Chapter 2: Reunion

“Are you the new hire?” she asks, so I answer honestly.

“Uh, yeah... something like that. I started working here about two weeks ago.”

“I see. So that was it,” Felina says with a soft smile.

Unlike five years ago when we were in a party together, Felina has grown into an adult. She was fourteen back then, one year younger than me. That would make her nineteen now...? My appearance has changed beyond recognition, but Felina still carries the traces of her younger self. Back then, "cute" was the word that fit her best, but now "beautiful" is more accurate.

She’s dressed for adventuring, wearing deep navy-blue light armor in a jacket style. I see. Felina is still an adventurer.

But... did she betray me? That thought inevitably circles through my mind.

“My name is Felina.”

“...I’m Haru.”

“Haru-san, is it? That’s a nice name.”

We exchange introductions. I’ve already... cut ties with the past. So here, I’ll interact with Felina as Haru.

Risel whispers into my ear. “Haru-san, this is the famous person I mentioned! Felina-san is an incredibly famous adventurer in the Capital!”

“I see.”

So Felina has earned quite a reputation for herself. I’m just glad to see that my former comrade is doing well. <Hero Haruto> is dead. I have no intention of revealing my identity, nor do I plan on seeking revenge or chasing the truth. We are walking separate paths now.

“I’d like to pay for these.”

“Certainly.”

Felina brings her tray of bread to the counter. While I’m processing the payment, for some reason, she stares intently at my face.

“Um...”

“Is something wrong?” I ask.

“Has anyone ever told you... that you look like someone?”

“──No. Can't say they have.”

I respond as normally as possible. My current self shouldn't have any resemblance to how I used to look.

“Is that so... I must be imagining things then,” Felina says, looking dejected.

“Felina-san. Are you visiting the grave again today?” Risel asks.

“Yes. My senpai loved bread. I’m sure he’d like the bread from this shop.”

Visiting Senpai’s grave...?

Wait, what? There’s a grave for me? Well, I suppose if someone doesn't come back from that dungeon for five years, they’d assume he was dead... It feels strange to know I have a grave while I’m standing here alive.

“Well then, I’ll be going. I’ll come again.”

“Yes. Thank you for your business!” Risel chirps.

“Thank you,” I add.

Risel and I both bow deeply as we see her off. I had thought I might have been betrayed by my comrades. But looking at her just now, maybe that wasn't the case? Then why was I treated like a major criminal...?

No, I’ve already cut ties with the past. I shouldn't think about unnecessary things. I’m <Haru the Baker>. That’s enough for me; I don't want anything else.

Still, I’m curious, so I ask Risel about Felina.

“Risel. Does... Felina-san come here often?”

“Yes. She visits about once a month. I heard she lost a precious comrade a long time ago. She buys our bread as an offering for him.”

“...I see.”

Well, meeting once a month should be fine. Or so I thought, but──

“Ah. Haru-san. Good morning.”

“G-Good morning.”

The next day. Felina showed up almost as soon as the shop opened.

Wait... wasn't it supposed to be once a month...? I was a bit shaken by this unexpected turn of events.

“I’m a bit surprised. Risel told me you visit about once a month.”

“I came to buy bread for myself today. Yesterday was for my senpai’s grave. Um... Senpai was my former party member.”

“I-I see.”

Yes. Felina used to call me "Senpai" and looked up to me. It makes me happy that she hasn't forgotten me even now, but what is this? She’s staring at me again. Her gaze is suspicious, as if she’s doubting something. It feels different from yesterday.

“I thought I’d try the bread you recommend today, Haru-san. Could you pick some for me?”

“I... see. In that case──”

I selected the new items the Boss made recently:

In addition to the regular menu, the Boss periodically creates new types of bread. I decided to choose those. I’ve tasted them too, and they are seriously delicious.

“How about these?”

“Yes. I’ll take those then.”

“Understood.”

While I’m ringing her up, Felina asks me something.

“Haru-san──were you originally an adventurer by any chance?”

“Yes. I was. I retired after getting a somewhat serious injury.”

“I see. But why a bakery?”

“I like bread, and I guess I was interested in making it.”

“Is that so...”

On the surface, it’s just an ordinary conversation. But for some reason, I feel like she’s digging for something.

“Well then, I’ll be going. I think I’ll be back in a month next time.”

“Understood. We look forward to your next visit.”

I bow politely and finish the interaction. Well... it’s probably just my imagination. Anyway, since Felina will be coming back, I’ll need to keep a few things in mind.

Later, as I’m working as usual, Risel calls out to me. She’s holding a paper bag filled with bread.

“Haru-san. Could you deliver this to the church for me?”

