia.
“But you’re the only one with a proper census record…” Lyuenne murmured enviously.
“It would be convenient for gathering external information if you weren’t being pursued by assassins or weren’t a wanted criminal,” Elise said, examining Alicia’s background. Then, as if she had reached a conclusion, she leaned forward. “How about a room in the guest quarters here for you as well?”
“Um, Hal, what should we do?”
“For now, the guest rooms are vacant, so we should reserve one?”
“Understood. Then I’ll borrow a room.”
“By the way, Alicia, we have a large public bath here, would you like to join us?” Elise casually suggested bathing together.
Previously, whenever a new slave entered, they would also “quality check” the newcomer’s body. However, since they judged it impossible with Alicia, they probably resorted to this next best option. The guest rooms in this mansion seemed to be designed with noble reception in mind, as each room had a small bathroom. Within the section I used, there was also a large public bath that all guests could use. The women preferred to bathe leisurely in the large public bath rather than their individual bathrooms and, inconveniently, often implored me to join them.
“Let’s do it! Alicia-sama!”
“Let’s do that.”
“Then I shall accept.”
When Alicia agreed to their invitations to bathe, Elise smirked maliciously, pleased that her plan had succeeded.
Afterward, the large bath was filled, and Elise’s fire magic quickly heated the water. Having a bathroom in a mansion was a luxury. Moreover, this one was inconveniently located on the second floor, where fetching water was difficult. Originally, this base mansion belonged to a certain Count, and it was made possible by installing expensive magical tools at the Count’s whim. Of course, there were also magical tools to heat water, but Elise using magic was faster.
Currently, the women were undressing. This time, I was also unceremoniously persuaded to join the bath and was in the process of undressing in a separate room, though I could occasionally hear the women’s voices.
“Alicia, you’re also the type who looks slimmer than you are.”
“Ugh… these breasts should be removed…”
“As expected of someone Hal-sama favored. Such a beautiful body.”
“Kyaaa…! Don’t touch my breasts…!”
Loud voices and conversations unsuitable for a gentleman could be heard, and it seemed they were having a lively time.
“Skinship is important.”
Now, everyone had gathered in the large public bath. Elise said this and confiscated towels, leaving everyone completely naked. I had hoped the steam would obscure things, but it wasn’t as effective as I’d anticipated, and each other’s naked bodies were quite visible. And, unfortunately, as if they had already thoroughly enjoyed Alicia’s body in the dressing room, they were now engrossed in “quality checking” me, which was incredibly embarrassing.
“Hal-sama, you have more muscle than I thought.” Elise secretly observed my crotch part, pretending to look at something else.
“Hal-sama, the maidens here can be divided into two types. Do you understand?” Lyuenne asked as I was about to get into the bathtub after rinsing myself.
“Hmm… I don’t really get it,” I replied honestly.
“All the maidens here are in love with Hal-sama.” Lyuenne’s eyes were hot and moist. “But if you look more closely, they can be divided into those who hold a faint love and those who are lusting after Hal-sama’s naked body.”
“How can you tell?” I asked Lyuenne.
“Look closely at their breasts…” Lyuenne hesitated slightly. “Everyone’s face is flushed from the bath’s heat and shame, but Elise’s and my nipples are erect because we wish to be held by Hal-sama.” Finally, Lyuenne’s hidden feelings were directly revealed. “My sexual desire… it exists in girls too!” Lyuenne then drove the point home further. Lyuenne explained to me with a serious gaze. “My debut in high society was at the age of six. Since then, various types of gentlemen have courted me, but at the time, I thought of them as nothing more than annoying moths.” “However, since being revived by Hal-sama, my heart has constantly yearned for Hal-sama.” Lyuenne’s eyes were moist at some point. “Lyuenne, you’re the same… I’m the same. On lonely nights when I sleep alone, I’ve learned to relieve the throbbing in my body through masturbation…” This time, Elise also confessed her feelings and approached me. “Hal-sama, the party’s name ‘Princess Harem’ is not just for show. We dream of being held by Hal-sama.” Lyuenne brazenly propositioned me. “Initially, the ‘Slave Contract’ that Hal-sama bound us with was, frankly, humiliating.” A dangerous glint momentarily appeared in Lyuenne’s eyes. “And then I realized that this ‘Slave Contract’ was proof of my connection with Hal-sama…” By then, the sharpness in Lyuenne’s eyes had disappeared. “Now, I feel like it’s a ‘Wedding License’ with Hal-sama.” Her expression then softened, and Lyuenne’s eyes became those of a dreaming maiden. “Hmm, I’m not quite at that stage yet… perhaps it’s a side effect of the ‘Resurrection Magic’.” Kirika, on the other hand, was analyzing calmly. It seemed that Lyuenne and Elise, with Alicia’s appearance, had ignited the jealousy and possessiveness they had been suppressing.
