I Decided to Not Compete and Quietly Create Dolls Instead

Chapter 12

Before talking about the Wandering Earl, lets turn back time a little bit.

Upon returning to the Hatoba Inn Els then quickly fell asleep. Whether because he was tired from overrunning or because he could hardly stay awake, I am not sure either.

Even after waking up he wasnt talking much and looked as if he was deep in thought.

He might have wanted me to listen to what was on his mind but at that time my head was preoccupied with the thoughts about the Wandering Earl.

My birthday party is being held on the first floor of the inn. Colorful cuisines were lined up on the table in the so-called buffet style.

This inn has three special dishes as its specialties.

First is the steamed vegetables dressed with cream cheese. The refreshing flavor will spread through the mouth along with the steam. It would probably make your hand move toward it nonstop, but please try to resist the temptation.

Next is the serving of omelet rice with *demi-glace sauce.(TL: FYI, Demi-glace is a rich brown sauce in French cuisine used by itself or as a base for other sauces.) Even more so than the eggs that melts in your mouth, the sauce from carefully stewed veal and onion will definitely captivate you.

Lastly is, yep, the brown dish that was stacked up almost like a mountain on table.

The drifting smell of ginger and saucer(similar seasoning to soy sauce), just that is already stifling your appetite. The plump chicken, that gives off a crispy sound with every bite, will definitely not betray your expectations.

Each and every of them, is more delicious than the previous one.

I gave a wink towards the cooks who were anxiously looking here from the kitchen.

My intentions seems to have been properly transferred.

The cooks were hugging each other and cheering as if theyd won some kind of tournament.

These three dishes was my own special recipe. Previously, the head chef here was quite troubled about the cuisine signboard. Its been about half a year since then, but as expected of professionals, theyve actually made them even more delicious than I did.

[ Ive grown to really like this thing called *Karaage, and wanted to eat it at home but theyve firmly hidden the recipe.]

With a barrel-like body that would go rolling around when pushed, and to think he was someone who used to travel around the world.

[Its part of the stubbornness of the cooks who can earn money anytime they want. Isnt Altirea-sama aware of it?]

Or so muttered one of the guest, a merchant of a large business, Mr. Talbot.

Is this perhaps the thing called to *hang the sickle?

(Princess, you are over thinking it. I think it would be better for you to go and get ready now.)

Kajero gave me an advice while I still was lost in thought.

Anyway-

[I have no idea about it at all. If you ever get your hands on the recipe, please do let me know.]

I gave him an empty reply.

Its not like getting it is of any use anyway

Mr. Talbots body is as barrel-like as his name, and getting any fatter than this is going to be life threatening.(TL: his name Taru-bo sounds the same as Taru= barrel.)

He should be aware about the danger of metabolic syndrome, rather than something like a recipe.

The medicine system in this world is so undeveloped that it is unlikely for me to understand.. thats right!

[Talbot-sama, us ended up meeting here might be some kind of fate, so let me give you a fortune.]

[Hoho, the famous Doll Princess is also fond of fortune telling?]

[Im still a beginner butlets see. Talbot-sama, this is just mere words but please keep your meals on a moderate diet, and also refrain from drinking sake, or else misfortune might befall on you.]

* * *

Later this month, Mr. Talbot is said to die a sudden death due to a heavy feeling in his chest.

The guests who attended the party unanimously whispered to each other.

Apparently, the Doll Princess have the magic eye that can see into the future.

It was completely a misunderstanding, and the rumor spread without being corrected.

* *

By the way, speaking of Kajero, who gave me advise a while ago, is actually pretending to be a normal doll while being embraced in my arms.

The possibility of the Wandering Earl raiding the inn is not zero. An escort is absolutely necessary.

Because he claimed like that again and again that I had no choice but to accept it.

A young girl that cant take their eyes off the dolls. I dont want such a misunderstanding, and that might even lead to discussions about my behavior and comeback responds. Well, its not like there isnt such deduction at all.

As the guest of honor, people keep visiting me one after another especially the council deputies and those related to them.

