Chapter 18: Zolark’s Residence

“This is the royal capital, Surdina, huh…”

After spending a night in the inn and riding horses for a while, we finally arrived at our destination as the sun began to set.

“Wow…”

“Yeah, I’ve never seen such a huge building before.”

Looking up at the massive castle walls, Rolo and I couldn’t help but sigh with awe.

Seeing us, Saran snorted quietly.

I thought about saying something sarcastic to the snide, sneaky strategist, but it was undeniable that we were indeed “out-of-towners,” so it was hard to do anything about it.

But I didn’t feel ashamed about it. Probably… There wouldn’t be many adventurers visiting this royal capital. Despite having visited several cities as an adventurer, this was my first time setting foot in the capital. …Because I skipped the award ceremony for the national party and went back to Malhas.

And, there aren’t many adventurer jobs here. There are no dungeons, and the monsters are driven away by the knights and the army. Speaking of adventurer jobs, there are only minor tasks that beginners can do.

I wondered if it was okay like this, but looking at these castle walls, I understood why there were few adventurer jobs. These massive walls and sturdy steel gates would probably hold back even a stampede of rampaging monsters, and even the sentries standing around here seemed to be of a different caliber. Certainly, there didn’t seem to be much work for adventurers.

“It’s a little scary, isn’t it?”

“Yeah, it feels more like a fortress than a city.”

As we passed through the tunnel gaping in the castle walls, I looked around. These walls weren’t just high, they were also quite thick. Rather than walls, they gave the impression of a wide, fortress-like structure.

“I understand that it’s unusual, but please try not to look around too much. Do you intend to embarrass me, Saran Zolark?”

“I see. There won’t be many opportunities to embarrass you easily.”

“Don’t you get called out for being bad-tempered?”

“Not as much as you do.”

Saran sighed softly as he led the way. He’s always pushed us around. A little pushback wouldn’t hurt.

“By the way, how much does it cost to stay here? I heard the cost of living in the royal capital is high, right?”

“We’ll be using the Zolark family’s guesthouse. Your stay expenses will also be taken care of by us, so you don’t have to worry about it.”

I was somewhat surprised by Saran’s words. This guy is quite pragmatic when it comes to money matters. He’s never spoiled our pockets just because he’s a nobleman. So, what exactly is he planning with this sudden “don’t worry about it”?

“How about you, Fimia-san? If you’re going back to the church headquarters, that’s fine too.”

“May I also stay at the Zolark family’s residence? …Wouldn’t that be more convenient?”

“Yes. I would appreciate it if you could. It would be helpful.”

Smiling and nodding at Saran’s words, Fimia responded with a smile. I couldn’t quite understand their exchange. Well, having the party in one place is convenient for me too.

“Today, the sun is setting already. We’ll be a bit busy starting tomorrow, so let’s rest early.”

“That’s fine, but could you please tell us the plan? I don’t want to be suddenly thrown into the field and flustered.”

“Don’t worry, you’ll have a relaxing day tomorrow. We need to make arrangements before meeting the nobles, after all.”

Saran, with a slight smile on his lips, nodded slightly. Beyond him was a huge garden that seemed to fit the old Malhas district.

“Here we are. Welcome to the royal capital of Surdina. Count Zolark’s family will escort you during your stay.”

◆

“I can’t relax.”

Lying on the overly soft bed assigned to me, I muttered to myself. While I was impressed by the fact that nobles live in such places, this place is a bit distracting for me, a former street urchin.

Even the water pitcher by the bedside is made of glass and it’s scary to touch. Living here for a while might drive me crazy.

But the food was delicious. Saran bothered me with a review of table manners and all, but the meals served were all elegant and refined in taste. Eating slowly while chatting with my comrades was a refreshing experience.

Someone once said that politics are played out on the dining table, and it’s true. Ah, if I could be served such delicious food, my tongue would probably get smoother.

I was wondering what I would eat tomorrow when there was a soft knock on the door.

“It’s open.”

As I lay on the bed and responded, the door opened quietly… and closed quietly.

Sitting up to confirm the visitor, I was slightly surprised.

“Did you get the wrong room?”

“No, it’s the right one.”

Fimia, in her thin nightwear, smiled at me with a bottle and glasses in hand.

“What are you doing? Are you sure you’re in the right room?”

Ignoring my thoughts, Fimia walked to the table in the center of the room.

“Jurg, let’s have a drink.”

“Hey, wait. You drunk Saint. I won’t say anything bad, so just go back.”

Even for adventurers and members of the same party, visiting a man’s room alone at night is an act that invites serious misunderstandings.

She should understand something as simple as that.

“Why?”

“Is it really okay to do this? If you’re feeling lonely, at least go to Rolo’s room.”

“It can’t be helped, can it? It’s Saran’s orders, after all.”

As Fimia spoke, there was a faint smell of alcohol.

What a disgrace for the “Saint” who guides people to peace.

And it’s Saran’s orders? What is he thinking?

“Hey, Fimia. Use your ‘Detoxification’ on yourself. At least sober up.”

“…I can’t do something like this unless I’m drunk.”

I understand what she’s trying to say, but this situation isn’t going to get resolved like this.

Oh well. I guess I’ll go find Saran.

“For now, just wait here.”

As I head towards the door, Fimia grabs the hem of my clothes.

“Where are you going?”

With a bottle in hand, Fimia smiles mischievously.

That’s not an expression fitting for a “Saint.”

“Are you going to run away, Jurg?”

It’s a light provocation.

Knowing that, I silently sit down opposite Fimia.

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