Chapter 82 – Beloved Ship of the Sea: The Tethys
I entered the ship for the first time.
Although it’s a merchant ship, it’s made of wood, and because it’s a “galleon ship”, it is wide and strong. Has she been navigating this alone…? If so, that’s amazing.
“Oh, so this is Strelka’s ship.”
“The deck is slippery, so please be careful.”
“Thank you. So, where should we talk?”
“We have the captain’s cabin here, please follow me.”
We entered the captain’s cabin located at the stern of the ship.
It was surprisingly spacious.
And it had a calm atmosphere.
There was enough space for ten people to comfortably stay.
“This captain’s cabin has a sort of noble feel to it, it’s luxurious.”
“Yes, we have spared no expense. Welcome aboard the beloved ship of the sea, the ‘Tethys’.”
We were invited to take a seat, and Eduardo and I sat down on the chair. On the table, along with a tea set, there were fruits and sweets arranged. It felt like I hadn’t seen such a scene in a long time.
“It feels like there’s a sense of everyday life. It has a feminine touch, very much like Strelka.”
“W-What do you mean, Rasty-sama?”
Strelka blushed and became flustered.
“It means exactly what it sounds like.”
“Oh, could you please explain it in more detail?”
She brought her face closer.
A sweet scent like that of roses wafts through the air. I started feeling a little strange…
“Well, it means that you’re beautiful.”
“…T-That makes me happy! I’m glad you like it.”
Strelka, relieved, reached for the teapot. She poured tea into the fine cups and placed them in front of me and Eduardo.
Oh, it smells good… It’s tea.
I haven’t had something this refined since the empire. And we even got some sweets as well.
“This fox-colored rectangular sweet…”
“As expected of Rasty-sama. This is a very delicious sweet called ‘financier’ made with fermented butter. It’s one of my favorite sweets. Please enjoy.”
I immediately took a bite.
As I did, a “fluffy” texture spread in my mouth. At the same time, a “crisp” sensation and the gentle flavor of butter filled my mouth. …It’s delicious. It’s been a long time since I had such a sweet and delicious treat.
I sipped the tea to soothe your throat.
The tea also has a rich and exquisite taste, and was perfectly balanced. The aroma and flavor were top-notch. This must be the renowned “Nuwara Eliya” that only exists in the Dvorak Empire.
“It’s delicious, Strelka. I’m happy.”
“I-I’m also happy to see Rasty-sama’s smile… Ehehe.”
I don’t know why, but Strelka was twisting her mouth and her face was turning bright red.1TN: I think she just trying to hold her smile from being too happy. Like this maybe: 
Occasionally, she was fidgeting and seemed busy. It was good that she seemed to be in a good mood. With this, negotiations seem possible.
On the other hand, Eduardo was silently stuffing her cheeks with sweets and enjoying her tea elegantly. She seemed a bit too relaxed, but – well, it’s fine.
“Strelka, I have something to talk about.”
“Y-Yes. What is it?”
“Yeah, well, I’m actually thinking of going to the Elven country, ‘Borodin’. For that, I need a ship. I have shipbuilding skills, but I lack the necessary materials… That’s why I can only rely on you, Strelka.”
“I-I’m the only one you can rely on!?”
“I need you. It has to be you.”
“….R-Rasty-sama.”
Strelka froze up. Oi oi, you’re not Skor, you know… Why did she freeze up like that? As I was puzzled, Eduardo, who had quietly placed his cup down, finally showed a reaction.
“Indeed, she can’t be sidelined.”
With just those words, she glanced at me and then fell silent. What does that mean? There doesn’t seem to be any malice, and rather, it seemed like Eduardo was also gesturing with her hands.2TN: not sure what gesturing with her hands mean. Perhaps indicating agreement or satisfaction.
“Hey, Strelka. Let’s continue the conversation.”
When I called out, Strelka immediately snapped back. She leaned in closer. Too close!
“Y-Yes! I want to hear more.”
“Then, let’s talk about the ship.”
“Yes, of course. You want to go to the Elven country, ‘Borodin’. Please leave it to me!”
“Are you sure? You’re not forcing yourself?”
“I’m fine. If it’s Rasty-sama’s request, I’ll accept anything. Please make use of this Strelka.”
Her hand gently held mine, and I couldn’t help but feel a thump in my heart. …Hmm, my chest is hot. What’s wrong, what’s wrong with me? Stay calm, stay calm… I can’t! Ah, at least I’ll maintain a composed and resolute demeanor, not letting my expression falter. I don’t want to show any uncool sides of myself.
TN: If you like my translations support me in ko-fi: Here.
