... But I think it should be fine this time.
Sylphy and Eris are coming.
Right.
I can't go alone.
Because I'll back up.
So as protection against me backing up.
I will ask Eris and Sylphy to be my reservoir.
That way, I should be safe even against the flood.
"May the fortune of war be with you."
Lilia and mom are the same as always.
Speaking of which, I forgot to consult Orsted about mom's memory.
I have my doubts that he can help since he couldn't do anything about his own curse either. After we're done with this maybe I can check again?
"Lilia-san, then, I'll leave Lucy in your care."
"And Madam too. Leave everything to me."
Sylphy probably doesn't regret her decision, but she takes a deep bow toward Lilia.
"Leaving the girl behind is probably not a good thing, but this time..."
"It's fine. That's what a maid is for."
Recently Lucy added new vocabulary.
Simple words like "mama," "asha," "lila," "oki," "bibi," "jiro." [4]
She looks so endearing when she tries to pronounce them.
But still no "papa."
She says "Ru- di-" once a while...
Recently I haven't been paying attention to her, so she'll surely remember me last.
That girl's parents are both going on a long journey and leaving her behind.
I'm aware that we haven't been proper parents for her.
I don't know when we'll improve.
Lucy is so cute.
She's an angel in my eyes.
But feelings alone aren't enough...
"It'll feel lonesome these four months."
Only Roxy looks lonely.
I feel guilty about going on a business trip and leaving behind a pregnant woman and her child.
"Sorry, we'll try to hurry back, but..."
"Take your time. Even though Lilia-san and Aisha said Rudi doesn't need to be here when I go into labor... but remember to bring me souvenirs. I want fruit candy, that sweet and sour dessert. Okay?"
Roxy looks deadpan as always.
She is nervous about her first child, but she isn't showing it.
"Don't make that pitiful face, Rudi. I'm concerned, but men hunt; women protect the home and children. That's the Migurd way."
Roxy proudly explains.
She's a reliable woman.
It's okay if you leave.
So go without worries!
"Still, I finally got a long vacation, so it's a little unfortunate. I was hoping to spend some leisure time with Rudi."
"Yeah, that's right."
Looks like Roxy took a maternity leave until she goes into labor.
This country's tradition allows for a leave of absence during pregnancy and childcare.
But Roxy does plan to continue her teaching career.
She persuaded Vice Principal Jinas and took a long vacation.
She probably dropped my name for that.
It might be after the fact, but if my name can help Roxy do what she wants to, she's free to name drop as much as she likes.
For the time being, before we head out, I decide to spend more time with Roxy.