LIGHTNOVELWORLD Chapter 257.2
Chapter 257.2. Hakata Farmlands
Those who had been watching the magical device exchanged curious glances, chatting excitedly as they observed the faintly glowing scarecrow. It was only natural; magical tools were a rare sight.
But really, I didn’t need to be here just for this. My real work starts now.
I knelt down on the ground, extending my hands toward the soil. After taking a deep breath in and out, I focused my mana and released it.
[Earth’s Bounty]
This was the plant magic that had been raised to level 4 for me. Among its various abilities, it enriches the land and accelerates the growth of crops.
Golden particles gently emanated from my hands, seeping into and spreading through the soil.
“So it’s not [Rapid Plant Growth]?”
“You know your stuff, Yoko-san. But crops grown with [Rapid Plant Growth] end up hollow and tasteless. Plus, it has a narrow area of effect. [Earth’s Bounty], on the other hand, covers a wide range and produces nutritious, delicious crops, making it much more useful.”
“There seems to be a synergy with the [Bountiful Scarecrow] too. Look over there, nya.”
Karin-san pointed toward the row of mounds. The soil was already swelling, with tiny sprouts breaking through. Some had even grown a bit taller… it was a bit unsettling.
“This… looks creepy.”
“Are those safe crops?”
“They’re edible turnips, right?”
The people around me seemed freaked out. Yeah, I get it. It does look a bit eerie, even to me. But, it’ll be okay, right?
“Marvelous! To think you can grow crops this quickly. ‘Green Saint’ is certainly a fitting title for you, Hana.”
Yoko-san raised her voice to drown out the murmurs of doubt, smiling radiantly as she clapped me on the shoulder. ‘Green Saint’? That was new to me.
“The ‘Green Saint’? Really?”
“Wow, she’s that amazing?”
“So, these must be safe to eat then.”
The crowd’s tension eased thanks to Yoko-san’s words. She’d made up a title on the spot to reassure everyone. Clever. The nickname was a bit embarrassing, but… heh.
“Um, there’s one more thing. If I could just…”
Blushing from the praise, I fumbled for the other magical tool Serika-san had given me. I pulled out a clear, green crystal from the pouch at my waist.
“What’s that nya?”
“[Earth’s Bounty] only lasts about a week. This crystal helps extend its effects.”
I squeezed the crystal tightly and cast another spell.
[Plant Imbuement]
The crystal glowed, absorbing my magic. As I gripped it tighter, it crumbled into sand, which I sprinkled across the land.
“When magic is channeled through this crystal, the effect can last up to a month.”
I wasn’t exactly sure what kind of crystal it was, but Serika-san had said it was specifically crafted for imbuing. She’s really amazing; I respect her a lot.
“With this, we can cultivate crops here quickly. If we focus on fast-growing ones, everyone can have full bellies.”
I puffed out my chest and announced this to the group. Many crops can thrive quickly here. We should be able to harvest lots of potatoes in just a few days.
Faces that had been sunken with fatigue now brightened, softening into faint smiles of hope. They’d be smiling even more once the crops were ready.
“Impressive! Far beyond my expectations. Hana, let us extend this effort to the poorer districts. Even if the plots are small, they will ensure full bellies and bright smiles. The impoverished receive little in distribution. Once they trust us, they will revere you. Leave the arrangements to me—I have experience.”
“Yes! I’ll do my best! First, I need to report to the Adventurers’ Guild.”
To comply with orders from President Sakimori, I had taken the quest through the guild for a reward. Reporting was necessary.
I walked back with determination to help everyone, while Karin-san and the others followed.
“Ah, I see why I was told to guard her! Her disregard for quick cash makes her even more troublesome, nyanko.”
“Hmph. The Oda Clan lost 60% of its assets under lenient conditions. To rebuild, we need fame, trust, and connections.”
Karin-san was yelling something at Yoko-san, but I didn’t quite catch it. Anyway, I was focused on helping the people of Hakata. With resolve, I headed for the Adventurers’ Guild.