After Retirement, Living a Stud Life in Another World - 213

Chapter 213: The Guesthouse?

“There’s a leak from that gutter! Fix it immediately!”

“Yes, Madam! Right away!”

As always, my dear childhood friend is commanding the men with her youthful, high-pitched voice. Somehow, the men receiving her orders look strangely happy about it. It’s a bit unsettling.

Today, however, she’s not the “Lumberjack Queen.” Instead, she’s the supervisor overseeing the construction of a hot spring resort.

The people of the Empire had already been ecstatic about the hot springs, and Beato and the visitors from Berzenbrück seemed to enjoy the wild, open-air experience of bathing. Even Gretel, who had initially resisted the idea of undressing, now thoroughly enjoys the open-air baths with me.

With that in mind, we decided to build a hot spring inn—not exactly a guesthouse, but a facility to entertain visiting nobles and wealthy merchants in Baden. For this, we’ve been enlisting the Empire’s men to help with the construction.

The Empire has abundant forest resources, and many of the captured soldiers are skilled in woodworking and carpentry. Since the women often take the spotlight, there’s no reason not to utilize the men’s expertise. They seem motivated, probably because their skills are being recognized.

Our guesthouse isn’t meant to be a massive, imposing stone building like the noble estates in the royal capital. Instead, it’s modeled after the resort-style accommodations of my old world, with detached, single-story log houses for each room.

Unlike the initial structures we built, these are skillfully crafted by the Empire’s men, with meticulous attention to detail. They’ve polished and assembled the buildings to perfection, filling them with handcrafted, warm furniture and plush king-sized beds fitted with feather duvets imported from the royal capital. Naturally, each unit has an outdoor terrace with an open-air bath, where hot spring water flows through wooden pipes in a continuous stream. The main building, also a single-story structure but horizontally expansive, includes a dining area and a hall for small parties.

Thanks to the revenue from the magic silver mine and Beato’s agricultural boom, we’ve been able to afford such indulgences. Eventually, I dream of turning this place into a full-fledged retreat where affluent visitors from the royal capital can come to relax.

But back to the matter at hand. Today, Gretel herself, in her role as “Madam,” has taken charge to ensure everything is completed on time. In just three days, the first guest will arrive at the hot spring inn. This visitor is very important to both Gretel and me. I had extended the invitation to fulfill a long-standing promise.

“It looks like everything is on track. I can’t wait to see Liese’s reaction.”

“Yeah, thanks.”

Yes, at long last… I’m going to start a family with my sister.

“Attention! Salute the Marquis of Stuttgart!”

The women’s military unit snapped to attention in perfect unison, presenting an impressive sight. At their head stood my sister, Liese. With her hair casually tied back and her sharp, composed expression, her radiant beauty shone as she looked straight at me. She’s as stunning as ever—strong, beautiful, and someone I truly admire.

The national army’s units routinely patrol the provinces, especially remote territories like Baden. Officially, the purpose is to assist local nobles in dealing with monsters and bandits. However, the real aim is to demonstrate the army’s strength and deter rebellion.

Of course, Queen Hildegarde has no doubts about Baden’s loyalty. And after the recent purges of suspicious nobles, this patrol is likely just a matter of routine.

“Marquis Ludwig of Stuttgart, we, the First Magical Unit, have arrived for our scheduled patrol. We will proceed with the requested monster subjugation and reconnaissance along the border. May we have your permission?”

“Thank you for traveling such a long way. I’m counting on you. We can offer supplies like lumber and food, so don’t hesitate to ask the steward. We’ve also prepared a base for you on the southern outskirts of town.”

“Your cooperation is greatly appreciated, Marquis.”

Liese saluted crisply once more, then softened her expression into a gentle smile.

“Lutz, you’ve really grown into your role as Marquis. You’re so composed now—it’s surprising. And you’ve become even more handsome…”

“Do you think so? Have I become someone worthy of you, Sister?”

“You’ve already become the man I’ve always dreamed of, sent to me by the gods. I came here this time to become yours.”

For someone who used to be so reserved, my sister suddenly delivered a bold, heartfelt declaration. Over the past two years, she’s grown more confident, admired by everyone, and even more beautiful. She’s my precious, irreplaceable family.

“Yes, Sister Liese, I’ve been waiting. I want you to be mine.”

Though I was flustered, I gave her my honest answer. Her cheeks flushed, and her brown eyes sparkled with joy.