I was guided to the town mayor by a Centaur.
The mayor, Jeff, welcomed me as I stood up from my chair. Looking at him up close, I noticed his pointed ears and a long, cow-like tail, clearly indicating he wasn’t human.
“Welcome to this remote town, traveler. Is there anything I can do for you?”
“Yes, could you lend me a place to stay for a while? Of course, I’ll pay for the lodging.”
“Ah, sure, but may I ask what your purpose is?”
I explained that I had been chasing Dark Elves.
“Hmm, Dark Elves, huh? They are indeed here, but were they really that wicked? There’s a small village around here; if that’s acceptable, I can introduce you. However, you likely won’t find what you’re looking for there.”
Contrary to my expectations, the Dark Elves living in this area might be peaceful. Even among the same race, their nature can differ depending on the region. With intimidating names like the Dark Religion and Zetsuky, I had braced myself, thinking this was a dreadful place, but it seemed that wasn’t the case. In fact, both this town and its residents were all peaceful people.
Perhaps it would be better to approach them with a small group and talk. Unlike before, there might be a possibility for a proper conversation over tea.
“Is that so, thank you. Um, excuse me, but what race are you?”
“Hahaha, I guess I look like a common Demi-human, don’t I? I’m actually a Demon, though just a common one.”
It seemed the Demon’s Clan was real. Yet, this kind-looking gentleman before me was far from the image I had of a Demon.
“Well, it’s a long story, so let me guide you to your lodging immediately.”
After stepping outside the room, Jeff was surprised to see my companions.
“Wow, I’ve never seen so many different races together before.”
He chuckled and led us to the lodging. It was small but seemed comfortable. The interior was made of wood, and the beds were soft; lying down once made me forget about my journey. It wasn’t a bad idea to forget the fierce battles and live a leisurely life here. Piyo and Pauline, perhaps also tired, fell soundly asleep once they lay down. After a short rest, we’ll go shopping tomorrow.
I informed Jeff of this, and Sharin and I looked out the window of the lodging at the town bathed in the setting sun. I had thought it was small, but looking down at it like this, I could see many people lived here. In the distance, I could also see the sea dyed red.
“Hey, Arisugawa, what do you want to do when you get back home?”
“Let’s see, first I’d contact my parents. Well, if my home is still there, that is. By the way, did Sharin’s companions agree to your journey?”
“I left without telling them because I thought they’d object.”
She said that and smiled.
“If you don’t mind, when you return, I’d like you to take me with you. Of course, I’ll come back immediately. Once I get that powder.”
“That… well, um, I don’t think you should use it too much. But I want everyone to come here once. There are many foods that don’t exist in this world. Like Ice Cream, meat buns, oh, and Tapioca.”
The Ice Cream and meat buns were typical convenience store items. Tapioca might be something girls would like.
“Tapioca…? Then I shall try that thing called Tapioca.”
As the sun set, we enjoyed our brief respite.
