Chapter 87.1 - The First Year at the Academy - Birthday Celebration (1)
In the early 2nd month, as winter reached its peak, I sat by the fireplace, diligently working on my sewing one evening.
But it wasn't knitting; instead, I was doing leatherwork.
The first try with orc skin had turned out to be a complete failure as it decayed.
After several attempts, I finally managed to produce tanned leather.
I skipped some steps and had no access to the potions from Lime-san to Lola's family, nor the Breos Trading Company.
The thickness varied, and the surface was rough, but it was still a finished product.
With some momentum, I decided to try leatherworking.
After contemplating what to make, I decided to craft a fixture for my Shamshir.
While I could modify the leather armor brought from Reedvalt, I often used cloth armor for outdoor exercises and exploration.
So, I choose to attach a belt to my shoulder and hang the shamshir from there.
With this, I could wear it over any armor, and if I removed the second belt, I'd be agile and unburdened.
It also wouldn't get in the way of my backpack.
I couldn't make the metal fittings myself, so I purchased them from a store.
I had no idea how long I would use the Shamshir, but I wanted to get familiar with crafting for future magical tool creation.
"The fixed belt is good to go. Now, let's attach the Shamshir…"
I lifted my left arm and somehow managed to attach it securely.
It seemed stable, I swung both hands and tilted my body, but it didn't hinder my movements.
The leather was still stiff, but I didn't worry about its strength.
Even though it was roughly tanned, oak leather was sturdier than cow leather and not easy to cut.
I wonder how it looks to others.
I started to want a full-length mirror.
It's expensive, though, and I can't afford one.
Leaving it on my back, I went out to the backyard, putting my hand on the hilt.
I gently drew the shamshir as if plucking a string.
The long blade shimmered in the evening sun. Not bad.
When it was tied with leather straps, it swayed around, and the scabbard butt attacked the back of my head.
But with the belt, the center of gravity didn't shift.
I sheathed and unsheathed it several times.
Gradually, I got the hang of the timing and strength needed.
Alright, it's finished for now.
I returned to the living room, removed the fixture belt with the Shamshir, and placed it on the table.
"How about the other one?"
I went to the water source and peered into the basin.
The Nurdok's fur was sinking in the lime water.
I obtained it this morning when I accompanied Lambert to a real combat situation.
Since they had no interest in anything but magic stones, I took it for myself.
I picked up a stick and stirred the basin.
Each time I moved, the long fur of the Nurdok tangled up and easily came off.
As the craftsman said, the fur also turned brittle.
There were still many hairs that hadn't come off yet.
I decided to leave it until tomorrow.
Taking a break from my work, I began preparing dinner.
I cooked the cut Nudrook meat.
I seasoned it with the usual salt and herbs.
It's edible if I just sprinkle it on.
Meanwhile, I prepared some bread and put the cooked meat inside.
When I took a bite, it had a wild and, a bit of a gamey taste. Well, it's edible.
Feeling like I needed more vegetables, I washed some leaves from alchemy materials I collected and added them to the meal.
The taste became even more subtle.
There's no point savoring it, so I quickly finished it all.
Alright, dinner's over.
I'll have a cup of general's tea while I heat the remaining meat by the fireplace.
The smoked meat we had for the New Year's celebration was quite delicious.
I'd love to try making it myself, but I'm already juggling too many things.
Currently, I'm busy with my adventures to earn a living, serving as a mentor and assistant to Lambert and Ted, training for skills and magic acquisition, preparing to learn [Artifact Creation] indulging in tanning and leatherwork as a hobby, and recently, I even received a potion request from Samini.
Hmm, feels like I'm forgetting something.
After some thought, I remember.
Ah, my studies at the academy.
The reason I joined in the first place was for Selene, right?
Magic, I suppose. Yes, that's probably it.
With all that's going on, I'm extremely busy.
I cut short my break and head upstairs. In the room I've named Alchemy Room, there's a basin with alchemical solutions and materials.
I peeked inside and inspected the jewelry, short swords, and magic stones.
There seem to be no visible changes, and no rust either.
I prepare an empty basin and pour in a new alchemical solution, transferring the materials.
Because of this task, I can no longer accept overnight requests.
After some pondering, I decided to rely on Lambert and Ted.
Of course, it's still work.
Since then, I've accompanied Lola on a few requests.
During that time, they defeated packs of wolves and a few scarce goblins. When I asked for their impressions on the first humanoid enemies, they said they didn't feel much fear compared to the Horber species.
Those goats are probably ideal for beginners.
div>
Updat𝒆d fr𝒐m freew𝒆bnov𝒆l.c(o)m