Chapter 79

After the meal, I filled a small bucket with hot water and encouraged the women to clean themselves behind the rocks.

I had thought it might be convenient for camping, but it turned out to be even more popular among the women than I expected.

They rushed behind the rocks with great enthusiasm. Well, considering the blood and all, the girls probably just wanted to freshen up quickly.

While thinking about this, I washed the pot we had finished eating from, as well as everyone's cups and spoons, with hot water, scrubbed them with a makeshift scrub brush, and rinsed them again with hot water.

The scrub brush is made from a fibrous wood that resembles coconut. I haven't actually seen the real thing yet, but I call it a scrub brush because it looks and functions like one.

Before I knew it, even the "Recognition" teacher had started using the scrub brush for cleaning, including for the figurative sense. Well, as long as it works, that's fine.

"Really, you're so versatile."

I was waiting with the women when Rott spoke to me.

"Is that so? I thought this was the general image of a rear guard."

"No, no, no, no. That's not it. Most of the time, they cast spells until just before over-return and then rest. During camping, they either gather materials or rest out of fear of over-return."

Just hearing that makes it sound like an easy job.

"Maybe it's because I've been focusing on being a middle guard, so it didn't feel that way? I also try to use as little magic as possible."

Rott raised one finger.

"During the previous battle, I observed various things, but first, a leader who can plan large-scale combat strategies and organize the team is rare."

Rott raised two fingers.

"Moreover, it's almost unheard of for a mage to use a spear for suppression."

Rott raised three fingers.

"Furthermore, the idea of creating room for over-return and using it for daily life doesn't exist. I've been in many parties, and this is the first time I've seen a party so focused on the living environment."

I had been thinking of providing a minimum level of service, but it seems to be highly praised. I don't quite get it.

"But I heard you use water magic to make drinking water? Don't you use it for daily life?"

"That's only in extreme cases where water is scarce and urgent. The basic role of a rear guard is to provide firepower. I can't believe you cover that with your tactics."

Is this the general common sense? But maybe it's like that without me. The thinking is different.

"Hmm. Maybe I should focus more on firepower?"

"I observed before, but that firepower is already excessive in the current situation. It's even enough for a bear. For the sake of improving your skills, it's better to continue as you are. I just feel that you are very versatile."

Hmm. Well, if there's no problem, that's fine. It's the opinion of a senior who has been in 8th-grade parties. I'll take it to heart for now.

"Understood. I'll be flexible about that. Also, I talked with Liz, and we're considering treating throwing knives as party assets. I'll leave the management to you, but I want the party funds to cover the purchase and maintenance."

"That... is very appreciated. Is it really okay to use party funds for that?"

"It's a consumable for party battles, so it doesn't make sense for individuals to bear the cost."

With that, we discussed the current situation, issues during battles, and how to spend our daily lives.

"What do you think about marriage?"

He showed a slightly puzzled face when I asked.

"I'm the third son of a merchant family. I thought it was impossible, but with my savings and recent earnings, I can see the possibility of marriage funds. The next step is to secure a stable income after marriage, and then I'll look for a partner."

He's serious. I don't think the adventurer's life suits him. A regular job would definitely be better.

"By the way, you seem to get along well with Fia. What about her? Could she be a potential marriage partner?"

Rott's face turned slightly red.

"W-well, yes. I think Fia is a wonderful person. She seems like someone who could protect the home even if we live together. However, I can't consider it until I have a clear source of income."

Well, it seems there's a chance. Fia's approach isn't wrong. She's definitely a meat-eater. She even looked disappointed about Liz's engagement.

In my opinion, as long as they do their job well, I'm lenient about office romances. However, if it interferes with work, I'll have to think about it.

I try not to abandon my companions, but there might be a point where I have to make that choice. In that case, Liz is my top priority. I've already told everyone this.

"Hiro, I'm done."

Liz and the others returned with fresh faces.

In turn, I went to the rocks with Rott.

I quickly took off my jacket and filled the bucket with hot water.

While wiping my body and looking up at the sky, I felt the warmth was pleasant on my chilled body. The sky was filled with stars.