Isekai Slow Life: Ookami

Part 1

The air inside the cave was thick with dust and the sharp scent of magic ore. Deep within the tunnels of Keimonomimi Village's most valuable mine, shadows flickered against the jagged rock walls as torches lined the path. But today, the miners had long since abandoned their posts. Something lurked in the darkness—something dangerous.

At the front of the group, Myco adjusted his sleeves and let out a slow breath. His sharp green eyes scanned the cavern, watching for movement. Though he wore a well-fitted business suit, his relaxed posture and calm expression belied the fact that he was far from defenseless.

Behind him, his trusted Fellows stood ready. Hawker, clad in gleaming steel armor, gripped his long spear, his falcon eyes sharp and focused. His broad feathers twitched, ready to fight at the first sign of danger. Paat, the white-furred wolf commander, crouched low, his hands resting on his rapier ready to attack. Unlike Hawker, Paat wore only light armor, favoring speed over defense. Nip, the elven archer, pulled a golden arrow from her quiver, her fingers ghosting over the bowstring. Her pointed ears twitched, listening for any sounds in the darkness. Tigirl, the cheerful feline warrior, rested her massive broadsword on her shoulder, her tail flicking impatiently. "Whatever's down here better be worth my time," she muttered, green eyes gleaming.

A low growl echoed through the tunnel, followed by the sound of heavy claws scraping against stone. "Here they come," Myco murmured.

A massive, Mole Boss lunged from the shadows, its eyes glowing with greed. It was the size of a giant, its muscular body covered in thick fur and drill fingers. Behind it, smaller monsters—ruby lizards and peacock stone moss frogs—emerged from the deeper tunnels, their glowing mouths dripping with venom.

Hawker sprinted forward, spear spinning in his grasp. "I'll handle the big one," he called.

Paat's wolf companion let out a sharp bark, he then stretched his hand out, giving his command. "Nip! Support! Tigirl, we take the front line!"

As chaos erupted, Myco stood calmly, watching as his Fellows fell into perfect synchronization. Hawker attacked the Mole Boss, using his speed and armor to lure its attention, his spear striking against its tough muscles. Paat weaved through the battlefield with lightning-fast reflexes, his rapier tearing through the smaller beasts before they could strike. Nip fired a barrage of golden arrows, pinpointing weak spots with uncanny precision. Tigirl, grinning wildly, swung her massive sword in a single arc, cleaving through several enemies in one swing. Myco raised a hand, and fire magical energy pulsed from his palm. He was no swordsman, no brute-force warrior like Tigirl, but his magic was precise.

"Fall back!" he ordered.

At his command, his Fellows cleared a path, just as Myco sent a wave of burning magic surging through the battlefield. The ground beneath the smaller enemy monsters was set ablaze, burning them instantly to a crisp. The Mole Boss, now exposed, let out a deafening roar.

Seeing his chance, Hawker shot his spear downward like a falcon striking its prey, his spear piercing through the Mole's exposed eye. The beast convulsed, then collapsed with a final, echoing thud. Silence filled the cavern.

Then Tigirl exhaled, flicking blood off her sword. "Well… that was fun."

Hawker stood next to Myco, brushing dust off his armor. "That was some quick thinking, boss."

Nip returned her bow to her back. "The miners should be able to return now. I'd call this a success."

Paat sheathed his sword. "Not bad. I guess we're done here?"

Myco smoothed out his suit, already knowing exactly where to go. "Yep, lets inform the foreman."

The scent of freshly unearthed magic ore lingered in the air as Myco and his Fellows emerged from the cavern, their boots crunching against loose gravel. The once-dangerous mine was now eerily silent, the last remnants of battle fading into the darkness behind them.

Waiting for them at the entrance stood the Usagimimi foreman, a stout rabbit-eared man with dust-covered overalls and a relieved expression. His long ears twitched with excitement as they approached, his wide eyes scanning their group for injuries.

"You actually did it," the foreman breathed, his voice tinged with awe. "The Cave Tyrant, the rock lizards—gone?"

Myco adjusted his cuffs, offering a small, confident smile. "Cleared out. Your miners can return to work without worrying about getting eaten."

The foreman exhaled, his shoulders sagging in relief. "You've saved us, truly. We'd nearly given up hope." He reached into his belt pouch and pulled out a small bag of gold, holding it out with both hands. "It's not much, but you all deserve it. Please, take it."

Myco glanced at the bag but didn't reach for it. Instead, he gently pushed it back toward the foreman.

"No reward necessary," he said. "Use it to pay your miners. They'll need it more than we do."

