Deformed stories

Chapter 9: The Craftsman's Passion — Part 1: Transparent Panel 

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Warning: This content may contain explicit or mature themes and is intended for viewers 18 and older. Viewer discretion is strongly advised.

Translator's Note: Just to remind. As explained in Chapter 1, Part 2, time was measured differently.

Volume 1: Witch Carly Arc

Chapter 9: The Craftsman's Passion 

— Part 1: Transparent Panel 

By now, they are probably about halfway through the Kingdom of Uniom. 

Beyond it lies the Kingdom of Victor. Her former party might be there, but the chances are slim.

After that is the Kingdom of Lima, where her former party should be.

She wonders if they managed to escape safely and if they're doing well.

She really wants to meet them and have them rejoin her.

Magnolia reflected on her thoughts about the members of "Lightning Attack."

The destination beyond is the Zuhl Kingdom, the country where Witch Carly resides.

They are now approaching the point where they can sense their journey nearing its destination.

Once the witch's curse is broken, they'd like to travel at a leisurely pace with just the two of them. It might even be nice to settle in a town if they feel like it.

To make that possible, they must break the curse without fail.

However, for now, Magnolia had no choice but to accept being tormented by the curse.

She would need to find someone to pray to in the town they arrived at.

She could sense that the curse was about to stir.

"This town is large, so there should be some good inns."

"Yes, it seems that way."

Magnolia gave a half-hearted reply.

After dinner today, Magnolia planned to go out alone for a drink and look for someone to pray to. Aurelius would likely understand.

Magnolia worried about being asked to pray in the same room.

Last time, Aurelius had seen her having sex, tricked in part. Nevertheless, since he loved her just the same, she prepared herself to do it in the same room. Yet, she still felt some hesitation and embarrassment.

The limit was approaching, but Magnolia couldn't bring it up. Even though Aurelius understood, he said nothing. A tense atmosphere lingered between them.

They sold the monsters they had hunted on the way to the guild and headed towards the recommended inn.

"I've heard there's a special room in this town where even nobles stay. I wonder what it's like."

"So you're considering staying there? It must be quite expensive."

Since tonight seemed like it would be special, he wanted to stay in a special room. Especially for Magnolia, a fitting room was needed.

"I'm not sure. I'd at least like to check it out.

If it's nice and the price is reasonable, we might stay. We have plenty of money."

Indeed, selling the hunt had brought in a substantial amount of money, and in addition, the potions Aurelius had could fetch a high price, with over three hundred still available. Furthermore, with the materials on hand, he could make more if time allowed.

Thus, Aurelius had more than enough money, so staying at a slightly expensive inn wasn't an issue.

The real question was whether it was worth it.

Not just the cost, but whether it was appropriate for Magnolia's special night.

"Looks like this is the place."

There was a magnificent inn exactly where the guild had said it would be. The entrance had an impressive door, and after opening it, there was another door inside. The inner door had a transparent section, and it seemed like someone inside could see those standing outside. However, Aurelius couldn't figure out what the transparent part was made of.

"Welcome. You're adventurers, aren't you?

Are you looking to use our inn?"

As soon as the inner door was opened, a inn staff greeted them. It seemed that opening the first door alerted the staff to their presence.

"We were told about this place at the guild.

They said this is the best inn in town."

Aurelius glanced around the reception area.

As expected of a high-class inn, it was spotless, and flowers and vases were tastefully arranged. Among them was a familiar tanuki figurine, radiating a certain charm.

Beside the reception was a dining hall with a calm atmosphere. Only four people, likely merchants or noble servants, were having a quiet conversation.

In one corner, two men stood talking with tense expressions. One was well-dressed and appeared composed, while the other had a rugged build and wore dirty, worn clothes, not the type you'd expect to frequent a luxury establishment.

The two men were arguing, but it didn't seem like things would turn violent.

"I heard this inn has good rooms. I'd like to see one.

If I like it, I'll stay.

Money's not an issue—I've had a good haul recently."

As Aurelius spoke, the receptionist looked troubled and glanced at the two arguing men.