The young representative of the *Mason guild, the female master of the inn union*, Spiril adventurers guilds guild master, and the high priest Rokisona an amazing lineup.(Tl: a glimpse of the two names in chapter 9.)

The last one who came to talk was, the so called *Anbu corps of Spiril, the head of Rutia family. (TL: *Anbu here is the same as narutos Anbu corps= the so called shadow/darkness corps.)

[Ojo-Altirea-sama, this-..this is my first time meeting you.]

With dark skin and tree-like big muscles.

The feeling of having met him before isnt just my imagination. The person who escorted Els and me to the inn. Edmond. The infamous thief who was thoroughly defeated by Kajero. With experience as a leader, he is now working as the boss on the surface. His attitude is just like the king of the underworld.

However, only at this moment, he completely looks like a dispirited villain child.

Well, cant blame him.

The one in my arms is the true head of the Rutia family.

Moreover, lurking here and there around the venue are the others from the 24 faceless executives.

Try imagining having to work in a place with twenty higher ups observing. Of course youd be too nervous to bring out your usual performance.

Not to mention, the other party is me, the creator of the 24 executives.

Im sure Edmond feels as though there is a hole at his stomach.

Hes quite pitiful, so lets let him escape quickly.

[I am so sorry Edmond-sama. My stomach is already empty. I wonder if I can go ahead and eat first.]

I look into his eyes. It seems like my intention is properly transmitted.

He gave a small bow and walked to the distant seat as if escaping from something.

* *

.The Rutia family as a newcomer was as a matter of course the center of attention, and Edmond as the boss, of course, would have to be in contact with the lords daughter. Humbly watching the mood or probably just trying to show their dignity.

The people in the venue was startled.

The haughty emperor of darkness looked as frightened as a child in front of his angry mother.

This incident, along with the magic eye, became spreading rumors which created an image of the Doll Princess far different from reality, but that is a different story.

* *

(Darn Edmond, daring to talk to the princess when she is hungrymust be punished.)

(Dont be so mean. Bullying your subordinate too much is no good.)

Although he says that, seems like he doesnt really mean it.

Kajero seems to be quite fond of Edmond. Sometimes I see the two walking together or rather I see Kajero sitting on Edmonds shoulders while he was walking around the streets.

A brain using kid and a giant full of meat.

They are exact opposite but perhaps they go along well with each other.

Part 2

Taking a glance at the table, I saw Els and Mr. Talbot eating the fried chicken as if competing with each other.

Els was playing with an awfully refreshing look, that I cant help but be stumped for words after remembering his gloomy look just before the party started.

Ah, our eyes met.

Els stopped his hands. He quickly brought the food into his plate and brought it to me.

Mr. Talbot who was pushed aside looked quite lonely, but lets ignore it.

[Youve been giving greetings all along, and havent eaten anything right? Here.]

[Thank you. Youre quite attentive.]

[It isnt a big deal. I am also quite fed up with such parties. You should be tired, and you have to keep talking when someone comes. Rest a bit already.]

Eh-

Was Els this kind of boy who could be so concerned?

The original him and the current him, both is supposed to be a boy filled with thoughts only about the sword.

Strange.

[That doll, it is the one looking at me during the day, right?]

Els glance was directed around my belly or in other words at Kajero in my arms.

[It really is Altys.]

(.so youve noticed. What a sense of smell.)

Kajeros tone of voice was as if it is full of thorns.

In Kajeros letter, Els was also called a guard dog. He is probably displeased of something about Els.

But as if he didnt notice nor care about it, Els was unfazed as normal.

[I can even smell the rain when Im in a good mood. I have confidence in my nose.]

He even seems rather proud.

[Well, we havent introduce ourselves yet, right? I am Elstat, the eldest son of the Rozerem duke.]

(I am called Kajero. Ive heard a lot about you from Ojou-sama. By the way, why dont we talk by telepathy instead as it might seem strange to be seen talking to a doll.)

[Actually, Ive been trying to do that many times, but it didnt go well. Can you teach me how to do it?]

(Well let me think about it.

After all I have a job to finish in my hands.)