“Hal-sama, could you gently touch Alicia’s breasts?” Elise then brought Alicia, who was shyly standing in the corner of the bathroom, in front of me and said something outrageous. Alicia kept her head down, but she didn’t seem to be refusing, just embarrassed, so when I lightly touched her, her nipples also became erect. “As expected, Alicia is just like us,” Elise said, looking satisfied with Alicia’s reaction.
“Can you tell that my… the place… is wet?” Lyuenne then approached, placed her right hand on her sensitive area, and asked, showing me the sticky bodily fluid on her thumb and index finger. “I can accept Hal-sama right now.” Lyuenne pleaded with passionate words and a gaze.
“I’m happy you like me, but I never knew Lyuenne and Elise were so lewd… it seems like some punishment is needed?” This atmosphere is bad. While I wouldn’t mind dealing with each of them individually, I had no intention of suddenly engaging in debauchery here, so I pretended to chant a punishment spell from the ‘Slave Contract Magic’.
” “We’re sorry. Master.” ” Lyuenne and Elise, turning pale, apologized. As they cooled down, I forgave them with a sigh. “I like you all too, but I don’t like to couple like beasts.” Deciding that I had escaped the crisis of chastity for today, I quickly stated my preference.
“Then, if it’s a serious topic, will you continue to bathe with us?” Elise asked, her demeanor now solemn.
“Understood.” I couldn’t resist Elise’s earnest expression and agreed.
“Then Hal-sama, here’s a question: what do you consider our greatest weakness?” Elise, now soaking in the bathtub, asked.
“We are young and inexperienced. We are being pursued by assassins…” I listed them as they came to mind.
“We believe our low ‘girl power’ is the problem,” Lyuenne, who was listening beside Elise, provided the correct answer.
“Especially since, despite having so many maidens, our cooking skills are no match for Hal-sama’s, which is humiliating.” Kirika suddenly interjected.
“So, we discussed it, and could you please look for Lady Tirna, who was a skilled cook?” Swan Hilda took over the explanation. The request was to find Tirna Lian von Tuser, a former Count’s daughter who, along with Lyuenne, was captured when the Imperial City fell. She was said to be a professional in cooking, cleaning, and laundry. Lady Tirna’s family had been struggling financially since she was young, so to supplement their income, she had concealed her identity and worked various part-time jobs among common girls. Alicia, on the other hand, whose family had also fallen from grace, had been a normal young lady until her mother died three years ago. She could do basic things but not to a level where she could teach others.
I also thought it was about time to start considering backup personnel, as the main members of the “Princess Harem” adventurer party were mostly gathered. Financially, for the first three months after establishing the “Princess Harem,” expenditures on food and supplies exceeded reward money, and I was worried daily about the dwindling fund with Elise. However, as the party members’ ranks increased, the situation improved, and we were now enjoying a stable adventurer life beyond the initial capital. Since their information needed to be kept confidential, it was difficult to hire outsiders casually. Therefore, entrusting their chosen candidates was the most logical approach.
After promising to consider the search for Lady Tirna, I was released from the day’s “First Bath Meeting.” Since the purpose of today was for Alicia to meet the “Princess Harem” members, Alicia and I decided to return directly to the Raymond Mansion.
