*

　Mid-June, 43rd year of the imperial calendar - what would be the point of doing this? Such thoughts passed through his chest, and Farnos stopped writing his report.
　Two months since Alfort ascended the throne.......the security of the imperial capital has continued to deteriorate. Theft, extortion, and robbery are a daily occurrence.
　The cause was due to Alfort's placing provincial lords and resigned corrupt officials in important posts to ensure his power.
　At the very least, he could have minimized the problem if he had put the civilian officials, who had been given the cold shoulder by Vizier Alcor, in important posts.
　At least they have the knowledge and experience. But the local lords do not have that. So the Finance and Shoshu Departments have become dysfunctional and corruption has become rampant again.
　The sentence depends on the money. If they are caught, they can be released if they give a bribe. Sometimes the case itself is dismissed as having never happened.
　Furthermore, the unemployment measures have added to the deterioration of public security. The state provides jobs for the unemployed. Normally, this would be a welcome development.
　But what if they were working in the mines and quarries, where rumors were viciously whispered that they would be forced to work to death in harsh conditions?
　Farnos and the others had to experience the answer to that question firsthand. Criminals ... the poor began to resist to death.
　When that happens, we will have no choice but to fight back with force as well. I couldn't order my men to run out of words against a deadly, violent criminal.
　Some of them became quiet when they knew they would be severely beaten, but not a few were willing to counter with even more severe violence.
　No deaths have been reported from his own men, but there have been deaths in other city blocks. I'd like to catch them, but I can't because the criminals have fled to the slums.
　The slums were bad before, but now they are worse than ever. It has become a lawless area where the guards can't reach.
"...Why?
　He let out a deep sigh, wondering how it had come to this. When Alfort had ascended the throne, I had hoped that he would give me a new wind of power with his youth.
　I thought it was a foolish thing to do. It was so ridiculous to expect an awakening of hidden power or a demonic spark in a crisis.
　Now that I think about it, I guess I was just antagonistic to Prime Minister Alcor's ... era of civilian officials rising to the occasion.
''Huh.........''
　I let out a sigh again and move my pen. I can't get rid of the thought of what this will do to me.
　Still, I can't give up on my work. If I give up on my work here, I'll lose something important.
　That's how I felt.



　There are two contracts on the desk in the office. One is a contract that permits the Commercial Union under the direct control of Emperor Kai to operate on the territory of Crono.
　However, it only specifies the fee for the use of the port and the rent for the land. It's a pretty rough condition, but this is because the merchant associations belonging to the commercial union couldn't get their feet wet.
　Naturally, each chamber of commerce has a different number of members, as well as a different financial situation and business plan. Some merchant associations are able to move quickly, while others are not.
　That's why they settled on a contract with each other after deciding on the general terms and conditions. It was never an attempt to get a foot in the door.
　The other was a contract with a craftsman. It stated that if the artisans responded to the invitation, they would be exempt from paying the land rent and the tax for two years.
　It also stated that the Confederation of Commerce would act as a contact person and guarantee the identity of the artisans, and that ten gold coins per head were to be deposited as a deposit.
　Baroness Nam Korunu has already signed the agreement and all that remains is for Crono to sign it.
'Crono, have you forgotten your name?
You're not your grandfather.
　When Crono looked up, Tilia crossed her arms.
'Well, well, Princess Tilia. More than a hundred artisans' lives are at stake. I rather like that discretion.'
　I look ahead and see Nam's hands clasped together in front of her chest. She has a gentle smile on her face, but looking into her eyes gives me a survival instinct.
　I know it's okay because we've discussed it carefully, but I can't help but wonder if she's thinking of something benign.
'Crono, I know how you feel, but...'
Don't tell me you know how I feel.
.....
　Tyria moaned softly as Nam looked down sadly into her eyes.
'I know how you feel, but the story is already in motion.
'Well, yes, but I can't help but be cautious.
　
　The signing of the contract is meant to be a final confirmation.