“A delivery?”

“Yes. It’s a bit of a walk, is that okay?”

“Yeah. I’ve got plenty of stamina. The church isn't a problem.”

“You really are reliable, Haru-san! Thank you!”

Apparently, the bakery does local deliveries, and Risel asked me to handle this one. There aren't many people around at this hour, so it’s perfect. I have a general idea of where the church is.

It’s at the northern end of Roten. Following an old cobblestone path that leads toward the forest, you’ll find a church sitting quietly on a hill. It’s surrounded by tall trees, so the hours of sunlight are limited, but that silence actually enhances its holiness.

──Roten Small Chapel.

The building is a simple structure made of gray stone. When I open the door, I see wooden pews lined up with a narrow aisle leading to a small altar at the back.

And there is a woman.

Her long, pale-blonde hair seems to melt into light under the sun. Her eyes shine blue. Her nun’s habit, based on black and white, is slightly frayed at the hem and sleeves.

There’s a faint trace of her former self. No... there’s no mistake. She is my former comrade, <Saint Estelle>.

When she spots me, she gives a soft smile and says:

“──Do you believe in God?”

I try not to let my agitation show as I reply.

“Um... well. I’m not here to join the faith. I came to deliver bread.”

“Oh. Are you the new person from the bakery? I’ve heard rumors.”

“I see. Well, here you go.”

“Thank you very much.”

Estelle gives a gentle smile. She was always soft-spoken and a refined beauty back then, but she has become even more polished. She has grown into such a beautiful woman that I’m sure men wouldn't leave her alone.

<Saint Estelle>. I wasn't always in a party with her. She joined us as a healer whenever we tackled major dungeons. To be honest, we couldn't have dived into high-difficulty dungeons without her. Her recovery magic was just that superior.

“Forgive me. I haven't introduced myself. My name is Estelle.”

“I’m Haru. Well, I’ll be going then.”

“Haru-san... is it?”

Estelle mutters the name as if savoring it. Then she stares intently at my face.

Urgh... staying too long isn't good. I need to get out of here.

I tell her I’m leaving, but Estelle calls out to me.

“Haru-san. Are you troubled by anything lately?”

“Troubled?”

“Yes. Since you’ve come all this way, I thought we could at least talk in the confessional if you’d like. I can even listen to you talk about your work.”

I hesitate... but I actually do have some concerns about work. I decide to take this as a good opportunity.

“Alright then. I’ll take you up on that.”

I decide to consult her in the confessional. I’m Haru the Baker now, so I’ll talk about my daily life at the bakery.

“This way, please.”

“Right.”

I’m guided to the confessional at the back of the church. Beyond a small door next to the altar, it lies──a quiet, sacred space existing between prayer and atonement, seemingly untouched by anyone. The door is made of thick wood, creaking slightly as I pull the handle. Entering the room, the air feels a bit cooler than outside.

The room is divided in two. One side for the confessor, the other for the listener. A thin wooden wall with a latticed window stands between them, so we can only see each other as blurred shapes. The only light comes from a single small oil lamp, its flickering flame casting waving shadows on the wooden walls.

“I swear to God that anything said here will never be revealed to anyone else.”

“Understood.”

I then tell her about my concerns with my current job.

“Actually──it’s about a woman named Risel at the bakery.”

“...”

For some reason, there’s no response from Estelle.

Huh? Did I say something wrong...?

“U-Um? Estelle-san?”

“Ahem. My apologies. Please, continue──”

Was it my imagination? The moment I mentioned Risel’s name, I felt a strange sense of pressure...

“We’re together a lot because of work, but I’m still a bit awkward in how I interact with her. Is there anything important to keep in mind when dealing with women?”

In the past, my party members were all women, but we had the common goal of conquering dungeons. Our conversations were mostly about dungeon strategy, so things went smoothly. But the bakery is different. When there are no customers, it’s just the two of us, and the conversation doesn't really flow. I don't think I need to fill the silence with talk, but I wanted advice from a woman's perspective. I figured Estelle would give me good advice.

“I see. I think it’s important to maintain a proper sense of distance and take your time.”

“I see.”

“Yes. It’s troubling if someone tries to get too close too quickly. I think it’s better to take your time and deepen your friendship more carefully, don't you?”

“Oh! That’s very helpful!”

I see. So trying to force the distance isn't good. That’s what I thought too, so now it’s a certainty.

“Yes. And you must understand that a woman's kindness is often the same toward everyone. You mustn't misunderstand and think she’s interested in you, okay? Since you work in the same bakery, that kind of trouble would be a problem. A proper sense of distance. That is what’s important.”

“I see...! That was very helpful! Thank you!”

