Chapter 8

Even though it's called a slum, the area managed by Florence was relatively decent.

As you move away from the center of the royal capital, where the Adventurers' Guild is located, the environment of the slums gradually worsens. Although Florence is said to be cruel and demonic, in reality, she was a quite sensible administrator.

Among these, she gave me a house with the best conditions—almost a mansion.

It's a bit away from the slums, surrounded by a forest, and there are no other residents. Here, I can live in peace.

The interior is ordinary, but it feels strange to live in such a house in the slums. Even in the previous party, I never received such treatment. It feels like I've become a noble.

I led Florence and her subordinates to the guest room and sat across from them.

"This is all I can do. If you want, I can give you my fortune, Nigris-sama."

"No, that's... I am short of money, but that's too much."

The place is more than sufficient as a base. Just healing my injuries, and being treated like this makes it hard to be genuinely happy compared to my previous life. Maybe a simple, cozy house would have been better.

"Then, how about I give you a request, Nigris-sama?"

"A request? Like healing your subordinates, for example?"

"Being by my side."

"…Is there no better job?"

This has been the tone of the conversation. It's not progressing. Then, Fels tugged at my sleeve.

She seemed a bit angry, but she quickly whispered to me. I don't think it's because she's jealous that I'm not paying attention to her.

"Nigris-sama, how about using your appraisal skill to give advice on Florence's subordinates?"

"Advice... Indeed, it's a job only I can do."

Taking Fels's advice, I spoke to Florence, who sighed in amazement and agreed.

The fee is one gold coin per person, which is a bargain. I said I didn't need that much, but she wouldn't listen.

I appraised each of the subordinates who came as guards in the mansion.

"Appraisal"

Ten people. It took about thirty minutes, but I discovered something interesting.

When I touch the person I'm appraising, I can feel their strength and agility intuitively. It's not displayed in numbers or letters, but it's a new discovery.

They are all highly suited for swordsmanship, rated B. No one has any magical aptitude.

I think our party needs someone who can use attack magic.

"You should use a spear instead of a sword. You have strength and dexterity. Your height is low, so you can confuse your opponent with speed."

"Ah, I've never held a spear before..."

"I don't have much experience in combat, but if you're facing a swordsman, aim for their feet to make them defensive. Look for an opening and thrust; you won't lose."

"Y-You're amazing..."

I chose the weapons they seemed suited for, and if they were already using something, I advised on how they could improve.

...It's nostalgic. In my old party, I used to give such advice a lot. They often brushed me off, saying it was none of my business.

I never expected them to direct such hostility at me, even drawing their swords. Now that I'm being paid, I have to do my job properly to some extent.

I decided not to get involved in what happens to them in the future. I have Fels, a trustworthy companion.

After finishing, I sat down in my room to take a break.

After a while, Fels came in and placed a drink next to me.

"Please have a drink."

"Thanks... What's up?"

With a blank expression, her elf ears turned red, and she held the hem of her skirt, asking me.

"Nigris-sama, how about this outfit?"

"…Where did you find a maid uniform?"

"It was in this mansion. Does it suit me?"

"C-Cute..."

The basic maid uniform captures Fels's features well, with an open neckline. The combination of her blonde hair and white clothes looks good.

I can't forget she's only 12.

Is she going to wear a maid uniform while we're in this mansion?

"I'll take care of Nigris-sama's daily needs."

"N-No... I can do that myself."

"No, I am Nigris-sama's slave."

I've always done all the chores myself, so it feels strange to have someone do them for me.

...Well, if Fels is enjoying it, that's fine.