Volume 2 Chapter 28 Date Outside the Capital and Cosmetic Preferences
Edited by: Kanaa-senpai
Today is a Yellow Day¹ in late June-a day of rest. Ultimately, I didn’t run into the Hero’s Party again; they set off on their journey exactly as scheduled. It seems Sakura went with them. I wonder what’s going through Shouta and Takumi’s heads right now?
The Leemans Party’s dungeon crawl is reaching its climax. By next week, everyone should hit Level 44, which means we can finally go after the 15th-floor boss.
That doesn’t mean we’re throwing away our rest days just to grind, though. Rest is part of the job-it’s all about that “WLB” (Work-Life Balance). Apparently, a Hero from the past tried to spread that concept here, too, but it hasn’t quite stuck yet.
Anyway, today I have a date planned with the Gale Party outside the royal capital. We’d pushed it back for various reasons, but I really wanted to enjoy the early summer meadows. We’re meeting at the city gates rather than our usual spot by the fountain square.
”Sorry to keep you waiting.”
”Don’t worry about it. I just got here myself.”
Today, Ines is rocking a pants style since we’re heading out. It’s a bit of a shame, but I guess it’s practical. Since we aren’t exactly trekking through deep woods, she isn’t wearing armor, though she still has her sword. It’s a perfect middle ground between a date and adventurer style. Her massive chest looks absolutely stunning.
”Let’s move before it gets too hot.”
”Right on.”
Juliet is in her usual hot pants. Since the chill is gone, she’s ditched the leggings. Another shame, in a way. She’s got her two-handed sword tucked into her belt. The star of the show, though, has to be her midriff-baring crop top. It was already a short cut, but her heavy chest hitches the hem even higher. Thank you very much.
”I’ve never been on a date outside the city before, so I’m really excited!♪”
”I’m just glad you’re looking forward to it, Sylvie.”
Sylvie is in her typical frilly one-piece dress. No surprises there, but she’s incredibly cute. The only thing different from her usual town-wear is her lace-up boots. She’s carrying a staff, too-though it’s shorter than her dungeon-crawling one.
Technically, since I have the Item Box, none of us need to carry weapons by hand or on our hips. But if I walk around empty-handed, the guards might mark me as a suspicious person or some thugs might try to start something, so I make a point of keeping a sword at my waist.
The four of us passed through the gates and began our steady trek. When you’re focused on dungeon diving, you don’t really go anywhere else. Looking at the plains actually makes me feel nostalgic; on my second day after being reincarnated, I came here to hunt Horn Rabbits and Goblins.
”This brings back memories. Daisuke’s first battle was right here on these plains.”
”You were shaking like a leaf back then!”
”You were really struggling with those Horn Rabbits, weren’t you~?”
”Please, stop…”
Ines was one thing, but Juliet and Sylvie were digging up my cringe-worthy past without a shred of mercy.
”Look, in my previous life, I didn’t exactly spend my time fighting monsters. Cut me some slack.”
”We know, we know.”
”Exactly. You’ve already surpassed us now, after all.”
”I am truly grateful for everything you did back then, though.”
Juliet stopped teasing me after that, and Sylvie probably hadn’t meant any malice anyway. When Ines mentions “back then,” she’s talking about that teleportation trap incident.
”We’re all close now, but man, things were rough at the start. Juliet even thrashed me once.”
”That’s because you were doing weird things!”
”My bad, my bad. I wasn’t trying to blame you, Juliet. I was the one in the wrong.”
”Geez, don’t say weird stuff like that. Although, I feel like even if I hit you now, it wouldn’t even hurt.”
”That’s not true. If you went all out, I’d definitely take some damage.”
”At that point, is it even still ‘hitting’ someone?”
”Is it not?”
”Fufu, Juliet-san also got close to you, didn’t she?♪”
”That’s true. Juliet was the first one to switch to casual speech with you. I was actually a little jealous.”
”Wait, Ines, you actually felt that way?”
If this were my past life in Japan, she’s the kind of beauty I wouldn’t even be able to talk to, let alone date. But in this world, her looks are just a common enough level, so she’s surprisingly innocent. That gap is what makes her so great.
”Well, yes. I didn’t think much of it at first, but after you saved us, I couldn’t help but be interested.”
”It was probably because of Daisuke’s Skills at first, right?”
”Probably. I was interested too, but I didn’t have any actual feelings for him back then.”
