1
Grand Elder of Forest's Edge Jiba Wu praised my cooking, saying that it made her rember the joy of living and gave her blessings to Ai Fa and .
I was very happy about this. Even calling this the best outco couldnt describe what I was feeling. Grandma Jiba Wu was soone Ai Fa cherished very much. I was honoured to have the chance to be present in such a mont of her life, and was deeply moved.
However a few hours later, I felt troubled as I stayed by myself in an empty room.
Ai Fa wasnt here.
Neither was Rie Wu.
In this silent room, I was drowning in rage and humiliation, and rolled around in agony.
Damn it! Why does it feel like an utter defeat!?
I wasnt being held against my will. Because Ai Fa and Rie Wu were chatting inside Jiba Wus room, they ordered to watch the house.
This was a house inside clan Wus village, and the owner was supposed to be either Donda Wus brother or nephew. Several years ago, the number of clan mbers decreased and their life beca hard. They moved in with another family and this place beca empty.
The Fa house is far, so rest here for the night. We accepted the Wu Clans hospitality gratefully But I was very very unhappy.
Despite that, I didnt know who I should vent my emotions to.
Strictly speaking, I was the one at fault.
I rolled around by myself in agony while harbouring these unvented feelings.
A few hours earlier, we were in the the hall of the Wu clans main house.
Ai Fa, why dont you spend the night in the Wu village?
While Grandma Jiba Wu was having her al, she asked Ai Fa.
Its already dark outside traveling at night is dangerous, so just rest in an empty house for tonight.
No, theres no need for that. We just need a fire and we wont face any danger. Just lend a candle stand.
Ara ara You have beco an outstanding hunter. But for the sake of this old lady, please stay the night, Ai Fa
But
You must have plenty of work to do as a House head, and cant visit the Wu village often, right? I dont have the strength to walk to the Fa house anymore In that case, at least accompany for this night. It has been a few years since we finally get to et again...
Even the stubborn Ai Fa couldnt turn down this request.
I was completely fine with it. The Wu clan clan head Donda Wu has no intention of asking Ai Fa to marry into the Wu clan now. Hence, Ai Fa could rekindle her relationship with Grandma Jiba and Rie Wu such a foolish thought sprung up in my mind.
The real problem didnt lie here.
But right after that.
Forest's Edge seed to have the custom that they could only leave the room after everyone had finished their al. Rie Wu was accompanying Grandma Jiba for her al now, while Ai Fa and I returned to our seats to eat ours.
During this ti, clan head Donda Wu kept raging about my cooking.
This is not hunters food.How dare you serve Monta feed.This corrupts my life. His complaints fell like the rain.
However, I think this brutish man was only tarnishing my cooking for a reason. For example, resistance towards an outsider, or his position as clan head compelled him to do so. That was why I wasnt too concerned. Grandma Jiba already gave the best complint possible, so I could still keep my cool and jubilant feeling.
After Ai Fa finished her al and ate the last bit of my food, sothing caused a crack in my mood.
Are you done!? Why are you deaning Asutas cooking so maliciously? Isnt it true that Grandma Jiba enjoyed her al?
Leina Wu who finished eating slightly earlier than we did shouted.
Donda Wus blue eyes were burning as he glared impatiently at the lovely second sister of the Wu clan.
Im rely stating the facts, whats wrong with that? Grand Elder also said that everyone can have an opinion of what is right or wrong. This food is like the feces of Monta beasts, only old people who have lost all their teeth will eat this with gratitude.
Leina fud and was quiet for a short mont she then stood up slowly.
Then took off the tusk and horn from her necklace, and walked slowly to Ai Fa and .
Hey
A dangerous gleam ca from Donda Wus eyes, but Leina was not bothered at all. With both knees on the floor, she offered the tusk and horn to Ai Fa and respectively.
Wu clans Leina Wu offer her blessing to Fa houses Ai Fa and Asuta. Thank you for saving Jiba Wus soul and bringing serenity to the lives of the Wu clan.
What? Hey, is this really fine, Leina Wu?
I wanted to whisper that to her.
But before I did that, Ai Fa poked my shoulder.
Just accept it graciously. For the denizens of Forest's Edge, the act of gifting the tusks and horns of Kiba beast is sacred. If you turn her down, you would be trampling on her dignity and pride.
Ai Fa told that, then accepted the white tusk after saying Im honoured by Leina Wus blessing.
I had no other choice but to mimic Ai Fas actions and thank Leina.
Leina Are you trying to tarnish the Wu clans na?
Donda Wu said quietly. But his voice sounded deep and clear, which reminded of the tremors before an earthquake.
You are presenting a sham blessings to others for the sake of mocking ? Do you think I will allow you to do that?
