As I carried the slaves back to the inn and continued to my room, Sophie welcomed me back without questioning what was inside the large bag. I silently thank her for not inquiring about it. As I enter the room—

“M-Meirou… I… I-” (Kanko)

—I see a panicking fairy limping towards me from the top of the desk. She falls after a few wobbly steps. Rather I'm surprised she knew it was me before I entered the room.

“Kanko... I am sincerely glad you are alive.” (Meirou)

I smiled at her, and helped her back up.

“B-But… it was my fault for being weak… I had a chance to escape, but I was too scared to fight back…” (Kanko)

Something like that…

“Don't blame yourself, it was completely my fault for letting my guard down. This never would have happened if I was cautious of my surroundings in the first place.” (Meirou)

I would have deeply blamed myself if Kanko were to have died during those circumstances because of my carelessness. At this point in time, Kanko might have became an irreplaceable existence to me. An emotional pillar. My heart felt warm as I think about our current relationship. I pet Kanko with my fingers, and continue my way to the end of the room; then gently lower the large bag onto the floor. I unfastened the top of the bag and take off the head covers, then the two slaves come into view. The both of them had expressions of fear. I unbound them, and place my hands on each of their heads.

“There is nothing to be afraid of. I want to be clear that I will harm neither of you.” (Meirou)

“......” (Rabbitkin)

I can't ask the unreasonable, so I try to voice my intentions. The rabbitkin stares at me with wavering eyes between fear and uncertainty, while the dogkin looks around the room with her fear slightly subsiding. At the very least, they seem calm enough to comprehend what I just said. I turn my gaze to Kanko.

「M-Meirou bought slaves? They’re slaves, right? I guess it’s to be expected… D-Does that mean Meirou is going to abandon me now? Or soon…? It hasn’t even been that long since we’ve traveled together, yet I’ve become a heavier burden for Meirou to bear… Why am I so useless… Ah, h-he’s looking at me… I wonder what Meirou really thinks abou-」(Kanko)

“Kanko.” (Meirou)

I interrupt her thoughts that started being conveyed to me. A few seconds pass as we lock gazes.

“Kanko.” (Meirou)

I repeated her name once more in a gentler voice.

“Y-Y-Yes, w-what is it M-Meirou…” (Kanko)

I gazed at her and organize my thoughts. Although I care for her, I cannot completely reject the idea that she could now become a burden. I am sure it will show from my excessive consideration to her current condition; comparing how the reliable help I used to receive from her to the things she now cannot do... I want her to remain by my side despite that. Considering how I should convey my feelings to Kanko, buying a physical item is likely the best idea to soothe her heart full of uncertainty regarding our relationship.

“Please watch over those two for me. I need to go for one more errand.” (Meirou)

“I-I understand…” 「M-Meirou… Did he want to say it?… Meirou is too kind. Was he worried about me? It’s best if bring it up myself-」(Kanko)

I hear those last thoughts as I walk out the door. When I enter the dining area towards the entrance of the inn, I asked Sophie if she knew any magic item shops she can recommend. Luckily, I was recommended two in this small town. I run over to the first recommendation which was located in the busy part of town. As I couldn't find what I was looking for, I continue to check the second location.

“Hm? How may I help you?” (???)

“I am *pant pant* looking for a tiny bracelet *pant*. W-Would you happen to sell any?” (Meirou)

I readied my breathing, and walked over to the shop counter.

“Were you perhaps recommended by Sophie? I only receive regular customers whose face I am already familiar with, but your face is new here.” (Shop Manager)

“Yes, I was informed by Sophie of this shop.” (Meirou)

“How small of a bracelet are we talking here?” (Shop Manager)

“About this size” (Meirou)

I use my fingers to approximate the diameter.

“Hmm… I don't think any shop would normally sell a bracelet that tiny, even if it was for a monster.” 「A monster with a limb that small, huh? Could it be… Sophie, are you telling me to help this boy and keep his order a secret?」(Shop Manager)

“I see…” (Meirou)

The shop manager looks over me for a moment, and then continues speaking—

“I can make you a custom bracelet. This will be a special case since you were recommended by Sophie.” (Shop Manager)

“T-Thank you!” (Meirou)

I am also glad that the shop manager won't delve too much. I would honestly not want to go around announcing that I have a fairy with me if I could help it. I gave the details on the design. As for the color…

“What kind of relationship do you want with the one whom you plan on giving the bracelet to?” (Shop Manager)

“A familial relationship.” (Meirou)

“Then I will create a pure white bracelet. The design is simple, so it won't take long. You can wait, or come back at the end of the day to pick it up.” 「Hoh… A familial relationship with a monster. He's an eccentric one.」 (Shop Manager)

“Thank you!” (Meirou)

I take out a gold coin, but then he refuses.

