Chapter 115

“Is this what you brought back from there?”

“Yes!”

Though it seemed he was gaining trust, standing on the stage of constant evaluation was always frightening.

The tension Evangelin felt after visiting the humble village of Valley of Starwind at the Marquis’ request stemmed from that very reason.

“Hmm.”

The unique atmosphere that created an almost palpable tension.

The silence that followed made one’s back damp with sweat every time they faced him.

His beautiful appearance contrasted sharply with his thorough and cold nature.

That incomprehensible hum always set Evangelin’s heart racing with anticipation.

Thud… Thud…

A faint metallic sound rang out.

The Marquis gauged its weight in his hands and ran his fingers over the surface to assess the material.

The actions were basic, but carried weight.

“So, what proof do we have that this equipment surpasses our current ones?”

“It’s right here!”

A single sheet of paper.

The data comparison caught the Marquis’ eye immediately.

Strength.

Protection.

Weight.

Mobility.

Even recommendations on appropriate usage were included.

It clearly showed superiority over the currently used equipment in the Marquis’ household.

Moreover, the special notes section had particularly interesting details—if true, this would be an extraordinary advancement.

Though the desire to replace everything immediately sparkled in his eyes, the Marquis restrained himself for the sake of appearances.

“Do you claim this visibly increases health stats?”

“Yes. There was a significant difference in health tests between those wearing the equipment and those not.”

“Are you saying this is some enchanted magical gear?”

“While no magical enchantment was detected, such effects were observed.”

“All of them?”

“Yes.”

“That’s quite intriguing indeed.”

Just like that, the Marquis found himself in a situation where he might have to replace their household equipment due to being outdone by a mere village.

He abandoned his previous thoughts about pressuring their blacksmith.

Magic items—or something akin to them—were practically impossible for just any blacksmith to create.

Securing and preparing early with such products was the proper course of action.

“Weren’t you saying this was your first attempt?”

“Yes, that’s correct.”

“Higher-tier equipment? Anything better than this?”

“I’ll check.”

“And confirm how much we can acquire.”

“Understood.”

While speaking, the Marquis’ gaze returned to the armor.

Was it for show, dressing a common laborer in it?

Or did they have enough surplus to afford such extravagance?

“The Baron’s intentions remain unclear.”

Which only fueled more curiosity.

“Weapons or other types?”

“I didn’t get a chance to check. Only what the laborers were wearing.”

“Still, verify that too. You never know.”

“Understood.”

“Return quickly.”

“Yes. And regarding this cocktail…”

“Leave it. That’s expected.”

“Yes!”

Evangelin clenched her fists slightly, satisfied with successfully impressing the Marquis.

Though the standards were strict, passing them meant substantial rewards.

Thus, Evangelin served the Marquis diligently.

Loyalty wasn’t entirely absent, but it stemmed from recognition of achievements and fair compensation.

The Marquis watched Evangelin leave before raising the drink named “Mojito.”

The subtle aroma of alcohol barely registered.

Instead, a refreshing scent gently filled his nose.

“The Baron truly has impressive capabilities.”

One sip.

It was undoubtedly excellent liquor.

Unlike overly harsh drinks, this one possessed a distinct flavor that exceeded expectations.

A beverage satisfying even the highest culinary standards.

Not much of a drinker himself, the Marquis could still enjoy this fine drink anytime.

The prospect of countless similar drinks waiting to be discovered filled him with anticipation.

“There’s a reason why a commoner ascended to nobility.”

The label of “the princess’s pet dog” now seemed merely born out of jealousy among lesser nobles.

If this so-called “pet dog” possessed such skill, then most existing nobles were worse than animals.

Thus, the Marquis tapped his foot lightly against the floor and turned his attention back to the equipment on the table.

Silver-finished armor, smooth without hindrance, lightweight yet offering superior protection.

Such gear commanded high prices and was treated as precious.

Clearly, these weren’t ordinary work clothes worn by street laborers.

“Could someone that smart really not know this?”

The Marquis considered it part of a marketing strategy.

An arrogant principle: only those who recognize value deserve to obtain it.

Though the idea of a mere baron setting such trials was somewhat irritating, his demonstrated abilities earned respect.

Reviewing the paper again.

2.3 times stronger than existing models.

1.4 times greater endurance.

Numerous figures densely packed the sheet, all praising the equipment.

Despite the fact that the compared gear belonged to the Marquis’ house—a fact that didn’t sit well—it would become theirs if adopted.

Being the first to secure it held significance.

Especially since the royal palace hadn’t yet mentioned anything about new equipment.

Gaining the first advantage mattered.

“This probably isn’t the end.”

The Baron slowly revealed his capabilities, layer by layer, like peeling an onion, each layer unveiling something fascinating.

Though tempting to squeeze out every secret, doing so might cause it to shatter.

For now, observing patiently from afar remained the best option.