Even though Leina Wus face was green from terror, she still looked at her father with determination:
This is no sham blessing! Even without Grandma Jibas incident, I also think from the bottom of my heart that Asutas cuisine is amazing, this is the first ti in my life that I have tasted such delicious Kiba at. Food is life Just like Grandma Jiba, I felt the joy of living very strongly.
Are you insane?
Donda Wu muttered.
I was shocked by how surprised he sounded.
Before I realized why I felt so shocked, Rie Wu stood up with a start and said: too!
Rie Wu looked by at Grandma Jiba, who nodded and said: Dont worry.. Rie then left Grandma Jibas side and ran to us.
On her childish face was her usually brilliant smile.
Asuta! Ai Fa! Thank you very much for today! The food was very very delicious, so I want to gift you my blessings too!
She placed the third blessing gifts Describing it this way might be too casual onto my and Ai Fas hands.
Thats right This al is outstanding, and worthy of my blessing.
With an overly sexy voice, the eldest daughter Vena Wu stood up slowly.
I learned for the first ti that delicious food exist in Forest's Edge As a denizen of Forest's Edge, I have to offer you my blessings
You are absolutely right, Vena.
Grandma Ditto Min stood up next.
Unbelievable! Whats going on!?
Donda Wu yelled again.
The emotions in his hoarse voice wasnt rage, but shock.
Have my family gone crazy? Was Apaz poison that will make one lose his reason added into this shit-like food? But if that is so, everyone here should be mad too!
I clasped the five tusks and horns in my hand and observed Donda Wu carefully.
Donda Wu seed to be genuinely confused.
He really doubted the ntal state of his family.
Is there anyone who doesn't dare to stand up out of fear for my lectures? Dont hold back, just do what you want!
After he said that, the wife of the eldest son Jiza, Sati Lei Wu planned to stand up timidly.
She was about Vena Wus age, with her bright brown hair cut to shoulder length. A woman with a pure temperant about her.
Before she stood up, she looked her husbands way. When she saw his frank and open smile, she showed a face of relief and walked towards us.
Wu clans Sati Lei Wu wish to offer my blessings to Fa houses Ai Fa and her family Asuta Thank you for your incredible al.
After she returned to her seat, a plump woman beside her stood up this ti.
There was a bit of grey mixed into her red hair, and she had dark brown eyes that seed deep. Her bare arms and shoulders were big and tough, and she looked like a woman in her pri who could deal with any surprises calmly.
She was Mia Lei Wu. Mother of Rie Wu and her siblings, and also Donda Wus wife.
I dont really get it, but isnt it fine to express ourselves honestly when we taste delicious food? Im so moved that my legs are turning weak.
After glancing at her husband who was as still as a statue, she walked our way with firm footing.
Mia Lei Wu had a refreshing smile when she gifted us with a tusk and a horn.
Your dishes are wonderful. Thank you for doing this for Grandma Jiba Really now, why is our clan head so stubborn.
Her smile seed to be a representation of the phrase mothers are strong.
Out of everyone present, seven of them were bored by her, which I find really impressive.
Anyway, this was the seventh blessing we received.
Dad, you are serious, right? Dont single out for punishnt later, alright?
The youngest brother Ludo Wu said with a voice that still bore a hint of childishness and stood up.
He scratched his head of blonde hair, walked fearlessly to us and sat down crudely.
Hey, just who exactly are you? I heard there is a group hailing from the Eastern kingdom who seems to be sorcerers. Did you use magic to turn kiba at delicious?
This isnt magic, I just used kitchen knife knives and fire. Its just a skillset.
Ai Fa was silent, and this was obviously a question directed at , so I answered him like this.
After grunting disinterestedly, he turned his pale eyes towards Ai Fa and said:
Fa houses Ai Fa, you have turned into a good woman. Its a pity, if you are more feminine, I dont mind marrying you even if you cant be wed to my brother.
Never mind. What they said isnt an exaggeration, this is a delicious al. Frankly speaking, just the thought of having to drink that never changing poitan soup from tomorrow onwards makes feel like crying. If you are not Ai Fas husband, then marry into our family.
T-Thats fine, the woman of your family have the rights to choose their spouse too.
Hmmp, aside from that brat Rie, pick anyone you like.
Ludo said this last part quietly, then removed his necklace. He had lots of spoils of war, and was on par with Ai Fa.
Dinner is absolutely delicious, so I want to gift you my blessing. This is the first ti I am doing this, so be grateful.
When the arrogant youngest brother returned to his seat, there was a strange silence in the hall.
Anyone else?
Donda Wu stroked his beard as he swept his gaze across the hall.
So only three other person feels that this is not fit for human consumption.