“I don't need the money. Use it for the next time you return here. I will accept it then.” (Shop Manager)

My heart warms with gratitude.

………

After about an hour, the shop manager comes back from the back and hands me the bracelet. It really was a pure white color, so pure it could be mistaken as the gray-ish silver or the yellow-ish gold in terms of shine, yet it’s not exactly transparent. The material used could not have been cheap. I sincerely thank him.

“I will be sure to return again. Thank you!” (Meirou)

“I will be waiting.” 「I wish you well with your new family member, young boy.」 (Shop Manager)

With a slight smile showing, he makes a gesture telling me to to leave as he seemingly looks like he’s preparing to close for the day. I quickly return to the inn, and open the door to my room. I witness Kanko watching over the slaves with a complicated expression, and the slaves leaning against the wall; arms wrapped around their legs; not moving an inch like statues. I am slightly perplexed by the atmosphere of the room. Kanko turns to me.

"W-Welcome back, Meirou." (Kanko)

I walk over to Kanko which is sitting on the edge of the bed, and crouch down to her eye level.

“Kanko, please accept this from me.” (Meirou)

I take out the tiny bracelet from my pocket, and handed it to her.

“W-What is this? So pretty…” (Kanko)

“This is my gift to you. A gift that will ensure our lasting relationship. I was told that the color mea-” (Meirou)

"Family..." (Kanko)

Kanko interrupts me finishing what I wanted to say. She stares at the bracelet as if she was staring at something that is out of her reach.

“Eh!? M-Meirou, does that mean…” (Kanko)

"Would you become part of my family?" (Meirou)

"......" (Kanko)

「A family... A Family? Family!? Family!!??」(Kanko)

After a long silence her expression starts to comprehend what I said, and moves her gaze between the bracelet and me.

“Becoming M-Meirou’s family?...” (Kanko)

She slowly moves to reach out for the bracelet, but then stops halfway showing her hesitation. I take her small arm still wrapped in bandages, and put the bracelet on locking it in place. I return my gaze to her and smile.

“You and me are now family, Kanko. This bracelet is proof of our relationship with each other.” (Meirou)

I show her a black necklace I am wearing with the same exact designs carved onto the bracelet.

“I… Meirou…” (Kanko)

It seems everything is moving along too quickly for her, so she is left speechless.

“Kanko, please be a part of my family.” (Meirou)

I raise my hand in front of her, waiting for her reply. She stares at my raised hand, then moves to gaze at the bracelet on her wrist.

「A-Ahaha, I am really blessed to have met Meirou… Even I understand how much a burden I will become from now on from losing the ability to fly… But I wonder why I’m hesitating for?… Didn't I decide to leave my fate in Meirou’s hand, and to follow him no matter where?... Yes, even if I become reliant and end up being thrown away, I will accept that fate. As long as Meirou wants me by his side, I will remain there for as long as possible.」(Kanko)

After a long silence, Kanko nods to herself. She gazes at me with those beautiful eyes again. Those resolute eyes she made back when we first met.

“Please let me be a part of your family.” (Kanko)

Kanko grabs my raised hand, as tears start to form in her eyes. I smile at her, pat her head, then move my gaze to the slaves that was watching the whole development. The both of them seemed to have calmed down considerably because of the scene that happened before them. The rabbitkin was watching us with sad eyes, while the dogkin with eyes of anxiety. The both remain very reserved, as they were watching us unmoving keeping their mouths zipped.

“Do the both of you have names?” (Meirou)

A silence follows. I sigh.

“I want to learn your names, so please give me your names.” (Meirou)

“I… don’t have one.” 「It’s not like I deserve one anyway…」 (Rabbitkin)

“M-My name is Juyu…” 「My name is Juyu…」 (Dogkin)

I unconsciously leak a smile at the dogkin’s thought process, at the same time felt sympathy towards the rabbitkin’s mentality. It really reminds me of the time I met Kanko. If not naming children that doesn't seem like they will have any future ahead of them is actually a custom among all races in this world, then I can finally understand the special meaning behind having a name at all. Considering this, I hesitated on naming her on the spot.

