At 6:30 the next morning.
Ryo and Abel were in the backyard of the Adventurers' Mutual Aid Association.
The meeting was set for 7:00, but they made sure to arrive 30 minutes early.
Since there were no vacancies at the inn last night, they had camped out in a nearby park…
"Two nights in a row sleeping outdoors."
"And with the mountain hunt starting today?"
"That means at least three nights in a row…"
Abel laughed mercilessly, while Ryo hung his head in defeat.
Despite their early arrival, some others had already gathered even earlier.
Around twenty people were already present.
One of them spotted the two and walked over.
"You two are adventurers participating in the mountain hunt, right? I'm Jun Luo, a Level 3 adventurer. I'm in charge of coordinating the adventurers for this operation."
"Abel. Level 8 adventurer."
"I'm Ryo, also Level 8."
As they shook hands, Jun Luo's eyes widened in surprise.
"What's wrong?"
Abel asked, somewhat puzzled.
"Oh, sorry. It's just… you two obviously look strong. But then you say you're Level 8, so it caught me off guard."
"Ah, we just registered as adventurers recently."
Abel shrugged in response.
"I see, that explains it. Well, it's reassuring to have such powerful adventurers joining us. Looking forward to working with you."
With that, Jun Luo moved on to greet another newly arriving party.
"Apparently, we look strong."
"So it seems."
Ryo commented, while Abel's face turned slightly red.
He didn't seem to mind the praise.
"See? People who can recognize strength will recognize yours."
"True. But that Jun Luo guy seems pretty strong himself."
"Yeah. If he's only Level 3, I wonder how powerful a Level 1 adventurer must be."
Ryo mused about the elite Level 1 adventurers he had yet to meet, a bright smile on his face.
Meanwhile, Jun Luo returned to his own party.
Standing beside him was Barili, a magician who served as the group's strategist.
"Jun, those two—were they as you expected?"
"Yeah, they're strong. Both of them are from foreign lands, but they've definitely survived their share of brutal battles."
Jun Luo nodded in response to Barili's question.
From afar, Jun Luo had already sensed their strength. Now that he had approached them up close, he was certain.
"The magician is wearing a robe. You don't see that often in Darwei."
"Barili, what do you think of the magician's magic power?"
"It's abnormal."
"Abnormal?"
"His magic power isn't leaking out at all."
Barili declared this with certainty.
Jun Luo noticed that despite keeping up a composed smile, Barili was trembling ever so slightly.
Barili could perceive the magic power radiating from others.
This allowed him to determine how powerful they were.
Typically, the stronger the magician, the more overwhelming their aura appeared.
However…
"If his magic power isn't leaking, does that mean he's not a magician?"
"No, he's definitely a magician. Even though he's not carrying a staff… I can just tell."
"But if his magic power isn't leaking… does that mean he's weak?"
"Quite the opposite. It means he has such absolute control over his magic power that none of it escapes."
"Is that even possible?"
"Until now, I would've said no. But seeing it with my own eyes, I have no choice but to believe it."
Barili let out a strained smile.
"So, in other words… those two are indeed formidable warriors."
"Yes. In this poorly planned mountain hunt, they're one of the few good things we have going for us."
Jun Luo nodded, and Barili agreed with a sigh.
At 7:00.
A sizable crowd had gathered in the backyard of the Adventurers' Mutual Aid Association.
At the front, an elderly man with a long white beard was giving a speech.
His name was Fu Ten, the deputy governor, and the person in charge of this mountain hunt.
"You can practically feel how much he hates this mission just from his speech."
"Sounds like he has a grudge against the ones who ordered it."
Ryo and Abel both picked up on the deputy governor's dissatisfaction.
Still, they understood that canceling the hunt wasn't an option.
Several villages at the foot of the mountain had already been attacked.
It seemed the deputy governor had originally proposed a force three times larger, but it had been cut down.
It seemed someone had cut corners to save money.
"It's always the innocent citizens who suffer because of politics!"
"Y-yeah… I'll, uh, keep that in mind."
Even the king himself nodded in agreement with the premier duke's blunt statement.
Even so, a force of 80 people was assembled—50 adventurers and 30 imperial soldiers.
Additionally, there were cooks, scribes, and attendants for the deputy governor, making it a fairly large operation…
"If this was supposed to be three times bigger…"
"That means the enemy might be really troublesome."
Ryo and Abel whispered among themselves.
"Are Gray Goblins strong?"
"No idea."
"You don't know…?"
"Goblins exist all over the world, but their types vary depending on the region. Some are subspecies or evolved variants. Gray goblins don't exist in the Central Countries, so I have no idea how strong they are."
"Abel, even if you're an A-rank in the Central Countries, here you're still Level 8."
"I'll just climb up one rank at a time!"
Since Ryo and Abel were Level 8, they were assigned to the group of Level 7 and lower adventurers.
Their role was to guard the base camp and food supplies.
This group consisted of 10 soldiers and 10 adventurers.
However, before any of that, everyone had to spend a full day traveling to Tiger Mountain.
The expedition set off from the city.
The higher-ranked, level 6 and above and lower-ranked, level 7 and below adventurers traveled separately.
"Abel, this Level 7 and lower group is…"
"Yeah, aside from us, everyone is really young."
The rest of the group consisted of eight other Level 7 or lower adventurers.
They were divided into two parties of four, and all looked like they were under eighteen—barely adults.
"Abel, you're an old man now."
"I won't argue with that."
As they chatted, one of the younger adventurers approached them.
A young swordsman.
"I-I'm Jay, a Level 7 adventurer. I heard you two are Level 8, but…"
Jay seemed extremely nervous but was clearly trying his best to assert himself, given that he was technically ranked higher.
Ryo watched him with a gentle expression.
"I am Abel, and this is Ryo. Indeed, both of us are Level 8."
Abel replied.
"Heh, I'm sure you two are older, but once we arrive, I'll have you follow my orders, as a higher-ranked adventurer."
"I see, understood."
Jay seemed unsure of how to interact with Ryo and Abel.
Abel, however, answered with a composed and mature attitude.
"Ah, Jay, was it? I have a few questions. Mind if I ask?"
"Huh? Oh, sure, what is it?"
"As you can see, we're from a foreign land. So we're not familiar with the local monsters. Could you tell us about the Gray Goblins?"
Abel carefully framed his question, making sure to acknowledge Jay's position while showing respect.
Ryo gave a small nod. Thinking how wonderful it was to see such maturity.
"Well… Gray Goblins are among the stronger goblin species, but they aren't very smart. Any Level 7 or higher shouldn't lose in a one-on-one fight. I don't know about you two, though…"
"Hmm. But the deputy governor said they originally planned to send three times as many people for this hunt, right? If they aren't a big deal, why such a large operation?"
"Beats me. Maybe the people at the deputy governor's office don't actually know much? I think we have more than enough people for this."
Jay answered before returning to his party.
"So, Gray Goblins aren't a big deal, apparently."
"Yeah…that's what he said…"
"Young people tend to underestimate danger."
"I get what you're saying, Ryo. But maybe the deputy governor's office, including the deputy governor, knows something they haven't told us."
Both Ryo and Abel understood they didn't have enough information to draw conclusions.
In the end, all they could do was stay vigilant and do their best.
By dusk, the group finally arrived at the foot of Tiger Mountain.
The base camp was set up in the village square of Spring Village, and the food supplies were stored in the former village chief's house nearby.
Spring Village had been attacked by Gray Goblins a few months ago.
The survivors had fled, leaving the village abandoned.
That meant… there were empty houses available for use.
"I never thought we'd be able to sleep under a roof during this mission."
"We slept outdoors more often when we were in town."
Ryo and Abel found an empty house and settled in for the night.
The village had around twenty houses, and with the additional barns and storage sheds, everyone managed to sleep indoors.
The next morning, the hunt officially began.
"The goal is to find the Gray Goblins' settlement… but that's going to be tough."
"Yeah. This mountain is pretty big."