(Well, that makes sense. If I didn’t have this ‘Ordeal’ dragging me down, this would have been Easy Mode…)
When we found a good spot, we spread out a mat and sat down. I stayed somewhat alert, but the only things that show up around here are Horn Rabbits. I could take them out with my bare hands-or just throw a pebble at them. Magic was an option, too. Honestly, I don’t even take damage anymore, so I can handle whatever comes our way. For lunch, I’d brought out the grilled skewers and other treats I’d bought in town. Since we had to keep our return trip in mind, we ate a bit early.
”Alright, let’s eat.”
”Thank you. Sorry for always making you provide the food.”
”Thanks!”
”Thank you very much!♪”
”I tell you guys every time, you don’t have to worry about it.”
The three of them make a point to say it properly. Under the refreshing summer sun, we enjoyed our outdoor meal, chatting and laughing just like always. Eating outside once in a while really is a treat.
* * *
In the afternoon, I spent my time studying at the library. Since the Hero’s Party was back, I decided to do some more digging into the Heroes of the past. Last time, I looked into the ones who screwed up; this time, I wanted to find the ones who actually did a good job.
As it turns out, more than half of the Heroes and their parties were perfectly normal, hardworking people who trained seriously and defeated the Demon King. Most of them continued as adventurers afterward and lived very comfortable lives after retiring early. Once the laws regarding nobility were established, many became aristocrats and spent the rest of their days living the easy life as NEETs.
Aside from the very first Hero, two figures stood out in history: the First King of Maultasche and the man who created the Appraisal Stone². The first Hero is practically deified, so he’s in a league of his own.
First King Maultasche the First was summoned roughly 480 years ago and defeated the Demon King without a hitch. Afterward, he built a town in what was then a remote backwater-the current capital-and founded his own country. Because it was a political vacuum at the time, nation-building was relatively simple. The surrounding lords, terrified of the Hero’s overwhelming military might, quickly swore their allegiance, and the country grew from there.
Heroes generally have a hard time leveling up their politics-related Skills, but this guy utilized his knowledge from his previous life and was blessed with a talented inner circle. That second part might have been thanks to the charisma-type Skills Heroes tend to have.
Also, as Mercedes mentioned once before, he drastically overhauled the slave system-specifically, he improved their treatment. Before him, slaves couldn’t stay at inns, had to eat separately from their masters, and could even be ordered to commit crimes.
He had purchased a slave during his journey after the Demon King’s defeat, but the two fell in love, and he eventually freed and married her. Once he founded the country, he faced constant interference from people claiming he “should take a wife befitting a king.” He silenced them by alternating between rattling his saber and promising economic boons.
Thanks to his legacy, the treatment of slaves in Maultasche isn’t that bad compared to other places. Apparently, standards improved in other countries as well, though as that trouble at the Guild proved, there’s still plenty of room for improvement.
The Hero who created the Appraisal Stone was from an even earlier era, about a thousand years ago. His personal combat ability wasn’t anything special, but he and his party members successfully took down the Demon King regardless.
Because he had a high aptitude for Appraisal, he reached Skill Level 7 within a few years. The government eventually begged him to create the Appraisal Stone to help deter crime. He didn’t do it alone; he had the support of specialists like Alchemists, and because it required expensive and rare materials, the state funded the whole project.
Appraisal Stones are both valuable and dangerous-if they were analyzed and the technology fell into the wrong hands, they could be used for evil-so they are strictly guarded. Apparently, they only exist in royal castles. Simplified Appraisal Stones are kept at the gates of major towns, but since guards are always watching, stealing one would be nearly impossible. Not that you could even carry the things, apparently. Well, I could carry one with my Item Box, but there’s no point in stealing one. They’re huge, bulky, and you have to have someone touch them to work, so they aren’t exactly practical. They definitely aren’t something you’d use in the middle of a fight.
That Hero supposedly reached Skill Level 8, allowing him to see “information that no one else could possibly know.” He was both respected and feared, as people thought he could see directly into their hearts. Appraisal isn’t actually that omnipotent, but most people don’t know that.
* * *
”Have you finished your research on cosmetics?”
”Yes, I wrapped that up last week.”
As closing time approached, Clarissa-san³ struck up a conversation. She seems really preoccupied with the makeup.
”I’m currently in the middle of gathering the ingredients, so please just give me a little more time.”
”Yes!”
She gave me a massive, radiant smile. For some reason, I could feel a certain pressure behind it… I’d better hurry up with the production.
