"…This is the first time I've seen anything like this. What are they?"

"They are all so beautiful. Are these decorative art pieces?"

"Indeed, they look perfect for display in the foyer."

"Actually, these are cakes—a type of dessert. They're sweet and delicious. Please choose one to try from the variety available."

The vibrant cakes in the box included shortcake, chocolate cake, mille-feuille, and fruit tarts. Considering how visually appealing things are often appreciated in this world, I picked out the most colorful cakes I could find. With the extra money I earned from the bodyguard job, I decided to splurge a bit. Of course, I also got some for myself and Mom back home.

"Wait, this is food!?"

"Ah, how exquisite!"

"Yes, they look so beautiful! And I remember the marshmallows you shared last time; they were so sweet and delightful!"

Since I wasn’t sure if this world had the technology to produce things like foil or clear film, I removed all the wrappers beforehand. As usual, Darga and Gina tasted them first to ensure their safety.

"They're almost too beautiful to eat... This—this is incredible!"

"It's so sweet! Even sweeter than those marshmallows!"

"W-wait! Gina, let me try as well! Oh, it’s delicious!"

When I explored the town earlier, I noticed that sweets seemed scarce in this world. None of the street vendors sold them, and the closest thing I found was a mildly sweet bread-like snack served at meals in this mansion. No wonder even marshmallows surprised them.

"This is wonderful! Such beauty and flavor—where did you get these, Masayoshi?"

"These are a specialty from my homeland, but I’m afraid I can’t disclose the recipe or where they come from. Please keep it a secret."

"Do you think these cakes could be sold? I’m certain nobles and royalty would buy them in a heartbeat!"

That’s likely true. With how stunning and tasty these cakes are, they'd undoubtedly sell like hotcakes.

"Unfortunately, I’m not planning on selling them. Producing these in bulk would be challenging."

Constantly sourcing cakes in large quantities, especially given the limited access to Japanese currency, would be unrealistic.

"…That’s such a pity," Sara said, visibly disappointed.

"Don’t worry; I’ll bring more the next time I visit. You can look forward to it."

"Really? I was hoping to try the other types as well! I’ll gladly pay for them, so please bring more!"

She had a point. I only brought enough for each person to have one slice, as it was before dinner and the cakes are pretty calorie-dense.

"There's no need to pay. Besides, Gina has been helping me with some requests, so consider it my treat. Please share the remaining two slices with the other two guards who assisted during the bodyguard mission."

"Oh... You’re right. I understand," Sara replied, though she looked a bit disappointed. It seemed she was hoping to have the extras for herself. I’ll make sure to bring more next time.

"Masayoshi, here is the information you requested about the Great Mage," Gina said.

Thud.

That was a lot of paper! A thick stack of documents, each A4-sized and packed with text, was placed in front of me.

"Wow, there’s so much."

"Yes, I compiled everything I know: the Great Mage's achievements, places they visited, information about their descendants, and the types of magic they used. This is as comprehensive as I could make it."

"If I had more time, I could prepare five times this amount. Shall I continue gathering the rest?"

"N-no, this is already more than enough! If I have questions later, I’ll reach out again."

The stack already looked to be about 200 pages. Five times that would be impossible to read!

Honestly, I was only hoping to learn about the Great Mage’s commonly used magic and any clues about their descendants. But Gina went above and beyond. I’ll definitely bring her a special gift next time as a thank-you.

"Thank you so much. I’ll be sure to repay your kindness."

"No need. As someone who reveres the Great Mage, it is only natural. Please, spread the Great Mage’s teachings to the world. Those who believe in the Great Mage shall be saved!"

Okay, that was almost cult-like. Gina's reverence for the Great Mage was a little scary.

"Y-yeah. This was a huge help. Thank you."

I stored the stack of papers using my magic for safekeeping. I’d read through them carefully when I got home.

"Well then, I’ll take my leave for now. Thank you for everything. I’ll visit again soon."

"You’re leaving already? Why not stay for dinner? You’re welcome to stay the night as well."

"Sorry, I need to head back today. But I’ll visit again soon."

"I see… That’s unfortunate, but I understand. Please come back anytime!"

"I will. I’ll bring more cakes next time too. Take care!"

It felt good to see them so happy over something as simple as a cake. Next time I visit Sara, I’ll be sure to bring another special treat.