The foreman's eyes widened, his ears perking up. He opened his mouth as if to protest, but then, slowly, he smiled—one of deep gratitude. He bowed deeply, holding the gold to his chest. "You're a good man, Elder Myco."

Myco chuckled, shaking his head. Elder. It wasn't the first time he had been called that, despite his youthful appearance. Among the Keimonomimi villagers, it wasn't just age that earned respect—it was wisdom, leadership, and strength. Even though he was still adjusting to this world, he had built something here. And that was enough.

Behind him, Hawker stretched his arms, rolling his shoulders with a metallic clink of armor. "Well, that was a nice warm-up. Now, about some food?"

Paat, the white-furred wolf commander, smirked. "You're always thinking with your stomach."

Tigirl, resting her massive sword against her shoulder, flicked her tail lazily. "For once, I agree with the bird. I need a meal after all that."

Nip sighed, sliding her bow over her shoulder. "You all act like you haven't eaten in weeks."

Myco chuckled and turned back to the foreman. "We'll be heading to Drakenburg to eat. If anything else comes up, let me know."

The foreman gave a firm nod. "Thank you again, Elder Myco. May fortune smile upon you."

As the group made their way toward Drakenburg, Myco had no idea that this afternoon's meal would change his life forever.

As Myco and his Fellows passed through the towering gates of Drakenburg, they were once again met with the sight of medieval splendor. The city's grand stone walls, weathered yet sturdy, stood as a testament to centuries of history. Beyond them, a sprawling landscape of cobblestone streets, timber-framed houses, and bustling marketplaces spread out like a living tapestry. Warm lantern light flickered in windows, and the air carried the mixed scents of fresh bread, roasting meats, and the occasional hint of alchemical brews from apothecary stalls.

Looming over the city was the great castle of Drakenburg, a magnificent fortress of white stone and sapphire-colored spires, its banners fluttering proudly against the twilight sky. It was the seat of power, where kings and nobles dictated the affairs of the land. Yet even the castle, imposing as it was, paled in comparison to the majestic World Tree that stood behind it—a colossal ancient being whose emerald canopy stretched beyond the heavens. Legends spoke of Orivita, the Avatar of Life, who slumbered within its sacred heart, blessing the land with her eternal presence.

The streets of Drakenburg were alive with activity. Merchants called out from their stalls, displaying jewels, silks, enchanted trinkets, and rare spices. Blacksmiths hammered away at their forges, sending sparks into the dimming sky, while musicians played lively tunes to entertain the wandering crowds. The city's diverse population—humans, elves, Keimonomimi, and even the occasional dwarven craftsman—moved together in the organized chaos of afternoon commerce.

As Myco's group made their way through the bustling avenues, the tantalizing aroma of food filled the air, drawing their attention to the many taverns and restaurants lining the streets. Unfortunately, it seemed that everyone in Drakenburg had the same idea—each establishment was packed to capacity, their doors lined with hungry patrons waiting for a seat. One barkeep, wiping his hands on his apron, called out to them as they approached.

"If you're looking for a meal, you might be waitin' a few hours! The whole city's out today!"

Hawker groaned, folding his arms. "Great. We clear out a monster-infested cave, and now we have to fight for a table."

Paat sniffed the air. "There's got to be somewhere that isn't overrun."

That was when Myco's gaze landed on one particular restaurant tucked away at the corner of the street. Unlike the others, this one was noticeably empty—its wooden sign swayed gently in the afternoon breeze, decorated with elegant Touno-style calligraphy. Soft lantern light glowed within, illuminating a simple yet refined interior.

"A Touno-themed restaurant…" Myco's curiosity piqued.

One of his Fellows, Hawker, frowned as he followed Myco's gaze. "Wait, you're not actually thinking of going in there, are you?"

"Why not?" Myco asked.

The falcon warrior shifted uncomfortably. "I've heard rumors about that place. They say the owner is…" He hesitated, glancing around before lowering his voice. "Scary."

"Scary?" Myco raised an eyebrow.

Paat smirked. "You're scared of a chef?"

Hawker clicked his beak in annoyance. "I'm just saying, nobody eats there. There's got to be a reason for that."

But Myco, intrigued rather than deterred, stepped forward. "Only one way to find out."

With that, he pushed open the door and walked inside. As Myco and his Fellows stepped inside, they were immediately met with the serene elegance of the restaurant's interior. The warm glow of paper lanterns cast a soft, golden light across the room, their delicate calligraphy and cherry blossom motifs swaying gently in the breeze. The scent of freshly brewed tea, grilled fish, and fragrant rice filled the air, a stark contrast to the cold, empty rumors that surrounded this place.