Since they were in the group of Level 7 and lower adventurers, Ryo and Abel remained in Spring Village's square.
Forty adventurers of Level 6 and above, along with twenty soldiers from the deputy governor's office, had already entered the mountain.
On the first day, they would survey the area near the base of the mountain.
As the days passed, they would venture further in.
They were also expected to camp out, if necessary.
"The frontliners sure have it rough."
"That's why their pay is higher than ours."
The reward for this mission varied by rank.
Adventurers of level 6 or higher, who would actually enter the mountain, would be paid significantly more than the level 7 and lower adventurers.
That was only fair, given the risks involved.
Those remaining at the base camp included ten level 7 or lower adventurers, including Ryo and Abel, and ten soldiers.
Deputy governor Fu Ten and his ten attendants, plus twenty cooks and porters—a total of fifty people.
However, since the attendants and porters couldn't fight, only twenty of them—adventurers and soldiers—were responsible for security.
Still…
"It's kind of boring."
"Yeah, well…"
Ryo and Abel took turns standing watch and patrolling.
Ensuring they weren't slacking off.
But that didn't change the fact that things were quiet.
"Though, if things got busy here, that would be a problem in itself."
"…True."
Ryo could only nod at Abel's remark.
After all, if the main camp became busy… that would mean an attack.
And apart from Ryo and Abel, the rest of the group wasn't particularly strong…
That evening, once the mountain hunting team returned, a full-group debriefing was held in the village square.
"We discovered footprints, likely belonging to multiple goblins, at the mountain's edge in today's search area."
"Ohh!"
When Level 3 adventurer Jun Luo made this report, murmurs of excitement spread among the crowd.
Most of the adventurers hadn't expected to find results on the very first day.
But it was a welcome surprise.
Moreover, the discovery was made by Jun Luo—a level 3 adventurer.
As the highest-ranked adventurer in the group, his party was well known for their experience and skills.
Which was why he had been chosen to lead the adventurers.
"Then as planned, starting tomorrow, you'll follow those tracks deeper into the mountain."
"Understood."
Deputy Governor Fu Ten gave the order, and Jun Luo nodded in response.
However, Jun Luo had another concern.
"It's fine for us to move in deeper, but that also means leaving the base camp behind. If anything happens to the base while we're gone, even if we notice, it'll take time to get back."
He was referring to the possibility of the Gray Goblins attacking base camp.
The mountain was vast and deep.
It was entirely possible that while they advanced, the goblins could move in the opposite direction—toward the base.
If that happened, it would be a major problem.
Not only would those at headquarters be in danger, but the supply lines for those inside the mountain would also be cut off…
"We'll build a fence."
Deputy Governor Fu Ten made a very reasonable proposal.
Goblins, being of low intelligence, tended to avoid obstacles rather than climbing over them.
If the fence was positioned strategically, it could funnel the goblins into designated areas.
Setting up a fence was an effective anti-goblin measure.
"Starting tomorrow, those of us staying at the base will begin constructing the fence."
Deputy Governor Fu Ten declared, Abel and Ryo—along with the level 7 adventurer Jay and the others—nodded in agreement.
-x-X-x-
Ryo and Abel volunteered to cut timber.
Their task was to extract suitable trees from the forest right next to the village.
"This is a perfect chance to show the true power of a water-attribute magician!"
Ryo was brimming with enthusiasm.
As usual, Abel looked at him with half-lidded eyes.
"Why are you looking at me like that, Abel?"
"I mean… carrying logs is heavy, isn't it?"
Abel responded with an entirely reasonable answer to Ryo's question.
"It's fine! I have
"Oh, the ice floor spell? Yeah, I guess that would make transporting easier."
Hearing Ryo's rational response, Abel felt reassured.
That being said, the first step was to cut the trees.
The forest they would be working in was on the opposite side of Tiger Mountain, with Spring Village in between.
"
A spinning saw blade made of water, about ten centimeters in diameter, formed above Ryo's palm. He pressed it against the trunk of a tree.
Whiiiiiiiir!
A high-pitched sound echoed through the forest where the two stood.
At roughly the same speed as a chainsaw, Ryo successfully cut through the trunk.
It was a spell he had frequently used in Rondo Forest as well.
"Cutting timber is fun!"
Ryo happily patted the coniferous tree, about ten meters tall, which resembled a cedar.
Abel, watching him from the side, seemed like he had something to say.
"What is it, Abel?"
"Well…this might just be my amateur opinion, but…wouldn't it be possible to cut trees with that thin water line you always use?"
"Huh…?"
"You know,
Ryo completely froze at Abel's words.
"Uh… I was just thinking out loud. Don't worry about it."
Abel quickly added, startled by Ryo's reaction.
He looked incredibly uncomfortable.
"No, it's fine, Abel. You're right.
Though Ryo acknowledged the truth, his expression darkened.
And then…
He dropped to his hands and knees.
The pose of utter despair.
"Ryo…uh, sorry?"
Abel felt compelled to apologize.
"This isn't your fault, Abel. I just assumed cutting trees meant using
"Uh…"
At a loss for words, Abel simply watched over Ryo.
Originally,
Now, a new spell was rendering an older one obsolete… they stood at a turning point in magical history.
Okay, that was a bit dramatic.
Thirty seconds later.
"Hup!"
With a strange battle cry, Ryo leaped to his feet.
"I won't lose to you, Abel!"
He declared with determination.
"Why am I suddenly the villain here?"
Abel's expression was full of doubt.
Still, if Ryo had recovered, that was what mattered.
Abel was a really good guy.
And incredibly broad-minded.
A king needed at least this level of patience…
Ryo cut down two logs, each ten meters long.
He and Abel took one each and carried them to the village square.
Abel led the way, while Ryo followed behind.
That way, Ryo could cast
If he cast it under their feet, it would be a disaster.
The logs were also wrapped in chains of ice, which they pulled along.
At a glance, it looked like a feat of brute strength, but thanks to
"We've brought them."
Deputy Governor Fu Ten, along with his entourage and the transport workers, gathered around.
They were astonished at the sight of the logs.
"…You're telling me you carried these one by one? What kind of monstrous strength is that?"
The transport workers, who normally carried heavy loads, were in disbelief.
"There's a perfect water-attribute magic for this."
Ryo answered with a smile.
"Alright, we'll cut these down further and start building the fence. Ryo, Abel, keep bringing in more logs at this pace."
Deputy Governor Fu Ten instructed, and the two nodded.
The fence construction progressed steadily.
Since it was only a temporary barrier, a two-and-a-half-meter ogre with brute strength could likely break through, but it should be enough to keep goblins out.
Starting in the morning, by evening, the fence was mostly complete.
The section facing Tiger Mountain was made especially sturdy.
"For something built in a day, this turned out pretty impressive."
"Yeah. The deputy governor and his team are really skilled."
Ryo was impressed, and Abel agreed.
However…
"It's thanks to how quickly you two brought in the wood."
Fu Ten said as he approached.
"Heh, it was nothing."
Ryo replied, looking embarrassed at the praise.
Abel, standing beside him, simply shook his head slightly.
"The frontline team isn't coming down from the mountain tonight, right?"
"Yes. They're venturing deeper in, hoping to locate the goblin settlement by tomorrow or the day after…"
Fu Ten nodded in response to Ryo's question, but his expression was grim.
"You're keeping information from us, aren't you?"
Abel said, and Fu Ten turned toward him but said nothing.
"I'm not asking you to tell us. I know different organizations handle information carefully."
Fu Ten's eyes widened slightly at Abel's words. Then, after a pause, he replied:
"I appreciate your understanding."
With that… he acknowledged there were things he couldn't say.
"That information… is it shared with the frontline personnel?"
"It seems that Jun Luo and the other Level 3 adventurers have received official documents directly from the governor. I haven't been informed of their contents."
Fu Ten frowned as he answered Abel's question.
Hearing that, Abel also frowned.
"Even though you're the deputy governor, you're not informed?"
"No. I was only appointed last month… to be honest, I haven't yet built a relationship of trust with the governor."