I dont think the dish is that bad, dont judge everything by your own standards.
The third sister Lala Wu said unhappily.
Lala Wu had her red hair tied up at the top of her head, and her arrogant personality was on par with the youngest brother. Amongst the seven siblings each with their unique personalities, only the third sister and youngest brother seed a little similar in appearance and temperant. She should be younger than Ludo Wu, and was at most twelve or thirteen years old.
I think the grilled poitan and kiba at soup are good, but the kiba at that should be the main dish was gooey and look disgusting, so I dont feel its good enough for to gift my blessing To be honest, just what they did for Grandma Jiba is already worthy of my blessing. But everyone seed to think this thing is delicious, so I didnt do so.
I see Darum, what do you think?
I have nothing to say.
The second brother whose style seed as sharp as a wild wolf refused to comnt.
Hmmp, what about you, Jiza?
Clan head Donda, please dont mind it. No matter how the appearance of the food is like or how they taste, kiba will still be kiba, and poitan will still be poitan. No matter how much effort is put into it, they are the sa once they are eaten.
You dont need to tell that now!
A fire was burning in the eyes of the clan head.
The eldest brother looked at his father with slit like eyes, and smiled with ease.
Are you asking if it is tasty? Just like what Lala said, I never imagined there is such a way to eat poitan, which surprised . The soup didnt have the stink of the kiba, but I could feel the life of the kiba clearly from it But the kiba at with red sauce on it is too soft, I didnt feel like I was eating kiba at all. If I eat this at everyday, it feels like my teeth will gradually lose their strength, which gives the chills.
Yes Thats exactly it! Thats why I think this isnt food fit for the hunters of Forest's Edge!
Donda Wu had an enlightened look, and life crept back into his face.
My teeth exist for the sake of tearing through tough kiba at! Just like my arms that hunt kiba, and my legs that allow to sprint in the forest, my teeth are one of my survival tools in Forest's Edge! If I dont use my tools often, they will rust. The food you serve is an inferior al that will corrode my life!
Thats
I wanted to refute, but Ai Fa quietly grabbed my arm.
Her steady blue eyes were telling to shut up.
And since Im a man of Forest's Edge, a hunter of Forest's Edge, this food is harmful to But for toothless elders, this is the best al.
An arrogant smile slowly returned to Donda Wus face. He turned to the old woman and said:
My grandmother, and the Grand Elder Jiba Wu, what you said is right. Since this food rekindled your spirit, I will take back what I said. This isnt the feed of monta beast, this dish saved my beloved grandmother who had lived the longest in Forest's Edge, and had contributed generously her entire life, this dish is a dicine! Its a treasure!
Hmmp clan head Donda, you are more forthright than usual...
Im always this forthright! Right is right, and when Im wrong, I will admit it! If I dont have this resolve, I wont be able to take on the role of clan head.
He turned his fierce eyes towards Ai Fa and , then said:
Ai Fa of house Fa, and family mber Asuta! You have saved the Grand Elder of clan Wu, Jiba Wu! As the head of clan Wu, I apologized for my earlier rude actions, and I offer you my thanks once again!
Ai Fa acknowledged the other party with her gaze.
As the feelings in my heart gradually turned clear, I was at a lost on what to do, and stared right at Donda Wu.
Donda Wu had a cheerful smile on his face.
He had a refreshing face, as if he had finally figured out doubts that had haunted him for years.
Your cooking is poison to us, but good dicine for the Grand Elder. Just eating this poison for one night wont corrode our souls, so I wont hold you accountable for serving poison. The tusks and horns you obtained are blessings you rightfully earned. You dont need to feel bad about it, so utilize them fairly to beco your flesh and blood!
2
Back to the present.
After telling to sleep first, Ai Fa went to Grandma Jibas room, while I spent the night by myself. I laid in the large open room and annoyedly hugged my head.
How dare he say my cooking is poison! That damn kiba old man showing such a smirk face by himself!
Donda Wu probably felt uneasy when he saw his family present us with their blessings one after another. He was suspicious of his familys ntal well being or if he was the one who had gone mad.
After hearing what the eldest brother Jiza said, he finally understood why his family acted this way. Like what Grandma Jiba said in the beginning, everyone has their own interpretation of what is delicious..
And so, he understood that his family didnt go mad and was relieved.
However That ant he really thinks that the Kiba Hamburg Steak was unpalatable.
Everyone has different taste! So people just hate Hamburg Steak. And that al is ant for Grandma Jiba whose teeth arent good in the first place!
Thats what I thought.
However, I was the one who decided on hamburg steak for dinner.