The floors were polished wood, smooth and pristine, while sliding shoji doors separated private dining areas. Simple yet beautiful Touno-style artwork adorned the walls—paintings of snow-capped mountains, tranquil lakes, and mythical oni warriors, each brushstroke exuding a sense of history and tradition. The furniture was crafted from rich, dark wood, with tatami seating arranged around low tables for an authentic dining experience.

Despite the eerie rumors surrounding the restaurant, the place felt undeniably cozy—a hidden retreat in the bustling city of Drakenburg. It was strange that no one else was dining here, given how meticulously maintained and welcoming the space was.

As the group took in their surroundings, the soft rustle of fabric drew their attention.

From beyond the counter, a stunning woman approached them with unparalleled grace. Her dark brown hair, rich and silky, was neatly tied up, held in place by a single ornate hairpin that glinted under the lantern light. A few loose strands framed her face, softening her features. But it was her golden eyes that truly captivated—like molten amber, they carried a quiet wisdom, warm yet piercing, as if she could see straight through one's soul.

Her scarlet horns, smooth and curved, peeked from beneath her hairline—a mark of her Oni heritage. Yet, rather than detract from her beauty, they only added to her exotic allure, a reminder that she was both graceful and formidable.

Draped around her slender frame was a breathtaking kimono—deep chestnut brown, embroidered with delicate cherry blossoms that seemed to drift like real petals across the fabric. Gold and soft pink threads intertwined in elegant patterns, bringing the floral designs to life. The wide sleeves flowed with every movement, and a rich green obi sash cinched the garment at her waist, accentuating her figure without being overly extravagant. Even her footwear carried a sense of tradition—wooden clogs with white tabi socks, a subtle but refined detail that completed her timeless appearance.

She came to a graceful stop before them, bowing deeply with practiced elegance. "Welcome, honored guests," she said, her voice smooth and refined. Then, as she straightened, her gaze lingered on Myco, and with a respectful nod, she addressed him directly. "My Liege."

Her words, spoken with absolute sincerity, left the group momentarily stunned. Hawker stiffened, while Paat raised an eyebrow in intrigue. Even Tigirl, who rarely showed much reaction to anything, blinked in mild surprise.

Myco, however, simply smiled. "A table for my Fellows and me, please."

She nodded gracefully, gesturing for them to follow. "Right this way, my liege."

Her voice was smooth, refined, and carried an air of quiet elegance. With effortless grace, she led them through the warmly lit restaurant to a low table near the window. From here, they had a perfect view of Drakenburg's bustling streets, the glow of lanterns casting golden hues against the medieval buildings. In the distance, the towering castle loomed under the shadow of the World Tree, its ethereal glow illuminating the sky.

As Myco and his Fellows settled onto the tatami mats, the soft straw cushioning beneath them, he turned to their mysterious hostess. "What do you recommend?" he asked.

She folded her hands in front of her and responded with practiced politeness. "Our specialty today is the Wasabi Special. A bold dish for those with strong hearts."

Myco grinned. "Sounds perfect. We'll take a plate each—and a round of beer to go with it."

With a graceful bow, the Oni woman excused herself, disappearing behind the noren curtain leading to the kitchen.

As soon as she was gone, Hawker let out a low whistle, leaning in with a smirk. "You have to admit, she's quite the beauty."

Paat nodded in agreement, ears flicking. "It's rare to see an Oni, let alone one so refined."

Myco chuckled, shaking his head. "Hawker, aren't you married?"

The falcon warrior froze, his confident smirk faltering. "Uh… yeah. With two little ones."

Tigirl gave him a sideways glance. "You should probably remember that before you start complimenting other women."

Hawker laughed awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Right, right. Just don't tell my wife, alright?"

Nip shook her head with a knowing smile. "Your secret's safe—for now."

The group chuckled, the warm atmosphere of the restaurant settling over them like a comforting embrace. Outside, the city bustled with life, but here, within these walls, there was an unexpected sense of peace.

After some time, the Oni woman returned, balancing a massive wooden tray with effortless grace. In one hand, she carried steaming plates of the Wasabi Special, neatly arranged and still piping hot. In the other, she held five enormous mugs of frothy beer, each one nearly the size of a small barrel.

Despite the sheer weight of everything she was carrying, she moved as if it were nothing at all, her expression serene and unbothered.

