Volume 1 - CH 8

Another month after the engagement was broken off.

Cyclo had also become quite accustomed to his work as a watchmaker in the craftsmen’s guild.

“…… brother. Mother. I have something I need to tell you.”

It was Alice who initiated the conversation at the dinner table.

“What’s wrong? Alice?”

When Sarina asks, Alice opens her mouth hesitantly.

“…… The guild master of the Adventurers’ Guild has asked me if I would be interested in being adopted by him.”

“Adopted? Why would he do that?”

When Cyclo asks in doubt, Alice offers an explanation.

“He said, because of your special occupational skill as a Sage, I sometimes get a lot of criticism from people. And because you are strong, you may be forced to do reckless work. And he said that if I am adopted by the guild master, it will be easier for him to protect me.”

“Why?”

“I don’t know, but he said it’s because guild masters have a status equivalent to nobility.”

""

“Oh, I see.”

Alice’s words convinced only Cyclo.

If the guild master’s status is equivalent to a nobleman, then the child must be able to live up to his authority.

Besides, there are some connections that can only be made through such a position. If she can make a connection with someone who has a position of authority, it will also lead to the power to protect Alice.

“….. I think that Alice can do whatever she wants to do. In fact, I think it would be safer for Alice if she were adopted.”

“If Cyclo thinks so, I’m sure you’re right. Then, Mama thinks the same too.”

When Cyclo expresses his opinion, Sarina agrees.

It is now up to Alice to decide whether or not to accept the adoption.

“…… understand. I’ll think it over.”

“Yes. But …… personally, I’d be happier if Alice stays as my younger sister.”

“H-Hmph! I, It’s not like I’m worried about the same thing!”

“Haha, I know.”

Cyclo laughed and accepted Alice’s usual embarrassment.

–The situation changed another month later.

Cyclo was beginning to understand how to use his skills and was gaining a high reputation as a watchmaker.

To his surprise, Alice decided to accept the adoption.

Cyclo thought that Alice would refuse the adoption for some reason.

However, it was Alice’s own will that made the final decision. There was no way she could deny it.

In the end, Cyclo had no choice but to watch in silence as Alice was adopted by the guild master.

–The day of parting. The day Alice left her parents’ house and went to live in the Guildmaster’s mansion.

In front of the house, Cyclo and Sarina see Alice off.

“Well then, stay well, Alice. If you have any trouble, you can always talk to Mama, okay?”

“Uhm. Thank you, Mom.”

“Alice. Take care of yourself when you go over there. I’ll miss you, too, but …… if that’s what Alice decides to do, I’ll support you.”

When Cyclo says this, Alice looks embarrassed.

“…… I-It’s not like I care if brother supports me, I’m going to do my best!”

“Yes, yes. Alice is very talented, after all.”

Cyclo manages to swallow the sneering words, “Unlike me”.

And finally, Alice has one last thing to say.

“…… And I’m only adopting the guild master for my own good! It’s not like it’s for brother or anything like that!”

“Hmm? You’re right. I know.”

That would be natural, Cyclo thought.

Alice had meant something else, but – only this time, it was a bit too roundabout to get across.

Thus, Alice also left Cyclo’s side.

———————–

Thank you for reading!

This story concludes today’s series of posts.

We will continue posting consecutively four times a day tomorrow and through September 5, so please enjoy!

(T/N: I-I didn’t say this.)

If you found this piece interesting, I’d love to read more! If you think of it like that, I’d be happy if you bookmarked the site and clicked on the rating point!