'Come to think of it, you really didn't have to do the signing ceremony?
Yes, it would be enough to have Princess Tyria present.
　Hmm, Crono nodded and picked up his quill. He wanted to call the Economic Alliance's people and hold a big signing ceremony, but that was softly refused.
　Well, he didn't want to do something selfish and have Alfort stare at him. Crono signed the contract while thinking about that and handed it to Tilia.
The first thing that comes to mind is the fact that the contract is considered to be in effect with this signature. Both parties have no objections, right?''
No.
No, sir.
　Crono and Nam said, and Tilia nodded with satisfaction.
'The gold paid in as a deposit will be returned in two years if there are no problems.
　Put some effort into the "if there are no problems" part. This means if the craftsman doesn't cause any trouble.
'The deal is done. Both parties are to work hard to fulfill the contract.
All right.
I'm sorry, sir.
　Tilia declares, and the air in the place loosens up a bit.
''Well, I'll leave you with that.
If you want, I can send it to you.
No, no, no, no.
　Nam declines softly.
'I understand. Alyssa!
　As Crono raised his voice, Alyssa opened the door and bowed reverently.
'Sir, what can I do for you?'
Please escort Miss Nam to the door.
Very well. Right this way, then.
Thank you very much.
　Nam bowed to Crono and walked out of the office with Alyssa.
''I'm.......tired~''
'Tired or not, you just signed the petition.
　As Crono plopped down on the desk, Tilia said in dismay.
'Still, what gets you tired gets you tired.
Is that it?
　Tilia sat down at her desk and crossed her legs gracefully.
''I wish I could learn from your brazenness.
You're bold enough.
　When Crono said with a sigh, Tilia raised her eyebrows as if she was miffed.
''I don't want to be compared to your brazenness towards your relatives.
'Crono, there's a saying in this world that there's courtesy in intimacy, don't there?
I know.
Well that's a shame.
　What a shame, Tilia looked down. If I had to add an onomatopoeia, it would be 'Shobon'.
I can't help but think about what would happen if I failed. And this time I'm throwing the whole negotiation process to the sitter.
'So you're saying that the sitter wasn't worried about making a mistake?
I wasn't worried I was making a mistake or ruining the sitter's job. I mean, the craftsmen's lives depend on this contract.
　Humans are creatures that can't understand each other~, Crono let out a small breath.
''Anyway, the deal is in order. Why don't you go and inspect the place and spread your wings?
It's not a game.
　Crono straightened up and leaned back in his chair.
'Then go play.'
I'm at work, for God's sake.
That's why I told you to go on the tour.
　Tilia crossed her arms and exhaled as if to say, "Oh dear.
'Is it good?'
'I've got my work cut out for me. I don't think you can complain about me stretching my wings a bit. By the way, my recommendation would be the theatre.
'Oh, by the way, we've started performing. And how has the audience responded?
I think you're going to check that out now.
　Tilia said with a sigh. 'You're too hasty,' he said, as if to say.
'It can't be helped. In my opinion, the performance and the reaction of the customers are not bad. I also like the fact that you're conveying the lesson in a way that's easy to understand.'
They argued over which ones to play.
　Crono muttered sincerely. 'We finally decided to perform The Golden Axe, but it was hard to get to that point.
'What's going to happen to Tickle Mountain?'
'Yeah, that freaky story. That was just a mild scene of an old woman being beaten to death, wasn't it?
"Mildly beaten to death.
What kind of bludgeoning is that?
　He quickly rushed in.
'All it takes is a few blunt blows, don't you think?
'That's a very graphic expression. No, but they're going to turn you into a fireman and drown you just for hitting you?
Consequences are retribution. Those who see this must learn the lesson that if you harm others, you will suffer unimaginable retribution.
　I don't want people to say it makes no difference.
Wouldn't you think I'm recommending private punishment?
Wouldn't it be nice if the rabbit was put to death?
Capital punishment?
