Chapter 15: Encounter – 09
The next day was designated as a day of rest.
Shizuna mentioned that she would be visiting the Great Spirit Shrine to inform High Priestess Miona of our departure from Oz. I made sure to emphasize to Shizuna that I wanted no grand send-off.
However, the following day, we ended up being seen off by Miona, Seina, and over fifty others. To my surprise, Garuda Moth came to greet us, whisking us over the mountains to the southern edge of the Kingdom of Vermilian. Honestly, I felt a twinge of fear at the thought of returning to Oz, but with Shizuna around, it seemed inevitable that I would come back.
For now, we entered the Kingdom of Vermilian, stayed overnight in Tolson, and then made our way to Euron, where Viscount Barius resided.
Upon arriving at the Adventurers’ Guild, Mariane informed us, “It seems there has been a notice requesting that if ‘Soul’s Guidance’ comes to Euron, you should prioritize visiting the Viscount’s residence.”
Given the various incidents that had transpired, I had no choice but to greet Viscount Barius. It was essential for me to understand how I was being perceived in the Kingdom of Vermilian.
As we arrived at the Viscount’s residence, we were promptly led to the reception room. There, I faced the usual warrior-like Viscount Barius, the young house steward Rodan, and the elven knight, Anatoria the Crimson.
“You seem to have caused quite a stir, haven’t you, Soushi?” the Viscount greeted, his tone casual from the start, perhaps indicating that he meant no offense.
“I apologize for any disturbances caused. However, I must ask for your understanding, as I was somewhat caught up in the events.”
“Not to worry, it’s not something to take offense over. It’s just that the information you bring is quite unbelievable. Both His Majesty the King and Count Lautrec are eager to know the truth. Would you mind sharing everything with us?”
“Of course.”
I recounted everything from the country of Oz to Mecalinan, omitting only personal exchanges. Since I had received formal rewards from both Oz and Mecalinan, there was no reason to hide anything.
The three listened with normal expressions as I spoke of Oz, but when I mentioned the Gate to Another World, they leaned in closer, and their eyes widened at the tales from Mecalinan. The members of ‘Soul’s Guidance’ accompanying us seemed to swell with pride, which was a bit amusing.
Once I finished recounting everything, Viscount Barius scratched his head and let out a deep sigh.
“I see, so essentially all the information is true. However, this Gate to Another World… Rodan, have you heard of it?”
“No, I’m afraid I haven’t. We might have to consult the ancient royal texts for that.”
“I see… The Grand Master of the Adventurers’ Guild will likely take action as well, so we’ll have to wait for information from that side. For now, the more pressing matter is the royal succession in Mecalinan. The royal family will need to respond, and since my territory borders theirs, it’s not just someone else’s problem. I suspect Count Trackelt is the most anxious about it.”
“His territory engages in trade with Mecalinan, so there are bound to be complications.”
“It seems we might be in for some troublesome times. Soushi, the new king of Mecalinan did indeed say he would gradually free those who were forcibly enslaved, correct?”
“That is what I heard. The previous king intended to reduce the slave system.”
“I see. That means there’s a possibility that freed elves and beastmen may return…”
“Is there a problem with that?”
When I asked, the Viscount scratched his head again.
“Not exactly, but it’s a concern. More importantly, Soushi, you’ve gone too far this time. Becoming a key figure in a civil war accompanying a royal succession is quite the feat.”
“Will I be viewed with suspicion?”
“Of course. A person who can single-handedly breach the castle walls of the royal capital is likely to be seen as a historical ‘hero.’ And that ‘hero’ is said to have even become a king. That’s a frightening tale for those in power.”
“I see such stories exist. However, I have no intention of becoming a king, let alone a lord.”
“Even so, you’ve achieved merits worthy of nobility in our country, Oz, and Mecalinan, yet you’re refusing it. That should indicate a lack of ambition. However, the lords of the territories you visit will likely be on edge.”
“Indeed… Will I face any interference?”
“Well, since the royal family has backed you, it’s generally known in our country, so you might just have some watchers keeping an eye on you. However, the situation with Duke Armand and the church is a different matter…”
At that moment, a rather concerning term slipped from the Viscount’s lips, causing Freinir to perk up.
“Is there a problem?”
“The Duke must have learned that Lady Freinir is part of ‘Soul’s Guidance.’ Given their recent accomplishments, they can’t just sit idly by. If rumors spread that they expelled such a capable daughter, it would tarnish their family name.”
“I see… And what about the church?”
“That would be the so-called ‘Adventurer of Salvation.’ They seem to be putting in quite an effort, but honestly, compared to your group’s achievements, they pale in comparison. If the public starts to believe that ‘Soul’s Guidance’ is the true ‘Adventurer of Salvation,’ the church would lose face.”
The ‘Adventurer of Salvation’ referred to the party led by the boy Garsonia, known as ‘Supreme Radiance.’ If they were indeed ‘putting in effort,’ that wasn’t necessarily a bad thing…
“Indeed. I will avoid approaching the Duke’s territory and steer clear of the church in the royal capital. If they reach out to me, there’s little I can do.”
“That’s wise. However, adventurers are generally protected by guild regulations, and you have the backing of His Majesty the King. I doubt they would act recklessly.”
“I hope so.”
“So, where do you plan to go next? Are you heading to the royal capital?”
“I do intend to return to the royal capital, but first, I plan to visit the Inner Elf Village. I wish to gather information regarding the Demons, the Gate to Another World, and the Candlestick of the Netherworld.”
Upon hearing this, the Viscount leaned back in his chair and chuckled.
“You all are truly earnest. I’ve never heard of adventurers moving for such reasons without a request. Could it be… are you genuinely aiming to become the ‘Adventurer of Salvation’?”
“That’s far from the truth. I merely see it as a good opportunity for travel.”
“Haha, let’s leave it at that for now. However, I have a feeling you might end up doing something even more outrageous someday.”
“I would prefer to avoid that.”
I replied, but deep down, I sensed that I might indeed do something significant. With the existence of the Bad Luck Skill and the Mecalinan situation, I was becoming increasingly aware that my abilities were gaining political weight. How I would wield this power in the future would likely become a major challenge for me.