CH 158

"Confirming 'that' and sightseeing in the capital. And the true identity of the man who came to pick me up."

Translated by Dawn

“Confirming ‘that’ and sightseeing in the capital. And the true identity of the man who came to pick me up.”

After successfully entering the capital, I immediately set out to find an inn that would serve as my base of operations. As I passed through the gates of the capital, I asked one of the soldiers bidding me farewell if they could recommend a good inn. They suggested the inn called “Summer Breeze of the Blue Sky,” so I was currently walking toward that place.

“Even so, it’s quite a remarkable city.”

Based on the information I obtained beforehand, the Duchy of Saverdales primarily focused on agriculture and livestock. I had a somewhat rural image in mind, but the architectural structures in the capital were just as impressive as those in the Kingdom of Schells, if not more.

While the cities in the Kingdom of Schells were pentagonal in shape, the capital of Saverdales, Salivardora, took the form of a perfect circular city enclosed by walls which was quite a common shape.

On the outskirts of the city, there were vast lands dedicated to cultivating their main products such as wheat, vegetables, and other livestock. If I were to compare it to my previous life, it would resemble the image of Hokkaido in Japan.

“That second princess seemed quite strong as well.”

As I observed the cityscape, I expressed my impressions of the princess I had encountered earlier. Now that I knew the Mithril First Class Medal was genuine, it was customary for those in power to utilize and win over such individuals.

Yet, despite that, the princess did not invite me to her residence, citing that she wanted to assess my character and depth. It could be the directive of her mother, the Grand Duchess, but either way, she seemed to be trying to ascertain my true nature.

By the way, the ruler of the Duchy of Saverdales was a woman, and in this country, women tend to hold more power and influence.

After wandering around the city for a while, I headed toward the recommended inn. It had become somewhat of a routine, so I’d spare you the details, but I should mention that the landlady’s name was Susana, and her daughter’s name was Suna.

Once I secured my room, I went to the Adventurers’ Guild to check on another “thing.” The busty glasses-wearing receptionist was Lillian, the junior receptionist was Rokol, and the dismantling staff member was Zurald. Hmm, it seemed this pattern continued.

Since I didn’t have any specific business at the Adventurers’ Guild, I didn’t stay there long. However, I was starting to think it was about time for me, as an adventurer, to take on some requests. If I had some free time, I should find a suitable request for myself.

Continuing from there, I embarked on a sightseeing tour of the capital, enjoying the city’s scenery and exploring various shops, stalls, and markets. Being a major city in Saverdales, Salivardora attracted a wide range of products from all over the country.

Most of them were food ingredients and livestock products, but as someone who appreciated cooking, I found them all quite intriguing.

There was also milk and cheese made from it, further expanding the possibilities in my cooking. …Finally! Escaping to another country was definitely the right decision.

In addition to that, I bought various locally produced ingredients and stocked them in my storage. I need to start cooking them soon…

With such thoughts in mind, I indulged in takoyaki and sweet potatoes that I had harvested in the border town while exploring the capital with a satisfied expression. I familiarized myself with the general layout of the city. While I still need a few more walks to remember every corner of the capital, I have a rough idea of the locations of major facilities like the Adventurers’ Guild and the Commercial Guild.

As the evening approached, I decided to conclude today’s exploration, preparing for tomorrow’s meeting with the Grand Duchess. After dinner, I quickly got ready for bed and fell asleep.

The next day, after finishing my morning preparations, one of the servants arrived. Anastasia had only mentioned tomorrow morning, so it was a good decision to prepare early.

“You must be Rolando-sama. I am Vista, an emissary of the Grand Duchess. I have come to escort you, so please allow me to guide you to the presence of the Grand Duchess.”

“Ah, I appreciate your assistance.”

After exchanging brief introductions and shaking hands with Vista, I boarded a luxurious carriage. Following Vista’s guidance, we entered a massive castle that stood at the heart of the capital. Upon disembarking from the carriage, I noticed the sturdy and imposing architecture resembling the royal castle of Schells Kingdom. It was hard to believe that a country primarily focused on agriculture and livestock could possess such a sight.

Continuing with Vista’s guidance, we ventured inside the castle. However, I couldn’t help but notice the unusual behavior of passing knights and maids.

“You must be holding an esteemed position in this castle.”

“…..What makes you think that?”

“Firstly, the way you walk. It is incredibly quiet and efficient, displaying a lack of wasted movement. Your gait indicates an ability to react swiftly even to unexpected ambushes, and it is unlikely for you to fall behind unless there are extraordinary circumstances.”

“….”

Vista fell silent, but undeterred, I continued expressing my observations.

“Secondly, it’s the unsettling attitude displayed by the knights and maids we passed by. They seem to desire to show respect to their superiors but are unable to do so for some reason, which is evident in their demeanor. Perhaps they were instructed not to react while I’m here and to continue with their duties. Otherwise, I can’t explain the source of the discomfort.”

When people were restricted from their usual actions, there would always be a sense of unease. Such discomfort became easily noticeable from an outsider’s perspective. I continued to examine Vista’s sense of discomfort.

“Thirdly, it’s the clothing you’re wearing.”

“Clothing… you mean?”

“Yes, your tattered attire gives off the impression that it was hastily put together, and the level of discomfort is too prominent for someone who should be accustomed to wearing it. Additionally, there is a faint fragrance lingering around your body, presumably used as a form of etiquette towards your superiors. However, the very idea of using fragrance to mask one’s body odor when meeting someone is a reflection of the mindset of high-ranking individuals.”

The use of perfumes was a common practice in my previous life’s Japan, but in this different world, such luxury was beyond reach. The majority of people here were too burdened with their daily lives to spare any thought for their body odor. That was the reality.

Amidst this, a faint aristocratic fragrance emanated from Vista’s body. If Vista were a servant or a commoner-born civil servant, such behavior would be unnatural.

“And finally, when we shook hands, I felt calluses in the palm of your hand. They are the result of years of wielding a sword. It’s not something that can be formed overnight or with half-hearted practice. It requires at least seven years… no, more than ten years of intense training. Considering your way of walking, I would say it’s been around fourteen or fifteen years.”

“…..”

Vista fell into complete silence, unable to respond. Adding the finishing touch, I spoke one last sentence.

“Lastly, within my abilities, there is a higher-tier skill called Analysis which is a higher skill than Appraisal, and beyond that, there is a skill called Super Analysis. I possess the ability to use Super Analysis. Do you know what that means?”

“….”

Vista swallowed hard, unable to respond.

Addressing Vista, as if conducting the final check of our conversation, I spoke with a decisive tone.

“Duke Vista von Bourgeois, the Prime Minister of the Duchy of Saverdales. The right-hand man of the ruling Grand Duchess and also the commander of the Grand Duchess’ personal guard, the Royal Knights. A dual-wielding man. That is your true identity.”

“Kukuku…ahahahahaha!”

As I pointed out the answer, Vista burst into loud laughter.