“Not at all. This, too, must be God’s guidance.”

The consultation in the confessional ended there. I’m glad I talked to her. As expected of Estelle. She isn't a Saint for nothing. It felt strange to consult an old comrade about a new job, but I’m glad I worked up the courage.

The next day, the first customer to arrive was──Estelle.

“Good morning, Haru-san. Risel-san.”

“G-Good morning.”

“Ah! Estelle-san. Good morning!”

Risel and Estelle seem to be acquaintances, and they exchange greetings. However... though I’m sure there was no intent behind it, I felt like Estelle was smiling more than necessary.

Risel speaks to her. “This is unusual. You coming all the way here yourself.”

“I had a little time today.”

“But didn't Haru-san just make a delivery yesterday?”

“U-Um... well. This is for myself! I prioritize giving the delivered bread to the children, after all.”

“I see. So that’s how it is.”

Oh, I see. Estelle has her own circumstances too, I thought.

“Do you have any recommendations?”

“Let’s see, today we have──”

Risel quickly picks out today’s recommended bread and processes the payment. I’ve grown somewhat used to it, but Risel is definitely more efficient. She finishes the transaction in no time and hands the bag of bread to Estelle.

“Thank you very much!”

“Thank you.”

We both bow to see Estelle off, but...

“Um. About the deliveries. Is Haru-san generally in charge of them?”

Risel answers that question. “Hmm. I’m still a bit torn on that. Haru-san still has work to learn here.”

“I believe work should be assigned to the right person. From what I can see, Haru-san seems to have quite a lot of stamina.”

Estelle turns her gaze toward me. Well, she’s right. I probably have more confidence in my stamina than anyone else in this world. I didn't survive five years in that dungeon for nothing.

“Yeah. If you’re okay with it, I’ll handle the deliveries. I definitely have confidence in my stamina.”

“Hmm. If you say so, Haru-san, I guess it’s okay...?”

“And I think it’s important for a newcomer to interact with the townspeople, don't you? Yes.”

“True. That’s a good point. Alright then, Haru-san. I’ll leave them to you from now on.”

“Understood.”

“Estelle-san. Thank you for the advice.”

“Not at all. This, too, must be God’s guidance.”

Estelle makes a prayerful gesture. Then she leaves the shop, but──I didn't miss the way Estelle gave a tiny, subtle fist pump. I don't really get it, but I guess something good happened?

And so, I ended up being in charge of future deliveries.

“Huff... huff... huff...!”

Early morning. My morning routine starts with a run. It’s a strange thing, but I never neglect the habit of training my body. Even at a bakery, it’s mostly standing work. I don't plan on increasing my stamina further, but I want to keep it at a baseline.

With that in mind, I was running in the forest near Roten. Just then, I spotted a man swinging a wooden sword in the forest.

“Oh. Good morning.”

He greets me with a refreshing voice, and I stop in my tracks. His golden hair is cut short, and his eyes are a jewel-like emerald green. He looks younger than me. Maybe in his mid-teens?

I return his greeting. “Good morning. Training?”

“Yes. This forest feels very nice.”

He gives a bright, refreshing smile. Ugh... he’s so handsome it’s blinding...

“My name is Leo.”

“I’m Haru.”

We shake hands. His hand is that of someone who has undergone rigorous training. Maybe he’s an adventurer.

“Leo-san, are you──”

“Oh. You can speak informally. I’m younger than you, after all.”

“Alright. Leo, are you an adventurer?”

“Well, something like that. And you, Haru-san?”

“I’m a baker.”

“A baker? That’s unexpected.”

Yeah. Well, with this rugged look of mine, no one would think I’m a baker. It makes me a little sad, but I know I have an appearance that clearly scares people... There’s nothing I can do about it.

“Um. If you don't mind, could we spar a bit? Haru-san. From what I can see, you can swing a sword too, right? I actually have another wooden sword.”

“I can... well, sure. Might as well give it a try.”

And so, I ended up crossing swords with Leo, who seemed to be an adventurer. But... it was my intuition. Leo was young, but he was no ordinary person. I felt it──.

“Here I come──!”

“Yeah!”

Leo closes the distance in an instant. It had been a long time since I felt the sensation of fighting, but my eyes accurately captured my opponent’s movements. Habits like these really do stay with you.

“Hah!”

“Ngh!”

Our wooden swords clash violently. When two skilled people meet, they can gauge each other’s strength to some extent. Leo is young, but his skill with a sword is outstanding. Of course, since we aren't fighting in earnest, I can't see the bottom of either of our abilities.

“Not bad!”

“You too!”