[Is it about the guy with the dangerous atmosphere?]

(Yeah, the one that made you run away with tails between your legs.)

Kajeros words was so provocative that it almost seems rude.

If it was the Els from before, he would definitely retort with a red face.

However-

[He was really dangerous. It would have been bad if hed caught us.]

He agreed in a matter of course fashion.

(Hoit seems like I need to change my perception of you. Elstat-sama, I am sorry for my rude words and manner up to now.)

[Dont worry about it. The me from yesterday and the me now would still have done the same thing.] (TL: this is confusing but I think he means that no matter what, he still would have taken Alty and run away then.)

(What words of generosity. You have my gratitude. Elstat-sama now can properly distinguish between what you can and cannot do, and as the same people who would protect Ojou-sama, there is nothing more reliable than that.)

[Thank you. But well, even if there is a fight, as I am now I dont think there is any chance for me to help. My strength is not enough.]

I wonder if this is still the same Els.

Without a care for the atmosphere and just wielding his sword, he would say without something like those dolls, I can just protect you alone! or so hed boast to the point of being admirable.

[I can also use magic somewhat, so you can call me anytime if you need help.]

(Of course. If Ojou-sama is in a pinch I might ask for your help again.)

[Is that okay? It is a pretty important responsibility.]

(Your sense of smell is quite something. We can rely on it to escape if there was danger.)

[Dont flatter me. I am going to try my best to not disappoint you.]

(I am relying on you.)

Wait, this is such a sudden development far from my expectations.

I can only blankly look in amazement at Kajero whose displeasing atmosphere had suddenly changed to as if Els was his brother-in arms for several years. Dont tell me they were lovers in their past life or something. Or maybe is this what they call mens world?

(Even so, you have changed a lot since the last time in the city.)

It is just as Kajero said.

Els up to now was narcissistic and self-centered, and were he to grow up that way, he would definitely become the troublesome man just like in the game.

Speaking of Els now, he has a calmer atmosphere than beforeI wonder why he somehow seems a bit like father.

[A lot of stuff happened. I ran at a speed so fast that cant be seen by the eyes around the city. On top of that, I ran out of breath before Alty. I was so frustrated to the point that I couldnt stand it and fell asleep, so my mood got better after waking up. I had even thought of dying rather than admitting it.]

. I didnt notice.

While I was busy greeting with earls left and right, to think he thought up until that terrible point.

[However, thats when Solute-san came to me.]

(Hohou, Altirea-samas father, is it? Ive heard that he had been devoted to the sword since he was young.)

[Aah, he was also the same as me. We talked about a lot of things. Thanks to that, I was able to sort out my feelings a little bit.]

The Els, who said so while smiling brightly, seems even more mature than the 15 years old him whom I knew.

Though he is still only 8 years old.

. A little, really a little, but-

He does seem a little cool.

A word for all readers, this is just a translation from fan for fan. There is no garantee that this is 100% correct or accurate, and if this translation has violated any rules, please let me know and I will remove my works as thereason I am translating this series is because I like it and am willing to share the cuteness with everyone else the more the better.

PS: If you want to have more chapters, do consider to support the author by buying the book. If at least 3 people have bought the book, I will gift extra chapters even if I have to stay up all night to TL.^^

TL: Kourii

Editor: Raven

Taking a glance at the table, I saw Els and Mr. Talbot eating the fried chicken as if competing with each other.

Els was playing with an awfully refreshing look, that I cant help but be stumped for words after remembering his gloomy look just before the party started.

Ah, our eyes met.

Els stopped his hands. He quickly brought the food into his plate and brought it to me.

Mr. Talbot who was pushed aside looked quite lonely, but lets ignore it.

[Youve been giving greetings all along, and havent eaten anything right? Here.]

[Thank you. Youre quite attentive.]

[It isnt a big deal. I am also quite fed up with such parties. You should be tired, and you have to keep talking when someone comes. Rest a bit already.]

Eh-

Was Els this kind of boy who could be so concerned?

The original him and the current him, both is supposed to be a boy filled with thoughts only about the sword.