"That must be tough."
"It is unfortunate."
Building trust is one of the most important priorities.
But the truth is, trust isn't something that can be established so easily.
Human relationships are complicated.
"You two seem quite strong."
"Jun Luo said the same thing."
Ryo nodded happily at Fu Ten's words.
"The other eight are still just children…"
Fu Ten glanced at the younger adventurers ranked Level 7 and below.
"Are you asking us to protect them if something happens?"
"I don't think anything will, but in case of an emergency, yes."
Abel asked, and Fu Ten nodded.
To Fu Ten, those lower-ranked adventurers must have seemed like grandchildren.
Perhaps, deep down, he didn't want them to fight at all.
"I don't know about myself, but when it comes to protecting others, no one surpasses Ryo. Right, Ryo?"
"Leave it to me! I'll show you the true power of a water-attribute magician."
"That's reassuring."
Abel spoke, Ryo struck a dramatic pose, and finally, a smile broke across Fu Ten's face.
The next morning. The frontline unit, composed of Level 6 and higher adventurers along with soldiers, was ready.
"Alright, follow the goblin tracks carefully and advance with caution!"
Level 3 adventurer Jun Luo gave the order, and all sixty members of the frontline unit nodded.
There didn't seem to be any tension between the adventurers and the soldiers.
(Good. Any conflict here would be a major problem.)
Jun Luo muttered in his mind.
The information document from the governor hadn't contained anything particularly useful.
(Be cautious and prepare for anything? We already know that. What exactly are they trying to say?)
As he pondered this, he shook his head slightly.
Getting too caught up in unnecessary thoughts could blind him to what truly mattered.
And in battle, that could mean death.
To Jun Luo, this place was already a battlefield.
"Squad Leader."
The scout at the front, Chunk, spoke in a low voice.
Walking just behind him, Jun Luo stretched his neck to look over Chunk's shoulder at the ground.
"Fresh footprints?"
"Likely made last night."
Jun Luo assessed, and Chunk nodded in agreement.
"Combat formation!"
At Jun Luo's quiet command, the sixty members of the frontline unit shifted from an exploration formation to a combat formation.
The magicians, sorcerers, and healers were positioned in the center, while physical fighters lined up on both sides.
Chunk remained at the front, but now Jun Luo was flanked by another swordsman.
Level 4 adventurer Loso.
"Chunk, Loso, proceed with caution."
"Got it."
"Understood."
Chunk and Loso both responded softly.
At that moment, Jun Luo's gaze landed on a particular tree in the distance.
He didn't know why that specific tree caught his attention.
But something about it felt off.
He focused his gaze.
After staring at it for a few moments, he realized why it had drawn his attention.
"A broken branch. And it's fresh…"
But beneath the tree, there were no footprints.
The broken branch was a tiny, thin twig… something must have passed by and snapped it.
But why were there no footprints on the ground beneath it?
Suddenly, realization struck.
"The footprints are a trap!"
The transition from decision to action was instantaneous.
"Everyone, retreat in silence!"
At first, no one fully understood Jun Luo's abrupt command.
But no one disobeyed it, either.
Jun Luo was a well-known and highly skilled Level 3 adventurer. To have suddenly ordered a retreat.
It meant he had detected something—something that could not be ignored.
To hesitate would be fatal.
The frontline unit began retreating in combat formation.
After passing the site where they had camped the night before, they continued walking until the forest cleared.
"Kiiiiiie!"
Slash!
At the very rear of the group, along with Chunk and Loso, Jun Luo suddenly cut down a creature that had leaped at them from behind.
It was only after slashing it that he recognized it—a Gray Goblin.
And of course, it wasn't alone.
In fact, beyond the forest clearing, there were many of them.
As if they had been waiting in ambush.
However, the goblins in front of them, blocking the path back to Spring Village, were relatively few in number.
Since the group had not ventured too deep and had started retreating early, the goblins hadn't been able to fully complete their encirclement.
"Break through the front lines with everything you've got! Once through, run straight to the village!"
Jun Luo shouted.
Even if they ran at full speed, it would take at least fifteen minutes to reach the village.
But there was no other choice.
The goblins in front were still a thin line, but the ones closing in from behind? Their numbers had grown well over a hundred.
Thus began the frontline unit's desperate retreat battle.
-x-X-x-
Jun Luo was retreating while fighting at the rear.
The gray goblins swung their clubs wildly.
Since goblins were only as tall as a human's chest, their clubs were not particularly large either.
Thus, their attacks were not very powerful.
However, their sheer numbers were overwhelming.
Even for the experienced Jun Luo, continuously fighting multiple opponents at once was no easy task.
Still, with the swordsman Loso on his left and the scout Chunk on his right, he only had to deal with enemies in front of him.
That was what kept them going.
At that moment, far in the distance… beyond the swarm of goblins—he saw a person.
…Or so he thought.
"A person?"
Had someone heard Jun Luo's murmur?
As expected of a scout. Chunk also turned his gaze beyond the goblins.
"It looks like a person."
With just that, Chunk returned to battle.
Being a scout, combat was not his primary role.
That meant he did not have the luxury of observing while fighting.
And yet, the fact that he was holding his own against a horde of goblins showed that he was a first-rate adventurer.
With Jun Luo, Chunk, and Loso holding the rear guard, the party fought off the goblins attacking from the flanks as they pressed on toward the village.
"This is the last hill."
Jun Luo said to Chunk and Loso.
Everyone except the three of them began running downhill.
A quick glance revealed a sturdy fence surrounding the village.
"You two, go! Jump inside the fence!"
At Jun Luo's signal, Chunk and Loso sprinted forward.
Once he confirmed their movement, Jun Luo also broke into a run.
The goblins, not far behind, rushed down the hill after them.
Jun Luo felt a pang of regret for leading the goblins straight to the village—but he also knew it was the right choice.
Fighting in the village was better than fighting in the wilderness.
The fence had been built before they left, making it an easier place to defend.
Seeing the well-constructed barrier reassured him that his decision was not a mistake.
Besides, within the lower-ranked squads, those two should be there as well.
He wasn't sure exactly how strong they were, but…
Just as he was thinking that, Jun Luo stumbled on a rock.
In an instant, he realized he had twisted his right ankle.
"Damn it!"
But it was already too late.
He tried to get up immediately, but his right ankle wouldn't support him.
And the goblins were closing in…
"
Spears of ice flew over Jun Luo, piercing through the goblins that had been charging toward him.
At the same time, a black-cloaked swordsman appeared, hoisted him onto their shoulder without a word, and ran.
Without stopping, they rushed into the village… inside the fence.
"UOOOOHHHHH!"
Cheers erupted.
Those who did not cheer shed tears.
They were overjoyed not only that Jun Luo had been saved but also that they had survived.
The calmest of them all was the swordsman who had carried Jun Luo.
After setting him down, they handed him a potion.
"You're Jun Luo, right? Looks like you're mostly fine apart from your ankle, but you've got bruises all over. Must've been the goblins' clubs…"
"Yeah. You're Abel, right? There were just too many of them. What about the others…?"
"Some have minor injuries, but everyone made it back. You led them well."
Abel nodded as he answered.
Indeed, all sixty members of the frontline unit had successfully retreated to the village.
As Abel carried Jun Luo into the fenced area, the goblins suddenly halted.
They were not hesitating over whether to continue their pursuit.
Rather, it seemed like they were waiting for something or someone's command…
"That…?"
The one who murmured was Deputy Governor Fu Ten.
His gaze was fixed on the hill Jun Luo and the others had just descended.
There, something other than goblins stood.
"A person…?"
This time, it was Abel who spoke.
Standing beside Abel were Ryo and Fu Ten.
They had also heard his words.
"It looks human, but… something seems mixed in."
Ryo replied.
"Mixed in? That phrase sounds familiar."
Abel tilted his head, trying to recall.
"Hm, ah! That's right, Duke Helb!"
"Now that you mention it, Ryo, you said the same thing when we saw Duke Helb."
