Kays Translations

Chapter 12: The Sly Advisor Smirks

"I'm going to the capital."

It was about a week into the start of my cohabitation life with Rolo and Fimia, when Saran suddenly said that.

As always, the advisor was abrupt, but this time it was particularly sudden.

"The capital is really far.”

"Yes. It's about a month's journey one way from here."

Saran nodded in response to Rolo's words.

The capital, Suldina, where King Saldin's throne was located, was even farther from the adventuring city of Advante. It would take about two months round trip.

"Saran, first, tell us the reason."

"In short, it's because 'the timing is right.' Once the snow melts, investigations related to dungeon exploration will resume, and it won't be easy for us to leave."

"Do we all need to go?"

"We need to register as a national party, deal with matters concerning the church, and... share information about the situation."

Saran looked at us with narrowed eyes.

When he makes that face, it usually means a decision has been made. But still, what's the situation?

"For Jurg, who seems to be clueless, let me add an explanation."

"Don't try to read my mind."

"It's not wise to show your emotions on your face."

With a slight sigh, Saran pushed up his glasses.

He's unusually rude today.

"The biggest issue is that you are the Hero."

"That doesn't ring a bell."

"Understand this, the Hero is a form of 'selection'... in other words, they are like a self-purification mechanism that appears in response to major crises that affect the world."

"So?"

"It means there may still be threats that you need to confront in the future."

Wait, why does it sound like things are getting serious?

Is it more dangerous than I thought?

"There is a sufficient possibility that the scarred beast was on such threat. He was a dangerous and wicked being aiming to lead monsters to become the 'Beasts of the Apocalypse.' He himself spoke of being a ‘culling’.'"

"So, isn’t that really the end of it?"

"What do you mean, Fimia-san?"

Saran turned to Fimia, who looked troubled.

It's a rare expression to see from her, but after taking a deep breath, she slowly spoke.

"It's certain that it was part of the ‘culling’.' But, whether everything ended with him... I'm not sure yet."

"Do you mean it might still be lurking around?"

"I don't know. Whether the seeds of danger have been eradicated before they sprouted, or if it was just a single leaf."

Rolo gently placed his hand on Fimia's shoulder, who seemed lost in thought.

"To confirm that, we're going to the headquarters of the church, right?"

"Yes. The Pope may know something."

"Alright, understood. If Saran and Fimia say it's necessary, then it must be. I'm getting tired of paperwork anyway. It's perfect timing."

As I lightly laughed, Saran let out another small sigh.

Today, the advisor seems to be particularly hard on me.

"Understand, Jurg. Remember to be mindful of your language and manners on the journey. You're the leader of 'Mercia,' a guild master, and a hero. You can't just rely on violence and force in the central regions, you know?"

"Guh...!"

Oh, right. I forgot.

I may have returned to my hometown and relaxed a bit, but the central regions are a place where people like Saran, who emphasize etiquette, hold sway.

I'm not suited for this atmosphere...

"At worst, there might even be an audience. Understood, Jurg? Fimia and I will train you thoroughly, so make sure you learn properly."

"Give me a break. Not everyone is cut out for this."

"Effort is a virtue that anyone can strive for. Right, Fimia?"

"Yes, Jurg will surely be fine."

Their smiles are terrifying.

In other words, are they telling me to talk like them?

My whole body feels itchy, and my tongue feels cramped.

"Rolo, help me."

"Don't worry, I'll participate in the training too. Let's combine the strength of country bumpkins."

Damn, he’s such a good kid!

"Also, one more thing."

As I slump my shoulders, Saran raises his index finger and looks at me.

I feel even more exhausted at the thought of there being more to do.

"It's about your behavior in the capital... Jurg and Fimia, please behave appropriately."

"That's the point, but isn't there another way?"

"No, there isn't."

It's exactly as the phrase goes: "without a hitch or a snag."

I explained to Saran about Rolo and Fimia, and how it makes it difficult for me to get along with Fimia, but it seems futile.

"I just need you two to be there as escorts and assist as needed. I'm not asking for anything more than that."

"Even though you're saying it's difficult?"

"It'll be fine, Jurg. Leave it to me."

Why are you oddly enthusiastic about this?

Well... it's better than being reluctant, I suppose.

"I'll mainly take the lead. As long as you all follow instructions, everything will be fine."

"Sure thing. I promised to be your pawn. Use me well."

"Yeah. Keep moving as you like."

Saran's lips curl slightly upwards.

When he makes that face, it means he has some expectations for this trip to the capital.

"In that case, maybe I'm feeling relieved?"

"It won't be that easy, Rolo Mercia."

"Huh?"

Saran gives a strangely humid smile to the relieved Rolo.

"The title 'Illusionist Extraordinaire' now refers to a popular spell-sword in the capital."

"Huh...?"

"It seems the bards have sung about you."

"Hey, Saran! I didn't agree to that!"

Saran shakes his head at Rolo's panicked expression.

"I simply spoke a bit about your exploits in defeating the scarred beast in the tavern. Well, I must say, I didn't expect to find a renowned bard among them."

That's a lie.

He must have done it on purpose.

In this situation, I should probably punch the sneaky glasses guy... but Rolo's exploits being turned into songs isn't a bad idea. I'd like to hear it too.

"For Rolo, you'll accompany me on a series of tea parties. Just smile and nod, and that'll be enough."

"I'll hold it against you, Saran."

"If it goes well, we'll use a popular actor at the Royal Theater to stage it. It'll make Malhas famous again."

With a dark smile and a push of his glasses, we could only sigh with a strange sense of defeat.

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