A Duty to Fulfill

Ahhh... You know Aldo, few things are more relaxing than the gentle breeze here in Inanari♪

That's right, you're from around here, aren't you?

Heehee, you remembered? How sweet of you Aldo♪ Since you've come all this way with me, we should take the time to see my ancestors♪

Why on earth should I meet your ancestors?

My, my, Aldo, isn't it obvious?

But before we do that, I've got a little bit of work to take care of.

And if only I had a strapping, young man to help me with it...

Go ahead, Hozuki. Lay it on me. Last time I checked you were a merchant, pub owner, and informant. So which of these are you today?

Do I detect a hint of suspicion, Aldo? It's just a simple sale, buuuut with a hint of danger.

A hint of danger?

That's right... We're making the deal near Nagsham today.

Nagsham? Did you have some trouble there?

Come on, Aldo, don't you know? Nagsham's right under Garneli's nose.

I left my debts to Garneli behind when I went to the west, right?

Yeah, you fled in the middle of the night, didn't you?

Heeey, you make it sound like I'm the bad guy in this. I just took my leave without telling anyone. No harm there. And while it's not my fault, I still feel just a tad uncomfortable doing business in Nagsham.

If you say so...

Despite that, I've got to make this deal.

I was thinking the Vermilion Road would be a good location to start.

You need to sell something that badly?

Heehee, big time.

It's Garneli's birthday celebration, remember? This is a chance to prepare to sell a huge amount of drinks.

Wait, you "prepare"? The celebration's already started though.

Exactly! I'm getting ready to supply the drinks for next year's event.

And it's customary to open a bottle that's been aging for a long time to celebrate a fortuitous year.

Everyone'll be trying to get their hands on something special. Which's why rare bottles from the West sell for a good price♪

I had no idea, but now that you mention it, I've never seen any shops in Nagsham selling bottles from the West.

Hehehe... Business never takes a day off, but many merchants forget this rule around this time. No one wants to stop partying which means I get all the customers♪

Haha. You really know your stuff, Hozuki.

Impressive, isn't it?

The keys to any good business are location and timing.

Forget those and one can never be a truly successful merchant♪

I'll keep that in mind. Well then, what do you want me to do?

Your mission...if you choose to accept it, is to be my guard.

Your guard?

So you see, I REEEAAALY don't want to bump into Garneli, and I need you to make sure of that. And if we happen to run into her, I need someone to hide behind. Is that okaaay?

That's no easy task, Hozuki...

Oh dear, it's not difficult at all.

Just grab my hand and pull me behind you. Here, try it.

U-Umm... Like this?

Oh my, you're so good Aldo♪

My, my, there's nothing you can't do, is there? Oh and one more thing...

What's wrong?

You're so much more...manly, watching you from behind.

So dependable and sweet♪ Just allow me to...

WOAH WOAH WOAH!

Heehee... You're so cute♪

Cut it out, Hozuki! You're making me uncomfortable...

Uncomfortable? How could you say that, Aldo? All I wanted to do was give you a little tickle♪

And that's why I'm a little weirded out.

Heehee♪ Just what I expected from you.

Anyway, it's about time we went to the Vermilion Road♪

Argh! Where did they go?!

S-Sir, is everything all right?

Empress Garneli's treasure room was robbed by bandits and we're still looking for the last one.

Oh dear...

Do not worry, my lady. The roads are blocked and we've locked down the area. It's just a matter of time before we find 'em.

Looks like I'm in the clear...for now.

But what can I do? It sounds like the others were caught, and all I've got is this disguise.

I can't just waltz past these guys like this. I'll need some kind of distraction. And to do that...

This'll be a good place to set up shop.

I could set someone else up to get arrested.

I hate giving up a part of my take, but I've got no choice. I gotta use this jewel.

Perfect! Now it looks like a professional shop.

Let's see...tableware, linens, pottery... These are all rare items from the other lands. So it's not just drinks?

If you buy a nice bottle, you'll need a fancy cup. If you buy that cup, you'll need a stylish coaster...

And once you have that coaster, you'll need a flower vase. As a merchant, you've got to keep their interest♪

You're quite something, Hozuki.

Don't let your eyes wander, Aldo.

Wh-What are you talking about?

I know you've encountered many girls, but don't forget that I'm the best and always will be.

Should you let your eyes wander for even a moment...

Wh-What are you going to do?

I'll mark you with my fragrance so no other girl will get close to you♪

WOAH WOAH WOAH!

*rub rub* Soft and fluffy isn't it? Before you know it, you'll smell just like me!

Oh my... It smells mighty sweet!

*rub rub* Heheh♪ Now no girl will come close to you.