We accelerate even further. Every move, every step was refined. From the transitions in our stances to the movement of our centers of gravity, even down to the flicker of our eyes, there was zero waste. Leo’s movements weren't just polished through training; it was as if his body understood from birth that this was how it should be.

──So this is what they call a genius.

But I have a different weapon. A mud-stained experience in real combat that disregarded beauty. Techniques for survival that had been honed through countless life-or-death situations and sharpened through pain.

Leo’s wooden sword whistles through the air. The moment I reflexively block it, the shock travels up my arm. Our hilts lock──wood grinds against wood, making a sharp sound. In an instant, both our swords are flung back. A dry sound rings out as they slice through the air. We both leap backward at the same time, creating distance.

“Let's call it there, shall we?”

“Yeah. Good idea.”

If we had continued, it wouldn't have been strange if it turned into a fight to the death. It was only for a moment, but the spar was at that high a level. I see. The world really is a big place, I thought.

“Haru-san. You said you were a baker, but were you actually a very high-ranking adventurer before?”

“No, nothing that impressive.”

“Heh. Is that so?”

“Your swordsmanship was incredible too, Leo. To have that level of skill at your age... I’m sure you’ll reach even greater heights.”

“Thank you. I’ll keep striving.”

As he leaves, Leo turns back and calls out.

“Haru-san. If we have the chance, could we spar again?”

“Yeah. I’m usually running around here in the morning. If the timing works out. Although I have work at the bakery after this, so I can't do it for long.”

“No. That’s perfectly fine. Thank you for your time. I’ll be going now.”

“Yeah.”

With a bright smile, Leo made a graceful exit.

“Alright. I should get going too.”

Having worked up a light sweat, I immediately change and head to the bakery for work.

†

"Master Leon!"

"Hm? Oh, good morning, Sara."

"Honestly! Where have you been?"

"Just a little stroll."

"Please, stop wandering off on your own! You are... the Sword Saint, for heaven’s sake!"

Indeed. The young man who had just finished sparring with Haru was none other than the holder of the true title—Sword Saint Leon.

He was only fifteen years old when he inherited the mantle from the previous Sword Saint, who had retired six months prior.

The title of Sword Saint was not hereditary; rather, it was passed to whoever the current master deemed worthy. In other words, Leon had been recognized by his predecessor while still in his early teens.

Beside him stood the woman who served as his aide, Sara.

She was draped in pale grayish-purple robes and wore a small pair of silver-rimmed spectacles. Her glossy black hair was tied back neatly, gathered in a modest bun at the nape of her neck.

"Haha. I'll be more careful from now on."

Leonhardt offered a boyish, innocent grin that suited his age.

Sword Saint Leon had been commanded by the Kingdom to subjugate the Calamity Fang Beast, Olgu. The threat of the beast had sent shivers through the Royal Capital, to the point where the Kingdom was prepared to deploy its entire military force.

Calling upon Sword Saint Leon was a last resort—a testament to the Kingdom’s belief that no one else was capable of the task.

And yet, that very beast had been effortlessly dispatched by someone who was most certainly not the Sword Saint.

Various organizations within the Kingdom were already moving in secret to identify the mysterious individual.

Of course, Haru had no way of knowing any of this—

"Sigh... Really, now. So, did you find out anything regarding the Orgue matter?"

"Hmm..."

"Well, maybe?"

"Maybe...?! Did you find a lead?!"

"Not telling you, Sara."

"Excuse me?! What is that supposed to mean?!"

"There, there. The threat is gone, so there’s no need to rush, right?"

"I suppose that’s true, but..."

"Now then, shall we head back to the Capital?"

"Understood. Furthermore, I have noticed some irregularities in his movements lately. We must remain vigilant."

"Yeah. I’ll have to keep an eye on that, too."

He didn't have any concrete proof.

However, Leon had been unable to see to the bottom of the man known as Haru. Even with the eyes that the previous Sword Saint himself had feared, he couldn’t grasp the full scope of Haru’s existence.

Leonhardt smiled.

(I think I’ll drop by that bakery sometime—)

†

"Good of you to come, Haru."

"Boss. What did you want to talk about?"

Business for the day had concluded, and Risel was currently in the middle of preparing dinner. It smelled like she was making hamburger steaks; a savory, delicious aroma was already wafting through the air.

However, the Boss’s expression was tighter than usual. It was a different kind of intensity than the one he displayed when baking bread.

Haru could feel the tension radiating off him.

"Tomorrow. We’re holding a tasting session for Risel’s new creation."

"I see. Risel gave me the gist of it."

She had mentioned she was working on something new the other day.

"But is there a reason you’re telling me this so formally? Judging by your demeanor, Boss..."