After Ai Fa and Rie Wu gave raving reviews for the hamburg steak, I selected hamburg steak as the main course without hesitation and served up this other worldly dish in Forest's Edge as if this was only natural.
If I put more care to consider the content of the al, then I should serve other types of al other than hamburg steak. And so, I was the one at fault.
But, even so
Even so, was my cooking that terrible?
Compared to the kiba hotpot which the denizens of Forest's Edge usually ate made from kiba without bloodletting and gooey poitan soup, was my cooking really that bad?
That must be the reason why I felt so defeated.
Was I too arrogant to think that way?
Was there sothing wrong with my attitude to feel a sense of defeat because of this?
As I gritted my teeth and placed my hand onto my chest, the necklace Rie Wu made for which chained eight tusks and horns together made a pleasant clinking sound.
This necklace was the first wages I obtained in this different world.
Out of twelve people, eight thought my cooking was delicious, which ans I should be proud of myself. I didnt want to exchange these tusks and horns for poitan or aria, but maybe letting it beco part of my flesh and blood is the right way of using it. But I think it will be so ti before I can resolve myself to do so.
This was evidence that the other party acknowledged my existence.
They think there was value in my existence.
I was overjoyed.
I was proud.
I could live on in this different world I felt that I have been given permission by them.
However, my work had also been refuted.
It made so mad.
I was filled with regret.
As if my entire existence had been denied.
Everyone have different taste, this normal reasoning couldnt liberate from my depressed mood.
Furthermore, I didnt settle the matter of Grandma Jibas al adequately too.
I taught the won of clan Wu how to make minced at. They could continue to make easy to chew als for Grandma Jiba who had weak teeth.
However, I didnt teach them about bloodletting, so they couldnt improve the taste of the food.
And this had to be done right after capturing a kiba, or there would be no aning in doing this. So this wasnt the job of the won, but the n.
Judging from the current situation, Donda Wu had no intention of learning this technique.
In this sense, I also ssed up I had completely lost.
I wasnt thorough enough in my thinking.
But, what else should I have done?
While I was thinking about that
Knock knock knock Soone knocked the door three tis.
Im here, please co in.
I thought that was probably Ai Fa. But would she even knock?
By the way, so the action of knocking exists in this world. I learned about this for the first ti.
Which ans, that might not be Ai Fa.
I didnt bar the door, please co in.
I had no choice but to stand up as I said that.
Who could it be? While I was thinking about that, Leina Wus innocent smile appeared in my mind.
The second sister of the Wu clan who had a head of lustrous black hair looked at with eyes of admiration during dinner preparation and after we finished our work. My relationship with everyone else was still shallow, so I couldnt think of anyone who might visit except for her.
However, she had a cute face, great figure and was dressed in an enticing outfit. I was hesitant about eting such a girl alone so late into the night and opened the door slowly with a groan.
However
S-Strange? Its you?
The one standing outside the door wasnt Leina Wu, but in a certain sense, soone much more dangerous.
Thank you for opening the door for Im really glad, Asuta
I knew who that was just by listening to this sexy voice.
From the small gap of the open door, a body so good that it borders on foul play slipped into the room.
W-Why are you here, Vena Wu?
I thought about adding Miss, but stopped myself. In this world there didnt seem to be a custom of adding honorifics.
I wanted to see you, Asuta I have sothing to ask you
You have a question for ?
Vena looked at with a teasing and flirty gaze, then took off her leather shoes that was simpler in design than the ns. I didnt give her any permission, but she was already bent on entering my room.
Great, Leina didnt co before . I was so worried, wondering what should I do if you were busy
L-Leina Wu has no reason to visit , right? I only cooked a al together with her once.
And my relationship with you is even shallower! That was what my answer was implying, but Vena Wu simply laughed flirtatiously.
Fufu, you have completely captivated that childs heart. Do you really not know? Asuta, you are really dense...
No, what Im saying is
Dont worry. Im not here to persuade you to marry into my clan Anyway, lets sit down and talk?
Her body shape was just right, with adequate muscles and the right amount of fats on top of the muscle. Her right hand which was nice to look at and serve practical use smoothly wrap around my left arm.
WARNING, WARNING, an alarm sounded off in my head.
Anyway, this woman was letting out an excessive amount of feminine charm. Her limbs were filled with sexiness, and her body had serious curves. Just describing one of her arms would require a bunch of unnecessary terms to quantify it. I could only close my eyes to keep my sanity. Her entire existence was like pheromones itself.
She narrowed her eyes sleepily, her pink lips seed to have just the right amount of volu to them. Her oval and smooth face, slender neck and clear collar lines with her long brown hair flowing down her tender right shoulder at such a close distance, I couldnt shift my gaze down from her upper body. I felt that I would be done for if I did that.
