Chapter 8

Well, the other day, I realized something when a group of werewolves attacked.

"Dealing with each one of them is such a hassle."

Coming out through the front door or windows, yelling at them, and sending them off is time-consuming. So, I decided to set up a trap in advance.

"I guess this area will do. Sakura, can you come here for a moment?"

"Yes, sir."

I used an apple tree, as usual.

If there were other materials, I would have made a different trap, but the apple tree is the easiest to use with what I have.

"There are some apple tree roots around here, so I'll make them grow rapidly with magic."

"Understood. Please proceed."

While touching Sakura's body, I channeled magic into the ground.

—Installation complete.

With just a bit of magic, the trap will make large roots shoot up from the ground, flinging any intruders far into the sky.

"Hmm... It's complete, Master."

"Good job. Next one, then."

While setting up the traps, it started to feel like I was just tending to my own garden, which was quite enjoyable. Just as I was having fun setting up the traps,

"Master, they're coming again."

"Huh?"

The werewolves were back in front of us. I thought about using the trap I set up, but there were only a few of them this time. It's not worth using the trap for just a few.

...And they look clean, too.

They're wearing proper clothes.

"What are you here for?"

When I asked, the werewolves suddenly prostrated themselves.

"We are the werewolves who rule the Enchanted Forest, my king..."

The lead werewolf, using unfamiliar polite language, mumbled.

"Ah, and then?"

"We recognize you as our king and surrender... Please accept this as proof."

He held out a silver collar with a bell attached to it with both hands.

Why are they giving me this? Do they want me to keep them as pets?

"This is a treasure passed down among werewolves. It is given to the true strong one we encounter, from the elder to the strong one."

No, I don't need it. I didn't even want to be a king.

"It's a symbol of our resolve not to oppose you. It's fine if you just place it here. Please accept it."

They said this and placed the collar on the ground. Their hands were trembling, probably from nervousness.

Anyway, I don't need the collar, and it will just become trash, so I want them to take it back.

"Then, I'll hang it on one of the trees in the forest! If you need our power, just ring the bell. We will not oppose you."

They insisted on not opposing me, almost to the point of being annoying, but I got it.

"Alright, I understand. Go home. I'm busy with my garden right now."

"R-right, understood. But before we go, this! It's an offering from us!"

The werewolves brought a large cloth bag and a jar, piled high with contents. Inside were large amounts of chilled animal meat and fruits.

"What's this?"

"Please, if you would accept it. It's a token of our loyalty to our king."

I didn't ask to be a king, but since they're offering it, I'll take it.

"However, the amount is too much. A smaller amount would be fine."

Just one large bag and one jar. Too much and I can't eat it all. When I said this,

"You... you're concerned about us...?!"

They were incredibly surprised. What's the big deal?

There are only two of us, so we can't eat that much. Just take it back properly.

"Understood, my king! We salute your generous nature!!"

"Thank you!!"

For some reason, the werewolves left with words of gratitude and salutes. They started bringing vegetables and meat to the front of my house regularly.

"Master, tonight's dinner will be a hearty stew with plenty of vegetables and meat."

"My favorite—!"

Well, my daily menu has become more abundant, so it's fine.

I'm so happy to have placed second that I decided to update early in the afternoon. Thank you for your support! I'll update again tonight!

Thank you very much!