'Yes. If you harm others, you will suffer unimaginable retribution; if you personally sanction them, you will be brought to justice by the law. Finally, if the executioner tells you, 'Usagi, I don't know how you feel, but you should have appealed to the officials,' it's perfect.
I don't like it.
There will be no vengeance for a bad aftertaste.
　Tilia said as a matter of course. Even if you ask for extenuating circumstances, they're going to say it's not admissible because it's planned murder.
　At this point, the grandfather is probably an instigation to murder.
'For your information, which picture book is Tilia's favorite?
Hmm, that's the one I remember the most. That's Kintaro.
It doesn't say "Kintaro"?
Here it is.
　If you ask me, I feel like I wrote it.
What was the story again?
'You wrote it down yourself and then forgot. It's no use. I'll tell you.
　Tyria said dismissively and cleared her throat with a cough.
'Once upon a time, there was a child named Kintaro.
That's a pretty orthodox way to start.
'Axe carrying, bear riding, horsemanship training ... the manuscript is cut off here.
Oh!
　He shouts out.
'It was, it was. I only remembered the beginning and I threw it out.'
What's the story?
You told me that's the first thing I remember.
'You know something else, don't you?'
　Tilia leaned forward to say, as if she was curious.
'But all I know is that I went to slay the demon, and I don't remember what happened along the way. The other thing I know is that my son's name is Kinpei, which may or may not have been the origin of Kinpira Burdock.
I see.
　Tilia looks disappointed. Well, it's the same for Crono. The nursery rhyme had such a strong impact on me that I can't remember what the story was about.
　Why did he decide to write Kintaro if he couldn't remember it?　Crono stood up, scratching his head.
'Hmm, are you going?'
I'm going to go visit and spread my wings.
Yeah, do that.
　Tilia nodded in satisfaction.

*

　I left the office and went downstairs. Then a boy dressed in extravagant clothing was about to leave the Marquis' mansion at a fast walk.
　He's a merchant who's packed into the Marquis' mansion to use a magic item for ultra-long-distance communications. Although his appearance is admirable, it seems that his status within the Chamber of Commerce is not that high.
　It's not surprising. If the person in charge of the store is stuffed in the Marquis' mansion all day long, their work will be slowed down.
　The same goes for the veterans. Inevitably, those who are entrusted with less important tasks will be stuffed into the Marquis' mansion.
　Crono thinks that as long as they dress cleanly, it won't be a problem, but other than Nicola and Elaine, the other merchants don't seem to think so.
''........I thought that since the fee for using it was ten gold coins a month, they would only use it for the 'Sinner Trade Association'.
　When the lid was opened, there were seven applications. Well, at first, they probably thought it was just a matter of taking a ride since the 'Sinner Trade Union' is trying to do something new.
　The rest is an appeal to Chrono. Judging from the way it was first opened, the merchants must not have been expecting much.
　But that was until they realized the usefulness of the magic item for ultra-long distance communication. As Elaine had said, there was no need to run a fast horse, and it was difficult for discrepancies to occur in the transmission of information.
　Once the merchants realized this, they began to actively use it.
''........It makes me want to increase the scale~''
　Install magic items for ultra-long-distance communication in the territories that are members of the economic alliance. That alone should increase commercial activity.
　Of course, there are problems. How to persuade the other party, how to share the cost of installation, how to maintain and inspect the item, how to efficiently stretch the communication network, and so many issues just by thinking about it.
"We are positioned as a leader in an economic alliance, but we can't just rely on the authority of the royal family. We need to be in a position to lead in both name and deed.
　There's also a way to get them to approve the installation of magic items for ultra-long distance communication instead of helping them out when they make a huge mistake....
Yes, that's the best way.
　Crono walked out, satisfied with the conclusion he had come to.
It's finally starting to warm up.
　The weather has warmed up recently after a cold spring. However, it is still colder than usual, which is having a negative effect on the growth of the crops.