Lets sit down.
She said again, and pulled into the room.
As expected of a denizen of Forest's Edge who perford hard labour every day, she was really strong. If I resisted, my left arm grabbed by her might touch a dangerous part of her body, so I could only go along with her.
She stopped right by the window where the candle was lit, and her center of gravity shifted down smoothly.
Because of the reasons I described earlier, I could only follow suit In the end, I found out that my worries were in vain.
As I leaned onto the wall and sat down, Vena pushed her body onto as if she couldnt wait any longer.
Erm, hey, wait!
After shouting needlessly, her beautiful finger that was like a piece of art rested on my lips softly:
Quiet I dont want my family to hear what Im about to say next...
Light breathing entered my ears with these words, which was enough for to break into goosebumps. And it wasnt because this was unpleasant, but the opposite.
But no matter how I felt, I wasnt acting out of my own will, but was being forced by the other party. This filled with an emotion akin to fear. In the dim light, a big sister who was the personification of sexiness and pheromones leaned in on and blew air into my ears The remnants of my sensible side just felt that this experience was terrifying.
Ahh did she smoked kiba at during the day?
This sudden thought flashed across my mind, as if I was escaping reality.
Actually, this was trivial and not worth ntioning. I only thought about this because the fragrance from Vena Wus hair and body was entering my nasal cavity. There was the refreshing sll on lilo and the sweet but stinging scent of pico leaves.
Sll nice but sothing is lacking...
As I was thinking about this, a pair of burning cat-like eyes seed to be staring at in my mind.
My sensible side was on the verge of breaking down, but my sense of tension picked up all of a sudden.
I didnt know when will Ai Fa be back. In such a situation, I couldnt be so relaxed.
What do you want to ask ? Since you dont want your family to know, is it sothing dangerous?
Yes Im here to ask you sothing dangerous
She kept her left arm behind her body, and she placed sothing onto the floor with a thud.
It was a bottle of fruit wine.
I could sll a fragrance from Vena Wu, which was also mixed with the sweet scent of fruit wine.
Sorry, Im a little ditzy I value my family very much If I dont drink, I wont be able to muster the courage...
W-What are you saying? I dont want to get into any trouble.
It seed safer to make her think Im an unreliable man.
But Vena Wu shook her head slowly, and rested her head onto my shoulder.
Asuta Just who are you?
What do you an?
We often visit the Genos post station town, so we are used to foreigners But your cooking is incredible I tasted what happiness tasted like and felt like I have been reborn
So she wanted to ask about cooking. I didnt mind, but I wish she could keep an adequate distance away. I managed to recover my reason, and the dangerous sensation pressing on my left arm was making my rational side scream.
You said so before, right? You dont know about the western kingdom and never even heard about the Amusehorn continent? You are not from this land, but a faraway nation, right? Just what kind of country is that?
I-I dont know. I co from an island nation, so it should be on the other end of the ocean. But since I dont even know the na of this continent, naturally, I cant find my way back!
Island nation an island nation where? ...Thats wonderful
Vena Wus warm finger tip pushed against my chest.
I felt a chill run through my body.
Asuta Will you take back to your incredible ho town?
After she said that Vena Wu started to entangle her body onto mine, like a giant Madarama snake.
3
Wait, Miss Vena Wu!
I was so frantic that I unconsciously added in honorifics.
During this ti, her smooth skin was wrapped around my body.
Her body was soft and tender, and huge strength was hidden within her lovely body.
Please dont marry into the Wu clan Leina is a cute girl, but Im not that bad eitherright?
No, this is bad! But on a completely different level!
She pushed down onto the rug and groped my entire body. She didnt use her fingers, but grind her entire body against mine. The soft but crude sensation feels as though my entire body was going to shatter.
Sothing that felt like fear kept from feeling my back muscles.
At the sa ti, a strong feeling that was totally different from fear engulfed .
My heart was beating so hard that it hurts, and I couldnt catch my breath.
A sweet scent that differs from that of herbs gradually numbed my brain cells.
At this mont, I was like a lighter, swimming casually in liquid fuel.
Once the fire spreads I will lose myself.
As a woman of the Wu clan, I had to et all sorts of n for matchmaking But I dumped them all Because if I take soone into the Wu clan as my husband, or marry off to be soones wife, I wont be able to leave Forest's Edge forever
Each word she said brushed against my neck with her hot breath.
I dont want to spend my entire life here After eating your dish, my feelings are the complete opposite of Grandma Jiba After tasting your cooking, it feels like there is another world out there. I want to visit that world I want to go to your world with you...
The sensation of the scorching heat slowly moved away from ?.
Vena Wu pushed herself up.
She was making the preparation to head for her goal.