Cut it out, Hozuki!

W-We've gotta finish setting up the shop, right?

Heheh... I almost had you♪

Back to business, but are you also selling what's in that box? Looks like it's shut tight.

Oh! That...

Th-That's not for sale, Aldo. Mind putting it away somewhere?

You look a bit distraught. Something special about the box?

Nothing special, really. Just something odd about it.

It's super strictly-sealed box of unopening.

It is? I swear I could just open...

NO, YOU MUST NOT! I mean... I promise that you don't want to open it.

G-Got it. I'll leave it alone.

......

The curiosity is killing me. MUST...OPEN...THE BOX.

Give me a break...

Will you leave it alone if I stop tell you about the super strictly-sealed box of unopening?

Please tell me. Or else I'll die of curiosity.

It all happened after I had departed from Nagsham.

Phew... I'm lucky I made it out of there without getting caught.

Hm? I don't remember bringing this aboard.

Uh oh! It's got Garneli's sigil on it. But how? Did I bring this accidentally?

What's this? It's got a letter attached to it.

Let's see...

C-Clothes that control the Yokos...

But I would hate to be unable to collect on your debts to me.

Yipes!

That is why I am giving these clothes to you just in case things get out of hand. These clothes, woven in a unique cotton, will absorb the spirits' power and transfer it to the wearer.

Wear it, and you shall be able to control that power as you see fit.

You might just find it useful when you're in trouble...

How does this even work?

If it really works, then it'll help keep the Yokos under wraps.

This long journey of paying off my debts just got a lot easier.

Hold up... Does that mean Garneli knew I was running away the whole time?

Nope, no way no how...

It's all just a big coincidence. Bringing this box on board was purely an accident...that's it.

I mean...it wouldn't hurt to see how the clothes look on me.

I hope it's pretty, though! Let me see...

Huh?

AAAHHH!

Which brings us back here.

Huh?! Wait a second. What happened after you opened the box?

Oh, yeah you see about that... Those clothes were cursed with really dark magic.

Right...

When I opened the box, the clothes came flying at me!

The clothes did?!

It surrounded me, body, hair, and all, in a matter of moments. It was like I was swallowed up by it.

No way! It sounds like some kind of people-gobbling garb! Is it really that powerful?

And that's not all...

There was a price to pay...to wear the clothes. And it wasn't a small price...

What was the price?

When I put the clothes on, I couldn't take a single step.

Seriously?! H-How does that even work? Are they cursed to drain your life-force away?

No! Not that... I uh... I don't want to tell you!

I never ever want to experience that again. Hence, I sealed it away in the box.

Geeze... It must've been pretty bad to get you so worked up over it.

Exactly! I really wanted to throw the box away for good. But I got worried that some innocent victim would come along and open it up. That's why I still have it.

Therefore, it became the super strictly-sealed box of unopening...

Don't you get it? Under no circumstances should the box be opened. NO MATTER WHAT!

Yeah, yeah, I got it. I promise I won't open the box. Let's just put it away somewhere safe.

Thanks, Aldo.

I guess that's the last of it. We're ready to open the shop now.

Huh?

What's wrong, Hozuki?

......

Sorry to bring this up, but can we move the shop?

What the heck?! We just finished setting everything up.

Well, yeah, okay... But why the sudden change?

You see, Aldo... I've got the feeling that we can get a little greedier.

Since we've all this fantastic merchandise, I thought we should set up shop in Nagsham. What do you think?

You think that's a good idea? I mean, Garneli could be around any corner there.

Heheh♪ When that happens, you'll let me hide behind you, won't you?

Yeah, I guess. Well then, let's carry everything over to Nagsham.

What the... I thought they were just about to open up. Hmm...

Anyway, it doesn't matter where the shop is, everything's already in motion.

They'll unknowingly be selling a stolen jewel, and I'll just happen to be nearby to scream. That's all it takes...

Hehehe♪ One day, when I got rid of all the Yokos, Aldo and I'll run a shop together just like this.

Poor woman... Keep smiling while you sill can.

Thank ya kindly♪

I've never seen a bottle like this before. Are these what they sell in the west?

These linens are nice. Can I get some?

Excuse me, miss. What's this incense?

Ah, that's a very excellent product. It's a protective incense used all over the West. It attracts monsters, so you're supposed to light it and throw it far away when you see them coming for you.

So that they get distracted, huh? That could come in handy in a jam. I'll take some.

Why thank you!

Looks like everything's going well. Well done, Hozuki.

Heheh... Are you doing your job, or just leering at me?

Hozuki!

Huh?

Hozuki! I haven't seen you for ages. Why didn't you tell me you were back?