“I see…” (Meirou)

Should wait until I get a clearer image of the rabbitkin’s personality?

“I'll be counting on the both of you from now on.” (Meirou)

“I… understand. ” 「As I expected… I won't be named. Why did I hold onto such hopes…」 (Rabbitkin)

“Th-Thank you for buying me, Master…” 「I have to work hard to live…」 (Juyu)

“Thank you, Master…” 「No… Compared to previous master, I am glad… His treatment of us is gentle despite us being slaves. I don't want to separate from this master… I will hold onto this master.」(Rabbitkin)

The both bowed to me. It would be awkward to correct her at this point and give her false hope, so I kept quiet as I continue to try and come up with a fitting name. I also bought clothes on the way, so I gave them sizes I estimated based on their height. Two commoner-looking one-piece dresses, light armor to wear over it, and a belt to keep the waist in place. Light armor for myself as well.

“Have either of you used a weapon before?” (Meirou)

“Y-Yes.” (Juyu)

“I used a sword before but...” (Rabbitkin)

“These are your weapons, two long swords for each of you. I will buy a proper weapon for both of you when the time comes, so use these for now.” (Meirou)

They are just any other sword sold in stores, so I plan on having a discussion together with them once more after we gain more field experience; to find out which weapon they would handle best.

“T-Thank you, Master!” (Juyu)

“Thank you… Master.” (Rabbitkin)

“We will leave this town tonight. Kanko, can you navigate us towards the east?” (Meirou)

“Huh?” (Kanko)

I look at her with gentle eyes. She hesitates for a brief moment, before giving me a nod with a bright smile.

“Y-Yes! Yes, I can lead the way! P-Please leave it to me!”

She thumps her chest with her fist in determination. I nod towards her.

………

“Hey! Be careful!” (Meirou)

We were pushed against our backs to the wall by a pack of small wolves. The two slaves are standing in front of me in a deadlock with them. A few days of trekking through the forest lead to this predicament. Apparently, they have been trailing us since the moment we entered the forest. Juyu then makes the first move, killing off a wolf. I found out that Juyu has some experience in survival as well, on top of experience with the sword. Her natural weapon seems to have been a sword that was a bit shorter than the sword she’s currently using, so I should buy her one as soon as we reach the next city. Whilst the rabbitkin has been making very careless moves like any amateur would. The rabbitkin did say she used the sword a bit, but those moves she’s making are extremely worrying. The rabbitkin runs up and manages to injure a wolf, but another wolf from her side is running up to her preparing to leap for attack.

“Tch!” (Meirou)

I decided to run up to her, grab her arm, pulled and covered her with the protection of my body.

“Eh?” (Rabbitkin)

I raise my arms, and concentrate. Please work this time. Glad that I began feeling a density around my body once more, I wave my arm and sliced the wolf’s head off just before contact. I have been practicing every few hours until now cutting random vegetation, and managed to increase the reliability. It seems it will continue to pay off if I continue like this. I look over to Juyu as she finishes off the last wolf. That girl really is amazing. Five of the six wolves were wiped out by her hands alone. I sigh in relief knowing we’re finally out of the predicament.

“Thank you… Master Meirou.” (Rabbitkin)

The rabbitkin with a bewildered expression separates from me.

“Be sure to be more cautious next time. We need to be wary of receiving heavy injuries in the middle of this forest.” (Meirou)

“I-I’ll be careful.” (Rabbitkin)

…

We found a cave along the way and decided to rest for the day. We settled inside the cave, cook up dinner with the meager tools I bought along as a gift from Sophie’s generosity, and on my own managed to cook something presentable. I am not all that good at cooking, so it didn’t turn out the best, but it was still pretty good. As everyone was finishing up their last few bites, I open my mouth---

“I have a few things I want to say, since all of us will be together from now onwards.” (Meirou)

Everyone looks up from her meals. Kanko remains looking up at the sky, but it seems I have her attention. Fairies can survive without ingestion it seems. She explained to me when I asked about her portion, that she can survive just by mana alone that come from nature itself. She declined and told me to save the portions for those who need to eat to build up strength and survive.

“...but first, I want to make an announcement.” (Meirou)

I turn to glance at the rabbitkin, and beckon her over to properly face me.