Strange.

[That doll, it is the one looking at me during the day, right?]

Els glance was directed around my belly or in other words at Kajero in my arms.

[It really is Altys.]

(.so youve noticed. What a sense of smell.)

Kajeros tone of voice was as if it is full of thorns.

In Kajeros letter, Els was also called a guard dog. He is probably displeased of something about Els.

But as if he didnt notice nor care about it, Els was unfazed as normal.

[I can even smell the rain when Im in a good mood. I have confidence in my nose.]

He even seems rather proud.

[Well, we havent introduce ourselves yet, right? I am Elstat, the eldest son of the Rozerem duke.]

(I am called Kajero. Ive heard a lot about you from Ojou-sama. By the way, why dont we talk by telepathy instead as it might seem strange to be seen talking to a doll.)

[Actually, Ive been trying to do that many times, but it didnt go well. Can you teach me how to do it?]

(Well let me think about it.

After all I have a job to finish in my hands.)

[Is it about the guy with the dangerous atmosphere?]

(Yeah, the one that made you run away with tails between your legs.)

Kajeros words was so provocative that it almost seems rude.

If it was the Els from before, he would definitely retort with a red face.

However-

[He was really dangerous. It would have been bad if hed caught us.]

He agreed in a matter of course fashion.

(Hoit seems like I need to change my perception of you. Elstat-sama, I am sorry for my rude words and manner up to now.)

[Dont worry about it. The me from yesterday and the me now would still have done the same thing.] (TL: this is confusing but I think he means that no matter what, he still would have taken Alty and run away then.)

(What words of generosity. You have my gratitude. Elstat-sama now can properly distinguish between what you can and cannot do, and as the same people who would protect Ojou-sama, there is nothing more reliable than that.)

[Thank you. But well, even if there is a fight, as I am now I dont think there is any chance for me to help. My strength is not enough.]

I wonder if this is still the same Els.

Without a care for the atmosphere and just wielding his sword, he would say without something like those dolls, I can just protect you alone! or so hed boast to the point of being admirable.

[I can also use magic somewhat, so you can call me anytime if you need help.]

(Of course. If Ojou-sama is in a pinch I might ask for your help again.)

[Is that okay? It is a pretty important responsibility.]

(Your sense of smell is quite something. We can rely on it to escape if there was danger.)

[Dont flatter me. I am going to try my best to not disappoint you.]

(I am relying on you.)

Wait, this is such a sudden development far from my expectations.

I can only blankly look in amazement at Kajero whose displeasing atmosphere had suddenly changed to as if Els was his brother-in arms for several years. Dont tell me they were lovers in their past life or something. Or maybe is this what they call mens world?

(Even so, you have changed a lot since the last time in the city.)

It is just as Kajero said.

Els up to now was narcissistic and self-centered, and were he to grow up that way, he would definitely become the troublesome man just like in the game.

Speaking of Els now, he has a calmer atmosphere than beforeI wonder why he somehow seems a bit like father.

[A lot of stuff happened. I ran at a speed so fast that cant be seen by the eyes around the city. On top of that, I ran out of breath before Alty. I was so frustrated to the point that I couldnt stand it and fell asleep, so my mood got better after waking up. I had even thought of dying rather than admitting it.]

. I didnt notice.

While I was busy greeting with earls left and right, to think he thought up until that terrible point.

[However, thats when Solute-san came to me.]

(Hohou, Altirea-samas father, is it? Ive heard that he had been devoted to the sword since he was young.)

[Aah, he was also the same as me. We talked about a lot of things. Thanks to that, I was able to sort out my feelings a little bit.]

The Els, who said so while smiling brightly, seems even more mature than the 15 years old him whom I knew.

Though he is still only 8 years old.

. A little, really a little, but-

He does seem a little cool.

If according to the Otome game, the event of Elstat being consulted doesnt have any connection with me. Nevertheless, it is strange for a capture target to encounter such a transformative event without encountering the heroine yet.

However, this is not the game.

This is reality.

There is no such thing as a capture target who cannot grow without the heroine.

