Kays Translations

Chapter 68: Alone in the Royal Capital

Three days had passed since welcoming Lua and the others.

Being young and former adventurers, all three had incredible stamina.

They were quick learners too, and in no time, they had become reliable combat assets.

One thing that had been bothering me, though, was how light my body felt ever since they arrived.

It could just be that having more people made things easier, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that something else was at play…

Well, I wouldn’t figure it out just by thinking about it, so I decided not to dwell on it.

For now, I was just happy that Lua and the others seemed to be having fun, and I wanted to achieve something in the royal capital for their sake as well.

“Alright, I’m heading to the capital. Sheila, I’m counting on you to take care of things here.”

“Of course, leave it to me. Please be careful, Sato.”

With Sheila seeing me off, I boarded the carriage she had arranged for me.

This was my first time acting alone since coming to this world, and honestly, I was nothing but nervous. But surely, I’d manage… somehow.

For the next thirty minutes, I sat upright, letting the carriage’s movements sway me.

Maybe it was because I was so tense, but it felt like we arrived in an instant.

After thanking the coachman and stepping off the carriage, I reminded myself to watch out for pickpockets before deciding to find a carpenter first.

That said, I had no knowledge of the royal capital at all.

Since I didn’t even know where to start, I figured I’d visit the weapons shop Sheila had introduced me to on my last visit.

The shopkeeper, Rozzo, had been gruff but kind. Surely, he’d be able to tell me something.

Relying on my memory, I made my way to the shop and stepped inside.

Just like before, the air inside was stiflingly hot, enough to make me sweat even in light clothing.

Despite that, the place was bustling with customers, just as it had been last time.

“Welcome! Take your time—wait a sec, haven’t I seen you before?”

Rozzo, emerging from the back, scrutinized my face.

He didn’t seem to remember me clearly, but something about me was familiar to him.

“I came here with Sheila before. You sold me this sword. My name is Sato.”

“Oh, right! Now I remember! You’re Sato! What, Sheila’s not with you today?”

“No, she stayed behind to handle work, so I came to the capital alone.”

“Huh? She didn’t get tired of you, did she?”

“She saw me off this morning, so I don’t think so…”

I was pretty sure she hadn’t gotten tired of me, but hearing him say that suddenly made me anxious.

Lately, I’d been making more and more decisions without consulting Sheila. Maybe I should be more careful moving forward.

“Gahaha! Just joking! From the way you two talked last time, there’s no way she’d get sick of you that quickly! Anyway, how’s the sword I gave you? Using it well?”

“Yes, I practice with it every day. Though, I don’t feel like I’m getting any stronger.”

“Well, as long as you’re using it, then giving it to you was worth it! But don’t ask me why you’re not getting stronger—beats me!”

“I’ll do my best to improve, little by little. Thank you.”

I gave Rozzo a proper bow of gratitude as he let out another hearty laugh.

“So, what brings you here today? You’re not here to buy another sword, are you?”

“No. Actually, I’m looking for a carpenter, and I thought you might know someone in the city.”

“A carpenter? Of course I know one! My own brother is a carpenter—he’s even a master builder!”

Whoa!

Aside from the royal family, Rozzo was the only person I could think to turn to, and I’d come here grasping at straws.

I never expected his own brother to be a master builder.

If he introduced me, I might just find someone to build the house I needed, just like that.

“Really? I’d love for you to introduce me!”

“I don’t mind introducing you, but getting him to take the job is another story. Unlike me, my brother runs a top-class shop in a prime location. He only takes jobs if you either pay him a fortune or you’re a beautiful woman.”

“W-Wait, seriously? Would you at least put in a good word for me…?”

“No chance! My brother and I aren’t exactly on good terms! Ever since we were kids, I was all about weapons while he was all about buildings, and we always fought over which was better. He won’t listen to a single thing I say! I can introduce you, but whether or not he takes the job is up to your negotiation skills!”

Just as my excitement spiked, it crashed back down.

A construction job in a remote area like my villa would definitely be a hassle.

And I was neither rich nor a beautiful woman.

I’d have to figure out some other way to persuade him, or find a different carpenter.

“I’m not much of a negotiator, but I’d still appreciate an introduction.”

“Of course! I’ll introduce you after I close up shop, so come back in the evening!”

“Understood. I’ll see you then.”

I gave Rozzo a deep bow before leaving the store.

It was still just before noon, meaning I had plenty of time until evening.

I’d need to think of something to use for negotiation while also looking for a place to buy food supplies.

It was a rough start, but I refused to return empty-handed.

With determination, I set off to explore the royal capital, racking my brain for a solution.

Previous chapter | TOC | Next chapter