Why hello. It's been so long.

You two know each other?

He's a civil official here in Nagsham, and he takes gooood care of me♪

I never expected to see you out here. Is it your day off?

The moment I heard that such a beautiful merchant had arrived, I knew it had to be you. So I snuck out.

Awww... Your words are like honey to my ears.

You've just earned yourself the privilege of seeing the best merchandise I'm offering♪

Huh? Is this a piece of cloth? How is it valuable?

Not just any cloth. You can wipe up just about anything leaving no stains behind♪

It's a must-have for any serious dusting. Plus, look at its beautiful design.

The embroidery on the front and back is second to none.

Hmm?

My goodness, Hozuki, how did you end up getting this?!

See? Beautiful, isn't it?

Yeah. I've never seen anything so beautiful. I'd gladly take it.

Thank ya kindly!

Hey, Hozuki. How valuable was that piece of cloth, really?

It wasn't valuable at all♪ You can get cloth like that anywhere.

But then, what did I just see?

Heheh. I'll explain later♪

That's enough for today. We'd better start closing up.

Huh?

That person over there, sir!

Ahh!

What're you doing?! You can't just arrest her for no reason!

D-Don't touch me! I haven't done anything!

What're you talking about?

What?!

Me? A bandit?

I saw it all. You were running away with the other bandits.

P-Please wait! This accusation is completely groundless!

That's right! Hozuki would never do such a thing! She was with me the whole time!

Not so fast. I've seen the proof with my own eyes!

I saw you hide a stolen jewel inside that pot!

In that pot?

That one, over there! The biggest one.

If you think that I'm lying, see for yourself! Turn the pot over and see what happens!

......

Be careful with those, will you? They're expensive.

Ahh!

Look!

It's the jewel! It's what was stolen from the treasure room, wasn't it?!

Wh-What is it?

H-He's right!

What?!

Th-That's impossible! I swear it's right inside here...

Huh? What's with this stone?

Heehee♪

What are you laughing about?

My oh my. Who would've thought a precious jewel could transform into a regular stone♪

IT'S YOU! YOU DID THIS!

Tell me! How does a jewel change into a regular stone?!

How should I know? Perhaps it was a mischievous fox spirit casting a spell♪

I'd be more worried about myself if I were you.

The rest of the jewels have all turned to junk as well.

Huh? That can't be right...

Oh...

Heehee... Did you figure it out?

You reacted pretty strongly when I said "the rest of the jewels."

Why you, !

What happened?

Simply put, this bandit got what was coming to her♪

Really?!

Maybe she couldn't run and needed to pin the crime on someone else.

Then she could've escaped while the guards were busy investigating me.

......

When did you find out about the jewel?

Right at the start, of course.

A true merchant'll notice even the slightest change in their merchandise.

Really?!

The pot was moved ever so slightly to the side. When I peeked inside, the jewel was there.

But when did you look inside?

Just as I was passing by, a quick glance really. The jewel was pretty large, and so I knew something was wrong.

Forgive me. You had the right idea, but unfortunately, I was one step ahead of you♪

And that's how you got me...

Then where is the jewel? It couldn't have really transformed into a stone, right?

Heehee♪ Don't worry, Aldo. I secretly passed the jewel to a trusted friend. It should be back in Garneli's hands by now.

Who would that be?

Wait, I think I know.

Why hello. It's been so long.

I never expected to see you out here. Is it your day off?

The moment I heard that such a beautiful merchant had arrived, I knew it had to be you. So I snuck out.

Not just any cloth. You can wipe up just about anything leaving no stains behind♪

The embroidery on the front and back is second to none.

You used the cloth to hide the jewel!

You mean you knew is belonged to Garneli just by looking at it?

Heehee... Never underestimate the eye of a true merchant.

I've been doing this long enough to see that it was no ordinary jewel.

Its size, clarity, and quality... Only a ruler of a kingdom could own something so exquisite.

Damn...

Remember this. Don't pick a fight with a merchant. It won't end well.

So that's how it is. You knew everything from the get go.

Well, I guess there's nothing else to do.

Huh?

Woah!

*cough cough* A smoke bomb!

She's gone... I've got to admit, she's persistent.

But I'm sure the guards'll catch up to her. Are you alright, Hozuki?

......

Something wrong, Hozuki?

It's gone.

Huh?

The incense is gone...

The one you were selling earlier? The one that attracts monsters?

Yeah. The items from the treasure room, too. That bandit's up to something.

What do you mean?

She ran south, didn't she?

She must be heading to the Vermilion Road. Let's get her, Hozuki!

I wish you hadn't had followed me...

Don't you have better things to do than to chase me?