”Even a woman as beautiful as you still longs for makeup, Clarissa-san.”
”Oh, thank you. But you see, I’m getting to be ‘that age’ myself, so I really would like to use some.”
I wasn’t just being polite-I meant it-but she just brushed it off. That’s the Ordeal⁴ for you. But what does she mean, “that age”?
”From where I’m standing, you’re just a young and beautiful older sister, Clarissa-san.”
”Thank you. I suppose that’s the sensation in the world you were in, Daisuke-san. But in this world, it isn’t so.”
Now that I think about it, I did hear that once a woman passes twenty, she’s considered past her prime. In the eyes of this world, Clarissa-san is probably seen as an “over-the-hill (but cute) person.” If you applied that logic to my old life in Japan, more than half the women there would be treated like old ladies the second they landed a job. Talk about harsh. A feminist back home would lose her mind. By the time you hit your 40s here, you’re basically a grandma. Then again, adulthood starts earlier here and the average lifespan is much shorter.
Clarissa-san looked a bit downcast, so I decided to change the subject.
”I have a few different oils I can use for the base. Do you have a preference for certain scents?”
”Hmm… I like floral, elegant scents. Smells like seasonal flowers are always nice.”
I see. Her taste is similar to Ines’, but not exactly the same. Everyone really does have their own preferences.
”I’ll be back next week. I think that certain something should be ready by then.”
”Yes, I’ll be waiting!♪”
She sent me off with a beaming smile, though I’m pretty sure she’s only waiting for the cosmetics. That stings a little. I’d love it if she’d say she was waiting for me someday.
Clarissa-san is in her early 20s, and Regina-san is probably in her mid-to-late 20s. I’m sure Regina-san would be thrilled with the cosmetics, too. Finding out what scents she likes shouldn’t be too hard.
Wait, hold on. Maybe I should give her that instead? It’ll take some time to set up, but maybe I can work on it in parallel with the cosmetics.
After walking for a bit, I ran into Dietlinde-san again.
”Good evening, Dietlinde-san.”
”Good evening, Daisuke-san.”
She’s as sharp as ever-beautiful, but with a real cool factor. I’ll investigate Dietlinde-san’s preferred scents, too.
”Dietlinde-san, do you have any scents you particularly like?”
”…Why do you ask?”
Oops. That was too blunt. I’d gotten used to everyone else just telling me, so I’d let my guard down.
”No, it’s just… I recently got my hands on some good stuff, and I was thinking of sharing some with you.”
”I see. I suppose I prefer scents that are… calming.”
I haven’t actually made anything yet, but I figured that excuse would make it seem a bit more natural.
”Thank you. I’ll keep that in mind.”
”Not at all. Now, if you’ll excuse me.”
I wonder what Dietlinde-san plans to do by becoming even calmer than she already is. Or maybe she’s just stressed out in a way she doesn’t show? I’ll have to think of something with a nice, soothing aroma.
—
Summary:
Daisuke goes on a pleasant meadow date with Ines, Juliet, and Sylvie, reflecting on how their relationship has improved since their rocky start. Later, he researches the history of successful Heroes in the library and discovers how the King of Maultasche and the Appraisal Stone creator influenced the world. He also continues his investigation into the scent preferences of the women in his life for his upcoming cosmetic production.
—
Trivia:
- Yellow Day is a designated rest day in this world, likely introduced by an Earth Hero.
- The First King of Maultasche was an isekai protagonist who drastically improved slave rights because he fell in love with a slave.
- Daisuke intentionally wears a sword to appear like a normal adventurer and avoid being targeted by thugs or suspicious guards.
- Clarissa’s ‘pressure’ indicates she is much more interested in the cosmetics than she is letting on verbally
—
Character Insight:
Ines reveals her vulnerability by admitting she was jealous of Juliet’s early casual relationship with Daisuke. This shows her desire for deeper intimacy despite her stern warrior persona. Daisuke shows tactical growth by researching successful Heroes to find non-combat ways to influence the world.
—
Behind the Scenes:
The mention of ‘Yellow Day’ and ‘WLB’ highlights the lasting cultural impact of previous Heroes from Earth on the fantasy world’s social structures.