"Sharp as always. Listen. No matter what happens, you are to be positive. Do not criticize. I will make the final judgment. You just stay quiet and say things like 'It’s delicious' or 'This is great.' Got it?"

"Y-Yes, sir..."

It was the first time Haru had seen the Boss look this strained.

What on earth is happening tomorrow...?

Tense and wary, Haru watched the sun rise the next day.

"Haru-san! Good morning!"

"Oh... Good morning."

Risel greeted him with a smile even more sparkling than usual.

However, looking into the kitchen, Haru thought he saw a bead of cold sweat rolling down the Boss’s face as he worked in silence. The atmosphere was bizarre, unlike anything Haru had experienced before.

Just what is about to begin...

"Like I told you the other day, I'm going to show you the new bread I’ve been brainstorming! Haru-san, please give me your honest, unreserved opinion!"

"A-Ah, right..."

I have a bad feeling about this.

Haru shot a quick glance toward the Boss, who gave a solemn, heavy nod.

Bracing himself for whatever was to come, Haru waited with the Boss for Risel’s "new" bread.

"It’s fresh out of the oven!"

The scent wasn't bad.

However, the bread placed before them was... a literal monstrosity.

The dough was a marbled swirl of indigo and violet. After baking, it had taken on a hue reminiscent of some twisted, cephalopod-like entity that had crawled out of the deep sea.

The main body was spherical. However, ten long, twisted "limbs" of dough spiraled out from the perimeter, stretching out in every direction. At the center sat a spherical topping with a core of black cheese. It looked so much like an eye that it gave the illusion the bread was glaring at them.

The appearance was so sinister that it bore a striking resemblance to the monsters found within the Abyss Sanctum.

Surely she can’t serve this...

"Well, go ahead! Dig in!"

"Let’s eat."

"Thank you for the food..."

Haru and the Boss brought the monstrosity to their mouths.

When Haru bit into one of the "tentacles," black cheese oozed out. Why is it black...?

The taste, however, wasn't bad. In fact, because it tasted decent, the utter grotesqueness of its appearance stood out even more.

"Haru-san! How is it? Is it delicious?"

"O-Oh. Yeah. It’s good."

"Dad, what about you?"

"The flavor isn't bad."

"Yes! In that case, can I put my new creation out on the shelves?"

B-Boss...! Haru screamed internally. We can’t put this on display! He sent a pleading, protesting look toward the man.

"...No. You cannot."

"Eh? Why not?"

"The bake is too soft, and the flavors are muddled. It’s only 'not bad' at best."

"Hmm. I guess you’re right... I suppose when you pursue originality, the flavor suffers. But the appearance is great, isn't it?"

"Yeah."

"—?!"

Boss...?! Haru was aghast. You’re validating the look of this freakish thing?!

If this ever hit the shelves, the bakery’s reputation would plummet! Children would cry!

He wanted to say all of that. But he couldn't.

Because Risel was standing there with such a bright, happy smile. Haru simply didn't have it in him to steal that joy from her. He finally understood why the Boss had told him to stay positive.

Still, surely someone had to play the villain here...!

"Well, make sure to try my next one too! Dad, Haru-san!"

"Hmph."

"S-Sure."

With that, Risel headed off to the counter to arrange the standard bread for the day. Haru and the Boss were left alone.

Before he knew it, Haru was drenched in sweat. This level of exhaustion... he hadn't felt it since his days in the Abyss Sanctum.

"B-Boss... What was that...?" Haru asked, his voice trembling slightly.

"To be honest, Risel’s baking skills aren't the problem. But that girl... she has absolutely zero aesthetic sense. That’s not something you can fix with hard work..."

"I’ll say. Honestly, if we put that out, the customers will weep. Though, I suppose it could be seen as a piece of avant-garde art. Are you not going to tell her?"

"...Could you tell the truth to a daughter who’s smiling like that? Could you?"

"Ah... I see your point. But she’ll have to realize it eventually, won't she?"

"Ugh... W-Well, eventually. Haru, get back to work."

"Understood."

And so, Haru learned of an unexpected side to Risel. He also realized the Boss was surprisingly soft when it came to his daughter.

However, Haru did not yet know that the saga of Risel’s 'Artistic Bread' would take a most unexpected turn—

He greeted the customers with his usual energetic tone. He had become quite accustomed to the rhythm of the shop.

"Welcome!"

A petite girl walked through the door.

She wore a large hat and was draped in a black robe. The decorations were modest, but the star patterns running along the sleeves and hem were striking. At her waist, she carried a grimoire pouch and a belt hung with various magical tools. She also wore several ring-type magic items.