I think this is such an important issue that, if I could, I would have gone to my murky room and carefully think about it.

And,

[ Alty, Kajero be careful, he is coming.](Els)

When Els noticed some movement the three of them went silent.

Els natural noble smile instantly changed to that of a firm and flawless one.

[? This is strange. It is the same presence this afternoon but the bad vibe isgone.](Els)

(The dolls outside didnt see him enter. Is it some kind of *visual interference magic?)(Kajero)

In the party venue, only the area around us is full of tension.

And,

[Wahaha, are the two of you enjoying the party?](Mr. Oblivious=u know who)

Without knowing anything, the Rozerem duke came and asked in his mellow voice and expression.

[Yes, it is very interesting as there are a lot of people that I dont usually get to meet.](Alty)

I responded with a rigid expression while desperately squeezing out a fake smile.

[That is wonderful . After all, destined meeting is more precious than any treasure . Actually, when I was lost in the streets earlier, I met a famous person . This must be a guidance from god, I just had to call out after all . Having such a surprising encounter like this really is suitable for a surprise party. I think it should be about time]

Eeto*, can it be that Rozerem duke is really unaware that The Wandering Earl has already lived for a thousand years?

Before I had the chance to ask.

[Oh, here he comes. Ive been waiting.](Mr. Oblivious)

Opening the door without a sound as if slipping through it, was the appearance of the earl

* *

[Having been invited to celebrate such a beautiful princess birthday really shows that the months and days of the thousand year is worth it after all.]

It was a man with black eyes and long hair as if condensed by the darkness of the night.

His skin, on the other hand, is white as the perpetual snow, but the contrast just makes his presence stronger.

[Nice to meet you, Doll Princess. My name is Christophe du Vergennes or The Wandering Earl as you should have heard.]

**Dressed in an old violet robe, he showed an old form of greeting from the old times and kneeled in front of me.

His thoroughly elegant and graceful gestures that you cant help but want to sigh with admiration is enough proof that he is someone who has lived for over a thousand years.

Now the leading role of the party has already switched from me to him.

The other people werent able turn their eyes away from him.

I was also not able to take my eyes away from him.

However, it is not because of interest.

It is because of shock.

I never would have guessed that he would make a grand appearance and meet me face to face like this.

My plans here and there around Spiril were completely laid waste.

Could it be that he wants to make me his collection in front of the public like this? His distorted and greedy collection of confining variant talents forever in ice should be thoroughly hidden though.

At least, it was like that in the game.

The contradiction is like an absolute zero degree storm that chills my heart.

My head cant keep up with this development.

The Earl was still bowing his head and gently holding my left hand with his long fingers.

[You might be confused by something so unexpected but may I hear your name, Princess?](W.E)

I was still restless about all this, so much that I didnt recognize that his words were directed at me.

[.Alty, snap out of it!](Els)

The one who brought me back was Els.

If Els didnt softly pull at my hand, I probably would still be standing here in a daze until the end of the world.

[Yes, Els, I just go a little dazed.

.. My apologies for showing you something unsightly. Earl, my name is Altirea Wisp, also known as The Doll Princess as you should have heard.](Alty)

As I was saying that , I was desperately thinking of a solution in my mind.

This is reality, not the game world.

There are plenty of things that differ from my knowledge.

The important thing to do is to face them one by one.

(.Seems like you have finally calmed down.)

I finally started to receive telepathy messages from Kajero again. You cant receive it if you are not calm.

(Were finally able to change our strategy. All the dolls in town have been gathered here. Please do not worry about the safety of your father and the guests.)

Looking around a bit, I can see that all the Rutia family members are on guard and ready to move at anytime. There are two cats near fathers leg. They are the ones that I brought on the carriage with me. Their always sleepy looking eyes are now wide open, and they had a cheeky and amusing grin on their faces.

(Ojou-sama, you are not alone. Even if the world is to completely change and everyone wants your life. We will still be your ally to the very end. Please do not forget about that.)

(. Thank you)

Thats right.

I am not alone.

It is obvious.

However, just putting it again in words somehow really warms up my heart.