"Yes, we do have special rooms that even nobles use.

One of them is occupied, but the other is available… but for tonight…"

The inn staff glanced at the two men again.

At that moment, the well-dressed man noticed and approached Aurelius.

"Apologies, I'm the owner of this inn.

We do have a special room, but unfortunately, it's under repair.

It's only a small section, but the most critical part is damaged. The repairs were supposed to be finished today, but there's been a delay.

It will definitely be ready by tomorrow."

"What do you mean 'finished today'? Stop making promises on your own! We're rushing as fast as we can, but I already told you the essential part won't be ready until this evening at the earliest."

The rugged man interrupted. He seemed to be a craftsman, and it appeared they were arguing over when the repairs would be completed.

"Even if it's under repair, I'd still like to see the room. Is that okay?"

"Eh, yes, if it's just for a look, that's fine."

It seemed the owner would personally show them the room.

"Don't be shocked when you see the work I've done." 

The craftsman appeared to be joining them as well.

They climbed the stairs to the second floor, which looked like the typical hallway of an inn. It was slightly wider, lit by lamps, and immaculately clean, with flowers decorating the space, giving it an air of sophistication. However, it didn't feel particularly extraordinary. The only thing that stood out was a staircase leading up to another floor.

Aurelius had rarely seen three-story buildings, even Magnolia. The only exceptions were castles where kings or lords resided or fortresses protecting key locations.

They had no memory of any three-story houses in town where commoners lived.

"This way."

Smiling, the owner led them up the stairs, seemingly pleased by the surprise on Aurelius and Magnolia's faces.

When they reached the third floor, they found only a short corridor and two doors.

"This room is available.

Please feel free to take a look."

The owner opened the door, and the two of them entered.

"Hoh—"

They involuntarily expressed their admiration.

In the spacious room, there were two large beds neatly made with clean sheets. Additionally, there were comfortable chairs and an elegant table.

However, their astonishment was not directed at these items.

It was the windows that covered an entire wall of the room that amazed them.

The windows were neither wooden nor metallic.

Though they couldn't quite identify it, something transparent was fitted into the wooden frame.

Because of this, the entire cityscape outside was visible. Being on the third floor with no large buildings nearby, they could only see rooftops.

Moreover, it seemed they could go outside as there was a wooden deck with a table and chairs, perfect for relaxing. There was also a wooden box, which might contain something else.

"Hoh, this is a nice room.

The window is transparent—what material is it?"

"That's glass. It's one of the inn's special features."

"It's made in my workshop. It's a unique product you won't find elsewhere."

The rugged man was a glassmaker.

"While we take pride in the glass, we also believe the balcony is exceptional.

Being on the third floor, you can relax without fear of being observed from the outside.

Additionally, there's a water bucket on the balcony. You can use it to drink, wash, or bathe. Feel free to use it however you like.

However, I transport it in a storage box every day. The current amount is free of charge. If you need more, just let us know and we'll arrange it for you."

It seemed the wooden box on the balcony was indeed a water bucket.

With this balcony, there was no worry about being seen, making it quite attractive for bathing.

"We're adventurers and have our own storage boxes. Is it alright if we transport it ourselves?"

"Yes, indeed. Skilled adventurers carry their own storage boxes.

Of course, that's fine.

Since the area below the balcony is a roof, there's no concern about water dripping. You can relax without any worries."

"Uhm, I really like it. Please let us stay here.

How much is it for one night?"

"We offer breakfast and dinner served in the room, and the cost for two people is three gold coins per night."

At a regular inn, a room with meals for two would cost five silver coins, so this was twelve times more expensive. It was quite high, but it wasn't a problem for Aurelius.

"I can manage that. Magnolia, is this room okay with you?

In that case, we'd like to stay tonight."

Magnolia's eyes also sparkled, indicating she was pleased.

"No, that's not possible.

As I mentioned earlier, this room is under repair, so we can't accommodate guests."

They were turned down by the owner.

"Eh, what's broken?"

Aurelius couldn't identify what was broken.

"That part over there."

The owner pointed to the very bottom edge of the window.