She had jet-black, flowing long hair and eyes of a deep purple.

No—could it be?

He didn't even need to hear her voice to know. While Felina and Estelle had grown significantly, she looked exactly the same as she had back then.

"Hmph. Small as ever, I see."

She was his former party member—

"Hm? Who are you?"

"Uh... I'm Haru, the new hire."

"Hmm. You don't exactly look like the 'bakery clerk' type."

"I used to be an adventurer."

"Oh? Is that so?"

"..."

The girl continuing the clipped conversation was the Great Mage Charlotte. Haru used to call her Sharo.

Technically, she used to call him 'Sensei' and treated him as a sort of master, though her talent was so off the charts that he had very little to actually teach her.

"Ah! Sharo-san. Welcome!" Risel called out as she emerged from the back.

As expected, Charlotte was a regular visitor to the shop.

"Risel. I'm here for my usual."

"Yes! Thank you very much!"

"Hmph. It’s not like I'm doing you a favor. It’s just... I figured Sensei would have liked the bread here."

Wait...

Could it be that Sharo was also buying bread to offer at his grave?

She had always been prickly with him back then, so he’d assumed she wouldn't have been particularly bothered by his disappearance.

"Anyway, isn't this 'Haru' guy a bit scary? He’s huge, and his eyes are way too sharp."

"He might look that way, but Haru-san is incredibly talented! Right, Haru-san?"

"E-Er, well. I'm doing my best."

"Hmph."

Charlotte stared intently at Haru for a moment before letting out a small "Ah."

"Hey—you. Has anyone ever told you that you look like someone?"

"No... can’t say they have," Haru replied, averting his gaze slightly.

There was no way she could realize he was Hero Haruto. None... right?

He was starting to lose his confidence. The way his former comrades looked at him was always so similar. But realistically, there was no way she’d know. He bore almost no resemblance to his former self.

"I suppose not. Well, I'll be back."

"Yes! Thank you for coming!"

"Thank you."

She said she'd be back, so he expected a long interval, but Charlotte returned just three days later. As usual, she wore a look of mild irritation.

"Welcome!"

"Hmph."

"You're early today."

"Not really... I'm staying nearby, so I'm just passing through. Did you hear about the monster that appeared in the area recently?"

"Er, I’ve heard rumors."

"It was a named monster that caused quite a bit of damage, but apparently it’s already been subjugated. I wonder who did it. You wouldn't happen to know, would you?"

"I'm afraid not."

"The Knights, the Adventurers Guild, the Magic Association... even the Sword Saint was supposed to be deployed, but it turned out to be a total anticlimax. Well, as long as the threat is gone, I suppose it’s fine."

"..."

In that moment, a realization hit Haru.

Could she be talking about that monster he’d killed on his way to Roten? Given the description, it almost certainly was.

But had it really become such a big deal? To him, it hadn't been much of a threat... but he supposed his standards were skewed after his time in the Abyss Sanctum.

"So, do you have any recommendations today?"

"Ah. In that case—"

Haru suggested a few of the Boss’s breads that were particularly good that day. She bought all of them. Despite her small stature, she had always been a big eater. That, at least, hadn't changed.

"You're quite efficient."

"Am I?"

"Yes. At first, I wondered if a brusque guy like you could actually handle being a clerk."

"Haha. I suppose so. I'm putting my all into it. I'm still a novice at baking, but I hope to one day provide bread as delicious as the Boss’s."

"Hmph. Fine. If you ever make your own bread, I'll buy it."

"Really?"

"But I won't hold back my criticism. So you'd better make sure you train properly until then."

"I understand."

With that, Charlotte left the shop. Her manner wasn't exactly soft, but he could sense her own brand of kindness.

Still, the idea of having someone eat bread he’d made himself didn't feel bad at all.

Later that evening, after work, Haru ran into Charlotte again. She was standing still in the middle of the road for some reason.

What’s wrong with her?

"Good evening, Charlotte-san."

"Eek! You scared me!"

"Ah. Sorry about that."

He had spoken from behind her, causing her to jump.

"What are you doing?"

"Nothing. Just... thinking."

"I see. Is work difficult?"

"Well... yes. Right now I'm tasked with finding the person who killed that monster, among a dozen other investigations. It’s a pain."

"I-I see..."

Wait, she’s looking for the person who killed it? When did that happen? Regardless, he had to make sure no one found out it was him.

"I'll ask again. You really don't have any idea who killed the Calamity Fang Beast, Olgu?"

"No... really."

"Hmph. Figures. But based on the traces left behind, that person is incredibly skilled."

"Is there a possibility another monster killed it?"