"Yes. And that person on the hill gives off the same feeling as him. Like a mix of a human and something else."
Ryo nodded repeatedly.
Fu Ten, who had been listening, glanced at them and asked.
"Do you know what that is?"
"I'm not certain. But… I think I might have encountered a similar being before."
Ryo gave a vague answer.
He wasn't confident enough to say for sure.
"It clearly seems to be controlling the gray goblins… did the one you saw before do the same?"
"No, they weren't controlling anything."
Ryo shook his head at Fu Ten's question.
Then, he made a suggestion.
"Shall we call out to it and confirm?"
"Can you?"
"Probably…"
"Do it."
Fu Ten granted permission.
Ryo took a sharp breath…
"Illusionkin! Why do you attack us?!"
His voice rang out powerfully.
A commanding tone, honed through years of kendo practice.
The figure on the hill visibly flinched.
'Illusionkin'—that was the term Akuma Pastra had used to describe Duke Helb on the Blue Island.
Ryo had come to believe that it was the name of their kind.
"I ask once more! Illusionkin! Why do you attack us?!"
Ryo's voice echoed again.
The man on the hill seemed to realize he had not misheard.
He slowly began to descend.
The gray goblins before him parted to the sides like the sea splitting.
He was probably around 180 cm tall, slightly taller than Ryo.
His imposing figure was accompanied by long, white hair that reached down to his waist.
Yet, he looked very young, no older than twenty.
His face was well-formed—handsome by any standard, East or West.
However, he also had the look of a strong-willed man.
The white-haired man descended past the frontmost ranks of the goblins and stopped just ten meters from the village fence.
"Hey, robed man, how did you know I was an Illusionkin?"
The white-haired man questioned Ryo. Arrogantly.
Instead of answering, Ryo turned to Fu Ten, bowed with great formality, and announced.
"An Illusionkin has arrived."
"O-okay…"
Fu Ten, taken aback by the sudden report, nevertheless acknowledged it.
He knew that asking "What is an Illusionkin?" at this moment would be a mistake.
Ryo was clearly trying to provoke the one before them…
"It is foolish to answer a question with another question. I asked you earlier. Why do you attack us? Should you not answer that first?"
Against the Illusionkin's rough words, Ryo responded with excessive politeness—almost mockingly so.
"Why should I answer your…"
"Illusionkin! The one I encountered before possessed impeccable manners and commanded absolute presence. Even as an enemy, I could not help but admire them. Compared to them… are you truly an Illusionkin? How disgraceful. Utterly shameful. If you are an Illusionkin, then you should conduct yourself with more elegance."
"You bastard… no, wait. You… you've met another Illusionkin?"
"Of course. That's why I recognized you for what you are."
The Illusionkin's eyes widened in shock, while Ryo let out a mocking snort.
"So I'm not the only one? That damn leader—so he's sending others to Darwei too?! 'Go measure the strength of the Darwei people', my ass! What a load of crap!"
The Illusionkin seemed to be enraged at his leader as if he had misunderstood something.
Listening to this, Abel shook his head internally.
(Ryo's interrogation wasn't even that skillful… is this Illusionkin just unbelievably stupid? Probably. Poor guy.)
Even though Ryo had successfully extracted information, he received no praise.
How unfortunate.
"Well, no matter. Illusionkin, my name is Henoheno Moheji. What is your name?"
Ryo shamelessly used a fake name.
Abel was quite shocked but managed to keep it off his face.
"Fine. I'll tell you my name. I am Garibech. Remember it well, Henoheno Moheji."
"I shall remember, Garibech."
Thus, the negotiations concluded.
Garibech, without ever answering why he had attacked, led the gray goblins back to Tiger Mountain.
-x-X-x-
"When did Ryo's name become Henoheno Moheji?"
Abel said in exasperation.
"It's reckless to give my real name to someone so suspicious, don't you think? It's a necessary risk management measure."
Ryo declared confidently.
Handling personal information should be done with care.
"Abel, you never compliment people, do you? With that attitude, your subordinates will never grow."
"Are you talking about yourself, Ryo? First of all, you're not my subordinate, and second, I think I give compliments fairly often."
"Not nearly enough. Unless you treat me to a meal every day, it doesn't count as a compliment."
"Even if I do compliment you, I won't be buying you food."
"Such tyranny!"
Ryo lamented the injustice of the world.
But there was someone here who did give Ryo proper recognition.
"Ryo, well done."
Deputy Governor Fu Ten gave him proper praise.
"I just did what was expected of an adventurer."
His words sounded dignified, but his embarrassed face made for a striking contrast.
Beside him, Abel shook his head and muttered, "Doesn't suit him at all".
Deputy Governor Fu Ten also praised Abel.
"Abel, you acted quickly to save Jun Luo. That's not something just anyone could do."
"I only did what was necessary."
A voice interjected from the side.
"Copying me, huh…"
It seemed Ryo had mumbled something.
But Abel ignored him completely.
"Abel, thanks for saving me earlier."
Jun Luo approached Abel to express his gratitude.
"I only did what was necessary."
The phrase "I only did what was necessary" was repeated once again.
It seemed to be a very convenient phrase.
"Jun Luo, if you're able to answer, I'd like to ask…"
Deputy Governor Fu Ten began.
"What exactly did the documents from the Magistrate say about this incident?"
"Deputy Magistrate… it only said to handle things carefully, no matter what happens."
With that, Jun Luo handed over the document.
Fu Ten took it and read through it.
His face twisted into a frown.
He read it several times before letting out a deep sigh.
"Why is it written like this?"
His murmur was more exasperation than anger.
After thinking for a while, he looked up.
His expression showed a certain resolve.
"Normally, I wouldn't be sharing this information with you. So, keep this between us."
Jun Luo, Abel, and Ryo all nodded.
Ryo could tell that this must be the restricted information he had initially withheld from Abel.
"The truth is… this month, in other areas of Darwei, there have been incidents where monsters have come down from the mountains and attacked villages."
Deputy Governor Fu Ten spoke in a very quiet voice.
Then, he continued.
"There are even reports of city soldiers being sent to those villages and suffering defeat."
"I see. So that's why you originally wanted three times the forces for this."
Abel nodded in understanding.
"Exactly. But as you know, right now, the Sixth Prince's consort is making her entrance. Many influential people from inland cities have gathered here to establish connections. We simply don't have the manpower to spare for military operations…"
Fu Ten's face showed deep frustration.
He continued.
"I wanted to organize a subjugation force after the procession, but…"
Apparently, that wasn't possible.
"In short, this was an order from higher up…"
"I see…"
Fu Ten spoke with resentment.
And Abel looked unsurprised.
The higher authorities who ordered the immediate subjugation likely had good intentions.
They wanted to help the suffering residents as quickly as possible.
However, when those at the top give orders without understanding the realities on the ground, their decisions can sometimes make things worse.
Even if an order is correct in principle, poor timing can lead to irreversible consequences.
Ryo shook his head slightly.
It was a sad reality.
"Yes… this is the best course of action."
Fu Ten muttered, then looked at Abel and Ryo.
"I need both of you to report what happened with the Illusionkin to the governor's office and the lord."
Abel and Ryo exchanged glances.
Ryo gave a small nod, and Abel spoke.
"I don't mind, but… we don't even know if the monster activity in other areas of Darwei is connected to the Illusionkin."
"Yes, I understand that. That Illusionkin, Garibech, seemed to be taking orders from some leader but was only instructed to assess human strength… or something like that. Either Garibech is an idiot, or there's something more complicated going on…"
Fu Ten seemed to have a clear grasp of what Garibech had said.
"If he's returned to Tiger Mountain, he might come down again. That means we need to fortify this village and use it as a base. Once the wedding procession leaves, we'll be able to allocate more troops here. Until then, we'll need adventurers to help out. First, I need you two to come with me to convince the governor. After that, you'll report to the lord."
"I see."
Abel nodded in agreement.
Ryo was about to nod as well when his
"There's a rider approaching from the city."
