Nurturing the Hero to Avoid Death

Ch 24.1 - Going to Grandfather's Birthday Party (First Part)

My eyes rove over the great sweep of scenery passing by through the carriage window, a sigh escaping my lips. 

At this moment, I’m in a carriage with Lian’s father, mother, and brother, heading to a neighboring town.

We are traveling there to attend a birthday celebration for Lian’s eighty-year-old grandfather.

When I say grandfather, I’m referring to the father of Lian’s mother.

Lian’s mother is the fifth youngest daughter of Lian’s grandfather, the former head of the Violette family. After handing down the title of family head to his son, Lian’s grandfather moved from the royal capital to a mansion in the suburbs, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Nowadays, he spends his retirement enjoying his life to the hilt.

The Violette family, of Count rank, is one of the five largest noble families in the capital city. Many Violette family members married people with connections to the royal family. One can find a multitude of Violette family members working in the royal castle. As a result of that, the Violette family became extremely wealthy.

Lian’s grandfather is not only a relative of the Owen family, but also their strongest sponsor and backer. Their path of retreat, so to speak.

Therefore, we have to leave aside any and all matters on hand, no matter how urgent, whenever he calls for us to gather. And make it our top priority to boot!

Of course, I’m not an exception to this.

Well, fine.

In my previous life, I felt uncomfortable in crowded places. This aversion to crowds has followed me to this world. For this reason, however I think about it, the upcoming party is only going to be a pain. But if I were to attend, I’ll surely receive some pocket money.

Because without fail, Lian’s grandfather would reward his relatives that attend his parties.

Seems like it’s one of his life’s pleasures.

Though I refer to it as “pocket money,” it shouldn’t be underestimated.

Rich people’s concept of pocket money is so scary that a commoner like me can’t fathom it even if I tried.

This is especially true in the case of Lian’s grandfather, as he is in possession of great wealth. The amount of pocket money that he lavishly offers is so immense that my eyes pop out of my head every time I see it. 

No matter what, defending the village still costs money.

So having an adequate reserve of funds is essential.

Since village defense is under territorial management, I regularly receive  funds. Enough to cover most of the equipment and labor costs. But I still want to have my own personal savings for the things I wish to do.

I can’t use those funds to cover the costs of my research and development.

Otherwise, I’d have to provide detailed reports of my inventions to Lowendal. However, the production process contains too many secrets and can only be kept confidential.

Therefore, I can’t miss this opportunity.

Whenever I think about the future raid of the demons, these next few days of torture seem like nothing. I will endure it.

Another thing is that I have a fellow traveller with me, so my stomach isn’t hurting as much as usual.

I peer through the carriage window. Two escorts garbed in black coats ride alongside the carriage on horses of the same color.