'We've got more land to farm,'
　I let out a small sigh. It seems that thanks to the increase in farmland, the entire territory's harvest volume is the same as in previous years, but I wanted the rural people to be rewarded in the form of riches for their work.
''........Speaking of which....
　Crono headed for the flower bed. The flowerbed was empty, but the seeds had already sprouted, growing to about knee height.
　He knelt near the flowerbed. It was selfish of me because I had never been interested in the garden before, but I was looking forward to seeing what kind of flowers would bloom.
　As I was thinking about this, my vision suddenly faded.
'What are you looking at?'
...Oh, Luca.
　When I looked up, I saw Luca standing next to me. He was not wearing a maid's uniform, but a folk costume ... a loose-fitting robe of sorts.
'Is your work good?'
I'm off duty. I'm off duty.
　Luca ruffled his hair and turned away with a pout.
'Where's Karis?'
Just because you're from the same town doesn't mean you know everything.
　Crono stood up with a chuckle.
''Well I was in my room reading a book.
A picture book?
Do you think we're stupid?　It's a thick book with a leather binding. You've never had a chance to touch a book like that, so it's rare.
　I know a lot about this for someone who said he doesn't have everything figured out. Maybe he didn't want to interrupt his reading.
　He seems to be the type of person who cares about what he's doing, even though he seems to be so quick to say it.
'I'm going on a tour now, but if you're free, why don't you come with me?
A tour?
　Luca made a dubious expression. His tone is not inspection, but shisatsu~. He clearly smells like trouble.
''Until the evening or so. If you want, I can buy you some trinkets or buy you a meal?
I'll be fine for the evening.
　I answer after a short pause.
'You don't have any ulterior motives, do you?'
'I don't think you can buy merriment for a trinket or a meal.
Hmm, I don't know.
　I'm skittish.
Let's go.
All right, all right, all right.
　As I walked past the workshop, Goldie ran up to me. Surprised, Luca cowered with a jolt.
''Crono-sama, are you going out?
I thought I'd take a walk around town.
That's a good idea.
　When Goldie glanced at him, Luca gave him a mushy look. It looks like he's complaining with his attitude that he has nothing to be dependent on.
You'll be in a mood to stay in the marquis's mansion, you know. You need a distraction.
　Apparently, Goldie interpreted this as Crono going out with Luca. In fact, it's the opposite, but I'm going to be a bush snake, so I'll keep quiet.
'Well, I'm off then,'
Enjoy your stay, sir.
　Crono and the others were seen off by Goldie and left the Marquis' mansion.

*

''This is a commercial district. It's an area that carries a bit of a higher-end product.
Hmm, so that's what this place is all about.
　Luca scurried around as Crono explained as they walked through the sophisticated city streets.
　He grabbed Luca's hand and pulled him closer. Then a carriage passed by. The stalls had become so crowded that it was obligatory to slow down, but if he was run over, he would die.
'Thanks. So, how long are you going to hold my hand?
It's a bit rough, isn't it?
　Luca clicked his tongue and shook off Crono's hand.
'Let's go into this shop.'
Don't grab my hand!
　Crono grabbed Luca's hand again and entered the store ... the "Sinner Trade Association".
'Let me go already,'
　Luca waved his arms vigorously and shook Crono's hand free. Then he realized that the other guests were watching him and turned over in embarrassment.
　Maybe he felt like he was looking at his own clothes. The 'Sinner Trade Union' is a sophisticated shop popular with young people.
　It's normal for Crono, but for Luca it's unknown....as well as away.
''Going around by yourself?''
As far as I'm concerned you're not going to die.
　Luca spat and plucked at the sleeve of Crono's clothes.
'Don't be shy, and don't be afraid to push your breasts against me, okay?
...men are always like that.
　Crono took a mumbling Luca to look around the store. He was grumpy at first, but his mood gradually improved, probably because he was exposed to something new.
　He stops in front of one display cabinet. Then Luca gasped. It was because the items lined up there were brightly embroidered comb cases and purses.