"Alone? A messenger, then…"
Fu Ten frowned at Ryo's report.
A messenger arriving at this moment could only mean bad news.
"Deputy Governor! Where is the Deputy Governor?!"
The arriving messenger shouted.
"Over here!"
Deputy Governor Fu Ten raised his hand and called out.
Then, he whispered to Ryo and Abel beside him.
"I recognize that messenger. He's definitely from the city governor's office."
Hearing this, Ryo and Abel nodded silently.
The messenger knelt on one knee and delivered his report.
"You must return to the governor's office immediately! The governor has passed away!"
"What?!"
Fu Ten shouted in shock.
Ryo and Abel exchanged glances.
The other adventurers and soldiers, who had overheard the report, began murmuring among themselves.
"Understood. I'll return to the governor's office at once, but… Jun Luo!"
"Yes, Deputy Governor!"
Called upon, Level 3 adventurer Jun Luo rushed over.
"As we discussed earlier, I'm leaving you in charge of reinforcing the fence. Once the situation in the city is under control, we'll send reinforcements, but until then, I'm relying on you. I grant you command authority."
"But I'm just an adventurer…
"That doesn't matter. If the goblins descend again and you find the village indefensible, abandon Spring Village immediately and retreat. Understood?"
"Understood."
The soldiers nearby had also heard Fu Ten's words and nodded in agreement.
"We'll be taking the horses from the carriage. Abel, Ryo—can you both ride?"
"Of course."
"Yes, I should be fine."
Abel and Ryo answered Fu Ten's question.
Abel, naturally, was skilled at horseback riding.
Ryo, having been trained by the Rune Knights and later receiving additional riding lessons at the mansion of Magistrate Sue Ku in Mifasoshi, had improved… probably.
"It's rare for adventurers to know how to ride. But that works in our favor. We'll gallop straight to the governor's office."
"A fast ride, about an hour or so?"
"A-An hour… I'll do my best."
Fu Ten said, Abel calculated the time based on how long it took them on foot, and Ryo braced himself for the ride.
One hour later, the three of them arrived safely at the governor's office in Boago.
-x-X-x-
"I've never seen you this exhausted before, Ryo."
"I-I'm not exhausted at all! Riding at an unfamiliar speed didn't use up an absurd amount of stamina or anything! Even now, I could easily handle twenty hours of consecutive combat!"
"Uh-huh… so why are you trying to act tough? Even in peak condition, fighting for twenty hours straight is impossible."
Ryo put on a brave front, while Abel sighed in exasperation.
The two of them were at Boago Central Port.
Since the governor had passed away here, Deputy Governor Fu Ten had come directly to this central port before entering the governor's office.
Fu Ten was busy gathering information from various people.
"Oh! I just had a great idea!"
Ryo suddenly exclaimed, prompting Abel to look at him with suspicion.
He knew that Ryo's 'great ideas' were usually nothing but trouble.
From experience.
But this time…
"If we're traveling to the imperial capital by land, let's go on horseback."
"Horses?"
"Yes. We'll buy two horses and ride them there. Once we reach the capital, we can sell them. It'll also be good riding practice along the way."
For once, Ryo had a genuinely good idea.
"That's actually a solid plan… from you."
Abel's comment was brutally honest.
"What do you mean, from me?! I always come up with great ideas!"
"Yeah, sure. At least make your lies somewhat believable."
Just then, Fu Ten's conversation reached their ears.
"So, to summarize—the alchemy tool on the platform exploded right after the princess's fleet set sail. She was originally supposed to be on the platform at that time, but since the schedule was moved up to early morning, she had already left. Instead, the governor, who stayed behind to see the fleet off, was caught in the blast."
"Yes, that's correct."
A guard confirmed Fu Ten's summary.
He seemed to be in charge of the investigation.
"Would an alchemy tool normally be powerful enough to kill someone if it exploded?"
Abel whispered to Ryo.
"When I was learning from Kenneth, he told me that any alchemy tool using magic circles or formulas must always include a failsafe to prevent explosions. Apparently, every store-bought magic circles has one built in."
"So normally, it shouldn't explode?"
"Exactly. Unless it was an extremely faulty device. But considering this was meant for a grand event, it should have been well-made…"
"A sabotage attempt, then."
Abel concluded.
"An attack targeting the princess, uh?"
Fu Ten murmured to himself.
He had reached the same conclusion as Abel.
"Continue the investigation."
He ordered. Then, he turned to the two.
"Sorry to keep you waiting. Let's head to the governor's office."
The Boago Governor's Office was in chaos.
But the moment Fu Ten stepped in, the disorder rapidly subsided.
His sharp, rapid-fire instructions were precise.
Even from an outsider's perspective.
"Wow, Deputy Governor Fu Ten is really impressive."
"Yeah. He took control of the situation and stabilized everything immediately. His orders are spot on… but why is he only a deputy?"
"Oh, so you noticed too?"
Ryo shared Abel's doubts.
Fu Ten had the composure and leadership of someone who was used to running an organization.
It would make sense if he were the actual governor.
But a deputy? That was hard to understand.
"It feels like a waste to have someone that competent as a deputy governor."
"True, but it's not something we can change. And with the governor gone, he's effectively in charge of the city now."
"Wait… what if the real goal wasn't the princess, but the governor?! To eliminate the governor and install Fu Ten as the city's leader—organized by a group of local supporters…"
"Yeah, no. That's a stretch."
Abel quickly dismissed Ryo's wildly imaginative theory.
Just then, Fu Ten gestured for them to come over.
"Sorry, you two. I won't be able to take you to the lord's estate today. I'll arrange for you to go tomorrow morning at nine."
"Understood."
Abel replied.
While Ryo nodded behind him.
"I'll also notify the Adventurer's Guild, so by this evening, you should be promoted to Level 7."
"Oh!"
"As for your special reward… since I'm still officially just the deputy governor, I can't allocate anything from the governor's office funds. However… I can give you horses."
"Horses?"
"The horses here belong to the deputy governor's office. To the west of Boago, is the main breeding grounds for Southern Horses. Boago is one of the centers of Southern Horses, where many horses gather. And many of them are sent to the imperial capital. That's why the deputy governor is in charge of managing them. Tomorrow, you'll be riding to the lord's estate on horseback, so you should each pick a horse to ride."
Abel tilted his head.
"Not the ones we rode today?"
"No. Those are carriage horses. They'll be sent back to Spring Village along with the soldiers. Tomorrow's horses will come from the governor's stables. And you get to keep them."
"What?!"
Ryo gasped in shock.
"If I were to issue an official special reward through the guild, it would require formal procedures, which I can't authorize yet. But giving you horses is no problem. You'll need them for tomorrow's mission anyway, so I can legally transfer ownership to you."
Fu Ten smiled.
It was clear he had thought carefully about what he could offer within his authority.
"I'll inform the stablekeepers. By this afternoon, you'll be able to pick your horses. In the meantime, go grab some lunch."
"Yes!"
Of course, it was Ryo who responded energetically.
Looking absolutely delighted.
After lunch, at 1 PM.
Abel and Ryo arrived at the governor's stables.
The facility was adjacent to the governor's office and included a spacious training ground.
"I didn't realize there was a place like this."
"It's hard to see from the front. A careful design."
Ryo was surprised, while Abel admired the design.
Indeed, since the governor's office had to keep soldiers, it was likely that commanders and captains frequently rode horses.
The presence of a stable made perfect sense.
Just as Fu Ten had said, it seemed the arrangements had already been made.
The two were welcomed warmly.
The stable master, who was in charge, guided them.
"The deputy governor has instructed that you may choose any horse you like. People and horses have their compatibility, so it's best to look around and interact with them."
"Okay!"
The stable master spoke with a smile, and Ryo responded with an equally cheerful expression.
Abel shook his head slightly.
"What is it, Abel? Are you saying that you're so good at riding that compatibility doesn't matter to you?"
"No, I didn't say that. I was just wondering if there's a horse that suits you."