Another sip of the mojito confirmed its quality.

* * *

As autumn drew to a close, the cold wind pierced like needles against exposed skin.

People bundled up in thicker clothing, and fairy activity decreased.

Yet the greenhouse remained unaffected by the chill.

Maintaining warmth and serenity regardless of season or temperature.

Naturally, fairies began poking their heads into the greenhouse more frequently.

Perfect timing since I planned to have nearly all fairies working there soon anyway.

“It’s chilly, isn’t it?”

Hoo… Hoo…

Blowing warm air into her hands, Evangelin looked up at me with flushed cheeks.

Taking her hand, I slipped it into my pocket.

Warmth gradually spread through our connection.

“Feeling better?”

“Yes…”

Even after more intimate acts, she still blushes at simple touches like this.

Part of Evangelin’s charm, perhaps.

We were heading towards a place where members of the church resided.

Teleportation connections with the city had increased exchanges, making this meeting possible.

Coincidentally, the Great Abbey was under construction, providing a suitable link.

“Greetings, Lord Baron. I am Father Ervinco.”

The priest bowed deeply with clasped hands.

“Greetings. Call me Minho.”

“I’ve taken a brief tour of the village. It appears to be a wonderful place to live.”

Polite greetings exchanged, accompanied by warm compliments.

Perhaps standard priestly tactics?

“We’re constructing the Great Abbey to make the village even better.”

“I noticed during my visit. If I may ask, is a specific religion designated for this monastery?”

“No.”

“In that case, might we humbly serve this village from that location?”

Priests, are they all this skilled at crafting pleasant and non-offensive words?

They know how to speak without causing discomfort.

The Sun Church.

I recalled the priest from the disaster-stricken village where we shared food.

Actually, that memory partly inspired the building of this structure.

While the building’s effects were primary, the warmth associated with that memory added meaning.

The stability and warmth religion brings to people.

Positive effects spreading throughout the village.

Replacing doctors.

Coupled with a positive image, it was nothing short of excellent.

“Rather, I should be the one making the request.”

Upon hearing this, Father Ervinco’s expression brightened.

A pure-hearted individual.

Someone who could positively interpret even a single word.

“Does that mean permission is granted?”

“Of course.”

“Thank you.”

Though handing over control of such a large building might seem significant, the primary purpose was always its effect.

How it was used ranked secondary.

When someone willing to utilize it beautifully appeared, relinquishing control wasn’t difficult.

“Our financial resources are limited. However, we can bring peace, stability, and minor healing to the village…”

“You may use it freely.”

“…!”

“It wasn’t built with monetary gain in mind. Simply continue performing your duties honestly and diligently. As you’ve done thus far.”

Upon hearing this, Ervinco closed his eyes and bowed respectfully before me.

“Thank you.”

“Feel free to use it once completed.”

“May the blessings of the sun always be with you…”

“And with you.”

Unfamiliar with church etiquette, my response was merely polite reciprocation.

Yet Ervinco gazed at me with a deeply moved expression until the end, which became somewhat burdensome.

Taking Evangelin’s hand, I stepped outside.

She subtly leaned into me.

“Hm?”

“You’re amazing.”

With those brief words, Evangelin clung tightly around my waist, immobilizing me.

Gently stroking her unusually red head, she finally loosened her grip, her face glowing pink.

“Shall we go home?”

“Yes…”

Following her soft reply carried away by the breeze, we headed home.

The village steadily developed.

Word of its existence spread through visiting nobles, and exchanges with the city increased population flow.

More job opportunities brought vitality and liveliness to the town.

Minor issues arising in the process were handled efficiently by the guards.

The imposing equipment provided a certain level of intimidation.

Even with slightly insufficient training, flashy gear compensated adequately.

However, handing out such high-quality equipment indiscriminately wasn’t feasible, so fairies monitored carefully.

Those delivering various news to my ears had become mascots of the village.

Some even visited from the city just to see the fairies.

Naturally, visitors spent money.

Fairies remained safe thus far.

The existence of fairy knights and small accessories allowing escape helped ensure their safety.

Chasing winged fairies was simply too difficult for humans anyway.

No incidents had occurred yet, but preparation was always necessary.

Fairies rarely ventured outside my home, another factor preventing accidents.

Their natural tendency to hide upon encountering strangers maintained security.

Seeing people delighted after spotting fairies evoked mixed feelings, considering I encountered them daily.

“Will I reach master or expert level by winter?”

“Huh?”

“Nothing. Talking to myself.”

Both system skills and magic had reached intermediate 9th level.

By winter, they’d likely advance to advanced levels.

What I prioritized more was farming skill.

Master, Expert level.

Achieving milestones proved somewhat challenging, so I postponed it, planning to start serious efforts from winter.

Having goals was better than none.

Focusing on objectives made things more enjoyable.

The transition from autumn to winter became increasingly apparent.

* * *

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