''........What is this?''
It's a comb rack and wallet made in the frontier villages. I showed Luca the wallet he had made for me, and after persistent negotiations, it was made into a product.
　It was Sif who negotiated tenaciously, and it was Kane who persevered as a witness. Elaine, it should be said, was given a boil.
　
　Incidentally, the underwear seemed to have contributed to the sales of the whorehouse that Elaine managed, and it was written that if you have any new ideas, please let me know.
　I don't know how far it was calculated and how far it was plain, but the ink splatter marks were impressive.
"...I think the reason women who can't have children in the Bethel Mountains are treated so coldly is because of their limited roles.
I guess you could say that.
　Luca replies nonchalantly.
'So don't you think your treatment will improve as more of those other roles are added?
Does it work theoretically?
I know it's not easy because people expect you to play a role in having a child, but I'm hoping it's a start.
''........Lords think that much. I've reviewed it.
I wasn't thinking about it in the first place.
　It all started when I saw the wallet that Luca had made and wondered if I could make a business out of it. It wasn't until after the commercialization of the product was decided that I realized that the role of the purse was limited.
You should have just said "I did the math
'That would raise the bar next time. It's okay if people think you're a little unreliable. By the way, did you see anything you liked?
I'll buy it when I get my paycheck.
　Luca's mouth fell slightly.
'So, on to the next one.'
Where do you want to take me next?
The stall district.
Okay.
　I walk out of the shop and head to the stall area. Outside, Luca is still holding onto the sleeve of Crono's clothes, but he should keep quiet here.
'The stall district is beyond the commercial district,'
Yeah, there's a lot of people there.
I don't think there's going to be many people around at this time of day, though.
　The stall area is busy until noon, and after that, the number of people gradually dwindles. After walking for a while, the stalls came into view.
　It's probably only about 80% of the total that are open for business. Suddenly, something soft touches my arm. Luca pressed against my chest.
'You say there aren't many people here, but for me it's a lot.'
You'd be surprised what you get to see before noon. You should come with me next time.
No.
　Is this what it means to be a grumpy person? Luca answered immediately.
''The stage is ... over there?
　I squinted at the corner of the stall area and saw that a wooden stage had been set up there. Perhaps they were taking a break, but there was no sign of the troupe.
''Oh, it's the Marquis of Erakis!
Oh, the priest...!
　Crono's eyes widened. Because the priest was sitting in a chair. What a surprise. The chair and the table are in place.
'What is this woman?'
　Frightened, Luca hid behind Crono.
'In case you haven't met him, he lives in the Marquis' mansion?
No.
　Luca answered immediately. Apparently, their living areas did not overlap at all.
''This person is a priest. He's the high priest of the 'Jet Black Temple' in the Sacred Argo Kingdom... well, he's like a brownie who doesn't work, so don't worry about it.'
Oh, you are so outrageous!　Look at this desk and chair!
"Priestess.
What do you think?
　The priest proudly tapped the table.
'I told you so much that street whoring is forbidden...'
What do you think I am, sir?
　The priest tapped the table and stood up.
'All joking aside, I see you got an offering from your followers.
Well, that's why I bought the chair and the table.
　When Crono sat down in the chair, the priest sat down in the chair as well. By the way, Luca is hiding behind Crono.
''What do you teach?''
Mm, you're interested in that?
I'm a lord, you know?
What do you mean?
　The priest asked back with a divine look on his face.
''We allow our lords and ladies the freedom of religion, but we believe that religious values should not be absolute.
You don't need to worry about that. All I'm saying is that if you believe in the Goddess of Darkness and Chaos, your existence will be acknowledged. Of course, I ask that you make your offerings within the bounds of common sense.
Good.
　Crono patted his chest.
'Now we won't have to suppress it.
Oppression?
　The Priestess raised her voice.
''Well, the Priestess is doing it in the Holy Argo Kingdom, so........''
No, it wasn't me who did it.