Let be yours and you be mine?
While illuminated by the orange light of the candle, Vena Wu reached for the cloth wrapped around her chest.
My rational side that had almost vaporized gathered once again, and I grabbed her wrist from below.
You cant! Its a taboo for unwed won to bare their body, right? You cant do that.
Her pale brown eyes stared right at .
Her eyes reflected the wavering fla and was filled with tears.
I couldnt tell if she was really on the verge of tears. But Vena Wu didnt shake off my fingers or open her mouth, and just looked at quietly
Then, she finally moved away from my body.
Was my charm lacking?
She sat down slanted to one side, half her back facing and her gaze on the ground.
I slowly got up and answered :I think this has nothing to do with charm.
I dont even know why or how I ca to this unfamiliar place. Maybe Im just retarded and all this is just my imagination. In this situation, I cant make a promise I dont know whether I can fulfil, or get into a relationship with others.
So you have no intention of marrying Ai Fa?
My heart that had finally cald itself started racing again because of a strange feeling.
This night wasnt good for my heart.
How should I put this, I dont really know either. But she is very important to .
You are so honest this is like asking to die
I-I dont an that.
Is that so But in Forest's Edge, won who havent wed by 20 either have a nasty personality, or are harmful to their family...
She pulled at the rug with angry fingers.
I have been holding on to my chastity and even endured curious eyes. But when I want to give it up, you rejected so coldly, I really feel like killing myself
E-Erm, Vena Wu?
If you really marry Leina, I might really kill the two of you
While Vena Wu said sothing horrifying so easily, she stood up with her fruit wine bottle in hand.
If you take Ai Fa as your wife, what should I do I might be killed if I made an enemy out of that girl The best way to obtain happiness will be to entice you, and die together with you...
No, like I said
Knocking three tis and asking the other party out is an old tradition, which ans setting a wedding engagent with each other...
Vena Wu took smooth strides towards the entrance.
To accept, you let the visitor in, if not, you turn her down directly. Thats the custom of Forest's Edge
She put on her shoes and opened the door. With half of her body leaning outside, she turned her face sideways towards :
You accepted , so I wont give up Sweet dreams, Asuta, dont forget our promise.
She closed the door gently and the room turned quiet once again.
I collapsed onto the ground tiredly.
Ah, really now, why is the elder sister the one who ca!? I dont understand her personality at all! I really wish she can give a break
I had my fill of kiba just now, but the calories from that seed to have been completely taken away.
While lying sprawl on the rug, I shook my head that still had so lingering lewd thoughts and snap back to my senses.
Now is not the ti to indulge in relationships! My pride as a chef has been shattered!
As I tried to steer my thoughts in the right direction
Soone knocked on the wall.
What is it now!?
I took heed from the lesson earlier, and rely answered in my heart.
However, the sound ca from the wall instead of the door.
It was the wall opposite , away from the candle stand.
Since knocking the door three tis was a code for wedding engagent, what did knocking the wall once an? A signal for to bring food over? Or so sort of protest against us getting too intimate?
No matter what, soone was knocking on the wall of this building. The cook house was behind, so they couldnt have mistaken this. Soone had knocked his hand or feet on the wall. Was there so aning behind this action?
Darkness engulfed the world outside the window, and I couldnt see anyone.
Forget it! If you have business with , sound out! Sound out!
I laid sprawled onto the ground once more.
After that, there wasnt anymore sound from the door or the wall, and the serenity of the night returned to the room.
The next mont soft speaking sound could be heard.
Soone was definitely out there.
I couldnt hear the content, but it sounded like an argunt.
It was a man and a woman.
Did soone saw Vena Wu exit from here and was questioning her?
If that was so, there was more reason for to not get involved. I closed my eyes and tried to sleep. The candle was still lit, Ai Fa will take care of it when she cos back.
Speaking of which, Ai Fa sure is slow...
For the denizens of Forest's Edge, this was already late into the night. Grandma Jibas body is frail, so they shouldnt push her too much. Or was Grandma Jiba the one stopping Ai Fa from leaving? As I thought about that, I drifted off into my dreams
I suddenly sat up with a start.
I realized that might be Ai Fas voice.
I dont think anyone will take a stroll in the middle of the night. But if soone laid in wait here for Ai Fa to return from the Wu main house, then everything fits.
After this thought arose in my heart, I didnt think I could sleep if I didnt check personally.
After all, the voice outside was obviously a man and a woman arguing.
I will just take a peek. If its not Ai Fa, then see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.
After making up my mind, I walked towards the entrance.
I quietly opened the door, and slipped out under the moonlight.
The voices ca from the left side of the building where the Wu main house was.
