Chapter 2: The Name of That Emotion is "Jealousy"

Since there was a river nearby, we washed off the blood there. On our way back to the village, we ran into the group of elves that had been gathered to help Sarona-san. Upon confirming Sarona-san’s safe figure, everyone unanimously rejoiced at her return. Among them were those two young elves and Gazna. When asked what happened to the giant scorpion, Sarona-san, remembering the situation from earlier, covered her mouth and started laughing again. Everyone looked puzzled, wondering what was wrong with her. The twins and I exchanged glances and let out a suppressed chuckle, but when Gazna’s face suddenly entered my field of vision, he looked displeased, as if he had clicked his tongue, and didn’t even glance in our direction. Seeing him like that further deepened my suspicion that this guy was indeed the one directing malice toward Sarona-san.

Upon returning to the village, a banquet was held just like the first time. Since it was a banquet celebrating Sarona-san’s safe return, I also got pretty fired up. Of course, I didn’t drink any alcohol. However, since Sarona-san was still somewhat injured, the banquet was quickly dissolved so she could rest. Thanks to the twins’ “clever” arrangement (?), I ended up escorting Sarona-san home.

The two of us walked together through the village, which had grown dark after the sun had set. “…” “…” I’m kinda nervous. Come to think of it, being alone together like this is the first time since the river incident… Usually, the twins are around, and there’s never been a time where we just didn’t say anything like this.

I took another look at Sarona-san walking beside me. Her silver hair shone in the moonlight. Although her figure was a bit pitiful with bandages wrapped here and there, she drew my eyes even more than usual. As I was gazing at her in a daze, Sarona-san suddenly turned my way and our eyes met. I hastily averted my gaze.

“…Fufu.” …Ah… is she laughing at me? I scratched my cheek and returned my gaze to Sarona-san once more.

“Wazu-san, thank you for today.” When our eyes met again, she suddenly thanked me. Why? “Huh? Did I do something worth thanking?” “You saved me from that giant scorpion. This is my thanks for that… I couldn’t say it back then, so I have to say it properly now.” “Ah, come to think of it, you really didn’t say it. You were laughing the whole time, Sarona-san.” “Right?”

Sarona-san and I looked at each other, remembered the scene from back then, and chuckled softly.

“Even like this, I took pride in being the strongest in the village, and I thought I wouldn’t lose easily no matter the opponent. But honestly, if you were my opponent, Wazu-san, I think I’d lose before I could even lift a finger… However, strangely enough, I don’t feel bad about it, and I’m actually glad that the person stronger than me is you, Wazu-san.” “…Umm… th-thanks?” Can I assume this is a compliment? “Wazu-san’s strength is definitely a goal for me!” “Th-That might be a bit…”

It might come in exchange for a percentage of your race, but are you okay with that? I don’t think that’s good.

As I was at a loss for how to reply, Sarona-san flashed a mischievous, childish smile at me. “Ah well, even so, I ended up being saved by you, Wazu-san.” “You make it sound like you’re reluctant about it?” “Because… if I’m saved by you, Wazu-san, that means I have to join your harem, doesn’t it?” “That is absolutely not a fact!”

Was it that?! Siena-chan?! To think that kid’s ideas had influenced even Sarona-san… No, wait, Ruruna was the one who put those ideas in her head in the first place.

“Fufu… I’m joking.” Looking at Sarona-san smiling as she said that, I thought to myself.

—If only it hadn’t been a joke…

However, looking at Sarona-san’s joyful smile, my heart mysteriously skipped a beat.