"How rude! I rode all the way from Spring Village!"
"While struggling."
"Ugh…"
The stable master simply smiled and listened without commenting on their conversation.
Then, he took them around the stable for a tour.
However…
"Hmm…"
Ryo folded his arms and looked thoughtful.
"Didn't find one that feels right?"
"I have some candidates. I do, but…"
Abel laughed, while Ryo closed his eyes and tilted his head repeatedly in thought.
Then, Ryo suddenly opened his eyes.
His gaze landed on a wide turf field…
And on it, a single horse was galloping.
"That one!"
He spoke without thinking.
"Oh, there are also some horses being exercised right now. Of course, you can choose from them as well."
As soon as the stable master said this, Ryo dashed off.
He reached the fence.
Right in front of him was the horse he had just seen running.
"A white horse? No, an ash-gray coat…"
Ryo murmured, as the ash-gray horse turned toward him and approached.
Ash-gray horses appear almost gray.
Their skin is dark, but their coat is white, creating that appearance.
"Oh… in certain lighting, it even looks bluish-white."
Ryo was mesmerized by the horse's appearance.
The horse, now close, looked into Ryo's eyes for a moment before rubbing its head against his chest.
"Oh…"
Surprised, Ryo gently stroked its head.
The horse seemed pleased.
The decision was made immediately.
"I'll take this one."
Ryo announced to Abel and the stable master, who had caught up.
"Ryo, that horse is…"
Abel started to say something.
"Abel! I chose this one! You pick a different one!"
"I wasn't going to…"
Ryo quickly stepped between Abel and the horse as if to protect it.
Just then, the stable master looked slightly troubled.
"Stable master? Don't tell me I can't take this one?"
Ryo asked anxiously.
The horse also seemed nervous.
"Oh, no, no, that's not the case."
With those words, peace returned to the world.
"It's just… I believe this one only arrived yesterday. We haven't fully assessed its traits yet."
"It just got here? Well… Ryo isn't the best rider. Will he be okay?"
"How rude! This horse and I could even ride through hell together!"
The stable master explained, Abel expressed his concerns, and Ryo made an outrageous claim.
"There's no need to worry. Only horses deemed fit for riding are sent here from the training grounds."
Hearing this, Ryo grinned and stroked the horse's head again.
The horse looked pleased.
Then, Ryo made another decision.
"Alright, your name will be Andalusia."
He named the horse.
Andalusia happily rubbed its head against him.
"Oh, do you like it? Andalusia, you're such a good boy!"
"I'm pretty sure it already has a name…"
Ryo beamed, while Abel voiced a reasonable concern.
"This horse's name is Andalusia. Right, Andalusia?"
Ryo insisted.
Andalusia affectionately nuzzled him.
And with that, Andalusia became Ryo's horse.
Nearby, a black horse approached them.
"Oh, this one is impressive."
Abel praised the horse.
As a king, Abel had seen thousands of horses, but this one passed even his critical eye.
"Right? However, this one is quite proud… It doesn't get angry or refuse to be ridden…but no one in this governor's office has been able to make it give its best effort."
The stable master said with a wry smile.
True. Some horses were like that.
Unless they recognized their rider…
"Hmm."
Abel muttered as he effortlessly vaulted over the fence and walked toward the black horse.
The black horse watched him approach intently.
Abel did not look away either.
Then, as Abel drew near…
The black horse lowered its head and rubbed it against Abel's chest.
"Oh…"
This time, the stable master was the one to express surprise.
Without a word, Abel stroked the horse's head.
"This one's name is…'Deep Black' or something like that?"
A certain water-attribute magician interjected.
"You couldn't come up with something better?"
Abel sighed.
"The stable staff call him Feiwan."
The stable master informed them with a chuckle.
"Oh, that has a nice ring to it. Feiwan, how does that sound?"
Abel asked as he stroked the horse's head.
The black horse pressed its head against his chest before giving his face a big lick.
"Haha, you like it, huh? Alright, from now on, your name is Feiwan."
Abel declared, and Feiwan licked his face once more.
And so, the horses they would ride tomorrow were decided.
-x-X-x-
"Oh, they've already warmed up to you, haven't they?"
The next day, as Ryo and Abel were each stroking Andalusia and Feiwan, Deputy Governor Fu Ten arrived at the stables and spoke with admiration.
"Andalusia and I are one and the same!"
Ryo declared confidently, and Andalusia nuzzled against him.
"I see, that's good to hear. Southern horses are very intelligent, possess great endurance, and are sturdy. Sure, their top speed may fall slightly short compared to northern horses or those of the northern nomadic tribes, but that speed can only be maintained for a few minutes. Overall, southern horses are the best."
"Oh! Andalusia really is smart!"
Ryo said happily, stroking the horse's head even more fondly.
However, after carefully examining Andalusia, Fu Ten tilted his head.
Then, he leaned toward the stablemaster and asked in a hushed voice.
"Have we ever had an ash-gray horse like that?"
"Actually, it just arrived two days ago."
"While we were away at Tiger Mountain? Then it's no wonder I don't remember seeing it."
Fu Ten nodded at the stablemaster's explanation and then walked over to Abel and Feiwan.
"It's just that none of the stablehands, including myself, recall receiving that ash-gray horse…"
But the stablemaster's words went unheard by anyone.
"I never imagined someone could tame Feiwan."
Fu Ten chuckled as he watched the black horse lick Abel's face.
"Somehow, it seems to have accepted me."
Abel replied with a wry smile.
Then, he continued.
"Are you sure it's alright for me to receive such a magnificent horse?"
Even from Abel's perspective as a king, the black horse before him was truly exceptional.
It was a steed worthy of being presented as a tribute to the emperor.
"I don't mind. The people in the imperial capital would never be able to draw out its full potential. That would only make Feiwan feel lonely."
"Whether I can bring out its full potential is another matter…"
"From what I saw of your riding yesterday, it's clear you've been used to horses since childhood. You'll be fine."
Fu Ten laughed as he dismissed Abel's concerns.
Fu Ten's horse was brought forward.
"Alright, let's head to the lord's manor."
It was an hour-long fast ride, just like the day before.
But this time, the results were vastly different.
"Ryo, you're not tired at all."
"Of course not. I have Andalusia with me!"
Abel noticed that Ryo showed no signs of exhaustion.
Indeed, the saddle, stirrups, and other equipment were of excellent quality.
But even so, the difference from the previous day was too drastic.
"These horses were properly trained for riding. They're nothing like carriage horses."
Fu Ten remarked as he dismounted.
"Well, yeah, I know that, but…"
Abel understood the reasoning, yet the difference was still too extreme… especially for Ryo.
When Fu Ten, Abel, and Ryo arrived at the lord's manor, they were immediately led inside.
The guards' salutes to Fu Ten were not mere formality.
It was as if they had known him for a long time…
The architecture of the manor was entirely different from anything Ryo and Abel had seen before…
Single-story buildings were intricately connected, with small courtyards, ponds, and even gazebos scattered throughout.
"It feels… Eastern."
"Not just Eastern, but specifically Oriental?"
"Ah, just talking to myself!"
Abel looked at him suspiciously, but Ryo quickly brushed it off.
The room they were led to was essentially an office.
Unlike the offices of the central countries, there were no lounge chairs or reception sets.
Instead, chairs were arranged around a large desk.
"Ah, Uncle, thank you for coming."
A refined-looking man in his late thirties stood up to greet them.
"Roche-sama, it has been a long time."
Fu Ten bowed deeply.
"Uncle, such formalities are unnecessary…"
"No. I am merely a deputy governor now. It is only natural to show respect to my lord."
"Uncle…"
Lord Roche Ten's face showed a sorrowful expression.
It seemed Fu Ten had a complicated past.
Roche Ten shook his head slightly and turned to the two visitors.
"They must be the two I was informed about."
"Yes. This is Abel, and this is Ryo. As you can see, they are foreigners, but they are trustworthy."
"Abel-san, Ryo-san, I am Roche Ten, Count of Bashu."