'But you didn't point out the mistake, did you?
Well, you know, I mean, that's true, but my temple is the least politically active and the most powerful in the world.
　The priest was sullen and defended himself.
''I'm also guilty of not doing anything. I ask you to make sure you don't follow the rut of the Sacred Argo Kingdom.''
Yes, I understand.
　Polite language would be a sign of remorse. It may seem like an overstatement, but if the priestess had intervened properly, Ignis wouldn't have had a hard time.
''Speaking of which, have you heard from your subordinates or General Ignis?
Yeah, I just got a call from my guy that he's working hard to get back with Ignis.
They didn't ask you to come back?
They said they could handle it without me.
　The priest turned over and blurted out.
'What about General Ignis?'
The future of the Holy Argo Kingdom rests in my hands and I'm expected to build a relationship with you to help you build a friendship with me, even though you don't want me!
　The Priestess covered her face as she exclaimed in admiration.
''........pfft.''
Not you again!　Do you have a grudge against me?
　The fortune teller next to me erupted and the priest barked. They're quite a good pair. Let's make them next to each other again.
''So, I will bury my bones in the Cepheus Empire and spread the teachings of the gods.
....
Say something, will you?　I'm worried about being judged as an unwanted child!
It's okay. God is watching.
"You want human love more than God right now!
　The priest covered his face and plopped down on the desk. He's glancing at me, so there's still plenty of room for more.
''Well, I'm going to continue my inspection.
How dare you leave me standing here!
　As Crono stood, the priestess gabbled and raised herself up.
It's not personal.
You can't do this.
　Chet, the priestess clicks her tongue. It's quite a cute gesture, but if you're a demigod, if you're supposed to be a demigod, you should be able to be like that.
'I guess just living long enough to be enlightened isn't going to make you enlightened, is it?
I'm afraid it's going to hurt my feelings!
　When Crono let out a sigh, the priestess said with tears in her eyes.
''Well speaking of which, what about the performance?''
The show is over for today.
　Crono scratched his head, wondering if he should have checked his schedule. But still, the switchover was so quick.
　I'm tempted to suspect that he doesn't really feel anything as he speaks of being hurt.
'No, no, I'm hurt, okay?
"....read my mind.
If you looked at me like I was a bug, I'm sure you'd recognize me.
　The priest hung his head helplessly.
'So, where do we go next?'
Next time I'll be outside.
　Crono looked up at the sky.

*

　Crono and Luca walked along the walls of Hashel. The destination is the training grounds......................but the stable built before it.
''..............................I can see it.
It's pretty big.
　Crono muttered, and Luca sounded impressed. After a short while, the state of the stable becomes apparent.
　It was a simple stable, surrounded by a wooden fence and covered with sand. Twenty soldiers are training in horsemanship there.
　The ones selected for the cavalry are elves and half-elves. The reason for choosing the elves and half-elves is close to elimination.
　Minotaurs and Lizardmen are too large to be suitable for cavalry.
　The beastmen scared the horses away. Bond said that training might make the horses less frightened of the beastmen, but this time the priority was to expand the cavalry.
''Well that's brilliant.
　Crono mutters softly. There are several logs set up in the stable, and the horses are moving back and forth between them with soldiers on them.
　He looks like he's riding his horse beautifully. I can't help but wonder what the difference is, even though I can't ride a horse well after all these years.
'There!　Stop pulling the reins so violently!　There!　Be firm with your horses!　If you pull back on your horse for a bit of rebellion, he won't obey you!　There.....
　A slightly hysterical voice echoes through the stable. It was Cecily, who had returned to the army as an equestrian training instructor.
'You're angry,'
She's an elitist.
　The soldiers would seem to be full of flaws to her, as she was an excellent cavalryman with Brad Hammar, a genius horseman, as her brother, who was a genius horseman.
''You're so angry all the time ... what's with your eyes?''
...nothing.