Hozuki, is that what I think it is?

It's the stolen incense! They've all been lit! Lit all together, they'll drive the monsters absolutely crazy!

Can they be stopped if we put out the incense?

That should do it.

The heck?! Why aren't they stopping?

We're too late. They've breathed in too much of the incense already.

You've gotta be kidding me!

Uhh!

What's wrong, Hozuki?!

*pant pant*... Stand back. Yoko is waking up!

Could it be the incense?!

Hang in there! I'll take you somewhere safe!

N-No! You can't!

Why not?!

We must stop the monsters from charging into Nagsham! I'm the only one who can now!

No way! You can't do that in this condition...

I have to... This is my home...

Hozuki...

With Garneli here and the debts I bear, I was worried about coming home...

But I returned today with a new confidence that I didn't have before!

However...

Aldo...

What?!

I can't run away from this anymore.

You don't mean the box, do you?

I told you that the clothes inside the box allows me to control the Yoko's power.

I hoped that I'd never have to open it...

But there's no other option now... I've got to save my home.

Wait!

You said there was a price to pay for opening the box!

Don't worry about me, Aldo. What happens to me doesn't matter anymore.

I'll let not a single monster get by me!

Y-You've changed!

Dear me, Aldo. I really didn't want you to see me like this.

But now that you've seen me in this outfit...

You can't hold out on me anymore, Aldo.

*huff puff*

Are you all right, Hozuki?

Oh my...

Is this the price for wearing the clothes?

Ughhhh...

You're in pain, right? Tell me what I can do for you!

I...

Yes?

I want to change clothes.

That's it?!

Ugh... It's SO embarrassing to walk around dressed like this. It's too embarrassing to move in. Please let me go get changed.

THAT'S IT?! That's the price?

Exactly... The clothes make me stronger...

But it's far too embarrassing to wear.

That's what held you back all this time?

This is a big deal to me! A guy like you wouldn't understand.

To tell the truth...

There's not that much of a difference between that and what you normally wear.

How can you say that?! They're completely different!

Look at these fluffy things handing here. And the power is making my beautiful fur stand on end.

Last but not least, it makes my human ears stand out!

Your ears?

D-Don't even think about it! I can't stand it when people stare at my ears!

Why?

W-Well... We can't really see our own ears, right? What if they were ugly?!

They don't look ugly to me at all.

That doesn't help! I'm still embarrassed to show my ears!

Oh dear, Aldo. You weren't supposed to see me like this. I want to let my hair down, but the hairpin won't come off...

Want me to take it off?

Wh-What are you saying?! I can't even stand having you look at me! If you try to touch me, the fur on my tail'll get all frizzy!

M-My bad...

But honestly, there's nothing you should be embarrassed about.

Huh?

You saved everyone even though you hate wearing that outfit.

That's really cool of you, Hozuki. And you look really amazing!

Oh, Aldo...

Huh?

Watch out!

That was close... I can't believe it still had energy after our battle. Anyway, it looks like they're in control again and are moving away from the city. Are you okay?

...Not at all.

Huh?

Obviously I'm not okay! Aldo, we can't pretend we're just friends anymore.

What do you mean?

I-I'm going to go get changed! Who knows what'll happen if I ran into Garneli looking like this...

Well isn't that Hozuki...

Eek!

Garneli! What a coincidence...

Hello, Hero of the West. It seems that once again you've saved us all. We caught the last bandit thanks to you.

You already caught her? That's impressive, Garneli.

So, Hozuki. I got the stolen jewel back. If I'm correct, you passed it on to one of my vassals. And your handling of the monsters was very helpful.

I...umm...

She's praising you for what you did. Why are you shaking, Hozuki?

I'm shaking BECAUSE she's praising me.

It would be most dishonorable if I were to not reward you for your assistance.

It isn't much, but I have this note for you.

What is that?

The Splendid Land Baths in the south are reserved for the day under my name. That note gives you permission to use it.

Really?! The baths?

I'd booked it to refresh myself after recent events, but I can't go due to today's incident.

It would be a waste if no one could take advantage of the reservation.

Nice! That sounds great! Not everyone gets such an opportunity!

Hold up, Aldo... I've got the feeling she has an ulterior motive.

Come on, Hozuki. She's just trying to be nice, right?

She says that but...

Does my offer displease you? Then perhaps I should tear this note up...

Oh my...

Such a shame you know... There would be a feast prepared by the finest chef in the lands.

You don't say...

I hear those baths can refresh even the most exhausted adventurer after a long journey. And on top of that, the baths do wonders for your skin...

WE'LL TAKE THE REWARD!

How wonderful!

