Chapter 517: Giovanni’s Arrival
The next day, as Rosalia was conducting a trial run of the nearly completed magic tool she had devised—a magical hair dryer—word came that a carriage from the royal capital had arrived. According to the plan, we were scheduled to depart for the Kingdom of Raven the following morning. That meant I had to go and fetch Fabienne before then.
“Rosalia, it looks like the dry wind device works perfectly. You can make improvements later, after everyone’s had a chance to use it.”
I’d decided to name it the Dry Wind Device instead of “dryer.” The word “dryer” would only invite confusion in this world. And if by any chance there were others here who, like me, had come from another world, the use of such an unfamiliar term might give me away. If anyone discovered that secret, it could easily become a dangerous piece of leverage against me.
“I understand. I shall ask Mother and Sister-in-law Daniela to try it out,” Rosalia replied with a graceful curtsy.
“That’s a good idea. I’m sure they’ll love it,” I said, patting her lightly on the head.
Her face brightened with pure delight, and my heart softened. I wondered how much longer these small gestures of affection between siblings would still be welcome. If the day ever came when Rosalia recoiled or frowned at such a touch… I doubted I would recover from the shock.
Leaving the workshop, I asked the servants to ready a carriage. I could have ridden there on Mira’s back, but flying in broad daylight would draw far too much attention. The townsfolk already knew about her, of course, but rumors had a way of spreading—especially now that travelers from other territories were visiting more frequently. Best to stay cautious.
While I waited in the salon for the carriage to be prepared, Father arrived—accompanied by a man I recognized at once. Giovanni Madras, the Chief Royal Apothecary himself.
What on earth…? Shouldn’t he have just sent one of his subordinates instead of coming in person?
“Ooooooh…! Julius-sama! It has been far too long!”
“Why… why are you here…?”
Before I could react, Giovanni-sama lunged forward and wrapped me in a teary embrace. I froze, helpless. Father stood nearby, utterly speechless. Giovanni-sama was saying something in a trembling voice, but I couldn’t make sense of a single word.
Soon after, several of the royal apothecaries who had been assisting the Heine Trading Company arrived as well.
“We heard that Giovanni-sama himself had come!”
“Ah, you all seem well. I received your letters, yes—quite useful, those. And judging by your expressions, you’ve been having… fun, haven’t you?”
“Ugh…”
The three of them groaned and looked away guiltily. Well, they had been enjoying themselves, playing around while experimenting freely—no wonder their letters had become so lively. The four of them quickly fell into conversation, their talk swelling into excited chatter. I left them to it and went over to Father.
“I’m heading out now to fetch Fabienne.”
“I see. Take care. And… what should we do about this situation here?” He gestured vaguely toward Giovanni-sama and his animated group.
“I think it’s fine to leave them be. Once they’re done talking, they’ll probably start inspecting the alchemy lab and the herb garden.”
“That sounds about right,” he said with a wry smile.
To an outsider, it might look terribly disrespectful—us Heine father and son treating the Royal Apothecaries so casually. But this was the best way. Once they started talking about magic potions, they’d lose all sense of time. Their passion for their craft burned far too brightly for ordinary conversation.
By the time I reached the front entrance, the carriage was already waiting. Mira must have sensed I was going somewhere, for she swooped down gracefully from the sky.
“Kyu!”
“I’m going to see Fabienne. Want to come along?”
“Kyu!”
“Good. Then let’s go together.”
It would be fine—inside the carriage, no one would see her. Still, to be safe, I drew the curtains shut. After informing the servants of my departure, I climbed aboard with Mira and Nero, and we set off toward Baron Amber’s estate.
“I wonder if she’ll be surprised by my sudden visit,” I mused aloud.
“It should be fine,” Nero replied in his usual calm tone. “They know a carriage from the capital would arrive today or tomorrow. I imagine they’re already prepared.”
“You’re probably right. Knowing Baron Amber, he wouldn’t leave anything to chance.”
The carriage rolled smoothly along the cobblestone road. Thanks to its improved suspension, the ride was remarkably steady. My Alex-niisan had designed this particular model himself; it would soon be put on the market. I couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride—hopefully, many others would get to experience this comfort for themselves.
When we arrived at the Amber estate, the baron and his family came out at once to greet us. I apologized for arriving without sending word ahead, but they only laughed and waved it off.
“We were expecting you about this time,” said Baron Amber warmly. “Fabienne has been quite restless these past few days.”
He glanced toward his daughter, who immediately flushed and looked down, her ears tinged red. So she had been waiting for me. That knowledge filled me with quiet joy. I gently took her hand and led her into the mansion.
In the reception room, we discussed the plans for our journey to the Kingdom of Raven. Much remained uncertain, but by explaining our general schedule, I hoped to put her parents at ease.
“So you intend to stay in Raven for about a month,” the baron confirmed thoughtfully. “I see. During that time, your goal is to lay the foundation for restoring the corrupted lands.”
“Yes, that’s correct,” I replied. “And fortunately, Giovanni-sama—the Chief Royal Apothecary himself—will be accompanying us. With his expertise, the development of purification potions should progress swiftly.”
“Remarkable,” the baron said, nodding in admiration. “It seems the Kingdom of Spencer is taking this mission quite seriously indeed.”
He nodded again and again, deeply impressed. Of course, I knew the truth was less noble. If I had to guess, Giovanni-sama had insisted on joining out of personal pride rather than royal duty. Not “for the glory of the kingdom,” but more like, I refuse to be left out again!
Noticing the faint smile tugging at my lips, Fabienne tilted her head questioningly. Don’t worry, I thought to myself. You’ll understand soon enough once we arrive in Raven.
After some final words, Baron Amber entrusted his daughter to my care once more—and I accepted without hesitation.
I would protect Fabienne, no matter what. No harm would ever reach her, not while I still drew breath. Though the Bone Dragon, the true source of the disaster, was already gone, I would still be ready. Even if one or two of those monsters somehow reappeared, they would be no match for me. I would purify them and send them peacefully back to the heavens.