　Crono turned away from Luca. 'I know I'm going to have to put myself on the shelf, but it's an idea that the training instructor is always angry.
'Well, I see what you mean.'
Then get on with it and pay attention.
It's already taken care of.
That's...
　Cecily opened her mouth and stumbled, holding her side. She took a knee to Verna, who was next to her.
'It's the aide who has just knee-kicked her as hard as she can.
Aide?　What about the knee strike?
　Luca has a look of disbelief on his face.
'It's like an externalized conscience, not a training aid?'
Conscience isn't something that can be externalized.
Yeah, but...
　An external conscience I'm anxious to leave Cecily to be a training instructor without a brakeman.
''Oi, you're hurting me!
I wouldn't be kicking myself if you weren't yelling at me.
　Verna said disgustedly as Cecily crammed up against her side. They are as good a pair as a priest and a fortune teller.
'Oh, Master Crono!'
Don't take me aside for a minute!
　Verna approached us, holding Cecily's head under her arm.
'What's going on here?'
I was just here to see the sights. I mean, get some fresh air.
'The lord's job seems to be very hard,'
　Mm-hmm, Verna nodded repeatedly. Cecily is scrambling to get out, but it doesn't look like she's going to get out.
　Apparently, Verna's training under Neige had given her the physical ability to surpass Cecily's.
　That's what makes her worthy of a conscience.
''And that guy?''
　Verna looked at Luca.
'It's my new maid, Luca,'
Yeah, I'm Verna. Nice to meet you.
Nice to meet you too.
　Verna and Luca shook hands with each other.
'Are you going to the parade ground?'
Umm, no, I'll stop.
　In the training grounds, Dr. Wiseman should be studying the iron thorns and how to operate the crossbow. I don't want to interfere with that.
　Crono turned on his heel and started to walk away, and Luca followed him. A few moments later, he heard Verna and Cecily arguing, but he ignored them.
'Is the visit over?'
Just in case.
　Yes, Luca mutters softly. It's probably not my imagination that his voice sounds so lonely. Maybe she didn't have a place to stay when she returned.
　Come to think of it, she didn't have any free time because of the embroidery commission. There was no way she would be able to make friends then.
'I think I'm going to have a quick bite to eat, will you come with me?'
You don't want me to go out with you, do you?
Join us for dinner.
　Crono reiterated after a short pause. If you can't go out with me unless I'm ordered to, I'll at least rephrase it.
'I understand. But I don't want to be in a place with too many people, okay?
I'll take care of it.
　I think about where I'm going as I walk. There is no choice, though. The landlady's shop is a soldier's hangout, and the fact that I used Miles's shop will get through to Elaine.
''Well that's the only place to go.
　Crono looked up at the sky.

*

You said you didn't want to be in a crowded place.
　Luca grumbled and sipped the bean tea. Bean tea is made from roasted beans that have been crushed and dripped.
　It is black and bitter like coffee. I've never had it, but I think this is what coffee substitutes taste like.
'This is the only place I could think of,'
But that doesn't mean there's no lodging?
Is that right?
　I guess this place isn't so bad either~ Crono looked around the room. The room is furnished with a bed, table and chairs.
　It's an inn that he often uses to meet with Alyssa. It's located off the main street and the owner is unfriendly, but he's flexible as long as you pay for it.
'Besides, you'll get the wrong idea.
You misunderstand.
　Luca blurted out a blur and Crono poked his cheekbones. I understand that she doesn't want to be misunderstood.
　She is expected to be a concubine, but she has no intention of doing so.
''Are you the one who's good?''
I don't care about that.
　I wouldn't walk around town with a woman if I didn't want to be misunderstood.
'Well, you are, aren't you?'
Even if you can convince me.
　I know that I'm considered a womanizer. It's true, and I know best how bad I am.
　However, it's hurtful to have someone else say this to your face.
"Just so you know, I'm not a cheap woman who will forgive you just because you buy me a cup of tea.
Great line.