Upon closer inspection, one pane had been replaced with a wooden board instead of glass. It was in the shadow of the curtain and barely visible.

Even if one pane was a wooden board instead of glass, it shouldn't be a problem at all.

"If it's just that, I don't mind. Please let us stay here."

"No, I must refuse."

"No, I refuse. I won't allow it."

Despite Aurelius and Magnolia not minding, they were rejected not only by the owner but also by the craftsman.

"This room's pride is that all the windows have glass. To let you stay in a room with a wooden board instead of glass would be a blemish on our inn."

"All the windows should have glass to be complete. Using a window with unfinished glass is a disgrace to a craftsman. I can't allow it myself."

Both seemed to have pride in their work and were absolutely unwilling to compromise.

However, Aurelius was determined to stay in this room.

He had an idea when he saw the glass windows and the balcony. Magnolia would likely agree to this.

"I really want to stay tonight. Is it absolutely impossible?

When will the repair be finished?"

"The glass is ready—we are just polishing it now. Cutting corners would affect the clarity.

It will take about two more hours."

"It's currently seven o'clock, so it should be ready by nine."

"That's true, but even though I can put it in, my work officially ends at 9 o'clock.

So, it will be tomorrow before you can get accomodation."

Indeed, staying tonight was not possible.

However, it is not absolute.

"If that's the case, could you work from nine o'clock today as a special exception? I'll pay you for that. How does ten silver coins sound? If you like it, I'll also offer a special bonus."

"Well, if you're offering that much, I suppose I can do it today. 

But what's this special bonus? Is it additional pay?"

"I can't offer money, but there will be something special as a surprise at that time. 

Also, we'll be able to stay in this room from now on, right? 

So, if possible, I'd like to be in the room a bit earlier. 

I'll pay for an extra day, of course. 

What do you think?"

The conversation then turned to the owner.

"Yes, once the repairs to the room are finished, we can accommodate you. 

Sometimes customers arrive earlier than planned. 

If the room is available, we accommodate them."

"Then, staying in this room shouldn't be an issue."

"That's correct."

Aurelius insisted on staying in the room.

"Then I'll pay in advance. It was three gold coins, right?"

Since Aurelius handed over the gold coins, they could stay in the room.

"Well then, let me relax here. 

Magnolia, why don't you step out onto the balcony and take in the view? The breeze is nice."

When Aurelius went out onto the balcony, Magnolia joined him.

"Indeed, the view is pleasant, and the breeze feels good. 

But why?

Why are you so particular about this room?"

"I liked the transparent glass here. I also liked the idea of being able to bathe on the balcony. 

If bathing is allowed, I thought it would be nice to set up a bath here. 

Since this place is high up, it probably won't be visible from below. I wanted to relax in the hot water with just the two of us, away from the town."

"That does sound enjoyable. I'm looking forward to it as well. 

But is that all? 

Is that the only reason you're so attached to this room?"

"Magnolia, you need to pray tonight, don't you?"

"Yes, I suppose so."

Magnolia stared at the floor with a blank face.

"Is it alright if I'm in the room while you're praying?"

"If it makes you happy, then I'll be happy too. 

But please don't forget how truly embarrassing and uncomfortable it is for me."

"Umm, I know. And I can see that Magnolia is happy. I'm happy to see that. 

So, I hope you'll pray in this room tonight—"

A voice from inside the room interrupted Aurelius, who was still talking.

"I'll come back to install the glass as soon as it's ready. I need to check on the workshop and attend to other tasks, so I'm heading out."

The craftsman had quickly confirmed the size of the glass to be installed. He tucked a folding measure into his waist and started to leave the room.

"Ah, please wait."

"Is there something else, brother?"

"No, I was just curious about how you make this glass. If you're too busy now, it can wait until after the installation."

"That's a closely guarded secret. No matter how much you offer, I can't disclose it."

"I figured as much. If others could make it, it would ruin the business."

"Even if you know, it's not something that can be easily made. Is there anything else?"

