Kays Translations
Just another Isekai Lover~
Chapter 408: The Lord’s Castle
The atmosphere inside the Graunewald branch of the Adventurers’ Guild remained tense, but Tauro and his companions had other plans. They completed their registration at the reception desk and quickly left.
Outside, they once again took in the character of the territorial capital.
Count Graunewald had described it as a city rich in tradition and prestige, yet not closed-minded. Its people took pride in welcoming useful innovations.
As the party walked toward the castle that served as the lord’s residence, they overheard an animated conversation between two passersby.
“Have you heard? The lord is apparently introducing a new agricultural policy.”
“Really?”
“They obtained several varieties of exceptionally high-quality seed unlike anything grown here before. Trial cultivation will begin this season, and if the results are good, production will expand throughout the territory next season.”
“That could be important. The recent run of abundant harvests has stabilized food prices and made life easier for ordinary residents, but the falling prices have also reduced farmers’ profits. The lord may be trying to create more valuable crops.”
The two citizens discussed the possibility with considerable enthusiasm.
Are they talking about the improved seeds I created? Father is moving much faster than I expected.
Even Tauro was surprised by how quickly the plan had entered public conversation.
“I also heard that the seeds were obtained by the lord’s adopted heir.”
“The heir again? Recently, nearly every story about him has been favorable. When will the lord introduce him publicly?”
What favorable stories has Father been spreading about me?
Tauro unconsciously slowed down so he could continue listening.
“I don’t know the date, but if the rumors are spreading this widely, the formal introduction must be close. Perhaps the lord himself is circulating them so the people will be prepared.”
The speaker seemed remarkably perceptive.
Unfortunately, the pair turned down another street when the road divided.
“I wish I could’ve heard the rest,” Tauro said before he could stop himself.
“You’re about to meet your parents,” Ragune replied with a laugh. “Why not ask them directly?”
“That’s true. Still, listening to people in the street is a useful way to understand what residents really think.”
“Tauro-sama even considers matters like public opinion,” Zion said admiringly.
“You three can continue the discussion later,” Ankh interrupted. “We’re approaching the castle gate.”
The walls surrounding the lord’s castle had appeared imposing from a distance. Up close, they were even more impressive.
Two guards stood at the entrance.
“State your business,” one ordered. “This is the lord’s castle, not a sightseeing destination. Visitors may not proceed without authorization.”
The response was perfectly reasonable.
“I’ve come to meet Count Graunewald,” Tauro said. “Please inform him that Tauro, the territorial inspector, has arrived.”
He presented his certificate of office.
The guard examined the emblem carefully. The insignia included House Graunewald’s crest together with the symbols of the inspector’s authority: balance scales, a mound of salt, and a sword.
“This certainly resembles an authentic territorial-inspector certificate, but none have been issued in recent memory…”
He looked from the document to the thirteen-year-old holding it.
“Please wait here. I’ll confirm it with my superior.”
The guard hurried inside while his partner remained at the gate.
“Leader, why not simply tell them you’re the count’s son?” Ankh asked. “That would be much faster.”
“The people in the street mentioned a formal unveiling. I thought it’d be better not to announce the relationship before my parents are ready.”
“Now that you mention it, keeping quiet is probably wise.”
The first guard soon returned with several soldiers and a senior officer.
“Are these the visitors?” the officer asked.
“Yes, sir. This young man presented proof that he’s the territorial inspector.”
“May I examine it?”
Unlike the first guard, the officer addressed Tauro with formal respect despite his age.
“Of course.”
After inspecting the certificate, the officer nodded.
“It’s genuine. Only one person currently holds this office. I also recognize Ankh beside him. You may enter.”
Rather than explain further at the gate, he personally led the party inside.
“It’s been a while, old man,” Ankh said casually.
“You’re becoming an old man yourself,” the officer shot back.
“Hahaha! Fair enough. Leader, this man and I once fought on the same battlefield.”
“That was many years ago,” the officer said. “Forgive the delay, Tauro-sama. With Ankh beside you, there can be no doubt about your identity.”
He lowered his voice as they walked.
“His Excellency intends to surprise the territory by formally presenting you at the unveiling ceremony. At the same time, he’s been spreading favorable stories so that the people will already know something about you. It was considerate of you not to reveal yourself at the gate.”
“We heard several vague rumors in the city,” Tauro replied. “What kinds of stories are circulating?”
“Your accomplishments as an adventurer, among other things. His Excellency also enjoys recounting your Reversi exploits involving the prime minister. He’s told the stories so many times that I could repeat them word for word.”
The officer laughed as he guided them to a reception room.
“Please wait here. And Ankh—behave properly in front of the count.”
After the officer departed, Tauro looked at Ankh with amusement.
“You two appear to be very close.”