Roche Ten introduced himself with a smile.
"Ten?"
Abel muttered.
He spoke just softly enough that it wouldn't seem intrusive.
This way, if it was not an issue, the other person would naturally explain.
It was a good way to start a conversation.
"Yes. Deputy Governor Fu Ten, who brought you here, is my uncle."
"I see."
Abel nodded at Roche Ten's response.
So he was part of the lord's family… his ability to take control of the chaotic governor's office was no coincidence.
"My uncle was once a lord himself, governing even further south in the Barrow County of Bashu."
"Roche-sama…"
"No, let me say this. I still cannot accept it! What happened was not Uncle's fault! It was tragic that the Crown Prince passed away. But to place all the blame on Uncle as the head of security that day…"
"Roche-sama!"
Fu Ten's voice wasn't loud, but it was sharp. At that, Roche fell silent.
For a while, an awkward silence filled the room.
It was finally broken by the highest-ranking person present.
"I apologize. Let us focus on resolving the current issue."
Lord Roche Ten gestured for the three to sit.
He took a seat behind his desk and flipped through the documents that had been prepared in advance.
"I reviewed the reports after receiving notice yesterday. It seems that my chief retainer, Bozo, ordered action on the Tiger Mountain incident just before I returned from the imperial capital. He must have done so because he feared I would be angry if action was delayed… I apologize for the delay in handling this matter."
"No, in principle, swift responses to problems should be commended. However, in this case, the timing was unfortunate…"
"Indeed. It coincided with the marriage procession. And for the governor to get caught up in sabotage…"
Roche Ten shook his head in frustration.
"Roche-sama, you are aware that monster attacks have been occurring across the country, correct?"
"I've only heard rumors, but yes. This isn't information that has been widely circulated yet, is it?"
At that, prompted by Fu Ten, Ryo once again recounted what had happened in Spring Village and the details of their discussion.
After listening, Roche Ten fell into deep thought.
After a moment, he spoke.
"Would it be alright if I asked who this Illusionkin you previously met was?"
"Ah…"
Ryo was unsure and looked at Abel.
After a brief moment of thought, Abel responded.
"Only if this stays between us. If you can promise that…"
"I understand. I promise."
"The person we met was someone called Duke Helb. Do you know of him?"
"No…"
"I don't either."
Both Roche Ten and Fu Ten shook their heads at Abel's question.
Since Darwei was a superpower, even the upper class might not be familiar with the affairs of neighboring countries.
Besides, that country wasn't even adjacent—it was located further south on the continent…
"He is the younger brother of the Grand Duke of Atinjo, a duchy in the southern continent. Atinjo lies even farther south than the Bosuntar Kingdom."
"I do know of Bosuntar. Even farther south than that…?"
"Wasn't there a Free City called Kwebasa south of Bosuntar?"
Roche responded to Abel's explanation, and Fu Ten followed up with a question.
"Kwebasa is directly adjacent to it. And just recently, Atinjo annexed it."
"I see."
Fu Ten nodded at Abel's words.
"There is also the Ghegish-Lu Federation in the southern continent, but it's said that Atinjo will likely swallow it up as well. Whether or not that will have any impact on Darwei remains to be seen, but that's the situation."
"The younger brother of the ruler of such a powerful nation…"
As Roche Ten murmured, Ryo's gaze shifted.
"Ryo?"
"Uh, if we're already revealing things about Duke Helb, wouldn't it be the same if we mentioned his brother as well…?"
"You're right!"
At Abel's sudden realization, both Roche Ten and Fu Ten turned their attention toward him.
"Although we haven't met him personally, according to Duke Helb, his brother—the Grand Duke of Atinjo—is of the same species as him."
"In other words… an Illusionkin. A country ruled by beings who are not human."
Fu Ten shook his head slightly.
Even if the entire southern continent were unified, it wouldn't come close to Darwei in terms of power.
Still, the very idea of a nation ruled by non-human beings was unsettling.
"That said, as we agreed earlier, let's keep the details about the Atinjo Grand Duchy confined to this room. Since Bosuntar lies between us, we'd rather not stir up unnecessary trouble."
As Roche Ten said this, Fu Ten nodded in agreement.
"However, regarding the monster attacks happening across the land… if there's a possibility that someone is orchestrating them from behind the scenes, we need to take action. Ideally, a central government department… like the Ministry of War—would handle this, but I have no political backing."
"I'm sorry."
Fu Ten lowered his head apologetically at Roche Ten's grievance.
"No, this isn't your fault, Uncle! That was a poor choice of words on my part… Oh, that reminds me, Provincial Inspector Li Wu, who has been traveling around on an oversight mission, will be visiting the neighboring town of Nomon. Perhaps we could consult him?"
"That sounds like a good idea. Unlike other inspectors, Li Wu is a principled man. If it's for the good of the nation and its people, he will surely help."
Fu Ten nodded in agreement with Roche Ten's suggestion.
"Then let's do that. By the way, I have a proposal…"
As Roche Ten spoke, he turned his gaze toward Ryo and Abel.
After the meeting, Deputy Governor Fu Ten immediately returned to the city of Boago.
With the governor absent, he couldn't afford to be away for too long.
As for the two of them…
"We somehow ended up traveling to this Nomon town with Lord Roche."
"We didn't have much choice. He did offer us a reward, after all."
Ryo sighed, shaking his head, while Abel responded in a relaxed manner.
"But that's not what you're after, Abel!"
"What do you mean?"
"He promised to use his authority as a lord to boost your achievements and promote you to Level 6 Adventurer!"
"Well, I won't deny it."
"So rankings can just be raised at the whim of an important person…"
Abel accepted the accusation, while Ryo groaned in frustration at the unfairness of it all.
"So, Ryo, you can just stay at Level 7 and earn your promotion the proper way through completing quests."
"No way! It's unfair if only you get to rank up!"
"Then that makes you guilty as well, doesn't it?"
"Ugh…"
Of course, having a noble sponsor approve an adventurer's rank-up wasn't against the rules.
There was even a cap—such promotions could only go up to Level 5… naturally, neither of them knew such technical details.
-x-X-x-
Three days later, Lord Roche set out for the city of Nomon with his attendants.
Nomon was located north of Roche Ten's domain, which he ruled as the Count of Bashu. It was the central city of the territory governed by another noble, Count Keiro.
"Are Counts the lords of the land?"
"Yes, something like that. Also, if they're more powerful or closer to the imperial family, they're called Dukes."
Ryo nodded in response to Abel's question.
This information all came from Boffo-san, an official from the Bosuntar Kingdom's Censorate.
Ryo had previously requested background information on Darwei, and Boffo had provided it.
Of course, it contained no classified details, just general knowledge. Still, for Abel and Ryo, who had no prior knowledge, it was invaluable.
Unlike in the central and western countries, where noble ranks followed a strict hierarchy—Duke, Marquis, Count, Viscount, and Baron—Darwei had no such five-tiered peerage system.
As a result, there was no traditional noble class.
Instead, individuals who were granted lands and titles as Counts or Dukes, along with their families, or those who rose to power by passing the central examination and becoming high-ranking officials, formed the ruling class.
Collectively, they were referred to as the 'Shitaifu class'.
Although different from nobility, the Shitaifu class was distinct from commoners and could be considered an aristocratic class of sorts.
"In the end, people always create privileged and upper classes."
"What's with the sudden observation?"
"Throughout history, in every place and era, such hierarchies emerge. It must be an inescapable part of human nature."
"Is that really such a bad thing?"
Abel tilted his head.
"Hah…"
Ryo let out a deliberate sigh.
"His Majesty King Abel, being part of the privileged class, simply cannot understand the struggles of the common people. Truly, how unfortunate."
"And you do? Says the premier duke."
"Of course! I am premier duke who stands with the people!"
Ryo declared, his expression brimming with confidence.
"…Then let me ask the great premier duke who stands with the people—how exactly am I supposed to understand their struggles?"
"Simple! Just follow my example!"