—
TL Notes:
Notes:
• Sakura – Reincarnated high‑school girl, Destroyer class, 160 cm slender with twin‑tails, perpetual scowl, thin chest armor and a short‑hair yankee style. Former JK Party member, once double‑dated Hero Shouta and Holy Knight Takumi, openly disliked by the protagonist and at odds with Daisuke. Now Otto’s supportive girlfriend, part of the Hero Party’s entourage, aiming to climb nobility by marrying into the party; their “stupid couple” dynamic is affectionate yet antagonistic.
• Shouta – A 17‑year‑old silver‑haired, sharp‑eyed former Student Council President and kendo captain, now a Sword Saint Hero of the Slash and Lightning, wielding Beacon of Hope. He leads the Hero Party, travels guarded by handlers, and remains coldly pragmatic, rejecting any caretakers.
• Takumi – Teenage Holy Knight in modest armor, summoned as Level‑1, once a delinquent from the ‘go‑home club.’ Arrogant, over‑familiar, hedonistic and hot‑headed, he serves as the party’s tank. Beaten by Martina, betrayed by his girlfriend Sakura, and now part of the Hero Party.
• Ines – 170 cm tall, long green hair, voluptuous build in heavy armor with a feminine college‑girl look; goddess‑like smile, cool exterior, shy and easily embarrassed. Blue eyes, large chest, usually armored but wears a ‘pants‑style’ outfit and sword for dates. Serious, uses masculine‑formal ‘sumanai’. D‑Rank, Level 21+ wind‑magic swordsman who accelerates with gusts, cool‑headed yet pouts when teased. Dignified leader of Twin Winds and Leemans mentor, safety‑first light‑drinker, member of Raging Wind and Gale (烈風), owes a professional debt to Daisuke, skilled knight but innocent and naive.
• Juliet – 150 cm tall beast‑kin with blue bob hair, cat ears & tail, large chest, light armor, dual‑wielder Idaten skill, wields a two‑handed sword. Gale party member (also Raging Wind); keen scent scout, gear shatters after Orc fights. Prickly tsundere, avoids lewd talk, nekojita palate, short‑tempered Twin Winds instructor who insults the protagonist and snaps at Daisuke’s teasing about age/rank, yet starts smiling at him. Also seen in hot pants and a midriff‑bare mini‑T, blunt and teasing.
• Sylvie – Elf, 140 cm tall, petite loli‑like with long wavy blonde hair, frilly robes and a fairy‑like smile. Top‑ranked Gale Party adventurer and Daisuke’s spirit‑magic teacher, she excels in scouting and trap detection, drinks MP potions, and handles adult topics better than others. Polished, feminine, wears frilly dresses, lace‑up boots, and carries a staff.
• Mercedes – Brown semi‑long hair, white frilled one‑piece; shrewd Home Secretary of Maultasche Kingdom, mother of Patrizia, high‑ranking noble overseeing domestic affairs and security. Spirited Royal Knight who meditates, teaches shield techniques, leads parties, despises goblins/orcs, sees dungeons as divine trials, wields elite combat and destruction magic, calls herself “Elegant and Fair Knight”. Also a beautiful but disappointing castle acquaintance who feeds Daisuke Hero Party intel and desperately seeks a boyfriend among Reincarnators, often rejected.
• Clarissa – Early‑20s librarian at the Royal Capital’s library, she has soft, graceful features, blonde shoulder‑length hair framing sparkling eyes, and a natural, warm charm despite lacking luxury cosmetics. Her friendly, curious demeanor and a slightly pressuring smile when discussing makeup make her a welcoming, helpful presence.
• Regina – Late‑twenties Onee‑san with blue‑purple hair, green eyes, marine‑blue dress split to the thigh, thigh‑high socks, and a voluptuous, large‑breasted figure; she runs Daydream (BSS), mentors girls like Nora and Rita, and is a respected senior Beastman and elite courtesan. Known for her “Masterpiece” body and exceptional technique, she’s a target of the protagonist’s revenge and part of Daisuke’s circle hoping she’ll retire to follow him.
• Dietlinde – Dietlinde‑san is a slender sheep‑type beastman with white curly hair and tiny horns, serving as a receptionist and clerk at the Adventurer’s Guild in the Maultasche Royal Capital. She moves with rhythmic low‑heel clicks, exudes a cool, sharp beauty, and maintains a distant, noble‑like professional distance. Though visibly exhausted, she coolly greets Daisuke before seeing him off, admires cosmetics but feels they’re out of reach, and favors calming scents.
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Edited by Kanaa-senpai.
Thanks for reading.
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