I sneakily made my way to the wall on the left.
I peeked in the direction of the voices And the person was indeed Ai Fa.
She had her back to the wall, arms crossed over her chest and glared fiercely at the person facing her.
Opposite her was the second brother of the Wu clan, Darum Wu.
With eyes were just like his father, he was a handso man like a young wolf He was leaning with one hand on the wall, looking down at Ai Fas face from up high.
So that sound just now was his kabedon.
Ai Fa was just shy of 170cm, but that guy was about 180cm tall, taller than her by half a head. Even so, Ai Fa showed no fear and glared at the other party coldly. That guy had a smile on his face.
It wasnt a gentle smile, but one of mockery.
The cold man who was usually expressionless was smiling mockingly at Ai Fa.
Ai Fa, everyone just think its amusing that a woman like you is pretending to be a hunter.
I could hear his faint voice.
Everyone is laughing at you, saying a girl has been possessed by the dead spirit of her father, wearing kiba fur and pretending to be a hunter Hey, why are you alienating the Wu clan?
Youre just lucky that this couple of years went well, but such a life wont last long. If you look for soone to rely on now, you can live the rest of your life comfortably. No one will care about you if you beco a old woman...
Heated emotions squird in my heart. If his face gets 1cm closer to Ai Fa, I will speak up and stop him. After I made this decision, I managed to suppress the feelings in my heart.
A powerless man like would just get in her way if I tried to help. I knew this very well, so dont get any closer to her, damn it.
Could it be you didnt resist the eldest son of the Tsun clan that night? Thats why you are reluctant to give up on that fool, and cant bring yourself to marry others...
Hey, your delusions has gone too far!
When I ca back to my senses, I had already lashed out at him.
Darum Wu didnt move at all.
But I couldnt stay silent.
Asuta, what are you doing?
Ai Fa looked at coldly.
Go on ho stupid, didnt I tell you to sleep first?
Ai Fas reaction was just as expected.
As for that man
He treated like a pebble on the roadside, just glancing my way once before turning back to Ai Fa.
Ai Fa, if Im not wrong, then just tell honestly. No matter what, I wont sympathize with that guys used goods. But if you really...
That guy is just a wimp, theres no way Ai Fa would let him get his way! Are you blind? Or are you taunting Ai Fa? Are you wooing her? Or picking a fight? If you dont make yourself clear, Ai Fa wont know how to react too!
You monta, dont talk with a tone of a man. If you can only tend hearths, then just shut up and keep cooking your food.
He didnt even look at and said all that as if I was an annoyance.
I took a few steps their way.
Are you referring to when you say monta? I have never seen that animal before, so I wont get mad even if you describe as such. Enough, just leave. Cant you tell that Ai Fa is troubled even though you are so close to her?
Darum Wu twisted his lips coldly and leaned even closer towards Ai Fa.
So close that their nose were almost touching.
My agitated emotions turned into words, and spat out from my mouth:
Hey! Then let tell it to you straight! Since all you can do is hunt, then shut your mouth and hunt your kiba! Dont pretend to be almighty and woo girls!
Darum Wu turned expressionless.
His hand left the wall, and his balance that was leaning forward was straightened.
And then His fingers reached for the knife on his waist.
Monta, are you making a fool of the hunters of Forest's Edge?
Im not making a fool out of you all! You asked to keep cooking my food, are you mocking then? Thats right, I will tend to the hearth! Thats my job. If you cant handle this job, then dont go around wooing girls!
Why you
Right now, Im tending to the hearth in Ai Fas house. But until six days ago, Ai Fa was the one tending to the hearth! She hunts kiba and tends to the hearth by herself! She completed the task for both a man and a woman by herself, can you do that?
I punched at the wall that was innocent.
If you cant, then dont mock her!
Monta. Are you taunting the Wu clan?
His words lacked anger and was filled as if he was dumbfounded instead.
Im not complaining about the Wu clan or the people of Forest's Edge, Im saying this to you alone, Darum Wu. Ai Fa is my benefactor, so you cant be so insolent towards her.
Enough Asuta, you can shut up now.
After saying that resignedly in a quiet voice, Ai Fas back moved away from the wall.
She uncrossed her arms, walked past Darum Wu who was clutching the hilt of his knife and ca to .
Wait, Ai Fa! Im not done yet! Darum Wu said.
I already understand very well. No matter what you say, my answer remains the sa.
Ai Fa stood beside and acknowledge the other party with her usual stiff face and clear eyes.
Im honored by your proposal again. But I have decided to live as a hunter, so I cant marry into the Wu clan.
You
Also, going by the rules, the head of both house should decide on any marriage. Im the head of the Fa house, but the head of the Wu clan is Donda Wu. If you wish to propose in the future, please do so together with your clan head I will bid my leave.