　If you're trying to keep him in check, you've been very successful. If you buy me a cup of tea and then spout lines like this, I'd normally be donkeyed.
"I didn't mean to do that~
That's not true.
　Ha, Luca snickered.
''Well how's life here?''
What do you mean by "bushes and sticks"?
I'm still worried about this.
.....
　Crono said, and Luca's eyes widened in surprise.
'My what?'
'My roommate I was wondering if I was getting along with Charis, or if I was getting along with my co-workers. I was worried that I was robbing you of that opportunity because I asked you to embroider.
....
　Luca doesn't answer any questions. What are you thinking about? He is busy moving his eyes. Eventually, he turned his head away from Crono.
'Hey, it's not that I don't get along with Karis, I get along with my colleagues. And since I like embroidery, I don't have any reason to be concerned about it.
　Her voice was muffled at the bottom, and the last part was almost inaudible.
'....Good.
What?
　When Crono patted his chest down, Luca turned his gaze to us. I feel like my eyes are moistening, but I should keep quiet here.
''I'm relieved that things seem to be going well in our relationship. Luca................................because he talks in a way that could be misunderstood.
....
　Luca didn't answer again. Crono noticed that the cup was empty. He picked up the pot and poured the bean tea.
　The steam rises and the aroma is fragrant.
'Here you go,'
Oh, thank you.
　Luca picked up the cup and said in a voice that sounded like a mosquito buzzing. He sipped his bean tea and exhaled as if he was relieved.
''Well you know what?
　He cupped the cup in his hands and looked down at the bean tea. Silence descends. The sound of birdsong can be heard from somewhere.
　Crono picks up the cup and drinks the bean tea quietly. It's bitter, but not as good as real coffee.
　Eventually, Luca opened his mouth as if he had made up his mind.
''Me........I still have ulterior motives, right?''
Well, you're lucky to get laid.
You're such a disaster!
　Luca's expression changed and he stared at Crono with a complete change in expression.
''What's the rest of the 'me thing'?
I was going to ask you if you were annoyed with me.
...I see.
　Crono nodded, "I guess it's like I got scared and asked another question," he said.
'Not that I'm pissed off,'
Because you have a mistress with a tough personality?
Yes,
　Luca has the good sense to be his age. With that in mind, I don't care about the way he speaks. In fact, I'm even looking forward to seeing when he's going to get angry.
''Of course, if it's too much, I'll be angry because I'm a human being too, and I'll look to retaliate, but would you be happy to talk to me comfortably?''
'How can you be comfortable talking about retaliation when someone says you're going to retaliate?
Just talk like a normal person.
...normal.
　With that, Luca interjected.
'You see, it's just as well that you don't rant emotionally or get violent.
''Well I don't want to be taken for granted like that.
　Luca raised an eyebrow, as if confused.
'Isn't normal hard?'
Okay, let's do a little practice.
'I feel like I'm being ridiculous but yeah, I hope you promise not to retaliate if I piss you off during practice.
You're making terms?
Of course.
　Crono asked, and Luca said in dismay.
'You don't think I'm going to break my word?'
Well I'll just have to trust that part.
　It's quite a heavy word. It's more effective than saying, "I'm not a cheap woman who just bought you a cup of tea.
I understand. I promise I won't accuse you of misbehaving while you're in this room.
Now we can practice without a care in the world. So, let's get started, shall we?
　As soon as I announced the start, silence descended.
''You're not going to start?''
You want me to talk to him?
Of course.
　Luca said, as he should.
'If you ask me to speak, where do I start?
You have a lot of stories to tell about your hometown and stuff, right?
...Home.
Is it okay if you don't want to talk about it?
　When Crono spoke to himself, Luca said with concern.
'Nope, not really. We're a bit complicated here...'
You don't need to get into all those complicated details. It's just practice. Just go with the right one. Just go with the right one.
...where I'm from...
　Crono slowly began to talk about his home.......the southern frontier. As the conversation went on, Luca's expression changed to one of calm.