Chapter 190-1
[Part 1/5]
After completing most of the exploration of the secret experimental site established by the outlaw exorcists, I sent a message to report the situation.
A day later, a transfer team dispatched by Juuyaku (the branch of medicine family) arrived for a more thorough investigation and to collect various materials and equipment. In exchange, I and two guides left the site. Our destination was the capital of Juuyaku, specifically the Juuyaku family estate.
Despite having a population of around two thousand, the village of Nagatsuka, located in the spiritually rich Center region, was relatively prosperous. The welcome we received at the Juuyaku estate was almost overwhelming compared to how we had been treated at other houses we visited. It was astonishing to see the head of the household come out to the estate's entrance to express gratitude and bow to the Household Member Coordinator. It was also surprising that those standing behind him didn't glare at us in frustration. This seemed to be a unique aspect of Juuyaku culture, reflecting their extreme martial disposition.
After arriving earlier, Tamaki and I provided a detailed verbal report to the head of the household. We also drafted and stamped documents for the district office and the Onmyouji Bureau. That night, we were treated to an extravagant feast, likely the most lavish meal since the start of this assignment.
The seasonal tempura of conger eel was fluffy, and the mountain of sea urchin was rich in flavor. The plump sea bream was grilled with salt. The luxurious seafood was probably hurriedly sourced by fast horses. Given the urgency of the procurement, it must have cost a significant amount. The dessert, made of shaved ice topped with sugar and fruit syrup, was a summer indulgence.
The sturdy and practical Juuyaku family prepared a lavish spread, which clearly demonstrated their sincerity. The local mountain delicacies were abundant, and the sake was of the finest quality. It was a truly extravagant dinner.
"I'm truly humbled by such generosity..."
"No, no, that's not the case at all! Rather, I should be thanking you! After all, you helped clean up the shame of our household, Household Member Coordinator!"