"I have one more request. When making such wonderful glass, do you have a shrine or amulet that you pray to? We would like to pray as well. It's probably impossible to bring a shrine, but if you have a portable amulet, could you bring it when you come to install the glass? Magnolia especially likes to pray."

Magnolia looked surprised at the side.

"That's quite easy. I have a amulet for Tenmoku-sama, the guardian of fire and forest. I'll bring it for you."

With that, the craftsman left the room.

"Aurelius, am I going to pray with that craftsman here?"

"Is Magnolia not comfortable with that? If you don't like it, we can stop."

"I was just surprised because it was so sudden. If you're okay with it, I don't mind."

Magnolia answered without looking at Aurelius's face.

"But, the craftsman might not like it."

"That's not a problem.

While we were coming up, the craftsman kept staring at Magnolia's ass, and even in this room, he was looking at your chest."

"You noticed that well, Aurelius. I felt some sort of gaze, but I didn't see it clearly."

"Well, maybe it's because of magic, but I can sense presences quite well."

"Is that so? I wouldn't know since I can't use magic.

But, Aurelius. Could it be that the special bonus you mentioned for the craftsman is—"

"No, it's not that. I plan to let him use the meals in this room and the bath on the balcony.

But, it seems you'd be happier."

"What do you think I am to you, Aurelius?"

"My most precious and beloved Magnolia."

"Geez, Aurelius…"

They embraced and shared a kiss on the balcony.

For the next two hours, while the glass was being prepared, there was plenty of time for the couple to be affectionate.

Knock-knock-knock,

"I'm coming in—the glass is ready, so I've come to install it."

The voice of a craftsman came from beyond the door.

"I've opened it, so you can come in."

Aurelius used magic to unlock the bolt on the door. Normally, removing it by hand would be faster and easier, but he couldn't get close to the door right now.

"I'm coming in,

Huh? Is anyone here?"

Indeed, neither Aurelius nor Magnolia was in the room.

"This way."

Both of them were on the balcony—and they were naked.

"What are you doing out there?"

"Well, since we were told we could bathe, we decided to set up a bath while we're at it."

Yes, Aurelius and Magnolia were in the bathtub they had set up on the balcony.

The open-air bath made during the campout had its surrounding soil only reinforced with magic, so a lot of water ended up seeping out and decreasing. To solve this, They crafted a fabric by layering waterproof leather with durable, tear-resistant cloth and used it around the next open-air bath. This way, the water didn't seep through, and they could save themselves some extra effort.

This time, they used the same fabric to build an open-air bath on the balcony. While digging into the ground is possible in uninhabited areas, bringing soil onto the balcony wasn't an option. Aurelius created walls of air using magic. Normally, these air walls only last around ten minutes, but since he poured a considerable amount of magical power into it this time, they should last about an hour and a half.

He created air walls on all four sides and the bottom, covered them with the fabric, making the air walls invisible. By filling it with water and heating it with magic, the open-air bath was complete.

However, to avoid putting too much weight on the balcony and risk damaging it, they made the bath just wide enough for two people to sit side by side. The length was such that even with their legs stretched out, they couldn't touch the walls, and the water only filled up to their navels when seated. Even so, being able to enjoy an open-air bath right in the middle of town felt like a luxurious and refreshing treat.

"Taking a bath is always refreshing. An outdoor bath is especially nice.

It feels even better when it's in the middle of town. No need to worry about monsters showing up.

And above all, being with you makes it the best."

Magnolia, in a cheerful mood, enjoyed the bath and snuggled close to Aurelius.

Knock-knock-knock,

"I'm coming in—the glass is ready, so I've come to install it."

The voice of the craftsman was heard. Magnolia's face tensed up.

"He's arrived?"

"Yes, it seems the glass is ready."

"If he's here to install the glass, will you open the door?"

"Since it's a promise, it should be fine with you, right, Magnolia?"

"It's not ideal. But if you're okay with it, I don't mind."

They had already agreed on what to do next. Magnolia had given her approval, but the arrival of the craftsman still left her feeling uneasy.

"I've opened it, so you can come in."

Aurelius stayed in the bathtub on the balcony and used magic to unlock the bolt on the door.