But I just want to check that you're not gonna trick us like adding this to the debt I still owe you, right?

I said this was a reward, didn't I?

Do not worry yourself. This note will add nothing to your debt. However, don't think that this reward will reduce your debt in any way.

Oh my...

Hozuki, I'm anxiously awaiting the day that you finally pay off your debts.

O-Of course, I promise!

Phew... I AM EXHAUSTED...

Come on, Aldo. Let's go to the baths!

Geeze... Garneli really gives me the shivers.

Does she? She seems especially nice to you.

I mean just look at this. She's letting us use the baths.

You don't know what she truly is, Aldo. Sometimes she is kind, other times she's cruel. That's how she keeps me close to pay off my debts.

Is that right?

She was kind to use this time, but you never know how she'll be next time...

She can't buy me off with baths!

Hahah... She might not be all that bad, Hozuki.

Look, your tail is wagging. You're excited about the baths, aren't you?

Heehee... Why of course I am♪ How wonderful is it that it's gonna be just the two of us... Don't you think so, Aldo?

Sure, I mean, I'm really looking forward to relaxing.

Ah! There it is! I can see the baths!

Welcome. We've been waiting for the two of you.

(Hm?)

Um...so we got this note from Garneli...

A note? Hmm... Yes, I see.

So you two are here in place of Empress Garneli. That's no trouble at all. Please enjoy your time here.

Your room is ready. It is our most romantic suite for a couple such as yourselves.

I beg your pardon?!

You are a married couple, are you not? My apologies for the mistake. Heheheh...

Heehee♪ No problem. This is Aldo, and I am his pet♪

We aren't husband and wife...YET.

"Yet"?

I'm going to go soak myself in the baths. I'll see you later, Aldo.

Mmmmm... It's been ages since I could relax like this.

But it was a little strange back there...

Welcome. We've been waiting for the two of you.

The old woman seemed like she was expecting two guests. But how did she know that before even looking at the note? That could mean only one thing...

Your Highness. We've been informed that they have reached the Splendid Land Baths.

Good. Now, return to your post.

P-Pardon me, Your Highness, but may I ask the purpose of this arrangement?

Do I need a purpose for everything? Perhaps I just wanted my debtor to stay healthy and hardy. Hozuki is of no value to me damaged. She won't be able to pay me back.

How merciful you are, Your Highness. You care for the dregs of society as much as your loyal subjects.

I am once again reminded how honored I am to be in your service.

And should you need someone to govern our new southern lands...

Did I not ask you to return to your post?

Of course, Your Highness!

*sigh* Will I ever have to chance to relax? Everyone I speak to tries to flatter me for their own ends. I wish they could act more like her.

She shows who she really is... And she does not hide her detest or fear of me. That's the kind of person I can trust. Hopefully, she'll continue to detest me...

Nah... Garneli wouldn't do something like that for Hozuki.

Huh?

Aaaaldo my boy♪

H-Hozuki? Is that you?

The baths feel great, don't they? Why don't you join me over here?

In the women's bath?! NO WAY!

Why noooot? It's just you and me here, remember? No one else has to know...

That's not the point.

How's the bath on your side? Is it taking away all your tension?

Yeah, the temperature is just right. It's really nice...

Mmm... I see. Perhaps I could join you, then.

W-WHAT?!

*achoo!* My, my, it's cold. Here...I...come!

Did you just got out of the bath? W-Wait! Calm down, will you?!

But Aldo... Let me wash your back... Pretty pleeeaaase?

Absolutely not!

Aww, you're mean... That hurts my feelings, you know.

......

I never imagined you'd say no... But it's fine. I'll listen to you this time...

Phew...

Geez. Hozuki can be trouble sometimes. Just because we're the only ones here doesn't mean we should be bathing together.

Hozuki?!

Mmm... You were right. The temperature is just right♪

I thought I told you not to come!

Did you, now? Heheh♪

I thought you just said I can't wash your back♪

B-B-But...! You knew exactly what I meant!

Heehee♪ Oh really?

Anyway, this is wrong!

I'm gonna keep facing the other way, so you better be gone by the time I turn around!

Okie-dokie...

......

Mmm...♪

You can't fool me, Hozuki.

......

You just got closer to me.

How could you tell? I just wanted to surprise you, you know♪

I'm not falling for that! Aren't you embarrassed?

A bit, but not nearly as embarrassed as when I'm wearing that other outfit.

Seriously?! You think that's more embarrassing than this situation?!

Without a doubt. Do you have any idea how hard it was for me to put on that outfit? There's only one special guy I'd let see me like that...

Well now, let's see who can stay in the water longer♪

Somebody! Anybody! HELP ME!