"Zero. If it were a fight between monsters, the surroundings would have been far more ravaged. But there was none of that. It was definitely a human."

"..."

T-This is bad. How did it come to this? He hadn't been thinking clearly at the time; he’d just killed it normally, and now it was coming back to haunt him.

"Whether the person was a mage or a swordsman is still unknown. There were no traces left at all. Personally, I suspect the possibility of an invasion by another country. If someone killed it single-handedly, they’d have to be world-class. Equal to, or even greater than, the Sword Saint."

"I... I see..."

He hadn't realized it was such a major incident. To him, it had just been a monster, but to the rest of the world, it was apparently a legendary calamity.

"I'll be staying here a while longer, so let me know if you notice anything. Even the smallest detail."

"Understood."

"Good. Bye-bye, then."

"Yes. Goodbye."

Charlotte walked away. She had been much more childlike in the past, but now she gave the impression of a composed adult, likely due to her position.

But... yeah. He definitely had to keep his involvement in Orgue’s death a secret...

The weekend passed, and work began anew.

Haru had been told beforehand that they would be heading out today to visit one of their suppliers.

"We’re heading to the supplier today. Just to introduce you."

"Where are we going?"

"Oldo Farm. The distance is a short carriage ride."

Haru and Risel set off for Oldo Farm. Apparently, the Boss refused to use any flour other than what was produced there.

An hour’s ride south of Roten, past some gentle rolling hills, a sea of gold stretched out before them.

This was Oldo Farm.

The vast fields were filled with ears of wheat swaying in the wind. A gentle breeze brushed over the land like fingers tracing ripples across the earth. At the center of the farm stood a low-slung, stone farmhouse.

Risel approached and called out in a loud voice.

"It’s Risel! I've come to say hello!"

"Oh! Risel-chan!"

An elderly man appeared. He was slender, but Haru could see the firm muscle beneath his clothes.

"I wanted to introduce our new hire."

"I'm Haru. I'm working under the Boss."

"Ooh! Good build! You wouldn't happen to be a former adventurer, would you?"

"I am."

"Hahaha! From adventurer to baker! I like it. I like guys like you. I'm Oldo. Nice to meet you, Haru."

"Nice to meet you, too."

They shook hands. Oldo seemed like a very kind person.

"Ah. Actually, we have a new girl working here, too. Hey! Rasta! Are you there?!"

Rasta...? No, it had to be a coincidence. It was just a common name.

But the woman who emerged made his heart skip a beat.

"Mm. What is it, Oldo?"

Her skin was as smooth as porcelain, and her eyes were a deep crimson. Her short hair was a fiery red that seemed to melt into the sea of wheat as the wind blew through it. She was dressed lightly, wearing a somewhat flashy outfit that left her midriff exposed.

There was no mistake. She was the final member.

His former comrade—Absolute Guardian Rasta.

"Rasta. These are the people from the bakery we deal with."

"Mm. I, Rasta. Nice to meet you."

"Yes! Nice to meet you!"

"N-Nice to meet you..."

Haru shook Rasta’s hand. She had still been quite youthful back then, but now Rasta had grown into a fine adult.

She specialized in defensive abilities and had always been the first to draw the monsters’ ire in dungeons. Her back had always seemed larger than anyone else's.

But why was she working on a farm? The look suited her perfectly, though; she almost had a regal air about her.

"Um, here’s some bread for you. A little gift."

"Ooh! Always appreciated!"

"Thanks."

Oldo and Rasta took the bread and immediately began eating.

"Delicious! As expected!"

"Tastes good... Mm. Good."

Rasta munched through the bread with lightning speed, looking a bit like a small rodent as she ate.

"Is Rasta-san a new hire as well?" Risel asked.

Oldo was the one who answered.

"Actually, she saved me when I was lost in the woods recently. One thing led to another, and now she’s working for us."

"Mm. I was out of money. Out of food. He helped me a lot."

"Rasta says she used to be an adventurer. She’s incredibly reliable. Honestly, I’d love for her to stay here forever."

"Heh. She’s just like Haru-san."

"...Like him?" Rasta tilted her head.

Ugh... Haru flinched slightly under that pure, direct gaze. Rasta had always had incredible instincts.

"Yes. Haru-san is also a former adventurer!"

"Er... Yes. That’s right."

"Hmm. What a coincidence."

"Y-Yeah."

"Mm."

"..."

The conversation stalled there. Rasta was always blunt and quiet; it was impossible to read her emotions from her expression. He wondered what she was thinking.

"Oh! That’s right. Risel-chan, I wanted to ask you something about the wheat transport."

"Oh, sure! Um... Haru-san?"

"I'll... well, if it’s alright, I’d like to help out with the chores."

