6.1. When You Find Someone Important, The Talk Is About Protecting Them

The planned cultivation site was a vast plain adjacent to a deep forest. A river flowed in the distance, and snow-covered mountains could be seen in the farthest reaches of sight.
“This is quite a nice place.”
I had always assumed that a settlement would be in a deep forest or a swamp, a barren wasteland where crops wouldn’t grow. However, upon arriving, I wondered why a village hadn’t been established in such a good location.
“There’s a reason, of course.”
“Care to share?”
“Yeah. There used to be a gnome settlement here. Look closely at that patch of grass; you’ll see remnants of old buildings’ foundations.”
“Let me see… you’re right.”
Though completely obscured by grass, I discovered places where stone foundations were still present.
“Actually, I lived here when I was a child.”
“Is that so?”
Even now, it’s hard to tell if Leafan is a child or not. Among the demi-humans, especially earth dwarves, it’s challenging to distinguish them from human children. Leafan, a half-breed like me, also seems ageless.
And I felt like I understood a little why a skilled earth dwarf like Leafan volunteered for this colonization.
I hesitated to ask for more reasons, seeing the somewhat lonely profile.
But undoubtedly, there’s a desire to establish a new village in this place.
“Alright. Let’s make a splendid village here.”
“Yes!”
“Leafan, Craft, may I have a moment?”
It was Kyle-sama and Myrna accompanied by Alphard and Persia who approached.
“Oh, good morning, Kyle-sama.”
“Yes, good morning.”
Leafan greeted me, and I nodded in acknowledgment. Our camaraderie had grown considerably during this week’s journey. Especially Kyle-sama, who often sought my advice, making me feel like he was a younger brother. The distance was tricky in the opposite direction.
“Firstly, thank you for your hard work in getting here so quickly. I appreciate Kyle-sama’s efforts!”
“Yes, and not just the colonists, but the horses too.”
In fact, I had tried adding the stamina potion the cook gave me to the horses’ drinking water. Surprisingly, it worked wonders. The horses eagerly advanced, even in rough terrain, and by leaving a few horses pulling the cart with elderly and children, our speed became unusually fast.
“Since starting to drink Craft’s potion, fatigue disappeared, and I feel rejuvenated. Myrna has been lively too.”
“That’s good to hear.”
Using the newly acquired alchemical power to help someone felt unexpectedly rewarding.
Yes, if I can help someone with this power, I won’t hesitate.
“So, what can I do for you, Kyle-sama?”
“Well, before we start working, Alphard suggested it would be good to address everyone.”
“That sounds like a good idea. Everyone will be delighted if they hear words from Kyle-sama.”
“Are you sure it won’t be a bother?”
“Not at all. Everyone loves Kyle-sama.”
Yes, during this journey, Kyle-sama helped with tasks like serving meals, showing a hardworking attitude that didn’t fit a noble. His strong will to do something for everyone quickly captured everyone’s hearts.
“I’ll gather everyone. Craft, could you make a simple podium for me?”
“Yeah, sure thing. Leave it to me.”
I stacked empty wooden boxes to create a makeshift podium. It was easy since I could summon it directly from [Spatial Storage].
“Um, Craft?”
“Hmm?”
Suddenly called from behind, I unintentionally responded with a casual attitude.
“Oh, excuse me, Kyle-sama.”
“That’s it.”
“Huh?”
“I’ve been curious. I would appreciate it if you could be a bit more informal with me, Craft.”
“N-No way! I can’t do that!”
Your intimidating bodyguard behind you is glaring at me!
“Thanks to the stamina potion you gave me, I’ve been really saved. Not just as a benefactor but also as a former adventurer, you don’t need to push yourself.”
In my heart, I’m thinking of him like a younger brother, and saying it out loud made it even more awkward, right!?