Chapter 20
Chapter 20. To the Mountain!
I decided to use up my paid leave starting one week before my retirement.
During that time, I planned to dispose of unnecessary items, handle various procedures, and do some shopping.
There’s no electricity in the mountains. So, I decided to sell large appliances like the TV, refrigerator, and washing machine. I’ve already steeled myself for a near-survival lifestyle in the mountains. The only issue is that perishable food won’t last, so I’ll have to eat whatever I buy on the same day.
Still, if I’m going to live there long-term, I’ll definitely want a refrigerator eventually. And I’m sure there’ll be plenty of other electrical items I’ll need.
Maybe I should even consider buying something like a generator.
I’m not really knowledgeable about that kind of stuff, so I’m not sure.
“……Maybe I should consult the Inari-sama about this.”
The first time, they listened to my wishes and prepared a simple toilet and bathhouse for me. They might have some ideas this time too.
By the way, when I was camping, the bathhouse didn’t have electricity, so I managed with an LED lantern. When there was moonlight, I opened the windows, but I still wished for a stronger light. Next time, I’ll visit a big home improvement store and check some out.
……Don’t underestimate the amount of luggage a woman living alone can have.
I thought I had thrown away or sold enough, but why is there still so much left? I can’t just leave my belongings outside exposed to the rain.
Reluctantly, I called Inari-sama—or rather, Inari-sama.
[Oh, what’s the matter?]
“Long time no see. Um, about my moving luggage… there’s a bit more than I expected.”
[In the mountains? Why on earth…?]
“……Don’t underestimate a woman living alone.”
[……]
Maybe my low voice had an effect, as Inari-sama fell silent.
“So, I was wondering if you could keep my luggage until the mountain place is ready, or until I can store it in the ‘storage’ area.”
[……Sigh. Well, I guess there’s no helping it.]
“Thank you so much! Oh, I’m about to leave, so I should arrive by evening!”
[Eh, ah, yes. Understood.]
I’ve already paid the money and sent back the contract. That mountain is now my property. So, I don’t need to make a reservation at the campsite.
And what I’ve newly purchased is a used compact car. If I fold down the back seats, I can load a lot of stuff. It was a bit more expensive than I thought, but I decided not to compromise and bought it. Thanks to that, it seems like I can carry more than I expected.
So, I packed as much as I could. It’s crammed full. I’m a bit worried if it’s too heavy and might affect the steering.
Of course, I didn’t forget to pack all the camping gear.
“Sigh. After returning the key to the real estate agent and submitting my moving notice at the city office, I’ll head straight there.”
Even though it’s supposed to be another world, I’m going through the usual moving procedures.
Thinking about that, I couldn’t help but laugh.
“Alright.”
Now, off to the mountain!