"Ooh! In that case, I was just about to start tilling the soil. Rasta, can you show Haru the ropes?"

"Of course. I can do it. Hmph." Rasta puffed out her chest proudly.

And so, Haru found himself working side-by-side with Rasta. He’d offered to help because he was genuinely interested in the farm. It was a vast, beautiful place, and there was something moving about seeing where the ingredients for their bread were born.

"Here. Take this."

"A hoe...?"

"Mm. Dig and level. Soil is the foundation. Important. Or so Oldo says."

"I see."

They arrived at the patch of land to be tilled, and Rasta immediately began her explanation.

"Just dig. That’s all. But be careful."

Once known as the Absolute Guardian, she was now simply tilling the earth. Rasta moved with zero wasted motion, inserting the hoe and turning the soil with steady deliberation. Her movements were surprisingly careful and precise. She never struck the same spot twice, as if she possessed an innate understanding of the earth’s structure.

Every time the blade bit into the ground, the damp, dark earth was crumbled into a soft, workable texture. It was as if the precision she’d once used to manage skill rotations as a tank was now being channeled into farming.

Rasta worked with silent, unerring accuracy. Haru followed suit, working steadily beside her. Since his job at the bakery was mostly indoors, working outside felt refreshing.

"Haru."

"Yes? What is it?"

"You have talent. Good."

"Thank you."

"My important comrade from long ago was a serious person, like you."

Comrade...? Was she talking about Hero Haruto? Driven by curiosity, Haru decided to dig a little deeper.

"A comrade from long ago...?"

"Mm. He stayed behind in a dungeon to save us. Never came back. Everyone thinks he’s dead. They go to his grave. But I still believe. Believe he'll come back. Because Haruto always keeps his promises."

"Is that so..."

"Haruto said I should see more of the world. So I’m an adventurer, and I do different jobs. It’s surprisingly fun."

"That sounds like a good way to live."

"Mm."

Those were the words Haru had once said to Rasta.

If he revealed his identity now, she would probably be overjoyed. But... he was still technically a great criminal in the eyes of the law. Lacking the courage to take that step, he simply continued his work.

I am Haru, the bakery clerk. He told himself that was enough.

"Here. Water."

"Thank you."

They finished tilling the soil together. He’d been so focused that the time had flown by. Haru took the bottle from Rasta and gulped down the water.

"Haru is serious. I like that."

"You think so?"

"Mm. You were an adventurer, so you have stamina."

"Haha. Yeah. Stamina is about the only thing I'm confident in."

"Normally, people get very tired after this much work. But you’re as energetic as me."

"Well, you have quite a lot of stamina yourself, Rasta-san."

"Fufu. Of course I do." Rasta puffed out her chest again.

Yeah. I know. You always had more stamina than anyone else.

"Sniff, sniff."

Suddenly, Rasta leaned in close to Haru and began sniffing him.

"W-What are you doing...?"

"Somehow... you smell familiar."

"H-Haha... really?"

"Mm."

Rasta stared at him intensely. It was clear she was suspicious of something...

"Haru-san! Rasta-san!"

Risel’s arrival was a godsend. Haru breathed a mental sigh of relief.

It was time to head home. He shared a final farewell with Oldo and Rasta.

"Haru, thanks for today. Here’s a little something for your trouble."

Oldo handed him a paper bag that felt surprisingly heavy. Inside were several vibrant, fresh apples.

"Are you sure? This is a lot."

"Don't worry about it! You were a big help!"

"Mm. Haru did a good job."

"Thank you very much."

"Oldo-san’s fruit is delicious! Aren't you lucky, Haru-san!" Risel chirped.

"Yeah."

As Haru and Risel turned to leave, Rasta called out to them.

"Haru. See you again."

"Uh, yes. See you."

Rasta gave a small wave. For a moment, he thought he saw the faint trace of a smile on her face.

"Phew..."

Back at home, Haru collapsed onto his bed. He stared blankly at the ceiling, reflecting on everything that had happened.

He was shocked to have reunited with everyone, but he was genuinely glad to see they were all doing well.

What struck him most was that none of them seemed like they would have betrayed him. So then, why am I being treated like a criminal? Does it have something to do with the Kingdom rather than my comrades?

Or perhaps they were simply hiding their betrayal very well.

He’d thought he was done with his past, but his mind kept racing. He couldn't help but wonder what the truth really was.

But his former comrades were happy, and he was moving forward with his new life. Maybe I don't need to know the truth.

I am Haru the baker now. That’s all.

However, his reunion with his former friends was already drawing him closer to the heart of the mystery. Unaware of the path ahead, he slowly drifted off to sleep.