“Yes, Master Meirou?” (Rabbitkin)

I never realized she has properly started using my name, albeit '-master' still remains. Nonetheless, I'm happy about it no matter how small a detail it is. I told her it was okay to informally call me by my name alone, but it seems like it's something I can’t force on someone to change. Same went for Juyu.

“From now on, your name is Hana.” (Meirou)

“E-Eh?” (Rabbitkin)

The rabbitkin stares at me in a dazed state.

“W-Wait, eh? Eh?” (Rabbitkin)

Kanko starts giggling. Juyu’s eyes start sparkling.

”I can finally call you by a name! I was at a loss what to call you up until now, so I am glad. I hope we can work to protect master together, Hana.” (Juyu)

Juyu jumps over and hugs Hana from behind.

“A-Ahaha…” (Hana)

“Did Meirou also come up with Hana’s name using Meirou’s old language?” (Kanko)

“Old language…?” (Hana)

“Ah. Um, yes… Ahaha… Hana(花) means flower in my old language. I have come to an understanding of Hana’s gentle nature the past few days we spent together, hence I decided on that name. There are varying images of a flower depending on their appearance, whether it's an underlying image of strength, or liveliness, all flowers tend to foremost have an image of gentleness and are beautiful to anyone.” (Meirou)

“B-Beautiful… but my fur-” (Hana)

“I have been told that if a rabbitkin’s fur is not white, they are said to be a sign of misfortune. Whether it’s true or not I do not care about that, I honestly think you are a beautiful girl.” (Meirou)

Hana starts tearing up silently, as she clasps her hands to her heart.

“There are all kinds of flowers out there, but even if they all have varying appearances, they all bloom the same way. You can bloom, in your own way, Hana.” (Meirou)

“Thank you… Master Meirou. I will cherish this name for the rest of my life.” (Hana)

I smile at her, and continue to wait for time to pass until she settles herself down.

“Thank you, Master Meirou. I’ve calmed down.” (Hana)

“I’m glad you were that happy. I don’t mind at all.” (Meirou)

Hana starts acting abashed.

“Uuu…” (Hana)

“What was it that Meirou wanted to say to us?” (Kanko)

“I wanted to share my plans to everyone.” (Meirou)

I didn't divulge about how I came from another world, but telling them I am from a far away land isn't exactly a lie. I also tell them about the friends I am searching for which I was separated from. In the short while giving descriptions of each of my friends I want to search for, I started feeling nostalgia towards the everyday life before i came to this world. My peaceful life, my school friends and other relationships, my sister. Huh? Suddenly i feel like it's been a long time since I came to this world. How long has it been since I've seen my friends’ faces? I don't think it's been that long at all, yet everything feels so far away. Before I knew it---

“Ah…” (Meirou)

Tears starts falling.

“M-Master!? Are you okay!? (Juyu)

“Meirou…” (Kanko)

Juyu starts panicking from my sudden tears. Kanko looks over to me worriedly. Embarrassed from my sudden breakdown, I faced down to the floor, then while my head was down, I suddenly felt someone's chest. Someone embraced me from the front.

“Master Meirou, please calm down.” (Hana)

As I listen to her heartbeat, I manage to calm myself down.

“I'm sorry. I'm alright now. Let me continue.” (Meirou)

Hana nods and releases me.

“Wait, Meirou. Didn't Meirou say you came with four other friends?” (Kanko)

Ah. I unconsciously left that guy out and ended up describing the three others before moving on. Despite that I am surprised at myself for still calling him a friend.

“He…-” (Meirou)

The events flow back to me, and I start feeling extremely bitter.

“Eh?” (Hana)

“E-Eh!?” (Juyu)

Hm? Everyone’s expressions suddenly became bewildered.

“M-Meirou… was that…” (Kanko)

“Did something happened?” (Meirou)

I start getting worried from their sudden changes. The slaves both turn to Kanko.

“...N-No.” (Kanko)

Kanko makes eye contact with Juyu and Hana, and shakes her head.

“N-No.” (Juyu)

“No…” (Hana)

Well… as long as they aren't too bothered by it, then I'll drop the subject. Seems like they formed a bond amongst themselves before I knew it. For a second I anxiously thought they detected an enemy.