I stood facing the Earl.

The Earl stood there as imposing as a tower. The earl is even a head taller than the large Rozerem duke, so I had no choice but to take a step back as I am still in the stature of a child.

As if Id lose to him.

I tightly hugged Kajero who is still in my arms.

I looked back into his dark never ending abyss-like eyes that make others feel like their soul being sucked , as he is looking down towards me.

I wanted to run away.

However, Els gaze gave me courage.

If I am lost about what to do, I can just rely on others.

But that is even more reason to give my best.

First is, U-n, lets find out the intentions of the other party.

[Coming here for someone like myself, I am grateful to Earl .](Alty)

Lets start by having a simple conversation.

[No, no. It is me who should be grateful. Please let me worship your beauty and allow me to be devoted to your magic.](W.E)

The earl changed the white shining agate ring on his left hand to his right hand.

It might probably be a magic tool as it began to emit a dazzling light.

Expecting it to come, I gave orders to the dolls

[No , thats not it.](Els)

I stopped after listening to Els words.

[There isnt the bad vibe like during the day.](Els)

As expected, it is exactly so.

[This is an ancient magic to brandish, a magic from a long time ago, made for my beloved princess from the reformed part of a curse.](Yandere Earl)

Saying that the Earl began to chant.

It was neither a low creepy voice nor a heavy crushingvoice.Itwas a light sonorous voice that was really pleasant to hear.

Giving off an illusion as if one is watching a great opera, the magic itself is just too pure and beautiful.

Then it revealed a miracle.

[Snow]

Someone voiced it out.

Thats right.

White snow was dancing around.

Softly and gently falling on the ground.

Right now, without knowing when, we are no longer in the [Hatoba Inn] but in a white silver world.

There are only white plains every where as far as our eyes can see.

[.Amazing](Els)

Even Els whose hair has been standing up against the earl has his mind completely blown away.

The sun is going down, illuminating the world in orange.

After the setting sun left with a slight melancholy, night came to visit.

A blue meteor crossed the sky. An aurorafloats on the night sky, gradually changing color with a gentle shimmer.

The earls expression was proud but somehow there is some dissatisfaction.

Slightly moving his mouth, although it was faint but I was able to hear his voice.

[How is it, my princess? This is the snow that you wanted to see.]

What a familiar line.

Aah, that ****drama CD. The one with the story of the young earl.

..Once upon a thousand years ago, when the earl was merely a knight of an empire. For the sake of his imprisoned princess, he used forbidden arts and became a demon.

Eeto, how did the princess responded then?

Didnt I listened to that CD even harder than when studying for the test?

Recall it.

Surely, it was

[](Alty)

With this, it should match up.

Lets see what will happen.

.The earls eyes were wide open.

[Please do forgive me. If I am to let you feel the cold, Im afraid my head will be cut off.]

[]

This was the trigger. The earl then went towards the rebels side, and the revolution was a success which brought about the country today, but that is a different story.

[Definitely, I swear with my soul.]

The earls voice is trembling.

Well, cant blame him for that.

The words of the princess that shouldnt have been known to anyone, have been beautifully reproduced.

After having the earl be surprised over and over again, I am a bit happy as Im finally able to make a come back at him although it is such a small victory.

Was it too much?

The earls shoulders were trembling and both of his eyes were tightly shut.

Nononono, it is not to the point of crying.. I think.

Even in the story, most of the twists are often about the late princess feelings.

Seems like my fooling around has stimulated the earls sentimental wound.

Thats right.

Would he just dejectedly go home like that?

Well, that would be a development I am most hoping for.

I wonder whether me thinking of such a sweet thing, is wrong.

[ Altirea-sama](Earl)

The Earl was kneeling down.

It was different from before.

His head is hitting the ground.

This posture is as if he is licking my feet.

[As expected, you are my princess reincarnation. The words just now have already confirmed it. Though with this body that have fallen towards the *****netherworlds magic, can I please have the honor of serving you once again?]

Author: Next is the nights schedule.

By the way, the original Altireas talent was not that much and she didnt enter the earls eye at all.