"So… when I'm in the capital, I should eat cake sets at Cafe de Chocolat, lounge on the sofa in the royal office reading alchemy books, and have cake and coffee for snacks?"
"Th-That's a malicious way to phrase it! I don't do that all the time!"
"But sometimes…?"
"Sometimes… there may be days like that."
"Yeah… I'm pretty sure that means you're not standing with the people."
As they bantered, the two of them were riding at the rear of Roche Ten's procession as part of his retinue.
Of course, both were mounted on their beloved horses.
Since both Andalucia and Feiwan were intelligent, they followed the formation automatically without the need for guidance.
Auto-follow mode, cruise control engaged!
Later, the two were summoned by Roche Ten.
Despite his status, Roche Ten rode on horseback rather than in a carriage.
As Abel and Ryo approached, Roche Ten spoke.
"My uncle… Deputy Governor Fu Ten, has said that you two can be trusted."
"That is an honor."
Abel replied.
"From our previous conversation, you may have already guessed—my uncle was once a ruling noble, the Count of Barrow. However, he was caught up in the assassination of the Crown Prince and was demoted as a result. Now, he serves as my deputy governor."
"Is that… really something you should be telling us?"
"It's fine. Many within my domain already know. And they also know that my uncle bears no guilt."
Roche Ten spoke with a bitter expression.
Ryo remained silent.
Letting Abel handle the conversation. From experience, he knew that in situations like this, it was best to leave the talking to him.
"I've heard that the three imperial princes are currently fighting over succession. Was the assassination of the Crown Prince related to that?"
"Not exactly. Rather, it was because the Crown Prince was assassinated that the struggle between the princes began."
Roche Ten shook his head slightly before continuing.
"The late Crown Prince was a man of extraordinary character and wisdom, balanced in all respects. The current Emperor preferred arts over warfare. As a result, Darwei developed a cultural emphasis on the arts. However, the Crown Prince, while himself a distinguished general, also valued martial spirit. That said, he never persecuted the arts… Rather, he maintained a delicate balance between the two."
"Hmm."
"The Emperor, despite his different inclinations, trusted the Crown Prince deeply. He often stated in public that Darwei would be secure under his reign."
"So the Crown Prince was highly regarded…"
Abel nodded.
His gaze seemed distant.
Perhaps he was thinking of his late older brother, Crown Prince Cain.
"That's why, when the Crown Prince was killed, the Emperor was devastated… Even though five years have passed, no new Crown Prince has been appointed. Perhaps it is because the late Crown Prince's presence was too great. The three imperial princes are all highly capable, but…"
"Losing an irreplaceable heir is a difficult situation."
Abel shook his head slightly.
Ryo, who had been listening quietly, furrowed his brows.
"So, Deputy Governor Fu Ten was in charge the night the Crown Prince was killed… and he was held responsible?"
"Yes. The Crown Prince's palace was supposed to have impenetrable security. Like the Emperor's palace, it was protected by magic and sorcery, making external attacks or intrusions virtually impossible. For someone to break through those defenses and kill him by force would be one thing… but the assassination happened without anyone noticing."
"So, both magical and human security failed to detect anything?"
"Exactly. Such a thing should have been impossible. And yet… the next morning, the Crown Prince was found with a dagger embedded in his chest…"
Roche Ten closed his eyes and took a deep breath.
"Why… are you telling us this?"
Abel's question was one that Ryo also had in mind.
Roche Ten gave a wry smile.
"To be honest, even I'm not sure. As I mentioned earlier, my uncle said that you two could be trusted… but that doesn't necessarily mean I had to tell you what I just did. It just somehow felt like the right thing to do. Please, don't think too much about it."
Ryo and Abel exchanged glances.
Neither of them had a clear answer written on their faces…
As they talked, a large signpost along the road came into view.
"From here… 'Chuo Chuang'?"
Ryo muttered.
Roche Ten must have heard him.
He also checked the signpost.
"Ah, 'Chuo Chuang' refers to the central region of Dawei, where the imperial capital is located. That said, it's quite vast. Currently, if you divide all of Darwei into nine administrative districts, the central hub would be 'Chuo Chuang'."
Roche explained.
Then, as if remembering something, he added,
"You two are from another country, from the Central Countries, correct? In that case, you probably haven't seen this before."
"Is there something interesting to see?"
"Yes."
Roche Ten nodded with a smile to Abel's inquiry.
Then he called one of his guards over.
"Would you mind demonstrating a little flight?"
"Understood!"
Hearing this conversation, Ryo and Abel were taken aback.
"Huh?"
"Flight?"
The guard drew his sword with his right hand and held it out in front.
And then…
He leaped diagonally upward.
No, it wasn't just a leap or a jump—it was more like he floated, or rather, flew.
He was flying.
Then, mid-air, he changed direction and returned.
Landing once, he then flew forward again, this time just above the ground.
With his sword pointed straight ahead, it looked like a charging aerial assault.
The speed wasn't particularly fast.
Maybe around 40 km/h.
In a one-on-one fight, it might require precise timing to be effective.
However, if multiple soldiers charged in formation, swords aligned…
Ryo, though astonished, analyzed the sight carefully.
Meanwhile, Abel… was completely captivated.
No, he was mesmerized.
He was even trembling slightly.
"Abel?"
"Huh? Oh… it's incredible…"
When Ryo called out, Abel snapped out of his trance, but he still couldn't take his eyes off the flying guard.
"I take it this is your first time seeing this?"
Roche Ten said, clearly pleased with their reaction.
"Yes. It's amazing."
Since Abel was too absorbed to respond properly, Ryo took over the conversation.
"This isn't magic, but alchemy, right? That bracelet on his left arm?"
"Oh, exactly. Ryo-san, do you also practice alchemy?"
"Yes, as a hobby."
Ryo had noticed the faint alchemical glow emanating from the jade-like bracelet on the guard's left wrist.
Still… the flying guard was likely not a magician. But a swordsman.
Which meant… a swordsman could fly?
"This only works in 'Chuo Chuang,' but with that bracelet and some training, anyone can learn to fly."
"Anyone!?"
Ryo couldn't help but raise his voice at Roche Ten's explanation.
Since it was an alchemy tool, it made sense that it could be used by anyone.
However, the idea that 'flight' was as simple as wearing a bracelet… that couldn't be right.
How do they control their posture?
Where does the propulsion come from?
What's the principle behind direction changes?
Ryo knew firsthand how difficult flight was, having struggled with the
Whether through magic or alchemy, flying was not supposed to be easy!
"I don't know the full details myself, but… I hear that all 50,000 soldiers stationed in the imperial capital's Forbidden Army can fly using these bracelets. So, calling it 'something anyone can do' isn't an exaggeration, is it?"
"50,000… all of them…?"
Ryo nodded repeatedly, deep in thought.
And at that moment, he made up his mind.
He had to obtain one and study it!
"I really want one…"
Abel murmured.
Ryo turned to Abel in surprise.
It was probably the first time he'd ever seen Abel truly desire something for himself.
"Abel?"
"Yeah… I want to fly in the sky."
Abel's beautiful eyes gleamed as he answered.
They were pure.
The eyes of someone who truly longed for something from the bottom of his heart.
"Lord Roche Ten, where can we get those bracelets?"
"The imperial capital. They're only manufactured at the Central Workshop there."
"Are they… difficult to obtain?"
"They are expensive, but as long as you have the money, you can buy them. As you can see, even some of my guards have them, so they are widely available."
"Even though they let you fly…?"
"As I mentioned earlier, they only work in 'Chuo Chuang'. But since that area is vast, if you're interested, you should get one when you visit the capital."
Roche Ten smiled as he spoke.
"Is borrowing one… an option?"
"That's not possible. It registers the user's internal magic power. Once it's registered, no one else can use it."
At that moment, a certain swordsman was brimming with determination.
"Ryo, we are definitely going to the imperial capital!"
"Uh, yeah…"
Abel's rare display of insistence left Ryo with no choice but to agree.
It was clear—Abel truly wanted to fly…