The group sat in utter shock, their eyes widening as she gently rested the tray on a nearby table without so much as a wobble. She then proceeded to serve each of them, carefully placing their plates and mugs before them with an elegant precision.

Once finished, she straightened, folding her hands in front of her. "Shall I get you anything else?" she asked, her voice as calm and composed as ever.

Myco, still trying to wrap his head around what he had just witnessed, shook his head. "We're fine. We'll call if we need anything else."

She nodded respectfully before gliding away to a nearby table, where she began to wipe it clean. As Myco watched her work, he found himself speaking his thoughts aloud without realizing it. "She really is pretty."

Before anyone could comment, the Oni woman did something that made them all freeze mid-breath. Without a hint of effort, she gripped the solid wood table that must weigh at least a hundred pounds with one hand, effortlessly lifting it into the air as she continued to wipe the floor beneath it. The entire group—Myco, Hawker, Paat, Nip, and Tigirl—sat slack-jawed, their mugs hovering inches from their lips.

Hawker was the one to break the stunned silence. "Pretty… strong!" he blurted out.

At that moment, Myco wasn't sure which was more impressive—her strength or the fact that she seemed completely unaware of just how impossible that feat had been. One thing was certain: this was no ordinary woman.

With the food before them, the group dug in, their taste buds immediately igniting with the bold, intricate flavors of Touno cuisine. The heat of the wasabi struck first, sharp and invigorating, followed by the deep umami of garlic, perfectly balanced with the rich, exotic meats. Each bite was a blend of spice and savoriness, a testament to the craftsmanship behind the dish.

Between mouthfuls, they exchanged glances of approval, their earlier wariness of the restaurant melting away.

As they ate, the Oni woman approached once more, her warm golden eyes gleaming with curiosity. "How is the food?" she asked, her voice carrying a hint of amusement.

Myco wiped his mouth with a napkin, setting his chopsticks down. "It's amazing! I've never tasted anything quite like it. I can't wait to meet the owner and give them my compliments."

At this, the woman giggled softly, covering her mouth with her sleeve in a demure yet playful manner. Then, with an amused twinkle in her eye, she tilted her head slightly and said, "My liege, you've already met her."

The table went silent for a beat.

Hawker nearly choked on his drink, eyes wide as he blurted out, "Wait—you're the scary owner?!"

Tigirl, acting fast, jabbed her elbow into Hawker's ribs, making him grunt. With a nervous chuckle, she quickly added, "He's just kidding! You know how Falcons are—they love to joke."

The owner's laughter bubbled up, light and unbothered. "No offense taken. I've heard the rumors about me." She smiled warmly, folding her hands in front of her. "But I'm glad you all enjoyed the meal."

Myco studied her for a moment. The strength, the elegance, the skill in the kitchen—it was clear that she was no ordinary woman. There was something deeply admirable about her, something he found himself wanting to understand more.

Myco leaned back slightly, resting his arms on the table as he took in this unexpected revelation. The owner of the restaurant was none other than the graceful, impossibly strong Oni woman before him. It made perfect sense now—the sheer strength she displayed, the pride in her work, the way she carried herself with quiet confidence.

Realizing he had yet to introduce himself properly, Myco offered a friendly smile and extended a hand. "Then I suppose I should formally introduce myself. My name is Myco, and these are my trusted fellows—Hawker, Paat, Nip, and Tigirl."

Her golden eyes flickered with amusement as she gracefully took his hand in both of hers, giving a polite bow. "It is an honor, Myco. I am Ookami, owner of this humble establishment. I am pleased to have such fine guests dining here."

Hawker, still recovering from his earlier blunder, muttered under his breath, "Humble isn't the word I'd use…" but a sharp glance from Tigirl kept him from saying anything more.

With the introductions out of the way, Myco glanced around the cozy, well-kept restaurant. The warm glow of the lanterns, the delicate scent of herbs and spices lingering in the air—it all felt welcoming. A satisfied grin spread across his face as he placed his hands on the table. "I've decided—this place is going to be my usual spot."

Ookami's eyes widened slightly before softening into a warm smile. "That is wonderful to hear. Then I shall look forward to your next visit, My Liege."

With that, the group finished their drinks, laughter and conversation filling the air. It was clear that this wouldn't be the last time they would step through these doors. As they stood to leave, Ookami walked them to the entrance, bowing politely. "May the winds guide you safely home. I hope to see you again soon." Myco turned back one last time, meeting her gaze. Something about her presence felt… different. Warm, strong, dependable. He wasn't sure why, but he knew—this was only the beginning.