Ai Fa grabbed my arm and left in wide strides as if she was dragging along.
Darum maintained the sa position as his body shook and he stared into the air.
Hey, is it fine to leave him like this?
Ai Fa didnt answer, she advanced along the wall, turned around the corner and shoved into the open door. She then went in, shut the door and put up the bar lock. She was finally ready to lecture .
You moron! Why did you push that kind of small fry to the edge!? What are you going to do if he cos at you with his knife!? Im a guest, and dont have my knife with !
Because he is too unreasonable...
He is spouting nonsense, so just ignore him! Without permission from his clan head, he doesn't have the guts to do anything dumb! But you incited him...
Ai Fa pushed onto the door and grabbed my chest hard.
The furious Ai Fa leaned in close to , our distance was similar to how she and Darum Wu was just now.
Ai Fas scent that was a mixture of sweet fruit, refreshing herb and delicious at entered my nose and my heart started to race.
It seed that Vena Wus impact on had yet to subside. I have to snap back to my senses, this was too dangerous.
Ai Fa didnt understand my worries at all, her strong eyes stared right at .
When I heard you say shut your mouth and hunt your kiba, I really felt like punching you, Asuta.
D-Did you hear what I said completely? Im trying to say that all jobs are equally important.
If I didnt, I would have punched you.
Ai Fa suddenly pulled away. Her fingers grabbing my chest had shifted to my right hand.
She grasped my hand tightly, and pulled it to about chest level.
After punching the wall just now, my hand was a little red.
Your hands exist for the sake of tending hearth fire, correct?
She gently covered my palm with her other hand.
If you hurt your hand and that stopped you from working, what will you do? Dont be rash This pair of hands saved Grandma Jiba after all.
The anger gradually faded from Ai Fas voice.
She held my right hand with both of her hands and looked up slightly at .
Asuta, even though this is temporary, you are still a mber of the Fa house.
Hmm? Of course. Im the guest mber tending to the Fa houses hearth.
My right hand felt really warm.
As if Ai Fas body warmth was injected into my body through her hands This incredible feeling felt really comfortable. Even though I felt a chill on my back when Vena Wu was on top of , Ai Fas warmth cald down.
Ai Fa held my hand, looked into my eyes and said softly:
Thats why I didnt offer you my blessing. As a family, we cant gift our blessings so easily But you saved Grandma Jibas soul, as well as Rie Wu and .
Yes, Im glad I was of help.
Im very grateful, but I cant give you any tangible reward However, I hope you can believe thats how I really feel.
We were so distance from the candle stand, so the light was dim and I cant see Ai Fas expression clearly.
But her bright blue eyes and quiet words were warr and gentler than usual, but had Ai Fas unique strength in them at the sa ti.
That warm, gentle and strong feeling was injected into my body alongside her body warmth, and slowly satiate my heart.
I believe you. Im very happy to hear you say that.
I said this naturally.
Ai Fa gripped my hand tightly one last ti before slowly letting go.
These hands saved the Grand Elder of Forest's Edge, so dont hurt them because of that foolish man. In that sense, you are still a half-baked guy.
Of course, Im a proper half-baked guy! Thats why I need to work harder.
I smiled brilliantly, but when I recalled the green face Darum Wu made at the very end, I started to worry.
Hey, was I being a busybody? Did I make him angry unnecessarily?
You are a busybody a lot of the tis, and does plenty of unnecessary things too. But what you said isnt wrong, thats why that mans face turned green and he couldnt say anything.
Ai Fa lowered her eyes slightly, her gaze turned my way through her long lashes.
But I had been listening to him nag about these boring matters all this while, and felt better after seeing what you did.
I see, then my actions arent a complete waste.
Ai Fa snorted, then reverted to her usual self and started taking her string-tied shoes off.
She asked as she took off her shoe.
By the way, why was the eldest daughter of the Wu clan here?
What?
I tilted my head and cold sweat covered my back.
When I ca back, that woman just left the room. I wanted to speak with her, but that second brother suddenly pulled to the shadows, so she didnt notice that I was there.
She kept her waist bent and started taking off the other shoe.
I watched the back of her beautiful blonde head and could only squeeze out the words I see.
Well, I dont really know why she was here, she seed to be drunk.
I see, she really did have a fruit wine bottle in hand.
Ai Fa finally took off both shoes and stood up slowly.
She then put her hand heavily onto my shoulder.
Then, what did she an by promise just before she left?
Reflected in Ai Fas beautiful blue eyes was a figure of a pitiful youth whose face was twisted from surprise.
And the day ended on a happy note lets pretend thats what happened.
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