A Different World? Trading Between Worlds - Ch 2, Ep 49 - Secret of the Shrine (End of Chapter Two)
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- A Different World? Trading Between Worlds
- Ch 2, Ep 49 - Secret of the Shrine (End of Chapter Two)
Secret of the Shrine – End of Chapter Two
Mariel and Feena, who had been joyfully embracing each other for some time, gradually began to calm down. Noticing the gentle smiles from Watari and Ea, Mariel blushed and released her embrace, stepping back from a distance that seemed almost close enough for a kiss.
Hmm, it was a lovely scene that almost seemed yuri-like, but alas.
Up close, Feena was an adorable woman with large, round eyes and a small face. She was petite and slender, wearing a cardigan and a frilly skirt. Cute was the perfect word to describe her, rather than beautiful. She wore a monocle, suggesting her eyesight might be weak. However, Watari noted to himself, in this world, where lens crafting was difficult, such an item was a high-end luxury, or perhaps a magical tool.
As Watari watched the two women closely, Mariel shot him and Ea a resentful glare.
“What’s with those faces, you two!?”
“Well, you know?”
“Yeah, yeah. It’s nice to see such a good friendship.”
“Exactly. We were just watching over you. It was a touching reunion. I’m envious of you for such a close friend.”
“~~~~! You’re so mean, Master!”
Recalling the earlier exchange, Mariel blushed deeply, her ears and nape turning red. Usually so composed, her flustered state was delightful to see. Even Feena, meeting them for the first time, lowered her gaze in embarrassment.
Realizing they had been engaging in a personal conversation in front of a noble lady they had just met, Watari cleared his throat to change the mood. Fortunately, Feena understood his intention and quickly regained her composure.
“I’m glad to know what happened to you, Mariel. You suddenly left the academy, and I heard your family had fallen. I was really worried for you.”
“I’m sorry. It was so sudden and I had to rush back home. After that, I couldn’t return to the academy.”
“I understand. It must have been tough.”
Mariel explained how she had been informed of her family’s bankruptcy and had to return home abruptly. Given the situation, she had no time for proper goodbyes. Feena seemed to understand, her expression softening.
“Now, thanks to everyone, I am well taken care of. This is my master, Watari-sama.”
“Nice to meet you. I’m Watari. Pleased to make your acquaintance.”
“Sorry for the late introduction. I’m Feena de Lamble, an assistant librarian at the Royal Academy.”
The Lamble Viscount family, located in the eastern part of the kingdom, was known for its significant textile production, accounting for seventy percent of the domestic output and even exporting abroad. However, it was less focused on food production.
Mariel’s eyes widened at Feena’s words.
“You became a librarian!?”
“An assistant librarian.”
“Still, that’s amazing.”
“I was in trouble with nowhere to go, but a professor recommended me. I’m still an apprentice; I have my own studies to care for.”
“Working while still a student is rare. I would have loved to do that.”
“Well…it’s not as great as it sounds. The pay is low, many people are arrogant, hiding behind their titles, the holidays are few, and the higher-ups don’t value librarians. My impression of the career changed completely after starting the job.”
Feena’s brow furrowed. Watari thought her story sounded familiar, almost like the situation for librarians in Japan. It looked like some things stayed constant even between worlds.
“It’s understandable that you want to catch up with an old friend, Mariel, but let’s take care of our business first. We can arrange for a more leisurely conversation later.”
“I apologize. So, what brings you to the academy today?”
“I’d like to speak with a professor who has knowledge about ancient and mythical ruins. Also, if the library is accessible to non-students, I’d like to do some research there as well.”
“I see.”
“Is the history professor here?”
“Yes, I believe he’s still around. Shall we check the faculty room first?”
Following the directions, they walked through the academy. Thick carpets covered the floors, muffling their footsteps. It looked brand new, possibly enhanced by some sort of magic. Watari focused on keeping his gaze steady, feeling as if he were walking on pure gold. The faculty room sign was no different from those in his world. Feena peeked inside and then nodded.
“He’s here. I’ll call him, and you can wait in the meeting room.”
They sat in the chairs of the meeting room as instructed.
Soon after, the teacher they wanted to see, Professor Maurice, a historian, entered. He appeared to be in his late fifties or sixties, carrying a staff that caught Ea’s attention. Despite standing as Watari’s bodyguard, she seemed slightly tense.
Professor Maurice sat down calmly across from them and noticed Mariel.
“Oh, you are? I feel like I’ve seen you somewhere before…”
“I attended your lectures before, Professor. I’m Mariel. I’m here today with Watari-sama to seek your expertise.”
“I see. I apologize, but I am very busy and have another appointment soon. Let’s get straight to the point.”
Watari appreciated the direct approach and nodded, quickly taking a piece of paper from his bag. After he placed it on the table, the paper moved toward Professor Maurice on its own.
“I’d like you to look at this information about a ruin. Mariel suggested it might be related to ancient teleportation magic. She recommended consulting you.”
“Indeed. Consulting me is the right choice. However, knowledge does not come cheap. I don’t mind offering my help, but I do trade in this knowledge.”
“Of course, we understand. Mariel mentioned you have a fondness for sweets, so we brought something special. It’s a very rare and delicious pastry that you can’t find in this country. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.”
“Oh… If you’re willing to compensate, then I see no problem. Considering it’s a request from a former student, I’ll answer your questions first and enjoy the treat later.”
Professor Maurice examined the paper silently, his wrinkled fingers tracing the patterns.
They might finally uncover the secret of traveling between their world and Earth. Watari swallowed hard in anticipation.
“Hmm, I see. This does appear to be a teleportation array, but it seems slightly different from what I’m familiar with…”