“He… He is a friend, but I have no plans to search for him whatsoever.” (Meirou)

The vivid memories of him leaving me behind during my should-have-been last moments of my life. It seems like it doesn't affect me as much as I expected now. I have fate to thank for leading me to meet Kanko right after such an event that might have led me down the wrong path.

“......” (Juyu)

“......” (Hana)

“Meirou…” (Kanko)

They never asked me further, so I ended up sharing stories from the fun memories together with them, and what kind of relationships I had with each of them. As night fell, we finished off our cold unfinished food and went straight to sleep. Juyu ensured that she will keep me safe, and told me to properly sleep to regain my strength; so I followed her orders as she is the experienced one. I am glad after the past few days, she can finally speak her mind. I was troubled over how she would wait for every single specific order, so I was perplexed how to handle her. Same went for Hana. It felt like I was accompanied with two robots rather than companions as the journey began; stiff and obedient, never spoke unless spoken to. As those last thoughts flow along, I fall into a deep sleep from the exhaustion.

………

“Master fell right to sleep. He must have been tired…” (Juyu)

“I am glad that we have you with us, Juyu. I can't imagine myself being able to protect Master Meirou on my own. I… have never taken a single step to the outside world on my own before. I am useless, and I can't even cook a proper meal.” (Hana)

“Hana, Master chose to buy us, that means Master chose to buy you. I can't imagine a Master buying a slave for no reason. I finally understand how Master is like, so he must have had a reason to chose you.” (Juyu)

“...Master Meirou must be let down from how useless I am.” (Hana)

“Hana, how about you create a reason Meirou could have bought you for? Learn what will help you how you want to support Meirou with. Uhn.” (Kanko)

“What I want to learn so I could support Master Meirou…” (Hana)

Silence follows.

“Hana. Juyu. Did you both see it? When Meirou was about to speak about that friend?” (Kanko)

“I suddenly saw lots of images of Master play through my mind… and felt... ” (Juyu)

We discuss a bit and compare what we saw back there.

“...So all of us really saw and felt the same thing…” (Hana)

“Can I ask both of you to keep silent until Meirou asks about it directly?” (Kanko)

“E-Eh? Why?” (Juyu)

“It will just become a burden for Meirou. If we were to tell him how we ended up ...seeing what I think was directly from Meirou’s memories. He might end up constantly worrying over how his painful memories will affect us. I don't want that.” (Kanko)

“I also don't want Master to think that. I want to help carry Master’s burdens, no matter how painful the memories.” (Juyu)

“Did the memories really come directly from Master Meirou?” (Hana)

“I can see the flow of mana. I watched strings of mana attach to me, you, and Juyu. I was surprised when they suddenly attached to me, but because it was from Meirou I didn't do anything to it waiting to see what it will do. Meirou must hav-” (Kanko)

“-have somehow linked his mind with ours and shared his memories… his feelings… I can still vividly feel Master Meirou’s despair…” (Hana)

Hana hugs herself and shivers from the memory of it.

“...but I can't say for sure until Meirou decides to explain to us. I thought Meirou did it intentionally, but he seemed oblivious when we reacted. I am sure he wouldn't do it either way, knowing it might hurt us as well… we saw not just the memories, but felt the emotions Meirou felt at that time. I felt it too… Meirou’s hopelessness ...b-but I am glad I received them. I feel a bit closer to understanding Meirou’s heart. I am glad.” (Kanko)

“I am also glad I got them. I feel like I can become a much better help to Master.” (Juyu)

“I don't regret it too.” (Hana)

Hana settles herself down and spoke in a soft voice, as she smiles to herself.

“Kanko, this is the first time I've seen you so talkative. Is it because we are talking about Master?” (Juyu)

Juyu smirks at Kanko.

“T-This was important! I really had to bring up this issue between us and discuss it seriously! A-As long as it's for Meirou, I-” (Kanko)

“K-Kanko. Calm down. Master Meirou is still sleeping in the back.” (Hana)

Hana tries to calm down the flustered Kanko as she raised her voice.

“I-I’m sorry.” (Kanko)

“A-Anyway, Kanko. after talking with you, I feel much better now. I started feeling heavy with anxiety when I saw Meirou’s memories, and felt like I might break if I kept everything to myself. I don't regret it, but it became hard for me to stay calm…” (Hana)

“Yes, thank you Kanko.” (Juyu)

We had a much more cheerful discussion afterwards for a while longer, and disperse after that. All of us went to our respective spots for the rest of the night.

…